Antimicrobial and antiadhesive properties of a biosurfactant isolated from Lactobacillus paracasei ssp. paracasei A20

Effect of Lactobacillus paracasei LK01 on Growth Performance, Antioxidant Capacity, Immunity, Intestinal Health, and Serum Biochemical Indices in Broilers

This study aimed to investigate the effects of adding L. paracasei LK01 to the diet on the growth performance, antioxidant capacity, immunity, intestinal health, and serum biochemical indicators of broilers. This study selected 1080 one-day-old broiler chickens with similar body weight, and randomly divided them into six groups, with six replicates in each group and 30 chicks in each replicate. The chicks were fed (1) the basal diet (CON), (2) the basal diet with 106 CFU/kg L. paracasei LK01(T1), (3) the basal diet with 107 CFU/kg L. paracasei LK01(T2), (4) the basal diet with 108 CFU/kg L. paracasei LK01(T3), (5) the basal diet with 109 CFU/kg L. paracasei LK01(T4), and (6) the basal diet with 1010 CFU/kg L. paracasei LK01(T5). The experiment lasted for 42 days. In this study, compared with the CON group, the diet supplemented with L. paracasei significantly increased body weight from 1 to 21 days (p < 0.05). In addition, the 106 CFU/kg L. paracasei LK01 group significantly reduced the activity of glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase and triglyceride levels; the 107 CFU/kg,108 CFU/kg, and 109 CFU/kg L. paracasei LK01 groups also reduced serum uric acid and total cholesterol levels (p < 0.05). The experimental groups all had lower serum levels of malondialdehyde and interleukin-1β (p < 0.01). Except for the 106 CFU/kg group, all experimental groups had significantly lower tumor necrosis factor-α, and the 106 and 107 CFU/kg groups had higher immunoglobulin M levels (p < 0.05). In addition, the 106 CFU/kg group significantly reduced the depth of the ileocecal crypts and increased the villus-to-crypt ratio (V/C) of the jejunum and ileum. In addition, dietary supplementation with L. paracasei LK01 did not change the α diversity of the microbial community in the cecum, but significantly increased the proportion of Bacteroides (phylum) (p < 0.05). The 106 CFU/kg group also significantly increased the abundance of beneficial bacteria such as Ruminococcaceae (genus), Lachnospiraceae (genus), and Faecalibacterium (genus) (p < 0.05). In summary, this study revealed that adding 106 CFU/kg of L. paracasei LKO1 to broiler diets can improve their production performance, serum biochemical indicators, antioxidant, and immune capabilities, as well as cecal flora.

Isolation and characterization of biosurfactant-producing microbes isolated from the gastrointestinal system of broiler birds fed a commercial diet

Antimicrobial drug resistance (AMR) from improper use of antibiotics in various livestock products is a growing hazard for humans worldwide, with current death rate in excess of 700,000 per annum linked to the problem. Microorganisms are a rich source of structurally distinct bioactive compounds designed to protect the microbes and can offset AMR challenge. A study was conducted at Chinhoyi University of Technology to isolate, identify and characterize biosurfactant secreting microbes from broiler bird's gastrointestinal tract. Analysis of variance was performed in Genstat software. 16S rRNA technique was used to identify the DNA of isolates, annotated by similarity using BLASTn analysis against the NCBI nucleotide database. Phylogenetic analysis was performed on the BLASTn outcome to have an appreciation of the evolutionary genetic relationships. Small intestine-derived samples had a wider hemolytic activity of 5.6 mm, with a 39% emulsification index. At 98.29% sequence similarity, the bacterium producing biosurfactants was identified as an Escherichia coli strain similar to the 7.1994/NIST 0056 strain. The biosurfactant substance is a derivative of decane with beta lactams, tetracyclines and sulfa drugs properties which were responsible for the observed antibacterial activity. We recommend endogenous biosurfactant production optimization experiments and in-vivo trials to evaluate the potential impacts of a biosurfactant based feed additive in broilers.

Antibiofilm and wound healing efficacy of rhamnolipid biosurfactant against pathogenic bacterium Staphylococcus aureus

The present study evaluates the in-vitro antibiofilm activity against the biofilm formed by Staphylococcus aureus, and the wound-healing efficacy of two different types of rhamnolipids produced by Pseudomonas aeruginosa strain JS29 in S.aureus infected wounds. The biosurfactant production was carried out in a mineral salt medium supplemented with 2 % Glucose and 2 % Glycerol individually and thus were designated as RL-Glu and RL-Gly respectively. 0.5 mg/ml of RL-Glu and RL-Gly demonstrated 90 % growth inhibition of S. aureus while exhibiting bactericidal activity at 4 mg/ml of RL-Glu and 1 mg/ml of RL-Gly. Both types of rhamnolipid cause changes in membrane permeability leading to pathogens' non-viability. 90 % inhibition of biofilm formation by S. aureus was observed at 2 mg/ml of RL-Glu and 0.5 mg/ml of RL-Gly, while 0.5 mg/ml of both rhamnolipid disrupted 90 % of the preformed biofilm. 0.5 mg/ml of RL-Glu and RL-Gly decreases the production of exopolysaccharides and also causes structural alteration. 0.5 mg/ml of RL-Glu and RL-Gly were found to exhibit effective wound healing efficacy in S. aureus infected wounds within 7 days of treatment. Histopathological studies of wound sites revealed efficient wound management by both the rhamnolipid. LCMS and GCMS characterization of the biosurfactant revealed that JS29 produces different rhamnolipid congeners when grown on different carbon sources, thereby influencing the antimicrobial, antibiofilm, and wound healing efficacy of rhamnolipid.

Co-Encapsulation of Coffee and Coffee By-Product Extracts with Probiotic Kluyveromyces lactis

Coffee and coffee by-products contain several chemical compounds of great relevance, such as chlorogenic acid (CGA), trigonelline, and caffeine. Furthermore, yeasts have been the target of studies for their use as probiotics because of their interesting biochemical characteristics. The combined administration of probiotic microorganisms with components that provide health benefits mediated by alginate encapsulation is an alternative that ensures the stability of cells and chemical compounds. In this context, the aim of this work was to co-encapsulate the probiotic yeast Kluyveromyces lactis B10 and extracts of green coffee beans, coffee silverskin, and PVA (black, green or immature, and sour coffee beans). The bioactive composition, antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of the extracts, microcapsule morphological characteristics and encapsulation efficiency, ability of the encapsulation to protect the yeast cells subjected to gastrointestinal conditions, and antioxidant activity of the microcapsules were evaluated. All the evaluated extracts showed antioxidant activity, of which PVA showed 75.7% and 77.0%, green coffee bean showed 66.4% and 45.7%, and coffee silverskin showed 67.7% and 37.4% inhibition of DPPH and ABTS•+ radicals, respectively, and antimicrobial activity against the pathogenic bacteria E. coli, Salmonella, and S. aureus, with high activity for the PVA extract. The microcapsules presented diameters of between 1451.46 and 1581.12 μm. The encapsulation efficiencies referring to the yeast retention in the microcapsules were 98.05%, 96.51%, and 96.32% for green coffee bean, coffee silverskin, and PVA, respectively. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) showed that the microcapsules of the three extracts presented small deformations and irregularities on the surface. The K. lactis cells encapsulated in all treatments with the extracts showed viability higher than 8.59 log CFU/mL, as recommended for probiotic food products. The addition of green coffee bean, coffee silverskin, and PVA extracts did not reduce the encapsulation efficiency of the alginate microcapsules, enabling a safe interaction between the extracts and the K. lactis cells.

Protective Mechanisms of Vaginal Lactobacilli against Sexually Transmitted Viral Infections

The healthy cervicovaginal microbiota is dominated by various Lactobacillus species, which support a condition of eubiosis. Among their many functions, vaginal lactobacilli contribute to the maintenance of an acidic pH, produce antimicrobial compounds, and modulate the host immune response to protect against vaginal bacterial and fungal infections. Increasing evidence suggests that these beneficial bacteria may also confer protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) caused by viruses such as human papillomavirus (HPV), human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and herpes simplex virus (HSV). Viral STIs pose a substantial public health burden globally, causing a range of infectious diseases with potentially severe consequences. Understanding the molecular mechanisms by which lactobacilli exert their protective effects against viral STIs is paramount for the development of novel preventive and therapeutic strategies. This review aims to provide more recent insights into the intricate interactions between lactobacilli and viral STIs, exploring their impact on the vaginal microenvironment, host immune response, viral infectivity and pathogenesis, and highlighting their potential implications for public health interventions and clinical management strategies.

Isolation and Characterization of Biosurfactant-Producing Soil Fungus Penicillium sp

In this study, a fungal species was isolated from rhizospheric soil and identified as Penicillium sp. by ITS sequencing. The Penicillium sp. has been screened for the biosurfactant production, viz., haemolytic activity, oil spreading assay and emulsification index. The biosurfactant from cell-free supernatant was extracted using acid precipitation followed by solvent-solvent extraction. The physiochemical properties of the extracted biosurfactant were analysed using FTIR; the major peaks that show at 1720 cm-1, 1531 cm-1, 1419 cm-1, 1251 cm-1 and 1010 cm-1 correspond to aliphatic chains, sugars and ester carbonyl groups. The fatty acids present in the extracted biosurfactant were analysed using GCMS, in which a molecular mass of 256 and 284 m/z showed the presence of n-hexadecenoic acid and octadecanoic acid respectively which indicate the presence of rhamnolipid, which is a major biosurfactant. The biosurfactant extracted from Penicllium sp. demonstrated antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. In future perspectives, the biosurfactant extracted from the isolated species holds great potential as a broad-spectrum antibacterial agent and could be utilized in various healthcare applications.

Antarctic marine sediment as a source of filamentous fungi-derived antimicrobial and antitumor compounds of pharmaceutical interest

Antarctica harbors a microbial diversity still poorly explored and of inestimable biotechnological value. Cold-adapted microorganisms can produce a diverse range of metabolites stable at low temperatures, making these compounds industrially interesting for biotechnological use. The present work investigated the biotechnological potential for antimicrobial and antitumor activity of filamentous fungi and bacteria isolated from marine sediment samples collected at Deception Island, Antarctica. A total of 89 microbial isolates were recovered from marine sediments and submitted to an initial screening for L-glutaminase with antitumoral activity and for antimicrobial metabolites. The isolates Pseudogymnoascus sp. FDG01, Pseudogymnoascus sp. FDG02, and Penicillium sp. FAD33 showed potential antiproliferative action against human pancreatic carcinoma cells while showing no toxic effect on non-tumor cells. The microbial extracts from unidentified three bacteria and four filamentous fungi showed antibacterial activity against at least one tested pathogenic bacterial strain. The isolate FDG01 inhibited four bacterial species, while the isolate FDG01 was active against Micrococcus luteus in the minimal inhibitory concentration of 0.015625 μg mL -1. The results pave the way for further optimization of enzyme production and characterization of enzymes and metabolites found and reaffirm Antarctic marine environments as a wealthy source of compounds potentially applicable in the healthcare and pharmaceutical industry.

Vaginal microbiota: Potential targets for vulvovaginal candidiasis infection

Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is the second most common cause of vaginal infection globally after bacterial vaginosis (BV) and associated with adverse reproductive and obstetric outcomes, including preterm delivery, sexually transmitted infections and pelvic inflammatory disease. Although effective control of VVC is achievable with the use of traditional treatment strategies (i.e., antifungals), the possibility of drug intolerance, treatment failure and recurrence, as well as the appearance of antifungal-resistant Candida species remain critical challenges. Therefore, alternative therapeutic strategies against VVC are urgently required. In recent years, an improved understanding of the dysbiotic vaginal microbiota (VMB) during VVC has prompted the consideration of administering -biotics to restore the balance of the VMB within the context of VVC prevention and treatment. Here, we aim to summarize the current evidence of the anti-Candida effects of probiotics, postbiotics and synbiotics and their potential use as an alternative/complementary therapy against VVC. Additionally, this review discusses advantages and challenges associated with the application of -biotics in VVC to provide guidance for their later use. We also review new developments in VVC therapy, i.e., vaginal microbiota transplantation (VMT) as an emerging live biotherapeutic therapy against VVC and discuss existing shortcomings associated with this nascent field, expecting to stimulate further investigations for introduction of new therapies against VVC.

Anti-bacterial, anti-biofilm and anti-quorum sensing activities of honey: A review

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Man has used honey to treat diseases since ancient times, perhaps even before the history of medicine itself. Several civilizations have utilized natural honey as a functional and therapeutic food to ward off infections. Recently, researchers worldwide have been focusing on the antibacterial effects of natural honey against antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This review aims to summarize research on the use of honey properties and constituents with their anti-bacterial, anti-biofilm, and anti-quorum sensing mechanisms of action. Further, honey's bacterial products, including probiotic organisms and antibacterial agents which are produced to curb the growth of other competitor microorganisms is addressed.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this review, we have provided a comprehensive overview of the antibacterial, anti-biofilm, and anti-quorum sensing activities of honey and their mechanisms of action. Furthermore, the review addressed the effects of antibacterial agents of honey from bacterial origin. Relevant information on the antibacterial activity of honey was obtained from scientific online databases such as Web of Science, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, and PubMed.

RESULTS

Honey's antibacterial, anti-biofilm, and anti-quorum sensing activities are mostly attributed to four key components: hydrogen peroxide, methylglyoxal, bee defensin-1, and phenolic compounds. The performance of bacteria can be altered by honey components, which impact their cell cycle and cell morphology. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first review that specifically summarizes every phenolic compound identified in honey along with their potential antibacterial mechanisms of action. Furthermore, certain strains of beneficial lactic acid bacteria such as Bifidobacterium, Fructobacillus, and Lactobacillaceae, as well as Bacillus species can survive and even grow in honey, making it a potential delivery system for these agents.

CONCLUSION

Honey could be regarded as one of the best complementary and alternative medicines. The data presented in this review will enhance our knowledge of some of honey's therapeutic properties as well as its antibacterial activities.

Glycolipids mimicking biosurfactants of the synthetic origin as new immunomodulating and anticandidal derivatives

The immunobiological effectivity of glycolipids mimicking biosurfactants of the synthetic origin was followed up using macrophages cell line RAW264.7. These derivatives with different number of mannose units connected glycosidically or through triazole linker, and all having octyl aglycone, were evaluated with respect to their structure - immunomodulation activity relationship. This comparative study showed that the structural variations of the selected derivatives influenced the immunobiological cell behaviour as concerned pro-inflammatory TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1α, IL-17, IL-12 and anti-inflammatory IL-10 cytokines production and enhancement of RAW264.7 cell proliferation. The derivatives with mannose units linked through triazole linkers exerted in some cases stronger immunomodulative potency than (di)mannosides. On the other hand, a presence of triazole linker is a less favourable for an effective candidacidal activity as determined by in vitro using Candida albicans biofilm. The design of new defined immunomodulating formulas of the synthetic origin as possible antifungal agents and prospective participants in drug delivery systems may be of interest.

Chemical and biological evaluation of biosurfactant fractions from Wickerhamomyces anomalus CCMA 0358

Biosurfactants (BS) are becoming a solution for today's world since they are considered a reasonable and eco-friendly option for use in products that require surfactants. This study aimed to evaluate the antibacterial activity of purified fractions containing biosurfactants produced by the yeast Wickerhamomyces anomalus CCMA 0358 using waste cooking oil (WCO) as substrate. Mixed fractions were separated and characterized by TLC, MPLC, GC-MS, LC-OMS, LC-SQMS, FTIR, 1H, 13C, DEPT 135, COSY, HSQC, and HMBC. The results confirmed the presence of palmitic acid and oleic acid fatty acids, derived from the core biosurfactant structure; however, the core could not be identified. The crude biosurfactant and its purified fractions were evaluated against pathogenic bacteria, and the purified fractions of the biosurfactant are more efficient at inhibitory and bactericidal activities than the crude biosurfactant. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study that evaluated the antimicrobial activity of purified fractions of biosurfactants produced by the species Wickerhamomyces anomalus. Therefore, the purification of biosurfactants can emerge as an interesting alternative to increase the bioactivity of the compounds and ensure greater efficiency and biotechnological employability. KEY POINTS: • Successful production of a biosurfactant using a renewed carbon source. • Evaluation of the antimicrobial activity of purified fractions of BS. • Separated fractions of the BS are more efficient against bacteria than the crude BS.

Candida krusei M4CK Produces a Bioemulsifier That Acts on Melaleuca Essential Oil and Aids in Its Antibacterial and Antibiofilm Activity

Surface-active compounds (SACs) of microbial origin are an active group of biomolecules with potential use in the formulation of emulsions. In this sense, the present study aimed to isolate and select yeasts from fruits that could produce SACs for essential oil emulsions. The Candida krusei M4CK was isolated from the Byrsonima crassifolia fruit to make SACs. This emulsification activity (E24) was equal to or greater 50% in all carbon sources, such as olive oil, sunflower oil, kerosene, hexane, and hexadecane. E24 followed exponential growth according to the growth phase. The stability of emulsions was maintained over a wide range of temperatures, pH, and salinity. The OMBE4CK (melaleuca essential oil emulsion) had better and more significant inhibitory potential for biofilm reduction formation. In addition, bioemulsifier BE4CK alone on Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilm showed few effective results, while there was a significant eradication for Staphylococcus aureus biofilms. The biofilms formed by S. aureus were eradicated in all concentrations of OMBE4CK. At the same time, the preformed biofilm by E. coli and P. aeruginosa were removed entirely at concentrations of 25 mg/mL, 12.5 mg/mL, and 6.25 mg/mL. The results show that the bioemulsifier BE4CK may represent a new potential for antibiofilm application.

Degradation of amoxicillin applying photo-Fenton and acid hydrolysis processes with toxicity evaluation via antimicrobial susceptibility tests

ABSTARCTThe antibiotic amoxicillin (AMX) is a semisynthetic aminopenicillin, classified as an β-lactam antibiotic. This work aims to evaluate the AMX degradation (190 mg L-1), in aqueous medium, applying photo-Fenton ([TOC]0 = 100 mgC L-1; FH2O2 = 3.27 mmol min-1; [Fe2+] = 0.27 mmol L-1; pH = 3.0; T = 40°C) and acid hydrolysis processes. Along the experiments, samples were withdrawn and analyzed by a total organic carbon (TOC) analyzer and a liquid chromatography system coupled to diode array (HPLC-DAD) and mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS) detectors. The hydrolysis process proved to be less efficient, because AMX removals greater than 80% were observed only after 24 hours of reaction (pH 2). Conversely, the photo-Fenton process removed completely AMX in just 20 minutes, reaching 85% of TOC removal in 2 hours. Finally, the AMX aqueous solutions treated by the studied processes was also evaluated in respect of its toxicity to some microorganisms, applying two antimicrobial susceptibility tests: disk-diffusion and broth microdilution methods. It was observed that the AMX aqueous solutions, pretreated by the photo-Fenton process, for just 7.5 min of reaction time, did not inhibit the microorganisms growth. The obtained results show that the photo-Fenton process was able to degrade AMX, in a relatively short time, and that the generated degradation products did not inhibit the microorganisms growth, when compared to acid hydrolysis process. Thus, it was verified the potential application of the photo-Fenton system as a pretreatment step to conventional biological oxidation processes for the treatment of industrial wastewaters.

Bio surfactants from lactic acid bacteria: an in-depth analysis of therapeutic properties and food formulation

Healthy humans and animals commonly harbor lactic acid bacteria (LAB) on their mucosal surfaces, which are often associated with food fermentation. These microorganisms can produce amphiphilic compounds, known as microbial surface-active agents, that exhibit remarkable emulsifying activity. However, the exact functions of these microbial surfactants within the producer cells remain unclear. Consequently, there is a growing urgency to develop biosurfactant production from nonpathogenic microbes, particularly those derived from LAB. This approach aims to harness the benefits of biosurfactants while ensuring their safety and applicability. This review encompasses a comprehensive analysis of native and genetically modified LAB biosurfactants, shedding light on microbial interactions, cell signaling, pathogenicity, and biofilm development. It aims to provide valuable insights into the applications of these active substances in therapeutic use and food formulation as well as their potential biological and other benefits. By synthesizing the latest knowledge and advancements, this review contributes to the understanding and utilization of LAB biosurfactants in the food and nutritional areas.

Cell-free supernatant of probiotic bacteria exerted antibiofilm and antibacterial activities against Pseudomonas aeruginosa: A novel biotic therapy

Aim: This study aims to verify the antibacterial and antibiofilm action of cell-free spent medium (CFSM) from four lactic acid bacteria with potential probiotic characteristics (Lactiplantibacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus johnsonii, and Lactobacillus delbrueckii) against two Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains. Main methods: The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of the CFSM, antibacterial activity by analysing the formation of inhibition zones, and inhibition of planktonic cultures were determined. Whether an increase in the concentration of CFSM influenced the growth of pathogenic strains and the anti-adhesive activity of the CFSM in biofilm formation (crystal violet and MTT assays) were determined, which were all corroborated by using scanning electron microscopy. Key findings: The relationship between the MIC and MBC values showed a bactericidal or bacteriostatic effect for all the cell-free spent media (CFSMs) tested for P. aeruginosa 9027™ and 27853™ strains. The CFSM supplemental doses of 18 or 22%, 20 or 22%, 46 or 48%, and 50 or 54% of L. acidophilus, L. delbrueckii, L. plantarum, and L. johnsonii, respectively, could completely inhibit the growth of both pathogen strains. The antibiofilm activity of the CFSM in three biofilm conditions (pre-coated, co-incubated, and preformed) demonstrated values ranging between 40% and 80% for biofilm inhibition, and similar results were observed for cell viability. Significance: This work provides strong evidence that the postbiotic derived from different Lactobacilli could be practical as an adjuvant therapy for reducing the use of antibiotics, being a good candidate to overcome the growing challenge of hospital infections due to this pathogen.

Effect of a Biosurfactant Extract Obtained from a Corn Kernel Fermented Stream on the Sensory Colour Properties of Apple and Orange Juices

In this work, we assessed the effect of a biosurfactant extract, which possesses preservative properties, on the sensory properties, regarding colour, of two fruit juices: pasteurized apple juice and natural orange juice. This biosurfactant extract was obtained from corn steep liquor, a secondary stream of the corn wet-milling industry. The biosurfactant extract is composed of natural polymers and biocompounds released during the spontaneous fermentation of corn kernels during the steeping process of corn. The reason for this study is based on the importance of colour as a visual attribute that can determine the consumer's preferences; it is important to study the effect of the biosurfactant extract under evaluation before including it in juice matrices. For this, a surface response factorial design was employed and the effects of the biosurfactant extract concentration (0-1 g/L), the storage time (1-7 days), and the conservation temperature (4-36 °C) on the CIELAB colour parameters (L*, a*, b*) of the juice matrices were evaluated, as well as the total colour differences (ΔE*) regarding the control juices and the saturation index (Cab*). Moreover, the CIELAB coordinates of each conducted treatment were converted into RGB values to obtain visual colour differences that can be appreciated by testers or consumers.

ESKAPEE Pathogen Biofilm Control on Surfaces with Probiotic Lactobacillaceae and Bacillus species

Combatting the rapidly growing threat of antimicrobial resistance and reducing prevalence and transmission of ESKAPEE pathogens in healthcare settings requires innovative strategies, one of which is displacing these pathogens using beneficial microorganisms. Our review comprehensively examines the evidence of probiotic bacteria displacing ESKAPEE pathogens, with a focus on inanimate surfaces. A systematic search was conducted using the PubMed and Web of Science databases on 21 December 2021, and 143 studies were identified examining the effects of Lactobacillaceae and Bacillus spp. cells and products on the growth, colonization, and survival of ESKAPEE pathogens. While the diversity of study methods limits evidence analysis, results presented by narrative synthesis demonstrate that several species have the potential as cells or their products or supernatants to displace nosocomial infection-causing organisms in a variety of in vitro and in vivo settings. Our review aims to aid the development of new promising approaches to control pathogen biofilms in medical settings by informing researchers and policymakers about the potential of probiotics to combat nosocomial infections. More targeted studies are needed to assess safety and efficacy of different probiotic formulations, followed by large-scale studies to assess utility in infection control and medical practice.

Interspecies Interactions within the Host: the Social Network of Group B Streptococcus

Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is a pervasive neonatal pathogen accounting for a combined half a million deaths and stillbirths annually. The most common source of fetal or neonatal GBS exposure is the maternal microbiota. GBS asymptomatically colonizes the gastrointestinal and vaginal mucosa of 1 in 5 individuals globally, although its precise role in these niches is not well understood. To prevent vertical transmission, broad-spectrum antibiotics are administered to GBS-positive mothers during labor in many countries. Although antibiotics have significantly reduced GBS early-onset neonatal disease, there are several unintended consequences, including an altered neonatal microbiota and increased risk for other microbial infections. Additionally, the incidence of late-onset GBS neonatal disease remains unaffected and has sparked an emerging hypothesis that GBS-microbe interactions in developing neonatal gut microbiota may be directly involved in this disease process. This review summarizes our current understanding of GBS interactions with other resident microbes at the mucosal surface from multiple angles, including clinical association studies, agriculture and aquaculture observations, and experimental animal model systems. We also include a comprehensive review of in vitro findings of GBS interactions with other bacterial and fungal microbes, both commensal and pathogenic, along with newly established animal models of GBS vaginal colonization and in utero or neonatal infection. Finally, we provide a perspective on emerging areas of research and current strategies to design microbe-targeting prebiotic or probiotic therapeutic intervention strategies to prevent GBS disease in vulnerable populations.

Corrected and Republished from: "Understanding Lactobacillus paracasei and Streptococcus oralis Biofilm Interactions through Agent-Based Modeling"

As common commensals residing on mucosal tissues, Lactobacillus species are known to promote health, while some Streptococcus species act to enhance the pathogenicity of other organisms in those environments. In this study we used a combination of in vitro imaging of live biofilms and computational modeling to explore biofilm interactions between Streptococcus oralis, an accessory pathogen in oral candidiasis, and Lactobacillus paracasei, an organism with known probiotic properties. A computational agent-based model was created where the two species interact only by competing for space, oxygen, and glucose. Quantification of bacterial growth in live biofilms indicated that S. oralis biomass and cell numbers were much lower than predicted by the model. Two subsequent models were then created to examine more complex interactions between these species, one where L. paracasei secretes a surfactant and another where L. paracasei secretes an inhibitor of S. oralis growth. We observed that the growth of S. oralis could be affected by both mechanisms. Further biofilm experiments support the hypothesis that L. paracasei may secrete an inhibitor of S. oralis growth, although they do not exclude that a surfactant could also be involved. This contribution shows how agent-based modeling and experiments can be used in synergy to address multiple-species biofilm interactions, with important roles in mucosal health and disease. IMPORTANCE We previously discovered a role of the oral commensal Streptococcus oralis as an accessory pathogen. S. oralis increases the virulence of Candida albicans infections in murine oral candidiasis and epithelial cell models through mechanisms which promote the formation of tissue-damaging biofilms. Lactobacillus species have known inhibitory effects on biofilm formation of many microbes, including Streptococcus species. Agent-based modeling has great advantages as a means of exploring multifaceted relationships between organisms in complex environments such as biofilms. Here, we used an iterative collaborative process between experimentation and modeling to reveal aspects of the mostly unexplored relationship between S. oralis and L. paracasei in biofilm growth. The inhibitory nature of L. paracasei on S. oralis in biofilms may be exploited as a means of preventing or alleviating mucosal fungal infections.

Preparation of Hydrolyzed Sugarcane Molasses as a Low-Cost Medium for the Mass Production of Probiotic Lactobacillus paracasei ssp. paracasei F19

In this study, sugarcane molasses (SCM) was pre-treated in a low-cost fermentation medium to produce probiotic biomass of Lactobacillus paracasei ssp. paracasei F19 (LPPF19) with the combination of dilution, centrifugation, and acid hydrolysis (5 molar sulfuric acid, 60 °C/2 h). Microtox analysis, inductively coupled mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) were used to measure the effects of SCM pretreatment on the fermentation process. The results showed that the hydrolysis of sucrose into glucose and fructose was 98%, which represented an increase of 44.4% in the initial glucose content (fermentation-limiting sugar), and harmful heavy metals, such as arsenic, cadmium, and lead, were reduced by 50.3, 60.0, and 64.3%, respectively. After pretreatment, with the supplementation of only yeast extract and salts (Na, K, Mg, and Mn), a biomass of 9.58 log CFU/mL was achieved, approximately ten times higher than that for the control medium used (MRS/DeMan, Rogosa, and Sharpe). The cost reduction achieved compared to this commercial medium was 68.7% in the laboratory and 78.9% on an industrial scale. This work demonstrated that SCM could be used in a cheaper and more effective alternative fermentation to produce LPPF19.

Anti-oxidative property of xylolipid produced by Lactococcus lactis LNH70 and its potential use as fruit juice preservative

In the present study, 20 lactic acid bacteria (LAB) were isolated from different fruit juices, milk, and milk products. Based on preliminary screening methods like emulsification index, oil displacement method, hemolysis, and reduction in surface tension, strain LNH70 was selected for further studies. Further, it was evaluated for preliminary probiotic characteristics, identified by 16 s rRNA sequencing as Lactococcus lactis, submitted to NCBI, and an accession number was obtained (MH174454). In addition, LNH70 was found to tolerate over wide range of temperatures (10-45 °C), pH (3-10), NaCl (up to 9%), bile (0.7%), and phenol (0.1%) concentrations. Further, optimization studies at flask level revealed that lactose as carbon source, peptone as organic nitrogen, and inorganic nitrogen (ammonium sulfate) enhanced biosurfactant production. Chemical composition of purified biosurfactant obtained from LNH70 was characterized by various physico-chemical analytical techniques and identified as xylolipid. Xylolipid biosurfactant exhibited anti-adhesion activity against food borne pathogens in in vitro conditions. Its anti-oxidative property by 1, 1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), 2, 2'-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid (ABTS), and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) radical scavenging activity was found in range of 60.76 ± 0.5 to 83.50 ± 0.73%. Furthermore, xylolipid (0.05, 0.1, 0.3 mg/mL) when used for its potential as orange and pineapple juices preservation revealed miniature changes in the physico-chemical parameters evaluated in this study. However, the microbial population slightly lowered when xylolipid was used at 0.3 mg/mL after 5th day. Hence, this study supports the potential use of biosurfactant from L. lactis for its application as food preservative.

Effect of a Multifunctional Biosurfactant Extract Obtained from Corn Steep Liquor on Orange and Apple Juices

Biosurfactant extracts are multifunctional ingredients composed of natural polymers that can be used in the food industry as stabilizing and antimicrobial agents, although their inclusion in food matrices has been scarcely explored. In this work, a biosurfactant extract, with antimicrobial properties, obtained from a fermented stream of the corn wet-milling industry was introduced into an apple and orange juice matrix to evaluate the changes produced in the sugar consumption, pH, and biomass formation at different temperatures (4-36 °C) and storage time (1-7 days). It was observed that the addition of biosurfactant extract reduced the hydrolysis rate of polymeric sugars, decreasing the concentration of soluble sugars from 85.4 g/L to 49.0 g/L in apple juice after 7 days at 20 °C in the absence and presence of biosurfactant extract, respectively. In general, soluble sugars increased in juices for 5-6 days and after those sugars decreased at different rates depending on the temperature of storage. Differences in sugar solubilization and degradation were more significant in apple juice than in orange juice at 20 °C and 7 days of storage, achieving for orange juice values of 101 and 102 g/L in the absence and presence of biosurfactant extract, respectively. Biomass growth was almost unaffected by the biosurfactant extract concentration and the optimal conditions for biomass production were detected at intermediated temperatures after 6-7 days of storage for both apple and orange juices, obtaining maximum concentrations of 1.68 g/L and 1.54 g/L for apple juice and orange juice, respectively, in the absence of biosurfactant extract. The pH during storage was kept in the range of 3.35-3.48 for apple juice and of 3.40-3.77 for orange juice.

Theranostic efficiency of biosurfactants against COVID-19 and similar viruses - A review

The world has witnessed an extreme vulnerability of a pandemic during 2020; originated from China. The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is infecting and beginning deaths in thousands to millions, creating of the global economic crisis. Biosurfactants (BSs) can carry the prevention, control and management of pandemic out through diverse approaches, such as pharmaceutical, therapeutic, hygienic and environmental. The microbiotas having virulent intrinsic properties towards starting as easily as spreading of diseases (huge morbidity and mortality) could be inhibited via BSs. Such elements could be recognised for their antimicrobial activity, capability to interact with the immune system via micelles formation and in nanoparticulate synthesis. However, they can be used for developing novel and more effective therapeutics, pharmaceuticals, non-toxic formulations, vaccines, and effective cleaning agents. Such approaches can be utilized for product development and implemented for managing and combating the pandemic conditions. This review emphasized on the potentiality of BSs as key components with several ways for protecting against unknown and known pathogens, including COVID-19.

Microbial surfactants: A journey from fundamentals to recent advances

Microbial surfactants are amphiphilic surface-active substances aid to reduce surface and interfacial tensions by accumulating between two fluid phases. They can be generically classified as low or high molecular weight biosurfactants based on their molecular weight, whilst overall chemical makeup determines whether they are neutral or anionic molecules. They demonstrate a variety of fundamental characteristics, including the lowering of surface tension, emulsification, adsorption, micelle formation, etc. Microbial genera like Bacillus spp., Pseudomonas spp., Candida spp., and Pseudozyma spp. are studied extensively for their production. The type of biosurfactant produced is reliant on the substrate utilized and the pathway pursued by the generating microorganisms. Some advantages of biosurfactants over synthetic surfactants comprise biodegradability, low toxicity, bioavailability, specificity of action, structural diversity, and effectiveness in harsh environments. Biosurfactants are physiologically crucial molecules for producing microorganisms which help the cells to grasp substrates in adverse conditions and also have antimicrobial, anti-adhesive, and antioxidant properties. Biosurfactants are in high demand as a potential product in industries like petroleum, cosmetics, detergents, agriculture, medicine, and food due to their beneficial properties. Biosurfactants are the significant natural biodegradable substances employed to replace the chemical surfactants on a global scale in order to make a cleaner and more sustainable environment.

A Predictive Growth Model for Pro-technological and Probiotic Lacticaseibacillus paracasei Strains Fermenting White Cabbage

Bacterial strains belonging to Lacticaseibacillus paracasei species are generally used as starters in food fermentations and/or as probiotics. In the current study, the growth cardinal parameters of four L. paracasei strains (IMPC2.1, IMPC4.1, P40 and P101), isolated from table olives or human source, were determined. Strains were grown in liquid medium and incubated at several temperatures (10 values from 5.5°C–40°C) and pH (15 values from 3.2 to 9.1) along the growth range. The cardinal temperature model was used to describe temperature effects on the maximum specific growth rate of L. paracasei whereas new equations were developed for the effect of pH. The estimated T_min values ranged between −0.97°C and 1.95°C and were lower than 0°C for strains IMPC4.1 and P101. Strain P40 was able to grow in the most restricted range of temperature (from 1.95°C to 37.46°C), while strain IMPC4.1 was estimated to survive at extreme conditions showing the lowest pH_min. Maximum specific growth rates of L. paracasei IMPC2.1 in white cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata) were used to calculate the correction factor (C_f) defined as the bias between the bacterial maximum specific growth rate in broth and in the food matrix. A simple bi-linear model was also developed for the effect of temperature on the maximum population density reached in white cabbage. This information was further used to simulate the growth of L. paracasei strains in cabbage and predict the time to reach the targeted probiotic level (7 log₁₀ CFU/g) using in silico simulations. This study demonstrates the potential of the predictive microbiology to predict the growth of beneficial and pro-technological strains in foods in order to optimize the fermentative process.

Identification, Characterization, and Efficacy Evaluation of Bacillus velezensis for Shot-Hole Disease Biocontrol in Flowering Cherry

Though information exists regarding the pathogenesis of the shot-hole disease (SH) in flowering cherry (FC), there has been a lack of research focusing on SH management. Therefore, here, we investigated the inhibitory activities of antagonistic bacteria against SH pathogens both in vitro and in vivo as well as their biochemical characteristics and bioactive compounds. Two biosurfactant-producing bacterial antagonists, identified as Bacillus velezensis strains JCK-1618 and JCK-1696, exhibited the best effects against the growth of both bacterial and fungal SH pathogens in vitro through their cell-free culture filtrates (CFCFs). These two strains also strongly inhibited the growth of the pathogens via the action of their antimicrobial diffusible compounds and antimicrobial volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Crude enzymes, solvent extracts, and biosurfactants of the two strains exhibited antimicrobial activities. Liquid chromatography/electrospray ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometric analysis of the partially purified active fractions revealed that the two antagonists produced three cyclic lipopeptides, including iturin A, fengycin A, and surfactin, and a polyketide, oxydifficidin. In a detached leaf assay, pre-treatment and co-treatment of FC leaves with the CFCFs led to a large reduction in the severity of the leaf spots caused by Epicoccum tobaicum and Bukholderia contaminans, respectively. In addition, the two antagonists produced indole-3-acetic acid, siderophore, and a series of hydrolytic enzymes, along with the formation of a substantial biofilm. To our knowledge, this is the first report of the antimicrobial activities of the diffusible compounds and VOCs of B. velezensis against the SH pathogens and their efficiency in the biocontrol of SH.

Antimicrobial Analysis of Biosynthesized Lectin-Conjugated Gold Nanoparticles

To enhance the bioactivity of molecules through nanoparticles is being tested which has potential use in sustained-release drug delivery systems and to enhance the therapeutic effectiveness of drugs. Our current investigation s is to conjugate lectin to that of a gold nanoparticle (GNP) surface without disturbing the bioactive properties and enhances the antibacterial activity of lectin. Au-lectin nanoparticles were checked for their hemagglutination activity, characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and UV-visible spectrophotometer. The antibacterial effect of nanoparticle lectin, Au salt nanoparticle, and conjugated Au-lectin was estimated by Kirby-Bauer disc method; MICs were determined by microbroth dilution and compared with ciprofloxacin. These tests were done using known species of bacterial strain of multidrug resistant. The hemagglutination activity of lectin was improved to fourfold after purification. Lectin and Au nanoparticles combined had a significant effect on the inhibition of bacterial growth. No significant differences were observed in the inhibition zone diameters from killed bacteria and its supernatant towards any of the tested organisms. Lectin-conjugated gold particles showed good efficacy as antimicrobial agents and the nanoparticle-killed bacteria to work against the viable population of the same bacterium and/or other bacterial species too.

Evaluation of inhibitory and probiotic properties of lactic acid bacteria isolated from vaginal microflora

Lactic acid bacteria (LABs) are known to secrete species-specific secondary metabolites that could be utilized as novel therapeutics against multi-drug resistant pathogens. This study aimed to investigate the antagonistic and probiotic properties of LABs isolated from the vaginal ecosystem of healthy women and to assess the stability of their antagonistic metabolites. Among 43 strains isolated from healthy women, eight LAB strains exhibited detectable BLISs (bacteriocin-like substances) producing ability against E. faecalis (JH-86), S. aureus (JH-68), Streptococcus sp. (JH-80), and E. coli (JH-101), with zone of inhibition (ZI) ranging from 9.00 to 20.33 mm and minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) from 62.5 to 500 μL/mL, respectively. The partially purified compounds extracted from cell free supernatant (CFS) displayed an increase in antagonistic activity based on ZI, 9.67-30.17 mm and MICs, 3.91-15.63 mg/mL, respectively. In a time-kill study, both crude and partially purified compounds of Limosilactobacillus reuteri (MT180537), Pediococcus pentosaceus (MT176555), Limosilactobacillus pontis (MW362838), and Levilactobacillus brevis (MW362790) exhibited significant bactericidal action against E. faecalis (MW051601), the most frequent etiological agent of aerobic vaginitis (AV). The active secondary metabolites from L. reuteri (MT180537), P. pentosaceus (MT176555), and L. pontis (MW362838) were protein in nature and remained stable under different physicochemical conditions. Regarding probiotic properties, the strains presented probiotic characteristics, i.e., good acid, bile salt tolerance, aggregation properties, and biofilm formation. The strains were susceptible to most of the commonly used antibiotics and had no hemolytic activity. In conclusion, antagonistic compounds or BLIS produced by L. reuteri (MT180537) could be investigated further for preparation of ointments to treat AV.

Rationally designed Tröger's base decorated bis-carbazoles as twisted solid-state emitting materials and dead bacterial cell imaging

Troger's base decorated bis-carbazoles were investigated as solid-state emitting materials for dead bacterial staining agents to assess bacterial cell death based on fluorescence.

Understanding Lactobacillus paracasei and Streptococcus oralis Biofilm Interactions through Agent-Based Modeling

As common commensals residing on mucosal tissues, Lactobacillus species are known to promote health, while some Streptococcus species act to enhance the pathogenicity of other organisms in those environments. In this study, we used a combination of in vitro imaging of live biofilms and computational modeling to explore biofilm interactions between Streptococcus oralis, an accessory pathogen in oral candidiasis, and Lactobacillus paracasei, an organism with known probiotic properties. A computational agent-based model was created where the two species interact only by competing for space, oxygen and glucose. Quantification of bacterial growth in live biofilms indicated that S. oralis biomass and cell numbers were much lower than predicted by the model. Two subsequent models were then created to examine more complex interactions between these species, one where L. paracasei secretes a surfactant, and another where L. paracasei secretes an inhibitor of S. oralis growth. We observed that the growth of S. oralis could be affected by both mechanisms. Further biofilm experiments support the hypothesis that L. paracasei may secrete an inhibitor of S. oralis growth, although they do not exclude that a surfactant could also be involved. This contribution shows how agent-based modeling and experiments can be used in synergy to address multiple species biofilm interactions, with important roles in mucosal health and disease. IMPORTANCE We previously discovered a role of the oral commensal Streptococcus oralis as an accessory pathogen. S. oralis increases the virulence of Candida albicans infections in murine oral candidiasis and epithelial cell models through mechanisms which promote the formation of tissue-damaging biofilms. Lactobacillus species have known inhibitory effects on biofilm formation of many microbes, including Streptococcus species. Agent-based modeling has great advantages as a means of exploring multifaceted relationships between organisms in complex environments such as biofilms. Here, we used an iterative collaborative process between experimentation and modeling to reveal aspects of the mostly unexplored relationship between S. oralis and L. paracasei in biofilm growth. The inhibitory nature of L. paracasei on S. oralis in biofilms may be exploited as a means of preventing or alleviating mucosal fungal infections.

Inhibition of Bacterial Adhesion and Antibiofilm Activities of a Glycolipid Biosurfactant from Lactobacillus rhamnosus with Its Physicochemical and Functional Properties

Biosurfactants derived from different microbes are an alternative to chemical surfactants, which have broad applications in food, oil, biodegradation, cosmetic, agriculture, pesticide and medicine/pharmaceutical industries. This is due to their environmentally friendly, biocompatible, biodegradable, effectiveness to work under various environmental conditions and non-toxic nature. Lactic acid bacteria (LAB)-derived glycolipid biosurfactants can play a major role in preventing bacterial attachment, biofilm eradication and related infections in various clinical settings and industries. Hence, it is important to explore and identify the novel molecule/method for the treatment of biofilms of pathogenic bacteria. In the present study, a probiotic Lactobacillus rhamnosus (L. rhamnosus) strain was isolated from human breast milk. Firstly, its ability to produce biosurfactants, and its physicochemical and functional properties (critical micelle concentration (CMC), reduction in surface tension, emulsification index (% EI24), etc.) were evaluated. Secondly, inhibition of bacterial adhesion and biofilm eradication by cell-bound biosurfactants from L. rhamnosus was performed against various biofilm-forming pathogens (B. subtilis, P. aeruginosa, S. aureus and E. coli). Finally, bacterial cell damage, viability of cells within the biofilm, exopolysaccharide (EPS) production and identification of the structural analogues of the crude biosurfactant via gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis were also evaluated. As a result, L. rhamnosus was found to produce 4.32 ± 0.19 g/L biosurfactant that displayed a CMC of 3.0 g/L and reduced the surface tension from 71.12 ± 0.73 mN/m to 41.76 ± 0.60 mN/m. L. rhamnosus cell-bound crude biosurfactant was found to be effective against all the tested bacterial pathogens. It displayed potent anti-adhesion and antibiofilm ability by inhibiting the bacterial attachment to surfaces, leading to the disruption of biofilm formation by altering the integrity and viability of bacterial cells within biofilms. Our results also confirm the ability of the L. rhamnosus cell-bound-derived biosurfactant to damage the architecture of the biofilm matrix, as a result of the reduced total EPS content. Our findings may be further explored as a green alternative/approach to chemically synthesized toxic antibiofilm agents for controlling bacterial adhesion and biofilm eradication.

Low-cost production and application of lipopeptide for bioremediation and plant growth by Bacillus subtilis SNW3

At present time, every nation is absolutely concern about increasing agricultural production and bioremediation of petroleum-contaminated soil. Hence, with this intention in the current study potent natural surfactants characterized as lipopeptides were evaluated for low-cost production by Bacillus subtilis SNW3, previously isolated from the Fimkessar oil field, Chakwal Pakistan. The significant results were obtained by using substrates in combination (white beans powder (6% w/v) + waste frying oil (1.5% w/v) and (0.1% w/v) urea) with lipopeptides yield of about 1.17 g/L contributing 99% reduction in cost required for medium preparation. To the best of our knowledge, no single report is presently describing lipopeptide production by Bacillus subtilis using white beans powder as a culture medium. Additionally, produced lipopeptides display great physicochemical properties of surface tension reduction value (SFT = 28.8 mN/m), significant oil displacement activity (ODA = 4.9 cm), excessive emulsification ability (E24 = 69.8%), and attains critical micelle concentration (CMC) value at 0.58 mg/mL. Furthermore, biosurfactants produced exhibit excellent stability over an extensive range of pH (1-11), salinity (1-8%), temperature (20-121°C), and even after autoclaving. Subsequently, produced lipopeptides are proved suitable for bioremediation of crude oil (86%) and as potent plant growth-promoting agent that significantly (P < 0.05) increase seed germination and plant growth promotion of chili pepper, lettuce, tomato, and pea maximum at a concentration of (0.7 g/100 mL), showed as a potential agent for agriculture and bioremediation processes by lowering economic and environmental stress.

Effects of lipopeptide biosurfactants on clinical strains of Malassezia furfur growth and biofilm formation

Lipopeptide biosurfactants (LBs) are biological molecules with low toxicity that have aroused growing interest in the pharmaceutical industry. Their chemical structure confers antimicrobial and antibiofilm properties against different species. Despite their potential, few studies have demonstrated their capability against Malassezia spp., commensal yeasts which can cause dermatitis and serious infections. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate the antifungal activity of biosurfactants produced by new strains of Bacillus subtilis TIM10 and B. vallismortis TIM68 against M. furfur and their potential for removal and inhibition of yeast biofilms. Biosurfactants were classified as lipopeptides by FTIR, and their composition was characterized by ESI-Q-TOF/MS, showing ions for iturin, fengycin, and surfactin, with a greater abundance of surfactin. Through the broth microdilution method, both biosurfactants inhibited the growth of clinical M. furfur strains. Biosurfactant TIM10 showed greater capacity for growth inhibition, with no statistical difference compared to those obtained by the commercial antifungal fluconazole for M. furfur 153DR5 and 154DR8 strains. At minimal inhibitory concentrations (MIC-2), TIM10 and TIM68 were able to inhibit biofilm formation, especially TIM10, with an inhibition rate of approximately 90%. In addition, both biosurfactants were able to remove pre-formed biofilm. Both biosurfactants showed no toxicity against murine fibroblasts, even at concentrations above MIC-2. Our results show the effectiveness of LBs in controlling the growth and biofilm formation of M. furfur clinical strains and highlight the potential of these agents to compose new formulations for the treatment of these fungi.

Functional and Structural Characterization of Pediococcus pentosaceus-Derived Biosurfactant and Its Biomedical Potential against Bacterial Adhesion, Quorum Sensing, and Biofilm Formation

Biosurfactants are surface-active molecules of microbial origin and alternatives to synthetic surfactants with various applications. Due to their environmental-friendliness, biocompatibility, biodegradability, effectiveness to work under various environmental conditions, and non-toxic nature, they have been recently recognized as potential agents with therapeutic and commercial importance. The biosurfactant produced by various probiotic lactic acid bacteria (LAB) has enormous applications in different fields. Thus, in vitro assessment of biofilm development prevention or disruption by natural biosurfactants derived from probiotic LAB is a plausible approach that can lead to the discovery of novel antimicrobials. Primarily, this study aims to isolate, screen, and characterize the functional and biomedical potential of biosurfactant synthesized by probiotic LAB Pediococcus pentosaceus (P. pentosaceus). Characterization consists of the assessment of critical micelle concentration (CMC), reduction in surface tension, and emulsification index (% EI24). Evaluation of antibacterial, antibiofilm, anti-QS, and anti-adhesive activities of cell-bound biosurfactants were carried out against different human pathogenic bacteria (B. subtilis, P. aeruginosa, S. aureus, and E. coli). Moreover, bacterial cell damage, viability of cells within the biofilm, and exopolysaccharide (EPS) production were also evaluated. As a result, P. pentosaceus was found to produce 4.75 ± 0.17 g/L biosurfactant, which displayed a CMC of 2.4 ± 0.68 g/L and reduced the surface tension from 71.11 ± 1.12 mN/m to 38.18 ± 0.58 mN/m. P. pentosaceus cells bound to the crude biosurfactant were found to be effective against all tested bacterial pathogens. It exhibited an anti-adhesion ability and impeded the architecture of the biofilm matrix by affecting the viability and integrity of bacterial cells within biofilms and reducing the total EPS content. Furthermore, the crude biosurfactant derived from P. pentosaceus was structurally characterized as a lipoprotein by GC-MS analysis, which confirms the presence of lipids and proteins. Thus, our findings represent the potent anti-adhesion and antibiofilm potential of P. pentosaceus crude biosurfactant for the first time, which may be explored further as an alternative to antibiotics or chemically synthesized toxic antibiofilm agents.

Screening and isolation of microbes from a Mud Community of Ischia Island Thermal Springs: preliminary analysis of a bioactive compound

Introduction

Balneotherapy centers of Ischia island (Italy) offer treatments for different dermatological diseases (psoriasis, acne, atopic dermatitis) and upper respiratory tract infections. In this study, we integrated morphological and molecular approaches to give a focus on isolation and screening of extremophile bacteria from Ischia thermal mud for potential antimicrobial applications.

Methods

Samples were collected during 2019 at four sites. Some bacterial strains ATCC for antibacterial and antibiofilm activity were tested. After morphological characterization, screening for antagonistic isolates was made. The colonies isolated from thermal mud samples were submitted to molecular characterization. Susceptibility testing by dilution spotting was carried out and antibacterial efficacies of most active isolate were evaluated with a Minimal inhibition concentration assay. Biofilm formation, inhibition, eradication were examined. Statistical analyses were carried out utilizing Microsoft^® Excel 2016/XLSTAT^©-Pro.

Results

We isolated a natural compound with antimicrobial and antibiofilm activities.

Conclusions

The results obtained in this study are discussed in the context of how hydrothermal systems are important environmental source of uncharted antimicrobial and antibiofilm compounds. In conclusion, to the most effective of our knowledge, this work presents the primary report on the preliminary investigation of thermophile microbial diversity and their antimicrobial and antibiofilm activities for future biotechnological interest.

Characterization of Iturin V, a Novel Antimicrobial Lipopeptide from a Potential Probiotic Strain Lactobacillus sp. M31

Members of lactic acid bacteria group are known to produce various antimicrobial substances. Cyclic lipopeptides are one such potent class of amphipathic natural biosurfactants that exhibit bactericidal and immunomodulatory properties. In this study, we aimed to investigate antimicrobial and immunomodulatory activities of a lipopeptide secreted by a LAB isolate strain M31 identified as a member of the genus Lactobacillus. The lipopeptide that was purified using a combination of chromatographic techniques and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization-time of flight of pure lipopeptide displayed a molecular weight of 1002 Da. MS/MS analysis confirmed the presence of 7 amino acids (Asp-Tyr-Asp-Val-Pro-Asp-Ser) and a C13 beta-hydroxy fatty acid. The amino acid composition assigned lipopeptide to iturin class. However, the replacement of Gln with Val revealed it to represent a novel iturin named as iturin V. Iturin V showed antibacterial activity and did not cause hemolysis or cytotoxicity upto 125 µg/mL. It induced secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-alpha and IL-12 in murine dendritic cells. Probiotic features of strain M31 coupled with notable activity of iturin V against species of the genera Pseudomonas and Vibrio suggest that strain M31 has potential application for pathogen intervention treatments in processing of aquatic food products.

Red rot of sugarcane (Colletotrichum falcatumWent)

Red rot of sugarcane was recorded more than 100 years before in Java, India, Argentina, USA and other countries, and it is one of the most devastating diseases of sugarcane. Since the cultivated sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum) has failed across the countries, systematic inter-specific hybridization betweenS. officinarumand the wild speciesS. spontaneumreferred as ‘nobilization’ was done to develop resistant varieties and the disease was managed in most of the countries. However, in the countries especially in Asia, varietal breakdown to red rot caused severe epiphytotics, by which the resistant varieties failed in the field at regular intervals. New pathogenic strains ofColletotrichum falcatumwith higher virulence were found responsible for varietal breakdown in sugarcane. Extensive cultivation of a single variety over large areas led to extensive crop damages due to ‘vertifolia’ effect in different decades in India. The current epiphytotic on the ruling variety Co 0238 has caused loss of more than one billion US dollars in the current season in the country. Detailed studies were done on pathogenic variation, epidemiology, screening methods, disease resistance mechanism, identifying effectors, pathogenicity determinants, antifungal genes and transgenics. Recently, complete genome and transcriptomes ofC. falcatumwere sequenced and pathogenicity hot spots and candidate secreted effector proteins were identified and this will further help to identify the candidate genes for further genetic manipulation. In spite of poor understanding on inheritance of resistance toC. falcatumin sugarcane, new varieties with red rot resistance were developed and deployed after each of the epiphytotic to save the crop. Further, other management practices including bioagents, chemicals and inducers were attempted and improved efficacy by mechanized sett treatment showed promising results to manage the disease under field conditions.

Microorganisms, the Ultimate Tool for Clean Label Foods?

Clean label is an important trend in the food industry. It aims at washing foods of chemicals perceived as unhealthy by consumers. Microorganisms are present in many foods (usually fermented), they exhibit a diversity of metabolism and some can bring probiotic properties. They are usually well considered by consumers and, with progresses in the knowledge of their physiology and behavior, they can become very precise tools to produce or degrade specific compounds. They are thus an interesting means to obtain clean label foods. In this review, we propose to discuss some current research to use microorganisms to produce clean label foods with examples improving sensorial, textural, health and nutritional properties.

Recent Trends on Biosurfactants With Antimicrobial Activity Produced by Bacteria Associated With Human Health: Different Perspectives on Their Properties, Challenges, and Potential Applications

The attention towards the bacteria associated with human health is growing more and more, above all regarding the bacteria that inhabit the niches offered by the human body, i.e., the gastrointestinal tract, skin, vaginal environment, and lungs. Among the secondary metabolites released by microorganisms associated with human health, little consideration is given to the biosurfactants, molecules with both hydrophobic and hydrophilic nature. Their role in the complex human environment is not only the mere biosurfactant function, but they could also control the microbiota through the quorum sensing system and the antimicrobial activity. These functions protect them and, accordingly, the human body principally from microbial and fungal pathogens. Consequently, nowadays, biosurfactants are emerging as promising bioactive molecules due to their very different structures, biological functions, low toxicity, higher biodegradability, and versatility. Therefore, this review provides a comprehensive perspective of biosurfactants with antimicrobial activity produced by bacteria associated with the human body and related to everything human beings are in contact with, e.g., food, beverages, and food-waste dumping sites. For the first time, the role of an "-omic" approach is highlighted to predict gene products for biosurfactant production, and an overview of the available gene sequences is reported. Besides, antimicrobial biosurfactants' features, challenges, and potential applications in the biomedical, food, and nutraceutical industries are discussed.

Antibiotic Resistance Crisis: An Update on Antagonistic Interactions between Probiotics and Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) havoc is a global multifaceted crisis endowing a significant challenge for the successful eradication of devastating pathogens. Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is an enduring superbug involved in causing devastating infections. Although MRSA is a frequent colonizer of human skin, wound, and anterior nares, the intestinal colonization of MRSA has greatly increased the risk of inducing MRSA-associated colitis besides creating a conducive environment for horizontal transfer of resistant genes to commensal microbes. On the other hand, staphylococcal resistance to last-resort antibiotics has urged the development of novel antimicrobial agents for the effective decolonization of MRSA. In response, probiotics and their metabolites (postbiotics) have been proposed as the adjunct therapeutic avenues. Probiotics exhibit a multitude of anti-MRSA actions (anti-bacterial, anti-biofilm, anti-virulence, anti-drug resistance, co-aggregation, and anti-quorum sensing) through the production of numerous antagonistic compounds such as organic acids, hydrogen peroxide, low molecular weight compounds, biosurfactants, bacteriocins, and bacteriocins like inhibitory substances. Besides, probiotics stabilize the epithelial barrier function and positively modulate the host immune system via regulating various signal transduction mechanisms. Preclinical and human intervention studies have suggested that probiotics outcompete with MRSA by exhibiting anti-colonization mechanisms via protective, competitive, and displacement mode. In this review, we aim to highlight the dynamics of MRSA associated virulence and drug resistance properties, and how probiotics antagonize MRSA through various mechanism of action.

Multiple biosurfactant production by Aureobasidium pullulans strain YTP6-14 in aqueous and heavy oil layers

Aureobasidium pullulans YTP6-14 was demonstrated to be an excellent multiple biosurfactant producer utilizing cheap carbon sources available in Thailand, including glycerol and cassava flour hydrolysate. A. pullulans YTP6-14 maximally produced 1.81 g/l biosurfactant in an aqueous layer (BS-AQ) in a medium containing glycerol, and 7.37 or 6.37 g/l biosurfactant in a heavy oil layer (BS-HO) in cassava flour hydrolysate or a glucose containing medium, respectively. Each BS-AQ and BS-HO had critical micelle concentration values of 41.32 mg/l and 13.51 mg/l, and both biosurfactants formed a stable food oil emulsion and reduced the amount of biofilms formed by Streptococcus sobrinus and Streptococcus mutans. BS-AQ and BS-HO were mainly composed of liamocins or exophilins and massoia lactone, respectively.

Biosurfactants’ Potential Role in Combating COVID-19 and Similar Future Microbial Threats

During 2020, the world has experienced extreme vulnerability in the face of a disease outbreak. The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic discovered in China and rapidly spread across the globe, infecting millions, causing hundreds of thousands of deaths, and severe downturns in the economies of countries worldwide. Biosurfactants can play a significant role in the prevention, control and treatment of diseases caused by these pathogenic agents through various therapeutic, pharmaceutical, environmental and hygiene approaches. Biosurfactants have the potential to inhibit microbial species with virulent intrinsic characteristics capable of developing diseases with high morbidity and mortality, as well as interrupting their spread through environmental and hygiene interventions. This is possible due to their antimicrobial activity, ability to interact with cells forming micelles and to interact with the immune system, and compatibility with relevant processes such as nanoparticle synthesis. They, therefore, can be applied in developing innovative and more effective pharmaceutical, therapeutics, sustainable and friendly environmental management approaches, less toxic formulations, and more efficient cleaning agents. These approaches can be easily integrated into relevant product development pipelines and implemented as measures for combating and managing pandemics. This review examines the potential approaches of biosurfactants as useful molecules in fighting microbial pathogens both known and previously unknown, such as COVID-19.

The Use of Probiotics to Fight Biofilms in Medical Devices: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Medical device-associated infections (MDAI) are a critical problem due to the increasing usage of medical devices in the aging population. The inhibition of biofilm formation through the use of probiotics has received attention from the medical field in the last years. However, this sparse knowledge has not been properly reviewed, so that successful strategies for biofilm management can be developed. This study aims to summarize the relevant literature about the effect of probiotics and their metabolites on biofilm formation in medical devices using a PRISMA-oriented (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses) systematic search and meta-analysis. This approach revealed that the use of probiotics and their products is a promising strategy to hinder biofilm growth by a broad spectrum of pathogenic microorganisms. The meta-analysis showed a pooled effect estimate for the proportion of biofilm reduction of 70% for biosurfactants, 76% for cell-free supernatants (CFS), 77% for probiotic cells and 88% for exopolysaccharides (EPS). This review also highlights the need to properly analyze and report data, as well as the importance of standardizing the in vitro culture conditions to facilitate the comparison between studies. This is essential to increase the predictive value of the studies and translate their findings into clinical applications.

Characterization of low-cost glycolipoprotein biosurfactant produced by Lactobacillus plantarum 60 FHE isolated from cheese samples using food wastes through response surface methodology and its potential as antimicrobial, antiviral, and anticancer activities

Considering the need of new lactic acid bacteria (LAB) for the production of novel biosurfactant (BS) molecules, the current study brings out a new insight on the exploration of cheese samples for BS producers and process optimization for industrial applications. In view of this, Lactobacillus plantarum 60FHE, Lactobacillus paracasei 75FHE, and Lactobacillus paracasei 77FHE were selected as the most operative strains. The biosurfactants (BSs) described as glycolipoproteins via Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) exhibited antimicrobial activity against the food-borne pathogens. L. plantarum 60FHE BS showed an anticancer activity against colon carcinoma cells and had a week antiviral activity against Hepatitis A virus. Furthermore, glycolipoprotein production was enhanced by 1.42-fold through the development of an optimized process using central composite design (CCD). Emulsifying activities were stable after 60-min incubation from 4 to 120 °C, at pH 2-12, and after the addition of NaCl (2-14%). Characterization by nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (¹H NMR) revealed that BS produced from strain 60FHE was glycolipoprotein. L. plantarum produced mixed BSs determined by Liquid Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS). Thus, indicating that BS was applied as a microbial food prevention and biomedical. Also, L. plantarum 60FHE BS was achieved with the use of statistical optimization on inexpensive food wastes.

Mollicute Anti-Adhesive and Growth Inhibition Properties of the Methanolic Extract of Propolis from the Brazilian Native Bee Melipona quadrifasciata

Hydroalcoholic propolis extracts from the bee species Melipona quadrifasciata have been shown to possess antimicrobial activity against different mollicute strains, but a methanolic extract (ME) could contain an increased diversity of nonpolar bioactive components with a potentially higher antimicrobial activity. The ME obtained by maceration of the propolis sample was fractionated with solvents of different polarities and then, purified by silica gel column chromatography through biomonitoring of its antimicrobial activity against mollicute strains. Analysis by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS) enabled the identification of compounds using the NIST library. Minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of the samples were determined by broth microdilution. Anti-adhesive assays were performed with Mycoplasma pneumoniae cells. The hexane (MIC=62.5 mg/L) and dichloromethane (MIC=125 mg/L) fractions presented the most promising results against M. pneumoniae. They were fractionated into 74 subfractions, and even the best ones did not show better results (MIC>250 mg/L) than their original fractions, likely due to the loss of terpene compounds that seem to act in synergy. The dichloromethane subfraction FD4 was highlighted in the anti-adhesive assay with an inhibitory activity of 21.6 %. A synergistic effect of the nonpolar compounds in M. quadrifasciata propolis may be responsible for its antibacterial activity, but several purified components can improve its anti-adhesive properties.

Characterization and application of rhamnolipid from Pseudomonas plecoglossicida BP03

The production of rhamnolipid (glycolipid) biosurfactant was achieved under optimized conditions from newly isolated bacteria (Pseudomonas plecoglossicida BP03) from rice mill effluent. The isolated biosurfactant was structurally characterized using FTIR and NMR spectroscopic studies. The obtained biosurfactant (1·39 g l^-1 ) showed a variety of applications including larvicidal and pupicidal activity against malarial vector (Anopheles sunadicus). It also exhibited antimicrobial activity against human pathogens, and possessed potent anti-biofilm activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis and Aeromonas hydrophila. The obtained biosurfactant showed a dose-dependent inhibition of exopolymeric substance (EPS) and growth curve in S. aureus. Furthermore, the cytotoxicity assays revealed that the biosurfactant exhibit a cytotoxic potency against the human fibroblastic sarcoma cells Ht-1080. An in silco analysis was also performed using Schrodinger maestro 9.3 against surface protein (SasG) of S. aureus, and the resultant analysis revealed an interactive docking score of -3·4 kcal mol^-1 . The obtained result indicates that the synthesized economically viable biosurfactant ensures excellent applications towards various fields.