Prevalence of Brucella melitensis and Brucella abortus tetracyclines resistance: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Allosteric Inhibitors of Cell-Cycle-Regulated Methyltransferase for Novel Antibiotic Development

Cell-cycle-regulated methyltransferase (CcrM) plays a crucial role in regulating important cellular processes that are essential for proper cell division and growth; disruptions of these processes can attenuate the bacteria's viability. Notably, CcrM homologs are present across a set of diverse human pathogens, suggesting that selective inhibition of CcrM over human DNA methyltransferases (DNMT's) could offer a new strategy for combating human bacterial pathogens, leading to the development of novel antibiotics. Herein, we report the screening of two open-access chemical libraries-the National Cancer Institute Developmental Therapeutic Program Diversity Set VII and Medicines for Malaria Venture Global Health Priority Box-and identified four structurally diverse inhibitors of CcrM. Among these, two inhibitors displayed both micromolar affinity and high selectivity for CcrM over human DNA methyltransferase 3A, highlighting their potential as leads for a new class of antibiotics.

In-situ integrated Ce-MOF-808@CeO2 as bifunctional matrix for sensitive electrochemical-aptasensing of tetracycline in shrimp

The integration of aptamer chemistry with innovative functional materials such as nanozymes offers new opportunities for the development of the superior electrochemical biosensors. Herein, we introduce a rod-like nanocomposite of Ce-MOF-808@CeO2 bearing intense nanozymatic activity that prepared through in-situ partial oxidation of Ce-MOF-808 to CeO2. Then, the aptamer for tetracycline (TC-Apt) with 5'-PO43- end was anchored on Ce-MOF-808@CeO2 modified screen-printed electrode, thereby assembling a label-free electrochemical aptasensor. Electrochemical and spectroscopic assays reveal that the derived CeO2 can effectively promote the nanozyme activity of Ce-MOF-808 as a cocatalyst. Electrochemical biosensing shows that, the capture of tetracycline (TC) to the electrode surface by the aptamer chemistry significantly inhibits the catalytic activity of Ce-MOF-808@CeO2. Thus, TC can be analyzed by monitoring the catalytic signal of the biosensor to H2O2. Leveraging the exceptional catalytic activity of Ce-MOF-808@CeO2, coupled with the high specificity of the aptamer, TC can be analyzed in a wide kinetic range from 1 pM to 100 nM, with a low detection limit of 0.21 pM. The aptasensor is also applicable for the accurate detection of TC residues in fresh shrimp samples, showcasing its potential for practical applications in the monitoring of food safety.

Unravelling the challenge of cotrimoxazole and rifampin resistance in B. melitensis and B. abortus: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Brucellosis caused by Brucella (B. abortus) and Brucella melitensis (B. melitensis) poses a significant threat to human and animal populations. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends rifampin and cotrimoxazole as first-line treatments for pediatric brucellosis. However, emerging resistance to these antibiotics raises concerns regarding their continued efficacy. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to quantitatively assess the prevalence of rifampin and cotrimoxazole resistance in B. abortus and B. melitensis.

METHODS

Eligible studies were identified by systematically searching various databases, such as Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science, and EMBASE databases, using specified search terms until 18 June 2024. The inclusion criteria required studies in English to report the resistance proportion with sample size details. The meta-analysis utilized a random-effects model to assess heterogeneity using the Q-test and I2 statistic. Meta-regression and subgroup analyses explored temporal, geographical, and guideline-related variations in resistance prevalence.

RESULTS

Among the 905 records, 59 studies spanning 21 countries (1976 to 2024) met the inclusion criteria. The prevalence of cotrimoxazole resistance, based on 3,756 isolates, was 0.034 (95% CI, 0.017, 0.068), with increasing trends over time, especially in B. melitensis. Rifampin resistance, involving 3,938 isolates, had a prevalence of 0.046 (95% CI, 0.027, 0.077), showing temporal and species-specific increases. Subgroup analyses revealed significant variations in resistance based on temporal, geographical, and guideline-related factors.

CONCLUSIONS

This systematic review and meta-analysis highlighted an alarming rise in cotrimoxazole and rifampin resistance in B. abortus and B. melitensis, particularly in pediatric brucellosis. Temporal, geographical, and species-specific variations underscore the dynamic nature of antibiotic resistance, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions, surveillance, and global collaboration to preserve the efficacy of essential antibiotics in brucellosis treatment. The limitations include potential biases and the retrospective nature of the included studies, emphasizing the urgent need for standardized surveillance methodologies and robust reporting mechanisms.

The many faces of brucellosis: diagnostic and management approach

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This review aims to highlight the multifaceted nature of brucellosis, emphasizing the latest advancements in its diagnosis and management. Given the global prevalence and potential complications of brucellosis, understanding recent advancements in diagnostic techniques and treatment strategies is crucial for clinicians.

RECENT FINDINGS

Recent literature reveals significant progress in diagnostic methods, including the application of fluorescence polarization immunoassay and time-resolved fluorescence resonance energy transfer technologies as well as the invention of artificial Brucella antigens, which offer enhanced sensitivity and specificity. Advances in molecular diagnostics and serological tests have improved early detection rates, however their interpretation remains challenging. Evolving treatment regimens such as the use of hydroxychloroquine as part of triple therapy and the use of nano-delivery systems in therapies have shown promise, in hopes of reducing relapse rates and managing chronic cases.

SUMMARY

The findings underscore the necessity for clinicians to adopt a comprehensive approach to diagnosing and managing brucellosis. Integrating advanced diagnostic tools with tailored therapeutic strategies can significantly improve patient outcomes. Future research should focus on optimizing these diagnostic techniques and exploring novel therapeutic agents.

Prevalence of antibiotic-resistant Cutibacterium acnes (formerly Propionibacterium acnes) isolates, a systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to assess the overall antibiotic susceptibility of Cutibacterium acnes (C. acnes), a bacterium implicated in acne vulgaris, with a particular focus on clindamycin and fluoroquinolones, which are commonly used in inflammatory acne treatment.

METHODS

A systematic search of Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science and EMBASE databases was conducted to identify relevant studies. Pooled prevalence estimates were calculated using a random-effects model, and additional analyses included quality assessment, evaluation of publication bias, meta-regression and subgroup analyses based on antimicrobial susceptibility methods and year of publication.

RESULTS

The analysis incorporated a total of 39 studies. The random-effects model revealed that the proportion of clindamycin-resistant isolates was 0.031 (95% CI: 0.014-0.071). Additionally, macrolides, including erythromycin (0.366; 95% CI: 0.302-0.434) and azithromycin (0.149; 95% CI: 0.061-0.322), exhibited distinct prevalence rates. Tetracyclines, including doxycycline (0.079; 95% CI: 0.014-0.071), tetracycline (0.062; 95% CI: 0.036-0.107) and minocycline (0.025; 95% CI: 0.012-0.051), displayed varying prevalence estimates. Fluoroquinolones, including ciprofloxacin (0.050; 95% CI: 0.017-0.140) and levofloxacin (0.061; 95% CI: 0.015-0.217), demonstrated unique prevalence rates. Additionally, the prevalence of the combination antibiotic trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (SXT) was estimated to be 0.087 (95% CI: 0.033-0.208).

CONCLUSION

The study findings highlight a concerning increase in antimicrobial-resistant C. acnes with the use of antibiotics in acne treatment. The strategic utilization of appropriate antimicrobials has emerged as a crucial measure to mitigate the emergence of antimicrobial-resistant skin bacteria in acne management.

Combination of in silico and molecular techniques for discrimination and virulence characterization of marine Brucella ceti and Brucella pinnipedialis

Introduction

Mammals are the main hosts for Brucella sp., agents of worldwide zoonosis. Marine cetaceans and pinnipeds can be infected by Brucella ceti and B. pinnipedialis, respectively. Besides classical bacteriological typing, molecular approaches such as MLVA, MLSA, and whole-genome sequencing (WGS) can differentiate these species but are cumbersome to perform.

Methods

We compared the DNA and genome sequences of 12 strains isolated from nine marine mammals, with highly zoonotic B. melitensis, B. abortus, and B. suis, and the publicly available genomes of B. ceti and B. pinnipedialis. In silico pipelines were used to detect the antimicrobial resistance (AMR), plasmid, and virulence genes (VGs) by screening six open-source and one home-made library.

Results and discussion

Our results show that easier-to-use HRM-PCR, Bruce-ladder, and Suis-ladder can separate marine Brucella sp., and the results are fully concordant with other molecular methods, such as WGS. However, the restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) method cannot discriminate between B. pinnipedialis and B. ceti B1-94-like isolates. MLVA-16 results divided the investigated strains into three clades according to their preferred host, which was confirmed in WGS. In silico analysis did not find any AMR and plasmid genes, suggesting antimicrobial susceptibility of marine Brucella, while the presence of the VGs btpA gene was variable dependent on the clade.

Conclusion

The HRM-PCR and Suis-ladder are quick, easy, and cost-effective methods to identify marine Brucella sp. Moreover, in silico genome analyses can give useful insights into the genetic virulence and pathogenicity potential of marine Brucella strains.

Prevalence of Brucella melitensis and Brucella abortus aminoglycoside-resistant isolates: a systematic review and meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

Aminoglycosides are vital antibiotics for treating Brucella infections, because they interfere with bacterial protein production and are often combined with other antibiotics. They are cost-effective, have fewer side effects, and can penetrate biofilms. The prevalence of brucellosis has increased in recent years, increasing the need for effective treatments. In addition, the emergence of multidrug-resistant Brucella strains has highlighted the need for an updated and comprehensive understanding of aminoglycoside resistance. This systematic review aimed to provide a comprehensive overview of the global prevalence of aminoglycoside resistance in B. melitensis and B. abortus.

METHODS

A systematic search of online databases was conducted and eligible studies met certain criteria and were published in English. Quality assessment was performed using the JBI Checklist. A random-effects model was fitted to the data, and meta-regression, subgroup, and outlier/influential analyses were performed. The analysis was performed using R and the metafor package.

RESULTS

The results of this systematic review and meta-analysis suggested that the average prevalence rates of streptomycin, gentamicin, and amikacin resistance were 0.027 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.015-0.049), 0.023 (95% CI, 0.017-0.032), and 0.008 (95% CI, 0.002-0.039), respectively. The prevalence of streptomycin resistance was higher in the unidentified Brucella group than in the B. abortus and B. melitensis groups (0.234, 0.046, and 0.017, respectively; p < 0.02). The prevalence of gentamicin resistance increased over time (r = 0.064; 95% CI, 0.018 to 0.111; p = 0.007). The prevalence of resistance did not correlate with the quality score for any antibiotic. Funnel plots showed a potential asymmetry for streptomycin and gentamicin. These results suggest a low prevalence of antibiotic resistance in the studied populations.

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of aminoglycoside resistance in B. melitensis and B. abortus was low. However, gentamicin resistance has increased in recent years. This review provides a comprehensive and updated understanding of aminoglycoside resistance in B. melitensis and B. abortus.