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Maršík D, Maťátková O, Kolková A, Masák J. Exploring the antimicrobial potential of chitosan nanoparticles: synthesis, characterization and impact on Pseudomonas aeruginosa virulence factors. NANOSCALE ADVANCES 2024; 6:3093-3105. [PMID: 38868829 PMCID: PMC11166115 DOI: 10.1039/d4na00064a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024]
Abstract
The escalating antibiotic resistance observed in bacteria poses a significant threat to society, with the global prevalence of resistant strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa on the rise. Addressing this challenge necessitates exploring strategies that would complement existing antimicrobial agents, e.g. by substances mitigating bacterial virulence without eliciting selective pressure for resistance emergence. In this respect, free-form chitosan has demonstrated promising efficacy, prompting our investigation into reinforcing its effects through nanoparticle formulations. Our study focuses on the preparation of chitosan nanoparticles under suitable conditions while emphasizing the challenges associated with stability that can affect biological activity. These challenges are mitigated by introducing quaternized chitosan, which ensures colloidal stability in the culture media. Our approach led to the production of trimethylchitosan nanoparticles with a median size of 103 nm, circularity of 0.967, and a charge of 14.9 ± 3.1 mV, stable within a one-month period in a water stock solution, showing promising attributes for further valorization. Furthermore, the study delves into the antimicrobial activity of trimethylchitosan nanoparticles on Pseudomonas aeruginosa and confirms the benefits of both nanoformulation and modification of chitosan, as our prepared nanoparticles inhibit 50% of the bacterial population at concentration ≥160 mg L-1 within tested strains. Additionally, we identified a concentration of 5 mg L-1 that no longer impedes bacterial growth, allowing reliable verification of the effect of the prepared nanoparticles on Pseudomonas aeruginosa virulence factors, including motility, protease activity, hemolytic activity, rhamnolipids, pyocyanin, and biofilm production. Although trimethylchitosan nanoparticles exhibit promise as an effective antibiofilm agent (reducing biofilm development by 50% at concentrations ranging from 80 to 160 mg L-1) their impact on virulence manifestation is likely not directly associated with quorum sensing. Instead, it can probably be attributed to non-specific interactions with the bacterial surface. This exploration provides valuable insights into the potential of quaternized chitosan nanoparticles in addressing Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections and underscores the multifaceted nature of their antimicrobial effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominik Maršík
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Chemistry and Technology Technická 5, Prague 6 Prague 166 28 Czechia
| | - Olga Maťátková
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Chemistry and Technology Technická 5, Prague 6 Prague 166 28 Czechia
| | - Anna Kolková
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Chemistry and Technology Technická 5, Prague 6 Prague 166 28 Czechia
| | - Jan Masák
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Chemistry and Technology Technická 5, Prague 6 Prague 166 28 Czechia
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Chen LJ, Yu TC, Huang BH, Tso KC, Song YF, Yin GC, Yang JS, Wu PW. Synthesis of novel chitosan/sodium hyaluronate/iridium hydrogel nanocomposite for wound healing application. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 270:132351. [PMID: 38754679 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.132351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2024] [Revised: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
A novel chitosan/sodium hyaluronate/iridium (CHI/SH/Ir) hydrogel nanocomposite with a unique microstructure containing vertically aligned pores is fabricated via an electrophoresis technique. The formation of orderly vertical pores in CHI/SH/Ir hydrogel nanocomposite is due to the confinement of hydrogen bubbles produced from the water electrolysis during electrophoresis that limits their lateral movement and coalescence. In a wet state, the diameter for the vertical pores is 600-700 μm. With a thickness of 500 μm, the CHI/SH/Ir hydrogel nanocomposite exhibits a porosity of 76.7 % and a water uptake of 350 %. Its tensile strength is almost doubled to 8.7 MPa, as compared to that of counterpart without the addition of iridium. In CHI/SH/Ir hydrogel nanocomposite, the iridium nanoparticles are homogeneously distributed with an average size of 3 nm. The CHI/SH/Ir electrophoresis suspension exhibits a negligible cytotoxicity. In cell migration test using the human keratinocytes HaCaT cells, the CHI/SH/Ir hydrogel nanocomposite reveals a relative migration of 122.15 ± 9.02 % (p < 0.001) as compared to the blank sample. The presence of vertically aligned pores with the use of SH and iridium nanoparticles indicates a promising opportunity in wound healing application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Jie Chen
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Hsinchu 300, Taiwan
| | - Tsung-Chun Yu
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Hsinchu 300, Taiwan
| | - Bo-Han Huang
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Hsinchu 300, Taiwan
| | - Kuang-Chih Tso
- Division of Materials Science, Graduate School of Science and Technology, Nara Institute of Science and Technology, Nara 630-0192, Japan
| | - Yen-Fang Song
- National Synchrotron Radiation Research Center, Hsinchu 300, Taiwan
| | - Gung-Chian Yin
- National Synchrotron Radiation Research Center, Hsinchu 300, Taiwan
| | - Jai-Sing Yang
- Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, China Medical University, Taichung 404, Taiwan.
| | - Pu-Wei Wu
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Hsinchu 300, Taiwan.
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Omran BA, Tseng BS, Baek KH. Nanocomposites against Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilms: Recent advances, challenges, and future prospects. Microbiol Res 2024; 282:127656. [PMID: 38432017 DOI: 10.1016/j.micres.2024.127656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 02/17/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
Pseudomonas aeruginosa is an opportunistic bacterial pathogen that causes life-threatening and persistent infections in immunocompromised patients. It is the culprit behind a variety of hospital-acquired infections owing to its multiple tolerance mechanisms against antibiotics and disinfectants. Biofilms are sessile microbial aggregates that are formed as a result of the cooperation and competition between microbial cells encased in a self-produced matrix comprised of extracellular polymeric constituents that trigger surface adhesion and microbial aggregation. Bacteria in biofilms exhibit unique features that are quite different from planktonic bacteria, such as high resistance to antibacterial agents and host immunity. Biofilms of P. aeruginosa are difficult to eradicate due to intrinsic, acquired, and adaptive resistance mechanisms. Consequently, innovative approaches to combat biofilms are the focus of the current research. Nanocomposites, composed of two or more different types of nanoparticles, have diverse therapeutic applications owing to their unique physicochemical properties. They are emerging multifunctional nanoformulations that combine the desired features of the different elements to obtain the highest functionality. This review assesses the recent advances of nanocomposites, including metal-, metal oxide-, polymer-, carbon-, hydrogel/cryogel-, and metal organic framework-based nanocomposites for the eradication of P. aeruginosa biofilms. The characteristics and virulence mechanisms of P. aeruginosa biofilms, as well as their devastating impact and economic burden are discussed. Future research addressing the potential use of nanocomposites as innovative anti-biofilm agents is emphasized. Utilization of nanocomposites safely and effectively should be further strengthened to confirm the safety aspects of their application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Basma A Omran
- Department of Biotechnology, Yeungnam University, Gyeongbuk, Gyeongsan 38541, Republic of Korea; Department of Processes Design & Development, Egyptian Petroleum Research Institute (EPRI), PO 11727, Nasr City, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Boo Shan Tseng
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nevada Las Vegas, Las Vegas, NV, USA.
| | - Kwang-Hyun Baek
- Department of Biotechnology, Yeungnam University, Gyeongbuk, Gyeongsan 38541, Republic of Korea.
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Farouk F, Shebl RI. LC-MS/MS determination of pyocyanin-N-acetyl cysteine adduct: application for understanding Pseudomonas aeruginosa virulence factor neutralization. ANAL SCI 2024; 40:891-905. [PMID: 38472735 DOI: 10.1007/s44211-024-00531-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024]
Abstract
Combating Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection is challenging. It secretes pyocyanin (PCN) pigment that contributes to its virulence. Neutralizing PCN via reaction with thiol-containing compounds may represent a potential therapeutic option. This study investigates the neutralization reaction between PCN and N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) for bacterial inhibition and explores its mechanism of action. The neutralization adduct (PCN-NAC) was synthesized by reacting the purified PCN and NAC. The adduct was analyzed and its structure was elucidated. LC-MS/MS method was developed for the determination of PCN-NAC in P. aeruginosa cultures post-treatment with NAC (0-5 mg/mL). The corresponding anti-bacterial potential was estimated and compared to nanoparticles (NPs) alone and under stress conditions. In silico studies were performed to support explaining the mechanism of action. Results revealed that PCN-NAC was exclusively detected in NAC-treated cultures in a concentration-dependent manner. PCN-NAC concentration (230-915 µg/mL) was directly proportional to the reduction in the bacterial viable count (28.3% ± 7.1-87.5% ± 5.9) and outperformed all tested NPs, where chitosan NPs induced 56.9% ± 7.9 inhibition, followed by zinc NPs (49.4% ± 0.9) and gold NPs (17.8% ± 7.5) even post-exposure to different stress conditions. A concomitant reduction in PCN concentration was detected. In silico studies revealed possible interactions between key bacterial proteins and PCN-NAC rather than the NAC itself. These results pose NAC as a potential choice for the management of P. aeruginosa infection, where it neutralizes PCN via the formation of PCN-NAC adduct.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faten Farouk
- Pharmaceutical Chemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ahram Canadian University, Giza, Egypt.
| | - Rania Ibrahim Shebl
- Microbiology and Immunology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ahram Canadian University, Giza, Egypt
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Nafee N, Gaber DM, Abouelfetouh A, Alseqely M, Empting M, Schneider M. Enzyme-Linked Lipid Nanocarriers for Coping Pseudomonal Pulmonary Infection. Would Nanocarriers Complement Biofilm Disruption or Pave Its Road? Int J Nanomedicine 2024; 19:3861-3890. [PMID: 38708178 PMCID: PMC11068056 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s445955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Cystic fibrosis (CF) is associated with pulmonary Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections persistent to antibiotics. Methods To eradicate pseudomonal biofilms, solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) loaded with quorum-sensing-inhibitor (QSI, disrupting bacterial crosstalk), coated with chitosan (CS, improving internalization) and immobilized with alginate lyase (AL, destroying alginate biofilms) were developed. Results SLNs (140-205 nm) showed prolonged release of QSI with no sign of acute toxicity to A549 and Calu-3 cells. The CS coating improved uptake, whereas immobilized-AL ensured >1.5-fold higher uptake and doubled SLN diffusion across the artificial biofilm sputum model. Respirable microparticles comprising SLNs in carbohydrate matrix elicited aerodynamic diameters MMAD (3.54, 2.48 µm) and fine-particle-fraction FPF (65, 48%) for anionic and cationic SLNs, respectively. The antimicrobial and/or antibiofilm activity of SLNs was explored in Pseudomonas aeruginosa reference mucoid/nonmucoid strains as well as clinical isolates. The full growth inhibition of planktonic bacteria was dependent on SLN type, concentration, growth medium, and strain. OD measurements and live/dead staining proved that anionic SLNs efficiently ceased biofilm formation and eradicated established biofilms, whereas cationic SLNs unexpectedly promoted biofilm progression. AL immobilization increased biofilm vulnerability; instead, CS coating increased biofilm formation confirmed by 3D-time lapse confocal imaging. Incubation of SLNs with mature biofilms of P. aeruginosa isolates increased biofilm density by an average of 1.5-fold. CLSM further confirmed the binding and uptake of the labeled SLNs in P. aeruginosa biofilms. Considerable uptake of CS-coated SLNs in non-mucoid strains could be observed presumably due to interaction of chitosan with LPS glycolipids in the outer cell membrane of P. aeruginosa. Conclusion The biofilm-destructive potential of QSI/SLNs/AL inhalation is promising for site-specific biofilm-targeted interventional CF therapy. Nevertheless, the intrinsic/extrinsic fundamentals of nanocarrier-biofilm interactions require further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noha Nafee
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, Kuwait University, Safat, 13110, Kuwait
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Alexandria University, Alexandria, 21521, Egypt
| | - Dina M Gaber
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Division of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Arab Academy for Science, Technology and Maritime Transport, Alexandria, 1029, Egypt
| | - Alaa Abouelfetouh
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Alexandria University, Alexandria, 21521, Egypt
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Alamein International University, Alamein, 5060335, Egypt
| | - Mustafa Alseqely
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Alexandria University, Alexandria, 21521, Egypt
| | - Martin Empting
- Helmholtz-Institute for Pharmaceutical Research Saarland (HIPS), Department of Antiviral and Antivirulence Drugs (AVID), Saarland University, Saarbrücken, 66123, Germany
| | - Marc Schneider
- Department of Pharmacy, Biopharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technology, Saarland University, Saarbrücken, 66123, Germany
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Padaga SG, Ch S, Paul M, Wable BD, Ghosh B, Biswas S. Chitosan oligosaccharide/pluronic F127 micelles exhibiting anti-biofilm effect to treat bacterial keratitis. Carbohydr Polym 2024; 330:121818. [PMID: 38368100 DOI: 10.1016/j.carbpol.2024.121818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2023] [Revised: 12/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 02/19/2024]
Abstract
Mono or dual chitosan oligosaccharide lactate (COL)-conjugated pluronic F127 polymers, FCOL1 and FCOL2 were prepared, self-assembled to form micelles, and loaded with gatifloxacin. The Gati@FCOL1/Gati@FCOL2 micelles preparation process was optimized by QbD analysis. Micelles were characterized thoroughly for size, CMC, drug compatibility, and viscosity by GPC, DLS, SEM, IR, DSC, and XRD. The micelles exhibited good cellular uptake in both monolayers and spheroids of HCEC. The antibacterial and anti-biofilm activities of the micelles were evaluated on P. aeruginosa and S. aureus. The anti-quorum sensing activity was explored in P. aeruginosa by analyzing micelles' ability to produce virulence factors, including AHLs, pyocyanin, and the motility behavior of the organism. Gati@FCOL2 Ms was mucoadhesive, cornea-penetrant, antibacterial, and inhibited the biofilm formation by P. aeruginosa and S. aureus significantly more than Gati@FCOL1. A significant reduction in bacterial load in mice cornea was observed after Gati@FCOL2 Ms-treatment to the P. aeruginosa-induced bacterial keratitis-infected mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sri Ganga Padaga
- Nanomedicine Research Lab, Department of Pharmacy, Birla Institute of Technology & Science-Pilani, Hyderabad Campus, Medchal, Hyderabad 500078, Telangana, India
| | - Sanjay Ch
- Nanomedicine Research Lab, Department of Pharmacy, Birla Institute of Technology & Science-Pilani, Hyderabad Campus, Medchal, Hyderabad 500078, Telangana, India
| | - Milan Paul
- Nanomedicine Research Lab, Department of Pharmacy, Birla Institute of Technology & Science-Pilani, Hyderabad Campus, Medchal, Hyderabad 500078, Telangana, India
| | - Bhavika Deepak Wable
- Nanomedicine Research Lab, Department of Pharmacy, Birla Institute of Technology & Science-Pilani, Hyderabad Campus, Medchal, Hyderabad 500078, Telangana, India
| | - Balaram Ghosh
- Nanomedicine Research Lab, Department of Pharmacy, Birla Institute of Technology & Science-Pilani, Hyderabad Campus, Medchal, Hyderabad 500078, Telangana, India
| | - Swati Biswas
- Nanomedicine Research Lab, Department of Pharmacy, Birla Institute of Technology & Science-Pilani, Hyderabad Campus, Medchal, Hyderabad 500078, Telangana, India.
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Badawy MSEM, Riad OKM, Harras MF, Binsuwaidan R, Saleh A, Zaki SA. Chitosan-Aspirin Combination Inhibits Quorum-Sensing Synthases ( lasI and rhlI) in Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Life (Basel) 2024; 14:481. [PMID: 38672752 PMCID: PMC11051473 DOI: 10.3390/life14040481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2024] [Revised: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Quorum sensing (QS) controls the virulence of P. aeruginosa. This study aims to determine the anti-QS activity of aspirin alone and in combination with chitosan to reach maximum inhibition. We tested ten virulent Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa) isolates and screened for N-acyl homoserine lactone (AHL) production using Agrobacterium tumefaciens as a biosensor. P. aeruginosa isolates were treated with sub-minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of aspirin and chitosan-aspirin. We used broth microdilution and checkerboard titration methods to determine the MICs and the synergistic effect of these two compounds, respectively. Real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used to estimate the anti-QS activity of the aspirin-chitosan combination on the expression of lasI and rhlI genes. RESULTS Aspirin decreased the motility and production of AHLs, pyocyanin, and biofilm. Chitosan potentiated the inhibitory effect of aspirin. The chitosan-aspirin combination inhibited lasI and rhlI gene expression in PAO1 (ATCC 15692) by 7.12- and 0.92-fold, respectively. In clinical isolates, the expression of lasI and rhlI was decreased by 1.76 × 102- and 1.63 × 104-fold, respectively. Molecular docking analysis revealed that aspirin could fit into the active sites of the QS synthases lasI and rhlI with a high binding affinity, causing conformational changes that resulted in their inhibition. CONCLUSIONS The chitosan-aspirin combination provides new insights into treating virulent and resistant P. aeruginosa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mona Shaban E. M. Badawy
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy (Girls), Al-Azhar University, Cairo 11651, Egypt;
| | - Omnia Karem M. Riad
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy (Girls), Al-Azhar University, Cairo 11651, Egypt;
| | - Marwa F. Harras
- Pharmaceutical Medicinal Chemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy (Girls), Al-Azhar University, Cairo 11651, Egypt;
| | - Reem Binsuwaidan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, P.O. Box 84428, Riyadh 11671, Saudi Arabia; (R.B.); (A.S.)
| | - Asmaa Saleh
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, P.O. Box 84428, Riyadh 11671, Saudi Arabia; (R.B.); (A.S.)
| | - Samar A. Zaki
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy (Girls), Al-Azhar University, Cairo 11651, Egypt;
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Che J, Shi J, Fang C, Zeng X, Wu Z, Du Q, Tu M, Pan D. Elimination of Pathogen Biofilms via Postbiotics from Lactic Acid Bacteria: A Promising Method in Food and Biomedicine. Microorganisms 2024; 12:704. [PMID: 38674648 PMCID: PMC11051744 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms12040704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2024] [Revised: 03/24/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Pathogenic biofilms provide a naturally favorable barrier for microbial growth and are closely related to the virulence of pathogens. Postbiotics from lactic acid bacteria (LAB) are secondary metabolites and cellular components obtained by inactivation of fermentation broth; they have a certain inhibitory effect on all stages of pathogen biofilms. Postbiotics from LAB have drawn attention because of their high stability, safety dose parameters, and long storage period, which give them a broad application prospect in the fields of food and medicine. The mechanisms of eliminating pathogen biofilms via postbiotics from LAB mainly affect the surface adhesion, self-aggregation, virulence, and QS of pathogens influencing interspecific and intraspecific communication. However, there are some factors (preparation process and lack of target) which can limit the antibiofilm impact of postbiotics. Therefore, by using a delivery carrier and optimizing process parameters, the effect of interfering factors can be eliminated. This review summarizes the concept and characteristics of postbiotics from LAB, focusing on their preparation technology and antibiofilm effect, and the applications and limitations of postbiotics in food processing and clinical treatment are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiahao Che
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-Products, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315832, China; (J.C.); (J.S.)
- Key Laboratory of Animal Protein Food Processing Technology of Zhejiang Province, College of Food Science and Engineering, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315832, China;
- Zhejiang-Malaysia Joint Research Laboratory for Agricultural Product Processing and Nutrition, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315832, China
| | - Jingjing Shi
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-Products, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315832, China; (J.C.); (J.S.)
- Key Laboratory of Animal Protein Food Processing Technology of Zhejiang Province, College of Food Science and Engineering, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315832, China;
- Zhejiang-Malaysia Joint Research Laboratory for Agricultural Product Processing and Nutrition, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315832, China
| | - Chenguang Fang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Protein Food Processing Technology of Zhejiang Province, College of Food Science and Engineering, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315832, China;
| | - Xiaoqun Zeng
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-Products, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315832, China; (J.C.); (J.S.)
- Key Laboratory of Animal Protein Food Processing Technology of Zhejiang Province, College of Food Science and Engineering, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315832, China;
- Zhejiang-Malaysia Joint Research Laboratory for Agricultural Product Processing and Nutrition, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315832, China
| | - Zhen Wu
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-Products, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315832, China; (J.C.); (J.S.)
- Key Laboratory of Animal Protein Food Processing Technology of Zhejiang Province, College of Food Science and Engineering, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315832, China;
- Zhejiang-Malaysia Joint Research Laboratory for Agricultural Product Processing and Nutrition, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315832, China
| | - Qiwei Du
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-Products, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315832, China; (J.C.); (J.S.)
- Key Laboratory of Animal Protein Food Processing Technology of Zhejiang Province, College of Food Science and Engineering, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315832, China;
- Zhejiang-Malaysia Joint Research Laboratory for Agricultural Product Processing and Nutrition, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315832, China
| | - Maolin Tu
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-Products, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315832, China; (J.C.); (J.S.)
- Key Laboratory of Animal Protein Food Processing Technology of Zhejiang Province, College of Food Science and Engineering, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315832, China;
- Zhejiang-Malaysia Joint Research Laboratory for Agricultural Product Processing and Nutrition, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315832, China
| | - Daodong Pan
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-Products, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315832, China; (J.C.); (J.S.)
- Key Laboratory of Animal Protein Food Processing Technology of Zhejiang Province, College of Food Science and Engineering, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315832, China;
- Zhejiang-Malaysia Joint Research Laboratory for Agricultural Product Processing and Nutrition, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315832, China
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Cheng JH, Du R, Sun DW. Regulating bacterial biofilms in food and biomedicine: unraveling mechanisms and Innovating strategies. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2024:1-17. [PMID: 38384205 DOI: 10.1080/10408398.2024.2312539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
Bacterial biofilm has brought a lot of intractable problems in food and biomedicine areas. Conventional biofilm control mainly focuses on inactivation and removal of biofilm. However, with robust construction and enhanced resistance, the established biofilm is extremely difficult to eradicate. According to the mechanism of biofilm development, biofilm formation can be modulated by intervening in the key factors and regulatory systems. Therefore, regulation of biofilm formation has been proposed as an alternative way for effective biofilm control. This review aims to provide insights into the regulation of biofilm formation in food and biomedicine. The underlying mechanisms for early-stage biofilm establishment are summarized based on the key factors and correlated regulatory networks. Recent developments and applications of novel regulatory strategies such as anti/pro-biofilm agents, nanomaterials, functionalized surface materials and physical strategies are also discussed. The current review indicates that these innovative methods have contributed to effective biofilm control in a smart, safe and eco-friendly way. However, standard methodology for regulating biofilm formation in practical use is still missing. As biofilm formation in real-world systems could be far more complicated, further studies and interdisciplinary collaboration are still needed for simulation and experiments in the industry and other open systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun-Hu Cheng
- School of Food Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
- Academy of Contemporary Food Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou Higher Education Mega Centre, Guangzhou, China
- Engineering and Technological Research Centre of Guangdong Province on Intelligent Sensing and Process Control of Cold Chain Foods, & Guangdong Province Engineering Laboratory for Intelligent Cold Chain Logistics Equipment for Agricultural Products, Guangzhou Higher Education Mega Centre, Guangzhou, China
| | - Rong Du
- School of Food Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
- Academy of Contemporary Food Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou Higher Education Mega Centre, Guangzhou, China
- Engineering and Technological Research Centre of Guangdong Province on Intelligent Sensing and Process Control of Cold Chain Foods, & Guangdong Province Engineering Laboratory for Intelligent Cold Chain Logistics Equipment for Agricultural Products, Guangzhou Higher Education Mega Centre, Guangzhou, China
| | - Da-Wen Sun
- School of Food Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
- Academy of Contemporary Food Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou Higher Education Mega Centre, Guangzhou, China
- Engineering and Technological Research Centre of Guangdong Province on Intelligent Sensing and Process Control of Cold Chain Foods, & Guangdong Province Engineering Laboratory for Intelligent Cold Chain Logistics Equipment for Agricultural Products, Guangzhou Higher Education Mega Centre, Guangzhou, China
- Food Refrigeration and Computerized Food Technology (FRCFT), Agriculture and Food Science Centre, University College Dublin, National University of Ireland, Dublin 4, Ireland
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10
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Tiwari S, Gidwani B, Vyas A. Quorum Sensing in Gram-Negative Bacteria: Strategies to Overcome Antibiotic Resistance in Ocular Infections. Curr Mol Med 2024; 24:876-888. [PMID: 37497706 DOI: 10.2174/1566524023666230727094635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Revised: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023]
Abstract
Truly miraculous medications and antibiotics have helped save untold millions of lives. Antibiotic resistance, however, is a significant issue related to health that jeopardizes the effectiveness of antibiotics and could harm everyone's health. Bacteria, not humans or animals, become antibiotic-resistant. Bacteria use quorum-sensing communication routes to manage an assortment of physiological exercises. Quorum sensing is significant for appropriate biofilm development. Antibiotic resistance occurs when bacteria establish a biofilm on a surface, shielding them from the effects of infection-fighting drugs. Acylated homoserine lactones are used as autoinducers by gram-negative microscopic organisms to impart. However, antibiotic resistance among ocular pathogens is increasing worldwide. Bacteria are a significant contributor to ocular infections around the world. Gram-negative microscopic organisms are dangerous to ophthalmic tissues. This review highlights the use of elective drug targets and treatments, for example, combinational treatment, to vanquish antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Also, it briefly portrays anti-biotic resistance brought about by gram-negative bacteria and approaches to overcome resistance with the help of quorum sensing inhibitors and nanotechnology as a promising medication conveyance approach to give insurance of anti-microbials and improve pathways for the administration of inhibitors of quorum sensing with a blend of anti-microbials to explicit target destinations and penetration through biofilms for treatment of ocular infections. It centres on the methodologies to sidestep the confinements of ocular anti-biotic delivery with new visual innovation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sakshi Tiwari
- University Institute of Pharmacy, Pt. Ravishankar Shukla University, Raipur, C.G., India
| | - Bina Gidwani
- Columbia Institute of Pharmacy, Raipur, C.G., India
| | - Amber Vyas
- University Institute of Pharmacy, Pt. Ravishankar Shukla University, Raipur, C.G., India
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11
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Ammar YA, Ragab A, Migahed MA, Al-Sharbasy S, Salem MA, Riad OKM, Selim HMRM, Abd-Elmaksoud GA, Abusaif MS. Design, green synthesis, and quorum sensing quenching potential of novel 2-oxo-pyridines containing a thiophene/furan scaffold and targeting a LasR gene on P. aeruginosa. RSC Adv 2023; 13:27363-27384. [PMID: 37711372 PMCID: PMC10498153 DOI: 10.1039/d3ra04230h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023] Open
Abstract
The current trend in fighting bacteria is attacking the virulence and quorum-sensing (QS) signals that control bacterial communication and virulence factors, especially biofilm formation. This study reports new Schiff bases and tetracyclic rings based on a pyridine pharmacophore by two methods: a green approach using CAN and a conventional method. The structure of designed derivatives was confirmed using different spectroscopies (IR and 1H/13C NMR) and elemental analysis. The designed derivatives exhibited good to moderate inhibition zones against bacterial and fungal pathogens. In addition, six compounds 2a,b, 3a,b, and 6a,b displayed potency against tested pathogens with eligible MIC and MBC values compared to standard antimicrobial agents. Compound 2a displayed MIC values of 15.6 μg mL-1 compared to Gentamicin (MIC = 250 μg mL-1 against K. pneumoniae), while compound 6b exhibited super-potent activity against P. aeruginosa, and K. pneumoniae with MIC values of 62.5 and 125 μg mL-1, as well as MBC values of 31.25 and 15.6 μg mL-1 compared to Gentamicin (MIC = 250 and 125 μg mL-1 and MBC = 62.5 μg mL-1), respectively. Surprisingly, these six derivatives revealed bactericidal and fungicidal potency and remarkable anti-biofilm activity that could significantly reduce the biofilm formation against MRSA, E. coli, P. aeruginosa, and C. albicans. Furthermore, the most active derivatives reduced the LasR gene's production between 10-40% at 1/8 MICs compared with untreated P. aeruginosa. Besides, they demonstrated promising safety profile on Vero cells (normal cell lines) with IC50 values ranging between (175.17 ± 3.49 to 344.27 ± 3.81 μg mL-1). In addition, the in silico ADMET prediction was carried out and the results revealed that these compounds could be used with oral bioavailability with low toxicity prediction when administered as a candidate drug. Finally, the molecular docking simulation was performed inside LasR and predicted the key binding interactions responsible for the activity that corroborated the biological results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yousry A Ammar
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science (boys), Al-Azhar University 11884 Nasr City Cairo Egypt
| | - Ahmed Ragab
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science (boys), Al-Azhar University 11884 Nasr City Cairo Egypt
| | - M A Migahed
- Egyptian Petroleum Research Institute (EPRI) 11727 Nasr City Cairo Egypt
| | - S Al-Sharbasy
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science (girls), Al-Azhar University 11884 Nasr City Cairo Egypt
| | - Mohamed A Salem
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Arts, King Khalid University Mohail Assir Saudi Arabia
| | - Omnia Karem M Riad
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy (Girls), Al-Azhar University Nasr City Cairo Egypt
| | - Heba Mohammed Refat M Selim
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy (Girls), Al-Azhar University Nasr City Cairo Egypt
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Maarefa University Diriyah 13713 Riyadh Saudi Arabia
| | - Gehad A Abd-Elmaksoud
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science (girls), Al-Azhar University 11884 Nasr City Cairo Egypt
| | - Moustafa S Abusaif
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science (boys), Al-Azhar University 11884 Nasr City Cairo Egypt
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12
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Mukherjee D, Sil M, Goswami A, Lahiri D, Nag M. Effectiveness of metal and metal oxide nanoparticles against bacterial biofilms: Perspectives and limitations. J Basic Microbiol 2023; 63:971-985. [PMID: 37154193 DOI: 10.1002/jobm.202300013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Revised: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
In the last few years, there has been a necessary demand in the pharmaceutical industries for finding a treatment against biofilms formed by different bacterial species. We are aware of the fact that classical processes, which are already there for the removal of bacterial biofilms gives a very low efficiency and consequently antimicrobial resistance makes it even worse. To cope up with the cited problems, scientists from the past few years are inclining toward various types of nanoparticle based treatment procedures as a pharmaceutical agent against bacterial biofilms. Nanoparticles are known for their extremely efficient antimicrobial properties. The current review gives a description of different types of metal oxide nanoparticles and their antibiofilm properties. It also shows a comparative analysis of the nanoparticles and depicts the efficiency rates of biofilm degradation in each of them. It explains the mechanism of the nanoparticles through which the disintegration of bacterial biofilm is carried out. Lastly, the review throws light upon the limitations of different nanoparticles, their safety issues, the mutagenicity, genotoxicity concerns, and toxicity hazards caused by them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dipro Mukherjee
- Department of Bioscience & Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology, Jodhpur, India
| | - Moumita Sil
- Agricultural and Ecological Research Unit, Biological Sciences Division, Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata, India
| | - Arunava Goswami
- Agricultural and Ecological Research Unit, Biological Sciences Division, Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata, India
| | - Dibyajit Lahiri
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Engineering & Management, Kolkata, India
| | - Moupriya Nag
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Engineering & Management, Kolkata, India
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Zheng X, Gao M, Wu L, Lu X, Lin Q, Zhong H, Lu Y, Zhang Y, Zhang X. Ceftazidime-assisted synthesis of ultrasmall chitosan nanoparticles for biofilm penetration and eradication of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Sci Rep 2023; 13:13481. [PMID: 37596397 PMCID: PMC10439121 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-40653-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa) infections present a grave threat to immunocompromised individuals, particularly those with cystic fibrosis due to the development of bacterial biofilms. In this study, we engineered self-assembling chitosan-ceftazidime nanoparticles (CSCE) capable of effectively penetrating biofilms and eradicating P. aeruginosa. The CSCE nanoparticles were synthesized through ionic cross-linking, combining negatively charged ceftazidime with positively charged chitosan, resulting in uniform nanoparticles measuring approximately 40 nm in diameter, exhibiting high dispersity and excellent biocompatibility. Remarkably, these nanoparticles exhibited significant inhibition of P. aeruginosa growth, reduced pyocyanin production, and diminished biofilm formation, achieving a maximum inhibition rate of 22.44%. Furthermore, in vivo investigations demonstrated enhanced survival in mice with abdominal P. aeruginosa infection following treatment with CSCE nanoparticles, accompanied by reduced levels of inflammatory cytokines Interleukin-6 (125.79 ± 18.63 pg/mL), Interleukin-17 (125.67 ± 5.94 pg/mL), and Tumor Necrosis Factor-α (135.4 ± 11.77 pg/mL). Critically, mice treated with CSCE nanoparticles showed no presence of bacteria in the bloodstream following intraperitoneal P. aeruginosa infection. Collectively, our findings highlight the potential of these synthesized nanoparticles as effective agents against P. aeruginosa infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoran Zheng
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Affiliated Jiangning Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211100, China
| | - Min Gao
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Affiliated Jiangning Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211100, China
| | - Liangquan Wu
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Affiliated Jiangning Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211100, China
| | - Xin Lu
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Affiliated Jiangning Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211100, China
| | - Qiuqi Lin
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Affiliated Jiangning Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211100, China
| | - Hai Zhong
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Affiliated Jiangning Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211100, China
| | - Yingfei Lu
- Central Laboratory, Translational Medicine Research Center, The Affiliated Jiangning Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211100, China
| | - Yunlei Zhang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Affiliated Jiangning Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211100, China.
- School of Biomedical Engineering and Informatics, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211100, China.
- Central Laboratory, Translational Medicine Research Center, The Affiliated Jiangning Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211100, China.
| | - Xiuwei Zhang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Affiliated Jiangning Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211100, China.
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Badawy MSEM, Elkhatib WF, Shebl RI. Mathematical pharmacodynamic modeling for antimicrobial assessment of ceftazidime/colistin versus gentamicin/meropenem combinations against carbapenem-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilm. Ann Clin Microbiol Antimicrob 2023; 22:53. [PMID: 37394468 DOI: 10.1186/s12941-023-00597-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Carbapenem-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa (CRPA) represents an escalating healthcare hazard with high mortality worldwide, especially in presence of biofilm. The current study aimed to evaluate the anti-biofilm potentials of ceftazidime, colistin, gentamicin, and meropenem alone and in combinations against biofilm-forming CRPA. METHODS Biofilm killing and checkerboard assay were performed to detect the effectiveness of combined antibiotics against biofilms and planktonic cells, respectively. The bacterial bioburden retrieved from the established biofilms following treatment with combined antibiotics was utilized to construct a three-dimensional response surface plot. A sigmoidal maximum effect model was applied to determine the pharmacodynamic parameters (maximal effect, median effective concentration, and Hill factor) of each antibiotic to create a mathematical three-dimensional response surface plot. RESULTS Data revealed statistically significant (p < 0.05) superior anti-biofilm potential in the case of colistin followed by a lower effect in the case of gentamicin and meropenem, while ceftazidime exhibited the least anti-biofilm activity. The fractional inhibitory concentration index (FICI ≤ 0.5) indicated synergism following treatment with the combined antibiotics. An elevated anti-biofilm activity was recorded in the case of gentamicin/meropenem compared to ceftazidime/colistin. Synergistic anti-biofilm potentials were also detected via the simulated pharmacodynamic modeling, with higher anti-biofilm activity in the case of the in vitro observation compared to the simulated anti-biofilm profile. CONCLUSIONS The present study highlighted the synergistic potentials of the tested antibiotic combinations against P. aeruginosa biofilms and the importance of the mathematical pharmacodynamic modeling in investigating the efficacy of antibiotics in combination as an effective strategy for successful antibiotic therapy to tackle the extensively growing resistance to the currently available antibiotics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mona Shaban E M Badawy
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy (Girls), El-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Walid F Elkhatib
- Microbiology and Immunology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, African Union Organization St., Abbassia, Cairo, 11566, Egypt.
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Galala University, New Galala City, Suez, Egypt.
| | - Rania I Shebl
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ahram Canadian University, 6th October city, 4th industrial zone, Giza, 12451, Egypt.
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de Celis M, Belda I, Marquina D, Santos A. Phenotypic and transcriptional study of the antimicrobial activity of silver and zinc oxide nanoparticles on a wastewater biofilm-forming Pseudomonas aeruginosa strain. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 826:153915. [PMID: 35219669 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.153915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2021] [Revised: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/12/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The extensive use of nanoparticles (NPs) in industrial processes makes their potential release into the environment an issue of concern. Ag and ZnO NPs are among the most frequently used NPs, potentially reaching concentrations of 1-4 and 64 mg/kg, respectively, in Wastewater Treatment Plants (WWTPs), with unknown effects over microbial populations. Thus, we examined, in depth, the effect of such NPs on a P. aeruginosa strain isolated from a WWTP. We evaluated the growth, ROS production and biofilm formation, in addition to the transcriptomic response in presence of Ag and ZnO NPs at concentrations potentially found in sewage sludge. The transcriptomic and phenotypic patterns of P. aeruginosa in presence of Ag NPs were, in general, similar to the control treatment, with some specific transcriptional impacts affecting processes involved in biofilm formation and iron homeostasis. The biofilms formed under Ag NPs treatment were, on average, thinner and more homogeneous. ZnO NPs also alters the biofilm formation and iron homeostasis in P. aeruginosa, however, the higher and more toxic concentrations utilized caused an increase in cell death and eDNA release. Thus, the biofilm development was characterized by EPS production, via eDNA release. The number of differentially expressed genes in presence of ZnO NPs was higher compared to Ag NPs treatment. Even though the responses of P. aeruginosa to the presence of the studied metallic NPs was at some extent similar, the higher and more toxic concentrations of ZnO NPs produced greater changes concerning cell viability and ROS production, causing disruption in biofilm development.
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Affiliation(s)
- M de Celis
- Department of Genetics, Physiology and Microbiology, Microbiology Unit, Faculty of Biology, Complutense University of Madrid, José Antonio Novais 12, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - I Belda
- Department of Genetics, Physiology and Microbiology, Microbiology Unit, Faculty of Biology, Complutense University of Madrid, José Antonio Novais 12, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - D Marquina
- Department of Genetics, Physiology and Microbiology, Microbiology Unit, Faculty of Biology, Complutense University of Madrid, José Antonio Novais 12, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - A Santos
- Department of Genetics, Physiology and Microbiology, Microbiology Unit, Faculty of Biology, Complutense University of Madrid, José Antonio Novais 12, 28040 Madrid, Spain.
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16
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Kašparová P, Boková S, Rollová M, Paldrychová M, Vaňková E, Lokočová K, Michailidu J, Maťátková O, Masák J. Addition time plays a major role in the inhibitory effect of chitosan on the production of Pseudomonas aeruginosa virulence factors. Braz J Microbiol 2022; 53:535-546. [PMID: 35235193 PMCID: PMC9151934 DOI: 10.1007/s42770-022-00707-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a gram-negative bacterium capable of forming persistent biofilms that are extremely difficult to eradicate. The species is most infamously known due to complications in cystic fibrosis patients. The high mortality of cystic fibrosis is caused by P. aeruginosa biofilms occurring in pathologically overly mucous lungs, which are the major cause facilitating the organ failure. Due to Pseudomonas biofilm-associated infections, remarkably high doses of antibiotics must be administered, eventually contributing to the development of antibiotic resistance. Nowadays, multidrug resistant P. aeruginosa is one of the most terrible threats in medicine, and the search for novel antimicrobial drugs is of the utmost importance. We have studied the effect of low molecular weight chitosan (LMWCH) on various stages of P. aeruginosa ATCC 10145 biofilm formation and eradication, as well as on production of other virulence factors. LMWCH is a well-known naturally occurring agent with a vast antimicrobial spectrum, which has already found application in various fields of medicine and industry. LMWCH at a concentration of 40 mg/L was able to completely prevent biofilm formation. At a concentration of 60 mg/L, this agent was capable to eradicate already formed biofilm in most studied times of addition (2-12 h of cultivation). LMWCH (50 mg/L) was also able to suppress pyocyanin production when added 2 and 4 h after cultivation. The treatment resulted in reduced formation of cell clusters. LMWCH was proved to be an effective antibiofilm agent worth further clinical research with the potential to become a novel drug for the treatment of P. aeruginosa infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Kašparová
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Chemistry and Technology in Prague, Technická 5, Prague 6 - Dejvice, 166 28, Czech Republic.
| | - S Boková
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Chemistry and Technology in Prague, Technická 5, Prague 6 - Dejvice, 166 28, Czech Republic
| | - M Rollová
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Chemistry and Technology in Prague, Technická 5, Prague 6 - Dejvice, 166 28, Czech Republic
| | - M Paldrychová
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Chemistry and Technology in Prague, Technická 5, Prague 6 - Dejvice, 166 28, Czech Republic
| | - E Vaňková
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Chemistry and Technology in Prague, Technická 5, Prague 6 - Dejvice, 166 28, Czech Republic
| | - K Lokočová
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Chemistry and Technology in Prague, Technická 5, Prague 6 - Dejvice, 166 28, Czech Republic
| | - J Michailidu
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Chemistry and Technology in Prague, Technická 5, Prague 6 - Dejvice, 166 28, Czech Republic
| | - O Maťátková
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Chemistry and Technology in Prague, Technická 5, Prague 6 - Dejvice, 166 28, Czech Republic
| | - J Masák
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Chemistry and Technology in Prague, Technická 5, Prague 6 - Dejvice, 166 28, Czech Republic
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Hemmati F, Ghotaslou R, Salehi R, Kafil HS, Hasani A, Gholizadeh P, Nouri R, Rezaee MA. Effects of Gentamicin-Loaded Chitosan-ZnO Nanocomposite on Quorum-Sensing Regulation of Pseudomonas Aeruginosa. Mol Biotechnol 2021; 63:746-756. [PMID: 34003434 DOI: 10.1007/s12033-021-00336-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Accepted: 05/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Cell density-based intercellular signaling mechanism is known as Quorum sensing (QS); it serves a significant role in regulating the pathogenic factors. The objective of the present study was to assess the influence of chitosan-zinc oxide nanocomposite (CH-ZnO nanocomposite), alone and in combination with gentamicin, on the sensitivity to hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), the production of pathogenic factors and QS-regulated genes of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The efficacy of the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and 1/4 MIC of the CH-ZnO nanocomposite, alone and in combination with gentamicin, on the sensitivity to H2O2, pyocyanin secretion, swarming and twitching motilities was evaluated. In addition, the expression of some QS-regulated genes including rhlI, rhlR, lasI and lasR genes was measured by Real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) following exposure to the nanocomposite. The results demonstrated that at MIC concentrations, the gentamicin-loaded CH-ZnO nanocomposite significantly inhibited QS-regulated phenotypes such as pyocyanin secretion (82.4%), swarming (76%) and twitching (73.6%) motilities; further it increased the inhibition growth zone (134.5%), as well as, at 1/4 MIC concentration decreased the expression of lasI (72%), lasR (78%), rhlI (76%) and rhlR (82%) genes; as compared to untreated P. aeruginosa PAO1 (P < 0.05). Our results also demonstrated that the CH-ZnO nanocomposite combined with gentamicin could be a potential innovative candidate, which could be broadly applied in the treatment of P. aeruginosa infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Hemmati
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Reza Ghotaslou
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Roya Salehi
- Drug Applied Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Science, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Hossein Samadi Kafil
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Drug Applied Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Science, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Alka Hasani
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Pourya Gholizadeh
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Roghayeh Nouri
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Ahangarzadeh Rezaee
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran. .,Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
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Maisetta G, Piras AM, Motta V, Braccini S, Mazzantini D, Chiellini F, Zambito Y, Esin S, Batoni G. Antivirulence Properties of a Low-Molecular-Weight Quaternized Chitosan Derivative against Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Microorganisms 2021; 9:912. [PMID: 33923269 PMCID: PMC8145479 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms9050912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2021] [Revised: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 04/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
The co-occurrence of increasing rates of resistance to current antibiotics and the paucity of novel antibiotics pose major challenges for the treatment of bacterial infections. In this scenario, treatments targeting bacterial virulence have gained considerable interest as they are expected to exert a weaker selection for resistance than conventional antibiotics. In a previous study, we demonstrated that a low-molecular-weight quaternized chitosan derivative, named QAL, displays antibiofilm activity against the major pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa at subinhibitory concentrations. The aim of this study was to investigate whether QAL was able to inhibit the production of relevant virulence factors of P. aeruginosa. When tested in vitro at subinhibiting concentrations (0.31-0.62 mg/mL), QAL markedly reduced the production of pyocyanin, pyoverdin, proteases, and LasA, as well as inhibited the swarming motility of three out of four P. aeruginosa strains tested. Furthermore, quantitative reverse transcription PCR (qRT-PCR) analyses demonstrated that expression of lasI and rhlI, two QS-related genes, was highly downregulated in a representative P. aeruginosa strain. Confocal scanning laser microscopy analysis suggested that FITC-labelled QAL accumulates intracellularly following incubation with P. aeruginosa. In contrast, the reduced production of virulence factors was not evidenced when QAL was used as the main polymeric component of polyelectrolyte-based nanoparticles. Additionally, combination of sub-MIC concentrations of QAL and tobramycin significantly reduced biofilm formation of P. aeruginosa, likely due to a synergistic activity towards planktonic bacteria. Overall, the results obtained demonstrated an antivirulence activity of QAL, possibly due to polymer intracellular localization and QS-inhibition, and its ability to inhibit P. aeruginosa growth synergizing with tobramycin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppantonio Maisetta
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (V.M.); (D.M.); (S.E.); (G.B.)
| | - Anna Maria Piras
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (A.M.P.); (Y.Z.)
| | - Vincenzo Motta
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (V.M.); (D.M.); (S.E.); (G.B.)
| | - Simona Braccini
- Department of Chemistry and Industrial Chemistry, University of Pisa, UdR INSTM PISA, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (S.B.); (F.C.)
| | - Diletta Mazzantini
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (V.M.); (D.M.); (S.E.); (G.B.)
| | - Federica Chiellini
- Department of Chemistry and Industrial Chemistry, University of Pisa, UdR INSTM PISA, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (S.B.); (F.C.)
| | - Ylenia Zambito
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (A.M.P.); (Y.Z.)
- Interdepartmental Research Centre “Nutraceuticals and Food for Health”, University of Pisa, 56100 Pisa, Italy
| | - Semih Esin
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (V.M.); (D.M.); (S.E.); (G.B.)
| | - Giovanna Batoni
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (V.M.); (D.M.); (S.E.); (G.B.)
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Afrasiabi S, Bahador A, Partoazar A. Combinatorial therapy of chitosan hydrogel-based zinc oxide nanocomposite attenuates the virulence of Streptococcus mutans. BMC Microbiol 2021; 21:62. [PMID: 33622240 PMCID: PMC7903727 DOI: 10.1186/s12866-021-02128-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Accepted: 02/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Biofilm formation is an important causative factor in the expansion of the carious lesions in the enamel. Hence, new approaches to efficient antibacterial agents are highly demanded. This study was conducted to evaluate the antimicrobial-biofilm activity of chitosan hydrogel (CS gel), zinc oxide/ zeolite nanocomposite (ZnONC) either separately or combined together [ZnONC / CS gel (ZnONC-CS)] against Streptococcus mutans biofilm. Results MTT assay demonstrated that the ZnONC-CS exhibits a non-cytotoxic effect (> 90% cell viability) toward human gingival fibroblast cells at different dosages (78.1–625 μg/mL) within 72 h. In comparison with CS gel and ZnONC, ZnONC-CS was superior at biofilm formation and metabolic activity reduction by 33 and 45%, respectively; (P < 0.05). The field emission scanning electron microscopy micrographs of the biofilms grown on the enamel slabs were largely in concordance with the quantitative biofilm assay results. Consistent with the reducing effect of ZnONC-CS on biofilm formation, the expression levels of gtfB, gtfC, and ftf significantly decreased. Conclusions Taken together, excellent compatibility coupled with an enhanced antimicrobial effect against S. mutans biofilm has equipped ZnONC-CS as a promising candidate for dental biofilm control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shima Afrasiabi
- Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Abbas Bahador
- Oral Microbiology Laboratory, Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Alireza Partoazar
- Experimental Medicine Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Tran TT, Hadinoto K. A Potential Quorum-Sensing Inhibitor for Bronchiectasis Therapy: Quercetin-Chitosan Nanoparticle Complex Exhibiting Superior Inhibition of Biofilm Formation and Swimming Motility of Pseudomonas aeruginosa to the Native Quercetin. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22041541. [PMID: 33546487 PMCID: PMC7913711 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22041541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Revised: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Quercetin (QUE)—a plant-derived flavonoid, is recently established as an effective quorum sensing (QS) inhibiting agent in Pseudomonas aeruginosa—the main bacterial pathogen in bronchiectasis lungs. Successful clinical application of QUE, however, is hindered by its low solubility in physiological fluids. Herein we developed a solubility enhancement strategy of QUE in the form of a stable amorphous nanoparticle complex (nanoplex) of QUE and chitosan (CHI), which was prepared by electrostatically driven complexation between ionized QUE molecules and oppositely charged CHI. At its optimal preparation condition, the QUE–CHI nanoplex exhibited a size of roughly 150 nm with a 25% QUE payload and 60% complexation efficiency. The complexation with CHI had no adverse effect on the antibacterial and anticancer activities of QUE, signifying the preservation of QUE’s bioactivities in the nanoplex. Compared to the native QUE, the QUE–CHI nanoplex exhibited superior QS inhibition in suppressing the QS-regulated swimming motility and biofilm formation of P. aeruginosa, but not in suppressing the virulence factor production. The superior inhibitions of the biofilm formation and swimming motility afforded by the nanoplex were attributed to (1) its higher kinetic solubility (5-times higher) that led to higher QUE exposures, and (2) the synergistic QS inhibition attributed to its CHI fraction.
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Gbian DL, Omri A. Current and novel therapeutic strategies for the management of cystic fibrosis. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2021; 18:535-552. [PMID: 33426936 DOI: 10.1080/17425247.2021.1874343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Cystic fibrosis (CF), is caused by mutations in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene and affects thousands of people throughout the world. Lung disease is the leading cause of death in CF patients. Despite the advances in treatments, the management of CF mainly targets symptoms. Recent CFTR modulators however target common mutations in patients, alleviating symptoms of CF. Unfortunately, there is still no approved treatments for patients with rare mutations to date.Areas covered: This paper reviews current treatments of CF that mitigate symptoms and target genetic defects. The use of gene and drug delivery systems such as viral or non-viral vectors and nano-compounds to enhance CFTR expression and the activity of antimicrobials against chronic pulmonary infections respectively, will also be discussed.Expert opinion: Nano-compounds tackle biological barriers to drug delivery and revitalize antimicrobials, anti-inflammatory drugs and even genes delivery to CF patients. Gene therapy and gene editing are of particular interest because they have the potential to directly target genetic defects. Nanoparticles should be formulated to more specifically target epithelial cells, and biofilms. Finally, the development of more potent gene vectors to increase the duration of gene expression and reduce inflammation is a promising strategy to eventually cure CF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Douweh Leyla Gbian
- The Novel Drug and Vaccine Delivery Systems Facility, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Laurentian University, Sudbury, Ontario, Canada
| | - Abdelwahab Omri
- The Novel Drug and Vaccine Delivery Systems Facility, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Laurentian University, Sudbury, Ontario, Canada
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Fattah RAFA, Fathy FEZY, Mohamed TAH, Elsayed MS. Effect of chitosan nanoparticles on quorum sensing-controlled virulence factors and expression of LasI and RhlI genes among Pseudomonas aeruginosa clinical isolates. AIMS Microbiol 2021; 7:415-430. [PMID: 35071940 PMCID: PMC8712529 DOI: 10.3934/microbiol.2021025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
<abstract>
<p>Antibiotic-resistant strains of <italic>Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa</italic>) pose a major threat for healthcare-associated and community-acquired infections. <italic>P. aeruginosa</italic> is recognized as an opportunistic pathogen using quorum sensing (QS) system to regulate the expression of virulence factors and biofilm development. Thus, meddling with the QS system would give alternate methods of controlling the pathogenicity. This study aimed to assess the inhibitory impact of chitosan nanoparticles (CS-NPs) on <italic>P. aeruginosa</italic> virulence factors regulated by QS (e.g., motility and biofilm formation) and <italic>LasI</italic> and <italic>RhlI</italic> gene expression. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of CS-NPs against 30 isolates of <italic>P. aeruginosa</italic> was determined. The CS-NPs at sub-MIC were utilized to assess their inhibitory effect on motility, biofilm formation, and the expression levels of <italic>LasI</italic> and <italic>RhlI</italic> genes. CS-NPs remarkably inhibited the tested virulence factors as compared to the controls grown without the nanoparticles. The mean (±SD) diameter of swimming motility was decreased from 3.93 (±1.5) to 1.63 (±1.02) cm, and the mean of the swarming motility was reduced from 3.5 (±1.6) to 1.9 (±1.07) cm. All isolates became non-biofilm producers, and the mean percentage rate of biofilm inhibition was 84.95% (±6.18). Quantitative real-time PCR affirmed the opposition of QS activity by lowering the expression levels of <italic>LasI</italic> and <italic>RhlI</italic> genes; the expression level was decreased by 90- and 100-folds, respectively. In conclusion, the application of CS-NPs reduces the virulence factors significantly at both genotypic and phenotypic levels. These promising results can breathe hope in the fight against resistant <italic>P. aeruginosa</italic> by repressing its QS-regulated virulence factors.</p>
</abstract>
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Preethi S, Abarna K, Nithyasri M, Kishore P, Deepika K, Ranjithkumar R, Bhuvaneshwari V, Bharathi D. Synthesis and characterization of chitosan/zinc oxide nanocomposite for antibacterial activity onto cotton fabrics and dye degradation applications. Int J Biol Macromol 2020; 164:2779-2787. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2020.08.047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Revised: 07/29/2020] [Accepted: 08/05/2020] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
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Rivera Aguayo P, Bruna Larenas T, Alarcón Godoy C, Cayupe Rivas B, González-Casanova J, Rojas-Gómez D, Caro Fuentes N. Antimicrobial and Antibiofilm Capacity of Chitosan Nanoparticles against Wild Type Strain of Pseudomonas sp. Isolated from Milk of Cows Diagnosed with Bovine Mastitis. Antibiotics (Basel) 2020; 9:antibiotics9090551. [PMID: 32872146 PMCID: PMC7558502 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics9090551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2020] [Revised: 08/22/2020] [Accepted: 08/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Bovine mastitis (BM) is the most prevalent bacterial infection in the livestock sector, affecting the dairy industry greatly. The prevention and treatment of this disease is mainly made via antibiotics, but the increasing antimicrobial resistance of pathogens has affected the efficiency of conventional drugs. Pseudomonas sp. is one of the pathogens involved in this infection. The therapeutic rate of cure for this environmental mastitis-causing pathogen is practically zero, regardless of treatment. Biofilm formation has been one of the main virulence mechanisms of Pseudomonas hence presenting resistance to antibiotic therapy. We have manufactured chitosan nanoparticles (NQo) with tripolyphosphate (TPP) using ionotropic gelation. These NQo were confronted against a Pseudomonas sp. strain isolated from milk samples of cows diagnosed with BM, to evaluate their antimicrobial and antibiofilm capacity. The NQo showed great antibacterial effect in the minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC), minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) and disk diffusion assays. Using sub lethal concentrations, NQo were tested for inhibition of biofilm formation. The results show that the nanoparticles exhibited biofilm inhibition and were capable of eradicate pre-existing mature biofilm. These findings indicate that the NQo could act as a potential alternative to antibiotic treatment of BM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula Rivera Aguayo
- Centro de Investigación Austral Biotech, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Santo Tomas, Avenida Ejército 146, Santiago 8370003, Chile; (P.R.A.); (T.B.L.); (C.A.G.); (B.C.R.)
| | - Tamara Bruna Larenas
- Centro de Investigación Austral Biotech, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Santo Tomas, Avenida Ejército 146, Santiago 8370003, Chile; (P.R.A.); (T.B.L.); (C.A.G.); (B.C.R.)
| | - Carlos Alarcón Godoy
- Centro de Investigación Austral Biotech, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Santo Tomas, Avenida Ejército 146, Santiago 8370003, Chile; (P.R.A.); (T.B.L.); (C.A.G.); (B.C.R.)
| | - Bernardita Cayupe Rivas
- Centro de Investigación Austral Biotech, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Santo Tomas, Avenida Ejército 146, Santiago 8370003, Chile; (P.R.A.); (T.B.L.); (C.A.G.); (B.C.R.)
| | - Jorge González-Casanova
- Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Autónoma de Chile, Santiago 8910060, Chile;
| | - Diana Rojas-Gómez
- Escuela de Nutrición y Dietética, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Andres Bello, Santiago 7591538, Chile;
| | - Nelson Caro Fuentes
- Centro de Investigación Austral Biotech, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Santo Tomas, Avenida Ejército 146, Santiago 8370003, Chile; (P.R.A.); (T.B.L.); (C.A.G.); (B.C.R.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +56-22-3624720
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