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Li P, Guo G, Zheng X, Xu S, Zhou Y, Qin X, Hu Z, Yu Y, Tan Z, Ma J, Chen L, Zhang W. Therapeutic efficacy of a K5-specific phage and depolymerase against Klebsiella pneumoniae in a mouse model of infection. Vet Res 2024; 55:59. [PMID: 38715095 PMCID: PMC11077817 DOI: 10.1186/s13567-024-01311-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Klebsiella pneumoniae has become one of the most intractable gram-negative pathogens infecting humans and animals due to its severe antibiotic resistance. Bacteriophages and protein products derived from them are receiving increasing amounts of attention as potential alternatives to antibiotics. In this study, we isolated and investigated the characteristics of a new lytic phage, P1011, which lyses K5 K. pneumoniae specifically among 26 serotypes. The K5-specific capsular polysaccharide-degrading depolymerase dep1011 was identified and expressed. By establishing murine infection models using bovine strain B16 (capable of supporting phage proliferation) and human strain KP181 (incapable of sustaining phage expansion), we explored the safety and efficacy of phage and dep1011 treatments against K5 K. pneumoniae. Phage P1011 resulted in a 60% survival rate of the mice challenged with K. pneumoniae supporting phage multiplication, concurrently lowering the bacterial burden in their blood, liver, and lungs. Unexpectedly, even when confronted with bacteria impervious to phage multiplication, phage therapy markedly decreased the number of viable organisms. The protective efficacy of the depolymerase was significantly better than that of the phage. The depolymerase achieved 100% survival in both treatment groups regardless of phage propagation compatibility. These findings indicated that P1011 and dep1011 might be used as potential antibacterial agents to control K5 K. pneumoniae infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pei Li
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Key Lab of Animal Bacteriology, Ministry of Agriculture, Nanjing, 210095, China
- The Sanya Institute of Nanjing Agricultural University, Yabulun Industrial Park, Yazhou Bay Science and Technology City, Sanya, 572024, China
| | - Genglin Guo
- Shandong Institute of Sericulture, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Yantai, China
| | - Xiangkuan Zheng
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Key Lab of Animal Bacteriology, Ministry of Agriculture, Nanjing, 210095, China
- The Sanya Institute of Nanjing Agricultural University, Yabulun Industrial Park, Yazhou Bay Science and Technology City, Sanya, 572024, China
| | - Sixiang Xu
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Key Lab of Animal Bacteriology, Ministry of Agriculture, Nanjing, 210095, China
- The Sanya Institute of Nanjing Agricultural University, Yabulun Industrial Park, Yazhou Bay Science and Technology City, Sanya, 572024, China
| | - Yu Zhou
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Key Lab of Animal Bacteriology, Ministry of Agriculture, Nanjing, 210095, China
- The Sanya Institute of Nanjing Agricultural University, Yabulun Industrial Park, Yazhou Bay Science and Technology City, Sanya, 572024, China
| | - Xiayan Qin
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Key Lab of Animal Bacteriology, Ministry of Agriculture, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Zimeng Hu
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Key Lab of Animal Bacteriology, Ministry of Agriculture, Nanjing, 210095, China
- The Sanya Institute of Nanjing Agricultural University, Yabulun Industrial Park, Yazhou Bay Science and Technology City, Sanya, 572024, China
| | - Yanfei Yu
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Biological Engineering and Technology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhongming Tan
- NHC Key Laboratory of Enteric Pathogenic Microbiology, Jiangsu Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanjing, 210014, China
| | - Jiale Ma
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Key Lab of Animal Bacteriology, Ministry of Agriculture, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Long Chen
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Zhangjiagang Hospital Affiliated to Soochow University, Zhangjiagang, 215600, China.
| | - Wei Zhang
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Key Lab of Animal Bacteriology, Ministry of Agriculture, Nanjing, 210095, China.
- The Sanya Institute of Nanjing Agricultural University, Yabulun Industrial Park, Yazhou Bay Science and Technology City, Sanya, 572024, China.
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2
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Samson R, Dharne M, Khairnar K. Bacteriophages: Status quo and emerging trends toward one health approach. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 908:168461. [PMID: 37967634 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.168461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2023] [Revised: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/17/2023]
Abstract
The alarming rise in antimicrobial resistance (AMR) among the drug-resistant pathogens has been attributed to the ESKAPEE group (Enterococcus faecium, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Acinetobacter baumanii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Enterobacter sp., and Escherichia coli). Recently, these AMR microbes have become difficult to treat, as they have rendered the existing therapeutics ineffective. Thus, there is an urgent need for effective alternatives to lessen or eliminate the current infections and limit the spread of emerging diseases under the "One Health" framework. Bacteriophages (phages) are naturally occurring biological resources with extraordinary potential for biomedical, agriculture/food safety, environmental protection, and energy production. Specific unique properties of phages, such as their bactericidal activity, host specificity, potency, and biocompatibility, make them desirable candidates in therapeutics. The recent biotechnological advancement has broadened the repertoire of phage applications in nanoscience, material science, physical chemistry, and soft-matter research. Herein, we present a comprehensive review, coupling the substantial aspects of phages with their applicability status and emerging opportunities in several interdependent areas under one health concept. Consolidating the recent state-of-the-art studies that integrate human, animal, plant, and environment health, the following points have been highlighted: (i) The biomedical and pharmacological advantages of phages and their antimicrobial derivatives with particular emphasis on in-vivo and clinical studies. (ii) The remarkable potential of phages to be altered, improved, and applied for drug delivery, biosensors, biomedical imaging, tissue engineering, energy, and catalysis. (iii) Resurgence of phages in biocontrol of plant, food, and animal-borne pathogens. (iv) Commercialization of phage-based products, current challenges, and perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Samson
- National Collection of Industrial Microorganisms (NCIM), Biochemical Sciences Division, CSIR-National Chemical Laboratory (NCL), Pune 411008, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh 201002, India
| | - Mahesh Dharne
- National Collection of Industrial Microorganisms (NCIM), Biochemical Sciences Division, CSIR-National Chemical Laboratory (NCL), Pune 411008, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh 201002, India.
| | - Krishna Khairnar
- National Collection of Industrial Microorganisms (NCIM), Biochemical Sciences Division, CSIR-National Chemical Laboratory (NCL), Pune 411008, India; Environmental Virology Cell (EVC), CSIR-National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI), Nehru Marg, Nagpur 440020, India.
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3
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Wang H, Liu Y, Bai C, Leung SSY. Translating bacteriophage-derived depolymerases into antibacterial therapeutics: Challenges and prospects. Acta Pharm Sin B 2024; 14:155-169. [PMID: 38239242 PMCID: PMC10792971 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2023.08.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Revised: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Predatory bacteriophages have evolved a vast array of depolymerases for bacteria capture and deprotection. These depolymerases are enzymes responsible for degrading diverse bacterial surface carbohydrates. They are exploited as antibiofilm agents and antimicrobial adjuvants while rarely inducing bacterial resistance, making them an invaluable asset in the era of antibiotic resistance. Numerous depolymerases have been investigated preclinically, with evidence indicating that depolymerases with appropriate dose regimens can safely and effectively combat different multidrug-resistant pathogens in animal infection models. Additionally, some formulation approaches have been developed for improved stability and activity of depolymerases. However, depolymerase formulation is limited to liquid dosage form and remains in its infancy, posing a significant hurdle to their clinical translation, compounded by challenges in their applicability and manufacturing. Future development must address these obstacles for clinical utility. Here, after unravelling the history, diversity, and therapeutic use of depolymerases, we summarized the preclinical efficacy and existing formulation findings of recombinant depolymerases. Finally, the challenges and perspectives of depolymerases as therapeutics for humans were assessed to provide insights for their further development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Honglan Wang
- School of Pharmacy, the Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Yannan Liu
- Emergency Medicine Clinical Research Center, Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100020, China
| | - Changqing Bai
- Department of Respiratory, Shenzhen University General Hospital, Shenzhen University Clinical Medical Academy, Guangdong 518055, China
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4
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Lukianova AA, Shneider MM, Evseev PV, Egorov MV, Kasimova AA, Shpirt AM, Shashkov AS, Knirel YA, Kostryukova ES, Miroshnikov KA. Depolymerisation of the Klebsiella pneumoniae Capsular Polysaccharide K21 by Klebsiella Phage K5. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:17288. [PMID: 38139119 PMCID: PMC10743669 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242417288] [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: 11/08/2023] [Revised: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Klebsiella pneumoniae is a pathogen associated with various infection types, which often exhibits multiple antibiotic resistance. Phages, or bacterial viruses, have an ability to specifically target and destroy K. pneumoniae, offering a potential means of combatting multidrug-resistant infections. Phage enzymes are another promising therapeutic agent that can break down bacterial capsular polysaccharide, which shields K. pneumoniae from the immune response and external factors. In this study, Klebsiella phage K5 was isolated; this phage is active against Klebsiella pneumoniae with the capsular type K21. It was demonstrated that the phage can effectively lyse the host culture. The adsorption apparatus of the phage has revealed two receptor-binding proteins (RBPs) with predicted polysaccharide depolymerising activity. A recombinant form of both RBPs was obtained and experiments showed that one of them depolymerised the capsular polysaccharide K21. The structure of this polysaccharide and its degradation fragments were analysed. The second receptor-binding protein showed no activity on capsular polysaccharide of any of the 31 capsule types tested, so the substrate for this enzyme remains to be determined in the future. Klebsiella phage K5 may be considered a useful agent against Klebsiella infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna A. Lukianova
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Miklukho-Maklaya Str. 16/10, 117997 Moscow, Russia; (P.V.E.); (M.V.E.); (K.A.M.)
| | - Mikhail M. Shneider
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Miklukho-Maklaya Str. 16/10, 117997 Moscow, Russia; (P.V.E.); (M.V.E.); (K.A.M.)
| | - Peter V. Evseev
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Miklukho-Maklaya Str. 16/10, 117997 Moscow, Russia; (P.V.E.); (M.V.E.); (K.A.M.)
| | - Mikhail V. Egorov
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Miklukho-Maklaya Str. 16/10, 117997 Moscow, Russia; (P.V.E.); (M.V.E.); (K.A.M.)
| | - Anastasiya A. Kasimova
- Zelinsky Institute of Organic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Leninsky prosp. 47, 119991 Moscow, Russia; (A.A.K.); (A.M.S.); (A.S.S.); (Y.A.K.)
| | - Anna M. Shpirt
- Zelinsky Institute of Organic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Leninsky prosp. 47, 119991 Moscow, Russia; (A.A.K.); (A.M.S.); (A.S.S.); (Y.A.K.)
| | - Alexander S. Shashkov
- Zelinsky Institute of Organic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Leninsky prosp. 47, 119991 Moscow, Russia; (A.A.K.); (A.M.S.); (A.S.S.); (Y.A.K.)
| | - Yuriy A. Knirel
- Zelinsky Institute of Organic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Leninsky prosp. 47, 119991 Moscow, Russia; (A.A.K.); (A.M.S.); (A.S.S.); (Y.A.K.)
| | - Elena S. Kostryukova
- Lopukhin Federal Research and Clinical Center of Physical-Chemical Medicine, Federal Medical Biological Agency, Malaya Pirogovskaya Str. 1, 119435 Moscow, Russia;
| | - Konstantin A. Miroshnikov
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Miklukho-Maklaya Str. 16/10, 117997 Moscow, Russia; (P.V.E.); (M.V.E.); (K.A.M.)
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5
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Guo Z, Liu M, Zhang D. Potential of phage depolymerase for the treatment of bacterial biofilms. Virulence 2023; 14:2273567. [PMID: 37872768 PMCID: PMC10621286 DOI: 10.1080/21505594.2023.2273567] [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: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Resistance of bacteria to antibiotics is a major concern in medicine and veterinary science. The bacterial biofilm structures not only prevent the penetration of drugs into cells within the biofilm's interior but also aid in evasion of the host immune system. Hence, there is an urgent need to develop novel therapeutic approaches against bacterial biofilms. One potential strategy to counter biofilms is to use phage depolymerases that degrade the matrix structure of the bacteria and enable access to bacterial cells. This review mainly discusses the methods by which phage depolymerases enhance the efficacy of the human immune system and the therapeutic applications of some phage depolymerases, such as single phage depolymerase application, combined therapy with phage depolymerase and antibiotics, and phage depolymerase cocktails, for treating bacterial biofilms. This review also summarizes the relationship between bacterial biofilms and antibiotic resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhimin Guo
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Infectious Diseases and Pathogen Biology Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Mengmeng Liu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Dan Zhang
- Department of Hepatological Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
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6
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Maciejewska B, Squeglia F, Latka A, Privitera M, Olejniczak S, Switala P, Ruggiero A, Marasco D, Kramarska E, Drulis-Kawa Z, Berisio R. Klebsiella phage KP34gp57 capsular depolymerase structure and function: from a serendipitous finding to the design of active mini-enzymes against K. pneumoniae. mBio 2023; 14:e0132923. [PMID: 37707438 PMCID: PMC10653864 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.01329-23] [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: 05/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE In this work, we determined the structure of Klebsiella phage KP34p57 capsular depolymerase and dissected the role of individual domains in trimerization and functional activity. The crystal structure serendipitously revealed that the enzyme can exist in a monomeric state once deprived of its C-terminal domain. Based on the crystal structure and site-directed mutagenesis, we localized the key catalytic residues in an intra-subunit deep groove. Consistently, we show that C-terminally trimmed KP34p57 variants are monomeric, stable, and fully active. The elaboration of monomeric, fully active phage depolymerases is innovative in the field, as no previous example exists. Indeed, mini phage depolymerases can be combined in chimeric enzymes to extend their activity ranges, allowing their use against multiple serotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Maciejewska
- Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, University of Wrocław, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Flavia Squeglia
- Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging, CNR, Napoli, Italy
| | - Agnieszka Latka
- Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, University of Wrocław, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Mario Privitera
- Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging, CNR, Napoli, Italy
| | - Sebastian Olejniczak
- Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, University of Wrocław, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Paulina Switala
- Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, University of Wrocław, Wrocław, Poland
| | | | - Daniela Marasco
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Napoli, Italy
| | - Eliza Kramarska
- Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging, CNR, Napoli, Italy
| | - Zuzanna Drulis-Kawa
- Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, University of Wrocław, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Rita Berisio
- Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging, CNR, Napoli, Italy
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7
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Tsai YC, Lee YP, Lin NT, Yang HH, Teh SH, Lin LC. Therapeutic effect and anti-biofilm ability assessment of a novel phage, phiPA1-3, against carbapenem-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Virus Res 2023; 335:199178. [PMID: 37490958 PMCID: PMC10430585 DOI: 10.1016/j.virusres.2023.199178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Revised: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/27/2023]
Abstract
Multiple drug-resistant (MDR) Pseudomonas aeruginosa commonly causes severe hospital-acquired infections. The gradual emergence of carbapenem-resistant P. aeruginosa has recently gained attention. A wide array of P. aeruginosa-mediated pathogenic mechanisms, including its biofilm-forming ability, limits the use of effective antimicrobial treatments against it. In the present study, we isolated and characterized the phenotypic, biological, and genomic characteristics of a bacteriophage, vB_PaP_phiPA1-3 (phiPA1-3). Biofilm eradication and phage rescue from bacterial infections were assessed to demonstrate the efficacy of the application potential. Host range spectrum analysis revealed that phiPA1-3 is a moderate host range phage that infects 20% of the clinically isolated strains of P. aeruginosa tested, including carbapenem-resistant P. aeruginosa (CRPA). The phage exhibited stability at pH 7.0 and 9.0, with significantly reduced viability below pH 5.0 and beyond pH 9.0. phiPA1-3 is a lytic phage with a burst size of 619 plaque-forming units/infected cell at 37 °C and can effectively lyse bacteria in a multiplicity of infection-dependent manner. The genome size of phiPA1-3 was found to be 73,402 bp, with a G+C content of 54.7%, containing 93 open reading frames, of which 62 were annotated as hypothetical proteins and the remaining 31 had known functions. The phage possesses several proteins similar to those found in N4-like phages, including three types of RNA polymerases. This study concluded that phiPA1-3 belongs to the N4-like Schitoviridae family, can potentially eradicate P. aeruginosa biofilms, and thus, serve as a valuable tool for controlling CRPA infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Chuan Tsai
- Institute of Medical Sciences, Tzu Chi University, No. 701, Sec. 3, Zhongyang Rd., Hualien 97004, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Yi-Pang Lee
- Department of Dentistry, Hualien Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, No. 707, Sec. 3, Zhongyang Rd., Hualien 97004, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Nien-Tsung Lin
- Master Program in Biomedical Science, School of Medicine, Tzu Chi University, No. 701, Sec. 3, Zhongyang Rd., Hualien 97004, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Hsueh-Hui Yang
- Department of Medical Research, Hualien Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, No. 707, Sec. 3, Zhongyang Rd., Hualien 97004, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Soon-Hian Teh
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Hualien Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, No. 707, Sec. 3, Zhongyang Rd., Hualien 97004, Taiwan, ROC.
| | - Ling-Chun Lin
- Institute of Medical Sciences, Tzu Chi University, No. 701, Sec. 3, Zhongyang Rd., Hualien 97004, Taiwan, ROC; Master Program in Biomedical Science, School of Medicine, Tzu Chi University, No. 701, Sec. 3, Zhongyang Rd., Hualien 97004, Taiwan, ROC.
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8
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Han P, Pu M, Li Y, Fan H, Tong Y. Characterization of bacteriophage BUCT631 lytic for K1 Klebsiella pneumoniae and its therapeutic efficacy in Galleria mellonella larvae. Virol Sin 2023; 38:801-812. [PMID: 37419417 PMCID: PMC10590696 DOI: 10.1016/j.virs.2023.07.002] [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] [Indexed: 07/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Severe infections caused by multidrug-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae (K. pneumoniae) highlight the need for new therapeutics with activity against this pathogen. Phage therapy is an alternative treatment approach for multidrug-resistant K. pneumoniae infections. Here, we report a novel bacteriophage (phage) BUCT631 that can specifically lyse capsule-type K1 K. pneumoniae. Physiological characterization revealed that phage BUCT631 could rapidly adsorb to the surface of K. pneumoniae and form an obvious halo ring, and it had relatively favorable thermal stability (4-50 °C) and pH tolerance (pH = 4-12). In addition, the optimal multiplicity of infection (MOI) of phage BUCT631 was 0.01, and the burst size was approximately 303 PFU/cell. Genomic analysis showed that phage BUCT631 has double-stranded DNA (total length of 44,812 bp) with a G + C content of 54.1%, and the genome contains 57 open reading frames (ORFs) and no virulence or antibiotic resistance related genes. Based on phylogenetic analysis, phage BUCT631 could be assigned to a new species in the genus Drulisvirus of the subfamily Slopekvirinae. In addition, phage BUCT631 could quickly inhibit the growth of K. pneumoniae within 2 h in vitro and significantly elevated the survival rate of K. pneumoniae infected Galleria mellonella larvae from 10% to 90% in vivo. These studies suggest that phage BUCT631 has promising potential for development as a safe alternative for control and treatment of multidrug-resistant K. pneumoniae infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pengjun Han
- College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Mingfang Pu
- College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Yahao Li
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Huahao Fan
- College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, 100029, China.
| | - Yigang Tong
- College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, 100029, China; Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, 100029, China.
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9
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Cui X, Du B, Feng J, Feng Y, Fan Z, Chen J, Cui J, Gan L, Fu T, Tian Z, Zhang R, Yan C, Zhao H, Xu W, Xu Z, Yu Z, Ding Z, Li Z, Chen Y, Xue G, Yuan J. A novel phage carrying capsule depolymerase effectively relieves pneumonia caused by multidrug-resistant Klebsiella aerogenes. J Biomed Sci 2023; 30:75. [PMID: 37653407 PMCID: PMC10470133 DOI: 10.1186/s12929-023-00946-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Klebsiella aerogenes can cause ventilator-associated pneumonia by forming biofilms, and it is frequently associated with multidrug resistance. Phages are good antibiotic alternatives with unique advantages. There has been a lack of phage therapeutic explorations, kinetic studies, and interaction mechanism research targeting K. aerogenes. METHODS Plaque assay, transmission electron microscopy and whole-genome sequencing were used to determine the biology, morphology, and genomic characteristics of the phage. A mouse pneumonia model was constructed by intratracheal/endobronchial delivery of K. aerogenes to assess the therapeutic effect of phage in vivo. Bioinformatics analysis and a prokaryotic protein expression system were used to predict and identify a novel capsule depolymerase. Confocal laser scanning microscopy, Galleria mellonella larvae infection models and other experiments were performed to clarify the function of the capsule depolymerase. RESULTS A novel lytic phage (pK4-26) was isolated from hospital sewage. It was typical of the Podoviridae family and exhibited serotype specificity, high lytic activity, and high environmental adaptability. The whole genome is 40,234 bp in length and contains 49 coding domain sequences. Genomic data show that the phage does not carry antibiotic resistance, virulence, or lysogenic genes. The phage effectively lysed K. aerogenes in vivo, reducing mortality and alleviating pneumonia without promoting obvious side effects. A novel phage-derived depolymerase was predicted and proven to be able to digest the capsule, remove biofilms, reduce bacterial virulence, and sensitize the bacteria to serum killing. CONCLUSIONS The phage pK4-26 is a good antibiotic alternative and can effectively relieve pneumonia caused by multidrug-resistant K. aerogenes. It carries a depolymerase that removes biofilms, reduces virulence, and improves intrinsic immune sensitivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohu Cui
- Department of Bacteriology, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, 100020, China
| | - Bing Du
- Department of Bacteriology, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, 100020, China
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Junxia Feng
- Department of Bacteriology, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, 100020, China
| | - Yanling Feng
- Department of Bacteriology, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, 100020, China
| | - Zheng Fan
- Department of Bacteriology, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, 100020, China
| | - Jinfeng Chen
- Department of Bacteriology, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, 100020, China
| | - Jinghua Cui
- Department of Bacteriology, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, 100020, China
| | - Lin Gan
- Department of Bacteriology, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, 100020, China
| | - Tongtong Fu
- Department of Bacteriology, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, 100020, China
| | - Ziyan Tian
- Department of Bacteriology, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, 100020, China
| | - Rui Zhang
- Department of Bacteriology, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, 100020, China
| | - Chao Yan
- Department of Bacteriology, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, 100020, China
| | - Hanqing Zhao
- Department of Bacteriology, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, 100020, China
| | - Wenjian Xu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Children's Hospital Affiliated to Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, China
| | - Ziying Xu
- Department of Bacteriology, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, 100020, China
| | - Zihui Yu
- Department of Bacteriology, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, 100020, China
| | - Zanbo Ding
- Department of Bacteriology, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, 100020, China
| | - Zhoufei Li
- Department of Bacteriology, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, 100020, China
| | - Yujie Chen
- Department of Bacteriology, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, 100020, China
| | - Guanhua Xue
- Department of Bacteriology, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, 100020, China.
| | - Jing Yuan
- Department of Bacteriology, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, 100020, China.
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Kasimova AA, Shneider MM, Evseev PV, Shelenkov AA, Mikhailova YV, Miroshnikov KA, Chebotar IV, Shagin DA. The structure of Klebsiella pneumoniae K108 capsular polysaccharide is similar to Escherichia coli colanic acid. Int J Biol Macromol 2023:125403. [PMID: 37330077 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.125403] [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: 02/15/2023] [Revised: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
The clinical isolate of Klebsiella pneumoniae 1333/P225 was revealed as containing a KL108 K. pneumoniae K locus for capsule biosynthesis. The gene cluster demonstrated a high level of sequence and arrangement similarity with that of the E. coli colanic acid biosynthesis gene cluster. The KL108 gene cluster includes a gene of WcaD polymerase responsible for joining oligosaccharide K units into capsular polysaccharide (CPS), acetyltransferase, pyruvyltransferasefive and genes for glycosyltransferases (Gtrs), four of which have homologues in genetic units of the colanic acid synthesis. The fifth Gtr is specific to this cluster. The work involved the use of sugar analysis, Smith degradation and one- and two-dimensional 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopy to establish the structure of the K108 CPS. The CPS repetitive K unit is composed of branched pentasaccharide with three monosaccharides in the backbone and a disaccharide side chain. The main chain is the same as for colanic acid but the side chain differs. Two bacteriophages infecting K. pneumoniae strain 1333/P225 were isolated and structural depolymerase genes were determined; depolymerases Dep108.1 and Dep108.2 were cloned, expressed and purified. It was demonstrated that both depolymerases specifically cleave the β-Glcp-(1→4)-α-Fucp linkage between K108 units in the CPS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasiya A Kasimova
- N.D. Zelinsky Institute of Organic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Science, Moscow, Russia
| | - Mikhail M Shneider
- M.M. Shemyakin and Y.A. Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Science, Moscow, Russia.
| | - Peter V Evseev
- M.M. Shemyakin and Y.A. Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Science, Moscow, Russia
| | | | | | - Konstantin A Miroshnikov
- M.M. Shemyakin and Y.A. Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Science, Moscow, Russia
| | - Igor V Chebotar
- Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Dmitry A Shagin
- Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russia
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11
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Zaki BM, Hussein AH, Hakim TA, Fayez MS, El-Shibiny A. Phages for treatment of Klebsiella pneumoniae infections. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2023; 200:207-239. [PMID: 37739556 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmbts.2023.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/24/2023]
Abstract
Klebsiella pneumoniae is an opportunistic pathogen involved in both hospital- and community-acquired infections. K. pneumoniae is associated with various infections, including pneumonia, septicemia, meningitis, urinary tract infection, and surgical wound infection. K. pneumoniae possesses serious virulence, biofilm formation ability, and severe resistance to many antibiotics especially hospital-acquired strains, due to excessive use in healthcare systems. This limits the available effective antibiotics that can be used for patients suffering from K. pneumoniae infections; therefore, alternative treatments are urgently needed. Bacteriophages (for short, phages) are prokaryotic viruses capable of infecting, replicating, and then lysing (lytic phages) the bacterial host. Phage therapy exhibited great potential for treating multidrug-resistant bacterial infections comprising K. pneumoniae. Hence, this chapter emphasizes and summarizes the research articles in the PubMed database from 1948 until the 15th of December 2022, addressing phage therapy against K. pneumoniae. The chapter provides an overview of K. pneumoniae phages covering different aspects, including phage isolation, different morphotypes of isolated phages, in vitro characterization, anti-biofilm activity, various therapeutic forms, in vivo research and clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bishoy Maher Zaki
- Center for Microbiology and Phage Therapy, Zewail City of Science and Technology, Giza, Egypt; Microbiology and Immunology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, October University for Modern Sciences and Arts (MSA), Giza, Egypt
| | - Assmaa H Hussein
- Center for Microbiology and Phage Therapy, Zewail City of Science and Technology, Giza, Egypt
| | - Toka A Hakim
- Center for Microbiology and Phage Therapy, Zewail City of Science and Technology, Giza, Egypt
| | - Mohamed S Fayez
- Center for Microbiology and Phage Therapy, Zewail City of Science and Technology, Giza, Egypt
| | - Ayman El-Shibiny
- Center for Microbiology and Phage Therapy, Zewail City of Science and Technology, Giza, Egypt; Faculty of Environmental Agricultural Sciences, Arish University, Arish, Egypt.
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12
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Mohammadi M, Saffari M, Siadat SD. Phage therapy of antibiotic-resistant strains of Klebsiella pneumoniae, opportunities and challenges from the past to the future. Folia Microbiol (Praha) 2023; 68:357-368. [PMID: 37036571 DOI: 10.1007/s12223-023-01046-y] [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: 10/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/12/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2023]
Abstract
Klebsiella spp. is a commensal gram-negative bacterium and a member of the human microbiota. It is the leading cause of various hospital-acquired infections. The occurrence of multi-drug drug resistance and carbapenemase-producing strains of Klebsiella pneumoniae producing weighty contaminations is growing, and Klebsiella oxytoca is an arising bacterium. Alternative approaches to tackle contaminations led by these microorganisms are necessary as strains enhance opposing to last-stage antibiotics in the way that Colistin. The lytic bacteriophages are viruses that infect and rapidly eradicate bacterial cells and are strain-specific to their hosts. They and their proteins are immediately deliberate as opportunities or adjuncts to antibiotic therapy. There are several reports in vitro and in vivo form that proved the potential use of lytic phages to combat superbug stains of K. pneumoniae. Various reports dedicated that the phage area can be returned to the elimination of multi-drug resistance and carbapenemase resistance isolates of K. pneumoniae. This review compiles our current information on phages of Klebsiella spp. and highlights technological and biological issues related to the evolution of phage-based therapies targeting these bacterial hosts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehrdad Mohammadi
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran.
| | - Mahmood Saffari
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
| | - Seyed Davar Siadat
- Tuberculosis and Pulmonary Research Department, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
- Microbiology Research Center (MRC), Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
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13
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Pertics BZ, Kovács T, Schneider G. Characterization of a Lytic Bacteriophage and Demonstration of Its Combined Lytic Effect with a K2 Depolymerase on the Hypervirulent Klebsiella pneumoniae Strain 52145. Microorganisms 2023; 11:microorganisms11030669. [PMID: 36985241 PMCID: PMC10051899 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11030669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2022] [Revised: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Klebsiella pneumoniae is a nosocomial pathogen. Among its virulence factors is the capsule with a prominent role in defense and biofilm formation. Bacteriophages (phages) can evoke the lysis of bacterial cells. Due to the mode of action of their polysaccharide depolymerase enzymes, phages are typically specific for one bacterial strain and its capsule type. In this study, we characterized a bacteriophage against the capsule-defective mutant of the nosocomial K. pneumoniae 52145 strain, which lacks K2 capsule. The phage showed a relatively narrow host range but evoked lysis on a few strains with capsular serotypes K33, K21, and K24. Phylogenetic analysis showed that the newly isolated Klebsiella phage 731 belongs to the Webervirus genus in the Drexlerviridae family; it has a 31.084 MDa double-stranded, linear DNA with a length of 50,306 base pairs and a G + C content of 50.9%. Out of the 79 open reading frames (ORFs), we performed the identification of orf22, coding for a trimeric tail fiber protein with putative capsule depolymerase activity, along with the mapping of other putative depolymerases of phage 731 and homologous phages. Efficacy of a previously described recombinant K2 depolymerase (B1dep) was tested by co-spotting phage 731 on K. pneumoniae strains, and it was demonstrated that the B1dep-phage 731 combination allows the lysis of the wild type 52145 strain, originally resistant to the phage 731. With phage 731, we showed that B1dep is a promising candidate for use as a possible antimicrobial agent, as it renders the virulent strain defenseless against other phages. Phage 731 alone is also important due to its efficacy on K. pneumoniae strains possessing epidemiologically important serotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Botond Zsombor Pertics
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Medical School, University of Pécs, Szigeti St. 12., H-7624 Pécs, Hungary
| | - Tamás Kovács
- Department of Biotechnology, Nanophagetherapy Center, Enviroinvest Corporation, Kertváros St. 2., H-7632 Pécs, Hungary
| | - György Schneider
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Medical School, University of Pécs, Szigeti St. 12., H-7624 Pécs, Hungary
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +36-72-536-200 (ext. 1908)
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Klumpp J, Dunne M, Loessner MJ. A perfect fit: Bacteriophage receptor-binding proteins for diagnostic and therapeutic applications. Curr Opin Microbiol 2023; 71:102240. [PMID: 36446275 DOI: 10.1016/j.mib.2022.102240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Revised: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Bacteriophages are the most abundant biological entity on earth, acting as the predators and evolutionary drivers of bacteria. Owing to their inherent ability to specifically infect and kill bacteria, phages and their encoded endolysins and receptor-binding proteins (RBPs) have enormous potential for development into precision antimicrobials for treatment of bacterial infections and microbial disbalances; or as biocontrol agents to tackle bacterial contaminations during various biotechnological processes. The extraordinary binding specificity of phages and RBPs can be exploited in various areas of bacterial diagnostics and monitoring, from food production to health care. We review and describe the distinctive features of phage RBPs, explain why they are attractive candidates for use as therapeutics and in diagnostics, discuss recent applications using RBPs, and finally provide our perspective on how synthetic technology and artificial intelligence-driven approaches will revolutionize how we use these tools in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jochen Klumpp
- Institute of Food, Nutrition and Health, ETH Zurich, Schmelzbergstrasse 7, 8092 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Matthew Dunne
- Institute of Food, Nutrition and Health, ETH Zurich, Schmelzbergstrasse 7, 8092 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Martin J Loessner
- Institute of Food, Nutrition and Health, ETH Zurich, Schmelzbergstrasse 7, 8092 Zurich, Switzerland.
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Alternatives Therapeutic Approaches to Conventional Antibiotics: Advantages, Limitations and Potential Application in Medicine. Antibiotics (Basel) 2022; 11:antibiotics11121826. [PMID: 36551487 PMCID: PMC9774722 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics11121826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Revised: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Resistance to antimicrobials and particularly multidrug resistance is one of the greatest challenges in the health system nowadays. The continual increase in the rates of antimicrobial resistance worldwide boosted by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic poses a major public health threat. Different approaches have been employed to minimize the effect of resistance and control this threat, but the question still lingers as to their safety and efficiency. In this context, new anti-infectious approaches against multidrug resistance are being examined. Use of new antibiotics and their combination with new β-lactamase inhibitors, phage therapy, antimicrobial peptides, nanoparticles, and antisense antimicrobial therapeutics are considered as one such promising approach for overcoming bacterial resistance. In this review, we provide insights into these emerging alternative therapies that are currently being evaluated and which may be developed in the future to break the progression of antimicrobial resistance. We focus on their advantages and limitations and potential application in medicine. We further highlight the importance of the combination therapy approach, wherein two or more therapies are used in combination in order to more effectively combat infectious disease and increasing access to quality healthcare. These advances could give an alternate solution to overcome antimicrobial drug resistance. We eventually hope to provide useful information for clinicians who are seeking solutions to the problems caused by antimicrobial resistance.
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Characterization of Novel Bacteriophage vB_KpnP_ZX1 and Its Depolymerases with Therapeutic Potential for K57 Klebsiella pneumoniae Infection. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14091916. [PMID: 36145665 PMCID: PMC9505181 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14091916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2022] [Revised: 09/04/2022] [Accepted: 09/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
A novel temperate phage vB_KpnP_ZX1 was isolated from hospital sewage samples using the clinically derived K57-type Klebsiella pneumoniae as a host. Phage vB_KpnP_ZX1, encoding three lysogen genes, the repressor, anti-repressor, and integrase, is the fourth phage of the genus Uetakevirus, family Podoviridae, ever discovered. Phage vB_KpnP_ZX1 did not show ideal bactericidal effect on K. pneumoniae 111-2, but TEM showed that the depolymerase Dep_ZX1 encoded on the short tail fiber protein has efficient capsule degradation activity. In vitro antibacterial results show that purified recombinant Dep_ZX1 can significantly prevent the formation of biofilm, degrade the formed biofilm, and improve the sensitivity of the bacteria in the biofilm to the antibiotics kanamycin, gentamicin, and streptomycin. Furthermore, the results of animal experiments show that 50 µg Dep_ZX1 can protect all K. pneumoniae 111-2-infected mice from death, whereas the control mice infected with the same dose of K. pneumoniae 111-2 all died. The degradation activity of Dep_ZX1 on capsular polysaccharide makes the bacteria weaken their resistance to immune cells, such as complement-mediated serum killing and phagocytosis, which are the key factors for its therapeutic action. In conclusion, Dep_ZX1 is a promising anti-virulence agent for the K57-type K. pneumoniae infection or biofilm diseases.
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