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Burke Ó, Zeden MS, O'Gara JP. The pathogenicity and virulence of the opportunistic pathogen Staphylococcus epidermidis. Virulence 2024; 15:2359483. [PMID: 38868991 DOI: 10.1080/21505594.2024.2359483] [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: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/19/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024] Open
Abstract
The pervasive presence of Staphylococcus epidermidis and other coagulase-negative staphylococci on the skin and mucous membranes has long underpinned a casual disregard for the infection risk that these organisms pose to vulnerable patients in healthcare settings. Prior to the recognition of biofilm as an important virulence determinant in S. epidermidis, isolation of this microorganism in diagnostic specimens was often overlooked as clinically insignificant with potential delays in diagnosis and onset of appropriate treatment, contributing to the establishment of chronic infection and increased morbidity or mortality. While impressive progress has been made in our understanding of biofilm mechanisms in this important opportunistic pathogen, research into other virulence determinants has lagged S. aureus. In this review, the broader virulence potential of S. epidermidis including biofilm, toxins, proteases, immune evasion strategies and antibiotic resistance mechanisms is surveyed, together with current and future approaches for improved therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Órla Burke
- Microbiology, School of Biological and Chemical Sciences, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | | | - James P O'Gara
- Microbiology, School of Biological and Chemical Sciences, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
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Leistikow KR, May DS, Suh WS, Vargas Asensio G, Schaenzer AJ, Currie CR, Hristova KR. Bacillus subtilis-derived peptides disrupt quorum sensing and biofilm assembly in multidrug-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. mSystems 2024:e0071224. [PMID: 38990088 DOI: 10.1128/msystems.00712-24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2024] [Accepted: 06/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Multidrug-resistant Staphylococcus aureus is one of the most clinically important pathogens in the world, with infections leading to high rates of morbidity and mortality in both humans and animals. The ability of S. aureus to form biofilms protects cells from antibiotics and promotes the transfer of antibiotic resistance genes; therefore, new strategies aimed at inhibiting biofilm growth are urgently needed. Probiotic species, including Bacillus subtilis, are gaining interest as potential therapies against S. aureus for their ability to reduce S. aureus colonization and virulence. Here, we search for strains and microbially derived compounds with strong antibiofilm activity against multidrug-resistant S. aureus by isolating and screening Bacillus strains from a variety of agricultural environments. From a total of 1,123 environmental isolates, we identify a single strain B. subtilis 6D1, with a potent ability to inhibit biofilm growth, disassemble mature biofilm, and improve antibiotic sensitivity of S. aureus biofilms through an Agr quorum sensing interference mechanism. Biochemical and molecular networking analysis of an active organic fraction revealed multiple surfactin isoforms, and an uncharacterized peptide was driving this antibiofilm activity. Compared with commercial high-performance liquid chromatography grade surfactin obtained from B. subtilis, we show these B. subtilis 6D1 peptides are significantly better at inhibiting biofilm formation in all four S. aureus Agr backgrounds and preventing S. aureus-induced cytotoxicity when applied to HT29 human intestinal cells. Our study illustrates the potential of exploring microbial strain diversity to discover novel antibiofilm agents that may help combat multidrug-resistant S. aureus infections and enhance antibiotic efficacy in clinical and veterinary settings. IMPORTANCE The formation of biofilms by multidrug-resistant bacterial pathogens, such as Staphylococcus aureus, increases these microorganisms' virulence and decreases the efficacy of common antibiotic regimens. Probiotics possess a variety of strain-specific strategies to reduce biofilm formation in competing organisms; however, the mechanisms and compounds responsible for these phenomena often go uncharacterized. In this study, we identified a mixture of small probiotic-derived peptides capable of Agr quorum sensing interference as one of the mechanisms driving antibiofilm activity against S. aureus. This collection of peptides also improved antibiotic killing and protected human gut epithelial cells from S. aureus-induced toxicity by stimulating an adaptive cytokine response. We conclude that purposeful strain screening and selection efforts can be used to identify unique probiotic strains that possess specially desired mechanisms of action. This information can be used to further improve our understanding of the ways in which probiotic and probiotic-derived compounds can be applied to prevent bacterial infections or improve bacterial sensitivity to antibiotics in clinical and agricultural settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyle R Leistikow
- Department of Biological Sciences, Marquette University, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Daniel S May
- Department of Bacteriology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
- Department of Chemistry, Washington College, Chestertown, Maryland, USA
| | - Won Se Suh
- Department of Biochemistry & Biomedical Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Adam J Schaenzer
- Department of Biochemistry & Biomedical Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Cameron R Currie
- Department of Bacteriology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
- Department of Biochemistry & Biomedical Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
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Liu C, Hou J, Ren X, Guo X, Wang B, Song W, Wang L, Wang G. Norwogonin aids in fighting MRSA-induced pneumonia by targeting agrA C to inhibit α-hemolysin production. World J Microbiol Biotechnol 2024; 40:265. [PMID: 38990361 DOI: 10.1007/s11274-024-04052-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024]
Abstract
The increasing prevalence of infections related to methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) necessitates the exploration of innovative therapeutic strategies that diverge from conventional antibiotic treatments. This is imperative to effectively combat resistance and manage these infections. The adoption of antivirulence strategies has emerged as a particularly promising avenue. This approach applies a heightened selective pressure on pathogens, thereby diminishing the likelihood of bacteria evolving resistance to antibiotics. In our pursuit of novel therapeutics for treating MRSA infections, we have focused on agents that inhibit the virulence of S. aureus without impeding its growth, aiming to minimize the development of drug resistance. α-Hemolysin, a critical virulence factor encoded by the hla gene, is a cytotoxin that forms pores in host cell membranes and plays a pivotal role in the progression of disease during bacterial infections. Herein, we identified that norwogonin could effectively inhibit Hla production via targeting agrAC, a crucial protein in quorum sensing, resulting in dose-dependent inhibition of hemolytic activity without suppressing S. aureus growth. In vitro assays illustrated that norwogonin decreased the thermal stability of agrAC, providing evidence of interaction between norwogonin and agrAC. Meanwhile, norwogonin alleviated Hla-mediated A549 cell damage and reduced lactate dehydrogenase release. In vivo studies suggested that norwogonin treatment blocked the establishment of a mouse model of pneumonia caused by S. aureus USA300. Notably, norwogonin enhanced the antibacterial potency of oxacillin. In conclusion, norwogonin is a promising candidate for treating S. aureus infections, offering a novel alternative to traditional antibiotics by targeting virulence factors and enhancing the efficacy of existing treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang Liu
- Jilin University School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
- Clinical Medical College, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China
| | - Juan Hou
- Clinical Medical College, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China
| | - Xinran Ren
- Jilin University School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Xuerui Guo
- Jilin University School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Bingmei Wang
- Clinical Medical College, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China
| | - Wu Song
- Clinical Medical College, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China.
| | - Li Wang
- Clinical Medical College, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China.
| | - Guangshu Wang
- Jilin University School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China.
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Jacob KM, Hernández-Villamizar S, Hammer ND, Reguera G. Mucin-induced surface dispersal of Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis via quorum-sensing dependent and independent mechanisms. mBio 2024:e0156224. [PMID: 38953351 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.01562-24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Nasopharyngeal carriage of staphylococci spreads potentially pathogenic strains into (peri)oral regions and increases the chance of cross-infections. Some laboratory strains can also move rapidly on hydrated agar surfaces, but the biological relevance of these observations is not clear. Using soft-agar [0.3% (wt/vol)] plate assays, we demonstrate the rapid surface dispersal of (peri)oral isolates of Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis and closely related laboratory strains in the presence of mucin glycoproteins. Mucin-induced dispersal was a stepwise process initiated by the passive spreading of the growing colonies followed by their rapid branching (dendrites) from the colony edge. Although most spreading strains used mucin as a growth substrate, dispersal was primarily dependent on the lubricating and hydrating properties of the mucins. Using S. aureus JE2 as a genetically tractable representative, we demonstrate that mucin-induced dendritic dispersal, but not colony spreading, is facilitated by the secretion of surfactant-active phenol-soluble modulins (PSMs) in a process regulated by the agr quorum-sensing system. Furthermore, the dendritic dispersal of S. aureus JE2 colonies was further stimulated in the presence of surfactant-active supernatants recovered from the most robust (peri)oral spreaders of S. aureus and S. epidermidis. These findings suggest complementary roles for lubricating mucins and staphylococcal PSMs in the active dispersal of potentially pathogenic strains from perioral to respiratory mucosae, where gel-forming, hydrating mucins abound. They also highlight the impact that interspecies interactions have on the co-dispersal of S. aureus with other perioral bacteria, heightening the risk of polymicrobial infections and the severity of the clinical outcomes. IMPORTANCE Despite lacking classical motility machinery, nasopharyngeal staphylococci spread rapidly in (peri)oral and respiratory mucosa and cause cross-infections. We describe laboratory conditions for the reproducible study of staphylococcal dispersal on mucosa-like surfaces and the identification of two dispersal stages (colony spreading and dendritic expansion) stimulated by mucin glycoproteins. The mucin type mattered as dispersal required the surfactant activity and hydration provided by some mucin glycoproteins. While colony spreading was a passive mode of dispersal lubricated by the mucins, the more rapid and invasive form of dendritic expansion of Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis required additional lubrication by surfactant-active peptides (phenol-soluble modulins) secreted at high cell densities through quorum sensing. These results highlight a hitherto unknown role for gel-forming mucins in the dispersal of staphylococcal strains associated with cross-infections and point at perioral regions as overlooked sources of carriage and infection by staphylococci.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin M Jacob
- Department of Microbiology, Genetics and Immunology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | | | - Neal D Hammer
- Department of Microbiology, Genetics and Immunology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - Gemma Reguera
- Department of Microbiology, Genetics and Immunology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
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Abdulrehman T, Qadri S, Haik Y, Sultan A, Skariah S, Kumar S, Mendoza Z, Yadav KK, Titus A, Khader S. Advances in the targeted theragnostics of osteomyelitis caused by Staphylococcus aureus. Arch Microbiol 2024; 206:288. [PMID: 38834761 DOI: 10.1007/s00203-024-04015-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2024] [Revised: 05/14/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024]
Abstract
Bone infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus may lead to an inflammatory condition called osteomyelitis, which results in progressive bone loss. Biofilm formation, intracellular survival, and the ability of S. aureus to evade the immune response result in recurrent and persistent infections that present significant challenges in treating osteomyelitis. Moreover, people with diabetes are prone to osteomyelitis due to their compromised immune system, and in life-threatening cases, this may lead to amputation of the affected limbs. In most cases, bone infections are localized; thus, early detection and targeted therapy may prove fruitful in treating S. aureus-related bone infections and preventing the spread of the infection. Specific S. aureus components or overexpressed tissue biomarkers in bone infections could be targeted to deliver active therapeutics, thereby reducing drug dosage and systemic toxicity. Compounds like peptides and antibodies can specifically bind to S. aureus or overexpressed disease markers and combining these with therapeutics or imaging agents can facilitate targeted delivery to the site of infection. The effectiveness of photodynamic therapy and hyperthermia therapy can be increased by the addition of targeting molecules to these therapies enabling site-specific therapy delivery. Strategies like host-directed therapy focus on modulating the host immune mechanisms or signaling pathways utilized by S. aureus for therapeutic efficacy. Targeted therapeutic strategies in conjunction with standard surgical care could be potential treatment strategies for S. aureus-associated osteomyelitis to overcome antibiotic resistance and disease recurrence. This review paper presents information about the targeting strategies and agents for the therapy and diagnostic imaging of S. aureus bone infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tahir Abdulrehman
- eHealth Program, DeGroote School of Business, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
- Health Policy, Management and Informatics, Allied Health, Credit Valley Hospital, Mississauga, ON, Canada
| | - Shahnaz Qadri
- School of Pharmacy, Texas A&M University, Kingsville, USA.
| | - Yousef Haik
- Department of Mechanical & Nuclear Engineering, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, UAE.
| | - Ali Sultan
- Department of Immunology & Microbiology, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Doha, Qatar
| | - Sini Skariah
- Department of Immunology & Microbiology, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Doha, Qatar
| | - Shourya Kumar
- School of Engineering Medicine, Texas A&M University, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Zachary Mendoza
- School of Engineering Medicine, Texas A&M University, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Kamlesh K Yadav
- School of Engineering Medicine, Texas A&M University, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Anoop Titus
- Department of Preventive Cardiology, Houston Methodist, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Shameer Khader
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK
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Okabe K, Chikasue K, Murakami K, Matsuda N, Yamada S. Suppressed distribution of protein A on the surface of Staphylococcus aureus as a morphological characteristic of erythromycin-resistant strain. Med Mol Morphol 2024; 57:101-109. [PMID: 38386083 DOI: 10.1007/s00795-023-00379-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/24/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
To identify a new morphological phenotype of erythromycin (EM)-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) were isolated in vitro from EM-sensitive parent strain, and the distribution of staphylococcus specific protein A (SpA) on the surface of these strains was examined morphologically by using applied immunoelectron microscopy. The isolated EM-resistant strains had thickened cell walls, and the distribution of SpA on the surfaces of these strains was demonstrated to be lower than that of the parent strain. The SpA suppression was confirmed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) using fixed EM-resistant cells. Moreover, the spa gene of EM-resistant cells was detected by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and confirmed by quantitative real-time PCR assay, showing that the expression of SpA was repressed at the transcriptional level in these strains. Furthermore, ELISA assay showed that whole EM-resistant cell SpA content was significantly decreased. Therefore, it was considered that the suppression of surface SpA on the EM-resistant strain was due to regulated SpA production, and not dependent on the conformational change in SpA molecule expression through cell wall thickening. These results strongly suggest that suppressed SpA distribution on the EM-resistant S. aureus is a phenotypical characteristic in these strains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kanako Okabe
- Department of Medical Technology, Kawasaki University of Medical Welfare, 288 Matsushima, Kurashiki, Okayama, 701-0193, Japan.
| | - Kumiko Chikasue
- Department of Medical Technology, Kawasaki University of Medical Welfare, 288 Matsushima, Kurashiki, Okayama, 701-0193, Japan
| | - Keiji Murakami
- Department of Clinical Nutrition, Kawasaki University of Medical Welfare, 288 Matsushima, Kurashiki, Okayama, 701-0193, Japan
| | - Nobuaki Matsuda
- Electron Microscope Center, Kawasaki Medical School, 577 Matsushima, Kurashiki, Okayama, Japan
| | - Sakuo Yamada
- Department of Medical Technology, Kawasaki University of Medical Welfare, 288 Matsushima, Kurashiki, Okayama, 701-0193, Japan
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Nascimento LD, Lopes ACP, Teixeira MM, da Silva JMA, Silva LO, de Almeida JB, Campos GB, Teodósio R, Marques LM. Clinical and Microbiological Profile of Diabetic Foot Ulcers Infected With Staphylococcus aureus in a Regional General Hospital in Bahia, Brazil. INT J LOW EXTR WOUND 2024; 23:252-263. [PMID: 34747264 DOI: 10.1177/15347346211050771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
It is necessary to know the resistance profile of Staphylococcus aureus to better control diabetic foot ulcer infections, to establish rational antibiotic therapy, and to avoid the development of resistant strains. This cross-sectional study evaluated the clinical parameters, virulence, and antimicrobial resistance profiles of S aureus in patients with diabetic foot disease admitted to a public hospital. S aureus strains were identified in patients with diabetes with amputation indication. Infected tissue samples were collected, microbes were isolated and identified. The microbial resistance profile was determined. Samples were also analyzed for biofilm formation and other virulence markers. The 34 individuals examined were mostly men, black, aged 60 years on average, and generally had a low income and education level. Most individuals had type 2 diabetes, and the mean time since diagnosis was 13.9 years. On an SF-36 (the Medical Outcomes Study 36-item short-form health survey) quality-of-life questionnaire, 75% of individuals obtained a score equal to 0 for physical impairment. S aureus specimens from 17 patients were isolated, corresponding to 50% of samples. Five isolates were classified as methicillin-resistant S aureus (MRSA). Molecular typing revealed that 20% of MRSA strains were SCCmec type V and 80% were type I. All isolates were sensitive to doxycycline; 61.5% were resistant to erythromycin, 38.5% to cefoxitin, 30.7% to clindamycin and ciprofloxacin, 23% to meropenem, 15.3% to gentamicin, 38.5% to oxacillin, and 7.7% (one strain) to vancomycin. Regarding biofilm production, 53% of samples were able to produce biofilms, and 84.6% had icaA and/or icaD genes. Additionally, the following enterotoxin genes were identified in the isolates: seb, sec, seg, and sei (5.9%, 5.9%, 11.8%, and 23.9%, respectively) and agr types 1 (5.9%) and 2 (11.8%). Genotypic evaluation made it possible to understand the pathogenicity of S aureus strains isolated from the diabetic foot; laboratory tests can assist in the monitoring of patients with systemic involvement.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Mariana Morais Teixeira
- Federal University of Bahia, Multidisciplinary Institute in Health, Vitória da Conquista, Bahia, Brazil
| | | | - Letícia Oliveira Silva
- Federal University of Bahia, Multidisciplinary Institute in Health, Vitória da Conquista, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Jessica Bomfim de Almeida
- Federal University of Bahia, Multidisciplinary Institute in Health, Vitória da Conquista, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Guilherme Barreto Campos
- Federal University of Bahia, Multidisciplinary Institute in Health, Vitória da Conquista, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Rosa Teodósio
- Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical, IHMT, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, UNL; Global Health and Tropical Medicine,, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Lucas Miranda Marques
- Federal University of Bahia, Multidisciplinary Institute in Health, Vitória da Conquista, Bahia, Brazil
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Vadakkan K, Sathishkumar K, Kuttiyachan Urumbil S, Ponnenkunnathu Govindankutty S, Kumar Ngangbam A, Devi Nongmaithem B. A review of chemical signaling mechanisms underlying quorum sensing and its inhibition in Staphylococcus aureus. Bioorg Chem 2024; 148:107465. [PMID: 38761705 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2024.107465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2024] [Revised: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/20/2024]
Abstract
Staphylococcus aureus is a significant bacterium responsible for multiple infections and is a primary cause of fatalities among patients in hospital environments. The advent of pathogenic bacteria such as methicillin-resistant S. aureus revealed the shortcomings of employing antibiotics to treat bacterial infectious diseases. Quorum sensing enhances S. aureus's survivability through signaling processes. Targeting the key components of quorum sensing has drawn much interest nowadays as a promising strategy for combating infections caused by bacteria. Concentrating on the accessory gene regulator quorum-sensing mechanism is the most commonly suggested anti-virulence approach for S.aureus. Quorum quenching is a common strategy for controlling illnesses triggered by microorganisms since it reduces the pathogenicity of bacteria and improves bacterial biofilm susceptibility to antibiotics, thus providing an intriguing prospect for drug discovery. Quorum sensing inhibition reduces selective stresses and constrains the emergence of antibiotic resistance while limiting bacterial pathogenicity. This review examines the quorum sensing mechanisms involved in S. aureus, quorum sensing targets and gene regulation, environmental factors affecting quorum sensing, quorum sensing inhibition, natural products as quorum sensing inhibitory agents and novel therapeutical strategies to target quorum sensing in S. aureus as drug developing technique to augment conventional antibiotic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kayeen Vadakkan
- Department of Biotechnology, St. Mary's College (Autonomous), Thrissur, Kerala 680020, India; Manipur International University, Imphal, Manipur 795140, India.
| | - Kuppusamy Sathishkumar
- Center for Global Health Research, Saveetha Medical College and Hospitals, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences (SIMATS), Saveetha University, Thandalam, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 602105, India
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Ali L, Abdel Aziz MH. Crosstalk involving two-component systems in Staphylococcus aureus signaling networks. J Bacteriol 2024; 206:e0041823. [PMID: 38456702 PMCID: PMC11025333 DOI: 10.1128/jb.00418-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Staphylococcus aureus poses a serious global threat to human health due to its pathogenic nature, adaptation to environmental stress, high virulence, and the prevalence of antimicrobial resistance. The signaling network in S. aureus coordinates and integrates various internal and external inputs and stimuli to adapt and formulate a response to the environment. Two-component systems (TCSs) of S. aureus play a central role in this network where surface-expressed histidine kinases (HKs) receive and relay external signals to their cognate response regulators (RRs). Despite the purported high fidelity of signaling, crosstalk within TCSs, between HK and non-cognate RR, and between TCSs and other systems has been detected widely in bacteria. The examples of crosstalk in S. aureus are very limited, and there needs to be more understanding of its molecular recognition mechanisms, although some crosstalk can be inferred from similar bacterial systems that share structural similarities. Understanding the cellular processes mediated by this crosstalk and how it alters signaling, especially under stress conditions, may help decipher the emergence of antibiotic resistance. This review highlights examples of signaling crosstalk in bacteria in general and S. aureus in particular, as well as the effect of TCS mutations on signaling and crosstalk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liaqat Ali
- Fisch College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Tyler, Tyler, Texas, USA
| | - May H. Abdel Aziz
- Fisch College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Tyler, Tyler, Texas, USA
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Lai CH, Wong MY, Huang TY, Kao CC, Lin YH, Lu CH, Huang YK. Exploration of agr types, virulence-associated genes, and biofilm formation ability in Staphylococcus aureus isolates from hemodialysis patients with vascular access infections. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2024; 14:1367016. [PMID: 38681224 PMCID: PMC11045986 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2024.1367016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Staphylococcus aureus, is a pathogen commonly encountered in both community and hospital settings. Patients receiving hemodialysis treatment face an elevated risk of vascular access infections (VAIs) particularly Staphylococcus aureus, infection. This heightened risk is attributed to the characteristics of Staphylococcus aureus, , enabling it to adhere to suitable surfaces and form biofilms, thereby rendering it resistant to external interventions and complicating treatment efforts. Methods Therefore this study utilized PCR and microtiter dish biofilm formation assay to determine the difference in the virulence genes and biofilm formation among in our study collected of 103 Staphylococcus aureus, isolates from hemodialysis patients utilizing arteriovenous grafts (AVGs), tunneled cuffed catheters (TCCs), and arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs) during November 2013 to December 2021. Results Our findings revealed that both MRSA and MSSA isolates exhibited strong biofilm production capabilities. Additionally, we confirmed the presence of agr types and virulence genes through PCR analysis. The majority of the collected isolates were identified as agr type I. However, agr type II isolates displayed a higher average number of virulence genes, with MRSA isolates exhibiting a variety of virulence genes. Notably, combinations of biofilm-associated genes, such as eno-clfA-clfB-fib-icaA-icaD and eno-clfA-clfB-fib-fnbB-icaA-icaD, were prevalent among Staphylococcus aureus, isolates obtained from vascular access infections. Discussion These insights contribute to a better understanding of the molecular characteristics associated with Staphylococcus aureus, infections in hemodialysis patients and provided more targeted and effective treatment approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chi-Hsiang Lai
- Division of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Chiayi Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chiayi, Taiwan
| | - Min Yi Wong
- Division of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Chiayi Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chiayi, Taiwan
| | - Tsung-Yu Huang
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Chiayi Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chiayi, Taiwan
- College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Chen Kao
- Division of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Chiayi Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chiayi, Taiwan
- College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Hui Lin
- Division of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Chiayi Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chiayi, Taiwan
| | - Chu-Hsueh Lu
- Division of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Chiayi Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chiayi, Taiwan
| | - Yao-Kuang Huang
- Division of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Chiayi Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chiayi, Taiwan
- College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
- Division of Cardiovascular Surgery, New Taipei Municipal TuCheng Hospital, New Taipei, Taiwan
- Division of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Chiayi Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, Chiayi, Taiwan
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Das S, Malik M, Dastidar DG, Roy R, Paul P, Sarkar S, Chakraborty P, Maity A, Dasgupta M, Gupta AD, Chatterjee S, Sarker RK, Maiti D, Tribedi P. Piperine, a phytochemical prevents the biofilm city of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus: A biochemical approach to understand the underlying mechanism. Microb Pathog 2024; 189:106601. [PMID: 38423404 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2024.106601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), a drug-resistant human pathogen causes several nosocomial as well as community-acquired infections involving biofilm machinery. Hence, it has gained a wide interest within the scientific community to impede biofilm-induced MRSA-associated health complications. The current study focuses on the utilization of a natural bioactive compound called piperine to control the biofilm development of MRSA. Quantitative assessments like crystal violet, total protein recovery, and fluorescein-di-acetate (FDA) hydrolysis assays, demonstrated that piperine (8 and 16 μg/mL) could effectively compromise the biofilm formation of MRSA. Light and scanning electron microscopic image analysis confirmed the same. Further investigation revealed that piperine could reduce extracellular polysaccharide production by down-regulating the expression of icaA gene. Besides, piperine could reduce the cell-surface hydrophobicity of MRSA, a crucial factor of biofilm formation. Moreover, the introduction of piperine could interfere with microbial motility indicating the interaction of piperine with the quorum-sensing components. A molecular dynamics study showed a stable binding between piperine and AgrA protein (regulator of quorum sensing) suggesting the possible meddling of piperine in quorum-sensing of MRSA. Additionally, the exposure to piperine led to the accumulation of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) and potentially heightened cell membrane permeability in inhibiting microbial biofilm formation. Besides, piperine could reduce the secretion of diverse virulence factors from MRSA. Further exploration revealed that piperine interacted with extracellular DNA (e-DNA), causing disintegration by weakening the biofilm architecture. Conclusively, this study suggests that piperine could be a potential antibiofilm molecule against MRSA-associated biofilm infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharmistha Das
- Microbial Ecology Research Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, The Neotia University, Sarisha, West Bengal, 743368, India.
| | - Moumita Malik
- Microbial Ecology Research Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, The Neotia University, Sarisha, West Bengal, 743368, India.
| | - Debabrata Ghosh Dastidar
- Guru Nanak Institute of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, 157/F Nilgunj Road, Panihati, Kolkata, West Bengal, 700114, India.
| | - Ritwik Roy
- Microbial Ecology Research Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, The Neotia University, Sarisha, West Bengal, 743368, India.
| | - Payel Paul
- Microbial Ecology Research Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, The Neotia University, Sarisha, West Bengal, 743368, India.
| | - Sarita Sarkar
- Microbial Ecology Research Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, The Neotia University, Sarisha, West Bengal, 743368, India.
| | - Poulomi Chakraborty
- Microbial Ecology Research Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, The Neotia University, Sarisha, West Bengal, 743368, India.
| | - Alakesh Maity
- Microbial Ecology Research Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, The Neotia University, Sarisha, West Bengal, 743368, India.
| | - Monikankana Dasgupta
- Microbial Ecology Research Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, The Neotia University, Sarisha, West Bengal, 743368, India.
| | - Anirban Das Gupta
- Microbial Ecology Research Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, The Neotia University, Sarisha, West Bengal, 743368, India.
| | - Sudipta Chatterjee
- Microbial Ecology Research Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, The Neotia University, Sarisha, West Bengal, 743368, India.
| | - Ranojit Kumar Sarker
- Microbial Ecology Research Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, The Neotia University, Sarisha, West Bengal, 743368, India.
| | - Debasish Maiti
- Department of Human Physiology, Tripura University, Suryamaninagar, Agartala, Tripura, 799022, India.
| | - Prosun Tribedi
- Microbial Ecology Research Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, The Neotia University, Sarisha, West Bengal, 743368, India.
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12
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Lin LC, Kao CY, Chang SC, Hidrosollo JH, Lu JJ. Molecular characterization of lugdunin inactivation mechanisms and their association with Staphylococcus lugdunensis genetic types. JOURNAL OF MICROBIOLOGY, IMMUNOLOGY, AND INFECTION = WEI MIAN YU GAN RAN ZA ZHI 2024; 57:278-287. [PMID: 38296696 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmii.2024.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2023] [Revised: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/02/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Our previous studies showed that lugdunin activities are associated with Staphylococcus lugdunensis genotypes, and most isolates do not exhibit lugdunin activity. As a continuation of our previous analysis, we focused on the reasons for defects in lugdunin production in S. lugdunensis clinical isolates. METHODS A comparative analysis of 36 S. lugdunensis whole genome sequencing data revealed three major mutation types, unknown deletion mechanism that caused most of lug operon genes lost, mobile genetic element (MGE) insertion, and nonsense mutations, which potentially damaged lugdunin production. A total of 152 S. lugdunensis clinical isolates belonging to lugdunin nonproducers were further examined for the above three mutation types. PCR products were sequenced to examine these variations. RESULTS Forty-six of the 152 isolates were CRISPR-Cas IIC isolates, including 26 ST27, 14 ST4, and 6 ST29 isolates; further investigation confirmed that all of their lug operons had lost almost all lug operon genes except lugM. An IS256 insertion in lugA was identified in 16 isolates, and most isolates (15 over 16) belonged to ST3. In addition, three nonsense mutations caused by single nucleotide substitutions (an adenine deletion in lugB at the 361th and 1219th nucleotides and an adenine deletion in lugC at the 1612nd nucleotide) that were frequently observed among 36 S. lugdunensis whole genome sequencing data were further observed in our clinical isolates. These three nonsense mutations were frequently found in most of CRISPR-Cas IIIA strains, especially in ST6 isolates. CONCLUSION Our findings suggest that the mechanisms affecting lugdunin production are associated with S. lugdunensis molecular types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lee-Chung Lin
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Yen Kao
- Institute of Microbiology and Immunology, College of Life Sciences, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Shih-Cheng Chang
- Department of Medical Laboratory, Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan; Department of Medical Biotechnology and Laboratory Science, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Jazon Harl Hidrosollo
- Institute of Microbiology and Immunology, College of Life Sciences, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan; University of San Agustin, College of Pharmacy and Medical Technology, Iloilo City, Philippines
| | - Jang-Jih Lu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan; Department of Medical Biotechnology and Laboratory Science, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan; Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan.
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13
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Díaz MA, Vega-Hissi EG, Blázquez MA, Alberto MR, Arena ME. Restraining Staphylococcus aureus Virulence Factors and Quorum Sensing through Lactic Acid Bacteria Supernatant Extracts. Antibiotics (Basel) 2024; 13:297. [PMID: 38666973 PMCID: PMC11047364 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics13040297] [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: 03/02/2024] [Revised: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024] Open
Abstract
The escalating prevalence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria poses a grave threat to human health, necessitating the exploration of novel alternatives to conventional antibiotics. This study investigated the impact of extracts derived from the supernatant of four lactic acid bacteria strains on factors contributing to the pathogenicity of three Staphylococcus aureus strains. The study evaluated the influence of lactic acid bacteria supernatant extracts on the growth, biofilm biomass formation, biofilm metabolic activity, and biofilm integrity of the S. aureus strains. Additionally, the impact on virulence factors (hemolysin and coagulase) was examined. Gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry was used to identify the bioactive compounds in the extracts, while molecular docking analyses explored potential interactions. Predominantly, the extracts contain eight 2,5-diketopiperazines, which are cyclic forms of peptides. The extracts demonstrated inhibitory effects on biofilm formation, the ability to disrupt mature biofilms, and reduce the biofilm cell metabolic activity of the S. aureus strains. Furthermore, they exhibited the ability to inhibit α-hemolysin production and reduce coagulase activity. An in silico docking analysis reveals promising interactions between 2,5-diketopiperazines and key proteins (SarA and AgrA) in S. aureus, confirming their antivirulence and antibiofilm activities. These findings suggest that 2,5-diketopiperazines could serve as a promising lead compound in the fight against antibiotic-resistant S. aureus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Myriam Anabel Díaz
- Instituto Superior de Investigaciones Biológicas (INSIBIO, CONICET-UNT), Chacabuco 461, San Miguel de Tucumán CP 4000, Argentina;
| | - Esteban Gabriel Vega-Hissi
- Instituto Multidisciplinario de Investigaciones Biológicas (IMIBIO-SL), Facultad de Química, Bioquímica y Farmacia, Universidad Nacional de San Luis, Ejército de Los Andes 950, San Luis CP 5700, Argentina;
| | - María Amparo Blázquez
- Departament de Farmacologia, Facultat de Farmàcia i Ciències de l’Alimentació, Universitat de València, Avd. Vicent Andrés Estellés s/n, Burjasot, 46100 Valencia, Spain
| | - María Rosa Alberto
- Facultad de Bioquímica, Química y Farmacia, Universidad Nacional de Tucumán (UNT), Ayacucho 471, San Miguel de Tucumán CP 4000, Argentina
- Instituto de Biotecnología Farmacéutica y Alimentaria (INBIOFAL, CONICET-UNT), Avenida Kirchner 1900, San Miguel de Tucumán CP 4000, Argentina
| | - Mario Eduardo Arena
- Facultad de Bioquímica, Química y Farmacia, Universidad Nacional de Tucumán (UNT), Ayacucho 471, San Miguel de Tucumán CP 4000, Argentina
- Instituto de Biotecnología Farmacéutica y Alimentaria (INBIOFAL, CONICET-UNT), Avenida Kirchner 1900, San Miguel de Tucumán CP 4000, Argentina
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14
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Kaliniak S, Fiedoruk K, Spałek J, Piktel E, Durnaś B, Góźdź S, Bucki R, Okła S. Remodeling of Paranasal Sinuses Mucosa Functions in Response to Biofilm-Induced Inflammation. J Inflamm Res 2024; 17:1295-1323. [PMID: 38434581 PMCID: PMC10906676 DOI: 10.2147/jir.s443420] [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: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Rhinosinusitis (RS) is an acute (ARS) or chronic (CRS) inflammatory disease of the nasal and paranasal sinus mucosa. CRS is a heterogeneous condition characterized by distinct inflammatory patterns (endotypes) and phenotypes associated with the presence (CRSwNP) or absence (CRSsNP) of nasal polyps. Mucosal barrier and mucociliary clearance dysfunction, inflammatory cell infiltration, mucus hypersecretion, and tissue remodeling are the hallmarks of CRS. However, the underlying factors, their priority, and the mechanisms of inflammatory responses remain unclear. Several hypotheses have been proposed that link CRS etiology and pathogenesis with host (eg, "immune barrier") and exogenous factors (eg, bacterial/fungal pathogens, dysbiotic microbiota/biofilms, or staphylococcal superantigens). The abnormal interplay between these factors is likely central to the pathophysiology of CRS by triggering compensatory immune responses. Here, we discuss the role of the sinonasal microbiota in CRS and its biofilms in the context of mucosal zinc (Zn) deficiency, serving as a possible unifying link between five host and "bacterial" hypotheses of CRS that lead to sinus mucosa remodeling. To date, no clear correlation between sinonasal microbiota and CRS has been established. However, the predominance of Corynebacteria and Staphylococci and their interspecies relationships likely play a vital role in the formation of the CRS-associated microbiota. Zn-mediated "nutritional immunity", exerted via calprotectin, alongside the dysregulation of Zn-dependent cellular processes, could be a crucial microbiota-shaping factor in CRS. Similar to cystic fibrosis (CF), the role of SPLUNC1-mediated regulation of mucus volume and pH in CRS has been considered. We complement the biofilms' "mechanistic" and "mucin" hypotheses behind CRS pathogenesis with the "structural" one - associated with bacterial "corncob" structures. Finally, microbiota restoration approaches for CRS prevention and treatment are reviewed, including pre- and probiotics, as well as Nasal Microbiota Transplantation (NMT).
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Krzysztof Fiedoruk
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Nanobiomedical Engineering, Medical University of Białystok, Białystok, Poland
| | - Jakub Spałek
- Holy-Cross Cancer Center, Kielce, Poland
- Institute of Medical Science, Collegium Medicum, Jan Kochanowski University of Kielce, Kielce, 25-317, Poland
| | - Ewelina Piktel
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Nanobiomedical Engineering, Medical University of Białystok, Białystok, Poland
| | - Bonita Durnaś
- Holy-Cross Cancer Center, Kielce, Poland
- Institute of Medical Science, Collegium Medicum, Jan Kochanowski University of Kielce, Kielce, 25-317, Poland
| | - Stanisław Góźdź
- Holy-Cross Cancer Center, Kielce, Poland
- Institute of Medical Science, Collegium Medicum, Jan Kochanowski University of Kielce, Kielce, 25-317, Poland
| | - Robert Bucki
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Nanobiomedical Engineering, Medical University of Białystok, Białystok, Poland
- Institute of Medical Science, Collegium Medicum, Jan Kochanowski University of Kielce, Kielce, 25-317, Poland
| | - Sławomir Okła
- Holy-Cross Cancer Center, Kielce, Poland
- Institute of Medical Science, Collegium Medicum, Jan Kochanowski University of Kielce, Kielce, 25-317, Poland
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15
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Jiang H, Chen J, Du X, Feng D, Zhang Y, Qi J, He Y, An Z, Lu Y, Ge C, Wang Y. Unveiling Synergistic Potency: Exploring Butyrolactone I to Enhance Gentamicin Efficacy against Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) Strain USA300. ACS Infect Dis 2024; 10:196-214. [PMID: 38127778 DOI: 10.1021/acsinfecdis.3c00534] [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: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
Staphylococcus aureus, including MRSA strains, poses significant health risks, imposing a significant disease burden and mortality. We investigate butyrolactone I (BL-1), a marine-derived metabolite from Aspergillus terreus, enhancing aminoglycoside efficacy against MRSA. A promising synergy is observed with BL-1 and various aminoglycosides, marked by low fractional inhibitory concentration indexes (FICIs < 0.5). Comprehensive studies utilizing USA300 MRSA and gentamicin reveal a remarkable one-fourth reduction in minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) with 20 μg/mL BL-1. A relative abundance assay indicates that BL-1 enhances gentamicin uptake while restraining extracellular presence, involving intricate transmembrane signaling and molecular interactions. RNA-Seq analysis yielded an unexpected revelation, unveiling a distinctive gene expression profile and distinguishing it from other treatment approaches. Furthermore, meticulous analyses validated the extensive perturbations induced by BL-1 exposure, affecting diverse biological functions, encompassing glycolysis, amino acid metabolisms, substance transmembrane transport, and virulence generation. These valuable insights inspired further confirmation of bacterial virulence and the modulation of membrane permeability resulting from BL-1 treatment. Phenotypic validations corroborated our observations, revealing reduced membrane permeability and hemolytic toxicity, albeit demanding a deeper comprehension of the intricate interplay underlying these actions. Our study contributes crucial mechanistic insights to the development of therapeutic strategies against this notorious pathogen and the judicious employment of aminoglycosides. Additionally, it elucidates marine-derived metabolites' ecological and functional roles, exemplified by fungal quorum sensing signals. These compounds could give producers a competitive edge, inhibiting microorganism proliferation and suggesting novel approaches for combating resistant pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanxiang Jiang
- School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Jiaqin Chen
- School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Xinyang Du
- School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Dong Feng
- Nanjing Southern Pharmaceutical Technology Co., Ltd., Nanjing 211100, China
| | - Yanjun Zhang
- School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Jiangfeng Qi
- School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Yajing He
- School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Zhilong An
- Nanjing Southern Pharmaceutical Technology Co., Ltd., Nanjing 211100, China
| | - Yuanyuan Lu
- School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Chun Ge
- Department of Pharmacy, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210006, China
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, School of Basic Medicine & Clinical Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Ying Wang
- School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
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16
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Hauserman MR, Ferraro MJ, Carroll RK, Rice KC. Altered quorum sensing and physiology of Staphylococcus aureus during spaceflight detected by multi-omics data analysis. NPJ Microgravity 2024; 10:2. [PMID: 38191486 PMCID: PMC10774393 DOI: 10.1038/s41526-023-00343-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Staphylococcus aureus colonizes the nares of approximately 30% of humans, a risk factor for opportunistic infections. To gain insight into S. aureus virulence potential in the spaceflight environment, we analyzed RNA-Seq, cellular proteomics, and metabolomics data from the "Biological Research in Canisters-23" (BRIC-23) GeneLab spaceflight experiment, a mission designed to measure the response of S. aureus to growth in low earth orbit on the international space station. This experiment used Biological Research in Canisters-Petri Dish Fixation Units (BRIC-PDFUs) to grow asynchronous ground control and spaceflight cultures of S. aureus for 48 h. RNAIII, the effector of the Accessory Gene Regulator (Agr) quorum sensing system, was the most highly upregulated gene transcript in spaceflight relative to ground controls. The agr operon gene transcripts were also highly upregulated during spaceflight, followed by genes encoding phenol-soluble modulins and secreted proteases, which are positively regulated by Agr. Upregulated spaceflight genes/proteins also had functions related to urease activity, type VII-like Ess secretion, and copper transport. We also performed secretome analysis of BRIC-23 culture supernatants, which revealed that spaceflight samples had increased abundance of secreted virulence factors, including Agr-regulated proteases (SspA, SspB), staphylococcal nuclease (Nuc), and EsxA (secreted by the Ess system). These data also indicated that S. aureus metabolism is altered in spaceflight conditions relative to the ground controls. Collectively, these data suggest that S. aureus experiences increased quorum sensing and altered expression of virulence factors in response to the spaceflight environment that may impact its pathogenic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew R Hauserman
- Department of Microbiology and Cell Science, IFAS, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Mariola J Ferraro
- Department of Microbiology and Cell Science, IFAS, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Ronan K Carroll
- Department of Biological Sciences, Ohio University, Athens, OH, USA
| | - Kelly C Rice
- Department of Microbiology and Cell Science, IFAS, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA.
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17
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Joy A, Seethi V F, Cyriac MC, Habeeb J, Sudhakaran S, Shah S. Modelling of AgrA inhibitors to combat anti-microbial resistance in Staphylococcus aureus. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2024; 42:551-558. [PMID: 37166373 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2023.2203260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Staphylococcus aureus is a Gram-positive bacterium found on human skin that causes skin and soft tissue infections, as well as pneumonia, osteomyelitis, and endocarditis. The prevalence of antibiotic resistant strains has made the treatments less effective. An efficient alternate method for battling these contagious diseases is anti-virulence strategy. The AgrA protein, a key activator of Accessory Gene Regulator system in S. aureus, is vital to the virulence of the organism and, consequently, its pathogenesis. Using a Machine Learning algorithm, the Support Vector Machine (SVM), and a ligand-based pharmacophore modelling method, prediction models of AgrA inhibitors were developed. The metrics of the SVM model were inadequate, hence it was not used for virtual screening. For ligand-based pharmacophore modelling, 14 of 29 compounds were removed from the active set due to a lack of shared pharmacophore properties, and 504 compounds were designated as decoys. A 3D pharmacophore model was created using LigandScout 4.4.5, with a fit score of 57.48, including a positive ionizable group, one hydrogen bond donor, and three hydrogen bond acceptors. The model after further validation was used to virtually screen an external database which resulted in six hits. These compounds were docked with the AgrA domain crystal structure to determine the inhibitor activity. Further, each docked complex was subjected to a 100 ns molecular dynamics simulation. CID238 and CID20510252 demonstrated potent inhibitory binding interactions and hence can be used to develop AgrA inhibitors in future after proper validation.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amitha Joy
- Department of Biotechnology, Sahrdaya College of Engineering and Technology, Thrissur, Kerala, India
| | | | - Marria C Cyriac
- Department of Biotechnology, Sahrdaya College of Engineering and Technology, Thrissur, Kerala, India
| | - Jasmin Habeeb
- Division of Crop Improvement, ICAR-Central Plantation Crops Research Institute, Kasaragod, Kerala, India
| | | | - Shaheen Shah
- Genomics Central [MaGenomics], Thrissur, Kerala, India
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18
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Zhang JW, Guo C, Xuan CG, Gu JW, Cui ZN, Zhang J, Zhang L, Jiang W, Zhang LQ. High-Throughput, Quantitative Screening of Quorum-Sensing Inhibitors Based on a Bacterial Biosensor. ACS Chem Biol 2023; 18:2544-2554. [PMID: 37983266 DOI: 10.1021/acschembio.3c00537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
Quorum sensing (QS) is a cell-cell communication mechanism by which bacteria synchronize social behaviors such as biofilm formation and virulence factor secretion by producing and sensing small molecular signals. Quorum quenching (QQ) by degrading signals or blocking signal transmissions has become a promising strategy for disrupting QS and preventing bacterial infection and biofilm formation. However, studies of high-throughput screening and identification approaches for quorum-sensing inhibitors (QSIs) are still inadequate. In this work, we developed a sensitive, high-throughput approach for screening QSIs based on the bacterial biosensor strain Agrobacterium tumefaciens N5 (pBA7P), which contains a traG gene promoter induced by QS signals fused with a promoterless β-lactamase gene reporter. Using this approach, we identified 31 QQ bacteria from ∼2000 soil bacterial isolates, some belonging to the genera Bosea, Cupriavidus, and Flavobacterium that have not been reported previously as QQ bacteria. We also identified four QS inhibitory compounds and one QS signal analogue from ∼5000 small-molecule compounds, which profoundly affected the expression of QS-regulated genes and phenotypes of the pathogenic bacteria. This high-throughput screening system is effective and sensitive for screening of both QQ microbes and small molecules, enabling the discovery of a wide variety of biocompatible compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun-Wei Zhang
- Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs Key Laboratory of Pest Monitoring and Green Management, College of Plant Protection, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Cong Guo
- Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs Key Laboratory of Pest Monitoring and Green Management, College of Plant Protection, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Chen-Guang Xuan
- Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs Key Laboratory of Pest Monitoring and Green Management, College of Plant Protection, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Jing-Wen Gu
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, Integrative Microbiology Research Centre, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Microbial Signals and Disease Control, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Zi-Ning Cui
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, Integrative Microbiology Research Centre, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Microbial Signals and Disease Control, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
- Lingnan Guangdong Laboratory of Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Jing Zhang
- Institute of Functional Molecules, Shenyang University of Chemical Technology, Shenyang, Liaoning 110142, China
| | - Lixin Zhang
- Institute of Functional Molecules, Shenyang University of Chemical Technology, Shenyang, Liaoning 110142, China
| | - Wenjun Jiang
- Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs Key Laboratory of Pest Monitoring and Green Management, College of Plant Protection, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Li-Qun Zhang
- Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs Key Laboratory of Pest Monitoring and Green Management, College of Plant Protection, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
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Khaleghian M, Sahrayi H, Hafezi Y, Mirshafeeyan M, Moghaddam ZS, Farasati Far B, Noorbazargan H, Mirzaie A, Ren Q. In silico design and mechanistic study of niosome-encapsulated curcumin against multidrug-resistant Staphylococcus aureus biofilms. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1277533. [PMID: 38098658 PMCID: PMC10720333 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1277533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Curcumin, an important natural component of turmeric, has been known for a long time for its antimicrobial properties. This study aimed to investigate the anti-biofilm action of the niosome-encapsulated curcumin and explore the involved anti-biofilm mechanism. In silico investigations of ADME-Tox (absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity) were first performed to predict the suitability of curcumin for pharmaceutical application. Curcumin showed low toxicity but at the same time, low solubility and low stability, which, in turn, might reduce its antimicrobial activity. To overcome these intrinsic limitations, curcumin was encapsulated using a biocompatible niosome system, and an encapsulation efficiency of 97% was achieved. The synthesized curcumin-containing niosomes had a spherical morphology with an average diameter of 178 nm. The niosomal curcumin was capable of reducing multi-drug resistant (MDR) Staphylococcus aureus biofilm 2-4-fold compared with the free curcumin. The encapsulated curcumin also demonstrated no significant cytotoxicity on the human foreskin fibroblasts. To understand the interaction between curcumin and S. aureus biofilm, several biofilm-related genes were analyzed for their expression. N-acetylglucosaminyl transferase (IcaD), a protein involved in the production of polysaccharide intercellular adhesion and known to play a function in biofilm development, was found to be downregulated by niosomal curcumin and showed high binding affinity (-8.3 kcal/mol) with curcumin based on molecular docking analysis. Our study suggests that the niosome-encapsulated curcumin is a promising approach for the treatment of MDR S. aureus biofilm and can be extended to biofilms caused by other pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hamidreza Sahrayi
- Department of Chemical and Petrochemical Engineering, Sharif University of Technology, Tehran, Iran
| | - Yousef Hafezi
- School of Chemical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahshad Mirshafeeyan
- Department of Chemical and Petrochemical Engineering, Sharif University of Technology, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Salehi Moghaddam
- Department of Microbial Biotechnology, School of Biology, College of Science, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Bahareh Farasati Far
- Department of Chemistry, Iran University of Science and Technology, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hassan Noorbazargan
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amir Mirzaie
- Department of Biology, Parand Branch, Islamic Azad University, Shahr-e Jadid-e Parand, Iran
| | - Qun Ren
- Laboratory for Biointerfaces, Empa, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, St. Gallen, Switzerland
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20
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Iobbi V, Parisi V, Bernabè G, De Tommasi N, Bisio A, Brun P. Anti-Biofilm Activity of Carnosic Acid from Salvia rosmarinus against Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 12:3679. [PMID: 37960038 PMCID: PMC10647425 DOI: 10.3390/plants12213679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
The Salvia rosmarinus "Eretto Liguria" ecotype was studied as a source of valuable bioactive compounds. LC-MS analysis of the methanolic extract underlined the presence of diterpenoids, triterpenoids, polyphenolic acids, and flavonoids. The anti-virulence activity of carnosic acid along with the other most abundant compounds against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) was evaluated. Only carnosic acid induced a significant reduction in the expression of agrA and rnaIII genes, which encode the key components of quorum sensing (QS), an intracellular signaling mechanism controlling the virulence of MRSA. At a concentration of 0.05 mg/mL, carnosic acid inhibited biofilm formation by MRSA and the expression of genes involved in toxin production and made MRSA more susceptible to intracellular killing, with no toxic effects on eukaryotic cells. Carnosic acid did not affect biofilm formation by Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a human pathogen that often coexists with MRSA in complex infections. The selected ecotype showed a carnosic acid content of 94.3 ± 4.3 mg/g. In silico analysis highlighted that carnosic acid potentially interacts with the S. aureus AgrA response regulator. Our findings suggest that carnosic acid could be an anti-virulence agent against MRSA infections endowed with a species-specific activity useful in multi-microbial infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Iobbi
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Genova, Viale Cembrano 4, 16148 Genova, Italy;
| | - Valentina Parisi
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Via Giovanni Paolo II 132, 84084 Salerno, Italy; (V.P.); (N.D.T.)
| | - Giulia Bernabè
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, Via Gabelli 63, 35121 Padova, Italy; (G.B.); (P.B.)
| | - Nunziatina De Tommasi
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Via Giovanni Paolo II 132, 84084 Salerno, Italy; (V.P.); (N.D.T.)
| | - Angela Bisio
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Genova, Viale Cembrano 4, 16148 Genova, Italy;
| | - Paola Brun
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, Via Gabelli 63, 35121 Padova, Italy; (G.B.); (P.B.)
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Bano S, Hassan N, Rafiq M, Hassan F, Rehman M, Iqbal N, Ali H, Hasan F, Kang YQ. Biofilms as Battlefield Armor for Bacteria against Antibiotics: Challenges and Combating Strategies. Microorganisms 2023; 11:2595. [PMID: 37894253 PMCID: PMC10609369 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11102595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Bacterial biofilms are formed by communities, which are encased in a matrix of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS). Notably, bacteria in biofilms display a set of 'emergent properties' that vary considerably from free-living bacterial cells. Biofilms help bacteria to survive under multiple stressful conditions such as providing immunity against antibiotics. Apart from the provision of multi-layered defense for enabling poor antibiotic absorption and adaptive persistor cells, biofilms utilize their extracellular components, e.g., extracellular DNA (eDNA), chemical-like catalase, various genes and their regulators to combat antibiotics. The response of biofilms depends on the type of antibiotic that comes into contact with biofilms. For example, excessive production of eDNA exerts resistance against cell wall and DNA targeting antibiotics and the release of antagonist chemicals neutralizes cell membrane inhibitors, whereas the induction of protein and folic acid antibiotics inside cells is lowered by mutating genes and their regulators. Here, we review the current state of knowledge of biofilm-based resistance to various antibiotic classes in bacteria and genes responsible for biofilm development, and the key role of quorum sensing in developing biofilms and antibiotic resistance is also discussed. In this review, we also highlight new and modified techniques such as CRISPR/Cas, nanotechnology and bacteriophage therapy. These technologies might be useful to eliminate pathogens residing in biofilms by combating biofilm-induced antibiotic resistance and making this world free of antibiotic resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Bano
- Applied Environmental and Geomicrobiology Laboratory, Department of Microbiology, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad 45320, Pakistan
| | - Noor Hassan
- Industrial Biotechnology Division, National Institute for Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering-College, Pakistan Institute of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Islamabad 44000, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Rafiq
- Department of Microbiology, Balochistan University of Information Technology, Engineering and Management Sciences, Quetta 87300, Pakistan
| | - Farwa Hassan
- Industrial Biotechnology Division, National Institute for Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering-College, Pakistan Institute of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Islamabad 44000, Pakistan
| | - Maliha Rehman
- Department of Microbiology, Balochistan University of Information Technology, Engineering and Management Sciences, Quetta 87300, Pakistan
| | - Naveed Iqbal
- Department of Biotechnology & Informatics, Balochistan University of Information Technology, Engineering and Management Sciences, Quetta 87300, Pakistan
- The Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Aga Khan University, Karachi 74800, Pakistan
| | - Hazrat Ali
- Industrial Biotechnology Division, National Institute for Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering-College, Pakistan Institute of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Islamabad 44000, Pakistan
| | - Fariha Hasan
- Applied Environmental and Geomicrobiology Laboratory, Department of Microbiology, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad 45320, Pakistan
| | - Ying-Qian Kang
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Monitoring and Disease Control, Ministry of Education of Guizhou, Guiyang 550025, China
- Key Laboratory of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550025, China
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22
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Kim SY, Kim M, Kim TJ. Regulation of σ B-Dependent Biofilm Formation in Staphylococcus aureus through Strain-Specific Signaling Induced by Diosgenin. Microorganisms 2023; 11:2376. [PMID: 37894034 PMCID: PMC10609180 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11102376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Staphylococcus aureus is a commensal skin bacterium and a causative agent of infectious diseases. Biofilm formation in S. aureus is a mechanism that facilitates the emergence of resistant strains. This study proposes a mechanism for the regulation of biofilm formation in S. aureus through strain-specific physiological changes induced by the plant steroid diosgenin. A comparison of diosgenin-induced changes in the expression of regulatory genes associated with physiological changes revealed the intracellular regulatory mechanisms involved in biofilm formation. Diosgenin reduced biofilm formation in S. aureus ATCC 6538 and methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) CCARM 3090 by 39% and 61%, respectively. Conversely, it increased biofilm formation in S. aureus ATCC 29213 and MRSA CCARM 3820 by 186% and 582%, respectively. Cell surface hydrophobicity and extracellular protein and carbohydrate contents changed in a strain-specific manner in response to biofilm formation. An assessment of the changes in gene expression associated with biofilm formation revealed that diosgenin treatment decreased the expression of icaA and spa and increased the expression of RNAIII, agrA, sarA, and sigB in S. aureus ATCC 6538 and MRSA CCARM 3090; however, contrasting gene expression changes were noted in S. aureus ATCC 29213 and MRSA CCARM 3820. These results suggest that a regulatory mechanism of biofilm formation is that activated sigB expression sequentially increases the expression of sarA, agrA, and RNAIII. This increased RNAIII expression decreases the expression of spa, a surface-associated adhesion factor. An additional regulatory mechanism of biofilm formation is that activated sigB expression decreases the expression of an unknown regulator that increases the expression of icaA. This in turn decreases the expression of icaA, which decreases the synthesis of polysaccharide intercellular adhesins and ultimately inhibits biofilm formation. By assessing strain-specific contrasting regulatory signals induced by diosgenin in S. aureus without gene mutation, this study elucidated the signal transduction mechanisms that regulate biofilm formation based on physiological and gene expression changes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Tae-Jong Kim
- Department of Forest Products and Biotechnology, Kookmin University, Seoul 02707, Republic of Korea
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23
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Dicks LMT. Biofilm Formation of Clostridioides difficile, Toxin Production and Alternatives to Conventional Antibiotics in the Treatment of CDI. Microorganisms 2023; 11:2161. [PMID: 37764005 PMCID: PMC10534356 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11092161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Clostridioides difficile is considered a nosocomial pathogen that flares up in patients exposed to antibiotic treatment. However, four out of ten patients diagnosed with C. difficile infection (CDI) acquired the infection from non-hospitalized individuals, many of whom have not been treated with antibiotics. Treatment of recurrent CDI (rCDI) with antibiotics, especially vancomycin (VAN) and metronidazole (MNZ), increases the risk of experiencing a relapse by as much as 70%. Fidaxomicin, on the other hand, proved more effective than VAN and MNZ by preventing the initial transcription of RNA toxin genes. Alternative forms of treatment include quorum quenching (QQ) that blocks toxin synthesis, binding of small anion molecules such as tolevamer to toxins, monoclonal antibodies, such as bezlotoxumab and actoxumab, bacteriophage therapy, probiotics, and fecal microbial transplants (FMTs). This review summarizes factors that affect the colonization of C. difficile and the pathogenicity of toxins TcdA and TcdB. The different approaches experimented with in the destruction of C. difficile and treatment of CDI are evaluated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leon M T Dicks
- Department of Microbiology, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch 7600, South Africa
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24
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Saha S, Ghosh M. Computational exploration of natural compounds targeting Staphylococcus aureus: inhibiting AgrA promoter binding for antimicrobial intervention. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2023:1-12. [PMID: 37578046 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2023.2246566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/30/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023]
Abstract
Staphylococcus aureus is a highly virulent nosocomial pathogen that poses a significant threat to individuals exposed to healthcare settings. Due to its sophisticated machinery for producing virulence factors, S. aureus can cause severe and potentially fatal infections in humans. This study focuses on the response regulator AgrA, which plays a crucial role in regulating the production of virulence factors in S. aureus. The objective is to identify natural compounds that can inhibit the binding of AgrA to its promoter site, thus inhibiting the expression of virulence genes. To achieve this, a pharmacophore model was generated using known drugs and applied to screen the ZINC natural product database. The resulting compounds were subjected to molecular docking-based virtual screening against the C-terminal DNA binding domain of AgrA. Three compounds, namely ZINC000077269178, ZINC000051012304, and ZINC000004266026, were shortlisted based on their strong affinity for key residues involved in DNA binding and transcription initiation. Subsequently, the unbound and ligand-bound complexes were subjected to a 200 ns molecular dynamics simulation to assess their conformational stability. Various analyses, including RMSD, RMSF, Rg, SASA, Principal Component Analysis, and Gibbs free energy landscape, were conducted on the simulation trajectory. The RMSD profile indicated similar fluctuations in both bound and unbound structures, while the Rg profile demonstrated the compactness of the protein without any unfolding during the simulation. Furthermore, Principal component analysis revealed that ligand binding reduced the overall atomic motion of the protein whereas free energy landscape suggested the energy variations obtained in complexes.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Subhadip Saha
- Department of Biotechnology, National Institute of Technology Durgapur, Durgapur, India
| | - Monidipa Ghosh
- Department of Biotechnology, National Institute of Technology Durgapur, Durgapur, India
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25
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Kim G, Lee Y, You JS, Hwang W, Hwang J, Kim HY, Kim J, Jo A, Park IH, Ali M, Kim J, Shin JS, Kwon HK, Kim HJ, Yoon SS. A Moonlighting Protein Secreted by a Nasal Microbiome Fortifies the Innate Host Defense Against Bacterial and Viral Infections. Immune Netw 2023; 23:e31. [PMID: 37670809 PMCID: PMC10475824 DOI: 10.4110/in.2023.23.e31] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Revised: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Evidence suggests that the human respiratory tract, as with the gastrointestinal tract, has evolved to its current state in association with commensal microbes. However, little is known about how the airway microbiome affects the development of airway immune system. Here, we uncover a previously unidentified mode of interaction between host airway immunity and a unique strain (AIT01) of Staphylococcus epidermidis, a predominant species of the nasal microbiome. Intranasal administration of AIT01 increased the population of neutrophils and monocytes in mouse lungs. The recruitment of these immune cells resulted in the protection of the murine host against infection by Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a pathogenic bacterium. Interestingly, an AIT01-secreted protein identified as GAPDH, a well-known bacterial moonlighting protein, mediated this protective effect. Intranasal delivery of the purified GAPDH conferred significant resistance against other Gram-negative pathogens (Klebsiella pneumoniae and Acinetobacter baumannii) and influenza A virus. Our findings demonstrate the potential of a native nasal microbe and its secretory protein to enhance innate immune defense against airway infections. These results offer a promising preventive measure, particularly relevant in the context of global pandemics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gwanghee Kim
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Korea
- Brain Korea 21 PLUS Project for Medical Sciences, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Korea
- BioMe Inc., Seoul 02455, Korea
| | - Yoojin Lee
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Korea
- Brain Korea 21 PLUS Project for Medical Sciences, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Korea
| | - Jin Sun You
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Korea
- Brain Korea 21 PLUS Project for Medical Sciences, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Korea
| | - Wontae Hwang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Korea
- Brain Korea 21 PLUS Project for Medical Sciences, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Korea
| | - Jeewon Hwang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Korea
- Brain Korea 21 PLUS Project for Medical Sciences, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Korea
| | - Hwa Young Kim
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Korea
- Brain Korea 21 PLUS Project for Medical Sciences, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Korea
| | - Jieun Kim
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Korea
- Institute for Immunology and Immunological Diseases, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Korea
| | - Ara Jo
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Korea
- Sensory Organ Research Institute, Seoul National University Medical Research Center, Seoul 03080, Korea
| | - In ho Park
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Korea
- Institute for Immunology and Immunological Diseases, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Korea
| | - Mohammed Ali
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Korea
- Brain Korea 21 PLUS Project for Medical Sciences, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Korea
| | - Jongsun Kim
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Korea
- Institute for Immunology and Immunological Diseases, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Korea
| | - Jeon-Soo Shin
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Korea
- Brain Korea 21 PLUS Project for Medical Sciences, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Korea
- Institute for Immunology and Immunological Diseases, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Korea
- Severance Biomedical Science Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Korea
| | - Ho-Keun Kwon
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Korea
- Brain Korea 21 PLUS Project for Medical Sciences, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Korea
- Institute for Immunology and Immunological Diseases, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Korea
| | - Hyun Jik Kim
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Korea
- Sensory Organ Research Institute, Seoul National University Medical Research Center, Seoul 03080, Korea
| | - Sang Sun Yoon
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Korea
- Brain Korea 21 PLUS Project for Medical Sciences, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Korea
- BioMe Inc., Seoul 02455, Korea
- Institute for Immunology and Immunological Diseases, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Korea
- Severance Biomedical Science Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Korea
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26
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Patel H, Rawat S. A genetic regulatory see-saw of biofilm and virulence in MRSA pathogenesis. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1204428. [PMID: 37434702 PMCID: PMC10332168 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1204428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Staphylococcus aureus is one of the most common opportunistic human pathogens causing several infectious diseases. Ever since the emergence of the first methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) strain decades back, the organism has been a major cause of hospital-acquired infections (HA-MRSA). The spread of this pathogen across the community led to the emergence of a more virulent subtype of the strain, i.e., Community acquired Methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (CA-MRSA). Hence, WHO has declared Staphylococcus aureus as a high-priority pathogen. MRSA pathogenesis is remarkable because of the ability of this "superbug" to form robust biofilm both in vivo and in vitro by the formation of polysaccharide intercellular adhesin (PIA), extracellular DNA (eDNA), wall teichoic acids (WTAs), and capsule (CP), which are major components that impart stability to a biofilm. On the other hand, secretion of a diverse array of virulence factors such as hemolysins, leukotoxins, enterotoxins, and Protein A regulated by agr and sae two-component systems (TCS) aids in combating host immune response. The up- and downregulation of adhesion genes involved in biofilm formation and genes responsible for synthesizing virulence factors during different stages of infection act as a genetic regulatory see-saw in the pathogenesis of MRSA. This review provides insight into the evolution and pathogenesis of MRSA infections with a focus on genetic regulation of biofilm formation and virulence factors secretion.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Seema Rawat
- Microbiology Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, Central University of Gujarat, Gandhinagar, Gujarat, India
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27
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Polaske TJ, West KHJ, Zhao K, Widner DL, York JT, Blackwell HE. Chemical and biomolecular insights into the Staphylococcus aureus agr quorum sensing system: Current progress and ongoing challenges. Isr J Chem 2023; 63:e202200096. [PMID: 38765792 PMCID: PMC11101167 DOI: 10.1002/ijch.202200096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 03/19/2023]
Abstract
Staphylococcus aureus is a ubiquitous bacterium that has become a major threat to human health due to its extensive toxin production and tremendous capacity for antibiotic resistance (e.g., MRSA "superbug" infections). Amid a worsening antibiotic resistance crisis, new strategies to combat this deadly microbe that remove the selective pressure of traditional approaches are in high demand. S. aureus utilizes an accessory gene regulator (agr) quorum sensing network to monitor its local cellular population and trigger a devastating communal attack, like an invading horde, once a threshold cell density has been reached. The role of the agr system in a range of disease types is still being unraveled. Herein, we discuss the present-day biochemical understanding of agr along with unresolved details, describe its connection to the progression of infection, and review how chemical strategies have been implemented to study and intercept this signaling pathway. This research is illuminating the potential of agr as an anti-virulence target in S. aureus and should inform the study of similar, yet less studied, agr systems in related bacterial pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas J. Polaske
- Department of Chemistry, University of Wisconsin–Madison, 1101 University Ave., Madison, WI 53706 USA
| | - Korbin H. J. West
- Department of Chemistry, University of Wisconsin–Madison, 1101 University Ave., Madison, WI 53706 USA
| | - Ke Zhao
- Department of Chemistry, University of Wisconsin–Madison, 1101 University Ave., Madison, WI 53706 USA
| | - Danielle L. Widner
- Department of Chemistry, University of Wisconsin–Madison, 1101 University Ave., Madison, WI 53706 USA
| | - Jordan T. York
- Department of Chemistry, University of Wisconsin–Madison, 1101 University Ave., Madison, WI 53706 USA
| | - Helen E. Blackwell
- Department of Chemistry, University of Wisconsin–Madison, 1101 University Ave., Madison, WI 53706 USA
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28
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Martínez A, Stashenko EE, Sáez RT, Zafra G, Ortiz C. Effect of Essential Oil from Lippia origanoides on the Transcriptional Expression of Genes Related to Quorum Sensing, Biofilm Formation, and Virulence of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. Antibiotics (Basel) 2023; 12:antibiotics12050845. [PMID: 37237748 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics12050845] [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: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Microbial infections resistant to conventional antibiotics constitute one of the most important causes of mortality in the world. In some bacterial species, such as Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus pathogens, biofilm formation can favor their antimicrobial resistance. These biofilm-forming bacteria produce a compact and protective matrix, allowing their adherence and colonization to different surfaces, and contributing to resistance, recurrence, and chronicity of the infections. Therefore, different therapeutic alternatives have been investigated to interrupt both cellular communication routes and biofilm formation. Among these, essential oils (EO) from Lippia origanoides thymol-carvacrol II chemotype (LOTC II) plants have demonstrated biological activity against different biofilm-forming pathogenic bacteria. In this work, we determined the effect of LOTC II EO on the expression of genes associated with quorum sensing (QS) communication, biofilm formation, and virulence of E. coli ATCC 25922 and S. aureus ATCC 29213. This EO was found to have high efficacy against biofilm formation, decreasing-by negative regulation-the expression of genes involved in motility (fimH), adherence and cellular aggregation (csgD), and exopolysaccharide production (pgaC) in E. coli. In addition, this effect was also determined in S. aureus where the L. origanoides EO diminished the expression of genes involved in QS communication (agrA), production of exopolysaccharides by PIA/PNG (icaA), synthesis of alpha hemolysin (hla), transcriptional regulators of the production of extracellular toxins (RNA III), QS and biofilm formation transcriptional regulators (sarA) and global regulators of biofilm formation (rbf and aur). Positive regulation was observed on the expression of genes encoding inhibitors of biofilm formation (e.g., sdiA and ariR). These findings suggest that LOTCII EO can affect biological pathways associated with QS communication, biofilm formation, and virulence of E. coli and S. aureus at subinhibitory concentrations and could be a promising candidate as a natural antibacterial alternative to conventional antibiotics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrés Martínez
- Grupo de Investigación en Bioquímica y Microbiología (GIBIM), Escuela de Microbiología, Facultad de Salud, Universidad Industrial de Santander, Bucaramanga 680002, Colombia
| | - Elena E Stashenko
- Escuela de Química, Centro de Cromatografía y Espectrometría de Masas (CROM-MASS), Universidad Industrial de Santander, Bucaramanga 680002, Colombia
| | - Rodrigo Torres Sáez
- Grupo de Investigación en Bioquímica y Microbiología (GIBIM), Escuela de Microbiología, Facultad de Salud, Universidad Industrial de Santander, Bucaramanga 680002, Colombia
| | - German Zafra
- Grupo de Investigación en Bioquímica y Microbiología (GIBIM), Escuela de Microbiología, Facultad de Salud, Universidad Industrial de Santander, Bucaramanga 680002, Colombia
| | - Claudia Ortiz
- Grupo de Investigación en Bioquímica y Microbiología (GIBIM), Escuela de Microbiología, Facultad de Salud, Universidad Industrial de Santander, Bucaramanga 680002, Colombia
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29
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Chandra H, Sorg JA, Hassett DJ, Sun X. Regulatory transcription factors of Clostridioides difficile pathogenesis with a focus on toxin regulation. Crit Rev Microbiol 2023; 49:334-349. [PMID: 35389761 PMCID: PMC11209739 DOI: 10.1080/1040841x.2022.2054307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2021] [Revised: 02/26/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Clostridioides difficile (CD), a nosocomial gut pathogen, produces two major exotoxins, TcdA and TcdB, which disrupt the gut epithelial barrier and induce inflammatory/immune responses, leading to symptoms ranging from mild diarrhoea to pseudomembranous colitis and potentially to death. The expression of toxins is regulated by various transcription factors (TFs) which are induced in response to CD physiological life stages, nutritional availability, and host environment. This review summarises our current understanding on the regulation of toxin expression by TFs that interconnect with pathways of flagellar synthesis, quorum sensing, motility, biofilm formation, sporulation, and phase variation. The pleiotropic roles of some key TFs suggest that toxin production is tightly linked to other cellular processes of the CD physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harish Chandra
- Department of Environmental Microbiology, School of Environmental and Earth Sciences, Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University, Lucknow, India
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Biochemistry and Microbiology, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Joseph A. Sorg
- Department of Biology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Daniel J Hassett
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Biochemistry and Microbiology, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Xingmin Sun
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
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30
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Kamer AMA, Abdelaziz AA, Al-Monofy KB, Al-Madboly LA. Antibacterial, antibiofilm, and anti-quorum sensing activities of pyocyanin against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus: in vitro and in vivo study. BMC Microbiol 2023; 23:116. [PMID: 37095436 PMCID: PMC10124065 DOI: 10.1186/s12866-023-02861-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections are considered a major public health problem, as the treatment options are restricted. Biofilm formation and the quorum sensing (QS) system play a pivotal role in S. aureus pathogenicity. Hence, this study was performed to explore the antibacterial effect of pyocyanin (PCN) on MRSA as well as its effect on MRSA biofilm and QS. RESULTS Data revealed that PCN exhibited strong antibacterial activity against all test MRSA isolates (n = 30) with a MIC value equal to 8 µg/ml. About 88% of MRSA biofilms were eradicated by PCN treatment using the crystal violet assay. The disruption of MRSA biofilm was confirmed using confocal laser scanning microscopy, which showed a reduction in bacterial viability (approximately equal to 82%) and biofilm thickness (approximately equal to 60%). Additionally, the disruption of the formation of microcolonies and the disturbance of the connection between bacterial cells in the MRSA biofilm after PCN treatment were examined by scanning electron microscopy. The 1/2 and 1/4 MICs of PCN exerted promising anti-QS activity without affecting bacterial viability; Agr QS-dependent virulence factors (hemolysin, protease, and motility), and the expression of agrA gene, decreased after PCN treatment. The in silico analysis confirmed the binding of PCN to the AgrA protein active site, which blocked its action. The in vivo study using the rat wound infection model confirmed the ability of PCN to modulate the biofilm and QS of MRSA isolates. CONCLUSION The extracted PCN seems to be a good candidate for treating MRSA infection through biofilm eradication and Agr QS inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amal M Abo Kamer
- Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
| | - Ahmed A Abdelaziz
- Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
| | - Khaled B Al-Monofy
- Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt.
| | - Lamiaa A Al-Madboly
- Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
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31
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Lamret F, Lemaire A, Lagoutte M, Varin-Simon J, Abraham L, Colin M, Braux J, Velard F, Gangloff SC, Reffuveille F. Approaching prosthesis infection environment: Development of an innovative in vitro Staphylococcus aureus biofilm model. Biofilm 2023; 5:100120. [PMID: 37125394 PMCID: PMC10130472 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioflm.2023.100120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Revised: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/02/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The major role and implication of bacterial biofilms in the case of bone and prosthesis infections have been highlighted and often linked to implant colonization. Management strategies of these difficult-to-treat infections consist in surgeries and antibiotic treatment, but the rate of relapse remains high, especially if Staphylococcus aureus, a high-virulent pathogen, is involved. Therapeutic approaches are not adapted to the specific features of biofilm in bone context whereas infectious environment is known to importantly influence biofilm structure. In the present study, we aim to characterize S. aureus SH1000 (methicillin-sensitive strain, MSSA) and USA300 (methicillin-resistant strain, MRSA) biofilm on different surfaces mimicking the periprosthetic environment. As expected, protein adsorption on titanium enhanced the number of adherent bacteria for both strains. On bone explant, USA300 adhered more than SH1000. The simultaneous presence of two different surfaces was also found to change the bacterial behaviour. Thus, proteins adsorption on titanium and bone samples (from bank or directly recovered after an arthroplasty) were found to be key parameters that influence S. aureus biofilm formation: adhesion, matrix production and biofilm-related gene regulation. These results highlighted the need for new biofilm models, more relevant with the infectious environment by using adapted culture medium and presence of surfaces that are representative of in situ conditions to better evaluate therapeutic strategies against biofilm.
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Grazul M, Balcerczak E, Sienkiewicz M. Analysis of the Presence of the Virulence and Regulation Genes from Staphylococcus aureus ( S. aureus) in Coagulase Negative Staphylococci and the Influence of the Staphylococcal Cross-Talk on Their Functions. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:5155. [PMID: 36982064 PMCID: PMC10049693 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20065155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2023] [Revised: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Coagulase-negative staphylococci (CoNS) are increasingly becoming a public health issue worldwide due to their growing resistance to antibiotics and common involvement in complications related to invasive surgical procedures, and nosocomial and urinary tract infections. Their behavior either as a commensal or a pathogen is a result of strict regulation of colonization and virulence factors. Although functionality of virulence factors and processes involved in their regulation are quite well understood in S. aureus, little is known about them in CoNS species. Therefore, the aim of our studies was to check if clinical CoNS strains may contain virulence factors and genes involved in resistance to methicillin, that are homologous to S. aureus. Moreover, we checked the presence of elements responsible for regulation of genes that encode virulence factors typical for S. aureus in tested isolates. We also investigated whether the regulation factors produced by one CoNS isolate can affect virulence activity of other strains by co-incubation of tested isolates with supernatant from other isolates. Our studies confirmed the presence of virulence factor and regulatory genes attributed to S. aureus in CoNS isolates and indicated that one strain with an active agr gene is able to affect biofilm formation and δ-toxin activity of strains with inactive agr genes. The cognition of prevalence and regulation of virulence factors as well as antibiotic resistance of CoNS isolates is important for better control and treatment of CoNS infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Grazul
- Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology and Microbiological Diagnostics, Medical University of Lodz, Muszynskiego 1 Street, 90-151 Lodz, Poland
| | - Ewa Balcerczak
- Laboratory of Molecular Diagnostics and Pharmacogenomics, Department of Pharmaceutical Biochemistry and Molecular Diagnostics, Medical University of Lodz, Muszynskiego 1 Street, 90-151 Lodz, Poland
| | - Monika Sienkiewicz
- Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology and Microbiological Diagnostics, Medical University of Lodz, Muszynskiego 1 Street, 90-151 Lodz, Poland
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Staphylococcus aureus Behavior on Artificial Surfaces Mimicking Bone Environment. Pathogens 2023; 12:pathogens12030384. [PMID: 36986306 PMCID: PMC10056644 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12030384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2023] [Revised: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Infections, which interfere with bone regeneration, may be a critical issue to consider during the development of biomimetic material. Calcium phosphate (CaP) and type I collagen substrates, both suitable for bone-regeneration dedicated scaffolds, may favor bacterial adhesion. Staphylococcus aureus possesses adhesins that allow binding to CaP or collagen. After their adhesion, bacteria may develop structures highly tolerant to immune system attacks or antibiotic treatments: the biofilms. Thus, the choice of material used for scaffolds intended for bone sites is essential to provide devices with the ability to prevent bone and joint infections by limiting bacterial adhesion. In this study, we compared the adhesion of three different S. aureus strains (CIP 53.154, SH1000, and USA300) on collagen- and CaP-coating. Our objective was to evaluate the capacity of bacteria to adhere to these different bone-mimicking coated supports to better control the risk of infection. The three strains were able to adhere to CaP and collagen. The visible matrix components were more important on CaP- than on collagen-coating. However, this difference was not reflected in biofilm gene expression for which no change was observed between the two tested surfaces. Another objective was to evaluate these bone-mimicking coatings for the development of an in vitro model. Thus, CaP, collagen-coatings, and the titanium-mimicking prosthesis were simultaneously tested in the same bacterial culture. No significant differences were found compared to adhesion on surfaces independently tested. In conclusion, these coatings used as bone substitutes can easily be colonized by bacteria, especially CaP-coating, and must be used with an addition of antimicrobial molecules or strategies to avoid bacterial biofilm development.
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Regulation of Staphylococcus aureus Virulence and Application of Nanotherapeutics to Eradicate S. aureus Infection. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:pharmaceutics15020310. [PMID: 36839634 PMCID: PMC9960757 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15020310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Revised: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Staphylococcus aureus is a versatile pathogen known to cause hospital- and community-acquired, foodborne, and zoonotic infections. The clinical infections by S. aureus cause an increase in morbidity and mortality rates and treatment costs, aggravated by the emergence of drug-resistant strains. As a multi-faceted pathogen, it is imperative to consolidate the knowledge on its pathogenesis, including the mechanisms of virulence regulation, development of antimicrobial resistance, and biofilm formation, to make it amenable to different treatment strategies. Nanomaterials provide a suitable platform to address this challenge, with the potential to control intracellular parasitism and multidrug resistance where conventional therapies show limited efficacy. In a nutshell, the first part of this review focuses on the impact of S. aureus on human health and the role of virulence factors and biofilms during pathogenesis. The second part discusses the large diversity of nanoparticles and their applications in controlling S. aureus infections, including combination with antibiotics and phytochemicals and the incorporation of antimicrobial coatings for biomaterials. Finally, the limitations and prospects using nanomaterials are highlighted, aiming to foster the development of novel nanotechnology-driven therapies against multidrug-resistant S. aureus.
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Lee SM, Keum HL, Sul WJ. Bacterial Crosstalk via Antimicrobial Peptides on the Human Skin: Therapeutics from a Sustainable Perspective. J Microbiol 2023; 61:1-11. [PMID: 36719618 DOI: 10.1007/s12275-022-00002-8] [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: 07/05/2022] [Revised: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
The skin's epidermis is an essential barrier as the first guard against invading pathogens, and physical protector from external injury. The skin microbiome, which consists of numerous bacteria, fungi, viruses, and archaea on the epidermis, play a key role in skin homeostasis. Antibiotics are a fast-acting and effective treatment method, however, antibiotic use is a nuisance that can disrupt skin homeostasis by eradicating beneficial bacteria along with the intended pathogens and cause antibiotic-resistant bacteria spread. Increased numbers of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) derived from humans and bacteria have been reported, and their roles have been well defined. Recently, modulation of the skin microbiome with AMPs rather than artificially synthesized antibiotics has attracted the attention of researchers as many antibiotic-resistant strains make treatment mediation difficult in the context of ecological problems. Herein, we discuss the overall insights into the skin microbiome, including its regulation by different AMPs, as well as their composition and role in health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seon Mi Lee
- Department of Systems Biotechnology, Chung-Ang University, Anseong, 17546, Republic of Korea
| | - Hye Lim Keum
- Department of Systems Biotechnology, Chung-Ang University, Anseong, 17546, Republic of Korea
| | - Woo Jun Sul
- Department of Systems Biotechnology, Chung-Ang University, Anseong, 17546, Republic of Korea.
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Engineering a "detect and destroy" skin probiotic to combat methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0276795. [PMID: 36520793 PMCID: PMC9754240 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0276795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The prevalence and virulence of pathogens such as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus (S.) aureus (MRSA), which can cause recurrent skin infections, are of significant clinical concern. Prolonged antibiotic exposure to treat or decolonize S. aureus contributes to development of antibiotic resistance, as well as depletion of the microbiome, and its numerous beneficial functions. We hypothesized an engineered skin probiotic with the ability to selectively deliver antimicrobials only in the presence of the target organism could provide local bioremediation of pathogen colonization. We constructed a biosensing S. epidermidis capable of detecting the presence of S. aureus quorum sensing autoinducer peptide and producing lysostaphin in response. Here, we demonstrate in vitro activity of this biosensor and present and discuss challenges to deployment of this and other engineered topical skin probiotics.
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Study of SarA by DNA Affinity Capture Assay (DACA) Employing Three Promoters of Key Virulence and Resistance Genes in Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus. Antibiotics (Basel) 2022; 11:antibiotics11121714. [PMID: 36551372 PMCID: PMC9774152 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics11121714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2022] [Revised: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), one of the most well-known human pathogens, houses many virulence factors and regulatory proteins that confer resistance to diverse antibiotics. Although they have been investigated intensively, the correlations among virulence factors, regulatory proteins and antibiotic resistance are still elusive. We aimed to identify the most significant global MRSA regulator by concurrently analyzing protein-binding and several promoters under same conditions and at the same time point. DNA affinity capture assay (DACA) was performed with the promoters of mecA, sarA, and sarR, all of which significantly impact survival of MRSA. Here, we show that SarA protein binds to all three promoters. Consistent with the previous reports, ΔsarA mutant exhibited weakened antibiotic resistance to oxacillin and reduced biofilm formation. Additionally, production and activity of many virulence factors such as phenol-soluble modulins (PSM), α-hemolysin, motility, staphyloxanthin, and other related proteins were decreased. Comparing the sequence of SarA with that of clinical strains of various lineages showed that all sequences were highly conserved, in contrast to that observed for AgrA, another major regulator of virulence and resistance in MRSA. We have demonstrated that SarA regulates antibiotic resistance and the expression of various virulence factors. Our results warrant that SarA could be a leading target for developing therapeutic agents against MRSA infections.
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Tripathi S, Purchase D, Govarthanan M, Chandra R, Yadav S. Regulatory and innovative mechanisms of bacterial quorum sensing-mediated pathogenicity: a review. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2022; 195:75. [PMID: 36334179 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-022-10564-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 01/29/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Quorum sensing (QS) is a system of bacteria in which cells communicate with each other; it is linked to cell density in the microbiome. The high-density colony population can provide enough small molecular signals to enable a range of cellular activities, gene expression, pathogenicity, and antibiotic resistance that cause damage to the hosts. QS is the basis of chronic illnesses in human due to microbial sporulation, expression of virulence factors, biofilm formation, secretion of enzymes, or production of membrane vesicles. The transfer of antimicrobial resistance gene (ARG) among antibiotic resistance bacteria is a major public health concern. QS-mediated biofilm is a hub for ARG horizontal gene transfer. To develop innovative approach to prevent microbial pathogenesis, it is essential to understand the role of QS especially in response to environmental stressors such as exposure to antibiotics. This review provides the latest knowledge on the relationship of QS and pathogenicity and explore the novel approach to control QS via quorum quenching (QQ) using QS inhibitors (QSIs) and QQ enzymes. The state-of-the art knowledge on the role of QS and the potential of using QQ will help to overcome the threats of rapidly emerging bacterial pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonam Tripathi
- Department of Environmental Microbiology, School for Environmental Sciences, Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University (A Central University), Vidya Vihar, Raebareli Road, Lucknow, 226025, UP, India
| | - Diane Purchase
- Department of Natural Sciences, Faculty of Science and Technology, Middlesex University, The Burroughs, Hendon, London, NW4 4BT, UK
| | - Muthusamy Govarthanan
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Kyungpook National University, 80 Daehak-ro, Buk-gu, Daegu, 41566, South Korea
| | - Ram Chandra
- Department of Environmental Microbiology, School for Environmental Sciences, Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University (A Central University), Vidya Vihar, Raebareli Road, Lucknow, 226025, UP, India.
| | - Sangeeta Yadav
- Department of Environmental Microbiology, School for Environmental Sciences, Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University (A Central University), Vidya Vihar, Raebareli Road, Lucknow, 226025, UP, India.
- Department of Botany, Vaishno Devi Prashikshan Mahavidyalaya, Gondahi, Kunda, Pratapgarh, India.
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Riester O, Burkhardtsmaier P, Gurung Y, Laufer S, Deigner HP, Schmidt MS. Synergy of R-(-)carvone and cyclohexenone-based carbasugar precursors with antibiotics to enhance antibiotic potency and inhibit biofilm formation. Sci Rep 2022; 12:18019. [PMID: 36289389 PMCID: PMC9606123 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-22807-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The widespread use of antibiotics in recent decades has been a major factor in the emergence of antibiotic resistances. Antibiotic-resistant pathogens pose increasing challenges to healthcare systems in both developing and developed countries. To counteract this, the development of new antibiotics or adjuvants to combat existing resistance to antibiotics is crucial. Glycomimetics, for example carbasugars, offer high potential as adjuvants, as they can inhibit metabolic pathways or biofilm formation due to their similarity to natural substrates. Here, we demonstrate the synthesis of carbasugar precursors (CSPs) and their application as biofilm inhibitors for E. coli and MRSA, as well as their synergistic effect in combination with antibiotics to circumvent biofilm-induced antibiotic resistances. This results in a biofilm reduction of up to 70% for the CSP rac-7 and a reduction in bacterial viability of MRSA by approximately 45% when combined with the otherwise ineffective antibiotic mixture of penicillin and streptomycin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oliver Riester
- grid.21051.370000 0001 0601 6589Institute of Precision Medicine, Furtwangen University, Jakob-Kienzle-Strasse 17, 78054 Villingen-Schwenningen, Germany ,grid.10392.390000 0001 2190 1447Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Pharmacy and Biochemistry, Eberhard-Karls-University Tuebingen, Auf Der Morgenstelle 8, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Pia Burkhardtsmaier
- grid.21051.370000 0001 0601 6589Institute of Precision Medicine, Furtwangen University, Jakob-Kienzle-Strasse 17, 78054 Villingen-Schwenningen, Germany
| | - Yuna Gurung
- grid.21051.370000 0001 0601 6589Institute of Precision Medicine, Furtwangen University, Jakob-Kienzle-Strasse 17, 78054 Villingen-Schwenningen, Germany
| | - Stefan Laufer
- grid.10392.390000 0001 2190 1447Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Pharmacy and Biochemistry, Eberhard-Karls-University Tuebingen, Auf Der Morgenstelle 8, 72076 Tübingen, Germany ,Tuebingen Center for Academic Drug Discovery and Development (TüCAD2), 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Hans-Peter Deigner
- grid.21051.370000 0001 0601 6589Institute of Precision Medicine, Furtwangen University, Jakob-Kienzle-Strasse 17, 78054 Villingen-Schwenningen, Germany ,grid.10392.390000 0001 2190 1447Faculty of Science, Eberhard-Karls-University Tuebingen, Auf Der Morgenstelle 8, 72076 Tübingen, Germany ,grid.418008.50000 0004 0494 3022EXIM Department, Fraunhofer Institute IZI (Leipzig), Schillingallee 68, 18057 Rostock, Germany
| | - Magnus S. Schmidt
- grid.21051.370000 0001 0601 6589Institute of Precision Medicine, Furtwangen University, Jakob-Kienzle-Strasse 17, 78054 Villingen-Schwenningen, Germany
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Determination of Virulence Factors and Resistance Profile of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Strains among Different Types of spa, agr, and SCCmec. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 2022:5863310. [PMID: 36281464 PMCID: PMC9587906 DOI: 10.1155/2022/5863310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
In order to restrict the spread of methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) in hospitals, it is necessary to characterize isolates rapidly and precisely. The objective of this study was to determine virulence factors and resistance profiles of MRSA strains among spa, agr, and SCCmec types. In total, 55 MRSA isolates were collected from clinical specimens. The MRSA isolates were characterized by antimicrobial susceptibility testing, virulence genes, agr typing, spa typing, and SCCmec typing. According to our findings, all MRSA strains were resistant to cefoxitin; 88% and 86.7% of which were resistant to erythromycin and clindamycin, respectively. Type II agr was predominant with 54.54% frequency. Among 27 different spa types, type t030 was most frequently (25.45%). Most MRSA isolates (63.3%) were SCCmec type III. The pvl and tst genes were found in 25.3% and 32.7% of MRSA isolates, respectively. Among the MRSA strains, ermA, ermB, and ermC were present in 50%, 33.3%, and 57.3% of cases, respectively. In addition, 43 of the 55 MRSA strains (78%) harbored aminoglycoside resistance genes. The results of our study revealed that the MRSA rate in our region is dramatically high. Better infection control guidelines in hospitals, as well as ongoing epidemiological surveillance studies, could be strongly suggested for effective prevention of the spread of MRSA to inpatients.
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Wang Y, Bian Z, Wang Y. Biofilm formation and inhibition mediated by bacterial quorum sensing. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2022; 106:6365-6381. [DOI: 10.1007/s00253-022-12150-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2022] [Revised: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Liu Y, Su S, Yu M, Zhai D, Hou Y, Zhao H, Ma X, Jia M, Xue X, Li M. Pyrancoumarin derivative LP4C targeting of pyrimidine de novo synthesis pathway inhibits MRSA biofilm and virulence. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:959736. [PMID: 36147327 PMCID: PMC9486200 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.959736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Staphylococcus aureus poses a serious public health threat because of its multidrug resistance and biofilm formation ability. Hence, developing novel anti-biofilm agents and finding targets are needed to mitigate the proliferation of drug-resistant pathogens. In our previous study, we showed that the pyrancoumarin derivative 2-amino-4-(2,6-dichlorophenyl)-3-cyano-5-oxo-4H, 5H- pyrano [3,2c] chromene (LP4C) can destroy the biofilm of methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) in vitro and in vivo. Here, we further explored the possible mechanism of LP4C as a potential anti-biofilm drug. We found that LP4C inhibits the expression of enzymes involved in the de novo pyrimidine pathway and attenuates the virulence of MRSA USA300 strain without affecting the agr or luxS quorum sensing system. The molecular docking results indicated that LP4C forms interactions with the key amino acid residues of pyrR protein, which functions as the important regulator of bacterial pyrimidine synthesis. These findings reveal that pyrancoumarin derivative LP4C inhibits MRSA biofilm formation and targeting pyrimidine de novo synthesis pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongsheng Liu
- Department of Pharmacology, Key Laboratory of Gastrointestinal Pharmacology of Chinese Materia Medical of the State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmacy, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Shan Su
- Department of Pharmacology, Key Laboratory of Gastrointestinal Pharmacology of Chinese Materia Medical of the State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmacy, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Moxi Yu
- Department of Pharmacology, Key Laboratory of Gastrointestinal Pharmacology of Chinese Materia Medical of the State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmacy, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Dongshen Zhai
- Department of Pharmacology, Key Laboratory of Gastrointestinal Pharmacology of Chinese Materia Medical of the State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmacy, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Yachen Hou
- Department of Pharmacology, Key Laboratory of Gastrointestinal Pharmacology of Chinese Materia Medical of the State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmacy, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Hui Zhao
- Department of Pharmacology, Key Laboratory of Gastrointestinal Pharmacology of Chinese Materia Medical of the State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmacy, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Xue Ma
- Department of Pharmacology, Key Laboratory of Gastrointestinal Pharmacology of Chinese Materia Medical of the State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmacy, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Min Jia
- Department of Pharmacology, Key Laboratory of Gastrointestinal Pharmacology of Chinese Materia Medical of the State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmacy, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Xiaoyan Xue
- Department of Pharmacology, Key Laboratory of Gastrointestinal Pharmacology of Chinese Materia Medical of the State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmacy, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
- *Correspondence: Mingkai Li, ; Xiaoyan Xue,
| | - Mingkai Li
- Department of Pharmacology, Key Laboratory of Gastrointestinal Pharmacology of Chinese Materia Medical of the State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmacy, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
- Precision Pharmacy and Drug Development Center, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
- *Correspondence: Mingkai Li, ; Xiaoyan Xue,
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Effect of MA01 rhamnolipid on cell viability and expression of quorum-sensing (QS) genes involved in biofilm formation by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. Sci Rep 2022; 12:14833. [PMID: 36050412 PMCID: PMC9437072 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-19103-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 08/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
A group of biosurfactants, called rhamnolipids, have been shown to have antibacterial and antibiofilm activity against multidrug-resistant bacteria. Here, we examined the effect of rhamnolipid biosurfactants extracted from Pseudomonas aeruginosa MA01 on cell growth/viability, biofilm formation, and membrane permeability of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) ATCC6538 bacterial cells. The results obtained from flow cytometry analysis showed that by increasing the concentration of rhamnolipid from 30 to 120 mg/mL, the cell viability decreased by about 70%, and the cell membrane permeability increased by approximately 20%. In fact, increasing rhamnolipid concentration was directly related to cell membrane permeability and inversely related to cell survival. Microtiter plate biofilm assay and laser scanning confocal microscopy analysis revealed that rhamnolipid, at a concentration of 60 mg/mL, exerts a reducing effect on the biofilm formation of Staphylococcus aureus. Real-time PCR analysis for monitoring the relative changes in the expression of agrA, agrC, icaA, and icaD genes involved in biofilm formation and related to the quorum-sensing pathway after treatment with rhamnolipid indicated a reduced expression level of these genes, as well as sortase A gene. The results of the present study deepen our knowledge regarding the use of microbial natural products as promising candidates for therapeutic applications.
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Reconstitution of the S. aureus agr quorum sensing pathway reveals a direct role for the integral membrane protease MroQ in pheromone biosynthesis. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2022; 119:e2202661119. [PMID: 35939668 PMCID: PMC9388083 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2202661119] [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] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
In Staphylococcus aureus, virulence is under the control of a quorum sensing (QS) circuit encoded in the accessory gene regulator (agr) genomic locus. Key to this pathogenic behavior is the production and signaling activity of a secreted pheromone, the autoinducing peptide (AIP), generated following the ribosomal synthesis and posttranslational modification of a precursor polypeptide, AgrD, through two discrete cleavage steps. The integral membrane protease AgrB is known to catalyze the first processing event, generating the AIP biosynthetic intermediate, AgrD (1-32) thiolactone. However, the identity of the second protease in this biosynthetic pathway, which removes an N-terminal leader sequence, has remained ambiguous. Here, we show that membrane protease regulator of agr QS (MroQ), an integral membrane protease recently implicated in the agr response, is directly involved in AIP production. Genetic complementation and biochemical experiments reveal that MroQ proteolytic activity is required for AIP biosynthesis in agr specificity group I and group II, but not group III. Notably, as part of this effort, the biosynthesis and AIP-sensing arms of the QS circuit were reconstituted together in vitro. Our experiments also reveal the molecular features guiding MroQ cleavage activity, a critical factor in defining agr specificity group identity. Collectively, our study adds to the molecular understanding of the agr response and Staphylococcus aureus virulence.
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CRISPR-Cas in Acinetobacter baumannii Contributes to Antibiotic Susceptibility by Targeting Endogenous AbaI. Microbiol Spectr 2022; 10:e0082922. [PMID: 35938813 PMCID: PMC9430643 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.00829-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Acinetobacter baumannii is a well-known human opportunistic pathogen in nosocomial infections, and the emergence of multidrug-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii has become a complex problem for clinical anti-infective treatments. The ways this organism obtains multidrug resistance phenotype include horizontal gene transfer and other mechanisms, such as altered targets, decreased permeability, increased enzyme production, overexpression of efflux pumps, metabolic changes, and biofilm formation. A CRISPR-Cas system generally consists of a CRISPR array and one or more operons of cas genes, which can restrict horizontal gene transfer in bacteria. Nevertheless, it is unclear how CRISPR-Cas systems regulate antibiotic resistance in Acinetobacter baumannii. Thus, we sought to assess how CRISPR-Cas affects biofilm formation, membrane permeability, efflux pump, reactive oxygen species, and quorum sensing to clarify further the mechanism of CRISPR-Cas regulation of Acinetobacter baumannii antibiotic resistance. In the clinical isolate AB43, which has a complete I-Fb CRISPR-Cas system, we discovered that the Cas3 nuclease of this type I-F CRISPR-Cas system regulates Acinetobacter baumannii quorum sensing and has a unique function in changing drug resistance. As a result of quorum sensing, synthase abaI is reduced, allowing efflux pumps to decrease, biofilm formation to become weaker, reactive oxygen species to generate, and drug resistance to decrease in response to CRISPR-Cas activity. These observations suggest that the CRISPR-Cas system targeting endogenous abaI may boost bacterial antibiotic sensitivity. IMPORTANCE CRISPR-Cas systems are vital for genome editing, bacterial virulence, and antibiotic resistance. How CRISPR-Cas systems regulate antibiotic resistance in Acinetobacter baumannii is almost wholly unknown. In this study, we reveal that the quorum sensing regulator abaI mRNA was a primary target of the I-Fb CRISPR-Cas system and the cleavage activity of Cas3 was the most critical factor in regulating abaI mRNA degradation. These results advance our understanding of how CRISPR-Cas systems inhibit drug resistance. However, the mechanism of endogenous targeting of abaI by CRISPR-Cas needs to be further explored.
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Turner AB, Gerner E, Firdaus R, Echeverz M, Werthén M, Thomsen P, Almqvist S, Trobos M. Role of sodium salicylate in Staphylococcus aureus quorum sensing, virulence, biofilm formation and antimicrobial susceptibility. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:931839. [PMID: 35992652 PMCID: PMC9384861 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.931839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The widespread threat of antibiotic resistance requires new treatment options. Disrupting bacterial communication, quorum sensing (QS), has the potential to reduce pathogenesis by decreasing bacterial virulence. The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of sodium salicylate (NaSa) on Staphylococcus aureus QS, virulence production and biofilm formation. In S. aureus ATCC 25923 (agr III), with or without serum, NaSa (10 mM) downregulated the agr QS system and decreased the secretion levels of alpha-hemolysin, staphopain A and delta-hemolysin. Inhibition of agr expression caused a downregulation of delta-hemolysin, decreasing biofilm dispersal and increasing biofilm formation on polystyrene and titanium under static conditions. In contrast, NaSa did not increase biofilm biomass under flow but caused one log10 reduction in biofilm viability on polystyrene pegs, resulting in biofilms being twice as susceptible to rifampicin. A concentration-dependent effect of NaSa was further observed, where high concentrations (10 mM) decreased agr expression, while low concentrations (≤0.1 mM) increased agr expression. In S. aureus 8325-4 (agr I), a high concentration of NaSa (10 mM) decreased hla expression, and a low concentration of NaSa (≤1 mM) increased rnaIII and hla expression. The activity of NaSa on biofilm formation was dependent on agr type and material surface. Eight clinical strains isolated from prosthetic joint infection (PJI) or wound infection belonging to each of the four agr types were evaluated. The four PJI S. aureus strains did not change their biofilm phenotype with NaSa on the clinically relevant titanium surface. Half of the wound strains (agr III and IV) did not change the biofilm phenotype in the 3D collagen wound model. In addition, compared to the control, ATCC 25923 biofilms formed with 10 mM NaSa in the collagen model were more susceptible to silver. It is concluded that NaSa can inhibit QS in S. aureus, decreasing the levels of toxin production with certain modulation of biofilm formation. The effect on biofilm formation was dependent on the strain and material surface. It is suggested that the observed NaSa inhibition of bacterial communication is a potential alternative or adjuvant to traditional antibiotics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Benedict Turner
- Department of Biomaterials, University of Gothenburg, The Sahlgrenska Academy, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Center for Antibiotic Resistance Research (CARe), University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Erik Gerner
- Department of Biomaterials, University of Gothenburg, The Sahlgrenska Academy, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Center for Antibiotic Resistance Research (CARe), University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Mölnlycke Health Care AB, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Rininta Firdaus
- Department of Biomaterials, University of Gothenburg, The Sahlgrenska Academy, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Center for Antibiotic Resistance Research (CARe), University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Maite Echeverz
- Microbial Pathogenesis Research Unit, Public University of Navarre, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Maria Werthén
- Department of Biomaterials, University of Gothenburg, The Sahlgrenska Academy, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Center for Antibiotic Resistance Research (CARe), University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Peter Thomsen
- Department of Biomaterials, University of Gothenburg, The Sahlgrenska Academy, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | | | - Margarita Trobos
- Department of Biomaterials, University of Gothenburg, The Sahlgrenska Academy, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Center for Antibiotic Resistance Research (CARe), University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- *Correspondence: Margarita Trobos,
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Ning Y, Wang X, Chen P, Liu S, Hu J, Xiao R, Li L, Lu F. Targeted inhibition of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus biofilm formation by a graphene oxide-loaded aptamer/berberine bifunctional complex. Drug Deliv 2022; 29:1675-1683. [PMID: 35616277 PMCID: PMC9154759 DOI: 10.1080/10717544.2022.2079768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Biofilm formation is known to promote drug resistance in methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), which is closely related to persistent infections in hospital settings. In this study, a DNA aptamer specific to penicillin-binding protein 2a (PBP2a) with a dissociation constant (Kd) of 82.97 ± 8.86 nM was obtained after 14 cycles of systematic evolution of ligands by exponential enrichment (SELEX). Next, a bifunctional complex containing the aptamer intercalated by berberine into the double-strand region was prepared and adsorbed onto the surface of graphene oxide (GO) by π-stacking interactions. The GO-loaded aptamer/berberine bifunctional complex showed significantly higher inhibition of MRSA biofilm formation than the control. Furthermore, this study shows that the complex possesses anti-biofilm activity, which can be attributed to the ability of the aptamer to reduce cell-surface attachment by blocking the function of PBP2a and berberine to attenuate the level of the accessory gene regulator (agr) system, which plays an important role in mediating MRSA biofilm formation. Therefore, the simultaneous delivery of berberine and PBP2a-targted aptamer using GO may have potential for the treatment of chronic infections caused by MRSA biofilms. It also provides a new avenue for multitarget treatment of bacterial biofilms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Ning
- Department of Microbiology, The Medicine School of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoqi Wang
- Department of Microbiology, The Medicine School of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Pingan Chen
- Department of Microbiology, The Medicine School of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Shiwu Liu
- Department of Microbiology, The Medicine School of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Jue Hu
- Department of Microbiology, The Medicine School of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Rong Xiao
- Department of Microbiology, The Medicine School of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Ling Li
- Experimental Center of Molecular Biology, The Chinese Medicine School of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Fangguo Lu
- Department of Microbiology, The Medicine School of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan, People's Republic of China
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Colonization and Infection of Indwelling Medical Devices by Staphylococcus aureus with an Emphasis on Orthopedic Implants. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23115958. [PMID: 35682632 PMCID: PMC9180976 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23115958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Revised: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The use of indwelling medical devices has constantly increased in recent years and has revolutionized the quality of life of patients affected by different diseases. However, despite the improvement of hygiene conditions in hospitals, implant-associated infections remain a common and serious complication in prosthetic surgery, mainly in the orthopedic field, where infection often leads to implant failure. Staphylococcus aureus is the most common cause of biomaterial-centered infection. Upon binding to the medical devices, these bacteria proliferate and develop dense communities encased in a protective matrix called biofilm. Biofilm formation has been proposed as occurring in several stages-(1) attachment; (2) proliferation; (3) dispersal-and involves a variety of host and staphylococcal proteinaceous and non-proteinaceous factors. Moreover, biofilm formation is strictly regulated by several control systems. Biofilms enable staphylococci to avoid antimicrobial activity and host immune response and are a source of persistent bacteremia as well as of localized tissue destruction. While considerable information is available on staphylococcal biofilm formation on medical implants and important results have been achieved on the treatment of biofilms, preclinical and clinical applications need to be further investigated. Thus, the purpose of this review is to gather current studies about the mechanism of infection of indwelling medical devices by S. aureus with a special focus on the biochemical factors involved in biofilm formation and regulation. We also provide a summary of the current therapeutic strategies to combat biomaterial-associated infections and highlight the need to further explore biofilm physiology and conduct research for innovative anti-biofilm approaches.
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Thymol Reduces agr-Mediated Virulence Factor Phenol-Soluble Modulin Production in Staphylococcus aureus. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 2022:8221622. [PMID: 35586806 PMCID: PMC9110180 DOI: 10.1155/2022/8221622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2022] [Revised: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Staphylococcus aureus is a major human bacterial pathogen that carries a large number of virulence factors. Many virulence factors of S. aureus are regulated by the accessory gene regulator (agr) quorum-sensing system. Phenol-soluble modulins (PSMs) are one of the agr-mediated virulence determinants known to play a significant role in S. aureus pathogenesis. In the present study, the efficacy of thymol to inhibit PSM production including δ-toxin in S. aureus was explored. We employed liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) to quantify the PSMsα1-PSMα4, PSMβ1 and PSMβ2, and δ-toxin production from culture supernatants. We found that thymol at 0.5 MIC (128 μg/mL) significantly reduced the PSMα and δ-toxin production in S. aureus WKZ-1, WKZ-2, LAC USA300, and ATCC29213. Downregulation in transcription by quantitative real-time (qRT) PCR analysis of response regulator agrA and receptor histidine kinase agrC upon 0.5 MIC thymol treatment affirmed the results of LC-MS quantification of PSMs. In silico molecular docking analysis demonstrated the binding affinity of thymol with receptors AgrA and AgrC. Transmission electron microscopy images revealed no ultrastructural alterations (cell wall and membrane) in thymol-treated WKZ-1 and WKZ-2 S. aureus strains. Here, we demonstrated that thymol reduces various PSM production in S. aureus clinical isolates and reference strains with mass spectrometry.
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Sinsinwar S, Jayaraman A, Mahapatra SK, Vellingiri V. Anti-virulence properties of catechin-in-cyclodextrin-in-phospholipid liposome through down-regulation of gene expression in MRSA strains. Microb Pathog 2022; 167:105585. [DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2022.105585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Revised: 05/07/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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