Folia Microbiologica[JOURNAL]
Sun
200 papers
Fibronectin recognition by the emerging multidrug-resistant opportunistic fungal pathogen Candida haemulonii.
Ramos LS, Mello TP, Magalhães LB … +4 more , Silva LN, Oliveira SSC, Branquinha MH, Santos ALS
Folia Microbiol (Praha) · 2025 Nov · PMID 41258615 · Publisher ↗
The multidrug-resistant pathogen Candida haemulonii (Candidozyma haemuli) can cause superficial and systemic infections in vulnerable individuals. The ability of C. haemulonii to interact with extracellular matrix (ECM)...
The multidrug-resistant pathogen Candida haemulonii (Candidozyma haemuli) can cause superficial and systemic infections in vulnerable individuals. The ability of C. haemulonii to interact with extracellular matrix (ECM) components remains largely unexplored. Herein, we investigated C. haemulonii's capacity to bind to fibronectin and assessed how this ECM protein influences fungal adhesion and biofilm development. The results revealed that C. haemulonii yeasts can recognize and interact with soluble fibronectin in a dose-dependent and isolate-specific manner, as demonstrated by flow cytometry. Confocal microscopy confirmed that fibronectin-binding molecules are primarily localized at the periphery of the yeasts, indicating that the binding sites reside on the cell surface. Additionally, C. haemulonii exhibited significantly greater adhesion to polystyrene surface coated with immobilized fibronectin (48.8 ± 5.1 yeasts/microscopic field) compared to either uncoated (28.4 ± 6.5) or albumin-coated (28.7 ± 5.3) surfaces. Fungal biofilm formation was significantly reduced on fibronectin-coated surface in comparison to uncoated control, with both biomass and ECM production decreasing by about 50%, as evaluated by crystal violet and safranin staining, respectively. Western blot analysis revealed that C. haemulonii cells degraded fibronectin during biofilm development. Notably, cell-free biofilm supernatant was capable of cleaving soluble fibronectin; this degradation was partially inhibited by PMSF, indicating the involvement of serine proteases in this process. Corroborating this finding, zymography revealed two serine proteases (50 and 60 kDa) capable of degrading immobilized fibronectin. Collectively, the results demonstrate that C. haemulonii possesses fibronectin-binding molecules that contribute to adhesion and play a critical role in the early stages of its pathogenic process.
Infection control and wound care innovations in plastic surgery: a multidisciplinary approach.
Abu-Khudir R, Doghish AS, Mansour RM … +13 more , Sayed GA, Elshami NH, Moustafa HAM, Elkalla WS, Abdulkader AO, Abdel Mageed SS, Mohammed OA, Hamad RS, Abulsoud AI, Zaki MB, Elrebehy MA, Abdelfatah AM, Salah AN
Folia Microbiol (Praha) · 2026 Apr · PMID 41252064 · Publisher ↗
An infection that develops after plastic or reconstructive surgery is one of the most common and difficult consequences to deal with. In addition to compromising functional recovery and cosmetic outcomes, these infection...
An infection that develops after plastic or reconstructive surgery is one of the most common and difficult consequences to deal with. In addition to compromising functional recovery and cosmetic outcomes, these infections can greatly lengthen hospital stays, raise patient morbidity, and slow wound healing. Infection risk in plastic surgery is complex and multifaceted, necessitating an all-encompassing and preventative strategy. Strict aseptic surgical procedures, perioperative antibiotic prophylaxis based on procedure type and patient risk profile, and comprehensive preoperative skin preparation to decrease microbial load are important preventive strategies. Significantly less infection risk can be achieved with patient optimization prior to surgery by controlling comorbidities like diabetes, correcting dietary deficiencies, stopping smoking, and managing immunosuppressive conditions. New approaches to wound care have emerged that promise to speed up the healing process while simultaneously decreasing the incidence of infections. Some of these methods include using antimicrobial dressings that release silver or iodine over time, using negative pressure wound therapy to increase blood flow and drain excess fluid, and utilizing bioengineered scaffolds and matrices rich in growth factors to stimulate cell proliferation and angiogenesis. Preventing deep tissue involvement and surgical site infection requires early diagnosis of infection signals and rapid action. The purpose of this review is to highlight current evidence-based methods and advances in the field of plastic surgery that aim to reduce infections and enhance wound healing. It also emphasizes the significance of an integrated, multidisciplinary approach in order to improve both the functional and aesthetic outcomes of surgical procedures.
Bioremoval of lead, cadmium, chromium, and nickel by multi-metal tolerant Kurthia gibsonii ES43G, Kluyvera cryocrescens ES45G and Comamonas aquatica ES54G.
Haque MM, Sanyal S, Limon MGS … +3 more , Yasmin F, Mosharaf MK, Shozib HB
Folia Microbiol (Praha) · 2025 Nov · PMID 41247666 · Publisher ↗
This study examines the bioremoval of multiple heavy metals by five bacterial strains which include Enterobacter cloacae ES38G, Kurthia gibsonii ES43G, Kluyvera cryocrescens ES45G, Aeromonas caviae ES50G, and Comamonas a...
This study examines the bioremoval of multiple heavy metals by five bacterial strains which include Enterobacter cloacae ES38G, Kurthia gibsonii ES43G, Kluyvera cryocrescens ES45G, Aeromonas caviae ES50G, and Comamonas aquatica ES54G. The bioremoval rates by ES38G, ES43G, ES45G, ES50G, and ES54G were significantly influenced by metal concentration, contact time, pH, temperature, and bacterial strains. For example, ES43G removed 100% Ni at 5 and 50 mg/L. ES43G, ES45G, and ES54G completely (100%) removed Cr, while ES43G, ES50G and ES54G achieved 100% Cd removal when exposed to 5 and 50 mg/L. Complete Pb removal (100%) was recorded for ES43G and ES54G at 5, 50, and 100 mg/L. At pH 6, ES43G, ES45G and ES54G achieved 100% Ni removal. ES43G also removed 100% Ni at pH 7. ES43G and ES45G removed 100% Cr at pH 5-7, while 100% Cr was removed by ES50G at pH 6 and ES54G at pH 5 and 7. ES43G, ES45G and ES54G completely removed Pb at pH 7-8, while ES54G and ES50G removed 100% Pb at pH 6 and pH 7, respectively. ES43G and ES54G also removed 100% Cd both at pH 6 and 7, while ES45G and ES50G removed 100% Cd at pH 6 and 7, respectively. However, bioremoval efficiencies of all these strains markedly decreased at 22 °C and 37 °C compared to 28 °C. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy revealed that functional groups such as C = O, N-H, COO⁻, and P = O were actively involved in metal biosorption. Therefore, these bacterial strains exhibit strong potential for application in the bioremoval of heavy metals from wastewater.
Discovering rare thermophilic Parageobacillus caldoxylosilyticus from hot spring with early plastic-degrading potential revealed from bioassays and gene annotation studies.
Ting ASY, Tan CY, Santoso VVK … +1 more , Wee WY
Folia Microbiol (Praha) · 2025 Nov · PMID 41247665 · Publisher ↗
The isolate Parageobacillus sp. (isolate W8) (GenBank accession No. PP732525.1), isolated from the Ulu Slim hot spring, showed early indications of potential plastic degrading activity. When tested for the degradation of...
The isolate Parageobacillus sp. (isolate W8) (GenBank accession No. PP732525.1), isolated from the Ulu Slim hot spring, showed early indications of potential plastic degrading activity. When tested for the degradation of low-density polyethylene (LDPE) sheets in a 60-day test, viable cell count, weight loss of LDPE sheets, FTIR spectra of LDPE sheets, and enzyme production, all indicate preliminary positive degradation of LDPE sheets. The whole genome sequence and gene annotation was also performed to identify the isolate and further highlight the enzymes responsible for potential plastic degradation, respectively. Results of the 16S rRNA sequence and average nucleotide identity (ANI) identified the isolate as Parageobacillus caldoxylosilyticus. Genome annotation revealed genes encoding for protease and esterase, which supported the protease and esterase assays observed. Several genes encoding for degradation of PE (e.g., glutathione peroxidase, nitrate reductase) were also annotated. P. caldoxylosilyticus (isolate W8) is concluded to have the potential to degrade LDPE based on early trends of sustained viable cell count, gradual weight loss of LDPE, induction of enzyme production when co-incubated with LDPE, and the shifts in functional groups for LDPE. These early observations suggest the potential of P. caldoxylosilyticus as a thermophilic isolate capable of degrading LDPE in high temperature conditions.
Response surface methodology optimization of L-arginine deiminase from Penicillium chrysogenum and the influence of phytohormones.
El-Shora HM, El-Sayyad GS, El-Zawawy NA … +3 more , El-Rheem MAA, Faraag AHI, Metwally MA
Folia Microbiol (Praha) · 2025 Nov · PMID 41240209 · Publisher ↗
The study presents an optimization process to produce L-arginine deiminase (ADI) from the fungus Penicillium chrysogenum, focusing on the impact of growth parameters and the role of phytohormones and polyamines. ADI, an...
The study presents an optimization process to produce L-arginine deiminase (ADI) from the fungus Penicillium chrysogenum, focusing on the impact of growth parameters and the role of phytohormones and polyamines. ADI, an enzyme that catalyzes the conversion of L-arginine to citrulline and ammonia, holds potential for cancer therapy by depleting L-arginine into auxotrophic tumors. The research identified optimal conditions for ADI production, including an incubation period of 6 days, 150 rpm agitation, and specific nutrient concentrations, with glucose and yeast extract as preferred carbon and nitrogen sources, respectively. L-arginine enhancement was most effective at pH 6 and 35 °C. Phytohormones such as gibberellic acid (GA3) and polyamines including spermidine and spermine were found to significantly boost enzyme production at lower concentrations. The study employed a Plackett-Burman design to determine critical factors, highlighting pH and glucose concentration as key influencers, supported by statistical analysis and 3D surface plots. These results open the door for the therapeutic synthesis of ADIs on a massive scale, necessitating additional study to maximize these enzymes for use in clinical settings.
Blue-green pigment production by environmental isolates of Pseudomonas aeruginosa: Purification and bioactivity.
Ali WM, Hassanein WA, Reda FM … +3 more , Ahmed MAA, Shawky H, Elkader RSA
Folia Microbiol (Praha) · 2025 Nov · PMID 41239181 · Publisher ↗
A total of 65 blue-green pigment-producing bacterial strains were isolated from different environmental sources. The strains were identified as Pseudomonas aeruginosa Z57 and Pseudomonas aeruginosa Z62 using the Vitek2 i...
A total of 65 blue-green pigment-producing bacterial strains were isolated from different environmental sources. The strains were identified as Pseudomonas aeruginosa Z57 and Pseudomonas aeruginosa Z62 using the Vitek2 identification system. Both strains were confirmed to be Gram-negative and exhibited positive reactions for several enzymes, including glutamyl arylamidase, d-glucose, gamma-glutamyl-transferase, d-mannose, beta-alanine arylamidase, and proline arylamidase, while testing negative for others. Optimal growth conditions were established at 35°C and pH 7, utilizing glucose and casein as carbon and nitrogen sources, respectively. The most potent isolate, Pseudomonas aeruginosa WM1, was confirmed by 16S rRNA sequencing and registered in Gene Bank with Accession No. (PV055704). Pyocyanin was extracted, and then purified using column chromatography. It was further characterized by UV-Vis Spectrophotometer, Fourier transformer Infrared spectrometry (FTIR), and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). Antimicrobial assays showed that higher concentrations of purified pyocyanin resulted in larger inhibition zones against pathogenic microbes. Interestingly, bacterial strains demonstrated greater resistance to pyocyanin than fungal strains; at a concentration of 2.5 µg/mL, Staphylococcus aureus and Aspergillus niger were identified as the most resistant organisms.
Marine-derived Aspergillus sp.-mediated biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles with antioxidant activity and immunomodulatory apoptosis induction in melanoma cells.
Hassan MG, Youssef SS, Abdelmonem MA … +3 more , Baraka DM, El-Sayyad GS, Hamed AA
Folia Microbiol (Praha) · 2025 Nov · PMID 41217704 · Publisher ↗
In this work, we use a fungal isolate, Aspergillus sp. SO23, derived from a marine sponge collected from the coast of Hurghada, Egypt, to isolate, identify, and biosynthesis silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs). Following molec...
In this work, we use a fungal isolate, Aspergillus sp. SO23, derived from a marine sponge collected from the coast of Hurghada, Egypt, to isolate, identify, and biosynthesis silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs). Following molecular and visual identification of the fungal isolates, the 18S rRNA gene sequence showed a high degree of similarity (more than 99%) to Aspergillus sp. Using the fungal culture supernatant, Ag NPs were biosynthesized, giving rise to the distinctive brown coloration that is indicative of Ag NP generation. When the synthesized Ag NPs were examined with a UV-Vis. spectrophotometer, HRTEM, SEM, DLS, and XRD, they were found to have polydisperse particles with a crystalline structure and an average size of 45.16 ± 2.1 nm. DPPH and ABTS assays were used to assess the antioxidant activity of the biosynthesized Ag NPs, which showed notable free radical scavenging. Furthermore, Ag NPs showed a moderate chelating efficacy in comparison to ascorbic acid in the chelation of ferrous ions. Additionally, the immunomodulatory potential of the biosynthesized Ag NPs in cancer therapy was investigated, and it was discovered that Ag NPs stimulated the production of TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-1 in Sk-Mel-28 cells. Cell growth was suppressed, and the M30 epitope, a sign of apoptosis induction, was present in conjunction with this stimulation. All things considered, our results demonstrate the potential uses of biogenic Ag NPs in several domains, such as cancer treatment and nanomedicine.
Pichia kudriavzevii yeast cell wall as a novel source of β-glucan: Extraction, characterization, and prebiotic functionality.
Dengiz B, Yuksekdag Z, Babaoglu-Aydas SS … +1 more , Cinar-Acar B
Folia Microbiol (Praha) · 2025 Nov · PMID 41196550 · Publisher ↗
In this study, β-glucan extraction was optimized from the Pichia kudriavzevii M10 strain, which was randomly selected from five yeast candidates (M5, M10, M13, M16, and M57). The goal was not only to maximize extraction...
In this study, β-glucan extraction was optimized from the Pichia kudriavzevii M10 strain, which was randomly selected from five yeast candidates (M5, M10, M13, M16, and M57). The goal was not only to maximize extraction yield but also to thoroughly characterize the structural and functional properties of the obtained β-glucan. β-glucan yields from cell walls were evaluated under optimized extraction conditions (inoculation, autolysis, hot water, sonication, and protease). Among the five yeast strains initially screened, P. kudriavzevii M13 exhibited the highest β-glucan content (87.8%) and was therefore selected for the optimization process and further analysis of its prebiotic properties. Fermentability of β-gluM13 by Ligilactobacillus plantarum GD2, Bifidobacterium bifidum A12, and Saccharomyces cerevisiae BD1 was assessed. Viability of these strains increased in media with β-gluM13 as the sole carbon source compared to controls. Lactobacillus Growth-Promoting (LGP), Bifido Growth-Promoting (BGP), and Yeast Growth-Promoting (MGP) activities of β-gluM13 at 0.5-10 mg/mL were compared with inulin. The highest LGP, BGP, and MGP activity were designated in the media containing 10 mg/mL (9.4 ± 0.1 log CFU/mL), 5 mg/mL (9.4 ± 0.1 log CFU/mL), and 10 mg/mL (9.4 ± 0.3 log CFU/mL) β- gluM13, respectively. Antioxidant activity of β-gluM13 (0.2-50 mg/mL) was measured via DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazil) assay, showing lower activity than ascorbic acid. Gastrointestinal stability was tested in simulated gastric and bile fluids; β-gluM13 exhibited minimal hydrolysis (1.14% at 5 mg/mL, pH 2, 180 min; 1.16% at 10 mg/mL, 0.5% bile). β-gluM13's notable LGP, BGP, and MGP activities, moderate antioxidant properties, and gastrointestinal stability suggest its potential for gut health and functional food applications.
Microbiome alterations in healthy pregnancy and pregnancy disorders in association with autoimmune diseases.
El-Demerdash FE, Mohammed OA, Mohamed HH … +1 more , Doghish AS
Folia Microbiol (Praha) · 2026 Feb · PMID 41182672 · Publisher ↗
Pregnancy induces significant alterations in the maternal microbiome, which are critical for fetal development and maternal health. Gynecological diseases, along with infertility, have increased due to excessive personal...
Pregnancy induces significant alterations in the maternal microbiome, which are critical for fetal development and maternal health. Gynecological diseases, along with infertility, have increased due to excessive personal care product usage, which contains endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs). Mammalian immune systems develop during pregnancy and after birth owing to crucial inputs from the environment. The growing incidence of autoimmune diseases (AIMDs) emphasizes the need to understand the environmental elements that play a role in their development, with the microbiome emerging as a key player. Exposure to EDCs with oxidative stress (OS) induces microbiome disruptions to promote AIMDs and negatively impacts female reproductive health and fetuses. Because the body changes in a number of ways to provide ideal conditions for fetal growth, pregnancy is a special moment in a woman's life. All microorganisms undergo changes, and their quantity and composition vary over the three trimesters of pregnancy. Recent research suggests a connection between pregnancy issues and the microorganisms present during pregnancy. This review explores the pivotal role of the human microbiome in pregnancy health, emphasizing how microbiome dynamics influence immune development and long-term immunity in offspring. It examines the impact of environmental factors, particularly EDCs, on maternal microbiota and their association with pregnancy complications such as hypertensive disorders and autoimmune diseases. The manuscript highlights current research findings and discusses potential microbiome-targeted interventions to promote maternal and fetal well-being.
Microbe-based fluorescent sensor composite for drug delivery and hepatocellular carcinoma suppression.
Li L, Lu X, Liang L … +8 more , Qin F, Deng F, Huang J, Long C, Ma X, Li Q, Huang M, Lv J
Folia Microbiol (Praha) · 2025 Nov · PMID 41175282 · Publisher ↗
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains a major clinical challenge due to its late diagnosis and poor prognosis. To address these limitations, we developed a novel gefitinib derivative (DCQ-Me) and integrated it into a mu...
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains a major clinical challenge due to its late diagnosis and poor prognosis. To address these limitations, we developed a novel gefitinib derivative (DCQ-Me) and integrated it into a multifunctional fluorescent nanosystem, AL-STEROID-CHO@DCQ-ME, designed for both targeted drug delivery and real-time tumor detection. The system exhibits ratiometric fluorescence behavior, enabling sensitive detection of the HCC biomarker GP73 through a new emission signal at 500 nm and a quantifiable intensity ratio (F500/F410), with a detection limit of 0.189 mmol L⁻¹. In vitro assays further demonstrated that AL-STEROID-CHO@DCQ-ME significantly inhibits proliferation and induces apoptosis in HCC cells. These results underline the dual functionality of the platform, offering precise diagnostic readouts alongside therapeutic efficacy. Overall, this study introduces an innovative theranostic strategy with potential to improve early detection and personalized treatment of liver cancer.
Antimicrobial activity of gentamicin-conjugated monometallic and bimetallic nanoparticles against multidrug-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae strains.
Zakeer S, Amin ME, El-Sayyad GS … +3 more , Fathy RM, El-Batal AI, Enany S
Folia Microbiol (Praha) · 2025 Oct · PMID 41171502 · Publisher ↗
Multidrug-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae (MDR-KP) poses a significant clinical challenge due to limited therapeutic options and high mortality. This study investigated the antimicrobial efficacy of gamma-irradiation-syn...
Multidrug-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae (MDR-KP) poses a significant clinical challenge due to limited therapeutic options and high mortality. This study investigated the antimicrobial efficacy of gamma-irradiation-synthesized gentamicin-conjugated silver nanoparticles (Gent-Ag NPs), copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO NPs), and bimetallic Ag-CuO NPs against three MDR-KP isolates in comparison with the gamma-irradiated gentamicin alone. Gent-Ag, Gent-CuO, and bimetallic Gent-Ag-CuO NPs were synthesized via gamma-radiation-induced reduction and characterized by different analytical methods to confirm their shape, size, surface morphology, particle size distribution, and crystallinity using HRTEM, SEM, DLS, and XRD, respectively. Comparative analysis demonstrated that Gent-Ag NPs exhibited superior antimicrobial activity, while Gent-CuO NPs showed diminished efficacy. SEM imaging analysis showed that Gent-Ag-CuO NPs effectively damaged and weakened the bacterial surfaces. It should be noted that the complete lys of K. pneumoniae cells is depicted by the white holes seen inside the bacteria. These findings suggest potential therapeutic applications of Ag-based NPs against MDR-KP, warranting further validation with larger sample sizes.
Enhancing okra tolerance to salinity stress: role of PGPR and antioxidant enzymes.
Jose C, S S, G S S
Folia Microbiol (Praha) · 2025 Oct · PMID 41171501 · Publisher ↗
Salinity stress is a major constraint on global crop productivity, necessitating sustainable strategies to enhance plant resilience. Plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) with 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylate (ACC...
Salinity stress is a major constraint on global crop productivity, necessitating sustainable strategies to enhance plant resilience. Plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) with 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylate (ACC) deaminase activity have emerged as promising candidates for mitigating salt stress in crops. The present study evaluated the potential of PGPR isolates in improving salinity tolerance of okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.). Growth performance, chlorophyll content, and antioxidant enzyme activities-superoxide dismutase (SOD), ascorbate peroxidase (APX), and catalase (CAT)-were assessed under salinity stress conditions. PGPR inoculation significantly enhanced growth attributes, increased chlorophyll content, and improved antioxidant enzyme activity in stressed okra plants compared to uninoculated controls. Among the tested isolates, Caballeronia sp. AS11 showed the most pronounced improvement in plant growth and oxidative stress mitigation. These findings highlight the potential of ACC deaminase-producing PGPR, particularly Caballeronia sp. AS11, as bioinoculants for enhancing salinity tolerance in okra. The application of such beneficial microbes offers a sustainable approach to improve crop productivity in saline-prone environments.
Gut allies against metabolic disorders: the therapeutic promise of probiotics.
Ashaolu TJ, Le TD
Folia Microbiol (Praha) · 2026 Feb · PMID 41144158 · Publisher ↗
Metabolic disorders, including obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, represent a growing global health challenge driven by lifestyle, genetic, and environmental factors....
Metabolic disorders, including obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, represent a growing global health challenge driven by lifestyle, genetic, and environmental factors. Emerging evidence highlights the critical role of gut microbiota in metabolic regulation, with dysbiosis contributing to systemic inflammation, insulin resistance, and altered lipid metabolism. Probiotics have shown promise in modulating gut microbiota composition and function. Through mechanisms such as enhancing gut barrier integrity, producing beneficial metabolites (e.g., SCFAs), and modulating immune responses, specific probiotic strains can ameliorate metabolic dysfunction. This review synthesizes current findings on the role of probiotics in managing metabolic disorders, focusing on preclinical and clinical evidence, strain-specific effects, and mechanistic pathways. The potential of next-generation probiotics and synbiotic formulations is also discussed. While clinical outcomes are promising, variability in individual responses and lack of standardized protocols highlight the need for precision probiotic therapies, warranting further research and clinical integration.
Physalis peruviana and Lactobacillus lysates as modulators of lipid metabolism and oxidative stress: a natural alternative to statin therapy.
Almatrafi MM, Nada AH, Doghish AS … +11 more , Elebeedy D, Ghanem A, Fayad E, El-Mekkawy HI, Mohammed OA, Elkhawaga SY, Alshaya DS, Hadadi F, Alhomodi AF, Eldeen MA, Maksoud AIAE
Folia Microbiol (Praha) · 2025 Oct · PMID 41131220 · Publisher ↗
Hyperlipidemia is a major modifiable risk factor for atherosclerosis and coronary heart disease. Although effective, current pharmacological interventions such as statins are often limited by adverse effects, including m...
Hyperlipidemia is a major modifiable risk factor for atherosclerosis and coronary heart disease. Although effective, current pharmacological interventions such as statins are often limited by adverse effects, including muscular pain, gastrointestinal disturbances, and increased risk of insulin resistance. Consequently, there is a growing interest in exploring safer, natural alternatives that can modulate lipid metabolism with minimal side effects. This study aimed to investigate the synergistic hypolipidemic and antioxidant effects of a combined intervention using bacterial lysates derived from Lactobacillus casei and Lactobacillus acidophilus alongside an extract of Physalis peruviana in a rat model of diet-induced hyperlipidemia. Thirty male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly assigned to six experimental groups and treated for 7 weeks: (1) standard diet (normal control), (2) high-fat diet (HFD, hyperlipidemic control), (3) HFD + Physalis peruviana extract, (4) HFD + bacterial lysate mixture, (5) HFD + Physalis peruviana extract and bacterial lysate mixture, and (6) HFD + atorvastatin (reference drug). Lipid profiles, liver and kidney function markers, and hepatic antioxidant levels were assessed. Histopathological analyses of cardiac and hepatic tissues were also conducted. The combination of bacterial lysates and Physalis peruviana extract significantly reduced (p < 0.05) body weight, total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) while significantly increasing (p < 0.05) high-density lipoprotein (HDL). This treatment also led to notable improvements in hepatic and renal function markers and enhanced hepatic antioxidant activity. Histological examination revealed reduced inflammation in cardiac and hepatic tissues of the combination-treated group, comparable to the effects observed with atorvastatin. The co-administration of Lactobacillus bacterial lysates and Physalis peruviana extract exhibited pronounced hypolipidemic and antioxidant effects, effectively mitigating diet-induced hyperlipidemia and associated organ dysfunction. These findings highlight the potential of this natural therapeutic approach as a functional alternative to conventional lipid-lowering agents in managing hyperlipidemia.
Therapeutic advances in the fight against microbial resistance: innovative strategies and future challenges.
de Araújo JM, Dos Santos ANS, da Silva Bezerra BJ … +6 more , de Souza Silva VC, da Silva WSFL, de Barros AV, de Farias PAM, Coutinho HDM, de Melo Oliveira MB
Folia Microbiol (Praha) · 2026 Feb · PMID 41131219 · Publisher ↗
Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) is characterized by the reduced effectiveness of antibiotics due to the adaptation of microorganisms, which limits therapeutic options and increases the severity of infections. This paper a...
Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) is characterized by the reduced effectiveness of antibiotics due to the adaptation of microorganisms, which limits therapeutic options and increases the severity of infections. This paper aims to discuss therapeutic advances in combating AMR, highlighting innovative strategies, future challenges, and the importance of raising public awareness about the responsible use of antibiotics. This narrative review is based on studies from databases such as the National Library of Medicine, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, Web of Science, Scopus, and the Virtual Health Library, using targeted descriptors. The findings emphasize the historical shift from the pre-antibiotic era, marked by high mortality rates, to the antibiotic era, now confronted by the escalating challenge of resistance. Notable innovative strategies include the use of light-based therapies and photosensitizing agents to eradicate bacteria, the application of antimicrobial gases such as nitric oxide and ozone to reduce bacterial loads, and the development of bioactive molecules and cutting-edge technologies aimed at directly targeting resistant pathogens. Advancing these novel therapies, along with raising public awareness about the responsible use of antibiotics, is crucial to curbing the threat of AMR and safeguarding global health.
Structure-guided discovery and validation of a potent RamR inhibitor targeting efflux-mediated multidrug resistance in Salmonella typhimurium.
Agrawal GP, Alam MS, Alotaibi F … +6 more , Alqarni MH, Foudah AI, Alam A, Al Shehri ZS, Alkhoshaiban AS, Alshehri FF
Folia Microbiol (Praha) · 2025 Oct · PMID 41125999 · Publisher ↗
The emergence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) strains of Salmonella typhimurium (S. typhimurium) causes a significant global health challenge and underscores the need to develop potential antimicrobial agents. Here, we cons...
The emergence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) strains of Salmonella typhimurium (S. typhimurium) causes a significant global health challenge and underscores the need to develop potential antimicrobial agents. Here, we considered RamR, the major transcriptional repressor of the AcrAB-TolC efflux pump system, to identify promising inhibitors that can restore antibiotic susceptibility. We adopted an integrated computational-experimental research strategy that involved in silico screening of a structurally diverse compound database. The top four candidates (144095451, 17515455, 26648946, and 26648774) were selected for detailed analysis, which included re-docking, molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, binding free energy calculations, and free energy landscape analysis mapping. Density functional theory (DFT) was employed to explain the electronic properties and chemical reactivity of these molecules. To enhance the predictive accuracy of inhibitory potency (pIC₅₀), a machine learning (ML) regression model was developed, in which the ExtraTrees algorithm demonstrated high performance (R = 0.975). Among the top-ranked compounds, 144095451 emerged as the most promising RamR inhibitor, as indicated by both computational predictions and ML modelling. Experimental verification with isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC) confirmed strong binding affinity (Ka = 5.43 × 10⁶ M⁻; ΔH = -53.18 kcal/mol; stoichiometry n = 1.74) of 144095451. Antimicrobial profiling also established its efficacy, with a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 121.65 ± 0.5 µg/mL and a zone of inhibition of 18.54 ± 0.76. These results highlight compound 144095451 as a promising RamR-targeted antimicrobial lead. This research highlights the potential of the combinatorial approach, which utilizes computational screening, structural dynamics, machine learning-based biological activity prediction, and experimental confirmation of candidate molecules against multidrug-resistant S. typhimurium.
The role of rapid molecular diagnostics in managing bloodstream infections: a microbiological insight.
Gupta J, Gataa IS, Sawaran Singh NS … +7 more , PadmaPriya G, Ray S, Pal A, Arora V, Smerat A, Abilkasimov A, Latipova M
Folia Microbiol (Praha) · 2026 Feb · PMID 41108514 · Publisher ↗
Bloodstream infections (BSIs) represent a significant clinical challenge due to their high morbidity and mortality rates, compounded by the increasing prevalence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Even though they are re...
Bloodstream infections (BSIs) represent a significant clinical challenge due to their high morbidity and mortality rates, compounded by the increasing prevalence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Even though they are regarded as the gold standard, traditional diagnostic techniques like blood cultures frequently have low sensitivity and delayed findings. Rapid molecular diagnostics (RMDs) have completely changed how BSIs are identified and treated. By using cutting-edge methods like next-generation sequencing (NGS), loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP), polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and microarray-based approaches, RMDs allow for the quick, precise, and thorough identification of pathogens and resistance markers straight from blood samples. By drastically cutting down on diagnostic delays, these technologies enable early targeted therapy start, better clinical results, and less need on broad-spectrum antibiotics, which are the primary cause of AMR. Additionally, advancements like NGS improve diagnostic accuracy by offering profound insights into pathogen genomes, virulence factors, and resistance mechanisms. Barriers including high prices, integration difficulties, and the requirement for specialized knowledge prevent them from being widely adopted, despite their transformational potential. Nevertheless, these issues are being addressed by continuous developments in automation and point-of-care (POC) systems, which should make RMDs more affordable and widely available. In order to improve therapeutic accuracy, reduce AMR, and advance infection control techniques, this research emphasizes the crucial role that RMDs play in the management of BSI. In order to improve customized medicine strategies, future initiatives include streamlining diagnostic processes and combining molecular diagnostics with clinical decision support technologies.
Impact of ompK35 and ompK36 downregulation on antibiotic resistance in clinical carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae isolates.
Kalantar-Neyestanaki D, Aslani S, Karimitabar S … +4 more , Hosseini SM, Ziasistani M, Rastegar S, Kiaei M
Folia Microbiol (Praha) · 2025 Oct · PMID 41105373 · Publisher ↗
The increase in the prevalence of carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae strains (CRKP) has led to higher mortality and hospitalization of patients in health care facilities. This study investigates the resistance in...
The increase in the prevalence of carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae strains (CRKP) has led to higher mortality and hospitalization of patients in health care facilities. This study investigates the resistance in CRKP, highlighting the involvement of carbapenemases, extended-spectrum β-lactamases (ESBLs), and AmpC β-lactamases, alongside the contribution of ompK35 and ompK36 porin genes in diminished antibiotic susceptibility. In the present study, 44 CRKP isolates were obtained from clinical samples, and antimicrobial susceptibility of isolates was determined. The presence of ESBLs, carbapenemase, and AmpC β-lactamases was identified through phenotypic testing. The ompK35 and ompK36 genes were identified using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique, while their expression levels were evaluated through quantitative real-time PCR (q-PCR). ESBLs, carbapenemases, and AmpC β-lactamases were identified in 75%, 84%, and 13.6% of the isolates, respectively. The ompK35 was detected in 59.1% and ompK36 was detected in 56.8% of the CRKP isolates. A decresing in the expression of ompK35 and ompK36 was associated with elevated minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) for cefotaxime and cefepime, although no correlation was observed with imipenem. The high prevalence of ESBLs and carbapenemase production and the decreased expression of ompK35 and ompK36 correlated with decreased susceptibility to cefepime and cefotaxime, highlighting the co-exist of different of mechanisms resistance in CRKP. These results emphasize the necessity for continued surveillance and developing specific therapeutic strategies to tackle CRKP infections effectively.
Nisin: The powerhouse metabolite of lactobacillus strains to defeat prostate cancer by targeting PCA3 lncRNA, apoptosis, and cell cycle pathways.
Zhao R, Liu W, Wang K … +2 more , Li H, Li H
Folia Microbiol (Praha) · 2025 Oct · PMID 41105372 · Publisher ↗
Prostate cancer remains a major global health challenge, driving the need for innovative therapies. Nisin, an antimicrobial peptide from Lactobacillus lactis, has shown anticancer effects in various malignancies, yet its...
Prostate cancer remains a major global health challenge, driving the need for innovative therapies. Nisin, an antimicrobial peptide from Lactobacillus lactis, has shown anticancer effects in various malignancies, yet its impact on prostate cancer and the prostate cancer antigen 3 (PCA3) long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) remains unstudied. This research aimed to investigate nisin's anticancer properties in prostate cancer cells, focusing on PCA3 lncRNA, apoptosis, and cell cycle pathways. Human prostate adenocarcinoma (LNCaP) and normal human foreskin fibroblast (HFF2) cells were treated with nisin. Cell viability was measured using MTT assays, while apoptosis and cell cycle progression were assessed via flow cytometry. Quantitative PCR (qPCR) evaluated gene expression of PCA3 lncRNA, apoptosis-related genes, cell cycle regulators, and PCA3-associated microRNAs and mRNAs. In-silico analysis of TCGA-PRAD data explored PCA3's regulatory network. Nisin selectively reduced LNCaP cell viability (IC₅₀: 370.7 μM at 24 h, 177.2 μM at 48 h) compared to HFF2 cells (IC₅₀: 887.8 μM at 24 h, 406.5 μM at 48 h). It induced time-dependent apoptosis and G1 phase cell cycle arrest in LNCaP cells. Nisin downregulated PCA3 lncRNA expression, upregulated miR-132-3p and miR-1261, and altered SREBP1 and PRKD3 gene expression, modulating the PCA3 regulatory network. This study is the first to explore nisin's anticancer effects in prostate cancer, uniquely targeting PCA3 lncRNA and its downstream regulatory pathways. Nisin demonstrates potent anticancer effects in prostate cancer cells by inducing apoptosis, arresting cell cycle progression, and modulating the PCA3 lncRNA network, suggesting its potential as a novel therapeutic agent.
Modeling and optimization of acid hydrolysis for spirulina-based ethanol production by response surface methodology and neural network techniques.
S KM, V S, Vaibhav NH … +5 more , Sinha S, Manian R, Geca MJ, Ranjitha J, Kasianantham N
Folia Microbiol (Praha) · 2025 Oct · PMID 41099791 · Publisher ↗
The main aim of this study was to evaluate the optimum conditions for extracting the total reducing sugar content for bioethanol production using spirulina algae. The spirulina algae was pretreated using microwave-assist...
The main aim of this study was to evaluate the optimum conditions for extracting the total reducing sugar content for bioethanol production using spirulina algae. The spirulina algae was pretreated using microwave-assisted acid hydrolysis, and the parameters were optimized using response surface methodology (RSM). The selected independent parameters were microwave power (250-350 W), sulfuric acid concentration (1-7%), and time duration (1-5 min). The results showed that a maximum reducing sugar concentration of 3.8 mg/mL was produced at optimum conditions. ANOVA and R-squared (R) value (99.87%) show the model was significant (p value is < 0.0001). Additionally, a study on optimization and modeling was conducted utilizing response surface methodology (RSM) as well as artificial neural networks (ANN) to evaluate the impact of temperature (30-40 °C), concentration of inoculum (1-5 g/L), and fermentation duration (12-45 h). This comparative assessment showed that the highest ethanol concentration of 1.824 g/L was achieved under optimal conditions of 30 °C, 5 g/L inoculum concentration, and 28.5 h duration, as determined by the high-performance liquid chromatography method. Finally, it is suggested that the RSM approach demonstrated superior performance with a higher R value (97.42%), p value is < 0.0001 (significant), and a lower mean square error (MSE) of 0.0065 compared to the ANN model.
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