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Manley R, Fitch C, Francis V, Temperton I, Turner D, Fletcher J, Phil M, Michell S, Temperton B. Resistance to bacteriophage incurs a cost to virulence in drug-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii. J Med Microbiol 2024; 73:001829. [PMID: 38743467 PMCID: PMC11170128 DOI: 10.1099/jmm.0.001829] [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: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction . Acinetobacter baumannii is a critical priority pathogen for novel antimicrobials (World Health Organization) because of the rise in nosocomial infections and its ability to evolve resistance to last resort antibiotics. A. baumannii is thus a priority target for phage therapeutics. Two strains of a novel, virulent bacteriophage (LemonAid and Tonic) able to infect carbapenem-resistant A. baumannii (strain NCTC 13420), were isolated from environmental water samples collected through a citizen science programme.Gap statement. Phage-host coevolution can lead to emergence of host resistance, with a concomitant reduction in the virulence of host bacteria; a potential benefit to phage therapy applications.Methodology. In vitro and in vivo assays, genomics and microscopy techniques were used to characterize the phages; determine mechanisms and impact of phage resistance on host virulence, and the efficacy of the phages against A. baumannii.Results. A. baumannii developed resistance to both viruses, LemonAid and Tonic. Resistance came at a cost to virulence, with the resistant variants causing significantly reduced mortality in a Galleria mellonella larval in vivo model. A replicated 8 bp insertion increased in frequency (~40 % higher frequency than in the wild-type) within phage-resistant A. baumannii mutants, putatively resulting in early truncation of a protein of unknown function. Evidence from comparative genomics and an adsorption assay suggests this protein acts as a novel phage receptor site in A. baumannii. We find no evidence linking resistance to changes in capsule structure, a known virulence factor. LemonAid efficiently suppressed growth of A. baumanni in vitro across a wide range of titres. However, in vivo, while survival of A. baumannii infected larvae significantly increased with both remedial and prophylactic treatment with LemonAid (107 p.f.u. ml-1), the effect was weak and not sufficient to save larvae from morbidity and mortality.Conclusion. While LemonAid and Tonic did not prove effective as a treatment in a Galleria larvae model, there is potential to harness their ability to attenuate virulence in drug-resistant A. baumannii.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robyn Manley
- University of Exeter, Health and Life Sciences, Streatham Campus, Exeter, EX4 4QD, UK
| | - Christian Fitch
- University of Exeter, Health and Life Sciences, Streatham Campus, Exeter, EX4 4QD, UK
| | - Vanessa Francis
- University of Exeter, Health and Life Sciences, Streatham Campus, Exeter, EX4 4QD, UK
| | - Isaac Temperton
- University of Exeter, Health and Life Sciences, Streatham Campus, Exeter, EX4 4QD, UK
| | - Dann Turner
- School of Applied Sciences, College of Health, Science and Society, University of the West of England, Bristol, Frenchay Campus, Coldharbour Lane, Bristol, BS16 1QY, UK
| | - Julie Fletcher
- University of Exeter, Health and Life Sciences, Streatham Campus, Exeter, EX4 4QD, UK
| | - Mitchelmore Phil
- University of Exeter, College of Medicine and Health, Department of Respiratory Medicine, Royal Devon & Exeter Hospital, Barrack Road, Exeter, EX2 5DW, UK
| | - Steve Michell
- University of Exeter, Health and Life Sciences, Streatham Campus, Exeter, EX4 4QD, UK
| | - Ben Temperton
- University of Exeter, Health and Life Sciences, Streatham Campus, Exeter, EX4 4QD, UK
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Lyu S, Xiong F, Qi T, Shen W, Guo Q, Han M, Liu L, Bu W, Yuan J, Lou B. Isolation and characterization of a novel temperate bacteriophage infecting Aeromonas hydrophila isolated from a Macrobrachium rosenbergii larvae pond. Virus Res 2024; 339:199279. [PMID: 37992971 PMCID: PMC10709362 DOI: 10.1016/j.virusres.2023.199279] [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: 07/17/2023] [Revised: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023]
Abstract
Aeromonas hydrophila is an opportunistic pathogen that frequently leads to significant mortality in various commercially cultured aquatic species. Bacteriophages offer an alternative strategy for pathogens elimination. In this study, we isolated, identified, and characterized a novel temperate A. hydrophila phage, designated as P05B. The bacteriophage P05B is a myovirus based on its morphological features, and possesses the capability to lyse A. hydrophila strains isolated from shrimp. The optimal multiplicity of infection (MOI), adsorption rate, latent period, and burst size for phage P05B were determined to be 0.001, 91.7 %, 20 min, and 483 PFU/cell, respectively. Phage P05B displayed stability across a range of temperatures (28-50 °C) and pH values (4.0-10.0). Sequence analysis unveiled that the genome of phage P05B comprises 32,302 base pairs with an average G + C content of 59.4 %. A total of 40 open reading frames (ORF) were encoded within the phage P05B genome. The comparative genomic analyses clearly implied that P05B might represent a novel species of the genus Bielevirus under Peduoviridae family. A phylogenetic tree was reconstructed, demonstrating that P05B shares a close evolutionary relationship with other Aeromonas and Aeromonas phages. In conclusion, this study increased our knowledge about a new temperate phage of A. hydrophila with strong lytic ability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunjian Lyu
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-Products, Institute of Hydrobiology, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, 198, Shiqiao Rd, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310021, PR China
| | - Fulei Xiong
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-Products, Institute of Hydrobiology, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, 198, Shiqiao Rd, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310021, PR China
| | - Tianpeng Qi
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, 866 Yuhangtang Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310058, PR China
| | - Weifeng Shen
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-Products, Institute of Hydrobiology, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, 198, Shiqiao Rd, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310021, PR China
| | - Qi Guo
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-Products, Institute of Hydrobiology, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, 198, Shiqiao Rd, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310021, PR China
| | - Mingming Han
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-Products, Institute of Hydrobiology, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, 198, Shiqiao Rd, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310021, PR China
| | - Li Liu
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-Products, Institute of Hydrobiology, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, 198, Shiqiao Rd, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310021, PR China.
| | - Weishao Bu
- Yunhe County Qingjiang ecological breeding cooperative, Shipu Village, Jinshuitan Town, Yunhe County, Lishui, Zhejiang, 310018, PR China
| | - Julin Yuan
- Agriculture Ministry Key Laboratory of Healthy Freshwater Aquaculture, Key Laboratory of Fish Health and Nutrition of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Institute of Freshwater Fisheries, 999 South Hangchangqiao Road, Huzhou, Zhejiang, 313001, PR China
| | - Bao Lou
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-Products, Institute of Hydrobiology, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, 198, Shiqiao Rd, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310021, PR China
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Raees F, Harun A, Ahmed A, Deris ZZ. Potential Usefulness of Bacteriophages for the Treatment of Multidrug-Resistant Acinetobacter Infection. Malays J Med Sci 2023; 30:7-22. [PMID: 37928784 PMCID: PMC10624448 DOI: 10.21315/mjms2023.30.5.2] [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: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Bacteriophages were discovered in early 20th century. However, the interest in bacteriophage research was reduced with the discovery of antibiotics. With the increasing number of infections due to multidrug-resistant (MDR) organisms, the potential usefulness of bacteriophages as therapeutic agents has been re-evaluated. In this review, we found that more than 30 lytic bacteriophages that infect Acinetobacter species have been characterised. These are mainly members of Caudovirales, with genome sizes ranging from 31 kb to 234 kb and G+C contents ranging from 33.5% to 45.5%. The host range can be as low as < 10% of all tested Acinetobacter strains. Fourteen published murine trials indicated positive outcomes in bacteriophage-treated groups. Only two case reports were pertaining to the use of bacteriophages in the treatment of Acinetobacter infections in humans; in both cases, the infections were resolved with bacteriophage therapy. The use of bacteriophages has been associated with reduced Acinetobacter burden in the environment, as shown in two studies. The major limitation of bacteriophage therapy is its highly selective host strain. In conclusion, the potential usefulness of bacteriophage therapy for the treatment of MDR Acinetobacter species has been documented only in limited studies and more research is needed prior to its extensive use in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fahad Raees
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, Malaysia
- Department of Microbiology, College of Medicine, Umm al-Qura University, Makkah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Azian Harun
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, Malaysia
- Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, Malaysia
| | - Abdalla Ahmed
- Department of Microbiology, College of Medicine, Umm al-Qura University, Makkah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Zakuan Zainy Deris
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, Malaysia
- Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, Malaysia
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Jo SJ, Kwon J, Kim SG, Lee SJ. The Biotechnological Application of Bacteriophages: What to Do and Where to Go in the Middle of the Post-Antibiotic Era. Microorganisms 2023; 11:2311. [PMID: 37764155 PMCID: PMC10534921 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11092311] [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: 08/11/2023] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Amid the escalating challenges of antibiotic resistance, bacterial infections have emerged as a global threat. Bacteriophages (phages), viral entities capable of selectively infecting bacteria, are gaining momentum as promising alternatives to traditional antibiotics. Their distinctive attributes, including host specificity, inherent self-amplification, and potential synergy with antibiotics, render them compelling candidates. Phage engineering, a burgeoning discipline, involves the strategic modification of bacteriophages to enhance their therapeutic potential and broaden their applications. The integration of CRISPR-Cas systems facilitates precise genetic modifications, enabling phages to serve as carriers of functional genes/proteins, thereby enhancing diagnostics, drug delivery, and therapy. Phage engineering holds promise in transforming precision medicine, addressing antibiotic resistance, and advancing diverse applications. Emphasizing the profound therapeutic potential of phages, this review underscores their pivotal role in combatting bacterial diseases and highlights their significance in the post-antibiotic era.
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Affiliation(s)
- Su Jin Jo
- College of Veterinary Medicine and Research Institute for Veterinary Science, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Jun Kwon
- Laboratory of Veterinary Public Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Jeonbuk National University, 79 Gobong-ro, Iksan City 54596, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang Guen Kim
- Department of Biological Sciences, Kyonggi University, Suwon 16227, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung-Jun Lee
- Department of Pharmaceutical Science and Engineering, Seowon University, 377-3 Musimseoro, Seowon-gu, Cheong-ju City 28674, Republic of Korea
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Isolation and Characterization of a Novel Siphoviridae Phage, vB_AbaS_TCUP2199, Infecting Multidrug-Resistant Acinetobacter baumannii. Viruses 2022; 14:v14061240. [PMID: 35746711 PMCID: PMC9228384 DOI: 10.3390/v14061240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2022] [Revised: 06/02/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Multidrug-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (MDRAB) is a pathogen recognized as antimicrobial-resistant bacteria involved in healthcare-associated infections. Resistance to antibiotics has made alternative therapies necessary. Bacteriophage therapy is considered a potential solution to treat MDRAB. In this study, we isolated and characterized the phage vB_AbaS_TCUP2199 (TCUP2199), which can infect MDRAB. Morphological analysis revealed that TCUP2199 belongs to the Siphoviridae family. TCUP2199 has a wide host range, can adsorb rapidly (68.28% in 2 min), and has a burst size of 196 PFU/cell. At least 16 distinct structural proteins were visualized by SDS polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. A stability test showed that TCUP2199 was stable at 37 °C and pH 7. Genome analysis of TCUP2199 showed that it consists of a double-stranded DNA genome of 79,572 bp with a G+C content of 40.39%, which contains 98 putative open reading frames, none of which is closely related to the bacteriophage genome sequence that was found in the public database. TCUP2199 shows similarity in genomic organization and putative packaging mechanism with Achromobacter phage JWF and Pseudoalteromonas phage KB12-38 based on protein BLAST and phylogenetic analysis. Because of those unique characteristics, we consider TCUP2199 to be a novel phage that is suitable for inclusion in a phage cocktail to treat A. baumannii infection.
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Gordillo Altamirano FL, Kostoulias X, Subedi D, Korneev D, Peleg AY, Barr JJ. Phage-antibiotic combination is a superior treatment against Acinetobacter baumannii in a preclinical study. EBioMedicine 2022; 80:104045. [PMID: 35537278 PMCID: PMC9097682 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2022.104045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Revised: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Clinical phage therapy is often delivered alongside antibiotics. However, the phenomenon of phage-antibiotic synergy has been mostly studied in vitro. Here, we assessed the in vivo bactericidal effect of a phage-antibiotic combination on Acinetobacter baumannii AB900 using phage øFG02, which binds to capsular polysaccharides and leads to antimicrobial resensitisation in vitro. METHODS We performed a two-stage preclinical study using a murine model of severe A. baumannii AB900 bacteraemia. In the first stage, with an endpoint of 11 h, mice (n = 4 per group) were treated with either PBS, ceftazidime, phage øFG02, or the combination of phage and ceftazidime. The second stage involved only the latter two groups (n = 5 per group), with a prolonged endpoint of 16 h. The primary outcome was the average bacterial burden from four body sites (blood, liver, kidney, and spleen). Bacterial colonies from phage-treated mice were retrieved and screened for phage-resistance. FINDINGS In the first stage, the bacterial burden (CFU/g of tissue) of the combination group (median: 4.55 × 105; interquartile range [IQR]: 2.79 × 105-2.81 × 106) was significantly lower than the PBS (median: 2.42 × 109; IQR: 1.97 × 109-3.48 × 109) and ceftazidime groups (median: 3.86 × 108; IQR: 2.15 × 108-6.35 × 108), but not the phage-only group (median: 1.28 × 107; IQR: 4.71 × 106-7.13 × 107). In the second stage, the combination treatment (median: 1.72 × 106; IQR: 5.11 × 105-4.00 × 106) outperformed the phage-only treatment (median: 7.46 × 107; IQR: 1.43 × 107-1.57 × 108). Phage-resistance emerged in 96% of animals receiving phages, and all the tested isolates (n = 11) had loss-of-function mutations in genes involved in capsule biosynthesis and increased sensitivity to ceftazidime. INTERPRETATION øFG02 reliably drives the in vivo evolution of A. baumannii AB900 towards a capsule-deficient, phage-resistant phenotype that is resensitised to ceftazidime. This mechanism highlights the clinical potential of using phage therapy to target A. baumannii and restore antibiotic activity. FUNDING National Health and Medical Research Council (Australia).
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernando L Gordillo Altamirano
- School of Biological Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia; Centre to Impact AMR, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia; Department of Infectious Diseases, The Alfred Hospital and Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Xenia Kostoulias
- Centre to Impact AMR, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia; Infection Program, Department of Microbiology Monash University, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Dinesh Subedi
- School of Biological Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia; Centre to Impact AMR, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Denis Korneev
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia; Faculty of Science, School of BioSciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Anton Y Peleg
- Centre to Impact AMR, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia; Infection Program, Department of Microbiology Monash University, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Clayton, Victoria, Australia; Department of Infectious Diseases, The Alfred Hospital and Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
| | - Jeremy J Barr
- School of Biological Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia; Centre to Impact AMR, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.
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Havenga B, Reyneke B, Waso-Reyneke M, Ndlovu T, Khan S, Khan W. Biological Control of Acinetobacter baumannii: In Vitro and In Vivo Activity, Limitations, and Combination Therapies. Microorganisms 2022; 10:microorganisms10051052. [PMID: 35630494 PMCID: PMC9147981 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10051052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Revised: 05/16/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The survival, proliferation, and epidemic spread of Acinetobacter baumannii (A. baumannii) in hospital settings is associated with several characteristics, including resistance to many commercially available antibiotics as well as the expression of multiple virulence mechanisms. This severely limits therapeutic options, with increased mortality and morbidity rates recorded worldwide. The World Health Organisation, thus, recognises A. baumannii as one of the critical pathogens that need to be prioritised for the development of new antibiotics or treatment. The current review will thus provide a brief overview of the antibiotic resistance and virulence mechanisms associated with A. baumannii’s “persist and resist strategy”. Thereafter, the potential of biological control agents including secondary metabolites such as biosurfactants [lipopeptides (surfactin and serrawettin) and glycolipids (rhamnolipid)] as well as predatory bacteria (Bdellovibrio bacteriovorus) and bacteriophages to directly target A. baumannii, will be discussed in terms of their in vitro and in vivo activity. In addition, limitations and corresponding mitigations strategies will be outlined, including curtailing resistance development using combination therapies, product stabilisation, and large-scale (up-scaling) production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Havenga
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Stellenbosch University, Private Bag X1, Stellenbosch 7602, South Africa; (B.H.); (B.R.)
| | - Brandon Reyneke
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Stellenbosch University, Private Bag X1, Stellenbosch 7602, South Africa; (B.H.); (B.R.)
| | - Monique Waso-Reyneke
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Johannesburg, Doornfontein 2028, South Africa; (M.W.-R.); (S.K.)
| | - Thando Ndlovu
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Botswana, Private Bag UB, Gaborone 0022, Botswana;
| | - Sehaam Khan
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Johannesburg, Doornfontein 2028, South Africa; (M.W.-R.); (S.K.)
| | - Wesaal Khan
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Stellenbosch University, Private Bag X1, Stellenbosch 7602, South Africa; (B.H.); (B.R.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +27-21-808-5804
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8
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Acinetobacter Baumannii: More Ways to Die. Microbiol Res 2022; 261:127069. [DOI: 10.1016/j.micres.2022.127069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2022] [Revised: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Wintachai P, Voravuthikunchai SP. Characterization of Novel Lytic Myoviridae Phage Infecting Multidrug-Resistant Acinetobacter baumannii and Synergistic Antimicrobial Efficacy between Phage and Sacha Inchi Oil. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:ph15030291. [PMID: 35337089 PMCID: PMC8949666 DOI: 10.3390/ph15030291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2022] [Revised: 02/19/2022] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Multidrug-resistant (MDR) strains of Acinetobacter baumannii have become a major cause of hospital-acquired infections, resulting in an increase in morbidity and mortality worldwide. Many alternative treatments, including phage therapy, are attractive approaches for overcoming problems posed by antibiotic resistance. A newly isolated phage, vWUPSU-specific MDR A. baumannii, showed a narrow host range against MDR A. baumannii. This research was conducted to isolate, characterize, and apply the phage with sacha inchi oil as an alternative antimicrobial agent. Genome analysis suggested that phage vWUPSU is a novel phage belonging to the family Myoviridae, order Caudoviridae. This phage prevented biofilm formation and eradicated preformed biofilms in a dose-dependent manner. In addition, a synergistic antimicrobial effect of the interaction between phage vWUPSU and sacha inchi oil on planktonic cells was observed. The combination of phage and sacha inchi oil significantly inhibited and removed biofilms, compared with the effects of either single treatment. The results of this work indicate that phage vWUPSU could potentially be applied to control MDR A. baumannii. The antibacterial and antibiofilm activities of the combination of phage vWUPSU and sacha inchi oil have attracted significant interests in the development of antibacterial phage products as beneficial treatment options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phitchayapak Wintachai
- School of Science, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat 80161, Thailand
- Correspondence:
| | - Supayang Piyawan Voravuthikunchai
- Center of Antimicrobial Biomaterial Innovation-Southeast Asia and Natural Product Research Center of Excellence, Faculty of Science, Prince of Songkla University, Songkhla 90110, Thailand;
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Carascal MB, dela Cruz-Papa DM, Remenyi R, Cruz MCB, Destura RV. Phage Revolution Against Multidrug-Resistant Clinical Pathogens in Southeast Asia. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:820572. [PMID: 35154059 PMCID: PMC8830912 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.820572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 01/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Southeast Asia (SEA) can be considered a hotspot of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) worldwide. As recent surveillance efforts in the region reported the emergence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) pathogens, the pursuit of therapeutic alternatives against AMR becomes a matter of utmost importance. Phage therapy, or the use of bacterial viruses called bacteriophages to kill bacterial pathogens, is among the standout therapeutic prospects. This narrative review highlights the current understanding of phages and strategies for a phage revolution in SEA. We define phage revolution as the radical use of phage therapy in infectious disease treatment against MDR infections, considering the scientific and regulatory standpoints of the region. We present a three-phase strategy to encourage a phage revolution in the SEA clinical setting, which involves: (1) enhancing phage discovery and characterization efforts, (2) creating and implementing laboratory protocols and clinical guidelines for the evaluation of phage activity, and (3) adapting regulatory standards for therapeutic phage formulations. We hope that this review will open avenues for scientific and policy-based discussions on phage therapy in SEA and eventually lead the way to its fullest potential in countering the threat of MDR pathogens in the region and worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark B. Carascal
- Clinical and Translational Research Institute, The Medical City, Pasig, Philippines
- Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines
| | - Donna May dela Cruz-Papa
- Clinical and Translational Research Institute, The Medical City, Pasig, Philippines
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science, University of Santo Tomas, Manila, Philippines
- Research Center for Natural and Applied Sciences, University of Santo Tomas, Manila, Philippines
| | - Roland Remenyi
- Clinical and Translational Research Institute, The Medical City, Pasig, Philippines
| | - Mely Cherrylynne B. Cruz
- Clinical and Translational Research Institute, The Medical City, Pasig, Philippines
- The Graduate School, University of Santo Tomas, Manila, Philippines
| | - Raul V. Destura
- Clinical and Translational Research Institute, The Medical City, Pasig, Philippines
- National Institutes of Health, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
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Isolation and Characterization of a Novel Autographiviridae Phage and Its Combined Effect with Tigecycline in Controlling Multidrug-Resistant Acinetobacter baumannii-Associated Skin and Soft Tissue Infections. Viruses 2022; 14:v14020194. [PMID: 35215788 PMCID: PMC8878389 DOI: 10.3390/v14020194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Revised: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Multidrug-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (MDR A. baumannii) is one of the ESKAPE pathogens that restricts available treatment options. MDR A. baumannii is responsible for a dramatic increase in case numbers of a wide variety of infections, including skin and soft tissue infections (SSTIs), resulting in pyoderma, surgical debridement, and necrotizing fasciitis. To investigate an alternative medical treatment for SSTIs, a broad range lytic Acinetobacter phage, vB _AbP_ABWU2101 (phage vABWU2101), for lysing MDR A. baumannii in associated SSTIs was isolated and the biological aspects of this phage were investigated. Morphological characterization and genomic analysis revealed that phage vABWU2101 was a new species in the Friunavirus, Beijerinckvirinae, family Autographiviridae, and order Caudovirales. Antibiofilm activity of phage vABWU2101 demonstrated good activity against both preformed biofilms and biofilm formation. The combination of phage vABWU2101 and tigecycline showed synergistic antimicrobial activities against planktonic and biofilm cells. Scanning electron microscopy confirmed that the antibacterial efficacy of the combination of phage vABWU2101 and tigecycline was more effective than the phage or antibiotic alone. Hence, our findings could potentially be used to develop a therapeutic option for the treatment of SSTIs caused by MDR A. baumannii.
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Chukamnerd A, Singkhamanan K, Chongsuvivatwong V, Palittapongarnpim P, Doi Y, Pomwised R, Sakunrang C, Jeenkeawpiam K, Yingkajorn M, Chusri S, Surachat K. Whole-genome analysis of carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii from clinical isolates in Southern Thailand. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2022; 20:545-558. [PMID: 36284706 PMCID: PMC9582705 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2021.12.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2021] [Revised: 12/25/2021] [Accepted: 12/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The worldwide spread of carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (CRAB) has become a healthcare challenge for some decades. To understand its molecular epidemiology in Southern Thailand, we conducted whole-genome sequencing (WGS) of 221 CRAB clinical isolates. A comprehensive bioinformatics analysis was performed using several tools to assemble, annotate, and identify sequence types (STs), antimicrobial resistance (AMR) genes, mobile genetic elements (MGEs), and virulence genes. ST2 was the most prevalent ST in the CRAB isolates. For the detection of AMR genes, almost all CRAB isolates carried the blaOXA-23 gene, while certain isolates harbored the blaNDM-1 or blaIMP-14 genes. Also, various AMR genes were observed in these CRAB isolates, particularly aminoglycoside resistance genes (e.g., armA, aph(6)-Id, and aph(3″)-Ib), fosfomycin resistance gene (abaF), and tetracycline resistance genes (tet(B) and tet(39)). For plasmid replicon typing, RepAci1 and RepAci7 were the predominant replicons found in the CRAB isolates. Many genes encoding for virulence factors such as the ompA, adeF, pgaA, lpxA, and bfmR genes were also identified in all CRAB isolates. In conclusion, most CRAB isolates contained a mixture of AMR genes, MGEs, and virulence genes. This study provides significant information about the genetic determinants of CRAB clinical isolates that could assist the development of strategies for improved control and treatment of these infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arnon Chukamnerd
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Medicine, Prince of Songkla University, Songkhla, Thailand
| | - Kamonnut Singkhamanan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Medicine, Prince of Songkla University, Songkhla, Thailand
| | | | - Prasit Palittapongarnpim
- Pornchai Matangkasombut Center for Microbial Genomics, Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Yohei Doi
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Department of Microbiology, Fujita Health University, Aichi, Japan
| | - Rattanaruji Pomwised
- Division of Biological Science, Faculty of Science, Prince of Songkla University, Songkhla, Thailand
| | - Chanida Sakunrang
- Molecular Evolution and Computational Biology Research Unit, Faculty of Science, Prince of Songkla University, Songkhla, Thailand
| | - Kongpop Jeenkeawpiam
- Molecular Evolution and Computational Biology Research Unit, Faculty of Science, Prince of Songkla University, Songkhla, Thailand
| | - Mingkwan Yingkajorn
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Prince of Songkla University, Songkhla, Thailand
| | - Sarunyou Chusri
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Medicine, Prince of Songkla University, Songkhla, Thailand
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Prince of Songkla University, Songkhla, Thailand
- Corresponding authors at: Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Prince of Songkla University, Songkhla, Thailand and Division of Computational Science, Faculty of Science, Prince of Songkla University, Songkhla, Thailand.
| | - Komwit Surachat
- Molecular Evolution and Computational Biology Research Unit, Faculty of Science, Prince of Songkla University, Songkhla, Thailand
- Division of Computational Science, Faculty of Science, Prince of Songkla University, Songkhla, Thailand
- Corresponding authors at: Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Prince of Songkla University, Songkhla, Thailand and Division of Computational Science, Faculty of Science, Prince of Songkla University, Songkhla, Thailand.
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13
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Kim K, Islam MM, Kim D, Yun SH, Kim J, Lee JC, Shin M. Characterization of a Novel Phage ΦAb1656-2 and Its Endolysin with Higher Antimicrobial Activity against Multidrug-Resistant Acinetobacter baumannii. Viruses 2021; 13:v13091848. [PMID: 34578429 PMCID: PMC8473069 DOI: 10.3390/v13091848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2021] [Revised: 09/08/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Acinetobacter baumannii is a nosocomial pathogen, which is a problem worldwide due to the emergence of a difficult-to-treat multidrug-resistant A. baumannii (MDRAB). Endolysins are hydrolytic enzymes produced by a bacteriophage that can be used as a potential therapeutic agent for multidrug-resistant bacterial infection in replacing antibiotics. Here, we isolated a novel bacteriophage through prophage induction using mitomycin C from clinical A. baumannii 1656-2. Morphologically, ΦAb1656-2 was identified as a Siphoviridae family bacteriophage, which can infect MDRAB. The whole genome of ΦAb1656-2 was sequenced, and it showed that it is 50.9 kb with a G + C content of 38.6% and 68 putative open reading frames (ORFs). A novel endolysin named AbEndolysin with an N-acetylmuramidase-containing catalytic domain was identified, expressed, and purified from ΦAb1656-2. Recombinant AbEndolysin showed significant antibacterial activity against MDRAB clinical strains without any outer membrane permeabilizer. These results suggest that AbEndolysin could represent a potential antimicrobial agent for treating MDRAB clinical isolates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyeongmin Kim
- Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, 680 Gukchaebosang-ro, Jung-gu, Daegu 41944, Korea; (K.K.); (M.M.I.); (D.K.); (J.K.); (J.C.L.)
| | - Md Maidul Islam
- Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, 680 Gukchaebosang-ro, Jung-gu, Daegu 41944, Korea; (K.K.); (M.M.I.); (D.K.); (J.K.); (J.C.L.)
| | - Dooyoung Kim
- Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, 680 Gukchaebosang-ro, Jung-gu, Daegu 41944, Korea; (K.K.); (M.M.I.); (D.K.); (J.K.); (J.C.L.)
| | - Sung Ho Yun
- Bio-Chemical Analysis Team, Korea Basic Science Institute,162 Yeongudanji-ro, Ochang-eup, Cheongwon-gu, Cheongju-si 28119, Korea;
| | - Jungmin Kim
- Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, 680 Gukchaebosang-ro, Jung-gu, Daegu 41944, Korea; (K.K.); (M.M.I.); (D.K.); (J.K.); (J.C.L.)
| | - Je Chul Lee
- Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, 680 Gukchaebosang-ro, Jung-gu, Daegu 41944, Korea; (K.K.); (M.M.I.); (D.K.); (J.K.); (J.C.L.)
| | - Minsang Shin
- Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, 680 Gukchaebosang-ro, Jung-gu, Daegu 41944, Korea; (K.K.); (M.M.I.); (D.K.); (J.K.); (J.C.L.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +82-53-420-4841
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14
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Figueiredo CM, Malvezzi Karwowski MS, da Silva Ramos RCP, de Oliveira NS, Peña LC, Carneiro E, Freitas de Macedo RE, Rosa EAR. Bacteriophages as tools for biofilm biocontrol in different fields. BIOFOULING 2021; 37:689-709. [PMID: 34304662 DOI: 10.1080/08927014.2021.1955866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2020] [Revised: 07/07/2021] [Accepted: 07/10/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Microbial biofilms are difficult to control due to the limited accessibility that antimicrobial drugs and chemicals have to the entrapped inner cells. The extracellular matrix, binds water, contributes to altered cell physiology within biofilms and act as a barrier for most antiproliferative molecules. Thus, new strategies need to be developed to overcome biofilm vitality. In this review, based on 223 documents, the advantages, recommendations, and limitations of using bacteriophages as 'biofilm predators' are presented. The plausibility of using phages (bacteriophages and mycoviruses) to control biofilms grown in different environments is also discussed. The topics covered here include recent historical experiences in biofilm control/eradication using phages in medicine, dentistry, veterinary, and food industries, the pros and cons of their use, and the development of microbial resistance/immunity to such viruses.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Lorena Caroline Peña
- Xenobiotics Research Unit, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Paraná, Curitiba, Brazil
| | - Everdan Carneiro
- Graduate Program in Dentistry, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Paraná, Curitiba, Brazil
| | | | - Edvaldo Antonio Ribeiro Rosa
- Graduate Program in Dentistry, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Paraná, Curitiba, Brazil
- Graduate Program in Animal Sciences, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Paraná, Curitiba, Brazil
- Xenobiotics Research Unit, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Paraná, Curitiba, Brazil
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15
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McCarthy RR, Larrouy-Maumus GJ, Meiqi Tan MGC, Wareham DW. Antibiotic Resistance Mechanisms and Their Transmission in Acinetobacter baumannii. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2021; 1313:135-153. [PMID: 34661894 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-67452-6_7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
The discovery of penicillin over 90 years ago and its subsequent uptake by healthcare systems around the world revolutionised global health. It marked the beginning of a golden age in antibiotic discovery with new antibiotics readily discovered from natural sources and refined into therapies that saved millions of lives. Towards the end of the last century, the rate of discovery slowed to a near standstill. The lack of discovery is compounded by the rapid emergence and spread of bacterial pathogens that exhibit resistance to multiple antibiotic therapies and threaten the sustainability of global healthcare systems. Acinetobacter baumannii is an opportunistic pathogen whose prevalence and impact has grown significantly over the last 20 years. It is recognised as a barometer of the antibiotic resistance crisis due to the diverse array of mechanisms by which it can become resistant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ronan R McCarthy
- Division of Biosciences, Department of Life Sciences, College of Health and Life Sciences, Brunel University London, Uxbridge, UK.
| | - Gerald J Larrouy-Maumus
- MRC Centre for Molecular Bacteriology and Infection, Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Mei Gei C Meiqi Tan
- Antimicrobial Research Group, Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University London, London, UK
| | - David W Wareham
- Antimicrobial Research Group, Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University London, London, UK
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16
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Chegini Z, Khoshbayan A, Taati Moghadam M, Farahani I, Jazireian P, Shariati A. Bacteriophage therapy against Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilms: a review. Ann Clin Microbiol Antimicrob 2020; 19:45. [PMID: 32998720 PMCID: PMC7528332 DOI: 10.1186/s12941-020-00389-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2020] [Accepted: 09/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Multi-Drug Resistant (MDR) Pseudomonas aeruginosa is one of the most important bacterial pathogens that causes infection with a high mortality rate due to resistance to different antibiotics. This bacterium prompts extensive tissue damage with varying factors of virulence, and its biofilm production causes chronic and antibiotic-resistant infections. Therefore, due to the non-applicability of antibiotics for the destruction of P. aeruginosa biofilm, alternative approaches have been considered by researchers, and phage therapy is one of these new therapeutic solutions. Bacteriophages can be used to eradicate P. aeruginosa biofilm by destroying the extracellular matrix, increasing the permeability of antibiotics into the inner layer of biofilm, and inhibiting its formation by stopping the quorum-sensing activity. Furthermore, the combined use of bacteriophages and other compounds with anti-biofilm properties such as nanoparticles, enzymes, and natural products can be of more interest because they invade the biofilm by various mechanisms and can be more effective than the one used alone. On the other hand, the use of bacteriophages for biofilm destruction has some limitations such as limited host range, high-density biofilm, sub-populate phage resistance in biofilm, and inhibition of phage infection via quorum sensing in biofilm. Therefore, in this review, we specifically discuss the use of phage therapy for inhibition of P. aeruginosa biofilm in clinical and in vitro studies to identify different aspects of this treatment for broader use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Chegini
- Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amin Khoshbayan
- Student Research Committee, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Majid Taati Moghadam
- Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Iman Farahani
- Molecular and Medicine Research Center, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran
| | - Parham Jazireian
- Department of Genetics, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Aref Shariati
- Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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17
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Wintachai P, Naknaen A, Thammaphet J, Pomwised R, Phaonakrop N, Roytrakul S, Smith DR. Characterization of extended-spectrum-β-lactamase producing Klebsiella pneumoniae phage KP1801 and evaluation of therapeutic efficacy in vitro and in vivo. Sci Rep 2020; 10:11803. [PMID: 32678251 PMCID: PMC7367294 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-68702-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2020] [Accepted: 06/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Extended spectrum β lactamase-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae (ESBL-KP) is being reported with high morbidity and mortality rates and is considered as the highest priority for new antimicrobial strategies. To develop an alternative antimicrobial agent, phage KP1801 with broad lytic activity was isolated. The genome of phage KP1801 was double stranded DNA of 49,835 base pairs, with a GC content of 50.26%. There were 75 putative open reading frames. Phage KP1801 was classified as being in the order Caudovirales, belonging to the Siphoviridae family. About 323 proteins were detected by shotgun proteome analysis. The phage inhibited biofilm formation and reduced pre-formed biofilm in a dose dependent manner. Scanning electron microscopic studies demonstrated a membrane damage of bacterial cells treated with phage, resulting in cell death. Prophylactic and therapeutic efficacies of the phage were evaluated in Galleria mellonella. Administration of ESBL-KP infection with phage significantly improved the survival of G. mellonella. The number of intracellular bacteria in larvae showed a significant decrease compared with untreated control while the number of phage increased. These studies suggested that phage KP1801 has the potential for development as an alternative for antibiotics and biocontrol agents against ESBL-KP infection.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ampapan Naknaen
- Department of Microbiology, Prince of Songkla University, Songkhla, 90112, Thailand
| | - Jirapath Thammaphet
- School of Science, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat, 80161, Thailand
| | - Rattanaruji Pomwised
- Department of Microbiology, Prince of Songkla University, Songkhla, 90112, Thailand
| | - Narumon Phaonakrop
- Proteomics Research Laboratory, Thailand Science Park, Pathum Thani, 12120, Thailand
| | - Sittiruk Roytrakul
- Proteomics Research Laboratory, Thailand Science Park, Pathum Thani, 12120, Thailand
| | - Duncan R Smith
- Institute of Molecular Biosciences, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 73170, Thailand
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18
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Fernández L, Gutiérrez D, García P, Rodríguez A. The Perfect Bacteriophage for Therapeutic Applications-A Quick Guide. Antibiotics (Basel) 2019; 8:E126. [PMID: 31443585 PMCID: PMC6783975 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics8030126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2019] [Revised: 08/19/2019] [Accepted: 08/21/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The alarming spread of multiresistant infections has kick-started the quest for alternative antimicrobials. In a way, given the steady increase in untreatable infectious diseases, success in this endeavor has become a matter of life and death. Perhaps we should stop searching for an antibacterial panacea and explore a multifaceted strategy in which a wide range of compounds are available on demand depending on the specific situation. In the context of this novel tailor-made approach to combating bacterial pathogens, the once forgotten phage therapy is undergoing a revival. Indeed, the compassionate use of bacteriophages against seemingly incurable infections has been attracting a lot of media attention lately. However, in order to take full advantage of this strategy, bacteria's natural predators must be taken from their environment and then carefully selected to suit our needs. In this review, we have explored the vast literature regarding phage isolation and characterization for therapeutic purposes, paying special attention to the most recent studies, in search of findings that hint at the most efficient strategies to identify suitable candidates. From this information, we will list and discuss the traits that, at the moment, are considered particularly valuable in phages destined for antimicrobial therapy applications. Due to the growing importance given to biofilms in the context of bacterial infections, we will dedicate a specific section to those characteristics that indicate the suitability of a bacteriophage as an antibiofilm agent. Overall, the objective is not just to have a large collection of phages, but to have the best possible candidates to guarantee elimination of the target pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucía Fernández
- Instituto de Productos Lácteos de Asturias (IPLA-CSIC), (DairySafe Group), Paseo Río Linares s/n -Villaviciosa, 33300 Asturias, Spain.
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Principado de Asturias (ISPA), 33011 Oviedo, Spain.
| | - Diana Gutiérrez
- Laboratory of Applied Biotechnology, Department of Applied Biosciences, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Pilar García
- Instituto de Productos Lácteos de Asturias (IPLA-CSIC), (DairySafe Group), Paseo Río Linares s/n -Villaviciosa, 33300 Asturias, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Principado de Asturias (ISPA), 33011 Oviedo, Spain
| | - Ana Rodríguez
- Instituto de Productos Lácteos de Asturias (IPLA-CSIC), (DairySafe Group), Paseo Río Linares s/n -Villaviciosa, 33300 Asturias, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Principado de Asturias (ISPA), 33011 Oviedo, Spain
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