Physical and Chemical Means for Killing Clostridioides difficileEndospores

Abstract

Clostridioides difficile is a spore forming bacteria that infects the gastrointestinal tract of individuals with a compromised gut microbiome. Complications can lead to kidney failure, bowel perforation, and even death. C. difficile is the number one cause of antibiotic-associated diarrhea with a high recurrence rate, costing hospitals billions of dollars a year in related expenses. To develop more effective means to kill C. difficile spores in the health care setting, we examined the sporicidal effect of various UV light treatments combined with photosensitizers. Results to date suggest that UVC treatment may be the most effective killing method.