Proteomic analyses revealed the antibacterial mechanism of Aronia melanocarpa isolated anthocyanins against Escherichia coli O157: H7.

anthocyanins (AMAs), as a natural plant extract, can control pathogens and are attracting increasing attention. However, at the proteomic level, the antibacterial mechanism of AMAs against O157: H7 remains unclear. In this study, the tandem mass tag (TMT) quantitative proteomics was used to elucidate the potential antibacterial mechanisms of AMAs against O157: H7 cells. Ultrastructural observation and reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels detection showed that AMAs destroyed the integrity of O157: H7 cell membrane, led to the aggregation of contents and caused the increase of intracellular ROS level. TMT-based proteomic analysis suggested that AMAs can enter cells through mechanosensitive channels and inhibit the activity of heat shock proteins; disturb the metabolism of carbohydrates, amino acids and lipids in cells. The results of this study provide a reference for the further development of plant-derived antimicrobial agents.