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Ingmer H, Leisner JJ, Fulaz S. Forssman and the staphylococcal hemolysins. APMIS 2024. [PMID: 39188243 DOI: 10.1111/apm.13459] [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: 06/12/2024] [Accepted: 08/05/2024] [Indexed: 08/28/2024]
Abstract
Forssman was a Swedish pathologist and microbiologist who, in the 1920s and 1930s conducted a long series of experiments that led to unique insights into surface antigens of blood cells, as well as added to the discrimination of toxins produced by staphylococci that lyse red blood cells. This review takes offset in the studies published by Forssman in APMIS addressing the hemolytic properties of staphylococcal toxins displayed against erythrocytes of animal and human origin. In light of current knowledge, we will discuss the insights we now have and how they may pave the way for curing infections with pathogenic staphylococci, including Staphylococcus aureus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanne Ingmer
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Science, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jørgen J Leisner
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Science, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Stephanie Fulaz
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Science, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Zhu J, Liang Z, Yao H, Wu Z. Identifying Cell-Penetrating Peptides for Effectively Delivering Antimicrobial Molecules into Streptococcus suis. Antibiotics (Basel) 2024; 13:725. [PMID: 39200025 PMCID: PMC11350675 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics13080725] [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: 06/28/2024] [Revised: 07/27/2024] [Accepted: 07/31/2024] [Indexed: 09/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) are promising carriers to effectively transport antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs), including peptide nucleic acids (PNAs), into bacterial cells to combat multidrug-resistant bacterial infections, demonstrating significant therapeutic potential. Streptococcus suis, a Gram-positive bacterium, is a major bacterial pathogen in pigs and an emerging zoonotic pathogen. In this study, through the combination of super-resolution structured illumination microscopy (SR-SIM), flow cytometry analysis, and toxicity analysis assays, we investigated the suitability of four CPPs for delivering PNAs into S. suis cells: HIV-1 TAT efficiently penetrated S. suis cells with low toxicity against S. suis; (RXR)4XB had high penetration efficiency with inherent toxicity against S. suis; (KFF)3K showed lower penetration efficiency than HIV-1 TAT and (RXR)4XB; K8 failed to penetrate S. suis cells. HIV-1 TAT-conjugated PNA specific for the essential gyrase A subunit gene (TAT-anti-gyrA PNA) effectively inhibited the growth of S. suis. TAT-anti-gyrA PNA exhibited a significant bactericidal effect on serotypes 2, 4, 5, 7, and 9 strains of S. suis, which are known to cause human infections. Our study demonstrates the potential of CPP-ASO conjugates as new antimicrobial compounds for combating S. suis infections. Furthermore, our findings demonstrate that applying SR-SIM and flow cytometry analysis provides a convenient, intuitive, and cost-effective approach to identifying suitable CPPs for delivering cargo molecules into bacterial cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinlu Zhu
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210014, China; (J.Z.); (Z.L.); (H.Y.)
- Key Lab of Animal Bacteriology, Ministry of Agriculture, Nanjing 210014, China
- WOAH Reference Lab for Swine Streptococcosis, Nanjing 210014, China
| | - Zijing Liang
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210014, China; (J.Z.); (Z.L.); (H.Y.)
- Key Lab of Animal Bacteriology, Ministry of Agriculture, Nanjing 210014, China
- WOAH Reference Lab for Swine Streptococcosis, Nanjing 210014, China
| | - Huochun Yao
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210014, China; (J.Z.); (Z.L.); (H.Y.)
- Key Lab of Animal Bacteriology, Ministry of Agriculture, Nanjing 210014, China
- WOAH Reference Lab for Swine Streptococcosis, Nanjing 210014, China
| | - Zongfu Wu
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210014, China; (J.Z.); (Z.L.); (H.Y.)
- Key Lab of Animal Bacteriology, Ministry of Agriculture, Nanjing 210014, China
- WOAH Reference Lab for Swine Streptococcosis, Nanjing 210014, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Research on the Technology of Pig-Breeding and Pig-Disease Prevention, Guangzhou 511400, China
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Braun C, Badiou C, Guironnet-Paquet A, Iwata M, Lenief V, Mosnier A, Beauclair C, Renucci E, Bouschon P, Cuzin R, Briend Y, Patra V, Patot S, Scharschmidt TC, van Wamel W, Lemmens N, Nakajima S, Vandenesh F, Nicolas JF, Lina G, Nosbaum A, Vocanson M. Staphylococcus aureus-specific skin resident memory T cells protect against bacteria colonization but exacerbate atopic dermatitis-like flares in mice. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2024; 154:355-374. [PMID: 38734386 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2024.03.032] [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: 10/27/2023] [Revised: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The contribution of Staphylococcus aureus to the exacerbation of atopic dermatitis (AD) is widely documented, but its role as a primary trigger of AD skin symptoms remains poorly explored. OBJECTIVES This study sought to reappraise the main bacterial factors and underlying immune mechanisms by which S aureus triggers AD-like inflammation. METHODS This study capitalized on a preclinical model, in which different clinical isolates were applied in the absence of any prior experimental skin injury. RESULTS The development of S aureus-induced dermatitis depended on the nature of the S aureus strain, its viability, the concentration of the applied bacterial suspension, the production of secreted and nonsecreted factors, as well as the activation of accessory gene regulatory quorum sensing system. In addition, the rising dermatitis, which exhibited the well-documented AD cytokine signature, was significantly inhibited in inflammasome adaptor apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a CARD domain- and monocyte/macrophage-deficient animals, but not in T- and B-cell-deficient mice, suggesting a major role for the innate response in the induction of skin inflammation. However, bacterial exposure generated a robust adaptive immune response against S aureus, and an accumulation of S aureus-specific γδ and CD4+ tissue resident memory T cells at the site of previous dermatitis. The latter both contributed to worsen the flares of AD-like dermatitis on new bacteria exposures, but also, protected the mice from persistent bacterial colonization. CONCLUSIONS These data highlight the induction of unique AD-like inflammation, with the generation of proinflammatory but protective tissue resident memory T cells in a context of natural exposure to pathogenic S aureus strains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camille Braun
- Centre International de Recherche en Infectiologie (CIRI), INSERM U1111, Unité Mixte de Recherche 5308, Centre national de la recherche scientifique, Ecole Normale Supérieure de Lyon, Lyon, France; Service de Pédiatrie, Pneumologie, Allergologie, Mucoviscidose, Hôpital Femme Mère Enfant, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Bron, France
| | - Cédric Badiou
- Centre International de Recherche en Infectiologie (CIRI), INSERM U1111, Unité Mixte de Recherche 5308, Centre national de la recherche scientifique, Ecole Normale Supérieure de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Aurélie Guironnet-Paquet
- Centre International de Recherche en Infectiologie (CIRI), INSERM U1111, Unité Mixte de Recherche 5308, Centre national de la recherche scientifique, Ecole Normale Supérieure de Lyon, Lyon, France; Etablissement Français du Sang Auvergne Rhône-Alpes, Apheresis Unit, Hôpital Lyon Sud, Pierre-Bénite, France
| | - Masashi Iwata
- Department of Dermatology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Vanina Lenief
- Centre International de Recherche en Infectiologie (CIRI), INSERM U1111, Unité Mixte de Recherche 5308, Centre national de la recherche scientifique, Ecole Normale Supérieure de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Amandine Mosnier
- Centre International de Recherche en Infectiologie (CIRI), INSERM U1111, Unité Mixte de Recherche 5308, Centre national de la recherche scientifique, Ecole Normale Supérieure de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Charlotte Beauclair
- Centre International de Recherche en Infectiologie (CIRI), INSERM U1111, Unité Mixte de Recherche 5308, Centre national de la recherche scientifique, Ecole Normale Supérieure de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Emilie Renucci
- Centre International de Recherche en Infectiologie (CIRI), INSERM U1111, Unité Mixte de Recherche 5308, Centre national de la recherche scientifique, Ecole Normale Supérieure de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Pauline Bouschon
- Centre International de Recherche en Infectiologie (CIRI), INSERM U1111, Unité Mixte de Recherche 5308, Centre national de la recherche scientifique, Ecole Normale Supérieure de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Roxane Cuzin
- Centre International de Recherche en Infectiologie (CIRI), INSERM U1111, Unité Mixte de Recherche 5308, Centre national de la recherche scientifique, Ecole Normale Supérieure de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Yoann Briend
- Centre International de Recherche en Infectiologie (CIRI), INSERM U1111, Unité Mixte de Recherche 5308, Centre national de la recherche scientifique, Ecole Normale Supérieure de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Vijaykumar Patra
- Centre International de Recherche en Infectiologie (CIRI), INSERM U1111, Unité Mixte de Recherche 5308, Centre national de la recherche scientifique, Ecole Normale Supérieure de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Sabine Patot
- Centre International de Recherche en Infectiologie (CIRI), INSERM U1111, Unité Mixte de Recherche 5308, Centre national de la recherche scientifique, Ecole Normale Supérieure de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | | | - Willem van Wamel
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Nicole Lemmens
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Saeko Nakajima
- Department of Dermatology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - François Vandenesh
- Centre International de Recherche en Infectiologie (CIRI), INSERM U1111, Unité Mixte de Recherche 5308, Centre national de la recherche scientifique, Ecole Normale Supérieure de Lyon, Lyon, France; Service de Microbiologie Clinique, Groupement Hospitalier Nord, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Bron, France; Centre National de Référence des Staphylocoques, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Jean-François Nicolas
- Centre International de Recherche en Infectiologie (CIRI), INSERM U1111, Unité Mixte de Recherche 5308, Centre national de la recherche scientifique, Ecole Normale Supérieure de Lyon, Lyon, France; Service d'Allergologie et Immunologie Clinique, Centre Hospitalier Lyon Sud, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Pierre-Bénite, France
| | - Gérard Lina
- Centre International de Recherche en Infectiologie (CIRI), INSERM U1111, Unité Mixte de Recherche 5308, Centre national de la recherche scientifique, Ecole Normale Supérieure de Lyon, Lyon, France; Service de Microbiologie Clinique, Groupement Hospitalier Nord, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Bron, France; Centre National de Référence des Staphylocoques, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Audrey Nosbaum
- Centre International de Recherche en Infectiologie (CIRI), INSERM U1111, Unité Mixte de Recherche 5308, Centre national de la recherche scientifique, Ecole Normale Supérieure de Lyon, Lyon, France; Service d'Allergologie et Immunologie Clinique, Centre Hospitalier Lyon Sud, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Pierre-Bénite, France
| | - Marc Vocanson
- Centre International de Recherche en Infectiologie (CIRI), INSERM U1111, Unité Mixte de Recherche 5308, Centre national de la recherche scientifique, Ecole Normale Supérieure de Lyon, Lyon, France.
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Wang J, Yang JY, Durairaj P, Wen WH, Sabapathi N, Yang L, Wang B, Jia AQ. Discovery and evaluation of 3-(2-isocyanobenzyl)-1 H-indole derivatives as potential quorum sensing inhibitors for the control of Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections in vitro. RSC Med Chem 2024:d4md00354c. [PMID: 39185452 PMCID: PMC11342129 DOI: 10.1039/d4md00354c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2024] [Accepted: 07/17/2024] [Indexed: 08/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Quorum sensing (QS) inhibition stands out as an innovative therapeutic strategy for combating infections caused by drug-resistant pathogens. In this study, we assessed the potential of 3-(2-isocyanobenzyl)-1H-indole derivatives as novel quorum sensing inhibitors (QSIs). Initial screenings of their QS inhibitory activities were conducted against Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1 and Chromobacterium violaceum CV026. Notably, six 3-(2-isocyanobenzyl)-1H-indole derivatives (4, 12, 25, 28, 32, and 33) exhibited promising QS, biofilms, and pyocyanin inhibitory activities under minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) against P. aeruginosa PAO1. Among them, 3-(2-isocyano-6-methylbenzyl)-1H-indole (IMBI, 32) emerged as the most promising candidate, demonstrating superior biofilm and pyocyanin inhibition. Further comprehensive studies revealed that derivative 32 at 25 μg mL-1 inhibited biofilm formation by 70% against P. aeruginosa PAO1, as confirmed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Additionally, derivative 32 substantially increased the susceptibility of mature biofilms, leading to a 57% destruction of biofilm architecture. In terms of interfering with virulence factors in P. aeruginosa PAO1, derivative 32 (25 μg mL-1) displayed remarkable inhibitory effects on pyocyanin, protease, and extracellular polysaccharides (EPS) by 73%, 51%, and 37%, respectively, exceeding the positive control resveratrol (RSV). Derivative 32 at 25 μg mL-1 also exhibited effective inhibition of swimming and swarming motilities. Moreover, it downregulated the expressions of QS-related genes, including lasI, lasR, rhlI, rhlR, pqsR, sdhB, sucD, sodB, and PA5439, by 1.82- to 10.87-fold. Molecular docking, molecular dynamics simulations (MD), and energy calculations further supported the stable binding of 32 to LasR, RhlI, RhlR, EsaL, and PqsR antagonizing the expression of QS-linked traits. Evaluation of the toxicity of derivative 32 on HEK293T cells via CCK-8 assay demonstrated low cytotoxicity. Overall, this study underscores the efficacy of derivative 32 in inhibiting virulence factors in P. aeruginosa. Derivative 32 emerges as a potential QSI for controlling P. aeruginosa PAO1 infections in vitro and an anti-biofilm agent for restoring or enhancing drug sensitivity in drug-resistant pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiang Wang
- Hainan General Hospital, Hainan Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University Haikou 570311 China +86 898 68622476
| | - Jing-Yi Yang
- Hainan Branch, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Sanya 572022 China
| | - Pradeepraj Durairaj
- Center for Translational Research, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory Shenzhen 518132 China
- FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, National High Magnetic Field Laboratory, Florida State University Tallahassee Florida 32310 USA
| | - Wei-Huan Wen
- Center for Translational Research, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory Shenzhen 518132 China
| | - Nadana Sabapathi
- Center for Translational Research, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory Shenzhen 518132 China
| | - Liang Yang
- School of Medicine, Southern University of Science and Technology Shenzhen 518055 China
| | - Bo Wang
- Hainan General Hospital, Hainan Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University Haikou 570311 China +86 898 68622476
| | - Ai-Qun Jia
- Hainan General Hospital, Hainan Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University Haikou 570311 China +86 898 68622476
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Hetta HF, Ramadan YN, Rashed ZI, Alharbi AA, Alsharef S, Alkindy TT, Alkhamali A, Albalawi AS, Battah B, Donadu MG. Quorum Sensing Inhibitors: An Alternative Strategy to Win the Battle against Multidrug-Resistant (MDR) Bacteria. Molecules 2024; 29:3466. [PMID: 39124871 PMCID: PMC11313800 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29153466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2024] [Revised: 06/29/2024] [Accepted: 07/22/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Antibiotic resistance is a major problem and a major global health concern. In total, there are 16 million deaths yearly from infectious diseases, and at least 65% of infectious diseases are caused by microbial communities that proliferate through the formation of biofilms. Antibiotic overuse has resulted in the evolution of multidrug-resistant (MDR) microbial strains. As a result, there is now much more interest in non-antibiotic therapies for bacterial infections. Among these revolutionary, non-traditional medications is quorum sensing inhibitors (QSIs). Bacterial cell-to-cell communication is known as quorum sensing (QS), and it is mediated by tiny diffusible signaling molecules known as autoinducers (AIs). QS is dependent on the density of the bacterial population. QS is used by Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria to control a wide range of processes; in both scenarios, QS entails the synthesis, identification, and reaction to signaling chemicals, also known as auto-inducers. Since the usual processes regulated by QS are the expression of virulence factors and the creation of biofilms, QS is being investigated as an alternative solution to antibiotic resistance. Consequently, the use of QS-inhibiting agents, such as QSIs and quorum quenching (QQ) enzymes, to interfere with QS seems like a good strategy to prevent bacterial infections. This review sheds light on QS inhibition strategy and mechanisms and discusses how using this approach can aid in winning the battle against resistant bacteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helal F. Hetta
- Division of Microbiology, Immunology and Biotechnology, Department of Natural Products and Alternative Medicine, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Tabuk, Tabuk 71491, Saudi Arabia; (A.A.A.); (S.A.); (T.T.A.)
| | - Yasmin N. Ramadan
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Assiut University, Assiut 71515, Egypt; (Y.N.R.); (Z.I.R.)
| | - Zainab I. Rashed
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Assiut University, Assiut 71515, Egypt; (Y.N.R.); (Z.I.R.)
| | - Ahmad A. Alharbi
- Division of Microbiology, Immunology and Biotechnology, Department of Natural Products and Alternative Medicine, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Tabuk, Tabuk 71491, Saudi Arabia; (A.A.A.); (S.A.); (T.T.A.)
| | - Shomokh Alsharef
- Division of Microbiology, Immunology and Biotechnology, Department of Natural Products and Alternative Medicine, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Tabuk, Tabuk 71491, Saudi Arabia; (A.A.A.); (S.A.); (T.T.A.)
| | - Tala T. Alkindy
- Division of Microbiology, Immunology and Biotechnology, Department of Natural Products and Alternative Medicine, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Tabuk, Tabuk 71491, Saudi Arabia; (A.A.A.); (S.A.); (T.T.A.)
| | - Alanoud Alkhamali
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Tabuk, Tabuk 71491, Saudi Arabia; (A.A.); (A.S.A.)
| | - Abdullah S. Albalawi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Tabuk, Tabuk 71491, Saudi Arabia; (A.A.); (A.S.A.)
| | - Basem Battah
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Antioch Syrian Private University, Maaret Siadnaya 22734, Syria
| | - Matthew G. Donadu
- Hospital Pharmacy, Giovanni Paolo II Hospital, ASL Gallura, 07026 Olbia, Italy;
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Pharmacy, Scuola di Specializzazione in Farmacia Ospedaliera, University of Sassari, 07100 Sassari, Italy
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Liu C, Hou J, Ren X, Guo X, Wang B, Song W, Wang L, Wang G. Norwogonin aids in fighting MRSA-induced pneumonia by targeting agrA C to inhibit α-hemolysin production. World J Microbiol Biotechnol 2024; 40:265. [PMID: 38990361 DOI: 10.1007/s11274-024-04052-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024]
Abstract
The increasing prevalence of infections related to methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) necessitates the exploration of innovative therapeutic strategies that diverge from conventional antibiotic treatments. This is imperative to effectively combat resistance and manage these infections. The adoption of antivirulence strategies has emerged as a particularly promising avenue. This approach applies a heightened selective pressure on pathogens, thereby diminishing the likelihood of bacteria evolving resistance to antibiotics. In our pursuit of novel therapeutics for treating MRSA infections, we have focused on agents that inhibit the virulence of S. aureus without impeding its growth, aiming to minimize the development of drug resistance. α-Hemolysin, a critical virulence factor encoded by the hla gene, is a cytotoxin that forms pores in host cell membranes and plays a pivotal role in the progression of disease during bacterial infections. Herein, we identified that norwogonin could effectively inhibit Hla production via targeting agrAC, a crucial protein in quorum sensing, resulting in dose-dependent inhibition of hemolytic activity without suppressing S. aureus growth. In vitro assays illustrated that norwogonin decreased the thermal stability of agrAC, providing evidence of interaction between norwogonin and agrAC. Meanwhile, norwogonin alleviated Hla-mediated A549 cell damage and reduced lactate dehydrogenase release. In vivo studies suggested that norwogonin treatment blocked the establishment of a mouse model of pneumonia caused by S. aureus USA300. Notably, norwogonin enhanced the antibacterial potency of oxacillin. In conclusion, norwogonin is a promising candidate for treating S. aureus infections, offering a novel alternative to traditional antibiotics by targeting virulence factors and enhancing the efficacy of existing treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang Liu
- Jilin University School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
- Clinical Medical College, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China
| | - Juan Hou
- Clinical Medical College, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China
| | - Xinran Ren
- Jilin University School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Xuerui Guo
- Jilin University School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Bingmei Wang
- Clinical Medical College, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China
| | - Wu Song
- Clinical Medical College, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China.
| | - Li Wang
- Clinical Medical College, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China.
| | - Guangshu Wang
- Jilin University School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China.
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Santajit S, Tunyong W, Horpet D, Binmut A, Kong-Ngoen T, Wisessaowapak C, Thavorasak T, Pumirat P, Indrawattana N. Unveiling the Antimicrobial, Anti-Biofilm, and Anti-Quorum-Sensing Potential of Paederia foetida Linn. Leaf Extract against Staphylococcus aureus: An Integrated In Vitro-In Silico Investigation. Antibiotics (Basel) 2024; 13:613. [PMID: 39061295 PMCID: PMC11273848 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics13070613] [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: 05/21/2024] [Revised: 06/18/2024] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial resistance poses a global health threat, with Staphylococcus aureus emerging as a notorious pathogen capable of forming stubborn biofilms and regulating virulence through quorum sensing (QS). In the quest for novel therapeutic strategies, this groundbreaking study unveils the therapeutic potential of Paederia foetida Linn., an Asian medicinal plant containing various bioactive compounds, contributing to its antimicrobial activities, in the battle against S. aureus. Through a comprehensive approach, we investigated the effect of ethanolic P. foetida leaf extract on S. aureus biofilms, QS, and antimicrobial activity. The extract exhibited promising inhibitory effects against S. aureus including the biofilm-forming strain and MRSA. Real-time PCR analysis revealed significant downregulation of key virulence and biofilm genes, suggesting interference with QS. Biofilm assays quantified the extract's ability to disrupt and prevent biofilm formation. LC-MS/MS analysis identified quercetin and kaempferol glycosides as potential bioactive constituents, while molecular docking studies explored their binding to the QS transcriptional regulator SarA. Computational ADMET predictions highlighted favorable intestinal absorption but potential P-glycoprotein interactions limiting oral bioavailability. While promising anti-virulence effects were demonstrated, the high molecular weights and excessive hydrogen bond donors/acceptors of the flavonoid glycosides raise concerns regarding drug-likeness and permeability. This integrated study offers valuable insights for developing novel anti-virulence strategies to combat antimicrobial resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sirijan Santajit
- Department of Medical Technology, School of Allied Health Sciences, Walailak University, Tha Sala 80160, Thailand; (S.S.); (D.H.); (A.B.)
- Research Center in Tropical Pathobiology, Walailak University, Tha Sala 80160, Thailand
| | - Witawat Tunyong
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand; (W.T.); (T.K.-N.); (P.P.)
| | - Dararat Horpet
- Department of Medical Technology, School of Allied Health Sciences, Walailak University, Tha Sala 80160, Thailand; (S.S.); (D.H.); (A.B.)
| | - Asma Binmut
- Department of Medical Technology, School of Allied Health Sciences, Walailak University, Tha Sala 80160, Thailand; (S.S.); (D.H.); (A.B.)
| | - Thida Kong-Ngoen
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand; (W.T.); (T.K.-N.); (P.P.)
| | | | - Techit Thavorasak
- Center of Research Excellence in Therapeutic Proteins and Antibody Engineering, Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10700, Thailand;
| | - Pornpan Pumirat
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand; (W.T.); (T.K.-N.); (P.P.)
| | - Nitaya Indrawattana
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand; (W.T.); (T.K.-N.); (P.P.)
- Siriraj Center of Research Excellence in Allergy and Immunology, Department of Research, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10700, Thailand
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Eisenbraun EL, Vulpis TD, Prosser BN, Horswill AR, Blackwell HE. Synthetic Peptides Capable of Potent Multigroup Staphylococcal Quorum Sensing Activation and Inhibition in Both Cultures and Biofilm Communities. J Am Chem Soc 2024; 146:15941-15954. [PMID: 38832917 PMCID: PMC11321086 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.4c02694] [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: 06/06/2024]
Abstract
The pathogen Staphylococcus epidermidis uses a chemical signaling process, i.e., quorum sensing (QS), to form robust biofilms and cause human infection. Many questions remain about QS in S. epidermidis, as it uses this intercellular communication pathway to both negatively and positively regulate virulence traits. Herein, we report synthetic multigroup agonists and antagonists of the S. epidermidis accessory gene regulator (agr) QS system capable of potent superactivation and complete inhibition, respectively. These macrocyclic peptides maintain full efficacy across the three major agr specificity groups, and their activity can be "mode-switched" from agonist to antagonist via subtle residue-specific structural changes. We describe the design and synthesis of these non-native peptides and demonstrate that they can appreciably decrease biofilm formation on abiotic surfaces, underscoring the potential for agr agonism as a route to block S. epidermidis virulence. Additionally, we show that both the S. epidermidis agonists and antagonists are active in S. aureus, another common pathogen with a related agr system, yet only as antagonists. This result not only revealed one of the most potent agr inhibitors known in S. aureus but also highlighted differences in the mechanisms of agr agonism and antagonism between these related bacteria. Finally, our investigations reveal unexpected inhibitory behavior for certain S. epidermidis agr agonists at sub-activating concentrations, an observation that can be leveraged for the design of future probes with enhanced potencies. Together, these peptides provide a powerful tool set to interrogate the role of QS in S. epidermidis infections and in Staphylococcal pathogenicity in general.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma L. Eisenbraun
- Department of Chemistry, University of Wisconsin–Madison, 1101 University Ave., Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Troy D. Vulpis
- Department of Chemistry, University of Wisconsin–Madison, 1101 University Ave., Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Brendan N. Prosser
- Department of Chemistry, University of Wisconsin–Madison, 1101 University Ave., Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Alexander R. Horswill
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Anschutz Medical Campus, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Helen E. Blackwell
- Department of Chemistry, University of Wisconsin–Madison, 1101 University Ave., Madison, WI 53706, USA
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9
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Inagaki R, Koshiba A, Nasuno E, Kato N. Eliminating extracellular autoinducing peptide signals inhibits the Staphylococcus aureus quorum sensing agr system. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2024; 711:149912. [PMID: 38615572 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2024.149912] [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: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Abstract
An accessory gene regulator (agr) in the quorum sensing (QS) system in Staphylococcus aureus contributes to host infection, virulence factor production, and resistance to oxidative damage. Artificially maintaining the inactive state of agr QS impedes the host infection strategy of S. aureus and inhibits toxin production. The QS system performs intercellular signal transduction, which is activated by the mature autoinducer peptide (AIP). It is released from cells after AgrD peptide processing as an intercellular signal associated with increased bacterial cell density. This study evaluated the effectiveness of inhibiting agr QS wherein AIP trap carriers were made to coexist when culturing Staphylococcus aureus. Immersing a nitrocellulose (NC) membrane in Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 12600 culture inhibited QS-dependent α-hemolysin production, which significantly reduced the hemolysis ratio of sheep red blood cells by the culture supernatant. A quartz crystal microbalance analysis supported AIP adsorption onto the NC membrane. Adding the NC membrane during culture was found to maintain the expression levels of the agr QS gene agrA and α-hemolysin gene hla lower than that when it was not added. Eliminating extracellular AIP signals allowed agr QS to remain inactive and prevented QS-dependent α-hemolysin expression. Isolating intercellular signals secreted outside the cell is an effective strategy to suppress gene expression in bacterial cells that collaborate via intercellular signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruki Inagaki
- Graduate School of Regional Development and Creativity, Utsunomiya University, 7-1-2 Yoto, Utsunomiya, Tochigi, 321-8585, Japan
| | - Ayaka Koshiba
- Graduate School of Regional Development and Creativity, Utsunomiya University, 7-1-2 Yoto, Utsunomiya, Tochigi, 321-8585, Japan
| | - Eri Nasuno
- Graduate School of Regional Development and Creativity, Utsunomiya University, 7-1-2 Yoto, Utsunomiya, Tochigi, 321-8585, Japan.
| | - Norihiro Kato
- Graduate School of Regional Development and Creativity, Utsunomiya University, 7-1-2 Yoto, Utsunomiya, Tochigi, 321-8585, Japan.
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10
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Vadakkan K, Sathishkumar K, Kuttiyachan Urumbil S, Ponnenkunnathu Govindankutty S, Kumar Ngangbam A, Devi Nongmaithem B. A review of chemical signaling mechanisms underlying quorum sensing and its inhibition in Staphylococcus aureus. Bioorg Chem 2024; 148:107465. [PMID: 38761705 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2024.107465] [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: 03/24/2024] [Revised: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/20/2024]
Abstract
Staphylococcus aureus is a significant bacterium responsible for multiple infections and is a primary cause of fatalities among patients in hospital environments. The advent of pathogenic bacteria such as methicillin-resistant S. aureus revealed the shortcomings of employing antibiotics to treat bacterial infectious diseases. Quorum sensing enhances S. aureus's survivability through signaling processes. Targeting the key components of quorum sensing has drawn much interest nowadays as a promising strategy for combating infections caused by bacteria. Concentrating on the accessory gene regulator quorum-sensing mechanism is the most commonly suggested anti-virulence approach for S.aureus. Quorum quenching is a common strategy for controlling illnesses triggered by microorganisms since it reduces the pathogenicity of bacteria and improves bacterial biofilm susceptibility to antibiotics, thus providing an intriguing prospect for drug discovery. Quorum sensing inhibition reduces selective stresses and constrains the emergence of antibiotic resistance while limiting bacterial pathogenicity. This review examines the quorum sensing mechanisms involved in S. aureus, quorum sensing targets and gene regulation, environmental factors affecting quorum sensing, quorum sensing inhibition, natural products as quorum sensing inhibitory agents and novel therapeutical strategies to target quorum sensing in S. aureus as drug developing technique to augment conventional antibiotic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kayeen Vadakkan
- Department of Biotechnology, St. Mary's College (Autonomous), Thrissur, Kerala 680020, India; Manipur International University, Imphal, Manipur 795140, India.
| | - Kuppusamy Sathishkumar
- Center for Global Health Research, Saveetha Medical College and Hospitals, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences (SIMATS), Saveetha University, Thandalam, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 602105, India
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11
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Sabino YNV, de Araújo Domingues KC, O'Connor PM, Marques PH, Santos EH, Tótola MR, Abreu LM, de Queiroz MV, Cotter PD, Mantovani HC. Bacillus velezensis iturins inhibit the hemolytic activity of Staphylococcus aureus. Sci Rep 2024; 14:9469. [PMID: 38658583 PMCID: PMC11043418 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-58973-0] [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: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Bovine mastitis caused by S. aureus has a major economic impact on the dairy sector. With the crucial need for new therapies, anti-virulence strategies have gained attention as alternatives to antibiotics. Here we aimed to identify novel compounds that inhibit the production/activity of hemolysins, a virulence factor of S. aureus associated with mastitis severity. We screened Bacillus strains obtained from diverse sources for compounds showing anti-hemolytic activity. Our results demonstrate that lipopeptides produced by Bacillus spp. completely prevented the hemolytic activity of S. aureus at certain concentrations. Following purification, both iturins, fengycins, and surfactins were able to reduce hemolysis caused by S. aureus, with iturins showing the highest anti-hemolytic activity (up to 76% reduction). The lipopeptides showed an effect at the post-translational level. Molecular docking simulations demonstrated that these compounds can bind to hemolysin, possibly interfering with enzyme action. Lastly, molecular dynamics analysis indicated general stability of important residues for hemolysin activity as well as the presence of hydrogen bonds between iturins and these residues, with longevous interactions. Our data reveals, for the first time, an anti-hemolytic activity of lipopeptides and highlights the potential application of iturins as an anti-virulence therapy to control bovine mastitis caused by S. aureus.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Pedro Henrique Marques
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, Federal University of Triângulo Mineiro, Uberaba, MG, Brazil
| | - Eduardo Horta Santos
- Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Paul D Cotter
- Teagasc Food Research Centre, Moorepark, Fermoy, Co. Cork, Cork, Ireland
- APC Microbiome Ireland, Cork, Ireland
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12
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Srivastava A, Verma N, Kumar V, Apoorva P, Agarwal V. Biofilm inhibition/eradication: exploring strategies and confronting challenges in combatting biofilm. Arch Microbiol 2024; 206:212. [PMID: 38616221 DOI: 10.1007/s00203-024-03938-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2024] [Revised: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Abstract
Biofilms are complex communities of microorganisms enclosed in a self-produced extracellular matrix, posing a significant threat to different sectors, including healthcare and industry. This review provides an overview of the challenges faced due to biofilm formation and different novel strategies that can combat biofilm formation. Bacteria inside the biofilm exhibit increased resistance against different antimicrobial agents, including conventional antibiotics, which can lead to severe problems in livestock and animals, including humans. In addition, biofilm formation also imposes heavy economic pressure on industries. Hence it becomes necessary to explore newer alternatives to eradicate biofilms effectively without applying selection pressure on the bacteria. Excessive usage of antibiotics may also lead to an increase in the number of resistant strains as bacteria employ an advanced antimicrobial resistance mechanism. This review provides insight into multifaceted technologies like quorum sensing inhibition, enzymes, antimicrobial peptides, bacteriophage, phytocompounds, and nanotechnology to neutralize biofilms without developing antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Furthermore, it will pave the way for developing newer therapeutic agents to deal with biofilms more efficiently.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anmol Srivastava
- Department of Biotechnology, Motilal Nehru National Institute of Technology Allahabad, Prayagraj, 211004, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Nidhi Verma
- Department of Biotechnology, Motilal Nehru National Institute of Technology Allahabad, Prayagraj, 211004, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Vivek Kumar
- Department of Biotechnology, Motilal Nehru National Institute of Technology Allahabad, Prayagraj, 211004, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Pragati Apoorva
- Department of Biotechnology, Motilal Nehru National Institute of Technology Allahabad, Prayagraj, 211004, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Vishnu Agarwal
- Department of Biotechnology, Motilal Nehru National Institute of Technology Allahabad, Prayagraj, 211004, Uttar Pradesh, India.
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13
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Yamaguchi J, Manome T, Hara Y, Yamazaki Y, Nakamura Y, Ishibashi M, Takaya A. Physalin H, physalin B, and isophysalin B suppress the quorum-sensing function of Staphylococcus aureus by binding to AgrA. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1365815. [PMID: 38659576 PMCID: PMC11039898 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1365815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
The virulence of Staphylococcus aureus, including methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA), depends on the expression of toxins and virulence factors controlled by the quorum-sensing (QS) system, encoded on the virulence accessory gene regulator (agr) locus. The aim of this study was to identify a phytochemical that inhibits Agr-QS function and to elucidate its mechanism. We screened 577 compounds and identified physalin H, physalin B, and isophysalin B--phytochemicals belonging to physalins found in plants of the Solanaceae family--as novel Agr-QS modulators. Biological analyses and in vitro protein-DNA binding assays suggested that these physalins suppress gene expression related to the Agr-QS system by inhibiting binding of the key response regulator AgrA to the agr promoters, reducing the function of hemolytic toxins downstream of these genes in MRSA. Furthermore, although physalin F suppressed gene expression in the Agr-QS system, its anti-hemolytic activity was lower than that of physalins H, B, and isophysalin B. Conversely, five physalins isolated from the same plant with the ability to suppress Agr-QS did not reduce bacterial Agr-QS activity but inhibited AgrA binding to DNA in vitro. A docking simulation revealed that physalin interacts with the DNA-binding site of AgrA in three docking states. The carbonyl oxygens at C-1 and C-18 of physalins, which can suppress Agr-QS, were directed to residues N201 and R198 of AgrA, respectively, whereas these carbonyl oxygens of physalins, without Agr-QS suppression activity, were oriented in different directions. Next, 100-ns molecular dynamics simulations revealed that the hydrogen bond formed between the carbonyl oxygen at C-15 of physalins and L186 of AgrA functions as an anchor, sustaining the interaction between the carbonyl oxygen at C-1 of physalins and N201 of AgrA. Thus, these results suggest that physalin H, physalin B, and isophysalin B inhibit the interaction of AgrA with the agr promoters by binding to the DNA-binding site of AgrA, suppressing the Agr-QS function of S. aureus. Physalins that suppress the Agr-QS function are proposed as potential lead compounds in the anti-virulence strategy for MRSA infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junpei Yamaguchi
- Department of Infection Control Science, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Teruhisa Manome
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
- Laboratory of Natural Products Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Yasumasa Hara
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
- Faculty of Agriculture, Kagawa University, Takamatsu, Japan
| | - Yuriko Yamazaki
- Cutaneous Allergy and Host Defense, Immunology Frontier Research Center, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
- Department of Dermatology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Yuumi Nakamura
- Cutaneous Allergy and Host Defense, Immunology Frontier Research Center, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
- Department of Dermatology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Masami Ishibashi
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
- School of Pharmacy at Fukuoka, International University of Health and Welfare, Okawa, Japan
| | - Akiko Takaya
- Department of Infection Control Science, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
- Medical Mycology Research Center, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
- Plant Molecular Science Center, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
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14
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Aboelnaga N, Elsayed SW, Abdelsalam NA, Salem S, Saif NA, Elsayed M, Ayman S, Nasr M, Elhadidy M. Deciphering the dynamics of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus biofilm formation: from molecular signaling to nanotherapeutic advances. Cell Commun Signal 2024; 22:188. [PMID: 38519959 PMCID: PMC10958940 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-024-01511-2] [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: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) represents a global threat, necessitating the development of effective solutions to combat this emerging superbug. In response to selective pressures within healthcare, community, and livestock settings, MRSA has evolved increased biofilm formation as a multifaceted virulence and defensive mechanism, enabling the bacterium to thrive in harsh conditions. This review discusses the molecular mechanisms contributing to biofilm formation across its developmental stages, hence representing a step forward in developing promising strategies for impeding or eradicating biofilms. During staphylococcal biofilm development, cell wall-anchored proteins attach bacterial cells to biotic or abiotic surfaces; extracellular polymeric substances build scaffolds for biofilm formation; the cidABC operon controls cell lysis within the biofilm, and proteases facilitate dispersal. Beside the three main sequential stages of biofilm formation (attachment, maturation, and dispersal), this review unveils two unique developmental stages in the biofilm formation process for MRSA; multiplication and exodus. We also highlighted the quorum sensing as a cell-to-cell communication process, allowing distant bacterial cells to adapt to the conditions surrounding the bacterial biofilm. In S. aureus, the quorum sensing process is mediated by autoinducing peptides (AIPs) as signaling molecules, with the accessory gene regulator system playing a pivotal role in orchestrating the production of AIPs and various virulence factors. Several quorum inhibitors showed promising anti-virulence and antibiofilm effects that vary in type and function according to the targeted molecule. Disrupting the biofilm architecture and eradicating sessile bacterial cells are crucial steps to prevent colonization on other surfaces or organs. In this context, nanoparticles emerge as efficient carriers for delivering antimicrobial and antibiofilm agents throughout the biofilm architecture. Although metal-based nanoparticles have been previously used in combatting biofilms, its non-degradability and toxicity within the human body presents a real challenge. Therefore, organic nanoparticles in conjunction with quorum inhibitors have been proposed as a promising strategy against biofilms. As nanotherapeutics continue to gain recognition as an antibiofilm strategy, the development of more antibiofilm nanotherapeutics could offer a promising solution to combat biofilm-mediated resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nirmeen Aboelnaga
- Center for Genomics, Helmy Institute for Medical Sciences, Zewail City of Science and Technology, Giza, Egypt
- Biomedical Sciences Program, University of Science and Technology, Zewail City of Science and Technology, Giza, Egypt
| | - Salma W Elsayed
- Center for Genomics, Helmy Institute for Medical Sciences, Zewail City of Science and Technology, Giza, Egypt
- Biomedical Sciences Program, University of Science and Technology, Zewail City of Science and Technology, Giza, Egypt
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Nehal Adel Abdelsalam
- Center for Genomics, Helmy Institute for Medical Sciences, Zewail City of Science and Technology, Giza, Egypt
- Biomedical Sciences Program, University of Science and Technology, Zewail City of Science and Technology, Giza, Egypt
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Salma Salem
- Center for Genomics, Helmy Institute for Medical Sciences, Zewail City of Science and Technology, Giza, Egypt
- Biomedical Sciences Program, University of Science and Technology, Zewail City of Science and Technology, Giza, Egypt
| | - Nehal A Saif
- Center for Genomics, Helmy Institute for Medical Sciences, Zewail City of Science and Technology, Giza, Egypt
- Biomedical Sciences Program, University of Science and Technology, Zewail City of Science and Technology, Giza, Egypt
| | - Manar Elsayed
- Center for Genomics, Helmy Institute for Medical Sciences, Zewail City of Science and Technology, Giza, Egypt
- Biomedical Sciences Program, University of Science and Technology, Zewail City of Science and Technology, Giza, Egypt
| | - Shehab Ayman
- Center for Genomics, Helmy Institute for Medical Sciences, Zewail City of Science and Technology, Giza, Egypt
- Biomedical Sciences Program, University of Science and Technology, Zewail City of Science and Technology, Giza, Egypt
| | - Maha Nasr
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Industrial Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Elhadidy
- Center for Genomics, Helmy Institute for Medical Sciences, Zewail City of Science and Technology, Giza, Egypt.
- Biomedical Sciences Program, University of Science and Technology, Zewail City of Science and Technology, Giza, Egypt.
- Department of Bacteriology, Mycology and Immunology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt.
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15
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Kameswaran S, Gujjala S, Zhang S, Kondeti S, Mahalingam S, Bangeppagari M, Bellemkonda R. Quenching and quorum sensing in bacterial bio-films. Res Microbiol 2024; 175:104085. [PMID: 37268165 DOI: 10.1016/j.resmic.2023.104085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Quorum sensing (QS) is the ability of bacteria to monitor their population density and adjust gene expression accordingly. QS-regulated processes include host-microbe interactions, horizontal gene transfer, and multicellular behaviours (such as the growth and development of biofilm). The creation, transfer, and perception of bacterial chemicals known as autoinducers or QS signals are necessary for QS signalling (e.g. N-acylhomoserine lactones). Quorum quenching (QQ), another name for the disruption of QS signalling, comprises a wide range of events and mechanisms that are described and analysed in this study. In order to better comprehend the targets of the QQ phenomena that organisms have naturally developed and are currently being actively researched from practical perspectives, we first surveyed the diversity of QS-signals and QS-associated responses. Next, the mechanisms, molecular players, and targets related to QS interference are discussed, with a focus on natural QQ enzymes and compounds that function as QS inhibitors. To illustrate the processes and biological functions of QS inhibition in microbe-microbe and host-microbe interactions, a few QQ paradigms are described in detail. Finally, certain QQ techniques are offered as potential instruments in a variety of industries, including agriculture, medical, aquaculture, crop production, and anti-biofouling areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Srinivasan Kameswaran
- Department of Botany, Vikrama Simhapuri University College, Kavali, Andhra Pradesh, India
| | - Sudhakara Gujjala
- Department of Biochemistry, Sri Krishnadevaray a University, Ananthapuram, Andhra Pradesh, India
| | - Shaoqing Zhang
- School of Chemistry and Civil Engineering, Shaoguan University, Shaoguan, 512005, PR China
| | - Suresh Kondeti
- Multi-Disciplinary Research Unit, Nizam's Institute of Medical Sciences, Hyderabad, 500082, India
| | - Sundararajan Mahalingam
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Manjunatha Bangeppagari
- Department of Cell Biology & Molecular Genetics, Sri Devaraj Urs Academy of Higher Education and Research (Deemed to Be University), Tamaka, Kolar, 563103, Karnataka, India
| | - Ramesh Bellemkonda
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA.
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16
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Elfaky MA. Unveiling the hidden language of bacteria: anti-quorum sensing strategies for gram-negative bacteria infection control. Arch Microbiol 2024; 206:124. [PMID: 38409503 DOI: 10.1007/s00203-024-03900-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2024] [Revised: 02/04/2024] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
Quorum sensing (QS) is a communication mechanism employed by many bacteria to regulate gene expression in a population density-dependent manner. It plays a crucial role in coordinating various bacterial behaviors, including biofilm formation, virulence factor production, and antibiotic resistance. However, the dysregulation of QS can lead to detrimental effects, making it an attractive target for developing novel therapeutic strategies. Anti-QS approaches aim to interfere with QS signaling pathways, inhibiting the communication between bacteria, and disrupting their coordinated activities. Various strategies have been explored to achieve this goal. Advances in understanding QS mechanisms and the discovery of new targets have paved the way for the development of innovative anti-QS approaches. Combining multiple anti-QS strategies or utilizing them in combination with traditional antibiotics holds great promise for combating bacterial infections and addressing the challenges posed by antibiotic resistance. Anti-QS approaches offer a diverse range of strategies including natural compounds, antibody-mediated quorum quenching (QQ), computer-aided drug design for QQ, repurposing of Drugs approved by FDA as anti-QS agents and modulating quorum-sensing molecules which were discussed in detail in this review. This review, comprehensively and for the first time, sheds light on the significance of diverse anti-QS strategies in solving antimicrobial resistance problem in Gram-negative microbial infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahmoud A Elfaky
- Department of Natural Products, Faculty of Pharmacy, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, 21589, Saudi Arabia.
- Centre for Artificial Intelligence in Precision Medicines, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, 21589, Saudi Arabia.
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17
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Vinodhini V, Kavitha M. Deciphering agr quorum sensing in Staphylococcus aureus: insights and therapeutic prospects. Mol Biol Rep 2024; 51:155. [PMID: 38252331 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-023-08930-3] [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: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
The emergence of superbugs like methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus exposed the limitations of treating microbial infections using antibiotics. At present, the discovery of novel and convincing therapeutic methods are being executed increasingly as possible substitutes to conventional antibiotic therapies. The quorum sensing helps Staphylococcus aureus become more viable through their signaling mechanisms. In recent years, targeting the prominent factors of quorum sensing has obtained remarkable attention as a futuristic approach to dealing with bacterial pathogenicity. The standard antibiotic therapy intends to inhibit the organism by targeting specific molecules and afford a chance for the evolution of antibiotic resistance. This prompts the development of novel therapeutic strategies like inhibiting quorum sensing that can limit bacterial virulence by decreasing the selective pressure, thereby restricting antibiotic resistance evolution. This review furnishes new insights into the accessory gene regulator quorum sensing in Staphylococcus aureus and its inhibition by targeting the genes that regulate the operon. Further, this review comprehensively explores the inhibitors reported up to date and their specific targets and discusses their potentially ineffective alternative therapy against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Vinodhini
- School of Bio Sciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, 632014, India
| | - M Kavitha
- School of Bio Sciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, 632014, India.
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18
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Joy A, Seethi V F, Cyriac MC, Habeeb J, Sudhakaran S, Shah S. Modelling of AgrA inhibitors to combat anti-microbial resistance in Staphylococcus aureus. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2024; 42:551-558. [PMID: 37166373 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2023.2203260] [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: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Staphylococcus aureus is a Gram-positive bacterium found on human skin that causes skin and soft tissue infections, as well as pneumonia, osteomyelitis, and endocarditis. The prevalence of antibiotic resistant strains has made the treatments less effective. An efficient alternate method for battling these contagious diseases is anti-virulence strategy. The AgrA protein, a key activator of Accessory Gene Regulator system in S. aureus, is vital to the virulence of the organism and, consequently, its pathogenesis. Using a Machine Learning algorithm, the Support Vector Machine (SVM), and a ligand-based pharmacophore modelling method, prediction models of AgrA inhibitors were developed. The metrics of the SVM model were inadequate, hence it was not used for virtual screening. For ligand-based pharmacophore modelling, 14 of 29 compounds were removed from the active set due to a lack of shared pharmacophore properties, and 504 compounds were designated as decoys. A 3D pharmacophore model was created using LigandScout 4.4.5, with a fit score of 57.48, including a positive ionizable group, one hydrogen bond donor, and three hydrogen bond acceptors. The model after further validation was used to virtually screen an external database which resulted in six hits. These compounds were docked with the AgrA domain crystal structure to determine the inhibitor activity. Further, each docked complex was subjected to a 100 ns molecular dynamics simulation. CID238 and CID20510252 demonstrated potent inhibitory binding interactions and hence can be used to develop AgrA inhibitors in future after proper validation.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amitha Joy
- Department of Biotechnology, Sahrdaya College of Engineering and Technology, Thrissur, Kerala, India
| | | | - Marria C Cyriac
- Department of Biotechnology, Sahrdaya College of Engineering and Technology, Thrissur, Kerala, India
| | - Jasmin Habeeb
- Division of Crop Improvement, ICAR-Central Plantation Crops Research Institute, Kasaragod, Kerala, India
| | | | - Shaheen Shah
- Genomics Central [MaGenomics], Thrissur, Kerala, India
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19
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Sabino YNV, Araújo Domingues KCD, Mathur H, Gómez-Mascaraque LG, Drouin G, Martínez-Abad A, Tótola MR, Abreu LM, Cotter PD, Mantovani HC. Exopolysaccharides produced by Bacillus spp. inhibit biofilm formation by Staphylococcus aureus strains associated with bovine mastitis. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 253:126689. [PMID: 37678679 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.126689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2023] [Revised: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/02/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023]
Abstract
Bovine mastitis is a costly disease in the dairy sector worldwide. Here the objective was to identify and characterize anti-biofilm compounds produced by Bacillus spp. against S. aureus associated with bovine mastitis. Results showed that cell-free supernatants of three Bacillus strains (out of 33 analysed) reduced S. aureus biofilm formation by approximately 40 % without affecting bacterial growth. The anti-biofilm activity was associated with exopolysaccharides (EPS) secreted by Bacillus spp. The EPS decreased S. aureus biofilm formation in a dose-dependent manner, inhibiting biofilm formation by 83 % at 1 mg/mL. The EPS also showed some biofilm disruption activity (up to 36.4 %), which may be partially mediated by increased expression of the aur gene. The characterization of EPS produced by Bacillus velezensis 87 and B. velezensis TR47II revealed macromolecules with molecular weights of 31.2 and 33.7 kDa, respectively. These macromolecules were composed mainly of glucose (mean = 218.5 μg/mg) and mannose (mean = 241.5 μg/mg) and had similar functional groups (pyranose ring, beta-type glycosidic linkage, and alkynes) as revealed by FT-IR. In conclusion, this study shows the potential applications of EPS produced by B. velezensis as an anti-biofilm compound that could contribute to the treatment of bovine mastitis caused by S. aureus.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Harsh Mathur
- Teagasc Food Research Centre, Moorepark, Fermoy, Co. Cork, Ireland
| | | | - Gaetan Drouin
- Teagasc Food Research Centre, Moorepark, Fermoy, Co. Cork, Ireland
| | | | - Marcos Rogério Tótola
- Department of Microbiology, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Viçosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Lucas Magalhães Abreu
- Department of Phytopathology, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Viçosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Paul D Cotter
- Teagasc Food Research Centre, Moorepark, Fermoy, Co. Cork, Ireland; APC Microbiome Ireland, Cork, Ireland
| | - Hilario Cuquetto Mantovani
- Department of Microbiology, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Viçosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil; Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA.
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20
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Lin H, Song L, Zhou S, Fan C, Zhang M, Huang R, Zhou R, Qiu J, Ma S, He J. A Hybrid Antimicrobial Peptide Targeting Staphylococcus aureus with a Dual Function of Inhibiting Quorum Sensing Signaling and an Antibacterial Effect. J Med Chem 2023; 66:17105-17117. [PMID: 38099725 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c02027] [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: 12/29/2023]
Abstract
Community-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is now a major cause of bacterial infection. Antivirulence therapy does not stimulate evolution of a pathogen toward a resistant phenotype, providing a novel method to treat infectious diseases. Here, we used a cyclic peptide of CP7, an AIP-III variant that specifically inhibited the virulence and biofilm formation of Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) in a nonbiocidal manner, to conjugate with a broad-spectrum antimicrobial peptide (AMP) via two N-termini to obtain a hybrid AMP called CP7-FP13-2. This peptide not only specifically inhibited the production of virulence of S. aureus at low micromolar concentrations but also killed S. aureus, including MRSA, by disrupting the integrity of the bacterial cell membrane. In addition, CP7-FP13-2 inhibited the formation of the S. aureus biofilm and showed good antimicrobial efficacy against the S. aureus-infected Kunming mice model. Therefore, this study provides a promising strategy against the resistance and virulence of S. aureus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haixing Lin
- Group of peptides and natural products Research, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, 1838 Guangzhou Avenue North, Guangzhou 510515, P. R. China
- Department of Urology, Tongren Municipal People's Hospital, 120 Taoyuan Avenue, Tongren, Guizhou 554300, P. R. China
| | - Li Song
- Group of peptides and natural products Research, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, 1838 Guangzhou Avenue North, Guangzhou 510515, P. R. China
| | - Shaofen Zhou
- Group of peptides and natural products Research, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, 1838 Guangzhou Avenue North, Guangzhou 510515, P. R. China
| | - Cuiqiong Fan
- Group of peptides and natural products Research, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, 1838 Guangzhou Avenue North, Guangzhou 510515, P. R. China
| | - Minna Zhang
- Department of Nephrology, Tongren Municipal People's Hospital, 120 Taoyuan Avenue, Tongren, Guizhou 554300, P. R. China
| | - Ruifeng Huang
- Group of peptides and natural products Research, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, 1838 Guangzhou Avenue North, Guangzhou 510515, P. R. China
| | - Runhong Zhou
- Group of peptides and natural products Research, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, 1838 Guangzhou Avenue North, Guangzhou 510515, P. R. China
| | - Jingnan Qiu
- Group of peptides and natural products Research, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, 1838 Guangzhou Avenue North, Guangzhou 510515, P. R. China
| | - Shuaiqi Ma
- Group of peptides and natural products Research, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, 1838 Guangzhou Avenue North, Guangzhou 510515, P. R. China
| | - Jian He
- Group of peptides and natural products Research, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, 1838 Guangzhou Avenue North, Guangzhou 510515, P. R. China
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21
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Hassan RM, Abd El-Maksoud MS, Ghannam IAY, El-Azzouny AAS, Aboul-Enein MN. Synthetic non-toxic anti-biofilm agents as a strategy in combating bacterial resistance. Eur J Med Chem 2023; 262:115867. [PMID: 37866335 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.115867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2023] [Revised: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
The tremendous increase in the bacterial resistance to the available antibiotics is a serious problem for the treatment of various infections. Biofilm formation in bacteria significantly contributes to the bacterial survival in host cells, and is considered as an crucial factor, responsible for bacterial resistance. The response of the bacterial cells in the biofilm to antibiotics is completely different from that of the free floating planktonic cells of the same strain. The anti-biofilm agents that could inhibit the biofilm production without affecting the bacterial growth, apply less selective pressure over the bacterial strains than the traditional antibiotics; thus the development of bacterial resistance would be of low incidence. Many attempts have been performed to discover novel agents capable of interfering with the bacterial biofilm life cycle, and several compounds have shown promising activities in suppressing the biofilm production or in dispersing mature existing biofilms. This review describes the different chemical classes that have anti-biofilm effects against different Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria without affecting the bacterial growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rasha Mohamed Hassan
- Medicinal and Pharmaceutical Chemistry Department, Pharmaceutical and Drug Industries Research Institute, National Research Centre (ID: 60014618), P.O. 12622, Dokki, Giza, Egypt.
| | - Mohamed Samir Abd El-Maksoud
- Medicinal and Pharmaceutical Chemistry Department, Pharmaceutical and Drug Industries Research Institute, National Research Centre (ID: 60014618), P.O. 12622, Dokki, Giza, Egypt
| | - Iman Ahmed Youssef Ghannam
- Chemistry of Natural and Microbial Products Department, Pharmaceutical and Drug Industries Research Institute, National Research Centre, Dokki, Cairo, 12622, Egypt
| | - Aida Abdel-Sattar El-Azzouny
- Medicinal and Pharmaceutical Chemistry Department, Pharmaceutical and Drug Industries Research Institute, National Research Centre (ID: 60014618), P.O. 12622, Dokki, Giza, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Nabil Aboul-Enein
- Medicinal and Pharmaceutical Chemistry Department, Pharmaceutical and Drug Industries Research Institute, National Research Centre (ID: 60014618), P.O. 12622, Dokki, Giza, Egypt.
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22
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Wang J, Yang JY, Durairaj P, Wang W, Tang S, Wang D, Cai CY, Jia AQ. Developing 3-(2-Isocyano-6-methylbenzyl)-1 H-indole Derivatives to Enhance the Susceptibility of Serratia marcescens by Occluding Quorum Sensing. ACS Infect Dis 2023; 9:2607-2621. [PMID: 37971550 PMCID: PMC10715256 DOI: 10.1021/acsinfecdis.3c00433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Revised: 10/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
Quorum sensing (QS) inhibition is recognized as a novel antimicrobial target for infections caused by drug-resistant pathogens and is an attractive strategy for antipathogenic agent development. We designed and synthesized three parts of 3-(2-isocyanobenzyl)-1H-indole derivatives and tested their activity as novel quorum sensing inhibitors (QSIs). 3-(2-Isocyanobenzyl)-1H-indole derivatives demonstrated promising QS, biofilms, and prodigiosin inhibitory activities against Serratia marcescens at subminimum inhibitory concentrations (sub-MICs). In particular, 3-(2-isocyano-6-methylbenzyl)-1H-indole (IMBI, 32) was identified as the best candidate based on several screening assays, including biofilm and prodigiosin inhibition. Further studies demonstrated that exposure to IMBI at 1.56 μg/mL to S. marcescens NJ01 significantly inhibited the formation of biofilms by 42%. The IMBI treatment on S. marcescens NJ01 notably enhanced the susceptibility of the formed biofilms, destroying the architecture of the biofilms by up to 40%, as evidenced by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). For interference of virulence factors in S. marcescens NJ01, IMBI at 3.12 μg/mL inhibited the activity of protease and extracellular polysaccharides (EPS) by 17% and 51%, respectively, which were higher than that of the positive control vanillic acid (VAN). Furthermore, IMBI downregulated the expression of QS- and biofilm-related genes fimA, bsmA, pigP, flhC, rssB, fimC, and rsmA by 1.02- to 2.74-fold. To confirm these findings, molecular docking was performed, which indicated that the binding of IMBI to SmaR, RhlI, RhlR, LasR, and CviR could antagonize the expression of QS-linked traits. In addition, molecular dynamic simulations (MD) and energy calculations indicated that the binding of receptors with IMBI was extremely stable. The biofilms of S. marcescens NJ01 were markedly reduced by 50% when IMBI (0.39 μg/mL) was combined with kanamycin (0.15 μg/mL). In conclusion, this study highlights the potency of IMBI in inhibiting the virulence factors of S. marcescens. IMBI has all the potential to be developed as an effective and efficient QS inhibitor and antibiofilm agent in order to restore or improve antimicrobial drug sensitivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiang Wang
- Key
Laboratory of Tropical Biological Resources of Ministry of Education,
School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hainan
University, Haikou 570228, China
- Hainan
General Hospital, Hainan Affiliated Hospital
of Hainan Medical University, Haikou 570311, China
- Center
for Translational Research, Shenzhen Bay
Laboratory, Shenzhen 518132, China
| | - Jing-Yi Yang
- Key
Laboratory of Tropical Biological Resources of Ministry of Education,
School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hainan
University, Haikou 570228, China
| | - Pradeepraj Durairaj
- Center
for Translational Research, Shenzhen Bay
Laboratory, Shenzhen 518132, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Key
Laboratory of Tropical Biological Resources of Ministry of Education,
School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hainan
University, Haikou 570228, China
| | - Shi Tang
- Key
Laboratory of Tropical Biological Resources of Ministry of Education,
School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hainan
University, Haikou 570228, China
| | - Dayong Wang
- Key
Laboratory of Tropical Biological Resources of Ministry of Education,
School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hainan
University, Haikou 570228, China
| | - Chao-Yun Cai
- Center
for Translational Research, Shenzhen Bay
Laboratory, Shenzhen 518132, China
| | - Ai-Qun Jia
- Hainan
General Hospital, Hainan Affiliated Hospital
of Hainan Medical University, Haikou 570311, China
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23
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Chen F, Di H, Wang Y, Peng C, Chen R, Pan H, Yang CG, Liang H, Lan L. The enzyme activity of sortase A is regulated by phosphorylation in Staphylococcus aureus. Virulence 2023; 14:2171641. [PMID: 36694285 PMCID: PMC9928477 DOI: 10.1080/21505594.2023.2171641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
In many Gram-positive bacteria, the transpeptidase enzyme sortase A (SrtA) anchors surface proteins to cell wall and plays a critical role in the bacterial pathogenesis. Here, we show that in Staphylococcus aureus, an important human pathogen, the SrtA is phosphorylated by serine/threonine protein kinase Stk1. S. aureus SrtA can also be phosphorylated by small-molecule phosphodonor acetyl phosphate (AcP) in vitro. We determined that various amino acid residues of S. aureus SrtA are subject to phosphorylation, primarily on its catalytic site residue cysteine-184 in the context of a bacterial cell lysate. Both Stk1 and AcP-mediated phosphorylation inhibited the enzyme activity of SrtA in vitro. Consequently, deletion of gene (i.e. stp1) encoding serine/threonine phosphatase Stp1, the corresponding phosphatase of Stk1, caused an increase in the phosphorylation level of SrtA. The stp1 deletion mutant mimicked the phenotypic traits of srtA deletion mutant (i.e. attenuated growth where either haemoglobin or haem as a sole iron source and reduced liver infections in a mouse model of systemic infection). Importantly, the phenotypic defects of the stp1 deletion mutant can be alleviated by overexpressing srtA. Taken together, our finding suggests that phosphorylation plays an important role in modulating the activity of SrtA in S. aureus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feifei Chen
- College of Life Science, Northwest University, Xi’an, China,State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China,Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China
| | - Hongxia Di
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yanhui Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Chao Peng
- National Facility for Protein Science in Shanghai, Zhangjiang Lab, Shanghai Advanced Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Science, Shanghai, China
| | - Rongrong Chen
- Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Huiwen Pan
- Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Cai-Guang Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China,Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Haihua Liang
- College of Life Science, Northwest University, Xi’an, China,School of Medicine, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China,Haihua Liang School of Medicine Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
| | - Lefu Lan
- College of Life Science, Northwest University, Xi’an, China,State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China,Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China,CONTACT Lefu Lan
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24
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Gao P, Wei Y, Hou S, Lai PM, Liu H, Tai SSC, Tang VYM, Prakash PH, Sze KH, Chen JHK, Sun H, Li X, Kao RYT. SaeR as a novel target for antivirulence therapy against Staphylococcus aureus. Emerg Microbes Infect 2023; 12:2254415. [PMID: 37671453 PMCID: PMC10494732 DOI: 10.1080/22221751.2023.2254415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2023] [Revised: 08/27/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/07/2023]
Abstract
Staphylococcus aureus is a major human pathogen responsible for a wide range of clinical infections. SaeRS is one of the two-component systems in S. aureus that modulate multiple virulence factors. Although SaeR is required for S. aureus to develop an infection, inhibitors have not been reported. Using an in vivo knockdown method, we demonstrated that SaeR is targetable for the discovery of antivirulence agent. HR3744 was discovered through a high-throughput screening utilizing a GFP-Lux dual reporter system driven by saeP1 promoter. The antivirulence efficacy of HR3744 was tested using Western blot, Quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction, leucotoxicity, and haemolysis tests. In electrophoresis mobility shift assay, HR3744 inhibited SaeR-DNA probe binding. WaterLOGSY-NMR test showed HR3744 directly interacted with SaeR's DNA-binding domain. When SaeR was deleted, HR3744 lost its antivirulence property, validating the target specificity. Virtual docking and mutagenesis were used to confirm the target's specificity. When Glu159 was changed to Asn, the bacteria developed resistance to HR3744. A structure-activity relationship study revealed that a molecule with a slight modification did not inhibit SaeR, indicating the selectivity of HR3744. Interestingly, we found that SAV13, an analogue of HR3744, was four times more potent than HR3744 and demonstrated identical antivirulence properties and target specificity. In a mouse bacteraemia model, both HR3744 and SAV13 exhibited in vivo effectiveness. Collectively, we identified the first SaeR inhibitor, which exhibited in vitro and in vivo antivirulence properties, and proved that SaeR could be a novel target for developing antivirulence drugs against S. aureus infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Gao
- Department of Microbiology, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Yuanxin Wei
- Department of Microbiology, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Suying Hou
- Department of Microbiology, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Pok-Man Lai
- Department of Microbiology, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Han Liu
- Morningside Laboratory for Chemical Biology and Department of Chemistry, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Sherlock Shing Chiu Tai
- Department of Microbiology, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Victor Yat Man Tang
- Department of Microbiology, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Pradeep Halebeedu Prakash
- Department of Microbiology, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Kong-Hung Sze
- Department of Microbiology, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Jonathan Hon Kwan Chen
- Department of Microbiology, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Hongzhe Sun
- Morningside Laboratory for Chemical Biology and Department of Chemistry, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xuechen Li
- Morningside Laboratory for Chemical Biology and Department of Chemistry, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Richard Yi-Tsun Kao
- Department of Microbiology, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
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25
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Tao Z, Ke K, Shi D, Zhu L. Development of a dual fluorescent reporter system to identify inhibitors of Staphylococcus aureus virulence factors. Appl Environ Microbiol 2023; 89:e0097823. [PMID: 37889047 PMCID: PMC10686081 DOI: 10.1128/aem.00978-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Staphylococcus aureus is a formidable pathogen responsible for a wide range of infections, and the emergence of antibiotic-resistant strains has posed significant challenges in treating these infections. In this study, we have established a novel dual reporter system capable of concurrently monitoring the activities of two critical virulence regulators in S. aureus. By incorporating both reporters into a single screening platform, we provide a time- and cost-efficient approach for assessing the activity of compounds against two distinct targets in a single screening round. This innovative dual reporter system presents a promising strategy for the identification of molecules capable of modulating virulence gene expression in S. aureus, potentially expediting the development of antivirulence therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhanhua Tao
- Institute of Eco-Environmental Research, Guangxi Academy of Sciences, Nanning, China
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Marine Natural Products and Combinatorial Biosynthesis Chemistry, Nanning, China
| | - Ke Ke
- Guangxi Academy of Sciences, Nanning, China
| | | | - Libo Zhu
- Guangxi Academy of Sciences, Nanning, China
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26
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Gorgan M, Vanunu Ofri S, Engler ER, Yehuda A, Hutnick E, Hayouka Z, Bertucci MA. The importance of the PapR 7 C-terminus and amide protons in mediating quorum sensing in Bacilluscereus. Res Microbiol 2023; 174:104139. [PMID: 37758114 DOI: 10.1016/j.resmic.2023.104139] [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: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
The opportunistic human pathogen Bacillus cereus controls the expression of key infection-promoting phenotypes using bacterial quorum sensing (QS). QS signal transduction within the species is controlled by an autoinducing peptide, PapR7, and its cognate receptor, PlcR, indicating that the PlcR:PapR interface is a prime target for QS inhibitor development. The C-terminal region of the peptide (PapR7; ADLPFEF) has been successfully employed as a scaffold to develop potent QS modulators. Despite the noted importance of the C-terminal carboxylate and amide protons in crystallographic data, their role in QS activity has yet to be explored. In this study, an N-methyl scan of PapR7 was conducted in conjunction with a C-terminal modification of previously identified B. cereus QS inhibitors. The results indicate that the amide proton at Glu6 and the C-terminal carboxylate are important for effective QS inhibition of the PlcR regulon. Through β-galactosidase and hemolysis assays, a series of QS inhibitors were discovered, including several capable of inhibiting QS with nanomolar potency. These inhibitors, along with the structure-activity data reported, will serve as valuable tools for disrupting the B. cereus QS pathway towards developing novel anti-infective strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Gorgan
- Department of Chemistry, Lafayette College, 701 Sullivan Rd., Easton, PA 18042, United States
| | - Shahar Vanunu Ofri
- Institute of Biochemistry, Food Science and Nutrition, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Emilee R Engler
- Department of Chemistry, Moravian University, 1200 Main St., Bethlehem, PA 18018, United States
| | - Avishag Yehuda
- Institute of Biochemistry, Food Science and Nutrition, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Elizabeth Hutnick
- Department of Chemistry, Moravian University, 1200 Main St., Bethlehem, PA 18018, United States
| | - Zvi Hayouka
- Institute of Biochemistry, Food Science and Nutrition, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot, Israel.
| | - Michael A Bertucci
- Department of Chemistry, Lafayette College, 701 Sullivan Rd., Easton, PA 18042, United States.
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27
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Alghamdi S, Khandelwal K, Pandit S, Roy A, Ray S, Alsaiari AA, Aljuaid A, Almehmadi M, Allahyani M, Sharma R, Anand J, Alshareef AA. Application of nanomaterials as potential quorum quenchers for disease: Recent advances and challenges. PROGRESS IN BIOPHYSICS AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2023; 184:13-31. [PMID: 37666284 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbiomolbio.2023.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 07/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023]
Abstract
Chemical signal molecules are used by bacteria to interact with one another. Small hormone-like molecules known as autoinducers are produced, released, detected, and responded to during chemical communication. Quorum Sensing (QS) is the word for this procedure; it allows bacterial populations to communicate and coordinate group behavior. Several research has been conducted on using inhibitors to prevent QS and minimize the detrimental consequences. Through the enzymatic breakdown of the autoinducer component, by preventing the formation of autoinducers, or by blocking their reception by adding some compounds (inhibitors) that can mimic the autoinducers, a technique known as "quorum quenching" (QQ) disrupts microbial communication. Numerous techniques, including colorimetry, electrochemistry, bioluminescence, chemiluminescence, fluorescence, chromatography-mass spectroscopy, and many more, can be used to test QS/QQ. They all permit quantitative and qualitative measurements of QS/QQ molecules. The mechanism of QS and QQ, as well as the use of QQ in the prevention of biofilms, are all elaborated upon in this writing, along with the fundamental study of nanoparticle (NP)in QQ. Q.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saad Alghamdi
- Laboratory Medicine Department, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Krisha Khandelwal
- Department of Life Sciences, School of Basic Sciences and Research, Sharda University Greater Noida, India
| | - Soumya Pandit
- Department of Life Sciences, School of Basic Sciences and Research, Sharda University Greater Noida, India
| | - Arpita Roy
- Department of Biotechnology, Sharda School of Engineering & Technology, Sharda University, Greater Noida, India.
| | - Subhasree Ray
- Department of Life Sciences, School of Basic Sciences and Research, Sharda University Greater Noida, India
| | - Ahad Amer Alsaiari
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Taif University, P.O. Box 11099, Taif, 21944, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdulelah Aljuaid
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Taif University, P.O. Box 11099, Taif, 21944, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mazen Almehmadi
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Taif University, P.O. Box 11099, Taif, 21944, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mamdouh Allahyani
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Taif University, P.O. Box 11099, Taif, 21944, Saudi Arabia
| | - Rohit Sharma
- Department of Rasa Shastra and Bhaishajya Kalpana, Faculty of Ayurveda, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, 221005, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Jigisha Anand
- Department of Biotechnology, Graphic Era Deemed to be University, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Ahmad Adnan Alshareef
- Laboratory and Blood Bank Department, Alnoor Specialist Hospital, Ministry of Health, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
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Arya R, Kim T, Youn JW, Bae T, Kim KK. Identification of an antivirulence agent targeting the master regulator of virulence genes in Staphylococcus aureus. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2023; 13:1268044. [PMID: 38029271 PMCID: PMC10644738 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1268044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The emergence of bactericidal antibiotic-resistant strains has increased the demand for alternative therapeutic agents, such as antivirulence agents targeting the virulence regulators of pathogens. Staphylococcus aureus exoprotein expression (sae) locus, the master regulator of virulence gene expression in multiple drug-resistant S. aureus, is a promising therapeutic target. In this study, we screened a small-molecule library using a SaeRS green fluorescent protein (GFP)-reporter that responded to transcription controlled by the sae locus. We identified the compound, N-(2-methylcyclohexyl)-11-oxo-10,11-dihydrodibenzo[b,f][1,4]thiazepine-8-carboxamide (SKKUCS), as an efficient repressor of sae-regulated GFP activity. SKKUCS inhibited hemolysin production and reduced α-hemolysin-mediated cell lysis. Moreover, SKKUCS substantially reduced the expression levels of various virulence genes controlled by the master regulators, sae, and the accessory gene regulator (agr), demonstrating its potential as an antivirulence reagent targeting the key virulence regulators. Furthermore, autokinase inhibition assay and molecular docking suggest that SKKUCS inhibits the kinase activity of SaeS and potentially targets the active site of SaeS kinase, possibly inhibiting ATP binding. Next, we evaluated the efficacy and toxicity of SKKUCS in vivo using murine models of staphylococcal intraperitoneal and skin infections. Treatment with SKKUCS markedly increased animal survival and significantly decreased the bacterial burden in organs and skin lesion sizes. These findings highlight SKKUCS as a potential antivirulence drug for drug-resistant staphylococcal infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rekha Arya
- Department of Precision Medicine, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Institute of Antibacterial Resistance Research and Therapeutics, Suwon, Republic of Korea
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Truc Kim
- Department of Precision Medicine, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Institute of Antibacterial Resistance Research and Therapeutics, Suwon, Republic of Korea
| | - Joo Won Youn
- Department of Precision Medicine, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Institute of Antibacterial Resistance Research and Therapeutics, Suwon, Republic of Korea
| | - Taeok Bae
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Indiana University School of Medicine-Northwest, Gary, IN, United States
| | - Kyeong Kyu Kim
- Department of Precision Medicine, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Institute of Antibacterial Resistance Research and Therapeutics, Suwon, Republic of Korea
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Iobbi V, Parisi V, Bernabè G, De Tommasi N, Bisio A, Brun P. Anti-Biofilm Activity of Carnosic Acid from Salvia rosmarinus against Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 12:3679. [PMID: 37960038 PMCID: PMC10647425 DOI: 10.3390/plants12213679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
The Salvia rosmarinus "Eretto Liguria" ecotype was studied as a source of valuable bioactive compounds. LC-MS analysis of the methanolic extract underlined the presence of diterpenoids, triterpenoids, polyphenolic acids, and flavonoids. The anti-virulence activity of carnosic acid along with the other most abundant compounds against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) was evaluated. Only carnosic acid induced a significant reduction in the expression of agrA and rnaIII genes, which encode the key components of quorum sensing (QS), an intracellular signaling mechanism controlling the virulence of MRSA. At a concentration of 0.05 mg/mL, carnosic acid inhibited biofilm formation by MRSA and the expression of genes involved in toxin production and made MRSA more susceptible to intracellular killing, with no toxic effects on eukaryotic cells. Carnosic acid did not affect biofilm formation by Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a human pathogen that often coexists with MRSA in complex infections. The selected ecotype showed a carnosic acid content of 94.3 ± 4.3 mg/g. In silico analysis highlighted that carnosic acid potentially interacts with the S. aureus AgrA response regulator. Our findings suggest that carnosic acid could be an anti-virulence agent against MRSA infections endowed with a species-specific activity useful in multi-microbial infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Iobbi
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Genova, Viale Cembrano 4, 16148 Genova, Italy;
| | - Valentina Parisi
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Via Giovanni Paolo II 132, 84084 Salerno, Italy; (V.P.); (N.D.T.)
| | - Giulia Bernabè
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, Via Gabelli 63, 35121 Padova, Italy; (G.B.); (P.B.)
| | - Nunziatina De Tommasi
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Via Giovanni Paolo II 132, 84084 Salerno, Italy; (V.P.); (N.D.T.)
| | - Angela Bisio
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Genova, Viale Cembrano 4, 16148 Genova, Italy;
| | - Paola Brun
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, Via Gabelli 63, 35121 Padova, Italy; (G.B.); (P.B.)
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30
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Shao H, Zhang T, Gong Y, He Y. Silver-Containing Biomaterials for Biomedical Hard Tissue Implants. Adv Healthc Mater 2023; 12:e2300932. [PMID: 37300754 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202300932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Bacterial infection caused by biomaterials is a very serious problem in the clinical treatment of implants. The emergence of antibiotic resistance has prompted other antibacterial agents to replace traditional antibiotics. Silver is rapidly developing as an antibacterial candidate material to inhibit bone infections due to its significant advantages such as high antibacterial timeliness, high antibacterial efficiency, and less susceptibility to bacterial resistance. However, silver has strong cytotoxicity, which can cause inflammatory reactions and oxidative stress, thereby destroying tissue regeneration, making the application of silver-containing biomaterials extremely challenging. In this paper, the application of silver in biomaterials is reviewed, focusing on the following three issues: 1) how to ensure the excellent antibacterial properties of silver, and not easy to cause bacterial resistance; 2) how to choose the appropriate method to combine silver with biomaterials; 3) how to make silver-containing biomaterials in hard tissue implants have further research. Following a brief introduction, the discussion focuses on the application of silver-containing biomaterials, with an emphasis on the effects of silver on the physicochemical properties, structural properties, and biological properties of biomaterials. Finally, the review concludes with the authors' perspectives on the challenges and future directions of silver in commercialization and in-depth research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huifeng Shao
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Hangzhou Dianzi University, Hangzhou, 310018, China
- State Key Laboratory of Fluid Power and Mechatronic Systems, School of Mechanical Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310027, China
- Key Laboratory of 3D Printing Process and Equipment of Zhejiang Province, School of Mechanical Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310027, China
- Zhejiang Guanlin Machinery Limited Company, Anji, Hangzhou, 313300, China
| | - Tao Zhang
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Hangzhou Dianzi University, Hangzhou, 310018, China
| | - Youping Gong
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Hangzhou Dianzi University, Hangzhou, 310018, China
| | - Yong He
- State Key Laboratory of Fluid Power and Mechatronic Systems, School of Mechanical Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310027, China
- Key Laboratory of 3D Printing Process and Equipment of Zhejiang Province, School of Mechanical Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310027, China
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31
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Gadar K, McCarthy RR. Using next generation antimicrobials to target the mechanisms of infection. NPJ ANTIMICROBIALS AND RESISTANCE 2023; 1:11. [PMID: 38686217 PMCID: PMC11057201 DOI: 10.1038/s44259-023-00011-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
The remarkable impact of antibiotics on human health is being eroded at an alarming rate by the emergence of multidrug resistant pathogens. There is a recognised consensus that new strategies to tackle infection are urgently needed to limit the devasting impact of antibiotic resistance on our global healthcare infrastructure. Next generation antimicrobials (NGAs) are compounds that target bacterial virulence factors to disrupt pathogenic potential without impacting bacterial viability. By disabling the key virulence factors required to establish and maintain infection, NGAs make pathogens more vulnerable to clearance by the immune system and can potentially render them more susceptible to traditional antibiotics. In this review, we discuss the developing field of NGAs and how advancements in this area could offer a viable standalone alternative to traditional antibiotics or an effective means to prolong antibiotic efficacy when used in combination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kavita Gadar
- Division of Biosciences, Department of Life Sciences, College of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Brunel University London, Uxbridge, UB8 3PH United Kingdom
| | - Ronan R. McCarthy
- Division of Biosciences, Department of Life Sciences, College of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Brunel University London, Uxbridge, UB8 3PH United Kingdom
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32
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Choi V, Rohn JL, Stoodley P, Carugo D, Stride E. Drug delivery strategies for antibiofilm therapy. Nat Rev Microbiol 2023; 21:555-572. [PMID: 37258686 DOI: 10.1038/s41579-023-00905-2] [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: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Although new antibiofilm agents have been developed to prevent and eliminate pathogenic biofilms, their widespread clinical use is hindered by poor biocompatibility and bioavailability, unspecific interactions and insufficient local concentrations. The development of innovative drug delivery strategies can facilitate penetration of antimicrobials through biofilms, promote drug dispersal and synergistic bactericidal effects, and provide novel paradigms for clinical application. In this Review, we discuss the potential benefits of such emerging techniques for improving the clinical efficacy of antibiofilm agents, as well as highlighting the existing limitations and future prospects for these therapies in the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victor Choi
- Department of Engineering Science, Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Jennifer L Rohn
- Department of Renal Medicine, Centre for Urological Biology, Division of Medicine, University College London, London, UK
| | - Paul Stoodley
- Departments of Microbial Infection and Immunity, Microbiology and Orthopaedics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, National Centre for Advanced Tribology at Southampton (nCATS) and National Biofilm Innovation Centre (NBIC), University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Dario Carugo
- Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Eleanor Stride
- Department of Engineering Science, Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
- Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
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Jenkins CH, Scott AE, O’Neill PA, Norville IH, Prior JL, Ireland PM. The Arabinose 5-Phosphate Isomerase KdsD Is Required for Virulence in Burkholderia pseudomallei. J Bacteriol 2023; 205:e0003423. [PMID: 37458584 PMCID: PMC10448790 DOI: 10.1128/jb.00034-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Burkholderia pseudomallei is the causative agent of melioidosis, which is endemic primarily in Southeast Asia and northern Australia but is increasingly being seen in other tropical and subtropical regions of the world. Melioidosis is associated with high morbidity and mortality rates, which is mediated by the wide range of virulence factors encoded by B. pseudomallei. These virulence determinants include surface polysaccharides such as lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and capsular polysaccharides (CPS). Here, we investigated a predicted arabinose-5-phosphate isomerase (API) similar to KdsD in B. pseudomallei strain K96243. KdsD is required for the production of the highly conserved 3-deoxy-d-manno-octulosonic acid (Kdo), a key sugar in the core region of LPS. Recombinant KdsD was expressed and purified, and API activity was determined. Although a putative API paralogue (KpsF) is also predicted to be encoded, the deletion of kdsD resulted in growth defects, loss of motility, reduced survival in RAW 264.7 murine macrophages, and attenuation in a BALB/c mouse model of melioidosis. Suppressor mutations were observed during a phenotypic screen for motility, revealing single nucleotide polymorphisms or indels located in the poorly understood CPS type IV cluster. Crucially, suppressor mutations did not result in reversion of attenuation in vivo. This study demonstrates the importance of KdsD for B. pseudomallei virulence and highlights further the complex nature of the polysaccharides it produces. IMPORTANCE The intrinsic resistance of B. pseudomallei to many antibiotics complicates treatment. This opportunistic pathogen possesses a wide range of virulence factors, resulting in severe and potentially fatal disease. Virulence factors as targets for drug development offer an alternative approach to combat pathogenic bacteria. Prior to initiating early drug discovery approaches, it is important to demonstrate that disruption of the target gene will prevent the development of disease. This study highlights the fact that KdsD is crucial for virulence of B. pseudomallei in an animal model of infection and provides supportive phenotypic characterization that builds a foundation for future therapeutic development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher H. Jenkins
- Chemical, Biological and Radiological Division, Defence Science and Technology Laboratory, Salisbury, Wiltshire, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew E. Scott
- Chemical, Biological and Radiological Division, Defence Science and Technology Laboratory, Salisbury, Wiltshire, United Kingdom
| | - Paul A. O’Neill
- University of Exeter Sequencing Service, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Isobel H. Norville
- Chemical, Biological and Radiological Division, Defence Science and Technology Laboratory, Salisbury, Wiltshire, United Kingdom
- Biosciences Department, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Joann L. Prior
- Chemical, Biological and Radiological Division, Defence Science and Technology Laboratory, Salisbury, Wiltshire, United Kingdom
- Biosciences Department, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
- Southampton General Hospital, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Philip M. Ireland
- Chemical, Biological and Radiological Division, Defence Science and Technology Laboratory, Salisbury, Wiltshire, United Kingdom
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34
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Saha S, Ghosh M. Computational exploration of natural compounds targeting Staphylococcus aureus: inhibiting AgrA promoter binding for antimicrobial intervention. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2023:1-12. [PMID: 37578046 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2023.2246566] [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: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/30/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023]
Abstract
Staphylococcus aureus is a highly virulent nosocomial pathogen that poses a significant threat to individuals exposed to healthcare settings. Due to its sophisticated machinery for producing virulence factors, S. aureus can cause severe and potentially fatal infections in humans. This study focuses on the response regulator AgrA, which plays a crucial role in regulating the production of virulence factors in S. aureus. The objective is to identify natural compounds that can inhibit the binding of AgrA to its promoter site, thus inhibiting the expression of virulence genes. To achieve this, a pharmacophore model was generated using known drugs and applied to screen the ZINC natural product database. The resulting compounds were subjected to molecular docking-based virtual screening against the C-terminal DNA binding domain of AgrA. Three compounds, namely ZINC000077269178, ZINC000051012304, and ZINC000004266026, were shortlisted based on their strong affinity for key residues involved in DNA binding and transcription initiation. Subsequently, the unbound and ligand-bound complexes were subjected to a 200 ns molecular dynamics simulation to assess their conformational stability. Various analyses, including RMSD, RMSF, Rg, SASA, Principal Component Analysis, and Gibbs free energy landscape, were conducted on the simulation trajectory. The RMSD profile indicated similar fluctuations in both bound and unbound structures, while the Rg profile demonstrated the compactness of the protein without any unfolding during the simulation. Furthermore, Principal component analysis revealed that ligand binding reduced the overall atomic motion of the protein whereas free energy landscape suggested the energy variations obtained in complexes.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Subhadip Saha
- Department of Biotechnology, National Institute of Technology Durgapur, Durgapur, India
| | - Monidipa Ghosh
- Department of Biotechnology, National Institute of Technology Durgapur, Durgapur, India
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35
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Ramasamy M, Vetrivel A, Venugopal S, Murugesan R. Identification of inhibitors for Agr quorum sensing system of Staphylococcus aureus by machine learning, pharmacophore modeling, and molecular dynamics approaches. J Mol Model 2023; 29:258. [PMID: 37468720 DOI: 10.1007/s00894-023-05647-9] [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: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Staphylococcus aureus is a highly pathogenic organism that is the most common cause of postoperative complications as well as severe infections like bacteremia and infective endocarditis. By mediating the formation of biofilms and the expression of virulent genes, the quorum sensing (QS) mechanism is a major contributor to the development of these diseases. By hindering its QS network, an innovative approach to avoiding this bacterial infection is taken. Targeting the AgrA of the Agr system serves as beneficial in holding the top position in the QS system cascade. METHODS Using known AgrA inhibitors, the machine learning algorithms (artificial neural network, naïve Bayes, random forest, and support vector machine) and pharmacophore model were developed. The potential lead compounds were screened against the Zinc and COCONUT databases using the best pharmacophore hypothesis. The hits were then subjected second screening process using the best machine learning model. The predicted active compounds were then reranked based on the docking score. The stability of AgrA-lead compounds was studied using molecular dynamics approaches, and an ADME profile was also carried out. Five lead compounds, namely, CNP02386963,4,5-trihydroxy-2-[({7,13,14-trihydroxy-3,10-dioxo-2,9-dioxatetracyclo[6.6.2.04,16.011,15]hexadeca-1(14),4,6,8(16),11(15),12-hexaen-6-yl}oxy)methyl]benzoic acid, CNP0129274 4-(dimethylamino)-1,5,6,10,12,12a-hexahydroxy-6-methyl-3,11-dioxo-3,4,4a,5,5a,6,11,12a-octahydrotetracene-2-carboxamide, CNP0242717 3-Hydroxyasebotin, CNP0361624 3,4,5-trihydroxy-6-[(2,4,5,6,7-pentahydroxy-1-oxooctan-3-yl)oxy]oxane-2-carboxylic acid, and CNP0285058 2-{[4,5-dihydroxy-6-(hydroxymethyl)-3-[(3,4,5-trihydroxy-6-methyloxan-2-yl)oxy]oxan-2-yl]oxy}-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)acetonitrile were obtained using the two-step virtual screening process. The molecular dynamics study revealed that the CNP0238696 was found to be stable in the binding pocket of AgrA. ADME profiles show that this compound has two Lipinski violations and low bioavailability. Further studies should be performed to assess the anti-biofilm activity of the lead compound in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Ramasamy
- Department of Biochemistry, Biotechnology, and Bioinformatics, Avinashilingam Institute for Home Science and Higher Education for Women, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Aishwarya Vetrivel
- Department of Biochemistry, Biotechnology, and Bioinformatics, Avinashilingam Institute for Home Science and Higher Education for Women, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Sharulatha Venugopal
- Department of Chemistry, Avinashilingam Institute for Home Science and Higher Education for Women, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Rajeswari Murugesan
- Department of Biochemistry, Biotechnology, and Bioinformatics, Avinashilingam Institute for Home Science and Higher Education for Women, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India.
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Thamilselvan G, David H, Sajeevan A, Rajaramon S, Solomon AP, Durai RD, Narayanan VHB. Polymer based dual drug delivery system for targeted treatment of fluoroquinolone resistant Staphylococcus aureus mediated infections. Sci Rep 2023; 13:11373. [PMID: 37452106 PMCID: PMC10349073 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-38473-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/09/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The present study attempts to treat S. aureus-induced soft skin infections using a combinatorial therapy with an antibiotic, Ciprofloxacin (CIP), and an efflux pump inhibitor 5-Nitro-2-(3-phenylpropoxy) pyridine (5-NPPP) through a smart hydrogel delivery system. The study aims to reduce the increasing rates of infections and antimicrobial resistance; therefore, an efflux pump inhibitor molecule is synthesized and delivered along with an antibiotic to re-sensitize the pathogen towards antibiotics and treat the infections. CIP-loaded polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) hydrogels at varying concentrations were fabricated and optimized by a chemical cross-linking process, which exhibited sustained drug release for 5 days. The compound 5-NPPP loaded hydrogels provided linear drug release for 2 days, necessitating the need for the development of polymeric nanoparticles to alter the release drug pattern. 5-NPPP loaded Eudragit RSPO nanoparticles were prepared by modified nanoprecipitation-solvent evaporation method, which showed optimum average particle size of 230-280 nm with > 90% drug entrapment efficiency. The 5-NPPP polymeric nanoparticles loaded PVA hydrogels were fabricated to provide a predetermined sustained release of the compound to provide a synergistic effect. The selected 7% PVA hydrogels loaded with the dual drugs were evaluated using Balb/c mice models induced with S. aureus soft skin infections. The results of in vivo studies were evidence that the dual drugs loaded hydrogels were non-toxic and reduced the bacterial load causing re-sensitization towards antibiotics, which could initiate re-epithelization. The research concluded that the PVA hydrogels loaded with CIP and 5-NPPP nanoparticles could be an ideal and promising drug delivery system for treating S. aureus-induced skin infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gopalakrishnan Thamilselvan
- Quorum Sensing Laboratory, Centre for Research in Infectious Diseases (CRID), School of Chemical and Biotechnology, SASTRA Deemed to be University, Thanjavur, 613401, India
| | - Helma David
- Quorum Sensing Laboratory, Centre for Research in Infectious Diseases (CRID), School of Chemical and Biotechnology, SASTRA Deemed to be University, Thanjavur, 613401, India
| | - Anusree Sajeevan
- Quorum Sensing Laboratory, Centre for Research in Infectious Diseases (CRID), School of Chemical and Biotechnology, SASTRA Deemed to be University, Thanjavur, 613401, India
| | - Shobana Rajaramon
- Quorum Sensing Laboratory, Centre for Research in Infectious Diseases (CRID), School of Chemical and Biotechnology, SASTRA Deemed to be University, Thanjavur, 613401, 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, 613401, India.
| | - Ramya Devi Durai
- Pharmaceutical Technology Laboratory, School of Chemical and Biotechnology, SASTRA Deemed to be University, Thanjavur, 613401, India.
| | - Vedha Hari B Narayanan
- Pharmaceutical Technology Laboratory, School of Chemical and Biotechnology, SASTRA Deemed to be University, Thanjavur, 613401, India
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Chan LC, Lee HK, Wang L, Chaili S, Xiong YQ, Bayer AS, Proctor RA, Yeaman MR. Diflunisal and Analogue Pharmacophores Mediating Suppression of Virulence Phenotypes in Staphylococcus aureus. Antibiotics (Basel) 2023; 12:1180. [PMID: 37508276 PMCID: PMC10376238 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics12071180] [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: 05/21/2023] [Revised: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/08/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Invasive methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections are leading causes of morbidity and mortality that are complicated by increasing resistance to conventional antibiotics. Thus, minimizing virulence and enhancing antibiotic efficacy against MRSA is a public health imperative. We originally demonstrated that diflunisal (DIF; [2-hydroxy-5-(2,4-difluorophenyl) benzoic acid]) inhibits S. aureus virulence factor expression. To investigate pharmacophores that are active in this function, we evaluated a library of structural analogues for their efficacy to modulate virulence phenotypes in a panel of clinically relevant S. aureus isolates in vitro. Overall, the positions of the phenyl, hydroxyl, and carboxylic moieties and the presence or type of halogen (F vs. Cl) influenced the efficacy of compounds in suppressing hemolysis, proteolysis, and biofilm virulence phenotypes. Analogues lacking halogens inhibited proteolysis to an extent similar to DIF but were ineffective at reducing hemolysis or biofilm production. In contrast, most analogues lacking the hydroxyl or carboxylic acid groups did not suppress proteolysis but did mitigate hemolysis and biofilm production to an extent similar to DIF. Interestingly, chirality and the substitution of fluorine with chlorine resulted in a differential reduction in virulence phenotypes. Together, this pattern of data suggests virulence-suppressing pharmacophores of DIF and structural analogues integrate halogen, hydroxyl, and carboxylic acid moiety stereochemistry. The anti-virulence effects of DIF were achieved using concentrations that are safe in humans, do not impair platelet antimicrobial functions, do not affect S. aureus growth, and do not alter the efficacy of conventional antibiotics. These results offer proof of concept for using novel anti-virulence strategies as adjuvants to antibiotic therapy to address the challenge of MRSA infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liana C Chan
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA 90502, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA 90502, USA
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90024, USA
- Institute for Infection and Immunity, The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA 90502, USA
| | - Hong K Lee
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA 90502, USA
- Institute for Infection and Immunity, The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA 90502, USA
| | - Ling Wang
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA 90502, USA
- Institute for Infection and Immunity, The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA 90502, USA
| | - Siyang Chaili
- Vanderbilt Eye Institute, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 2311 Pierce Ave., Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | - Yan Q Xiong
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA 90502, USA
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90024, USA
- Institute for Infection and Immunity, The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA 90502, USA
| | - Arnold S Bayer
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA 90502, USA
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90024, USA
- Institute for Infection and Immunity, The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA 90502, USA
| | - Richard A Proctor
- Departments of Medical Microbiology & Immunology and Medicine, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53705, USA
| | - Michael R Yeaman
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA 90502, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA 90502, USA
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90024, USA
- Institute for Infection and Immunity, The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA 90502, USA
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38
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Hsieh RC, Liu R, Burgin DJ, Otto M. Understanding mechanisms of virulence in MRSA: implications for antivirulence treatment strategies. Expert Rev Anti Infect Ther 2023; 21:911-928. [PMID: 37501364 DOI: 10.1080/14787210.2023.2242585] [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: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a widespread pathogen, often causing recurrent and deadly infections in the hospital and community. Many S. aureus virulence factors have been suggested as potential targets for antivirulence therapy to decrease the threat of diminishing antibiotic availability. Antivirulence methods hold promise due to their adjunctive and prophylactic potential and decreased risk for selective pressure. AREAS COVERED This review describes the dominant virulence mechanisms exerted by MRSA and antivirulence therapeutics that are currently undergoing testing in clinical or preclinical stages. We also discuss the advantages and downsides of several investigational antivirulence approaches, including the targeting of bacterial transporters, host-directed therapy, and quorum-sensing inhibitors. For this review, a systematic search of literature on PubMed, Google Scholar, and Web of Science for relevant search terms was performed in April and May 2023. EXPERT OPINION Vaccine and antibody strategies have failed in clinical trials and could benefit from more basic science-informed approaches. Antivirulence-targeting approaches need to be set up better to meet the requirements of drug development, rather than only providing limited results to provide 'proof-of-principle' translational value of pathogenesis research. Nevertheless, there is great potential of such strategies and potential particular promise for novel probiotic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roger C Hsieh
- Pathogen Molecular Genetics Section, Laboratory of Bacteriology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Ryan Liu
- Pathogen Molecular Genetics Section, Laboratory of Bacteriology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Dylan J Burgin
- Pathogen Molecular Genetics Section, Laboratory of Bacteriology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Michael Otto
- Pathogen Molecular Genetics Section, Laboratory of Bacteriology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, Maryland, USA
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Jiang X, Kang R, Yu T, Jiang X, Chen H, Zhang Y, Li Y, Wang H. Cinnamaldehyde Targets the LytTR DNA-Binding Domain of the Response Regulator AgrA to Attenuate Biofilm Formation of Listeria monocytogenes. Microbiol Spectr 2023; 11:e0030023. [PMID: 37140461 PMCID: PMC10269664 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.00300-23] [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: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The Agr quorum sensing (QS) system is known to contribute to biofilm formation in Listeria monocytogenes. Cinnamaldehyde, a natural food preservative, is considered an inhibitor of Agr-mediated QS in L. monocytogenes. However, the exact mechanism by which cinnamaldehyde acts on Agr remains unclear. In this study, we assessed the effects of cinnamaldehyde on the histidine kinase AgrC and the response regulator AgrA in the Agr system. AgrC kinase activity was not influenced by cinnamaldehyde, and binding between AgrC and cinnamaldehyde was not observed when microscale thermophoresis (MST) was performed, indicating that AgrC was not the target of cinnamaldehyde. AgrA is specifically bound to the agr promoter (P2) to activate the transcription of the Agr system. However, AgrA-P2 binding was prevented by cinnamaldehyde. The interaction between cinnamaldehyde and AgrA was further confirmed with MST. Two conserved amino acids, Asn-178 and Arg-179, located in the LytTR DNA-binding domain of AgrA, were identified as the key sites for cinnamaldehyde-AgrA binding by alanine mutagenesis and MST. Coincidentally, Asn-178 was also involved in the AgrA-P2 interaction. Taken together, these results suggest that cinnamaldehyde acts as a competitive inhibitor of AgrA in AgrA-P2 binding, which leads to suppressed transcription of the Agr system and reduced biofilm formation in L. monocytogenes. IMPORTANCE Listeria monocytogenes can form biofilms on various food contact surfaces, posing a serious threat to food safety. Biofilm formation of L. monocytogenes is positively regulated by the Agr quorum sensing system. Thus, an alternative strategy for controlling L. monocytogenes biofilms is interfering with the Agr system. Cinnamaldehyde is considered an inhibitor of the L. monocytogenes Agr system; however, its exact mechanism of action is still unclear. Here, we found that AgrA (response regulator), rather than AgrC (histidine kinase), was the target of cinnamaldehyde. The conserved Asn-178 in the LytTR DNA-binding domain of AgrA was involved in cinnamaldehyde-AgrA and AgrA-P2 binding. Therefore, the occupation of Asn-178 by cinnamaldehyde suppressed transcription of the Agr system and reduced biofilm formation in L. monocytogenes. Our findings could provide a better understanding of the mechanism by which cinnamaldehyde inhibits L. monocytogenes biofilm formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaobing Jiang
- Henan Engineering Laboratory for Bioconversion Technology of Functional Microbes, College of Life Sciences, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang, China
| | - Rui Kang
- Henan Engineering Laboratory for Bioconversion Technology of Functional Microbes, College of Life Sciences, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang, China
| | - Tao Yu
- School of Life Sciences & Basic Medicine, Xinxiang University, Xinxiang, China
- Key Laboratory of Biomedicine and Health Risk Warning of Xinxiang City, Xinxiang, China
| | - Xiaojie Jiang
- School of Life Sciences & Basic Medicine, Xinxiang University, Xinxiang, China
| | - Hong Chen
- Henan Engineering Laboratory for Bioconversion Technology of Functional Microbes, College of Life Sciences, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang, China
| | - Yiping Zhang
- Henan Engineering Laboratory for Bioconversion Technology of Functional Microbes, College of Life Sciences, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang, China
| | - Yi Li
- Henan Engineering Laboratory for Bioconversion Technology of Functional Microbes, College of Life Sciences, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang, China
| | - Hailei Wang
- Henan Engineering Laboratory for Bioconversion Technology of Functional Microbes, College of Life Sciences, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang, China
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Polaske TJ, West KHJ, Zhao K, Widner DL, York JT, Blackwell HE. Chemical and biomolecular insights into the Staphylococcus aureus agr quorum sensing system: Current progress and ongoing challenges. Isr J Chem 2023; 63:e202200096. [PMID: 38765792 PMCID: PMC11101167 DOI: 10.1002/ijch.202200096] [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: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 03/19/2023]
Abstract
Staphylococcus aureus is a ubiquitous bacterium that has become a major threat to human health due to its extensive toxin production and tremendous capacity for antibiotic resistance (e.g., MRSA "superbug" infections). Amid a worsening antibiotic resistance crisis, new strategies to combat this deadly microbe that remove the selective pressure of traditional approaches are in high demand. S. aureus utilizes an accessory gene regulator (agr) quorum sensing network to monitor its local cellular population and trigger a devastating communal attack, like an invading horde, once a threshold cell density has been reached. The role of the agr system in a range of disease types is still being unraveled. Herein, we discuss the present-day biochemical understanding of agr along with unresolved details, describe its connection to the progression of infection, and review how chemical strategies have been implemented to study and intercept this signaling pathway. This research is illuminating the potential of agr as an anti-virulence target in S. aureus and should inform the study of similar, yet less studied, agr systems in related bacterial pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas J. Polaske
- Department of Chemistry, University of Wisconsin–Madison, 1101 University Ave., Madison, WI 53706 USA
| | - Korbin H. J. West
- Department of Chemistry, University of Wisconsin–Madison, 1101 University Ave., Madison, WI 53706 USA
| | - Ke Zhao
- Department of Chemistry, University of Wisconsin–Madison, 1101 University Ave., Madison, WI 53706 USA
| | - Danielle L. Widner
- Department of Chemistry, University of Wisconsin–Madison, 1101 University Ave., Madison, WI 53706 USA
| | - Jordan T. York
- Department of Chemistry, University of Wisconsin–Madison, 1101 University Ave., Madison, WI 53706 USA
| | - Helen E. Blackwell
- Department of Chemistry, University of Wisconsin–Madison, 1101 University Ave., Madison, WI 53706 USA
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Gao Y, Wang H, Li X, Niu X. Molecular mechanism of green tea polyphenol epicatechin gallate attenuating Staphylococcus aureus pathogenicity by targeting Ser/Thr phosphatase Stp1. Food Funct 2023; 14:4792-4806. [PMID: 37128867 DOI: 10.1039/d3fo00170a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
In this study, through virtual screening and in vitro bioactivity assays, we discovered that (-)-epicatechin gallate (ECG), a polyphenol compound extracted from green tea, demonstrated marked anti-Ser/Thr phosphatase (Stp1) activity towards Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) with an IC50 value of 8.35 μM. By targeting S. aureus Stp1, ECG prevented the up-regulation of virulence gene and the formation of antibody membrane and protected the mice from S. aureus infection. Through MD simulation, the allosteric inhibitory mechanism of ECG on Stp1 was determined. The Stp1-ECG complex model underwent a significant change in conformation; its flap subdomain changed from opening to closing, whereas Stp1 activity was lost when bound to ECG. In addition, the MD simulation results of Stp1 and several tea polyphenol compounds showed that gallate groups and fewer adjacent phenolic hydroxyl groups contributed to the binding of Stp1 and inhibitors. As an inhibitor targeting S. aureus Stp1, ECG reduced the pathogenicity of S. aureus without inhibiting S. aureus, which largely reduced the possibility of drug resistance. Our findings demonstrated a novel molecular mechanism of green tea as the usual drink against S. aureus infection and elucidated the future design of allosteric inhibitors targeting Stp1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yawen Gao
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, P.R. China.
| | - Hongsu Wang
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, P.R. China.
| | - Xuening Li
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, P.R. China.
| | - Xiaodi Niu
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, P.R. China.
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Ayon NJ. High-Throughput Screening of Natural Product and Synthetic Molecule Libraries for Antibacterial Drug Discovery. Metabolites 2023; 13:625. [PMID: 37233666 PMCID: PMC10220967 DOI: 10.3390/metabo13050625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Revised: 04/29/2023] [Accepted: 05/01/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Due to the continued emergence of resistance and a lack of new and promising antibiotics, bacterial infection has become a major public threat. High-throughput screening (HTS) allows rapid screening of a large collection of molecules for bioactivity testing and holds promise in antibacterial drug discovery. More than 50% of the antibiotics that are currently available on the market are derived from natural products. However, with the easily discoverable antibiotics being found, finding new antibiotics from natural sources has seen limited success. Finding new natural sources for antibacterial activity testing has also proven to be challenging. In addition to exploring new sources of natural products and synthetic biology, omics technology helped to study the biosynthetic machinery of existing natural sources enabling the construction of unnatural synthesizers of bioactive molecules and the identification of molecular targets of antibacterial agents. On the other hand, newer and smarter strategies have been continuously pursued to screen synthetic molecule libraries for new antibiotics and new druggable targets. Biomimetic conditions are explored to mimic the real infection model to better study the ligand-target interaction to enable the designing of more effective antibacterial drugs. This narrative review describes various traditional and contemporaneous approaches of high-throughput screening of natural products and synthetic molecule libraries for antibacterial drug discovery. It further discusses critical factors for HTS assay design, makes a general recommendation, and discusses possible alternatives to traditional HTS of natural products and synthetic molecule libraries for antibacterial drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Navid J Ayon
- Chemistry of Life Processes Institute, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA
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Aras A, Rizvanoglu SS, Tanriverdi ES, Karaca B, Eryilmaz M. The Effects of Antiperspirant Aluminum Chlorohydrate on the Development of Antibiotic Resistance in Staphylococcus epidermidis. Microorganisms 2023; 11:microorganisms11040948. [PMID: 37110371 PMCID: PMC10146609 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11040948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Revised: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023] Open
Abstract
This study investigates the effects of the antiperspirant aluminum chlorohydrate on the development of antibiotic resistance in commensal Staphylococcus epidermidis isolates. The isolates were exposed to aluminum chlorohydrate for 30 days. The bacteria that developed resistance to oxacillin and ciprofloxacin were isolated, and the expression levels of some antibiotic resistance genes were determined using quantitative reverse transcriptase PCR. Before and after exposure, the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values of the bacteria were determined using the microdilution method. A time-dependent increase was observed in the number of bacteria that developed resistance and increased MIC values. Consistent with the ciprofloxacin resistance observed after exposure, an increase in norA, norB/C, gyrA, gyrB, parC, and parE gene expression was observed. In addition to aluminum chlorohydrate exposure, oxacillin resistance was observed in all test bacteria in the group only subcultured in the medium, suggesting that phenotypic resistance cannot be correlated with chemical exposure in light of these data. The increase in mecA gene expression in selected test bacteria that acquired resistance to oxacillin after exposure compared with control groups suggests that the observed resistance may have been related to aluminum chlorohydrate exposure. To our knowledge, this is the first time in the literature that the effects of aluminum chlorohydrate as an antiperspirant on the development of antibiotic resistance in Staphylococcus epidermidis have been reported.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayse Aras
- Turkish Medicines and Medical Devices Agency, Cosmetic Products Department, Ankara 06500, Türkiye
| | - Suna Sibel Rizvanoglu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ankara University, Ankara 06100, Türkiye
| | - Elif Seren Tanriverdi
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Inonu University, Malatya 44210, Türkiye
| | - Basar Karaca
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Ankara University, Ankara 06100, Türkiye
| | - Mujde Eryilmaz
- Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ankara University, Ankara 06100, Türkiye
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Kumar S, Balaya RDA, Kanekar S, Raju R, Prasad TSK, Kandasamy RK. Computational tools for exploring peptide-membrane interactions in gram-positive bacteria. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2023; 21:1995-2008. [PMID: 36950221 PMCID: PMC10025024 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2023.02.051] [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: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The vital cellular functions in Gram-positive bacteria are controlled by signaling molecules known as quorum sensing peptides (QSPs), considered promising therapeutic interventions for bacterial infections. In the bacterial system QSPs bind to membrane-coupled receptors, which then auto-phosphorylate and activate intracellular response regulators. These response regulators induce target gene expression in bacteria. One of the most reliable trends in drug discovery research for virulence-associated molecular targets is the use of peptide drugs or new functionalities. In this perspective, computational methods act as auxiliary aids for biologists, where methodologies based on machine learning and in silico analysis are developed as suitable tools for target peptide identification. Therefore, the development of quick and reliable computational resources to identify or predict these QSPs along with their receptors and inhibitors is receiving considerable attention. The databases such as Quorumpeps and Quorum Sensing of Human Gut Microbes (QSHGM) provide a detailed overview of the structures and functions of QSPs. The tools and algorithms such as QSPpred, QSPred-FL, iQSP, EnsembleQS and PEPred-Suite have been used for the generic prediction of QSPs and feature representation. The availability of compiled key resources for utilizing peptide features based on amino acid composition, positional preferences, and motifs as well as structural and physicochemical properties, including biofilm inhibitory peptides, can aid in elucidating the QSP and membrane receptor interactions in infectious Gram-positive pathogens. Herein, we present a comprehensive survey of diverse computational approaches that are suitable for detecting QSPs and QS interference molecules. This review highlights the utility of these methods for developing potential biomarkers against infectious Gram-positive pathogens.
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Key Words
- 3-HBA, 3–Hydroxybenzoic Acid
- AAC, Amino Acid Composition
- ABC, ATP-binding cassette
- ACD, Available Chemicals Database
- AIP, Autoinducing Peptide
- AMP, Anti-Microbial Peptide
- ATP, Adenosine Triphosphate
- Agr, Accessory gene regulator
- BFE, Binding Free Energy
- BIP Inhibitors
- BIP, Biofilm Inhibitory Peptides
- BLAST, Basic Local Alignment Search Tool
- BNB, Bernoulli Naïve-Bayes
- CADD, Computer-Aided Drug Design
- CSP, Competence Stimulating Peptide
- CTD, Composition-Transition-Distribution
- D, Aspartate
- DCH, 3,3′-(3,4-dichlorobenzylidene)-bis-(4-hydroxycoumarin)
- DT, Decision Tree
- FDA, Food and Drug Administration
- GBM, Gradient Boosting Machine
- GDC, g-gap Dipeptide
- GNB, Gaussian NB
- Gram-positive bacteria
- H, Histidine
- H-Kinase, Histidine Kinase
- H-phosphotransferase, Histidine Phosphotransferase
- HAM, Hamamelitannin
- HGM, Human Gut Microbiota
- HNP, Human Neutrophil Peptide
- IT, Information Theory Features
- In silico approaches
- KNN, K-Nearest Neighbors
- MCC, Mathew Co-relation Coefficient
- MD, Molecular Dynamics
- MDR, Multiple Drug Resistance
- ML, Machine Learning
- MRSA, Methicillin Resistant S. aureus
- MSL, Multiple Sequence Alignment
- OMR, Omargliptin
- OVP, Overlapping Property Features
- PCP, Physicochemical Properties
- PDB, Protein Data Bank
- PPIs, Protein-Protein Interactions
- PSM, Phenol-Soluble Modulin
- PTM, Post Translational Modification
- QS, Quorum Sensing
- QSCN, QS communication network
- QSHGM, Quorum Sensing of Human Gut Microbes
- QSI, QS Inhibitors
- QSIM, QS Interference Molecules
- QSP inhibitors
- QSP predictors
- QSP, QS Peptides
- QSPR, Quantitative Structure Property Relationship
- Quorum sensing peptides
- RAP, RNAIII-activating protein
- RF, Random Forest
- RIP, RNAIII-inhibiting peptide
- ROC, Receiver Operating Characteristic
- SAR, Structure-Activity Relationship
- SFS, Sequential Forward Search
- SIT, Sitagliptin
- SVM, Support Vector Machine
- TCS, Two-Component Sensory
- TRAP, Target of RAP
- TRG, Trelagliptin
- WHO, World Health Organization
- mRMR, minimum Redundancy and Maximum Relevance
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Affiliation(s)
- Shreya Kumar
- Centre for Integrative Omics Data Science, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), Mangalore 575018, India
- Centre for Systems Biology and Molecular Medicine, Yenepoya Research Centre, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), Mangalore 575018, India
| | | | - Saptami Kanekar
- Centre for Integrative Omics Data Science, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), Mangalore 575018, India
| | - Rajesh Raju
- Centre for Integrative Omics Data Science, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), Mangalore 575018, India
- Centre for Systems Biology and Molecular Medicine, Yenepoya Research Centre, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), Mangalore 575018, India
| | | | - Richard K. Kandasamy
- Centre of Molecular Inflammation Research (CEMIR), and Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine (IKOM), Norwegian University of Science and Technology, 7491 Trondheim, Norway
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Center for Individualized Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
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Sabino YNV, Cotter PD, Mantovani HC. Anti-virulence compounds against Staphylococcus aureus associated with bovine mastitis: A new therapeutic option? Microbiol Res 2023; 271:127345. [PMID: 36889204 DOI: 10.1016/j.micres.2023.127345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/26/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2023]
Abstract
Bovine mastitis represents a major economic burden faced by the dairy industry. S. aureus is an important and prevalent bovine mastitis-associated pathogen in dairy farms worldwide. The pathogenicity and persistence of S. aureus in the bovine mammary gland are associated with the expression of a range of virulence factors involved in biofilm formation and the production of several toxins. The traditional therapeutic approach to treating bovine mastitis includes the use of antibiotics, but the emergence of antibiotic-resistant strains has caused therapeutic failure. New therapeutic approaches targeting virulence factors of S. aureus rather than cell viability can have several advantages including lower selective pressure towards the development of resistance and little impact on the host commensal microbiota. This review summarizes the potential of anti-virulence therapies to control S. aureus associated with bovine mastitis focusing on anti-toxin, anti-biofilm, and anti-quorum sensing compounds. It also points to potential sources of new anti-virulence inhibitors and presents screening strategies for identifying these compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Hilario C Mantovani
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA.
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Bai YB, Yang XR, Li B, Zhou XZ, Wang WW, Cheng FS, Zhang JY. Virtual Screening and In Vitro Experimental Verification of LuxS Inhibitors for Escherichia coli O157:H7. Microbiol Spectr 2023; 11:e0350222. [PMID: 36809060 PMCID: PMC10100900 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.03502-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli O157:H7 is an important foodborne pathogen that forms biofilms. In this study, three quorum-sensing (QS) inhibitors (M414-3326, 3254-3286, and L413-0180) were obtained through virtual screening, and their in vitro antibiofilm activities were validated. Briefly, the three-dimensional structure model of LuxS was constructed and characterized using the SWISS-MODEL. High-affinity inhibitors were screened from the ChemDiv database (1,535,478 compounds) using LuxS as a ligand. Five compounds (L449-1159, L368-0079, M414-3326, 3254-3286, and L413-0180) with a good inhibitory effect (50% inhibitory concentration <10 μM) on type II QS signal molecule autoinducer-2 (AI-2) were obtained using a AI-2 bioluminescence assay. The absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity (ADMET) properties predicated that the five compounds had high intestinal absorption levels (high) and plasma protein binding (absorbent strong) and did not inhibit the metabolism of CYP2D6 metabolic enzymes. In addition, molecular dynamics simulation showed that compounds L449-1159 and L368-0079 could not stably bind with LuxS. Thus, these compounds were excluded. Furthermore, surface plasmon resonance results showed that the three compounds could specifically bind to LuxS. IN addition, the three compounds could effectively inhibit the biofilm formation without affecting the growth and metabolism of the bacteria. Finally, the reverse transcription-quantitative PCR results showed that the three compounds downregulated the expression of the LuxS gene. Overall, these results revealed that the three compounds obtained through virtual screening could inhibit biofilm formation of E. coli O157:H7 and are potential LuxS inhibitors that can be used to treat E. coli O157:H7 infections. IMPORTANCE E. coli O157:H7 is a foodborne pathogen of public health importance. Quorum sensing (QS) is a form of bacterial communication that can regulate various group behaviors, including biofilm formation. Here, we identified three QS AI-2 inhibitors (M414-3326, 3254-3286, and L413-0180) that can stably and specifically bind to LuxS protein. The three QS AI-2 inhibitors inhibited biofilm formation without affecting the growth and metabolic activity of E. coli O157:H7. The three QS AI-2 inhibitors are promising agents for treating E. coli O157:H7 infections. Further studies to identify the mechanism of the three QS AI-2 inhibitors are needed to develop new drugs to overcome antibiotic resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Bin Bai
- Key Laboratory of New Animal Drug Project of Gansu Province, Lanzhou, Gansu, People’s Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Veterinary Pharmaceutical Development, Ministry of Agriculture, Lanzhou, Gansu, People’s Republic of China
- Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, Gansu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiao-Rong Yang
- Key Laboratory of New Animal Drug Project of Gansu Province, Lanzhou, Gansu, People’s Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Veterinary Pharmaceutical Development, Ministry of Agriculture, Lanzhou, Gansu, People’s Republic of China
- Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, Gansu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Bing Li
- Key Laboratory of New Animal Drug Project of Gansu Province, Lanzhou, Gansu, People’s Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Veterinary Pharmaceutical Development, Ministry of Agriculture, Lanzhou, Gansu, People’s Republic of China
- Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, Gansu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xu-Zheng Zhou
- Key Laboratory of New Animal Drug Project of Gansu Province, Lanzhou, Gansu, People’s Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Veterinary Pharmaceutical Development, Ministry of Agriculture, Lanzhou, Gansu, People’s Republic of China
- Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, Gansu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Wei-Wei Wang
- Key Laboratory of New Animal Drug Project of Gansu Province, Lanzhou, Gansu, People’s Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Veterinary Pharmaceutical Development, Ministry of Agriculture, Lanzhou, Gansu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Fu-Sheng Cheng
- Key Laboratory of New Animal Drug Project of Gansu Province, Lanzhou, Gansu, People’s Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Veterinary Pharmaceutical Development, Ministry of Agriculture, Lanzhou, Gansu, People’s Republic of China
- Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, Gansu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ji-Yu Zhang
- Key Laboratory of New Animal Drug Project of Gansu Province, Lanzhou, Gansu, People’s Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Veterinary Pharmaceutical Development, Ministry of Agriculture, Lanzhou, Gansu, People’s Republic of China
- Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, Gansu, People’s Republic of China
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Otto M. Critical Assessment of the Prospects of Quorum-Quenching Therapy for Staphylococcus aureus Infection. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24044025. [PMID: 36835436 PMCID: PMC9958572 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24044025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2023] [Revised: 02/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Staphylococcus aureus is an important pathogen that causes a high number of infections and is one of the leading causes of death in hospitalized patients. Widespread antibiotic resistance such as in methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) has prompted research into potential anti-virulence-targeted approaches. Targeting the S. aureus accessory gene regulator (Agr) quorum-sensing system, a master regulator of virulence, is the most frequently proposed anti-virulence strategy for S. aureus. While much effort has been put into the discovery and screening for Agr inhibitory compounds, in vivo analysis of their efficacy in animal infection models is still rare and reveals various shortcomings and problems. These include (i) an almost exclusive focus on topical skin infection models, (ii) technical problems that leave doubt as to whether observed in vivo effects are due to quorum-quenching, and (iii) the discovery of counterproductive biofilm-increasing effects. Furthermore, potentially because of the latter, invasive S. aureus infection is associated with Agr dysfunctionality. Altogether, the potential of Agr inhibitory drugs is nowadays seen with low enthusiasm given the failure to provide sufficient in vivo evidence for their potential after more than two decades since the initiation of such efforts. However, current Agr inhibition-based probiotic approaches may lead to a new application of Agr inhibition strategies in preventing S. aureus infections by targeting colonization or for otherwise difficult-to-treat skin infections such as atopic dermatitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Otto
- Pathogen Molecular Genetics Section, Laboratory of Bacteriology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA
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Genetic and Environmental Investigation of a Novel Phenylamino Acetamide Inhibitor of the Pseudomonas aeruginosa Type III Secretion System. Appl Environ Microbiol 2023; 89:e0175222. [PMID: 36519869 PMCID: PMC9888221 DOI: 10.1128/aem.01752-22] [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: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Traditional antibiotics target essential cellular components or metabolic pathways conserved in both pathogenic and nonpathogenic bacteria. Unfortunately, long-term antibiotic use often leads to antibiotic resistance and disruption of the overall microbiota. In this work, we identified a phenylamino acetamide compound, named 187R, that strongly inhibited the expression of the type III secretion system (T3SS) encoding genes and the secretion of the T3SS effector proteins in Pseudomonas aeruginosa. T3SS is an important virulence factor, as T3SS-deficient strains of P. aeruginosa are greatly attenuated in virulence. We further showed that 187R had no effect on bacterial growth, implying a reduced selective pressure for the development of resistance. 187R-mediated repression of T3SS was dependent on ExsA, the master regulator of T3SS in P. aeruginosa. The impact of 187R on the host-associated microbial community was also tested using the Arabidopsis thaliana phyllosphere as a model. Both culture-independent (Illumina sequencing) and culture-dependent (Biolog) methods showed that the application of 187R had little impact on the composition and function of microbial community compared to the antibiotic streptomycin. Together, these results suggested that compounds that target virulence factors could serve as an alternative strategy for disease management caused by bacterial pathogens. IMPORTANCE New antimicrobial therapies are urgently needed, since antibiotic resistance in human pathogens has become one of the world's most urgent public health problems. Antivirulence therapy has been considered a promising alternative for the management of infectious diseases, as antivirulence compounds target only the virulence factors instead of the growth of bacteria, and they are therefore unlikely to affect commensal microorganisms. However, the impacts of antivirulence compounds on the host microbiota are not well understood. We report a potent synthetic inhibitor of the P. aeruginosa T3SS, 187R, and its effect on the host microbiota of Arabidopsis. Both culture-independent (Illumina sequencing) and culture-dependent (Biolog) methods showed that the impacts of the antivirulence compound on the composition and function of host microbiota were limited. These results suggest that antivirulence compounds can be a potential alternative method to antibiotics.
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Antimicrobial Resistance and Recent Alternatives to Antibiotics for the Control of Bacterial Pathogens with an Emphasis on Foodborne Pathogens. Antibiotics (Basel) 2023; 12:antibiotics12020274. [PMID: 36830185 PMCID: PMC9952301 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics12020274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2023] [Revised: 01/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is one of the most important global public health problems. The imprudent use of antibiotics in humans and animals has resulted in the emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. The dissemination of these strains and their resistant determinants could endanger antibiotic efficacy. Therefore, there is an urgent need to identify and develop novel strategies to combat antibiotic resistance. This review provides insights into the evolution and the mechanisms of AMR. Additionally, it discusses alternative approaches that might be used to control AMR, including probiotics, prebiotics, antimicrobial peptides, small molecules, organic acids, essential oils, bacteriophage, fecal transplants, and nanoparticles.
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Pant N, Rush C, Warner J, Eisen DP. Effect of Savirin or Ticagrelor Treatment on the Expression of Commonly Used Reference Genes in Staphylococcus aureus. Microorganisms 2023; 11:microorganisms11020336. [PMID: 36838300 PMCID: PMC9964243 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11020336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2022] [Revised: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Reference genes are frequently used for the normalization of quantitative reverse transcriptase PCR (qRTPCR) data in gene expression studies. Staphylococcus aureus is one of the most common causes of biofilm-related infections. Savirin and ticagrelor show in vitro as well as in vivo antibiofilm activity against S. aureus. The main aim of this study was to identify the most stably expressed reference genes to study the effect of these molecules on genes in a strong biofilm producing S. aureus isolate isolated from biofilm-related infection. Quantitative real-time PCR was performed by using relative quantification method. Four different algorithms, delta Ct, normfinder, bestkeeper, and genorm, followed by a comprehensive analysis was used to identify the most stable reference genes from a list of sixteen different candidate reference genes. All four algorithms reported different results, with some comparable findings among some methods. In the comprehensive analysis of the results of all the algorithms used, the most stable reference genes found were spa, rpoD, and pyk for savirin treatment experiment and gapdH, gyrA, and gmk for ticagrelor treatment experiment. The optimal number of reference genes required was two for both the experimental conditions. Despite having some drawbacks, each algorithm can reliably determine an appropriate reference gene independently. However, based on consensus ranking and the required optimal number of reference genes reported, spa and rpoD were the most appropriate reference genes for savirin treatment experiment, and gapdH and gyrA were most appropriate for ticagrelor treatment experiment. This study provides baseline data on reference genes to study the effect of savirin or ticagrelor treatment on the expression of potential reference genes in S. aureus. We recommend prior re-validation of reference genes on a case-by-case basis before they can be used.
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Affiliation(s)
- Narayan Pant
- College of Medicine and Dentistry, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD 4811, Australia
- Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, Townsville, QLD 4811, Australia
- Correspondence:
| | - Catherine Rush
- Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, Townsville, QLD 4811, Australia
| | - Jeffrey Warner
- Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, Townsville, QLD 4811, Australia
| | - Damon P. Eisen
- College of Medicine and Dentistry, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD 4811, Australia
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