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Bisaccia M, Berini F, Marinelli F, Binda E. Emerging Trends in Antimicrobial Resistance in Polar Aquatic Ecosystems. Antibiotics (Basel) 2025; 14:394. [PMID: 40298543 PMCID: PMC12024378 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics14040394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2025] [Revised: 04/01/2025] [Accepted: 04/04/2025] [Indexed: 04/30/2025] Open
Abstract
The global spread of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) threatens to plummet society back to the pre-antibiotic era through a resurgence of common everyday infections' morbidity. Thus, studies investigating antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) and antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARB) in urban, agricultural, and clinical settings, as well as in extreme environments, have become increasingly relevant in the One Health perspective. Since the Antarctic and Arctic regions are considered amongst the few remaining pristine environments on Earth, the characterization of their native resistome appears to be of the utmost importance to understand whether and how it is evolving as a result of anthropogenic activities and climate change. In the present review, we report on the phenotypic (e.g., disk diffusion test) and genotypic (e.g., PCR, metagenomics) approaches used to study AMR in the aquatic environment of polar regions, as water represents one of AMR main dissemination routes in nature. Their advantages and limits are described, and the emerging trends resulting from the analysis of ARB and ARGs diffusion in polar waters discussed. The resistome detected in these extreme environments appears to be mostly comparable to those from more anthropized areas, with the predominance of tetracycline, β-lactam, and sulfonamide resistance (and related ARGs). Indeed, AMR is, in all cases, more consistently highlighted in sites impacted by human and wildlife activities with respect to more pristine ones. Surprisingly, aminoglycoside and fluroquinolone determinants seem to have an even higher incidence in the Antarctic and Arctic aquatic environment compared to that from other areas of the world, corroborating the need for a more thorough AMR surveillance in these regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa Bisaccia
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences (DBSV), University of Insubria, 21100 Varese, Italy; (M.B.); (F.B.); (E.B.)
| | - Francesca Berini
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences (DBSV), University of Insubria, 21100 Varese, Italy; (M.B.); (F.B.); (E.B.)
- Climate Change Research Center (CCRC), University of Insubria, 22100 Como, Italy
| | - Flavia Marinelli
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences (DBSV), University of Insubria, 21100 Varese, Italy; (M.B.); (F.B.); (E.B.)
- Climate Change Research Center (CCRC), University of Insubria, 22100 Como, Italy
| | - Elisa Binda
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences (DBSV), University of Insubria, 21100 Varese, Italy; (M.B.); (F.B.); (E.B.)
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2
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Ruenchit P. Exploring bioactive molecules released during inter- and intraspecific competition: A paradigm for novel antiparasitic drug discovery and design for human use. CURRENT RESEARCH IN PARASITOLOGY & VECTOR-BORNE DISEASES 2025; 7:100256. [PMID: 40292016 PMCID: PMC12022652 DOI: 10.1016/j.crpvbd.2025.100256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2025] [Revised: 03/15/2025] [Accepted: 03/24/2025] [Indexed: 04/30/2025]
Abstract
Many antiparasitic drugs have become obsolete and ineffective in treating parasitic diseases. This ineffectiveness arises from parasite drug resistance, high toxicity, and low drug efficacy. Thus, the discovery of novel agents is urgently needed to control parasitic diseases. Various strategies are employed in drug discovery, design, and development. This review highlights the paradigm of searching for bioactive molecules produced during inter- and intraspecific competition among organisms, particularly between microbes and parasites, as a strategy for de novo antiparasitic drug discovery. Competitive interactions occur when individuals of the same or different species coexist in overlapping niches and compete for space and resources. These interactions are well recognized. Therefore, bioactive molecules released during these interactions are promising targets for novel drug discovery. Compelling data indicate that microbes remain a potential source for the discovery of novel antiparasitic drugs because of their diversity. Many antimicrobial producers in nature have yet to be isolated and investigated. This body of evidence underscores the success of numerous therapeutic drugs, including penicillin, β-lactams, and tetracyclines, which have been successfully discovered and developed for treating infectious diseases. This review comprehensively covers these concepts, with a particular focus on inter- and intraspecific competition in the discovery of novel antiparasitic agents. This approach will pave the way for identifying alternative strategies to control and eradicate parasitic diseases that continue to threaten human health. Additionally, this review discusses current antiparasitic drugs and their mechanisms of action, limitations, and existing gaps. This discussion emphasizes the ongoing need to explore novel antiparasitic drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pichet Ruenchit
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10700, Thailand
- Siriraj Integrative Center for Neglected Parasitic Diseases, Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10700, Thailand
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3
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Lorková Z, Cimermanová M, Piknová M, Adhvaryu S, Pristaš P, Kisková J. Environmental impact on the genome shaping of putative new Streptomyces species. BMC Microbiol 2025; 25:72. [PMID: 39939924 PMCID: PMC11816981 DOI: 10.1186/s12866-025-03779-x] [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: 06/25/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2025] [Indexed: 02/14/2025] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The bacterial evolution and the emergence of new species are likely influenced by multiple forces, including long-term environmental pressure such as living in extreme conditions. In this study, the genomes of two potentially new Streptomyces species isolated from a former mine heap in Tarnowskie Góry in Poland, were analyzed. RESULTS A bioinformatic approach revealed notable phylogenetic and metabolic differences between the studied Streptomyces strains, despite originating from the same environment. While both strains are characterized by genetic features common to actinomycetes, additional unique biosynthetic gene clusters were also predicted in their genomes. The comparative genomic analysis with other Streptomyces spp. revealed a high conservation in heavy metal adaptive mechanisms, indicating a preadaptation to extreme conditions. The difference observed in the cad and mer operons could be attributed to the specific adaptations to heavy metal contamination. The high metal tolerance of examined strains was also confirmed by an agar dilution assay in the presence of several heavy metals. The confirmed siderophore production represents an additional mechanism allowing streptomycetes to survive in extreme conditions. On the other hand, both of studied genomes show significant differences in energy acquisition processes and the production of putative novel secondary metabolites. The isolates showed these differences not only among themselves but also compared to other Streptomyces species, indicating their uniqueness. CONCLUSIONS Our results demonstrate that extreme environmental conditions can lead to the development of various adaptation mechanisms in the Streptomyces spp. Furthermore, the results indicate that diverse Streptomyces species have developed conserved adaptation mechanisms against the heavy metals under extreme conditions, indicating the emergence of preadaptations that allow bacteria to respond rapidly to polluted environments and evolve their genomes accordingly up to the evolution of new species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zuzana Lorková
- Department of Microbiology, Institute of Biology and Ecology, Faculty of Science, Pavol Jozef Šafárik University in Košice, Šrobárova 2, Košice, 04154, Slovakia
| | - Michaela Cimermanová
- Department of Microbiology, Institute of Biology and Ecology, Faculty of Science, Pavol Jozef Šafárik University in Košice, Šrobárova 2, Košice, 04154, Slovakia
| | - Mária Piknová
- Department of Microbiology, Institute of Biology and Ecology, Faculty of Science, Pavol Jozef Šafárik University in Košice, Šrobárova 2, Košice, 04154, Slovakia
| | - Shivani Adhvaryu
- Department of Microbiology, Institute of Biology and Ecology, Faculty of Science, Pavol Jozef Šafárik University in Košice, Šrobárova 2, Košice, 04154, Slovakia
| | - Peter Pristaš
- Department of Microbiology, Institute of Biology and Ecology, Faculty of Science, Pavol Jozef Šafárik University in Košice, Šrobárova 2, Košice, 04154, Slovakia
- Institute of Animal Physiology, Centre of Biosciences, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Šoltésovej 4-6, Košice, 04001, Slovakia
| | - Jana Kisková
- Department of Microbiology, Institute of Biology and Ecology, Faculty of Science, Pavol Jozef Šafárik University in Košice, Šrobárova 2, Košice, 04154, Slovakia.
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4
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Sharma D, Gautam S, Singh S, Srivastava N, Khan AM, Bisht D. Unveiling the nanoworld of antimicrobial resistance: integrating nature and nanotechnology. Front Microbiol 2025; 15:1391345. [PMID: 39850130 PMCID: PMC11754303 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2024.1391345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 12/17/2024] [Indexed: 01/25/2025] Open
Abstract
A significant global health crisis is predicted to emerge due to antimicrobial resistance by 2050, with an estimated 10 million deaths annually. Increasing antibiotic resistance necessitates continuous therapeutic innovation as conventional antibiotic treatments become increasingly ineffective. The naturally occurring antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral compounds offer a viable alternative to synthetic antibiotics. This review presents bacterial resistance mechanisms, nanocarriers for drug delivery, and plant-based compounds for nanoformulations, particularly nanoantibiotics (nAbts). Green synthesis of nanoparticles has emerged as a revolutionary approach, as it enhances the effectiveness, specificity, and transport of encapsulated antimicrobials. In addition to minimizing systemic side effects, these nanocarriers can maximize therapeutic impact by delivering the antimicrobials directly to the infection site. Furthermore, combining two or more antibiotics within these nanoparticles often exhibits synergistic effects, enhancing the effectiveness against drug-resistant bacteria. Antimicrobial agents are routinely obtained from secondary metabolites of plants, including essential oils, phenols, polyphenols, alkaloids, and others. Integrating plant-based antibacterial agents and conventional antibiotics, assisted by suitable nanocarriers for codelivery, is a potential solution for addressing bacterial resistance. In addition to increasing their effectiveness and boosting the immune system, this synergistic approach provides a safer and more effective method of tackling future bacterial infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devesh Sharma
- Department of Biochemistry, ICMR-National JALMA Institute for Leprosy and Other Mycobacterial Diseases, Agra, India
- School of Studies in Biochemistry, Jiwaji University, Gwalior, India
| | - Sakshi Gautam
- Department of Biochemistry, ICMR-National JALMA Institute for Leprosy and Other Mycobacterial Diseases, Agra, India
| | - Sakshi Singh
- Department of Biochemistry, ICMR-National JALMA Institute for Leprosy and Other Mycobacterial Diseases, Agra, India
| | - Nalini Srivastava
- School of Studies in Biochemistry, Jiwaji University, Gwalior, India
| | - Abdul Mabood Khan
- Division of Clinical Trials and Implementation Research, ICMR-National JALMA Institute for Leprosy and Other Mycobacterial Diseases, Agra, India
| | - Deepa Bisht
- Department of Biochemistry, ICMR-National JALMA Institute for Leprosy and Other Mycobacterial Diseases, Agra, India
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Zhang Z, Wei M, Jia B, Yuan Y. Recent Advances in Antimicrobial Resistance: Insights from Escherichia coli as a Model Organism. Microorganisms 2024; 13:51. [PMID: 39858819 PMCID: PMC11767524 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms13010051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2024] [Revised: 12/26/2024] [Accepted: 12/28/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2025] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) represents a critical global health threat, and a thorough understanding of resistance mechanisms in Escherichia coli is needed to guide effective treatment interventions. This review explores recent advances for investigating AMR in E. coli, including machine learning for resistance pattern analysis, laboratory evolution to generate resistant mutants, mutant library construction, and genome sequencing for in-depth characterization. Key resistance mechanisms are discussed, including drug inactivation, target modification, altered transport, and metabolic adaptation. Additionally, we highlight strategies to mitigate the spread of AMR, such as dynamic resistance monitoring, innovative therapies like phage therapy and CRISPR-Cas technology, and tighter regulation of antibiotic use in animal production systems. This review provides actionable insights into E. coli resistance mechanisms and identifies promising directions for future antibiotic development and AMR management.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Bin Jia
- Frontier Science Center for Synthetic Biology and Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering (Ministry of Education), School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China; (Z.Z.); (M.W.); (Y.Y.)
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Merski I, Yin J, VanderLinden RT, Rainier JD. The Role of N-Substitution in Regio- and Stereoselective Vinylogous Imidonaphthoquinone (VINAquinone) [2 + 2] Photocycloadditions. Org Lett 2024; 26:4921-4925. [PMID: 38814707 DOI: 10.1021/acs.orglett.4c01418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Abstract
Described in this manuscript are intramolecular [2 + 2] photocycloadditions of readily available vinylogous imidonaphthoquinones whose regio- and diastereoselectivity is dependent on the substitution on the vinylogous imide. When exposed to 419 nm light, 2° vinylogous imidonaphthoquinones give novel bridged tetracyclic aza-anthraquinones from a rare crossed [2 + 2] cycloaddition reaction. In contrast, exposure of the corresponding 3° substrates to white light leads to linear adducts. Also outlined here are auxiliary controlled diastereoselective reactions and cyclobutane fragmentations as a means of generating the spirofused γ-lactam moiety present in the ansalactam family of natural product.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian Merski
- Department of Chemistry, University of Utah, 315 South 1400 East, Salt Lake City, Utah 84108, United States
| | - Jinya Yin
- Department of Chemistry, University of Utah, 315 South 1400 East, Salt Lake City, Utah 84108, United States
| | - Ryan T VanderLinden
- Department of Chemistry, University of Utah, 315 South 1400 East, Salt Lake City, Utah 84108, United States
| | - Jon D Rainier
- Department of Chemistry, University of Utah, 315 South 1400 East, Salt Lake City, Utah 84108, United States
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Yu Q, Wang C, Zhang X, Chen H, Wu MX, Lu M. Photochemical Strategies toward Precision Targeting against Multidrug-Resistant Bacterial Infections. ACS NANO 2024; 18:14085-14122. [PMID: 38775446 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.3c12714] [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: 06/05/2024]
Abstract
Infectious diseases pose a serious threat and a substantial economic burden on global human and public health security, especially with the frequent emergence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria in clinical settings. In response to this urgent need, various photobased anti-infectious therapies have been reported lately. This Review explores and discusses several photochemical targeted antibacterial therapeutic strategies for addressing bacterial infections regardless of their antibiotic susceptibility. In contrast to conventional photobased therapies, these approaches facilitate precise targeting of pathogenic bacteria and/or infectious microenvironments, effectively minimizing toxicity to mammalian cells and surrounding healthy tissues. The highlighted therapies include photodynamic therapy, photocatalytic therapy, photothermal therapy, endogenous pigments-based photobleaching therapy, and polyphenols-based photo-oxidation therapy. This comprehensive exploration aims to offer updated information to facilitate the development of effective, convenient, safe, and alternative strategies to counter the growing threat of MDR bacteria in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiang Yu
- Department of Orthopaedics, Shanghai Key Laboratory for Prevention and Treatment of Bone and Joint Diseases, Shanghai Institute of Traumatology and Orthopaedics, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Chenxi Wang
- Department of Orthopaedics, Shanghai Key Laboratory for Prevention and Treatment of Bone and Joint Diseases, Shanghai Institute of Traumatology and Orthopaedics, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Xingcai Zhang
- John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02138, United States
| | - Haoyi Chen
- Department of Orthopaedics, Shanghai Key Laboratory for Prevention and Treatment of Bone and Joint Diseases, Shanghai Institute of Traumatology and Orthopaedics, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Mei X Wu
- Wellman Center for Photomedicine, Massachusetts General Hospital Department of Dermatology, Harvard Medical School, 50 Blossom Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02114, United States
| | - Min Lu
- Department of Orthopaedics, Shanghai Key Laboratory for Prevention and Treatment of Bone and Joint Diseases, Shanghai Institute of Traumatology and Orthopaedics, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
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8
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Ralhan K, Iyer KA, Diaz LL, Bird R, Maind A, Zhou QA. Navigating Antibacterial Frontiers: A Panoramic Exploration of Antibacterial Landscapes, Resistance Mechanisms, and Emerging Therapeutic Strategies. ACS Infect Dis 2024; 10:1483-1519. [PMID: 38691668 PMCID: PMC11091902 DOI: 10.1021/acsinfecdis.4c00115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2024] [Revised: 04/11/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
The development of effective antibacterial solutions has become paramount in maintaining global health in this era of increasing bacterial threats and rampant antibiotic resistance. Traditional antibiotics have played a significant role in combating bacterial infections throughout history. However, the emergence of novel resistant strains necessitates constant innovation in antibacterial research. We have analyzed the data on antibacterials from the CAS Content Collection, the largest human-curated collection of published scientific knowledge, which has proven valuable for quantitative analysis of global scientific knowledge. Our analysis focuses on mining the CAS Content Collection data for recent publications (since 2012). This article aims to explore the intricate landscape of antibacterial research while reviewing the advancement from traditional antibiotics to novel and emerging antibacterial strategies. By delving into the resistance mechanisms, this paper highlights the need to find alternate strategies to address the growing concern.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Leilani Lotti Diaz
- CAS,
A Division of the American Chemical Society, Columbus, Ohio 43210, United States
| | - Robert Bird
- CAS,
A Division of the American Chemical Society, Columbus, Ohio 43210, United States
| | - Ankush Maind
- ACS
International India Pvt. Ltd., Pune 411044, India
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9
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Boshoff HI, Malhotra N, Barry CE, Oh S. The Antitubercular Activities of Natural Products with Fused-Nitrogen-Containing Heterocycles. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2024; 17:211. [PMID: 38399426 PMCID: PMC10892018 DOI: 10.3390/ph17020211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2024] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Tuberculosis (TB) is notorious as the leading cause of death worldwide due to a single infectious entity and its causative agent, Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb), has been able to evolve resistance to all existing drugs in the treatment arsenal complicating disease management programs. In drug discovery efforts, natural products are important starting points in generating novel scaffolds that have evolved to specifically bind to vulnerable targets not only in pathogens such as Mtb, but also in mammalian targets associated with human diseases. Structural diversity is one of the most attractive features of natural products. This review provides a summary of fused-nitrogen-containing heterocycles found in the natural products reported in the literature that are known to have antitubercular activities. The structurally targeted natural products discussed in this review could provide a revealing insight into novel chemical aspects with novel biological functions for TB drug discovery efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Sangmi Oh
- Tuberculosis Research Section, Laboratory of Clinical Immunology and Microbiology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD 20892, USA; (H.I.B.); (N.M.); (C.E.B.III)
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10
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Nicolosi D, Petronio Petronio G, Russo S, Di Naro M, Cutuli MA, Russo C, Di Marco R. Innovative Phospholipid Carriers: A Viable Strategy to Counteract Antimicrobial Resistance. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15934. [PMID: 37958915 PMCID: PMC10648799 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242115934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The overuse and misuse of antibiotics have led to the emergence and spread of multidrug-resistant (MDR), extensively drug-resistant (XDR), and pan-drug-resistant (PDR) bacteria strains, usually associated with poorer patient outcomes and higher costs. In order to preserve the usefulness of these life-saving drugs, it is crucial to use them appropriately, as also recommended by the WHO. Moreover, innovative, safe, and more effective approaches are being investigated, aiming to revise drug treatments to improve their pharmacokinetics and distribution and to reduce the onset of drug resistance. Globally, to reduce the burden of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), guidelines and indications have been developed over time, aimed at narrowing the use and diminishing the environmental spread of these life-saving molecules by optimizing prescriptions, dosage, and times of use, as well as investing resources into obtaining innovative formulations with better pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and therapeutic results. This has led to the development of new nano-formulations as drug delivery vehicles, characterized by unique structural properties, biocompatible natures, and targeted activities such as state-of-the-art phospholipid particles generally grouped as liposomes, virosomes, and functionalized exosomes, which represent an attractive and innovative delivery approach. Liposomes and virosomes are chemically synthesized carriers that utilize phospholipids whose nature is predetermined based on their use, with a long track record as drug delivery systems. Exosomes are vesicles naturally released by cells, which utilize the lipids present in their cellular membranes only, and therefore, are highly biocompatible, with investigations as a delivery system having a more recent origin. This review will summarize the state of the art on microvesicle research, liposomes, virosomes, and exosomes, as useful and effective tools to tackle the threat of antibiotic resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daria Nicolosi
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, Università degli Studi di Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy; (D.N.); (M.D.N.)
| | - Giulio Petronio Petronio
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences “V. Tiberio”, Università degli Studi del Molise, 86100 Campobasso, Italy; (G.P.P.); (M.A.C.); (C.R.); (R.D.M.)
| | - Stefano Russo
- Division of Biochemistry, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Mannheim Institute for Innate Immunoscience (MI3), Heidelberg University (HBIGS), 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Maria Di Naro
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, Università degli Studi di Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy; (D.N.); (M.D.N.)
| | - Marco Alfio Cutuli
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences “V. Tiberio”, Università degli Studi del Molise, 86100 Campobasso, Italy; (G.P.P.); (M.A.C.); (C.R.); (R.D.M.)
| | - Claudio Russo
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences “V. Tiberio”, Università degli Studi del Molise, 86100 Campobasso, Italy; (G.P.P.); (M.A.C.); (C.R.); (R.D.M.)
- Consorzio Interuniversitario in Ingegneria e Medicina (COIIM), Azienda Sanitaria Regionale del Molise ASReM, UOC Governance del Farmaco, 86100 Campobasso, Italy
| | - Roberto Di Marco
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences “V. Tiberio”, Università degli Studi del Molise, 86100 Campobasso, Italy; (G.P.P.); (M.A.C.); (C.R.); (R.D.M.)
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11
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Zheng M, Lupoli TJ. Counteracting antibiotic resistance enzymes and efflux pumps. Curr Opin Microbiol 2023; 75:102334. [PMID: 37329679 DOI: 10.1016/j.mib.2023.102334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Revised: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Bacterial pathogens are constantly evolving new resistance mechanisms against antibiotics; hence, strategies to potentiate existing antibiotics or combat mechanisms of resistance using adjuvants are always in demand. Recently, inhibitors have been identified that counteract enzymatic modification of the drugs isoniazid and rifampin, which have implications in the study of multi-drug-resistant mycobacteria. A wealth of structural studies on efflux pumps from diverse bacteria has also fueled the design of new small-molecule and peptide-based agents to prevent the active transport of antibiotics. We envision that these findings will inspire microbiologists to apply existing adjuvants to clinically relevant resistant strains, or to use described platforms to discover novel antibiotic adjuvant scaffolds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Zheng
- Department of Chemistry, New York University, 100 Washington Square East, New York, NY 10003, USA
| | - Tania J Lupoli
- Department of Chemistry, New York University, 100 Washington Square East, New York, NY 10003, USA.
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12
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Kaiser KG, Delattre V, Frost VJ, Buck GW, Phu JV, Fernandez TG, Pavel IE. Nanosilver: An Old Antibacterial Agent with Great Promise in the Fight against Antibiotic Resistance. Antibiotics (Basel) 2023; 12:1264. [PMID: 37627684 PMCID: PMC10451389 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics12081264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Antibiotic resistance in bacteria is a major problem worldwide that costs 55 billion USD annually for extended hospitalization, resource utilization, and additional treatment expenditures in the United States. This review examines the roles and forms of silver (e.g., bulk Ag, silver salts (AgNO3), and colloidal Ag) from antiquity to the present, and its eventual incorporation as silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) in numerous antibacterial consumer products and biomedical applications. The AgNP fabrication methods, physicochemical properties, and antibacterial mechanisms in Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial models are covered. The emphasis is on the problematic ESKAPE pathogens and the antibiotic-resistant pathogens of the greatest human health concern according to the World Health Organization. This review delineates the differences between each bacterial model, the role of the physicochemical properties of AgNPs in the interaction with pathogens, and the subsequent damage of AgNPs and Ag+ released by AgNPs on structural cellular components. In closing, the processes of antibiotic resistance attainment and how novel AgNP-antibiotic conjugates may synergistically reduce the growth of antibiotic-resistant pathogens are presented in light of promising examples, where antibiotic efficacy alone is decreased.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyra G. Kaiser
- Department of Physical and Environmental Sciences, Texas A&M University Corpus Christi, 6300 Ocean Drive, Corpus Christi, TX 78412, USA; (K.G.K.); (V.D.); (G.W.B.)
- Department of Life Sciences, Texas A&M University Corpus Christi, 6300 Ocean Drive, Corpus Christi, TX 78412, USA
| | - Victoire Delattre
- Department of Physical and Environmental Sciences, Texas A&M University Corpus Christi, 6300 Ocean Drive, Corpus Christi, TX 78412, USA; (K.G.K.); (V.D.); (G.W.B.)
- Department of Life Sciences, Texas A&M University Corpus Christi, 6300 Ocean Drive, Corpus Christi, TX 78412, USA
| | - Victoria J. Frost
- Department of Chemistry, Physics, Geology and the Environment, Winthrop University, 701 Oakland Avenue, Rock Hill, SC 29733, USA; (V.J.F.); (J.V.P.)
- Department of Biology, Winthrop University, 701 Oakland Avenue, Rock Hill, SC 29733, USA
| | - Gregory W. Buck
- Department of Physical and Environmental Sciences, Texas A&M University Corpus Christi, 6300 Ocean Drive, Corpus Christi, TX 78412, USA; (K.G.K.); (V.D.); (G.W.B.)
- Department of Life Sciences, Texas A&M University Corpus Christi, 6300 Ocean Drive, Corpus Christi, TX 78412, USA
| | - Julianne V. Phu
- Department of Chemistry, Physics, Geology and the Environment, Winthrop University, 701 Oakland Avenue, Rock Hill, SC 29733, USA; (V.J.F.); (J.V.P.)
- Department of Biology, Winthrop University, 701 Oakland Avenue, Rock Hill, SC 29733, USA
| | - Timea G. Fernandez
- Department of Chemistry, Physics, Geology and the Environment, Winthrop University, 701 Oakland Avenue, Rock Hill, SC 29733, USA; (V.J.F.); (J.V.P.)
- Department of Biology, Winthrop University, 701 Oakland Avenue, Rock Hill, SC 29733, USA
| | - Ioana E. Pavel
- Department of Physical and Environmental Sciences, Texas A&M University Corpus Christi, 6300 Ocean Drive, Corpus Christi, TX 78412, USA; (K.G.K.); (V.D.); (G.W.B.)
- Department of Life Sciences, Texas A&M University Corpus Christi, 6300 Ocean Drive, Corpus Christi, TX 78412, USA
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13
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Darby EM, Trampari E, Siasat P, Gaya MS, Alav I, Webber MA, Blair JMA. Molecular mechanisms of antibiotic resistance revisited. Nat Rev Microbiol 2023; 21:280-295. [PMID: 36411397 DOI: 10.1038/s41579-022-00820-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 495] [Impact Index Per Article: 247.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Antibiotic resistance is a global health emergency, with resistance detected to all antibiotics currently in clinical use and only a few novel drugs in the pipeline. Understanding the molecular mechanisms that bacteria use to resist the action of antimicrobials is critical to recognize global patterns of resistance and to improve the use of current drugs, as well as for the design of new drugs less susceptible to resistance development and novel strategies to combat resistance. In this Review, we explore recent advances in understanding how resistance genes contribute to the biology of the host, new structural details of relevant molecular events underpinning resistance, the identification of new resistance gene families and the interactions between different resistance mechanisms. Finally, we discuss how we can use this information to develop the next generation of antimicrobial therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth M Darby
- College of Medical and Dental Sciences, Institute of Microbiology and Infection, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | | | - Pauline Siasat
- College of Medical and Dental Sciences, Institute of Microbiology and Infection, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | | | - Ilyas Alav
- College of Medical and Dental Sciences, Institute of Microbiology and Infection, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Mark A Webber
- Quadram Institute Bioscience, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, UK.
- Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, UK.
| | - Jessica M A Blair
- College of Medical and Dental Sciences, Institute of Microbiology and Infection, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK.
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14
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Wei M, Wu J, Sun H, Zhang B, Hu X, Wang Q, Li B, Xu L, Ma T, Gao J, Li F, Ling D. An Enzymatic Antibiotic Adjuvant Modulates the Infectious Microenvironment to Overcome Antimicrobial Resistance of Pathogens. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2023; 19:e2205471. [PMID: 36399641 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202205471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2022] [Revised: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The emergence and evolution of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) pose a significant challenge to the current arsenal to fight infection. Antibiotic adjuvants represent an appealing tactic for tackling the AMR of pathogens, however, their practical applications are greatly constrained by the harsh infectious microenvironment. Herein, it is found that silver nanoclusters (Ag NCs) can possess tunable enzymatic activities to modulate infectious microenvironments. Based on this finding, an enzymatic nanoadjuvant (EnzNA) self-assembled from Ag NCs, which is inert under neutral physiological conditions but can readily disassemble into isolated Ag NCs exhibiting biofilm destructive oxidase-mimetic activity in the acidic biofilm microenvironment, is developed. Once internalized into the neutral cytoplasm of bacteria, Ag NCs switch to reveal the thiol oxidase-mimetic activity to suppress ribosomal biogenesis for AMR reversal and evolution inhibition of pathogens. Consequently, EnzNAs revitalize various existing antibiotics against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, and potentiate the antibiotic efficacy against biofilm-mediated skin infection and lethal lung infection in mice. These findings highlight the capability of enzyme-mimetic nanomaterials to modulate the infectious microenvironment and potentiate antibiotics, providing a paradigm shift for anti-infection therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Wei
- Institute of Pharmaceutics, Hangzhou Institute of Innovative Medicine, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
- Frontiers Science Center for Transformative Molecules, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, National Center for Translational Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Jiahe Wu
- Institute of Pharmaceutics, Hangzhou Institute of Innovative Medicine, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
- Key Laboratory of Clinical Cancer Pharmacology and Toxicology Research of Zhejiang Province, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, China
| | - Heng Sun
- Institute of Pharmaceutics, Hangzhou Institute of Innovative Medicine, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Bo Zhang
- Frontiers Science Center for Transformative Molecules, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, National Center for Translational Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
- WLA Laboratories, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Xi Hu
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Qiyue Wang
- Frontiers Science Center for Transformative Molecules, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, National Center for Translational Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Bowen Li
- Frontiers Science Center for Transformative Molecules, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, National Center for Translational Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Lilan Xu
- Institute of Pharmaceutics, Hangzhou Institute of Innovative Medicine, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Teng Ma
- Institute of Pharmaceutics, Hangzhou Institute of Innovative Medicine, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Jianqing Gao
- Institute of Pharmaceutics, Hangzhou Institute of Innovative Medicine, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
- Cancer Center of Zhejiang University, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Fangyuan Li
- Institute of Pharmaceutics, Hangzhou Institute of Innovative Medicine, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Daishun Ling
- Institute of Pharmaceutics, Hangzhou Institute of Innovative Medicine, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
- Frontiers Science Center for Transformative Molecules, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, National Center for Translational Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
- WLA Laboratories, Shanghai, 201203, China
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15
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El-Khoury C, Mansour E, Yuliandra Y, Lai F, Hawkins BA, Du JJ, Sundberg EJ, Sluis-Cremer N, Hibbs DE, Groundwater PW. The role of adjuvants in overcoming antibacterial resistance due to enzymatic drug modification. RSC Med Chem 2022; 13:1276-1299. [PMID: 36439977 PMCID: PMC9667779 DOI: 10.1039/d2md00263a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Antibacterial resistance is a prominent issue with monotherapy often leading to treatment failure in serious infections. Many mechanisms can lead to antibacterial resistance including deactivation of antibacterial agents by bacterial enzymes. Enzymatic drug modification confers resistance to β-lactams, aminoglycosides, chloramphenicol, macrolides, isoniazid, rifamycins, fosfomycin and lincosamides. Novel enzyme inhibitor adjuvants have been developed in an attempt to overcome resistance to these agents, only a few of which have so far reached the market. This review discusses the different enzymatic processes that lead to deactivation of antibacterial agents and provides an update on the current and potential enzyme inhibitors that may restore bacterial susceptibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christy El-Khoury
- Sydney Pharmacy School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney Sydney NSW 2006 Australia
| | - Elissar Mansour
- Sydney Pharmacy School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney Sydney NSW 2006 Australia
| | - Yori Yuliandra
- Sydney Pharmacy School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney Sydney NSW 2006 Australia
| | - Felcia Lai
- Sydney Pharmacy School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney Sydney NSW 2006 Australia
| | - Bryson A Hawkins
- Sydney Pharmacy School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney Sydney NSW 2006 Australia
| | - Jonathan J Du
- Department of Biochemistry, Emory University School of Medicine Atlanta GA 30322 USA
| | - Eric J Sundberg
- Department of Biochemistry, Emory University School of Medicine Atlanta GA 30322 USA
| | - Nicolas Sluis-Cremer
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine Pittsburgh PA 15213 USA
| | - David E Hibbs
- Sydney Pharmacy School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney Sydney NSW 2006 Australia
| | - Paul W Groundwater
- Sydney Pharmacy School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney Sydney NSW 2006 Australia
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16
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The Power of Biocatalysts for Highly Selective and Efficient Phosphorylation Reactions. Catalysts 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/catal12111436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Reactions involving the transfer of phosphorus-containing groups are of key importance for maintaining life, from biological cells, tissues and organs to plants, animals, humans, ecosystems and the whole planet earth. The sustainable utilization of the nonrenewable element phosphorus is of key importance for a balanced phosphorus cycle. Significant advances have been achieved in highly selective and efficient biocatalytic phosphorylation reactions, fundamental and applied aspects of phosphorylation biocatalysts, novel phosphorylation biocatalysts, discovery methodologies and tools, analytical and synthetic applications, useful phosphoryl donors and systems for their regeneration, reaction engineering, product recovery and purification. Biocatalytic phosphorylation reactions with complete conversion therefore provide an excellent reaction platform for valuable analytical and synthetic applications.
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17
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Sohail M, Bilal M, Maqbool T, Rasool N, Ammar M, Mahmood S, Malik A, Zubair M, Abbas Ashraf G. Iron-catalyzed synthesis of N-heterocycles via intermolecular and intramolecular cyclization reactions: A review. ARAB J CHEM 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.arabjc.2022.104095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
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18
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Activation of the SigE-SigB signaling pathway by inhibition of the respiratory electron transport chain and its effect on rifampicin resistance in Mycobacterium smegmatis. J Microbiol 2022; 60:935-947. [DOI: 10.1007/s12275-022-2202-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2022] [Revised: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
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19
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Surette MD, Waglechner N, Koteva K, Wright GD. HelR is a helicase-like protein that protects RNA polymerase from rifamycin antibiotics. Mol Cell 2022; 82:3151-3165.e9. [PMID: 35907401 DOI: 10.1016/j.molcel.2022.06.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2021] [Revised: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/12/2022] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
Abstract
Rifamycin antibiotics such as rifampin are potent inhibitors of prokaryotic RNA polymerase (RNAP) used to treat tuberculosis and other bacterial infections. Although resistance arises in the clinic principally through mutations in RNAP, many bacteria possess highly specific enzyme-mediated resistance mechanisms that modify and inactivate rifamycins. The expression of these enzymes is controlled by a 19-bp cis-acting rifamycin-associated element (RAE). Guided by the presence of RAE sequences, we identify a helicase-like protein, HelR, in Streptomyces venezuelae that confers broad-spectrum rifamycin resistance. We show that HelR also promotes tolerance to rifamycins, enabling bacterial evasion of the toxic properties of these antibiotics. HelR forms a complex with RNAP and rescues transcription inhibition by displacing rifamycins from RNAP, thereby providing resistance by target protection . Furthermore, HelRs are broadly distributed in Actinobacteria, including several opportunistic Mycobacterial pathogens, offering yet another challenge for developing new rifamycin antibiotics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew D Surette
- David Braley Center for Antibiotic Discovery, M.G. DeGroote Institute for Infectious Disease Research, Department of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8S 4L8, Canada
| | - Nicholas Waglechner
- Toronto Invasive Bacterial Diseases Network, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, ON M5G 1X5, Canada
| | - Kalinka Koteva
- David Braley Center for Antibiotic Discovery, M.G. DeGroote Institute for Infectious Disease Research, Department of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8S 4L8, Canada
| | - Gerard D Wright
- David Braley Center for Antibiotic Discovery, M.G. DeGroote Institute for Infectious Disease Research, Department of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8S 4L8, Canada.
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20
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Kirsch SH, Haeckl FPJ, Müller R. Beyond the approved: target sites and inhibitors of bacterial RNA polymerase from bacteria and fungi. Nat Prod Rep 2022; 39:1226-1263. [PMID: 35507039 DOI: 10.1039/d1np00067e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Covering: 2016 to 2022RNA polymerase (RNAP) is the central enzyme in bacterial gene expression representing an attractive and validated target for antibiotics. Two well-known and clinically approved classes of natural product RNAP inhibitors are the rifamycins and the fidaxomycins. Rifampicin (Rif), a semi-synthetic derivative of rifamycin, plays a crucial role as a first line antibiotic in the treatment of tuberculosis and a broad range of bacterial infections. However, more and more pathogens such as Mycobacterium tuberculosis develop resistance, not only against Rif and other RNAP inhibitors. To overcome this problem, novel RNAP inhibitors exhibiting different target sites are urgently needed. This review includes recent developments published between 2016 and today. Particular focus is placed on novel findings concerning already known bacterial RNAP inhibitors, the characterization and development of new compounds isolated from bacteria and fungi, and providing brief insights into promising new synthetic compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanne H Kirsch
- Helmholtz Institute for Pharmaceutical Research Saarland (HIPS), Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI), Saarland University Campus, 66123 Saarbrücken, Germany. .,German Centre for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Hannover-Braunschweig, 38124 Braunschweig, Germany
| | - F P Jake Haeckl
- Helmholtz Institute for Pharmaceutical Research Saarland (HIPS), Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI), Saarland University Campus, 66123 Saarbrücken, Germany. .,German Centre for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Hannover-Braunschweig, 38124 Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Rolf Müller
- Helmholtz Institute for Pharmaceutical Research Saarland (HIPS), Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI), Saarland University Campus, 66123 Saarbrücken, Germany. .,German Centre for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Hannover-Braunschweig, 38124 Braunschweig, Germany.,Department of Pharmacy, Saarland University, 66123 Saarbrücken, Germany
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21
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Rifamycin antibiotics and the mechanisms of their failure. J Antibiot (Tokyo) 2021; 74:786-798. [PMID: 34400805 DOI: 10.1038/s41429-021-00462-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2021] [Revised: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Rifamycins are a class of antibiotics that were first discovered in 1957 and are known for their use in treating tuberculosis (TB). Rifamycins exhibit bactericidal activity against many Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria by inhibiting RNA polymerase (RNAP); however, resistance is prevalent and the mechanisms range from primary target modification and antibiotic inactivation to cytoplasmic exclusion. Further, phenotypic resistance, in which only a subpopulation of bacteria grow in concentrations exceeding their minimum inhibitory concentration, and tolerance, which is characterized by reduced rates of bacterial cell death, have been identified as additional causes of rifamycin failure. Here we summarize current understanding and recent developments regarding this critical antibiotic class.
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