Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Diana Pereira, Tiago Soares Carreira, Nuno Alves, Angela Sousa, Joana F. A. Valente
Summary: The global COVID-19 pandemic has raised awareness of the risk posed by microorganisms to human well-being and survival. Scientists worldwide are actively searching for solutions to kill or slow down the spread of the virus. Metals have been extensively studied as antimicrobial solutions.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2022)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Yan Wang, Shungang Wan, Weili Yu, Dan Yuan, Lei Sun
Summary: This study aimed to enhance the bioavailability of hydrophobic gaseous VOCs using self-producing biosurfactants. Two bacteria strains were isolated from sewage sludge, which can produce glycolipid biosurfactants using para-xylene as the sole carbon source. The growth kinetics and degradation of PX were investigated.
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Caroline McCue, Adel Atari, Sean Parks, Yuen-Yi Tseng, Kripa K. K. Varanasi
Summary: Trypsin has been the primary method of cell dissociation for a century, but there has been little change to the process. Enzymatic cell detachment strategies can be labor-intensive and generate waste, so researchers have developed microtextured polystyrene surfaces to lower cell adhesion strength. These surfaces enable decreased cell adhesion strength while maintaining cell viability and proliferation.
Article
Biophysics
Yongchao Jiang, Gaiying Li, Jialu Qiao, Pengfei Yan, Keyong Tang
Summary: The need for new types of antibacterial wound dressing is urgent due to the increasing prevalence of drug-resistant bacteria and bacteria-infected wounds. A novel bio-adhesive and antibacterial hydrogel consisting of hydrophobically modified gelatin, oxidized konjac glucomannan, and dopamine has been developed. This functional hydrogel exhibits enhanced stability in liquid environments and strong tissue adhesion, surpassing commercial fibrin glue. It demonstrates excellent bacteria-killing efficiency against S. aureus and E. coli, low hemolysis ratio against erythrocytes in vitro, and good cytocompatibility in supporting cell proliferation. The ability to customize its properties through altering the degree of hydrophobic group substitution during manufacturing suggests its great potential in biomedical fields such as tissue adhesive and wound dressing.
COLLOIDS AND SURFACES B-BIOINTERFACES
(2023)
Article
Microbiology
Kayla Hogan, Sai Paul, Guanyou Lin, Jay Fuerte-Stone, Evgeni V. Sokurenko, Wendy E. Thomas
Summary: Bacterial adhesion is influenced by bacterial transport and the interactions between bacterial adhesins and surface receptors. Gravity sedimentation causes bacteria to concentrate on lower surfaces, and initial bacterial attachment may be inhibited by shear due to mass transport effects. A conceptual framework and theory are provided to predict the impact of sedimentation on adhesion between and within adhesive regions in flow, and to normalize bacterial binding level under experimental set-ups.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Christian Spengler, Friederike Nolle, Nicolas Thewes, Ben Wieland, Philipp Jung, Markus Bischoff, Karin Jacobs
Summary: This study investigates the adhesion of Staphylococcus aureus to abiotic surfaces of different wettability through numerous single-cell force spectroscopy measurements. The results reveal that the pathogen utilizes different cell wall molecules and interaction mechanisms when binding to hydrophobic and hydrophilic surfaces. Additionally, the interplay of electrostatic effects of charges and protein composition on bacterial surfaces plays a predominant role on hydrophilic surfaces, while the influence of the high number of binding proteins is highlighted on hydrophobic surfaces.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2021)
Article
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Daiane Carvalho, Gabriela Zottis Chitolina, Daiane Elisa Wilsmann, Vivian Lucca, Brunna Dias de Emery, Karen Apellanis Borges, Thales Quedi Furian, Carlos Tadeu Pippi Salle, Hamilton Luiz de Souza Moraes, Vladimir Pinheiro do Nascimento
Summary: Poultry products are a major source of Salmonella and Campylobacter jejuni infections in humans. Avian pathogenic Escherichia coli also has zoonotic potential and can be transmitted from chicken meat to humans. This study compared the adhesion of these bacteria on three commonly used surfaces in poultry production (polystyrene, stainless steel, and polyethylene). The results showed that the adhesion of Salmonella Enteritidis and E. coli was similar on all three surfaces, while the adhesion of C. jejuni was significantly higher on stainless steel compared to polystyrene, but similar to polyethylene. However, the adhesion of C. jejuni was significantly lower than that of S. Enteritidis and E. coli, regardless of the surface evaluated. Scanning electron microscopy analysis revealed increased irregularities on the stainless steel surface, providing ideal spaces for microbial adhesion.
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Hejin Jiang, Rui Liu, Ying Liu, Huilong Luo, Zhenping Cao, Jinyao Liu
Summary: The surface chirality of modified bacteria has significant effects on their interactions with mucins, tumor cells, and pathogens. Bacteria with a D-chiral surface structure exhibit enhanced adhesion to mucins and tumor cells compared to those with L- and DL-structures. Adjusting the chirality of the coating enables wrapped probiotic bacteria to selectively resist pathogenic bacteria, potentially improving colonization and modulation of gut and tumor microbiota.
SCIENCE CHINA-CHEMISTRY
(2023)
Review
Microbiology
Zhaowei Jiang, Thomas Nero, Sampriti Mukherjee, Rich Olson, Jing Yan
Summary: Bacterial biofilms are communities of cells enclosed in an extracellular polymeric matrix where cells adhere to each other and foreign surfaces. Biofilm formation is a dynamic process involving multiple steps, with adhesion being a key factor in biofilm-related infections and biofouling. Understanding biofilm adhesion strategies can help in developing novel approaches to inhibit or manipulate biofilm growth.
FRONTIERS IN MICROBIOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Microbiology
Xiaolan Li, Libang He, Bastiaan P. Krom, Lei Cheng, Johannes J. de Soet, Dong M. Deng
Summary: Candida glabrata, a prevalent fungal pathogen, shows increased adherence to host cells and denture material surfaces under nicotinic acid (NA) limitation, which may be linked to vitamin deficiency. Up-regulation of certain adhesion genes and changes in cell surface properties contribute to the enhanced adhesion.
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Jung-Ah Cho, Yoo Jin Roh, Hye Rim Son, Hojung Choi, Jeong-Won Lee, Sung Jae Kim, Chang-Hun Lee
Summary: Biofilm formation is a major cause of complications after surgery. This study investigated the biofilm-forming abilities of periprosthetic infection-associated pathogens on different surfaces and examined the effects of the external stressor EGCG. The findings help in understanding the biofilm-forming abilities of these pathogens and provide insights for further research.
SCIENTIFIC REPORTS
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Zhi-Hao Wang, Wanting Huang, Shuhao Zhang, Mengyu Chu, Na Yin, Chaoran Zhu, Zhenzhong Zhang, Jinjin Shi, Junjie Liu
Summary: Self-thermophoretic nanoparticles (CTPB) have been developed to enhance intestinal mucus penetration and reduce pathogenic bacteria interception, resulting in improved drug delivery efficiency for colorectal cancer therapy.
ADVANCED FUNCTIONAL MATERIALS
(2023)
Article
Immunology
Diana J. Vaca, Fabienne Frenzel, Wibke Ballhorn, Sara Garcia Torres, Matthias S. Leisegang, Stefan Guenther, Daniela Bender, Peter Kraiczy, Stephan Goettig, Volkhard A. J. Kempf
Summary: This study reveals the crucial role of fibronectin (Fn) in the interaction between human pathogenic bacteria and endothelial cells (ECs). The interaction between bacterial adhesins and Fn in the extracellular matrix (ECM) environment plays a key role in bacterial adhesion and infection of ECs.
MICROBES AND INFECTION
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
L. Savio, K. B. Bhavitha, G. Bracco, G. Luciano, D. Cavallo, G. Paolini, S. Passaglia, G. Carraro, L. Vattuone, R. Masini, M. Smerieri
Summary: The study investigates highly hydrophobic aluminium surfaces fabricated by chemical etching using Contact Angle Goniometry, Scanning Electron Microscopy, and X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy to correlate wettability with morphology and chemical composition. The etched aluminium surfaces exhibit binary structures with nanoscale block-like convexities and hollows, providing more space for air trapping. Results demonstrate that both hierarchical micro/nanostructures and surface composition contribute to excellent hydrophobic properties.
APPLIED SURFACE SCIENCE
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Miaomiao Teng, Xiaoli Zhao, Chengju Wang, Chen Wang, Jason C. White, Wentian Zhao, Lingfeng Zhou, Manman Duan, Fengchang Wu
Summary: This study investigated the effect of nanoplastics on the brain-gut-microbiota axis and embryo-larval development in zebrafish. The results showed that nanoplastics inhibited growth, caused inflammation, and affected intestinal permeability in zebrafish. Metabolomics analysis revealed changes in neurotransmitters and their correlation with changes in microbial groups. Furthermore, nanoplastics accumulated in the gastrointestinal tract of offspring and impaired embryo development.
Article
Neurosciences
Aparna Gudlur, Ana Eliza Zeraik, Nupura Hirve, Patrick G. Hogan
JOURNAL OF PHYSIOLOGY-LONDON
(2020)
Article
Nanoscience & Nanotechnology
Crisiane A. Marangon, Virginia C. A. Martins, Ma H. Ling, Cristiane C. Melo, Ana Maria G. Plepis, Rikke L. Meyer, Marcia Nitschke
ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES
(2020)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Ana P. Felizatti, Ana E. Zeraik, Luis G. M. Basso, Patricia S. Kumagai, Jose L. S. Lopes, B. A. Wallace, Ana P. U. Araujo, Ricardo DeMarco
BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-BIOMEMBRANES
(2020)
Article
Food Science & Technology
Paula de Camargo Bertuso, Debora M. Drappe Mayer, Marcia Nitschke
Summary: The study found that the combination of RL with OR and LN can lower the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) values and increase the endospore inhibition potential of Bacillus cereus, resulting in a spore outgrowth reduction of 2.8-3.6 log from 73% to 98%.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Iara Lisboa de Matos, Marcia Nitschke, Andre Luiz Meleiro Porto
Summary: Eight fungal strains were found to mediate the biotransformation of 2'-hydroxychalcone, yielding different products. Among them, Penicillium raistrickii CBMAI 931 and Aspergillus sydowii CBMAI 935 catalyzed the reduction and hydroxylation reactions of 1a, respectively, with high selectivity.
BIOCATALYSIS AND BIOTRANSFORMATION
(2023)
Review
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Marcia Nitschke, Crisiane Aparecida Marangon
Summary: The interest in utilizing microbial-derived molecules, particularly biosurfactants, in the synthesis of nano-sized materials has been growing rapidly. Biosurfactants offer advantages such as eco-friendliness, low toxicity, biocompatibility, and structural diversity, making them versatile in various applications including biomedical and environmental fields.
CRITICAL REVIEWS IN BIOTECHNOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Polymer Science
Crisiane A. Marangon, Murilo A. Vigilato Rodrigues, Mirella R. Vicente Bertolo, Virginia da C. Amaro Martins, Ana Maria de Guzzi Plepis, Marcia Nitschke
Summary: The study explores the influence of pH and ionic strength on the properties of chitosan/rhamnolipid nanoparticles (C/RL-NPs), showing that adjusting these factors can enhance the colloidal stability and antimicrobial activity of the NPs. The research highlights the importance of investigating size and surface charge to determine the bioactivity properties of hybrid natural-based nanomaterials.
JOURNAL OF APPLIED POLYMER SCIENCE
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Iara L. de Matos, Willian G. Birolli, Darlisson de A. Santos, Marcia Nitschke, Andre Luiz M. Porto
Summary: The bioreduction of synthetic halogenated flavanones using marine-derived fungi resulted in the synthesis of flavan-4-ols with high enantiomeric excesses. The most selective strains for reduction were Cladosporium sp. CBMAI 1237 and Acremonium sp. CBMAI1676.
MOLECULAR CATALYSIS
(2021)
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Crisiane A. Marangon, Mirella Romanelli Bertolo, Virginia da C. Amaro Martins, Marcia Nitschke, Ana Maria de Guzzi Plepis
Summary: The study investigates natural emulsions of chitosan/gelatin containing pequi oil and their antimicrobial properties, offering a strategy for the development of natural compound emulsions as food additives. The results demonstrate the synergistic antimicrobial protection between oil and chitosan in the emulsions, highlighting their potential as food additives.
ACS APPLIED POLYMER MATERIALS
(2021)
Article
Microbiology
Paula de Camargo Bertuso, Crisiane Aparecida Marangon, Marcia Nitschke
Summary: Rhamnolipid biosurfactants show strong antimicrobial activity against vegetative cells and endospores of Bacillus cereus, inhibiting germination and causing damage to the structure of endospores. They are promising candidates for developing novel strategies to control Bacillus cereus in the food industry.
Review
Microbiology
Marcos Andre Moura Dias, Marcia Nitschke
Summary: The search for sustainable alternatives in chemical production has resulted in the discovery of microbial surfactants, which are surface-active compounds synthesized by fungi, yeasts, and bacteria. Bacterial surfactants, in particular, have shown a wide range of applications in various industries and can be synthesized using renewable resources, contributing to the circular economy and sustainability.
BRAZILIAN JOURNAL OF MICROBIOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Applied
Crisiane A. Marangon, Caio G. Otoni, Paula C. Bertuso, Murilo A. V. Rodrigues, Mirella R. V. Bertolo, Virginia C. A. Martins, Marcia Nitschke, Ana Maria G. Plepis, Luiz H. C. Mattoso
Summary: This study introduces a smart packaging material that changes color to indicate food spoilage, and demonstrates the improvement of its properties by adding lignin and grape seed extract. The packaging material exhibits functions of antioxidant, antimicrobial, and intelligent detection, contributing to the reduction of food waste.
FOOD HYDROCOLLOIDS
(2022)
Correction
Food Science & Technology
Paula de Camargo Bertuso, Debora M. Drappe Mayer, Marcia Nitschke
Article
Food Science & Technology
Lowieze Lenaerts, Tathiane Ferroni Passos, Elisa Gayan, Chris W. Michiels, Marcia Nitschke
Summary: This study evaluates the combination of mild heat with a natural surfactant for the inactivation of L. monocytogenes Scott A in low-water-activity model systems. The results show that the combination of both hurdles reached around 5.0 log reduction in glycerol medium and >6.0 log reduction in NaCl medium. The growth inhibition activity of RL was enhanced by the presence of monovalent salts, reducing MIC values significantly.
Article
Energy & Fuels
Joice Jaqueline Kaschuk, Thamiris Voltarelli Ferracini, Marcia Nitschke, Elisabete Frollini
Summary: This study investigates the potential of using a biosurfactant, sodium lignosulfonate (SLS), to improve the efficiency of enzymatic hydrolysis of sisal fibers for increased sugar production. The addition of SLS is found to reduce interfacial tension, improving the reaction between enzymes and the fibers' polysaccharides. SLS also prevents unfavorable interactions between cellulases and lignin, resulting in higher sugar production. Moreover, the study shows that SLS obtained from wood pulping can enhance sugar production from non-woody sources like sisal.
BIOMASS CONVERSION AND BIOREFINERY
(2023)
