Antibiotics

10 pages, 715 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Antibiotic and Heavy Metal Susceptibility of Non-Cholera Vibrio Isolated from Marine Sponges and Sea Urchins: Could They Pose a Potential Risk to Public Health?

by Wellington Felipe Costa, Marcia Giambiagi-deMarval and Marinella Silva Laport

Antibiotics 2021, 10(12), 1561; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics10121561 - 20 Dec 2021

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3356

Abstract

Vibrio is an important human and animal pathogen that can carry clinically relevant antibiotic resistance genes and is present in different aquatic environments. However, there is a knowledge gap between antibiotic and heavy metal resistance and virulence potential when it is part of [...] Read more.

Vibrio is an important human and animal pathogen that can carry clinically relevant antibiotic resistance genes and is present in different aquatic environments. However, there is a knowledge gap between antibiotic and heavy metal resistance and virulence potential when it is part of the microbiota from marine invertebrates. Here, we aimed to evaluate these characteristics and the occurrence of mobile genetic elements. Of 25 non-cholera Vibrio spp. from marine sponges and sea urchins collected at the coastlines of Brazil and France analyzed in this study, 16 (64%) were non-susceptible to antibiotics, and two (8%) were multidrug-resistant. Beta-lactam resistance (bla_SHV) and virulence (vhh) genes were detected in sponge-associated isolates. The resistance gene for copper and silver (cusB) was detected in one sea urchin isolate. Plasmids were found in 11 (44%) of the isolates. This new information allows a better comprehension of antibiotic resistance in aquatic environments, since those invertebrates host resistant Vibrio spp. Thus, Vibrio associated with marine animals may pose a potential risk to public health due to carrying these antibiotic-resistant genes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Seafood and Antibiotics)

► Show Figures

Graphical abstract

12 pages, 2316 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Mitochondria-Penetrating Peptide Exerts Potent Anti-Plasmodium Activity and Localizes at Parasites’ Mitochondria

by Sangdao Somsri, Mathirut Mungthin, Natthaporn Klubthawee, Poom Adisakwattana, Warunee Hanpithakpong and Ratchaneewan Aunpad

Antibiotics 2021, 10(12), 1560; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics10121560 - 20 Dec 2021

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3301

Abstract

Mitochondria are considered a novel drug target as they play a key role in energy production and programmed cell death of eukaryotic cells. The mitochondria of malaria parasites differ from those of their vertebrate hosts, contributing to the drug selectivity and the development [...] Read more.

Mitochondria are considered a novel drug target as they play a key role in energy production and programmed cell death of eukaryotic cells. The mitochondria of malaria parasites differ from those of their vertebrate hosts, contributing to the drug selectivity and the development of antimalarial drugs. (F_xr)₃, a mitochondria-penetrating peptide or MPP, entered malaria-infected red cells without disrupting the membrane and subsequently killed the blood stage of P. falciparum parasites. The effects were more potent on the late stages than on the younger stages. Confocal microscopy showed that the (F_xr)₃ intensely localized at the parasite mitochondria. (F_xr)₃ highly affected both the lab-strain, chloroquine-resistant K1, and freshly isolated malaria parasites. (F_xr)₃ (1 ng/mL to 10 μg/mL) was rarely toxic towards various mammalian cells, i.e., mouse fibroblasts (L929), human leukocytes and erythrocytes. At a thousand times higher concentration (100 μg/mL) than that of the antimalarial activity, cytotoxicity and hemolytic activity of (F_xr)₃ were observed. Compared with the known antimalarial drug, atovaquone, (F_xr)₃ exhibited more rapid killing activity. This is the first report on antimalarial activity of (F_xr)₃, showing localization at parasites’ mitochondria. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research and Development of Antibiotics)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 1790 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Is Dosing of Ethambutol as Part of a Fixed-Dose Combination Product Optimal for Mechanically Ventilated ICU Patients with Tuberculosis? A Population Pharmacokinetic Study

by Francisco Beraldi-Magalhaes, Suzanne L. Parker, Cristina Sanches, Leandro Sousa Garcia, Brenda Karoline Souza Carvalho, Mariana Millan Fachi, Marcus Vinicius de Liz, Roberto Pontarolo, Jeffrey Lipman, Marcelo Cordeiro-Santos and Jason A. Roberts

Antibiotics 2021, 10(12), 1559; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics10121559 - 20 Dec 2021

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3106

Abstract

Background: Tuberculosis (TB) patients admitted to intensive care units (ICU) have high mortality rates. It is uncertain whether the pharmacokinetics of first-line TB drugs in ICU patients are different from outpatients. This study aims to compare the pharmacokinetics of oral ethambutol in TB [...] Read more.

Background: Tuberculosis (TB) patients admitted to intensive care units (ICU) have high mortality rates. It is uncertain whether the pharmacokinetics of first-line TB drugs in ICU patients are different from outpatients. This study aims to compare the pharmacokinetics of oral ethambutol in TB patients in ICU versus TB outpatients and to determine whether contemporary dosing regimens achieve therapeutic exposures. Methods: A prospective population pharmacokinetic study of ethambutol was performed in Amazonas State, Brazil. Probability of target attainment was determined using AUC/MIC > 11.9 and C_max/MIC > 0.48 values. Optimized dosing regimens were simulated at steady state. Results: Ten ICU patients and 20 outpatients were recruited. Ethambutol pharmacokinetics were best described using a two-compartment model with first-order oral absorption. Neither ICU patients nor outpatients consistently achieved optimal ethambutol exposures. The absorption rate for ethambutol was 2-times higher in ICU patients (p < 0.05). Mean bioavailability for ICU patients was >5-times higher than outpatients (p < 0.0001). Clearance and volume of distribution were 93% (p < 0.0001) and 53% (p = 0.002) lower in ICU patients, respectively. Conclusions: ICU patients displayed significantly different pharmacokinetics for an oral fixed-dose combination administration of ethambutol compared to outpatients, and neither patient group consistently achieved pre-defined therapeutic exposures. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of Drugs)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 3679 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Antifungal Mechanism of Vip3Aa, a Vegetative Insecticidal Protein, against Pathogenic Fungal Strains

by Seong-Cheol Park, Jin-Young Kim, Jong-Kook Lee, Hye Song Lim, Hyosuk Son, Su-Hyang Yoo, Seong-Eun Mun, Mi-Kyeong Jang and Jung Ro Lee

Antibiotics 2021, 10(12), 1558; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics10121558 - 20 Dec 2021

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2701

Abstract

Discovering new antifungal agents is difficult, since, unlike bacteria, mammalian and fungal cells are both eukaryotes. An efficient strategy is to consider new antimicrobial proteins that have variety of action mechanisms. In this study, a cDNA encoding Bacillus thuringiensis Vip3Aa protein, a vegetative [...] Read more.

Discovering new antifungal agents is difficult, since, unlike bacteria, mammalian and fungal cells are both eukaryotes. An efficient strategy is to consider new antimicrobial proteins that have variety of action mechanisms. In this study, a cDNA encoding Bacillus thuringiensis Vip3Aa protein, a vegetative insecticidal protein, was obtained at the vegetative growth stage; its antifungal activity and mechanism were evaluated using a bacterially expressed recombinant Vip3Aa protein. The Vip3Aa protein demonstrated various concentration- and time-dependent antifungal activities, with inhibitory concentrations against yeast and filamentous fungi ranging from 62.5 to 125 µg/mL and 250 to 500 µg/mL, respectively. The uptake of propidium iodide and cellular distributions of rhodamine-labeled Vip3Aa into fungal cells indicate that its growth inhibition mechanism involves its penetration within cells and subsequent intracellular damage. Furthermore, we discovered that the death of Candida albicans cells was caused by the induction of apoptosis via the generation of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species and binding to nucleic acids. The presence of significantly enlarged Vip3Aa-treated fungal cells indicates that this protein causes intracellular damage. Our findings suggest that Vip3Aa protein has potential applications in the development of natural antimicrobial agents. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Approaches to Enhance the Discovery and Efficacy of Antibiotics and Antifungals)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

9 pages, 690 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Impact of Adjunctive Laser Irradiation on the Bacterial Load of Dental Root Canals: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial

by Johannes-Simon Wenzler, Wolfgang Falk, Roland Frankenberger and Andreas Braun

Antibiotics 2021, 10(12), 1557; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics10121557 - 20 Dec 2021

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 4052

Abstract

Successful root canal treatment depends on the adequate elimination of pathogenic bacteria. This study evaluated the effectiveness of a novel 445-nm semiconductor laser in reducing bacteria after chemomechanical root canal treatment. Microbiological specimens from 57 patients were collected after emergency endodontic treatment, in [...] Read more.

Successful root canal treatment depends on the adequate elimination of pathogenic bacteria. This study evaluated the effectiveness of a novel 445-nm semiconductor laser in reducing bacteria after chemomechanical root canal treatment. Microbiological specimens from 57 patients were collected after emergency endodontic treatment, in the following sequence: 1, removal of the temporary filling material; 2, chemomechanical treatment; 3, rinsing with sodium hypochlorite (3%) along with one of three adjuvant protocols (n = 19 in each group). The adjuvant procedures were: (a) sodium hypochlorite rinsing alone (3%); (b) laser irradiation; (c) combined sodium hypochlorite rinsing and laser irradiation. The diode laser was set to 0.59 W in continuous-wave mode (CW) for 4 × 10 s. After the flooding of the root canal with saline, specimens were collected using paper points and analyzed microbiologically. Statistically significant reductions in the bacterial load were observed in all three groups (p < 0.05): 80.5% with sodium hypochlorite rinsing alone and 58.2% with laser therapy. Both results were lower than with the combination of sodium hypochlorite rinsing and 445-nm laser irradiation, at 92.7% (p < 0.05). Additional disinfection of the root canal can thus be achieved with 445-nm laser irradiation after conventional chemical disinfection with sodium hypochlorite solution. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antibacterial Treatment in Periodontal and Endodontic Therapy)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

21 pages, 1494 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Wild Animals Are Reservoirs and Sentinels of Staphylococcus aureus and MRSA Clones: A Problem with “One Health” Concern

by Idris Nasir Abdullahi, Rosa Fernández-Fernández, Guillermo Juárez-Fernández, Sandra Martínez-Álvarez, Paula Eguizábal, Myriam Zarazaga, Carmen Lozano and Carmen Torres

Antibiotics 2021, 10(12), 1556; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics10121556 - 20 Dec 2021

Cited by 38 | Viewed by 6518

Abstract

Background: The availability of comprehensive data on the ecology and molecular epidemiology of Staphylococcus aureus/MRSA in wild animals is necessary to understand their relevance in the “One Health” domain. Objective: In this study, we determined the pooled prevalence of nasal, tracheal and/or [...] Read more.

Background: The availability of comprehensive data on the ecology and molecular epidemiology of Staphylococcus aureus/MRSA in wild animals is necessary to understand their relevance in the “One Health” domain. Objective: In this study, we determined the pooled prevalence of nasal, tracheal and/or oral (NTO) Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) carriage in wild animals, with a special focus on mecA and mecC genes as well as the frequency of MRSA and methicillin susceptible S. aureus (MSSA) of the lineages CC398 and CC130 in wild animals. Methodology: This systematic review was executed on cross-sectional studies that reported S. aureus and MRSA in the NTO cavities of wild animals distributed in four groups: non-human primates (NHP), wild mammals (WM, excluding rodents and NHP), wild birds (WB) and wild rodents (WR). Appropriate and eligible articles published (in English) between 1 January 2011 to 30 August 2021 were searched for from PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, SciElo and Web of Science. Results: Of the 33 eligible and analysed studies, the pooled prevalence of NTO S. aureus and MRSA carriage was 18.5% (range: 0–100%) and 2.1% (range: 0.0–63.9%), respectively. The pooled prevalence of S. aureus/MRSA in WM, NHP, WB and WR groups was 15.8/1.6, 32.9/2.0, 10.3/3.4 and 24.2/3.4%, respectively. The prevalence of mecC-MRSA among WM/NHP/WB/WR was 1.64/0.0/2.1/0.59%, respectively, representing 89.9/0.0/59.1/25.0% of total MRSA detected in these groups of animals.The MRSA-CC398 and MRSA-CC130 lineages were most prevalent in wild birds (0.64 and 2.07%, respectively); none of these lineages were reported in NHP studies. The MRSA-CC398 (mainly of spa-type t011, 53%), MRSA-CC130 (mainly of spa types t843 and t1535, 73%), MSSA-CC398 (spa-types t571, t1451, t6606 and t034) and MSSA-CC130 (spa types t843, t1535, t3625 and t3256) lineages were mostly reported. Conclusion: Although the global prevalence of MRSA is low in wild animals, mecC-mediated resistance was particularly prevalent among MRSA isolates, especially among WM and WB. Considering the genetic diversity of MRSA in wild animals, they need to be monitored for effective control of the spread of antimicrobial resistance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue A Themed Issue in Honor of Professor Alexander Tomasz—Outstanding Contributions in the Fields of Antibiotic Resistance and Bacterial Infectious Diseases)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 5128 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Role of Staphylococcus aureus YycFG in Gene Regulation, Biofilm Organization and Drug Resistance

by Shizhou Wu, Junqi Zhang, Qi Peng, Yunjie Liu, Lei Lei and Hui Zhang

Antibiotics 2021, 10(12), 1555; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics10121555 - 19 Dec 2021

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 4070

Abstract

Antibiotic resistance is a serious global health concern that may have significant social and financial consequences. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infection is responsible for substantial morbidity and leads to the death of 21.8% of infected patients annually. A lack of novel antibiotics has [...] Read more.

Antibiotic resistance is a serious global health concern that may have significant social and financial consequences. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infection is responsible for substantial morbidity and leads to the death of 21.8% of infected patients annually. A lack of novel antibiotics has prompted the exploration of therapies targeting bacterial virulence mechanisms. The two-component signal transduction system (TCS) enables microbial cells to regulate gene expression and the subsequent metabolic processes that occur due to environmental changes. The YycFG TCS in S. aureus is essential for bacterial viability, the regulation of cell membrane metabolism, cell wall synthesis and biofilm formation. However, the role of YycFG-associated biofilm organization in S. aureus antimicrobial drug resistance and gene regulation has not been discussed in detail. We reviewed the main molecules involved in YycFG-associated cell wall biosynthesis, biofilm development and polysaccharide intercellular adhesin (PIA) accumulation. Two YycFG-associated regulatory mechanisms, accessory gene regulator (agr) and staphylococcal accessory regulator (SarA), were also discussed. We highlighted the importance of biofilm formation in the development of antimicrobial drug resistance in S. aureus infections. Data revealed that inhibition of the YycFG pathway reduced PIA production, biofilm formation and bacterial pathogenicity, which provides a potential target for the management of MRSA-induced infections. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Design and Preparation of Antimicrobial Agents)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

6 pages, 410 KiB

Open AccessBrief Report

Factors Associated with Inadequate Intravenous Colistin Dosages: Post Hoc Analysis of a Multicenter, Cross-Sectional Study

by Daniele Roberto Giacobbe, Michele Mirabella, Matteo Rinaldi, Angela Raffaella Losito, Francesca Raffaelli, Filippo Del Puente, Carolina Saffioti, Malgorzata Mikulska, Maddalena Giannella, Pierluigi Viale, Mario Tumbarello, Matteo Bassetti and on behalf of SITA GIOVANI (Young Investigators Group of the Società Italiana Terapia Antinfettiva) and the COLI-CROSS Study Group

Antibiotics 2021, 10(12), 1554; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics10121554 - 19 Dec 2021

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2145

Abstract

Colistin is a last-resort agent for the treatment of infections due to Gram-negative bacteria with difficult-to-treat resistance. The primary objective of this post hoc analysis of a cross-sectional study conducted in 22 Italian hospitals was to assess factors associated with inadequate intravenous colistin [...] Read more.

Colistin is a last-resort agent for the treatment of infections due to Gram-negative bacteria with difficult-to-treat resistance. The primary objective of this post hoc analysis of a cross-sectional study conducted in 22 Italian hospitals was to assess factors associated with inadequate intravenous colistin dosage. Overall, 187 patients receiving intravenous colistin were included in the analyses. Inadequate colistin dosages were administered in 27% of cases (50/187). In multivariable analysis, AKI (dummy variable with KDIGO stage 0 as a reference, odds ratio (OR) 3.98 with 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.48–10.74 for stage 1, OR 4.44 with 95% CI 1.17–16.93 for stage 2, OR 9.41 with 95% CI 1.59–55.70 for stage 3; overall p = 0.001) retained an independent association with inadequate colistin dosage, whereas the presence of a central venous catheter was associated with adequate colistin dosage (OR: 0.34 for inadequate dosage, 95% CI: 0.16–0.72, p = 0.004). These results were confirmed in an additional multivariable model with the center as a random effect. The association between AKI and inadequate dosage may reflect the perception of an increased risk of nephrotoxicity in patients with impaired renal function, which nonetheless should not be accompanied by dosage reductions beyond those recommended and could represent the target of dedicated antimicrobial stewardship efforts. Full article

► Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 2195 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Anti-Herpes Simplex Virus Efficacy of Silk Cocoon, Silkworm Pupa and Non-Sericin Extracts

by Kanyaluck Jantakee, Panchika Prangkio, Aussara Panya and Yingmanee Tragoolpua

Antibiotics 2021, 10(12), 1553; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics10121553 - 19 Dec 2021

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2665

Abstract

Herpes simplex virus (HSV) infections are prevalent worldwide and are the cause of life- threatening diseases. Standard treatment with antiviral drugs, such as acyclovir, could prevent serious complications; however, resistance has been reported specifically among immunocompromised patients. Therefore, the development of an alternative [...] Read more.

Herpes simplex virus (HSV) infections are prevalent worldwide and are the cause of life- threatening diseases. Standard treatment with antiviral drugs, such as acyclovir, could prevent serious complications; however, resistance has been reported specifically among immunocompromised patients. Therefore, the development of an alternative approach is needed. The silk cocoon derived from silkworm, Bombyx mori, has been recognized for its broad-spectrum biological activity, including antiviral activity; however, its effects against HSV infection are unknown. In this study, we investigated the inhibitory effects of silk extracts derived from the cocoon shell, silk cocoon, silkworm pupa and non-sericin extract, on blocking HSV-1 and HSV-2 binding to host cells, resulting in the inhibition of the virus infection in Vero cells. Non-sericin extract demonstrated the greatest effectiveness on inhibiting HSV-1 and HSV-2 binding activity. Moreover, the virucidal effect to inactivate HSV-1 and HSV-2 was determined and revealed that non-sericin extract also exerted the highest potential activity. Using the treatment of non-sericin extract in HSV-2-infected HeLa cells could significantly lower the HSV-induced cell death and prevent inflammation via lowering the inflammatory cytokine gene expression. The non-sericin extract was analyzed for its bioactive compounds in which gallic acid, flavonoid and xanthophyll were identified, and might have partially contributed to its antiviral activity. The finding in our study suggested the potential of silk extract as an alternative therapeutic treatment for HSV infection. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Antibiotics and Novel Modes of Action to Fight Infectious Diseases in Antimicrobial Resistance Era)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

9 pages, 269 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Prevalence and Antimicrobial Resistance of Enterococcus Species: A Retrospective Cohort Study in Italy

by Mariarosaria Boccella, Biagio Santella, Pasquale Pagliano, Anna De Filippis, Vincenzo Casolaro, Massimiliano Galdiero, Anna Borrelli, Mario Capunzo, Giovanni Boccia and Gianluigi Franci

Antibiotics 2021, 10(12), 1552; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics10121552 - 19 Dec 2021

Cited by 33 | Viewed by 6442

Abstract

Antimicrobial resistance represents one of the main threats to healthy ecosystems. In recent years, among the multidrug-resistant microorganisms responsible for nosocomial infections, the Enterococcus species have received much attention. Indeed, Enterococcus have peculiar skills in their ability to acquire resistance genes and to [...] Read more.

Antimicrobial resistance represents one of the main threats to healthy ecosystems. In recent years, among the multidrug-resistant microorganisms responsible for nosocomial infections, the Enterococcus species have received much attention. Indeed, Enterococcus have peculiar skills in their ability to acquire resistance genes and to cause severe diseases, such as endocarditis. This study showed the prevalence and antimicrobial resistance rate of Enterococcus spp. isolated from clinical samples, from January 2015 to December 2019 at the University Hospital “San Giovanni di Dio e Ruggi d’Aragona” in Salerno, Italy. A total of 3236 isolates of Enterococcus faecalis (82.2%) and Enterococcus faecium (17.8%) were collected from urine cultures, blood cultures, catheters, respiratory tract, and other samples. Bacterial identification and antibiotic susceptibility were performed with VITEK 2. E. faecium showed a high resistance rate against ampicillin (84.5%), ampicillin/sulbactam (82.7%), and imipenem (86.7%), while E. faecalis showed the highest resistance rate against gentamicin and streptomycin high level, but both were highly sensitive to such antibiotics as tigecycline and vancomycin. Studies of surveillance are an important tool to detect changes in the resistance profiles of the main pathogens. These antimicrobial susceptibility patterns are necessary to improve the empirical treatment guideline of infections. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue 10th Anniversary of Antibiotics — Recent Advances in Rational Antimicrobial Use)

15 pages, 1936 KiB

Open AccessArticle

In Vitro Synergism of Azithromycin Combination with Antibiotics against OXA-48-Producing Klebsiella pneumoniae Clinical Isolates

by Uthaibhorn Singkham-in, Netchanok Muhummudaree and Tanittha Chatsuwan

Antibiotics 2021, 10(12), 1551; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics10121551 - 17 Dec 2021

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3340

Abstract

Carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae has globally emerged as an urgent threat leading to the limitation for treatment. K. pneumoniae carrying bla_OXA-48, which plays a broad magnitude of carbapenem susceptibility, is widely concerned. This study aimed to characterize related carbapenem resistance mechanisms and [...] Read more.

Carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae has globally emerged as an urgent threat leading to the limitation for treatment. K. pneumoniae carrying bla_OXA-48, which plays a broad magnitude of carbapenem susceptibility, is widely concerned. This study aimed to characterize related carbapenem resistance mechanisms and forage for new antibiotic combinations to combat bla_OXA-48-carrying K. pneumoniae. Among nine isolates, there were two major clones and a singleton identified by ERIC-PCR. Most isolates were resistant to ertapenem (MIC range: 2–>256 mg/L), but two isolates were susceptible to imipenem and meropenem (MIC range: 0.5–1 mg/L). All bla_OXA-48-carrying plasmids conferred carbapenem resistance in Escherichia coli transformants. Two ertapenem-susceptible isolates carried both outer membrane proteins (OMPs), OmpK35 and OmpK36. Lack of at least an OMP was present in imipenem-resistant isolates. We evaluated the in vitro activity of an overlooked antibiotic, azithromycin, in combination with other antibiotics. Remarkably, azithromycin exhibited synergism with colistin and fosfomycin by 88.89% and 77.78%, respectively. Bacterial regrowth occurred after exposure to colistin or azithromycin alone. Interestingly, most isolates were killed, reaching synergism by this combination. In conclusion, the combination of azithromycin and colistin may be an alternative strategy in dealing with bla_OXA-48-carrying K. pneumoniae infection during a recent shortage of newly effective antibiotic development. Full article

► Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 3598 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Matcha Green Tea Exhibits Bactericidal Activity against Streptococcus pneumoniae and Inhibits Functional Pneumolysin

by Karin Sasagawa, Hisanori Domon, Rina Sakagami, Satoru Hirayama, Tomoki Maekawa, Toshihito Isono, Takumi Hiyoshi, Hikaru Tamura, Fumio Takizawa, Yoichi Fukushima, Koichi Tabeta and Yutaka Terao

Antibiotics 2021, 10(12), 1550; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics10121550 - 17 Dec 2021

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 5424

Abstract

Streptococcus pneumoniae is a causative pathogen of several human infectious diseases including community-acquired pneumonia. Pneumolysin (PLY), a pore-forming toxin, plays an important role in the pathogenesis of pneumococcal pneumonia. In recent years, the use of traditional natural substances for prevention has drawn attention [...] Read more.

Streptococcus pneumoniae is a causative pathogen of several human infectious diseases including community-acquired pneumonia. Pneumolysin (PLY), a pore-forming toxin, plays an important role in the pathogenesis of pneumococcal pneumonia. In recent years, the use of traditional natural substances for prevention has drawn attention because of the increasing antibacterial drug resistance of S. pneumoniae. According to some studies, green tea exhibits antibacterial and antitoxin activities. The polyphenols, namely the catechins epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), epigallocatechin (EGC), epicatechin gallate (ECG), and epicatechin (EC) are largely responsible for these activities. Although matcha green tea provides more polyphenols than green tea infusions, its relationship with pneumococcal pneumonia remains unclear. In this study, we found that treatment with 20 mg/mL matcha supernatant exhibited significant antibacterial activity against S. pneumoniae regardless of antimicrobial resistance. In addition, the matcha supernatant suppressed PLY-mediated hemolysis and cytolysis by inhibiting PLY oligomerization. Moreover, the matcha supernatant and catechins inhibited PLY-mediated neutrophil death and the release of neutrophil elastase. These findings suggest that matcha green tea reduces the virulence of S. pneumoniae in vitro and may be a promising agent for the treatment of pneumococcal infections. Full article

► Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 4584 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Carbapenemase Producing Klebsiella pneumoniae (KPC): What Is the Best MALDI-TOF MS Detection Method

by Lukáš Hleba, Miroslava Hlebová, Anton Kováčik, Juraj Čuboň and Juraj Medo

Antibiotics 2021, 10(12), 1549; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics10121549 - 17 Dec 2021

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 5124

Abstract

Klebsiella pneumoniae carbapenemase (KPC)-producing bacteria is a group of highly dangerous antibiotic resistant Gram-negative Enterobacteriaceae. They cause infections associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Therefore, the rapid detection of KPC-producing bacteria plays a key role in clinical microbiology. Matrix assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of- [...] Read more.

Klebsiella pneumoniae carbapenemase (KPC)-producing bacteria is a group of highly dangerous antibiotic resistant Gram-negative Enterobacteriaceae. They cause infections associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Therefore, the rapid detection of KPC-producing bacteria plays a key role in clinical microbiology. Matrix assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of- flight (MALDI-TOF) is a rapidly evolving technology that finds application in various clinical, scientific, and industrial disciplines. In the present study, we demonstrated three different procedures of carbapenemase-producing K. pneumoniae (KPC) detection. The most basic model of MALDI-TOF instrument MS Microflex LT was used, operating in the linear ion-positive mode, commonly used in modern clinical laboratories. The first procedure was based on indirect monitoring of carbapenemase production with direct detection of hydrolyzed carbapenem antibiotic degradation products in the mass spectrum. The second procedure was based on direct detection of bla_KPC accompanying peak with an 11,109 Da in the mass spectrum of carbapenemase-producing K. pneumoniae (KPC), which represents the cleaved protein (pKpQIL_p019) expressed by pKpQIL plasmid. In addition, several unique peaks were detected in the carbapenemase-producing K. pneumoniae (KPC) mass spectrum. The third procedure was the identification of carbapenemase-producing K. pneumoniae (KPC) based on the protein fingerprint using local database created from the whole mass spectra. By comparing detection procedures, we determined that the third procedure was very fast and relatively easy. However, it requires previous verification of carbapenemase-producing K. pneumoniae (KPC) using other methods as genetic bla_KPC identification, detection of carbapenem degradation products, and accompanying peak with 11,109 Da, which represents cleaved pKpQIL_p019 protein expressed by pKpQIL plasmid. Detection of carbapenemase-producing K. pneumoniae using MALDI-TOF provides fast and accurate results that may help to reduce morbidity and mortality in hospital setting when applied in diagnostic situations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Mechanism and Evolution of Antibiotic Resistance)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

11 pages, 829 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Antibacterial, Antibiofilm and Anti-Virulence Activity of Biactive Fractions from Mucus Secretion of Giant African Snail Achatina fulica against Staphylococcus aureus Strains

by Libardo Suárez, Andrés Pereira, William Hidalgo and Nelson Uribe

Antibiotics 2021, 10(12), 1548; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics10121548 - 17 Dec 2021

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 3872

Abstract

Staphylococcus aureus is an important etiological agent that causes skin infections, and has the propensity to form biofilms, leading to significant mortality and morbidity in patients with wounds. Mucus secretion from the Giant African snail Achatina fulica is a potential source of biologically [...] Read more.

Staphylococcus aureus is an important etiological agent that causes skin infections, and has the propensity to form biofilms, leading to significant mortality and morbidity in patients with wounds. Mucus secretion from the Giant African snail Achatina fulica is a potential source of biologically active substances that might be an important source for new drugs to treat resistant and biofilm-forming bacteria such as S. aureus. This study evaluated the effect of semi-purified fractions from the mucus secretion of A. fulica on the growth, biofilm formation and virulence factors of S. aureus. Two fractions: FMA30 (Mw >30 kDa) and FME30 (Mw 30−10 kDa) exhibited antimicrobial activity against S. aureus with a MIC₅₀ of 25 and 125 µg/mL, respectively. An inhibition of biofilm formation higher than 80% was observed at 9 µg/mL with FMA30 and 120 µg/mL with FME30. Furthermore, inhibition of hemolytic and protease activity was determined using a concentration of MIC₂₀, and FME30 showed a strong inhibitory effect in the formation of clots. We report for the first time the effect of semi-purified fractions of mucus secretion of A. fulica on biofilm formation and activity of virulence factors such as α-hemolysin, coagulase and proteases produced by S. aureus strains. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Searching for Small Molecules as Antimicrobials)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 835 KiB

Open AccessProject Report

Pan-Resistome Characterization of Uropathogenic Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae Strains Circulating in Uganda and Kenya, Isolated from 2017–2018

by Arun Gonzales Decano, Kerry Pettigrew, Wilber Sabiiti, Derek J. Sloan, Stella Neema, Joel Bazira, John Kiiru, Hellen Onyango, Benon Asiimwe and Matthew T. G. Holden

Antibiotics 2021, 10(12), 1547; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics10121547 - 17 Dec 2021

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 3788

Abstract

Urinary tract infection (UTI) develops after a pathogen adheres to the inner lining of the urinary tract. Cases of UTIs are predominantly caused by several Gram-negative bacteria and account for high morbidity in the clinical and community settings. Of greater concern are the [...] Read more.

Urinary tract infection (UTI) develops after a pathogen adheres to the inner lining of the urinary tract. Cases of UTIs are predominantly caused by several Gram-negative bacteria and account for high morbidity in the clinical and community settings. Of greater concern are the strains carrying antimicrobial resistance (AMR)-conferring genes. The gravity of a UTI is also determined by a spectrum of other virulence factors. This study represents a pilot project to investigate the burden of AMR among uropathogens in East Africa. We examined bacterial samples isolated in 2017–2018 from in- and out-patients in Kenya (KY) and Uganda (UG) that presented with clinical symptoms of UTI. We reconstructed the evolutionary history of the strains, investigated their population structure, and performed comparative analysis their pangenome contents. We found 55 Escherichia coli and 19 Klebsiella pneumoniae strains confirmed uropathogenic following screening for the prevalence of UTI virulence genes including fimH, iutA, feoA/B/C, mrkD, and foc. We identified 18 different sequence types in E. coli population while all K. pneumoniae strains belong to ST11. The most prevalent E. coli sequence types were ST131 (26%), ST335/1193 (10%), and ST10 (6%). Diverse plasmid types were observed in both collections such as Incompatibility (IncF/IncH/IncQ1/IncX4) and Col groups. Pangenome analysis of each set revealed a total of 2862 and 3464 genes comprised the core genome of E. coli and K. pneumoniae population, respectively. Among these are acquired AMR determinants including fluoroquinolone resistance-conferring genes aac(3)-Ib-cr and other significant genes: aad, tet, sul1, sul2, and cat, which are associated with aminoglycoside, tetracycline, sulfonamide, and chloramphenicol resistance, respectively. Accessory genomes of both species collections were detected several β-lactamase genes, bla_CTX-M, bla_TEM and bla_OXA, or bla_NDM. Overall, 93% are multi-drug resistant in the E. coli collection while 100% of the K. pneumoniae strains contained genes that are associated with resistance to three or more antibiotic classes. Our findings illustrate the abundant acquired resistome and virulome repertoire in uropathogenic E. coli and K. pneumoniae, which are mainly disseminated via clonal and horizontal transfer, circulating in the East African region. We further demonstrate here that routine genomic surveillance is necessary for high-resolution bacterial epidemiology of these important AMR pathogens. Full article

► Show Figures

Figure 1

25 pages, 6715 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Inhibition of Bacterial Adhesion and Antibiofilm Activities of a Glycolipid Biosurfactant from Lactobacillus rhamnosus with Its Physicochemical and Functional Properties

by Mitesh Patel, Arif Jamal Siddiqui, Walid Sabri Hamadou, Malvi Surti, Amir Mahgoub Awadelkareem, Syed Amir Ashraf, Mousa Alreshidi, Mejdi Snoussi, Syed Mohd Danish Rizvi, Fevzi Bardakci, Arshad Jamal, Manojkumar Sachidanandan and Mohd Adnan

Antibiotics 2021, 10(12), 1546; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics10121546 - 17 Dec 2021

Cited by 59 | Viewed by 4878

Abstract

Biosurfactants derived from different microbes are an alternative to chemical surfactants, which have broad applications in food, oil, biodegradation, cosmetic, agriculture, pesticide and medicine/pharmaceutical industries. This is due to their environmentally friendly, biocompatible, biodegradable, effectiveness to work under various environmental conditions and non-toxic [...] Read more.

Biosurfactants derived from different microbes are an alternative to chemical surfactants, which have broad applications in food, oil, biodegradation, cosmetic, agriculture, pesticide and medicine/pharmaceutical industries. This is due to their environmentally friendly, biocompatible, biodegradable, effectiveness to work under various environmental conditions and non-toxic nature. Lactic acid bacteria (LAB)-derived glycolipid biosurfactants can play a major role in preventing bacterial attachment, biofilm eradication and related infections in various clinical settings and industries. Hence, it is important to explore and identify the novel molecule/method for the treatment of biofilms of pathogenic bacteria. In the present study, a probiotic Lactobacillus rhamnosus (L. rhamnosus) strain was isolated from human breast milk. Firstly, its ability to produce biosurfactants, and its physicochemical and functional properties (critical micelle concentration (CMC), reduction in surface tension, emulsification index (% EI24), etc.) were evaluated. Secondly, inhibition of bacterial adhesion and biofilm eradication by cell-bound biosurfactants from L. rhamnosus was performed against various biofilm-forming pathogens (B. subtilis, P. aeruginosa, S. aureus and E. coli). Finally, bacterial cell damage, viability of cells within the biofilm, exopolysaccharide (EPS) production and identification of the structural analogues of the crude biosurfactant via gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) analysis were also evaluated. As a result, L. rhamnosus was found to produce 4.32 ± 0.19 g/L biosurfactant that displayed a CMC of 3.0 g/L and reduced the surface tension from 71.12 ± 0.73 mN/m to 41.76 ± 0.60 mN/m. L. rhamnosus cell-bound crude biosurfactant was found to be effective against all the tested bacterial pathogens. It displayed potent anti-adhesion and antibiofilm ability by inhibiting the bacterial attachment to surfaces, leading to the disruption of biofilm formation by altering the integrity and viability of bacterial cells within biofilms. Our results also confirm the ability of the L. rhamnosus cell-bound-derived biosurfactant to damage the architecture of the biofilm matrix, as a result of the reduced total EPS content. Our findings may be further explored as a green alternative/approach to chemically synthesized toxic antibiofilm agents for controlling bacterial adhesion and biofilm eradication. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biosurfactants as Antimicrobials: Antibacterial, Antifungal, and Anti-biofilm Activities)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 2632 KiB

Open AccessReview

Galleria mellonella: The Versatile Host for Drug Discovery, In Vivo Toxicity Testing and Characterising Host-Pathogen Interactions

by Magdalena Piatek, Gerard Sheehan and Kevin Kavanagh

Antibiotics 2021, 10(12), 1545; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics10121545 - 17 Dec 2021

Cited by 47 | Viewed by 5367

Abstract

Larvae of the greater wax moth, Galleria mellonella, are a convenient in vivo model for assessing the activity and toxicity of antimicrobial agents and for studying the immune response to pathogens and provide results similar to those from mammals. G. mellonella larvae [...] Read more.

Larvae of the greater wax moth, Galleria mellonella, are a convenient in vivo model for assessing the activity and toxicity of antimicrobial agents and for studying the immune response to pathogens and provide results similar to those from mammals. G. mellonella larvae are now widely used in academia and industry and their use can assist in the identification and evaluation of novel antimicrobial agents. Galleria larvae are inexpensive to purchase and house, easy to inoculate, generate results within 24–48 h and their use is not restricted by legal or ethical considerations. This review will highlight how Galleria larvae can be used to assess the efficacy of novel antimicrobial therapies (photodynamic therapy, phage therapy, metal-based drugs, triazole-amino acid hybrids) and for determining the in vivo toxicity of compounds (e.g., food preservatives, ionic liquids) and/or solvents (polysorbate 80). In addition, the disease development processes are associated with a variety of pathogens (e.g., Staphylococcus aureus, Listeria monocytogenes, Aspergillus fumigatus, Madurella mycotomatis) in mammals are also present in Galleria larvae thus providing a simple in vivo model for characterising disease progression. The use of Galleria larvae offers many advantages and can lead to an acceleration in the development of novel antimicrobials and may be a prerequisite to mammalian testing. Full article

► Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 1743 KiB

Open AccessArticle

DNA Methyltransferase HsdM Induce Drug Resistance on Mycobacterium tuberculosis via Multiple Effects

by Hongqian Chu, Yongfei Hu, Bing Zhang, Zhaogang Sun and Baoli Zhu

Antibiotics 2021, 10(12), 1544; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics10121544 - 16 Dec 2021

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2826

Abstract

Besides the genomic variants, epigenetic mechanisms such as DNA methylation also have an effect on drug resistance. This study aimed to investigate the methylomes of totally/extensively drug-resistant M. tuberculosis clinical isolates using the PacBio single-molecule real-time technology. The results showed they were almost [...] Read more.

Besides the genomic variants, epigenetic mechanisms such as DNA methylation also have an effect on drug resistance. This study aimed to investigate the methylomes of totally/extensively drug-resistant M. tuberculosis clinical isolates using the PacBio single-molecule real-time technology. The results showed they were almost the same as the pan-susceptible ones. Genetics and bioinformatics analysis confirmed three DNA methyltransferases—MamA, MamB, and HsdM. Moreover, anti-tuberculosis drug treatment did not change the methylomes. In addition, the knockout of the DNA methyltransferase hsdM gene in the extensively drug-resistant clinical isolate 11826 revealed that the motifs of GTAYN4ATC modified by HsdM were completely demethylated. Furthermore, the results of the methylated DNA target analysis found that HsdM was mainly involved in redox-related pathways, especially the prodrug isoniazid active protein KatG. HsdM also targeted three drug-targeted genes, eis, embB, and gyrA, and three drug transporters (Rv0194, Rv1410, and Rv1877), which mildly affected the drug susceptibility. The overexpression of HsdM in M. smegmatis increased the basal mutation rate. Our results suggested that DNA methyltransferase HsdM affected the drug resistance of M. tuberculosis by modulating the gene expression of redox, drug targets and transporters, and gene mutation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bacterial Drug Resistance and Transmission Mechanism)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

10 pages, 1179 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Phylogenetic Groups and Antimicrobial Resistance Genes in Escherichia coli from Different Meat Species

by Angelika Sacher-Pirklbauer, Daniela Klein-Jöbstl, Dmitrij Sofka, Anne-Béatrice Blanc-Potard and Friederike Hilbert

Antibiotics 2021, 10(12), 1543; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics10121543 - 16 Dec 2021

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 3102

Abstract

Escherichia coli isolated from meat of different animal species may harbour antimicrobial resistance genes and may thus be a threat to human health. The objectives of this study were to define antimicrobial resistance genes in E. coli isolates from pork, beef, chicken- and [...] Read more.

Escherichia coli isolated from meat of different animal species may harbour antimicrobial resistance genes and may thus be a threat to human health. The objectives of this study were to define antimicrobial resistance genes in E. coli isolates from pork, beef, chicken- and turkey meat and analyse whether their resistance genotypes associated with phylogenetic groups or meat species. A total number of 313 E. coli samples were isolated using standard cultural techniques. In 98% of resistant isolates, a dedicated resistance gene could be identified by PCR. Resistance genes detected were tet(A) and tet(B) for tetracycline resistance, strA and aadA1 for streptomycin resistance, sulI and sulII for resistance against sulphonamides, dfr and aphA for kanamycin resistance and bla_TEM for ampicillin resistance. One stx1 harbouring E. coli isolated from pork harboured the tet(A) gene and belonged to phylogenetic group B2, whilst another stx1 positive isolate from beef was multi-resistant and tested positive for bla_TEM,aphA, strA–B, sulII, and tet(A) and belonged to phylogenetic group A. In conclusion, the distribution of resistance elements was almost identical and statistically indifferent in isolates of different meat species. Phylogenetic groups did not associate with the distribution of resistance genes and a rather low number of diverse resistance genes were detected. Most E. coli populations with different resistance genes against one drug often revealed statistically significant different MIC values. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antimicrobial Resistance in Food-borne Pathogens)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 17804 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Factors Affecting Voriconazole Trough Concentration and Optimal Maintenance Voriconazole Dose in Chinese Children

by Yi-Chang Zhao, Yang Zou, Jing-Jing Hou, Chen-Lin Xiao, Bi-Kui Zhang, Jia-Kai Li, Da-Xiong Xiang, Indy Sandaradura and Miao Yan

Antibiotics 2021, 10(12), 1542; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics10121542 - 16 Dec 2021

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 2917

Abstract

Voriconazole is a triazole antifungal agent commonly used for the treatment and prevention of invasive aspergillosis (IA). However, the study of voriconazole's use in children is limited. The present study was performed to explore maintenance dose to optimize voriconazole dosage in children and [...] Read more.

Voriconazole is a triazole antifungal agent commonly used for the treatment and prevention of invasive aspergillosis (IA). However, the study of voriconazole's use in children is limited. The present study was performed to explore maintenance dose to optimize voriconazole dosage in children and the factors affecting voriconazole trough concentration. This is a non-interventional retrospective clinical study conducted from 1 January 2016 to 31 December 2020. The study finally included 94 children with 145 voriconazole trough concentrations. The probability of achieving a targeted concentration of 1.0–5.5 µg/mL with empiric dosing increased from 43 (45.3%) to 78 (53.8%) after the TDM-guided adjustment. To achieve targeted concentration, the overall target maintenance dose for the age group of less than 2, 2 to 6, 6 to 12, and 12 to 18 years old was approximately 5.71, 6.67, 5.08 and 3.31

mg \cdot {kg}^{- 1} / 12 h

, respectively (p < 0.001). Final multivariate analysis found that weight (p = 0.019), dose before sampling (p < 0.001), direct bilirubin (p < 0.001), urea nitrogen (p = 0.038) and phenotypes of CYP2C19 were influencing factors of voriconazole trough concentration. These factors can explain 36.2% of the variability in voriconazole trough concentration. Conclusion: In pediatric patients, voriconazole maintenance doses under the target concentration tend to be lower than the drug label recommended, but this still needs to be further studied. Age, body weight, dose, direct bilirubin, urea nitrogen and phenotypes of CYP2C19 were found to be influencing factors of voriconazole concentration in Chinese children. The influence of these factors should be taken into consideration during voriconazole use. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Appropriateness of Antibiotics in China)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 259 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Antimicrobial Resistance in Salmonella Isolated from Food Workers and Chicken Products in Japan

by Yoshimasa Sasaki, Hiromi Kakizawa, Youichi Baba, Takeshi Ito, Yukari Haremaki, Masaru Yonemichi, Tetsuya Ikeda, Makoto Kuroda, Kenji Ohya, Yukiko Hara-Kudo, Tetsuo Asai and Hiroshi Asakura

Antibiotics 2021, 10(12), 1541; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics10121541 - 16 Dec 2021

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2948

Abstract

Salmonella is an enteric bacterial pathogen that causes foodborne illness in humans. Third-generation cephalosporin (TGC) resistance in Salmonella remains a global concern. Food workers may represent a reservoir of Salmonella, thus potentially contaminating food products. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the prevalence [...] Read more.

Salmonella is an enteric bacterial pathogen that causes foodborne illness in humans. Third-generation cephalosporin (TGC) resistance in Salmonella remains a global concern. Food workers may represent a reservoir of Salmonella, thus potentially contaminating food products. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the prevalence of Salmonella in food workers and characterize the isolates by serotyping and antimicrobial susceptibility testing. Salmonella was isolated from 583 (0.079%) of 740,635 stool samples collected from food workers between January and December 2018, and then serotyped into 76 Salmonella enterica serovars and 22 untypeable Salmonella strains. High rates of antimicrobial resistance were observed for streptomycin (51.1%), tetracycline (33.1%), and kanamycin (18.4%). Although isolates were susceptible to ciprofloxacin, 12 (2.1%) strains (one S. Infantis, one S. Manhattan, two S. Bareilly, two S. Blockley, two S. Heidelberg, two S. Minnesota, one S. Goldcoast, and one untypeable Salmonella strain) were resistant to the TGC cefotaxime, all of which harbored β-lactamase genes (bla_CMY-2, bla_CTX-M-15, bla_CTX-M-55, and bla_TEM-52B). Moreover, 1.3% (4/309) of Salmonella strains (three S. Infantis and one S. Manhattan strains) isolated from chicken products were resistant to cefotaxime and harbored bla_CMY-2 or bla_TEM-52B. Thus, food workers may acquire TGC-resistant Salmonella after the ingestion of contaminated chicken products and further contaminate food products. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antimicrobial-Resistant Pathogens Isolated from Animals and Their Products)

22 pages, 16918 KiB

Open AccessReview

Potential Applications of Moringa oleifera in Poultry Health and Production as Alternative to Antibiotics: A Review

by Rifat Ullah Khan, Aamir Khan, Shabana Naz, Qudrat Ullah, Vito Laudadio, Vincenzo Tufarelli and Marco Ragni

Antibiotics 2021, 10(12), 1540; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics10121540 - 16 Dec 2021

Cited by 31 | Viewed by 6411

Abstract

Because of developing bacterial resistance and increased public awareness of health and food safety problems, the use of antibiotics as growth promoters in the chicken industry has been outlawed. This problem has spurred the poultry industry and sector to explore for safe antibiotic [...] Read more.

Because of developing bacterial resistance and increased public awareness of health and food safety problems, the use of antibiotics as growth promoters in the chicken industry has been outlawed. This problem has spurred the poultry industry and sector to explore for safe antibiotic alternatives and to focus on developing better long-term feed management solutions in order to improve chicken health and growth. As a result, phytogenics have developed as natural antibiotic alternatives, with a lot of potential in the poultry industry. Moringa oleifera has gotten a lot of attention from researchers in the recent past as a natural product with a lot of health advantages for poultry. Moringa is known for its antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and hypocholesterolemic properties, as well as its capacity to activate digestive enzymes in the stomach, owing to the presence of hundreds of essential ingredients. The potential influence of M. oleifera as a natural feed supplement on overall gut health, nutritional digestibility, blood biochemical profile, antioxidant benefits, antibacterial potential, and immunological response is emphasized in this review. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antimicrobial Resistance and Treatment in Companion, Food and Exotic Animals)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 2820 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Investigating the OXA Variants of ESKAPE Pathogens

by Deeksha Pandey, Neelja Singhal and Manish Kumar

Antibiotics 2021, 10(12), 1539; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics10121539 - 15 Dec 2021

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3739

Abstract

ESKAPE pathogens are the leading cause of nosocomial infections. The Global Priority List of WHO has categorized ESKAPE as priority 1 and 2 pathogens. Even though several mechanisms contribute to antimicrobial resistance, OXA β-lactamase has emerged as a new threat in combating nosocomial [...] Read more.

ESKAPE pathogens are the leading cause of nosocomial infections. The Global Priority List of WHO has categorized ESKAPE as priority 1 and 2 pathogens. Even though several mechanisms contribute to antimicrobial resistance, OXA β-lactamase has emerged as a new threat in combating nosocomial infections. In the present study we have investigated the presence of OXA and their variants, copy number, distribution on chromosomes/plasmids, subfamilies, phylogenetic relationships, amino acid identities and variabilities in ESKAPE pathogens. Our results revealed that a total of 929 OXA were present in 2258 completely assembled genomes, which could be further subdivided into 16 sub-families. Among all the ESKAPE pathogens, OXA were highly prevalent in A. baumannii, followed by P. aeruginosa and K. pneumoniae but completely absent in E. faecium and S. aureus while, only a few copies were found in Enterobacter spp. Most of the OXA variants belonged to the OXA-51-like subfamily (200 proteins), followed by OXA-50-like subfamily (189 proteins), OXA-23-like subfamily (156 proteins) and OXA-1-like subfamily (154 proteins). OXA-51-like, OXA-213-like, OXA-134-like, OXA-58-like, OXA-24-like and OXA-20-like subfamilies were present exclusively in A. baumannii. Phylogenetic tree of the subfamilies revealed that OXA-1-like and OXA-33-like, OXA-51-like and OXA-213-like and, OXA-5-like and OXA-10-like belonged to the same branches with amino acid identities as 100%, 97.10% and 80.90% respectively. This indicates that the members of these subfamily-pairs might have evolved from the same ancestor or have recently diverged. Thus, a judicious use of carbapenems is warranted to curtail the rise of new OXA enzymes and preserve them. This is the first detailed report about the OXA of ESKAPE pathogens. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Carriage of Multiple Drug Resistant (MDR) Bacteria in Health)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 1563 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Antimicrobial Resistance in Isolates from Cattle with Bovine Respiratory Disease in Bavaria, Germany

by Alexander Melchner, Sarah van de Berg, Nelly Scuda, Andrea Feuerstein, Matthias Hanczaruk, Magdalena Schumacher, Reinhard K. Straubinger, Durdica Marosevic and Julia M. Riehm

Antibiotics 2021, 10(12), 1538; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics10121538 - 15 Dec 2021

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3289

Abstract

Patterns of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) regarding Pasteurella multocida (n = 345), Mannheimia haemolytica (n = 273), Truperella pyogenes (n = 119), and Bibersteinia trehalosi (n = 17) isolated from calves, cattle and dairy cows with putative bovine respiratory disease syndrome were determined. The [...] Read more.

Patterns of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) regarding Pasteurella multocida (n = 345), Mannheimia haemolytica (n = 273), Truperella pyogenes (n = 119), and Bibersteinia trehalosi (n = 17) isolated from calves, cattle and dairy cows with putative bovine respiratory disease syndrome were determined. The aim of this study was to investigate temporal trends in AMR and the influence of epidemiological parameters for the geographic origin in Bavaria, Germany, between July 2015 and June 2020. Spectinomycin was the only antimicrobial agent with a significant decrease regarding not susceptible isolates within the study period (P. multocida 88.89% to 67.82%, M. haemolytica 90.24% to 68.00%). Regarding P. multocida, significant increasing rates of not susceptible isolates were found for the antimicrobials tulathromycin (5.56% to 26.44%) and tetracycline (18.52% to 57.47%). The proportions of multidrug-resistant (MDR) P. multocida isolates (n = 48) increased significantly from 3.70% to 22.90%. The proportions of MDR M. haemolytica and P. multocida isolates (n = 62) were significantly higher in fattening farms (14.92%) compared to dairy farms (3.29%) and also significantly higher on farms with more than 300 animals (19.49%) compared to farms with 100 animals or less (6.92%). The data underline the importance of the epidemiological farm characteristics, here farm type and herd size regarding the investigation of AMR. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Monitoring and Surveillance of Veterinary Antimicrobial Use and Antibiotic Resistance in Animals)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

10 pages, 931 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Infection Control for a Carbapenem-Resistant Enterobacteriaceae Outbreak in an Advanced Emergency Medical Services Center

by Yoshiro Sakai, Kenji Gotoh, Ryuichi Nakano, Jun Iwahashi, Miho Miura, Rie Horita, Naoki Miyamoto, Hisakazu Yano, Mikinori Kannae, Osamu Takasu and Hiroshi Watanabe

Antibiotics 2021, 10(12), 1537; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics10121537 - 15 Dec 2021

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2598

Abstract

Background: A carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) outbreak occurred in an advanced emergency medical service center [hereafter referred to as the intensive care unit (ICU)] between 2016 and 2017. Aim: Our objective was to evaluate the infection control measures for CRE outbreaks. Methods: CRE strains [...] Read more.

Background: A carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) outbreak occurred in an advanced emergency medical service center [hereafter referred to as the intensive care unit (ICU)] between 2016 and 2017. Aim: Our objective was to evaluate the infection control measures for CRE outbreaks. Methods: CRE strains were detected in 16 inpatients located at multiple sites. Environmental cultures were performed and CRE strains were detected in 3 of 38 sites tested. Pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE), multilocus sequence typing (MLST), and detection of β-lactamase genes were performed against 25 CRE strains. Findings: Molecular typing showed the PFGE patterns of two of four Klebsiella pneumoniae strains were closely related and the same MLST (ST2388), and four of five Enterobacter cloacae strains were closely related and same MLST (ST252). Twenty-three of 25 CRE strains harbored the IMP-1 β-lactamase gene and 15 of 23 CRE strains possessed IncFIIA replicon regions. Despite interventions by the infection control team, new inpatients with the CRE strain continued to appear. Therefore, the ICU was partially closed and the inpatients with CRE were isolated, and the ICU staff was divided into two groups between inpatients with CRE and non-CRE strains to avoid cross-contamination. Although the occurrence of new cases dissipated quickly after the partial closure, a few months were required to eradicate the CRE outbreak. Conclusion: Our data suggest that the various and combined measures that were used for infection control were essential in stopping this CRE outbreak. In particular, partial closure to isolate the ICU and division of the ICU staff were effective. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Carbapenemase-Producing Enterobacterales)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

11 pages, 854 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Presence of the Extended-Spectrum-β-Lactamase and Plasmid-Mediated AmpC-Encoding Genes in Escherichia coli from Companion Animals—A Study from a University-Based Veterinary Hospital in Taipei, Taiwan

by Fang-Ling Liu, Nan-Ling Kuan and Kuang-Sheng Yeh

Antibiotics 2021, 10(12), 1536; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics10121536 - 15 Dec 2021

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3021

Abstract

Extended-spectrum-β-lactamase (ESBL) and AmpC β-lactamase are two enzymes commonly found in Enterobacteriaceae that confer resistance to major antibiotics, such as third-generation cephalosporins that are widely prescribed for both human and animals. We screened for Escherichia coli producing ESBL and plasmid-mediated AmpC β-lactamase (pAmpC) [...] Read more.

Extended-spectrum-β-lactamase (ESBL) and AmpC β-lactamase are two enzymes commonly found in Enterobacteriaceae that confer resistance to major antibiotics, such as third-generation cephalosporins that are widely prescribed for both human and animals. We screened for Escherichia coli producing ESBL and plasmid-mediated AmpC β-lactamase (pAmpC) from dogs and cats brought to National Taiwan University Veterinary Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan from 29 June 2020, to 31 December 2020. The genotypes and phylogenetic relatedness of these E. coli were also analyzed. Fifty samples of E. coli obtained from 249 bacterial isolates were included in this study. Among them, eight isolates had ESBL, seven had pAmpC, and one had both. Thirty-two percent (16/50) of E. coli isolates were resistant to third-generation cephalosporins. The detected ESBL genes included the bla_CTX-M-1 and bla_CTX-M-9 groups, and the bla_CMY-2 group was the only gene type found in pAmpC. ESBL-producing E. coli belonged to the pathogenic phylogroup B2, and the sequence types (STs) were ST131 and ST1193. Three isolates were determined to be ST131-O25b, a highly virulent epidemic clone. The pAmpC-producing E. coli were distributed in multiple phylogroups, primarily the commensal phylogroup B1. The STs of the pAmpC-producing E. coli included ST155, ST315, ST617, ST457, ST767, ST372, and ST93; all of these have been reported in humans and animals. Imipenem was active against all the ESBL/pAmpC-producing E. coli; however, since in humans it is a last-resort antimicrobial, its use in companion animals should be restricted. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antibiotic Resistance and Antimicrobial Use in Companion Animals)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 2167 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Inhibition of MurA Enzyme from Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus by Diterpenes from Lepechinia meyenii and Their Synthetic Analogs

by Macarena Funes Chabán, Martina Hrast, Rok Frlan, Dafni G. Graikioti, Constantinos M. Athanassopoulos and María Cecilia Carpinella

Antibiotics 2021, 10(12), 1535; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics10121535 - 15 Dec 2021

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 4093

Abstract

Enzymes MurA and MurF, involved in bacterial cell wall synthesis, have been validated as targets for the discovery of novel antibiotics. A panel of plant-origin antibacterial diterpenes and synthetic analogs derived therefrom were investigated for their inhibitory properties on these enzymes from Escherichia [...] Read more.

Enzymes MurA and MurF, involved in bacterial cell wall synthesis, have been validated as targets for the discovery of novel antibiotics. A panel of plant-origin antibacterial diterpenes and synthetic analogs derived therefrom were investigated for their inhibitory properties on these enzymes from Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. Six compounds were proven to be effective for inhibiting MurA from both bacteria, with IC₅₀ values ranging from 1.1 to 25.1 µM. To further mechanistically investigate the nature of binding and to explain the activity, these compounds were docked into the active site of MurA from E. coli. The aromatic ring of the active compounds showed a T-shaped π–π interaction with the phenyl ring of Phe328, and at least one hydrogen bond was formed between the hydroxy groups and Arg120 and/or Arg91. The results disclosed here establish new chemical scaffolds for the development of novel entities targeting MurA as potential antibiotics to combat the threat of pathogenic bacteria, particularly resistant strains. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antimicrobial Activity of Plant-Derived Products and Synthetic Derivatives)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

55 pages, 3211 KiB

Open AccessReview

Applications of Lysozyme, an Innate Immune Defense Factor, as an Alternative Antibiotic

by Patrizia Ferraboschi, Samuele Ciceri and Paride Grisenti

Antibiotics 2021, 10(12), 1534; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics10121534 - 14 Dec 2021

Cited by 190 | Viewed by 18049

Abstract

Lysozyme is a ~14 kDa protein present in many mucosal secretions (tears, saliva, and mucus) and tissues of animals and plants, and plays an important role in the innate immunity, providing protection against bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Three main different types of lysozymes [...] Read more.

Lysozyme is a ~14 kDa protein present in many mucosal secretions (tears, saliva, and mucus) and tissues of animals and plants, and plays an important role in the innate immunity, providing protection against bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Three main different types of lysozymes are known: the c-type (chicken or conventional type), the g-type (goose type), and the i-type (invertebrate type). It has long been the subject of several applications due to its antimicrobial properties. The problem of antibiotic resistance has stimulated the search for new molecules or new applications of known compounds. The use of lysozyme as an alternative antibiotic is the subject of this review, which covers the results published over the past two decades. This review is focused on the applications of lysozyme in medicine, (the treatment of infectious diseases, wound healing, and anti-biofilm), veterinary, feed, food preservation, and crop protection. It is available from a wide range of sources, in addition to the well-known chicken egg white, and its synergism with other compounds, endowed with antimicrobial activity, are also summarized. An overview of the modified lysozyme applications is provided in the form of tables. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue What’s New: Natural and Synthetic Antibacterials and/or Agents with Multiple Activities?)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

30 pages, 5309 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Genomic Insights into the Distribution and Phylogeny of Glycopeptide Resistance Determinants within the Actinobacteria Phylum

by Andrés Andreo-Vidal, Elisa Binda, Victor Fedorenko, Flavia Marinelli and Oleksandr Yushchuk

Antibiotics 2021, 10(12), 1533; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics10121533 - 14 Dec 2021

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3323

Abstract

The spread of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) creates a challenge for global health security, rendering many previously successful classes of antibiotics useless. Unfortunately, this also includes glycopeptide antibiotics (GPAs), such as vancomycin and teicoplanin, which are currently being considered last-resort drugs. Emerging resistance towards [...] Read more.

The spread of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) creates a challenge for global health security, rendering many previously successful classes of antibiotics useless. Unfortunately, this also includes glycopeptide antibiotics (GPAs), such as vancomycin and teicoplanin, which are currently being considered last-resort drugs. Emerging resistance towards GPAs risks limiting the clinical use of this class of antibiotics—our ultimate line of defense against multidrug-resistant (MDR) Gram-positive pathogens. But where does this resistance come from? It is widely recognized that the GPA resistance determinants—van genes—might have originated from GPA producers, such as soil-dwelling Gram-positive actinobacteria, that use them for self-protection. In the current work, we present a comprehensive bioinformatics study on the distribution and phylogeny of GPA resistance determinants within the Actinobacteria phylum. Interestingly, van-like genes (vlgs) were found distributed in different arrangements not only among GPA-producing actinobacteria but also in the non-producers: more than 10% of the screened actinobacterial genomes contained one or multiple vlgs, while less than 1% encoded for a biosynthetic gene cluster (BGC). By phylogenetic reconstructions, our results highlight the co-evolution of the different vlgs, indicating that the most diffused are the ones coding for putative VanY carboxypeptidases, which can be found alone in the genomes or associated with a vanS/R regulatory pair. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue A Selection of Studies Presented at Biotech 2020 Symposium)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

11 pages, 1492 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Streptococcus sputorum, a Novel Member of Streptococcus with Multidrug Resistance, Exhibits Cytotoxicity

by Chao Wang, Yuan Zeng, Mengyu Wei, Lanqing Cui, Yuqin Song, Gang Zhang, Yun Li and Jie Feng

Antibiotics 2021, 10(12), 1532; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics10121532 - 14 Dec 2021

Viewed by 2330

Abstract

We describe the genomic and phenotypic characteristics of a novel member of Streptococcus with multidrug resistance (MDR) isolated from hospital samples. Strains SP218 and SP219 were identified as a novel Streptococcus, S. sputorum, using whole-genome sequencing and biochemical tests. Average [...] Read more.

We describe the genomic and phenotypic characteristics of a novel member of Streptococcus with multidrug resistance (MDR) isolated from hospital samples. Strains SP218 and SP219 were identified as a novel Streptococcus, S. sputorum, using whole-genome sequencing and biochemical tests. Average nucleotide identity values of strains SP218 and SP219 with S. pseudopneumoniae IS7493 and S. pneumoniae ST556 were 94.3% and 93.3%, respectively. Genome-to-genome distance values of strains SP218 and SP219 with S. pseudopneumoniae IS7493 and S. pneumoniae ST556 were 56.70% (54–59.5%) and 56.40% (52.8–59.9%), respectively. The biochemical test results distinguished these strains from S. pseudopneumoniae and S. pneumoniae, particularly hydrolysis of equine urate and utilization of ribose to produce acid. These isolates were resistant to six major classes of antibiotics, which correlated with horizontal gene transfer and mutation. Notably, strain SP219 exhibited cytotoxicity against human lung epithelial cell line A549. Our results indicate the pathogenic potential of S. sputorum, and provide valuable insights into mitis group of streptococci. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bacterial Drug Resistance and Transmission Mechanism)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

Antibiotics, Volume 10, Issue 12 (December 2021) – 132 articles

Further Information

Guidelines

MDPI Initiatives

Follow MDPI