Date of Award

Spring 2025

Degree Type

Thesis

Department

Biological Sciences

Director of Thesis

Alan Decho

Second Reader

Charles Andy Schumpert

Abstract

The rise of antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections, particularly those caused by Staphylococcus aureus, poses a serious threat to public health and clinical care. A major contributor to the persistence of these infections is the formation of bacterial biofilms, structured communities that protect S. aureus from antibiotics and immune responses, especially on surgical sites and medical devices. As conventional treatments become less effective, interest in alternative, natural antimicrobial agents has increased, due to public dissatisfaction with conventional medicine and a growing trust in complementary and alternative medicine. Grape seed extract (GSE), a polyphenol-rich byproduct of winemaking, has emerged as a promising candidate due to its demonstrated antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and biofilm-inhibiting properties. This paper reviews the mechanisms by which GSE disrupts S. aureus biofilms, including interference with bacterial protein synthesis, suppression of quorum sensing, and inhibition of critical enzymes such as dihydrofolate reductase and DNA methyltransferases. The combined effects of GSE with antibiotics, as well as its potential integration into nanotechnology and wound healing applications, are also examined. Despite encouraging preclinical and clinical findings, further research is needed to establish standardized formulations, optimal dosages, and long-term safety. This review looks into the potential of GSE as a viable, eco-friendly strategy for addressing S. aureus biofilm infections and contributing to future solutions in antibiotic resistance management.

First Page

1

Last Page

22

Rights

© 2025, Srestha Samaddar

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