A review on antibiotic resistance, biofilm formation and quorum sensing
Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: A review on antibiotic resistance, biofilm formation and quorum sensing
The WJPR includes peer-reviewed publications such as scientific research papers, reports, review articles, company news, thesis reports and case studies in areas of Biology, Pharmaceutical industries and Chemical technology while incorporating ancient fields of knowledge such combining Ayurveda with scientific data.
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Chetan M. Jain and Krutika S. Sonar
World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:
(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)
Full text available for: A review on antibiotic resistance, biofilm formation and quorum sensing
Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research
Doi: 10.20959/wjpr201912-16058
Copyright (license): WJPR: All rights reserved
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Antibiotic resistance is a significant global health crisis, particularly in developing countries like India, where the misuse and over-prescription of antibiotics have led to an alarming increase in resistant bacterial strains. This phenomenon occurs when bacteria continue to replicate despite the presence of antimicrobial agents, resulting in treatment failures. The emergence of resistance mechanisms, such as efflux pumps and antibiotic inactivation, poses severe challenges to managing bacterial infections. The urgent need for new therapeutic strategies has prompted research into alternative approaches, including plant-based treatments and the disruption of bacterial communication pathways.
Biofilm Formation and Its Implications
Biofilms are structured communities of microorganisms encased in an extracellular polymeric matrix (EPM) that adhere to surfaces. The biofilm formation process consists of three stages: attachment, maturation, and dispersion. During initial attachment, bacteria can either attach reversibly or irreversibly to a surface, often aided by structures like flagella and pili. As biofilms mature, bacterial communication enhances collective behavior and metabolic functions, ultimately leading to dispersion when environmental conditions become unfavorable. Biofilms are known to increase antibiotic resistance, making infections harder to treat and necessitating alternative methods to combat their formation.
Quorum Sensing: A Mechanism of Bacterial Communication
Quorum sensing is a regulatory system used by bacteria to communicate and coordinate behavior based on population density. Through the release of signaling molecules called autoinducers, bacteria can sense their numbers and modulate virulence factors, including biofilm formation and toxin production. This communication mechanism operates differently in Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria, with the former using chemical signals like HSL, while the latter employs peptide signaling molecules. Disrupting this communication pathway presents a novel approach to combating bacterial infections, as it can potentially diminish virulence and biofilm formation.
Anti-Quorum Sensing Agents: Plant-Based Solutions
Within the realm of quorum sensing, researchers are investigating plant extracts as potential anti-QS agents. Various studies have identified numerous traditional medicinal plants that demonstrate the ability to inhibit quorum sensing processes. Notable examples include Prunus armeniaca, Panax notoginseng, and Punica granatum, which have shown efficacy against pathogenic bacteria like Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The exploration of plant-based compounds could lead to the development of alternative strategies for managing infections, especially as antibiotic resistance continues to rise.
Conclusion
The burgeoning challenge posed by antibiotic resistance necessitates innovative approaches to infection management. Biofilm formation and quorum sensing are critical areas of concern, given their role in enhancing bacterial virulence and resistance. Research into plant-derived compounds and their properties as anti-QS agents offers promising alternatives to conventional antibiotics. As these studies advance, they may pave the way for new therapeutic strategies to effectively combat resistant bacterial infections, ensuring better health outcomes worldwide.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is antibiotic resistance and how does it occur?
Antibiotic resistance occurs when bacteria continue to multiply despite the presence of antimicrobial agents, leading to treatment failure. This resistance develops through various mechanisms, such as efflux pumps, antibiotic inactivation, and modifications of antibiotic molecules.
What are the main mechanisms of antimicrobial resistance?
The main mechanisms include efflux pumps that expel drugs, antibiotic inactivation via enzymes like β-lactamases, and modification of antibiotic target sites through mutations, ensuring that the antibiotics cannot effectively bind to their targets.
What is a biofilm and how does it form?
A biofilm is a cluster of microorganisms that adhere to surfaces and are encased in an extracellular polymeric matrix. Biofilm formation occurs in three stages: attachment, maturation, and dispersion, mainly driven by physical and chemical interactions.
What role does quorum sensing play in bacteria?
Quorum sensing is a communication method used by bacteria to regulate virulence factors, such as biofilm formation and toxin production, based on their population density, enabling more effective collective behavior.
How are plants considered in combating antibiotic resistance?
Plants are being studied for their potential anti-quorum sensing (anti-QS) properties, as certain plant extracts can interfere with bacterial communication, offering an alternative approach to enhance antibiotic activity and combat resistance.
Which plants have shown anti-QS activity against bacterial species?
Plants such as Prunus armeniaca and Punica granatum have demonstrated anti-QS activity. Studies indicate that extracts from various plants can reduce bacterial virulence and biofilm formation, potentially serving as natural alternatives to traditional antibiotics.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “A review on antibiotic resistance, biofilm formation and quorum sensing”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Antibiotic (Antibacterial):
Antibacterial refers to substances that inhibit bacterial growth or kill bacteria, thus used in treating infections. The rise of antibiotic resistance has led to a renewed interest in antibacterial agents from plants or novel compounds, aiming to discover effective alternatives for preventing and treating bacterial infections.
2) Activity:
In this context, 'activity' refers to the biological efficacy of substances, particularly against pathogens. For instance, the anti-quorum sensing activity of plants suggests their potential role in inhibiting bacterial communication and virulence, providing alternatives to conventional antibiotics in an era of rising antimicrobial resistance.
3) Species:
Species are groups of organisms capable of interbreeding to produce fertile offspring. In microbiology, species often relate to specific strains of bacteria, like *Pseudomonas aeruginosa* or *Acinetobacter baumannii*, which are critical in studies of antibiotic resistance and the efficacy of treatments, including the evaluation of new anti-QS agents.
4) Surface:
The term 'surface' pertains to the interface where bacteria adhere and form biofilms, which are complex communities that lead to enhanced resistance against antibiotics. The attachment of microorganisms to surfaces is fundamental in understanding biofilm development and subsequent treatment resistance, highlighting the challenges in controlling bacterial infections.
5) Study (Studying):
A 'study' represents systematic research conducted to understand phenomena, such as bacterial resistance or the effectiveness of plant extracts against pathogens. Thorough investigations into bacterium behavior, antibiotic mechanisms, and anti-QS agents underscore the importance of research in developing strategies for managing antibiotic resistance and improving treatment outcomes.
6) Disease:
Disease refers to pathological conditions caused by pathogenic organisms such as bacteria and viruses. Antibiotic resistance contributes significantly to the morbidity and mortality associated with infectious diseases, making it a critical public health concern. Strategies to mitigate resistance are fundamental for effective disease management and improved healthcare outcomes.
7) Food:
The role of food in antibiotic resistance includes the use of antibiotics in agriculture and livestock, which can lead to resistant bacteria that enter the human food chain. Understanding these implications is essential for designing safer agricultural practices and reducing the prevalence of antibiotic-resistant pathogens in food products.
8) Drug:
Drugs are substances used to diagnose, treat, or prevent medical conditions, including antibiotics aimed at treating bacterial infections. The emergence of antibiotic resistance complicates the effectiveness of these drugs, emphasizing the need for new antimicrobial therapies and strategies to ensure that existing drugs remain effective against resistant bacteria.
9) Language:
In microbiology, 'language' refers to communication mechanisms that bacteria use to coordinate behavior, such as quorum sensing. This communication influences virulence and community behavior among bacterial species, providing insight into potential targets for novel antimicrobial therapies that disrupt these signaling pathways and reduce pathogenicity.
10) Substance:
A 'substance' is a specific chemical compound or mixture. In the context of antimicrobial research, it refers to natural compounds (e.g., from plants) that exhibit antibacterial or anti-QS activities. Such substances may offer innovative solutions to counteract the challenges posed by antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
11) Amravati:
Amravati is a city in India, mentioned as the location of P. R. Pote Patil College of Pharmacy, where research on antibiotic resistance and biofilm formation is conducted. The focus on local educational institutions is vital for creating awareness and strategies to combat public health issues related to drug resistance.
12) Medicine:
Medicines encompass a wide range of substances used for treatment, including antibiotics used to combat infections. The challenge of antibiotic resistance has led to a demand for innovations in medicines that can effectively treat resistant infections and improve public health outcomes.
13) Mutation:
Mutation refers to changes in the DNA sequence of bacteria that can lead to antibiotic resistance. These alterations can modify the target sites of antibiotics or enhance the bacteria's survival mechanisms, highlighting the need for continuous surveillance and new strategies to address the evolving landscape of bacterial resistance.
14) Animal:
The term 'animal' denotes organisms within the kingdom Animalia, which includes livestock utilized in agriculture. Research on antibiotics in animals is critical since the overuse of these drugs can contribute to the development of resistant bacteria, affecting both animal health and the broader implications for human medicine.
15) Patil:
Patil refers to P. R. Pote Patil College of Pharmacy, where research on antibiotic resistance, biofilms, and quorum sensing is conducted. The college plays a vital role in academic and practical contributions to pharmaceutical science, especially in understanding and combating microbial resistance issues.
16) Sugar:
Sugar compounds derived from plants may have roles in bacterial communication and biofilm formation. Certain sugars can influence quorum sensing mechanisms in bacteria, potentially serving as targets for developing new antibacterial agents that disrupt these signaling pathways or prevent biofilm development.
17) Table:
In the context of the article, 'table' refers to organized data presentations that summarize findings, such as bacterial species and their resistance patterns. Tables are crucial for visualizing complex information, making it accessible for understanding antibiotic resistance trends and priorities outlined by health organizations.
18) Nelumbo nucifera:
Nelumbo nucifera, commonly known as the lotus flower, is highlighted in research for its potential anti-quorum sensing properties. Studying this plant contributes to the exploration of natural products in combating bacterial virulence and resistance, showcasing the importance of biodiversity in searching for novel antimicrobial agents.
19) Ocimum sanctum:
Ocimum sanctum, also known as holy basil or tulsi, is studied for its antimicrobial properties, including anti-QS activity. The exploration of this and other medicinal plants serves as a promising approach to finding natural alternatives to antibiotics, particularly in managing infections caused by resistant bacterial strains.
20) Punica granatum:
Punica granatum, or pomegranate, is often researched for its phytochemical constituents that exhibit antibacterial and anti-QS activities. Its traditional use in herbal medicine suggests potential applications in modern therapeutics, particularly as alternatives to conventional antibiotics in light of increasing resistance in pathogenic bacteria.
21) Agriculture:
Agriculture is a significant domain where antibiotics are used, particularly in livestock, contributing to the emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Understanding the impact of agricultural practices on public health is crucial for developing guidelines that minimize antibiotic use while ensuring animal health and safety of food products.
22) Developing:
Developing often pertains to the creation of new treatments or strategies to combat issues like antibiotic resistance. Research efforts focus on developing alternatives, such as plant-based compounds, to effectively counteract the challenges posed by resistant pathogens, improving clinical outcomes in various healthcare settings.
23) Aureus:
Aureus refers to *Staphylococcus aureus*, a significant bacterial species often associated with antibiotic resistance, particularly methicillin-resistant *Staphylococcus aureus* (MRSA). Recognizing its role in various infections emphasizes the importance of understanding resistance mechanisms and developing effective therapies to manage and prevent these infections.
24) Family:
In biological taxonomy, 'family' refers to a classification of related organisms, such as bacterial species within the same category that may have similar characteristics. Understanding these familial relationships helps in researching their resistance mechanisms and identifying targets for novel antimicrobial agents.
25) Reason:
Reason pertains to the logical basis for phenomena, such as the rationale behind antibiotic resistance. Identifying and understanding the reasons behind resistance enable scientists and healthcare providers to implement strategies that enhance the effectiveness of existing treatments and reduce the prevalence of resistant infections.
26) Medium:
Medium refers to the substance in which bacteria grow during laboratory studies. It is essential for conducting experiments on microbial behavior, biofilm formation, and testing the efficacy of antibacterial and anti-QS agents, ensuring reproducibility and reliability of research findings.
27) Anana:
Anana is likely a misspelling of 'Ananas', the scientific name for pineapple. This fruit is noted for its natural properties, and research into its phytochemicals may reveal potential antimicrobial effects against specific bacterial strains, showcasing the importance of fruits in the search for new therapeutic agents.
28) India:
India is significant in the context of antibiotic resistance due to its high rates of antibiotic usage and the prevalence of resistant infections. Understanding the local factors contributing to this problem is crucial for developing effective public health policies and promoting responsible antibiotic use.
29) Water:
Water is vital in microbiology for experiments and the growth of microorganisms. It serves as a medium for testing bacterial behavior and resistance patterns, playing a significant role in biofilm research and the efficacy of treatments aimed at controlling bacterial growth in various environments.
30) Musha (Musa, Musá):
Musa refers to the banana plant genus, which is of interest for its potential antibacterial properties. Research into Musa extracts may showcase the usefulness of such plants/fruit in developing alternatives or adjutants to conventional antibiotics, contributing to tackling issues related to antimicrobial resistance.
31) Life:
Life signifies the biological processes and existence of organisms, including the interaction between host and pathogen, notably in the context of antibiotic resistance. Understanding microbial life, its evolution, and pathogenicity is essential for developing strategies to manage infections effectively and sustain health.
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘A review on antibiotic resistance, biofilm formation and quorum sensing’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Traditional Chinese medicine, Gram positive bacteria, Gram negative bacteria, Antibiotic resistance, Biofilm formation, Quorum sensing, Virulence factor, Microbial biofilm, Antibiotic inactivation, Efflux pump, Chloramphenicol acetyltransferase.