1
|
Barman S, Kurnaz LB, Leighton R, Hossain MW, Decho AW, Tang C. Intrinsic antimicrobial resistance: Molecular biomaterials to combat microbial biofilms and bacterial persisters. Biomaterials 2024; 311:122690. [PMID: 38976935 PMCID: PMC11298303 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2024.122690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2023] [Revised: 05/13/2024] [Accepted: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 07/10/2024]
Abstract
The escalating rise in antimicrobial resistance (AMR) coupled with a declining arsenal of new antibiotics is imposing serious threats to global public health. A pervasive aspect of many acquired AMR infections is that the pathogenic microorganisms exist as biofilms, which are equipped with superior survival strategies. In addition, persistent and recalcitrant infections are seeded with bacterial persister cells at infection sites. Together, conventional antibiotic therapeutics often fail in the complete treatment of infections associated with bacterial persisters and biofilms. Novel therapeutics have been attempted to tackle AMR, biofilms, and persister-associated complex infections. This review focuses on the progress in designing molecular biomaterials and therapeutics to address acquired and intrinsic AMR, and the fundamental microbiology behind biofilms and persisters. Starting with a brief introduction of AMR basics and approaches to tackling acquired AMR, the emphasis is placed on various biomaterial approaches to combating intrinsic AMR, including (1) semi-synthetic antibiotics; (2) macromolecular or polymeric biomaterials mimicking antimicrobial peptides; (3) adjuvant effects in synergy; (4) nano-therapeutics; (5) nitric oxide-releasing antimicrobials; (6) antimicrobial hydrogels; (7) antimicrobial coatings. Particularly, the structure-activity relationship is elucidated in each category of these biomaterials. Finally, illuminating perspectives are provided for the future design of molecular biomaterials to bypass AMR and cure chronic multi-drug resistant (MDR) infections.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Swagatam Barman
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, 29208, United States; Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, 29208, United States
| | - Leman Buzoglu Kurnaz
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, 29208, United States
| | - Ryan Leighton
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, 29208, United States
| | - Md Waliullah Hossain
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, 29208, United States
| | - Alan W Decho
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, 29208, United States.
| | - Chuanbing Tang
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, 29208, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Amhmed M, Liu H, Häkkinen L, Haapasalo M, Shen Y. Antimicrobial efficacy of DJK-5 peptide in combination with EDTA against biofilms in dentinal tubules: Primary irrigation, recovery and re-irrigation. Int Endod J 2024; 57:1343-1359. [PMID: 38837723 DOI: 10.1111/iej.14104] [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: 01/16/2024] [Revised: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
AIM To investigate the dynamic recovery of biofilms within dentinal tubules after primary irrigation with different protocols, and to evaluate the efficacy of various re-irrigation protocols on recovered biofilm, considering factors such as smear layer, nutrient conditions, and primary irrigants. METHODOLOGY A total of 416 mono or multi-species biofilms samples were prepared from human teeth and incubated for 3 weeks. After inducing a smear layer on half of the samples, all specimens were irrigated with one of the following irrigant sequences: (1) 6% NaOCl +17% EDTA, (2) 6% NaOCl +8.5% EDTA, (3) 6% NaOCl and (8.5% EDTA +10 μg/mL DJK-5 antimicrobial peptide), or (4) sterile water. Thirty-two samples were used to assess immediate effect, whilst the rest were re-incubated to assess biofilms recovery. Nutrient conditions were defined based on whether culture media were changed (nutrient-rich) or not (nutrient-poor) during re-incubation. After 16 weeks, recovered biofilms underwent re-irrigation using four additional protocols, with or without DJK-5 peptide, based on primary irrigants. Confocal laser scanning microscopy was employed to evaluate immediate irrigant effects, biofilms recovery intervals (1, 3, 5, 8, 12, and 16 weeks after primary irrigation), and re-irrigation effects at the 16-week. Statistical analysis included one-way anova and two-way mixed anova tests. RESULTS The DJK-5 peptide irrigation protocols demonstrated the highest killing rates during primary irrigation and resulted in a longer biofilms recovery time of 16 weeks compared to non-peptide protocols (p < .001). Both primary irrigation type and smear layer presence significantly influenced biofilms recovery (p < .001). In the absence of smear layer, re-irrigation efficacy didn't significantly differ from primary irrigation, regardless of primary irrigation type or nutrient conditions. However, with a smear layer present, re-irrigation led to significantly higher proportion of dead bacteria compared to primary irrigation (p < .05). Inclusion of the DJK-5 peptide into the re-irrigation protocol displayed superior killing rate compared to other protocols (p < .001). CONCLUSIONS Biofilms exhibited susceptibility to both peptide and non-peptide protocols during re-irrigation, irrespective of nutrient conditions or primary irrigation protocols. The DJK-5 peptide irrigation protocols consistently displayed superior effectiveness compared to non-peptide protocols.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Amhmed
- Department of Oral Biological and Medical Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Division of Prosthodontics, Department of Oral Health Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Department of Oral Biology, Faculty of Dentistry, The University of Sebha, Sebha, Libya
| | - He Liu
- Department of Oral Biological and Medical Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Lari Häkkinen
- Department of Oral Biological and Medical Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Markus Haapasalo
- Department of Oral Biological and Medical Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Ya Shen
- Department of Oral Biological and Medical Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Sett A, Dubey V, Bhowmik S, Pathania R. Decoding Bacterial Persistence: Mechanisms and Strategies for Effective Eradication. ACS Infect Dis 2024; 10:2525-2539. [PMID: 38940498 DOI: 10.1021/acsinfecdis.4c00270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
The ability of pathogenic bacteria to evade antibiotic treatment is an intricate and multifaceted phenomenon. Over the years, treatment failure among patients due to determinants of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has been the focal point for the research and development of new therapeutic agents. However, the survival of bacteria by persisting under antibiotic stress has largely been overlooked. Bacterial persisters are a subpopulation of sensitive bacterial cells exhibiting a noninheritable drug-tolerant phenotype. They are linked to the recalcitrance of infections in healthcare settings, in turn giving rise to AMR variants. The importance of bacterial persistence in recurring infections has been firmly recognized. Fundamental work over the past decade has highlighted numerous unique tolerance factors contributing to the persister phenotype in many clinically relevant pathogens. This review summarizes contributing factors that could aid in developing new strategies against bacterial antibiotic persisters.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abhiroop Sett
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee, Uttarakhand 247667, India
| | - Vineet Dubey
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee, Uttarakhand 247667, India
| | - Somok Bhowmik
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee, Uttarakhand 247667, India
| | - Ranjana Pathania
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee, Uttarakhand 247667, India
- Centre of Excellence in Disaster Mitigation and Management, Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee, Uttarakhand 247667, India
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Shiraliyev R, Orman MA. Metabolic disruption impairs ribosomal protein levels, resulting in enhanced aminoglycoside tolerance. eLife 2024; 13:RP94903. [PMID: 39093940 PMCID: PMC11296704 DOI: 10.7554/elife.94903] [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] [Indexed: 08/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Aminoglycoside antibiotics target ribosomes and are effective against a wide range of bacteria. Here, we demonstrated that knockout strains related to energy metabolism in Escherichia coli showed increased tolerance to aminoglycosides during the mid-exponential growth phase. Contrary to expectations, these mutations did not reduce the proton motive force or aminoglycoside uptake, as there were no significant changes in metabolic indicators or intracellular gentamicin levels between wild-type and mutant strains. Our comprehensive proteomics analysis unveiled a noteworthy upregulation of proteins linked to the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle in the mutant strains during the mid-exponential growth phase, suggesting that these strains compensate for the perturbation in their energy metabolism by increasing TCA cycle activity to maintain their membrane potential and ATP levels. Furthermore, our pathway enrichment analysis shed light on local network clusters displaying downregulation across all mutant strains, which were associated with both large and small ribosomal binding proteins, ribosome biogenesis, translation factor activity, and the biosynthesis of ribonucleoside monophosphates. These findings offer a plausible explanation for the observed tolerance of aminoglycosides in the mutant strains. Altogether, this research provides valuable insights into the mechanisms of aminoglycoside tolerance, paving the way for novel strategies to combat such cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rauf Shiraliyev
- William A. Brookshire Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of HoustonHoustonUnited States
| | - Mehmet A Orman
- William A. Brookshire Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of HoustonHoustonUnited States
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Walsh D, Parmenter C, Bakker SE, Lithgow T, Traven A, Harrison F. A new model of endotracheal tube biofilm identifies combinations of matrix-degrading enzymes and antimicrobials able to eradicate biofilms of pathogens that cause ventilator-associated pneumonia. MICROBIOLOGY (READING, ENGLAND) 2024; 170. [PMID: 39088248 DOI: 10.1099/mic.0.001480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/02/2024]
Abstract
Ventilator-associated pneumonia is defined as pneumonia that develops in a patient who has been on mechanical ventilation for more than 48 hours through an endotracheal tube. It is caused by biofilm formation on the indwelling tube, which introduces pathogenic microbes such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Candida albicans into the patient's lower airways. Currently, there is a lack of accurate in vitro models of ventilator-associated pneumonia development. This greatly limits our understanding of how the in-host environment alters pathogen physiology and the efficacy of ventilator-associated pneumonia prevention or treatment strategies. Here, we showcase a reproducible model that simulates the biofilm formation of these pathogens in a host-mimicking environment and demonstrate that the biofilm matrix produced differs from that observed in standard laboratory growth medium. In our model, pathogens are grown on endotracheal tube segments in the presence of a novel synthetic ventilated airway mucus medium that simulates the in-host environment. Matrix-degrading enzymes and cryo-scanning electron microscopy were employed to characterize the system in terms of biofilm matrix composition and structure, as compared to standard laboratory growth medium. As seen in patients, the biofilms of ventilator-associated pneumonia pathogens in our model either required very high concentrations of antimicrobials for eradication or could not be eradicated. However, combining matrix-degrading enzymes with antimicrobials greatly improved the biofilm eradication of all pathogens. Our in vitro endotracheal tube model informs on fundamental microbiology in the ventilator-associated pneumonia context and has broad applicability as a screening platform for antibiofilm measures including the use of matrix-degrading enzymes as antimicrobial adjuvants.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dean Walsh
- School of Life Sciences, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Chris Parmenter
- Nanoscale and Microscale Research Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Saskia E Bakker
- School of Life Sciences, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Trevor Lithgow
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Infection Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton 3800, Victoria, Australia
- Center To Impact AMR, Monash University, Clayton 3800, Victoria, Australia
| | - Ana Traven
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Infection Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton 3800, Victoria, Australia
- Center To Impact AMR, Monash University, Clayton 3800, Victoria, Australia
| | - Freya Harrison
- School of Life Sciences, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Liu T, Wang Y, Hou Z, Shi Z, Wang R, Shi Y, Hua L, Wu L, Xu M, Ding X, Sun Q. Effects of antibiotic cocktail on the fecal microbiota and their potential correlation of local immune response. BMC Microbiol 2024; 24:283. [PMID: 39085808 PMCID: PMC11290084 DOI: 10.1186/s12866-024-03424-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The guts of mammals are home to trillions of microbes, forming a complex and dynamic ecosystem. Gut microbiota is an important biological barrier for maintaining immune homeostasis. Recently, the use of antibiotics to clear gut microbiota has gained popularity as a low cost and easy-to-use alternative to germ-free animals. However, the effect of the duration of the antibiotic cocktail on the gut microbiome is unclear, and more importantly, the effect of dramatic changes in the gut microbiota on intestinal tissue morphology and local immune response is rarely reported. RESULTS We observed a significant reduction in fecal microbiota species and abundance after 1 week of exposure to an antibiotic cocktail, gavage twice daily by intragastric administration. In terms of composition, Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes were replaced by Proteobacteria. Extending antibiotic exposure to 2-3 weeks did not significantly improve the overall efficiency of microbiotal consumption. No significant histomorphological changes were observed in the first 2 weeks of antibiotic cocktail exposure, but the expression of inflammatory mediators in intestinal tissue was increased after 3 weeks of antibiotic cocktail exposure. Mendelian randomization analysis showed that Actinobacteria had a significant causal association with the increase of IL-1β (OR = 1.65, 95% CI = 1.23 to 2.21, P = 0.007) and TNF-α (OR = 1.81, 95% CI = 1.26 to 2.61, P = 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Our data suggest that treatment with an antibiotic cocktail lasting 1 week is sufficient to induce a significant reduction in gut microbes. 3 weeks of antibiotic exposure can lead to the colonization of persistant microbiota and cause changes in intestinal tissue and local immune responses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ting Liu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No.584, Binwen Road, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Yin Wang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No.584, Binwen Road, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Zhuoer Hou
- School of Nursing, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhenyu Shi
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University (Zhejiang Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine), Hangzhou, China
| | - Rongyun Wang
- School of Nursing, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yanan Shi
- School of Nursing, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lijiangshan Hua
- School of Nursing, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lingyun Wu
- School of Nursing, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Min Xu
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University (Zhejiang Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine), Hangzhou, China
| | - Xinghong Ding
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No.584, Binwen Road, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Qiuhua Sun
- School of Nursing, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Corral-Jara KF, Skírnisdóttir S, Knobloch S, Briem H, Cobo-Díaz JF, Carlino N, Bergsten P, Armanini F, Asnicar F, Pinto F, Alvarez-Ordóñez A, Segata N, Marteinsson VÞ. Inter-facility characterization of bacteria in seafood processing plants: Exploring potential reservoirs of spoilage organisms and the resistome. Heliyon 2024; 10:e33866. [PMID: 39071556 PMCID: PMC11283002 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e33866] [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: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 06/16/2024] [Accepted: 06/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024] Open
Abstract
A study was conducted in fish processing facilities to investigate the microbial composition, microbial metabolic potential, and distribution of antibiotic resistance genes. Whole metagenomic sequencing was used to analyze microbial communities from different processing rooms, operators and fish products. Taxonomic analyses identified the genera Pseudomonas and Psychrobacter as the most prevalent bacteria. A Principal Component Analysis revealed a distinct separation between fish product and environmental samples, as well as differences between fish product samples from companies processing either Gadidae or Salmonidae fish. Some particular bacterial genera and species were associated with specific processing rooms and operators. Metabolic analysis of metagenome assembled genomes demonstrated variations in microbiota metabolic profiles of microbiota across rooms and fish products. The study also examined the presence of antibiotic-resistance genes in fish processing environments, contributing to the understanding of microbial dynamics, metabolic potential, and implications for fish spoilage.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Stephen Knobloch
- Microbiology Research Group, Matís Ltd., C.P.113, Reykjavik, Iceland
- Department of Food Technology, Fulda University of Applied Sciences, C.P. 36037, Fulda, Germany
| | - Helgi Briem
- Microbiology Research Group, Matís Ltd., C.P.113, Reykjavik, Iceland
| | - José F. Cobo-Díaz
- Department of Food Hygiene and Technology, Universidad de León, C.P. 24071 Spain
| | - Niccolò Carlino
- Segata Lab, Department CIBIO, University of Trento (UNITN), C.P. 38122, Trento, Italy
| | - Pauline Bergsten
- Microbiology Research Group, Matís Ltd., C.P.113, Reykjavik, Iceland
| | - Federica Armanini
- Segata Lab, Department CIBIO, University of Trento (UNITN), C.P. 38122, Trento, Italy
| | - Francesco Asnicar
- Segata Lab, Department CIBIO, University of Trento (UNITN), C.P. 38122, Trento, Italy
| | - Federica Pinto
- Segata Lab, Department CIBIO, University of Trento (UNITN), C.P. 38122, Trento, Italy
| | | | - Nicola Segata
- Segata Lab, Department CIBIO, University of Trento (UNITN), C.P. 38122, Trento, Italy
| | - Viggó þór Marteinsson
- Microbiology Research Group, Matís Ltd., C.P.113, Reykjavik, Iceland
- Faculty of Food Science and Nutrition, University of Iceland, C.P. 102, Reykjavík, Iceland
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Jandl B, Dighe S, Gasche C, Makristathis A, Muttenthaler M. Intestinal biofilms: pathophysiological relevance, host defense, and therapeutic opportunities. Clin Microbiol Rev 2024:e0013323. [PMID: 38995034 DOI: 10.1128/cmr.00133-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/13/2024] Open
Abstract
SUMMARYThe human intestinal tract harbors a profound variety of microorganisms that live in symbiosis with the host and each other. It is a complex and highly dynamic environment whose homeostasis directly relates to human health. Dysbiosis of the gut microbiota and polymicrobial biofilms have been associated with gastrointestinal diseases, including irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel diseases, and colorectal cancers. This review covers the molecular composition and organization of intestinal biofilms, mechanistic aspects of biofilm signaling networks for bacterial communication and behavior, and synergistic effects in polymicrobial biofilms. It further describes the clinical relevance and diseases associated with gut biofilms, the role of biofilms in antimicrobial resistance, and the intestinal host defense system and therapeutic strategies counteracting biofilms. Taken together, this review summarizes the latest knowledge and research on intestinal biofilms and their role in gut disorders and provides directions toward the development of biofilm-specific treatments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bernhard Jandl
- Faculty of Chemistry, Institute of Biological Chemistry, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Vienna Doctoral School in Chemistry (DoSChem), University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Satish Dighe
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Christoph Gasche
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Loha for Life, Center for Gastroenterology and Iron Deficiency, Vienna, Austria
| | - Athanasios Makristathis
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Division of Clinical Microbiology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Markus Muttenthaler
- Faculty of Chemistry, Institute of Biological Chemistry, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Elbediwi M, Rolff J. Metabolic pathways and antimicrobial peptide resistance in bacteria. J Antimicrob Chemother 2024; 79:1473-1483. [PMID: 38742645 DOI: 10.1093/jac/dkae128] [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] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial resistance is a pressing concern that poses a significant threat to global public health, necessitating the exploration of alternative strategies to combat drug-resistant microbial infections. Recently, antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) have gained substantial attention as possible replacements for conventional antibiotics. Because of their pharmacodynamics and killing mechanisms, AMPs display a lower risk of bacterial resistance evolution compared with most conventional antibiotics. However, bacteria display different mechanisms to resist AMPs, and the role of metabolic pathways in the resistance mechanism is not fully understood. This review examines the intricate relationship between metabolic genes and AMP resistance, focusing on the impact of metabolic pathways on various aspects of resistance. Metabolic pathways related to guanosine pentaphosphate (pppGpp) and guanosine tetraphosphate (ppGpp) [collectively (p)ppGpp], the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle, haem biosynthesis, purine and pyrimidine biosynthesis, and amino acid and lipid metabolism influence in different ways metabolic adjustments, biofilm formation and energy production that could be involved in AMP resistance. By targeting metabolic pathways and their associated genes, it could be possible to enhance the efficacy of existing antimicrobial therapies and overcome the challenges exhibited by phenotypic (recalcitrance) and genetic resistance toward AMPs. Further research in this area is needed to provide valuable insights into specific mechanisms, uncover novel therapeutic targets, and aid in the fight against antimicrobial resistance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed Elbediwi
- Evolutionary Biology, Institute for Biology, Freie Universität Berlin, 14195 Berlin, Germany
- Animal Health Research Institute, Agriculture Research Centre, 12618 Cairo, Egypt
| | - Jens Rolff
- Evolutionary Biology, Institute for Biology, Freie Universität Berlin, 14195 Berlin, Germany
- Berlin-Brandenburg Institute of Advanced Biodiversity Research (BBIB), Berlin, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Guha M, Singh A, Butzin NC. Gram-positive bacteria are primed for surviving lethal doses of antibiotics and chemical stress. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.05.28.596288. [PMID: 38895422 PMCID: PMC11185512 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.28.596288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
Antibiotic resistance kills millions worldwide yearly. However, a major contributor to recurrent infections lies in a small fraction of bacterial cells, known as persisters. These cells are not inherently antibiotic-resistant, yet they lead to increased antibiotic usage, raising the risk of developing resistant progenies. In a bacterial population, individual cells exhibit considerable fluctuations in their gene expression levels despite being cultivated under identical, stable conditions. This variability in cell-to-cell characteristics (phenotypic diversity) within an isogenic population enables persister cells to withstand antibiotic exposure by entering a non-dividing state. We recently showed the existence of "primed cells" in E. coli. Primed cells are dividing cells prepared for antibiotic stress before encountering it and are more prone to form persisters. They also pass their "prepared state" down for several generations through epigenetic memory. Here, we show that primed cells are common among distant bacterial lineages, allowing for survival against antibiotics and other chemical stress, and form in different growth phases. They are also responsible for increased persister levels in transition and stationary phases compared to the log phase. We tested and showed that the Gram-positive bacterium Bacillus megaterium, evolutionarily very distant from E. coli, forms primed cells and has a transient epigenetic memory that is maintained for 7 generations or more. We showed this using ciprofloxacin and the non-antibiotic chemical stress fluoride. It is well established that persister levels are higher in the stationary phase than in the log phase, and B. megaterium persisters levels are nearly identical from the early to late-log phase but are ~2-fold and ~4-fold higher in the transition and stationary phase, respectively. It was previously proposed that there are two distinct types of persisters: Type II forms in the log phase, while Type I forms in the stationary phase. However, we show that primed cells lead to increased persisters in the transition and stationary phase and found no evidence of Type I or II persisters with distant phenotypes. Overall, we have provided substantial evidence of the importance of primed cells and their transitory epigenetic memories to surviving stress.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Manisha Guha
- Department of Biology and Microbiology; South Dakota State University; Brookings, SD, 57006; USA
| | - Abhyudai Singh
- Electrical & Computer Engineering; University of Delaware; Newark, DE 19716; USA
| | - Nicholas C. Butzin
- Department of Biology and Microbiology; South Dakota State University; Brookings, SD, 57006; USA
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry; South Dakota State University; Brookings, SD, 57006; USA
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Sanchez-Torres V, Kirigo J, Wood TK. Implications of lytic phage infections inducing persistence. Curr Opin Microbiol 2024; 79:102482. [PMID: 38714140 DOI: 10.1016/j.mib.2024.102482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2023] [Revised: 04/03/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/09/2024]
Abstract
Phage therapy holds much promise as an alternative to antibiotics for fighting infection. However, this approach is no panacea as recent results show that a small fraction of cells survives lytic phage infection due to both dormancy (i.e. formation of persister cells) and resistance (genetic change). In this brief review, we summarize evidence suggesting phages induce the persister state. Therefore, it is predicted that phage cocktails should be combined with antipersister compounds to eradicate bacterial infections.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Viviana Sanchez-Torres
- Escuela de Ingeniería Química, Universidad Industrial de Santander, Bucaramanga, Colombia
| | - Joy Kirigo
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
| | - Thomas K Wood
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Rolon ML, Voloshchuk O, Bartlett KV, LaBorde LF, Kovac J. Multi-species biofilms of environmental microbiota isolated from fruit packing facilities promoted tolerance of Listeria monocytogenes to benzalkonium chloride. Biofilm 2024; 7:100177. [PMID: 38304489 PMCID: PMC10832383 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioflm.2024.100177] [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: 11/07/2023] [Revised: 01/06/2024] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Listeria monocytogenes may survive and persist in food processing environments due to formation of complex multi-species biofilms of environmental microbiota that co-exists in these environments. This study aimed to determine the effect of selected environmental microbiota on biofilm formation and tolerance of L. monocytogenes to benzalkonium chloride in formed biofilms. The studied microbiota included bacterial families previously shown to co-occur with L. monocytogenes in tree fruit packing facilities, including Pseudomonadaceae, Xanthomonadaceae, Microbacteriaceae, and Flavobacteriaceae. Biofilm formation ability and the effect of formed biofilms on the tolerance of L. monocytogenes to benzalkonium chloride was measured in single- and multi-family assemblages. Biofilms were grown statically on polystyrene pegs submerged in a R2A broth. Biofilm formation was quantified using a crystal violet assay, spread-plating, confocal laser scanning microscopy, and its composition was assessed using amplicon sequencing. The concentration of L. monocytogenes in biofilms was determined using the most probable number method. Biofilms were exposed to the sanitizer benzalkonium chloride, and the death kinetics of L. monocytogenes were quantified using a most probable number method. A total of 8, 8, 6, and 3 strains of Pseudomonadaceae, Xanthomonadaceae, Microbacteriaceae, and Flavobacteriaceae, respectively, were isolated from the environmental microbiota of tree fruit packing facilities and were used in this study. Biofilms formed by Pseudomonadaceae, Xanthomonadaceae, and all multi-family assemblages had significantly higher concentration of bacteria, as well as L. monocytogenes, compared to biofilms formed by L. monocytogenes alone. Furthermore, multi-family assemblage biofilms increased the tolerance of L. monocytogenes to benzalkonium chloride compared to L. monocytogenes mono-species biofilms and planktonic multi-family assemblages. These findings suggest that L. monocytogenes control strategies should focus not only on assessing the efficacy of sanitizers against L. monocytogenes, but also against biofilm-forming microorganisms that reside in the food processing built environment, such as Pseudomonadaceae or Xanthomonadaceae.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M. Laura Rolon
- Department of Food Science, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA
- One Health Microbiome Center, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA
| | - Olena Voloshchuk
- Department of Food Science, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA
| | - Katelyn V. Bartlett
- Department of Food Science, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA
| | - Luke F. LaBorde
- Department of Food Science, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA
| | - Jasna Kovac
- Department of Food Science, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA
- One Health Microbiome Center, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Khosravi A, Chen Q, Echterhof A, Koff JL, Bollyky PL. Phage Therapy for Respiratory Infections: Opportunities and Challenges. Lung 2024; 202:223-232. [PMID: 38772946 DOI: 10.1007/s00408-024-00700-7] [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: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/23/2024]
Abstract
We are entering the post-antibiotic era. Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a critical problem in chronic lung infections resulting in progressive respiratory failure and increased mortality. In the absence of emerging novel antibiotics to counter AMR infections, bacteriophages (phages), viruses that infect bacteria, have become a promising option for chronic respiratory infections. However, while personalized phage therapy is associated with improved outcomes in individual cases, clinical trials demonstrating treatment efficacy are lacking, limiting the therapeutic potential of this approach for respiratory infections. In this review, we address the current state of phage therapy for managing chronic respiratory diseases. We then discuss how phage therapy may address major microbiologic obstacles which hinder disease resolution of chronic lung infections with current antibiotic-based treatment practices. Finally, we highlight the challenges that must be addressed for successful phage therapy clinical trials. Through this discussion, we hope to expand on the potential of phages as an adjuvant therapy in chronic lung infections, as well as the microbiologic challenges that need to be addressed for phage therapy to expand beyond personalized salvage therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Arya Khosravi
- Division of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Stanford University, 279 Campus Drive, Beckman Center, Room B237, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA.
| | - Qingquan Chen
- Division of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Arne Echterhof
- Division of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Jonathan L Koff
- Section of Pulmonary, Critical Care & Sleep Medicine, School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Paul L Bollyky
- Division of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Cardoso P, Pinto R, Lopes T, Figueira E. How Bacteria Cope with Oxidative Stress Induced by Cadmium: Volatile Communication Is Differentially Perceived among Strains. Antioxidants (Basel) 2024; 13:565. [PMID: 38790670 PMCID: PMC11118407 DOI: 10.3390/antiox13050565] [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: 03/20/2024] [Revised: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Soil is an environment with numerous niches, where bacteria are exposed to diverse conditions. Some bacteria are exposed earlier than others to pressure, and the emission of signals that other bacteria can receive and perceive may allow a better response to an eminent stimulus. To shed light on how bacteria trigger their response and adapt to changes in the environment, the intra- and interspecific influences of volatiles on bacterial strains growing under non-stressed and cadmium-stressed conditions were assessed. Each strain was exposed to its volatiles emitted by cells growing under different conditions to test whether the environment in which a cell grows influences neighboring cells. The five genera tested showed different responses, with Rhizobium displaying the greatest influence. In a second experiment, 13 strains from different genera were grown under control conditions but exposed to volatiles released by Cd-stressed Rhizobium cells to ascertain whether Rhizobium's observed influence was strain-specific or broader. Our results showed that the volatiles emitted by some bacteria under stress are differentially perceived and translated into biochemical changes (growth, alteration of the antioxidant response, and oxidative damage) by other bacteria, which may increase the adaptability and resilience of bacterial communities to environmental changes, especially those with a prooxidant nature. Cadmium (Cd) contamination of soils constitutes a risk to the environment and human health. Here, we showed the effects of Cd exposure on bacteria and how volatile communication influences the biochemistry related to coping with oxidative stress. This knowledge can be important for remediation and risk assessment and highlights that new biological features, such as volatile communication, should be considered when studying and assessing the impact of contaminants on soil ecosystems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paulo Cardoso
- Department of Biology, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal; (P.C.); (R.P.); (T.L.)
- CESAM—Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Ricardo Pinto
- Department of Biology, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal; (P.C.); (R.P.); (T.L.)
- CESAM—Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Tiago Lopes
- Department of Biology, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal; (P.C.); (R.P.); (T.L.)
- CESAM—Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Etelvina Figueira
- Department of Biology, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal; (P.C.); (R.P.); (T.L.)
- CESAM—Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Mikhailovich V, Heydarov R, Zimenkov D, Chebotar I. Stenotrophomonas maltophilia virulence: a current view. Front Microbiol 2024; 15:1385631. [PMID: 38741741 PMCID: PMC11089167 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2024.1385631] [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: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Stenotrophomonas maltophilia is an opportunistic pathogen intrinsically resistant to multiple and broad-spectrum antibiotics. Although the bacterium is considered a low-virulence pathogen, it can cause various severe diseases and contributes significantly to the pathogenesis of multibacterial infections. During the COVID-19 pandemic, S. maltophilia has been recognized as one of the most common causative agents of respiratory co-infections and bacteremia in critically ill COVID-19 patients. The high ability to adapt to unfavorable environments and new habitat niches, as well as the sophisticated switching of metabolic pathways, are unique mechanisms that attract the attention of clinical researchers and experts studying the fundamental basis of virulence. In this review, we have summarized the current knowledge on the molecular aspects of S. maltophilia virulence and putative virulence factors, partially touched on interspecific bacterial interactions and iron uptake systems in the context of virulence, and have not addressed antibiotic resistance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vladimir Mikhailovich
- Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Rustam Heydarov
- Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Danila Zimenkov
- Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Igor Chebotar
- Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russia
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Ismail AS, Berryhill BA, Gil-Gil T, Manuel JA, Smith AP, Baquero F, Levin BR. The Tradeoffs Between Persistence and Mutation Rates at Sub-Inhibitory Antibiotic Concentrations in Staphylococcus aureus. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.04.01.587561. [PMID: 38617265 PMCID: PMC11014548 DOI: 10.1101/2024.04.01.587561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Abstract
The rational design of the antibiotic treatment of bacterial infections employs these drugs to reach concentrations that exceed the minimum needed to prevent the replication of the target bacteria. However, within a treated patient, spatial and physiological heterogeneity promotes antibiotic gradients such that the concentration of antibiotics at specific sites is below the minimum needed to inhibit bacterial growth. Here, we investigate the effects of sub-inhibitory antibiotic concentrations on three parameters central to bacterial infection and the success of antibiotic treatment, using in vitro experiments with Staphylococcus aureus and mathematical-computer simulation models. Our results, using drugs of six different classes, demonstrate that exposure to sub-inhibitory antibiotic concentrations not only alters the dynamics of bacterial growth but also increases the mutation rate to antibiotic resistance and decreases the rate of production of persister cells thereby reducing the persistence level. Understanding this trade-off between mutation rates and persistence levels resulting from sub-inhibitory antibiotic exposure is crucial for optimizing, and mitigating the failure of, antibiotic therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Brandon A. Berryhill
- Department of Biology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
- Program in Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Graduate Division of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Laney Graduate School, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Teresa Gil-Gil
- Department of Biology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | | | - Andrew P. Smith
- Department of Biology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Fernando Baquero
- Servicio de Microbiología, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria, and Centro de Investigación Médica en Red, Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP) Madrid, Spain
| | - Bruce R. Levin
- Department of Biology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
- Emory Antibiotic Resistance Center, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Jeong Y, Ahmad S, Irudayaraj J. Dynamic Effect of β-Lactam Antibiotic Inactivation Due to the Inter- and Intraspecies Interaction of Drug-Resistant Microbes. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2024; 10:1461-1472. [PMID: 38315631 PMCID: PMC10936524 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.3c01678] [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: 11/12/2023] [Revised: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
The presence of β-lactamase positive microorganisms imparts a pharmacological effect on a variety of organisms that can impact drug efficacy by influencing the function or composition of bacteria. Although studies to assess dynamic intra- and interspecies communication with bacterial communities exist, the efficacy of drug treatment and quantitative assessment of multiorganism response is not well understood due to the lack of technological advances that can be used to study coculture interactions in a dynamic format. In this study, we investigate how β-lactamase positive microorganisms can neutralize the effect of β-lactam antibiotics in a dynamic format at the inter- and intraspecies level using microbial bead technology. Three interactive models for the biological compartmentalization of organisms were demonstrated to evaluate the effect of β-lactam antibiotics on coculture systems. Our model at the intraspecies level attempts to mimic the biofilm matrix more closely as a community-level feature of microorganisms, which acknowledges the impact of nondrug-resistant species in shaping the dynamic response. In particular, the results of intraspecies studies are highly supportive of the biofilm mode of bacterial growth, which can provide structural support and protect the bacteria from an assault on host or environmental factors. Our findings also indicate that β-lactamase positive bacteria can neutralize the cytotoxic effect of β-lactam antibiotics at the interspecies level when cocultured with cancer cells. Results were validated using β-lactamase positive bacteria isolated from environmental niches, which can trigger phenotypical alteration of β-lactams when cocultured with other organisms. Our compartmentalization strategy acts as an independent ecosystem and provides a new avenue for multiscale studies to assess intra- and interspecies interactions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yoon Jeong
- Department
of Bioengineering, University of Illinois
at Urbana−Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
- Cancer
Center at Illinois, University of Illinois
at Urbana−Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
- Biomedical
Research Center, Mills Breast Cancer Institute, Carle Foundation Hospital, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Saeed Ahmad
- Department
of Bioengineering, University of Illinois
at Urbana−Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
- Biomedical
Research Center, Mills Breast Cancer Institute, Carle Foundation Hospital, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Joseph Irudayaraj
- Department
of Bioengineering, University of Illinois
at Urbana−Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
- Cancer
Center at Illinois, University of Illinois
at Urbana−Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
- Biomedical
Research Center, Mills Breast Cancer Institute, Carle Foundation Hospital, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
- Carle
R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, Beckman Institute, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Schmitt DS, Siegel SD, Selle K. Applications of designer phage encoding recombinant gene payloads. Trends Biotechnol 2024; 42:326-338. [PMID: 37833198 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2023.09.008] [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: 06/23/2023] [Revised: 09/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023]
Abstract
Advances in genetic engineering, synthetic biology, and DNA sequencing have transformed the re-emergent therapeutic bacteriophage field. The increasing rate of multidrug resistant (MDR) infections and the speed at which new bacteriophages can be isolated, sequenced, characterized, and engineered has reinvigorated phage therapy and unlocked new applications of phages for modulating bacteria. The methods used to genetically engineer bacteriophages are undergoing significant development, but identification of heterologous gene payloads with desirable activity and determination of their impact on bacteria or human cells in translationally relevant applications remain underexplored areas. Here, we discuss and categorize recombinant gene payloads for their potential outcome on phage-bacteria interactions when genetically engineered into phage genomes for expression in their bacterial hosts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel S Schmitt
- Biomanufacturing Training and Education Center, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Sara D Siegel
- Biomanufacturing Training and Education Center, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Kurt Selle
- Biomanufacturing Training and Education Center, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Liu X, Xia X, Liu Y, Li Z, Shi T, Zhang H, Dong Q. Recent advances on the formation, detection, resistance mechanism, and control technology of Listeria monocytogenes biofilm in food industry. Food Res Int 2024; 180:114067. [PMID: 38395584 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodres.2024.114067] [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: 10/20/2023] [Revised: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
Listeria monocytogenes is an important foodborne pathogen that causes listeriosis, a severe and fatal condition. Biofilms are communities of microorganisms nested within a self-secreted extracellular polymeric substance, and they protect L. monocytogenes from environmental stresses. Biofilms, once formed, can lead to the persistence of L. monocytogenes in processing equipment and are therefore considered to be a major concern for the food industry. This paper briefly introduces the recent advancements on biofilm formation characteristics and detection methods, and focuses on analysis of the mechanism of L. monocytogenes biofilm resistance; Moreover, this paper also summarizes and discusses the existing different techniques of L. monocytogenes biofilm control according to the physical, chemical, biological, and combined strategies, to provide a theoretical reference to aid the choice of effective control technology in the food industry.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xin Liu
- School of Health Science and Engineering, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai 200093, China.
| | - Xuejuan Xia
- School of Health Science and Engineering, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai 200093, China.
| | - Yangtai Liu
- School of Health Science and Engineering, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai 200093, China.
| | - Zhuosi Li
- School of Health Science and Engineering, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai 200093, China.
| | - Tianqi Shi
- Shanghai Municipal Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shanghai 200336, China.
| | - Hongzhi Zhang
- Shanghai Municipal Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shanghai 200336, China.
| | - Qingli Dong
- School of Health Science and Engineering, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai 200093, China.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Li J, Yu Y, Zhou Y, Song J, Yang A, Wang M, Li Y, Wan M, Zhang C, Yang H, Bai Y, Wong WL, Pu H, Feng X. Multi-targeting oligopyridiniums: Rational design for biofilm dispersion and bacterial persister eradication. Bioorg Chem 2024; 144:107163. [PMID: 38306825 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2024.107163] [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: 10/19/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/27/2024] [Indexed: 02/04/2024]
Abstract
The development of effective antibacterial drugs to combat bacterial infections, particularly the biofilm-related infections, remains a challenge. There are two important features of bacterial biofilms, which are well-known critical factors causing biofilms hard-to-treat in clinical, including the dense and impermeable extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) and the metabolically repressed dormant and persistent bacterial population embedded. These characteristics largely increase the difficulty for regular antibiotic treatment due to insufficient penetration into EPS. In addition, the dormant bacteria are insensitive to the growth-inhibiting mechanism of traditional antibiotics. Herein, we explore the potential of a series of new oligopyridinium-based oligomers bearing a multi-biomacromolecule targeting function as the potent bacterial biofilm eradication agent. These oligomers were rationally designed to be "charge-on-backbone" that can offer a special alternating amphiphilicity. This novel and unique feature endows high affinity to bacterial membrane lipids, DNAs as well as proteins. Such a broad multi-targeting nature of molecules not only enables its penetration into EPS, but also plays vital roles in the bactericidal mechanism of action that is highly effective against dormant and persistent bacteria. Our in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo studies demonstrated that OPc3, one of the most effective derivatives, was able to offer excellent antibacterial potency against a variety of bacteria and effectively eliminate biofilms in zebrafish models and mouse wound biofilm infection models.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiaqi Li
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Nanomedicine, State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomacromolecular Chemical Biology, and School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, Hunan 410082, China
| | - Yue Yu
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Nanomedicine, State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomacromolecular Chemical Biology, and School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, Hunan 410082, China
| | - Yu Zhou
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Nanomedicine, State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomacromolecular Chemical Biology, and School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, Hunan 410082, China
| | - Junfeng Song
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Nanomedicine, State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomacromolecular Chemical Biology, and School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, Hunan 410082, China
| | - Anming Yang
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Nanomedicine, State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomacromolecular Chemical Biology, and School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, Hunan 410082, China
| | - Min Wang
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Nanomedicine, State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomacromolecular Chemical Biology, and School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, Hunan 410082, China
| | - Youzhi Li
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Nanomedicine, State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomacromolecular Chemical Biology, and School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, Hunan 410082, China
| | - Muyang Wan
- College of Biology, Hunan University, Changsha, Hunan 410082, China
| | - Chunhui Zhang
- College of Biology, Hunan University, Changsha, Hunan 410082, China
| | - Huan Yang
- Xuzhou Key Laboratory of Laboratory Diagnostics, School of Medical Technology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou 221004, China.
| | - Yugang Bai
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Nanomedicine, State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomacromolecular Chemical Biology, and School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, Hunan 410082, 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, Hung Hom, Kowloon 999077, Hong Kong, China Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.
| | - Huangsheng Pu
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Nanomedicine, State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomacromolecular Chemical Biology, and School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, Hunan 410082, China; College of Biology, Hunan University, Changsha, Hunan 410082, China; College of Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies & Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Novel Nano Optoelectronic Information Materials and Devices, National University of Defense Technology, Changsha, Hunan 410073, China; Nanhu Laser Laboratory, National University of Defense Technology, Changsha 410073, China.
| | - Xinxin Feng
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Nanomedicine, State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomacromolecular Chemical Biology, and School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, Hunan 410082, China.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Karimaei S, Aghamir SMK, Pourmand MR. Comparative analysis of genes expression involved in type II toxin-antitoxin system in Staphylococcus aureus following persister cell formation. Mol Biol Rep 2024; 51:324. [PMID: 38393536 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-023-09179-6] [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: 07/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The formation of persister cells is the main reason for persistent infections. They are associated with antibiotic treatment failure and subsequently chronic infection. The study aimed to assess the expression of type II toxin/antitoxin (TA) system genes in persister cells of Staphylococcus aureus in the presence of the following antibiotics vancomycin, ciprofloxacin, and gentamicin in exponential and stationary phases. METHODS AND RESULTS The colony count was used to evaluate the effect of different types of antibiotics on S. aureus persister cell formation during exponential and stationary phases. Moreover, the expression level of TA systems and clpP genes in the persister population in exponential and stationary phases were measured by quantitative reverse transcriptase real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). The results of the study showed the presence of persister phenotype of S. aureus strains in the attendance of bactericidal antibiotics in comparison to the control group during the exponential and stationary phases. Moreover, qRT-PCR resulted in the fact that the role of TA systems involved in the persister cell formation depends on the bacterial growth phase and the type of strain and antibiotic. CONCLUSIONS In total, the present study provides some data on the persister cell formation and the possible role of TA system genes in this process.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samira Karimaei
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Mohammad Reza Pourmand
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Public Health and Biotechnology Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Ezeh CK, Dibua MEU. Anti-biofilm, drug delivery and cytotoxicity properties of dendrimers. ADMET AND DMPK 2024; 12:239-267. [PMID: 38720923 PMCID: PMC11075165 DOI: 10.5599/admet.1917] [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: 06/01/2023] [Revised: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Background and purpose Treatments using antimicrobial agents have faced many difficulties as a result of biofilm formation by pathogenic microorganisms. The biofilm matrix formed by these microorganisms prevents antimicrobial agents from penetrating the interior where they can exact their activity effectively. Additionally, extracellular polymeric molecules associated with biofilm surfaces can absorb antimicrobial compounds, lowering their bioavailability. This problem has resulted in the quest for alternative treatment protocols, and the development of nanomaterials and devices through nanotechnology has recently been on the rise. Research approach The literature on dendrimers was searched for in databases such as Google Scholar, PubMed, and ScienceDirect. Key results As a nanomaterial, dendrimers have found useful applications as a drug delivery vehicle for antimicrobial agents against biofilm-mediated infections to circumvent these defense mechanisms. The distinctive properties of dendrimers, such as multi-valency, biocompatibility, high water solubility, non-immunogenicity, and biofilm matrix-/cell membrane fusogenicity (ability to merge with intracellular membrane or other proteins), significantly increase the efficacy of antimicrobial agents and reduce the likelihood of recurring infections. Conclusion This review outlines the current state of dendrimer carriers for biofilm treatments, provides examples of their real-world uses, and examines potential drawbacks.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christian K. Ezeh
- University of Nigeria, Department of Microbiology, Nsukka, Enugu State, Nigeria
| | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Mortazavi SMJ, Said-Salman I, Mortazavi AR, El Khatib S, Sihver L. How the adaptation of the human microbiome to harsh space environment can determine the chances of success for a space mission to Mars and beyond. Front Microbiol 2024; 14:1237564. [PMID: 38390219 PMCID: PMC10881706 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1237564] [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: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
The ability of human cells to adapt to space radiation is essential for the well-being of astronauts during long-distance space expeditions, such as voyages to Mars or other deep space destinations. However, the adaptation of the microbiomes should not be overlooked. Microorganisms inside an astronaut's body, or inside the space station or other spacecraft, will also be exposed to radiation, which may induce resistance to antibiotics, UV, heat, desiccation, and other life-threatening factors. Therefore, it is essential to consider the potential effects of radiation not only on humans but also on their microbiomes to develop effective risk reduction strategies for space missions. Studying the human microbiome in space missions can have several potential benefits, including but not limited to a better understanding of the major effects space travel has on human health, developing new technologies for monitoring health and developing new radiation therapies and treatments. While radioadaptive response in astronauts' cells can lead to resistance against high levels of space radiation, radioadaptive response in their microbiome can lead to resistance against UV, heat, desiccation, antibiotics, and radiation. As astronauts and their microbiomes compete to adapt to the space environment. The microorganisms may emerge as the winners, leading to life-threatening situations due to lethal infections. Therefore, understanding the magnitude of the adaptation of microorganisms before launching a space mission is crucial to be able to develop effective strategies to mitigate the risks associated with radiation exposure. Ensuring the safety and well-being of astronauts during long-duration space missions and minimizing the risks linked with radiation exposure can be achieved by adopting this approach.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Seyed Mohammad Javad Mortazavi
- Ionizing and non-ionizing radiation protection research center (INIRPRC), Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Ilham Said-Salman
- Department of Biological and Chemical Sciences, School of Arts & Sciences, Lebanese International University, Saida, Lebanon
- Department of Biological and Chemical Sciences, International University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | | | - Sami El Khatib
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Arts and Sciences, Lebanese International University, Beirut, Lebanon
- Center for Applied Mathematics and Bioinformatics (CAMB) at Gulf University for Science and Technology, Kuwait City, Kuwait
| | - Lembit Sihver
- Department of Radiation Dosimetry, Nuclear Physics Institute (NPI) of the Czech Academy of Sciences (CAS), Prague, Czechia
- Department of Radiation Physics, Technische Universität Wien Atominstitut, Vienna, Austria
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Kashevarova NM, Khaova EA, Tkachenko AG. The regulatory effects of (p)ppGpp and indole on cAMP synthesis in Escherichia coli cells. Vavilovskii Zhurnal Genet Selektsii 2024; 28:15-23. [PMID: 38465243 PMCID: PMC10917672 DOI: 10.18699/vjgb-24-03] [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: 07/14/2023] [Revised: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Bacterial stress adaptive response is formed due to changes in the cell gene expression profile in response to alterations in environmental conditions through the functioning of regulatory networks. The mutual influence of network signaling molecules represented by cells' natural metabolites, including indole and second messengers (p) ppGpp and cAMP, is hitherto not well understood, being the aim of this study. E. coli parent strain BW25141 ((p) ppGpp+) and deletion knockout BW25141ΔrelAΔspoT which is unable to synthesize (p)ppGpp ((p)ppGpp0) were cultivated in M9 medium supplemented with different glucose concentrations (5.6 and 22.2 mM) in the presence of tryptophan as a substrate for indole synthesis and in its absence. The glucose content was determined with the glucose oxidase method; the indole content, by means of HPLC; and the cAMP concentration, by ELISA. The onset of an increase in initially low intracellular cAMP content coincided with the depletion of glucose in the medium. Maximum cAMP accumulation in the cells was proportional to the concentration of initially added glucose. At the same time, the (p) ppGpp0 mutant showed a decrease in maximum cAMP levels compared to the (p)ppGpp+ parent, which was the most pronounced in the medium with 22.2 mM glucose. So, (p)ppGpp was able to positively regulate cAMP formation. The promoter of the tryptophanase operon responsible for indole biosynthesis is known to be under the positive control of catabolic repression. Therefore, in the cells of the (p)ppGpp+ strain grown in the tryptophan-free medium that were characterized by a low rate of spontaneous indole formation, its synthesis significantly increased in response to the rising cAMP level just after glucose depletion. However, this was not observed in the (p)ppGpp0 mutant cells with reduced cAMP accumulation. When tryptophan was added to the medium, both of these strains demonstrated high indole production, which was accompanied by a decrease in cAMP accumulation compared to the tryptophan-free control. Thus, under glucose depletion, (p)ppGpp can positively regulate the accumulation of both cAMP and indole, while the latter, in its turn, has a negative effect on cAMP formation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- N M Kashevarova
- Institute of Ecology and Genetics of Microorganisms of the Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Perm, Russia
| | - E A Khaova
- Institute of Ecology and Genetics of Microorganisms of the Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Perm, Russia
| | - A G Tkachenko
- Institute of Ecology and Genetics of Microorganisms of the Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Perm, Russia
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Chatterjee P, Chauhan N, Jain U. Confronting antibiotic-resistant pathogens: Distinctive drug delivery potentials of progressive nanoparticles. Microb Pathog 2024; 187:106499. [PMID: 38097117 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2023.106499] [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: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2024]
Abstract
Antimicrobial resistance arises over time, usually due to genetic modifications. Global observations of high resistance rates to popular antibiotics used to treat common bacterial diseases, such as diarrhea, STIs, sepsis, and urinary tract infections, indicate that our supply of effective antibiotics is running low. The mechanisms of action of several antibiotic groups are covered in this review. Antimicrobials disrupt the development and metabolism of bacteria, leading to their eventual death. However, in recent years, microorganisms become resistant to the drugs. Bacteria encode resistant genes against antibiotics and inhibit the function of antibiotics by reducing the uptake of drugs, modifying the enzyme's active site, synthesizing enzymes to degrade antibiotics, and changing the structure of ribosomal subunits. Additionally, the methods of action of resistant bacteria against different kinds of antibiotics as well as their modes of action are discussed. Besides, the resistant pathogenic bacteria which get the most priority by World Health Organisation (WHO) for synthesizing new drugs, have also been incorporated. To overcome antimicrobial resistance, nanomaterials are used to increase the efficacy of antimicrobial drugs. Metallic, inorganic, and polymer-based nanoparticles once conjugated with antibacterial drugs, exhibit synergistic effects by increasing the efficacy of the drugs by inhibiting bacterial growth. Nanomaterial's toxic properties are proportional to their concentrations. Higher concentration nanomaterials are more toxic to the cells. In this review, the toxic properties of nanomaterials on lung cells, lymph nodes, and neuronal cells are also summarized.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pallabi Chatterjee
- School of Health Sciences & Technology (SoHST), University of Petroleum and Energy Studies (UPES), Bidholi, 248007, Dehradun, India
| | - Nidhi Chauhan
- School of Health Sciences & Technology (SoHST), University of Petroleum and Energy Studies (UPES), Bidholi, 248007, Dehradun, India
| | - Utkarsh Jain
- School of Health Sciences & Technology (SoHST), University of Petroleum and Energy Studies (UPES), Bidholi, 248007, Dehradun, India.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Vasudevan S, David H, Chanemougam L, Ramani J, Ramesh Sangeetha M, Solomon AP. Emergence of persister cells in Staphylococcus aureus: calculated or fortuitous move? Crit Rev Microbiol 2024; 50:64-75. [PMID: 36548910 DOI: 10.1080/1040841x.2022.2159319] [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: 11/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
A stable but reversible phenotype switch from normal to persister state is advantageous to the intracellular pathogens to cause recurrent infections and to evade the host immune system. Staphylococcus aureus is a versatile opportunistic pathogen known to cause chronic infections with significant mortality. One of the notable features is the ability to switch to a per-sisters cell, which is found in planktonic and biofilm states. This phenotypic switch is always an open question to explore the hidden fundamental science that coheres with a calculated or fortuitous move. Toxin-antitoxin modules, nutrient stress, and an erroneous translation-enabled state of dormancy entail this persistent behaviour in S. aureus. It is paramount to get a clear picture of why the cell chooses to enter a persistent condition, as it would decide the course of treatment. Analyzing the exit from a persistent state to an active state and the subsequent repercussion of this transition is essential to determine its role in chronic infections. This review attempts to provide a constructed argument discussing the most widely accepted mechanisms and identifying the various attributes of persistence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sahana Vasudevan
- Quorum Sensing Laboratory, Centre for Research in Infectious Diseases (CRID), School of Chemical and Biotechnology, SASTRA Deemed to be University, Thanjavur, India
| | - Helma David
- Quorum Sensing Laboratory, Centre for Research in Infectious Diseases (CRID), School of Chemical and Biotechnology, SASTRA Deemed to be University, Thanjavur, India
| | - Lakshmi Chanemougam
- Quorum Sensing Laboratory, Centre for Research in Infectious Diseases (CRID), School of Chemical and Biotechnology, SASTRA Deemed to be University, Thanjavur, India
| | - Jayalakshmi Ramani
- Quorum Sensing Laboratory, Centre for Research in Infectious Diseases (CRID), School of Chemical and Biotechnology, SASTRA Deemed to be University, Thanjavur, India
| | - Maanasa Ramesh Sangeetha
- Quorum Sensing Laboratory, Centre for Research in Infectious Diseases (CRID), School of Chemical and Biotechnology, SASTRA Deemed to be University, Thanjavur, India
| | - Adline Princy Solomon
- Quorum Sensing Laboratory, Centre for Research in Infectious Diseases (CRID), School of Chemical and Biotechnology, SASTRA Deemed to be University, Thanjavur, India
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
McDonald MD, Owusu-Ansah C, Ellenbogen JB, Malone ZD, Ricketts MP, Frolking SE, Ernakovich JG, Ibba M, Bagby SC, Weissman JL. What is microbial dormancy? Trends Microbiol 2024; 32:142-150. [PMID: 37689487 DOI: 10.1016/j.tim.2023.08.006] [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: 03/10/2023] [Revised: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/11/2023]
Abstract
Life can be stressful. One way to deal with stress is to simply wait it out. Microbes do this by entering a state of reduced activity and increased resistance commonly called 'dormancy'. But what is dormancy? Different scientific disciplines emphasize distinct traits and phenotypic ranges in defining dormancy for their microbial species and system-specific questions of interest. Here, we propose a unified definition of microbial dormancy, using a broad framework to place earlier discipline-specific definitions in a new context. We then discuss how this new definition and framework may improve our ability to investigate dormancy using multi-omics tools. Finally, we leverage our framework to discuss the diversity of genomic mechanisms for dormancy in an extreme environment that challenges easy definitions - the permafrost.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mark D McDonald
- Argonne National Laboratory, Environmental Sciences Division, Lemont, IL 60439, USA
| | | | - Jared B Ellenbogen
- EMergent Ecosystem Response to ChanGE (EMERGE) Biology Integration Institute, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA; Colorado State University, Department of Soil and Crop Sciences, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA
| | - Zachary D Malone
- University of California, Merced Environmental Systems Graduate Group, Merced, CA 95343, USA
| | - Michael P Ricketts
- Argonne National Laboratory, Environmental Sciences Division, Lemont, IL 60439, USA
| | - Steve E Frolking
- EMergent Ecosystem Response to ChanGE (EMERGE) Biology Integration Institute, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA; University of New Hampshire, Institute for the Study of Earth, Oceans, and Space, Durham, NH 03824, USA
| | - Jessica Gilman Ernakovich
- EMergent Ecosystem Response to ChanGE (EMERGE) Biology Integration Institute, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA; University of New Hampshire, Natural Resources and the Environment, Durham, NH 03824, USA
| | - Michael Ibba
- EMergent Ecosystem Response to ChanGE (EMERGE) Biology Integration Institute, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA; Chapman University, Schmid College of Science and Technology, Orange, CA 92866, USA
| | - Sarah C Bagby
- EMergent Ecosystem Response to ChanGE (EMERGE) Biology Integration Institute, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA; Case Western Reserve University, Department of Biology, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - J L Weissman
- Chapman University, Schmid College of Science and Technology, Orange, CA 92866, USA; University of Southern California, Department of Biological Sciences, Los Angeles, CA 90007, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Fernández-García L, Song S, Kirigo J, Battisti ME, Petersen ME, Tomás M, Wood TK. Toxin/antitoxin systems induce persistence and work in concert with restriction/modification systems to inhibit phage. Microbiol Spectr 2024; 12:e0338823. [PMID: 38054715 PMCID: PMC10783111 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.03388-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE To date, there are no reports of phage infection-inducing persistence. Therefore, our results are important since we show for the first time that a phage-defense system, the MqsRAC toxin/antitoxin system, allows the host to survive infection by forming persister cells, rather than inducing cell suicide. Moreover, we demonstrate that the MqsRAC system works in concert with restriction/modification systems. These results imply that if phage therapy is to be successful, anti-persister compounds need to be administered along with phages.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Fernández-García
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, USA
- Microbiology Department of Hospital A Coruña (CHUAC), Microbiology Translational and Multidisciplinary (MicroTM)-Research Institute Biomedical A Coruña (INIBIC) and University of A Coruña (UDC), A Coruña, Spain
| | - Sooyeon Song
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, USA
- Department of Animal Science, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju-Si, Jellabuk-Do, South Korea
- Agricultural Convergence Technology, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju-Si, Jellabuk-Do, South Korea
| | - Joy Kirigo
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Michael E. Battisti
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Maiken E. Petersen
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, USA
- Interdisciplinary Nanoscience Center, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - María Tomás
- Microbiology Department of Hospital A Coruña (CHUAC), Microbiology Translational and Multidisciplinary (MicroTM)-Research Institute Biomedical A Coruña (INIBIC) and University of A Coruña (UDC), A Coruña, Spain
| | - Thomas K. Wood
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, USA
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Vo L, Avgidis F, Mattingly HH, Balasubramanian R, Shimizu TS, Kazmierczak BI, Emonet T. Non-genetic adaptation by collective migration. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.01.02.573956. [PMID: 38260286 PMCID: PMC10802332 DOI: 10.1101/2024.01.02.573956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
Collective behaviors require coordination of individuals. Thus, a population must adjust its phenotypic distribution to adapt to changing environments. How can a population regulate its phenotypic distribution? One strategy is to utilize specialized networks for gene regulation and maintaining distinct phenotypic subsets. Another involves genetic mutations, which can be augmented by stress-response pathways. Here, we studied how a migrating bacterial population regulates its phenotypic distribution to traverse across diverse environments. We generated isogenic Escherichia coli populations with varying distributions of swimming behaviors and observed their phenotype distributions during migration in liquid and porous environments. Surprisingly, we found that during collective migration, the distributions of swimming phenotypes adapt to the environment without mutations or gene regulation. Instead, adaptation is caused by the dynamic and reversible enrichment of high-performing swimming phenotypes within each environment. This adaptation mechanism is supported by a recent theoretical study, which proposed that the phenotypic composition of a migrating population results from a balance between cell growth generating diversity and collective migration eliminating the phenotypes that are unable to keep up with the migrating group. Furthermore, by examining chemoreceptor abundance distributions during migration towards different attractants, we found that this mechanism acts on multiple chemotaxis-related traits simultaneously. Our findings reveal that collective migration itself can enable cell populations with continuous, multi-dimensional phenotypes to flexibly and rapidly adapt their phenotypic composition to diverse environmental conditions. Significance statement Conventional cell adaptation mechanisms, like gene regulation and random phenotypic switching, act swiftly but are limited to a few traits, while mutation-driven adaptations unfold slowly. By quantifying phenotypic diversity during bacterial collective migration, we discovered an adaptation mechanism that rapidly and reversibly adjusts multiple traits simultaneously. By dynamically balancing the elimination of phenotypes unable to keep pace with generation of diversity through growth, this process enables populations to tune their phenotypic composition based on the environment, without the need for gene regulation or mutations. Given the prevalence of collective migration in microbes, cancers, and embryonic development, non-genetic adaptation through collective migration may be a universal mechanism for populations to navigate diverse environments, offering insights into broader applications across various fields.
Collapse
|
30
|
Maillard JY, Pascoe M. Disinfectants and antiseptics: mechanisms of action and resistance. Nat Rev Microbiol 2024; 22:4-17. [PMID: 37648789 DOI: 10.1038/s41579-023-00958-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
Chemical biocides are used for the prevention and control of infection in health care, targeted home hygiene or controlling microbial contamination for various industrial processes including but not limited to food, water and petroleum. However, their use has substantially increased since the implementation of programmes to control outbreaks of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, Clostridioides difficile and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2. Biocides interact with multiple targets on the bacterial cells. The number of targets affected and the severity of damage will result in an irreversible bactericidal effect or a reversible bacteriostatic one. Most biocides primarily target the cytoplasmic membrane and enzymes, although the specific bactericidal mechanisms vary among different biocide chemistries. Inappropriate usage or low concentrations of a biocide may act as a stressor while not killing bacterial pathogens, potentially leading to antimicrobial resistance. Biocides can also promote the transfer of antimicrobial resistance genes. In this Review, we explore our current understanding of the mechanisms of action of biocides, the bacterial resistance mechanisms encompassing both intrinsic and acquired resistance and the influence of bacterial biofilms on resistance. We also consider the impact of bacteria that survive biocide exposure in environmental and clinical contexts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jean-Yves Maillard
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cardiff University, Wales, UK.
| | - Michael Pascoe
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cardiff University, Wales, UK
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Sukmarini L, Atikana A, Hertiani T. Antibiofilm activity of marine microbial natural products: potential peptide- and polyketide-derived molecules from marine microbes toward targeting biofilm-forming pathogens. J Nat Med 2024; 78:1-20. [PMID: 37930514 DOI: 10.1007/s11418-023-01754-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
Controlling and treating biofilm-related infections is challenging because of the widespread presence of multidrug-resistant microbes. Biofilm, a naturally occurring matrix of microbial aggregates, has developed intricate and diverse resistance mechanisms against many currently used antibiotics. This poses a significant problem, especially for human health, including clinically chronic infectious diseases. Thus, there is an urgent need to search for and develop new and more effective antibiotics. As the marine environment is recognized as a promising reservoir of new biologically active molecules with potential pharmacological properties, marine natural products, particularly those of microbial origin, have emerged as a promising source of antibiofilm agents. Marine microbes represent an untapped source of secondary metabolites with antimicrobial activity. Furthermore, marine natural products, owing to their self-defense mechanisms and adaptation to harsh conditions, encompass a wide range of chemical compounds, including peptides and polyketides, which are primarily found in microbes. These molecules can be exploited to provide novel and unique structures for developing alternative antibiotics as effective antibiofilm agents. This review focuses on the possible antibiofilm mechanism of these marine microbial molecules against biofilm-forming pathogens. It provides an overview of biofilm development, its recalcitrant mode of action, strategies for the development of antibiofilm agents, and their assessments. The review also revisits some selected peptides and polyketides from marine microbes reported between 2016 and 2023, highlighting their moderate and considerable antibiofilm activities. Moreover, their antibiofilm mechanisms, such as adhesion modulation/inhibition targeting biofilm-forming pathogens, quorum sensing intervention and inhibition, and extracellular polymeric substance disruption, are highlighted herein.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Linda Sukmarini
- Research Center for Applied Microbiology, National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), KST Soekarno, Jl. Raya Jakarta-Bogor Km. 46, Cibinong, West Java, 16911, Indonesia.
- Indonesian Biofilm Research Collaboration Center, Jl. Farmako Sekip Utara, Yogyakarta, 55281, Indonesia.
| | - Akhirta Atikana
- Research Center for Applied Microbiology, National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), KST Soekarno, Jl. Raya Jakarta-Bogor Km. 46, Cibinong, West Java, 16911, Indonesia
- Indonesian Biofilm Research Collaboration Center, Jl. Farmako Sekip Utara, Yogyakarta, 55281, Indonesia
| | - Triana Hertiani
- Indonesian Biofilm Research Collaboration Center, Jl. Farmako Sekip Utara, Yogyakarta, 55281, Indonesia.
- Pharmaceutical Biology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Gadjah Mada University, Jl. Sekip Utara, Yogyakarta, 55281, Indonesia.
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Castañeda-Barba S, Top EM, Stalder T. Plasmids, a molecular cornerstone of antimicrobial resistance in the One Health era. Nat Rev Microbiol 2024; 22:18-32. [PMID: 37430173 DOI: 10.1038/s41579-023-00926-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 07/12/2023]
Abstract
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a substantial threat to human health. The widespread prevalence of AMR is, in part, due to the horizontal transfer of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs), typically mediated by plasmids. Many of the plasmid-mediated resistance genes in pathogens originate from environmental, animal or human habitats. Despite evidence that plasmids mobilize ARGs between these habitats, we have a limited understanding of the ecological and evolutionary trajectories that facilitate the emergence of multidrug resistance (MDR) plasmids in clinical pathogens. One Health, a holistic framework, enables exploration of these knowledge gaps. In this Review, we provide an overview of how plasmids drive local and global AMR spread and link different habitats. We explore some of the emerging studies integrating an eco-evolutionary perspective, opening up a discussion about the factors that affect the ecology and evolution of plasmids in complex microbial communities. Specifically, we discuss how the emergence and persistence of MDR plasmids can be affected by varying selective conditions, spatial structure, environmental heterogeneity, temporal variation and coexistence with other members of the microbiome. These factors, along with others yet to be investigated, collectively determine the emergence and transfer of plasmid-mediated AMR within and between habitats at the local and global scale.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Salvador Castañeda-Barba
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Idaho, Moscow, ID, USA
- Bioinformatics and Computational Biology Graduate Program, University of Idaho, Moscow, ID, USA
- Institute for Interdisciplinary Data Sciences, University of Idaho, Moscow, ID, USA
| | - Eva M Top
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Idaho, Moscow, ID, USA
- Bioinformatics and Computational Biology Graduate Program, University of Idaho, Moscow, ID, USA
- Institute for Interdisciplinary Data Sciences, University of Idaho, Moscow, ID, USA
- Institute for Modelling Collaboration and Innovation, University of Idaho, Moscow, ID, USA
| | - Thibault Stalder
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Idaho, Moscow, ID, USA.
- Institute for Interdisciplinary Data Sciences, University of Idaho, Moscow, ID, USA.
- Institute for Modelling Collaboration and Innovation, University of Idaho, Moscow, ID, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Wang W, Zhong Q, Cheng K, Tan L, Huang X. Molecular Characteristics, Antimicrobial Susceptibility, Biofilm-Forming Ability of Clinically Invasive Staphylococcus aureus Isolates. Infect Drug Resist 2023; 16:7671-7681. [PMID: 38144224 PMCID: PMC10743705 DOI: 10.2147/idr.s441989] [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: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose This study aimed to investigate the molecular characteristics, antimicrobial resistance, and biofilm-forming ability of Staphylococcus aureus isolates from invasive infections. Methods A total of 92 non-repetitive S. aureus isolates from invasive infections were analyzed by Multi-locus Sequence Typing (MLST), spa typing, and chromosomal cassette mec (SCCmec) typing. Antibiotic susceptibility testing was performed using the disk diffusion and agar dilution methods. Biofilm-forming ability was assessed using crystal violet assay. The presence and expression of biofilm-associated genes were examined using PCR and RT-qPCR. Results Among the 55 Methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) and 41 Methicillin-sensitive S. aureus (MSSA) isolates, ST59 (43.6%) predominated in MRSA, while ST7 (39.0%) was most common in MSSA. As expected, MRSA exhibited higher antibiotic resistance rates compared to MSSA isolates. Biofilm formation assays revealed that the majority of isolates (88.5%) produced biofilms, with 26.0% classified as strong producers (OD570 ≥ 1.0) and 62.5% as weak producers (0.2 ≤ OD570<1.0). MSSA exhibited a higher biofilm-forming ability than MRSA (P < 0.01), with variations across clones. Notably, ST7 isolates displayed greater biofilm-forming ability than other sequence types (ST59, ST5, and ST239). RT-qPCR results revealed that ST7 isolates exhibited higher expression levels of icaA compared to other sequence types. Conclusion This study revealed significant molecular heterogeneity among invasive S. aureus isolates, with ST59 and ST7 as dominant clones. The strong biofilm-forming capacity of ST7 merits concern given its rising prevalence regionally. Continuous surveillance of emerging successful lineages is critical to help guide infection control strategies against invasive S. aureus infections.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Weiguo Wang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Hospital of Nanchang, Nanchang, Jiangxi, People’s Republic of China
| | - Qiuxaing Zhong
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Hospital of Nanchang, Nanchang, Jiangxi, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ke Cheng
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Hospital of Nanchang, Nanchang, Jiangxi, People’s Republic of China
| | - Lili Tan
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Hospital of Nanchang, Nanchang, Jiangxi, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xincheng Huang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Hospital of Nanchang, Nanchang, Jiangxi, People’s Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
George JT. Optimal phenotypic adaptation in fluctuating environments. Biophys J 2023; 122:4414-4424. [PMID: 37876159 PMCID: PMC10698328 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2023.10.019] [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: 04/05/2023] [Revised: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Phenotypic adaptation is a universal feature of biological systems navigating highly variable environments. Recent empirical data support the role of memory-driven decision making in cellular systems navigating uncertain future nutrient landscapes, wherein a distinct growth phenotype emerges in fluctuating conditions. We develop a simple stochastic mathematical model to describe memory-driven cellular adaptation required for systems to optimally navigate such uncertainty. In this framework, adaptive populations traverse dynamic environments by inferring future variation from a memory of prior states, and memory capacity imposes a fundamental trade-off between the speed and accuracy of adaptation to new fluctuating environments. Our results suggest that the observed growth reductions that occur in fluctuating environments are a direct consequence of optimal decision making and result from bet hedging and occasional phenotypic-environmental mismatch. We anticipate that this modeling framework will be useful for studying the role of memory in phenotypic adaptation, including in the design of temporally varying therapies against adaptive systems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jason T George
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas; Engineering Medicine Program, Texas A&M University, Houston, Texas; Center for Theoretical Biological Physics, Rice University, Houston, Texas.
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Durrani B, Mohammad A, Ljubetic BM, Dobberfuhl AD. The Potential Role of Persister Cells in Urinary Tract Infections. Curr Urol Rep 2023; 24:541-551. [PMID: 37907771 DOI: 10.1007/s11934-023-01182-5] [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] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This review explores the role of persister cells in urinary tract infections (UTIs). UTIs are one of the most common bacterial infections, affecting millions of people worldwide. Persister cells are a subpopulation of bacteria with dormant metabolic activity which allows survival in the presence of antibiotics. RECENT FINDINGS This review summarizes recent research on the pathogenesis of persister cell formation in UTIs, the impact of persister cells on the effectiveness of antibiotics, the challenges they pose for treatment, and the need for new strategies to target these cells. Furthermore, this review examines the current state of research on the identification and characterization of persister cells in UTIs, as well as the future directions for investigations in this field. This review highlights the importance of understanding the role of persister cells in UTIs and the potential impact of targeting these cells in the development of new treatments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Butool Durrani
- Department of Internal Medicine, Aga Khan University Hospital, National Stadium Rd, Karachi, Karachi City, Pakistan
| | - Ashu Mohammad
- Department of Urology, Center for Academic Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, 453 Quarry Road, Urology-5656, Palo Alto, CA, 94304, USA
| | - Bernardita M Ljubetic
- Department of Urology, Center for Academic Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, 453 Quarry Road, Urology-5656, Palo Alto, CA, 94304, USA
| | - Amy D Dobberfuhl
- Department of Urology, Center for Academic Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, 453 Quarry Road, Urology-5656, Palo Alto, CA, 94304, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Myckatyn TM, Duran Ramirez JM, Walker JN, Hanson BM. Management of Biofilm with Breast Implant Surgery. Plast Reconstr Surg 2023; 152:919e-942e. [PMID: 37871028 DOI: 10.1097/prs.0000000000010791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2023]
Abstract
LEARNING OBJECTIVES After studying this article, the participant should be able to: 1. Understand how bacteria negatively impact aesthetic and reconstructive breast implants. 2. Understand how bacteria infect breast implants. 3. Understand the evidence associated with common implant infection-prevention strategies, and their limitations. 4. Understand why implementation of bacteria-mitigation strategies such as antibiotic administration or "no-touch" techniques may not indefinitely prevent breast implant infection. SUMMARY Bacterial infection of aesthetic and reconstructive breast implants is a common and expensive problem. Subacute infections or chronic capsular contractures leading to device explantation are the most commonly documented sequelae. Although bench and translational research underscores the complexities of implant-associated infection, high-quality studies with adequate power, control groups, and duration of follow-up are lacking. Common strategies to minimize infections use antibiotics-administered systemically, in the breast implant pocket, or by directly bathing the implant before insertion-to limit bacterial contamination. Limiting contact between the implant and skin or breast parenchyma represents an additional common strategy. The clinical prevention of breast implant infection is challenged by the clean-contaminated nature of breast parenchyma, and the variable behavior of not only specific bacterial species but also their strains. These factors impact bacterial virulence and antibiotic resistance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Terence M Myckatyn
- From the Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine
| | | | - Jennifer N Walker
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics
- Center for Infectious Diseases, Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston
| | - Blake M Hanson
- Center for Antimicrobial Resistance and Microbial Genomics, McGovern Medical School
- Center for Infectious Diseases, Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Wang X, Ma W, Shan J, Chen K, Xu W, Lu Z, Ju Z, Dong Z, Li B, Zhang Y. The phosphotransferase system gene ptsH affects persister formation in Klebsiella pneumoniae by regulating cyclic adenosine monophosphate levels. Int J Antimicrob Agents 2023; 62:106925. [PMID: 37451649 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijantimicag.2023.106925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Revised: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/09/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
Klebsiella pneumoniae is one of the most common opportunistic pathogens causing hospital- and community-acquired infections. Antibiotic resistance in K. pneumoniae has emerged as a major clinical and public health threat. Persisters are specific antibiotic-tolerant bacterial cells. Studies on the mechanism underlying their formation mechanism and growth status are scarce. Therefore, it is urgent to explore the key genes and signalling pathways involved in the formation and recovery process of K. pneumoniae persisters to enhance the understanding and develop relevant treatment strategies. In this study, we treated K. pneumoniae with a lethal concentration of levofloxacin. It resulted in a distinct plateau of surviving levofloxacin-tolerant persisters. Subsequently, we obtained bacterial samples at five different time points during the formation and recovery of K. pneumoniae persisters to perform transcriptome analysis. ptsH gene was observed to be upregulated during the formation of persisters, and down-regulated during the recovery of the persisters. Further, we used CRISPR-Cas9 to construct ΔptsH, the ptsH-knockout K. pneumoniae strain, and to investigate the effect of ptsH on the persister formation. We observed that ptsH can promote the formation of persisters, reduce accumulation of reactive oxygen species, and enhance antioxidant capacity by reducing cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) levels. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to report that ptsH plays a vital role in forming K. pneumoniae persisters. This study provided important insights to further explore the mechanism underlying the formation of K. pneumoniae persisters and provided a potential target for treating infection with K. pneumoniae persisters.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xin Wang
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
| | - Wenru Ma
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
| | - Jiangfan Shan
- The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
| | - Kexu Chen
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
| | - Weihao Xu
- Inspection Center of Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital, Yantai, China
| | - Zixuan Lu
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
| | - Zhuofei Ju
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
| | - Zhouyan Dong
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
| | - Boqing Li
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China.
| | - Yumei Zhang
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China.
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Sivasankar S, Premnath MA, Boppe A, Grobusch MP, Jeyaraj S. Screening of MMV pandemic response and pathogen box compounds against pan-drug-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae to identify potent inhibitory compounds. New Microbes New Infect 2023; 55:101193. [PMID: 38046897 PMCID: PMC10690571 DOI: 10.1016/j.nmni.2023.101193] [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: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The recent emergence of pan-drug-resistant (PDR) K. pneumoniae strains hinders the success rate of treatment procedures for patients. High mortality, extended duration of hospitalization with high costs is associated with such infections. Discovery and identification of new drugs are inevitable to combat PDR clinical pathogens. We aim to identify and evaluate new compounds in vitro against a PDR clinical K. pneumoniae isolate using compounds of Pathogen Box and Pandemic Response Box from Medicines for Malaria Venture (MMV). Methods The PDR strain was initially screened with the 601 compounds from both Boxes at 10 μM concentration. Formation of dormant cells against the drug activity was assessed using persister assay. MIC was determined for the drugs inhibiting PDR K. pneumoniae during initial screening. Results Five compounds were identified to inhibit the test strain. MMV1580854 (94.60 %), MMV1579788 (94.65 %), MMV1578574 (eravacycline; 93.13 %), MMV1578566 (epetraborole; 95.29 %) and MMV1578564 (96.32 %) were able to exhibit a higher percentage of growth inhibition. Persisters were found to be growing in a range from 104 to 107 CFU/ml. Minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) of all compounds were ≥ 2 μM except for MMV1579788, which had a MIC of ≥ 5 μM. Conclusion Five novel compounds were identified against the highly evolved pan-drug-resistant K. pneumoniae. Among the five, epetraborole andMMV1578564 were identified as highly potent based on the persister frequency and MICs. The pan-drug resistant clinical isolate used in this study was found to be acting differently from the reference or wild type strains against the test compounds in a previous study.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Seshan Sivasankar
- PSG Center for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics, PSG Institute of Medical Sciences and Research, Coimbatore, India
- PSG Center for Genetics and Molecular Biology, Off Avinashi Road, Coimbatore, India
| | - Mari Abinaya Premnath
- PSG Center for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics, PSG Institute of Medical Sciences and Research, Coimbatore, India
- PSG Center for Genetics and Molecular Biology, Off Avinashi Road, Coimbatore, India
| | - Appalaraju Boppe
- Department of Microbiology, PSG Institute of Medical Sciences and Research, Coimbatore, India
| | - Martin Peter Grobusch
- Centre de Recherches Médicales de Lambaréné CERMEL, Hospital Albert Schweitzer, BP 242, Lambaréné, Gabon
- Center of Tropical Medicine and Travel Medicine, Department of Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Amsterdam Infection and Immunity, Amsterdam Public Health, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105, AZ, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Institut für Tropenmedizin, Eberhard Karls Universität Tübingen and German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Tubingen, Germany
- Masanga Medical Research Unit, Masanga, Sierra Leone
- Institute of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Sankarganesh Jeyaraj
- PSG Center for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics, PSG Institute of Medical Sciences and Research, Coimbatore, India
- PSG Center for Genetics and Molecular Biology, Off Avinashi Road, Coimbatore, India
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Wang B, Lin AE, Yuan J, Novak KE, Koch MD, Wingreen NS, Adamson B, Gitai Z. Single-cell massively-parallel multiplexed microbial sequencing (M3-seq) identifies rare bacterial populations and profiles phage infection. Nat Microbiol 2023; 8:1846-1862. [PMID: 37653008 PMCID: PMC10522482 DOI: 10.1038/s41564-023-01462-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Abstract
Bacterial populations are highly adaptive. They can respond to stress and survive in shifting environments. How the behaviours of individual bacteria vary during stress, however, is poorly understood. To identify and characterize rare bacterial subpopulations, technologies for single-cell transcriptional profiling have been developed. Existing approaches show some degree of limitation, for example, in terms of number of cells or transcripts that can be profiled. Due in part to these limitations, few conditions have been studied with these tools. Here we develop massively-parallel, multiplexed, microbial sequencing (M3-seq)-a single-cell RNA-sequencing platform for bacteria that pairs combinatorial cell indexing with post hoc rRNA depletion. We show that M3-seq can profile bacterial cells from different species under a range of conditions in single experiments. We then apply M3-seq to hundreds of thousands of cells, revealing rare populations and insights into bet-hedging associated with stress responses and characterizing phage infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bruce Wang
- Lewis-Sigler Institute for Integrative Genomics, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, USA
| | - Aaron E Lin
- Lewis-Sigler Institute for Integrative Genomics, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, USA
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, USA
| | - Jiayi Yuan
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, USA
| | - Katherine E Novak
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, USA
| | - Matthias D Koch
- Lewis-Sigler Institute for Integrative Genomics, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, USA
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, USA
| | - Ned S Wingreen
- Lewis-Sigler Institute for Integrative Genomics, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, USA.
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, USA.
| | - Britt Adamson
- Lewis-Sigler Institute for Integrative Genomics, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, USA.
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, USA.
| | - Zemer Gitai
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Silva E, Teixeira JA, Pereira MO, Rocha CMR, Sousa AM. Evolving biofilm inhibition and eradication in clinical settings through plant-based antibiofilm agents. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 119:154973. [PMID: 37499434 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2023.154973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2023] [Revised: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/15/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND After almost 100 years since evidence of biofilm mode of growth and decades of intensive investigation about their formation, regulatory pathways and mechanisms of antimicrobial tolerance, nowadays there are still no therapeutic solutions to eradicate bacterial biofilms and their biomedical related issues. PURPOSE This review intends to provide a comprehensive summary of the recent and most relevant published studies on plant-based products, or their isolated compounds with antibiofilm activity mechanisms of action or identified molecular targets against bacterial biofilms. The objective is to offer a new perspective of most recent data for clinical researchers aiming to prevent or eliminate biofilm-associated infections caused by bacterial pathogens. METHODS The search was performed considering original research articles published on PubMed, Web of Science and Scopus from 2015 to April 2023, using keywords such as "antibiofilm", "antivirulence", "phytochemicals" and "plant extracts". RESULTS Over 180 articles were considered for this review with a focus on the priority human pathogens listed by World Health Organization, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Escherichia coli. Inhibition and detachment or dismantling of biofilms formed by these pathogens were found using plant-based extract/products or derivative compounds. Although combination of plant-based products and antibiotics were recorded and discussed, this topic is currently poorly explored and only for a reduced number of bacterial species. CONCLUSIONS This review clearly demonstrates that plant-based products or derivative compounds may be a promising therapeutic strategy to eliminate bacterial biofilms and their associated infections. After thoroughly reviewing the vast amount of research carried out over years, it was concluded that plant-based products are mostly able to prevent biofilm formation through inhibition of quorum sensing signals, but also to disrupt mature biofilms developed by multidrug resistant bacteria targeting the biofilm extracellular polymeric substance. Flavonoids and phenolic compounds seemed the most effective against bacterial biofilms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eduarda Silva
- Centre of Biological Engineering, LIBRO - Laboratório de Investigação em Biofilmes Rosário Oliveira, University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, Braga 4710-057, Portugal
| | - José A Teixeira
- Centre of Biological Engineering, LIBRO - Laboratório de Investigação em Biofilmes Rosário Oliveira, University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, Braga 4710-057, Portugal; LABBELS - Associate Laboratory, Guimarães, Braga, Portugal
| | - Maria Olivia Pereira
- Centre of Biological Engineering, LIBRO - Laboratório de Investigação em Biofilmes Rosário Oliveira, University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, Braga 4710-057, Portugal; LABBELS - Associate Laboratory, Guimarães, Braga, Portugal
| | - Cristina M R Rocha
- Centre of Biological Engineering, LIBRO - Laboratório de Investigação em Biofilmes Rosário Oliveira, University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, Braga 4710-057, Portugal; LABBELS - Associate Laboratory, Guimarães, Braga, Portugal
| | - Ana Margarida Sousa
- Centre of Biological Engineering, LIBRO - Laboratório de Investigação em Biofilmes Rosário Oliveira, University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, Braga 4710-057, Portugal; LABBELS - Associate Laboratory, Guimarães, Braga, Portugal.
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Dufour D, Li H, Gong SG, Lévesque CM. Transcriptome Analysis of Streptococcus mutans Quorum Sensing-Mediated Persisters Reveals an Enrichment in Genes Related to Stress Defense Mechanisms. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:1887. [PMID: 37895236 PMCID: PMC10606796 DOI: 10.3390/genes14101887] [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: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Persisters are a small fraction of growth-arrested phenotypic variants that can survive lethal concentrations of antibiotics but are able to resume growth once antibiotics are stopped. Their formation can be a stochastic process or one triggered by environmental cues. In the human pathogen Streptococcus mutans, the canonical peptide-based quorum-sensing system is an inducible DNA repair system that is pivotal for bacterial survival. Previous work has shown that the CSP-signaling peptide is a stress-signaling alarmone that promotes the formation of stress-induced persisters. In this study, we exposed S. mutans to the CSP pheromone to mimic DNA damage conditions and isolated the antibiotic persisters by treating the cultures with ofloxacin. A transcriptome analysis was then performed to evaluate the differential gene expression between the normal stationary-phase cells and the persisters. RNA sequencing revealed that triggered persistence was associated with the upregulation of genes related to several stress defense mechanisms, notably, multidrug efflux pumps, the arginine deaminase pathway, and the Opu/Opc system. In addition, we showed that inactivation of the VicK kinase of the YycFG essential two-component regulatory system abolished the formation of triggered persisters via the CSP pheromone. These data contribute to the understanding of the triggered persistence phenotype and may suggest new therapeutic strategies for treating persistent streptococcal infections.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Céline M. Lévesque
- Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 1G6, Canada; (D.D.); (H.L.); (S.-G.G.)
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Nguyen L, DeVico B, Mannan M, Chang M, Rada Santacruz C, Siragusa C, Everhart S, Fazen CH. Tea Tree Essential Oil Kills Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus epidermidis Persisters. Biomolecules 2023; 13:1404. [PMID: 37759804 PMCID: PMC10526169 DOI: 10.3390/biom13091404] [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: 08/15/2023] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Persister cells are a small subpopulation of non-growing bacteria within a population that can survive long exposures to antibiotic treatment. Following antibiotic removal, persister cells can regrow and populate, playing a key role in the chronic reoccurrence of bacterial infections. The development of new molecules and methods to kill bacterial persisters is critical. Essential oils and other natural products have long been studied for their antimicrobial effects. Here, we studied the effectiveness of tea tree essential oil (TTO), a common component in many commercial care products, against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus epidermidis persister cells. Using biphasic kill curve assays, we found that concentrations of 0.5% and 1.0% TTO for E. coli and S. epidermidis, respectively, completely eradicated persister cells over a period of 24 h, with the component terpinen-4-ol responsible for most of the killing. Using a colorimetric assay, it was determined that the TTO exhibited its anti-persister effects through a membrane disruption mechanism.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Christopher H. Fazen
- Department of Chemistry, Drew University, Madison, NJ 07940, USA; (L.N.); (B.D.); (M.M.); (M.C.); (C.R.S.); (C.S.); (S.E.)
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Chukwu KB, Abafe OA, Amoako DG, Ismail A, Essack SY, Abia ALK. Impact of Environmental Sub-Inhibitory Concentrations of Antibiotics, Heavy Metals, and Biocides on the Emergence of Tolerance and Effects on the Mutant Selection Window in E. coli. Microorganisms 2023; 11:2265. [PMID: 37764108 PMCID: PMC10535725 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11092265] [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: 07/16/2023] [Revised: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Bacteria's ability to withstand the detrimental effects of antimicrobials could occur as resistance or tolerance with the minimum inhibitory concentration, the mutant prevention concentration, and the mutant selection window as salient concepts. Thus, this study assessed the impact of exposure to extremely high doses of ampicillin on the level of persistence and tolerance development in isolates previously exposed to different concentrations of selected antibiotics, biocides, and heavy metals. These isolates were previously exposed to oxytetracycline (OXYTET), amoxicillin (AMX), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), benzalkonium chloride (BAC) 10, dimethylammonium chloride (DADMAC) 12 and a combination of all the individual pollutants (ALL). The isolates were exposed to very high concentrations (25 × MIC) of ampicillin, and their tolerance was calculated as the time required to kill 99.9% of the bacterial population (MDK99.9). The MDK99.9 increased by 30 to 50% in test isolates (DADMAC, OXYTET, Zinc = 28 h; BAC, Copper = 30 h; amoxycillin, ALL = 26 h) compared to the untreated control. BAC-exposed isolates decreased from 2.5 × 108 CFU/mL to 2.5 × 104 CFU/mL on the second day, displaying the highest tolerance increase. The tolerance appeared to originate from two sources, i.e., stochastic persistence and genetic-induced persistence, involving multiple genes with diverse mechanisms. The mutant selection window of the isolates to ampicillin, amoxicillin, and oxytetracycline also slightly increased compared to the control, indicating the selective survival of persister cells during the 30-day exposure. These findings indicate that bacterial exposure to sub-inhibitory concentrations of environmental chemical stressors may not always result in the development of antimicrobial resistance but could initiate this process by selecting persisters that could evolve into resistant isolates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kelechi B. Chukwu
- Antimicrobial Research Unit, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban 4000, South Africa; (K.B.C.); (O.A.A.); (D.G.A.)
| | - Ovokeroye A. Abafe
- Antimicrobial Research Unit, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban 4000, South Africa; (K.B.C.); (O.A.A.); (D.G.A.)
- Residue Laboratory, Agricultural Research Council, Onderstepoort Veterinary Research Campus, Onderstepoort 0110, South Africa
- School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Daniel G. Amoako
- Antimicrobial Research Unit, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban 4000, South Africa; (K.B.C.); (O.A.A.); (D.G.A.)
- Department of Integrative Biology and Bioinformatics, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Arshad Ismail
- Sequencing Core Facility, National Institute for Communicable Diseases, National Health Laboratory Service, Johannesburg 2192, South Africa;
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, University of Venda, Thohoyandou 0950, South Africa
| | - Sabiha Y. Essack
- Antimicrobial Research Unit, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban 4000, South Africa; (K.B.C.); (O.A.A.); (D.G.A.)
| | - Akebe L. K. Abia
- Antimicrobial Research Unit, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban 4000, South Africa; (K.B.C.); (O.A.A.); (D.G.A.)
- Environmental Research Foundation, Westville 3630, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Wang S, Zhao Y, Breslawec AP, Liang T, Deng Z, Kuperman LL, Yu Q. Strategy to combat biofilms: a focus on biofilm dispersal enzymes. NPJ Biofilms Microbiomes 2023; 9:63. [PMID: 37679355 PMCID: PMC10485009 DOI: 10.1038/s41522-023-00427-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Bacterial biofilms, which consist of three-dimensional extracellular polymeric substance (EPS), not only function as signaling networks, provide nutritional support, and facilitate surface adhesion, but also serve as a protective shield for the residing bacterial inhabitants against external stress, such as antibiotics, antimicrobials, and host immune responses. Biofilm-associated infections account for 65-80% of all human microbial infections that lead to serious mortality and morbidity. Tremendous effort has been spent to address the problem by developing biofilm-dispersing agents to discharge colonized microbial cells to a more vulnerable planktonic state. Here, we discuss the recent progress of enzymatic eradicating strategies against medical biofilms, with a focus on dispersal mechanisms. Particularly, we review three enzyme classes that have been extensively investigated, namely glycoside hydrolases, proteases, and deoxyribonucleases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shaochi Wang
- Otorhinolaryngology Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 450052, Zhengzhou, China
- Translational Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 450052, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yanteng Zhao
- Translational Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 450052, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Alexandra P Breslawec
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, 20740, USA
| | - Tingting Liang
- Key Laboratory of Natural Medicine and Immune-Engineering of Henan Province, Henan University Jinming Campus, 475004, Kaifeng, Henan, China
| | - Zhifen Deng
- Translational Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 450052, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Laura L Kuperman
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, 20740, USA.
- Mirimus Inc., 760 Parkside Avenue, Brooklyn, NY, 11226, USA.
| | - Qiuning Yu
- Otorhinolaryngology Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 450052, Zhengzhou, China.
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Tarannum A, Rodríguez-Almonacid CC, Salazar-Bravo J, Karamysheva ZN. Molecular Mechanisms of Persistence in Protozoan Parasites. Microorganisms 2023; 11:2248. [PMID: 37764092 PMCID: PMC10534552 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11092248] [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: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Protozoan parasites are known for their remarkable capacity to persist within the bodies of vertebrate hosts, which frequently results in prolonged infections and the recurrence of diseases. Understanding the molecular mechanisms that underlie the event of persistence is of paramount significance to develop innovative therapeutic approaches, given that these pathways still need to be thoroughly elucidated. The present article provides a comprehensive overview of the latest developments in the investigation of protozoan persistence in vertebrate hosts. The focus is primarily on the function of persisters, their formation within the host, and the specific molecular interactions between host and parasite while they persist. Additionally, we examine the metabolomic, transcriptional, and translational changes that protozoan parasites undergo during persistence within vertebrate hosts, focusing on major parasites such as Plasmodium spp., Trypanosoma spp., Leishmania spp., and Toxoplasma spp. Key findings of our study suggest that protozoan parasites deploy several molecular and physiological strategies to evade the host immune surveillance and sustain their persistence. Furthermore, some parasites undergo stage differentiation, enabling them to acclimate to varying host environments and immune challenges. More often, stressors such as drug exposure were demonstrated to impact the formation of protozoan persisters significantly. Understanding the molecular mechanisms regulating the persistence of protozoan parasites in vertebrate hosts can reinvigorate our current insights into host-parasite interactions and facilitate the development of more efficacious disease therapeutics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Zemfira N. Karamysheva
- Department of Biological Sciences, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX 79409, USA; (A.T.); (C.C.R.-A.); (J.S.-B.)
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Maillard JY, Centeleghe I. How biofilm changes our understanding of cleaning and disinfection. Antimicrob Resist Infect Control 2023; 12:95. [PMID: 37679831 PMCID: PMC10483709 DOI: 10.1186/s13756-023-01290-4] [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: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Biofilms are ubiquitous in healthcare settings. By nature, biofilms are less susceptible to antimicrobials and are associated with healthcare-associated infections (HAI). Resistance of biofilm to antimicrobials is multifactorial with the presence of a matrix composed of extracellular polymeric substances and eDNA, being a major contributing factor. The usual multispecies composition of environmental biofilms can also impact on antimicrobial efficacy. In healthcare settings, two main types of biofilms are present: hydrated biofilms, for example, in drains and parts of some medical devices and equipment, and environmental dry biofilms (DSB) on surfaces and possibly in medical devices. Biofilms act as a reservoir for pathogens including multi-drug resistant organisms and their elimination requires different approaches. The control of hydrated (drain) biofilms should be informed by a reduction or elimination of microbial bioburden together with measuring biofilm regrowth time. The control of DSB should be measured by a combination of a reduction or elimination in microbial bioburden on surfaces together with a decrease in bacterial transfer post-intervention. Failure to control biofilms increases the risk for HAI, but biofilms are not solely responsible for disinfection failure or shortcoming. The limited number of standardised biofilm efficacy tests is a hindrance for end users and manufacturers, whilst in Europe there are no approved standard protocols. Education of stakeholders about biofilms and ad hoc efficacy tests, often academic in nature, is thus paramount, to achieve a better control of biofilms in healthcare settings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jean-Yves Maillard
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cardiff University, Redwood Building, King Edward VII Avenue, Cardiff, CF10 3NB, Wales, UK.
| | - Isabella Centeleghe
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cardiff University, Redwood Building, King Edward VII Avenue, Cardiff, CF10 3NB, Wales, UK
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Khan F, Singh P, Joshi AS, Tabassum N, Jeong GJ, Bamunuarachchi NI, Mijakovic I, Kim YM. Multiple potential strategies for the application of nisin and derivatives. Crit Rev Microbiol 2023; 49:628-657. [PMID: 35997756 DOI: 10.1080/1040841x.2022.2112650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Revised: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Nisin is a naturally occurring bioactive small peptide produced by Lactococcus lactis subsp. lactis and belongs to the Type A (I) lantibiotics. Due to its potent antimicrobial activity, it has been broadly employed to preserve various food materials as well as to combat a variety of microbial pathogens. The present review discusses the antimicrobial properties of nisin and different types of their derivatives employed to treat microbial pathogens with a detailed underlying mechanism of action. Several alternative strategies such as combination, conjugation, and nanoformulations have been discussed in order to address several issues such as rapid degradation, instability, and reduced activity due to the various environmental factors that arise in the applications of nisin. Furthermore, the evolutionary relationship of many nisin genes from different nisin-producing bacterial species has been investigated. A detailed description of the natural and bioengineered nisin variants, as well as the underlying action mechanisms, has also been provided. The chemistry used to apply nisin in conjugation with natural or synthetic compounds as a synergetic mode of antimicrobial action has also been thoroughly discussed. The current review will be useful in learning about recent and past research that has been performed on nisin and its derivatives as antimicrobial agents.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fazlurrahman Khan
- Marine Integrated Biomedical Technology Center, The National Key Research Institutes in Universities, Pukyong National University, Busan, Republic of Korea
- Research Center for Marine Integrated Bionics Technology, Pukyong National University, Busan, Republic of Korea
| | - Priyanka Singh
- The Novo Nordisk Foundation, Center for Biosustainability, Technical University of Denmark, Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Abhayraj S Joshi
- The Novo Nordisk Foundation, Center for Biosustainability, Technical University of Denmark, Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Nazia Tabassum
- Industry 4.0 Convergence Bionics Engineering, Pukyong National University, Busan, Republic of Korea
| | - Geum-Jae Jeong
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Pukyong National University, Busan, Republic of Korea
| | | | - Ivan Mijakovic
- The Novo Nordisk Foundation, Center for Biosustainability, Technical University of Denmark, Lyngby, Denmark
- Systems and Synthetic Biology Division, Department of Biology and Biological Engineering, Chalmers University of Technology, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Young-Mog Kim
- Marine Integrated Biomedical Technology Center, The National Key Research Institutes in Universities, Pukyong National University, Busan, Republic of Korea
- Research Center for Marine Integrated Bionics Technology, Pukyong National University, Busan, Republic of Korea
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Pukyong National University, Busan, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Wan Y, Wai Chi Chan E, Chen S. Maintenance and generation of proton motive force are both essential for expression of phenotypic antibiotic tolerance in bacteria. Microbiol Spectr 2023; 11:e0083223. [PMID: 37623371 PMCID: PMC10580908 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.00832-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Bacterial antibiotic tolerance, a phenomenon first observed in 1944, is known to be responsible for both onset and exacerbation of recurrent and chronic bacterial infections. The development of antibiotic tolerance was previously thought to be due to a switch to physiological dormancy when bacteria encounter adverse growth conditions. Our recent laboratory findings, however, showed that a set of genes related to the maintenance of proton motive force (PMF) are up-regulated under starvation, indicating that the tolerant sub-population, which are commonly known as persisters, can actively maintain their tolerance phenotypes. In this study, we investigated the relative functional roles of proteins involved in the maintenance and active generation of PMF in mediating tolerance formation in bacteria and found that the PspA and RcsB proteins play a key role in PMF maintenance in persisters, as deletion of genes encoding these two proteins resulted in significantly lower tolerance levels. Consistently, expression of the OsmC and Bdm proteins, which is under regulation by RcsB, is required to maintain PMF and the antibiotic tolerance phenotypes. On the other hand, the NuoL, Ndh, AppC, CyoB, and NuoF proteins, which are electron transport chain (ETC) components, were also found to be actively expressed in persisters in order to generate PMF to support functioning of various tolerance mechanisms such as efflux activities. Our data show that active generation of PMF is even more important than the PMF maintenance functions of PspA and RcsB in the expression of antibiotic tolerance phenotypes in persisters. Assessment of double- and triple-gene knockout strains, in which the PMF maintenance genes and those encoding ETC components were simultaneously deleted, confirms that these two groups of genes are both required for the expression of antibiotic tolerance phenotypes and that a lack of these functions would result in complete PMF dissipation and accumulation of antibiotics in the intracellular compartment of persisters and eventually cell death. Products of these genes are, therefore, ideal targets for future development of anti-tolerance agents. IMPORTANCE In this work, bacteria were found to undergo active generation and maintenance of proton motive force (PMF) under adverse conditions, such as starvation so as to support a range of physiological functions in order to survive under such conditions for a prolonged period. The ability to maintain a substantial level of PMF was found to be directly linked to that exhibiting phenotypic antibiotic tolerance under nutrient starvation or other adverse conditions. These findings infer that bacteria do not simply become physiologically dormant when they become antibiotic tolerant, instead they need to produce a wide range of proteins including those which help prevent PMF dissipation, such as PspA and RcsB, and the electron transport chain components, such as NuoL and Ndh, that actively generate PMF even during long-term starvation. As antibiotic tolerant sub-population is known to play a role in eliciting recurrent and chronic infections, especially among patients with a weakened immune system, the PMF maintenance mechanisms identified in this work are potential targets for the development of new strategies to control recurrent and chronic infections.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yingkun Wan
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Public Health, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Edward Wai Chi Chan
- Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, State Key Lab of Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Sheng Chen
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Public Health, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong
- Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, State Key Lab of Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong
- City University of Hong Kong Chendu Research Institute, Chengdu, China
- Shenzhen Key Lab for Food Biological Safety Control, Hong Kong PolyU Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen, China
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Fernández-García L, Wood TK. Phage-Defense Systems Are Unlikely to Cause Cell Suicide. Viruses 2023; 15:1795. [PMID: 37766202 PMCID: PMC10535081 DOI: 10.3390/v15091795] [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: 07/24/2023] [Revised: 08/19/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
As new phage-defense systems (PDs) are discovered, the overlap between their mechanisms and those of toxin/antitoxin systems (TAs) is becoming clear in that both use similar means to reduce cellular metabolism; for example, both systems have members that deplete energetic compounds (e.g., NAD+, ATP) and deplete nucleic acids, and both have members that inflict membrane damage. Moreover, both TAs and PDs are similar in that rather than altruistically killing the host to limit phage propagation (commonly known as abortive infection), both reduce host metabolism since phages propagate less in slow-growing cells, and slow growth facilitates the interaction of multiple phage-defense systems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Thomas K. Wood
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802-4400, USA;
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Jamabo M, Mahlalela M, Edkins AL, Boshoff A. Tackling Sleeping Sickness: Current and Promising Therapeutics and Treatment Strategies. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12529. [PMID: 37569903 PMCID: PMC10420020 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241512529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Revised: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Human African trypanosomiasis is a neglected tropical disease caused by the extracellular protozoan parasite Trypanosoma brucei, and targeted for eradication by 2030. The COVID-19 pandemic contributed to the lengthening of the proposed time frame for eliminating human African trypanosomiasis as control programs were interrupted. Armed with extensive antigenic variation and the depletion of the B cell population during an infectious cycle, attempts to develop a vaccine have remained unachievable. With the absence of a vaccine, control of the disease has relied heavily on intensive screening measures and the use of drugs. The chemotherapeutics previously available for disease management were plagued by issues such as toxicity, resistance, and difficulty in administration. The approval of the latest and first oral drug, fexinidazole, is a major chemotherapeutic achievement for the treatment of human African trypanosomiasis in the past few decades. Timely and accurate diagnosis is essential for effective treatment, while poor compliance and resistance remain outstanding challenges. Drug discovery is on-going, and herein we review the recent advances in anti-trypanosomal drug discovery, including novel potential drug targets. The numerous challenges associated with disease eradication will also be addressed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Miebaka Jamabo
- Biotechnology Innovation Centre, Rhodes University, Makhanda 6139, South Africa; (M.J.); (M.M.)
| | - Maduma Mahlalela
- Biotechnology Innovation Centre, Rhodes University, Makhanda 6139, South Africa; (M.J.); (M.M.)
| | - Adrienne L. Edkins
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Biomedical Biotechnology Research Centre (BioBRU), Rhodes University, Makhanda 6139, South Africa;
| | - Aileen Boshoff
- Biotechnology Innovation Centre, Rhodes University, Makhanda 6139, South Africa; (M.J.); (M.M.)
| |
Collapse
|