Sub-inhibitory concentrations of brodimoprim inhibit adhesion of E. coli to human uroepithelial cells.

Bacterial adhesion to mucosal surfaces is a prerequisite for infection. Several antibiotics at sub-inhibitory concentrations (sub-MICs) have been shown to affect the adhesive ability of bacteria, usually decreasing adherence in vitro. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of brodimoprim, a broad-spectrum antibiotic, on E. Coli adhesiveness to uroepithelial cells. Sub-inhibitory concentrations of brodimoprim, up to 1/16 MIC, significantly reduced the percentage of adhesion of E. Coli to epithelial cells. At these concentrations, brodimoprim strongly diminished the adhesiveness of E. Coli, causing the growth of filamentous shapes lacking in pili and therefore unable to adhere to epithelial cells.