1
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Yoon J, Jo Y, Shin S. Understanding Antimicrobial Peptide Synergy: Differential Binding Interactions and Their Impact on Membrane Integrity. J Phys Chem B 2024. [PMID: 39347577 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpcb.4c03766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/01/2024]
Abstract
Research on antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) has been conducted as a solution to overcome antibiotic resistance. In particular, the synergistic effect that appears when two or more AMPs are used in combination has been observed. To find an effective synergistic combination, it is necessary to understand the underlying mechanism. However, a consistent explanation for this phenomenon has not yet been provided due to limitations in experimentally determining or predicting the structure of the heteroaggregates formed by the interactions between different AMPs and the interaction of the aggregate surface with the lipid membrane surface. In this study, we conducted molecular dynamics simulations for two heterogeneous aggregates of melittin-indolicidin and pexiganan-indolicidin to observe their structures in the solution phase and their interactions with the lipid membrane. We aimed to determine how the surfaces of these aggregates interact with the lipid membrane. Due to the different amino acid residue sequence characteristics of melittin and pexiganan, we found that when the two AMPs bind to indolicidin, they form aggregates with completely different structural characteristics. Accordingly, the sequence characteristics of pexiganan, which exhibits a relatively unstable structure compared to melittin in aqueous solution or on lipid membranes, allow for a more stable interaction with the lipid membrane when forming aggregates with indolicidin, effectively inhibiting the integrity of the lipid membranes. We also found that the amino acid residues forming the surface of the AMP aggregate show differential binding strengths to different lipid species forming the lipid membrane, thereby disrupting the membrane in a way that weakens its integrity. Through this, we provided insight into the basic principle of how the synergistic effect of AMPs occurs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeseong Yoon
- Department of Chemistry, College of Natural Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Youngbeom Jo
- Department of Chemistry, College of Natural Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Seokmin Shin
- Department of Chemistry, College of Natural Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
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2
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Marone Fassolo E, Guo S, Wang Y, Rosa S, Herzig V. Genetically encoded libraries and spider venoms as emerging sources for crop protective peptides. J Pept Sci 2024; 30:e3600. [PMID: 38623834 DOI: 10.1002/psc.3600] [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: 01/25/2024] [Revised: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
Agricultural crops are targeted by various pathogens (fungi, bacteria, and viruses) and pests (herbivorous arthropods). Antimicrobial and insecticidal peptides are increasingly recognized as eco-friendly tools for crop protection due to their low propensity for resistance development and the fact that they are fully biodegradable. However, historical challenges have hindered their development, including poor stability, limited availability, reproducibility issues, high production costs, and unwanted toxicity. Toxicity is a primary concern because crop-protective peptides interact with various organisms of environmental and economic significance. This review focuses on the potential of genetically encoded peptide libraries like the use of two-hybrid-based methods for antimicrobial peptides identification and insecticidal spider venom peptides as two main approaches for targeting plant pathogens and pests. We discuss some key findings and challenges regarding the practical application of each strategy. We conclude that genetically encoded peptide library- and spider venom-derived crop protective peptides offer a sustainable and environmentally responsible approach for addressing modern crop protection needs in the agricultural sector.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Shaodong Guo
- Centre for Bioinnovation, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, Queensland, Australia
- School of Science, Technology and Engineering, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, Queensland, Australia
| | - Yachen Wang
- Centre for Bioinnovation, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, Queensland, Australia
- School of Science, Technology and Engineering, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, Queensland, Australia
| | - Stefano Rosa
- Department of Biosciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- Department of Chemistry & Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Volker Herzig
- Centre for Bioinnovation, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, Queensland, Australia
- School of Science, Technology and Engineering, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, Queensland, Australia
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3
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Minnelli C, Mangiaterra G, Laudadio E, Citterio B, Rinaldi S. Investigation on the Synergy between Membrane Permeabilizing Amphiphilic α-Hydrazido Acids and Commonly Used Antibiotics against Drug-Resistant Bacteria. Molecules 2024; 29:4078. [PMID: 39274926 PMCID: PMC11397519 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29174078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2024] [Revised: 08/21/2024] [Accepted: 08/26/2024] [Indexed: 09/16/2024] Open
Abstract
The growth of (multi)drug resistance in bacteria is among the most urgent global health issues. Monocationic amphiphilic α-hydrazido acid derivatives are structurally simple mimics of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) with fewer drawbacks. Their mechanism of membrane permeabilization at subtoxic concentrations was found to begin with an initial electrostatic attraction of isolated amphiphile molecules to the phospholipid heads, followed by a rapid insertion of the apolar portions. As the accumulation into the bilayer proceeded, the membrane increased its fluidity and permeability without being subjected to major structural damage. After having ascertained that α-hydrazido acid amphiphiles do not interact with bacterial DNA, they were subjected to synergy evaluation for combinations with conventional antibiotics. Synergy was observed for combinations with tetracycline against sensitive S. aureus and E. coli, as well as with ciprofloxacin and colistin against resistant strains. Additivity with a remarkable recovery in activity of conventional antibiotics (from 2-fold to ≥32-fold) together with largely subtoxic concentrations of α-hydrazido acid derivatives was found for combinations with ciprofloxacin toward susceptible S. aureus and methicillin toward MRSa. However, no potentiation of conventional antibiotics was observed for combinations with linezolid and gentamicin against the corresponding resistant S. aureus and E. coli strains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Minnelli
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Via Brecce Bianche, 60131 Ancona, Italy
| | - Gianmarco Mangiaterra
- Department of Biomolecular Science, University of Urbino "Carlo Bo", 61032 Urbino, Italy
| | - Emiliano Laudadio
- Department of Science and Engineering of Matter, Environment and Urban Planning, Polytechnic University of Marche, Via Brecce Bianche, 60131 Ancona, Italy
| | - Barbara Citterio
- Department of Biomolecular Science, University of Urbino "Carlo Bo", 61032 Urbino, Italy
| | - Samuele Rinaldi
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Via Brecce Bianche, 60131 Ancona, Italy
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Firdous SO, Sagor MMH, Arafat MT. Advances in Transdermal Delivery of Antimicrobial Peptides for Wound Management: Biomaterial-Based Approaches and Future Perspectives. ACS APPLIED BIO MATERIALS 2024; 7:4923-4943. [PMID: 37976446 DOI: 10.1021/acsabm.3c00731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), distinguished by their cationic and amphiphilic nature, represent a critical frontier in the battle against antimicrobial resistance due to their potent antimicrobial activity and a broad spectrum of action. However, the clinical translation of AMPs faces hurdles, including their susceptibility to degradation, limited bioavailability, and the need for targeted delivery. Transdermal delivery has immense potential for optimizing AMP administration for wound management. Leveraging the skin's accessibility and barrier properties, transdermal delivery offers a noninvasive approach that can circumvent systemic side effects and ensure sustained release. Biomaterial-based delivery systems, encompassing nanofibers, hydrogels, nanoparticles, and liposomes, have emerged as key players in enhancing the efficacy of transdermal AMP delivery. These biomaterial carriers not only shield AMPs from enzymatic degradation but also provide controlled release mechanisms, thereby elevating stability and bioavailability. The synergistic interaction between the transdermal approach and biomaterial-facilitated formulations presents a promising strategy to overcome the multifaceted challenges associated with AMP delivery. Integrating advanced technologies and personalized medicine, this convergence allows the reimagining of wound care. This review amalgamates insights to propose a pathway where AMPs, transdermal delivery, and biomaterial innovation harmonize for effective wound management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Syeda Omara Firdous
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET), Dhaka 1205, Bangladesh
| | - Md Mehadi Hassan Sagor
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET), Dhaka 1205, Bangladesh
| | - M Tarik Arafat
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET), Dhaka 1205, Bangladesh
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Thitirungreangchai T, Roytrakul S, Aunpad R. Deciphering the Intracellular Action of the Antimicrobial Peptide A11 via an In-Depth Analysis of Its Effect on the Global Proteome of Acinetobacter baumannii. ACS Infect Dis 2024; 10:2795-2813. [PMID: 39075773 PMCID: PMC11320580 DOI: 10.1021/acsinfecdis.4c00160] [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: 02/28/2024] [Revised: 07/17/2024] [Accepted: 07/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/31/2024]
Abstract
The potential antimicrobial activity and low propensity to induce the development of bacterial resistance have rendered antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) as novel and ideal candidate therapeutic agents for the treatment of infections caused by drug-resistant pathogenic bacteria. The targeting of bacterial membranes by AMPs has been typically considered their sole mode of action; however, increasing evidence supports the existence of multiple and complementary functions of AMPs that result in bacterial death. An in-depth characterization of their mechanism of action could facilitate further research and development of AMPs with higher potency. The current study employs biophysics and proteomics approaches to unveil the mechanisms underlying the antibacterial activity of A11, a potential candidate AMP, against Acinetobacter baumannii, a leading cause of hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) and consequently, a serious global threat. A11 peptide was found to induce membrane depolarization to a high extent, as revealed by flow cytometry and electron microscopy analyses. The prompt intracellular penetration of A11 peptide, observed using confocal microscopy, was found to occur concomitantly with a very low degree of membrane lysis, suggesting that its mode of action predominantly involves a nonlytic killing mechanism. Quantitative proteomics analysis employed for obtaining insights into the mechanisms underlying the antimicrobial activity of A11 peptide revealed that it disrupted energy metabolism, interfered with protein homeostasis, and inhibited fatty acid synthesis that is essential for cell membrane integrity; all these impacted the cellular functions of A. baumannii. A11 treatment also impacted signal transduction associated with the regulation of biofilm formation, hindered the stress response, and influenced DNA repair processes; these are all crucial survival mechanisms of A. baumannii. Additionally, robust antibacterial activity was exhibited by A11 peptide against multidrug-resistant (MDR) and extensively drug-resistant (XDR) clinical isolates of A. baumannii; moreover, A11 peptide exhibited synergy with levofloxacin and minocycline as well as low propensity for inducing resistance. Taken together, the findings emphasize the therapeutic potential of A11 peptide as an antibacterial agent against drug-resistant A. baumannii and underscore the need for further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thanit Thitirungreangchai
- Graduate
Program in Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Thammasat University, Khlong Luang, Pathum Thani 12120, Thailand
| | - Sittiruk Roytrakul
- Functional
Proteomics Technology Laboratory, National Center for Genetic Engineering
and Biotechnology, National Science and
Technology Development Agency, Khlong Luang, Pathum Thani 12120, Thailand
| | - Ratchaneewan Aunpad
- Graduate
Program in Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Thammasat University, Khlong Luang, Pathum Thani 12120, Thailand
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6
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Zhao JT, Zhang Y, Wang XW, Zou PY, Zhao Z, Mei H, Liu YX, Su NY, Zhu YJ, Wang B, Wei YL, Chen DF, Lan CH. Long-term effects of fecal microbiota transplantation on gut microbiota after Helicobacter pylori eradication with bismuth quadruple therapy: A randomized controlled trial. Helicobacter 2024; 29:e13079. [PMID: 38984661 DOI: 10.1111/hel.13079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2023] [Revised: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 07/11/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Eradicating Helicobacter pylori infection by bismuth quadruple therapy (BQT) is effective. However, the effect of BQT and subsequent fecal microbiota transplant (FMT) on the gut microbiota is less known. MATERIALS AND METHODS This prospective randomized controlled trial was conducted at a tertiary hospital in China from January 2019 to October 2020, with the primary endpoints the effect of BQT on the gut microbiota and the effect of FMT on the gut microbiota after bismuth quadruple therapy eradication therapy. A 14-day BQT with amoxicillin and clarithromycin was administered to H. pylori-positive subjects, and after eradication therapy, patients received a one-time FMT or placebo treatment. We then collected stool samples to assess the effects of 14-day BQT and FMT on the gut microbiota. 16 s rDNA and metagenomic sequencing were used to analyze the structure and function of intestinal flora. We also used Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale (GSRS) to evaluate gastrointestinal symptom during treatment. RESULTS A total of 30 patients were recruited and 15 were assigned to either FMT or placebo groups. After eradication therapy, alpha-diversity was decreased in both groups. At the phylum level, the abundance of Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes decreased, while Proteobacteria increased. At the genus level, the abundance of beneficial bacteria decreased, while pathogenic bacteria increased. Eradication therapy reduced some resistance genes abundance while increased the resistance genes abundance linked to Escherichia coli. While they all returned to baseline by Week 10. Besides, the difference was observed in Week 10 by the diarrhea score between two groups. Compared to Week 2, the GSRS total score and diarrhea score decreased in Week 3 only in FMT group. CONCLUSIONS The balance of intestinal flora in patients can be considerably impacted by BQT in the short term, but it has reverted back to baseline by Week 10. FMT can alleviate gastrointestinal symptoms even if there was no evidence it promoted restoration of intestinal flora.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing-Tao Zhao
- Department of Gastroenterology, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yi Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xing-Wei Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Pei-Ying Zou
- Department of Gastroenterology, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Zhe Zhao
- Department of Gastroenterology, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Hao Mei
- Department of Gastroenterology, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yu-Xiang Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Na-Yun Su
- Department of Gastroenterology, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yang-Jie Zhu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Bin Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yan-Ling Wei
- Department of Gastroenterology, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Dong-Feng Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Chun-Hui Lan
- Department of Gastroenterology, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
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Bepler T, Barrera MD, Rooney MT, Xiong Y, Kuang H, Goodell E, Goodwin MJ, Harbron E, Fu R, Mihailescu M, Narayanan A, Cotten ML. Antiviral activity of the host defense peptide piscidin 1: investigating a membrane-mediated mode of action. Front Chem 2024; 12:1379192. [PMID: 38988727 PMCID: PMC11233706 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2024.1379192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Outbreaks of viral diseases are on the rise, fueling the search for antiviral therapeutics that act on a broad range of viruses while remaining safe to human host cells. In this research, we leverage the finding that the plasma membranes of host cells and the lipid bilayers surrounding enveloped viruses differ in lipid composition. We feature Piscidin 1 (P1), a cationic host defense peptide (HDP) that has antimicrobial effects and membrane activity associated with its N-terminal region where a cluster of aromatic residues and copper-binding motif reside. While few HDPs have demonstrated antiviral activity, P1 acts in the micromolar range against several enveloped viruses that vary in envelope lipid composition. Notably, it inhibits HIV-1, a virus that has an envelope enriched in cholesterol, a lipid associated with higher membrane order and stability. Here, we first document through plaque assays that P1 boasts strong activity against SARS-CoV-2, which has an envelope low in cholesterol. Second, we extend previous studies done with homogeneous bilayers and devise cholesterol-containing zwitterionic membranes that contain the liquid disordered (Ld; low in cholesterol) and ordered (Lo, rich in cholesterol) phases. Using dye leakage assays and cryo-electron microscopy on vesicles, we show that P1 has dramatic permeabilizing capability on the Lo/Ld, an effect matched by a strong ability to aggregate, fuse, and thin the membranes. Differential scanning calorimetry and NMR experiments demonstrate that P1 mixes the lipid content of vesicles and alters the stability of the Lo. Structural studies by NMR indicate that P1 interacts with the Lo/Ld by folding into an α-helix that lies parallel to the membrane surface. Altogether, these results show that P1 is more disruptive to phase-separated than homogenous cholesterol-containing bilayers, suggesting an ability to target domain boundaries. Overall, this multi-faceted research highlights how a peptide that interacts strongly with membranes through an aromatic-rich N-terminal motif disrupt viral envelope mimics. This represents an important step towards the development of novel peptides with broad-spectrum antiviral activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tristan Bepler
- New York Structural Biology Center, New York, NY, United States
| | - Michael D. Barrera
- School of Systems Biology, George Mason University, Manassas, VA, United States
| | - Mary T. Rooney
- Department of Applied Science, William & Mary, Williamsburg, VA, United States
- Department of Chemistry, Hofstra University, Hempstead, NY, United States
| | - Yawei Xiong
- Department of Applied Science, William & Mary, Williamsburg, VA, United States
| | - Huihui Kuang
- New York Structural Biology Center, New York, NY, United States
| | - Evan Goodell
- Department of Applied Science, William & Mary, Williamsburg, VA, United States
| | - Matthew J. Goodwin
- Department of Chemistry, William & Mary, Williamsburg, VA, United States
| | - Elizabeth Harbron
- Department of Chemistry, William & Mary, Williamsburg, VA, United States
| | - Riqiang Fu
- National High Magnetic Field Laboratory, Tallahassee, FL, United States
| | - Mihaela Mihailescu
- Institute for Bioscience and Biotechnology Research, Rockville, MD, United States
| | - Aarthi Narayanan
- Department of Biology, George Mason University, Manassas, VA, United States
| | - Myriam L. Cotten
- Department of Applied Science, William & Mary, Williamsburg, VA, United States
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, United States
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Naing MD, Juliano SA, Angeles-Boza AM. Synergy between the clavanins as a weapon against multidrug-resistant Enterobacter cloacae. RSC Med Chem 2024; 15:2160-2164. [PMID: 38911167 PMCID: PMC11187565 DOI: 10.1039/d4md00070f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Finding new antibiotics that can act synergistically with each other offers many benefits such as lower dosages used for each drug, improved pathogen clearance, and ability to act against multi-drug resistant strains. In this study, six peptides isolated from the tunicate Styela clava were evaluated for their synergistic interaction using the checkerboard assay and the time kill kinetics assay. Using two different tests, we report synergy between clavanin D and clavaspirin in both tests and synergy between clavanin A and B only in the checkerboard test when used against the multidrug resistant E. cloacae 0136. This work demonstrates the possible cooperativity between homologous AMPs from a single organism and the advantage of using two susceptibility tests instead of one when testing synergistic combinations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marvin D Naing
- Department of Chemistry, University of Connecticut Storrs 06269 USA
| | - Samuel A Juliano
- Department of Chemistry, University of Connecticut Storrs 06269 USA
| | - Alfredo M Angeles-Boza
- Department of Chemistry, University of Connecticut Storrs 06269 USA
- Institute of Materials Science, University of Connecticut Storrs 06269 USA
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9
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Darwish RM, Salama AH. Developing antibacterial peptides as a promising therapy for combating antibiotic-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections. Vet World 2024; 17:1259-1264. [PMID: 39077460 PMCID: PMC11283607 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2024.1259-1264] [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: 03/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim Antibiotic-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa poses a serious health threat. This study aimed to investigate the antibacterial activity of peptide KW-23 against drug-resistant P. aeruginosa and its potential for enhancing the efficacy of conventional antibiotics. Materials and Methods KW-23 was synthesized from nine amino acids, specifically three tryptophans and three lysines. The purity of the substance was analyzed using reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography. The peptide was identified through mass spectrometry using electrospray ionization. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values of KW-23 in combination with conventional antibiotics against control and multidrug-resistant P. aeruginosa were determined utilizing broth microdilution. The erythrocyte hemolytic assay was used to measure toxicity. The KW-23 effect was analyzed using the time-kill curve. Results The peptide exhibited strong antibacterial activity against control and multidrug-resistant strains of P. aeruginosa, with MICs of 4.5 μg/mL and 20 μg/mL, respectively. At higher concentration of 100 μg/mL, KW-23 exhibited a low hemolytic impact, causing no more than 3% damage to red blood. The cytotoxicity assay demonstrates KW-23's safety, while the time-kill curve highlights its rapid and sustained antibacterial activity. The combination of KW-23 and gentamicin exhibited synergistic activity against both susceptible and resistant P. aeruginosa, with fractional inhibitory concentration index values of 0.07 and 0.27, respectively. Conclusion The KW-23 synthesized in the laboratory significantly combats antibiotic-resistant P. aeruginosa. Due to its strong antibacterial properties and low toxicity to cells, KW-23 is a promising alternative to traditional antibiotics in combating multidrug-resistant bacteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rula M. Darwish
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technology, School of Pharmacy, the University of Jordan, Amman, 11942, Jordan
| | - Ali H. Salama
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Middle East University, Amman, 11831, Jordan
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10
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Ma X, Aminov R, Franco OL, de la Fuente-Nunez C, Wang G, Wang J. Editorial: Antimicrobial peptides and their druggability, bio-safety, stability, and resistance. Front Microbiol 2024; 15:1425952. [PMID: 38846567 PMCID: PMC11154904 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2024.1425952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Xuanxuan Ma
- Innovative Team of Antimicrobial Peptides and Alternatives to Antibiotics, Feed Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
- Gene Engineering Laboratory, Feed Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Feed Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Beijing, China
| | - Rustam Aminov
- The School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, United Kingdom
| | - Octavio Luiz Franco
- S-Inova Biotech, Universidade Católica Dom Bosco, Campo Grande, MS, Brazil
- Centro de Análises Proteômicas e Bioquímicas Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Genômicas e Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica de Brasília, Brasília, DF, Brazil
| | - Cesar de la Fuente-Nunez
- Machine Biology Group, Departments of Psychiatry and Microbiology, Perelman School of Medicine, Institute for Biomedical Informatics, Institute for Translational Medicine and Therapeutics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Departments of Bioengineering and Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, School of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Department of Chemistry, School of Arts and Sciences, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Penn Institute for Computational Science, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Guangshun Wang
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, United States
| | - Jianhua Wang
- Innovative Team of Antimicrobial Peptides and Alternatives to Antibiotics, Feed Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
- Gene Engineering Laboratory, Feed Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Feed Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Beijing, China
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11
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Habjan E, Schouten GK, Speer A, van Ulsen P, Bitter W. Diving into drug-screening: zebrafish embryos as an in vivo platform for antimicrobial drug discovery and assessment. FEMS Microbiol Rev 2024; 48:fuae011. [PMID: 38684467 PMCID: PMC11078164 DOI: 10.1093/femsre/fuae011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Revised: 02/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024] Open
Abstract
The rise of multidrug-resistant bacteria underlines the need for innovative treatments, yet the introduction of new drugs has stagnated despite numerous antimicrobial discoveries. A major hurdle is a poor correlation between promising in vitro data and in vivo efficacy in animal models, which is essential for clinical development. Early in vivo testing is hindered by the expense and complexity of existing animal models. Therefore, there is a pressing need for cost-effective, rapid preclinical models with high translational value. To overcome these challenges, zebrafish embryos have emerged as an attractive model for infectious disease studies, offering advantages such as ethical alignment, rapid development, ease of maintenance, and genetic manipulability. The zebrafish embryo infection model, involving microinjection or immersion of pathogens and potential antibiotic hit compounds, provides a promising solution for early-stage drug screening. It offers a cost-effective and rapid means of assessing the efficacy, toxicity and mechanism of action of compounds in a whole-organism context. This review discusses the experimental design of this model, but also its benefits and challenges. Additionally, it highlights recently identified compounds in the zebrafish embryo infection model and discusses the relevance of the model in predicting the compound's clinical potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Habjan
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Control, Amsterdam UMC, Location VU Medical Center,De Boelelaan 1108, 1081 HZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Gina K Schouten
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Control, Amsterdam UMC, Location VU Medical Center,De Boelelaan 1108, 1081 HZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Alexander Speer
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Control, Amsterdam UMC, Location VU Medical Center,De Boelelaan 1108, 1081 HZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Peter van Ulsen
- Section Molecular Microbiology of A-LIFE, Vrije Universiteit, De Boelelaan 1085, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Wilbert Bitter
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Control, Amsterdam UMC, Location VU Medical Center,De Boelelaan 1108, 1081 HZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Section Molecular Microbiology of A-LIFE, Vrije Universiteit, De Boelelaan 1085, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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12
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Souza T, Mello E, Taveira G, Moreira F, Seabra S, Carvalho A, Gomes V. Synergistic action of synthetic peptides and amphotericin B causes disruption of the plasma membrane and cell wall in Candida albicans. Biosci Rep 2024; 44:BSR20232075. [PMID: 38563086 PMCID: PMC11016531 DOI: 10.1042/bsr20232075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Revised: 03/13/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
The objective of this work was to evaluate the combination of synthetic peptides based on the γ-core motif of defensin PvD1 with amphotericin B (AmB) at different concentrations against Candida albicans. We applied the checkerboard assay using different concentrations of the commercial drug AmB and the synthetic peptides γ31-45PvD1++ and γ33-41PvD1++ against C. albicans, aiming to find combinations with synergistic interactions. Between these two interactions involving γ31-45PvD1++ and AmB, an additive effect was observed. One such interaction occurred at concentrations of 0.009 µM of peptide γ31-45PvD1++ and 13.23 µM of AmB and another condition of 0.019 µM of peptide γ31-45PvD1++ and 6.61 µM of AmB. The other two concentrations of the interaction showed a synergistic effect in the combination of synthetic peptide γ31-45PvD1++ and AmB, where the concentrations were 1.40 µM peptide γ31-45PvD1++ and 0.004 µM AmB and 0.70 µM γ31-45PvD1++ peptide and 0.002 µM AmB. We proceeded with analysis of the mechanism of action involving synergistic effects. This examination unveiled a range of impactful outcomes, including the impairment of mitochondrial functionality, compromise of cell wall integrity, DNA degradation, and a consequential decline in cell viability. We also observed that both synergistic combinations were capable of causing damage to the plasma membrane and cell wall, causing leakage of intracellular components. This discovery demonstrates for the first time that the synergistic combinations found between the synthetic peptide γ31-45PvD1++ and AmB have an antifungal effect against C. albicans, acting on the integrity of the plasma membrane and cell wall.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thayna A.M. Souza
- Laboratório de Fisiologia e Bioquímica de Microrganismos, Centro de Biociências e Biotecnologia, Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, CEP: 28013-602, Campos dos Goytacazes, RJ, Brazil
| | - Erica O. Mello
- Laboratório de Fisiologia e Bioquímica de Microrganismos, Centro de Biociências e Biotecnologia, Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, CEP: 28013-602, Campos dos Goytacazes, RJ, Brazil
| | - Gabriel B. Taveira
- Laboratório de Fisiologia e Bioquímica de Microrganismos, Centro de Biociências e Biotecnologia, Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, CEP: 28013-602, Campos dos Goytacazes, RJ, Brazil
| | - Felipe F. Moreira
- Laboratório de Biologia Celular e Tecidual, Centro de Biociências e Biotecnologia, Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro (UENF), Campos dos Goytacazes, RJ, Brazil
| | - Sergio Henrique Seabra
- Laboratório de Biologia Celular e Tecidual, Centro de Biociências e Biotecnologia, Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro (UENF), Campos dos Goytacazes, RJ, Brazil
| | - André O. Carvalho
- Laboratório de Fisiologia e Bioquímica de Microrganismos, Centro de Biociências e Biotecnologia, Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, CEP: 28013-602, Campos dos Goytacazes, RJ, Brazil
| | - Valdirene M. Gomes
- Laboratório de Fisiologia e Bioquímica de Microrganismos, Centro de Biociências e Biotecnologia, Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, CEP: 28013-602, Campos dos Goytacazes, RJ, Brazil
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13
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Mulukutla A, Shreshtha R, Kumar Deb V, Chatterjee P, Jain U, Chauhan N. Recent advances in antimicrobial peptide-based therapy. Bioorg Chem 2024; 145:107151. [PMID: 38359706 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2024.107151] [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: 10/13/2023] [Revised: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are a group of polypeptide chains that have the property to target and kill a myriad of microbial organisms including viruses, bacteria, protists, etc. The first discovered AMP was named gramicidin, an extract of aerobic soil bacteria. Further studies discovered that these peptides are present not only in prokaryotes but in eukaryotes as well. They play a vital role in human innate immunity and wound repair. Consequently, they have maintained a high level of intrigue among scientists in the field of immunology, especially so with the rise of antibiotic-resistant pathogens decreasing the reliability of antibiotics in healthcare. While AMPs have promising potential to substitute for common antibiotics, their use as effective replacements is barred by certain limitations. First, they have the potential to be cytotoxic to human cells. Second, they are unstable in the blood due to action by various proteolytic agents and ions that cause their degradation. This review provides an overview of the mechanism of AMPs, their limitations, and developments in recent years that provide techniques to overcome those limitations. We also discuss the advantages and drawbacks of AMPs as a replacement for antibiotics as compared to other alternatives such as synthetically modified bacteriophages, traditional medicine, and probiotics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aditya Mulukutla
- School of Health Sciences and Technology, UPES, Dehradun 248007, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Romi Shreshtha
- School of Health Sciences and Technology, UPES, Dehradun 248007, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Vishal Kumar Deb
- School of Health Sciences and Technology, UPES, Dehradun 248007, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Pallabi Chatterjee
- School of Health Sciences and Technology, UPES, Dehradun 248007, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Utkarsh Jain
- School of Health Sciences and Technology, UPES, Dehradun 248007, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Nidhi Chauhan
- School of Health Sciences and Technology, UPES, Dehradun 248007, Uttarakhand, India.
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14
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Karapetian M, Alimbarashvili E, Vishnepolsky B, Gabrielian A, Rosenthal A, Hurt DE, Tartakovsky M, Mchedlishvili M, Arsenadze D, Pirtskhalava M, Zaalishvili G. Evaluation of the synergistic potential and mechanisms of action for de novo designed cationic antimicrobial peptides. Heliyon 2024; 10:e27852. [PMID: 38560672 PMCID: PMC10979160 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e27852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Revised: 03/01/2024] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) have emerged as promising candidates in combating antimicrobial resistance - a growing issue in healthcare. However, to develop AMPs into effective therapeutics, a thorough analysis and extensive investigations are essential. In this study, we employed an in silico approach to design cationic AMPs de novo, followed by their experimental testing. The antibacterial potential of de novo designed cationic AMPs, along with their synergistic properties in combination with conventional antibiotics was examined. Furthermore, the effects of bacterial inoculum density and metabolic state on the antibacterial activity of AMPs were evaluated. Finally, the impact of several potent AMPs on E. coli cell envelope and genomic DNA integrity was determined. Collectively, this comprehensive analysis provides insights into the unique characteristics of cationic AMPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margarita Karapetian
- Laboratory of Chromatin Biology, Institute of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Agricultural University of Georgia, 240 David Aghmashenebeli Alley, 0159, Tbilisi, Georgia
| | - Evgenia Alimbarashvili
- Laboratory of Chromatin Biology, Institute of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Agricultural University of Georgia, 240 David Aghmashenebeli Alley, 0159, Tbilisi, Georgia
- Ivane Beritashvili Center of Experimental Biomedicine, 0160, Tbilisi, Georgia
| | - Boris Vishnepolsky
- Ivane Beritashvili Center of Experimental Biomedicine, 0160, Tbilisi, Georgia
| | - Andrei Gabrielian
- Office of Cyber Infrastructure and Computational Biology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Alex Rosenthal
- Office of Cyber Infrastructure and Computational Biology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Darrell E. Hurt
- Office of Cyber Infrastructure and Computational Biology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Michael Tartakovsky
- Office of Cyber Infrastructure and Computational Biology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Mariam Mchedlishvili
- Laboratory of Chromatin Biology, Institute of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Agricultural University of Georgia, 240 David Aghmashenebeli Alley, 0159, Tbilisi, Georgia
| | - Davit Arsenadze
- Laboratory of Chromatin Biology, Institute of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Agricultural University of Georgia, 240 David Aghmashenebeli Alley, 0159, Tbilisi, Georgia
| | - Malak Pirtskhalava
- Ivane Beritashvili Center of Experimental Biomedicine, 0160, Tbilisi, Georgia
| | - Giorgi Zaalishvili
- Laboratory of Chromatin Biology, Institute of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Agricultural University of Georgia, 240 David Aghmashenebeli Alley, 0159, Tbilisi, Georgia
- Ivane Beritashvili Center of Experimental Biomedicine, 0160, Tbilisi, Georgia
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15
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Summer K, Liu L, Guo Q, Barkla B, Benkendorff K. Semi-purified Antimicrobial Proteins from Oyster Hemolymph Inhibit Pneumococcal Infection. MARINE BIOTECHNOLOGY (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2024:10.1007/s10126-024-10297-w. [PMID: 38430292 DOI: 10.1007/s10126-024-10297-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
Pneumococcal infections caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae are a leading cause of morbidity and mortality globally, particularly among children. The ability of S. pneumoniae to form enduring biofilms makes treatment inherently difficult, and options are further limited by emerging antibiotic resistance. The discovery of new antibiotics, particularly those with antibiofilm activity, is therefore increasingly important. Antimicrobial proteins and peptides (AMPs) from marine invertebrates are recognised as promising pharmacological leads. This study determined the in vitro antibacterial activity of hemolymph and unique protein fractions from an Australian oyster (Saccostrea glomerata) against multi-drug-resistant S. pneumoniae. We developed a successful method for hemolymph extraction and separation into 16 fractions by preparative HPLC. The strongest activity was observed in fraction 7: at 42 µg/mL protein, this fraction was bactericidal to S. pneumoniae and inhibited biofilm formation. Proteomic analysis showed that fraction 7 contained relatively high abundance of carbonic anhydrase, cofilin, cystatin B-like, and gelsolin-like proteins, while surrounding fractions, which showed lower or no antibacterial activity, contained these proteins in lower abundance or not at all. This work supports traditional medicinal uses of oysters and contributes to further research and development of novel hemolymph/AMP-based treatments for pneumococcal infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate Summer
- Faculty of Science and Engineering, Southern Cross University, Military Road, Lismore, NSW, 2480, Australia.
| | - Lei Liu
- Faculty of Science and Engineering, Southern Cross University, Military Road, Lismore, NSW, 2480, Australia
| | - Qi Guo
- Faculty of Science and Engineering, Southern Cross University, Military Road, Lismore, NSW, 2480, Australia
| | - Bronwyn Barkla
- Faculty of Science and Engineering, Southern Cross University, Military Road, Lismore, NSW, 2480, Australia
| | - Kirsten Benkendorff
- National Marine Science Centre, Southern Cross University, 2 Bay Drive, Coffs Harbour, NSW, 2450, Australia
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16
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Di Napoli M, Castagliuolo G, Pio S, Di Nardo I, Russo T, Antonini D, Notomista E, Varcamonti M, Zanfardino A. Study of the Antimicrobial Activity of the Human Peptide SQQ30 against Pathogenic Bacteria. Antibiotics (Basel) 2024; 13:145. [PMID: 38391531 PMCID: PMC10886087 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics13020145] [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: 12/22/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Given the continuous increase in antibiotic resistance, research has been driven towards the isolation of new antimicrobial molecules. Short, charged, and very hydrophobic antimicrobial peptides have a direct action against biological membranes, which are less prone to developing resistance. Using a bioinformatic tool, we chose the SQQ30 peptide, isolated from the human SOGA1 protein. The antimicrobial activity of this peptide against various Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacterial strains and against a fungal strain was studied. A mechanism of action directed against biological membranes was outlined. When administered in combination with the antibiotic ciprofloxacin and with the TRS21 (buforin II), another antimicrobial peptide, SQQ30 can be used with a lower MIC, showing additivity and synergism, respectively. Particularly interesting is the ability of SQQ30 to bind LPS in Gram-negative strains, preventing the eukaryotic cell from releasing inflammatory mediators. Our study indicates SQQ30 as a novel and promising antimicrobial agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michela Di Napoli
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy
| | - Giusy Castagliuolo
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy
| | - Sara Pio
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy
| | - Ilaria Di Nardo
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy
| | - Teresa Russo
- IPCB-Institute for Polymers, Composites and Biomaterials, National Research Council of Italy, 80125 Naples, Italy
| | - Dario Antonini
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy
| | - Eugenio Notomista
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy
| | - Mario Varcamonti
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy
| | - Anna Zanfardino
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy
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17
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Oludiran A, Malik A, Zourou AC, Wu Y, Gross SP, Siryapon A, Poudel A, Alleyne K, Adams S, Courson DS, Cotten ML, Purcell EB. Host-defense piscidin peptides as antibiotic adjuvants against Clostridioides difficile. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0295627. [PMID: 38252641 PMCID: PMC10802969 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0295627] [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: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
The spore-forming intestinal pathogen Clostridioides difficile causes multidrug resistant infection with a high rate of recurrence after treatment. Piscidins 1 (p1) and 3 (p3), cationic host defense peptides with micromolar cytotoxicity against C. difficile, sensitize C. difficile to clinically relevant antibiotics tested at sublethal concentrations. Both peptides bind to Cu2+ using an amino terminal copper and nickel binding motif. Here, we investigate the two peptides in the apo and holo states as antibiotic adjuvants against an epidemic strain of C. difficile. We find that the presence of the peptides leads to lower doses of metronidazole, vancomycin, and fidaxomicin to kill C. difficile. The activity of metronidazole, which targets DNA, is enhanced by a factor of 32 when combined with p3, previously shown to bind and condense DNA. Conversely, the activity of vancomycin, which acts at bacterial cell walls, is enhanced 64-fold when combined with membrane-active p1-Cu2+. As shown through microscopy monitoring the permeabilization of membranes of C. difficile cells and vesicle mimics of their membranes, the adjuvant effect of p1 and p3 in the apo and holo states is consistent with a mechanism of action where the peptides enable greater antibiotic penetration through the cell membrane to increase their bioavailability. The variations in effects obtained with the different forms of the peptides reveal that while all piscidins generally sensitize C. difficile to antibiotics, co-treatments can be optimized in accordance with the underlying mechanism of action of the peptides and antibiotics. Overall, this study highlights the potential of antimicrobial peptides as antibiotic adjuvants to increase the lethality of currently approved antibiotic dosages, reducing the risk of incomplete treatments and ensuing drug resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adenrele Oludiran
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Areej Malik
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, Virginia, United States of America
- Biomedical Sciences Program, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Andriana C. Zourou
- Department of Applied Science, William & Mary, Williamsburg, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Yonghan Wu
- Irvine Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of California, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Steven P. Gross
- Ivrine Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Albert Siryapon
- Irvine Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of California, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Asia Poudel
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Kwincy Alleyne
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Savion Adams
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, Virginia, United States of America
| | - David S. Courson
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Myriam L. Cotten
- Department of Applied Science, William & Mary, Williamsburg, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Erin B. Purcell
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, Virginia, United States of America
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18
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Soares RS, Gomes D, Serrano I, Cunha E, Tavares L, Oliveira M. Absence of Synergism between a Dual-AMP Biogel and Antibiotics Used as Therapeutic Agents for Diabetic Foot Infections. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 25:407. [PMID: 38203579 PMCID: PMC10779294 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25010407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Diabetic foot infections (DFIs) are frequently linked to diabetic-related morbidity and death because of the ineffectiveness of conventional antibiotics against multidrug-resistant bacteria. Pexiganan and nisin A are antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), and their application may complement conventional antibiotics in DFI treatment. A collagen 3D model, previously established to mimic a soft-tissue collagen matrix, was used to evaluate the antibacterial efficacy of a guar gum gel containing pexiganan and nisin alone and combined with three antimicrobials toward the biofilms of Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolated from infected foot ulcers. Antimicrobials and bacterial diffusion were confirmed by spot-on-lawn and bacterial growth by bacterial count (cfu/mL). Our main conclusion was that the dual-AMP biogel combined with gentamicin, clindamycin, or vancomycin was not able to significantly reduce bacterial growth or eradicate S. aureus and P. aeruginosa DFI isolates. We further reported an antagonism between dual-AMP and dual-AMP combined with antibiotics against S. aureus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Silva Soares
- CIISA—Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisbon, Avenida da Universidade Técnica, 1300-477 Lisboa, Portugal; (R.S.S.); (D.G.); (E.C.); (L.T.); (M.O.)
- Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Sciences (AL4AnimalS), Avenida da Universidade Técnica, 1300-477 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Diana Gomes
- CIISA—Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisbon, Avenida da Universidade Técnica, 1300-477 Lisboa, Portugal; (R.S.S.); (D.G.); (E.C.); (L.T.); (M.O.)
- Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Sciences (AL4AnimalS), Avenida da Universidade Técnica, 1300-477 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Isa Serrano
- CIISA—Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisbon, Avenida da Universidade Técnica, 1300-477 Lisboa, Portugal; (R.S.S.); (D.G.); (E.C.); (L.T.); (M.O.)
- Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Sciences (AL4AnimalS), Avenida da Universidade Técnica, 1300-477 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Eva Cunha
- CIISA—Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisbon, Avenida da Universidade Técnica, 1300-477 Lisboa, Portugal; (R.S.S.); (D.G.); (E.C.); (L.T.); (M.O.)
- Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Sciences (AL4AnimalS), Avenida da Universidade Técnica, 1300-477 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Luís Tavares
- CIISA—Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisbon, Avenida da Universidade Técnica, 1300-477 Lisboa, Portugal; (R.S.S.); (D.G.); (E.C.); (L.T.); (M.O.)
- Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Sciences (AL4AnimalS), Avenida da Universidade Técnica, 1300-477 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Manuela Oliveira
- CIISA—Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisbon, Avenida da Universidade Técnica, 1300-477 Lisboa, Portugal; (R.S.S.); (D.G.); (E.C.); (L.T.); (M.O.)
- Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Sciences (AL4AnimalS), Avenida da Universidade Técnica, 1300-477 Lisboa, Portugal
- cE3c—Centre for Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Changes & CHANGE—Global Change and Sustainability Institute, Campo Grande 016, 1749-016 Lisbon, Portugal
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19
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Liu F, Greenwood AI, Xiong Y, Miceli RT, Fu R, Anderson KW, McCallum SA, Mihailescu M, Gross R, Cotten ML. Host Defense Peptide Piscidin and Yeast-Derived Glycolipid Exhibit Synergistic Antimicrobial Action through Concerted Interactions with Membranes. JACS AU 2023; 3:3345-3365. [PMID: 38155643 PMCID: PMC10751773 DOI: 10.1021/jacsau.3c00506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023]
Abstract
Developing new antimicrobials as alternatives to conventional antibiotics has become an urgent race to eradicate drug-resistant bacteria and to save human lives. Conventionally, antimicrobial molecules are studied independently even though they can be cosecreted in vivo. In this research, we investigate two classes of naturally derived antimicrobials: sophorolipid (SL) esters as modified yeast-derived glycolipid biosurfactants that feature high biocompatibility and low production cost; piscidins, which are host defense peptides (HDPs) from fish. While HDPs such as piscidins target the membrane of pathogens, and thus result in low incidence of resistance, SLs are not well understood on a mechanistic level. Here, we demonstrate that combining SL-hexyl ester (SL-HE) with subinhibitory concentration of piscidins 1 (P1) and 3 (P3) stimulates strong antimicrobial synergy, potentiating a promising therapeutic window. Permeabilization assays and biophysical studies employing circular dichroism, NMR, mass spectrometry, and X-ray diffraction are performed to investigate the mechanism underlying this powerful synergy. We reveal four key mechanistic features underlying the synergistic action: (1) P1/3 binds to SL-HE aggregates, becoming α-helical; (2) piscidin-glycolipid assemblies synergistically accumulate on membranes; (3) SL-HE used alone or bound to P1/3 associates with phospholipid bilayers where it induces defects; (4) piscidin-glycolipid complexes disrupt the bilayer structure more dramatically and differently than either compound alone, with phase separation occurring when both agents are present. Overall, dramatic enhancement in antimicrobial activity is associated with the use of two membrane-active agents, with the glycolipid playing the roles of prefolding the peptide, coordinating the delivery of both agents to bacterial surfaces, recruiting the peptide to the pathogenic membranes, and supporting membrane disruption by the peptide. Given that SLs are ubiquitously and safely used in consumer products, the SL/peptide formulation engineered and mechanistically characterized in this study could represent fertile ground to develop novel synergistic agents against drug-resistant bacteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fei Liu
- Department
of Chemistry, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, New York 12180, United States
| | - Alexander I. Greenwood
- Department
of Applied Science, William & Mary, Williamsburg, Virginia 23185, United States
| | - Yawei Xiong
- Department
of Applied Science, William & Mary, Williamsburg, Virginia 23185, United States
| | - Rebecca T. Miceli
- Department
of Chemistry, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, New York 12180, United States
- Center
for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, New York 12180, United States
| | - Riqiang Fu
- Center
of Interdisciplinary Magnetic Resonance, National High Magnetic Field Laboratory, Tallahassee, Florida 32310, United States
| | - Kyle W. Anderson
- National
Institute of Standards and Technology, Rockville, Maryland 20850, United States
| | - Scott A. McCallum
- Center
for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, New York 12180, United States
| | - Mihaela Mihailescu
- Institute
for Bioscience and Biotechnology Research, University of Maryland, Rockville, Maryland 20850, United States
| | - Richard Gross
- Department
of Chemistry, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, New York 12180, United States
- Center
for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, New York 12180, United States
| | - Myriam L. Cotten
- Department
of Applied Science, William & Mary, Williamsburg, Virginia 23185, United States
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20
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Bouhrour N, van der Reijden TJK, Voet MM, Schonkeren-Ravensbergen B, Cordfunke RA, Drijfhout JW, Bendali F, Nibbering PH. Novel Antibacterial Agents SAAP-148 and Halicin Combat Gram-Negative Bacteria Colonizing Catheters. Antibiotics (Basel) 2023; 12:1743. [PMID: 38136778 PMCID: PMC10741160 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics12121743] [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: 11/11/2023] [Revised: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The antibiotic management of catheter-related infections (CRIs) often fails owing to the emergence of antimicrobial-resistant strains and/or biofilm/persister apparitions. Thus, we investigated the efficacy of two novel antimicrobial agents, i.e., the synthetic peptide SAAP-148 and the novel antibiotic halicin, against Gram-negative bacteria (GNB) colonizing catheters. The antibacterial, anti-biofilm, and anti-persister activities of both agents were evaluated against Acinetobacter baumannii, Escherichia coli, and Klebsiella pneumoniae strains. The enrolled strains were isolated from catheters and selected based on their resistance to at least three antibiotic classes and biofilm formation potential. Furthermore, the hemolysis and endotoxin neutralization abilities of these agents were explored. The bactericidal activity of both agents was reduced in urine and plasma as compared to buffered saline. In a dose-dependent manner, SAAP-148 and halicin reduced bacterial counts in 24 h preformed biofilms on silicone elastomer discs and eliminated persisters originating from antibiotic-exposed mature 7-day biofilms, with halicin being less effective than SAAP-148. Importantly, SAAP-148 and halicin acted synergistically on E. coli and K. pneumoniae biofilms but not on A. baumannii biofilms. The peptide, but not halicin, decreased the production of IL-12p40 upon exposure to UV-killed bacteria. This preliminary study showed that SAAP-148 and halicin alone/in combination are promising candidates to fight GNB colonizing catheters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nesrine Bouhrour
- Laboratoire de Microbiologie Appliquée, Faculté des Sciences de la Nature et de la Vie, Université de Bejaia, Bejaia 06000, Algeria
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Leiden University Medical Center, 2300 RC Leiden, The Netherlands; (T.J.K.v.d.R.); (M.M.V.); (B.S.-R.); (P.H.N.)
| | - Tanny J. K. van der Reijden
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Leiden University Medical Center, 2300 RC Leiden, The Netherlands; (T.J.K.v.d.R.); (M.M.V.); (B.S.-R.); (P.H.N.)
| | - Michella M. Voet
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Leiden University Medical Center, 2300 RC Leiden, The Netherlands; (T.J.K.v.d.R.); (M.M.V.); (B.S.-R.); (P.H.N.)
| | - Bep Schonkeren-Ravensbergen
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Leiden University Medical Center, 2300 RC Leiden, The Netherlands; (T.J.K.v.d.R.); (M.M.V.); (B.S.-R.); (P.H.N.)
| | - Robert A. Cordfunke
- Department of Immunology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2300 RC Leiden, The Netherlands; (R.A.C.); (J.W.D.)
| | - Jan Wouter Drijfhout
- Department of Immunology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2300 RC Leiden, The Netherlands; (R.A.C.); (J.W.D.)
| | - Farida Bendali
- Laboratoire de Microbiologie Appliquée, Faculté des Sciences de la Nature et de la Vie, Université de Bejaia, Bejaia 06000, Algeria
| | - Peter H. Nibbering
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Leiden University Medical Center, 2300 RC Leiden, The Netherlands; (T.J.K.v.d.R.); (M.M.V.); (B.S.-R.); (P.H.N.)
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21
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Manoharadas S, Al-Rayes BF, Almuzaini MAM, Almohammadi YM. Resensitisation of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus to Conventional Antibiotics in the Presence of an Engineered Enzybiotic. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:2511. [PMID: 37896271 PMCID: PMC10610342 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15102511] [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: 09/04/2023] [Revised: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is one of the most dreadful pathogens relevant in community and nosocomial-related infections around the world. Resensitising MRSA to antibiotics, once it became resistant, was a tough choice due to the high adaptability of this bacteria to savage conditions. This study aimed to create a chimeric enzybiotic against MRSA and test its efficiency, either individually or in combination with antibiotics. The novel enzybiotic BAC100 was constructed by fusing the catalytic domain from the bacteriocin BacL1 from Enterococcus faecalis with the cell-wall-binding domain from protein P17 of Staphylococcus aureus bacteriophage ϕ44AHJD. Apart from its partial lone activity, BAC100 was found to resensitise the MRSA strain to traditional antibiotics, including ampicillin and tetracycline. Both drugs were able to reduce live MRSA cells by 85 and 90%, respectively, within 60 min of treatment together with BAC100. However, no significant activity was observed against MRSA when these drugs were tested independently, pointing to the inherent resistance of MRSA against these conventional antibiotics. To our knowledge, this is one of the first instances where an engineered enzybiotic was found to resensitise MRSA to conventional antibiotics. This study will pave the way for the development of similar peptides that can be used together with antibiotics against gruesome pathogens of clinical importance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salim Manoharadas
- Central Laboratory, College of Science, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2454, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia; (B.F.A.-R.); (M.A.M.A.); (Y.M.A.)
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22
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Mhlongo JT, Waddad AY, Albericio F, de la Torre BG. Antimicrobial Peptide Synergies for Fighting Infectious Diseases. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 10:e2300472. [PMID: 37407512 PMCID: PMC10502873 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202300472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2023] [Revised: 05/28/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023]
Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are essential elements of thehost defense system. Characterized by heterogenous structures and broad-spectrumaction, they are promising candidates for combating multidrug resistance. Thecombined use of AMPs with other antimicrobial agents provides a new arsenal ofdrugs with synergistic action, thereby overcoming the drawback of monotherapiesduring infections. AMPs kill microbes via pore formation, thus inhibitingintracellular functions. This mechanism of action by AMPs is an advantage overantibiotics as it hinders the development of drug resistance. The synergisticeffect of AMPs will allow the repurposing of conventional antimicrobials andenhance their clinical outcomes, reduce toxicity, and, most significantly,prevent the development of resistance. In this review, various synergies ofAMPs with antimicrobials and miscellaneous agents are discussed. The effect ofstructural diversity and chemical modification on AMP properties is firstaddressed and then different combinations that can lead to synergistic action,whether this combination is between AMPs and antimicrobials, or AMPs andmiscellaneous compounds, are attended. This review can serve as guidance whenredesigning and repurposing the use of AMPs in combination with other antimicrobialagents for enhanced clinical outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica T. Mhlongo
- KwaZulu‐Natal Research Innovation and Sequencing Platform (KRISP)School of Laboratory Medicine and Medical SciencesCollege of Health SciencesUniversity of KwaZulu‐NatalDurban4041South Africa
- Peptide Science LaboratorySchool of Chemistry and PhysicsUniversity of KwaZulu‐NatalWestvilleDurban4000South Africa
| | - Ayman Y. Waddad
- Peptide Science LaboratorySchool of Chemistry and PhysicsUniversity of KwaZulu‐NatalWestvilleDurban4000South Africa
| | - Fernando Albericio
- Peptide Science LaboratorySchool of Chemistry and PhysicsUniversity of KwaZulu‐NatalWestvilleDurban4000South Africa
- CIBER‐BBNNetworking Centre on BioengineeringBiomaterials and Nanomedicineand Department of Organic ChemistryUniversity of BarcelonaBarcelona08028Spain
| | - Beatriz G. de la Torre
- KwaZulu‐Natal Research Innovation and Sequencing Platform (KRISP)School of Laboratory Medicine and Medical SciencesCollege of Health SciencesUniversity of KwaZulu‐NatalDurban4041South Africa
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23
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Safi R, Sánchez-Álvarez M, Bosch M, Demangel C, Parton RG, Pol A. Defensive-lipid droplets: Cellular organelles designed for antimicrobial immunity. Immunol Rev 2023; 317:113-136. [PMID: 36960679 DOI: 10.1111/imr.13199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/25/2023]
Abstract
Microbes have developed many strategies to subvert host organisms, which, in turn, evolved several innate immune responses. As major lipid storage organelles of eukaryotes, lipid droplets (LDs) are an attractive source of nutrients for invaders. Intracellular viruses, bacteria, and protozoan parasites induce and physically interact with LDs, and the current view is that they "hijack" LDs to draw on substrates for host colonization. This dogma has been challenged by the recent demonstration that LDs are endowed with a protein-mediated antibiotic activity, which is upregulated in response to danger signals and sepsis. Dependence on host nutrients could be a generic "Achilles' heel" of intracellular pathogens and LDs a suitable chokepoint harnessed by innate immunity to organize a front-line defense. Here, we will provide a brief overview of the state of the conflict and discuss potential mechanisms driving the formation of the 'defensive-LDs' functioning as hubs of innate immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rémi Safi
- Lipid Trafficking and Disease Group, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi I Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
- Josep Carreras Leukemia Research Institute, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Miguel Sánchez-Álvarez
- Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares (CNIC), Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas Alberto Sols (IIB), Madrid, Spain
| | - Marta Bosch
- Lipid Trafficking and Disease Group, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi I Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Caroline Demangel
- Immunobiology and Therapy Unit, Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, INSERM U1224, Paris, France
| | - Robert G Parton
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience (IMB), Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Centre for Microscopy and Microanalysis (CMM), University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Albert Pol
- Lipid Trafficking and Disease Group, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi I Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Institució Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats (ICREA), Barcelona, Spain
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24
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Stojowska-Swędrzyńska K, Kuczyńska-Wiśnik D, Laskowska E. New Strategies to Kill Metabolically-Dormant Cells Directly Bypassing the Need for Active Cellular Processes. Antibiotics (Basel) 2023; 12:1044. [PMID: 37370363 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics12061044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2023] [Revised: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Antibiotic therapy failure is often caused by the presence of persister cells, which are metabolically-dormant bacteria capable of surviving exposure to antimicrobials. Under favorable conditions, persisters can resume growth leading to recurrent infections. Moreover, several studies have indicated that persisters may promote the evolution of antimicrobial resistance and facilitate the selection of specific resistant mutants; therefore, in light of the increasing numbers of multidrug-resistant infections worldwide, developing efficient strategies against dormant cells is of paramount importance. In this review, we present and discuss the efficacy of various agents whose antimicrobial activity is independent of the metabolic status of the bacteria as they target cell envelope structures. Since the biofilm-environment is favorable for the formation of dormant subpopulations, anti-persister strategies should also include agents that destroy the biofilm matrix or inhibit biofilm development. This article reviews examples of selected cell wall hydrolases, polysaccharide depolymerases and antimicrobial peptides. Their combination with standard antibiotics seems to be the most promising approach in combating persistent infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karolina Stojowska-Swędrzyńska
- Department of General and Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Biology, University of Gdansk, Wita Stwosza 59, 80-308 Gdansk, Poland
| | - Dorota Kuczyńska-Wiśnik
- Department of General and Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Biology, University of Gdansk, Wita Stwosza 59, 80-308 Gdansk, Poland
| | - Ewa Laskowska
- Department of General and Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Biology, University of Gdansk, Wita Stwosza 59, 80-308 Gdansk, Poland
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25
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Maset RG, Hapeshi A, Lapage J, Harrington N, Littler J, Perrier S, Harrison F. Combining SNAPs with antibiotics shows enhanced synergistic efficacy against S. aureus and P. aeruginosa biofilms. NPJ Biofilms Microbiomes 2023; 9:36. [PMID: 37291132 PMCID: PMC10250483 DOI: 10.1038/s41522-023-00401-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Biofilm infections are associated with a high mortality risk for patients. Antibiotics perform poorly against biofilm communities, so high doses and prolonged treatments are often used in clinical settings. We investigated the pairwise interactions of two synthetic nano-engineered antimicrobial polymers (SNAPs). The g-D50 copolymer was synergistic with penicillin and silver sulfadiazine against planktonic Staphylococcus aureus USA300 in synthetic wound fluid. Furthermore, the combination of g-D50 and silver sulfadiazine showed a potent synergistic antibiofilm activity against S. aureus USA300 using in vitro and ex vivo wound biofilm models. The a-T50 copolymer was synergistic with colistin against planktonic Pseudomonas aeruginosa in synthetic cystic fibrosis medium, and this pair showed a potent synergistic antibiofilm activity against P. aeruginosa in an ex vivo cystic fibrosis lung model. SNAPs thus have the potential for increased antibiofilm performance in combination with certain antibiotics to shorten prolonged treatments and reduce dosages against biofilm infection.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alexia Hapeshi
- Department of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL, UK
| | - John Lapage
- School of Life Sciences, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL, UK
| | - Niamh Harrington
- Department of Evolution, Ecology and Behaviour, Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Science, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, L69 7ZV, UK
| | - Jenny Littler
- School of Life Sciences, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL, UK
| | - Sébastien Perrier
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL, UK.
- Department of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL, UK.
- Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria, 3052, Australia.
| | - Freya Harrison
- School of Life Sciences, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL, UK.
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26
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Darwish RM, Salama AH. A pilot study on ultrashort peptide with fluconazole: A promising novel anticandidal combination. Vet World 2023; 16:1284-1288. [PMID: 37577210 PMCID: PMC10421555 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2023.1284-1288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim Human infections caused by Candida albicans are common and range in severity from relatively treatable skin and mucosal conditions to systemic, fatal invasive candidiasis. The treatment of fungal infections is challenged by major obstacles, including the scarcity of effective therapeutic options, the toxicity of available medications, and the escalating antifungal resistance. Hence, there exists an urgent need to develop new classes of antimicrobial agents. This study was conducted to investigate the effect of KW-23 peptide against standard and resistant strains of C. albicans alone and in combination with fluconazole. Materials and Methods A conjugated ultrashort antimicrobial peptide (KW-23) was designed and synthesized. KW-23 was challenged against standard and multidrug-resistant C. albicans alone and in combination with fluconazole using standard antimicrobial and checkerboard assays. The toxicity of the peptide was examined using hemolytic assays. Results KW-23 positively affected the standard and resistant Candidal strains (at 5 and 15 μg/mL respectively), exhibiting potent synergistic antimicrobial activity against the standard strain when combined with fluconazole. The effect of the combination was additive against the resistant strain (0.6 μg/mL). Furthermore, the peptide exhibited negligible toxicity on human erythrocytes. Conclusion KW-23 and its combination with fluconazole could be a promising candidate for developing anticandidal agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rula M. Darwish
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technology, School of Pharmacy, the University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan
| | - Ali H. Salama
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Middle East University, Amman 11831, Jordan
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27
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Oyardi O, Eltimur T, Demir ES, Alkan B, Savage PB, Akcali A, Bozkurt-Guzel C. Antibacterial and Antibiofilm Activities of Ceragenins Alone and in Combination with Levofloxacin Against Multidrug Resistant Myroides spp. Clinical Isolates from Patients with Urinary Tract Infections. Curr Microbiol 2023; 80:210. [PMID: 37191731 DOI: 10.1007/s00284-023-03321-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Myroides spp. are rare opportunistic pathogens, but they can be life-threatening because of their multidrug-resistant drug properties and their potential to cause outbreaks, especially in immunosuppressed patients. In this study, 33 isolates isolated from intensive care patients with urinary tract infections were examined for drug susceptibility. All isolates except three proved to be resistant to the tested conventional antibiotics. The effects of ceragenins, a class of compounds developed to mimic endogenous antimicrobial peptides, were evaluated against these organisms. The MIC values of nine ceragenins were determined, and the most effective ceragenins were CSA-131 and CSA-138. Three isolates that were susceptible to levofloxacin and two isolates resistant to all antibiotics underwent 16 s rDNA analysis, and whereas resistant isolates were identified as M. odoratus, susceptible isolates were identified as M. odoratimimus. CSA-131 and CSA-138 showed rapid antimicrobial effects observed in time-kill analyses. Combinations of ceragenins and levofloxacin caused a significant increase in antimicrobial and antibiofilm activities against M. odoratimimus isolates. In this study, Myroides spp. were found to be multidrug-resistant and have biofilm forming capacity, and ceragenins CSA-131 and CSA-138 were found to be especially effective on both planktonic and biofilm forms of Myroides spp.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ozlem Oyardi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Gazi University, 06330, Ankara, Turkey.
| | - Tuba Eltimur
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Canakkale Onsekiz Mart University, Terzioglu Campus, 17100, Canakkale, Turkey
| | - Elif Sena Demir
- Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Istanbul University, 34116, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Busra Alkan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Istanbul University, 34116, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Paul B Savage
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, 84602, USA
| | - Alper Akcali
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Canakkale Onsekiz Mart University, Terzioglu Campus, 17100, Canakkale, Turkey
| | - Cagla Bozkurt-Guzel
- Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Istanbul University, 34116, Istanbul, Turkey
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Moorthy K, Chang KC, Yang HH, Su WM, Chiang CK, Yuan Z. Recent developments in detection and therapeutic approaches for antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections. J Food Drug Anal 2023; 31:1-19. [PMID: 37224551 PMCID: PMC10208662 DOI: 10.38212/2224-6614.3433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Owing to the widespread emergence and proliferation of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, the therapeutic benefits of antibiotics have been reduced. In addition, the ongoing evolution of multidrug-resistant pathogens poses a challenge for the scientific community to develop sensitive analytical methods and innovative antimicrobial agents for the detection and treatment of drug-resistant bacterial infections. In this review, we have described the antibiotic resistance mechanisms that occur in bacteria and summarized the recent developments in detection strategies for monitoring drug resistance using different diagnostic methods in three aspects, including electrostatic attraction, chemical reaction, and probe-free analysis. Additionally, to understand the effective inhibition of drug-resistant bacterial growth by recent nano-antibiotics, the underlying antimicrobial mechanisms and efficacy of biogenic silver nanoparticles and antimicrobial peptides, which have shown promise, and the rationale, design, and potential improvements to these methods are also highlighted in this review. Finally, the primary challenges and future trends in the rational design of facile sensing platforms and novel antibacterial agents against superbugs are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kavya Moorthy
- Department of Chemistry, National Dong Hwa University, Shoufeng, Hualien, 97401,
Taiwan, ROC
| | - Kai-Chih Chang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Hualien Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, Hualien, 970,
Taiwan, ROC
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Biotechnology, Tzu Chi University, Hualien, 970,
Taiwan, ROC
| | - Hsueh-Hui Yang
- Department of Medical Research, Hualien Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, Hualien, 970,
Taiwan, ROC
| | - Wen-Min Su
- Department of Life Science, National Dong Hwa University, Shoufeng, Hualien, 97401,
Taiwan, ROC
| | - Cheng-Kang Chiang
- Department of Chemistry, National Dong Hwa University, Shoufeng, Hualien, 97401,
Taiwan, ROC
| | - Zhiqin Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Resource Engineering, College of Chemistry, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, 100029,
China
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29
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Zhao YY, Wang C, Wang WX, Han LM, Zhang C, Yu JY, Chen W, Hu CM. ApoE Mimetic Peptide COG1410 Exhibits Strong Additive Interaction with Antibiotics Against Mycobacterium smegmatis. Infect Drug Resist 2023; 16:1801-1812. [PMID: 37013167 PMCID: PMC10066718 DOI: 10.2147/idr.s403232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Drug-resistant tuberculosis (TB) is an emerging threat to public health worldwide. Antimicrobial peptide (AMP) is a promising solution to solve the antimicrobial resistance crisis. The apolipoprotein E mimetic peptide COG1410 has been confirmed to simultaneously have neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial activity. However, whether it is effective to inhibit growth of mycobacteria has not been investigated yet. Methods The peptide COG1410 was synthesized with conventional solid-phase peptide synthesis and qualified by HPLC and mass spectrometry. Micro-dilution method was used to determine the minimal inhibitory concentration. A time-kill assay was used to determine the bactericidal dynamics of antimicrobial peptide and relative antibiotics. Static biofilm formation was conducted in 24-well plate and the biofilm was separated from planktonic cells and collected. The mechanism of action of COG1410 was explored by TEM observation and ATP leak assay. The localization of COG1410 was observed by confocal laser scan microscopy. The drug-drug interaction was determined by a checkerboard assay. Results COG1410 was a potent bactericidal agent against M. smegmatis in vitro and within the macrophages with MIC 16 μg/mL, but invalid against M. abscess and M. tuberculosis. A time-kill assay showed that COG1410 killed M. smegmatis as potent as clarithromycin, but faster than LL-37, another short synthetic cationic peptide. 1× MIC COG1410 almost reduced 90% biofilm formation of M. smegmatis. Additionally, COG1410 was able to penetrate the cell membrane of macrophage and inhibit intracellular M. smegmatis growth. TEM observation and ATP leak assay found that COG1410 disrupted cell membrane and caused release of cell contents. Confocal fluorescence microscopy showed that FITC-COG1410 aggregated around cell membrane instead of entering the cytoplasm. Although COG1410 had relative high cytotoxicity, it exhibited strong additive interaction with regular anti-TB antibiotics, which reduced the working concentration of COG1410 and expanding safety window. After 30 passages, there was no induced drug resistance for COG1410. Conclusion COG1410 was a novel and potent AMP against M. smegmatis by disrupting the integrity of cell membrane.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan-Yan Zhao
- Department of Tuberculosis, the Second Hospital of Nanjing, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210003, People’s Republic of China
| | - Chun Wang
- Department of Tuberculosis, the Second Hospital of Nanjing, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210003, People’s Republic of China
| | - Wei-Xiao Wang
- Clinical Research Center, the Second Hospital of Nanjing, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210003, People’s Republic of China
| | - Li-Mei Han
- Department of Tuberculosis, the Second Hospital of Nanjing, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210003, People’s Republic of China
| | - Caiyun Zhang
- Clinical Research Center, the Second Hospital of Nanjing, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210003, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jiao-Yang Yu
- Key Laboratory of Resources Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Xi’an, 710069, People’s Republic of China
| | - Wei Chen
- Clinical Research Center, the Second Hospital of Nanjing, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210003, People’s Republic of China
- Correspondence: Wei Chen; Chun-Mei Hu, Email ;
| | - Chun-Mei Hu
- Department of Tuberculosis, the Second Hospital of Nanjing, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210003, People’s Republic of China
- The Clinical Infectious Disease Center of Nanjing, Nanjing, 210003, People’s Republic of China
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Synergy between Human Peptide LL-37 and Polymyxin B against Planktonic and Biofilm Cells of Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Antibiotics (Basel) 2023; 12:antibiotics12020389. [PMID: 36830299 PMCID: PMC9952724 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics12020389] [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: 08/15/2022] [Revised: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The rise in antimicrobial resistant bacteria is limiting the number of effective treatments for bacterial infections. Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa are two of the pathogens with the highest prevalence of resistance, and with the greatest need for new antimicrobial agents. Combinations of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) and antibiotics that display synergistic effects have been shown to be an effective strategy in the development of novel therapeutic agents. In this study, we investigated the synergy between the AMP LL-37 and various classes of antibiotics against E. coli and P. aeruginosa strains. Of the six antibiotics tested (ampicillin, tetracycline, ciprofloxacin, gentamicin, aztreonam, and polymyxin B (PMB)), LL-37 displayed the strongest synergy against E. coli MG1655 and P. aeruginosa PAO1 laboratory strains when combined with PMB. Given the strong synergy, the PMB + LL-37 combination was chosen for further examination where it demonstrated synergy against multidrug-resistant and clinical E. coli isolates. Synergy of PMB + LL-37 towards clinical isolates of P. aeruginosa varied and showed synergistic, additive, or indifferent effects. The PMB + LL-37 combination treatment showed significant prevention of biofilm formation as well as eradication of pre-grown E. coli and P. aeruginosa biofilms. Using the Galleria mellonella wax worm model, we showed that the PMB + LL-37 combination treatment retained its antibacterial capacities in vivo. Flow analyses were performed to characterize the mode of action. The results of the present study provide proof of principle for the synergistic response between LL-37 and PMB and give novel insights into a promising new antimicrobial combination against gram-negative planktonic and biofilm cells.
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31
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Memariani H, Memariani M. Antibiofilm properties of cathelicidin LL-37: an in-depth review. World J Microbiol Biotechnol 2023; 39:99. [PMID: 36781570 DOI: 10.1007/s11274-023-03545-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023]
Abstract
Notwithstanding ceaseless endeavors toward developing effective antibiofilm chemotherapeutics, biofilm-associated infections continue to be one of the most perplexing challenges confronting medicine today. Endogenous host defense peptides, such as the human cathelicidin LL-37, are being propounded as promising options for treating such infectious diseases. Over the past decennium, LL-37 has duly received tremendous research attention by virtue of its broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity and immunomodulatory properties. No attempt has hitherto been made, as far as we are aware, to comprehensively review the antibiofilm effects of LL-37. Accordingly, the intent in this paper is to provide a fairly all-embracing review of the literature available on the subject. Accumulating evidence suggests that LL-37 is able to prevent biofilm establishment by different bacterial pathogens such as Acinetobacter baumannii, Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, Bacteroides fragilis, Burkholderia thailandensis, Cutibacterium acnes, Escherichia coli, Francisella tularensis, Helicobacter pylori, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, and Streptococcus pyogenes. Inhibition of bacterial adhesion, downregulation of biofilm-associated genes, suppression of quorum-sensing pathways, degradation of biofilm matrix, and eradication of biofilm-residing cells are the major mechanisms responsible for antibiofilm properties of LL-37. In terms of its efficacy and safety in vivo, there are still many questions to be answered. Undoubtedly, LL-37 can open up new windows of opportunity to prevent and treat obstinate biofilm-mediated infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamed Memariani
- Biotechnology Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mojtaba Memariani
- Biotechnology Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran.
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Matos GM, Garcia-Teodoro B, Martins CP, Schmitt P, Guzmán F, de Freitas ACO, Stoco PH, Ferreira FA, Stadnik MJ, Robl D, Perazzolo LM, Rosa RD. Antimicrobial Spectrum of Activity and Mechanism of Action of Linear Alpha-Helical Peptides Inspired by Shrimp Anti-Lipopolysaccharide Factors. Biomolecules 2023; 13:biom13010150. [PMID: 36671535 PMCID: PMC9856130 DOI: 10.3390/biom13010150] [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: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Shrimp antilipopolysaccharide factors (ALFs) form a multifunctional and diverse family of antimicrobial host defense peptides (AMPs) composed of seven members (groups A to G), which differ in terms of their primary structure and biochemical properties. They are amphipathic peptides with two conserved cysteine residues stabilizing a central β-hairpin that is understood to be the core region for their biological activities. In this study, we synthetized three linear (cysteine-free) peptides based on the amino acid sequence of the central β-hairpin of the newly identified shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) ALFs from groups E to G. Unlike whole mature ALFs, the ALF-derived peptides exhibited an α-helix secondary structure. In vitro assays revealed that the synthetic peptides display a broad spectrum of activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria and fungi but not against the protozoan parasites Trypanosoma cruzi and Leishmania (L.) infantum. Remarkably, they displayed synergistic effects and showed the ability to permeabilize bacterial membranes, a mechanism of action of classical AMPs. Having shown low cytotoxicity to THP-1 human cells and being active against clinical multiresistant bacterial isolates, these nature-inspired peptides represent an interesting class of bioactive molecules with biotechnological potential for the development of novel therapeutics in medical sciences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel Machado Matos
- Laboratory of Immunology Applied to Aquaculture, Department of Cell Biology, Embryology and Genetics, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis 88040-900, Brazil
- Correspondence: (G.M.M.); (R.D.R.); Tel.: +55-48-3721-6163 (R.D.R.)
| | - Beatriz Garcia-Teodoro
- Laboratory of Immunology Applied to Aquaculture, Department of Cell Biology, Embryology and Genetics, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis 88040-900, Brazil
| | - Camila Pimentel Martins
- Laboratory of Immunology Applied to Aquaculture, Department of Cell Biology, Embryology and Genetics, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis 88040-900, Brazil
| | - Paulina Schmitt
- Laboratorio de Genética e Inmunología Molecular, Instituto de Biología, Facultad de Ciencias, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Valparaíso, Valparaíso 2373223, Chile
| | - Fanny Guzmán
- Núcleo Biotecnología Curauma, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Valparaíso, Valparaíso 2373223, Chile
| | - Ana Claudia Oliveira de Freitas
- Laboratory of Protozoology, Department of Microbiology, Parasitology and Immunology, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis 88040-900, Brazil
| | - Patricia Hermes Stoco
- Laboratory of Protozoology, Department of Microbiology, Parasitology and Immunology, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis 88040-900, Brazil
| | - Fabienne Antunes Ferreira
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics of Bacteria, Department of Microbiology, Parasitology and Immunology, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis 88040-900, Brazil
| | - Marciel João Stadnik
- Laboratory of Plant Pathology, Department of Plant Sciences, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis 88034-001, Brazil
| | - Diogo Robl
- Laboratory of Microorganisms and Biotechnological Processes, Department of Microbiology, Parasitology and Immunology, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis 88040-900, Brazil
| | - Luciane Maria Perazzolo
- Laboratory of Immunology Applied to Aquaculture, Department of Cell Biology, Embryology and Genetics, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis 88040-900, Brazil
| | - Rafael Diego Rosa
- Laboratory of Immunology Applied to Aquaculture, Department of Cell Biology, Embryology and Genetics, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis 88040-900, Brazil
- Correspondence: (G.M.M.); (R.D.R.); Tel.: +55-48-3721-6163 (R.D.R.)
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Sharma L, Bisht GS. Synergistic effects of short peptides and antibiotics against bacterial and fungal strains. J Pept Sci 2023; 29:e3446. [PMID: 35931657 DOI: 10.1002/psc.3446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Revised: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
There is a rising tide of concern about the antibiotic resistance issue. To reduce the possibility of antibiotic-resistant infections, a new generation of antimicrobials must be developed. Antimicrobial peptides are potential alternatives to antibiotics that can be used alone or together with conventional antibiotics to combat antimicrobial resistance. In this work, lead compounds LP-23, DP-23, SA4, and SPO from previously published studies were synthesized by solid-phase peptide synthesis and their antimicrobial evaluation was carried out against various bacterial and fungal strains. Peptide combinations with antibiotics were evaluated by using the checkerboard method and their minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) in combination was calculated by using the fractional inhibitory concentration (FIC) index. Cytotoxicity evaluations of these peptides further confirmed their selectivity toward microbial cells. Based on the FIC values, LP-23, DP-23, and SPO demonstrated synergy in combination with gentamicin against a gentamicin-resistant clinical isolate of Escherichia coli. For Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Salmonella typhimurium, seven combinations exhibited synergistic effects between peptide/peptoids and the tested antibiotics. Additionally, almost all the combinations of peptides/peptoids with amphotericin B and fluconazole also showed effective synergy against Aspergillus niger and Aspergillus flavus. The synergy found between LP-23, DP-23, SA4, and SPO with the selected antibiotics may have the potential to be used as a combination therapy against various microbial infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lalita Sharma
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Jaypee University of Information Technology, Waknaghat, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Gopal Singh Bisht
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Jaypee University of Information Technology, Waknaghat, Himachal Pradesh, India
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C S, G. R R, L. F L, M.C.G DR, N.B C, S.C D, O. L F. Advances and perspectives for antimicrobial peptide and combinatory therapies. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:1051456. [PMID: 36578509 PMCID: PMC9791095 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.1051456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) have shown cell membrane-directed mechanisms of action. This specificity can be effective against infectious agents that have acquired resistance to conventional drugs. The AMPs' membrane-specificity and their great potential to combat resistant microbes has brought hope to the medical/therapeutic scene. The high death rate worldwide due to antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has pushed forward the search for new molecules and product developments, mainly antibiotics. In the current scenario, other strategies including the association of two or more drugs have contributed to the treatment of difficult-to-treat infectious diseases, above all, those caused by bacteria. In this context, the synergistic action of AMPs associated with current antibiotic therapy can bring important results for the production of new and effective drugs to overcome AMR. This review presents the advances obtained in the last 5 years in medical/antibiotic therapy, with the use of products based on AMPs, as well as perspectives on the potentialized effects of current drugs combined with AMPs for the treatment of bacterial infectious diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Santos C
- S-Inova Biotech, Programa de Pós-Graduação Em Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica Dom Bosco (UCDB), Campo Grande, Brazil
| | - Rodrigues G. R
- Centro de Análises Proteômicas e Bioquímica (CAPB), Programa de Pós-Graduação Em Ciências Genômicas e Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica de Brasília (UCB), Brasília, Brazil
| | - Lima L. F
- Centro de Análises Proteômicas e Bioquímica (CAPB), Programa de Pós-Graduação Em Ciências Genômicas e Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica de Brasília (UCB), Brasília, Brazil
| | - dos Reis M.C.G
- Centro de Análises Proteômicas e Bioquímica (CAPB), Programa de Pós-Graduação Em Ciências Genômicas e Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica de Brasília (UCB), Brasília, Brazil
| | - Cunha N.B
- Centro de Análises Proteômicas e Bioquímica (CAPB), Programa de Pós-Graduação Em Ciências Genômicas e Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica de Brasília (UCB), Brasília, Brazil
- Faculdade de Agronomia e Medicina Veterinária (FAV), Universidade de Brasília (UnB), Brasília, Brazil
| | - Dias S.C
- Centro de Análises Proteômicas e Bioquímica (CAPB), Programa de Pós-Graduação Em Ciências Genômicas e Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica de Brasília (UCB), Brasília, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação Em Biologia Animal, Universidade de Brasília (UnB), Brasília, Brazil
| | - Franco O. L
- S-Inova Biotech, Programa de Pós-Graduação Em Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica Dom Bosco (UCDB), Campo Grande, Brazil
- Centro de Análises Proteômicas e Bioquímica (CAPB), Programa de Pós-Graduação Em Ciências Genômicas e Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica de Brasília (UCB), Brasília, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação Em Patologia Molecular, Universidade de Brasília (UnB), Brasília, Brazil
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Mohammed EH, Lohan S, Ghaffari T, Gupta S, Tiwari RK, Parang K. Membrane-Active Cyclic Amphiphilic Peptides: Broad-Spectrum Antibacterial Activity Alone and in Combination with Antibiotics. J Med Chem 2022; 65:15819-15839. [PMID: 36442155 PMCID: PMC9743092 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.2c01469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
We designed a library of 24 cyclic peptides containing arginine (R) and tryptophan (W) residues in a sequential manner [RnWn] (n = 2-7) to study the impact of the hydrophilic/hydrophobic ratio, charge, and ring size on the antibacterial activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative strains. Among peptides, 5a and 6a demonstrated the highest antimicrobial activity. In combination with 11 commercially available antibiotics, 5a and 6a showed remarkable synergism against a large panel of resistant pathogens. Hemolysis (HC50 = 340 μg/mL) and cell viability against mammalian cells demonstrated the selective lethal action of 5a against bacteria over mammalian cells. Calcein dye leakage and scanning electron microscopy studies revealed the membranolytic effect of 5a. Moreover, the stability in human plasma (t1/2 = 3 h) and the negligible ability of pathogens to develop resistance further reflect the potential of 5a for further development as a peptide-based antibiotic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eman H.
M. Mohammed
- Center
for Targeted Drug Delivery, Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical
Sciences, Chapman University School of Pharmacy,
Harry and Diane Rinker Health Science Campus, Irvine, California92618, United States,Department
of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Menoufia
University, Shebin
El-Koam51132, Egypt,AJK
Biopharmaceutical, Irvine, California92617, United States
| | - Sandeep Lohan
- Center
for Targeted Drug Delivery, Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical
Sciences, Chapman University School of Pharmacy,
Harry and Diane Rinker Health Science Campus, Irvine, California92618, United States,AJK
Biopharmaceutical, Irvine, California92617, United States
| | - Tarra Ghaffari
- Center
for Targeted Drug Delivery, Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical
Sciences, Chapman University School of Pharmacy,
Harry and Diane Rinker Health Science Campus, Irvine, California92618, United States
| | - Shilpi Gupta
- Center
for Targeted Drug Delivery, Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical
Sciences, Chapman University School of Pharmacy,
Harry and Diane Rinker Health Science Campus, Irvine, California92618, United States
| | - Rakesh K. Tiwari
- Center
for Targeted Drug Delivery, Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical
Sciences, Chapman University School of Pharmacy,
Harry and Diane Rinker Health Science Campus, Irvine, California92618, United States,. Fax: +1-714-516-548. Phone: +1-714-516-5483
| | - Keykavous Parang
- Center
for Targeted Drug Delivery, Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical
Sciences, Chapman University School of Pharmacy,
Harry and Diane Rinker Health Science Campus, Irvine, California92618, United States,. Fax: +1-714-516-5481. Phone: +1-714-516-5489
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Cruz GS, dos Santos AT, de Brito EHS, Rádis-Baptista G. Cell-Penetrating Antimicrobial Peptides with Anti-Infective Activity against Intracellular Pathogens. Antibiotics (Basel) 2022; 11:1772. [PMID: 36551429 PMCID: PMC9774436 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics11121772] [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: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) are natural or engineered peptide sequences with the intrinsic ability to internalize into a diversity of cell types and simultaneously transport hydrophilic molecules and nanomaterials, of which the cellular uptake is often limited. In addition to this primordial activity of cell penetration without membrane disruption, multivalent antimicrobial activity accompanies some CPPs. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) with cell-penetrability exert their effect intracellularly, and they are of great interest. CPPs with antimicrobial activity (CPAPs) comprise a particular class of bioactive peptides that arise as promising agents against difficult-to-treat intracellular infections. This short review aims to present the antibacterial, antiparasitic, and antiviral effects of various cell-penetrating antimicrobial peptides currently documented. Examples include the antimicrobial effects of different CPAPs against bacteria that can propagate intracellularly, like Staphylococcus sp., Streptococcus sp., Chlamydia trachomatis, Escherichia coli, Mycobacterium sp., Listeria sp., Salmonella sp. among others. CPAPs with antiviral effects that interfere with the intracellular replication of HIV, hepatitis B, HPV, and herpes virus. Additionally, CPAPs with activity against protozoa of the genera Leishmania, Trypanosoma, and Plasmodium, the etiological agents of Leishmaniasis, Chagas' Disease, and Malaria, respectively. The information provided in this review emphasizes the potential of multivalent CPAPs, with anti-infective properties for application against various intracellular infections. So far, CPAPs bear a promise of druggability for the translational medical use of CPPs alone or in combination with chemotherapeutics. Moreover, CPAPs could be an exciting alternative for pharmaceutical design and treating intracellular infectious diseases.
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Grants
- CNPq #305316/2021-4 National Council of Research and Development, the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Inno-vation
- CAPES #88882.454432/2019-01 CNPq #401900/2022-3 Improvement of Higher Education Personnel (CAPES), the Ministry of Education and Culture (MEC), the Federal Government of Brazil, and the National Council of Research and Development, the Ministry of Science, Technology (CNPq), and Innovation (MCTI),
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela Silva Cruz
- Postgraduate Program in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Dentistry, and Nursing, Federal University of Ceara, Fortaleza 60416-030, Brazil
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Institute for Marine Sciences, Federal University of Ceara, Fortaleza 60165-081, Brazil
| | - Ariane Teixeira dos Santos
- Postgraduate Program in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Dentistry, and Nursing, Federal University of Ceara, Fortaleza 60416-030, Brazil
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Institute for Marine Sciences, Federal University of Ceara, Fortaleza 60165-081, Brazil
| | - Erika Helena Salles de Brito
- Microbiology Laboratory, Institute of Health Sciences, University of International Integration of the Afro-Brazilian Lusophony, Redenção 62790-970, Brazil
| | - Gandhi Rádis-Baptista
- Postgraduate Program in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Dentistry, and Nursing, Federal University of Ceara, Fortaleza 60416-030, Brazil
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Institute for Marine Sciences, Federal University of Ceara, Fortaleza 60165-081, Brazil
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Getahun YA, Ali DA, Taye BW, Alemayehu YA. Multidrug-Resistant Microbial Therapy Using Antimicrobial Peptides and the CRISPR/Cas9 System. Vet Med (Auckl) 2022; 13:173-190. [PMID: 35983086 PMCID: PMC9379109 DOI: 10.2147/vmrr.s366533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The emergence and spread of multidrug-resistant microbes become a serious threat to animal and human health globally because of their less responsiveness to conventional antimicrobial therapy. Multidrug-resistant microbial infection poses higher morbidity and mortality rate with significant economic losses. Currently, antimicrobial peptides and the CRISPR/Cas9 system are explored as alternative therapy to circumvent the challenges of multidrug-resistant organisms. Antimicrobial peptides are small molecular weight, cationic peptides extracted from all living organisms. It is a promising drug candidate for the treatment of multidrug-resistant microbes by direct microbial killing or indirectly modulating the innate immune system. The CRISPR/Cas9 system is another novel antimicrobial alternative used to manage multidrug-resistant microbial infection. It is a versatile gene-editing tool that uses engineered single guide RNA for targeted gene recognition and the Cas9 enzyme for the destruction of target nucleic acids. Both the CRISPR/Cas9 system and antimicrobial peptides were used to successfully treat nosocomial infections caused by ESKAPE pathogens, which developed resistance to various antimicrobials. Despite, their valuable roles in multidrug-resistant microbial treatments, both the antimicrobial peptides and the CRISPR/Cas systems have various limitations like toxicity, instability, and incurring high manufacturing costs. Thus, this review paper gives detailed explanations of the roles of the CRISPR/Cas9 system and antimicrobial peptides in circumventing the challenges of multidrug-resistant microbial infections, its limitation and prospects in clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yared Abate Getahun
- Livestock and Fishery Research Center, College of Agriculture, Arba Minch University, Arba Minch, Southern Nation Nationalities and Peoples Regional State, Ethiopia
- Correspondence: Yared Abate Getahun, Email
| | - Destaw Asfaw Ali
- Department of Paraclinical Studies, College of Veterinary Medicine, Gondar University, Gondar City, Amhara Regional State, Ethiopia
| | - Bihonegn Wodajnew Taye
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, College of Agriculture, Assosa University, Assosa City, Benshangul Gumez Regional State, Ethiopia
| | - Yismaw Alemie Alemayehu
- Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture, Wollega University, Nekemtie City, Oromia Regional State, Ethiopia
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Johnstone KF, Herzberg MC. Antimicrobial peptides: Defending the mucosal epithelial barrier. FRONTIERS IN ORAL HEALTH 2022; 3:958480. [PMID: 35979535 PMCID: PMC9376388 DOI: 10.3389/froh.2022.958480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The recent epidemic caused by aerosolized SARS-CoV-2 virus illustrates the importance and vulnerability of the mucosal epithelial barrier against infection. Antimicrobial proteins and peptides (AMPs) are key to the epithelial barrier, providing immunity against microbes. In primitive life forms, AMPs protect the integument and the gut against pathogenic microbes. AMPs have also evolved in humans and other mammals to enhance newer, complex innate and adaptive immunity to favor the persistence of commensals over pathogenic microbes. The canonical AMPs are helictical peptides that form lethal pores in microbial membranes. In higher life forms, this type of AMP is exemplified by the defensin family of AMPs. In epithelial tissues, defensins, and calprotectin (complex of S100A8 and S100A9) have evolved to work cooperatively. The mechanisms of action differ. Unlike defensins, calprotectin sequesters essential trace metals from microbes, which inhibits growth. This review focuses on defensins and calprotectin as AMPs that appear to work cooperatively to fortify the epithelial barrier against infection. The antimicrobial spectrum is broad with overlap between the two AMPs. In mice, experimental models highlight the contribution of both AMPs to candidiasis as a fungal infection and periodontitis resulting from bacterial dysbiosis. These AMPs appear to contribute to innate immunity in humans, protecting the commensal microflora and restricting the emergence of pathobionts and pathogens. A striking example in human innate immunity is that elevated serum calprotectin protects against neonatal sepsis. Calprotectin is also remarkable because of functional differences when localized in epithelial and neutrophil cytoplasm or released into the extracellular environment. In the cytoplasm, calprotectin appears to protect against invasive pathogens. Extracellularly, calprotectin can engage pathogen-recognition receptors to activate innate immune and proinflammatory mechanisms. In inflamed epithelial and other tissue spaces, calprotectin, DNA, and histones are released from degranulated neutrophils to form insoluble antimicrobial barriers termed neutrophil extracellular traps. Hence, calprotectin and other AMPs use several strategies to provide microbial control and stimulate innate immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mark C. Herzberg
- Department of Diagnostic and Biological Sciences, School of Dentistry, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
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Halogenated Pyrrolopyrimidines with Low MIC on Staphylococcus aureus and Synergistic Effects with an Antimicrobial Peptide. Antibiotics (Basel) 2022; 11:antibiotics11080984. [PMID: 35892374 PMCID: PMC9330635 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics11080984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Revised: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Currently, there is a world-wide rise in antibiotic resistance causing burdens to individuals and public healthcare systems. At the same time drug development is lagging behind. Therefore, finding new ways of treating bacterial infections either by identifying new agents or combinations of drugs is of utmost importance. Additionally, if combination therapy is based on agents with different modes of action, resistance is less likely to develop. The synthesis of 21 fused pyrimidines and a structure-activity relationship study identified two 6-aryl-7H-pyrrolo [2,3-d] pyrimidin-4-amines with potent activity towards Staphylococcus aureus. The MIC-value was found to be highly dependent on a bromo or iodo substitution in the 4-benzylamine group and a hydroxyl in the meta or para position of the 6-aryl unit. The most active bromo and iodo derivatives had MIC of 8 mg/L. Interestingly, the most potent compounds experienced a four-fold lower MIC-value when they were combined with the antimicrobial peptide betatide giving MIC of 1–2 mg/L. The front runner bromo derivative also has a low activity towards 50 human kinases, including thymidylate monophosphate kinase, a putative antibacterial target.
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van Gent ME, van der Reijden TJK, Lennard PR, de Visser AW, Schonkeren-Ravensbergen B, Dolezal N, Cordfunke RA, Drijfhout JW, Nibbering PH. Synergism between the Synthetic Antibacterial and Antibiofilm Peptide (SAAP)-148 and Halicin. Antibiotics (Basel) 2022; 11:antibiotics11050673. [PMID: 35625317 PMCID: PMC9137631 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics11050673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Revised: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Recently, using a deep learning approach, the novel antibiotic halicin was discovered. We compared the antibacterial activities of two novel bactericidal antimicrobial agents, i.e., the synthetic antibacterial and antibiofilm peptide (SAAP)-148 with this antibiotic halicin. Results revealed that SAAP-148 was more effective than halicin in killing planktonic bacteria of antimicrobial-resistant (AMR) Escherichia coli, Acinetobacter baumannii and Staphylococcus aureus, especially in biologically relevant media, such as plasma and urine, and in 3D human infection models. Surprisingly, SAAP-148 and halicin were equally effective against these bacteria residing in immature and mature biofilms. As their modes of action differ, potential favorable interactions between SAAP-148 and halicin were investigated. For some specific strains of AMR E. coli and S. aureus synergism between these agents was observed, whereas for other strains, additive interactions were noted. These favorable interactions were confirmed for AMR E. coli in a 3D human bladder infection model and AMR S. aureus in a 3D human epidermal infection model. Together, combinations of these two novel antimicrobial agents hold promise as an innovative treatment for infections not effectively treatable with current antibiotics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam E. van Gent
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Leiden University Medical Center, 2300 RC Leiden, The Netherlands; (T.J.K.v.d.R.); (P.R.L.); (A.W.d.V.); (B.S.-R.); (P.H.N.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Tanny J. K. van der Reijden
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Leiden University Medical Center, 2300 RC Leiden, The Netherlands; (T.J.K.v.d.R.); (P.R.L.); (A.W.d.V.); (B.S.-R.); (P.H.N.)
| | - Patrick R. Lennard
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Leiden University Medical Center, 2300 RC Leiden, The Netherlands; (T.J.K.v.d.R.); (P.R.L.); (A.W.d.V.); (B.S.-R.); (P.H.N.)
- Department of Pulmonology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2300 RC Leiden, The Netherlands
- Center for Inflammation Research, Queen’s Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK
| | - Adriëtte W. de Visser
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Leiden University Medical Center, 2300 RC Leiden, The Netherlands; (T.J.K.v.d.R.); (P.R.L.); (A.W.d.V.); (B.S.-R.); (P.H.N.)
| | - Bep Schonkeren-Ravensbergen
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Leiden University Medical Center, 2300 RC Leiden, The Netherlands; (T.J.K.v.d.R.); (P.R.L.); (A.W.d.V.); (B.S.-R.); (P.H.N.)
| | - Natasja Dolezal
- Department of Immunology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2300 RC Leiden, The Netherlands; (N.D.); (R.A.C.); (J.W.D.)
| | - Robert A. Cordfunke
- Department of Immunology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2300 RC Leiden, The Netherlands; (N.D.); (R.A.C.); (J.W.D.)
| | - Jan Wouter Drijfhout
- Department of Immunology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2300 RC Leiden, The Netherlands; (N.D.); (R.A.C.); (J.W.D.)
| | - Peter H. Nibbering
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Leiden University Medical Center, 2300 RC Leiden, The Netherlands; (T.J.K.v.d.R.); (P.R.L.); (A.W.d.V.); (B.S.-R.); (P.H.N.)
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41
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Designing Anti-Microbial Peptides Against Major β-Lactamase Enzymes in Clinically Important Gram-Negative Bacterial Pathogens: An In-Silico Study. Probiotics Antimicrob Proteins 2022; 14:263-276. [PMID: 35188617 DOI: 10.1007/s12602-022-09929-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Anti-microbial resistance (AMR) creating healthcare concerns worldwide requires ardent exploration of therapeutic alternatives. Although anti-microbial peptides (AMP) are popular for broad-spectrum activity, recent evidence of increasing resistance to membrane-acting AMPs by ESKAPE pathogens has compelled us to design novel AMPs as therapeutic candidates. A library of 60 AMPs comprising natural AMPs and their mutants was constructed through in-silico methods. After physico-chemical property evaluations, each peptide in the library was subjected to flexible molecular docking against four major β-lactamases in Gram-negative ESKAPE pathogens. Among the potent AMP mutants, a Lactoferricin B-Mutant (M4) possessed uniformly high affinity with SHV1, OXA48, NDM1, and AmpC having energies -842.0Kcal/mol, -774.8Kcal/mol, -1103.3Kcal/mol, and -858.8Kcal/mol respectively. Coarse-grained clustering and flexibility analysis further accounted for the residue-level stable configurations of the protein-peptide complexes with high affinity. Highest affinity of Lactoferricin B_M4 was found with NDM1 due to H-bonds, salt-bridges, and hydrophobic interactions with the metallo-β-lactamase domain including crucial active-site residue Asp124. Molecular dynamics simulation further confirmed the stability of Lactoferricin B_M4-NDM1 complex having low residue-level root-mean square deviations (RMSD), atomic-level fluctuations, and radius of gyration (Rg). The study encourages experimental validations and similar methods to identify potential AMPs against drug-resistant pathogens.
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Olmos-Ortiz A, Hernández-Pérez M, Flores-Espinosa P, Sedano G, Helguera-Repetto AC, Villavicencio-Carrisoza Ó, Valdespino-Vazquez MY, Flores-Pliego A, Irles C, Rivas-Santiago B, Moreno-Verduzco ER, Díaz L, Zaga-Clavellina V. Compartmentalized Innate Immune Response of Human Fetal Membranes against Escherichia coli Choriodecidual Infection. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23062994. [PMID: 35328414 PMCID: PMC8949057 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23062994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Revised: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
An infectious process into the uterine cavity represents a major endangered condition that compromises the immune privilege of the maternal-fetal unit and increases the risk for preterm birth (PTB) and premature rupture of membranes (PROM). Fetal membranes are active secretors of antimicrobial peptides (AMP), which limit bacterial growth, such as Escherichia coli. Nevertheless, the antibacterial responses displayed by chorioamniotic membranes against a choriodecidual E. coli infection have been briefly studied. The objective of this research was to characterize the profile of synthesis, activity, and spatial distribution of a broad panel of AMPs produced by fetal membranes in response to E. coli choriodecidual infection. Term human chorioamniotic membranes were mounted in a two independent compartment model in which the choriodecidual region was infected with live E. coli (1 × 105 CFU/mL). Amnion and choriodecidual AMP tissue levels and TNF-α and IL-1β secretion were measured by the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The passage of bacterium through fetal membranes and their effect on structural continuity was followed for 24 h. Our results showed that E. coli infection caused a progressive mechanical disruption of the chorioamniotic membranes and an activated inflammatory environment. After the challenge, the amnion quickly (2-4 h) induced production of human beta defensins (HBD)-1, HBD-2, and LL-37. Afterwards (8-24 h), the amnion significantly produced HBD-1, HBD-2, HNP-1-3, S100A7, sPLA2, and elafin, whereas the choriodecidua induced LL-37 synthesis. Therefore, we noticed a temporal- and tissue-specific pattern regulation of the synthesis of AMPs by infected fetal membranes. However, fetal membranes were not able to contain the collagen degradation or the bacterial growth and migration despite the battery of produced AMPs, which deeply increases the risk for PTB and PROM. The mixture of recombinant HBDs at low concentrations resulted in increased bactericidal activity compared to each HBD alone in vitro, encouraging further research to study AMP combinations that may offer synergy to control drug-resistant infections in the perinatal period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Olmos-Ortiz
- Departamento de Inmunobioquímica, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología (INPer), Mexico City 11000, Mexico; (A.O.-O.); (M.H.-P.); (P.F.-E.); (G.S.); (A.C.H.-R.); (Ó.V.-C.); (A.F.-P.)
| | - Mayra Hernández-Pérez
- Departamento de Inmunobioquímica, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología (INPer), Mexico City 11000, Mexico; (A.O.-O.); (M.H.-P.); (P.F.-E.); (G.S.); (A.C.H.-R.); (Ó.V.-C.); (A.F.-P.)
| | - Pilar Flores-Espinosa
- Departamento de Inmunobioquímica, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología (INPer), Mexico City 11000, Mexico; (A.O.-O.); (M.H.-P.); (P.F.-E.); (G.S.); (A.C.H.-R.); (Ó.V.-C.); (A.F.-P.)
| | - Gabriela Sedano
- Departamento de Inmunobioquímica, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología (INPer), Mexico City 11000, Mexico; (A.O.-O.); (M.H.-P.); (P.F.-E.); (G.S.); (A.C.H.-R.); (Ó.V.-C.); (A.F.-P.)
| | - Addy Cecilia Helguera-Repetto
- Departamento de Inmunobioquímica, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología (INPer), Mexico City 11000, Mexico; (A.O.-O.); (M.H.-P.); (P.F.-E.); (G.S.); (A.C.H.-R.); (Ó.V.-C.); (A.F.-P.)
| | - Óscar Villavicencio-Carrisoza
- Departamento de Inmunobioquímica, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología (INPer), Mexico City 11000, Mexico; (A.O.-O.); (M.H.-P.); (P.F.-E.); (G.S.); (A.C.H.-R.); (Ó.V.-C.); (A.F.-P.)
| | | | - Arturo Flores-Pliego
- Departamento de Inmunobioquímica, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología (INPer), Mexico City 11000, Mexico; (A.O.-O.); (M.H.-P.); (P.F.-E.); (G.S.); (A.C.H.-R.); (Ó.V.-C.); (A.F.-P.)
| | - Claudine Irles
- Departamento de Fisiología y Desarrollo Celular, INPer, Mexico City 11000, Mexico;
| | | | | | - Lorenza Díaz
- Departamento de Biología de la Reproducción, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Mexico City 14080, Mexico;
| | - Verónica Zaga-Clavellina
- Departamento de Fisiología y Desarrollo Celular, INPer, Mexico City 11000, Mexico;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +52-55-5520-9900 (ext. 478)
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Zharkova MS, Golubeva OY, Orlov DS, Vladimirova EV, Dmitriev AV, Tossi A, Shamova OV. Silver Nanoparticles Functionalized With Antimicrobial Polypeptides: Benefits and Possible Pitfalls of a Novel Anti-infective Tool. Front Microbiol 2021; 12:750556. [PMID: 34975782 PMCID: PMC8719061 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.750556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and antimicrobial peptides or proteins (AMPs/APs) are both considered as promising platforms for the development of novel therapeutic agents effective against the growing number of drug-resistant pathogens. The observed synergy of their antibacterial activity suggested the prospect of introducing antimicrobial peptides or small antimicrobial proteins into the gelatinized coating of AgNPs. Conjugates with protegrin-1, indolicidin, protamine, histones, and lysozyme were comparatively tested for their antibacterial properties and compared with unconjugated nanoparticles and antimicrobial polypeptides alone. Their toxic effects were similarly tested against both normal eukaryotic cells (human erythrocytes, peripheral blood mononuclear cells, neutrophils, and dermal fibroblasts) and tumor cells (human erythromyeloid leukemia K562 and human histiocytic lymphoma U937 cell lines). The AMPs/APs retained their ability to enhance the antibacterial activity of AgNPs against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, including drug-resistant strains, when conjugated to the AgNP surface. The small, membranolytic protegrin-1 was the most efficient, suggesting that a short, rigid structure is not a limiting factor despite the constraints imposed by binding to the nanoparticle. Some of the conjugated AMPs/APs clearly affected the ability of nanoparticle to permeabilize the outer membrane of Escherichia coli, but none of the conjugated AgNPs acquired the capacity to permeabilize its cytoplasmic membrane, regardless of the membranolytic potency of the bound polypeptide. Low hemolytic activity was also found for all AgNP-AMP/AP conjugates, regardless of the hemolytic activity of the free polypeptides, making conjugation a promising strategy not only to enhance their antimicrobial potential but also to effectively reduce the toxicity of membranolytic AMPs. The observation that metabolic processes and O2 consumption in bacteria were efficiently inhibited by all forms of AgNPs is the most likely explanation for their rapid and bactericidal action. AMP-dependent properties in the activity pattern of various conjugates toward eukaryotic cells suggest that immunomodulatory, wound-healing, and other effects of the polypeptides are at least partially transferred to the nanoparticles, so that functionalization of AgNPs may have effects beyond just modulation of direct antibacterial activity. In addition, some conjugated nanoparticles are selectively toxic to tumor cells. However, caution is required as not all modulatory effects are necessarily beneficial to normal host cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria S. Zharkova
- World-Class Research Center “Center for Personalized Medicine”, FSBSI Institute of Experimental Medicine, Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Olga Yu. Golubeva
- Laboratory of the Nanostructures Research, Institute of Silicate Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Dmitriy S. Orlov
- World-Class Research Center “Center for Personalized Medicine”, FSBSI Institute of Experimental Medicine, Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Elizaveta V. Vladimirova
- World-Class Research Center “Center for Personalized Medicine”, FSBSI Institute of Experimental Medicine, Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Alexander V. Dmitriev
- World-Class Research Center “Center for Personalized Medicine”, FSBSI Institute of Experimental Medicine, Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Alessandro Tossi
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Olga V. Shamova
- World-Class Research Center “Center for Personalized Medicine”, FSBSI Institute of Experimental Medicine, Saint Petersburg, Russia
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Ganan M, Lorentzen SB, Gaustad P, Sørlie M. Synergistic Antifungal Activity of Chito-Oligosaccharides and Commercial Antifungals on Biofilms of Clinical Candida Isolates. J Fungi (Basel) 2021; 7:718. [PMID: 34575756 PMCID: PMC8464920 DOI: 10.3390/jof7090718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2021] [Revised: 08/11/2021] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The development of yeast biofilms is a major problem due to their increased antifungal resistance, which leads to persistent infections with severe clinical implications. The high antifungal activity of well-characterized chitosan polymers makes them potential alternatives for treating yeast biofilms. The activity of a chito-oligosaccharide with a depolymerization degree (DPn) of 32 (C32) and a fraction of acetylation (FA) of 0.15 on Candida sp. biofilms was studied. The results showed a concentration-dependent reduction in the number of viable cells present in C. albicans, C. glabrata, and C. guillermondii preformed biofilms in the presence of C32, especially on intermediate and mature biofilms. A significant decrease in the metabolic activity of yeast biofilms treated with C32 was also observed. The antifungals fluconazole (Flu) and miconazole (Mcz) decreased the number of viable cells in preformed early biofilms, but not in the intermediate or mature biofilms. Contrary to Flu or Mcz, C32 also reduced the formation of new biofilms. Interestingly, a synergistic effect on yeast biofilm was observed when C32 and Flu/Mcz were used in combination. C32 has the potential to become an alternative therapeutic agent against Candida biofilms alone or in combination with antifungal drugs and this will reduce the use of antifungals and decrease antifungal resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Ganan
- Department of Chemistry, Biotechnology, and Food Science, Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU), 1432 Aas, Norway; (M.G.); (S.B.L.)
- Department of Microbiology, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo and Fürst Medical Laboratory, 0154 Oslo, Norway;
| | - Silje B. Lorentzen
- Department of Chemistry, Biotechnology, and Food Science, Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU), 1432 Aas, Norway; (M.G.); (S.B.L.)
| | - Peter Gaustad
- Department of Microbiology, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo and Fürst Medical Laboratory, 0154 Oslo, Norway;
| | - Morten Sørlie
- Department of Chemistry, Biotechnology, and Food Science, Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU), 1432 Aas, Norway; (M.G.); (S.B.L.)
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Gheorghe DC, Ilie A, Niculescu AG, Grumezescu AM. Preventing Biofilm Formation and Development on Ear, Nose and Throat Medical Devices. Biomedicines 2021; 9:1025. [PMID: 34440229 PMCID: PMC8394763 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9081025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2021] [Revised: 08/10/2021] [Accepted: 08/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Otorhinolaryngology is a vast domain that requires the aid of many resources for optimal performance. The medical devices utilized in this branch share common problems, such as the formation of biofilms. These structured communities of microbes encased in a 3D matrix can develop antimicrobial resistance (AMR), thus making it a problem with challenging solutions. Therefore, it is of concern the introduction in the medical practice involving biomaterials for ear, nose and throat (ENT) devices, such as implants for the trachea (stents), ear (cochlear implants), and voice recovery (voice prosthetics). The surface of these materials must be biocompatible and limit the development of biofilm while still promoting regeneration. In this respect, several surface modification techniques and functionalization procedures can be utilized to facilitate the success of the implants and ensure a long time of use. On this note, this review provides information on the intricate underlying mechanisms of biofilm formation, the large specter of implants and prosthetics that are susceptible to microbial colonization and subsequently related infections. Specifically, the discussion is particularized on biofilm development on ENT devices, ways to reduce it, and recent approaches that have emerged in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Cristian Gheorghe
- “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania;
- “M.S. Curie” Clinical Emergency Hospital for Children, 077120 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Andrei Ilie
- Faculty of Engineering in Foreign Languages, University Politehnica of Bucharest, 060042 Bucharest, Romania; (A.I.); (A.-G.N.)
| | - Adelina-Gabriela Niculescu
- Faculty of Engineering in Foreign Languages, University Politehnica of Bucharest, 060042 Bucharest, Romania; (A.I.); (A.-G.N.)
- Faculty of Applied Chemistry and Materials Science, University Politehnica of Bucharest, 060042 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Alexandru Mihai Grumezescu
- Faculty of Applied Chemistry and Materials Science, University Politehnica of Bucharest, 060042 Bucharest, Romania
- Research Institute of the University of Bucharest—ICUB, University of Bucharest, 050657 Bucharest, Romania
- Academy of Romanian Scientists, 3 Ilfov Street, 50044 Bucharest, Romania
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