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Ren Y, Zhu R, You X, Li D, Guo M, Fei B, Liu Y, Yang X, Liu X, Li Y. Quercetin: a promising virulence inhibitor of Pseudomonas aeruginosa LasB in vitro. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2024; 108:57. [PMID: 38180553 PMCID: PMC10770215 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-023-12890-w] [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: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
With the inappropriate use of antibiotics, antibiotic resistance has emerged as a major dilemma for patients infected with Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Elastase B (LasB), a crucial extracellular virulence factor secreted by P. aeruginosa, has been identified as a key target for antivirulence therapy. Quercetin, a natural flavonoid, exhibits promising potential as an antivirulence agent. We aim to evaluate the impact of quercetin on P. aeruginosa LasB and elucidate the underlying mechanism. Molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation revealed a rather favorable intermolecular interaction between quercetin and LasB. At the sub-MICs of ≤256 μg/ml, quercetin was found to effectively inhibit the production and activity of LasB elastase, as well as downregulate the transcription level of the lasB gene in both PAO1 and clinical strains of P. aeruginosa. Through correlation analysis, significant positive correlations were shown between the virulence gene lasB and the QS system regulatory genes lasI, lasR, rhlI, and rhlR in clinical strains of P. aeruginosa. Then, we found the lasB gene expression and LasB activity were significantly deficient in PAO1 ΔlasI and ΔlasIΔrhlI mutants. In addition, quercetin significantly downregulated the expression levels of regulated genes lasI, lasR, rhlI, rhlR, pqsA, and pqsR as well as effectively attenuated the synthesis of signaling molecules 3-oxo-C12-HSL and C4-HSL in the QS system of PAO1. Quercetin was also able to compete with the natural ligands OdDHL, BHL, and PQS for binding to the receptor proteins LasR, RhlR, and PqsR, respectively, resulting in the formation of more stabilized complexes. Taken together, quercetin exhibits enormous potential in combating LasB production and activity by disrupting the QS system of P. aeruginosa in vitro, thereby offering an alternative approach for the antivirulence therapy of P. aeruginosa infections. KEY POINTS: • Quercetin diminished the content and activity of LasB elastase of P. aeruginosa. • Quercetin inhibited the QS system activity of P. aeruginosa. • Quercetin acted on LasB based on the QS system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanying Ren
- Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
| | - Rui Zhu
- Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
- Henan Province Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, 450002, China
| | - Xiaojuan You
- Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
- Henan Province Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, 450002, China
| | - Dengzhou Li
- Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
- Henan Province Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, 450002, China
| | - Mengyu Guo
- Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
| | - Bing Fei
- Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
| | - Ying Liu
- Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
| | - Ximing Yang
- Dongzhimen Hospital of Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Peking, 100700, China.
| | - Xinwei Liu
- Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, 450046, China.
- Henan Province Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, 450002, China.
| | - Yongwei Li
- Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, 450046, China.
- Henan Province Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, 450002, China.
- The Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Microbes & Antimicrobial Resistance Surveillance of Zhengzhou, Zhengzhou, 450002, China.
- Henan Engineering Research Center for Identification of Pathogenic Microbes, Zhengzhou, 450002, China.
- Henan Provincial Key Laboratory of Antibiotics-Resistant Bacterial Infection Prevention & Therapy with Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, 450002, China.
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Vieira TF, Leitão MM, Cerqueira NMFSA, Sousa SF, Borges A, Simões M. Montelukast and cefoperazone act as antiquorum sensing and antibiofilm agents against Pseudomonas aeruginosa. J Appl Microbiol 2024; 135:lxae088. [PMID: 38587815 DOI: 10.1093/jambio/lxae088] [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: 01/02/2024] [Revised: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
AIMS Drug repurposing is an attractive strategy to control biofilm-related infectious diseases. In this study, two drugs (montelukast and cefoperazone) with well-established therapeutic applications were tested on Pseudomonas aeruginosa quorum sensing (QS) inhibition and biofilm control. METHODS AND RESULTS The activity of montelukast and cefoperazone was evaluated for Pqs signal inhibition, pyocyanin synthesis, and prevention and eradication of Ps. aeruginosa biofilms. Cefoperazone inhibited the Pqs system by hindering the production of the autoinducer molecules 2-heptyl-4-hydroxyquinoline (HHQ) and 2-heptyl-3-hydroxy-4(1H)-quinolone (the Pseudomonas quinolone signal or PQS), corroborating in silico results. Pseudomonas aeruginosa pyocyanin production was reduced by 50%. The combination of the antibiotics cefoperazone and ciprofloxacin was synergistic for Ps. aeruginosa biofilm control. On the other hand, montelukast had no relevant effects on the inhibition of the Pqs system and against Ps. aeruginosa biofilm. CONCLUSION This study provides for the first time strong evidence that cefoperazone interacts with the Pqs system, hindering the formation of the autoinducer molecules HHQ and PQS, reducing Ps. aeruginosa pathogenicity and virulence. Cefoperazone demonstrated a potential to be used in combination with less effective antibiotics (e.g. ciprofloxacin) to potentiate the biofilm control action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatiana F Vieira
- Faculty of Medicine, LAQV/REQUIMTE, BioSIM, Departamento de Medicina, University of Porto, Alameda Prof. Hernâni Monteiro, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal
| | - Miguel M Leitão
- Faculty of Engineering, LEPABE Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy, University of Porto, Rua Dr Roberto Frias, s/n, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
- Faculty of Engineering, ALiCE - Associate Laboratory in Chemical Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
- Faculty of Sciences, CIQUP-IMS - Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Porto, Rua Campo Alegre 687, 4169-007 Porto, Portugal
| | - Nuno M F S A Cerqueira
- Faculty of Medicine, LAQV/REQUIMTE, BioSIM, Departamento de Medicina, University of Porto, Alameda Prof. Hernâni Monteiro, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal
| | - Sérgio F Sousa
- Faculty of Medicine, LAQV/REQUIMTE, BioSIM, Departamento de Medicina, University of Porto, Alameda Prof. Hernâni Monteiro, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal
| | - Anabela Borges
- Faculty of Engineering, LEPABE Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy, University of Porto, Rua Dr Roberto Frias, s/n, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
- Faculty of Engineering, ALiCE - Associate Laboratory in Chemical Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
| | - Manuel Simões
- Faculty of Engineering, LEPABE Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy, University of Porto, Rua Dr Roberto Frias, s/n, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
- Faculty of Engineering, ALiCE - Associate Laboratory in Chemical Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
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Sung K, Park M, Chon J, Kweon O, Khan S. Unraveling the molecular dynamics of Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilms at the air-liquid interface. Future Microbiol 2024. [PMID: 38661712 DOI: 10.2217/fmb-2023-0234] [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] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Aim: The aim of this study was to probe the dynamics of Pseudomonas aeruginosa PA14 air-liquid interface (ALI) biofilms over time through global proteomic analysis. Materials & methods: P. aeruginosa PA14 ALI biofilm samples, collected over 48-144 h, underwent differential expression analysis to identify varying proteins at each time point. Results: A consistent set of 778 proteins was identified, with variable expression over time. Upregulated proteins were mainly linked to 'amino acid transport and metabolism'. Biofilm-related pathways, including cAMP/Vfr and QS, underwent significant changes. Flagella were more influential than pili, especially in early biofilm development. Proteins associated with virulence, transporters and iron showed differential expression throughout. Conclusion: The findings enhance our understanding of ALI biofilm development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kidon Sung
- Division of Microbiology, National Center for Toxicological Research, US FDA, Jefferson, AR 72079, USA
| | - Miseon Park
- Division of Microbiology, National Center for Toxicological Research, US FDA, Jefferson, AR 72079, USA
| | - Jungwhan Chon
- Department of Companion Animal Health, Inje University, Gimhae, South Korea
| | - Ohgew Kweon
- Division of Microbiology, National Center for Toxicological Research, US FDA, Jefferson, AR 72079, USA
| | - Saeed Khan
- Division of Microbiology, National Center for Toxicological Research, US FDA, Jefferson, AR 72079, USA
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Weaver AA, Jia J, Cutri AR, Madukoma CS, Vaerewyck CM, Bohn PW, Shrout JD. Alkyl quinolones mediate heterogeneous colony biofilm architecture that improves community-level survival. J Bacteriol 2024; 206:e0009524. [PMID: 38564677 PMCID: PMC11025328 DOI: 10.1128/jb.00095-24] [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: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Bacterial communities exhibit complex self-organization that contributes to their survival. To better understand the molecules that contribute to transforming a small number of cells into a heterogeneous surface biofilm community, we studied acellular aggregates, structures seen by light microscopy in Pseudomonas aeruginosa colony biofilms using light microscopy and chemical imaging. These structures differ from cellular aggregates, cohesive clusters of cells important for biofilm formation, in that they are visually distinct from cells using light microscopy and are reliant on metabolites for assembly. To investigate how these structures benefit a biofilm community we characterized three recurrent types of acellular aggregates with distinct geometries that were each abundant in specific areas of these biofilms. Alkyl quinolones (AQs) were essential for the formation of all aggregate types with AQ signatures outside the aggregates below the limit of detection. These acellular aggregates spatially sequester AQs and differentiate the biofilm space. However, the three types of aggregates showed differing properties in their size, associated cell death, and lipid content. The largest aggregate type co-localized with spatially confined cell death that was not mediated by Pf4 bacteriophage. Biofilms lacking AQs were absent of localized cell death but exhibited increased, homogeneously distributed cell death. Thus, these AQ-rich aggregates regulate metabolite accessibility, differentiate regions of the biofilm, and promote survival in biofilms.IMPORTANCEPseudomonas aeruginosa is an opportunistic pathogen with the ability to cause infection in the immune-compromised. It is well established that P. aeruginosa biofilms exhibit resilience that includes decreased susceptibility to antimicrobial treatment. This work examines the self-assembled heterogeneity in biofilm communities studying acellular aggregates, regions of condensed matter requiring alkyl quinolones (AQs). AQs are important to both virulence and biofilm formation. Aggregate structures described here spatially regulate the accessibility of these AQs, differentiate regions of the biofilm community, and despite their association with autolysis, correlate with improved P. aeruginosa colony biofilm survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abigail A. Weaver
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering and Earth Sciences, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana, USA
| | - Jin Jia
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana, USA
| | - Allison R. Cutri
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana, USA
| | - Chinedu S. Madukoma
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering and Earth Sciences, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana, USA
| | - Catherine M. Vaerewyck
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering and Earth Sciences, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana, USA
| | - Paul W. Bohn
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana, USA
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana, USA
| | - Joshua D. Shrout
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering and Earth Sciences, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana, USA
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana, USA
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Bradley R, Simon D, Spiga L, Xiang Y, Takats Z, Williams H. Laser desorption rapid evaporative ionization mass spectrometry (LD-REIMS) demonstrates a direct impact of hypochlorous acid stress on PQS-mediated quorum sensing in Pseudomonas aeruginosa. mSystems 2024; 9:e0116523. [PMID: 38530056 PMCID: PMC11019781 DOI: 10.1128/msystems.01165-23] [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: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024] Open
Abstract
To establish infections in human hosts, Pseudomonas aeruginosa must overcome innate immune-generated oxidative stress, such as the hypochlorous acid (HOCl) produced by neutrophils. We set out to find specific biomarkers of oxidative stress through the development of a protocol for the metabolic profiling of P. aeruginosa cultures grown in the presence of different oxidants using a novel ionization technique for mass spectrometry, laser desorption rapid evaporative ionization mass spectrometry (LD-REIMS). We demonstrated the ability of LD-REIMS to classify samples as untreated or treated with a specific oxidant with 100% accuracy and identified a panel of 54 metabolites with significantly altered concentrations after exposure to one or more of the oxidants. Key metabolic changes were conserved in P. aeruginosa clinical strains isolated from patients with cystic fibrosis lung infections. These data demonstrated that HOCl stress impacted the Pseudomonas quinolone signal (PQS) quorum sensing system. Ten 2-alkyl-4-quinolones (AHQs) associated with the PQS system were significantly lower in concentration in HOCl-stressed P. aeruginosa cultures, including 2-heptyl-3-hydroxy-4(1H)-quinolone (PQS), the most active signal molecule of the PQS system. The PQS system regulates the production of virulence factors, including pyocyanin and elastase, and their levels were markedly affected by HOCl stress. No pyocyanin was detectable and elastase concentrations were reduced by more than 75% in cultures grown with sub-lethal concentrations of HOCl, suggesting that this neutrophil-derived oxidant may disrupt the ability of P. aeruginosa to establish infections through interference with production of PQS-associated virulence factors. IMPORTANCE This work demonstrates that a high-throughput ambient ionization mass spectrometry method can be used successfully to study a bacterial stress response. Its application to the opportunistic pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa led to the identification of specific oxidative stress biomarkers, and demonstrated that hypochlorous acid, an oxidant specifically produced by human neutrophils during infection, affects quorum sensing and reduces production of the virulence factors pyocyanin and elastase. No pyocyanin was detectable and elastase levels were reduced by more than 75% in bacteria grown in the presence of hypochlorous acid. This approach has the potential to be widely applicable to the characterization of the stress responses of bacteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rob Bradley
- Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Daniel Simon
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
- The Rosalind Franklin Institute, Didcot, United Kingdom
| | - Livia Spiga
- Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Yuchen Xiang
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Zoltan Takats
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Huw Williams
- Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
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Talaat R, Abu El-Naga MN, El-Bialy HAA, El-Fouly MZ, Abouzeid MA. Quenching of quorum sensing in multi-drug resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa: insights on halo-bacterial metabolites and gamma irradiation as channels inhibitors. Ann Clin Microbiol Antimicrob 2024; 23:31. [PMID: 38600513 PMCID: PMC11007959 DOI: 10.1186/s12941-024-00684-5] [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: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 03/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Anti-virulence therapy is a promising strategy to treat multi-drug resistant (MDR) pathogens. Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a potent opportunistic pathogen because of an array of virulence factors that are regulated by quorum sensing systems. METHODS The virulence features of four multi-drug resistant P. aeruginosa strains were investigated upon exposure to the sub-lethal dose of gamma rays (1 kGy), and sub-inhibitory concentrations of bioactive metabolites recovered from local halophilic strains in comparison to control. Then, the gene expression of AHL-mediated quorum sensing systems (las/rhl) was quantitatively determined in treated and untreated groups by real-time PCR. RESULTS The bioactive metabolites recovered from halophilic strains previously isolated from saline ecosystems were identified as Halomonas cupida (Halo-Rt1), H. elongate (Halo-Rt2), Vigibacillus natechei (Halo-Rt3), Sediminibacillus terrae (Halo-Rt4) and H. almeriensis (Halo-Rt5). Results revealed that both gamma irradiation and bioactive metabolites significantly reduced the virulence factors of the tested MDR strains. The bioactive metabolites showed a maximum efficiency for inhibiting biofilm formation and rhamnolipids production whereas the gamma irradiation succeeded in decreasing other virulence factors to lower levels in comparison to control. Quantitative-PCR results showed that AHL-mediated quorum sensing systems (las/rhl) in P. aeruginosa strains were downregulated either by halo-bacterial metabolites or gamma irradiation in all treatments except the upregulation of both lasI internal gene and rhlR intact gene in P. aeruginosa NCR-RT3 and both rhlI internal gene and rhlR intact gene in P. aeruginosa U3 by nearly two folds or more upon exposure to gamma irradiation. The most potent result was observed in the expression of lasI internal gene that was downregulated by more than ninety folds in P. aeruginosa NCR-RT2 after treatment with metabolites of S. terrae (Halo-Rt4). Analyzing metabolites recovered from H. cupida (Halo-Rt1) and H. elongate (Halo-Rt2) using LC-ESI-MS/MS revealed many chemical compounds that have quorum quenching properties including glabrol, 5,8-dimethoxyquinoline-2-carbaldehyde, linoleoyl ethanolamide, agelasine, penigequinolones derivatives, berberine, tetracosanoic acid, and liquidambaric lactone in the former halophile and phloretin, lycoctonine, fucoxanthin, and crassicauline A in the latter one. CONCLUSION QS inhibitors can significantly reduce the pathogenicity of MDR P. aeruginosa strains; and thus can be an effective and successful strategy for treating antibiotic resistant traits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reham Talaat
- Radiation Microbiology Department, National Center for Radiation Research and Technology (NCRRT), Egyptian Atomic Energy Authority (EAEA), Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mohamed N Abu El-Naga
- Radiation Microbiology Department, National Center for Radiation Research and Technology (NCRRT), Egyptian Atomic Energy Authority (EAEA), Cairo, Egypt
| | - Heba Abd Alla El-Bialy
- Radiation Microbiology Department, National Center for Radiation Research and Technology (NCRRT), Egyptian Atomic Energy Authority (EAEA), Cairo, Egypt.
| | - Mohie Z El-Fouly
- Radiation Microbiology Department, National Center for Radiation Research and Technology (NCRRT), Egyptian Atomic Energy Authority (EAEA), Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mohamed A Abouzeid
- Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
- Faculty of Science, Galala University, Suez, Egypt
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Rostamnejad D, Esnaashari F, Zahmatkesh H, Rasti B, Zamani H. Diclofenac-loaded PLGA nanoparticles downregulate LasI/R quorum sensing genes in pathogenic P. aeruginosa isolates. Arch Microbiol 2024; 206:112. [PMID: 38374471 DOI: 10.1007/s00203-023-03809-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 02/21/2024]
Abstract
Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) is a biocompatible polymer that can gradually and consistently release drugs in a controlled manner. In this study, diclofenac sodium-loaded PLGA nanoparticles (DS-PLGA NPs) were produced by solvent evaporation technique and characterized using SEM, DLS, and zeta potential analyses. The antibacterial and antivirulence potential of DS-PLGA NPs against P. aeruginosa strains were examined using broth microdilution, crystal violet staining, hemolysis, and twitching quantification assays. Furthermore, the expression of the quorum sensing (QS) genes, lasI and lasR in P. aeruginosa strains after treatment with 1/2 MIC of DS-PLGA NPs was assessed using real-time PCR. SEM imaging of the synthesized NPs exhibited that the NPs have a spherical structure with a size range of 60-150 nm. The zeta potential of the NPs was - 15.2 mV, while the size of the particles in the aquatic environment was in a range of 111.5-153.8 nm. The MIC of prepared NPs against various strains of P. aeruginosa ranged from 4.5 to 9 mg/mL. Moreover, exposure of bacteria to sub-MIC of DS-PLGA NPs significantly down-regulated the expression of the lasI and lasR genes to 0.51- and 0.75-fold, respectively. Further, prepared NPs efficiently reduced the biofilm formation of P. aeruginosa strains by 9-27%, compared with the controls. Besides, DS-PLGA NPs showed considerable attenuation in bacterial hemolytic activity by 32-88% and twitching motility by 0-32.3%, compared with untreated cells. Overall, the present work exhibited the anti-QS activity of DS-PLGA NPs, which could be a safe and useful approach for treating P. aeruginosa infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dorna Rostamnejad
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Basic Sciences, Lahijan Branch, Islamic Azad University (IAU), Lahijan, Guilan, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Esnaashari
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Basic Sciences, Lahijan Branch, Islamic Azad University (IAU), Lahijan, Guilan, Iran
| | - Hossein Zahmatkesh
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Basic Sciences, Lahijan Branch, Islamic Azad University (IAU), Lahijan, Guilan, Iran
| | - Behnam Rasti
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Basic Sciences, Lahijan Branch, Islamic Azad University (IAU), Lahijan, Guilan, Iran.
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Barone S, Mateu B, Turco L, Pelliccia S, Lembo F, Summa V, Buommino E, Brindisi M. Unveiling the modulation of Pseudomonas aeruginosa virulence and biofilm formation by selective histone deacetylase 6 inhibitors. Front Microbiol 2024; 15:1340585. [PMID: 38371939 PMCID: PMC10869609 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2024.1340585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Bacterial infections represent a key public health issue due to the occurrence of multidrug-resistant bacteria. Recently, the amount of data supporting the dynamic control of epigenetic pathways by environmental cues has triggered research efforts toward the clarification of their role in microbial infections. Among protein post-translational modifications, reversible acetylation is the most implicated in the feedback to environmental stimuli and in cellular homeostasis. Accordingly, the latest studies identified the histone deacetylase 6 (HDAC6) enzyme as a crucial player in the complex molecular machinery underlying bacterial clearance or killing. A very important milestone for the elucidation of the consequence of HDAC6 activity in bacterial infections is herein described, unveiling for the first time the role of a potent HDAC6 inhibitor in interfering with biofilm formation and modulating virulence factors of P. aeruginosa. We demonstrated that compound F2F-2020202 affected the production of some important virulence factors in P. aeruginosa, namely pyocyanin and rhamnolipids, clearly impairing its ability to form biofilm. Furthermore, evidence of possible QS involvement is supported by differential regulation of specific genes, namely RhlI, phAz1, and qsrO. The data herein obtained also complement and in part explain our previous results with selective HDAC6 inhibitors able to reduce inflammation and bacterial load in chronic infection models recapitulating the cystic fibrosis (CF) phenotype. This study fosters future in-depth investigation to allow the complete elucidation of the molecular mechanisms underlying HDAC6's role in bacterial infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simona Barone
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Baptiste Mateu
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Luigia Turco
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| | - Sveva Pelliccia
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Francesca Lembo
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Summa
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
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Muriel-Millán LF, Montelongo-Martínez LF, González-Valdez A, Bedoya-Pérez LP, Cocotl-Yañez M, Soberón-Chávez G. The alternative sigma factor RpoS regulates Pseudomonas aeruginosa quorum sensing response by repressing the pqsABCDE operon and activating vfr. Mol Microbiol 2024; 121:291-303. [PMID: 38169053 DOI: 10.1111/mmi.15224] [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: 08/11/2023] [Revised: 12/02/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Pseudomonas aeruginosa is an important opportunistic pathogen. Several of its virulence-related processes, including the synthesis of pyocyanin (PYO) and biofilm formation, are controlled by quorum sensing (QS). It has been shown that the alternative sigma factor RpoS regulates QS through the reduction of lasR and rhlR transcription (encoding QS regulators). However, paradoxically, the absence of RpoS increases PYO production and biofilm development (that are RhlR dependent) by unknown mechanisms. Here, we show that RpoS represses pqsE transcription, which impacts the stability and activity of RhlR. In the absence of RpoS, rhlR transcript levels are reduced but not the RhlR protein concentration, presumably by its stabilization by PqsE, whose expression is increased. We also report that PYO synthesis and the expression of pqsE and phzA1B1C1D1E1F1G1 operon exhibit the same pattern at different RpoS concentrations, suggesting that the RpoS-dependent PYO production is due to its ability to modify PqsE concentration, which in turn modulates the activation of the phzA1 promoter by RhlR. Finally, we demonstrate that RpoS favors the expression of Vfr, which activates the transcription of lasR and rhlR. Our study contributes to the understanding of how RpoS modulates the QS response in P. aeruginosa, exerting both negative and positive regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis Felipe Muriel-Millán
- Departamento de Biología Molecular y Biotecnología, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad Universitaria, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Luis Fernando Montelongo-Martínez
- Departamento de Biología Molecular y Biotecnología, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad Universitaria, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Abigail González-Valdez
- Departamento de Biología Molecular y Biotecnología, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad Universitaria, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Leidy Patricia Bedoya-Pérez
- Programa de Biología Sintética, Centro de Ciencias Genómicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico
| | - Miguel Cocotl-Yañez
- Departamento de Microbiología y Parasitología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad Universitaria, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Gloria Soberón-Chávez
- Departamento de Biología Molecular y Biotecnología, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad Universitaria, Ciudad de México, Mexico
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Soukarieh F, Mashabi A, Richardson W, Oton EV, Romero M, Dubern JF, Robertson SN, Lucanto S, Markham-Lee Z, Sou T, Kukavica-Ibrulj I, Levesque RC, Bergstrom CAS, Halliday N, Kellam B, Emsley J, Heeb S, Williams P, Stocks MJ, Cámara M. Design, Synthesis, and Evaluation of New 1 H-Benzo[ d]imidazole Based PqsR Inhibitors as Adjuvant Therapy for Pseudomonas aeruginosa Infections. J Med Chem 2024; 67:1008-1023. [PMID: 38170170 PMCID: PMC10823468 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c00973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Revised: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Pseudomonas aeruginosa is one of the top priority pathogens that requires immediate attention according to the World Health Organisation (WHO). Due to the alarming shortage of novel antimicrobials, targeting quorum sensing (QS), a bacterial cell to cell signaling system controlling virulence, has emerged as a promising approach as an antibiotic adjuvant therapy. Interference with the pqs system, one of three QS systems in P. aeruginosa, results in reduction of bacterial virulence gene expression and biofilm maturation. Herein, we report a hit to lead process to fine-tune the potency of our previously reported inhibitor 1 (IC50 3.2 μM in P. aeruginosa PAO1-L), which led to the discovery of 2-(4-(3-((6-chloro-1-isopropyl-1H-benzo[d]imidazol-2-yl)amino)-2-hydroxypropoxy)phenyl)acetonitrile (6f) as a potent PqsR antagonist. Compound 6f inhibited the PqsR-controlled PpqsA-lux transcriptional reporter fusion in P. aeruginosa at low submicromolar concentrations. Moreover, 6f showed improved efficacy against P. aeruginosa CF isolates with significant inhibition of pyocyanin, 2-alkyl-4(1H)-quinolones production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fadi Soukarieh
- School
of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham Biodiscovery Institute, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, U.K.
- The
National Biofilms Innovation Centre, University of Nottingham Biodiscovery
Institute, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, U.K.
| | - Alaa Mashabi
- School
of Pharmacy, University of Nottingham Biodiscovery Institute, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, U.K.
| | - William Richardson
- School
of Pharmacy, University of Nottingham Biodiscovery Institute, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, U.K.
| | - Eduard Vico Oton
- School
of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham Biodiscovery Institute, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, U.K.
| | - Manuel Romero
- School
of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham Biodiscovery Institute, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, U.K.
- The
National Biofilms Innovation Centre, University of Nottingham Biodiscovery
Institute, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, U.K.
| | - Jean-Frédéric Dubern
- School
of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham Biodiscovery Institute, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, U.K.
| | - Shaun N. Robertson
- School
of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham Biodiscovery Institute, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, U.K.
- The
National Biofilms Innovation Centre, University of Nottingham Biodiscovery
Institute, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, U.K.
| | - Simone Lucanto
- School
of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham Biodiscovery Institute, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, U.K.
- The
National Biofilms Innovation Centre, University of Nottingham Biodiscovery
Institute, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, U.K.
| | - Zoe Markham-Lee
- School
of Pharmacy, University of Nottingham Biodiscovery Institute, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, U.K.
| | - Tomás Sou
- Department
of Pharmacy, Uppsala University, Uppsala SE-751 23, Sweden
| | - Irena Kukavica-Ibrulj
- Institut
de Biologie Intégrative et des SystèmesUniversité Laval, Quebec G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Roger C. Levesque
- Institut
de Biologie Intégrative et des SystèmesUniversité Laval, Quebec G1V 0A6, Canada
| | | | - Nigel Halliday
- School
of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham Biodiscovery Institute, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, U.K.
| | - Barrie Kellam
- School
of Pharmacy, University of Nottingham Biodiscovery Institute, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, U.K.
| | - Jonas Emsley
- School
of Pharmacy, University of Nottingham Biodiscovery Institute, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, U.K.
- The
National Biofilms Innovation Centre, University of Nottingham Biodiscovery
Institute, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, U.K.
| | - Stephan Heeb
- School
of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham Biodiscovery Institute, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, U.K.
| | - Paul Williams
- School
of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham Biodiscovery Institute, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, U.K.
- The
National Biofilms Innovation Centre, University of Nottingham Biodiscovery
Institute, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, U.K.
| | - Michael J. Stocks
- School
of Pharmacy, University of Nottingham Biodiscovery Institute, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, U.K.
- The
National Biofilms Innovation Centre, University of Nottingham Biodiscovery
Institute, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, U.K.
| | - Miguel Cámara
- School
of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham Biodiscovery Institute, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, U.K.
- The
National Biofilms Innovation Centre, University of Nottingham Biodiscovery
Institute, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, U.K.
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11
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Shi Y, Li J, Wolf CA, Liu S, Sharma SS, Wolber G, Bureik M, Clark BR. Expected and Unexpected Products from the Biochemical Oxidation of Bacterial Alkylquinolones with CYP4F11. JOURNAL OF NATURAL PRODUCTS 2023; 86:2502-2513. [PMID: 37939299 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jnatprod.3c00689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2023]
Abstract
2-Alkylquinolones are a class of microbial natural products primarily produced in the Pseudomonas and Burkholderia genera that play a key role in modulating quorum sensing. Bacterial alkylquinolones were synthesized and then subjected to oxidative biotransformation using human cytochrome P450 enzyme CYP4F11, heterologously expressed in the fission yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe. This yielded a range of hydroxylated and carboxylic acid derivatives which had undergone ω-oxidation of the 2-alkyl chain, the structures of which were determined by analysis of NMR and MS data. Oxidation efficiency depended on chain length, with a chain length of eight or nine carbon atoms proving optimal for high yields. Homology modeling suggested that Glu233 was relevant for binding, due to the formation of a hydrogen bond from the quinolone nitrogen to Glu233, and in this position only the longer alkyl chains could come close enough to the heme moiety for effective oxidation. In addition to the direct oxidation products, a number of esters were also isolated, which was attributed to the action of endogenous yeast enzymes on the newly formed ω-hydroxy-alkylquinolones. ω-Oxidation of the alkyl chain significantly reduced the antimicrobial and antibiofilm activity of the quinolones.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Shi
- School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Tianjin University, 92 Weijin Road, Tianjin 300072, People's Republic of China
| | - Jianye Li
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Heterocyclic Compounds, College of Chemical Engineering and Materials, Handan University, Handan 056005, Hebei Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Clemens Alexander Wolf
- Molecular Design Lab, Freie Universität Berlin, Institute of Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry, Königin-Luise-Straße 2 + 4, 14195 Berlin, Germany
| | - Sijie Liu
- Molecular Design Lab, Freie Universität Berlin, Institute of Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry, Königin-Luise-Straße 2 + 4, 14195 Berlin, Germany
| | - Sangeeta S Sharma
- School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Tianjin University, 92 Weijin Road, Tianjin 300072, People's Republic of China
| | - Gerhard Wolber
- Molecular Design Lab, Freie Universität Berlin, Institute of Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry, Königin-Luise-Straße 2 + 4, 14195 Berlin, Germany
| | - Matthias Bureik
- School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Tianjin University, 92 Weijin Road, Tianjin 300072, People's Republic of China
| | - Benjamin R Clark
- School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Tianjin University, 92 Weijin Road, Tianjin 300072, People's Republic of China
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12
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Shanks RMQ, Atta S, Stella NA, Sundar-Raj CV, Romanowski JE, Grewal AS, Shanks HQ, Mumper SM, Dhaliwal DK, Mammen A, Callaghan JD, Calvario RC, Romanowski EG, Kowalski RP, Zegans ME, Jhanji V. A rise in the frequency of lasR mutant Pseudomonas aeruginosa among keratitis isolates between 1993 and 2021. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2023; 13:1286842. [PMID: 38029269 PMCID: PMC10651084 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1286842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Pseudomonas aeruginosa causes vision threatening keratitis. The LasR transcription factor regulates virulence factors in response to the quorum sensing molecule N-3-oxo-dodecanoyl-L-homoserine lactone. P. aeruginosa isolates with lasR mutations are characterized by an iridescent high sheen phenotype caused by a build-up of 2-heptyl-4-quinolone. A previous study demonstrated 22% (n=101) of P. aeruginosa keratitis isolates from India between 2010 and 2016 were sheen positive lasR mutants, and the sheen phenotype correlated with worse clinical outcomes for patients. In this study, a longitudinal collection of P. aeruginosa keratitis isolates from Eastern North America were screened for lasR mutations by the sheen phenotype and sequencing of the lasR gene. Methods Keratitis isolates (n=399) were classified by sheen phenotype. The lasR gene was cloned from a subset of isolates, sequenced, and tested for loss of function or dominant-negative status based on an azocasein protease assay. A retrospective chart review compared outcomes of keratitis patients infected by sheen positive and negative isolates. Results A significant increase in sheen positive isolates was observed between 1993 and 2021. Extracellular protease activity was reduced among the sheen positive isolates and a defined lasR mutant. Cloned lasR alleles from the sheen positive isolates were loss of function or dominant negative and differed in sequence from previously reported ocular lasR mutant alleles. Retrospective analysis of patient information suggested significantly better visual outcomes for patients infected by sheen positive isolates. Discussion These results indicate an increase in lasR mutations among keratitis isolates in the United States and suggest that endemic lasR mutants can cause keratitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert M. Q. Shanks
- Charles T. Campbell Laboratory of Ophthalmic Microbiology, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Sarah Atta
- Charles T. Campbell Laboratory of Ophthalmic Microbiology, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Nicholas A. Stella
- Charles T. Campbell Laboratory of Ophthalmic Microbiology, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Chollapadi V. Sundar-Raj
- Charles T. Campbell Laboratory of Ophthalmic Microbiology, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - John E. Romanowski
- Charles T. Campbell Laboratory of Ophthalmic Microbiology, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Arman S. Grewal
- Charles T. Campbell Laboratory of Ophthalmic Microbiology, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Hazel Q. Shanks
- Charles T. Campbell Laboratory of Ophthalmic Microbiology, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Sonya M. Mumper
- Charles T. Campbell Laboratory of Ophthalmic Microbiology, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Deepinder K. Dhaliwal
- Charles T. Campbell Laboratory of Ophthalmic Microbiology, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Alex Mammen
- Charles T. Campbell Laboratory of Ophthalmic Microbiology, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Jake D. Callaghan
- Charles T. Campbell Laboratory of Ophthalmic Microbiology, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Rachel C. Calvario
- Charles T. Campbell Laboratory of Ophthalmic Microbiology, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Eric G. Romanowski
- Charles T. Campbell Laboratory of Ophthalmic Microbiology, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Regis P. Kowalski
- Charles T. Campbell Laboratory of Ophthalmic Microbiology, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Michael E. Zegans
- Department of Surgery, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, NH, United States
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, NH, United States
| | - Vishal Jhanji
- Charles T. Campbell Laboratory of Ophthalmic Microbiology, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
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13
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Khan P, Waheed A, Azeem M, Parveen A, Yameen MA, Iqbal J, Ali M, Wang S, Qayyum S, Noor A, Naqvi TA. Essential Oil from Tagetes minuta Has Antiquorum Sensing and Antibiofilm Potential against Pseudomonas aeruginosa Strain PAO1. ACS OMEGA 2023; 8:35866-35873. [PMID: 37810677 PMCID: PMC10551919 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.3c03507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023]
Abstract
Biofilms are complex communities of microorganisms that are enclosed in a matrix that shows increased resistance to antimicrobial and immunological encounters. Mostly, the traditional methods to control biofilm are exhausted; therefore, the aim is to evaluate the potential of essential oil (EO) from Tagetes minuta to encounter biofilm and other related virulence factors. The EO of T. minuta was extracted through steam-distillation, analyzed on gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, and the biofilm inhibition assays were performed with various concentrations of EO. Mainly the EO from T. minuta contains cis-β-ocimene (29.1%), trans-tagetenone (23.1%), and cis-tagetenone (17.7%). The virulence factors were monitored while applying different concentrations of EO and it was recorded that the EO from T. minuta significantly inhibited the virulence factors linked with quorum sensing (QS), such as pyocyanin production, protease production, and swarming motility. Biofilm formation is one of the most important virulence factors associated with the QS pathway and was inhibited up to 79% in the presence of EO. Antibacterial activity against the PAO1 of EO was not so promising particularly and it has high MIC (325 μg/mL) and MBC (5000 μg/mL). EO is quite efficient to inhibit biofilm in a very small concentration of 20 μg/mL, which confirms that the biofilm inhibition by EO is not by killing bacterial cells but by inhibiting the QS pathway. The study on PAO1 constructs carrying various QS reported genes confirmed that the EO interferes with the QS pathway that ultimately controls various virulence factors caused by PAO1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Palwasha Khan
- Department
of Biotechnology, COMSATS University Islamabad, Abbottabad Campus, Abbottabad 22044, Pakistan
| | - Amara Waheed
- Department
of Biotechnology, COMSATS University Islamabad, Abbottabad Campus, Abbottabad 22044, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Azeem
- Department
of Chemistry, COMSATS University Islamabad, Abbottabad Campus, Abbottabad 22044, Pakistan
| | - Amna Parveen
- Department
of Chemistry, COMSATS University Islamabad, Abbottabad Campus, Abbottabad 22044, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Arfat Yameen
- Department
of Pharmacy, COMSATS University Islamabad, Abbottabad Campus, Abbottabad 22044, Pakistan
| | - Jamshed Iqbal
- Centre
for Advanced Drug Research, COMSATS University
Islamabad, Abbottabad
Campus, Abbottabad 22044, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Ali
- Department
of Biotechnology, COMSATS University Islamabad, Abbottabad Campus, Abbottabad 22044, Pakistan
| | - Shiwei Wang
- Key
Laboratory of Resources Biology and Biotechnology in Western China,
School of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Ministry of Education, Xi’an 710069, China
| | - Sadaf Qayyum
- Department
of Basic Sciences, Preparatory Year Deanship, King Faisal University, Al-Hofuf 31982, Al-Hassa, Saudi Arabia
| | - Awal Noor
- Department
of Basic Sciences, Preparatory Year Deanship, King Faisal University, Al-Hofuf 31982, Al-Hassa, Saudi Arabia
| | - Tatheer Alam Naqvi
- Department
of Biotechnology, COMSATS University Islamabad, Abbottabad Campus, Abbottabad 22044, Pakistan
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14
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Quiroz-Morales SE, Muriel-Millán LF, Ponce-Soto GY, González-Valdez A, Castillo-Juárez I, Servín-González L, Soberón-Chávez G. Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains belonging to phylogroup 3 frequently exhibit an atypical quorum sensing response: the case of MAZ105, a tomato rhizosphere isolate. MICROBIOLOGY (READING, ENGLAND) 2023; 169:001401. [PMID: 37819040 PMCID: PMC10634362 DOI: 10.1099/mic.0.001401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023]
Abstract
Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a widespread γ-proteobacterium and an important opportunistic pathogen. The genetically diverse P. aeruginosa phylogroup 3 strains are characterized by producing the pore-forming ExlA toxin and by their lack of a type III secretion system. However, like all strains of this species, they produce several virulence-associated traits, such as elastase, rhamnolipids and pyocyanin, which are regulated by quorum sensing (QS). The P. aeruginosa QS response comprises three systems (Las, Rhl and Pqs, respectively) that hierarchically regulate these virulence factors. The Pqs QS system is composed of the PqsR transcriptional factor, which, coupled with the alkyl-quinolones HHQ or PQS, activates the transcription of the pqsABCDE operon. The products of the first four genes of this operon produce HHQ, which is then converted to PQS by PqsH, while PqsE forms a complex with RhlR and stabilizes it. In this study we report that mutations affecting the Pqs system are particularly common in phylogroup 3 strains. To better understand QS in phylogroup 3 strains we studied strain MAZ105 isolated from tomato rhizosphere and showed that it contains mutations in the central QS transcriptional regulator, LasR, and in the gene encoding the PqsA enzyme involved in the synthesis of PQS. However, it can still produce QS-regulated virulence factors and is virulent in Galleria mellonella and mildly pathogenic in the mouse abscess/necrosis model; our results show that this may be due to the expression of pqsE from a different PqsR-independent promoter than the pqsA promoter. Our results indicate that using anti-virulence therapy based on targeting the PQS system will not be effective against infections by P. aeruginosa phylogroup 3 strains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara E. Quiroz-Morales
- Departamento de Biología Molecular y Biotecnología, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad Universitaria, Apdo, Postal 70228, C. P. 04510, CDMX, Mexico
| | - Luis Felipe Muriel-Millán
- Departamento de Microbiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Av. Universidad 2001, Col. Chamilpa, Cuernavaca, Morelos CP 62210, Mexico
| | - Gabriel Y. Ponce-Soto
- Microbial Paleogenomics Unit, Department of Genomes and Genetics, Pasteur Institute, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Abigail González-Valdez
- Departamento de Biología Molecular y Biotecnología, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad Universitaria, Apdo, Postal 70228, C. P. 04510, CDMX, Mexico
| | - Israel Castillo-Juárez
- Laboratorio de Investigación y Aplicación de Fitoquímicos Bioactivos, Colegio de Postgraduados, 56230, Campus Montecillo, Texcoco, Mexico
| | - Luis Servín-González
- Departamento de Biología Molecular y Biotecnología, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad Universitaria, Apdo, Postal 70228, C. P. 04510, CDMX, Mexico
| | - Gloria Soberón-Chávez
- Departamento de Biología Molecular y Biotecnología, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad Universitaria, Apdo, Postal 70228, C. P. 04510, CDMX, Mexico
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15
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Nazeih SI, Ali MAM, Halim ASA, Al-Lawati H, Abbas HA, Al-Zharani M, Boufahja F, Alghamdi MA, Hegazy WAH, Seleem NM. Relocating Glyceryl Trinitrate as an Anti-Virulence Agent against Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Serratia marcescens: Insights from Molecular and In Vivo Investigations. Microorganisms 2023; 11:2420. [PMID: 37894078 PMCID: PMC10609227 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11102420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Revised: 09/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/24/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The problem of antibiotic resistance is a global critical public health concern. In light of the threat of returning to the pre-antibiotic era, new alternative approaches are required such as quorum-sensing (QS) disruption and virulence inhibition, both of which apply no discernible selective pressure on bacteria, therefore mitigating the potential for the development of resistant strains. Bearing in mind the significant role of QS in orchestrating bacterial virulence, disrupting QS becomes essential for effectively diminishing bacterial virulence. This study aimed to assess the potential use of sub-inhibitory concentration (0.25 mg/mL) of glyceryl trinitrate (GTN) to inhibit virulence in Serratia marcescens and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. GTN could decrease the expression of virulence genes in both tested bacteria in a significant manner. Histopathological study revealed the ability of GTN to alleviate the congestion in hepatic and renal tissues of infected mice and to reduce bacterial and leukocyte infiltration. This study recommends the use of topical GTN to treat topical infection caused by P. aeruginosa and S. marcescens in combination with antibiotics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaimaa I. Nazeih
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44519, Egypt; (S.I.N.); (H.A.A.); (N.M.S.)
| | - Mohamed A. M. Ali
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU), Riyadh 11623, Saudi Arabia; (M.A.M.A.); (F.B.)
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Ain Shams University, Abbassia, Cairo 11566, Egypt;
| | - Alyaa S. Abdel Halim
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Ain Shams University, Abbassia, Cairo 11566, Egypt;
| | - Hanan Al-Lawati
- Pharmacy Program, Department of Pharmaceutics, Oman College of Health Sciences, Muscat 113, Oman;
| | - Hisham A. Abbas
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44519, Egypt; (S.I.N.); (H.A.A.); (N.M.S.)
| | - Mohammed Al-Zharani
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU), Riyadh 11623, Saudi Arabia; (M.A.M.A.); (F.B.)
| | - Fehmi Boufahja
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU), Riyadh 11623, Saudi Arabia; (M.A.M.A.); (F.B.)
| | - Mashael A. Alghamdi
- Department of Chemistry, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU), Riyadh 11623, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Wael A. H. Hegazy
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44519, Egypt; (S.I.N.); (H.A.A.); (N.M.S.)
- Pharmacy Program, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Oman College of Health Sciences, Muscat 113, Oman
| | - Noura M. Seleem
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44519, Egypt; (S.I.N.); (H.A.A.); (N.M.S.)
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16
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Thakur M, Khushboo, Kumar Y, Yadav V, Pramanik A, Dubey KK. Understanding resistance acquisition by Pseudomonas aeruginosa and possible pharmacological approaches in palliating its pathogenesis. Biochem Pharmacol 2023; 215:115689. [PMID: 37481132 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2023.115689] [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: 05/06/2023] [Revised: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/24/2023]
Abstract
Pseudomonas aeruginosa can utilize various virulence factors necessary for host infection and persistence. These virulence factors include pyocyanin, proteases, exotoxins, 2-heptyl-4-hydroxyquinoline N-oxide (HQNO), phospholipases, and siderophores that enable the bacteria to cause severe infections in immunocompromised individuals. P. aeruginosa falls into the category of nosocomial pathogens that are typically resistant to available antibiotics and therapeutic approaches. P. aeruginosa bio-film formation is a major concern in hospitals because it can cause chronic infection and increase the risk of mortality. Therefore, the development of new strategies to disrupt biofilm formation and improve antibiotic efficacy for the treatment of P. aeruginosa infections is crucial. Anti-biofilm and anti-quorum sensing (QS) activity can be viewed as an anti-virulence approach to control the infectious nature of P. aeruginosa. Inhibition of QS and biofilm formation can be achieved through pharmacological approaches such as phytochemicals and essential oils, which have shown promising results in laboratory studies. A regulatory protein called LasR plays a key role in QS signaling to coordinate gene expression. Designing an antagonist molecule that mimics the natural autoinducer might be the best approach for LasR inhibition. Here we reviewed the mechanism behind antibiotic resistance and alternative approaches to combat the pathogenicity of P. aeruginosa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mony Thakur
- Department of Microbiology, Central University of Haryana, Mahendergarh, Haryana 123031, India
| | - Khushboo
- Department of Biotechnology, Central University of Haryana, Mahendergarh, Haryana 123031, India
| | - Yatin Kumar
- Department of Microbiology, Central University of Haryana, Mahendergarh, Haryana 123031, India
| | - Vinod Yadav
- Department of Microbiology, Central University of Haryana, Mahendergarh, Haryana 123031, India
| | - Avijit Pramanik
- Department of Microbiology, Central University of Haryana, Mahendergarh, Haryana 123031, India
| | - Kashyap Kumar Dubey
- Biomanufacturing and Process Development Laboratory, School of Biotechnology, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi-67, India.
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17
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Shanks RMQ, Atta S, Stella NA, Sundar-Raj CV, Romanowski JE, Grewel AS, Shanks HQ, Mumper SM, Dhaliwal DK, Mammen A, Callaghan JD, Calvario RC, Romanowski EG, Kowalski RP, Zegans ME, Jhanji V. Rise in frequency of lasR mutant Pseudomonas aeruginosa among keratitis isolates between 1993 and 2021. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.08.22.554354. [PMID: 37662319 PMCID: PMC10473646 DOI: 10.1101/2023.08.22.554354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/05/2023]
Abstract
Pseudomonas aeruginosa causes severe vision threatening keratitis. LasR is a transcription factor that regulates virulence associated genes in response to the quorum sensing molecule N-3-oxo-dodecanoyl-L-homoserine lactone. P. aeruginosa isolates with lasR mutations are characterized by an iridescent high sheen phenotype caused by a build-up of 2-heptyl-4-quinolone. A previous study indicated a high proportion (22 out of 101) of P. aeruginosa keratitis isolates from India between 2010 and 2016 were sheen positive and had mutations in the lasR gene, and the sheen phenotype correlated with worse clinical outcomes for patients. In this study, a longitudinal collection of P. aeruginosa keratitis isolates from Eastern North America were screened for lasR mutations by the sheen phenotype and sequencing of the lasR gene. A significant increase in the frequency of isolates with the sheen positive phenotype was observed in isolates between 1993 and 2021. Extracellular protease activity was lower among the sheen positive isolates and a defined lasR mutant. Cloned lasR alleles from the sheen positive isolates were loss of function or dominant negative and differed in sequence from previously reported ocular lasR mutant alleles. Insertion elements were present in a subset of independent isolates and may represent an endemic source from some of the isolates. Retrospective analysis of patient information suggested significantly better visual outcomes for patients with infected by sheen positive isolates. Together, these results indicate an increasing trend towards lasR mutations among keratitis isolates at a tertiary eye care hospital in the United States.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert M. Q. Shanks
- Charles T. Campbell Laboratory of Ophthalmic Microbiology, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Sarah Atta
- Charles T. Campbell Laboratory of Ophthalmic Microbiology, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Nicholas A. Stella
- Charles T. Campbell Laboratory of Ophthalmic Microbiology, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Chollapadi V. Sundar-Raj
- Charles T. Campbell Laboratory of Ophthalmic Microbiology, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - John E. Romanowski
- Charles T. Campbell Laboratory of Ophthalmic Microbiology, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Arman S. Grewel
- Charles T. Campbell Laboratory of Ophthalmic Microbiology, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Hazel Q. Shanks
- Charles T. Campbell Laboratory of Ophthalmic Microbiology, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Sonya M. Mumper
- Charles T. Campbell Laboratory of Ophthalmic Microbiology, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Deepinder K. Dhaliwal
- Charles T. Campbell Laboratory of Ophthalmic Microbiology, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Alex Mammen
- Charles T. Campbell Laboratory of Ophthalmic Microbiology, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Jake D. Callaghan
- Charles T. Campbell Laboratory of Ophthalmic Microbiology, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Rachel C. Calvario
- Charles T. Campbell Laboratory of Ophthalmic Microbiology, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Eric G. Romanowski
- Charles T. Campbell Laboratory of Ophthalmic Microbiology, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Regis P. Kowalski
- Charles T. Campbell Laboratory of Ophthalmic Microbiology, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Michael E. Zegans
- Department of Surgery, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, NH, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, NH, USA
| | - Vishal Jhanji
- Charles T. Campbell Laboratory of Ophthalmic Microbiology, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
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18
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Jin LM, Shen H, Che XY, Jin Y, Yuan CM, Zhang NH. Anti-bacterial mechanism of baicalin-tobramycin combination on carbapenem-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa. World J Clin Cases 2023; 11:4026-4034. [PMID: 37388786 PMCID: PMC10303599 DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v11.i17.4026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2023] [Revised: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa) is an important cause of nosocomial infections, and contributes to high morbidity and mortality, especially in intensive care units. P. aeruginosa is considered a 'critical' category bacterial pathogen by the World Health Organization to encourage an urgent need for research and development of new antibiotics against its infections.
AIM To investigate the effectiveness of baicalin combined with tobramycin therapy as a potential treatment method for carbapenem-resistant P. aeruginosa (CRPA) infections.
METHODS Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and RT-PCR were used to detect the expression levels of drug-resistant genes (including VIM, IMP and OprD2) and biofilm-related genes (including algD, pslA and lasR) in CRPA that confer resistance to tobramycin, baicalin and tobramycin combined with baicalin (0, 1/8, 1/4, 1/2 and 1MIC).
RESULTS There was a correlation between biofilm formation and the expression of biofilm-related genes. In addition, VIM, IMP, OprD2, algD, pslA and lasR that confer biofilm production under different concentrations in CRPA were significantly correlated. The synergistic effect of baicalin combined with tobramycin was a significant down-regulation of VIM, IMP, algD, pslA and lasR.
CONCLUSION Baicalin combined with tobramycin therapy can be an effective treatment method for patients with CRPA infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Min Jin
- Laboratory Department, Jiaxing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jiaxing 314001, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Hui Shen
- Laboratory Department, Jiaxing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jiaxing 314001, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Xing-Ying Che
- Laboratory Department, Jiaxing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jiaxing 314001, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Ye Jin
- Laboratory Department, Jiaxing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jiaxing 314001, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Chun-Mei Yuan
- Laboratory Department, Jiaxing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jiaxing 314001, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Neng-Hua Zhang
- Laboratory Department, Jiaxing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jiaxing 314001, Zhejiang Province, China
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19
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Kumar R, Barbhuiya RI, Bohra V, Wong JWC, Singh A, Kaur G. Sustainable rhamnolipids production in the next decade - Advancing with Burkholderia thailandensis as a potent biocatalytic strain. Microbiol Res 2023; 272:127386. [PMID: 37094547 DOI: 10.1016/j.micres.2023.127386] [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: 10/02/2022] [Revised: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 04/26/2023]
Abstract
Rhamnolipids are one of the most promising eco-friendly green glycolipids for bio-replacements of commercially available fossil fuel-based surfactants. However, the current industrial biotechnology practices cannot meet the required standards due to the low production yields, expensive biomass feedstocks, complicated processing, and opportunistic pathogenic nature of the conventional rhamnolipid producer strains. To overcome these problems, it has become important to realize non-pathogenic producer substitutes and high-yielding strategies supporting biomass-based production. We hereby review the inherent characteristics of Burkholderia thailandensis E264 which favor its competence towards such sustainable rhamnolipid biosynthesis. The underlying biosynthetic networks of this species have unveiled unique substrate specificity, carbon flux control and rhamnolipid congener profile. Acknowledging such desirable traits, the present review provides critical insights towards metabolism, regulation, upscaling, and applications of B. thailandensis rhamnolipids. Identification of their unique and naturally inducible physiology has proved to be beneficial for achieving previously unmet redox balance and metabolic flux requirements in rhamnolipids production. These developments in part are targeted by the strategic optimization of B. thailandensis valorizing low-cost substrates ranging from agro-industrial byproducts to next generation (waste) fractions. Accordingly, safer bioconversions can propel the industrial rhamnolipids in advanced biorefinery domains to promote circular economy, reduce carbon footprint and increased applicability as both social and environment friendly bioproducts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajat Kumar
- Department of Biology, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong
| | | | - Varsha Bohra
- Department of Biology, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong
| | - Jonathan W C Wong
- Department of Biology, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong; Institute of Bioresources and Agriculture and Sino-Forest Applied Research Centre for Pearl River Delta Environment, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong
| | - Ashutosh Singh
- School of Engineering, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G2W1, Canada
| | - Guneet Kaur
- School of Engineering, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G2W1, Canada.
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20
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Verdial C, Serrano I, Tavares L, Gil S, Oliveira M. Mechanisms of Antibiotic and Biocide Resistance That Contribute to Pseudomonas aeruginosa Persistence in the Hospital Environment. Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11041221. [PMID: 37189839 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11041221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2023] [Revised: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Pseudomonas aeruginosa is an opportunistic bacterial pathogen responsible for multiple hospital- and community-acquired infections, both in human and veterinary medicine. P. aeruginosa persistence in clinical settings is worrisome and is a result of its remarkable flexibility and adaptability. This species exhibits several characteristics that allow it to thrive under different environmental conditions, including the ability to colonize inert materials such as medical equipment and hospital surfaces. P. aeruginosa presents several intrinsic mechanisms of defense that allow it to survive external aggressions, but it is also able to develop strategies and evolve into multiple phenotypes to persevere, which include antimicrobial-tolerant strains, persister cells, and biofilms. Currently, these emergent pathogenic strains are a worldwide problem and a major concern. Biocides are frequently used as a complementary/combination strategy to control the dissemination of P. aeruginosa-resistant strains; however, tolerance to commonly used biocides has also already been reported, representing an impediment to the effective elimination of this important pathogen from clinical settings. This review focuses on the characteristics of P. aeruginosa responsible for its persistence in hospital environments, including those associated with its antibiotic and biocide resistance ability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cláudia Verdial
- Gato Escondido-Veterinary Clinic, Av. Bombeiros Voluntários n°22B, 2950-209 Palmela, Portugal
| | - Isa Serrano
- CIISA-Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Animal Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Lisbon, Avenida da Universidade Técnica, 1300-477 Lisboa, Portugal
- Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Sciences (AL4AnimalS), 1300-477 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Luís Tavares
- CIISA-Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Animal Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Lisbon, Avenida da Universidade Técnica, 1300-477 Lisboa, Portugal
- Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Sciences (AL4AnimalS), 1300-477 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Solange Gil
- CIISA-Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Animal Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Lisbon, Avenida da Universidade Técnica, 1300-477 Lisboa, Portugal
- Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Sciences (AL4AnimalS), 1300-477 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Manuela Oliveira
- CIISA-Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Animal Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Lisbon, Avenida da Universidade Técnica, 1300-477 Lisboa, Portugal
- Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Sciences (AL4AnimalS), 1300-477 Lisboa, Portugal
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21
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Beenker WAG, Hoeksma J, Bannier-Hélaouët M, Clevers H, den Hertog J. Paecilomycone Inhibits Quorum Sensing in Gram-Negative Bacteria. Microbiol Spectr 2023; 11:e0509722. [PMID: 36920212 PMCID: PMC10100902 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.05097-22] [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: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Pseudomonas aeruginosa is an opportunistic pathogen that causes major health care concerns due to its virulence and high intrinsic resistance to antimicrobial agents. Therefore, new treatments are greatly needed. An interesting approach is to target quorum sensing (QS). QS regulates the production of a wide variety of virulence factors and biofilm formation in P. aeruginosa. This study describes the identification of paecilomycone as an inhibitor of QS in both Chromobacterium violaceum and P. aeruginosa. Paecilomycone strongly inhibited the production of virulence factors in P. aeruginosa, including various phenazines, and biofilm formation. In search of the working mechanism, we found that paecilomycone inhibited the production of 4-hydroxy-2-heptylquinoline (HHQ) and 3,4-dihydroxy-2-heptylquinoline (PQS), but not 2'-aminoacetophenone (2-AA). Therefore, we suggest that paecilomycone affects parts of QS in P. aeruginosa by targeting the PqsBC complex and alternative targets or alters processes that influence the enzymatic activity of the PqsBC complex. The toxicity of paecilomycone toward eukaryotic cells and organisms was low, making it an interesting lead for further clinical research. IMPORTANCE Antibiotics are becoming less effective against bacterial infections due to the evolution of resistance among bacteria. Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a Gram-negative pathogen that causes major health care concerns and is difficult to treat due to its high intrinsic resistance to antimicrobial agents. Therefore, new targets are needed, and an interesting approach is to target quorum sensing (QS). QS is the communication system in bacteria that regulates multiple pathways, including the production of virulence factors and biofilm formation, which leads to high toxicity in the host and low sensitivity to antibiotics, respectively. We found a compound, named paecilomycone, that inhibited biofilm formation and the production of various virulence factors in P. aeruginosa. The toxicity of paecilomycone toward eukaryotic cells and organisms was low, making it an interesting lead for further clinical research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wouter A. G. Beenker
- Hubrecht Institute-KNAW and University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Jelmer Hoeksma
- Hubrecht Institute-KNAW and University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Marie Bannier-Hélaouët
- Hubrecht Institute-KNAW and University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Oncode Institute, Hubrecht Institute-KNAW and University Medical Center, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Hans Clevers
- Hubrecht Institute-KNAW and University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Oncode Institute, Hubrecht Institute-KNAW and University Medical Center, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Jeroen den Hertog
- Hubrecht Institute-KNAW and University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Institute Biology Leiden, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
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22
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Alkatheri AH, Yap PSX, Abushelaibi A, Lai KS, Cheng WH, Erin Lim SH. Microbial Genomics: Innovative Targets and Mechanisms. Antibiotics (Basel) 2023; 12:antibiotics12020190. [PMID: 36830101 PMCID: PMC9951906 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics12020190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2022] [Revised: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Multidrug resistance (MDR) has become an increasing threat to global health because bacteria can develop resistance to antibiotics over time. Scientists worldwide are searching for new approaches that go beyond traditional antibiotic discovery and development pipelines. Advances in genomics, however, opened up an unexplored therapeutic opportunity for the discovery of new antibacterial agents. Genomic approaches have been used to discover several novel antibiotics that target critical processes for bacterial growth and survival, including histidine kinases (HKs), LpxC, FabI, peptide deformylase (PDF), and aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases (AaRS). In this review, we will discuss the use of microbial genomics in the search for innovative and promising drug targets as well as the mechanisms of action for novel antimicrobial agents. We will also discuss future directions on how the utilization of the microbial genomics approach could improve the odds of antibiotic development having a more successful outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asma Hussain Alkatheri
- Health Sciences Division, Abu Dhabi Women’s College, Higher Colleges of Technology, Abu Dhabi 41012, United Arab Emirates
| | - Polly Soo-Xi Yap
- Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Monash University Malaysia, Jalan Lagoon Selatan, Bandar Sunway, Selangor 47500, Malaysia
| | - Aisha Abushelaibi
- Office of Campus Director, Abu Dhabi Colleges, Higher Colleges of Technology, Abu Dhabi 41012, United Arab Emirates
| | - Kok-Song Lai
- Health Sciences Division, Abu Dhabi Women’s College, Higher Colleges of Technology, Abu Dhabi 41012, United Arab Emirates
| | - Wan-Hee Cheng
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, INTI International University, Persiaran Perdana BBN, Nilai 71800, Malaysia
| | - Swee-Hua Erin Lim
- Health Sciences Division, Abu Dhabi Women’s College, Higher Colleges of Technology, Abu Dhabi 41012, United Arab Emirates
- Correspondence:
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23
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Chadha J, Ravi, Singh J, Harjai K. α-Terpineol synergizes with gentamicin to rescue Caenorhabditis elegans from Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection by attenuating quorum sensing-regulated virulence. Life Sci 2023; 313:121267. [PMID: 36481167 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2022.121267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Revised: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 12/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
AIMS This study scrutinized α-Terpineol (α-T) for its anti-virulence and anti-fouling potential against P. aeruginosa PAO1 in conjunction with gentamicin (GeN) using in-vitro, in-silico, and in-vivo approaches. MAIN METHODS The quorum quenching (QQ) potential of the drug combination was studied using a quorum sensing (QS) biosensor strain and tested for synergy using chequerboard and time-kill kinetics assays. The effect of α-T and GeN on bacterial motility, QS-regulated virulence factor production, and biofilm formation was assessed in P. aeruginosa PAO1 along with molecular docking analysis. The protective effects of α-T-GeN combination were also examined in a Caenorhabditis elegans infection model through slow-killing (SK) assays. KEY FINDINGS The drug combination displayed synergy, enhanced QQ activity, and suppressed AHL production in PAO1. At sub-inhibitory concentrations, the drug combination suppressed the expression of genes regulating QS and pseudomonal virulence, thereby inhibiting the production of virulence factors in PAO1. The drug combination compromised all forms of pseudomonal motility, strongly inhibited biofilm formation, and successfully eradicated preformed biofilms. Based on these findings, it is concluded that GeN (alone) does not harbor any QQ properties, but enhances the QQ potential of α-T. Moreover, combinational treatment protected C. elegans from pseudomonal infection and improved survival rates by 73 % at 96 h. SIGNIFICANCE For the first time, the molecular mechanism responsible for the anti-QS activity of α-T was unraveled through a comprehensive investigation, thereby asserting its potential as an anti-virulent drug against P. aeruginosa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jatin Chadha
- Department of Microbiology, Panjab University, Chandigarh, India
| | - Ravi
- Department of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Mohali, Punjab, India
| | - Jogender Singh
- Department of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Mohali, Punjab, India
| | - Kusum Harjai
- Department of Microbiology, Panjab University, Chandigarh, India.
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24
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Montelongo-Martínez LF, Hernández-Méndez C, Muriel-Millan LF, Hernández-Estrada R, Fabian-Del Olmo MJ, González-Valdez A, Soberón-Chávez G, Cocotl-Yañez M. Unraveling the regulation of pyocyanin synthesis by RsmA through MvaU and RpoS in Pseudomonas aeruginosa ID4365. J Basic Microbiol 2023; 63:51-63. [PMID: 36207285 DOI: 10.1002/jobm.202200432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2022] [Revised: 09/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Pyocyanin is a phenazine with redox activity produced by Pseudomonas aeruginosa that is harmful to other bacteria and eukaryotic organisms by generating reactive oxygen species. Gene regulation of pyocyanin synthesis has been addressed in the PAO1 and PA14 strains and involves the three-quorum sensing systems Las, Rhl, and Pqs; the regulators RsaL, MvaU, and RpoS, and the posttranscriptional Rsm system, among others. Here, we determined how RsmA regulates pyocyanin synthesis in P. aeruginosa ID4365, an overproducer strain. We found that, in the protease peptone glucose ammonium salts medium, rsmA inactivation increases pyocyanin production compared with the wild-type strains ID4365, PAO, and PA14. We showed that RsmA regulates inversely the expression of both phz operons involved in pyocyanin synthesis; particularly the phz2 operon is positively regulated at the transcriptional level indirectly through MvaU. In addition, we found that the phz1 operon contributes mainly to pyocyanin synthesis and that RsmA negatively regulates phzM and phzS expression. Finally, we showed that translation of the sigma factor RpoS is positively regulated by RsmA, and the expression of rpoS under an independent promoter decreases pyocyanin production in the IDrsmA strain. These results indicate that RsmA regulates not only the genes for pyocyanin production but also their regulators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis F Montelongo-Martínez
- Departamento de Microbiología y Parasitología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, México City, México
| | - Cristina Hernández-Méndez
- Departamento de Microbiología y Parasitología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, México City, México
| | - Luis F Muriel-Millan
- Departamento de Biología Molecular y Biotecnología, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, México City, México
| | - René Hernández-Estrada
- Departamento de Microbiología y Parasitología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, México City, México
| | - Misael J Fabian-Del Olmo
- Departamento de Microbiología y Parasitología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, México City, México
| | - Abigail González-Valdez
- Departamento de Biología Molecular y Biotecnología, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, México City, México
| | - Gloria Soberón-Chávez
- Departamento de Biología Molecular y Biotecnología, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, México City, México
| | - Miguel Cocotl-Yañez
- Departamento de Microbiología y Parasitología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, México City, México
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25
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Acken KA, Li B. Pseudomonas virulence factor controls expression of virulence genes in Pseudomonas entomophila. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0284907. [PMID: 37200397 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0284907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Quorum sensing is a communication strategy that bacteria use to collectively alter gene expression in response to cell density. Pathogens use quorum sensing systems to control activities vital to infection, such as the production of virulence factors and biofilm formation. The Pseudomonas virulence factor (pvf) gene cluster encodes a signaling system (Pvf) that is present in over 500 strains of proteobacteria, including strains that infect a variety of plant and human hosts. We have shown that Pvf regulates the production of secreted proteins and small molecules in the insect pathogen Pseudomonas entomophila L48. Here, we identified genes that are likely regulated by Pvf using the model strain P. entomophila L48 which does not contain other known quorum sensing systems. Pvf regulated genes were identified through comparing the transcriptomes of wildtype P. entomophila and a pvf deletion mutant (ΔpvfA-D). We found that deletion of pvfA-D affected the expression of approximately 300 genes involved in virulence, the type VI secretion system, siderophore transport, and branched chain amino acid biosynthesis. Additionally, we identified seven putative biosynthetic gene clusters with reduced expression in ΔpvfA-D. Our results indicate that Pvf controls multiple virulence mechanisms in P. entomophila L48. Characterizing genes regulated by Pvf will aid understanding of host-pathogen interactions and development of anti-virulence strategies against P. entomophila and other pvf-containing strains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie A Acken
- Department of Chemistry, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Bo Li
- Department of Chemistry, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
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26
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Rudra B, Duncan L, Shah AJ, Shah HN, Gupta RS. Phylogenomic and comparative genomic studies robustly demarcate two distinct clades of Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains: proposal to transfer the strains from an outlier clade to a novel species Pseudomonas paraeruginosa sp. nov. Int J Syst Evol Microbiol 2022; 72. [PMID: 36355412 DOI: 10.1099/ijsem.0.005542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The strains of
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
exhibit considerable differences in their genotypic and pathogenic properties. To clarify their evolutionary/taxonomic relationships, comprehensive phylogenomic and comparative genomic studies were conducted on the genome sequences of 212
P
.
aeruginosa
strains covering their genetic diversity. In a phylogenomic tree based on 118 conserved proteins, the analysed strains formed two distinct clades. One of these clades, Clade-1, encompassing >70 % of the strains including the type strain DSM 50071T, represents the species P. aeruginosa sensu stricto. Clade-2, referred to in earlier work as the outlier group, with NCTC 13628T as its type strain, constitutes a novel species level lineage. The average nucleotide identity, average amino acid identity and digital DNA–DNA hybridization values between the strains from Clade-1 and Clade-2 are in the range of 93.4–93.7, 95.1–95.3 and 52–53 %, respectively. The 16S rRNA gene of
P. aeruginosa
DSM 50071T also shows 98.3 % similarity to that of NCTC 13628T. These values are lower than the suggested cut-off values for species distinction, indicating that the Clade-2 strains (NCTC 13628T) constitute a new species. We also report the identification of 12 conserved signature indels in different proteins and 24 conserved signature proteins that are exclusively found in either Clade-1 or Clade-2, providing a reliable means for distinguishing these clades. Additionally, in contrast to swimming motility, twitching motility is only present in Clade-1 strains. Based on earlier work, the strains from these two clades also differ in their pathogenic mechanisms (presence/absence of Type III secretion system), production of biosurfactants, phenazines and siderophores, and several other genomic characteristics. Based on the evidence from different studies, we propose that the Clade-2 strains constitute a novel species for which the name Pseudomonas paraeruginosa is proposed. The type strain is NCTC 13628T (=PA7T=ATCC 9027T). The description of
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
is also emended to include information for different molecular markers specific for this species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bashudev Rudra
- Department of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton L8N 3Z5, Canada
| | - Louise Duncan
- School of Cancer and Pharmaceutical Sciences, King's College London, London SE1 9NH, UK
| | - Ajit J Shah
- Department of Natural Sciences, Middlesex University, London NW4 4BT, UK
| | - Haroun N Shah
- Department of Natural Sciences, Middlesex University, London NW4 4BT, UK
| | - Radhey S Gupta
- Department of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton L8N 3Z5, Canada
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Soto-Aceves MP, González-Valdez A, Cocotl-Yañez M, Soberón-Chávez G. Pseudomonas aeruginosa LasR overexpression leads to a RsaL-independent pyocyanin production inhibition in a low phosphate condition. MICROBIOLOGY (READING, ENGLAND) 2022; 168. [PMID: 36301076 DOI: 10.1099/mic.0.001262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Several Pseudomonas aeruginosa virulence-related traits like pyocyanin are regulated by an intricate regulatory network called quorum sensing (QS) that relies on transcriptional regulators that are activated through binding to a self-produced molecule called an autoinducer (AI). QS is composed of three systems, Las, Rhl and Pqs. In the Las system, the regulatory protein LasR interacts with its AI to activate the other two QS systems. In turn, the Rhl and Pqs systems regulate the expression of multiple virulence-related genes, such as the genes of the reiterated operons phzA1B1C1D1E1F1G1 and phzA2B2C2D2E2F2G2 involved in pyocyanin production. The Las system also regulates the negative regulator RsaL, which provides negative feedback to the QS-response, including repression of pyocyanin synthesis genes. In this work, we describe that LasR can act as a negative regulator of phzA1 transcription and hence of pyocyanin production and that this regulation is independent of RsaL activity. This work contributes to the understanding of QS-dependent pyocyanin production and demonstrates a previously uncharacterized role of LasR as a repressor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martín Paolo Soto-Aceves
- Departamento de Biología Molecular y Biotecnología, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico.,Present address: Department of Microbiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Abigail González-Valdez
- Departamento de Biología Molecular y Biotecnología, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Miguel Cocotl-Yañez
- Departamento de Microbiología y Parasitología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Gloria Soberón-Chávez
- Departamento de Biología Molecular y Biotecnología, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
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28
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Jia T, Liu D, Bi X, Li M, Cai Z, Fu J, Liu Z, Wu P, Ke X, Jia A, Zhang G, Li G, Yang L. The AhR ligand phthiocol and vitamin K analogs as Pseudomonas aeruginosa quorum sensing inhibitors. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:896687. [PMID: 36187967 PMCID: PMC9515472 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.896687] [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: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) protein senses microbial-secreted metabolites to trigger the host's innate immune system. The Pseudomonas quinolone signal (PQS) and Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTb) metabolite phthiocol (Pht) are both ligands of AhR with similar chemical structures. As PQS is an essential quorum-sensing molecule that regulates a wide range of virulence factors in Pseudomonas aeruginosa, we hypothesized that Pht and its analogs are potential P. aeruginosa quorum-sensing inhibitors (QSIs) with immune-modulating functions. In this study, we demonstrated that Pht was able to inhibit the P. aeruginosa pqs QS system and reduce both biofilm formation and the production of pyocyanin. Molecular docking analysis suggested that Pht competes with PQS at the binding site of its receptor, PqsR. An electrophoretic mobility shift assay confirmed the Pht-PqsR interaction and showed that Pht attenuated PqsR from binding to the pqsA promoter. Proteomic analysis showed that synthesis of the key pqs QS proteins decreased upon the addition of Pht to the bacterial cultures. Furthermore, Pht analogs vitamins K1 (Phylloquinone), K2 (Menaquinones), and K3 (Menadione) were also showed to inhibit the P. aeruginosa pqs QS system while able to activate the AhR signaling pathways. Our study suggests that the AhR ligands Pht and its vitamin K analogs are promising QSIs for the alternative treatment of P. aeruginosa infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianyuan Jia
- School of Medicine, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
| | - Dongjing Liu
- Shenzhen Third People's Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Disease, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xianbiao Bi
- School of Medicine, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
| | - Menglu Li
- School of Medicine, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
- Shenzhen Third People's Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Disease, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
| | - Zhao Cai
- School of Medicine, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jiapeng Fu
- Shenzhen Third People's Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Disease, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
| | - Zhi Liu
- Shenzhen Third People's Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Disease, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
| | - Pengyao Wu
- Shenzhen Third People's Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Disease, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xue Ke
- Shenzhen Third People's Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Disease, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
| | - Aiqun Jia
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou, China
| | - Guoliang Zhang
- Shenzhen Third People's Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Disease, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
| | - Guobao Li
- Shenzhen Third People's Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Disease, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
- Guobao Li
| | - Liang Yang
- School of Medicine, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
- Shenzhen Third People's Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Disease, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Gene Regulation and Systems Biology, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
- *Correspondence: Liang Yang
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29
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Díaz-Pérez SP, Solis CS, López-Bucio JS, Valdez Alarcón JJ, Villegas J, Reyes-De la Cruz H, Campos-Garcia J. Pathogenesis in Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1 Biofilm-Associated Is Dependent on the Pyoverdine and Pyocyanin Siderophores by Quorum Sensing Modulation. MICROBIAL ECOLOGY 2022:10.1007/s00248-022-02095-5. [PMID: 35948833 DOI: 10.1007/s00248-022-02095-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Pseudomonas aeruginosa is an opportunistic pathogenic bacterium for humans, animals, and plants, through producing different molecular factors such as biofilm, siderophores, and other virulence factors which favor bacterial establishment and infection in the host. In P. aeruginosa PAO1, the production of these factors is regulated by the bacterial quorum sensing (QS) mechanisms. From them, siderophores are involved in iron acquisition, transport, and homeostasis. They are also considered some of the main virulence factors in P. aeruginosa; however, detailed mechanisms to induce bacterial pathogenesis are poorly understood. In this work, through reverse genetics, we evaluated the function of bacterial pathogenesis in the pvd cluster genes, which are required for synthesizing the siderophore pyoverdine (PVD). Single pvdI, pvdJ, pvdL, and double mutant strains were analyzed, and contrary to expected, the pvdL and pvdI mutations increased the concentration of PVD and other phenazines, such as pyocyanin (PYO) and phenazine-1-carboxylic acid (PCA) and also an increased biofilm production and morphology depending on the autoinducer 2-alkyl-4-quinolone (PQS) and the QS molecules acyl-homoserine lactones. Consequently, in the in vivo pathogenicity model of Caenorhabditis elegans, the mutations in pvdI, pvdJ, and pvdL increased the survival of the worms exposed to supernatants or biofilms of the bacterial cultures. However, the double mutant pvdI/pvdJ increased its toxicity in agreeing with the biofilm production, PVD, PYO, and PCA. The findings indicate that the mutations in pvd genes encode non-ribosomal peptide synthetases impacted the biofilm's structure, but suppressively also of the phenazines, confirming that the siderophores contribute to the bacterial establishment and pathogenicity of P. aeruginosa PAO1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharel Pamela Díaz-Pérez
- Laboratorio de Biotecnología Microbiana, Instituto de Investigaciones Químico Biológicas, Universidad Michoacana de San Nicolás de Hidalgo, Edif. U-3, Ciudad Universitaria, CP. 58030, Morelia, Michoacán, México
| | - Christian Said Solis
- Laboratorio de Biotecnología Microbiana, Instituto de Investigaciones Químico Biológicas, Universidad Michoacana de San Nicolás de Hidalgo, Edif. U-3, Ciudad Universitaria, CP. 58030, Morelia, Michoacán, México
| | - Jesús Salvador López-Bucio
- Laboratorio de Control Traduccional, Instituto de Investigaciones Químico Biológicas, Universidad Michoacana de San Nicolás de Hidalgo, Morelia, Michoacán, Mexico
| | - Juan J Valdez Alarcón
- Centro de Estudios Multidisciplinarios en Biotecnología, Universidad Michoacana de San Nicolás de Hidalgo, Tarímbaro, Michoacán, México
| | - Javier Villegas
- Laboratorio de Interacción Suelo, Planta, Microorganismo, Instituto de Investigaciones Químico Biológicas, Universidad Michoacana de San Nicolás de Hidalgo, Morelia, Michoacán, Mexico
| | - Homero Reyes-De la Cruz
- Laboratorio de Control Traduccional, Instituto de Investigaciones Químico Biológicas, Universidad Michoacana de San Nicolás de Hidalgo, Morelia, Michoacán, Mexico
| | - Jesús Campos-Garcia
- Laboratorio de Biotecnología Microbiana, Instituto de Investigaciones Químico Biológicas, Universidad Michoacana de San Nicolás de Hidalgo, Edif. U-3, Ciudad Universitaria, CP. 58030, Morelia, Michoacán, México.
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Letizia M, Mellini M, Fortuna A, Visca P, Imperi F, Leoni L, Rampioni G. PqsE Expands and Differentially Modulates the RhlR Quorum Sensing Regulon in Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Microbiol Spectr 2022; 10:e0096122. [PMID: 35604161 PMCID: PMC9241726 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.00961-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 05/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
In the opportunistic pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa, many virulence traits are finely regulated by quorum sensing (QS), an intercellular communication system that allows the cells of a population to coordinate gene expression in response to cell density. The key aspects underlying the functionality of the complex regulatory network governing QS in P. aeruginosa are still poorly understood, including the interplay between the effector protein PqsE and the transcriptional regulator RhlR in controlling the QS regulon. Different studies have focused on the characterization of PqsE- and RhlR-controlled genes in genetic backgrounds in which RhlR activity can be modulated by PqsE and pqsE expression is controlled by RhlR, thus hampering identification of the distinct regulons controlled by PqsE and RhlR. In this study, a P. aeruginosa PAO1 mutant strain with deletion of multiple QS elements and inducible expression of pqsE and/or rhlR was generated and validated. Transcriptomic analyses performed on this genetic background allowed us to unambiguously define the regulons controlled by PqsE and RhlR when produced alone or in combination. Transcriptomic data were validated via reverse transcription-quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) and transcriptional fusions. Overall, our results showed that PqsE has a negligible effect on the P. aeruginosa transcriptome in the absence of RhlR, and that multiple RhlR subregulons exist with distinct dependency on PqsE. Overall, this study contributes to untangling the regulatory link between the pqs and rhl QS systems mediated by PqsE and RhlR and clarifying the impact of these QS elements on the P. aeruginosa transcriptome. IMPORTANCE The ability of Pseudomonas aeruginosa to cause difficult-to-treat infections relies on its capacity to fine-tune the expression of multiple virulence traits via the las, rhl, and pqs QS systems. Both the pqs effector protein PqsE and the rhl transcriptional regulator RhlR are required for full production of key virulence factors in vitro and pathogenicity in vivo. While it is known that PqsE can stimulate the ability of RhlR to control some virulence factors, no data are available to allow clear discrimination of the PqsE and RhlR regulons. The data produced in this study demonstrate that PqsE mainly impacts the P. aeruginosa transcriptome via an RhlR-dependent pathway and splits the RhlR regulon into PqsE-dependent and PqsE-independent subregulons. Besides contributing to untangling of the complex QS network of P. aeruginosa, our data confirm that both PqsE and RhlR are suitable targets for the development of antivirulence drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marta Mellini
- Department of Science, Roma Tre University, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Paolo Visca
- Department of Science, Roma Tre University, Rome, Italy
- IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Imperi
- Department of Science, Roma Tre University, Rome, Italy
- IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, Rome, Italy
| | - Livia Leoni
- Department of Science, Roma Tre University, Rome, Italy
| | - Giordano Rampioni
- Department of Science, Roma Tre University, Rome, Italy
- IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, Rome, Italy
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31
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Acetylation of CspC Controls the Las Quorum-Sensing System through Translational Regulation of rsaL in Pseudomonas aeruginosa. mBio 2022; 13:e0054722. [PMID: 35467416 PMCID: PMC9239060 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.00547-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a ubiquitous pathogenic bacterium that can adapt to a variety environments. The ability to effectively sense and respond to host local nutrients is critical for the infection of P. aeruginosa. However, the mechanisms employed by the bacterium to respond to nutrients remain to be explored. CspA family proteins are RNA binding proteins that are involved in gene regulation. We previously demonstrated that the P. aeruginosa CspA family protein CspC regulates the type III secretion system in response to temperature shift. In this study, we found that CspC regulates the quorum-sensing (QS) systems by repressing the translation of a QS negative regulatory gene, rsaL. Through RNA immunoprecipitation coupled with real-time quantitative reverse transcription-PCR (RIP-qRT-PCR) and electrophoretic mobility shift assays (EMSAs), we found that CspC binds to the 5′ untranslated region of the rsaL mRNA. Unlike glucose, itaconate (a metabolite generated by macrophages during infection) reduces the acetylation of CspC, which increases the affinity between CspC and the rsaL mRNA, leading to upregulation of the QS systems. Our results revealed a novel regulatory mechanism of the QS systems in response to a host-generated metabolite.
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Targeting the Holy Triangle of Quorum Sensing, Biofilm Formation, and Antibiotic Resistance in Pathogenic Bacteria. Microorganisms 2022; 10:microorganisms10061239. [PMID: 35744757 PMCID: PMC9228545 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10061239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2022] [Revised: 06/12/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic and recurrent bacterial infections are frequently associated with the formation of biofilms on biotic or abiotic materials that are composed of mono- or multi-species cultures of bacteria/fungi embedded in an extracellular matrix produced by the microorganisms. Biofilm formation is, among others, regulated by quorum sensing (QS) which is an interbacterial communication system usually composed of two-component systems (TCSs) of secreted autoinducer compounds that activate signal transduction pathways through interaction with their respective receptors. Embedded in the biofilms, the bacteria are protected from environmental stress stimuli, and they often show reduced responses to antibiotics, making it difficult to eradicate the bacterial infection. Besides reduced penetration of antibiotics through the intricate structure of the biofilms, the sessile biofilm-embedded bacteria show reduced metabolic activity making them intrinsically less sensitive to antibiotics. Moreover, they frequently express elevated levels of efflux pumps that extrude antibiotics, thereby reducing their intracellular levels. Some efflux pumps are involved in the secretion of QS compounds and biofilm-related materials, besides being important for removing toxic substances from the bacteria. Some efflux pump inhibitors (EPIs) have been shown to both prevent biofilm formation and sensitize the bacteria to antibiotics, suggesting a relationship between these processes. Additionally, QS inhibitors or quenchers may affect antibiotic susceptibility. Thus, targeting elements that regulate QS and biofilm formation might be a promising approach to combat antibiotic-resistant biofilm-related bacterial infections.
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33
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Chadha J, Ravi, Singh J, Chhibber S, Harjai K. Gentamicin Augments the Quorum Quenching Potential of Cinnamaldehyde In Vitro and Protects Caenorhabditis elegans From Pseudomonas aeruginosa Infection. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:899566. [PMID: 35782125 PMCID: PMC9240785 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.899566] [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: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 04/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The quorum sensing (QS) circuitry of Pseudomonas aeruginosa represents an attractive target to attenuate bacterial virulence and antibiotic resistance. In this context, phytochemicals harboring anti-virulent properties have emerged as an alternative medicine to combat pseudomonal infections. Hence, this study was undertaken to investigate the synergistic effects and quorum quenching (QQ) potential of cinnamaldehyde (CiNN) in combination with gentamicin (GeN) against P. aeruginosa. The QQ activity of this novel combination was evaluated using a QS reporter strain and synergism was studied using chequerboard assays. Further, the genotypic and phenotypic expression of pseudomonal virulence factors was examined alongside biofilm formation. The combination of CiNN and GeN exhibited synergy and promising anti-QS activity. This drug combination was shown to suppress AHL production and downregulate the expression of critical QS genes in P. aeruginosa PAO1. Molecular docking revealed strong interactions between the QS receptors and CiNN, asserting its QQ potential. Bacterial motility was compromised along with a significant reduction in pyocyanin (72.3%), alginate (58.7%), rhamnolipid (33.6%), hemolysin (82.6%), protease (70.9%), and elastase (63.9%) production. The drug combination successfully eradicated preformed biofilms and inhibited biofilm formation by abrogating EPS production. Our findings suggest that although GeN alone could not attenuate QS, but was able to augment the anti-QS potential of CiNN. To validate our results using an infection model, we quantified the survival rates of Caenorhabditis elegans following PAO1 challenge. The combination significantly rescued C. elegans from PAO1 infection and improved its survival rate by 54% at 96 h. In summary, this study is the first to elucidate the mechanism behind the QQ prospects of CiNN (augmented in presence of GeN) by abrogating AHL production and increasing the survival rate of C. elegans, thereby highlighting its anti-virulent properties.
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Effect of Cyclodextrins on the Biofilm Formation Capacity of Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27113603. [PMID: 35684540 PMCID: PMC9181962 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27113603] [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: 04/26/2022] [Revised: 05/30/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Quorum sensing (QS) is a population-density-dependent communication process of microorganisms to coordinate their activities by producing and detecting low-molecular-weight signal molecules. In pathogenic bacteria, the property controlled by QS is often related to infectivity, e.g., biofilm formation. Molecular encapsulation of the QS signals is an innovative method to prevent the signals binding to the receptors and to attenuate QS. Cyclodextrins (CDs) may form an inclusion complex with the signals, thus reducing the communication (quorum quenching, QQ). A systematic study was performed with α-, β-cyclodextrin, and their random methylated, quaternary amino and polymer derivatives to evaluate and compare their effects on the biofilm formation of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. To examine the concentration-, temperature- and time-dependency of the QQ effect, the CDs were applied at a 0.1–12.5 mM concentration range, and biofilm formation was studied after 6, 24, 48 and 72 h at 22 and 30 °C. According to the results, the QS mechanism was significantly inhibited; the size of the cavity, the structure of the substituents, as well as the monomeric or polymeric character together with the concentration of the CDs have been identified as key influencing factors of biofilm formation. Statistically determined effective concentration values demonstrated outstanding efficiency (higher than 80% inhibition) of α-CD and its random methylated and polymer derivatives both on the short and long term. In summary, the potential value of CDs as inhibitors of QS should be considered since the inhibition of biofilm formation could significantly impact human health and the environment.
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Collalto D, Giallonardi G, Fortuna A, Meneghini C, Fiscarelli E, Visca P, Imperi F, Rampioni G, Leoni L. In vitro Activity of Antivirulence Drugs Targeting the las or pqs Quorum Sensing Against Cystic Fibrosis Pseudomonas aeruginosa Isolates. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:845231. [PMID: 35547141 PMCID: PMC9083110 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.845231] [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: 12/29/2021] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The chronic lung infection caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in cystic fibrosis (CF) patients. Antivirulence drugs targeting P. aeruginosa quorum sensing (QS) systems are intensively studied as antibiotics substitutes or adjuvants. Previous studies, carried out in non-CF P. aeruginosa reference strains, showed that the old drugs niclosamide and clofoctol could be successfully repurposed as antivirulence drugs targeting the las and pqs QS systems, respectively. However, frequent emergence of QS-defective mutants in the CF lung undermines the use of QS inhibitors in CF therapy. Here, QS signal production and susceptibility to niclosamide and clofoctol have been investigated in 100 P. aeruginosa CF isolates, with the aim of broadening current knowledge on the potential of anti-QS compounds in CF therapy. Results showed that 85, 78, and 69% of the CF isolates from our collection were proficient for the pqs, rhl, and las QS systems, respectively. The ability of both niclosamide and clofoctol to inhibit QS and virulence in vitro was highly variable and strain-dependent. Niclosamide showed an overall low range of activity and its negative effect on las signal production did not correlate with a decreased production of virulence factors. On the other hand, clofoctol displayed a broader QS inhibitory effect in CF isolates, with consequent reduction of the pqs-controlled virulence factor pyocyanin. Overall, this study highlights the importance of testing new antivirulence drugs against large panels of P. aeruginosa CF clinical isolates before proceeding to further pre-clinical studies and corroborates previous evidence that strains naturally resistant to QS inhibitors occur among CF isolates. However, it is also shown that resistance to pqs inhibitors is less frequent than resistance to las inhibitors, thus supporting the development of pqs inhibitors for antivirulence therapy in CF.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Giulia Giallonardi
- Department of Science, Roma Tre University, Rome, Italy.,Wellcome Centre for Integrative Parasitology, Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Ersilia Fiscarelli
- Laboratory of Cystic Fibrosis Microbiology, Diagnostic Medicine and Laboratory, Bambino Gesú Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Paolo Visca
- Department of Science, Roma Tre University, Rome, Italy.,Santa Lucia Foundation (IRCCS), Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Imperi
- Department of Science, Roma Tre University, Rome, Italy.,Santa Lucia Foundation (IRCCS), Rome, Italy
| | - Giordano Rampioni
- Department of Science, Roma Tre University, Rome, Italy.,Santa Lucia Foundation (IRCCS), Rome, Italy
| | - Livia Leoni
- Department of Science, Roma Tre University, Rome, Italy
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Huang XH, She MT, Zhang YH, Liu YF, Zhong DX, Zhang YH, Zheng JX, Sun N, Wong WL, Lu YJ. Novel quinoline-based derivatives as the PqsR inhibitor against Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1. J Appl Microbiol 2022; 133:2167-2181. [PMID: 35490292 DOI: 10.1111/jam.15601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Revised: 04/19/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
AIMS The emerging of drug resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a critical challenge and renders an urgent action to discover innovative antimicrobial interventions. One of these interventions is to disrupt the pseudomonas quinolone signal (pqs) quorum sensing (QS) system, which governs multiple virulence traits and biofilm formation. This study aimed to investigate the QS inhibitory activity of a series of new PqsR inhibitors bearing a quinoline scaffold against Ps. aeruginosa. METHODS AND RESULTS The results showed that compound 1 suppressed the expression of QS-related genes and showed the best inhibitory activity to the pqs system of wild-type Ps. aeruginosa PAO1 with an IC50 of 20.22 μmol l-1 . The virulence factors including pyocyanin, total protease, elastase, and rhamnolipid were significantly suppressed in a concentration-dependent manner with the compound. In addition, 1 in combination with tetracycline inhibited synergistically the bacterial growth and suppressed the biofilm formation of PAO1. The molecular docking studies also suggested that 1 could potentially interact with the ligand-binding domain of the Lys-R type transcriptional regulator PqsR as a competitive antagonist. CONCLUSIONS The quinoline-based derivatives were found to interrupt the quorum sensing system via the pqs pathway and thus the production of virulence factors was inhibited and the antimicrobial susceptibility of Ps. aeruginosa was enhanced. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF STUDY The study showed that the quinoline-based derivatives could be used as an anti-virulence agent for treating Ps. aeruginosa infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuan-He Huang
- School of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Meng-Ting She
- School of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Yi-Hang Zhang
- School of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Yi-Fu Liu
- School of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Dong-Xiao Zhong
- School of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Yi-Han Zhang
- School of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Jun-Xia Zheng
- School of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Ning Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, SAR, China.,Guangzhou First People's Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Wing-Leung Wong
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, SAR, China
| | - Yu-Jing Lu
- School of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou, P. R. China.,Engineering Research Academy of High Value Utilization of Green Plants, Meizhou, P. R. China.,Golden Health (Guangdong) Biotechnology Co., Ltd, Foshan, P. R. China
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Veetilvalappil VV, Manuel A, Aranjani JM, Tawale R, Koteshwara A. Pathogenic arsenal of Pseudomonas aeruginosa: an update on virulence factors. Future Microbiol 2022; 17:465-481. [PMID: 35289684 DOI: 10.2217/fmb-2021-0158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The emergence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa as a potential threat in persistent infections can be attributed to the plethora of virulence factors expressed by it. This review discusses the various virulence factors that help this pathogen to establish an infection and regulatory systems controlling these virulence factors. Cell-associated virulence factors such as flagella, type IV pili and non-pilus adhesins have been reviewed. Extracellular virulence factors have also been explained. Quorum-sensing systems present in P. aeruginosa play a cardinal role in regulating the expression of virulence factors. The identification of novel virulence factors in hypervirulent strains indicate that the expression of virulence is dynamic and constantly evolving. An understanding of this is critical for the better clinical management of infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vimal V Veetilvalappil
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Manipal College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, 576104, India
| | - Atulya Manuel
- Central Frozen Semen Production and Training Institute, Bengaluru, Karnataka, 560088, India
| | - Jesil M Aranjani
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Manipal College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, 576104, India
| | - Roshan Tawale
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Manipal College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, 576104, India
| | - Ananthamurthy Koteshwara
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Manipal College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, 576104, India
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Recent Advance in Small Molecules Targeting RhlR of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Antibiotics (Basel) 2022; 11:antibiotics11020274. [PMID: 35203876 PMCID: PMC8868144 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics11020274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2022] [Revised: 02/17/2022] [Accepted: 02/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa) is an opportunistic gram-negative pathogen that can cause various infections, particularly in patients with compromised host defenses. P. aeruginosa forms biofilms and produces virulence factors through quorum sensing (QS) network, resulting in resistance to antibiotics. RhlI/RhlR, one of key QS systems in P. aeruginosa, is considered an attractive target for inhibiting biofilm formation and attenuating virulence factors. Several recent studies examined small molecules targeting the RhlI/RhlR system and their in vitro and in vivo biological activities. In this review, RhlR-targeted modulators, including agonists and antagonists, are discussed with particular focus on structure-activity relationship studies and outlook for next-generation anti-biofilm agents.
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Arranz San Martín A, Vogel J, Wullich SC, Quax WJ, Fetzner S. Enzyme-Mediated Quenching of the Pseudomonas Quinolone Signal (PQS): A Comparison between Naturally Occurring and Engineered PQS-Cleaving Dioxygenases. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12020170. [PMID: 35204671 PMCID: PMC8961568 DOI: 10.3390/biom12020170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Revised: 01/13/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The opportunistic pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa employs quorum sensing to govern the production of many virulence factors. Interference with quorum sensing signaling has therefore been put forward as an attractive approach to disarm this pathogen. Here, we analyzed the quorum quenching properties of natural and engineered (2-alkyl-)3-hydroxy-4(1H)-quinolone 2,4-dioxygenases (HQDs) that inactivate the P. aeruginosa signal molecule PQS (Pseudomonas quinolone signal; 2-heptyl-3-hydroxy-4(1H)-quinolone). When added exogenously to P. aeruginosa cultures, all HQDs tested significantly reduced the levels of PQS and other alkylquinolone-type secondary metabolites deriving from the biosynthetic pathway, such as the respiratory inhibitor 2-heptyl-4-hydroxyquinoline N-oxide. HQDs from Nocardia farcinica and Streptomyces bingchenggensis, which combine low KM values for PQS with thermal stability and resilience in the presence of P. aeruginosa exoproducts, respectively, attenuated production of the virulence factors pyocyanin and pyoverdine. A delay in mortality was observed when Galleria mellonella larvae were infected with P. aeruginosa suspensions treated with the S. bingchenggensis HQD or with inhibitors of alkylquinolone biosynthesis. Our data indicate that quenching of PQS signaling has potential as an anti-virulence strategy; however, an efficient anti-virulence therapy against P. aeruginosa likely requires a combination of agents addressing multiple targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alba Arranz San Martín
- Institute for Molecular Microbiology and Biotechnology, University of Münster, Corrensstraße 3, 48149 Münster, Germany; (A.A.S.M.); (S.C.W.)
| | - Jan Vogel
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Biology, Groningen Research Institute of Pharmacy, University of Groningen, Antonius Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV Groningen, The Netherlands; (J.V.); (W.J.Q.)
| | - Sandra C. Wullich
- Institute for Molecular Microbiology and Biotechnology, University of Münster, Corrensstraße 3, 48149 Münster, Germany; (A.A.S.M.); (S.C.W.)
| | - Wim J. Quax
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Biology, Groningen Research Institute of Pharmacy, University of Groningen, Antonius Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV Groningen, The Netherlands; (J.V.); (W.J.Q.)
| | - Susanne Fetzner
- Institute for Molecular Microbiology and Biotechnology, University of Münster, Corrensstraße 3, 48149 Münster, Germany; (A.A.S.M.); (S.C.W.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-251-83-39824
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Overview on Glycosylated Lipids Produced by Bacteria and Fungi: Rhamno-, Sophoro-, Mannosylerythritol and Cellobiose Lipids. ADVANCES IN BIOCHEMICAL ENGINEERING/BIOTECHNOLOGY 2022; 181:73-122. [DOI: 10.1007/10_2021_200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Iron Homeostasis in Pseudomonas aeruginosa: Targeting Iron Acquisition and Storage as an Antimicrobial Strategy. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2022; 1386:29-68. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-08491-1_2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
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Amly DA, Hajardhini P, Jonarta AL, Yulianto HDK, Susilowati H. Enhancement of pyocyanin production by subinhibitory concentration of royal jelly in Pseudomonas aeruginosa. F1000Res 2021; 10:14. [PMID: 34540201 PMCID: PMC8424461 DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.27915.4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacterium, produces pyocyanin, a virulence factor associated with antibiotic tolerance. High concentrations of royal jelly have an antibacterial effect, which may potentially overcome antibacterial resistance. However, in some cases, antibiotic tolerance can occur due to prolonged stress of low-dose antibacterial agents. This study aimed to investigate the effect of subinhibitory concentrations of royal jelly on bacterial growth, pyocyanin production, and biofilm formation of
P. aeruginosa. Methods:Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 10145 and clinical isolates were cultured in a royal jelly-containing medium to test the antibacterial activity. Pyocyanin production was observed by measuring the absorbance at 690 nm after 36 h culture and determined using extinction coefficient 4310 M-1 cm-1. Static microtiter plate biofilm assay performed to detect the biofilm formation, followed by scanning electron microscopy. Results: Royal jelly effectively inhibited the viability of both strains from a concentration of 25%. The highest production of pyocyanin was observed in the subinhibitory concentration group 6.25%, which gradually decreased along with the decrease of royal jelly concentration. Results of one-way ANOVA tests differed significantly in pyocyanin production of the two strains between the royal jelly groups. Tukey HSD test showed concentrations of 12.5%, 6.25%, and 3.125% significantly increased pyocyanin production of ATCC
10145, and the concentrations of 12.5% and 6.25% significantly increased production of the clinical isolates. Concentrations of 12.5% and 6.125% significantly induced biofilm formation of
P. aeruginosa ATCC 10145, in line with the results of the SEM analysis. Conclusions: The royal jelly concentration of 25% or higher inhibits bacterial growth; however, the subinhibitory concentration increases pyocyanin production and biofilm formation in
P. aeruginosa. It is advisable to determine the appropriate concentration of royal jelly to obtain beneficial virulence inhibiting activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dina Auliya Amly
- Master of Dental Sciences Program, Faculty of Dentistry, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Sleman, Yogyakarta, 55281, Indonesia
| | - Puspita Hajardhini
- Master of Dental Sciences Program, Faculty of Dentistry, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Sleman, Yogyakarta, 55281, Indonesia
| | - Alma Linggar Jonarta
- Department of Oral Biology, Faculty of Dentistry, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Sleman, Yogyakarta, 55281, Indonesia
| | - Heribertus Dedy Kusuma Yulianto
- Department of Dental Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Sleman, Yogyakarta, 55281, Indonesia
| | - Heni Susilowati
- Department of Oral Biology, Faculty of Dentistry, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Sleman, Yogyakarta, 55281, Indonesia
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Shteindel N, Gerchman Y. Pseudomonas aeruginosa Mobbing-Like Behavior against Acanthamoeba castellanii Bacterivore and Its Rapid Control by Quorum Sensing and Environmental Cues. Microbiol Spectr 2021; 9:e0064221. [PMID: 34851177 PMCID: PMC8635135 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.00642-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Mobbing, group attack of prey on predator, is a behavior seen in many animal species in which prey animals use numbers and coordination to counter individually superior predators. We studied attack behavior of Pseudomonas aeruginosa toward the bacterivore Acanthamoeba castellanii. This behavior consists of directed motility toward and specific adhesion to the predator cells, enacted in seconds and responding to both prey and predator population densities. Attack coordination relies on remote sensing of the predator and the use of the Pseudomonas quinolone signal (PQS), a P. aeruginosa species-specific quorum sensing molecule. Mutants unable to produce the PQS show unspecific adhesion and reduced survival, and a corresponding increase in predator population occurs as a result of predation. The addition of an external PQS restored some predator-specific adherence within seconds, suggesting a novel response mechanism to this quorum sensing (QS) signal. Fast behavioral response of P. aeruginosa to PQS is also supported by the rate of signal accumulation in the culture, reaching relevant concentrations within minutes, enabling bacteria response to self population density in these short timescales. These results portray a well-regulated group attack of the bacteria against their predator, reacting within seconds to environmental cues and species-specific signaling, which is analogous in many ways to animal mobbing behavior. IMPORTANCE Pseudomonas aeruginosa was shown previously to attack amoebae and other predators by adhering to them and injecting them with virulent substances. In this work, we show that an active, coordinated group behavior is enacted by the bacteria to utilize these molecular components, responding to both predator and bacterial population density. In addition to their ecological significance, immediate behavioral changes observed in response to PQS suggest the existence of a fast QS signal cascade, which is different from canonical QS that relies on slow-to-respond gene regulation. Similar regulatory circuits may drive other bacterial adaptations and pathogenicity mechanisms and may have important clinical implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nimrod Shteindel
- Department of Environmental and Evolutionary Biology, Faculty of Natural Science, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
| | - Yoram Gerchman
- Department of Environmental and Evolutionary Biology, Faculty of Natural Science, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
- Department of Biology, Oranim College, Kiryat Tivon, Israel
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Duplantier M, Lohou E, Sonnet P. Quorum Sensing Inhibitors to Quench P. aeruginosa Pathogenicity. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 14:1262. [PMID: 34959667 PMCID: PMC8707152 DOI: 10.3390/ph14121262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2021] [Revised: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The emergence and the dissemination of multidrug-resistant bacteria constitute a major public health issue. Among incriminated Gram-negative bacteria, Pseudomonas aeruginosa has been designated by the WHO as a critical priority threat. During the infection process, this pathogen secretes various virulence factors in order to adhere and colonize host tissues. Furthermore, P. aeruginosa has the capacity to establish biofilms that reinforce its virulence and intrinsic drug resistance. The regulation of biofilm and virulence factor production of this micro-organism is controlled by a specific bacterial communication system named Quorum Sensing (QS). The development of anti-virulence agents targeting QS that could attenuate P. aeruginosa pathogenicity without affecting its growth seems to be a promising new therapeutic strategy. This could prevent the selective pressure put on bacteria by the conventional antibiotics that cause their death and promote resistant strain survival. This review describes the QS-controlled pathogenicity of P. aeruginosa and its different specific QS molecular pathways, as well as the recent advances in the development of innovative QS-quenching anti-virulence agents to fight anti-bioresistance.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Pascal Sonnet
- AGIR, UR4294, UFR of Pharmacy, Jules Verne University of Picardie, 80037 Amiens, France; (M.D.); (E.L.)
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Chadha J, Harjai K, Chhibber S. Repurposing phytochemicals as anti-virulent agents to attenuate quorum sensing-regulated virulence factors and biofilm formation in Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Microb Biotechnol 2021; 15:1695-1718. [PMID: 34843159 PMCID: PMC9151347 DOI: 10.1111/1751-7915.13981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2021] [Accepted: 11/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Unregulated consumption and overexploitation of antibiotics have paved the way for emergence of antibiotic‐resistant strains and ‘superbugs’. Pseudomonas aeruginosa is among the opportunistic nosocomial pathogens causing devastating infections in clinical set‐ups globally. Its artillery equipped with diversified virulence elements, extensive antibiotic resistance and biofilms has made it a ‘hard‐to‐treat’ pathogen. The pathogenicity of P. aeruginosa is modulated by an intricate cell density‐dependent mechanism called quorum sensing (QS). The virulence artillery of P. aeruginosa is firmly controlled by QS genes, and their expression drives the aggressiveness of the infection. Attempts to identify and develop novel antimicrobials have seen a sharp rise in the past decade. Among different proposed mechanisms, a novel anti‐virulence approach to target pseudomonal infections by virtue of anti‐QS and anti‐biofilm drugs appears to occupy the centre stage. In this respect, bioactive phytochemicals have gained prominence among the scientific community owing to their significant quorum quenching (QQ) properties. Recent studies have shed light on the QQ activities of various phytochemicals and other drugs in perturbing the QS‐dependent virulence in P. aeruginosa. This review highlights the recent evidences that reinforce the application of plant bioactives for combating pseudomonal infections, their advantages and shortcomings in anti‐virulence therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jatin Chadha
- Department of Microbiology, Panjab University, Chandigarh, India
| | - Kusum Harjai
- Department of Microbiology, Panjab University, Chandigarh, India
| | - Sanjay Chhibber
- Department of Microbiology, Panjab University, Chandigarh, India
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Martínez-Alcantar L, Orozco G, Díaz-Pérez AL, Villegas J, Reyes-De la Cruz H, García-Pineda E, Campos-García J. Participation of Acyl-Coenzyme A Synthetase FadD4 of Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1 in Acyclic Terpene/Fatty Acid Assimilation and Virulence by Lipid A Modification. Front Microbiol 2021; 12:785112. [PMID: 34867927 PMCID: PMC8637051 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.785112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
The pathogenic bacterium Pseudomonas aeruginosa possesses high metabolic versatility, with its effectiveness to cause infections likely due to its well-regulated genetic content. P. aeruginosa PAO1 has at least six fadD paralogous genes, which have been implicated in fatty acid (FA) degradation and pathogenicity. In this study, we used mutagenesis and a functional approach in P. aeruginosa PAO1 to determine the roles of the fadD4 gene in acyclic terpene (AT) and FA assimilation and on pathogenicity. The results indicate that fadD4 encodes a terpenoyl-CoA synthetase utilized for AT and FA assimilation. Additionally, mutations in fadD paralogs led to the modification of the quorum-sensing las/rhl systems, as well as the content of virulence factors pyocyanin, biofilm, rhamnolipids, lipopolysaccharides (LPS), and polyhydroxyalkanoates. In a Caenorhabditis elegans in vivo pathogenicity model, culture supernatants from the 24-h-grown fadD4 single mutant increased lethality compared to the PAO1 wild-type (WT) strain; however, the double mutants fadD1/fadD2, fadD1/fadD4, and fadD2/fadD4 and single mutant fadD2 increased worm survival. A correlation analysis indicated an interaction between worm death by the PAO1 strain, the fadD4 mutation, and the virulence factor LPS. Fatty acid methyl ester (FAME) analysis of LPS revealed that a proportion of the LPS and FA on lipid A were modified by the fadD4 mutation, suggesting that FadD4 is also involved in the synthesis/degradation and modification of the lipid A component of LPS. LPS isolated from the fadD4 mutant and double mutants fadD1/fadD4 and fadD2/fadD4 showed a differential behavior to induce an increase in body temperature in rats injected with LPS compared to the WT strain or from the fadD1 and fadD2 mutants. In agreement, LPS isolated from the fadD4 mutant and double mutants fadD1/fadD2 and fadD2/fadD4 increased the induction of IL-8 in rat sera, but IL1-β cytokine levels decreased in the double mutants fadD1/fadD2 and fadD1/fadD4. The results indicate that the fadD genes are implicated in the degree of pathogenicity of P. aeruginosa PAO1 induced by LPS-lipid A, suggesting that FadD4 contributes to the removal of acyl-linked FA from LPS, rendering modification in its immunogenic response associated to Toll-like receptor TLR4. The genetic redundancy of fadD is important for bacterial adaptability and pathogenicity over the host.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorena Martínez-Alcantar
- Laboratorio de Biotecnología Microbiana, Instituto de Investigaciones Químico Biológicas, Universidad Michoacana de San Nicolás de Hidalgo, Morelia, Mexico
| | - Gabriela Orozco
- Laboratorio de Biotecnología Microbiana, Instituto de Investigaciones Químico Biológicas, Universidad Michoacana de San Nicolás de Hidalgo, Morelia, Mexico
| | - Alma Laura Díaz-Pérez
- Laboratorio de Biotecnología Microbiana, Instituto de Investigaciones Químico Biológicas, Universidad Michoacana de San Nicolás de Hidalgo, Morelia, Mexico
| | - Javier Villegas
- Laboratorio de Interacción Suelo, Planta, Microorganismo, Instituto de Investigaciones Químico Biológicas, Universidad Michoacana de San Nicolás de Hidalgo, Morelia, Mexico
| | - Homero Reyes-De la Cruz
- Laboratorio de Control Traduccional, Instituto de Investigaciones Químico Biológicas, Universidad Michoacana de San Nicolás de Hidalgo, Morelia, Mexico
| | - Ernesto García-Pineda
- Laboratorio de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Instituto de Investigaciones Químico Biológicas, Universidad Michoacana de San Nicolás de Hidalgo, Morelia, Mexico
| | - Jesús Campos-García
- Laboratorio de Biotecnología Microbiana, Instituto de Investigaciones Químico Biológicas, Universidad Michoacana de San Nicolás de Hidalgo, Morelia, Mexico
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Patent highlights June-July 2021. Pharm Pat Anal 2021; 10:237-244. [PMID: 34753317 DOI: 10.4155/ppa-2021-0022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
A snapshot of noteworthy recent developments in the patent literature of relevance to pharmaceutical and medical research and development.
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Sultan M, Arya R, Kim KK. Roles of Two-Component Systems in Pseudomonas aeruginosa Virulence. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:12152. [PMID: 34830033 PMCID: PMC8623646 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222212152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Revised: 11/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Pseudomonas aeruginosa is an opportunistic pathogen that synthesizes and secretes a wide range of virulence factors. P. aeruginosa poses a potential threat to human health worldwide due to its omnipresent nature, robust host accumulation, high virulence, and significant resistance to multiple antibiotics. The pathogenicity of P. aeruginosa, which is associated with acute and chronic infections, is linked with multiple virulence factors and associated secretion systems, such as the ability to form and utilize a biofilm, pili, flagella, alginate, pyocyanin, proteases, and toxins. Two-component systems (TCSs) of P. aeruginosa perform an essential role in controlling virulence factors in response to internal and external stimuli. Therefore, understanding the mechanism of TCSs to perceive and respond to signals from the environment and control the production of virulence factors during infection is essential to understanding the diseases caused by P. aeruginosa infection and further develop new antibiotics to treat this pathogen. This review discusses the important virulence factors of P. aeruginosa and the understanding of their regulation through TCSs by focusing on biofilm, motility, pyocyanin, and cytotoxins.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rekha Arya
- Department of Precision Medicine, Graduate School of Basic Medical Science (GSBMS), Institute for Antimicrobial Resistance Research and Therapeutics, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Suwon 16419, Korea;
| | - Kyeong Kyu Kim
- Department of Precision Medicine, Graduate School of Basic Medical Science (GSBMS), Institute for Antimicrobial Resistance Research and Therapeutics, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Suwon 16419, Korea;
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Akbar S, Phillips KE, Misra SK, Sharp JS, Stevens DC. Differential response to prey quorum signals indicates predatory specialization of myxobacteria and ability to predate Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Environ Microbiol 2021; 24:1263-1278. [PMID: 34674390 PMCID: PMC9257966 DOI: 10.1111/1462-2920.15812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2021] [Revised: 09/20/2021] [Accepted: 10/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Multiomic analysis of transcriptional and metabolic responses from the predatory myxobacteria Myxococcus xanthus and Cystobacter ferrugineus exposed to prey signalling molecules of the acylhomoserine lactone and quinolone quorum signalling classes provided insight into predatory specialization. Acylhomoserine lactone quorum signals elicited a general response from both myxobacteria. We suggest that this is likely due to the generalist predator lifestyles of myxobacteria and ubiquity of acylhomoserine lactone signals. We also provide data that indicates the core homoserine lactone moiety included in all acylhomoserine lactone scaffolds to be sufficient to induce this general response. Comparing both myxobacteria, unique transcriptional and metabolic responses were observed from Cystobacter ferrugineus exposed to the quinolone signal 2‐heptylquinolin‐4(1H)‐one (HHQ) natively produced by Pseudomonas aeruginosa. We suggest that this unique response and ability to metabolize quinolone signals contribute to the superior predation of P. aeruginosa observed from C. ferrugineus. These results further demonstrate myxobacterial eavesdropping on prey signalling molecules and provide insight into how responses to exogenous signals might correlate with prey range of myxobacteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shukria Akbar
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, University of Mississippi, University, MS, USA
| | - Kayleigh E Phillips
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, University of Mississippi, University, MS, USA
| | - Sandeep K Misra
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, University of Mississippi, University, MS, USA
| | - Joshua S Sharp
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, University of Mississippi, University, MS, USA.,Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Mississippi, University, University, MS, USA
| | - D Cole Stevens
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, University of Mississippi, University, MS, USA
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50
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Fang YL, Cui Y, Zhou L, Thawai C, Naqvi TA, Zhang HY, He YW. H-NS family protein MvaU downregulates phenazine-1-carboxylic acid (PCA) biosynthesis via binding to an AT-rich region within the promoter of the phz2 gene cluster in the rhizobacterium Pseudomonas strain PA1201. Synth Syst Biotechnol 2021; 6:262-271. [PMID: 34584994 PMCID: PMC8455314 DOI: 10.1016/j.synbio.2021.09.006] [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: 07/15/2021] [Revised: 09/08/2021] [Accepted: 09/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Histone-like nucleoid-structuring (H-NS) proteins are key regulators in gene expression silencing and in nucleoid compaction. The H-NS family member proteins MvaU in Pseudomonas aeruginosa are thought to bind the same AT-rich regions of chromosomes and function to coordinate the control of a common set of genes. Here, we explored the molecular mechanism by which MvaU controls PCA biosynthesis in P. aeruginosa PA1201. We present evidence suggesting that MvaU is self-regulated. Deletion of mvaU significantly increased PCA production, and PCA production sharply decreased when mvaU was over-expressed. MvaU transcriptionally repressed phz2 cluster expression and consequently reduced PCA biosynthesis. β-galactosidase assays confirmed that base pairing near the −35 box is required when MvaU regulates PCA production in PA1201. Electrophoretic mobility shift assays (EMSA) and additional point mutation analysis demonstrated that MvaU directly bound to an AT-rich motif within the promoter of the phz2 cluster. Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) analysis also indicated that MvaU directly bound to the P5 region of the phz2 cluster promoter. MvaU repression of PCA biosynthesis was independent of QscR and OxyR in PA1201 and neither PCA or H2O2 were the environmental signals that induced mvaU expression. These findings detail a new MvaU-dependent regulatory pathway of PCA biosynthesis in PA1201 and provide a foundation to increase PCA fermentation titer by genetic engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun-Ling Fang
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism, Joint International Research Laboratory of Metabolic and Developmental Sciences, SJTU-Shanghai Nong Le Joint R&D Center on Biopesticides and Biofertilizers, Shanghai Jiao Tong University (SJTU), Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Ying Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism, Joint International Research Laboratory of Metabolic and Developmental Sciences, SJTU-Shanghai Nong Le Joint R&D Center on Biopesticides and Biofertilizers, Shanghai Jiao Tong University (SJTU), Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Lian Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism, Joint International Research Laboratory of Metabolic and Developmental Sciences, SJTU-Shanghai Nong Le Joint R&D Center on Biopesticides and Biofertilizers, Shanghai Jiao Tong University (SJTU), Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Chitti Thawai
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, King Mongkut's Institute of Technology Ladkrabang, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Tatheer Alam Naqvi
- Department of Biotechnology, COMSATS University Islamabad, Abbottabad Campus, Abbottabad, Pakistan
| | - Hong-Yan Zhang
- Shanghai Nong Le Biological Products Company Limited, Shanghai, 201419, China
| | - Ya-Wen He
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism, Joint International Research Laboratory of Metabolic and Developmental Sciences, SJTU-Shanghai Nong Le Joint R&D Center on Biopesticides and Biofertilizers, Shanghai Jiao Tong University (SJTU), Shanghai, 200240, China
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