Article
Microbiology
Patrick M. M. Schlievert, Samuel H. H. Kilgore, Lisa A. A. Beck, Takeshi Yoshida, Aloysius J. J. Klingelhutz, Donald Y. M. Leung
Summary: This study reveals that human neutrophil alpha-defensin-1 (HNP-1) and lysozyme can inhibit exotoxin production of Staphylococcus aureus, while having only weak inhibitory effects on its growth. Human beta-defensin 1 (HBD-1) can inhibit hemolysin production but has no effect on superantigen production. These findings suggest that innate immune peptides primarily prevent infection by inhibiting the production of exotoxins in S. aureus, rather than inhibiting its growth.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Anvita Manjunath, G. V. Anoushka Chinmayi, Shruti Renganathan, Vivek Chandramohan, Sasmita Sabat
Summary: This study uses molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation to demonstrate that Geranyl acetate in Coriandrum sativum has good binding affinity with proteins associated with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and multi-drug resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The compound may cause abnormal function of cell wall formation. The study aims to provide a basis for further research on Coriandrum sativum as an antimicrobial agent.
JOURNAL OF BIOMOLECULAR STRUCTURE & DYNAMICS
(2023)
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)
Review
Immunology
Ping Zheng, Fang Liu, Jinzhao Long, Yuefei Jin, Shuaiyin Chen, Guangcai Duan, Haiyan Yang
Summary: Staphylococcus aureus is a significant human pathogen that can cause a wide range of diseases. Conventional mouse studies lack predictive ability due to the differences in immune systems between mice and humans. Humanized mice provide a promising model for studying human-specific virulence factors and the interaction mechanisms of S. aureus with humans.
JOURNAL OF INFECTIOUS DISEASES
(2023)
Review
Infectious Diseases
Charlotte M. M. Nusman, Charlotte Blokhuis, Dasja Pajkrt, Douwe H. H. Visser
Summary: This article describes a representative case of Staphylococcal Scalded Skin Syndrome (SSSS) in neonatal twins, which showed a mild clinical course despite recurrence. The case occurred as part of a small outbreak in a neonatal intensive care unit, highlighting the existence of neonatal outbreaks with skin and soft tissue infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus). Diagnosis is mainly clinical, but can be supported by histology and cultures, while molecular techniques can be used for typing and assessing virulence in outbreak settings. Treatment involves antibiotics and supportive care, with methicillin resistance being a concern, particularly in outbreak settings. The importance of outbreak management strategies, such as screening, hygiene measures, and physical boundaries, is emphasized through an overview of numerous neonatal S. aureus skin infection outbreaks.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Andrea Olmos-Ortiz, Mayra Hernandez-Perez, Pilar Flores-Espinosa, Gabriela Sedano, Addy Cecilia Helguera-Repetto, Oscar Villavicencio-Carrisoza, Maria Yolotzin Valdespino-Vazquez, Arturo Flores-Pliego, Claudine Irles, Bruno Rivas-Santiago, Elsa Romelia Moreno-Verduzco, Lorenza Diaz, Veronica Zaga-Clavellina
Summary: Infectious processes in the uterine cavity can compromise the maternal-fetal unit and increase the risk of preterm birth and premature rupture of membranes. This study aimed to characterize the synthesis, activity, and distribution of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) produced by fetal membranes in response to a choriodecidual Escherichia coli infection. The results showed a temporal- and tissue-specific pattern of AMP synthesis, but the membranes were unable to contain bacterial growth and migration despite the production of AMPs, increasing the risk of preterm birth and premature rupture of membranes.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2022)
Article
Medicine, General & Internal
Ulvi Kahraman Gursoy, Mervi Gursoy, Anna Liukkonen, Anna Liisa Suominen, Eija Kononen
Summary: The aim of this study was to examine the levels of human beta-defensin 1-3 and human neutrophil peptide 1 (HNP-1) in the saliva of elderly individuals, in order to establish the extent of periodontal disease and tooth loss. The results showed that salivary HNP-1 levels were significantly higher in individuals with periodontal disease. The association between salivary HNP-1 levels and the number of pocket teeth remained significant after adjusting for various factors.
JOURNAL OF CLINICAL MEDICINE
(2023)
Article
Immunology
Astrid Hendriks, Malgorzata Ewa Mnich, Bruna Clemente, Ana Rita Cruz, Simona Tavarini, Fabio Bagnoli, Elisabetta Soldaini
Summary: The skin, as an immunocompetent tissue, contains various immune cells and a diverse microbiome. CD4(+) T cells play a crucial role in protecting against Staphylococcus aureus infection, and skin-specific CD4(+) T cells have been identified in response to S. aureus.
FRONTIERS IN IMMUNOLOGY
(2021)
Editorial Material
Microbiology
Francis Alonzo
Summary: The skin is a hostile environment for microbial growth, but commensal microbes and some opportunistic pathogens can survive within it. Coagulase-negative staphylococci (CoNS) are important constituents of the skin microbiome, and Staphylococcus epidermidis and Staphylococcus hominis are common colonizers of human skin. S. hominis is increasingly recognized as a beneficial commensal, and studying its interactions with other skin microbes, including pathogenic strains, has become of interest.
Article
Infectious Diseases
Stefan Hagel, Christina Bahrs, Richard Schumann, Mathias Pletz, Sebastian Weis
Summary: The study aimed to determine the degree of agreement among infectious diseases physician experts in the management of Staphylococcus aureus bacteraemia (SAB). The experts strongly agreed on the use of combination therapy in certain situations, but there was no consensus on the preferred antibiotic for oral stepdown therapy. This study reveals areas for further investigation.
CLINICAL MICROBIOLOGY AND INFECTION
(2022)
Article
Immunology
Daniel E. Hammers, Deborah L. Donahue, Zachary D. Tucker, Brandon L. Ashfeld, Victoria A. Ploplis, Francis J. Castellino, Shaun W. Lee
Summary: This study reveals that the Streptolysin S (SLS) of Group A Streptococcus (GAS) targets the electroneutral sodium-bicarbonate cotransporter NBCn1 in keratinocytes, inducing NF-kappa B activation and host cytotoxicity. SLS also disrupts the ability of host cells to regulate their intracellular pH.
FRONTIERS IN CELLULAR AND INFECTION MICROBIOLOGY
(2022)
Review
Infectious Diseases
Florencia Mariani, Estela Maria Galvan
Summary: Polymicrobial biofilms create a complex environment where different microorganisms can interact in various ways and alter the outcome of diseases. This review article explores the microorganisms commonly found together with Staphylococcus aureus in skin and soft tissue infections, such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, Enterococcus spp., Acinetobacter baumannii, and Candida albicans. The molecular mechanisms and impact of these polymicrobial interactions on pathogenesis and antimicrobial susceptibility are also discussed.
Article
Immunology
Hatice Karauzum, Arundhathi Venkatasubramaniam, Rajan P. Adhikari, Tom Kort, Frederick W. Holtsberg, Ipsita Mukherjee, Mark Mednikov, Roger Ortines, Nhu T. Q. Nguyen, Thien M. N. Doan, Binh An Diep, Jean C. Lee, M. Javad Aman
Summary: Staphylococcus aureus causes a wide range of diseases, with skin infections being a major concern. A multicomponent toxoid vaccine demonstrated efficacy in preventing acute skin infections and recurrence, showing promise as a potential preventive measure.
FRONTIERS IN IMMUNOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Microbiology
Morgan M. Severn, Michael R. Williams, Ali Shahbandi, Zoie L. Bunch, Laurie M. Lyon, Amber Nguyen, Livia S. Zaramela, Daniel A. Todd, Karsten Zengler, Nadja B. Cech, Richard L. Gallo, Alexander R. Horswill
Summary: Human skin is home to a variety of commensal bacteria, including Staphylococcus hominis, which plays an important role in preventing Staphylococcus aureus colonization and infection. It produces multiple signaling molecules that inhibit the virulence factor regulation system of S. aureus and other related species. Synthetic versions of these molecules have shown protective effects against S. aureus-associated skin injuries in animal models.
Article
Engineering, Biomedical
Ming-Chen Sun, Ying-Fang Chen, Di Liu, Xiao-Ling Xu, Yu-Chan You, Wei Lu, Yun-Juan Shi, Ming-Yang Ren, Yi-Bin Fan, Yong-Zhong Du, Xiao-Hua Tao
Summary: The widespread use of mupirocin for treating MRSA infections has led to the emergence of mupirocin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MuRSA), posing a serious medical threat. In order to combat MuRSA, researchers have developed a modified mupirocin and silver complex (TPGS/Mup-Ag) to enhance its antibacterial activity. The results showed that TPGS/Mup-Ag can effectively eliminate bacterial infection and accelerate wound healing in both in vitro and in vivo experiments.
MATERIALS TODAY BIO
(2023)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Mariarita Brancaccio, Cristina Mennitti, Arturo Cesaro, Fabio Fimiani, Martina Vano, Biagio Gargiulo, Martina Caiazza, Federica Amodio, Iolanda Coto, Giovanni D'Alicandro, Cristina Mazzaccara, Barbara Lombardo, Raffaela Pero, Daniela Terracciano, Giuseppe Limongelli, Paolo Calabro, Valeria D'Argenio, Giulia Frisso, Olga Scudiero
Summary: Physical activity, combined with adequate nutrition, is important for preventing cardiovascular disease, musculoskeletal disorders, and intestinal dysbiosis. Proper energy supply is essential to avoid diseases like muscle injuries, oxidative stress, and heart pathologies. Replenishing water, vitamins, and minerals consumed during training is crucial for safeguarding athletes' health. Vitamins play a key role in metabolic reactions and muscle biochemical adaptation processes induced by sports activity, and they need to be supplemented through diet.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH
(2022)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Mariarita Brancaccio, Cristina Mennitti, Mariella Calvanese, Alessandro Gentile, Roberta Musto, Giulia Gaudiello, Giulia Scamardella, Daniela Terracciano, Giulia Frisso, Raffaela Pero, Laura Sarno, Maurizio Guida, Olga Scudiero
Summary: During pregnancy, mothers infected with COVID-19 have altered levels of inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines, as well as an increase in antimicrobial peptides, potentially providing protection to the fetus from the ongoing infection.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2022)
Article
Oncology
Federica Liotti, Maria Marotta, Daniela Sorriento, Chiara Pagliuca, Valeria Caturano, Giuseppe Mantova, Elena Scaglione, Paola Salvatore, Rosa Marina Melillo, Nella Prevete
Summary: Formyl peptide receptors (FPR1, FPR2 and FPR3) play a role in immune response and homeostasis. This study investigates the role of FPR1 in colorectal carcinoma (CRC) cells. The results indicate that inhibition or deletion of FPR1 in CRC cells reduces proresolving mediators and increases angiogenic factors. Treatment of CRC cells with Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) culture supernatant also shows proresolving and antiangiogenic effects, depending on FPR1 expression and MAPK signaling activation.
MOLECULAR ONCOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Medicine, General & Internal
Elena Scaglione, Giuseppe Mantova, Valeria Caturano, Luca Fanasca, Francesca Carraturo, Fabrizio Farina, Caterina Pagliarulo, Mariateresa Vitiello, Chiara Pagliuca, Paola Salvatore, Roberta Colicchio
Summary: This study provides updated information on the prevalence and co-infections of genital microorganisms and pathogens in Southern Italy. The results show significant differences in the prevalence of different microorganisms between women and men, highlighting the importance of preventive screening for genital infections.
Article
Chemistry, Applied
Molly Dorothy Pither, Anna Illiano, Chiara Pagliuca, Amy Jacobson, Giuseppe Mantova, Alessia Stornaiuolo, Roberta Colicchio, Mariateresa Vitiello, Gabriella Pinto, Alba Silipo, Michael A. Fischbach, Paola Salvatore, Angela Amoresano, Antonio Molinaro, Flaviana Di Lorenzo
Summary: Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron, a symbiont of the human gut, is extensively studied, but little is known about its cell envelope's interaction with the immune system. This research investigates the structure and immunostimulatory properties of its lipopolysaccharide (LPS). The study reveals that the rough-type LPS produced by B. thetaiotaomicron promotes TLR2-mediated immune response but has a weak ability to engage the MD-2/TLR4 pathway.
CARBOHYDRATE POLYMERS
(2022)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Cristina Mennitti, Annaluisa Ranieri, Ersilia Nigro, Lorella Tripodi, Mariarita Brancaccio, Jacopo Ulisse, Luca Gentile, Fabio Fimiani, Arturo Cesaro, Giovanni D'Alicandro, Giuseppe Limongelli, Aurora Daniele, Raffaela Pero, Giulia Frisso, Paolo Calabro, Lucio Pastore, Maria Rosaria Licenziati, Olga Scudiero, Barbara Lombardo
Summary: This study evaluated the differences in biochemical parameters between obese children who engage in physical exercise and sedentary obese children. It found that physical exercise reduces the inflammatory state in obese children and identified a panel of biomarkers that can help prevent obesity-related complications.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH
(2023)
Article
Microbiology
Daniela Sateriale, Giuseppina Forgione, Giuseppa Anna De Cristofaro, Serena Facchiano, Floriana Boscaino, Chiara Pagliuca, Roberta Colicchio, Paola Salvatore, Marina Paolucci, Caterina Pagliarulo
Summary: Foodborne diseases are a significant public health concern. Thyme and cloves essential oils have been found to have antimicrobial properties and can inhibit the growth of foodborne pathogenic bacteria, especially in vapor phase. These essential oils could be promising sources for the development of new, broad-spectrum, green food preservatives.
Article
Genetics & Heredity
Ferdinando Barretta, Fabiana Uomo, Filomena Caldora, Rossella Mocerino, Daniela Adamo, Francesco Testa, Francesca Simonelli, Olga Scudiero, Nadia Tinto, Giulia Frisso, Cristina Mazzaccara
Summary: This study presents a custom MITO-NUCLEAR assay that enables simultaneous identification of genetic variants in both mtDNA and nuclear genes, providing a potential one-step investigation for the genetic diagnosis of mitochondrial diseases.
Article
Infectious Diseases
Daniela Sateriale, Giuseppina Forgione, Giuseppa Anna De Cristofaro, Chiara Pagliuca, Roberta Colicchio, Paola Salvatore, Marina Paolucci, Caterina Pagliarulo
Summary: Nowadays, researchers have shifted their focus towards essential oils as possible antimicrobials and preservatives of natural origin due to the wide spread of foodborne illness and growing concerns about synthetic food additives. Thyme essential oil (TEO) has shown good potential as an alternative food additive to inhibit the growth of foodborne bacteria and counteract biofilm-related infections in the food industry. The antibacterial and antibiofilm properties of TEO were evaluated through in vitro tests, and the results suggest its efficacy against the tested foodborne pathogens.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Cristina Mennitti, Ciro Miele, Carmela Scarano, Iolanda Veneruso, Alessandro Gentile, Rosaria Mormile, Francesca Saviano, Giovanni D'Alicandro, Cristina Mazzaccara, Giulia Frisso, Filomena Capasso, Valeria D'Argenio, Olga Scudiero
Summary: Acute or intense exercise can lead to metabolic imbalances, muscle injuries, or expose underlying disorders. Laboratory medicine in sports is crucial in monitoring athletes' health. This study presents an integrated approach to investigating the causes of deep venous thrombosis in an elite basketball player.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2023)
Article
Genetics & Heredity
Alessandro Gentile, Carolina Punziano, Mariella Calvanese, Renato De Falco, Luca Gentile, Giovanni D'Alicandro, Ciro Miele, Filomena Capasso, Raffaela Pero, Cristina Mazzaccara, Barbara Lombardo, Giulia Frisso, Paola Borrelli, Cristina Mennitti, Olga Scudiero, Raffaella Faraonio
Summary: Intense physical activity can modify biochemical biomarkers and gene expression without causing damage to the liver or kidney. This information is helpful for injury prevention in professional athletes.
Article
Polymer Science
Ivana d'Angelo, Romina Provenzano, Ettore Florio, Chiara Pagliuca, Giuseppe Mantova, Elena Scaglione, Mariateresa Vitiello, Roberta Colicchio, Paola Salvatore, Francesca Ungaro, Fabiana Quaglia, Agnese Miro
Summary: Hand hygiene, social distancing, and face covering are crucial in preventing the spread of Coronavirus. This study investigated the effect of different gelling agents and their concentrations on the properties and antimicrobial activity of alcohol-based hand sanitizers (ABHSs). The results showed that cellulose polymers interacting with ethanol may lead to a slight reduction in the biocidal activity of ABHSs. Carbopol was found to be one of the best thickener agents for ABHS formulations, emphasizing the importance of choosing the right gelling agent.
