USE OF BILE ACIDS AND BILE SALTS AS ANTI BACTERIAL AGENTS FOR INHIBITION OF BACTERIAL CONJUGATION AND HORIZONTAL GENE TRANSFER

摘要

Methods of inhibiting bacterial conjugation, bacterial horizontal gene transfer or bacterial growth are disclosed. The methods comprise contacting bacteria with an effective amount of a bile acid or a bile salt, wherein the effective amount does not affect viability of the bacteria. A method of increasing susceptibility of bacteria to antibiotic treatment is also disclosed as well as methods of decontaminating a farm animal housing or a medical surface and methods of treating water. Also disclosed are compositions effective in inhibiting bacterial conjugation, bacterial horizontal gene transfer and bacterial growth.