Abstract

Background:
Many protective proteins, including lactoferrin and heavy chain antibodies, are present in camel colostrum, giving it a distinctive composition. Beyond a broad spectrum of pathogens, these proteins demonstrate antibacterial properties.

Aim:
The current research assessed the prophylactic properties of camel colostrum against Escherichia coli F17.

Methods:
A microbroth dilution method was employed to assess the efficacy of camel colostrum, whereas a crystal violet assay was utilised to determine its antibiofilm potential. Extracellular deoxyribonuclease acid (eDNA) release, swarming, and swimming motilities were also examined.

Results:
The results showed that camel colostrum significantly reduced E. coli-F17 growth by 70% and above at different incubation periods (6 - 24h). The rate of cell attachment gradually decreased from approximately 40% to 24% as the concentration increased from 12.5 to 50 mg/mL. E. coli-F17 developed a biofilm at a rate of 54.8% when exposed to 50 mg/mL of camel colostrum. In contrast, the greatest level of biofilm formation against the tested bacteria (94%) was observed at a concentration of 1.5 mg/mL. A halo zone of camel colostrum ranging from 10 to less than 30 mm at concentrations between 6 and 50 mg/mL also inhibited swimming and swarming capabilities. The treated cells yielded no eDNA.

Conclusion:
According to these results, camel colostrum inhibits the growth of E. coli-F17 by impeding the swarming and swimming motilities, and biofilm formation. Additionally, camel colostrum incubation with E. coli-F17 diminishes eDNA. To evaluate the potential protective effects of camel colostrum in an animal model, additional research is recommended.

Key words: Biofilm, Camel colostrum, Calf diarrhea, Diarrheagenic bacterial pathogen, eDNA