Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Aron Dernovics, Gyorgy Seprenyi, Zsolt Razga, Ferhan Ayaydin, Zoltan Vereb, Klara Megyeri
Summary: The study found that PSM alpha 3 stimulates autophagy in HaCaT keratinocytes, increasing the number of autophagosomes and promoting the development of acidic vesicular organelles. The study also showed that PSM alpha 3 decreases the phosphorylation levels of Akt1/2/3 and mTOR, while increasing the phosphorylation levels of Erk1/2.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Qize Xuan, Jiaxin He, Wenxue Zhang, Wei Zhang, Qi Zhang, Yao Zhou, Anqi Wei, Hao Wang, Hui Li, Chao Chen, Ping Wang
Summary: This study successfully prepared three different morphological and structural phenol-soluble modulin alpha 3 (PSM alpha 3) assemblies using the strategy of salt-inducing assembly polymorphism. It was found that amyloid fibrillation was essential for enhancing the cytotoxicity of PSM alpha 3, and the size and structure of PSM alpha 3 fibrils played a crucial role in cytotoxicity. The cytotoxicity was achieved through a membrane-disrupting mechanism, with different fibril types causing membrane thinning or perforation.
Article
Immunology
Pavani Beesetty, Youhui Si, Zhaotao Li, Ching Yang, Fan Zhao, Anita S. Chong, Christopher P. Montgomery
Summary: The severity and site of Staphylococcus aureus infections determine the strength of immune response and susceptibility to recurrent infection. This study found that skin infection caused by Staphylococcus aureus elicits protective antibody and memory T cell responses, providing subsequent protection against secondary skin infection and pneumonia. However, pneumonia fails to elicit protective immunity due to the lack of toxin-specific antibodies and antigen-specific memory T cell expansion.
FRONTIERS IN IMMUNOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Medical Laboratory Technology
Maysaa El Sayed-Zaki, Amr Mohamed El-Sabbagh, Hala Hammam
Summary: This study investigated the prevalence of psm-mec gene in MRSA isolates and its association with biofilm formation capacity in S. aureus. Results showed a significant association between the presence of PSM alpha gene and biofilm formation, which could potentially lead to new therapeutic strategies.
CLINICAL LABORATORY
(2021)
Article
Food Science & Technology
Harshad Lade, Sung Hee Chung, Yeonhee Lee, Hwang-Soo Joo, Jae-Seok Kim
Summary: This study measured the production of PSMs in clinical isolates of S. aureus and found that MSSA isolates had higher levels of PSM alpha 1, PSM alpha 2, and PSM beta 1 compared to MRSA isolates. Additionally, SCCmec type II strains showed lower PSM production and most of them did not produce delta-toxin. The spa type and SCCmec type were important factors in determining PSM production.
Article
Immunology
Kunal Reshamwala, Gordon Y. C. Cheung, Roger C. Hsieh, Ryan Liu, Hwang-Soo Joo, Yue Zheng, Justin S. Bae, Thuan H. Nguyen, Amer E. Villaruz, Alfonso S. Gozalo, William R. Elkins, Michael Otto
Summary: This study identifies and characterizes the phenol-soluble modulins (PSMs) of Staphylococcus xylosus, a usually harmless commensal on the skin, and investigates their potential involvement in atopic dermatitis (AD). It is found that S. xylosus produces two PSMs with lytic and pro-inflammatory capacities, but does not induce significant AD symptoms in wild-type mice, indicating that a predisposed host is required for AD promotion by S. xylosus.
FRONTIERS IN IMMUNOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Immunology
Dorothee Kretschmer, Ricarda Breitmeyer, Cordula Gekeler, Marco Lebtig, Katja Schlatterer, Mulugeta Nega, Mark Stahl, Daphne Stapels, Suzan Rooijakkers, Andreas Peschel
Summary: Neutrophil serine proteases can effectively degrade some of the most potent staphylococcal toxins, while Staphylococcus aureus secretes proteins that inhibit the degradation of toxins by proteases. This helps the prominent human pathogen S. aureus to preserve the function of toxins and activate infection processes.
FRONTIERS IN IMMUNOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Infectious Diseases
Ivan Gentile, Antonio Riccardo Buonomo, Silvia Corcione, Laurenza Paradiso, Daniele Roberto Giacobbe, Davide Fiore Bavaro, Giusy Tiseo, Francesca Sordella, Michele Bartoletti, Giulia Palmiero, Antonietta Vozza, Antonio Vena, Francesca Canta, Nicola Schiano Moriello, Paola Congera, Arta Karruli, Carlo Tascini, Pierluigi Viale, Valerio Del Bono, Marco Falcone, Sergio Carbonara, Malgorzata Karolina Mikulskan, Matteo Bassettie, Emanuele Durante-Mangonid, Francesco Giuseppe De Rosa, Alberto Enrico Maraolo
Summary: This study evaluated the use of Ceftobiprole in a real-world setting and found it to be a safe and effective therapeutic choice, particularly for pneumonia and hospital-acquired pneumonia. The study also identified factors associated with treatment success or fatal outcomes.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ANTIMICROBIAL AGENTS
(2023)
Article
Materials Science, Paper & Wood
Jiangtao Xu, Songmin Shang, Wei Gao, Ping Zeng, Shouxiang Jiang
Summary: A flexible SERS substrate with Ag nanoparticle decorated ZIF-67 and cotton fabric as the supporting framework was developed in this study using a simple two-step method. The substrate not only reduces sampling difficulties but also expands future applications. The enhancement mechanism was investigated using Methylene Blue, and the substrate showed high enhancement factor and excellent detection sensitivity.
Article
Microbiology
Haniyeh Khalili, Shahin Najar-Peerayeh, Mona Mahrooghi, Parvin Mansouri, Bita Bakhshi
Summary: The prevalence of S. aureus strains, including MRSA, was high among patients with skin and soft-tissue infections. These strains were resistant to antibiotics, contained various toxin genes, and were able to form biofilms, potentially playing a crucial role in the pathogenesis of various skin diseases.
Article
Immunology
Elke S. Bergmann-Leitner, Eugene V. Millar, Elizabeth H. Duncan, David R. Tribble, Patrick M. Carey, Michael W. Ellis, Katrin Mende, Jason W. Bennett, Sidhartha Chaudhury
Summary: This study demonstrates the power of immunoprofiling for identifying predictive factors of the pre-illness state of SSTI, thus identifying early stages of infection and individuals susceptible to SSTI.
FRONTIERS IN IMMUNOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Infectious Diseases
Helio S. Sader, Mariana Castanheira, Leonard R. Duncan, Rodrigo E. Mendes
Summary: Ceftaroline showed high susceptibility against different types of infections, and it also exhibited good activity against methicillin-resistant strains.
DIAGNOSTIC MICROBIOLOGY AND INFECTIOUS DISEASE
(2023)
Article
Engineering, Multidisciplinary
Bushu Peng, Shaoying Xu, Yue Liang, Xiaoyan Dong, Yan Sun
Summary: This study investigates the impact of phenol-soluble modulin (PSM) alpha 3, a protein secreted by Staphylococcus aureus, on the aggregation of amyloid beta-protein (A beta) related to Alzheimer's disease (AD). The results show that PSM alpha 3 monomer inhibits A beta aggregation and changes the aggregation pathway, while PSM alpha 3 oligomers promote A beta aggregation. Molecular dynamics simulations reveal the molecular interactions between A beta and PSM alpha 3 of different structures.
Article
Microbiology
Alexandra E. Chittams-Miles, Areej Malik, Erin B. Purcell, Claudia Muratori, Brian Conlon
Summary: Treatment with short electric pulses can enhance the effects of multiple antibiotics against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). This combination therapy reduces the necessary antibiotic dosage and improves the efficacy of treating S. aureus infections such as skin and soft-tissue infections (SSTIs). SSTIs are accessible to physical intervention, making electric pulse co-treatment a potential option for wound and abscess debridement.
MICROBIOLOGY SPECTRUM
(2023)
Article
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Qonita Kurnia Anjani, Anjali K. Pandya, Sara Demartis, Juan Dominguez-Robles, Natalia Moreno-Castellanos, Huanhuan Li, Elisabetta Gavini, Vandana B. Patravale, Ryan F. Donnelly
Summary: Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a common bacterial pathogen causing skin and soft tissue infections. In this study, a novel liposomal system embedded within polymeric dissolving microneedles was developed for targeted intradermal drug delivery of rifampicin. The results demonstrated enhanced drug deposition and antimicrobial activity of the liposomal microneedle system.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHARMACEUTICS
(2023)
Review
Infectious Diseases
Laura Escola-Verge, Aida Ribera, Ignacio Ferreira-Gonzalez, Juan M. Pericas, Nuria Fernandez-Hidalgo
Summary: The strengths and limitations of registries in infective endocarditis (IE) are discussed in this article. Registries are useful in collecting data on unknown aspects of the disease and providing platforms for further research. However, they face difficulties such as subjective definitions, challenges in case collection, lack of relevant variables, and ethical issues.
CLINICAL MICROBIOLOGY AND INFECTION
(2023)
Review
Surgery
Ramiro Manzano-Nunez, Jesus Rivera-Esteban, Marta Comas, Mariana Angel, Vanesa Flores, Juan Banares, Andreea Ciudin, Ramon Vilallonga, Juan M. Pericas
Summary: This systematic review examined the outcomes of bariatric surgery in patients with severe obesity, cirrhosis, and portal hypertension. The results showed significant weight loss, improvement in comorbidities, and overall positive outcomes. Further studies are needed to provide stronger evidence-based recommendations for performing bariatric surgery in this patient population.
Article
Microbiology
Ping Miao, Yiming Jiang, Ying Jian, Jiali Shi, Yao Liu, Pipat Piewngam, Yue Zheng, Gordon Y. C. Cheung, Qian Liu, Michael Otto, Min Li
Summary: Allergic rhinitis (AR), commonly known as hay fever, is a widespread condition that greatly impacts the lives of millions of people. This study explores the role of nasal microbiota in AR and reveals distinct differences in the nasal microbiome between AR patients and healthy individuals. Specifically, the study identifies Streptococcus salivarius as a contributing factor to AR development and highlights the potential of targeted antibacterial approaches for AR therapy.
NATURE MICROBIOLOGY
(2023)
Review
Gastroenterology & Hepatology
Juan M. A. Pericas, Nicholas A. M. Di Prospero, Quentin M. Anstee, Peter S. Mesenbrinck, Mette S. Kjaer, Jesus Rivera-Esteban, Franz Koenig, Elena Sena, Raluca Pais, Ramiro Manzano, Joan Genesca, Frank Tacke, Vlad Ratziu
Summary: Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is an important unmet medical need with a growing field of clinical research and drug development. Platform trials (PT) can accelerate drug development and create a more patient-centric environment. This review provides a comprehensive assessment of the NASH clinical development landscape.
ALIMENTARY PHARMACOLOGY & THERAPEUTICS
(2023)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Seth W. Dickey, Dylan J. Burgin, Steven Huang, David Maguire, Michael Otto
Summary: Diverse organisms secrete amphipathic biomolecules for competitive gains. However, how cells cope with producing these membrane-permeabilizing molecules is unclear. We focused on the PSM family of secreted amphipathic peptides in the pathogen Staphylococcus aureus that uses two ABC transporters, PmtCD and AbcA, to export peptides across the bacterial cell membrane. We found that increased peptide hydropho-bicity favors PSM secretion through PmtCD over AbcA and that only PmtCD protected cells against amphipathic peptides. We propose a two-system model in which PmtCD and AbcA independently export PSMs from either membrane or cytosolic environments, respectively. Our model provides a rationale for the encoding of multiple transport systems on diverse biosynthetic gene clusters used to produce distinct amphipathic molecules. In addition, our data serve as a guide for selectively blocking PSM secretion to achieve antimicrobial or antivirulence approaches and to disrupt established roles of PSM-mediated virulence.
PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL ACADEMY OF SCIENCES OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
(2023)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Francesc Belvis, Alberto Aleta, Alvaro Padilla-Pozo, Juan-M. Pericas, Juan Fernandez-Gracia, Jorge P. Rodriguez, Victor M. Eguiluz, Charles Novaes De Santana, Mireia Julia, Joan Benach
Summary: This research examines the evolution of COVID-19 incidence rates and effective reproduction number R(t), as well as their relationship with spatial autocorrelation patterns in Catalonia, Spain. The study finds that there were five major outbreaks, all preceded by R(t) values greater than 1 in the previous two weeks. There is no clear pattern in the initial focus of each wave. Spatial autocorrelation follows a baseline pattern, but deviations occur in some waves, which can be reproduced through interventions to reduce mobility and virus transmissibility.
SCIENTIFIC REPORTS
(2023)
Article
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Lei He, Huiying Lv, Yanan Wang, Feng Jiang, Qian Liu, Feiyang Zhang, Hua Wang, Hao Shen, Michael Otto, Min Li
Summary: Quorum cheating, a mutation in cell density-sensing systems, has become a crucial factor in biofilm-associated infection. Inactivation of the quorum-sensing system in Staphylococcus aureus leads to enhanced biofilm formation and resistance to antibiotics and immune defense. Antibiotic treatment can promote quorum cheating and the development of biofilms, especially in biofilm infection models.
NPJ BIOFILMS AND MICROBIOMES
(2023)
Article
Immunology
Jeremey Walker, Todd Mccarty, Gerald Mcgwin, Eloy E. Ordaya, Paschalis Vergidis, Luis Ostrosky-Zeichner, Mehriban Mammadova, Andrej Spec, Adriana M. Rauseo, John Perfect, Julia Messina, Gabriel Vilchez, Rachel Mcmullen, Carolynn T. Jones, Peter G. Pappas
Summary: Invasive fungal infections, specifically cryptococcal disease, have been reported following SARS-CoV-2 infection. This study aimed to investigate the underlying risk factors, disease manifestations, and outcomes by establishing a database of cases.
CLINICAL INFECTIOUS DISEASES
(2023)
Review
Infectious Diseases
Catia Cilloniz, Juan Manuel Pericas, Walter H. Curioso
Summary: This article reviews the factors related to CAP-associated outcomes, including host, microorganism, therapeutic approach, and health system organization. The aim is to discuss controversial points and provide recommendations for further research and patient management to improve CAP outcomes, beyond mortality.
EXPERT REVIEW OF ANTI-INFECTIVE THERAPY
(2023)
Article
Immunology
Julia A. Messina, Charles D. Giamberardino, Jennifer L. Tenor, Dena L. Toffaletti, Wiley A. Schell, Yohannes G. Asfaw, Julia R. Palmucci, Michail S. Lionakis, John R. Perfect
Summary: Patients receiving the BTK inhibitor ibrutinib have a higher risk of fungal infections. This study aimed to determine if BTK inhibition affects the severity of Cryptococcus neoformans infection and if blocking BTK impacts infection severity in a mouse model.
INFECTION AND IMMUNITY
(2023)
Article
Infectious Diseases
Mariana Favero Bonesso, Carlos Magno Castelo Branco Fortaleza, Ricardo de Souza Cavalcante, Moises Teixeira Sobrinho, Carlos Fernando Ronchi, Ligia Maria Abraao, Hwang-Soo Joo, Michael Otto, Maria de Lourdes Ribeiro de Souza da Cunha
Summary: This study aimed to investigate the molecular epidemiology of Staphylococcus aureus in patients on mechanical ventilation and its role in the development of ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP). Various factors, including resistance profile, virulence factors, and clonal profile, were analyzed in the S. aureus isolates. The study identified patient-related risk factors for VAP and found that the majority of strains causing VAP originated from the community.
Review
Infectious Diseases
Lauren R. Heinzinger, Aaron R. Pugh, Julie A. Wagner, Michael Otto
Summary: Antibiotic resistance is a global threat to human and animal health, especially with the increasing prevalence of antibiotic-resistant Staphylococcus aureus strains. Bacteriocins, which are antimicrobial peptides produced by bacteria, offer a potential alternative therapeutic that has shown efficacy in animal models.
Letter
Gastroenterology & Hepatology
Elena Sena, Ramiro Manzano-Nunez, Jesus Rivera-Esteban, Juan M. Pericas
Article
Gastroenterology & Hepatology
Bharathi Selvan, Avani A. Pendse, Cecelia Zhang, Jeffriann Cauthen, Matthew R. Kappus, Julia A. Messina
Summary: This article presents a case of a patient who developed both CMV colitis and post-transplant de novo IBD after orthotopic liver transplantation. The article discusses theories regarding the association between CMV and IBD.
ACG CASE REPORTS JOURNAL
(2023)
Meeting Abstract
Surgery
B. Ni, C. Wolfe, S. Arif, M. Carugati, M. Heldman, J. Messina, R. Miller, J. Saullo, A. Baker, E. K. Maziarz
AMERICAN JOURNAL OF TRANSPLANTATION
(2023)
