Epidemiology of Biofilm Producing Acinetobacter baumannii Nosocomial Isolates from a Tertiary Care Hospital in Egypt: A Cross-Sectional Study

Expression of bap gene in multidrug-resistant and biofilm-producing Acinetobacter baumannii clinical isolates

INTRODUCTION

Acinetobacter baumannii is a significant biofilm-producer and antibiotic-resistant pathogen associated with various infections caused in humans. This study aimed to investigate the expression level of the bap gene in multidrug-resistant and biofilm-producer clinical isolates of A. baumannii.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

One Hundred A. baumannii clinical isolates were collected from hospitalized patients and identified by phenotypic and genotypic tests. The antibiotic resistance pattern of the isolates was determined by the disk agar diffusion method. The ability of biofilm production was investigated using the microtiter plate test. This study employed the Real-time PCR method to evaluate the expression level of the bap gene.

RESULTS

Ninety nine percent A. baumannii isolates were MDR. However, the highest resistance rate was observed against ciprofloxacin (100%), while ceftazidime was the most effective drug. Also, 49%, 49%, and 2% of the isolates were strong, moderate, and weak biofilm-producing, respectively. However, we detected no strain without the ability to produce biofilm. Most strong and moderate biofilm-former isolates were non-susceptible to all tested antibiotics. An increased expression level of the bap gene was detected in 99% of the isolates. The results of the present study suggest a correlation between the bap gene expression level and the development of multidrug resistance and biofilm formation in A. baumannii isolates.

CONCLUSION

This research emphasizes the importance of biofilm formation in the emergence of multidrug-resistant A. baumannii strains in healthcare settings, making them progressively difficult to control. The bap gene may be a considerable target for the development of novel anti-A. baumannii treatment option and eradication of the biofilm formation by this organism.

3-Hydroxybenzoic acid inhibits the virulence attributes and disrupts biofilm production in clinical isolates of Acinetobacter baumannii

PURPOSE

Acinetobacter baumannii (A. baumannii) is an emerging global public health threat owing to its ability to form biofilms. Here, we evaluated 3-hydroxybenzoic acid (3-HBA), a promising organic compound, for its ability to disrupt biofilm formation and virulence attributes in clinical isolates of A. baumannii.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The effect of 3-HBA on A. baumannii was assessed by determining the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and certain other in vitro investigations viz., extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) estimation, crystal violet staining assay, motility assay, and the hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) assay to examine its impact on bacterial virulence. Biofilm formation was also evaluated at the air-liquid interface. In situ visualization investigations were employed to confirm biofilm dispersion at the lowest effective concentration. The cytotoxic effects of 3-HBA on MCF-7 cells were investigated using the MTT assay.

RESULTS

At a sub-inhibitory concentration of 0.078 mg/mL, 3-HBA reduced biofilm formation in A. baumannii LSAB-04 and A. baumannii LSAB-06 by 61.22% and 59.21%, respectively, and decreased EPS production by 64% in LSAB-04 and 58.31% in LSAB-06. Microscopic examination confirmed significant biofilm dispersion. 3-HBA also significantly impaired swarming motility and increased their sensitivity to H2O2. The MTT assay showed a dose-dependent decrease in MCF-7 cell viability (43.67%) at a concentration of 0.078 mg/mL.

CONCLUSION

Our findings underscore the likely role of 3-HBA as a promising A. baumannii biofilm-disrupting agent. Further, by downplaying against the virulence factors of A. baumannii, 3-HBA could be a compelling alternative to conventional antibiotics that however requires to be investigated.

Investigating the Link Between Biofilm Formation and Antibiotic Resistance in Clinical Isolates of Acinetobacter baumannii

Background: Acinetobacter baumannii has become a significant problem in hospitals worldwide during the last decades. Biofilm formation is a virulence factor that may affect antibiotic resistance. This study aimed to elucidate the correlation between biofilm formation and biofilm-related and oxacillinase genes in A. baumannii clinical isolates. Methods: This study was conducted on 53 A. baumannii isolates collected from hospitals affiliated with Babol University of Medical Sciences (Babol, Iran) from April to October 2023. Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion was used to determine antibacterial resistance. Biofilm formation was examined using crystal violet staining. Polymerase chain reaction was used to detect oxacillinase (bla OXA-23, bla OXA-24, bla OXA-51, and bla OXA-58) and biofilm-encoding (bap and bla PER-1) genes using specific primers. Results: The strains showed the highest resistance to trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole and ciprofloxacin (98.11%) and the lowest resistance to ampicillin/sulbactam (66.03%). All isolates formed biofilms. Also, 67.92%, 18.86%, and 11.32% were strong, moderate, and weak biofilm producers, respectively. The frequencies of bla OXA-23, bla OXA-24, bla OXA-51, bap, and bla PER-1 genes were 92.45%, 71.69%, 100%, 73.58%, and 58.49%, respectively. None of the isolates harbored bla OXA-58. Conclusions: A high prevalence of antibiotic-resistant strains was found among A. baumannii clinical isolates. There was no significant correlation between the clinical sample type and biofilm formation, but a notable link was found between antimicrobial resistance and biofilm formation, except for ciprofloxacin. Oxacillinase genes were not significantly correlated with biofilm formation, but biofilm production was associated with bap rather than bla PER-1. Understanding the A. baumannii biofilm formation process is crucial for effective control of associated infections by targeting this mechanism.

Biofilm Production in Intensive Care Units: Challenges and Implications

The prevalence of infections amongst intensive care unit (ICU) patients is inevitably high, and the ICU is considered the epicenter for the spread of multidrug-resistant bacteria. Multiple studies have focused on the microbial diversity largely inhabiting ICUs that continues to flourish despite treatment with various antibiotics, investigating the factors that influence the spread of these pathogens, with the aim of implementing sufficient monitoring and infection control methods. Despite joint efforts from healthcare providers and policymakers, ICUs remain a hub for healthcare-associated infections. While persistence is a unique strategy used by these pathogens, multiple other factors can lead to persistent infections and antimicrobial tolerance in the ICU. Despite the recognition of the detrimental effects biofilm-producing pathogens have on ICU patients, overcoming biofilm formation in ICUs continues to be a challenge. This review focuses on various facets of ICUs that may contribute to and/or enhance biofilm production. A comprehensive survey of the literature reveals the apparent need for additional molecular studies to assist in understanding the relationship between biofilm regulation and the adaptive behavior of pathogens in the ICU environment. A better understanding of the interplay between biofilm production and antibiotic resistance within the environmental cues exhibited particularly by the ICU may also reveal ways to limit biofilm production and indivertibly control the spread of antibiotic-resistant pathogens in ICUs.

Biofilm formation and antibiogram profile of bacteria from infected wounds in a general hospital in southern Ethiopia

Biofilm-producing bacteria associated with wound infections exhibit exceptional drug resistance, leading to an escalation in morbidity, worse clinical outcomes (including delay in the healing process), and an increase in health care cost, burdening the whole system. This study is an attempt to estimate the prevalence and the relationship between the biofilm-forming capacity and multi-drug resistance of wound bacterial isolates. The findings intended to help clinicians, healthcare providers and program planners and to formulate an evidence-based decision-making process, especially in resource-limited healthcare settings. This study was done to assess the prevalence of bacterial infections in wounds and the antibiogram and biofilm-forming capacity of those bacteria in patients with clinical signs and symptoms, attending a General Hospital in southern Ethiopia. A cross-sectional study was performed in Arba Minch General Hospital from June to November 2021. The study participants comprised 201 patients with clinically infected wounds. Demographic and clinical data were gathered via a structured questionnaire. Specimens from wounds were taken from each participant and inoculated onto a series of culture media, namely MacConkey agar, mannitol salt agar, and blood agar, and different species were identified using a number of biochemical tests. Antimicrobial susceptibility tests were performed by means of the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion technique following the guidelines of the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute. A micro-titer plate method was employed to detect the extent of biofilm formation. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression models were applied to analyse the association between dependent and independent variables, and P values ≤ 0.05 were considered as statistically significant. Data analyses were done with Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 25. Out of the 201 clinically infected wounds, 165 were found culture-positive with an overall prevalence of 82% (95% CI: 75.9-86.9). In total, 188 bacteria were recovered; 53.1% of them were Gram-positive cocci. The often-isolated bacterial species were Staphylococcus aureus, 38.3% (n = 72), and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, 16.4% (n = 31). The Gram-positive isolates showed considerable resistance against penicillin, 70%, and somewhat strong resistance against tetracycline, 57.7%. Gram-negative isolates showed severe resistance to ampicillin, 80.68%. The overall multi-drug resistance (MDR) among isolates was 48.4%. Extended beta-lactamase (ESBL)-producing Gram-negatives and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) accounted for 49 and 41.67%, respectively; 62.2% of the isolates were biofilm formers and were correlated statistically with MDR, ESBL producers, and MRSA (P < 0.005). The extent of biofilm formation and the prevalence of MDR bacteria associated with infected wounds hint at a public health threat that needs immediate attention. Thus, a more balanced and comprehensive wound management approach and antimicrobial stewardship program are essential in the study setting.

Synergistic effects of bacteriophage cocktail and antibiotics combinations against extensively drug-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii

BACKGROUND

The extensively drug-resistant (XDR) strains of Acinetobacter baumannii have become a major cause of nosocomial infections, increasing morbidity and mortality worldwide. Many different treatments, including phage therapy, are attractive ways to overcome the challenges of antibiotic resistance.

METHODS

This study investigates the biofilm formation ability of 30 XDR A. baumannii isolates and the efficacy of a cocktail of four tempetate bacteriophages (SA1, Eve, Ftm, and Gln) and different antibiotics (ampicillin/sulbactam, meropenem, and colistin) in inhibiting and degrading the biofilms of these strains.

RESULTS

The majority (83.3%) of the strains exhibited strong biofilm formation. The bacteriophage cocktail showed varying degrees of effectiveness against A. baumannii biofilms, with higher concentrations generally leading to more significant inhibition and degradation rates. The antibiotics-bacteriophage cocktail combinations also enhanced the inhibition and degradation of biofilms.

CONCLUSION

The findings suggested that the bacteriophage cocktail is an effective tool in combating A. baumannii biofilms, with its efficacy depending on the concentration. Combining antibiotics with the bacteriophage cocktail improved the inhibition and removal of biofilms, indicating a promising strategy for managing A. baumannii infections. These results contribute to our understanding of biofilm dynamics and the potential of bacteriophage cocktails as a novel therapeutic approach to combat antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

Medical Device-Associated Biofilm Infections and Multidrug-Resistant Pathogens

Medical devices such as venous catheters (VCs) and urinary catheters (UCs) are widely used in the hospital setting. However, the implantation of these devices is often accompanied by complications. About 60 to 70% of nosocomial infections (NIs) are linked to biofilms. The main complication is the ability of microorganisms to adhere to surfaces and form biofilms which protect them and help them to persist in the host. Indeed, by crossing the skin barrier, the insertion of VC inevitably allows skin flora or accidental environmental contaminants to access the underlying tissues and cause fatal complications like bloodstream infections (BSIs). In fact, 80,000 central venous catheters-BSIs (CVC-BSIs)-mainly occur in intensive care units (ICUs) with a death rate of 12 to 25%. Similarly, catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CA-UTIs) are the most commonlyhospital-acquired infections (HAIs) worldwide.These infections represent up to 40% of NIs.In this review, we present a summary of biofilm formation steps. We provide an overview of two main and important infections in clinical settings linked to medical devices, namely the catheter-asociated bloodstream infections (CA-BSIs) and catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CA-UTIs), and highlight also the most multidrug resistant bacteria implicated in these infections. Furthermore, we draw attention toseveral useful prevention strategies, and advanced antimicrobial and antifouling approaches developed to reduce bacterial colonization on catheter surfaces and the incidence of the catheter-related infections.

Understanding the biofilm development of Acinetobacter baumannii and novel strategies to combat infection

Acinetobacter baumannii (A. baumannii) is a Gram-negative, nonmotile, and aerobic bacillus emerged as a superbug, due to increasing the possibility of infection and accelerating rates of antimicrobial agents. It is recognized as a nosocomial pathogen due to its ability to form biofilms. These biofilms serve as a defensive barrier, increase antibiotic resistance, and make treatment more difficult. As a result, the current situation necessitates the rapid emergence of novel therapeutic approaches to ensure successful treatment outcomes. This review explores the intricate relationship between biofilm formation and antibiotic resistance in A. baumannii, emphasizing the role of key virulence factors and quorum sensing (QS) mechanisms that will lead to infections and facilitate insight into developing innovative method to control A. baumannii infections. Furthermore, the review article looks into promising approaches for preventing biofilm formation on medically important surfaces and potential therapeutic methods for eliminating preformed biofilms, which can address biofilm-associated A. baumannii infections. Modern advances in emerging therapeutic options such as antimicrobial peptide (AMPs), nanoparticles (NPs), bacteriophage therapy, photodynamic therapy (PDT), and other biofilm inhibitors can assist readers understand the current landscape and future prospects for effectively treating A. baumannii biofilm infections.

Sub-inhibitory concentrations of colistin and imipenem impact the expression of biofilm-associated genes in Acinetobacter baumannii

Acinetobacter baumannii is an opportunistic pathogen that is responsible for nosocomial infections. Imipenem and colistin are drugs that are commonly used to treat severe infections caused by A. baumannii, such as sepsis, ventilator-associated pneumonia, and bacteremia. However, some strains of A. baumannii have become resistant to these drugs, which is a concern for public health. Biofilms produced by A. baumannii increase their resistance to antibiotics and the cells within the inner layers of biofilm are exposed to sub-inhibitory concentrations (sub-MICs) of antibiotics. There is limited information available regarding how the genes of A. baumannii are linked to biofilm formation when the bacteria are exposed to sub-MICs of imipenem and colistin. Thus, this study's objective was to explore this relationship by examining the genes involved in biofilm formation in A. baumannii when exposed to low levels of imipenem and colistin. The study found that exposing an isolate of A. baumannii to low levels of these drugs caused changes in their drug susceptibility pattern. The relative gene expression profiles of the biofilm-associated genes exhibited a change in their expression profile during short-term and long-term exposure. This study highlights the potential consequences of overuse and misuse of antibiotics, which can help bacteria become resistant to these drugs.

Effect of lipopeptide extracted from Bacillus licheniformis on the expression of bap and luxI genes in multi-drug-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii and Pseudomonas aeruginosa

Recently, opportunistic pathogens like Acinetobacter baumannii and Pseudomonas aeruginosa have caused concern due to their ability to cause antibiotic resistance in weakened immune systems. As a result, researchers are always seeking efficient antimicrobial agents to tackle this issue. The hypothesis of the recent study was that probiotic products derived from bacteria would be effective in reducing drug resistance in other bacteria. This research aimed to investigate the antimicrobial properties of probiotic products from various bacterial strains, including Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Pediococcus acidilactisi, Bacillus coagulans, Bacillus subtilis, and Bacillus licheniformis. These were tested against multi-drug-resistant (MDR) standard strains A. baumannii and P. aeruginosa. B. licheniformis was found to be the most effective probiotic strain, possessing the LanA and LanM lantibiotic genes. The lipopeptide nature of the probiotic product was confirmed through high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) techniques. The anti-biofilm and antimicrobial properties of this probiotic were measured using an SEM electron microscope and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) test. Real-time PCR (qPCR) was used to compare the expression of bap and luxI genes, which are considered virulence factors of drug-resistant bacteria, before and after treatment with antimicrobial agents. The MIC results showed that the probiotic product prevented the growth of bacteria at lower concentrations compared to antibiotics. In addition, the ΔΔCqs indicated that gene expression was significantly down-regulated following treatment with the obtained probiotic product. It was found that B. licheniformis probiotic products could reduce drug resistance in other bacteria, making it a potential solution to antibiotic resistance.

Biofilm formation in drug-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii and Acinetobacter nosocomialis isolates obtained from a university hospital in Pelotas, RS, Brazil

This study aimed to investigate the antibiotic resistance and biofilm formation of Acinetobacter calcoaceticus-A. baumannii (ACB) complex isolates recovered from a university hospital in Pelotas, RS, Brazil. The species were confirmed using gyrB multiplex and blaOXA-51-like genes PCR. The presence of the bfmRS virulence gene was evaluated by the PCR, and the isolates were classified based on their biofilm-forming ability on polystyrene (PO) and glass surfaces (TM). Out of 50 ACB complex isolates evaluated, 41 were identified as A. baumannii and nine as A. nosocomialis. The bfmRS gene was detected in 97.6% (40/41) of A. baumannii and 33.3% (3/9) of A. nosocomialis species. Forty-nine isolates exhibited a multidrug-resistant (MDR) profile, while one A. nosocomialis isolate presented an extensively drug-resistant (XDR) profile. All isolates were able of forming biofilms on PO surfaces and 98% (49/50) on TM surfaces. A significant correlation was observed between biofilm production on PO and TM surfaces (P < 0.05). However, no correlation was found between biofilms forming and the presence of the bfmRS gene or displaying a certain antibiotic resistance profile. In conclusion, A. baumannii and A. nosocomialis are frequent species causing nosocomial infections in a hospital in Pelotas, RS, Brazil, and both are capable of forming biofilms.

Extensive Drug Resistance of Strong Biofilm-Producing Acinetobacter baumannii Strains Isolated from Infections and Colonization Hospitalized Patients in Southern Poland

Acinetobacter baumannii (AB) is a bacterium that causes infections, particularly in immunocompromised patients. Treatment is challenging due to biofilm formation by AB strains, which hinders antibiotic effectiveness and promotes drug resistance. The aim of our study was to analyze the biofilm-producing capacity of AB isolates from various forms of infections in relation to biofilm-related genes and their drug resistance. We tested one hundred isolates for biofilm formation using the crystal violet microplate method. Drug resistance analyses were performed based on EUCAST and CLSI guidelines, and biofilm genes were detected using PCR. All tested strains were found to form biofilms, with 50% being ICU strains and 72% classified as strong biofilm producers. Among these, 87% were extensively drug-resistant (XDR) and 2% were extra-extensively drug-resistant (E-XDR). The most common gene set was bap, bfmS, csuE, and ompA, found in 57% of all isolates. Our research shows that, regardless of the form of infection, biofilm-forming strains can be expected among AB isolates. The emergence of E-XDR and XDR strains among non-ICU infections highlights the necessity for the rational use of antibiotics to stop or limit the further acquisition of drug resistance by A. baumannii.

Acinetobacter baumannii in the critically ill: complex infections get complicated

Acinetobacter baumannii is increasingly associated with various epidemics, representing a serious concern due to the broad level of antimicrobial resistance and clinical manifestations. During the last decades, A. baumannii has emerged as a major pathogen in vulnerable and critically ill patients. Bacteremia, pneumonia, urinary tract, and skin and soft tissue infections are the most common presentations of A. baumannii, with attributable mortality rates approaching 35%. Carbapenems have been considered the first choice to treat A. baumannii infections. However, due to the widespread prevalence of carbapenem-resistant A. baumannii (CRAB), colistin represents the main therapeutic option, while the role of the new siderophore cephalosporin cefiderocol still needs to be ascertained. Furthermore, high clinical failure rates have been reported for colistin monotherapy when used to treat CRAB infections. Thus, the most effective antibiotic combination remains disputed. In addition to its ability to develop antibiotic resistance, A. baumannii is also known to form biofilm on medical devices, including central venous catheters or endotracheal tubes. Thus, the worrisome spread of biofilm-producing strains in multidrug-resistant populations of A. baumannii poses a significant treatment challenge. This review provides an updated account of antimicrobial resistance patterns and biofilm-mediated tolerance in A. baumannii infections with a special focus on fragile and critically ill patients.

ACINETOBACTER BAUMANNII IN BLOOD-BORNE AND CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM INFECTIONS IN INTENSIVE CARE UNIT CHILDREN: MOLECULAR AND GENETIC CHARACTERISTICS AND CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Acinetobacter baumannii is a representative of the peak priority nosocomial pathogens capable of causing infections with high mortality and economic treatment costs. The purpose of our study was to determine a role of A. baumannii in blood-borne and central nervous system infections in children. We conducted a retrospective study of A. baumannii associated cases of bacteremia and CNS infection in children. A. baumannii strains were isolated from 17 children followed up with surgical pathology (congenital heart defects 24%, abdominal pathology 29%, severe combined trauma 29%) and with somatic diseases accompanied by antibacterial and/or glucocorticosteroid therapy 18%. The minimum inhibitory concentrations of antibiotics were determined by the broth microdilution method. Carbapenemase genes were detected by real time polymerase chain reaction. Biofilm formation genes were determined by PCR. Biofilms were grown using flat-bottomed polystyrene tablets, followed by coloring, fixation, elution and detection. Population diversity was assessed by the multilocus sequence typing. About a quarter of cases of bacteremia and central nervous system infection caused by A. baumannii had an unfavorable outcome. Resistance to carbapenems, aminoglycosides, fluoroquinolones was more than 70%. Carbapenemases of the OXA-23 (24%) and OXA-40 (41%) groups were identified. The study of biofilm production showed that A. baumannii isolates formed biofilms of varying intensity: weak biofilms (59%), moderate (35%) and strong (6%). During determining the sensitivity to meropenem for biofilm and planktonic forms of cultures, it was determined that the minimum inhibitory concentrations of meropenem were significantly higher for biofilms than for planktonic forms. The minimum inhibitory concentrations of meropenem for plankton cells ranged from 0.5 to 512 mg/l. While in biofilms the same microorganisms had in vitro minimum inhibitory concentrations of meropenem within 128 to 512 mg/l and higher. All isolates bore biofilm formation regulating genes: bfmR, bap and katE. The ompA gene was found in 94% strains, and the csuA/B gene was found in 88%. The population pattern of A. baumannii isolated from blood and cerebrospinal fluid of children was represented by nine different sequence types. Most of the isolates were represented by genotypes: ST944Oxf, ST1550Oxf, ST1104Oxf belonging to the international clonal line ICL6, and ST450Oxf, ST2063Oxf and ST1102Oxf of the international clonal line ICL2. Blood-borne and central nervous system infections associated with A. baumannii have a great importance in clinical practice. This microorganism is able to persist for a long time on biotic and abiotic surfaces, has a wide natural and acquired antibiotics resistance.

Carboxymuconolactone decarboxylase is a prospective molecular target for multi-drug resistant Acinetobacter baumannii-computational modeling, molecular docking and dynamic simulation studies

Multidrug-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (MDRAb), a priority-I pathogen declared by the World Health Organization, became a potential healthcare concern worldwide with a high mortality rate. Thus, the identification of putative molecular targets and potential lead molecules is an important concern in healthcare. The present study aimed to screen a prospective molecular target and effectual binders for the drug discovery of MDRAb by computational virtual screening approach. Based on the functional role, γ-carboxymuconolactone decarboxylase (CMD) was prioritized as the target and its three-dimensional (3D) structure was computationally modeled. Based on the availability of the 3D structure, twenty-five herbal molecules were selected by database search, and their drug-likeliness, pharmacokinetic, and toxicity features were predicted. The effectual binding of the selected molecules towards CMD was predicted by molecular docking. The stability of the best-docked complexes was predicted by molecular dynamics (MD) simulation for 100 ns and binding energy calculations were carried out by molecular mechanics generalized Born and surface area solvation (MM/GBSA) method. Out of twenty-five molecules screened, hirsutine (an indole alkaloid of Uncaria rhynchophylla) and thymoquinone (a phytochemical of Nigella sativa) were qualified for drug likeliness, pharmacokinetic, and toxicity features and demonstrated significant effectual binding to CMD when compared with the binding of co-crystallized inhibitor and CMD (control). The docked complexes of hirsutine and thymoquinone, and CMD were stabilized by the binding energies of -8. 30 and -8. 46 kcal/mol respectively. These molecules were qualified in terms of ideal drug likeliness, ADME, and toxicity properties. MD simulation studies showed that the ligand-protein complexes were stable throughout the simulation. The binding free energies of the complexes by MMGBSA were estimated to be -42.08157745 kcal/mol and -36.58618242 kcal/mol for hirsutine and thymoquinone respectively when compared with the calculated binding free energy of the control (-28.75032666 kcal/mol). This study concluded that hirsutine and thymoquinone can act as potential lead molecules against CMD and the present hypothesis can be scaled up to develop potential inhibitors against MDRAb.

Multidrug-Resistant Acinetobacter baumannii Infections in the United Kingdom versus Egypt: Trends and Potential Natural Products Solutions

Acinetobacter baumannii is a problematic pathogen of global concern. It causes multiple types of infection, especially among immunocompromised individuals in intensive care units. One of the most serious concerns related to this pathogen is its ability to become resistant to almost all the available antibiotics used in clinical practice. Moreover, it has a great tendency to spread this resistance at a very high rate, crossing borders and affecting healthcare settings across multiple economic levels. In this review, we trace back the reported incidences in the PubMed and the Web of Science databases of A. baumannii infections in both the United Kingdom and Egypt as two representative examples for countries of two different economic levels: high and low-middle income countries. Additionally, we compare the efforts made by researchers from both countries to find solutions to the lack of available treatments by looking into natural products reservoirs. A total of 113 studies reporting infection incidence were included, with most of them being conducted in Egypt, especially the recent ones. On the one hand, this pathogen was detected in the UK many years before it was reported in Egypt; on the other hand, the contribution of Egyptian researchers to identifying a solution using natural products is more notable than that of researchers in the UK. Tracing the prevalence of A. baumannii infections over the years showed that the infections are on the rise, especially in Egypt vs. the UK. Further concerns are linked to the spread of antibiotic resistance among the isolates collected from Egypt reaching very alarming levels. Studies conducted in the UK showed earlier inclusion of high-throughput technologies in the tracking and detection of A. baumannii and its resistance than those conducted in Egypt. Possible explanations for these variations are analyzed and discussed.

Genotypic Patterns of Multidrug-Resistant Acinetobacter baumannii: A Systematic Review

Acinetobacter baumannii (A. baumannii) is one of the most common bacteria in nosocomial infections. Inappropriate usage of antibiotics has led to expanding emergence resistance to A. baumannii as a multidrug-resistant (MDR) strain. Empirical antibiotic therapy is necessary to evaluate the resistant gene pattern of MDR A. baumannii. For this purpose, the present study evaluated the resistance genes pattern of MDR A. baumannii collected from hospitalized patients using a genotypic diagnostic technique. To find evidence related to the study objectives, databases were searched such as Google Scholar, Web of Science, Science Direct, PubMed, and Scopus from 2000 to 2022, with specified keywords in the title and text of the articles. Articles were included based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. The mentioned database displayed 284 articles. After screening, 65 eligible articles were included. The results showed that various b-lactamases genes, aminoglycoside-modifying enzymes (AMEs) genes, and pump-expressing genes are resistance gene patterns in MDR A. baumannii isolates. MDR A. baumannii has significantly become resistant to b-lactams, carbapenems, and aminoglycosides.

Multidrug-Resistant Acinetobacter: Detection of ESBL, MBL, bla NDM-1 Genotype, and Biofilm Formation at a Tertiary Care Hospital in Eastern Nepal

Background

The Acinetobacter species is an important hospital-acquired pathogen. The rapid development of resistance to multiple drugs and the ability to form biofilm make these bacteria more adaptable to survive in healthcare facilities, thus posing a challenge to their effective management.

Objective

This study aimed to characterize clinical isolates of Acinetobacter spp and to study their antimicrobial susceptibility patterns and ability to form biofilm. Resistant Acinetobacter was further analyzed for the detection of extended-spectrum β-lactamases (ESBLs), metallo β-lactamases (MBLs), carbapenemase production, and presence of blaNDM-1 gene.

Materials and Methods

A total of 324 Acinetobacter species were isolated from various clinical specimens which were submitted to the Department of Microbiology, B.P. Koirala Institute of Health Sciences, Dharan, Nepal, and were studied for antibiotic susceptibility testing, detection of ESBL and MBL production, and formerly biofilm formation was performed by standard microbiological methods. PCR was carried out to determine the presence of the blaNDM-1 gene.

Results

The predominant Acinetobacter species isolated was A calcoaceticus-baumannii Complex (Acb complex) 167 (51.5%). Among those, all A. species 128 (40%) were multidrug resistant (MDR). In which 13 (4.0%) were ESBL producers, 70 (61.9%) were MBL, and 12 (10.6%) were carbapenemases producers. The blaNDM1 gene was present in 33 isolates. Thirty-seven percent (121/324) of isolates formed biofilm. The majority of A. species were resistant to cefotaxime 73.8% (239) and cefepime 74.4% (241). A significant proportion of biofilm producers were MDR (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Drug-resistant Acinetobacter formed a substantial proportion of this hospital's samples with a large presence of the bla NDM-1 gene. A matter of great concern is the association of multidrug-resistant phenotype with biofilm formation. This situation warranted stringent surveillance and adherence to infection prevention and control practices.

Targeted Anti-Biofilm Therapy: Dissecting Targets in the Biofilm Life Cycle

Biofilm is a crucial virulence factor for microorganisms that causes chronic infection. After biofilm formation, the bacteria present improve drug tolerance and multifactorial defense mechanisms, which impose significant challenges for the use of antimicrobials. This indicates the urgent need for new targeted technologies and emerging therapeutic strategies. In this review, we focus on the current biofilm-targeting strategies and those under development, including targeting persistent cells, quorum quenching, and phage therapy. We emphasize biofilm-targeting technologies that are supported by blocking the biofilm life cycle, providing a theoretical basis for design of targeting technology that disrupts the biofilm and promotes practical application of antibacterial materials.

Biofilm-Associated Multi-Drug Resistance in Hospital-Acquired Infections: A Review

Biofilm-related multi-drug resistance (MDR) is a major problem in hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) that increase patient morbidity and mortality rates and economic burdens such as high healthcare costs and prolonged hospital stay. This review focuses on the burden of bacterial biofilm in the hospital settings, their impact on the emergence of MDR in the HAIs, biofilm detection methods, recent approaches against biofilms, and future perspectives. The prevalence of biofilm-associated MDR among HAIs ranges from 17.9% to 100.0% worldwide. The predominant bacterial isolates causing HAIs in recently published studies were S. aureus, A. baumannii, K. pneumoniae, and P. aeruginosa. In addition to the use of qualitative and quantitative methods to detect biofilm formation, advanced PCR-based techniques have been performed for detecting biofilm-associated genes. Although there are suggested therapeutic strategies against biofilms, further confirmation of their efficacy for in vivo application and antibiotics targeting biofilm-associated genes/proteins to minimize treatment failure is required for the future.

Detection of the aadA1 and aac (3)-1V resistance genes in Acinetobacter baumannii

Acinetobacter baumannii is a gram-negative aerobic bacterium that can be found in different environments, such as food, containing vegetables, meat, and fish; moreover, it can be present in soil and freshwater. A. baumannii has globally considered an opportunistic nosocomial bacterium in the healthcare setting contributing to increased morbidity and mortality. The current study aimed to detect the aminoglycoside genes in A. baumannii isolated from different clinical causes. In total, 20 isolates of A. baumannii were obtained from different clinical cases. Bacterial isolate DNA was extracted using a DNA extraction kit. Quantus Fluorometer was used to detect the concentration of the extracted DNA in order to detect the goodness of samples. 1 μl of DNA and 199 μl of diluted QuantiFlour Dye were mixed. After 5 min incubation at room temperature, DNA concentration values were evaluated, and following the initial amplification of the A. baumannii aadA1 gene, 20 μl of PCR product with F and R primers were sent to Sanger sequencing. The results of the antimicrobial susceptibility revealed that A. baumannii isolates were resistant to Gentamicin (95%), Amikacin (90%), and Tobramycin (60%). Molecular investigation of the aadA1 and aac (3)-IV genes exhibited that the aadA1 gene was detected in 15% of the isolates. However, the aac (3)-IV gene was not detected in any of the isolates. The gel electrophoresis revealed that the molecular weight of the aadA1 gene was 490bp. The DNA sequence of the aadA1 gene was conducted in this study, and the results exhibited no mutations in all isolates.

Convergence of Biofilm Formation and Antibiotic Resistance in Acinetobacter baumannii Infection

Acinetobacter baumannii (A. baumannii) is a leading cause of nosocomial infections as this pathogen has certain attributes that facilitate the subversion of natural defenses of the human body. A. baumannii acquires antibiotic resistance determinants easily and can thrive on both biotic and abiotic surfaces. Different resistance mechanisms or determinants, both transmissible and non-transmissible, have aided in this victory over antibiotics. In addition, the propensity to form biofilms (communities of organism attached to a surface) allows the organism to persist in hospitals on various medical surfaces (cardiac valves, artificial joints, catheters, endotracheal tubes, and ventilators) and also evade antibiotics simply by shielding the bacteria and increasing its ability to acquire foreign genetic material through lateral gene transfer. The biofilm formation rate in A. baumannii is higher than in other species. Recent research has shown how A. baumannii biofilm-forming capacity exerts its effect on resistance phenotypes, development of resistome, and dissemination of resistance genes within biofilms by conjugation or transformation, thereby making biofilm a hotspot for genetic exchange. Various genes control the formation of A. baumannii biofilms and a beneficial relationship between biofilm formation and "antimicrobial resistance" (AMR) exists in the organism. This review discusses these various attributes of the organism that act independently or synergistically to cause hospital infections. Evolution of AMR in A. baumannii, resistance mechanisms including both transmissible (hydrolyzing enzymes) and non-transmissible (efflux pumps and chromosomal mutations) are presented. Intrinsic factors [biofilm-associated protein, outer membrane protein A, chaperon-usher pilus, iron uptake mechanism, poly-β-(1, 6)-N-acetyl glucosamine, BfmS/BfmR two-component system, PER-1, quorum sensing] involved in biofilm production, extrinsic factors (surface property, growth temperature, growth medium) associated with the process, the impact of biofilms on high antimicrobial tolerance and regulation of the process, gene transfer within the biofilm, are elaborated. The infections associated with colonization of A. baumannii on medical devices are discussed. Each important device-related infection is dealt with and both adult and pediatric studies are separately mentioned. Furthermore, the strategies of preventing A. baumannii biofilms with antibiotic combinations, quorum sensing quenchers, natural products, efflux pump inhibitors, antimicrobial peptides, nanoparticles, and phage therapy are enumerated.

Antibacterial Efficacy of Liposomal Formulations Containing Tobramycin and N-Acetylcysteine against Tobramycin-Resistant Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Acinetobacter baumannii

The antibacterial activity and biofilm reduction capability of liposome formulations encapsulating tobramycin (TL), and Tobramycin-N-acetylcysteine (TNL) were tested against tobramycin-resistant strains of E. coli, K. pneumoniae and A. baumannii in the presence of several resistant genes. All antibacterial activity were assessed against tobramycin-resistant bacterial clinical isolate strains, which were fully characterized by whole-genome sequencing (WGS). All isolates acquired one or more of AMEs genes, efflux pump genes, OMP genes, and biofilm formation genes. TL formulation inhibited the growth of EC_089 and KP_002 isolates from 64 mg/L and 1024 mg/L to 8 mg/L. TNL formulation reduced the MIC of the same isolates to 16 mg/L. TNL formulation was the only effective formulation against all A. baumannii strains compared with TL and conventional tobramycin (in the plektonic environment). Biofilm reduction was significantly observed when TL and TNL formulations were used against E. coli and K. pneumoniae strains. TNL formulation reduced biofilm formation at a low concentration of 16 mg/L compared with TL and conventional tobramycin. In conclusion, TL and TNL formulations particularly need to be tested on animal models, where they may pave the way to considering drug delivery for the treatment of serious infectious diseases.

Multidrug Resistant Acinetobacter baumannii Biofilms: Evaluation of Phenotypic-Genotypic Association and Susceptibility to Cinnamic and Gallic Acids

Acinetobacter baumannii armed with multidrug resistance (MDR) and biofilm-forming ability is increasingly recognized as an alarming pathogen. A deeper comprehension of the correlation between these two armories is required in circumventing its infections. This study examined the biofilm-forming ability of the isolates by crystal violet staining and the antibiotic susceptibility by broth microdilution method. The genetic basis of the MDR and biofilm-forming phenotypes was screened by polymerase chain reaction. The antimicrobial activities of cinnamic and gallic acids against planktonic cells and biofilms of A. baumannii were investigated, and the findings were confirmed with scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Among 90 A. baumannii isolates, 69 (76.6%) were MDR, and all were biofilm formers; they were classified into weak (12.2%), moderate (53.3%), and strong (34.5%) biofilm formers. Our results underlined a significant association between MDR and enhanced biofilm formation. Genotypically, the presence of bla_VIM and bla_OXA–23 genes along with biofilm-related genes (ompA, bap, and csuE) was statistically associated with the biofilm-forming abilities. Impressively, both gallic and cinnamic acids could significantly reduce the MDR A. baumannii biofilms with variable degrees dependent on the phenotype–genotype characteristics of the tested isolates. The current findings may possess future therapeutic impact through augmenting antimicrobial arsenal against life-threatening infections with MDR A. baumannii biofilms.

Multidrug-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii as an emerging concern in hospitals

Acinetobacter baumannii has become a major concern for scientific attention due to extensive antimicrobial resistance. This resistance causes an increase in mortality rate because strains resistant to antimicrobial agents are a major challenge for physicians and healthcare workers regarding the eradication of either hospital or community-based infections. These strains with emerging resistance are a serious issue for patients in the intensive care unit (ICU). Antibiotic resistance has increased because of the acquirement of mobile genetic elements such as transposons, plasmids, and integrons and causes the prevalence of multidrug resistance strains (MDR). In addition, an increase in carbapenem resistance, which is used as last line antibiotic treatment to eliminate infections with multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacteria, is a major concern. Carbapenems resistant A. baumannii (CR-Ab) is a worldwide problem. Because these strains are often resistant to all other commonly used antibiotics. Therefore, pathogenic multi-drug resistance A. baumannii (MDR-Ab) associated infections become hard to eradicate. Plasmid-mediated resistance causes outbreaks of extensive drug-resistant. A. baumannii (XDR-Ab). In addition, recent outbreaks relating to livestock and community settings illustrate the existence of large MDR-Ab strain reservoirs within and outside hospital settings. The purpose of this review, proper monitoring, prevention, and treatment are required to control (XDR-Ab) infections. Attachment, the formation of biofilms and the secretion of toxins, and low activation of inflammatory responses are mechanisms used by pathogenic A. baumannii strain. This review will discuss some aspects associated with antibiotics resistance in A. baumannii as well as cover briefly phage therapy as an alternative therapeutic treatment.

Gram-Negative Bacteria Holding Together in a Biofilm: The Acinetobacter baumannii Way

Bacterial biofilms are a serious public-health problem worldwide. In recent years, the rates of antibiotic-resistant Gram-negative bacteria associated with biofilm-forming activity have increased worrisomely, particularly among healthcare-associated pathogens. Acinetobacter baumannii is a critically opportunistic pathogen, due to the high rates of antibiotic resistant strains causing healthcare-acquired infections (HAIs). The clinical isolates of A. baumannii can form biofilms on both biotic and abiotic surfaces; hospital settings and medical devices are the ideal environments for A. baumannii biofilms, thereby representing the main source of patient infections. However, the paucity of therapeutic options poses major concerns for human health infections caused by A. baumannii strains. The increasing number of multidrug-resistant A. baumannii biofilm-forming isolates in association with the limited number of biofilm-eradicating treatments intensify the need for effective antibiofilm approaches. This review discusses the mechanisms used by this opportunistic pathogen to form biofilms, describes their clinical impact, and summarizes the current and emerging treatment options available, both to prevent their formation and to disrupt preformed A. baumannii biofilms.