Journal Description
Antibiotics
Antibiotics
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal on all aspects of antibiotics, published monthly online by MDPI.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, SCIE (Web of Science), PubMed, PMC, Embase, CAPlus / SciFinder, and other databases.
- Journal Rank: JCR - Q1 (Pharmacology & Pharmacy) / CiteScore - Q1 (General Pharmacology, Toxicology and Pharmaceutics)
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 13.7 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 2.5 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2023).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
Impact Factor:
4.8 (2022);
5-Year Impact Factor:
4.9 (2022)
Latest Articles
The Impact of National Activities on Antibiotic Consumption in Hospitals and Different Departments over a 14-Year Period
Antibiotics 2024, 13(6), 498; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics13060498 (registering DOI) - 28 May 2024
Abstract
The aim of this study was to assess the use of antibiotics in hospitals and different departments over 14 years (2006–2019) and the impact of various national activities related to this, including national audits of the use of antibiotics for systemic use. The
[...] Read more.
The aim of this study was to assess the use of antibiotics in hospitals and different departments over 14 years (2006–2019) and the impact of various national activities related to this, including national audits of the use of antibiotics for systemic use. The consumption of antibiotics for systemic use (J01) from all Slovenian hospitals (n = 29) and five departments (internal medicine, surgery, ICU (medicine, surgery), paediatrics and gynaecology/obstetrics) was collected. Total hospital consumption was expressed as the number of defined daily doses (DDDs) per 1000 inhabitants per day (DID), the number of DDDs/100 bed days and the number of DDDs/100 admissions. Over 14 years, J01 hospital consumption increased by 13.8%, expressed in DDDs/100 bed days (p = 0.002). In 2019, compared to 2006, the consumption of J01, expressed in DDD/100 bed days, increased from 19.9% to 33.1% in all departments, except intensive care units. J01 consumption expressed in DDD/100 admissions increased by 7.0% to 39.4% in all but paediatric wards (where it decreased by 12.7%). In all years, we observed large variations in the consumption of antibiotics in departments of the same type. The effectiveness of audit interventions aimed at optimizing antibiotic consumption exhibited notable variation across hospitals, with specialized facilities generally demonstrating superior outcomes compared to general hospitals.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Irrational Antibiotic Use in Primary Care)
►
Show Figures
Open AccessArticle
Is It Still Beneficial to Monitor the Trough Concentration of Vancomycin? A Quantitative Meta-Analysis of Nephrotoxicity and Efficacy
by
Wanqiu Yang, Kaiting Zhang, Yuancheng Chen, Yaxin Fan and Jing Zhang
Antibiotics 2024, 13(6), 497; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics13060497 - 28 May 2024
Abstract
This study conducted a quantitative meta-analysis to investigate the association of vancomycin indicators, particularly area under the curve over 24 h (AUC24) and trough concentrations (Ctrough), and their relationship with both nephrotoxicity and efficacy. Literature research was performed in
[...] Read more.
This study conducted a quantitative meta-analysis to investigate the association of vancomycin indicators, particularly area under the curve over 24 h (AUC24) and trough concentrations (Ctrough), and their relationship with both nephrotoxicity and efficacy. Literature research was performed in PubMed and Web of Science on vancomycin nephrotoxicity and efficacy in adult inpatients. Vancomycin Ctrough, AUC24, AUC24/minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), nephrotoxicity evaluation and treatment outcomes were extracted. Logistic regression and Emax models were conducted, stratified by evaluation criterion for nephrotoxicity and primary outcomes for efficacy. Among 100 publications on nephrotoxicity, 29 focused on AUC24 and 97 on Ctrough, while of 74 publications on efficacy, 27 reported AUC24/MIC and 68 reported Ctrough. The logistic regression analysis indicated a significant association between nephrotoxicity and vancomycin Ctrough (odds ratio = 2.193; 95% CI 1.582–3.442, p < 0.001). The receiver operating characteristic curve had an area of 0.90, with a cut-off point of 14.55 mg/L. Additionally, 92.3% of the groups with a mean AUC24 within 400–600 mg·h/L showed a mean Ctrough of 10–20 mg/L. However, a subtle, non-statistically significant association was observed between the AUC24 and nephrotoxicity, as well as between AUC24/MIC and Ctrough concerning treatment outcomes. Our findings suggest that monitoring vancomycin Ctrough remains a beneficial and valuable approach to proactively identifying patients at risk of nephrotoxicity, particularly when Ctrough exceeds 15 mg/L. Ctrough can serve as a surrogate for AUC24 to some extent. However, no definitive cut-off values were identified for AUC24 concerning nephrotoxicity or for Ctrough and AUC24/MIC regarding efficacy.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of Drugs)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Genetic Characterization and Population Structure of Drug-Resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis Isolated from Brazilian Patients Using Whole-Genome Sequencing
by
Leonardo Souza Esteves, Lia Lima Gomes, Daniela Brites, Fátima Cristina Onofre Fandinho, Marcela Bhering, Márcia Aparecida da Silva Pereira, Emilyn Costa Conceição, Richard Salvato, Bianca Porphirio da Costa, Reginalda Ferreira de Melo Medeiros, Paulo Cesar de Souza Caldas, Paulo Redner, Margareth Pretti Dalcolmo, Vegard Eldholm, Sebastien Gagneux, Maria Lucia Rossetti, Afrânio Lineu Kritski and Philip Noel Suffys
Antibiotics 2024, 13(6), 496; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics13060496 - 28 May 2024
Abstract
The present study aimed to determine the genetic diversity of isolates of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) from presumed drug-resistant tuberculosis patients from several states of Brazil. The isolates had been submitted to conventional drug susceptibility testing for first- and second-line drugs. Multidrug-resistant (MDR-TB) (54.8%)
[...] Read more.
The present study aimed to determine the genetic diversity of isolates of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) from presumed drug-resistant tuberculosis patients from several states of Brazil. The isolates had been submitted to conventional drug susceptibility testing for first- and second-line drugs. Multidrug-resistant (MDR-TB) (54.8%) was the most frequent phenotypic resistance profile, in addition to an important high frequency of pre-extensive resistance (p-XDR-TB) (9.2%). Using whole-genome sequencing (WGS), we characterized 298 Mtb isolates from Brazil. Besides the analysis of genotype distribution and possible correlations between molecular and clinical data, we determined the performance of an in-house WGS pipeline with other online pipelines for Mtb lineages and drug resistance profile definitions. Sub-lineage 4.3 (52%) was the most frequent genotype, and the genomic approach revealed a p-XDR-TB level of 22.5%. We detected twenty novel mutations in three resistance genes, and six of these were observed in eight phenotypically resistant isolates. A cluster analysis of 170 isolates showed that 43.5% of the TB patients belonged to 24 genomic clusters, suggesting considerable ongoing transmission of DR-TB, including two interstate transmissions. The in-house WGS pipeline showed the best overall performance in drug resistance prediction, presenting the best accuracy values for five of the nine drugs tested. Significant associations were observed between suffering from fatal disease and genotypic p-XDR-TB (p = 0.03) and either phenotypic (p = 0.006) or genotypic (p = 0.0007) ethambutol resistance. The use of WGS analysis improved our understanding of the population structure of MTBC in Brazil and the genetic and clinical data correlations and demonstrated its utility for surveillance efforts regarding the spread of DR-TB, hopefully helping to avoid the emergence of even more resistant strains and to reduce TB incidence and mortality rates.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Genomic Analysis of Antimicrobial Drug-Resistant Bacteria)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Accuracy of the Infectious Diseases Society of America and British Thoracic Society Criteria for Acute Pneumonia in Differentiating Chemical and Bacterial Complications of Aspiration in Comatose Ventilated Patients Following Drug Poisoning
by
Quentin Delforge, Alexandre Gaudet, Pauline Boddaert, Frédéric Wallet, Benoit Voisin and Saad Nseir
Antibiotics 2024, 13(6), 495; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics13060495 - 27 May 2024
Abstract
Drug poisoning frequently leads to admission to intensive care units, often resulting in aspiration, a potentially life-threatening condition if not properly managed. Aspiration can manifest as either bacterial aspiration pneumonia (BAP) or aspiration pneumonitis (AP), which are challenging to distinguish potentially leading to
[...] Read more.
Drug poisoning frequently leads to admission to intensive care units, often resulting in aspiration, a potentially life-threatening condition if not properly managed. Aspiration can manifest as either bacterial aspiration pneumonia (BAP) or aspiration pneumonitis (AP), which are challenging to distinguish potentially leading to overprescription of antibiotics and the emergence of multidrug-resistant bacteria. This study aims to assess the accuracy of the Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA) and British Thoracic Society (BTS) criteria in differentiating BAP from AP in comatose ventilated patients following drug poisoning. This cross-sectional study included 95 patients admitted for drug poisoning at the Lille University Hospital intensive care department, between 2013 and 2017, requiring mechanical ventilation and receiving antibiotics for aspiration. Patients were categorized as having bacterial complications if tracheal sampling yielded positive culture results, and if they were otherwise considered to have chemical complications. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of IDSA and BTS criteria in identifying patients with bacterial complications were evaluated. Among the patients, 34 (36%) experienced BAP. The IDSA criteria demonstrated a sensitivity of 62% and specificity of 33%, while the BTS criteria showed a sensitivity of 50% and specificity of 38%. Both the IDSA and BTS criteria exhibited poor sensitivity and specificity in identifying microbiologically confirmed pneumonia in comatose ventilated patients following drug poisoning.
Full article
Open AccessEditorial
Molecular Detection, Characterization, Antimicrobial Resistance and Genomic Epidemiology of Pathogenic Bacteria
by
Andrey Shelenkov
Antibiotics 2024, 13(6), 494; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics13060494 - 27 May 2024
Abstract
In recent decades, growing attention has been directed worldwide toward antimicrobial-resistant (AMR) bacterial pathogens causing infections in clinical, environmental, and food chain production settings [...]
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Detection, Characterization, Antimicrobial Resistance and Genomic Epidemiology of Pathogenic Bacteria)
Open AccessArticle
Opinions of Medical Staff Regarding Antibiotic Resistance
by
Aneta Krolak-Ulińska, Piotr Merks, Urszula Religioni, Beata Chełstowska, Agnieszka Drab, Krystian Wdowiak, Katarzyna Plagens-Rotman, Zbigniew Doniec and Anna Staniszewska
Antibiotics 2024, 13(6), 493; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics13060493 - 27 May 2024
Abstract
Introduction: Antibiotic resistance poses a significant threat to public health, that can lead to reduced effectiveness of many therapies, increased morbidity, longer hospitalization times, increased deaths, and additional costs for health care systems. Unreasonable use of antibiotics may result from a lack of
[...] Read more.
Introduction: Antibiotic resistance poses a significant threat to public health, that can lead to reduced effectiveness of many therapies, increased morbidity, longer hospitalization times, increased deaths, and additional costs for health care systems. Unreasonable use of antibiotics may result from a lack of adequate knowledge about antibiotic therapy and a lack of knowledge of the risks associated with antibiotic resistance, both among medical personnel and patients. Aim. The primary objective of the study was to verify the opinion of medical personnel on the risks associated with antibiotic resistance. Material and Methods: The study was conducted in 2023 among 605 Polish sanitary workers. An anonymous survey designed specifically for the purpose of the study was used. The survey was made available on the Internet through the Trade Unions of Pharmacy Workers and directly to hospitals with the support of local authorities. Results: The majority of respondents were women (77.36%). The largest group consisted of individuals over 40 years of age (55.04%). More than half of the respondents were nurses (56.20%), and every fourth of the respondents was a physician (23.64%). Most respondents consider antibiotic resistance to be a very serious (24.13%) or extremely serious (30.75%) problem. The problem of antibiotic resistance on a global scale was mentioned, especially in the opinions of physicians and nurses (p < 0.01), people working in the profession for over a year (p < 0.01), and people with a specialization or undergoing specialist training (p = 0.00). Similarly, these groups most often indicated that antibiotic resistance poses a problem in their workplace. The main problems of antibiotic resistance were the use of antibiotics in farm animals (36.69%), the pressure on patients to take antibiotics (38.84%), and the prophylactic use of antibiotics (43.15%). Conclusions: Medical personnel consider antibiotic resistance a somewhat serious problem, although not all agree in this regard. The risk of antibiotic resistance is much more seriously assessed by physicians and nurses, as well as by people with specializations or undergoing specialization training. Knowledge about antibiotic resistance should be further spread among all groups of medical personnel.
Full article
Open AccessArticle
Halicin: A New Horizon in Antibacterial Therapy against Veterinary Pathogens
by
Shuge Wang, Ke Zhao, Ziqi Chen, Dejun Liu, Shusheng Tang, Chengtao Sun, Hongliang Chen, Yang Wang and Congming Wu
Antibiotics 2024, 13(6), 492; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics13060492 - 27 May 2024
Abstract
It is crucial to discover novel antimicrobial drugs to combat resistance. This study investigated the antibacterial properties of halicin (SU3327), an AI-identified anti-diabetic drug, against 13 kinds of common clinical pathogens of animal origin, including multidrug-resistant strains. Employing minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and
[...] Read more.
It is crucial to discover novel antimicrobial drugs to combat resistance. This study investigated the antibacterial properties of halicin (SU3327), an AI-identified anti-diabetic drug, against 13 kinds of common clinical pathogens of animal origin, including multidrug-resistant strains. Employing minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) assessments, halicin demonstrated a broad-spectrum antibacterial effect. Time-killing assays revealed its concentration-dependent bactericidal activity against Escherichia coli ATCC 25922 (E. coli ATCC 25922), Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 29213 (S. aureus ATCC 29213), and Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae S6 (APP S6) after 4 h of treatment at concentrations above the MIC. Halicin exhibited longer post-antibiotic effects (PAEs) and sub-MIC effects (PA-SMEs) for E. coli 25922, S. aureus 29213, and APP S6 compared to ceftiofur and ciprofloxacin, the commonly used veterinary antimicrobial agents, indicating sustained antibacterial action. Additionally, the results of consecutive passaging experiments over 40 d at sub-inhibitory concentrations showed that bacteria exhibited difficulty in developing resistance to halicin. Toxicology studies confirmed that halicin exhibited low acute toxicity, being non-mutagenic, non-reproductive-toxic, and non-genotoxic. Blood biochemical results suggested that halicin has no significant impact on hematological parameters, liver function, and kidney function. Furthermore, halicin effectively treated respiratory A. pleuropneumoniae infections in murine models. These results underscore the potential of halicin as a new antibacterial agent with applications against clinically relevant pathogens in veterinary medicine.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antimicrobial Resistance and Virulence in Veterinary Pathogens)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Emergence of High-Level Gentamicin Resistance in Streptococcus agalactiae Hypervirulent Serotype IV ST1010 (CC452) Strains by Acquisition of a Novel Integrative and Conjugative Element
by
Roberta Creti, Monica Imperi, Uzma Basit Khan, Alberto Berardi, Simona Recchia, Giovanna Alfarone and Giovanni Gherardi
Antibiotics 2024, 13(6), 491; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics13060491 - 26 May 2024
Abstract
Streptococcus agalactiae (group B streptococci, GBS) is responsible for severe infections in both neonates and adults. Currently, empiric antimicrobial therapy for sepsis and meningitis is the combined use of penicillin and gentamicin due to the enhanced bactericidal activity. However, high-level gentamicin resistance (HLGR)
[...] Read more.
Streptococcus agalactiae (group B streptococci, GBS) is responsible for severe infections in both neonates and adults. Currently, empiric antimicrobial therapy for sepsis and meningitis is the combined use of penicillin and gentamicin due to the enhanced bactericidal activity. However, high-level gentamicin resistance (HLGR) abrogates the synergism. The rate of HLGR was investigated within a dataset of 433 GBS strains collected from cases of invasive disease in both adults and neonates as well as from pregnant carriers. GBS isolates (n = 20, 4.6%) presented with HLGR (gentamicin MIC breakpoint >1024 mg/L) that was differently diffused between strains from adults or neonates (5.2% vs. 2.8%). Notably, 70% of HLGR GBS strains (14 isolates) were serotype IV. Serotype IV HLGR-GBS isolates were susceptible to all antibiotics tested, exhibited the alpha-C/HvgA/PI-2b virulence string, and belonged to sequence type 1010 (clonal complex (CC) 452). The mobile element that harbored the HLGR aac(6′)-aph(2)″ gene is a novel integrative and conjugative element (ICE) about 45 kb long, derived from GBS 515 ICE tRNALys. The clonal expansion of this HLGR hypervirulent serotype IV GBS CC452 sublineage may pose a threat to the management of infections caused by this strain type.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sepsis Management and Antibiotic Therapy)
Open AccessReview
Relevance of the Adjuvant Effect between Cellular Homeostasis and Resistance to Antibiotics in Gram-Negative Bacteria with Pathogenic Capacity: A Study of Klebsiella pneumoniae
by
Mildred Azucena Rivera-Galindo, Félix Aguirre-Garrido, Ulises Garza-Ramos, José Geiser Villavicencio-Pulido, Francisco José Fernández Perrino and Marcos López-Pérez
Antibiotics 2024, 13(6), 490; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics13060490 - 26 May 2024
Abstract
Antibiotic resistance has become a global issue. The most significant risk is the acquisition of these mechanisms by pathogenic bacteria, which can have a severe clinical impact and pose a public health risk. This problem assumes that bacterial fitness is a constant phenomenon
[...] Read more.
Antibiotic resistance has become a global issue. The most significant risk is the acquisition of these mechanisms by pathogenic bacteria, which can have a severe clinical impact and pose a public health risk. This problem assumes that bacterial fitness is a constant phenomenon and should be approached from an evolutionary perspective to develop the most appropriate and effective strategies to contain the emergence of strains with pathogenic potential. Resistance mechanisms can be understood as adaptive processes to stressful conditions. This review examines the relevance of homeostatic regulatory mechanisms in antimicrobial resistance mechanisms. We focus on the interactions in the cellular physiology of pathogenic bacteria, particularly Gram-negative bacteria, and specifically Klebsiella pneumoniae. From a clinical research perspective, understanding these interactions is crucial for comprehensively understanding the phenomenon of resistance and developing more effective drugs and treatments to limit or attenuate bacterial sepsis, since the most conserved adjuvant phenomena in bacterial physiology has turned out to be more optimized and, therefore, more susceptible to alterations due to pharmacological action.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antibiotics Use and Therapy in Gram-Negative Bacterial Infection)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
The Effects of Different Antimicrobial Peptides (A-11 and AP19) on Isolated Bacteria from Fresh Boar Semen and Semen Quality during Storage at 18 °C
by
Krittika Keeratikunakorn, Panida Chanapiwat, Ratchaneewan Aunpad, Natharin Ngamwongsatit and Kampon Kaeoket
Antibiotics 2024, 13(6), 489; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics13060489 - 24 May 2024
Abstract
Antibiotic resistance (AMR) is a major public health concern. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) could be an alternative to conventional antibiotics. The purpose of this research was to investigate the antimicrobial ability of the synthetic AMPs (i.e., A-11 and AP19) on the most frequently isolated
[...] Read more.
Antibiotic resistance (AMR) is a major public health concern. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) could be an alternative to conventional antibiotics. The purpose of this research was to investigate the antimicrobial ability of the synthetic AMPs (i.e., A-11 and AP19) on the most frequently isolated bacteria in boar semen and their effect on extended boar semen quality during storage. We tested the antimicrobial effect of A-11 and AP19 at different concentrations and compared them with gentamicin for inhibiting the growth of E. coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Proteus mirabilis that were isolated from fresh boar semen. In order to evaluate the effect of AMP on semen qualities on days 0, 1, 3, and 5 after storage at 18 °C, seven fresh boar semen samples were collected, diluted with semen extender with antibiotic (i.e., gentamicin at 200 µg/mL, positive control) or without (negative control), and semen extender contained only A-11 or AP19 at different concentrations (i.e., 62.50, 31.25, and 15.625 µg/mL). The total bacterial count was also measured at 0, 24, 36, 48, and 72 h after storage. Comparable to gentamicin, both A-11 and AP19 inhibited the growth of E. coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Proteus mirabilis at 62.50, 31.25, and 15.625 µg/mL, respectively. Comparing the total bacterial count at 0, 24, 36, 48 and 72 h after storage, the lowest total bacterial concentration was found in the positive control group (p < 0.05), and an inferior total bacterial concentration was found in the treatment groups than in the negative control. On day 1, there is a lower percentage of all sperm parameters in the AP19 group at a concentration of 62.50 µg/mL compared with the other groups. On day 3, the highest percentage of all sperm parameters was found in the positive control and A-11 at a concentration of 31.25 µg/mL compared with the other groups. The AP19 group at 62.5 µg/mL constantly yielded inferior sperm parameters. On day 5, only A-11 at a concentration of 15.625 µg/mL showed a total motility higher than 70%, which is comparable to the positive control. A-11 and AP19 showed antimicrobial activity against E. coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Proteus mirabilis isolated from boar semen. Considering their effect on semen quality during storage, these antimicrobial peptides are an alternative to conventional antibiotics used in boar semen extenders. Nevertheless, the utilization of these particular antimicrobial peptides relied on the concentration and duration of storage.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antimicrobial Peptides: An Emerging Hope in the Era of New Infections and Resistance)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Antifungal Activity of Aniba canelilla (Kunth) Mez Essential Oil and Its Main Compound 1-Nitro-2-Phenylethane against Dermatophytes
by
Tainá Kreutz, Eliane Oliveira Salines Duarte, Priscilla Maciel Quatrin, Simone Braga Carneiro, Valdir F. Veiga-Junior, Alexandre Meneghello Fuentefria and Letícia S. Koester
Antibiotics 2024, 13(6), 488; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics13060488 - 24 May 2024
Abstract
The essential oil of Aniba canelilla (Kunth) Mez (EOAC), an Amazon plant composed of a rare nitro compound, has shown scientific evidence of antifungal activity but is still unexplored against dermatophytes. The antifungal susceptibility of EOAC and its main compound, 1-nitro-2-phenylethane (NP), was
[...] Read more.
The essential oil of Aniba canelilla (Kunth) Mez (EOAC), an Amazon plant composed of a rare nitro compound, has shown scientific evidence of antifungal activity but is still unexplored against dermatophytes. The antifungal susceptibility of EOAC and its main compound, 1-nitro-2-phenylethane (NP), was evaluated against dermatophytes (Trichophyton rubrum, T. mentagrophytes and Microsporum canis), evidencing antifungal activity with an inhibitory concentration lower than 256 μg/mL. The mechanism of action was also evaluated, and it is suggested that EOAC and NP have fungicidal action in the fungal membrane, since the antifungal activity occurs through a modification of the shape of the conidial structures of the fungus, showing the permeability of the intracellular content due to the visually observed plasmolysis and cytosolic extravasation through an osmotic process. These results suggest the essential oil and its main compound are promising plant-derived alternatives for treating ungual dermatophytosis.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exploring Antimicrobial Properties and Bioactive Compounds of Edible and Medicinal Plants)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessReview
Antimicrobial Metabolites of Caucasian Medicinal Plants as Alternatives to Antibiotics
by
Marta Fik-Jaskółka, Valentina Mittova, Catherine Motsonelidze, Malkhaz Vakhania, Caterina Vicidomini and Giovanni N. Roviello
Antibiotics 2024, 13(6), 487; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics13060487 - 24 May 2024
Abstract
This review explores the potential of antimicrobial metabolites derived from Caucasian medicinal plants as alternatives to conventional antibiotics. With the rise of antibiotic resistance posing a global health threat, there is a pressing need to investigate alternative sources of antimicrobial agents. Caucasian medicinal
[...] Read more.
This review explores the potential of antimicrobial metabolites derived from Caucasian medicinal plants as alternatives to conventional antibiotics. With the rise of antibiotic resistance posing a global health threat, there is a pressing need to investigate alternative sources of antimicrobial agents. Caucasian medicinal plants have traditionally been used for their therapeutic properties, and recent research has highlighted their potential as sources of antimicrobial compounds. Representatives of 15 families of Caucasian medicinal plant extracts (24 species) have been explored for their efficacy against these pathogens. The effect of these plants on Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria and fungi is discussed in this paper. By harnessing the bioactive metabolites present in these plants, this study aims to contribute to the development of new antimicrobial treatments that can effectively combat bacterial infections while minimizing the risk of resistance emergence. Herein we discuss the following classes of bioactive compounds exhibiting antimicrobial activity: phenolic compounds, flavonoids, tannins, terpenes, saponins, alkaloids, and sulfur-containing compounds of Allium species. The review discusses the pharmacological properties of selected Caucasian medicinal plants, the extraction and characterization of these antimicrobial metabolites, the mechanisms of action of antibacterial and antifungal plant compounds, and their potential applications in clinical settings. Additionally, challenges and future directions in the research of antimicrobial metabolites from Caucasian medicinal plants are addressed.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovations in Antibacterial Agents: Combating Resistance, Improving Efficacy and Exploring New Mechanisms)
Open AccessArticle
Impact of Soil Fertilization with Pig Slurry on Antibiotic Residues and Resistance Genes: A Longitudinal Study
by
Luisa Massaccesi, Elisa Albini, Francesca Romana Massacci, Danilo Giusepponi, Fabiola Paoletti, Stefano Sdogati, Francesco Morena, Alberto Agnelli, Angelo Leccese, Chiara Francesca Magistrali and Roberta Galarini
Antibiotics 2024, 13(6), 486; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics13060486 - 24 May 2024
Abstract
The impact of soil fertilization with animal manure on the spread and persistence of antibiotic resistance in the environment is far from being fully understood. To add knowledge about persistence and correlations between antibiotic residues and antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) in fertilized soil,
[...] Read more.
The impact of soil fertilization with animal manure on the spread and persistence of antibiotic resistance in the environment is far from being fully understood. To add knowledge about persistence and correlations between antibiotic residues and antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) in fertilized soil, a longitudinal soil mesocosm study was conducted. Soil samples were collected from the mesocosms immediately before spreading and then afterward at fifteen time points during a 320-day observation period. Eight ARGs (ermB, sul1, tetA, tetG, tetM, cfr, fexA, and optrA) and the class 1 integron-integrase gene, intI1, were determined in both pig slurry and soil, as well as residues of 36 antibiotics. Soil chemical and biochemical parameters were also measured. Twelve antibiotics were detected in the slurry in the range of 3 µg kg−1–3605 µg kg−1, with doxycycline, lincomycin, and tiamulin being the most abundant, whereas ermB, sul1, and tetM were the predominant ARGs. Before spreading, neither antibiotic residues nor ARGs were detectable in the soil; afterwards, their concentrations mirrored those in the slurry, with a gradual decline over the duration of the experiment. After about three months, the effect of the amendment was almost over, and no further evolution was observed.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antimicrobial Resistance Monitoring in Food-Producing Animals)
Open AccessArticle
Spent Material Extractives from Hemp Hydrodistillation as an Underexplored Source of Antimicrobial Cannabinoids
by
Simon Vlad Luca, Krzysztof Wojtanowski, Izabela Korona-Głowniak, Krystyna Skalicka-Woźniak, Mirjana Minceva and Adriana Trifan
Antibiotics 2024, 13(6), 485; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics13060485 - 24 May 2024
Abstract
Hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) has been used for millennia as a rich source of food and fibers, whereas hemp flowers have only recently gained an increased market interest due to the presence of cannabinoids and volatile terpenes. Currently, the hemp flower processing
[...] Read more.
Hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) has been used for millennia as a rich source of food and fibers, whereas hemp flowers have only recently gained an increased market interest due to the presence of cannabinoids and volatile terpenes. Currently, the hemp flower processing industry predominantly focuses on either cannabinoid or terpene extraction. In an attempt to maximize the valorization of hemp flowers, the current study aimed to evaluate the phytochemical composition and antimicrobial properties of several extracts obtained from post-distillation by-products (e.g., spent material, residual distillation water) in comparison to the essential oil and total extract obtained from unprocessed hemp flowers. A terpene analysis of the essential oil revealed 14 monoterpenes and 35 sesquiterpenes. The cannabinoid profiling of extracts showed seven acidic precursors and 14 neutral derivatives, with cannabidiol (CBD) reaching the highest concentration (up to 16 wt.%) in the spent material extract. The antimicrobial assessment of hemp EO, cannabinoid-containing extracts, and single compounds (i.e., CBD, cannabigerol, cannabinol, and cannabichromene) against a panel of 20 microbial strains demonstrated significant inhibitory activities against Gram-positive bacteria, Helicobacter pylori, and Trichophyton species. In conclusion, this work suggests promising opportunities to use cannabinoid-rich materials from hemp flower processing in functional foods, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals with antimicrobial properties.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plants, Lichens, Fungi, and Algae Extracts and Derivatives with Antimicrobial Properties for Nutrition and Health)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessReview
Exploring the Link between Helicobacter pylori, Gastric Microbiota and Gastric Cancer
by
Costantino Sgamato, Alba Rocco, Debora Compare, Kateryna Priadko, Marco Romano and Gerardo Nardone
Antibiotics 2024, 13(6), 484; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics13060484 - 24 May 2024
Abstract
Gastric cancer (GC) still represents one of the leading causes of cancer-related mortality and is a major public health issue worldwide. Understanding the etiopathogenetic mechanisms behind GC development holds immense potential to revolutionize patients’ treatment and prognosis. Within the complex web of genetic
[...] Read more.
Gastric cancer (GC) still represents one of the leading causes of cancer-related mortality and is a major public health issue worldwide. Understanding the etiopathogenetic mechanisms behind GC development holds immense potential to revolutionize patients’ treatment and prognosis. Within the complex web of genetic predispositions and environmental factors, the connection between Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) and gastric microbiota emerges as a focus of intense research investigation. According to the most recent hypotheses, H. pylori triggers inflammatory responses and molecular alterations in gastric mucosa, while non-Helicobacter microbiota modulates disease progression. In this review, we analyze the current state of the literature on the relationship between H. pylori and non-Helicobacter gastric microbiota in gastric carcinogenesis, highlighting the mechanisms by which microecological dysbiosis can contribute to the malignant transformation of the mucosa.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pathogenesis, Diagnosis and Treatment of H. pylori Infection)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
CRISPR Interference-Mediated Silencing of the mmpL3 Gene in Mycobacterium smegmatis and Its Impact on Antimicrobial Susceptibility
by
Yonita Yuliani, Azizah Fitriana Nurul Ilmi, Suthidee Petsong, Ajcharaporn Sawatpanich, Sunisa Chirakul, Tanittha Chatsuwan, Tanapat Palaga and Suwatchareeporn Rotcheewaphan
Antibiotics 2024, 13(6), 483; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics13060483 - 24 May 2024
Abstract
Background: The discovery of novel therapeutic agents, especially those targeting mycobacterial membrane protein large 3 (mmpL3), has shown promise. In this study, the CRISPR interference-Streptococcus thermophilus nuclease-deactivated Cas9 (CRISPRi-dCas9Sth1) system was utilized to suppress mmpL3 expression in Mycobacterium
[...] Read more.
Background: The discovery of novel therapeutic agents, especially those targeting mycobacterial membrane protein large 3 (mmpL3), has shown promise. In this study, the CRISPR interference-Streptococcus thermophilus nuclease-deactivated Cas9 (CRISPRi-dCas9Sth1) system was utilized to suppress mmpL3 expression in Mycobacterium smegmatis, and its impacts on susceptibility to antimicrobial agents were evaluated. Methods: The repression of the mmpL3 gene was confirmed by RT-qPCR. The essentiality, growth curve, viability, and antimicrobial susceptibility of the mmpL3 knockdown strain were investigated. Results: mmpL3 silencing was achieved by utilizing 0.5 and 1 ng/mL anhydrotetracycline (ATc), resulting in reductions in the expression of 60.4% and 74.4%, respectively. mmpL3 silencing led to a significant decrease in bacterial viability when combined with one-half of the minimal inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of rifampicin, rifabutin, ceftriaxone, or isoniazid, along with 0.1 or 0.5 ng/mL ATc (p < 0.05). However, no significant difference was observed for clarithromycin or amikacin. Conclusions: The downregulation of the mmpL3 gene in mycobacteria was achieved through the use of CRISPRi-dCas9Sth1, resulting in growth deficiencies and resensitization to certain antimicrobial agents. The impact was dependent upon the level of gene expression.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Antibiotic Therapy in Infectious Diseases)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Gum Arabic Increases Phagocytosis of Escherichia coli by Blood Leukocytes of Young and Old Healthy Volunteers
by
Christin Freibrodt, Shima Baien, Maren von Köckritz-Blickwede, Nicole de Buhr, Roland Nau and Jana Seele
Antibiotics 2024, 13(6), 482; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics13060482 - 24 May 2024
Abstract
Background: Gum arabic, a polysaccharide exudate from Acacia senegal (L.) Willdenow trees, has already been used by African native people in natural medicine. Methods: Using whole-blood samples from young (20–35 years) and older (>80 years) healthy volunteers (each group n = 10), the
[...] Read more.
Background: Gum arabic, a polysaccharide exudate from Acacia senegal (L.) Willdenow trees, has already been used by African native people in natural medicine. Methods: Using whole-blood samples from young (20–35 years) and older (>80 years) healthy volunteers (each group n = 10), the effect of an aqueous solution of GA on phagocytosis of Escherichia coli was examined with a gentamicin protection assay. Whole-blood samples of each volunteer were stimulated with GA and as a control with CpG oligodeoxynucleotides (Toll-like receptor -9 agonists) for 2 h, then co-incubated with E. coli for 30 min and thereafter treated with gentamicin for up to 240 min to kill extracellular bacteria. Then, whole-blood cells were lysed with distilled water, and colony-forming units were counted by quantitative plating. Cytokine enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for the detection of TNF-α and IL-6 was performed using the blood supernatant. Results: The GA concentration tested (20 mg/mL) did not affect the viability of eukaryotic cells. Phagocytosis of E. coli by whole-blood leukocytes derived from young (p = 0.008) and older (p = 0.004) healthy volunteers was increased by 120.8% (young) and 39.2% (old) after stimulation with GA. In contrast, CpG only stimulated the bacterial phagocytosis by cells derived from young volunteers (p = 0.004). Stimulation of whole blood with GA increased the intracellular killing of E. coli in young (p = 0.045) and older volunteers (p = 0.008) and induced a TNF-α release in whole blood collected from older volunteers but not from younger ones (p = 0.008). Conclusions: These data encourage the isolation of active compounds of GA and the initiation of clinical trials addressing the preventive effect of GA on bacterial infections.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products and Bio-Nanomaterials: Novel Strategies to Overcome Antibiotic Resistance)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessSystematic Review
Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria Isolated from Street Foods: A Systematic Review
by
Carmine Fusaro, Valentina Miranda-Madera, Nancy Serrano-Silva, Jaime E. Bernal, Karina Ríos-Montes, Francisco Erik González-Jiménez, Dennys Ojeda-Juárez and Yohanna Sarria-Guzmán
Antibiotics 2024, 13(6), 481; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics13060481 - 23 May 2024
Abstract
Street food may be a vehicle of antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARB) and antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) to humans. Foods contaminated with ARB entail serious problems or challenges in the fields of medical care, animal husbandry, food industry, and public health worldwide. The objectives of
[...] Read more.
Street food may be a vehicle of antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARB) and antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) to humans. Foods contaminated with ARB entail serious problems or challenges in the fields of medical care, animal husbandry, food industry, and public health worldwide. The objectives of this systematic review were to identify and evaluate scientific reports associated with ARB isolated from various street foods. “Preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analysis” (PRISMA) guidelines were followed. The bibliographic material covers a period from January 2015 to April 2024. Six electronic scientific databases were searched individually for full-text articles; only those papers that met the inclusion and exclusion criteria were selected. Seventeen papers were included in this systematic review. This study highlighted the wide distribution of ARB resistant to β-lactams and other antibiotics, posing significant health risks to consumers. High resistance levels were observed for antibiotics such as ampicillin, ceftriaxone, and tetracycline, while some antibiotics, such as ceftazidime, clavulanic acid, cefoperazone, cotrimoxazole, doxycycline, doripenem, fosfomycin, vancomycin, and piperacillin-tazobactam, demonstrated 100% susceptibility. The prevalence of ARB in street foods varied between 5.2% and 70.8% among different countries. The multiple resistance of various bacteria, including Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus, Salmonella, and Klebsiella, to multiple classes of antibiotics, as well as environmental factors contributing to the spread of antibiotic resistance (AR), emphasize the urgent need for comprehensive approaches and coordinated efforts to confront antimicrobial resistance (AMR) under the “One Health” paradigm.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue A One Health Approach to Antimicrobial Resistance)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Pharmacist-Led Antimicrobial Stewardship Programme in Two Tertiary Hospitals in Malawi
by
Nelson Nyoloka, Charlotte Richards, William Mpute, Hope Michael Chadwala, Hanna Stambuli Kumwenda, Violet Mwangonde-Phiri, Aggrey Phiri, Ceri Phillips and Charlotte Makanga
Antibiotics 2024, 13(6), 480; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics13060480 - 23 May 2024
Abstract
►▼
Show Figures
The ultimate goal of antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) programmes is to decrease the occurrence and spread of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). In response to this, a pharmacist partnership was established between Malawi and Wales (UK) with the aim of strengthening antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) activities in
[...] Read more.
The ultimate goal of antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) programmes is to decrease the occurrence and spread of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). In response to this, a pharmacist partnership was established between Malawi and Wales (UK) with the aim of strengthening antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) activities in Malawi, with the initial project focusing on two tertiary referral hospitals. The Global Point Prevalence Survey (GPPS) was undertaken for the first time in Malawi at these sites and demonstrated a prescribing rate slightly lower than the African average, with ceftriaxone indicated for almost every bacterial infection. An educational intervention was also delivered, with a train-the-trainer approach upskilling pharmacists at the two sites, who then cascaded co-produced training sessions to an additional 120 multidisciplinary health professionals. A toolkit to support AMS at an individual patient level was also developed and disseminated to provide an ongoing reference to refer to. Both the trainings and toolkit were well received. Over the course of this project, significant progress has been made with the AMS programmes at the two sites, with local staff empowered to implement AMS activities. These interventions could be easily replicated and scaled and support the delivery of some of the AMS elements of the Malawi Ministry of Health National Action Plan for Antimicrobial Resistance.
Full article
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Hybrid Caffeic Acid-Based DHFR Inhibitors as Novel Antimicrobial and Anticancer Agents
by
Renu Sehrawat, Ritu Pasrija, Priyanka Rathee, Deepika Kumari, Anurag Khatkar, Esra Küpeli Akkol and Eduardo Sobarzo-Sánchez
Antibiotics 2024, 13(6), 479; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics13060479 - 23 May 2024
Abstract
A novel series of 1,2,4-triazole analogues of caffeic acid was designed, synthesized, characterized, and assessed for their capacity to inhibit DHFR, as well as their anticancer and antimicrobial properties. A molecular docking analysis was conducted on DHFR, utilizing PDB IDs 1U72 and 2W9S,
[...] Read more.
A novel series of 1,2,4-triazole analogues of caffeic acid was designed, synthesized, characterized, and assessed for their capacity to inhibit DHFR, as well as their anticancer and antimicrobial properties. A molecular docking analysis was conducted on DHFR, utilizing PDB IDs 1U72 and 2W9S, aiming to design anticancer and antimicrobial drugs, respectively. Among all the synthesized derivatives, compound CTh7 demonstrated the highest potency as a DHFR inhibitor, with an IC50 value of 0.15 μM. Additionally, it exhibited significant cytotoxic properties, with an IC50 value of 8.53 µM. The molecular docking analysis of the CTh7 compound revealed that it forms strong interactions with key residues of homo sapiens DHFR such as Glu30, Phe34, Tyr121, Ile16, Val115, and Phe31 within the target protein binding site and displayed excellent docking scores and binding energy (−9.9; −70.38 kcal/mol). Additionally, synthesized compounds were screened for antimicrobial properties, revealing significant antimicrobial potential against bacterial strains and moderate effects against fungal strains. Specifically, compound CTh3 exhibited notable antibacterial efficacy against Staphylococcus aureus (MIC = 5 µM). Similarly, compound CTh4 demonstrated significant antibacterial activity against both Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, with MIC values of 5 µM for each. A docking analysis of the most active antimicrobial compound CTh3 revealed that it forms hydrogen bonds with Thr121 and Asn18, a π–cation bond with Phe92, and a salt bridge with the polar residue Asp27.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Microbial Natural Products as a Source of Novel Antimicrobials)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Journal Menu
► ▼ Journal Menu-
- Antibiotics Home
- Aims & Scope
- Editorial Board
- Reviewer Board
- Topical Advisory Panel
- Instructions for Authors
- Special Issues
- Topics
- Sections & Collections
- Article Processing Charge
- Indexing & Archiving
- Editor’s Choice Articles
- Most Cited & Viewed
- Journal Statistics
- Journal History
- Journal Awards
- Conferences
- Editorial Office
Journal Browser
► ▼ Journal BrowserHighly Accessed Articles
Latest Books
E-Mail Alert
News
Topics
Topic in
Antibiotics, Antioxidants, JoF, Microbiology Research, Microorganisms
Redox in Microorganisms, 2nd Edition
Topic Editors: Michal Letek, Volker BehrendsDeadline: 31 July 2024
Topic in
Antibiotics, JPM, Pharmaceuticals, Pharmaceutics
Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Modelling in Drug Discovery and Development
Topic Editors: Inaki F. Troconiz, Victor Mangas Sanjuán, Maria Garcia-Cremades MiraDeadline: 31 August 2024
Topic in
Molecules, Pharmaceutics, Antibiotics, Microorganisms, Biomolecules, Marine Drugs, Polymers, IJMS
Antimicrobial Agents and Nanomaterials
Topic Editors: Sandra Pinto, Vasco D. B. BonifácioDeadline: 30 September 2024
Topic in
Antibiotics, Biomedicines, JCM, Pharmaceuticals, Pharmaceutics
Challenges and Future Prospects of Antibacterial Therapy
Topic Editors: Kwang-sun Kim, Zehra EdisDeadline: 31 October 2024
Conferences
Special Issues
Special Issue in
Antibiotics
Effect of Antimicrobials on Fungal Biofilms
Guest Editors: José António Baptista Machado Soares, Sadri ZnaidiDeadline: 31 May 2024
Special Issue in
Antibiotics
Challenges for Therapeutic Drug Monitoring of Antimicrobials
Guest Editors: Giuseppe Pipitone, Giuseppe Nunnari, Fabrizio TagliettiDeadline: 15 June 2024
Special Issue in
Antibiotics
Antimicrobial Drug Discovery: New Theories and New Therapies
Guest Editor: Ki-Young KimDeadline: 30 June 2024
Special Issue in
Antibiotics
Natural Compounds as Antimicrobial Agents, 2nd Volume
Guest Editors: Carlos M. Franco, Beatriz Vázquez BeldaDeadline: 15 July 2024
Topical Collections
Topical Collection in
Antibiotics
Antimicrobial Resistance and Anti-Biofilms
Collection Editors: Ding-Qiang Chen, Yulong Tan, Ren-You Gan, Guanggang Qu, Zhenbo Xu, Junyan Liu