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Aggarwal S, Singh V, Chakraborty A, Cha S, Dimitriou A, de Crescenzo C, Izikson O, Yu L, Plebani R, Tzika AA, Rahme LG. Skeletal muscle mitochondrial dysfunction mediated by Pseudomonas aeruginosa quorum-sensing transcription factor MvfR: reversing effects with anti-MvfR and mitochondrial-targeted compounds. mBio 2024; 15:e0129224. [PMID: 38860823 PMCID: PMC11253625 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.01292-24] [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: 05/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Sepsis and chronic infections with Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a leading "ESKAPE" bacterial pathogen, are associated with increased morbidity and mortality and skeletal muscle atrophy. The actions of this pathogen on skeletal muscle remain poorly understood. In skeletal muscle, mitochondria serve as a crucial energy source, which may be perturbed by infection. Here, using the well-established backburn and infection model of murine P. aeruginosa infection, we deciphered the systemic impact of the quorum-sensing transcription factor MvfR (multiple virulence factor regulator) by interrogating, 5 days post-infection, its effect on mitochondrial-related functions in the gastrocnemius skeletal muscle and the outcome of the pharmacological inhibition of MvfR function and that of the mitochondrial-targeted peptide, Szeto-Schiller 31 (SS-31). Our findings show that the MvfR perturbs adenosine triphosphate generation, oxidative phosphorylation, and antioxidant response, elevates the production of reactive oxygen species, and promotes oxidative damage of mitochondrial DNA in the gastrocnemius muscle of infected mice. These impairments in mitochondrial-related functions were corroborated by the alteration of key mitochondrial proteins involved in electron transport, mitochondrial biogenesis, dynamics and quality control, and mitochondrial uncoupling. Pharmacological inhibition of MvfR using the potent anti-MvfR lead, D88, we developed, or the mitochondrial-targeted peptide SS-31 rescued the MvfR-mediated alterations observed in mice infected with the wild-type strain PA14. Our study provides insights into the actions of MvfR in orchestrating mitochondrial dysfunction in the skeletal murine muscle, and it presents novel therapeutic approaches for optimizing clinical outcomes in affected patients. IMPORTANCE Skeletal muscle, pivotal for many functions in the human body, including breathing and protecting internal organs, contains abundant mitochondria essential for maintaining cellular homeostasis during infection. The effect of Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA) infections on skeletal muscle remains poorly understood. Our study delves into the role of a central quorum-sensing transcription factor, multiple virulence factor regulator (MvfR), that controls the expression of multiple acute and chronic virulence functions that contribute to the pathogenicity of PA. The significance of our study lies in the role of MvfR in the metabolic perturbances linked to mitochondrial functions in skeletal muscle and the effectiveness of the novel MvfR inhibitor and the mitochondrial-targeted peptide SS-31 in alleviating the mitochondrial disturbances caused by PA in skeletal muscle. Inhibiting MvfR or interfering with its effects can be a potential therapeutic strategy to curb PA virulence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shifu Aggarwal
- Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Microbiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Vijay Singh
- Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Arijit Chakraborty
- Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Microbiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Shriners Hospitals for Children Boston, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Sujin Cha
- Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Alexandra Dimitriou
- Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Claire de Crescenzo
- Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Olivia Izikson
- Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Lucy Yu
- Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Roberto Plebani
- Department of Medical, Oral and Biotechnological Sciences, "G. d'Annunzio" University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - A. Aria Tzika
- Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Shriners Hospitals for Children Boston, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Laurence G. Rahme
- Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Microbiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Shriners Hospitals for Children Boston, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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2
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Leitão MM, Vieira TF, Sousa SF, Borges F, Simões M, Borges A. Dual action of benzaldehydes: Inhibiting quorum sensing and enhancing antibiotic efficacy for controlling Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilms. Microb Pathog 2024; 191:106663. [PMID: 38679246 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2024.106663] [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: 02/14/2024] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
Quorum sensing (QS) has a central role in biofilm lifestyle and antimicrobial resistance, and disrupting these signaling pathways is a promising strategy to control bacterial pathogenicity and virulence. In this study, the efficacy of three structurally related benzaldehydes (4-hydroxybenzaldehyde, 4-hydroxy-3-methoxybenzaldehyde (vanillin) and 4-hydroxy-3,5-dimethoxybenzaldehyde (syringaldehyde)) in disrupting the las and pqs systems of Pseudomonas aeruginosa was investigated using bioreporter strains and computational simulations. Additionally, these benzaldehydes were combined with tobramycin and ciprofloxacin antibiotics to evaluate their ability to increase antibiotic efficacy in preventing and eradicating P. aeruginosa biofilms. To this end, the total biomass, metabolic activity and culturability of the biofilm cells were determined. In vitro assays results indicated that the aromatic aldehydes have potential to inhibit the las and pqs systems by > 80 %. Molecular docking studies supported these findings, revealing the aldehydes binding in the same pocket as the natural ligands or receptor proteins (LasR, PQSA, PQSE, PQSR). Benzaldehydes were shown to act as virulence factor attenuators, with vanillin achieving a 48 % reduction in pyocyanin production. The benzaldehyde-tobramycin combination led not only to a 60 % reduction in biomass production but also to a 90 % reduction in the metabolic activity of established biofilms. A similar result was observed when benzaldehydes were combined with ciprofloxacin. 4-Hydroxybenzaldehyde demonstrated relevant action in increasing biofilm susceptibility to ciprofloxacin, resulting in a 65 % reduction in biomass. This study discloses, for the first time, that the benzaldehydes studied are potent QS inhibitors and also enhancers of antibiotics antibiofilm activity against P. aeruginosa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miguel M Leitão
- LEPABE-Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465, Porto, Portugal; ALICE-Associate Laboratory for Innovation in Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, s/n, 4200-465, Porto, Portugal; CIQUP-IMS-Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University of Porto, Rua do Campo Alegre, 4169-007, Porto, Portugal
| | - Tatiana F Vieira
- LAQV/REQUIMTE, BioSIM-Department of Biomedicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Rua Alameda Prof. Hernâni Monteiro, 4200-319, Porto, Portugal
| | - Sérgio F Sousa
- LAQV/REQUIMTE, BioSIM-Department of Biomedicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Rua Alameda Prof. Hernâni Monteiro, 4200-319, Porto, Portugal
| | - Fernanda Borges
- CIQUP-IMS-Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University of Porto, Rua do Campo Alegre, 4169-007, Porto, Portugal
| | - Manuel Simões
- LEPABE-Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465, Porto, Portugal; ALICE-Associate Laboratory for Innovation in Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, s/n, 4200-465, Porto, Portugal; DEQ-Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, s/n, 4200-465, Porto, Portugal
| | - Anabela Borges
- LEPABE-Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465, Porto, Portugal; ALICE-Associate Laboratory for Innovation in Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, s/n, 4200-465, Porto, Portugal; DEQ-Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, s/n, 4200-465, Porto, Portugal.
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3
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Aggarwal S, Singh V, Chakraborty A, Cha S, Dimitriou A, de Crescenzo C, Izikson O, Yu L, Plebani R, Tzika AA, Rahme LG. Skeletal Muscle Mitochondrial Dysfunction Mediated by Pseudomonas aeruginosa Quorum Sensing Transcription Factor MvfR: Reversing Effects with Anti-MvfR and Mitochondrial-Targeted Compounds. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.05.03.592480. [PMID: 38746243 PMCID: PMC11092755 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.03.592480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
Sepsis and chronic infections with Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a leading "ESKAPE" bacterial pathogen, are associated with increased morbidity and mortality and skeletal muscle atrophy. The actions of this pathogen on skeletal muscle remain poorly understood. In skeletal muscle, mitochondria serve as a crucial energy source, which may be perturbed by infection. Here, using the well-established backburn and infection model of murine P. aeruginosa infection, we deciphered the systemic impact of the quorum sensing (QS) transcription factor MvfR by interrogating five days post-infection its effect on mitochondrial-related functions in the gastrocnemius skeletal muscle and the outcome of the pharmacological inhibition of MvfR function and that of the mitochondrial-targeted peptide, Szeto-Schiller 31 (SS-31). Our findings show that the MvfR perturbs ATP generation, oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS), and antioxidant response, elevates the production of reactive oxygen species, and promotes oxidative damage of mitochondrial DNA in the gastrocnemius muscle of infected mice. These impairments in mitochondrial-related functions were corroborated by the alteration of key mitochondrial proteins involved in electron transport, mitochondrial biogenesis, dynamics and quality control, and mitochondrial uncoupling. Pharmacological inhibition of MvfR using the potent anti-MvfR lead, D88, we developed, or the mitochondrial-targeted peptide SS-31 rescued the MvfR- mediated alterations observed in mice infected with the wild-type strain PA14. Our study provides insights into the actions of MvfR in orchestrating mitochondrial dysfunction in the skeletal murine muscle, and it presents novel therapeutic approaches for optimizing clinical outcomes in affected patients.
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4
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Zafer MM, Mohamed GA, Ibrahim SRM, Ghosh S, Bornman C, Elfaky MA. Biofilm-mediated infections by multidrug-resistant microbes: a comprehensive exploration and forward perspectives. Arch Microbiol 2024; 206:101. [PMID: 38353831 PMCID: PMC10867068 DOI: 10.1007/s00203-023-03826-z] [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: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
A biofilm is a collection of microorganisms organized in a matrix of extracellular polymeric material. Biofilms consist of microbial cells that attach to both surfaces and each other, whether they are living or non-living. These microbial biofilms can lead to hospital-acquired infections and are generally detrimental. They possess the ability to resist the human immune system and antibiotics. The National Institute of Health (NIH) states that biofilm formation is associated with 65% of all microbial illnesses and 80% of chronic illnesses. Additionally, non-device-related microbial biofilm infections include conditions like cystic fibrosis, otitis media, infective endocarditis, and chronic inflammatory disorders. This review aims to provide an overview of research on chronic infections caused by microbial biofilms, methods used for biofilm detection, recent approaches to combat biofilms, and future perspectives, including the development of innovative antimicrobial strategies such as antimicrobial peptides, bacteriophages, and agents that disrupt biofilms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mai M Zafer
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ahram Canadian University, Cairo, Egypt.
| | - Gamal A Mohamed
- Department of Natural Products and Alternative Medicine, Faculty of Pharmacy, King Abdulaziz University, 21589, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sabrin R M Ibrahim
- Department of Chemistry, Preparatory Year Program, Batterjee Medical College, 21442, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Assiut University, Assiut, 71526, Egypt
| | - Soumya Ghosh
- Natural and Medical Science Research Center, University of Nizwa, Nizwa, 616, Oman
| | - Charné Bornman
- Department of Engineering Sciences, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, 9301, South Africa
| | - Mahmoud A Elfaky
- Department of Natural Products and Alternative Medicine, Faculty of Pharmacy, King Abdulaziz University, 21589, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
- Center for Artificial Intelligence in Precision Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, 21589, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
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5
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Genito CJ, Darwitz BP, Greenwald MA, Wolfgang MC, Thurlow LR. Hyperglycemia potentiates increased Staphylococcus aureus virulence and resistance to growth inhibition by Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Microbiol Spectr 2023; 11:e0229923. [PMID: 37933971 PMCID: PMC10715105 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.02299-23] [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: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/08/2023] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Individuals with diabetes are prone to more frequent and severe infections, with many of these infections being polymicrobial. Polymicrobial infections are frequently observed in skin infections and in individuals with cystic fibrosis, as well as in indwelling device infections. Two bacteria frequently co-isolated from infections are Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Several studies have examined the interactions between these microorganisms. The majority of these studies use in vitro model systems that cannot accurately replicate the microenvironment of diabetic infections. We employed a novel murine indwelling device model to examine interactions between S. aureus and P. aeruginosa. Our data show that competition between these bacteria results in reduced growth in a normal infection. In a diabetic infection, we observe increased growth of both microbes and more severe infection as both bacteria invade surrounding tissues. Our results demonstrate that diabetes changes the interaction between bacteria resulting in poor infection outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher J. Genito
- Division of Oral and Craniofacial Health Sciences, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Adams School of Dentistry, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Benjamin P. Darwitz
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Matthew A. Greenwald
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
- Marsico Lung Institute, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Matthew C. Wolfgang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
- Marsico Lung Institute, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Lance R. Thurlow
- Division of Oral and Craniofacial Health Sciences, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Adams School of Dentistry, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
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6
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Liu J, Zhao SY, Hu JY, Chen QX, Jiao SM, Xiao HC, Zhang Q, Xu J, Zhao JF, Zhou HB, Zheng JX, Sun PH. Novel Coumarin Derivatives Inhibit the Quorum Sensing System and Iron Homeostasis as Antibacterial Synergists against Pseudomonas aeruginosa. J Med Chem 2023; 66:14735-14754. [PMID: 37874867 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c01268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2023]
Abstract
Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa) is well-known to cause biofilm-associated drug resistance and infections that often lead to treatment failure. Herein, we reported a dual-acting antibiofilm strategy by inhibiting both the bacterial quorum sensing system and the iron uptake system. A series of coumarin derivatives were synthesized and evaluated, and compound 4t was identified as the most effective biofilm inhibitor (IC50 = 3.6 μM). Further mechanistic studies have confirmed that 4t not only inhibits the QS systems but also competes strongly with pyoverdine as an iron chelator, causing an iron deficiency in P. aeruginosa. Additionally, 4t significantly improved the synergistic antibacterial effects of ciprofloxacin and tobramycin by more than 200-1000-fold compared to the single-dose antibiotic treatments. Therefore, our study has shown that 4t is a potentially novel antibacterial synergist candidate to treat bacterial infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Liu
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510632, P. R. China
- College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510632, P. R. China
| | - Si-Yu Zhao
- College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510632, P. R. China
| | - Jia-Yi Hu
- College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510632, P. R. China
| | - Qiu-Xian Chen
- College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510632, P. R. China
| | - Shu-Meng Jiao
- College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510632, P. R. China
| | - Hai-Chuan Xiao
- College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510632, P. R. China
| | - Qiang Zhang
- College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510632, P. R. China
| | - Jun Xu
- College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510632, P. R. China
| | - Jian-Fu Zhao
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510632, P. R. China
| | - Hai-Bo Zhou
- College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510632, P. R. China
| | - Jun-Xia Zheng
- School of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, P. R. China
| | - Ping-Hua Sun
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510632, P. R. China
- College of Pharmacy, Shihezi University, Shihezi, Xinjiang 832099, P. R. China
- College of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510632, P. R. China
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Baugh AC, Momany C, Neidle EL. Versatility and Complexity: Common and Uncommon Facets of LysR-Type Transcriptional Regulators. Annu Rev Microbiol 2023; 77:317-339. [PMID: 37285554 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-micro-050323-040543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
LysR-type transcriptional regulators (LTTRs) form one of the largest families of bacterial regulators. They are widely distributed and contribute to all aspects of metabolism and physiology. Most are homotetramers, with each subunit composed of an N-terminal DNA-binding domain followed by a long helix connecting to an effector-binding domain. LTTRs typically bind DNA in the presence or absence of a small-molecule ligand (effector). In response to cellular signals, conformational changes alter DNA interactions, contact with RNA polymerase, and sometimes contact with other proteins. Many are dual-function repressor-activators, although different modes of regulation may occur at multiple promoters. This review presents an update on the molecular basis of regulation, the complexity of regulatory schemes, and applications in biotechnology and medicine. The abundance of LTTRs reflects their versatility and importance. While a single regulatory model cannot describe all family members, a comparison of similarities and differences provides a framework for future study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alyssa C Baugh
- Department of Microbiology, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA;
| | - Cory Momany
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA
| | - Ellen L Neidle
- Department of Microbiology, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA;
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Carullo G, Di Bonaventura G, Rossi S, Lupetti V, Tudino V, Brogi S, Butini S, Campiani G, Gemma S, Pompilio A. Development of Quinazolinone Derivatives as Modulators of Virulence Factors of Pseudomonas aeruginosa Cystic Fibrosis Strains. Molecules 2023; 28:6535. [PMID: 37764311 PMCID: PMC10536951 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28186535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2023] [Revised: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA), one of the ESKAPE pathogens, is an opportunistic Gram-negative bacterium responsible for nosocomial infections in humans but also for infections in patients affected by AIDS, cancer, or cystic fibrosis (CF). Treatment of PA infections in CF patients is a global healthcare problem due to the ability of PA to gain antibiotic tolerance through biofilm formation. Anti-virulence compounds represent a promising approach as adjuvant therapy, which could reduce or eliminate the pathogenicity of PA without impacting its growth. Pyocyanin is one of the virulence factors whose production is modulated by the Pseudomonas quinolone signal (PQS) through its receptor PqsR. Different PqsR modulators have been synthesized over the years, highlighting this new powerful therapeutic strategy. Based on the promising structure of quinazolin-4(3H)-one, we developed compounds 7a-d, 8a,b, 9, 10, and 11a-f able to reduce biofilm formation and the production of virulence factors (pyocyanin and pyoverdine) at 50 µM in two PA strains responsible for CF acute and chronic infections. The developed compounds did not reduce the cell viability of IB3-1 bronchial CF cells, and computational studies confirmed the potential ability of novel compounds to act as potential Pqs system modulators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriele Carullo
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy; (G.C.); (S.R.); (V.T.); (S.B.); (G.C.)
| | - Giovanni Di Bonaventura
- Department of Medical, Oral and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, Via dei Vestini 31, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (G.D.B.); (V.L.); (A.P.)
| | - Sara Rossi
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy; (G.C.); (S.R.); (V.T.); (S.B.); (G.C.)
| | - Veronica Lupetti
- Department of Medical, Oral and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, Via dei Vestini 31, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (G.D.B.); (V.L.); (A.P.)
| | - Valeria Tudino
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy; (G.C.); (S.R.); (V.T.); (S.B.); (G.C.)
| | - Simone Brogi
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy;
| | - Stefania Butini
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy; (G.C.); (S.R.); (V.T.); (S.B.); (G.C.)
| | - Giuseppe Campiani
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy; (G.C.); (S.R.); (V.T.); (S.B.); (G.C.)
| | - Sandra Gemma
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy; (G.C.); (S.R.); (V.T.); (S.B.); (G.C.)
| | - Arianna Pompilio
- Department of Medical, Oral and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, Via dei Vestini 31, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (G.D.B.); (V.L.); (A.P.)
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9
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Ghosh M, Raghav S, Ghosh P, Maity S, Mohela K, Jain D. Structural analysis of novel drug targets for mitigation of Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilms. FEMS Microbiol Rev 2023; 47:fuad054. [PMID: 37771093 DOI: 10.1093/femsre/fuad054] [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: 05/30/2023] [Revised: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Pseudomonas aeruginosa is an opportunistic human pathogen responsible for acute and chronic, hard to treat infections. Persistence of P. aeruginosa is due to its ability to develop into biofilms, which are sessile bacterial communities adhered to substratum and encapsulated in layers of self-produced exopolysaccharides. These biofilms provide enhanced protection from the host immune system and resilience towards antibiotics, which poses a challenge for treatment. Various strategies have been expended for combating biofilms, which involve inhibiting biofilm formation or promoting their dispersal. The current remediation approaches offer some hope for clinical usage, however, treatment and eradication of preformed biofilms is still a challenge. Thus, identifying novel targets and understanding the detailed mechanism of biofilm regulation becomes imperative. Structure-based drug discovery (SBDD) provides a powerful tool that exploits the knowledge of atomic resolution details of the targets to search for high affinity ligands. This review describes the available structural information on the putative target protein structures that can be utilized for high throughput in silico drug discovery against P. aeruginosa biofilms. Integrating available structural information on the target proteins in readily accessible format will accelerate the process of drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moumita Ghosh
- Transcription Regulation Lab, Regional Centre for Biotechnology, NCR Biotech Science Cluster, 3rd Milestone, Faridabad-Gurugram Expressway, Faridabad, Haryana-121001, India
| | - Shikha Raghav
- Transcription Regulation Lab, Regional Centre for Biotechnology, NCR Biotech Science Cluster, 3rd Milestone, Faridabad-Gurugram Expressway, Faridabad, Haryana-121001, India
| | - Puja Ghosh
- Transcription Regulation Lab, Regional Centre for Biotechnology, NCR Biotech Science Cluster, 3rd Milestone, Faridabad-Gurugram Expressway, Faridabad, Haryana-121001, India
| | - Swagatam Maity
- Transcription Regulation Lab, Regional Centre for Biotechnology, NCR Biotech Science Cluster, 3rd Milestone, Faridabad-Gurugram Expressway, Faridabad, Haryana-121001, India
| | - Kavery Mohela
- Transcription Regulation Lab, Regional Centre for Biotechnology, NCR Biotech Science Cluster, 3rd Milestone, Faridabad-Gurugram Expressway, Faridabad, Haryana-121001, India
| | - Deepti Jain
- Transcription Regulation Lab, Regional Centre for Biotechnology, NCR Biotech Science Cluster, 3rd Milestone, Faridabad-Gurugram Expressway, Faridabad, Haryana-121001, India
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10
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García-Diéguez L, Diaz-Tang G, Marin Meneses E, Cruise V, Barraza I, Craddock TJ, Smith RP. Periodically disturbing biofilms reduces expression of quorum sensing-regulated virulence factors in Pseudomonas aeruginosa. iScience 2023; 26:106843. [PMID: 37255658 PMCID: PMC10225924 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.106843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2023] [Revised: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Pseudomonas aeruginosa uses quorum sensing to regulate the expression of virulence factors. In static environments, spatial structures, such as biofilms, can increase the expression of these virulence factors. However, in natural settings, biofilms are exposed to physical forces that disrupt spatial structure, which may affect the expression of virulence factors regulated by quorum sensing. We show that periodically disturbing biofilms composed of P. aeruginosa using a physical force reduces the expression of quorum sensing-regulated virulence factors. At an intermediate disturbance frequency, the expression of virulence factors in the las, rhl, and pqs regulons is reduced. Mathematical modeling suggests that perturbation of the pqsR receptor is critical for this reduction. Removing the lasR receptor enhances the reduction in the expression of virulence factors as a result of disturbance. Our results allow identification of environments where virulence is reduced and implicate the lasR receptor as having a buffering role against disturbance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura García-Diéguez
- Department of Biological Sciences, Halmos College of Arts and Science, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale FL 33314, USA
| | - Gabriela Diaz-Tang
- Department of Biological Sciences, Halmos College of Arts and Science, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale FL 33314, USA
| | - Estefania Marin Meneses
- Department of Biological Sciences, Halmos College of Arts and Science, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale FL 33314, USA
| | - Vanessa Cruise
- Department of Biological Sciences, Halmos College of Arts and Science, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale FL 33314, USA
| | - Ivana Barraza
- Department of Biological Sciences, Halmos College of Arts and Science, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale FL 33314, USA
| | - Travis J.A. Craddock
- Clinical Systems Biology Group, Institute for Neuro-Immune Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale FL 33314, USA
- Department of Psychology & Neuroscience, College of Psychology, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale FL 33314, USA
- Department of Computer Science, College of Engineering and Computing, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale FL 33314, USA
- Department of Clinical Immunology, College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale FL 33314, USA
| | - Robert P. Smith
- Department of Biological Sciences, Halmos College of Arts and Science, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale FL 33314, USA
- Cell Therapy Institute, Kiran Patel College of Allopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale FL 33314, USA
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11
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Singh VK, Almpani M, Wheeler KM, Rahme LG. Interconnections of Pseudomonas aeruginosa Quorum-Sensing Systems in Intestinal Permeability and Inflammation. mBio 2023; 14:e0352422. [PMID: 36786582 PMCID: PMC10127598 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.03524-22] [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: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/21/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Quorum sensing (QS) is a highly conserved microbial communication mechanism based on the production and sensing of secreted signaling molecules. The recalcitrant pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a problematic nosocomial pathogen with complex interconnected QS systems controlling multiple virulence functions. The relevance of QS in P. aeruginosa pathogenesis is well established; however, the regulatory interrelationships of the three major QS systems, LasR/LasI, MvfR (PqsR)/PqsABCD, and RhlR/RhlI, have been studied primarily in vitro. It is, therefore, unclear how these relationships translate to the host environment during infection. Here, we use a collection of P. aeruginosa QS mutants of the three major QS systems to assess the interconnections and contributions in intestinal inflammation and barrier function in vivo. This work reveals that MvfR, not LasR or RhlR, promotes intestinal inflammation during infection. In contrast, we find that P. aeruginosa-driven murine intestinal permeability is controlled by an interconnected QS network involving all three regulators, with MvfR situated upstream of LasR and RhlR. This study demonstrates the importance of understanding the interrelationships of the QS systems during infection and provides critical insights for developing successful antivirulence strategies. Moreover, this work provides a framework to interrogate QS systems in physiologically relevant settings. IMPORTANCE Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a common multidrug-resistant bacterial pathogen that seriously threatens critically ill and immunocompromised patients. Intestinal colonization by this pathogen is associated with elevated mortality rates. Disrupting bacterial communication is a desirable anti-infective approach since these systems coordinate multiple acute and chronic virulence functions in P. aeruginosa. Here, we investigate the role of each of the three major communication systems in the host intestinal functions. This work reveals that P. aeruginosa influences intestinal inflammation and permeability through distinct mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vijay K. Singh
- Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Microbiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Shriners Hospitals for Children, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Marianna Almpani
- Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Microbiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Shriners Hospitals for Children, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Kelsey M. Wheeler
- Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Microbiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Laurence G. Rahme
- Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Microbiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Shriners Hospitals for Children, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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12
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Sanya DRA, Onésime D, Vizzarro G, Jacquier N. Recent advances in therapeutic targets identification and development of treatment strategies towards Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections. BMC Microbiol 2023; 23:86. [PMID: 36991325 PMCID: PMC10060139 DOI: 10.1186/s12866-023-02832-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023] Open
Abstract
The opportunistic human pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa is the causal agent of a wide variety of infections. This non-fermentative Gram-negative bacillus can colonize zones where the skin barrier is weakened, such as wounds or burns. It also causes infections of the urinary tract, respiratory system or bloodstream. P. aeruginosa infections are common in hospitalized patients for which multidrug-resistant, respectively extensively drug-resistant isolates can be a strong contributor to a high rate of in-hospital mortality. Moreover, chronic respiratory system infections of cystic fibrosis patients are especially concerning, since very tedious to treat. P. aeruginosa exploits diverse cell-associated and secreted virulence factors, which play essential roles in its pathogenesis. Those factors encompass carbohydrate-binding proteins, quorum sensing that monitor the production of extracellular products, genes conferring extensive drug resistance, and a secretion system to deliver effectors to kill competitors or subvert host essential functions. In this article, we highlight recent advances in the understanding of P. aeruginosa pathogenicity and virulence as well as efforts for the identification of new drug targets and the development of new therapeutic strategies against P. aeruginosa infections. These recent advances provide innovative and promising strategies to circumvent infection caused by this important human pathogen.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Djamila Onésime
- Université Paris-Saclay, INRAE, AgroParisTech, Micalis Institute, Jouy-en-Josas, 78350, France
| | - Grazia Vizzarro
- Institute of Microbiology, University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, 1011, Switzerland
- Present Address: Laboratory of Molecular Microbiology, Global Health Institute, School of Life Sciences, Station 19, EPFL-SV-UPBLO, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, 1015, Switzerland
| | - Nicolas Jacquier
- Institute of Microbiology, University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, 1011, Switzerland.
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13
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Kiel A, Creutz I, Rückert C, Kaltschmidt BP, Hütten A, Niehaus K, Busche T, Kaltschmidt B, Kaltschmidt C. Genome-Based Analysis of Virulence Factors and Biofilm Formation in Novel P. aeruginosa Strains Isolated from Household Appliances. Microorganisms 2022; 10:microorganisms10122508. [PMID: 36557761 PMCID: PMC9781345 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10122508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2022] [Revised: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
In household washing machines, opportunistic pathogens such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa are present, which represent the household as a possible reservoir for clinical pathogens. Here, four novel P. aeruginosa strains, isolated from different sites of household appliances, were investigated regarding their biofilm formation. Only two isolates showed strong surface-adhered biofilm formation. In consequence of these phenotypic differences, we performed whole genome sequencing using Oxford Nanopore Technology together with Illumina MiSeq. Whole genome data were screened for the prevalence of 285 virulence- and biofilm-associated genes as well as for prophages. Linking biofilm phenotypes and parallelly appearing gene compositions, we assume a relevancy of the las quorum sensing system and the phage-encoded bacteriophage control infection gene bci, which was found on integrated phi297 DNA in all biofilm-forming isolates. Additionally, only the isolates revealing strong biofilm formation harbored the ϕCTX-like prophage Dobby, implicating a role of this prophage on biofilm formation. Investigations on clinically relevant pathogens within household appliances emphasize their adaptability to harsh environments, with high concentrations of detergents, providing greater insights into pathogenicity and underlying mechanisms. This in turn opens the possibility to map and characterize potentially relevant strains even before they appear as pathogens in society.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annika Kiel
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Biology, Bielefeld University, 33615 Bielefeld, Germany
- Correspondence:
| | - Ines Creutz
- Proteome and Metabolome Research, Faculty of Biology, Bielefeld University, 33615 Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Christian Rückert
- Center for Biotechnology (CeBiTec), Bielefeld University, 33615 Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Bernhard Peter Kaltschmidt
- Department of Thin Films and Physics of Nanostructures, Center of Spinelectronic Materials and Devices, Faculty of Physics, Bielefeld University, 33615 Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Andreas Hütten
- Department of Thin Films and Physics of Nanostructures, Center of Spinelectronic Materials and Devices, Faculty of Physics, Bielefeld University, 33615 Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Karsten Niehaus
- Proteome and Metabolome Research, Faculty of Biology, Bielefeld University, 33615 Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Tobias Busche
- Center for Biotechnology (CeBiTec), Bielefeld University, 33615 Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Barbara Kaltschmidt
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Biology, Bielefeld University, 33615 Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Christian Kaltschmidt
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Biology, Bielefeld University, 33615 Bielefeld, Germany
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