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Icriverzi M, Florian PE, Bonciu A, Dumitrescu LN, Moldovan A, Pelinescu D, Ionescu R, Avram I, Munteanu CVA, Sima LE, Dinca V, Rusen L, Roseanu A. Hybrid bio-nanoporous peptide loaded-polymer platforms with anticancer and antibacterial activities. NANOSCALE ADVANCES 2024; 6:2038-2058. [PMID: 38633049 PMCID: PMC11019497 DOI: 10.1039/d3na00947e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
In this study, hybrid bio-nanoporous peptides loaded onto poly(N-isopropylacrylamide-co-butylacrylate) (pNIPAM-co-BA) coatings were designed and obtained via matrix-assisted pulsed laser evaporation (MAPLE) technique. The incorporation of cationic peptides magainin (MG) and melittin (Mel) and their combination was tailored to target synergistic anticancer and antibacterial activities with low toxicity on normal mammalian cells. Atomic force microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy as well as contact angle and surface energy measurements revealed the successful and functional incorporation of both the peptides within porous polymeric nanolayers as well as surface modifications (i.e. variation in the pore size diameter, surface roughness, and wettability) after Mel, MG or Mel-MG incorporation compared to pNIPAM-co-BA. In vitro testing revealed the impairment of biofilm formation on all the hybrid coatings while testing with S. aureus, E. coli and P. aeruginosa. Moreover, MG was shown to modulate the effect of Mel in the combined Mel-MG extract formulation released via pNIPAM-platforms, thus significantly reducing cancer cell proliferation through apoptosis/necrosis as revealed by flow cytometry analysis performed in vitro on HEK293T, A375, B16F1 and B16F10 cells. To the best of our knowledge, Mel-MG combination entrapped in the pNIPAM-co-BA copolymer has not yet been reported as a new promising candidate with anticancer and antibacterial properties for improved utility in the biomedical field. Mel-MG incorporation compared to pNIPAM-co-BA in in vitro testing revealed the impairment of biofilm formation in all the hybrid formulations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madalina Icriverzi
- Institute of Biochemistry of the Romanian Academy 060031 Bucharest Romania
| | | | - Anca Bonciu
- National Institute for Lasers, Plasma, and Radiation Physics 409 Atomistilor Street 077125 Magurele Romania
| | | | - Antoniu Moldovan
- National Institute for Lasers, Plasma, and Radiation Physics 409 Atomistilor Street 077125 Magurele Romania
| | - Diana Pelinescu
- Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, Department of Genetics Intrarea Portocalelor no. 1-3, Sector 6 Bucharest Romania
| | - Robertina Ionescu
- Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, Department of Genetics Intrarea Portocalelor no. 1-3, Sector 6 Bucharest Romania
| | - Ionela Avram
- Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, Department of Genetics Intrarea Portocalelor no. 1-3, Sector 6 Bucharest Romania
| | | | - Livia Elena Sima
- Institute of Biochemistry of the Romanian Academy 060031 Bucharest Romania
| | - Valentina Dinca
- National Institute for Lasers, Plasma, and Radiation Physics 409 Atomistilor Street 077125 Magurele Romania
| | - Laurentiu Rusen
- National Institute for Lasers, Plasma, and Radiation Physics 409 Atomistilor Street 077125 Magurele Romania
| | - Anca Roseanu
- Institute of Biochemistry of the Romanian Academy 060031 Bucharest Romania
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Jafari Z, Sadeghi S, Dehaghi MM, Bigham A, Honarmand S, Tavasoli A, Hoseini MHM, Varma RS. Immunomodulatory activities and biomedical applications of melittin and its recent advances. Arch Pharm (Weinheim) 2024; 357:e2300569. [PMID: 38251938 DOI: 10.1002/ardp.202300569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2023] [Revised: 12/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
Melittin (MLT), a peptide containing 26 amino acids, is a key constituent of bee venom. It comprises ∼40%-60% of the venom's dry weight and is the main pricing index for bee venom, being the causative factor of pain. The unique properties of MLT extracted from bee venom have made it a very valuable active ingredient in the pharmaceutical industry as this cationic and amphipathic peptide has propitious effects on human health in diverse biological processes. It has the ability to strongly impact the membranes of cells and display hemolytic activity with anticancer characteristics. However, the clinical application of MLT has been limited by its severe hemolytic activity, which poses a challenge for therapeutic use. By employing more efficient mechanisms, such as modifying the MLT sequence, genetic engineering, and nano-delivery systems, it is anticipated that the limitations posed by MLT can be overcome, thereby enabling its wider application in therapeutic contexts. This review has outlined recent advancements in MLT's nano-delivery systems and genetically engineered cells expressing MLT and provided an overview of where the MLTMLT's platforms are and where they will go in the future with the challenges ahead. The focus is on exploring how these approaches can overcome the limitations associated with MLT's hemolytic activity and improve its selectivity and efficacy in targeting cancer cells. These advancements hold promise for the creation of innovative and enhanced therapeutic approaches based on MLT for the treatment of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zohreh Jafari
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sahar Sadeghi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahsa Mirzarazi Dehaghi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ashkan Bigham
- Institute of Polymers, Composites and Biomaterials, National Research Council of Italy (IPCB-CNR), Naples, Italy
- Department of Chemical, Materials and Production Engineering, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Shokouh Honarmand
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Afsaneh Tavasoli
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
| | - Mostafa Haji Molla Hoseini
- Medical Nanotechnology and Tissue Engineering Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Rajender S Varma
- Department of Chemistry, Centre of Excellence for Research in Sustainable Chemistry, Federal University of São Carlos, São Carlos, Brazil
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Vieira APGC, de Souza AN, Lima WG, Brito JCM, Simião DC, Gonçalves LVR, Cordeiro LPB, de Oliveira Scoaris D, Fernandes SOA, Resende JM, Bechinger B, Verly RM, de Lima ME. The Synthetic Peptide LyeTx I mn∆K, Derived from Lycosa erythrognatha Spider Toxin, Is Active against Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) In Vitro and In Vivo. Antibiotics (Basel) 2024; 13:248. [PMID: 38534683 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics13030248] [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: 01/27/2024] [Revised: 03/02/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The urgent global health challenge posed by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections demands effective solutions. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) represent promising tools of research of new antibacterial agents and LyeTx I mn∆K, a short synthetic peptide based on the Lycosa erythrognatha spider venom, is a good representative. This study focused on analyzing the antimicrobial activities of LyeTx I mn∆K, including minimum inhibitory and bactericidal concentrations, synergy and resensitization assays, lysis activity, the effect on biofilm, and the bacterial death curve in MRSA. Additionally, its characterization was conducted through isothermal titration calorimetry, dynamic light scattering, calcein release, and finally, efficacy in a mice wound model. The peptide demonstrates remarkable efficacy against planktonic cells (MIC 8-16 µM) and biofilms (>30% of inhibition) of MRSA, and outperforms vancomycin in terms of rapid bactericidal action and anti-biofilm effects. The mechanism involves significant membrane damage. Interactions with bacterial model membranes, including those with lysylphosphatidylglycerol (LysylPOPG) modifications, highlight the versatility and selectivity of this compound. Also, the peptide has the ability to sensitize resistant bacteria to conventional antibiotics, showing potential for combinatory therapy. Furthermore, using an in vivo model, this study showed that a formulated gel containing the peptide proved superior to vancomycin in treating MRSA-induced wounds in mice. Together, the results highlight LyeTx I mnΔK as a promising prototype for the development of effective therapeutic strategies against superficial MRSA infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Paula Gonçalves Coelho Vieira
- Faculdade de Saúde Santa Casa de Belo Horizonte, Programa de Pós-Graduação Stricto Sensu em Medicina e Biomedicina, Belo Horizonte 30150-240, Brazil
| | - Amanda Neves de Souza
- Departamento de Química, FACET, Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri (UFVJM)-Campus JK, Diamantina 39100-000, Brazil
- Institut de Chimie, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, UMR7177, Université de Strasbourg, 67070 Strasbourg, France
| | - William Gustavo Lima
- Faculdade de Saúde Santa Casa de Belo Horizonte, Programa de Pós-Graduação Stricto Sensu em Medicina e Biomedicina, Belo Horizonte 30150-240, Brazil
| | | | - Daniela Carolina Simião
- Laboratório de Radioisótopos, Departamento de Análises Clínicas e Toxicológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia-Campus Pampulha, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Lucas Vinícius Ribeiro Gonçalves
- Faculdade de Saúde Santa Casa de Belo Horizonte, Programa de Pós-Graduação Stricto Sensu em Medicina e Biomedicina, Belo Horizonte 30150-240, Brazil
| | - Lídia Pereira Barbosa Cordeiro
- Departamento de Química, Instituto de Ciências Exatas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte 31270-901, Brazil
| | | | - Simone Odília Antunes Fernandes
- Laboratório de Radioisótopos, Departamento de Análises Clínicas e Toxicológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia-Campus Pampulha, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Jarbas Magalhães Resende
- Departamento de Química, Instituto de Ciências Exatas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Burkhard Bechinger
- Institut de Chimie, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, UMR7177, Université de Strasbourg, 67070 Strasbourg, France
- Institut Universitaire de France (IUF), 75005 Paris, France
| | - Rodrigo Moreira Verly
- Departamento de Química, FACET, Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri (UFVJM)-Campus JK, Diamantina 39100-000, Brazil
| | - Maria Elena de Lima
- Faculdade de Saúde Santa Casa de Belo Horizonte, Programa de Pós-Graduação Stricto Sensu em Medicina e Biomedicina, Belo Horizonte 30150-240, Brazil
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Chen X, Yang J, Qu C, Zhang Q, Sun S, Liu L. Anti- Staphylococcus aureus effects of natural antimicrobial peptides and the underlying mechanisms. Future Microbiol 2024; 19:355-372. [PMID: 38440873 DOI: 10.2217/fmb-2023-0168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Staphylococcus aureus can cause localized infections such as abscesses and pneumonia, as well as systemic infections such as bacteremia and sepsis. Especially, methicillin-resistant S. aureus often presents multidrug resistance, which becomes a major clinical challenge. One of the most common reasons for methicillin-resistant S. aureus antibiotic resistance is the presence of biofilms. Natural antimicrobial peptides derived from different species have shown effectiveness in combating S. aureus biofilms. In this review, we summarize the inhibitory activity of antimicrobial peptides against S. aureus planktonic cells and biofilms. We also summarize the possible inhibitory mechanisms, involving cell adhesion inhibition, membrane fracture, biofilm disruption and DNA disruption. We believe this can provide the basis for further research against S. aureus biofilm-associated infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xueqi Chen
- Department of Pharmacy, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, 100029, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiuli Yang
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Shandong University, Shandong Engineering & Technology Research Center for Pediatric Drug Development, Shandong Medicine & Health Key Laboratory of Clinical Pharmacy, Jinan, 250014, People's Republic of China
| | - Chang Qu
- Department of Pharmacy, Beijing Daxing District Hospital of Integrated Chinese & Western Medicine. Beijing, 102600, People's Republic of China
| | - Qian Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, 100029, People's Republic of China
| | - Shujuan Sun
- Department of Pharmacy, Shandong Second Provincial General Hospital. Jinan, 250022, People's Republic of China
| | - Lihong Liu
- Department of Pharmacy, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, 100029, People's Republic of China
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Jalalifar S, Razavi S, Mirzaei R, Irajian G, Pooshang Bagheri K. A hope for ineffective antibiotics to return to treatment: investigating the anti-biofilm potential of melittin alone and in combination with penicillin and oxacillin against multidrug resistant-MRSA and -VRSA. Front Microbiol 2024; 14:1269392. [PMID: 38370578 PMCID: PMC10870424 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1269392] [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: 07/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The emergence and rapid spread of multi-drug resistant (MDR) bacterial strains, such as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and vancomycin-resistant S. aureus (VRSA), have posed a significant challenge to the medical community due to their ability to form biofilm and develop resistance to common antibiotics. Traditional antibiotics that were once effective in treating bacterial infections are now becoming increasingly ineffective, leading to severe consequences for patient outcomes. This concerning situation has called for urgent research to explore alternative treatment strategies. Recent studies have shown that antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) hold promise as effective agents against biofilm-associated drug-resistant infections as well as to enhance the efficacy of conventional antibiotics. Accordingly, we aimed to investigate the antimicrobial and antibiofilm effects of melittin AMP, both alone and in combination with penicillin and oxacillin, against biofilm-forming MDR-MRSA and -VRSA. Methods In this study, we investigated the kinetics of biofilm formation and assessed various parameters related to the antimicrobial and antibiofilm efficacy of melittin and antibiotics, both alone and in combination, against MDR-MRSA and -VRSA. The antimicrobial parameters included the Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC), Minimum Bactericidal Concentration (MBC), Fractional Inhibitory Concentration Index (FICi), Fractional Bactericidal Concentration Index (FBCi), and the antibiofilm activity of melittin and antibiotics indicated by the Minimum Biofilm Inhibitory Concentration (MBIC), Minimal Biofilm Eradication Concentration (MBEC), Fractional Biofilm Inhibitory Concentration Index (FBICi), and Fractional Biofilm Eradication Concentration Index (FBECi). Results The MIC results showed that all S. aureus isolates were resistant to penicillin (≥0.25 μg/mL), and 66% of isolates were resistant to oxacillin. The geometric means of the MIC values for penicillin, oxacillin, and melittin were 19.02, 16, and 1.62 μg/ml, respectively, and the geometric means of the MBC values for penicillin, oxacillin, and melittin were 107.63, 49.35, and 5.45 μg/ml, respectively. The study revealed that the combination indexes of melittin-penicillin and melittin-oxacillin, as determined by FIC values against all isolates, were 0.37 and 0.03, respectively. Additionally, melittin-penicillin and melittin-oxacillin exhibited combination indexes based on FBC values against all isolates at 1.145 and 0.711, respectively. Besides, melittin inhibited the biofilm formation of all S. aureus isolates, with MBIC values ranging from 10 to 1.25 μg/mL, and MBEC values ranging from 40 to 10 μg/mL. Generally, the combination indexes of melittin-penicillin and melittin-oxacillin, determined using FBIC values against all isolates, were 0.23 and 0.177, respectively. Moreover, melittin-penicillin and melittin-oxacillin typically had combination indexes based on FBEC values against all isolates at 5 and 2.97, respectively. Conclusion In conclusion, our study provides evidence that melittin is effective against both planktonik and biofilm forms of MRSA and VRSA and exhibits significant synergistic effects when combined with antibiotics. These results suggest that melittin and antibiotics could be a potential candidate for further investigation for in vivo infections caused by MDR S. aureus. Furthermore, melittin has the potential to restore the efficacy of penicillin and oxacillin antibiotics in the treatment of MDR infections. Applying AMPs, like melittin, to revive beta-lactam antibiotics against MRSA and VRSA is an innovative approach against antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Further research is needed to optimize dosage and understand melittin mechanism and interactions with beta-lactam antibiotics for successful clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saba Jalalifar
- Microbial Biotechnology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shabnam Razavi
- Microbial Biotechnology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Rasoul Mirzaei
- Venom and Biotherapeutics Molecules Lab., Department of Medical Biotechnology, Biotechnology Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Gholamreza Irajian
- Microbial Biotechnology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Kamran Pooshang Bagheri
- Venom and Biotherapeutics Molecules Lab., Department of Medical Biotechnology, Biotechnology Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
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Huang S, Su G, Jiang S, Chen L, Huang J, Yang F. New N-Terminal Fatty-Acid-Modified Melittin Analogs with Potent Biological Activity. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:867. [PMID: 38255940 PMCID: PMC10815238 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25020867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Revised: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Melittin, a natural antimicrobial peptide, has broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity. This has resulted in it gaining increasing attention as a potential antibiotic alternative; however, its practical use has been limited by its weak antimicrobial activity, high hemolytic activity, and low proteolytic stability. In this study, N-terminal fatty acid conjugation was used to develop new melittin-derived lipopeptides (MDLs) to improve the characteristics of melittin. Our results showed that compared with native melittin, the antimicrobial activity of MDLs was increased by 2 to 16 times, and the stability of these MDLs against trypsin and pepsin degradation was increased by 50 to 80%. However, the hemolytic activity of the MDLs decreased when the length of the carbon chain of fatty acids exceeded 10. Among the MDLs, the newly designed analog Mel-C8 showed optimal antimicrobial activity and protease stability. The antimicrobial mechanism studied revealed that the MDLs showed a rapid bactericidal effect by interacting with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) or lipoteichoic acid (LTA) and penetrating the bacterial cell membrane. In conclusion, we designed and synthesized a new class of MDLs with potent antimicrobial activity, high proteolytic stability, and low hemolytic activity through N-terminal fatty acid conjugation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheng Huang
- Animal Nutrition Institute, Chongqing Academy of Animal Science, Chongqing 402460, China; (S.H.); (L.C.)
| | - Guoqi Su
- Animal Nutrition Institute, Chongqing Academy of Animal Science, Chongqing 402460, China; (S.H.); (L.C.)
| | - Shan Jiang
- Animal Nutrition Institute, Chongqing Academy of Animal Science, Chongqing 402460, China; (S.H.); (L.C.)
| | - Li Chen
- Animal Nutrition Institute, Chongqing Academy of Animal Science, Chongqing 402460, China; (S.H.); (L.C.)
| | - Jinxiu Huang
- Animal Nutrition Institute, Chongqing Academy of Animal Science, Chongqing 402460, China; (S.H.); (L.C.)
- Key Laboratory of Pig Industry Sciences, Ministry of Agriculture, Chongqing 402460, China
| | - Feiyun Yang
- Animal Nutrition Institute, Chongqing Academy of Animal Science, Chongqing 402460, China; (S.H.); (L.C.)
- Key Laboratory of Pig Industry Sciences, Ministry of Agriculture, Chongqing 402460, China
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Lima WG, Brito JCM, Verly RM, de Lima ME. Jelleine, a Family of Peptides Isolated from the Royal Jelly of the Honey Bees ( Apis mellifera), as a Promising Prototype for New Medicines: A Narrative Review. Toxins (Basel) 2024; 16:24. [PMID: 38251241 PMCID: PMC10819630 DOI: 10.3390/toxins16010024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Revised: 12/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
The jelleine family is a group of four peptides (jelleines I-IV) originally isolated from the royal jelly of honey bee (Apis mellifera), but later detected in some honey samples. These oligopeptides are composed of 8-9 amino acid residues, positively charged (+2 to +3 at pH 7.2), including 38-50% of hydrophobic residues and a carboxamide C-terminus. Jelleines, generated by processing of the C-terminal region of major royal jelly proteins 1 (MRJP-1), play an important biological role in royal jelly conservation as well as in protecting bee larvae from potential pathogens. Therefore, these molecules present numerous benefits for human health, including therapeutic purposes as shown in preclinical studies. In this review, we aimed to evaluate the biological effects of jelleines in addition to characterising their toxicities and stabilities. Jelleines I-III have promising antimicrobial activity and low toxicity (LD50 > 1000 mg/Kg). However, jelleine-IV has not shown relevant biological potential. Jelleine-I, but not the other analogues, also has antiparasitic, healing, and pro-coagulant activities in addition to indirectly modulating tumor cell growth and controlling the inflammatory process. Although it is sensitive to hydrolysis by proteases, the addition of halogens increases the chemical stability of these molecules. Thus, these results suggest that jelleines, especially jelleine-I, are a potential target for the development of new, effective and safe therapeutic molecules for clinical use.
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Affiliation(s)
- William Gustavo Lima
- Programa de Pós-Graduação Stricto Sensu em Medicina e Biomedicina, Faculdade de Saúde da Santa Casa de Belo Horizonte, Avenida dos Andradas, 2688, Santa Efigênia, Belo Horizonte 30110-005, MG, Brazil;
| | - Julio Cesar Moreira Brito
- Fundação Ezequiel Dias (FUNED), Rua Conde Pereira Carneiro, 8, Gameleira, Belo Horizonte 30510-010, MG, Brazil;
| | - Rodrigo Moreira Verly
- Departamento de Química, Faculdade de Ciências Exatas, Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri, Rodovia MGT 367, 5000, Auto da Jacuba, Diamantina 39100-000, MG, Brazil;
| | - Maria Elena de Lima
- Programa de Pós-Graduação Stricto Sensu em Medicina e Biomedicina, Faculdade de Saúde da Santa Casa de Belo Horizonte, Avenida dos Andradas, 2688, Santa Efigênia, Belo Horizonte 30110-005, MG, Brazil;
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Erdoğan Eliuz EA, Everest A, Serin MS. Antimicrobial activity of Stachys rupestris Montbret et Aucher ex Benth. and inactivation of the pathogens inoculated on lab-made skin by the essential oil. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH RESEARCH 2023; 33:1749-1759. [PMID: 36121018 DOI: 10.1080/09603123.2022.2123457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the antimicrobial activity of Stachys rupestris essential oil and inactivation of the pathogens on lab-made skin the oil in the fight against Escherichia coli, Acinetobacter baumannii, Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecalis, Candida albicans and Candida tropicalis. S. rupestris EO was extracted by hydrodistillation, and its contents were analyzed by GCMS. Logarithmic reduction of the pathogens inoculated on the artificial skin surface by S. rupestris EO was studied for the first time. The highest inhibition zone was 22.1 mm on C. tropicalis, while the lowest IZ was 0.1 mm on E. coli. The other zones were 20.01 mm for Acinetobacter baumannii, 20.02 mm for Enterococcus faecalis, 20.01 mm for Staphylococcus aureus, 22.03 for Candida albicans (p < 0.05). As a result, S. rupestris essential oil was effective on most of the microorganisms and might be increased to use in the treatment of skin infections in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elif Ayşe Erdoğan Eliuz
- Technical Sciences Vocational School, Department of FoodTechnology, Mersin University, Mersin, Turkey
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Pan K, Xu H, Yan C, Chen J, Jiang X, Song Y, Qi X, Long J, Liu H. Hepcidin from Onychostoma macrolepis: Response to Aeromonas hydrophila infection by down-regulating expression of inflammatory factor genes and regulating iron homeostasis potentially. FISH & SHELLFISH IMMUNOLOGY 2023; 143:109187. [PMID: 37923182 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsi.2023.109187] [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: 08/14/2023] [Revised: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
Hepcidin, as an antimicrobial peptide, is associated with innate immunity and is considered a potential antibiotic substitute. In the present study, the hepcidin gene from the cavefish - Onychostoma macrolepis was identified and analyzed. The recombinant hepcidin protein (rOmhepc) was obtained by prokaryotic expression, evaluating the inhibitory effect of 5 pathogenic bacteria in vitro. Sixty O. macrolepis injected with 100 μL A. hydrophila (1.5 × 108 CFU/mL) were randomly divided into the therapeutic group and infection group, and therapeutic group was injected with 100 μL rOmhepc (100 μg/mL) at 6 and 18 h. The survival rates of O. macrolepis and bacterial load in liver were measured at 24 h. The liver tissues were collected at 0, 6, 12, and 24 h after A. hydrophila injection for investigating expression levels of immune-related, inflammatory factor genes and FPN1 gene. The results demonstrated that the hepcidin CDS contained 279 bp and encoded 93 aa. Hepcidin protein has a hydrophobic surface formed by multiple hydrophobic residues (CCGCCYC), and the theoretical pI was 7.53. Omhepc gene was expressed at varying levels in tested tissues, with the liver showing the highest expression, followed by the spleen. The expression of hepcidin gene following A. hydrophila infection was up-regulated and then down-regulated in liver, and the highest expression level was found at 12 h with a 10.93-fold. The rOmhepc remarkably inhibited the growth of A. hydrophila, Staphylococcus aureus, and Streptococcus agalactiae, with inhibition rates reaching 69.67 %, 42.97 %, and 65.74 % at 100 μg/mL. The mortality rates of O. macrolepis and bacterial load in liver were significantly decreased in the therapeutic group than that of infection group (p < 0.05). After the rOmhepc therapeutic, interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) were significantly down-regulated with 14.4-fold and 106.07-fold at 24 h. Furthermore, the expression of immune-related genes (C3, TNF-α, IFN-γ) and Ferroportin gene (FPN1) significantly decreased (p < 0.05). The integrated analyses indicated that the rOmhepc could significantly inhibit the growth of A. hydrophila both in vitro and in vivo, attenuating the over-expression of inflammatory factor, FPN1 and immune-related genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kuiquan Pan
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi, China
| | - Hongzhou Xu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi, China
| | - Chenyang Yan
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi, China
| | - Jun Chen
- College of Information Engineering, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xinxin Jiang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yanzhen Song
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xiaoyu Qi
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi, China
| | - Jingfei Long
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi, China
| | - Haixia Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi, China.
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10
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Gökmen TG, Yazgan H, Özdemir Y, Sevin S, Turut N, Karahan Ş, Eşki F, Kıvrak İ, Sezer O, Ütük AE. Chemical composition and antibacterial activity of bee venom against multi-drug resistant pathogens. Onderstepoort J Vet Res 2023; 90:e1-e5. [PMID: 37526529 PMCID: PMC10483431 DOI: 10.4102/ojvr.v90i1.2097] [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: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Bee venom with an antimicrobial effect is a powerful natural product. One of the most important areas where new antimicrobials are needed is in the prevention and control of multi-drug resistant pathogens. Today, antibacterial products used to treat multi-drug resistant pathogen infections in hospitals and healthcare facilities are insufficient to prevent colonisation and spread, and new products are needed. The aim of the study is to investigate the antibacterial effect of the bee venom (BV), a natural substance, on the species of Methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus, Vancomycin resistant Enterococcus faecalis, Carbapenem resistant Escherichia coli, Carbapenem resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae and Carbapenem resistant Acinetobacter baumannii. As a result of this study, it was found that MIC90 and MBC90 values ranged from 6.25 μg/mL - 12.5 μg/mL and numbers of bacteria decreased by 4-6 logs within 1-24 h for multi-drug resistant pathogens. In particular, Vancomycin resistant Enterococcus faecalis isolate decreased 6 log cfu/mL at 50 μg/mL and 100 μg/mL concentrations in the first hour. The effective bacterial inhibition rate of bee venom suggests that it could be a potential antibacterial agent for multi-drug resistant pathogens.Contribution: The treatment options of antibiotic-resistant pathogens are a major problem in both veterinary and human medicine fields. We have detected a high antibacterial effect against these agents in this bee venom study, which is a natural product. Apitherapy is a fashionable treatment method all over the world and is used in many areas of health. Bee venom is also a product that can be used as a drug or disinfectant raw material and can fill the natural product gap that can be used against resistant bacteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tülin G Gökmen
- Department of Microbiology, Ceyhan Veterinary Faculty, Cukurova University, Adana.
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11
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Lima WG, de Lima ME. Therapeutic Prospection of Animal Venoms-Derived Antimicrobial Peptides against Infections by Multidrug-Resistant Acinetobacter baumannii: A Systematic Review of Pre-Clinical Studies. Toxins (Basel) 2023; 15:toxins15040268. [PMID: 37104206 PMCID: PMC10143903 DOI: 10.3390/toxins15040268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Revised: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Infections caused by multidrug-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (MDR-Ab) have become a public health emergency. Due to the small therapeutic arsenal available to treat these infections, health agencies have highlighted the importance of developing new antimicrobials against MDR-Ab. In this context, antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) stand out, and animal venoms are a rich source of these compounds. Here, we aimed to summarize the current knowledge on the use of animal venom-derived AMPs in the treatment of MDR-Ab infections in vivo. A systematic review was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. The eight studies included in this review identified the antibacterial activity of eleven different AMPs against MDR-Ab. Most of the studied AMPs originated from arthropod venoms. In addition, all AMPs are positively charged and rich in lysine residues. In vivo assays showed that the use of these compounds reduces MDR-Ab-induced lethality and bacterial load in invasive (bacteremia and pneumonia) and superficial (wounds) infection models. Moreover, animal venom-derived AMPs have pleiotropic effects, such as pro-healing, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant activities, that help treat infections. Animal venom-derived AMPs are a potential source of prototype molecules for the development of new therapeutic agents against MDR-Ab.
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Affiliation(s)
- William Gustavo Lima
- Programa de Pós Graduação em Medicina-Biomedicina, Faculdade Santa Casa de Belo Horizonte, Belo Horizonte 30150-250, MG, Brazil
| | - Maria Elena de Lima
- Programa de Pós Graduação em Medicina-Biomedicina, Faculdade Santa Casa de Belo Horizonte, Belo Horizonte 30150-250, MG, Brazil
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12
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Luo X, Chen H, Song Y, Qin Z, Xu L, He N, Tan Y, Dessie W. Advancements, challenges and future perspectives on peptide-based drugs: Focus on antimicrobial peptides. Eur J Pharm Sci 2023; 181:106363. [PMID: 36529161 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejps.2022.106363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Among other health related issues, the rising concerns on drug resistance led to look for alternative pharmaceutical drugs that are effective both against infectious and noninfectious diseases. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) emerged as potential therapeutic molecule with wide range of applications. With their limitations, AMPs have gained reputable attentions in research as well as in the pharmaceutical industry. This review highlighted the historical background, research trends, technological advancements, challenges, and future perspectives in the development and applications of peptide drugs. Some vital questions related with the need for pharmaceutical production, factors for the slow and steady journey, the importance of oral bioavailability, and the drug resistance possibilities of AMPs were raised and addressed accordingly. Therefore, the current study is believed to provide a profound understanding in the past and current scenarios and future directions on the therapeutic impacts of peptide drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaofang Luo
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Biomedical Nanomaterials and Devices, Hunan University of Technology, Zhuzhou 412007, China; Hunan Engineering Technology Research Center for Comprehensive Development and Utilization of Biomass Resources, College of Chemistry and Bioengineering, Hunan University of Science and Engineering, 425199 Yongzhou, China
| | - Huifang Chen
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Biomedical Nanomaterials and Devices, Hunan University of Technology, Zhuzhou 412007, China; Hunan Engineering Technology Research Center for Comprehensive Development and Utilization of Biomass Resources, College of Chemistry and Bioengineering, Hunan University of Science and Engineering, 425199 Yongzhou, China
| | - Yannan Song
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Biomedical Nanomaterials and Devices, Hunan University of Technology, Zhuzhou 412007, China; Hunan Engineering Technology Research Center for Comprehensive Development and Utilization of Biomass Resources, College of Chemistry and Bioengineering, Hunan University of Science and Engineering, 425199 Yongzhou, China
| | - Zuodong Qin
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Biomedical Nanomaterials and Devices, Hunan University of Technology, Zhuzhou 412007, China; Hunan Engineering Technology Research Center for Comprehensive Development and Utilization of Biomass Resources, College of Chemistry and Bioengineering, Hunan University of Science and Engineering, 425199 Yongzhou, China
| | - Lijian Xu
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Biomedical Nanomaterials and Devices, Hunan University of Technology, Zhuzhou 412007, China
| | - Nongyue He
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Biomedical Nanomaterials and Devices, Hunan University of Technology, Zhuzhou 412007, China
| | - Yimin Tan
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Biomedical Nanomaterials and Devices, Hunan University of Technology, Zhuzhou 412007, China.
| | - Wubliker Dessie
- Hunan Engineering Technology Research Center for Comprehensive Development and Utilization of Biomass Resources, College of Chemistry and Bioengineering, Hunan University of Science and Engineering, 425199 Yongzhou, China.
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13
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Mirzaei R, Esmaeili Gouvarchin Ghaleh H, Ranjbar R. Antibiofilm effect of melittin alone and in combination with conventional antibiotics toward strong biofilm of MDR-MRSA and - Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1030401. [PMID: 36910230 PMCID: PMC9994733 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1030401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Multidrug-resistant (MDR) pathogens are being recognized as a critical threat to human health if they can form biofilm and, in this sense, biofilm-forming MDR-methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and -Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains are a worse concern. Hence, a growing body of documents has introduced antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) as a substitute candidate for conventional antimicrobial agents against drug-resistant and biofilm-associated infections. We evaluated melittin's antibacterial and antibiofilm activity alone and/or in combination with gentamicin, ciprofloxacin, rifampin, and vancomycin on biofilm-forming MDR-P. aeruginosa and MDR-MRSA strains. Methods Antibacterial tests [antibiogram, minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC)], anti-biofilm tests [minimum biofilm inhibition concentration (MBIC), and minimum biofilm eradication concentration (MBEC)], as well as synergistic antibiofilm activity of melittin and antibiotics, were performed. Besides, the influence of melittin alone on the biofilm encoding genes and the cytotoxicity and hemolytic effects of melittin were examined. Results MIC, MBC, MBIC, and MBEC indices for melittin were in the range of 0.625-5, 1.25-10, 2.5-20, and 10-40 μg/ml, respectively. The findings found that the combination of melittin AMP with antibiotics was synergistic and fractional biofilm inhibitory concentration index (FBICi) for most tested concentrations was <0.5, resulting in a significant reduction in melittin, gentamicin, ciprofloxacin, vancomycin, and rifampin concentrations by 2-256.4, 2-128, 2-16, 4-64 and 4-8 folds, respectively. This phenomenon reduced the toxicity of melittin, whereby its synergist concentration required for biofilm inhibition did not show cytotoxicity and hemolytic activity. Our findings found that melittin decreased the expression of icaA in S. aureus and LasR in P. aeruginosa genes from 0.1 to 4.11 fold for icaA, and 0.11 to 3.7 fold for LasR, respectively. Conclusion Overall, the results obtained from our study show that melittin alone is effective against the strong biofilm of MDR pathogens and also offers sound synergistic effects with antibiotics without toxicity. Hence, combining melittin and antibiotics can be a potential candidate for further evaluation of in vivo infections by MDR pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rasoul Mirzaei
- Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | | | - Reza Ranjbar
- Molecular Biology Research Center, Systems Biology and Poisonings Institute, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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14
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Antibiotics Limit Adaptation of Drug-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus to Hypoxia. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2022; 66:e0092622. [PMID: 36409116 PMCID: PMC9765076 DOI: 10.1128/aac.00926-22] [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] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Bacterial pathogens are confronted with a range of challenges at the site of infection, including exposure to antibiotic treatment and harsh physiological conditions, that can alter the fitness benefits and costs of acquiring antibiotic resistance. Here, we develop an experimental system to recapitulate resistance gene acquisition by Staphylococcus aureus and test how the subsequent evolution of the resistant bacterium is modulated by antibiotic treatment and oxygen levels, both of which are known to vary extensively at sites of infection. We show that acquiring tetracycline resistance was costly, reducing competitive growth against the isogenic strain without the resistance gene in the absence of the antibiotic, for S. aureus under hypoxic but not normoxic conditions. Treatment with tetracycline or doxycycline drove the emergence of enhanced resistance through mutations in an RluD-like protein-encoding gene and duplications of tetL, encoding the acquired tetracycline-specific efflux pump. In contrast, evolutionary adaptation by S. aureus to hypoxic conditions, which evolved in the absence of antibiotics through mutations affecting gyrB, was impeded by antibiotic treatment. Together, these data suggest that the horizontal acquisition of a new resistance mechanism is merely a starting point for the emergence of high-level resistance under antibiotic selection but that antibiotic treatment constrains pathogen adaptation to other important environmental selective forces such as hypoxia, which in turn could limit the survival of these highly resistant but poorly adapted genotypes after antibiotic treatment is ended.
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15
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Differentiating interactions of antimicrobials with Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacterial cell walls using molecular dynamics simulations. Biointerphases 2022; 17:061008. [PMID: 36511523 DOI: 10.1116/6.0002087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Developing molecular models to capture the complex physicochemical architecture of the bacterial cell wall and to study the interaction with antibacterial molecules is an important aspect of assessing and developing novel antimicrobial molecules. We carried out molecular dynamics simulations using an atomistic model of peptidoglycan to represent the architecture for Gram-positive S. aureus. The model is developed to capture various structural features of the Staphylococcal cell wall, such as the peptide orientation, area per disaccharide, glycan length distribution, cross-linking, and pore size. A comparison of the cell wall density and electrostatic potentials is made with a previously developed cell wall model of Gram-negative bacteria, E. coli, and properties for both single and multilayered structures of the Staphylococcal cell wall are studied. We investigated the interactions of the antimicrobial peptide melittin with peptidoglycan structures. The depth of melittin binding to peptidoglycan is more pronounced in E. coli than in S. aureus, and consequently, melittin has greater contacts with glycan units of E. coli. Contacts of melittin with the amino acids of peptidoglycan are comparable across both the strains, and the D-Ala residues, which are sites for transpeptidation, show enhanced interactions with melittin. A low energetic barrier is observed for translocation of a naturally occurring antimicrobial thymol with the four-layered peptidoglycan model. The molecular model developed for Gram-positive peptidoglycan allows us to compare and contrast the cell wall penetrating properties with Gram-negative strains and assess for the first time binding and translocation of antimicrobial molecules for Gram-positive cell walls.
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16
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Fahmy UA, Badr-Eldin SM, Aldawsari HM, Alhakamy NA, Ahmed OAA, Radwan MF, Eid BG, Sayed SRM, El Sherbiny GA, Abualsunun W. Potentiality of raloxifene loaded melittin functionalized lipidic nanovesicles against pancreatic cancer cells. Drug Deliv 2022; 29:1863-1877. [PMID: 35708464 PMCID: PMC9225738 DOI: 10.1080/10717544.2022.2072544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Revised: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer (PC) frequency and incidence have grown rapidly in recent years. One of the most serious problems with PC is the existence of asymptotic manifestations, which frequently delays early detection, and until the diagnosis is established, tumor cells progress to the metastatic stage. Another significant concern with PC is the scarcity of well-defined pharmacotherapeutic drugs. The aim of this study was to develop an efficient nanocarrier system to augment the efficacy of raloxifene (RLX) against PC cells. As a result, the current investigation was carried out in order to give an effective treatment method, in which an optimum RLX loaded phospholipid-based vesicles with melittin (PL-MEL) was chosen using experimental design software, with particle size, zeta potential and entrapment efficiency % as dependent variables. Furthermore, anticancer activity against PANC1 cells was assessed. The optimized nanovesicle parameters were 172.5 nm for the measured size, zeta potential of -0.69 mV, and entrapment efficiency of 76.91% that were in good agreement with the expected ones. RLX-raw, plain formula, and optimized RLX-PL-MEL showed IC50 concentrations of 26.07 ± 0.98, 9.166 ± 0.34, and 1.24 ± 0.05 µg/mL, respectively. Furthermore, cell cycle analysis revealed that the nanovesicle was most effective in the G2-M phase, whereas Bax, and Bcl-2 estimates revealed that optimized RLX formula had the highest apoptotic activity among treatments investigated. However, as compared to RLX alone or plain formula alone, the optimized formula demonstrated higher expression of TNFα and Bax while a significant reduction of Bcl-2 and NF-κB expression was observed. mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) analysis confirmed the apoptosis as well as the anticancer effect of the optimized formula. Thus, the present study results showed an improvement in the anti-PC effects of the RLX with phospholipid conjugated melittin, making it a novel treatment approach against PC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Usama A. Fahmy
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Shaimaa M. Badr-Eldin
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Industrial Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Hibah M. Aldawsari
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Center of Excellence for Drug Research and Pharmaceutical Industries, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nabil A. Alhakamy
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Center of Excellence for Drug Research and Pharmaceutical Industries, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Mohamed Saeed Tamer Chair for Pharmaceutical Industries, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Osama A. A. Ahmed
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Mohamed Saeed Tamer Chair for Pharmaceutical Industries, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohamed F. Radwan
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Basma G. Eid
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Shaban R. M. Sayed
- College of Science, Electron Microscope Unit, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Gamal A. El Sherbiny
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cyprus International University, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Walaa Abualsunun
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
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17
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Li Z, Liu R, Wang X, Wu H, Yi X, Huang L, Qin Q. Effects of melittin on laying performance and intestinal barrier function of quails. Poult Sci 2022; 102:102355. [PMID: 36502563 PMCID: PMC9763859 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2022.102355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Revised: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
To study the effects of melittin on egg-laying performance and intestinal barrier of quails, 240 quails (aged 70 d) were randomly divided into 4 groups with 6 replicates (10 quails per replicate). They were fed with basal diet (group B), basal diet + 0.08 g/kg melittin (group BA1), basal diet + 0.12 g/kg melittin (group BA2) and basal diet + 0.16 g/kg melittin (group BA3). The experiment lasted for 21 days. The eggs were collected every day. At the end of the experiment, duodenal, jejunal, and ileal tissues were collected, and the cecal contents were sampled. Intestinal antioxidant index, barrier function, and intestinal flora were analyzed. The results showed that the addition of melittin significantly increased the laying rate and average egg weight. Addition of melittin significantly increased the antioxidant function, mechanical barrier, immune barrier, and the villus height to crypt depth ratio of small intestine. Addition of melittin had no significant effect on the α and β diversity of cecal flora, but significantly increased the abundance of Bacteroidales at family level and genus level. Bioinformatics analysis of cecal content showed significant increase in COG functional category of cytoskeleton, and significant decrease in RNA processing and modification in group BA2. KEGG functional analysis showed significant decrease in steroid biosynthesis, caffeine metabolism, and cytochrome P450 pathways in group BA2. In conclusion, addition of 0.12 g/kg melittin to feed improved the laying performance and the intestinal antioxidant capacity and barrier function of quails but had no significant effect on the composition and structure of cecal microbial community. This study provides experimental data and theoretical basis for the application of melittin as a new quail feed additive.
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18
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Yabalak E, Eliuz EAE. Hydrochar synthesis of from waste human hair, incorporation with phenolic extract of Morus alba and evaluation as a natural anti-Staphylococcus aureus agent. J Supercrit Fluids 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.supflu.2022.105804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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19
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Study of the influence of fecal material on the prognosis of intra-abdominal candidiasis using a murine model of technetium-99m (99mTc)-Candida albicans. Microbiol Res 2022; 263:127132. [DOI: 10.1016/j.micres.2022.127132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2022] [Revised: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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20
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Animal venoms as a source of antiviral peptides active against arboviruses: a systematic review. Arch Virol 2022; 167:1763-1772. [PMID: 35723756 DOI: 10.1007/s00705-022-05494-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Arthropod-borne viruses (arboviruses), such as Zika virus (ZIKV), chikungunya virus (CHIKV), dengue virus (DENV), yellow fever virus (YFV), and West Nile virus (WNV), are pathogens of global importance. Therefore, there has been an increasing need for new drugs for the treatment of these viral infections. In this context, antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) obtained from animal venoms stand out as promising compounds because they exhibit strong antiviral activity against emerging arboviral pathogens. Thus, we systematically searched and critically analyzed in vitro and in vivo studies that evaluated the anti-arbovirus effect of peptide derivatives from toxins produced by vertebrates and invertebrates. Thirteen studies that evaluated the antiviral action of 10 peptides against arboviruses were included in this review. The peptides were derived from the venom of scorpions, spiders, wasps, snakes, sea snails, and frogs and were tested against DENV, ZIKV, YFV, WNV, and CHIKV. Despite the high structural variety of the peptides included in this study, their antiviral activity appears to be associated with the presence of positive charges, an excess of basic amino acids (mainly lysine), and a high isoelectric point (above 8). These peptides use different antiviral mechanisms, the most common of which is the inhibition of viral replication, release, entry, or fusion. Moreover, peptides with virucidal and cytoprotective (pre-treatment) effects were also identified. In conclusion, animal-venom-derived peptides stand out as a promising alternative in the search and development of prototype antivirals against arboviruses.
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21
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Herrera KM, Lopes GF, Oliveira ME, Sousa JF, Lima WG, Silva FK, Brito JC, Gomes AJPS, Viana GH, Soares AC, Ferreira JM. A 3-alkylpyridine-bearing alkaloid exhibits potent antimicrobial activity against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) with no detectable resistance. Microbiol Res 2022; 261:127073. [DOI: 10.1016/j.micres.2022.127073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Revised: 02/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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22
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Wang B, Wei PW, Yao Y, Song CR, Wang X, Yang YX, Long YH, Yang SW, Hu Y, Gai ZC, Wu JW, Liu HM. Functional and expression characteristics identification of Phormicins, novel AMPs from Musca domestica with anti-MRSA biofilm activity, in response to different stimuli. Int J Biol Macromol 2022; 209:299-314. [PMID: 35381282 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2022.03.204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Revised: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Antibiotic-resistant bacteria (including MRSA) in the clinic pose a growing threat to public health, and antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) have great potential as efficient treatment alternatives. Houseflies have evolved over long periods in complex, dirty environments, developing a special immune system to overcome challenges in harmful environments. AMPs are key innate immune molecules. Herein, two differentially expressed AMPs, Phormicins A and B, were identified by screening transcriptomic changes in response to microbial stimulation. Structural mimic assays indicated that these AMPs exhibited functional divergence due to their C-terminal features. Expression analysis showed that they had different expression patterns. Phormicin B had higher constitutive expression than Phormicin A. However, Phormicin B was sharply downregulated, whereas Phormicin A was highly upregulated, after microbial stimulation. The MIC, MBC and time-growth curves showed the antibacterial spectrum of these peptides. Crystal violet staining and SEM showed that Phormicin D inhibited MRSA biofilm formation. TEM suggested that Phormicin D disrupted the MRSA cell membrane. Furthermore, Phormicin D inhibited biofilm formation by downregulating the expression of biofilm-related genes, including altE and embp. Therefore, housefly Phormicins were functionally characterized as having differential expression patterns and antibacterial & antibiofilm activities. This study provides a new potential peptide for clinical MRSA therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bing Wang
- Engineering Research Center of Medical Biotechnology, Key Laboratory of Infectious Immune and Antibody Engineering of Guizhou Province, Immune Cells and Antibody Engineering Research Center of Guizhou Province, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550025, Guizhou, China; School of Biology and Engineering, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550025, Guizhou, China; Key Laboratory of Microbiology and Parasitology of Education Department of Guizhou, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550025, Guizhou, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Monitoring and Disease Control, China Ministry of Education (Guizhou Medical University), Guiyang 550025, Guizhou, China.
| | - Peng-Wei Wei
- Engineering Research Center of Medical Biotechnology, Key Laboratory of Infectious Immune and Antibody Engineering of Guizhou Province, Immune Cells and Antibody Engineering Research Center of Guizhou Province, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550025, Guizhou, China
| | - Yang Yao
- Engineering Research Center of Medical Biotechnology, Key Laboratory of Infectious Immune and Antibody Engineering of Guizhou Province, Immune Cells and Antibody Engineering Research Center of Guizhou Province, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550025, Guizhou, China
| | - Chao-Rong Song
- Engineering Research Center of Medical Biotechnology, Key Laboratory of Infectious Immune and Antibody Engineering of Guizhou Province, Immune Cells and Antibody Engineering Research Center of Guizhou Province, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550025, Guizhou, China; School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550025, Guizhou, China
| | - Xu Wang
- Engineering Research Center of Medical Biotechnology, Key Laboratory of Infectious Immune and Antibody Engineering of Guizhou Province, Immune Cells and Antibody Engineering Research Center of Guizhou Province, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550025, Guizhou, China; School of Biology and Engineering, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550025, Guizhou, China
| | - Yong-Xin Yang
- Engineering Research Center of Medical Biotechnology, Key Laboratory of Infectious Immune and Antibody Engineering of Guizhou Province, Immune Cells and Antibody Engineering Research Center of Guizhou Province, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550025, Guizhou, China; School of Biology and Engineering, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550025, Guizhou, China
| | - Yao-Hang Long
- Engineering Research Center of Medical Biotechnology, Key Laboratory of Infectious Immune and Antibody Engineering of Guizhou Province, Immune Cells and Antibody Engineering Research Center of Guizhou Province, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550025, Guizhou, China; School of Biology and Engineering, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550025, Guizhou, China
| | - Su-Wen Yang
- Engineering Research Center of Medical Biotechnology, Key Laboratory of Infectious Immune and Antibody Engineering of Guizhou Province, Immune Cells and Antibody Engineering Research Center of Guizhou Province, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550025, Guizhou, China
| | - Yong Hu
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Monitoring and Disease Control, China Ministry of Education (Guizhou Medical University), Guiyang 550025, Guizhou, China
| | - Zhong-Chao Gai
- Shaanxi University of Science and Technology, Xiaan, Shaanxi 710021, China.
| | - Jian-Wei Wu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550025, Guizhou, China.
| | - Hong-Mei Liu
- Engineering Research Center of Medical Biotechnology, Key Laboratory of Infectious Immune and Antibody Engineering of Guizhou Province, Immune Cells and Antibody Engineering Research Center of Guizhou Province, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550025, Guizhou, China; School of Biology and Engineering, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550025, Guizhou, China; School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550025, Guizhou, China.
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Antifungal, antibiofilm and anti-resistance activities of Brazilian monofloral honeys against Candida spp. BIOCATALYSIS AND AGRICULTURAL BIOTECHNOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bcab.2022.102335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
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24
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Lima WG, Batista Filho FL, Lima IP, Simião DC, Brito JCM, da Cruz Nizer WS, Cardoso VN, Fernandes SOA. Antibacterial, anti-biofilm, and anti-adhesive activities of melittin, a honeybee venom-derived peptide, against quinolone-resistant uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC). Nat Prod Res 2022; 36:6381-6388. [PMID: 35073796 DOI: 10.1080/14786419.2022.2032047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Here, we demonstrated the in vitro and in vivo antibacterial and anti-biofilm activities of melittin, a peptide derived from honeybee venom, against uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) resistant to quinolones. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of melittin varied from 0.5 to 8 μM. The bactericidal effect was considered rapid and potent (ranging from 3.0 to 6.0 h after incubation) against a quinolone-resistant and Extended Spectrum Beta-lactamase (ESBL)-producing UPEC strain. Prior exposure to melittin did not reduce the MIC of the quinolones tested, but it decreased the MIC of ceftizoxime by 8-fold due to its ability to form pores in the membrane. Furthermore, melittin disrupted mature biofilms (39.58% at 32 μM) and inhibited the adhesion of this uropathogen to the surfaces of urethral catheter. These results show that melittin is a promising molecule that can be incorporated into invasive urethral medical devices to prevent urinary infections caused by multidrug-resistant UPECs.
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Affiliation(s)
- William Gustavo Lima
- Laboratório de Radioisótopos, Departamento de Análises Clínicas e Toxicológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Francisco Leandro Batista Filho
- Laboratório de Radioisótopos, Departamento de Análises Clínicas e Toxicológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Iasmin Pinheiro Lima
- Laboratório de Radioisótopos, Departamento de Análises Clínicas e Toxicológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Daniela Carolina Simião
- Laboratório de Radioisótopos, Departamento de Análises Clínicas e Toxicológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | | | | | - Valbert Nascimento Cardoso
- Laboratório de Radioisótopos, Departamento de Análises Clínicas e Toxicológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Simone Odília Antunes Fernandes
- Laboratório de Radioisótopos, Departamento de Análises Clínicas e Toxicológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
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25
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da Cruz Nizer WS, Ferraz AC, Moraes TDFS, Lima WG, Dos Santos JP, Duarte LP, Magalhães CLDB, Vieira-Filho SA, de Magalhães JC. Netzahualcoyonol from Salacia multiflora (Lam.) DC. (Celastraceae) roots as a bioactive compound against gram-positive pathogens. Nat Prod Res 2022; 36:5904-5909. [PMID: 34994265 DOI: 10.1080/14786419.2021.2023865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
The expression of virulence factors, such as biofilm formation, in association with the acquisition of resistance to multiple drugs, has evidenced the need for new and effective antimicrobial agents against Staphylococcus aureus. The evaluation of the pharmacological properties of plant-derived compounds is a promising alternative to the development of new antimicrobials. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the antibacterial, antibiofilm, and the synergistic and cytotoxic effects of netzahualcoyonol isolated from Salacia multiflora (Lam.) DC. roots. Netzahualcoyonol presented bacteriostatic (1.56-25.0 µg/mL) and bactericidal (25.0-400.0 µg/mL) effects against Gram-positive bacteria, disrupted the biofilm of S. aureus, and presented a synergistic effect after its combination with β-lactams and aminoglycosides. The low cytotoxicity of netzahualcoyonol (Selectivity Index (SI) for S. aureus (2.56), S. saprophyticus (20.56), and Bacillus subtilis (1.28)) suggests a good security profile. Taken together, these results show that netzahualcoyonol is promising for the development of a new effective antibacterial agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Waleska Stephanie da Cruz Nizer
- Department of Chemistry, Biotechnology, and Bioprocess Engineering, Universidade Federal de São João del-Rei, Ouro Branco, MG, Brazil.,Carleton University, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Ariane Coelho Ferraz
- Institute of Exact and Biological Sciences, Biological Science Research Nucleus, Universidade Federal de Ouro Preto, Ouro Preto, MG, Brazil
| | | | - William Gustavo Lima
- Laboratory of Medical Microbiology, Campus Centro Oeste Dona Lindu, Universidade Federal de São João del-Rei, Divinópolis, MG, Brazil
| | | | - Lucienir Pains Duarte
- Department of Chemistry, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Cintia Lopes de Brito Magalhães
- Institute of Exact and Biological Sciences, Biological Science Research Nucleus, Universidade Federal de Ouro Preto, Ouro Preto, MG, Brazil
| | | | - José Carlos de Magalhães
- Department of Chemistry, Biotechnology, and Bioprocess Engineering, Universidade Federal de São João del-Rei, Ouro Branco, MG, Brazil
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26
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Eid BG, Alhakamy NA, Fahmy UA, Ahmed OAA, Md S, Abdel-Naim AB, Caruso G, Caraci F. Melittin and diclofenac synergistically promote wound healing in a pathway involving TGF-β1. Pharmacol Res 2022; 175:105993. [PMID: 34801680 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2021.105993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Revised: 11/17/2021] [Accepted: 11/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
A dysregulation of the wound healing process can lead to the development of various intractable ulcers or excessive scar formation. Therefore it is essential to identify novel pharmacological strategies to promote wound healing and restore the mechanical integrity of injured tissue. The goal of the present study was to formulate a nano-complex containing melittin (MEL) and diclofenac (DCL) with the aim to evaluate their synergism and preclinical efficacy in an in vivo model of acute wound. After its preparation and characterization, the therapeutic potential of the combined nano-complexes was evaluated. MEL-DCL nano-complexes exhibited better regenerated epithelium, keratinization, epidermal proliferation, and granulation tissue formation, which in turn showed better wound healing activity compared to MEL, DCL, or positive control. The nano-complexes also showed significantly enhanced antioxidant activity. Treatment of wounded skin with MEL-DCL nano-complexes showed significant reduction of interleukin-6 (IL-6), IL-1β, and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) pro-inflammatory markers that was paralleled by a substantial increase in mRNA expression levels of collagen, type I, alpha 1 (Col1A1) and collagen, type IV, alpha 1 (Col4A1), and hydroxyproline content as compared to individual drugs. Additionally, MEL-DCL nano-complexes were able to significantly increase hypoxia-inducible factor 1-alpha (HIF-1α) and transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1) proteins expression compared to single drugs or negative control group. SB431542, a selective inhibitor of type-1 TGF-β receptor, significantly prevented in our in vitro assay the wound healing process induced by the MEL-DCL nano-complexes, suggesting a key role of TGF-β1 in the wound closure. In conclusion, the nano-complex of MEL-DCL represents a novel pharmacological tool that can be topically applied to improve wound healing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Basma G Eid
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nabil A Alhakamy
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia; Advanced Drug Delivery Research Group, Faculty of Pharmacy, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia; Center of Excellence for Drug Research and Pharmaceutical Industries, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia; Scientific chair "Mohamed Saeed Tamer Chair for Pharmaceutical industries", King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
| | - Usama A Fahmy
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
| | - Osama A A Ahmed
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia; Advanced Drug Delivery Research Group, Faculty of Pharmacy, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia; Center of Excellence for Drug Research and Pharmaceutical Industries, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia; Scientific chair "Mohamed Saeed Tamer Chair for Pharmaceutical industries", King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
| | - Shadab Md
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ashraf B Abdel-Naim
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
| | - Giuseppe Caruso
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy.
| | - Filippo Caraci
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy; Oasi Research Institute-IRCCS, 94018 Troina, Italy.
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27
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Corrêa Carvalho G, Miguel Sábio R, Spósito L, de Jesus Andreoli Pinto T, Chorilli M. An overview of the use of central venous catheters impregnated with drugs or with inorganic nanoparticles as a strategy in preventing infections. Int J Pharm 2022; 615:121518. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2022.121518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2021] [Revised: 01/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/22/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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28
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Whelan R, Hargaden GC, Knox AJS. Modulating the Blood-Brain Barrier: A Comprehensive Review. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:1980. [PMID: 34834395 PMCID: PMC8618722 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13111980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2021] [Revised: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The highly secure blood-brain barrier (BBB) restricts drug access to the brain, limiting the molecular toolkit for treating central nervous system (CNS) diseases to small, lipophilic drugs. Development of a safe and effective BBB modulator would revolutionise the treatment of CNS diseases and future drug development in the area. Naturally, the field has garnered a great deal of attention, leading to a vast and diverse range of BBB modulators. In this review, we summarise and compare the various classes of BBB modulators developed over the last five decades-their recent advancements, advantages and disadvantages, while providing some insight into their future as BBB modulators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rory Whelan
- School of Biological and Health Sciences, Technological University Dublin, Central Quad, Grangegorman, D07 XT95 Dublin, Ireland;
- Chemical and Structural Biology, Environmental Sustainability and Health Institute, Technological University Dublin, D07 H6K8 Dublin, Ireland
| | - Grainne C. Hargaden
- School of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Technological University Dublin, Central Quad, Grangegorman, D07 XT95 Dublin, Ireland;
| | - Andrew J. S. Knox
- School of Biological and Health Sciences, Technological University Dublin, Central Quad, Grangegorman, D07 XT95 Dublin, Ireland;
- Chemical and Structural Biology, Environmental Sustainability and Health Institute, Technological University Dublin, D07 H6K8 Dublin, Ireland
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29
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César Moreira Brito J, Gustavo Lima W, Magalhães Resende J, Cristina Sampaio de Assis D, Boff D, Nascimento Cardoso V, Almeida Amaral F, Maria Souza-Fagundes E, Odília Antunes Fernandes S, Elena de Lima M. Pegylated LyeTx I-b peptide is effective against carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii in an in vivo model of pneumonia and shows reduced toxicity. Int J Pharm 2021; 609:121156. [PMID: 34624440 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2021.121156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2021] [Revised: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 10/03/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
The World Health Organization (WHO) has been warning about the importance of developing new drugs against superbugs. Antimicrobial peptides are an alternative in this context, most of them being involved in innate immunity, acting in various ways, and some even showing synergism with commercial antimicrobial agents. LyeTx I-b is a synthetic peptide derived from native LyeTx I, originally isolated from Lycosa erythrognatha spider venom. Although LyeTx I-b is active against several multidrug-resistant bacteria, it shows some hemolytic and cytotoxic effects. To overcome this hindrance, in the present study we PEGylated LyeTx I-b and evaluated its toxicity and in vitro and in vivo activities on pneumonia caused by multi-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii. PEGylated LyeTx I-b (LyeTx I-bPEG) maintained the same MIC value as the non- PEGylated peptide, showed anti-biofilm activity, synergistic effect with commercial antimicrobial agents, and did not induce resistance. Moreover, in vivo experiments showed its activity against pneumonia. Additionally, LyeTx I-bPEG reduced hemolysis up to 10 times, was approximately 2 times less cytotoxic to HEK-293 cells and 4 times less toxic to mice in acute toxicity models, compared to LyeTx I-b. Our results show LyeTx I-bPEG as a promising antimicrobial candidate, significantly active against pneumonia caused by multidrug-resistant A. baumannii.
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Affiliation(s)
- Júlio César Moreira Brito
- Programa de Inovação Tecnológica e Biofarmacêutica, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil; Fundação Ezequiel Dias, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
| | - William Gustavo Lima
- Laboratório de Radioisótopos, Departamento de Análises Clínicas e Toxicológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia, Campus Pampulha, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Jarbas Magalhães Resende
- Departamento de Química, Instituto de Ciências Exatas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Débora Cristina Sampaio de Assis
- Escola de Veterinária, Departamento de Inspeção Sanitária, Campus Pampulha, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brasil
| | - Daiane Boff
- Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Valbert Nascimento Cardoso
- Laboratório de Radioisótopos, Departamento de Análises Clínicas e Toxicológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia, Campus Pampulha, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Flávio Almeida Amaral
- Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Elaine Maria Souza-Fagundes
- Programa de Inovação Tecnológica e Biofarmacêutica, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Simone Odília Antunes Fernandes
- Laboratório de Radioisótopos, Departamento de Análises Clínicas e Toxicológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia, Campus Pampulha, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Maria Elena de Lima
- Programa de Inovação Tecnológica e Biofarmacêutica, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil; Faculdade Santa Casa de Belo Horizonte: Programa de Pós-Graduação em Medicina-Biomedicina, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
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30
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Ceftriaxone and Melittin Synergistically Promote Wound Healing in Diabetic Rats. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:pharmaceutics13101622. [PMID: 34683915 PMCID: PMC8539663 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13101622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2021] [Revised: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 10/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
High glucose levels in diabetic patients are implicated in delay wound healing that could lead to more serious clinical complications. The aim of the present work was to examine the formulation of ceftriaxone (CTX) and melittin (MEL) as nanoconjugate (nanocomplex)-loaded hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) (1.5% w/v)-based hydrogel for healing of acute wounds in diabetic rats. The CTX–MEL nanoconjugate, formulated by ion-pairing at different molar ratio, was characterized for size and zeta potential and investigated by transmission electron microscopy. CTX–MEL nanoconjugate was prepared, and its preclinical efficacy evaluated in an in vivo model of acute wound. In particular, the potential ability of the innovative CTX–MEL formulation to modulate wound closure, oxidative status, inflammatory markers, and hydroxyproline was evaluated by ELISA, while the histopathological examination was obtained by using hematoxylin and eosin or Masson’s trichrome staining techniques. Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) of the excised tissue to measure collagen, type I, alpha 1 (Col1A1) expression and immunohistochemical assessment of vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A) and transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1) were also carried out to shed some light on the mechanism of wound healing. Our results show that the CTX–MEL nanocomplex has enhanced ability to regenerate epithelium, also giving better keratinization, epidermal proliferation, and granulation tissue formation, compared to MEL, CTX, or positive control. The nanocomplex also significantly ameliorated the antioxidant status by decreasing malondialdehyde (MDA) and increasing superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels. The treatment of wounded skin with the CTX–MEL nanocomplex also showed a significant reduction in interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) pro-inflammatory cytokines combined with a substantial increase in hydroxyproline, VEFG-A, and TGF-β1 protein expression compared to individual components or negative control group. Additionally, the CTX–MEL nanocomplex showed a significant increase in mRNA expression levels of Col1A1 as compared to individual compounds. In conclusion, the ion-pairing nanocomplex of CTX–MEL represents a promising carrier that can be topically applied to improve wound healing.
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31
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Liu Y, She P, Xu L, Chen L, Li Y, Liu S, Li Z, Hussain Z, Wu Y. Antimicrobial, Antibiofilm, and Anti-persister Activities of Penfluridol Against Staphylococcus aureus. Front Microbiol 2021; 12:727692. [PMID: 34489917 PMCID: PMC8418195 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.727692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2021] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Staphylococcus aureus has increasingly attracted global attention as a major opportunistic human pathogen owing to the emergence of biofilms (BFs) and persisters that are known to increase its antibiotic resistance. However, there are still no effective antimicrobial agents in clinical settings. This study investigated the antimicrobial activity of penfluridol (PF), a long-acting antipsychotic drug, against S. aureus and its clinical isolates via drug repurposing. PF exhibited strong bactericidal activity against S. aureus, with a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of 4–8 and 16–32 μg/ml, respectively. PF could significantly inhibit biofilm formation and eradicate 24 h preformed biofilms of S. aureus in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, PF could effectively kill methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) persister cells and demonstrated considerable efficacy in a mouse model of subcutaneous abscess, skin wound infection, and acute peritonitis caused by MRSA. Notably, PF exerted almost no hemolysis activity on human erythrocytes, with limited cytotoxicity and low tendency to cause resistance. Additionally, PF induced bacterial membrane permeability and ATP release and further caused membrane disruption, which may be the underlying antibacterial mechanism of PF. In summary, our findings suggest that PF has the potential to serve as a novel antimicrobial agent against S. aureus biofilm- or persister-related infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaqian Liu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Pengfei She
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Lanlan Xu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Lihua Chen
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Yimin Li
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Shasha Liu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Zehao Li
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Zubair Hussain
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Yong Wu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
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32
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Hernández-Aristizábal I, Ocampo-Ibáñez ID. Antimicrobial Peptides with Antibacterial Activity against Vancomycin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Strains: Classification, Structures, and Mechanisms of Action. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:7927. [PMID: 34360692 PMCID: PMC8347216 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22157927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2021] [Revised: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The emergence of bacteria resistant to conventional antibiotics is of great concern in modern medicine because it renders ineffectiveness of the current empirical antibiotic therapies. Infections caused by vancomycin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (VRSA) and vancomycin-intermediate S. aureus (VISA) strains represent a serious threat to global health due to their considerable morbidity and mortality rates. Therefore, there is an urgent need of research and development of new antimicrobial alternatives against these bacteria. In this context, the use of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) is considered a promising alternative therapeutic strategy to control resistant strains. Therefore, a wide number of natural, artificial, and synthetic AMPs have been evaluated against VRSA and VISA strains, with great potential for clinical application. In this regard, we aimed to present a comprehensive and systematic review of research findings on AMPs that have shown antibacterial activity against vancomycin-resistant and vancomycin-intermediate resistant strains and clinical isolates of S. aureus, discussing their classification and origin, physicochemical and structural characteristics, and possible action mechanisms. This is the first review that includes all peptides that have shown antibacterial activity against VRSA and VISA strains exclusively.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Iván Darío Ocampo-Ibáñez
- Research Group of Microbiology, Industry and Environment, Faculty of Basic Sciences, Universidad Santiago de Cali, Cali 760035, Colombia;
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33
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Askari P, Namaei MH, Ghazvini K, Hosseini M. In vitro and in vivo toxicity and antibacterial efficacy of melittin against clinical extensively drug-resistant bacteria. BMC Pharmacol Toxicol 2021; 22:42. [PMID: 34261542 PMCID: PMC8281584 DOI: 10.1186/s40360-021-00503-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2021] [Accepted: 05/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Melittin is one of the most studied antimicrobial peptides, and several in vitro experiments have demonstrated its antibacterial efficacy. However, there is evidence showing melittin has non-promising effects such as cytotoxicity and hemolysis. Therefore, concerns about unwanted collateral toxicity of melittin lie ahead in the path toward its clinical development. With these considerations, the present study aimed to fill the gap between in vitro and in vivo studies. METHODS In the first step, in vitro toxicity profile of melittin was assessed using cytotoxicity and hemolysis tests. Next, a maximum intraperitoneal (i.p.) sub-lethal dose was determined using BALB/c mice. Besides toxicity, antimicrobial efficacy of melittin against extensively drug-resistant (XDR) Acinetobacter baumannii, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), and KPC-producing Klebsiella pneumonia (KPC-KP) pathogens were tested using both in vitro and in vivo methods. RESULTS Melittin showed extensive hemolysis (HD50 = 0.44 µg/mL), and cytotoxicity (IC50 = 6.45 µg/mL) activities with i.p. LD50 value of 4.98 mg/kg in BALB/c mice. In vitro antimicrobial evaluation showed melittin MIC range from 8 to 32 µg/mL for the studied pathogens. Treatment of infected mice with repeated sub-lethal doses of melittin (2.4 mg/kg) displayed no beneficial effect on their survival and peritoneal bacterial loads. CONCLUSIONS These results indicate that melittin at its safe dose could not exhibit antimicrobial activity, which hinders its application in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parvin Askari
- Department of Microbiology and Virology, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hasan Namaei
- Infectious Diseases Research Center, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Kiarash Ghazvini
- Department of Microbiology and Virology, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
- Antimicrobial Resistance Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
| | - Mehran Hosseini
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran.
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34
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Dos Santos Ramos MA, de Toledo LG, Spósito L, Marena GD, de Lima LC, Fortunato GC, Araújo VHS, Bauab TM, Chorilli M. Nanotechnology-based lipid systems applied to resistant bacterial control: A review of their use in the past two decades. Int J Pharm 2021; 603:120706. [PMID: 33991597 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2021.120706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2021] [Revised: 05/09/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The rate of infections caused by resistant bacteria to the antimicrobials available for human use grows exponentially every year, which generates major impacts on human health and the world economy. In the last two decades, human beings can witness the expressive increase in the Science and Technology worldwide, and areas such as Health Sciences have benefited from these advances in favor of human health, such as the advent of Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology as an important approach applied for bacterial infections treatment with resistance profile to available antibiotics. This review of the scientific literature brings the applicability of nanotechnology-based lipid systems as an innovative tool in the improvement of bacterial infections treatment. Important studies involving the use of liposomes, solid lipid nanoparticles, nanostructured lipid carriers, nanoemulsions, microemulsions and lipid nanocapsules were verified in the period from 2000 to 2020, where important scientific results were found and will serve as a basis for the use of these systems to remain in constant updating. This manuscript shows the use of these drug delivery systems as potential vehicles for antibacterial compounds, which opens a new hope in the complement of the antibacterial therapeutic arsenal. Important studies developed in the last 20 years are present in this review, and thus guarantees an update on the use of these drug delivery systems for researchers from different areas of Health Sciences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matheus Aparecido Dos Santos Ramos
- Department of Drug and Medicines, São Paulo State University (UNESP), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Campus Araraquara, 14.800-903 São Paulo State, Brazil.
| | - Luciani Gaspar de Toledo
- Department of Biological Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Campus Araraquara, 14.800-903 São Paulo State, Brazil
| | - Larissa Spósito
- Department of Drug and Medicines, São Paulo State University (UNESP), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Campus Araraquara, 14.800-903 São Paulo State, Brazil
| | - Gabriel Davi Marena
- Department of Drug and Medicines, São Paulo State University (UNESP), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Campus Araraquara, 14.800-903 São Paulo State, Brazil
| | - Laura Caminitti de Lima
- Department of Biological Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Campus Araraquara, 14.800-903 São Paulo State, Brazil
| | - Giovanna Capaldi Fortunato
- Department of Drug and Medicines, São Paulo State University (UNESP), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Campus Araraquara, 14.800-903 São Paulo State, Brazil
| | - Victor Hugo Sousa Araújo
- Department of Drug and Medicines, São Paulo State University (UNESP), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Campus Araraquara, 14.800-903 São Paulo State, Brazil
| | - Taís Maria Bauab
- Department of Biological Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Campus Araraquara, 14.800-903 São Paulo State, Brazil
| | - Marlus Chorilli
- Department of Drug and Medicines, São Paulo State University (UNESP), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Campus Araraquara, 14.800-903 São Paulo State, Brazil.
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Kreinest T, Volkmer I, Staege MS. Melittin Increases Cisplatin Sensitivity and Kills KM-H2 and L-428 Hodgkin Lymphoma Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 22:ijms22010343. [PMID: 33396195 PMCID: PMC7795649 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22010343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2020] [Revised: 12/24/2020] [Accepted: 12/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) is neoplasia with high cure rates. However, not all patients can be cured with the current treatment. Chemo-resistance of tumor cells is one factor involved in treatment failure. In addition to its pore-forming activity on lipid bilayer membranes, the toxin melittin from bee venom is an inhibitor of several cancer-related signaling pathways. Moreover, melittin analogs have been shown to inhibit the activity of ATP binding cassette (ABC) transporters which are known to play important roles in the chemo-resistance of tumor cells. Therefore, we tested the toxicity of melittin for HL cell lines KM-H2 and L-428 and whether melittin can increase the chemo-sensitivity of cisplatin-resistant HL cells. We found high toxicity of melittin for KM-H2 and L-428 cells. In co-cultures with normal blood cells, melittin preferentially killed KM-H2 and L-428 cells. In addition, we observed increased cisplatin sensitivity of chemo-resistant L-428 cells after treatment with melittin. ABC transporter activity was not reduced after treatment with melittin. Our data suggest that melittin or melittin analogs might be promising agents for the future development of treatment strategies for HL patients with resistant disease.
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