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Lewis JM, Williams J, Sagona AP. Making the leap from technique to treatment - genetic engineering is paving the way for more efficient phage therapy. Biochem Soc Trans 2024; 52:1373-1384. [PMID: 38716972 DOI: 10.1042/bst20231289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2024] [Revised: 03/30/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
Bacteriophages (phages) are viruses specific to bacteria that target them with great efficiency and specificity. Phages were first studied for their antibacterial potential in the early twentieth century; however, their use was largely eclipsed by the popularity of antibiotics. Given the surge of antimicrobial-resistant strains worldwide, there has been a renaissance in harnessing phages as therapeutics once more. One of the key advantages of phages is their amenability to modification, allowing the generation of numerous derivatives optimised for specific functions depending on the modification. These enhanced derivatives could display higher infectivity, expanded host range or greater affinity to human tissues, where some bacterial species exert their pathogenesis. Despite this, there has been a noticeable discrepancy between the generation of derivatives in vitro and their clinical application in vivo. In most instances, phage therapy is only used on a compassionate-use basis, where all other treatment options have been exhausted. A lack of clinical trials and numerous regulatory hurdles hamper the progress of phage therapy and in turn, the engineered variants, in becoming widely used in the clinic. In this review, we outline the various types of modifications enacted upon phages and how these modifications contribute to their enhanced bactericidal function compared with wild-type phages. We also discuss the nascent progress of genetically modified phages in clinical trials along with the current issues these are confronted with, to validate it as a therapy in the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica M Lewis
- School of Life Sciences, University of Warwick, Coventry, U.K
| | - Joshua Williams
- School of Life Sciences, University of Warwick, Coventry, U.K
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2
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Bozidis P, Markou E, Gouni A, Gartzonika K. Does Phage Therapy Need a Pan-Phage? Pathogens 2024; 13:522. [PMID: 38921819 PMCID: PMC11206709 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens13060522] [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: 05/16/2024] [Revised: 06/13/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
The emergence of multidrug-resistant bacteria is undoubtedly one of the most serious global health threats. One response to this threat that has been gaining momentum over the past decade is 'phage therapy'. According to this, lytic bacteriophages are used for the treatment of bacterial infections, either alone or in combination with antimicrobial agents. However, to ensure the efficacy and broad applicability of phage therapy, several challenges must be overcome. These challenges encompass the development of methods and strategies for the host range manipulation and bypass of the resistance mechanisms developed by pathogenic bacteria, as has been the case since the advent of antibiotics. As our knowledge and understanding of the interactions between phages and their hosts evolves, the key issue is to define the host range for each application. In this article, we discuss the factors that affect host range and how this determines the classification of phages into different categories of action. For each host range group, recent representative examples are provided, together with suggestions on how the different groups can be used to combat certain types of bacterial infections. The available methodologies for host range expansion, either through sequential adaptation to a new pathogen or through genetic engineering techniques, are also reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petros Bozidis
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece;
- Department of Microbiology, University Hospital of Ioannina, 45500 Ioannina, Greece; (E.M.); (A.G.)
| | - Eleftheria Markou
- Department of Microbiology, University Hospital of Ioannina, 45500 Ioannina, Greece; (E.M.); (A.G.)
| | - Athanasia Gouni
- Department of Microbiology, University Hospital of Ioannina, 45500 Ioannina, Greece; (E.M.); (A.G.)
| | - Konstantina Gartzonika
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece;
- Department of Microbiology, University Hospital of Ioannina, 45500 Ioannina, Greece; (E.M.); (A.G.)
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Abdulrehman T, Qadri S, Haik Y, Sultan A, Skariah S, Kumar S, Mendoza Z, Yadav KK, Titus A, Khader S. Advances in the targeted theragnostics of osteomyelitis caused by Staphylococcus aureus. Arch Microbiol 2024; 206:288. [PMID: 38834761 DOI: 10.1007/s00203-024-04015-2] [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: 03/31/2024] [Revised: 05/14/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024]
Abstract
Bone infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus may lead to an inflammatory condition called osteomyelitis, which results in progressive bone loss. Biofilm formation, intracellular survival, and the ability of S. aureus to evade the immune response result in recurrent and persistent infections that present significant challenges in treating osteomyelitis. Moreover, people with diabetes are prone to osteomyelitis due to their compromised immune system, and in life-threatening cases, this may lead to amputation of the affected limbs. In most cases, bone infections are localized; thus, early detection and targeted therapy may prove fruitful in treating S. aureus-related bone infections and preventing the spread of the infection. Specific S. aureus components or overexpressed tissue biomarkers in bone infections could be targeted to deliver active therapeutics, thereby reducing drug dosage and systemic toxicity. Compounds like peptides and antibodies can specifically bind to S. aureus or overexpressed disease markers and combining these with therapeutics or imaging agents can facilitate targeted delivery to the site of infection. The effectiveness of photodynamic therapy and hyperthermia therapy can be increased by the addition of targeting molecules to these therapies enabling site-specific therapy delivery. Strategies like host-directed therapy focus on modulating the host immune mechanisms or signaling pathways utilized by S. aureus for therapeutic efficacy. Targeted therapeutic strategies in conjunction with standard surgical care could be potential treatment strategies for S. aureus-associated osteomyelitis to overcome antibiotic resistance and disease recurrence. This review paper presents information about the targeting strategies and agents for the therapy and diagnostic imaging of S. aureus bone infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tahir Abdulrehman
- eHealth Program, DeGroote School of Business, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
- Health Policy, Management and Informatics, Allied Health, Credit Valley Hospital, Mississauga, ON, Canada
| | - Shahnaz Qadri
- School of Pharmacy, Texas A&M University, Kingsville, USA.
| | - Yousef Haik
- Department of Mechanical & Nuclear Engineering, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, UAE.
| | - Ali Sultan
- Department of Immunology & Microbiology, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Doha, Qatar
| | - Sini Skariah
- Department of Immunology & Microbiology, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Doha, Qatar
| | - Shourya Kumar
- School of Engineering Medicine, Texas A&M University, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Zachary Mendoza
- School of Engineering Medicine, Texas A&M University, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Kamlesh K Yadav
- School of Engineering Medicine, Texas A&M University, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Anoop Titus
- Department of Preventive Cardiology, Houston Methodist, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Shameer Khader
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK
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Gilman RT, Muldoon MR, Megremis S, Robertson DL, Chanishvili N, Papadopoulos NG. Lysogeny destabilizes computationally simulated microbiomes. Ecol Lett 2024; 27:e14464. [PMID: 38923281 DOI: 10.1111/ele.14464] [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: 01/03/2024] [Revised: 05/06/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
Microbiomes are ecosystems, and their stability can impact the health of their hosts. Theory predicts that predators influence ecosystem stability. Phages are key predators of bacteria in microbiomes, but phages are unusual predators because many have lysogenic life cycles. It has been hypothesized that lysogeny can destabilize microbiomes, but lysogeny has no direct analog in classical ecological theory, and no formal theory exists. We studied the stability of computationally simulated microbiomes with different numbers of temperate (lysogenic) and virulent (obligate lytic) phage species. Bacterial populations were more likely to fluctuate over time when there were more temperate phages species. After disturbances, bacterial populations returned to their pre-disturbance densities more slowly when there were more temperate phage species, but cycles engendered by disturbances dampened more slowly when there were more virulent phage species. Our work offers the first formal theory linking lysogeny to microbiome stability.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Tucker Gilman
- Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Mark R Muldoon
- Department of Mathematics, Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Spyridon Megremis
- Division of Infection, Immunity and Respiratory Medicine, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Department of Genetics and Genome Biology, Centre for Phage Research, Institute for Precision Health, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
| | | | - Nina Chanishvili
- George Eliava Institute of Bacteriophages, Microbiology and Virology, Tbilisi, Georgia
- Ivane Javakhishvili Tbilisi State University, Tbilisi, Georgia
- NewVision University, Tbilisi, Georgia
| | - Nikolaos G Papadopoulos
- Allergy Department, 2nd Pediatric Clinic, University of Athens, Athens, Greece
- Lydia Becker Institute of Immunology and Inflammation, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
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Kovacs CJ, Rapp EM, McKenzie SM, Mazur MZ, Mchale RP, Brasko B, Min MY, Burpo FJ, Barnhill JC. Disruption of Biofilm by Bacteriophages in Clinically Relevant Settings. Mil Med 2024; 189:e1294-e1302. [PMID: 37847552 DOI: 10.1093/milmed/usad385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 07/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Antibiotic-resistant bacteria are a growing threat to civilian and military health today. Although infections were once easily treatable by antibiotics and wound cleaning, the frequent mutation of bacteria has created strains impermeable to antibiotics and physical attack. Bacteria further their pathogenicity because of their ability to form biofilms on wounds, medical devices, and implant surfaces. Methods for treating biofilms in clinical settings are limited, and when formed by antibiotic-resistant bacteria, can generate chronic infections that are recalcitrant to available therapies. Bacteriophages are natural viral predators of bacteria, and their ability to rapidly destroy their host has led to increased attention in potential phage therapy applications. MATERIALS AND METHODS The present article sought to address a knowledge gap in the available literature pertaining to the usage of bacteriophage in clinically relevant settings and the resolution of infections particular to military concerns. PRISMA guidelines were followed for a systematic review of available literature that met the criteria for analysis and inclusion. The research completed for this review article originated from the U.S. Military Academy's library "Scout" search engine, which complies results from 254 available databases (including PubMed, Google Scholar, and SciFinder). The search criteria included original studies that employed bacteriophage use against biofilms, as well as successful phage therapy strategies for combating chronic bacterial infections. We specifically explored the use of bacteriophage against antibiotic- and treatment-resistant bacteria. RESULTS A total of 80 studies were identified that met the inclusion criteria following PRISMA guidelines. The application of bacteriophage has been demonstrated to robustly disrupt biofilm growth in wounds and on implant surfaces. When traditional therapies have failed to disrupt biofilms and chronic infections, a combination of these treatments with phage has proven to be effective, often leading to complete wound healing without reinfection. CONCLUSIONS This review article examines the available literature where bacteriophages have been utilized to treat biofilms in clinically relevant settings. Specific attention is paid to biofilms on implant medical devices, biofilms formed on wounds, and clinical outcomes, where phage treatment has been efficacious. In addition to the clinical benefit of phage therapies, the military relevance and treatment of combat-related infections is also examined. Phages offer the ability to expand available treatment options in austere environments with relatively low cost and effort, allowing the impacted warfighter to return to duty quicker and healthier.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher J Kovacs
- Department of Chemistry and Life Science, United States Military Academy, West Point, NY 10996, USA
- Defense Threat Reduction Agency, Fort Belvoir, VA 22060, USA
| | - Erika M Rapp
- Department of Chemistry and Life Science, United States Military Academy, West Point, NY 10996, USA
| | - Sophia M McKenzie
- Department of Chemistry and Life Science, United States Military Academy, West Point, NY 10996, USA
| | - Michael Z Mazur
- Department of Chemistry and Life Science, United States Military Academy, West Point, NY 10996, USA
| | - Riley P Mchale
- Department of Chemistry and Life Science, United States Military Academy, West Point, NY 10996, USA
| | - Briana Brasko
- Department of Chemistry and Life Science, United States Military Academy, West Point, NY 10996, USA
| | - Michael Y Min
- Department of Chemistry and Life Science, United States Military Academy, West Point, NY 10996, USA
| | - F John Burpo
- Department of Chemistry and Life Science, United States Military Academy, West Point, NY 10996, USA
| | - Jason C Barnhill
- Department of Chemistry and Life Science, United States Military Academy, West Point, NY 10996, USA
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Nasir Ahamed NN, Mendiola-Escobedo CA, Perez-Gonzalez VH, Lapizco-Encinas BH. Development of a DC-Biased AC-Stimulated Microfluidic Device for the Electrokinetic Separation of Bacterial and Yeast Cells. BIOSENSORS 2024; 14:237. [PMID: 38785711 PMCID: PMC11117482 DOI: 10.3390/bios14050237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2024] [Revised: 04/19/2024] [Accepted: 05/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Electrokinetic (EK) microsystems, which are capable of performing separations without the need for labeling analytes, are a rapidly growing area in microfluidics. The present work demonstrated three distinct binary microbial separations, computationally modeled and experimentally performed, in an insulator-based EK (iEK) system stimulated by DC-biased AC potentials. The separations had an increasing order of difficulty. First, a separation between cells of two distinct domains (Escherichia coli and Saccharomyces cerevisiae) was demonstrated. The second separation was for cells from the same domain but different species (Bacillus subtilis and Bacillus cereus). The last separation included cells from two closely related microbial strains of the same domain and the same species (two distinct S. cerevisiae strains). For each separation, a novel computational model, employing a continuous spatial and temporal function for predicting the particle velocity, was used to predict the retention time (tR,p) of each cell type, which aided the experimentation. All three cases resulted in separation resolution values Rs>1.5, indicating complete separation between the two cell species, with good reproducibility between the experimental repetitions (deviations < 6%) and good agreement (deviations < 18%) between the predicted tR,p and experimental (tR,e) retention time values. This study demonstrated the potential of DC-biased AC iEK systems for performing challenging microbial separations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nuzhet Nihaar Nasir Ahamed
- Microscale Bioseparations Laboratory, Biomedical Engineering Department, Rochester Institute of Technology, 160 Lomb Memorial Drive, Rochester, NY 14623, USA; (N.N.N.A.); (C.A.M.-E.)
| | - Carlos A. Mendiola-Escobedo
- Microscale Bioseparations Laboratory, Biomedical Engineering Department, Rochester Institute of Technology, 160 Lomb Memorial Drive, Rochester, NY 14623, USA; (N.N.N.A.); (C.A.M.-E.)
- School of Engineering and Sciences, Tecnologico de Monterrey, Monterrey 64700, Nuevo Leon, Mexico
| | - Victor H. Perez-Gonzalez
- School of Engineering and Sciences, Tecnologico de Monterrey, Monterrey 64700, Nuevo Leon, Mexico
| | - Blanca H. Lapizco-Encinas
- Microscale Bioseparations Laboratory, Biomedical Engineering Department, Rochester Institute of Technology, 160 Lomb Memorial Drive, Rochester, NY 14623, USA; (N.N.N.A.); (C.A.M.-E.)
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Shiue SJ, Wu MS, Chiang YH, Lin HY. Bacteriophage-cocktail hydrogel dressing to prevent multiple bacterial infections and heal diabetic ulcers in mice. J Biomed Mater Res A 2024. [PMID: 38706446 DOI: 10.1002/jbm.a.37728] [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: 11/13/2023] [Revised: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 04/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
Bacteriophage (phage) has been reported to reduce the bacterial infection in delayed-healing wounds and, as a result, aiding in the healing of said wounds. In this study we investigated whether the presence of phage itself could help repair delayed-healing wounds in diabetic mice. Three strains of phage that target Salmonella enterica, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa were used. To prevent the phage liquid from running off the wound, the mixture of phage (phage-cocktail) was encapsulated in a porous hydrogel dressing made with three-dimensional printing. The phage-cocktail dressing was tested for its phage preservation and release efficacy, bacterial reduction, cytotoxicity with 3T3 fibroblast, and performance in repairing a sterile full-thickness skin wound in diabetic mice. The phage-cocktail dressing released 1.7%-5.7% of the phages embedded in 24 h, and reduced between 37%-79% of the surface bacteria compared with the blank dressing (p <.05). The phage-cocktail dressing exhibited no sign of cytotoxicity after 3 days (p <.05). In vivo studies showed that 14 days after incision, the full-thickness wound treated with a phage-cocktail dressing had a higher wound healing ratio compared with the blank dressing and control (p <.01). Histological analysis showed that the structure of the skin layers in the group treated with phage-cocktail dressing was restored in an orderly fashion. Compared with the blank dressing and control, the repaired tissue in the phage-cocktail dressing group had new capillary vessels and no sign of inflammation in its dermis, and its epidermis had a higher degree of re-epithelialization (p <.05). The slow-released phage has demonstrated positive effects in repairing diabetic skin wounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheng-Jie Shiue
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Wan Fang Hospital, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Shun Wu
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Wan Fang Hospital, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Hsien Chiang
- Graduate Institute of Chemical Engineering, National Taipei University of Technology, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hsin-Yi Lin
- Graduate Institute of Chemical Engineering, National Taipei University of Technology, Taipei, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Biochemical and Biomedical Engineering, National Taipei University of Technology, Taipei, Taiwan
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MacNair CR, Rutherford ST, Tan MW. Alternative therapeutic strategies to treat antibiotic-resistant pathogens. Nat Rev Microbiol 2024; 22:262-275. [PMID: 38082064 DOI: 10.1038/s41579-023-00993-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
Resistance threatens to render antibiotics - which are essential for modern medicine - ineffective, thus posing a threat to human health. The discovery of novel classes of antibiotics able to overcome resistance has been stalled for decades, with the developmental pipeline relying almost entirely on variations of existing chemical scaffolds. Unfortunately, this approach has been unable to keep pace with resistance evolution, necessitating new therapeutic strategies. In this Review, we highlight recent efforts to discover non-traditional antimicrobials, specifically describing the advantages and limitations of antimicrobial peptides and macrocycles, antibodies, bacteriophages and antisense oligonucleotides. These approaches have the potential to stem the tide of resistance by expanding the physicochemical property space and target spectrum occupied by currently approved antibiotics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Craig R MacNair
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Steven T Rutherford
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Man-Wah Tan
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, CA, USA.
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Zhang H, Su X, Zheng X, Liu M, Zhao C, Liu X, Ma Z, Zhang S, Zhang W. vB_EcoM-P896 coliphage isolated from duck sewage can lyse both intestinal pathogenic Escherichia coli and extraintestinal pathogenic E. coli. Int Microbiol 2024:10.1007/s10123-024-00519-5. [PMID: 38613721 DOI: 10.1007/s10123-024-00519-5] [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: 01/18/2024] [Revised: 03/17/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/15/2024]
Abstract
Pathogenic Escherichia coli strains cause diseases in both humans and animals. The limiting factors to prevent as well as control infections from pathogenic E. coli strains are their pathotypes, serotypes, and drug resistance. Herein, a bacteriophage (vB_EcoM-P896) has been isolated from duck sewage. Furthermore, aside from targeting intestinal pathogenic E. coli strains like enteropathogenic E. coli, Shiga toxin-producing E. coli, entero-invasive E. coli, and enteroaggregative E. coli, vB_EcoM-P896 can cause lysis in extraintestinal pathogenic E. coli strains such as avian pathogenic E. coli. Stability analysis revealed that vB_EcoM-P896 was stable under the following conditions: temperature, 4℃-50℃; pH, 3-11. The sequencing of the vB_EcoM-P896 genome was conducted utilizing an HiSeq system (Illumina, San Diego, CA) and subjected to de novo assembling with the aid of Spades 3.11.1. The characteristics of the DNA genome were as follows: size, 170,656 bp; GC content, 40.4%; the number of putative coding regions, 294. Transmission electron microscopy analysis of morphology and genome analysis revealed that the phage vB_EcoM-P896 belonged to the order Caudovirales and the family Myoviridae. The pan-genome analysis of vB_EcoM-P896 was divided into two levels. The first level involved the analysis of 91 strains of muscle tail phages, which were mainly divided into 5 groups. The second level involved the analysis of 24 strains of myophage with high homology. Of the 1480 gene clusters, 23 were shared core genes. Neighbor-joining phylogenetic trees were constructed using the Poisson model with MEGA6.0 based on the conserved sequences of phage proteins, the amino acid sequence of the terminase large subunit, and tail fibrin. Further analysis revealed that vB_EcoM-P896 was a typical T4-like potent phage with potential clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haiyan Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
- Department of Food and Biology Engineering, Wuhu Institute of Technology, Wuhu, 241003, China
- Detection of Food-Borne Pathogenic Microorganisms Engineering Research Center of Wuhu, Wuhu, 241000, China
| | - Xiazhu Su
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
- Key Lab of Animal Bacteriology, Ministry of Agriculture, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Xiangkuan Zheng
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
- Key Lab of Animal Bacteriology, Ministry of Agriculture, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Meihan Liu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
- Key Lab of Animal Bacteriology, Ministry of Agriculture, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Chengxin Zhao
- Fushan Economic Development Zone, Yantai Jinhai Pharmaceutical Co. LTD 28 Jilin Road, Yantai City, China
| | - Xiao Liu
- Fushan Economic Development Zone, Yantai Jinhai Pharmaceutical Co. LTD 28 Jilin Road, Yantai City, China
| | - Zhenxing Ma
- Department of Food and Biology Engineering, Wuhu Institute of Technology, Wuhu, 241003, China
- Detection of Food-Borne Pathogenic Microorganisms Engineering Research Center of Wuhu, Wuhu, 241000, China
| | - Shuang Zhang
- Department of Food and Biology Engineering, Wuhu Institute of Technology, Wuhu, 241003, China.
- Detection of Food-Borne Pathogenic Microorganisms Engineering Research Center of Wuhu, Wuhu, 241000, China.
| | - Wei Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China.
- Detection of Food-Borne Pathogenic Microorganisms Engineering Research Center of Wuhu, Wuhu, 241000, China.
- Key Lab of Animal Bacteriology, Ministry of Agriculture, Nanjing, 210095, China.
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10
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Bianchessi L, De Bernardi G, Vigorelli M, Dall’Ara P, Turin L. Bacteriophage Therapy in Companion and Farm Animals. Antibiotics (Basel) 2024; 13:294. [PMID: 38666970 PMCID: PMC11047634 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics13040294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2024] [Revised: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Bacteriophages, which are viruses with restricted tropism for bacteria, have been employed for over a century as antimicrobial agents; they have been largely abandoned in Western countries but are constantly used in Eastern European countries with the advent of antibiotics. In recent decades, the growing spread of multidrug-resistant bacteria, which pose a serious threat to worldwide public health, imposed an urgent demand for alternative therapeutic approaches to antibiotics in animal and human fields. Based on this requirement, numerous studies have been published on developing and testing bacteriophage-based therapy. Overall, the literature largely supports the potential of this perspective but also highlights the need for additional research as the current standards are inadequate to receive approval from regulatory authorities. This review aims to update and critically revise the current knowledge on the application of bacteriophages to treat bacterial-derived infectious diseases in animals in order to provide topical perspectives and innovative advances.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Lauretta Turin
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences—DIVAS, Università degli Studi di Milano, 26900 Lodi, Italy; (L.B.); (G.D.B.); (M.V.); (P.D.)
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11
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Keith M, Park de la Torriente A, Chalka A, Vallejo-Trujillo A, McAteer SP, Paterson GK, Low AS, Gally DL. Predictive phage therapy for Escherichia coli urinary tract infections: Cocktail selection for therapy based on machine learning models. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2313574121. [PMID: 38478693 PMCID: PMC10962980 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2313574121] [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: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024] Open
Abstract
This study supports the development of predictive bacteriophage (phage) therapy: the concept of phage cocktail selection to treat a bacterial infection based on machine learning (ML) models. For this purpose, ML models were trained on thousands of measured interactions between a panel of phage and sequenced bacterial isolates. The concept was applied to Escherichia coli associated with urinary tract infections. This is an important common infection in humans and companion animals from which multidrug-resistant (MDR) bloodstream infections can originate. The global threat of MDR infection has reinvigorated international efforts into alternatives to antibiotics including phage therapy. E. coli exhibit extensive genome-level variation due to horizontal gene transfer via phage and plasmids. Associated with this, phage selection for E. coli is difficult as individual isolates can exhibit considerable variation in phage susceptibility due to differences in factors important to phage infection including phage receptor profiles and resistance mechanisms. The activity of 31 phage was measured on 314 isolates with growth curves in artificial urine. Random Forest models were built for each phage from bacterial genome features, and the more generalist phage, acting on over 20% of the bacterial population, exhibited F1 scores of >0.6 and could be used to predict phage cocktails effective against previously untested strains. The study demonstrates the potential of predictive ML models which integrate bacterial genomics with phage activity datasets allowing their use on data derived from direct sequencing of clinical samples to inform rapid and effective phage therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marianne Keith
- The Roslin Institute, Division of Bacteriology, University of Edinburgh, EdinburghEH25 9RG, United Kingdom
| | - Alba Park de la Torriente
- The Roslin Institute, Division of Bacteriology, University of Edinburgh, EdinburghEH25 9RG, United Kingdom
| | - Antonia Chalka
- The Roslin Institute, Division of Bacteriology, University of Edinburgh, EdinburghEH25 9RG, United Kingdom
| | - Adriana Vallejo-Trujillo
- The Roslin Institute, Division of Bacteriology, University of Edinburgh, EdinburghEH25 9RG, United Kingdom
| | - Sean P. McAteer
- The Roslin Institute, Division of Bacteriology, University of Edinburgh, EdinburghEH25 9RG, United Kingdom
| | - Gavin K. Paterson
- The Roslin Institute, Division of Bacteriology, University of Edinburgh, EdinburghEH25 9RG, United Kingdom
- Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, Easter Bush Pathology, University of Edinburgh, EdinburghEH25 9RG, United Kingdom
| | - Alison S. Low
- The Roslin Institute, Division of Bacteriology, University of Edinburgh, EdinburghEH25 9RG, United Kingdom
| | - David L. Gally
- The Roslin Institute, Division of Bacteriology, University of Edinburgh, EdinburghEH25 9RG, United Kingdom
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12
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Faltus T. The Medicinal Phage-Regulatory Roadmap for Phage Therapy under EU Pharmaceutical Legislation. Viruses 2024; 16:443. [PMID: 38543808 PMCID: PMC10974108 DOI: 10.3390/v16030443] [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: 01/17/2024] [Revised: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Bacteriophage therapy is a promising approach to treating bacterial infections. Research and development of bacteriophage therapy is intensifying due to the increase in antibiotic resistance and the faltering development of new antibiotics. Bacteriophage therapy uses bacteriophages (phages), i.e., prokaryotic viruses, to specifically target and kill pathogenic bacteria. The legal handling of this type of therapy raises several questions. These include whether phage therapeutics belong to a specially regulated class of medicinal products, and which legal framework should be followed with regard to the various technical ways in which phage therapeutics can be manufactured and administered. The article shows to which class of medicinal products phage therapeutics from wild type phages and from genetically modified (designer) phages do or do not belong. Furthermore, the article explains which legal framework is relevant for the manufacture and administration of phage therapeutics, which are manufactured in advance in a uniform, patient-independent manner, and for tailor-made patient-specific phage therapeutics. For the systematically coherent, successful translation of phage therapy, the article considers pharmaceutical law and related legal areas, such as genetic engineering law. Finally, the article shows how the planned legislative revisions of Directive 2001/83/EC and Regulation (EC) No 726/2004 may affect the legal future of phage therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timo Faltus
- Chair of Public Law, Law School, Faculty of Law, Economics and Business, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, 06099 Halle an der Saale, Germany
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13
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Shanmugasundaram S, Nayak N, Puzhankara L, Kedlaya MN, Rajagopal A, Karmakar S. Bacteriophages: the dawn of a new era in periodontal microbiology? Crit Rev Microbiol 2024; 50:212-223. [PMID: 36883683 DOI: 10.1080/1040841x.2023.2182667] [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: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 01/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2023]
Abstract
The oral microbiome, populated by a diverse range of species, plays a critical role in the initiation and progression of periodontal disease. The most dominant yet little-discussed players in the microbiome, the bacteriophages, influence the health and disease of the host in various ways. They, not only contribute to periodontal health by preventing the colonization of pathogens and disrupting biofilms but also play a role in periodontal disease by upregulating the virulence of periodontal pathogens through the transfer of antibiotic resistance and virulence factors. Since bacteriophages selectively infect only bacterial cells, they have an enormous scope to be used as a therapeutic strategy; recently, phage therapy has been successfully used to treat antibiotic-resistant systemic infections. Their ability to disrupt biofilms widens the scope against periodontal pathogens and dental plaque biofilms in periodontitis. Future research focussing on the oral phageome and phage therapy's effectiveness and safety could pave way for new avenues in periodontal therapy. This review explores our current understanding of bacteriophages, their interactions in the oral microbiome, and their therapeutic potential in periodontal disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shashikiran Shanmugasundaram
- Department of Periodontology, Manipal College of Dental Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India
| | - Namratha Nayak
- Department of Periodontology, Manipal College of Dental Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India
| | - Lakshmi Puzhankara
- Department of Periodontology, Manipal College of Dental Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India
| | - Madhurya N Kedlaya
- Department of Periodontology, Manipal College of Dental Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India
| | - Anjale Rajagopal
- Department of Periodontology, Manipal College of Dental Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India
| | - Shaswata Karmakar
- Department of Periodontology, Manipal College of Dental Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India
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14
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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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15
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Han P, Lin W, Fan H, Tong Y. Characterization of phage evolution and phage resistance in drug-resistant Stenotrophomonas maltophilia. J Virol 2024; 98:e0124923. [PMID: 38189285 PMCID: PMC10878236 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.01249-23] [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: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Phage therapy has become a viable antimicrobial treatment as an alternative to antibiotic treatment, with an increase in antibiotic resistance. Phage resistance is a major limitation in the therapeutic application of phages, and the lack of understanding of the dynamic changes between bacteria and phages constrains our response strategies to phage resistance. In this study, we investigated the changing trends of mutual resistance between Stenotrophomonas maltophilia (S. maltophilia) and its lytic phage, BUCT603. Our results revealed that S. maltophilia resisted phage infection through mutations in the cell membrane proteins, while the evolved phage re-infected the resistant strain primarily through mutations in structure-related proteins. Compared with the wild-type strain (SMA118), the evolved phage-resistant strain (R118-2) showed reduced virulence, weakened biofilm formation ability, and reduced resistance to aminoglycosides. In addition, the evolved phage BUCT603B1 in combination with kanamycin could inhibit the development of phage-resistant S. maltophilia in vitro and significantly improve the survival rate of S. maltophilia-infected mice. Altogether, these results suggest that in vitro characterization of bacteria-phage co-evolutionary relationships is a useful research tool to optimize phages for the treatment of drug-resistant bacterial infections.IMPORTANCEPhage therapy is a promising approach to treat infections caused by drug-resistant Stenotrophomonas maltophilia (S. maltophilia). However, the rapid development of phage resistance has hindered the therapeutic application of phages. In vitro evolutionary studies of bacteria-phage co-cultures can elucidate the mechanism of resistance development between phage and its host. In this study, we investigated the resistance trends between S. maltophilia and its phage and found that inhibition of phage adsorption is the primary strategy by which bacteria resist phage infection in vitro, while phages can re-infect bacterial cells by identifying other adsorption receptors. Although the final bacterial mutants were no longer infected by phages, they incurred a fitness cost that resulted in a significant reduction in virulence. In addition, the combination treatment with phage and aminoglycoside antibiotics could prevent the development of phage resistance in S. maltophilia in vitro. These findings contribute to increasing the understanding of the co-evolutionary relationships between phages and S. maltophilia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pengjun Han
- College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Lin
- College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Huahao Fan
- College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Yigang Tong
- College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, China
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, China
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16
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Dzuvor CKO, Shen HH, Haritos VS, He L. Coassembled Multicomponent Protein Nanoparticles Elicit Enhanced Antibacterial Activity. ACS NANO 2024; 18:4478-4494. [PMID: 38266175 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.3c11179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2024]
Abstract
The waning pipeline of the useful antibacterial arsenal has necessitated the urgent development of more effective antibacterial strategies with distinct mechanisms to rival the continuing emergence of resistant pathogens, particularly Gram-negative bacteria, due to their explicit drug-impermeable, two-membrane-sandwiched cell wall envelope. Herein, we have developed multicomponent coassembled nanoparticles with strong bactericidal activity and simultaneous bacterial cell envelope targeting using a peptide coassembly strategy. Compared to the single-component self-assembled nanoparticle counterparts or cocktail mixtures of these at a similar concentration, coassembled multicomponent nanoparticles showed higher bacterial killing efficiency against Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Escherichia coli by several orders of magnitude (about 100-1,000,000-fold increase). Comprehensive confocal and electron microscopy suggest that the superior antibacterial activity of the coassembled nanoparticles proceeds via multiple complementary mechanisms of action, including membrane destabilization, disruption, and cell wall hydrolysis, actions that were not observed with the single nanoparticle counterparts. To understand the fundamental working mechanisms behind the improved performance of coassembled nanoparticles, we utilized a "dilution effect" system where the antibacterial components are intermolecularly mixed and coassembled with a non-antibacterial protein in the nanoparticles. We suggest that coassembled nanoparticles mediate enhanced bacterial killing activity by attributes such as optimized local concentration, high avidity, cooperativity, and synergy. The nanoparticles showed no cytotoxic or hemolytic activity against tested eukaryotic cells and erythrocytes. Collectively, these findings reveal potential strategies for disrupting the impermeable barrier that Gram-negative pathogens leverage to restrict antibacterial access and may serve as a platform technology for potential nano-antibacterial design to strengthen the declining antibiotic arsenal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian K O Dzuvor
- Bioengineering Laboratory, Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
- Department of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Hsin-Hui Shen
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
- Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Monash University Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
| | - Victoria S Haritos
- Bioengineering Laboratory, Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
| | - Lizhong He
- Bioengineering Laboratory, Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
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17
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Samananda Singh L. Nano-emulsion encapsulation for the efficient delivery of bacteriophage therapeutics. Biologicals 2024; 85:101725. [PMID: 37951140 DOI: 10.1016/j.biologicals.2023.101725] [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: 04/19/2023] [Revised: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Antibiotic resistance has become the major concern for global public health. Phage therapy is being considered as an alternative for antibiotics to treat the multidrug resistant bacterial infections. Bacteriophage therapeutic developments has faced many challenges, including the drug formulations for sustainable phage delivery. The nano-emulsion platform has been described as the best approach to retain phage efficacy, shelf life and stability. Encapsulated phage drugs ensure stable delivery of phages to the target site and integrate in the system. In this review, our main focus is on the nano-emulsion encapsulation of bacteriophages and its effects towards the phage therapeutic development.
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18
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Meng X, Xu Z, Wang C, Patitz J, Boccaccini AR, Burkovski A, Zheng K. Surface engineering of mesoporous bioactive glass nanoparticles with bacteriophages for enhanced antibacterial activity. Colloids Surf B Biointerfaces 2024; 234:113714. [PMID: 38128358 DOI: 10.1016/j.colsurfb.2023.113714] [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: 08/03/2023] [Revised: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
Binary SiO2-CaO mesoporous bioactive glass nanoparticles (MBGNs) are multifunctional biomaterials able to promote osteogenic, angiogenic, and immunomodulatory activities. MBGNs have been applied in a variety of tissue regeneration strategies. However, MBGNs lack strong antibacterial activity and current strategies (loading of antibacterial ions or antibiotics) toward enhanced antibacterial activity may cause cytotoxicity or antibiotic resistance. Here we engineered MBGNs using bacteriophages (phages) to enhance the antibacterial activity. Salmonella Typhimurium (S. T) phage PFPV25.1 that can infect Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium strain LT2 was used as a model phage to engineer MBGNs. MBGNs were first modified with amine groups to enhance the affinity between phages and MBGNs surfaces. Afterward, the physicochemical and antibacterial activity of phage-engineered MBGNs was evaluated. The results showed that S. T phage PFPV25.1 was successfully bound onto MBGNs surfaces without losing their bioactivity. A higher quantity of phages could be bounded onto amine-functionalized MBGNs than onto non-functionalized MBGNs. Phages on amine-functionalized MBGNs exhibited higher antibacterial activity. The stability test showed that phages could remain on amine-functionalized MBGNs for over 28 days. This work provides valuable information on developing phage-modified MBGNs as a new and effective antibacterial system for biomedical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangjun Meng
- Microbiology Division, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91058 Erlangen, Germany; School of Rehabilitation Science and Engineering, University of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Qingdao 266024, China
| | - Zhiyan Xu
- Institute of Biomaterials, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91058 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Chen Wang
- Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Stomatological Translational Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Jennifer Patitz
- Microbiology Division, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91058 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Aldo R Boccaccini
- Institute of Biomaterials, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91058 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Andreas Burkovski
- Microbiology Division, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91058 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Kai Zheng
- Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Stomatological Translational Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China.
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19
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Qi G, Liu X, Shi L, Zhuang J, Liu B. Targeted Depletion of Individual Pathogen by Bacteria-Templated Polymer. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024; 36:e2307940. [PMID: 37921569 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202307940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
Selective and targeted removal of individual species or strains of bacteria from complex communities can be desirable over traditional and broadly acting antibiotics in several conditions. However, strategies that can detect and ablate bacteria with high specificity are emerging in recent years. Herein, a platform is reported that uses bacteria as a template to synthesize polymers containing guanidinium groups for self-selective depletion of specific pathogenic bacteria without disturbing microbial communities. Different from conventional antibiotics, repeated treatment of bacteria with the templated polymers does not evolve drug resistance mutants after 20 days of serial passaging. Especially, high in vivo therapeutic effectiveness of the templated polymers is achieved in E. coli- and P. aeruginosa-induced microbial peritonitis. The templated polymers have shown high selectivity in in vivo antimicrobial activity, which has excellent potential as systemic antimicrobials against bacterial infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guobin Qi
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, National University of Singapore, 4 Engineering Drive 4, Singapore, 117585, Singapore
| | - Xianglong Liu
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, National University of Singapore, 4 Engineering Drive 4, Singapore, 117585, Singapore
- Joint School of National University of Singapore and Tianjin University, International Campus of Tianjin University, Binhai New City, Fuzhou, 350207, China
| | - Leilei Shi
- Precision Research Center for Refractory Diseases, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 201600, China
| | - Jiahao Zhuang
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, National University of Singapore, 4 Engineering Drive 4, Singapore, 117585, Singapore
| | - Bin Liu
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, National University of Singapore, 4 Engineering Drive 4, Singapore, 117585, Singapore
- Joint School of National University of Singapore and Tianjin University, International Campus of Tianjin University, Binhai New City, Fuzhou, 350207, China
- Institute for Functional Intelligent Materials, National University of Singapore, Blk S9, Level 9, 4 Science Drive 2, Singapore, 117544, Singapore
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20
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Würstle S, Lee A, Kortright KE, Winzig F, An W, Stanley GL, Rajagopalan G, Harris Z, Sun Y, Hu B, Blazanin M, Hajfathalian M, Bollyky PL, Turner PE, Koff JL, Chan BK. Optimized preparation pipeline for emergency phage therapy against Pseudomonas aeruginosa at Yale University. Sci Rep 2024; 14:2657. [PMID: 38302552 PMCID: PMC10834462 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-52192-3] [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: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Bacteriophage therapy is one potential strategy to treat antimicrobial resistant or persistent bacterial infections, and the year 2021 marked the centennial of Felix d'Hérelle's first publication on the clinical applications of phages. At the Center for Phage Biology & Therapy at Yale University, a preparatory modular approach has been established to offer safe and potent phages for single-patient investigational new drug applications while recognizing the time constraints imposed by infection(s). This study provides a practical walkthrough of the pipeline with an Autographiviridae phage targeting Pseudomonas aeruginosa (phage vB_PaeA_SB, abbreviated to ΦSB). Notably, a thorough phage characterization and the evolutionary selection pressure exerted on bacteria by phages, analogous to antibiotics, are incorporated into the pipeline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Würstle
- Yale Center for Phage Biology and Therapy, Yale University, 165 Prospect Street, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 06519, USA
- Technical University of Munich, 81675, Munich, Germany
| | - Alina Lee
- Yale Center for Phage Biology and Therapy, Yale University, 165 Prospect Street, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
| | - Kaitlyn E Kortright
- Yale Center for Phage Biology and Therapy, Yale University, 165 Prospect Street, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
| | - Franziska Winzig
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
- Technical University of Munich, 81675, Munich, Germany
| | - William An
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
| | - Gail L Stanley
- Yale Center for Phage Biology and Therapy, Yale University, 165 Prospect Street, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 06519, USA
| | - Govindarajan Rajagopalan
- Yale Center for Phage Biology and Therapy, Yale University, 165 Prospect Street, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 06519, USA
| | - Zach Harris
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 06519, USA
| | - Ying Sun
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 06519, USA
| | - Buqu Hu
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 06519, USA
| | - Michael Blazanin
- Yale Center for Phage Biology and Therapy, Yale University, 165 Prospect Street, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
| | - Maryam Hajfathalian
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Geographic Medicine, Department of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Paul L Bollyky
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Geographic Medicine, Department of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Paul E Turner
- Yale Center for Phage Biology and Therapy, Yale University, 165 Prospect Street, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 06519, USA
- Program in Microbiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
| | - Jonathan L Koff
- Yale Center for Phage Biology and Therapy, Yale University, 165 Prospect Street, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA.
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 06519, USA.
| | - Benjamin K Chan
- Yale Center for Phage Biology and Therapy, Yale University, 165 Prospect Street, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA.
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA.
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21
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Oliveira A, Dias C, Oliveira R, Almeida C, Fuciños P, Sillankorva S, Oliveira H. Paving the way forward: Escherichia coli bacteriophages in a One Health approach. Crit Rev Microbiol 2024; 50:87-104. [PMID: 36608263 DOI: 10.1080/1040841x.2022.2161869] [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: 06/17/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Escherichia coli is one of the most notorious pathogens for its ability to adapt, colonize, and proliferate in different habitats through a multitude of acquired virulence factors. Its presence affects the food-processing industry and causes food poisoning, being also a major economic burden for the food, agriculture, and health sectors. Bacteriophages are emerging as an appealing strategy to mitigate bacterial pathogens, including specific E. coli pathovars, without exerting a deleterious effect on humans and animals. This review globally analyzes the applied research on E. coli phages for veterinary, food, and human use. It starts by describing the pathogenic E. coli pathotypes and their relevance in human and animal context. The idea that phages can be used as a One Health approach to control and interrupt the transmission routes of pathogenic E. coli is sustained through an exhaustive revision of the recent literature. The emerging phage formulations, genetic engineering and encapsulation technologies are also discussed as a means of improving phage-based control strategies, with a particular focus on E. coli pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Oliveira
- CEB - Centre of Biological Engineering, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
- LABBELS - Associate Laboratory, Braga, Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Carla Dias
- CEB - Centre of Biological Engineering, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
- LABBELS - Associate Laboratory, Braga, Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Ricardo Oliveira
- INIAV, IP-National Institute for Agrarian and Veterinary Research, Vairão, Vila do Conde, Portugal
- LEPABE - Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, Porto, Portugal
- ALiCE - Associate Laboratory in Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, Porto, Portugal
| | - Carina Almeida
- INIAV, IP-National Institute for Agrarian and Veterinary Research, Vairão, Vila do Conde, Portugal
- LEPABE - Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, Porto, Portugal
- ALiCE - Associate Laboratory in Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, Porto, Portugal
| | - Pablo Fuciños
- ALiCE - Associate Laboratory in Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, Porto, Portugal
| | - Sanna Sillankorva
- INL - International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory, Avenida Mestre José Veiga, Braga, Portugal
| | - Hugo Oliveira
- CEB - Centre of Biological Engineering, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
- LABBELS - Associate Laboratory, Braga, Guimarães, Portugal
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22
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Li Y, Yang KD, Kong DC, Li XM, Duan HY, Ye JF. Harnessing filamentous phages for enhanced stroke recovery. Front Immunol 2024; 14:1343788. [PMID: 38299142 PMCID: PMC10829096 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1343788] [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: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Stroke poses a critical global health challenge, leading to substantial morbidity and mortality. Existing treatments often miss vital timeframes and encounter limitations due to adverse effects, prompting the pursuit of innovative approaches to restore compromised brain function. This review explores the potential of filamentous phages in enhancing stroke recovery. Initially antimicrobial-centric, bacteriophage therapy has evolved into a regenerative solution. We explore the diverse role of filamentous phages in post-stroke neurological restoration, emphasizing their ability to integrate peptides into phage coat proteins, thereby facilitating recovery. Experimental evidence supports their efficacy in alleviating post-stroke complications, immune modulation, and tissue regeneration. However, rigorous clinical validation is essential to address challenges like dosing and administration routes. Additionally, genetic modification enhances their potential as injectable biomaterials for complex brain tissue issues. This review emphasizes innovative strategies and the capacity of filamentous phages to contribute to enhanced stroke recovery, as opposed to serving as standalone treatment, particularly in addressing stroke-induced brain tissue damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Li
- General Surgery Center, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
- School of Nursing, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Kai-di Yang
- School of Nursing, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - De-cai Kong
- General Surgery Center, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Xiao-meng Li
- School of Nursing, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Hao-yu Duan
- General Surgery Center, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Jun-feng Ye
- General Surgery Center, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
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De Soir S, Parée H, Kamarudin NHN, Wagemans J, Lavigne R, Braem A, Merabishvili M, De Vos D, Pirnay JP, Van Bambeke F. Exploiting phage-antibiotic synergies to disrupt Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1 biofilms in the context of orthopedic infections. Microbiol Spectr 2024; 12:e0321923. [PMID: 38084971 PMCID: PMC10783084 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.03219-23] [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: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Biofilm-related infections are among the most difficult-to-treat infections in all fields of medicine due to their antibiotic tolerance and persistent character. In the field of orthopedics, these biofilms often lead to therapeutic failure of medical implantable devices and urgently need novel treatment strategies. This forthcoming article aims to explore the dynamic interplay between newly isolated bacteriophages and routinely used antibiotics and clearly indicates synergetic patterns when used as a dual treatment modality. Biofilms were drastically more reduced when both active agents were combined, thereby providing additional evidence that phage-antibiotic combinations lead to synergism and could potentially improve clinical outcome for affected patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven De Soir
- Pharmacologie cellulaire et moléculaire, Louvain Drug Research Institute, Université catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Technology (LabMCT), Queen Astrid Military Hospital, Neder-over-Heembeek, Belgium
| | - Hortence Parée
- Pharmacologie cellulaire et moléculaire, Louvain Drug Research Institute, Université catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Nur Hidayatul Nazirah Kamarudin
- Department of Materials Engineering, Biomaterials and Tissue Engineering Research Group, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Chemical and Process Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia
| | | | - Rob Lavigne
- Laboratory of Gene Technology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Annabel Braem
- Department of Materials Engineering, Biomaterials and Tissue Engineering Research Group, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Maya Merabishvili
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Technology (LabMCT), Queen Astrid Military Hospital, Neder-over-Heembeek, Belgium
| | - Daniel De Vos
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Technology (LabMCT), Queen Astrid Military Hospital, Neder-over-Heembeek, Belgium
| | - Jean-Paul Pirnay
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Technology (LabMCT), Queen Astrid Military Hospital, Neder-over-Heembeek, Belgium
| | - Françoise Van Bambeke
- Pharmacologie cellulaire et moléculaire, Louvain Drug Research Institute, Université catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
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Xiang Y, Yang R, Li X, Huang H, Duan K, Song F. Phage PEf771 for the Treatment of Periapical Periodontitis Induced by Enterococcus faecalis YN771. Crit Rev Immunol 2024; 44:41-53. [PMID: 37947071 DOI: 10.1615/critrevimmunol.2023050313] [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: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
Enterococcus faecalis was the main causative bacteria of refractory periapical periodontitis (PP), there is a pressing need to explore effective methods for eradicating E. faecalis in patients with refractory PP. This study aimed to assess the anti-infective effectiveness of phage PEf771 in treating periapical inflammation in rats. We developed a rat model of PP through E. faecalis YN771 induction. Micro-computed tomography and hematoxylin-eosin staining were utilized to evaluate bone destruction and inflammation in experimental teeth for seven consecutive weeks. Subsequently, rats with PP caused by E. faecalis YN771 were treated with phage PEf771, calcium hydroxide preparation, and 2% chlorhexidine gel. The healing progress of bone defects and inflammation in the apical region was monitored over three consecutive weeks using imaging and histopathology assessments. The PP rat model was successfully developed, and bone destruction and inflammatory cell infiltration in the apical region of the experimental tooth peaked at 4 weeks. The area of bone destruction in rats treated with phage PEf771, calcium hydroxide preparation, and 2% chlorhexidine gel was significantly smaller than that in the untreated group. Phage PEf771, calcium hydroxide preparation, and 2% chlorhexi-dine gel all have the effect of promoting the healing of apical lesions. Therapeutic effects of phage PEf771 on periapical inflammation infected by E. faecalis YN771 enhanced with time. Phage PEf771 promoted the healing of apical lesions, presenting a promising new approach for the treatment of refractory PP using bacteriophages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingying Xiang
- Department of Stomatology, Yan'an Hospital Affiliated to Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Rongyu Yang
- Department of Clinical Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Dali University, Dali, Yunnan, China
| | - Xuelin Li
- Department of Stomatology, Yan'an Hospital Affiliated to Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Hao Huang
- Department of Stomatology, Yan'an Hospital Affiliated to Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Kaiwen Duan
- Department of Stomatology, Yan'an Hospital Affiliated to Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Fei Song
- Department of Minimally Invasive Intervention, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, China
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Imklin N, Patikae P, Poomirut P, Arunvipas P, Nasanit R, Sajapitak S. Isolation of bacteriophages specific to bovine mastitis-causing bacteria and characterization of their lytic activity in pasteurized milk. Vet World 2024; 17:207-215. [PMID: 38406365 PMCID: PMC10884585 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2024.207-215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 02/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim Bovine mastitis is one of the most serious issues in dairy production. It is caused by contagious and coliform pathogens such as Staphylococcus spp., Escherichia coli, and Klebsiella pneumoniae. In addition, the emergence of drug-resistant bacteria raises urgent concerns in the field of drug treatment, thus requiring the exploration of alternative treatments. Bacteriophage therapy has been shown to be a promising alternative approach for the control of antibiotic-resistant pathogens. In this study, we aimed to isolate phages specific to contagious mastitis and coliform mastitis, characterize the isolated phages, and examine their ability to lyse bacteria in pasteurized milk samples. Materials and Methods The Staphylococcus phage vB_Sau-RP15 isolated from raw milk in our previous study was used in this study. Other three phages, vB_Eco-RN12i1, vB_Kpn-RN14i1, and vB_Ssc-RN20i3, were isolated from wastewater using E. coli 5823, K. pneumoniae 194, and Staphylococcus sciuri MM01 as hosts, respectively. The host range and efficiency of plating (EOP) were determined following phage isolation. Moreover, the lysis activities of these phages against their hosts were investigated in pasteurized milk using a multiplicity of infections (MOIs) of 10 and 100 at 37°C. Phages were applied using individual and combination phages. Results According to the EOP results, all phages showed high specificity to their respective hosts. They are tailed phages with distinct morphologies. Individual phage treatments in spiked pasteurized milk with their respective bacterial hosts significantly reduced the bacterial counts in both MOI conditions during the first 2 h of the treatment (approximately 1-8 log reduction compared to the control). Although these phages specifically infected only their hosts, the phage cocktail resulted in a better result compared to the use of individual phage. However, bacterial regrowth was observed in all experiments, which may be related to the development of phage-insensitive mutants. Conclusion Our findings suggest that the application of phages could be used to treat bovine mastitis. Phage cocktail is suitable to promote the efficacy of phage treatment in pasteurized milk. However, when considering the use of phages in dairy cows, certain phage properties in raw milk and in vivo and ex vivo should be highlighted to ensure their effectiveness as biocontrol agents for bovine mastitis treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Napakhwan Imklin
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Engineering and Industrial Technology, Silpakorn University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
| | - Patinya Patikae
- Veterinary Clinical Study Program, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
- Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Mahasarakham University, Maha Sarakham, Thailand
| | - Peekarn Poomirut
- Veterinary Clinical Study Program, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
| | - Pipat Arunvipas
- Department of Large Animal and Wildlife Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
| | - Rujikan Nasanit
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Engineering and Industrial Technology, Silpakorn University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
| | - Somchai Sajapitak
- Department of Large Animal and Wildlife Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
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Shree S, Suman E, Kotian H, Paul SH, M SS. Effect of Klebsiella-specific phage on multidrug-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae- an experimental study. Indian J Med Microbiol 2024; 47:100515. [PMID: 37981030 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijmmb.2023.100515] [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: 04/13/2023] [Revised: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The objective of this study was to study the effect of Klebsiella-specific phage isolated from sewage with and without the combination of antibiotics (imipenem) on the growth of clinical isolates of multidrug-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae by time-kill assay and also to study the effect of bacteriophage and bacteriophage-antibiotic (imipenem) combination on biofilm production. METHODS A total of 40 MDR K. pneumoniae isolates were used. Klebsiella-specific phage was isolated using K. pneumoniae subspp. pneumoniae ATCC 33495 as the host from sewage. In vitro time kill curve assays were performed to evaluate the effect of Klebsiella-specific phage with and without the combination of antibiotics on the viable cell counts of MDR K. pneumoniae isolates. Microtiter plate method of O'Toole and Kolter was used to study the effect of Klebsiella-specific phage with and without the combination of antibiotics on biofilm production. For the Time kill assay, results were analyzed for significant differences using Friedman test. Tests for significant differences between the different groups were found using the Mann-Whitney U test. The correlation between the formation of biofilm was analyzed using Karl Pearson's coefficient of correlation. P value of <0.05 was considered to be statistically significant. RESULTS In vitro time-kill assay showed a 0.4 log decline and a 0.5 log decline in K. pneumoniae colony counts at 4 h, when phage was administered individually and in combination with imipenem, respectively (p < 0.001). Phage and phage-imipenem combinations reduced the ability of K. pneumoniae to produce biofilm by 38 % and 53 %, respectively. CONCLUSION In conclusion, this study suggests that phage therapy has inhibiting activity against MDR K. pneumoniae. It is found to reduce bacterial cell count and biofilm formation but does not have a total cidal effect. However, in order to get a notable result, a phage cocktail or combination of phage with other antibiotic(s) is suggested.
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Affiliation(s)
- Somya Shree
- Department of Microbiology, Kasturba Medical College, Mangalore, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Karnataka, Manipal, 576 104, India.
| | - Ethel Suman
- Department of Microbiology, Kasturba Medical College, Mangalore, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Karnataka, Manipal, 576 104, India.
| | - Himani Kotian
- Department of Community Medicine, Kasturba Medical College, Mangalore, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Karnataka, Manipal, 576 104, India.
| | - S Harsha Paul
- Department of Microbiology, The Yenepoya Institute of Arts, Science, Commerce and Management, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), Mangalore, Karnataka, India.
| | - Suchitra Shenoy M
- Department of Microbiology, Kasturba Medical College, Mangalore, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Karnataka, Manipal, 576 104, India.
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27
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Unnikrishnan VK, Sundaramoorthy NS, Nair VG, Ramaiah KB, Roy JS, Rajendran M, Srinath S, Kumar S, S PS, S SM, Nagarajan S. Genome analysis of triple phages that curtails MDR E. coli with ML based host receptor prediction and its evaluation. Sci Rep 2023; 13:23040. [PMID: 38155176 PMCID: PMC10754912 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-49880-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Infections by multidrug resistant bacteria (MDR) are becoming increasingly difficult to treat and alternative approaches like phage therapy, which is unhindered by drug resistance, are urgently needed to tackle MDR bacterial infections. During phage therapy phage cocktails targeting different receptors are likely to be more effective than monophages. In the present study, phages targeting carbapenem resistant clinical isolate of E. coli U1007 was isolated from Ganges River (U1G), Cooum River (CR) and Hospital waste water (M). Capsid architecture discerned using TEM identified the phage families as Podoviridae for U1G, Myoviridae for CR and Siphoviridae for M phage. Genome sequencing showed the phage genomes varied in size U1G (73,275 bp) CR (45,236 bp) and M (45,294 bp). All three genomes lacked genes encoding tRNA sequence, antibiotic resistant or virulent genes. A machine learning (ML) based multi-class classification model using Random Forest, Logistic Regression, and Decision Tree were employed to predict the host receptor targeted by receptor binding protein of all 3 phages and the best performing algorithm Random Forest predicted LPS O antigen, LamB or OmpC for U1G; FhuA, OmpC for CR phage; and FhuA, LamB, TonB or OmpF for the M phage. OmpC was validated as receptor for U1G by physiological experiments. In vivo intramuscular infection study in zebrafish showed that cocktail of dual phages (U1G + M) along with colsitin resulted in a significant 3.5 log decline in cell counts. Our study highlights the potential of ML tool to predict host receptor and proves the utility of phage cocktail to restrict E. coli U1007 in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vineetha K Unnikrishnan
- Center for Research On Infectious Diseases (CRID), School of Chemical and Biotechnology, SASTRA Deemed University, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, 613401, India
- Antimicrobial Resistance Lab, ASK-I-312, School of Chemical and Biotechnology, SASTRA Deemed University, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Niranjana Sri Sundaramoorthy
- Center for Research On Infectious Diseases (CRID), School of Chemical and Biotechnology, SASTRA Deemed University, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, 613401, India
- Translational Health Sciences Technology Institute, Faridabad, India
| | - Veena G Nair
- Center for Research On Infectious Diseases (CRID), School of Chemical and Biotechnology, SASTRA Deemed University, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, 613401, India
- Antimicrobial Resistance Lab, ASK-I-312, School of Chemical and Biotechnology, SASTRA Deemed University, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Kavi Bharathi Ramaiah
- Center for Research On Infectious Diseases (CRID), School of Chemical and Biotechnology, SASTRA Deemed University, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, 613401, India
- Antimicrobial Resistance Lab, ASK-I-312, School of Chemical and Biotechnology, SASTRA Deemed University, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Jean Sophy Roy
- Center for Research On Infectious Diseases (CRID), School of Chemical and Biotechnology, SASTRA Deemed University, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, 613401, India
| | - Malarvizhi Rajendran
- Center for Research On Infectious Diseases (CRID), School of Chemical and Biotechnology, SASTRA Deemed University, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, 613401, India
| | - Sneha Srinath
- Department of Bioinformatics, School of Chemical and Biotechnology, SASTRA Deemed University, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, 613401, India
| | - Santhosh Kumar
- Department of Bioinformatics, School of Chemical and Biotechnology, SASTRA Deemed University, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, 613401, India
| | - Prakash Sankaran S
- Center for Research On Infectious Diseases (CRID), School of Chemical and Biotechnology, SASTRA Deemed University, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, 613401, India
| | - Suma Mohan S
- Department of Bioinformatics, School of Chemical and Biotechnology, SASTRA Deemed University, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, 613401, India.
| | - Saisubramanian Nagarajan
- Center for Research On Infectious Diseases (CRID), School of Chemical and Biotechnology, SASTRA Deemed University, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, 613401, India.
- Antimicrobial Resistance Lab, ASK-I-312, School of Chemical and Biotechnology, SASTRA Deemed University, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, India.
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Jordá J, Lorenzo-Rebenaque L, Montoro-Dasi L, Marco-Fuertes A, Vega S, Marin C. Phage-Based Biosanitation Strategies for Minimizing Persistent Salmonella and Campylobacter Bacteria in Poultry. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:3826. [PMID: 38136863 PMCID: PMC10740442 DOI: 10.3390/ani13243826] [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: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/10/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Control strategies to minimize pathogenic bacteria in food animal production are one of the key components in ensuring safer food for consumers. The most significant challenges confronting the food industry, particularly in the major poultry and swine sectors, are antibiotic resistance and resistance to cleaning and disinfection in zoonotic bacteria. In this context, bacteriophages have emerged as a promising tool for zoonotic bacteria control in the food industry, from animals and farm facilities to the final product. Phages are viruses that infect bacteria, with several advantages as a biocontrol agent such as high specificity, self-replication, self-limitation, continuous adaptation, low inherent toxicity and easy isolation. Their development as a biocontrol agent is of particular interest, as it would allow the application of a promising and even necessary "green" technology to combat pathogenic bacteria in the environment. However, bacteriophage applications have limitations, including selecting appropriate phages, legal restrictions, purification, dosage determination and bacterial resistance. Overcoming these limitations is crucial to enhance phage therapy's effectiveness against zoonotic bacteria in poultry. Thus, this review aims to provide a comprehensive view of the phage-biosanitation strategies for minimizing persistent Salmonella and Campylobacter bacteria in poultry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaume Jordá
- Departamento de Producción y Sanidad Animal, Salud Pública Veterinaria y Ciencia y Tecnología de los Alimentos, Facultad de Veterinaria, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, CEU Universities, Calle Santiago Ramón y Cajal 20, 46115 Alfara del Patriarca, Spain; (J.J.); (L.M.-D.); (A.M.-F.); (S.V.)
| | - Laura Lorenzo-Rebenaque
- Institute of Animal Science and Technology, Universitat Politècnica de València, 46022 Valencia, Spain;
| | - Laura Montoro-Dasi
- Departamento de Producción y Sanidad Animal, Salud Pública Veterinaria y Ciencia y Tecnología de los Alimentos, Facultad de Veterinaria, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, CEU Universities, Calle Santiago Ramón y Cajal 20, 46115 Alfara del Patriarca, Spain; (J.J.); (L.M.-D.); (A.M.-F.); (S.V.)
| | - Ana Marco-Fuertes
- Departamento de Producción y Sanidad Animal, Salud Pública Veterinaria y Ciencia y Tecnología de los Alimentos, Facultad de Veterinaria, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, CEU Universities, Calle Santiago Ramón y Cajal 20, 46115 Alfara del Patriarca, Spain; (J.J.); (L.M.-D.); (A.M.-F.); (S.V.)
| | - Santiago Vega
- Departamento de Producción y Sanidad Animal, Salud Pública Veterinaria y Ciencia y Tecnología de los Alimentos, Facultad de Veterinaria, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, CEU Universities, Calle Santiago Ramón y Cajal 20, 46115 Alfara del Patriarca, Spain; (J.J.); (L.M.-D.); (A.M.-F.); (S.V.)
| | - Clara Marin
- Departamento de Producción y Sanidad Animal, Salud Pública Veterinaria y Ciencia y Tecnología de los Alimentos, Facultad de Veterinaria, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, CEU Universities, Calle Santiago Ramón y Cajal 20, 46115 Alfara del Patriarca, Spain; (J.J.); (L.M.-D.); (A.M.-F.); (S.V.)
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29
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Liu J, Jaffe AL, Chen L, Bor B, Banfield JF. Host translation machinery is not a barrier to phages that interact with both CPR and non-CPR bacteria. mBio 2023; 14:e0176623. [PMID: 38009957 PMCID: PMC10746230 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.01766-23] [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: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Here, we profiled putative phages of Saccharibacteria, which are of particular importance as Saccharibacteria influence some human oral diseases. We additionally profiled putative phages of Gracilibacteria and Absconditabacteria, two Candidate Phyla Radiation (CPR) lineages of interest given their use of an alternative genetic code. Among the phages identified in this study, some are targeted by spacers from both CPR and non-CPR bacteria and others by both bacteria that use the standard genetic code as well as bacteria that use an alternative genetic code. These findings represent new insights into possible phage replication strategies and have relevance for phage therapies that seek to manipulate microbiomes containing CPR bacteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jett Liu
- Department of Plant and Microbial Biology, University of California, Berkeley, California, USA
- Department of Microbiology, Forsyth Institute, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Alexander L. Jaffe
- Department of Plant and Microbial Biology, University of California, Berkeley, California, USA
- Department of Earth System Science, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
| | - LinXing Chen
- Innovative Genomics Institute, University of California, Berkeley, California, USA
- Department of Earth and Planetary Science, University of California, Berkeley, California, USA
| | - Batbileg Bor
- Department of Microbiology, Forsyth Institute, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Oral Medicine, Infection and Immunity, Harvard School of Dental Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jillian F. Banfield
- Innovative Genomics Institute, University of California, Berkeley, California, USA
- Department of Earth and Planetary Science, University of California, Berkeley, California, USA
- Department of Environmental Science, Policy, and Management, University of California, Berkeley, California, USA
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30
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Wang M, Ning Y, Jiao X, Liu J, Qiao J. Bacteriophages and their derived enzymes as promising alternatives for the treatment of Acinetobacter baumannii infections. Arch Virol 2023; 168:288. [PMID: 37947926 DOI: 10.1007/s00705-023-05910-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
Nosocomial infections with the opportunistic bacterium Acinetobacter baumannii pose a severe challenge to clinical treatment, which is aggravated by the increasing occurrence of multi-drug resistance, especially resistance to carbapenems. The use of phage therapy as an alternative and supplement to the current antibiotics has become an important research topic in the post-antibiotic era. This review summarizes in vivo and in vitro studies on phage therapy against multi-drug-resistant A. baumannii infection that have used different approaches, including treatment with a single phage, combination with other phages or non-phage agents, and administration of phage-derived enzymes. We also briefly discuss the current challenges of phage-based therapy as well as promising approaches for the treatment of A. baumannii infection in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Menglu Wang
- Department of Medical Laboratory, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, 261053, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Yu Ning
- Department of Medical Laboratory, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, 261053, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Xin Jiao
- Department of Medical Laboratory, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, 261053, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiayi Liu
- Department of Medical Laboratory, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, 261053, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- Department of Basic Medicine, Weifang Nursing Vocational College, Weifang, 262500, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Jinjuan Qiao
- Department of Medical Laboratory, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, 261053, Shandong, People's Republic of China.
- Institutional Key Laboratory of Clinical Laboratory Diagnostics, 12th 5-Year Project of Shandong Province, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, 261053, Shandong, People's Republic of China.
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31
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Yerushalmy O, Braunstein R, Alkalay-Oren S, Rimon A, Coppenhagn-Glazer S, Onallah H, Nir-Paz R, Hazan R. Towards Standardization of Phage Susceptibility Testing: The Israeli Phage Therapy Center "Clinical Phage Microbiology"-A Pipeline Proposal. Clin Infect Dis 2023; 77:S337-S351. [PMID: 37932122 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciad514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Using phages as salvage therapy for nonhealing infections is gaining recognition as a viable solution for patients with such infections. The escalating issue of antibiotic resistance further emphasizes the significance of using phages in treating bacterial infections, encompassing compassionate-use scenarios and clinical trials. Given the high specificity of phages, selecting the suitable phage(s) targeting the causative bacteria becomes critical for achieving treatment success. However, in contrast to conventional antibiotics, where susceptibility-testing procedures were well established for phage therapy, there is a lack of standard frameworks for matching phages from a panel to target bacterial strains and assessing their interactions with antibiotics or other agents. This review discusses and compares published methods for clinical phage microbiology, also known as phage susceptibility testing, and proposes guidelines for establishing a standard pipeline based on our findings over the past 5 years of phage therapy at the Israeli Phage Therapy Center.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ortal Yerushalmy
- The Israeli Phage Therapy Center (IPTC) of Hadassah Medical Center and the Hebrew University, Jerusalem, Israel
- Faculty of Dental Medicine, Institute of Biomedical and Oral Research (IBOR), The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Ron Braunstein
- The Israeli Phage Therapy Center (IPTC) of Hadassah Medical Center and the Hebrew University, Jerusalem, Israel
- Faculty of Dental Medicine, Institute of Biomedical and Oral Research (IBOR), The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Sivan Alkalay-Oren
- The Israeli Phage Therapy Center (IPTC) of Hadassah Medical Center and the Hebrew University, Jerusalem, Israel
- Faculty of Dental Medicine, Institute of Biomedical and Oral Research (IBOR), The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
- The Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Amit Rimon
- The Israeli Phage Therapy Center (IPTC) of Hadassah Medical Center and the Hebrew University, Jerusalem, Israel
- Faculty of Dental Medicine, Institute of Biomedical and Oral Research (IBOR), The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Shunit Coppenhagn-Glazer
- The Israeli Phage Therapy Center (IPTC) of Hadassah Medical Center and the Hebrew University, Jerusalem, Israel
- Faculty of Dental Medicine, Institute of Biomedical and Oral Research (IBOR), The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Hadil Onallah
- The Israeli Phage Therapy Center (IPTC) of Hadassah Medical Center and the Hebrew University, Jerusalem, Israel
- Department of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Ran Nir-Paz
- The Israeli Phage Therapy Center (IPTC) of Hadassah Medical Center and the Hebrew University, Jerusalem, Israel
- The Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
- Department of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Ronen Hazan
- The Israeli Phage Therapy Center (IPTC) of Hadassah Medical Center and the Hebrew University, Jerusalem, Israel
- Faculty of Dental Medicine, Institute of Biomedical and Oral Research (IBOR), The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
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32
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Li YG, Kishida K, Ogawa-Kishida N, Christie PJ. Ligand-displaying Escherichia coli cells and minicells for programmable delivery of toxic payloads via type IV secretion systems. mBio 2023; 14:e0214323. [PMID: 37772866 PMCID: PMC10653926 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.02143-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE The rapid emergence of drug-resistant bacteria and current low rate of antibiotic discovery emphasize the urgent need for alternative antibacterial strategies. We engineered Escherichia coli to conjugatively transfer plasmids to specific E. coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa recipient cells through the surface display of cognate nanobody/antigen (Nb/Ag) pairs. We further engineered mobilizable plasmids to carry CRISPR/Cas9 systems (pCrispr) for the selective killing of recipient cells harboring CRISPR/Cas9 target sequences. In the assembled programmed delivery system (PDS), Nb-displaying E. coli donors with different conjugation systems and mobilizable pCrispr plasmids suppressed the growth of Ag-displaying recipient cells to significantly greater extents than unpaired recipients. We also showed that anucleate minicells armed with conjugation machines and pCrispr plasmids were highly effective in killing E. coli recipients. Together, our findings suggest that bacteria or minicells armed with PDSs may prove highly effective as an adjunct or alternative to antibiotics for antimicrobial intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Grace Li
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, McGovern School of Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Kouhei Kishida
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, McGovern School of Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Natsumi Ogawa-Kishida
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, McGovern School of Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Peter J. Christie
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, McGovern School of Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, Texas, USA
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33
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Namonyo S, Weynberg KD, Guo J, Carvalho G. The effectiveness and role of phages in the disruption and inactivation of clinical P. aeruginosa biofilms. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 234:116586. [PMID: 37423363 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.116586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2023] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023]
Abstract
Biofilms of P. aeruginosa are known to be resilient forms of survival of this opportunistic pathogen, both within the host and in natural or engineered environments. This study investigated the role of phages in the disruption and inactivation of clinical P. aeruginosa biofilms by previously isolated phages. All seven tested clinical strains formed biofilms in 56-80 h. Four previously isolated phages were effective in disrupting the formed biofilms when applied at multiplicity of infection (MOI) of 10, where phage cocktails had equivalent or worse performance than single phages. Phage treatments reduced the biofilms' biomass (cells and extracellular matrix) by 57.6-88.5% after 72 h of incubation. Biofilm disruption led to the detachment of 74.5-80.4% of the cells. The phages were also able to kill the cells from the biofilms, reducing the living cell counts by approximately 40.5-62.0% after a single treatment. A fraction of 24-80% of these killed cells were also lysed due to phage action. This study showed that phages can have a relevant role in disrupting, inactivating, and destroying P. aeruginosa biofilms, which can be used in the development of treatment processes to complement or replace antibiotics and/or disinfectants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Namonyo
- Australian Centre for Water and Environmental Biotechnology (formerly AWMC), The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD, 4072, Australia; Queensland Alliance for Environmental Health Sciences, The University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, QLD, 4102, Australia
| | - Karen D Weynberg
- Australian Centre for Ecogenomics, School of Chemistry & Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD, 4072, Australia
| | - Jianhua Guo
- Australian Centre for Water and Environmental Biotechnology (formerly AWMC), The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD, 4072, Australia
| | - Gilda Carvalho
- Australian Centre for Water and Environmental Biotechnology (formerly AWMC), The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD, 4072, Australia; School of Chemical Engineering, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, 4072, Australia.
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34
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Oromí-Bosch A, Antani JD, Turner PE. Developing Phage Therapy That Overcomes the Evolution of Bacterial Resistance. Annu Rev Virol 2023; 10:503-524. [PMID: 37268007 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-virology-012423-110530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
The global rise of antibiotic resistance in bacterial pathogens and the waning efficacy of antibiotics urge consideration of alternative antimicrobial strategies. Phage therapy is a classic approach where bacteriophages (bacteria-specific viruses) are used against bacterial infections, with many recent successes in personalized medicine treatment of intractable infections. However, a perpetual challenge for developing generalized phage therapy is the expectation that viruses will exert selection for target bacteria to deploy defenses against virus attack, causing evolution of phage resistance during patient treatment. Here we review the two main complementary strategies for mitigating bacterial resistance in phage therapy: minimizing the ability for bacterial populations to evolve phage resistance and driving (steering) evolution of phage-resistant bacteria toward clinically favorable outcomes. We discuss future research directions that might further address the phage-resistance problem, to foster widespread development and deployment of therapeutic phage strategies that outsmart evolved bacterial resistance in clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jyot D Antani
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Center for Phage Biology & Therapy, and Quantitative Biology Institute, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, USA;
| | - Paul E Turner
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Center for Phage Biology & Therapy, and Quantitative Biology Institute, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, USA;
- Program in Microbiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
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35
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Ouyang X, Li X, Song J, Wang H, Wang S, Fang R, Li Z, Song N. Mycobacteriophages in diagnosis and alternative treatment of mycobacterial infections. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1277178. [PMID: 37840750 PMCID: PMC10568470 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1277178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial resistance is an increasing threat to human populations. The emergence of multidrug-resistant "superbugs" in mycobacterial infections has further complicated the processes of curing patients, thereby resulting in high morbidity and mortality. Early diagnosis and alternative treatment are important for improving the success and cure rates associated with mycobacterial infections and the use of mycobacteriophages is a potentially good option. Since each bacteriophage has its own host range, mycobacteriophages have the capacity to detect specific mycobacterial isolates. The bacteriolysis properties of mycobacteriophages make them more attractive when it comes to treating infectious diseases. In fact, they have been clinically applied in Eastern Europe for several decades. Therefore, mycobacteriophages can also treat mycobacteria infections. This review explores the potential clinical applications of mycobacteriophages, including phage-based diagnosis and phage therapy in mycobacterial infections. Furthermore, this review summarizes the current difficulties in phage therapy, providing insights into new treatment strategies against drug-resistant mycobacteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xudong Ouyang
- School of Life Science and Technology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
- Weifang Key Laboratory of Respiratory Tract Pathogens and Drug Therapy, Weifang, China
| | - Xiaotian Li
- School of Life Science and Technology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
- Weifang Key Laboratory of Respiratory Tract Pathogens and Drug Therapy, Weifang, China
| | - Jinmiao Song
- School of Life Science and Technology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
- Weifang Key Laboratory of Respiratory Tract Pathogens and Drug Therapy, Weifang, China
| | - Hui Wang
- School of Life Science and Technology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
- Weifang Key Laboratory of Respiratory Tract Pathogens and Drug Therapy, Weifang, China
| | - Shuxian Wang
- School of Life Science and Technology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
- Weifang Key Laboratory of Respiratory Tract Pathogens and Drug Therapy, Weifang, China
| | - Ren Fang
- School of Life Science and Technology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
- Weifang Key Laboratory of Respiratory Tract Pathogens and Drug Therapy, Weifang, China
| | - Zhaoli Li
- SAFE Pharmaceutical Technology Co. Ltd., Beijing, China
| | - Ningning Song
- School of Life Science and Technology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
- Weifang Key Laboratory of Respiratory Tract Pathogens and Drug Therapy, Weifang, China
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36
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Chung KM, Nang SC, Tang SS. The Safety of Bacteriophages in Treatment of Diseases Caused by Multidrug-Resistant Bacteria. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:1347. [PMID: 37895818 PMCID: PMC10610463 DOI: 10.3390/ph16101347] [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: 06/20/2023] [Revised: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Given the urgency due to the rapid emergence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria, bacteriophages (phages), which are viruses that specifically target and kill bacteria, are rising as a potential alternative to antibiotics. In recent years, researchers have begun to elucidate the safety aspects of phage therapy with the aim of ensuring safe and effective clinical applications. While phage therapy has generally been demonstrated to be safe and tolerable among animals and humans, the current research on phage safety monitoring lacks sufficient and consistent data. This emphasizes the critical need for a standardized phage safety assessment to ensure a more reliable evaluation of its safety profile. Therefore, this review aims to bridge the knowledge gap concerning phage safety for treating MDR bacterial infections by covering various aspects involving phage applications, including phage preparation, administration, and the implications for human health and the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ka Mun Chung
- Division of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Sciences, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia
| | - Sue C Nang
- Department of Microbiology, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Swee Seong Tang
- Division of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Sciences, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia
- Centre for Research in Biotechnology for Agriculture, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia
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37
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Alkhalil SS. The role of bacteriophages in shaping bacterial composition and diversity in the human gut. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1232413. [PMID: 37795308 PMCID: PMC10546012 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1232413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The microbiota of the gut has continued to co-evolve alongside their human hosts conferring considerable health benefits including the production of nutrients, drug metabolism, modulation of the immune system, and playing an antagonistic role against pathogen invasion of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT). The gut is said to provide a habitat for diverse groups of microorganisms where they all co-habit and interact with one another and with the immune system of humans. Phages are bacterial parasites that require the host metabolic system to replicate via the lytic or lysogenic cycle. The phage and bacterial populations are regarded as the most dominant in the gut ecosystem. As such, among the various microbial interactions, the phage-bacteria interactions, although complex, have been demonstrated to co-evolve over time using different mechanisms such as predation, lysogenic conversion, and phage induction, alongside counterdefense by the bacterial population. With the help of models and dynamics of phage-bacteria interactions, the complexity behind their survival in the gut ecosystem was demystified, and their roles in maintaining gut homeostasis and promoting the overall health of humans were elucidated. Although the treatment of various gastrointestinal infections has been demonstrated to be successful against multidrug-resistant causative agents, concerns about this technique are still very much alive among researchers owing to the potential for phages to evolve. Since a dearth of knowledge exists regarding the use of phages for therapeutic purposes, more studies involving experimental models and clinical trials are needed to widen the understanding of bacteria-phage interactions and their association with immunological responses in the gut of humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samia S. Alkhalil
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Shaqra University, Alquwayiyah, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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38
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Xu Z, Ding Z, Shi L, Xie Y, Zhang Y, Sao S, Wang Q, Liu Q. Design combinations of evolved phage and antibiotic for antibacterial guided by analyzing the phage resistance of poorly antimicrobial phage. Microbiol Spectr 2023; 11:e0095823. [PMID: 37707457 PMCID: PMC10580904 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.00958-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Although antibiotics are the primary method against bacterial infections, the rapid emergence of antibiotic resistance has forced interest in alternative antimicrobial strategies. Phage has been considered a new biological antimicrobial agent due to its high effectiveness in treating bacterial infections. However, the applications of phage therapy have been limited by the quick development of phage-resistant bacteria. Therefore, more effective phage treatment strategies need to be explored guided by characterizing phage-resistant mutants. In this study, Pseudomonas plecoglossicida phage vB_PpS_SYP was isolated from the sewage but exhibited weak antibacterial activity caused by phage-resistant bacteria. Phage-resistant mutants were isolated and their whole genomes were analyzed for differences. The results showed that mutations in glycosyltransferase family 1 (GT-1) and hypothetical outer membrane protein (homP) led to bacterial phage resistance. The GT-1 mutants had lower biofilm biomass and higher antibiotic sensitivity than wild-type strain. Phage SYP evolved a broader host range and improved antimicrobial efficacy to infect homP mutants. Therefore, we designed a strategy for combined antibiotic and evolved phage inhibition driven by the two phage-resistant mutants. The results showed that the combination was more effective against bacteria than either antibiotics or phage alone. Our findings presented a novel approach to utilizing poorly antimicrobial phages by characterizing their phage-resistant mutants, with the potential to be expanded to include phage therapy for a variety of pathogens. IMPORTANCE The rapid emergence of antibiotic resistance renews interest in phage therapy. However, the lack of efficient phages against bacteria and the emergence of phage resistance impaired the efficiency of phage therapy. In this study, the isolated Pseudomonas plecoglossicida phage exhibited poor antibacterial capacity and was not available for phage therapy. Analysis of phage-resistant mutants guided the design of antibacterial strategies for the combination of antibiotics with evolved phages. The combination has a good antibacterial effect compared to the original phage. Our findings facilitate ideas for the development of antimicrobial-incapable phage, which have the potential to be applied to the phage treatment of other pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenhe Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Optogenetic Techniques for Cell Metabolism, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
| | - Zihan Ding
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Optogenetic Techniques for Cell Metabolism, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
| | - Lijia Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Optogenetic Techniques for Cell Metabolism, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
| | - YuZhen Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Optogenetic Techniques for Cell Metabolism, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuanxing Zhang
- Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Zhuhai), Zhuhai, China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Maricultured Animal Vaccines, Shanghai, China
| | - Shuai Sao
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Optogenetic Techniques for Cell Metabolism, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Maricultured Animal Vaccines, Shanghai, China
| | - Qiyao Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Optogenetic Techniques for Cell Metabolism, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Maricultured Animal Vaccines, Shanghai, China
| | - Qin Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Optogenetic Techniques for Cell Metabolism, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Maricultured Animal Vaccines, Shanghai, China
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39
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Jo SJ, Kwon J, Kim SG, Lee SJ. The Biotechnological Application of Bacteriophages: What to Do and Where to Go in the Middle of the Post-Antibiotic Era. Microorganisms 2023; 11:2311. [PMID: 37764155 PMCID: PMC10534921 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11092311] [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: 08/11/2023] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Amid the escalating challenges of antibiotic resistance, bacterial infections have emerged as a global threat. Bacteriophages (phages), viral entities capable of selectively infecting bacteria, are gaining momentum as promising alternatives to traditional antibiotics. Their distinctive attributes, including host specificity, inherent self-amplification, and potential synergy with antibiotics, render them compelling candidates. Phage engineering, a burgeoning discipline, involves the strategic modification of bacteriophages to enhance their therapeutic potential and broaden their applications. The integration of CRISPR-Cas systems facilitates precise genetic modifications, enabling phages to serve as carriers of functional genes/proteins, thereby enhancing diagnostics, drug delivery, and therapy. Phage engineering holds promise in transforming precision medicine, addressing antibiotic resistance, and advancing diverse applications. Emphasizing the profound therapeutic potential of phages, this review underscores their pivotal role in combatting bacterial diseases and highlights their significance in the post-antibiotic era.
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Affiliation(s)
- Su Jin Jo
- College of Veterinary Medicine and Research Institute for Veterinary Science, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Jun Kwon
- Laboratory of Veterinary Public Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Jeonbuk National University, 79 Gobong-ro, Iksan City 54596, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang Guen Kim
- Department of Biological Sciences, Kyonggi University, Suwon 16227, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung-Jun Lee
- Department of Pharmaceutical Science and Engineering, Seowon University, 377-3 Musimseoro, Seowon-gu, Cheong-ju City 28674, Republic of Korea
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40
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Al-Anany AM, Hooey PB, Cook JD, Burrows LL, Martyniuk J, Hynes AP, German GJ. Phage Therapy in the Management of Urinary Tract Infections: A Comprehensive Systematic Review. PHAGE (NEW ROCHELLE, N.Y.) 2023; 4:112-127. [PMID: 37771568 PMCID: PMC10523411 DOI: 10.1089/phage.2023.0024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/30/2023]
Abstract
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a problem worldwide, affecting almost half a billion people each year. Increasing antibiotic resistance and limited therapeutic options have led to the exploration of alternative therapies for UTIs, including bacteriophage (phage) therapy. This systematic review aims at evaluating the efficacy of phage therapy in treating UTIs. We employed a comprehensive search strategy for any language, any animal, and any publication date. A total of 55 in vivo and clinical studies were included. Of the studies, 22% were published in a non-English language, 32.7% were before the year 1996, and the rest were after 2005. The results of this review suggest that phage therapy for UTIs can be effective; more than 72% of the included articles reported microbiological and clinical improvements. On the other hand, only 5 randomized controlled trials have been completed, and case reports and case series information were frequently incomplete for analysis. Overall, this comprehensive systematic review identifies preliminary evidence supporting the potential of phage therapy as a safe and viable option for the treatment of UTIs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amany M. Al-Anany
- Department of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Payton B. Hooey
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Jonathan D. Cook
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Lori L. Burrows
- Department of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Julia Martyniuk
- Gerstein Science Information Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Alexander P. Hynes
- Department of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Greg J. German
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Unity Health Toronto, St. Joseph's Health Centre Chronic Infection/Phage Therapy Clinic, Toronto, Canada
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41
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Osman AH, Kotey FCN, Odoom A, Darkwah S, Yeboah RK, Dayie NTKD, Donkor ES. The Potential of Bacteriophage-Antibiotic Combination Therapy in Treating Infections with Multidrug-Resistant Bacteria. Antibiotics (Basel) 2023; 12:1329. [PMID: 37627749 PMCID: PMC10451467 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics12081329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2023] [Revised: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/05/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The growing threat of antibiotic resistance is a significant global health challenge that has intensified in recent years. The burden of antibiotic resistance on public health is augmented due to its multifaceted nature, as well as the slow-paced and limited development of new antibiotics. The threat posed by resistance is now existential in phage therapy, which had long been touted as a promising replacement for antibiotics. Consequently, it is imperative to explore the potential of combination therapies involving antibiotics and phages as a feasible alternative for treating infections with multidrug-resistant bacteria. Although either bacteriophage or antibiotics can potentially treat bacterial infections, they are each fraught with resistance. Combination therapies, however, yielded positive outcomes in most cases; nonetheless, a few combinations did not show any benefit. Combination therapies comprising the synergistic activity of phages and antibiotics and combinations of phages with other treatments such as probiotics hold promise in the treatment of drug-resistant bacterial infections.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Eric S. Donkor
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Ghana Medical School, Korle Bu, Accra P.O. Box KB 4236, Ghana; (A.-H.O.); (F.C.N.K.); (A.O.); (S.D.); (R.K.Y.); (N.T.K.D.D.)
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42
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Nicholls P, Clark JR, Gu Liu C, Terwilliger A, Maresso AW. Class-Driven Synergy and Antagonism between a Pseudomonas Phage and Antibiotics. Infect Immun 2023; 91:e0006523. [PMID: 37404162 PMCID: PMC10429645 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00065-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The ubiquitous bacterial pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa is responsible for severe infections in patients with burns, cystic fibrosis, and neutropenia. Biofilm formation gives physical refuge and a protected microenvironment for sessile cells, rendering cure by antibiotics a challenge. Bacteriophages have evolved to prey on these biofilms over millions of years, using hydrolases and depolymerases to penetrate biofilms and reach cellular targets. Here, we assessed how a newly discovered KMV-like phage (ΦJB10) interacts with antibiotics to treat P. aeruginosa more effectively in both planktonic and biofilm forms. By testing representatives of four classes of antibiotics (cephalosporins, aminoglycosides, fluoroquinolones, and carbapenems), we demonstrated class-dependent interactions between ΦJB10 and antibiotics in both biofilm clearance and P. aeruginosa killing. Despite identifying antagonism between some antibiotic classes and ΦJB10 at early time points, all classes showed neutral to favorable interactions with the phage at later time points. In one notable example where the antibiotic alone had poor activity against both biofilm and high-density planktonic cells, we found that addition of ΦJB10 demonstrated synergy and resulted in effective treatment of both. Further, ΦJB10 seemed to act as an adjuvant to several antibiotics, reducing the concentration of antibiotics required to ablate the biofilm. This report shows that phages such as ΦJB10 may be valuable additions to the armamentarium against difficult-to-treat biofilm-based infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Nicholls
- Section of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Justin R. Clark
- TAILΦR LABS, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
- Department of Molecular Virology and Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Carmen Gu Liu
- TAILΦR LABS, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
- Department of Molecular Virology and Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Austen Terwilliger
- TAILΦR LABS, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
- Department of Molecular Virology and Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Anthony W. Maresso
- TAILΦR LABS, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
- Department of Molecular Virology and Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
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43
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Li YG, Kishida K, Ogawa-Kishida N, Christie PJ. Ligand-Displaying E. coli Cells and Minicells for Programmable Delivery of Toxic Payloads via Type IV Secretion Systems. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.08.11.553016. [PMID: 37609324 PMCID: PMC10441419 DOI: 10.1101/2023.08.11.553016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/24/2023]
Abstract
Bacterial type IV secretion systems (T4SSs) are highly versatile macromolecular translocators and offer great potential for deployment as delivery systems for therapeutic intervention. One major T4SS subfamily, the conjugation machines, are well-adapted for delivery of DNA cargoes of interest to other bacteria or eukaryotic cells, but generally exhibit modest transfer frequencies and lack specificity for target cells. Here, we tested the efficacy of a surface-displayed nanobody/antigen (Nb/Ag) pairing system to enhance the conjugative transfer of IncN (pKM101), IncF (F/pOX38), or IncP (RP4) plasmids, or of mobilizable plasmids including those encoding CRISPR/Cas9 systems (pCrispr), to targeted recipient cells. Escherichia coli donors displaying Nb's transferred plasmids to E. coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa recipients displaying the cognate Ag's at significantly higher frequencies than to recipients lacking Ag's. Nb/Ag pairing functionally substituted for the surface adhesin activities of F-encoded TraN and pKM101-encoded Pep, although not conjugative pili or VirB5-like adhesins. Nb/Ag pairing further elevated the killing effects accompanying delivery of pCrispr plasmids to E. coli and P. aeruginosa transconjugants bearing CRISPR/Cas9 target sequences. Finally, we determined that anucleate E. coli minicells, which are clinically safer delivery vectors than intact cells, transferred self-transmissible and mobilizable plasmids to E. coli and P. aeruginosa cells. Minicell-mediated mobilization of pCrispr plasmids to E. coli recipients elicited significant killing of transconjugants, although Nb/Ag pairing did not enhance conjugation frequencies or killing. Together, our findings establish the potential for deployment of bacteria or minicells as Programmed Delivery Systems (PDSs) for suppression of targeted bacterial species in infection settings. IMPORTANCE The rapid emergence of drug-resistant bacteria and current low rate of antibiotic discovery emphasize an urgent need for alternative antibacterial strategies. We engineered Escherichia coli to conjugatively transfer plasmids to specific E. coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa recipient cells through surface display of cognate nanobody/antigen (Nb/Ag) pairs. We further engineered mobilizable plasmids to carry CRISPR/Cas9 systems (pCrispr) for selective killing of recipient cells harboring CRISPR/Cas9 target sequences. In the assembled Programmed Delivery System (PDS), Nb-displaying E. coli donors with different conjugation systems and mobilizable pCrispr plasmids suppressed growth of Ag-displaying recipient cells to significantly greater extents than unpaired recipients. We also showed that anucleate minicells armed with conjugation machines and pCrispr plasmids were highly effective in killing of E. coli recipients. Together, our findings suggest that bacteria or minicells armed with PDSs may prove highly effective as an adjunct or alternative to antibiotics for antimicrobial intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Grace Li
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of Texas Health Science Center, McGovern School of Medicine, Fannin St, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Kouhei Kishida
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of Texas Health Science Center, McGovern School of Medicine, Fannin St, Houston, Texas 77030
- Current address: Graduate School of Life Sciences, Tohoku University, 2-1-1 Katahira, Aobaku, Sendai, 980-8577, Japan
| | - Natsumi Ogawa-Kishida
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of Texas Health Science Center, McGovern School of Medicine, Fannin St, Houston, Texas 77030
- Current address: Graduate School of Life Sciences, Tohoku University, 2-1-1 Katahira, Aobaku, Sendai, 980-8577, Japan
| | - Peter J. Christie
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of Texas Health Science Center, McGovern School of Medicine, Fannin St, Houston, Texas 77030
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Kalpana S, Lin WY, Wang YC, Fu Y, Wang HY. Alternate Antimicrobial Therapies and Their Companion Tests. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:2490. [PMID: 37568853 PMCID: PMC10417861 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13152490] [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: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
New antimicrobial approaches are essential to counter antimicrobial resistance. The drug development pipeline is exhausted with the emergence of resistance, resulting in unsuccessful trials. The lack of an effective drug developed from the conventional drug portfolio has mandated the introspection into the list of potentially effective unconventional alternate antimicrobial molecules. Alternate therapies with clinically explicable forms include monoclonal antibodies, antimicrobial peptides, aptamers, and phages. Clinical diagnostics optimize the drug delivery. In the era of diagnostic-based applications, it is logical to draw diagnostic-based treatment for infectious diseases. Selection criteria of alternate therapeutics in infectious diseases include detection, monitoring of response, and resistance mechanism identification. Integrating these diagnostic applications is disruptive to the traditional therapeutic development. The challenges and mitigation methods need to be noted. Applying the goals of clinical pharmacokinetics that include enhancing efficacy and decreasing toxicity of drug therapy, this review analyses the strong correlation of alternate antimicrobial therapeutics in infectious diseases. The relationship between drug concentration and the resulting effect defined by the pharmacodynamic parameters are also analyzed. This review analyzes the perspectives of aligning diagnostic initiatives with the use of alternate therapeutics, with a particular focus on companion diagnostic applications in infectious diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sriram Kalpana
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan 333423, Taiwan;
| | - Wan-Ying Lin
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA 92093, USA;
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA;
- Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Yu-Chiang Wang
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA;
- Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Yiwen Fu
- Department of Medicine, Kaiser Permanente Santa Clara Medical Center, Santa Clara, CA 95051, USA;
| | - Hsin-Yao Wang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan 333423, Taiwan;
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA;
- Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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Mayorga-Ramos A, Zúñiga-Miranda J, Carrera-Pacheco SE, Barba-Ostria C, Guamán LP. CRISPR-Cas-Based Antimicrobials: Design, Challenges, and Bacterial Mechanisms of Resistance. ACS Infect Dis 2023; 9:1283-1302. [PMID: 37347230 PMCID: PMC10353011 DOI: 10.1021/acsinfecdis.2c00649] [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: 12/31/2022] [Indexed: 06/23/2023]
Abstract
The emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacterial strains is a source of public health concern across the globe. As the discovery of new conventional antibiotics has stalled significantly over the past decade, there is an urgency to develop novel approaches to address drug resistance in infectious diseases. The use of a CRISPR-Cas-based system for the precise elimination of targeted bacterial populations holds promise as an innovative approach for new antimicrobial agent design. The CRISPR-Cas targeting system is celebrated for its high versatility and specificity, offering an excellent opportunity to fight antibiotic resistance in pathogens by selectively inactivating genes involved in antibiotic resistance, biofilm formation, pathogenicity, virulence, or bacterial viability. The CRISPR-Cas strategy can enact antimicrobial effects by two approaches: inactivation of chromosomal genes or curing of plasmids encoding antibiotic resistance. In this Review, we provide an overview of the main CRISPR-Cas systems utilized for the creation of these antimicrobials, as well as highlighting promising studies in the field. We also offer a detailed discussion about the most commonly used mechanisms for CRISPR-Cas delivery: bacteriophages, nanoparticles, and conjugative plasmids. Lastly, we address possible mechanisms of interference that should be considered during the intelligent design of these novel approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arianna Mayorga-Ramos
- Centro
de Investigación Biomédica (CENBIO), Facultad de Ciencias
de la Salud Eugenio Espejo, Universidad
UTE, Quito 170527, Ecuador
| | - Johana Zúñiga-Miranda
- Centro
de Investigación Biomédica (CENBIO), Facultad de Ciencias
de la Salud Eugenio Espejo, Universidad
UTE, Quito 170527, Ecuador
| | - Saskya E. Carrera-Pacheco
- Centro
de Investigación Biomédica (CENBIO), Facultad de Ciencias
de la Salud Eugenio Espejo, Universidad
UTE, Quito 170527, Ecuador
| | - Carlos Barba-Ostria
- Escuela
de Medicina, Colegio de Ciencias de la Salud Quito, Universidad San Francisco de Quito USFQ, Quito 170902, Ecuador
| | - Linda P. Guamán
- Centro
de Investigación Biomédica (CENBIO), Facultad de Ciencias
de la Salud Eugenio Espejo, Universidad
UTE, Quito 170527, Ecuador
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Puntambekar V. Phaging out antibiotics. THE NATIONAL MEDICAL JOURNAL OF INDIA 2023; 36:269-270. [PMID: 38692627 DOI: 10.25259/nmji_482_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Varad Puntambekar
- NIRMAN Office, Shodhgram Campus (SEARCH), Post Chatgaon, Tehsil Dhanora, District Gadchiroli, Maharashtra, India
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Duc HM, Zhang Y, Hoang SM, Masuda Y, Honjoh KI, Miyamoto T. The Use of Phage Cocktail and Various Antibacterial Agents in Combination to Prevent the Emergence of Phage Resistance. Antibiotics (Basel) 2023; 12:1077. [PMID: 37370397 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics12061077] [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: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 06/11/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Bacterial food poisoning cases due to Salmonella and E. coli O157:H7 have been linked with the consumption of a variety of food products, threatening public health around the world. This study describes the combined effects of a phage cocktail (STG2, SEG5, and PS5), EDTA, nisin, and polylysine against the bacterial cocktail consisting of S. typhimurium, S. enteritidis, and E. coli O157:H7. Overall, phage cocktail (alone or in combination with nisin or/and polylysine) not only showed great antibacterial effects against bacterial cocktail at different temperatures (4 °C, 24 °C, and 37 °C), but also totally inhibited the emergence of phage resistance during the incubation period. These results suggest that the combination of phages with nisin or/and polylysine has great potential to simultaneously control S. typhimurium, S. enteritidis, and E. coli O157:H7.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hoang Minh Duc
- Department of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Graduate School of Bioresource and Bioenvironmental Sciences, Kyushu University, 744 Motooka, Nishi-ku, Fukuoka 819-0395, Japan
- Department of Veterinary Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Vietnam National University of Agriculture, Hanoi 12400, Vietnam
| | - Yu Zhang
- Department of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Graduate School of Bioresource and Bioenvironmental Sciences, Kyushu University, 744 Motooka, Nishi-ku, Fukuoka 819-0395, Japan
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Resources, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Son Minh Hoang
- Department of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Graduate School of Bioresource and Bioenvironmental Sciences, Kyushu University, 744 Motooka, Nishi-ku, Fukuoka 819-0395, Japan
- Department of Histology and Embryo, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Vietnam National University of Agriculture, Hanoi 12400, Vietnam
| | - Yoshimitsu Masuda
- Department of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Graduate School of Bioresource and Bioenvironmental Sciences, Kyushu University, 744 Motooka, Nishi-ku, Fukuoka 819-0395, Japan
| | - Ken-Ichi Honjoh
- Department of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Graduate School of Bioresource and Bioenvironmental Sciences, Kyushu University, 744 Motooka, Nishi-ku, Fukuoka 819-0395, Japan
| | - Takahisa Miyamoto
- Department of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Graduate School of Bioresource and Bioenvironmental Sciences, Kyushu University, 744 Motooka, Nishi-ku, Fukuoka 819-0395, Japan
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48
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Li X, Xu C, Liang B, Kastelic JP, Han B, Tong X, Gao J. Alternatives to antibiotics for treatment of mastitis in dairy cows. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1160350. [PMID: 37404775 PMCID: PMC10315858 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1160350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Mastitis is considered the costliest disease on dairy farms and also adversely affects animal welfare. As treatment (and to a lesser extent prevention) of mastitis rely heavily on antibiotics, there are increasing concerns in veterinary and human medicine regarding development of antimicrobial resistance. Furthermore, with genes conferring resistance being capable of transfer to heterologous strains, reducing resistance in strains of animal origin should have positive impacts on humans. This article briefly reviews potential roles of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), herbal medicines, antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), bacteriophages and their lytic enzymes, vaccination and other emerging therapies for prevention and treatment of mastitis in dairy cows. Although many of these approaches currently lack proven therapeutic efficacy, at least some may gradually replace antibiotics, especially as drug-resistant bacteria are proliferating globally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoping Li
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Chuang Xu
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Bingchun Liang
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - John P. Kastelic
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Bo Han
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaofang Tong
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Jian Gao
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
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Arora P, Jain A, Kumar A. Phage design and directed evolution to evolve phage for therapy. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2023; 200:103-126. [PMID: 37739551 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmbts.2023.03.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/24/2023]
Abstract
Phage therapy or Phage treatment is the use of bacteriolysing phage in treating bacterial infections by using the viruses that infects and kills bacteria. This technique has been studied and practiced very long ago, but with the advent of antibiotics, it has been neglected. This foregone technique is now witnessing a revival due to development of bacterial resistance. Nowadays, with the awareness of genetic sequence of organisms, it is required that informed choices of phages have to be made for the most efficacious results. Furthermore, phages with the evolving genes are taken into consideration for the subsequent improvement in treating the patients for bacterial diseases. In addition, direct evolution methods are increasingly developing, since these are capable of creating new biological molecules having changed or unique activities, such as, improved target specificity, evolution of novel proteins with new catalytic properties or creation of nucleic acids that are capable of recognizing required pathogenic bacteria. This system is incorporates continuous evolution such as protein or genes are put under continuous evolution by providing continuous mutagenesis with least human intervention. Although, this system providing continuous directed evolution is very effective, it imposes some challenges due to requirement of heavy investment of time and resources. This chapter focuses on development of phage as a therapeutic agent against various bacteria causing diseases and it improvement using direct evolution of proteins and nucleic acids such that they target specific organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priyancka Arora
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Rama University, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Avni Jain
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Rama University, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Ajay Kumar
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Rama University, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, India.
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50
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Kumar A, Yadav A. Synthetic phage and its application in phage therapy. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2023; 200:61-89. [PMID: 37739560 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmbts.2023.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/24/2023]
Abstract
Synthetic phage analysis has been implemented in progressive various areas of biology, such as genetics, molecular biology, and synthetic biology. Many phage-derived technologies have been altered for developing gene circuits to program biological systems. Due to their extremely potent potency, phages also provide greater medical availability against bacterial agents and bacterial diagnostic agents. Its host specificity and our growing ability to manipulate, them further expand its possibility. New Phages also genetically redesign programmable biomaterials with highly tunable properties. Moreover, new phages are central to powerful directed evolution platforms. It is used to enhance existing biological, functions to create new phages. In other sites, the mining of antibiotics, and the emergence and dissemination of more than one type of drug-resistant microbe, a human health concerns. The major point in controlling and treating microbial infections. At present, genetic modifications and biochemical treatments are used to modify phages. Among these, genetic engineering involves the identification of defective proteins, modification of host bodies, recognized receptors, and disruption of bacterial phage resistance signaling gateways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ajay Kumar
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Rama University, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, India.
| | - Anuj Yadav
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Rama University, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, India
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