Journal Description
Microbiology Research
Microbiology Research
is an international, scientific, peer-reviewed open access journal published quarterly online by MDPI (from Volume 11 Issue 2-2020).
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, ESCI (Web of Science), Embase, and other databases.
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 16.7 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 3.5 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the first half of 2024).
- Recognition of Reviewers: APC discount vouchers, optional signed peer review, and reviewer names published annually in the journal.
Impact Factor:
2.1 (2023);
5-Year Impact Factor:
2.0 (2023)
Latest Articles
Dietary Administration Effects of Microbial Exopolysaccharide from Bacillus subtilis P1 on Growth Performance and Immunity in Nile Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus)
Microbiol. Res. 2024, 15(4), 2210-2231; https://doi.org/10.3390/microbiolres15040148 - 28 Oct 2024
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Exopolysaccharide (EPS)-producing bacteria were isolated from the intestines of freshwater fish as prebiotics. Among the isolates, Bacillus sp. P1 was the potent EPS producer, with a high EPS production, and was then identified as Bacillus subtilis P1 based on 16S rRNA and biochemical
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Exopolysaccharide (EPS)-producing bacteria were isolated from the intestines of freshwater fish as prebiotics. Among the isolates, Bacillus sp. P1 was the potent EPS producer, with a high EPS production, and was then identified as Bacillus subtilis P1 based on 16S rRNA and biochemical characteristics. The produced microbial EPS was characterized by its functional groups by FTIR, showing a 90.20% correlation to inulin, while the EPS molecular weight was approximately 105 Da with a high PDI (>1.5). Moreover, the EPS from B. subtilis P1 was assessed for prebiotic properties by growing probiotic bacteria, and significant cell growth occurred in sugar-free TSB with 0.5% EPS (p < 0.05). EPS exhibited approximately 55.37% DPPH radical scavenging at 20 mg/mL and inhibited certain fish pathogens at 400 μg/mL (10–13 mm inhibition zone). Low EPS cytotoxicity was confirmed (<1% hemolysis) prior to use as immunobiotics in Nile Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) diet supplementation. Nile tilapia growth and immune response were monitored after feeding with control (C), basal diet (BD), and treatment (T): BD + EPS 5 g/kg. In the T-group, the weight gain (WG), % specific growth rate (SGR), and average daily gain (ADG) significantly increased compared to the control (p < 0.05) by week 4, with no negative effects on blood chemistry parameters. Lysozyme activity and respiratory burst activity in T-groups were significantly higher than the control (p < 0.05), with a 50% RLP survival rate of Nile Tilapia infected by Aeromonas veronii in the T-group after a two-week challenge. On the other hand, the proximate analysis revealed higher protein content in the T-group. These findings suggest that EPS from B. subtilis P1 in fish diets efficiently supports fish growth and stimulates innate immune response in Nile Tilapia, thus showing potential as the immunobiotics for aquaculture.
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Open AccessReview
Alteration of the Intestinal Bacterial Community in Rainbow Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss): The Role of Animal, Plant, and Microbial Diets
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Aleksandra S. Chervochkina, Nadezhda O. Pastukhova and Andrey S. Aksenov
Microbiol. Res. 2024, 15(4), 2199-2209; https://doi.org/10.3390/microbiolres15040147 - 26 Oct 2024
Abstract
Intestinal bacterial community in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) is increasingly recognized as important for aquaculture and fish health. This review summarizes the current knowledge on how various feed components, including animal- and plant-derived ingredients, as well as other feed additives, influence
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Intestinal bacterial community in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) is increasingly recognized as important for aquaculture and fish health. This review summarizes the current knowledge on how various feed components, including animal- and plant-derived ingredients, as well as other feed additives, influence the gut microbiota of rainbow trout. Studies using 16S rRNA gene profiling and metagenomics demonstrate how dietary changes affect the composition, diversity, and functionality of bacterial communities. The findings suggest that there is no single optimal alternative ingredient for fish feeds, but emphasize that the ratio of natural components plays a more significant role in shaping the intestinal bacterial community of trout. This balance is crucial for maintaining diversity, functionality, and overall fish health, thereby promoting growth and disease resistance, while enhancing aquaculture efficiency. The use of popular animal protein derived from the larva of Hermetia illucens increases the amount of Pseudomonadota, but the chitin they contain can prevent the absorption of nutrients. Thus, the development of optimal feed formulas requires careful selection and balancing of various natural ingredients to sustain a healthy microbiota and overall fish well-being.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Veterinary Microbiology and Diagnostics)
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Open AccessArticle
Blood Parasites (Haemosporida, Trypanosomatida) in Culex pipiens: A Study and Review of Hibernating and Active Mosquitoes
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Kristina Valavičiūtė-Pocienė, Margarita Kazak, Tatjana Jezhova, Gabrielė Kalinauskaitė and Rasa Bernotienė
Microbiol. Res. 2024, 15(4), 2184-2198; https://doi.org/10.3390/microbiolres15040146 - 25 Oct 2024
Abstract
Culex pipiens mosquitoes (Diptera: Culicidae) are widespread during warm periods and actively feed on blood while serving as vectors for various human and animal pathogens. Culex mosquitoes overwinter as adults in temperate zones, raising the question of whether hibernating Cx. pipiens can act
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Culex pipiens mosquitoes (Diptera: Culicidae) are widespread during warm periods and actively feed on blood while serving as vectors for various human and animal pathogens. Culex mosquitoes overwinter as adults in temperate zones, raising the question of whether hibernating Cx. pipiens can act as pathogen reservoirs. In this study, hibernating mosquitoes and mosquitoes collected during the warm season were tested for the presence of trypanosomatids and avian haemosporidian parasites using PCR. Midgut preparations were made from Cx. pipiens females in order to search for trypanosomatids morphologically. In total, 1037 Cx. pipiens mosquitoes (556 collected during the warm season and 481 overwintering mosquitos) were investigated. The parasite prevalence differed for mosquitoes collected during the warm season and hibernating ones for both Haemosporida (2.9% in warm-season and no infections in overwintering mosquitoes) and Trypanosomatida (1.6% and 0.4%, respectively) parasites. A phylogenetic analysis confirmed that the trypanosomatids found in hibernating mosquitoes were monoxenous and were not parasites of vertebrates. The peak prevalence of Haemosporida parasites was detected in July (4.9%) and August (2.8%), and for Trypanosomatida, it was detected in May (3.5%). The results of the present study show that overwintering Cx. pipiens mosquitoes are questionable reservoirs for avian haemosporidian parasites, but some monoxenous trypanosomatids can be found in overwintering females.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Veterinary Microbiology and Diagnostics)
Open AccessReview
Algorithms for Effector Prediction in Plant Pathogens and Pests: Achievements and Current Challenges
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César De los Santos-Briones, Karla Gisel Carreón-Anguiano, Sara E. Vila-Luna, Jewel Nicole Anna Todd, Ignacio Islas-Flores, Luis Sáenz-Carbonell, Pablo Alejandro Gamas-Trujillo and Blondy Canto-Canché
Microbiol. Res. 2024, 15(4), 2162-2183; https://doi.org/10.3390/microbiolres15040145 - 24 Oct 2024
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Effectors are key organism-associated molecules that aid in the establishment of interactions with other organisms. Effectoromics has become an important area of research in phytopathology. The lack of sequence conservation among effectors, even in closely related organisms, has led us to believe that
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Effectors are key organism-associated molecules that aid in the establishment of interactions with other organisms. Effectoromics has become an important area of research in phytopathology. The lack of sequence conservation among effectors, even in closely related organisms, has led us to believe that effectors from organisms of different kingdoms are completely unrelated, which has fostered the independent development of effector identification strategies in bacteria, fungi, phytoplasmas, etc. This review focuses on the different algorithms available for effector identification in different plant pathogens and pests, using the following classification: (1) translocated effectors (bacteria, oomycete) and (2) secreted effectors (phytoplasmas, fungi, insects, nematodes). The objective of this type of classification is to identify, for the first time, the common features that exist among these organisms to streamline future effectoromics identification strategies. Among the organisms’ commonalities, certain bacteria, fungi, phytoplasmas, and nematodes may cause similar symptoms, and some of their effectors may target the same proteins or biological processes in the plant hosts. The integration of effector analyses of organisms of different living kingdoms, through the identification of common short linear motifs, domains, and three-dimensional structures, may aid in the development of novel algorithms for effectoromics. Future algorithms may contemplate these highlighted features and will be better equipped to identify not only canonical effectors but highly elusive non-canonical effectors as well.
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Open AccessReview
Fungal Extracellular Vesicles: Isolation, Characterization, and the Immune System Response
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Marcelo Augusto Kazuo Ikeda, Renato Massis Souza Campos, Jennifer Lacerda Da Silva and Karen Spadari Ferreira
Microbiol. Res. 2024, 15(4), 2146-2161; https://doi.org/10.3390/microbiolres15040144 - 22 Oct 2024
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Like other organisms, fungi produce extracellular vesicles (EVs) that are involved in various biological processes, including intercellular communication and the transport of molecules between cells. These EVs can be applied in fungal pathogenesis, virulence, and interactions with other organisms, including host cells, in
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Like other organisms, fungi produce extracellular vesicles (EVs) that are involved in various biological processes, including intercellular communication and the transport of molecules between cells. These EVs can be applied in fungal pathogenesis, virulence, and interactions with other organisms, including host cells, in the case of fungal infections. While some types of mycoses are relatively common and easily treatable, certain neglected mycoses pose significant public health challenges, such as sporotrichosis, chromoblastomycosis, and paracoccidioidomycosis. These infectious diseases can cause significant morbidity and disability, leading to a reduced quality of life for the patients. So, research about the virulence factor is essential to understand how fungi escape the immune system. In this context, this manuscript reviews the study of fungal EVs, their cargo, how they are obtained, and their role during the infectious process, which is extremely important for understanding this neglected mycosis.
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Open AccessArticle
Development of a Quadruplex RT-qPCR for the Detection of Feline Kobuvirus, Feline Astrovirus, Feline Bufavirus, and Feline Rotavirus
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Kaichuang Shi, Mengyi He, Feng Long, Junxian He, Yanwen Yin, Shuping Feng and Zongqiang Li
Microbiol. Res. 2024, 15(4), 2129-2145; https://doi.org/10.3390/microbiolres15040143 - 21 Oct 2024
Abstract
Feline kobuvirus (FeKoV), feline astrovirus (FeAstV), feline bufavirus (FeBuV), and feline rotavirus (FRV) are important pathogens for gastroenteritis, which is characterized by vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration. Four pairs of primers and probes were designed to target the FeKoV VP1, FeAstV ORF2, FeBuV VP2,
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Feline kobuvirus (FeKoV), feline astrovirus (FeAstV), feline bufavirus (FeBuV), and feline rotavirus (FRV) are important pathogens for gastroenteritis, which is characterized by vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration. Four pairs of primers and probes were designed to target the FeKoV VP1, FeAstV ORF2, FeBuV VP2, and FRV NSP4 genes, and a quadruplex real-time quantitative RT-PCR (RT-qPCR) assay capable of the simultaneous detection of four feline enteroviruses was developed after optimization of reaction conditions. The established quadruplex RT-qPCR assay showed high specificity, sensitivity, and reproducibility. The assay could detect and discriminate FeKoV, FeAstV, FeBuV, and FRV, but not other feline-related pathogens. The limits of detection (LODs) of FeKoV, FeAstV, FeBuV, and FRV were 109.761, 115.834, 125.481, and 113.875 copies/reaction, respectively. The intra- and inter-assay coefficients of variation (CV) were 0.15–1.61% and 0.15–1.59%, respectively. In all, 1869 clinical samples from Guangxi province in Southern China were tested using the developed assay, and the positivity rates of FeKoV, FeAstV, FeBuV, and FRV were 1.93%, 9.36%, 0.32%, and 0.75%, respectively. These samples were also tested using reference assays, and the coincidence rates of the results between the developed and reference methods were 99.63% (FeKoV), 98.72% (FeAstV), 100% (FeBuV), and 100% (FRV), respectively. The results indicated that the developed assay could provide a new detection method for these four viruses associated with feline gastroenteritis.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Veterinary Microbiology and Diagnostics)
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Open AccessArticle
Identification of Listeria Isolates by Using a Pragmatic Multilocus Phylogenetic Analysis
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Antonio Martínez-Murcia, Aaron Navarro and Caridad Miró-Pina
Microbiol. Res. 2024, 15(4), 2114-2128; https://doi.org/10.3390/microbiolres15040142 - 14 Oct 2024
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Species identification of Listeria isolates remained a tedious process still based on culturing methods that, in recent years, have led to the description of many species that are not even part of the genus Listeria. It is advisable to provide new precise
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Species identification of Listeria isolates remained a tedious process still based on culturing methods that, in recent years, have led to the description of many species that are not even part of the genus Listeria. It is advisable to provide new precise techniques since this taxon includes two pathogens that are usually transmitted through the food chain, Listeria monocytogenes and L. ivanovii. The approach, so-called multilocus phylogenetic analysis (MLPA) that uses several concatenated housekeeping gene sequences, provides accurate and affordable classification frameworks to easily identify Listeria species by simple Sanger sequencing. Fragments of seven housekeeping genes (gyrA, cpn60, parE, recA, rpoB, atpA, and gyrB) from 218 strains of all Listeria species currently described were used to build an MLPA of the concatenated sequence, a total of 4375 bp. All isolates subjected to identification were clustered within the species of Listeria sensu stricto, L. monocytogenes, L. innocua, and L. welshimeri, and some reference strains were reclassified as L. ivanovii and L. seeligeri. Housekeeping-gene sequencing has been demonstrated to represent a pragmatic tool that can be firmly considered in food control.
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Open AccessArticle
Probiotic Enterococcus faecium CRL 183 Inhibits Candida albicans Biofilm In Vitro
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Virgínia Barreto Lordello, Sarah Raquel de Annunzio, Eliane Vale da Silva, Maria Pía Taranto, Carla Raquel Fontana and Daniela Cardoso Umbelino Cavallini
Microbiol. Res. 2024, 15(4), 2102-2113; https://doi.org/10.3390/microbiolres15040141 - 13 Oct 2024
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Candida albicans is the most prevalent fungal microorganism of human microbiota and one of the few fungi capable of causing diseases in humans, depending on the host’s immune defense capacity. The similarity between fungal and host cells promotes several adverse effects during antifungal
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Candida albicans is the most prevalent fungal microorganism of human microbiota and one of the few fungi capable of causing diseases in humans, depending on the host’s immune defense capacity. The similarity between fungal and host cells promotes several adverse effects during antifungal pharmacotherapy, and antimicrobial resistance increase is a major concern. Therefore, the search for alternative treatments and prevention strategies is urgent. In this context, probiotic bacteria, such as the strain Enterococcus faecium CRL 183, seem to be a viable alternative with its benefits to the immune system, activity against pathogens, and safety use well-documented through in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate if this probiotic strain prevents C. albicans ATCC 90028 biofilm colonization in vitro. To test the anti-Candida activity of the probiotic strain E. faecium CRL 183, we combined polymicrobial biofilms (C. albicans + E. faecium) with different proportions of fungi: a probiotic was formed (1:1, 1:10, 1:100) during the formation (24 h) and maturation (48 h) periods of the biofilm. The results show that E. faecium established itself with C. albicans in polymicrobial biofilms without losing its cellular viability. The probiotic strain significantly antagonized (p < 0.0001) C. albicans biofilm formation (up to 99.9% reduction in 24 h) and maturation (up to 99.43% reduction in 48 h). According to these results, E. faecium CRL183 may be a promising resource to prevent the formation of fungal biofilms.
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Open AccessArticle
Antibacterial and Antioxidant Activities of Flavonoids, Phenolic and Flavonoid Glycosides from Gouania longispicata Leaves
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Hannington Gumisiriza, Eunice Apio Olet, Lydia Mwikali, Racheal Akatuhebwa, Timothy Omara, Julius Bunny Lejju and Duncan Crispin Sesaazi
Microbiol. Res. 2024, 15(4), 2085-2101; https://doi.org/10.3390/microbiolres15040140 - 11 Oct 2024
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The leaves of Gouania longispicata Engl. (GLE) have been traditionally used to treat more than forty ailments in Uganda, including stomachache, lung and skin cancers, syphilis, toothache, and allergies. In this study, pure compounds were isolated from the methanolic extract of GLE leaves
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The leaves of Gouania longispicata Engl. (GLE) have been traditionally used to treat more than forty ailments in Uganda, including stomachache, lung and skin cancers, syphilis, toothache, and allergies. In this study, pure compounds were isolated from the methanolic extract of GLE leaves and their structures elucidated using ultraviolet visible spectroscopy, liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry, high performance liquid chromatography, and 1D and 2D NMR techniques. The antibacterial and antioxidant activities of the compounds were assessed using the broth dilution and DPPH assays, respectively. Two known flavonoid glycosides (kaempferol-3-O-α-rhamnopyranoside and rutin), a phenolic glycoside (4,6-dihydroxy-3-methylacetophenone-2-O-β-D-glucopyranoside), and flavonoids (kaempferol and quercetin) were characterized. This is the first time that the kaempferol derivative, the acetophenone as well as free forms of quercetin, kaempferol, and rutin, are being reported in GLE and the Gouania genus. The compounds exhibited antibacterial activity against Streptococcus pneumoniae and Escherichia coli with minimum inhibitory concentrations between 16 µg/mL and 125 µg/mL. The radical scavenging activities recorded half-minimum inhibitory concentrations (IC50) ranging from 18.6 ± 1.30 µg/mL to 28.1 ± 0.09 µg/mL. The IC50 of kaempferol and quercetin were not significantly different from that of ascorbic acid (p > 0.05), highlighting their potential as natural antioxidant agents. These results lend credence to the use of GLE leaves in herbal treatment of microbial infections and oxidative stress-mediated ailments.
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Open AccessArticle
Microbial Consortia in the Remediation of Single-Use Waste: The Case of Face Masks
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María del Refugio Castañeda Chávez, Luz María Campos García, Christian Reyes Velázquez, Fabiola Lango Reynoso, David Reynier Valdés, Isabel Araceli Amaro Espejo and Gabycarmen Navarrete Rodríguez
Microbiol. Res. 2024, 15(4), 2070-2084; https://doi.org/10.3390/microbiolres15040139 - 7 Oct 2024
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This study presents the results of evaluating hydrocarbonoclastic consortia in the biodegradation of microplastics derived from single-use, triple-layered polypropylene face masks. The choice of this carbon source was driven by the need to address the increase in single-use waste generated during the recent
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This study presents the results of evaluating hydrocarbonoclastic consortia in the biodegradation of microplastics derived from single-use, triple-layered polypropylene face masks. The choice of this carbon source was driven by the need to address the increase in single-use waste generated during the recent SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, as the use of face masks was a mandatory protective measure. Two bubble column bioreactors were used, each containing hydrocarbonoclastic consortia sourced from the Port of Veracruz and the Gulf of Mexico. The biodegradation activity of these consortia was assessed by observing the physical appearance of microplastic samples under a stereoscope and a microscope, as well as by calculating the weight loss of polypropylene after 15 days. The results revealed that the consortium from the Gulf of Mexico, with a maturity of 1 year, showed a higher capacity for polypropylene biodegradation, achieving a 19.98% degradation rate. This consortium also demonstrated more stable kinetics during the experimentation period. In contrast, the younger consortium from the Port of Veracruz exhibited a lower biodegradation rate of 3.77% and variable growth kinetics. Hydrocarbonoclastic bacteria identified within the consortia included Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Enterococcus faecalis, and Vibrio parahaemolyticus, among others. The hydrocarbonoclastic consortia have the potential to biodegrade from various forms of plastic waste, including single-use face masks.
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Open AccessReview
Microalgal Metabolomes and Recent Biotechnological Advances for Their Industrial Application
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Dinesh Kumar Saini, Geetanjali Manchanda, Ratiram Gomaji Chaudhary and Raghvendra Pratap Singh
Microbiol. Res. 2024, 15(4), 2056-2069; https://doi.org/10.3390/microbiolres15040138 - 5 Oct 2024
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In recent decades, microalgae have emerged as new sustainable resources for the production of various bioactive and biochemical compounds. These organisms are photosynthetic, use CO2 as their sole carbon source, and grow rapidly under different environmental conditions. This makes microalgae a promising
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In recent decades, microalgae have emerged as new sustainable resources for the production of various bioactive and biochemical compounds. These organisms are photosynthetic, use CO2 as their sole carbon source, and grow rapidly under different environmental conditions. This makes microalgae a promising source of feedstock for many bio-commodities. However, the economic viability for large-scale production through microalgal cells is limited to certain organisms. Recent advances in omics technologies, along with high-throughput approaches, have provided new insights for understanding microalgal metabolites. With the improvement in metabolomic technology, sensitivity for the detection of cellular metabolites has increased, and it has directly enhanced our understanding of cellular metabolism and the corresponding metabolic pathways. Moreover, these metabolic techniques, along with other omics technologies, help us to characterize the changes in the cellular functioning of the different cells under environmental conditions. Metabolomic research on microalgae explores new metabolites and the understanding of their biosynthesis at the metabolic level. In this review, we discuss how these metabolomics techniques are applied to microalgae to study their metabolic networks. Additionally, we also discuss how integrating other tools of systems biology can improve the productivity of microalgal cells, especially for industrially important commodities.
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Open AccessCommunication
Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Properties of Hawthorn Vinegar
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Kaixiang Jia, Song Xue, Yangyang Du, Lianci Peng, Weifeng Chen, Xiaoying Yu, Xuefeng Cao, Rendong Fang and Zhiwei Li
Microbiol. Res. 2024, 15(4), 2048-2055; https://doi.org/10.3390/microbiolres15040137 - 4 Oct 2024
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This study investigated the antimicrobial and antioxidant properties of hawthorn vinegar. The antimicrobial activity was evaluated against Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, and Bacillus subtilis using the filter paper disc method. Antioxidant capacity was assessed through DPPH, hydroxyl, and superoxide
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This study investigated the antimicrobial and antioxidant properties of hawthorn vinegar. The antimicrobial activity was evaluated against Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, and Bacillus subtilis using the filter paper disc method. Antioxidant capacity was assessed through DPPH, hydroxyl, and superoxide anion radical scavenging assays. The results show that hawthorn vinegar exhibited inhibitory effects against all tested microorganisms, with the most potent activity against Salmonella. The vinegar extract demonstrated considerable antioxidant potential, with maximum scavenging rates of 71%, 82.2%, and 81.3% for DPPH, hydroxyl, and superoxide anion radicals, respectively. These findings suggest that hawthorn vinegar possesses notable antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, warranting further investigation for potential applications in food preservation and health promotion.
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Open AccessArticle
Infection Frequency and Allelic Variants of Toxoplasma gondii in Wildlife from the Panama Canal Zone
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Evelyn Henríquez-Carrizo, Hector Cruz, Alessandra Jurado, Diorene Smith, Delba Villalobos-Cerrud, Lorena Fábrega, Carolina de la Guardia, Ryan Cano, Ricardo Correa, Edy Frías, Anabel Argelis García, Nivia Ríos, Nidia Sandoval, Alex O. Martínez Torres, Armando Castillo-Pimentel and Zuleima E. Caballero
Microbiol. Res. 2024, 15(4), 2035-2047; https://doi.org/10.3390/microbiolres15040136 - 4 Oct 2024
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Panama has a large number of wild animal species, which could host a highly diverse amount of genetic variants of Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii). In this context, we highlight the importance of understanding the population structure of T. gondii in Panamanian
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Panama has a large number of wild animal species, which could host a highly diverse amount of genetic variants of Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii). In this context, we highlight the importance of understanding the population structure of T. gondii in Panamanian wildlife and the genetic variants that can be rapidly transferred to domestic environments. This study analyzed the infection frequency and allelic composition of T. gondii in different tissue samples from wild animals. The infection frequency was measured by the PCR technique using the B1 gene as a molecular marker. The results showed a high frequency (65.6%) of infection in tissue samples collected from 221 wild animals. Stratified analyses for bird and mammal samples showed positivity rates of 67.2% and 70.12%, respectively, with no statistically significant differences. Infection frequency was also measured in five types of organs (brain, liver, heart, lung, and skeletal muscle), which showed homogeneous frequencies. The genetic diversity of the T. gondii population contained in the tissues of wild animals was analyzed by the Multilocus Polymerase Chain Reaction-Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) technique, using five genes called SAG1, SAG2, SAG3, GRA6, and Apico. This analysis revealed the presence of alleles of these genes corresponding to T. gondii lineages I, II, and III. Allele III was only identified with the Apico gene in a single reptile individual analyzed. Our findings indicated diverse allelic distribution at the analyzed loci, suggesting that the tissues were probably infected by non-archetypal individuals of T. gondii.
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Open AccessArticle
Prevalence and Antimicrobial Susceptibility Patterns of Wound and Pus Bacterial Pathogens at a Tertiary Care Hospital in Central Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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Fizza Khalid, Christy Poulose, Dalal Farah Mousa Farah, Abid Mahmood, Azza Elsheikh and Osamah T. Khojah
Microbiol. Res. 2024, 15(4), 2015-2034; https://doi.org/10.3390/microbiolres15040135 - 2 Oct 2024
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The long history and extensive use of antibiotics have caused resistant bacterial pathogens to emerge, increasing mortality and morbidity. The current study was designed to see the prevalence of aerobic bacterial isolates with their antimicrobial resistance pattern from out- and inpatients requested for
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The long history and extensive use of antibiotics have caused resistant bacterial pathogens to emerge, increasing mortality and morbidity. The current study was designed to see the prevalence of aerobic bacterial isolates with their antimicrobial resistance pattern from out- and inpatients requested for wound or pus culture. Retrospective study conducted at a tertiary care hospital in central Riyadh from January 2023 to December 2023. Samples were collected and inoculated onto the appropriate media following standard guidelines. Bacterial pathogens were identified by the Vitek2 compact system. Antimicrobial susceptibility was tested using the Kirby–Bauer disk diffusion method as well as by MIC determination through the Vitek2 compact. A total of 1186 subjects were included in the study with a bacterial isolation rate of 691 (58.3%). Out of these, 155 positive cultures had incomplete information or anaerobic or fungal growth and were excluded from the study. With a slight female predominance (54.9%), the majority of subjects (72.2%) were outpatients, and over half of the isolates (55.2%) were Gram-positive. The most common isolate was Staphylococcus spp. (44.4%), followed by E. coli (13.6%) and P. aeruginosa (12.9%). The highest resistance was reported against penicillin followed by fusidic acid against Gram-positive bacteria. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) was detected in 40.5% of Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) isolates. Amikacin was the most susceptible antibiotic against all Gram-negative isolates. MDR Gram-negative bacteria accounted for 51.9% of wound infection isolates (95% CI: 45.95 to 58.33) while 6.3% (95% CI: 4.39 to 8.86) were XDR (nonsusceptibility to at least one agent in all but two or fewer antimicrobial categories). A high prevalence of bacterial isolates, with S. aureus as the predominant pathogen, showed high rates of multidrug resistance. This highlights the importance of monitoring antibiotic choices for prophylaxis and treatment in the study area.
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Open AccessArticle
Genotypes and Mutations Associated with Macrolide Resistance of Chlamydia trachomatis in Urine Samples in School-Going, Urban Adolescents 14–19 Years from Panama: A Cross-Sectional Descriptive Study
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Jessica Gondola, Celestino Aguilar, Jorge Castillo, Claudia Gonzalez, Ambar Moreno, Oris Chavarria, Amanda Gabster, Juan M. Pascale and Alexander A. Martinez
Microbiol. Res. 2024, 15(4), 2007-2014; https://doi.org/10.3390/microbiolres15040134 - 2 Oct 2024
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Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) is a bacterium that causes one of the most common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) worldwide. In Panama, the prevalence of genital Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) among adolescents is 15.8%. However, no data describing circulating CT genotypes or evaluating molecular resistance are
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Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) is a bacterium that causes one of the most common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) worldwide. In Panama, the prevalence of genital Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) among adolescents is 15.8%. However, no data describing circulating CT genotypes or evaluating molecular resistance are available. This study aims to determine the genotypes of genital CT infections and explore the macrolide resistance-associated mutations in this population to contribute to baseline information about CT circulating strains and antimicrobial resistance. Genomic analysis was performed on CT-positive, first-void urine specimens from school-going adolescents (14–19 years) in urban regions in Panama. The ompA gene was used for genotype and phylogenetic analysis, and the rplD, rplV, and 23S rRNA genes were used for molecular resistance analysis. Five genotypes were found: D, 15 (47%); F, 9 (28%); E, 4 (13%); Ia, 2 (6%); and Ja, 2 (6%) genotype Ja. A triple mutation (G52S, R65C, and V77A) was found in the rplV gene, though no mutations of interest were found for the rplD and 23S rRNA genes. The present study indicated CT genotype D had increased circulation within the population; mutations indicative of macrolide resistance were not found. Follow-up studies and implementation of active surveillance are necessary to understand the circulation of CT in Panama.
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Open AccessArticle
Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Activities of 18β-Glycyrrhetinic Acid Biotransformed by Aspergillus niger
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Shaymaa Wagdy El-Far, Mahmoud A. Al-Saman, Fatma I. Abou-Elazm, Rania Ibrahim Shebl and Asmaa Abdella
Microbiol. Res. 2024, 15(4), 1993-2006; https://doi.org/10.3390/microbiolres15040133 - 29 Sep 2024
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The search for novel plant-based antioxidant and antibacterial medication has garnered a lot of attention lately. Glycyrrhiza glabra, known as licorice, is one of the most important medicinal plants. The primary component of Glycyrrhiza glabra is glycyrrhizin, which is biotransformed into 18α-
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The search for novel plant-based antioxidant and antibacterial medication has garnered a lot of attention lately. Glycyrrhiza glabra, known as licorice, is one of the most important medicinal plants. The primary component of Glycyrrhiza glabra is glycyrrhizin, which is biotransformed into 18α- and 18β-glycyrrhetinic acid for a variety of medicinal purposes. The goal of this study was to improve the bioavailability of glycyrrhizin by its biotransformation into glycyrrhetinic acid by Aspergillus niger. The biotransformation process was optimized using response surface methodology. A two-level Plackett–Burman design was employed to identify the factors that had a significant impact on the process of biotransformation. The three main variables were pH, glycerrhizin concentration, and incubation time. These three medium components were further optimized using a 3-level Box–Behnken design, and their optimum levels were pH of 8, an incubation period of 6 days, and a glycyrrhizin concentration of 1%. Using these optimum conditions, the maximum level obtained was 159% greater than in the screening experiment. Regarding the antimicrobial activity of glycyrrhizin extract, Bacillus subtilis emerged as the most sensitive organism with the lowest MIC (60 µg/mL) and the highest zone of inhibition (17 mm). The most resistant organism was Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which had the highest MIC (400 µg/mL) and the smallest zone of inhibition (10 mm). In the case of glycyrrhetinic acid, Bacillus subtilis was the most sensitive organism with the highest zone of inhibition (32 mm) and the lowest MIC (20 µg/mL). Pseudomonas aeruginosa was the most resistant organism, with the lowest zone of inhibition (18 mm), and the highest MIC (140 µg/mL). The antioxidant activity of glycyrrhizin extract increased from 12.81% at a concentration of 63 µg/100 µL to 41.41% at a concentration of 1000 µg/100 µL, while that of glycyrrhetinic acid extract increased from 35.5% at a concentration of 63 µg/100 µL to 76.85% at a concentration of 1000 µg/100 µL. The present study concluded that biotransformation of glycyrrhizin into glycyrrhetinic acid increased its bioavailability and antioxidant and antimicrobial activities. Glycyrrhizin and glycyrrhetinic acid might be used as a natural antimicrobial and antioxidant in pharmaceutical industries
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Open AccessReview
A Review of Bacterial Biofilm Components and Formation, Detection Methods, and Their Prevention and Control on Food Contact Surfaces
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Amin N. Olaimat, Ahmad Mohammad Ababneh, Murad Al-Holy, Anas Al-Nabulsi, Tareq Osaili, Mahmoud Abughoush, Mutamed Ayyash and Richard A. Holley
Microbiol. Res. 2024, 15(4), 1973-1992; https://doi.org/10.3390/microbiolres15040132 - 28 Sep 2024
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The microbial biofilms are a community of microorganisms that adhere to each other and to surfaces, typically in a mucilaginous or gel-like matrix composed of extracellular polymeric substances, including polysaccharides, proteins, lipids, and DNA. In the food industry, the bacterial biofilms may be
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The microbial biofilms are a community of microorganisms that adhere to each other and to surfaces, typically in a mucilaginous or gel-like matrix composed of extracellular polymeric substances, including polysaccharides, proteins, lipids, and DNA. In the food industry, the bacterial biofilms may be formed on different surfaces and cause post-processing contamination or cross-contamination from the food contact surfaces to food products. Conventional cleaning and sanitizing methods are often ineffective at removing bacterial biofilms. Among more recent alternative methods proposed to address this problem are the use of hydrolytic enzymes, essential oils, and bacteriocins. These methods show promise since their antibacterial and antibiofilm actions involve degradation of the extracellular polymeric matrix of the biofilm and lead to inhibition of the foodborne pathogens present. Understanding the limitations and mechanisms of action of enzymes, bacteriocins, and essential oils in controlling bacterial biofilms on foods and food contact surfaces is essential for developing solutions to prevent and control biofilm formation. This review critically summarizes the current knowledge of bacterial biofilm components, their formation, detection methods, prevention, and removal from food contact surfaces.
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Effect of Photoluminophore Light-Correcting Coatings and Bacterization by Associative Microorganisms on the Growth and Productivity of Brassica juncea L. Plants
by
Natalia S. Zakharchenko, Elena B. Rukavtsova, Ilia V. Yampolsky, Dmitry O. Balakirev, Ivan V. Dyadishchev, Sergey A. Ponomarenko, Yuriy N. Luponosov, Andrey E. Filonov, Pavel A. Mikhailov, Anton N. Zvonarev, Lenar I. Akhmetov, Vasily V. Terentyev, Alexandra Yu. Khudyakova, Lubov V. Zalomova, Sergey V. Tarlachkov, Alexander V. Aripovsky, Irina F. Puntus and Robert N. Khramov
Microbiol. Res. 2024, 15(4), 1957-1972; https://doi.org/10.3390/microbiolres15040131 - 25 Sep 2024
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The effect of a coating material containing organic photoluminophore (PL) on the growth and development of mustard Brassica juncea L. plants colonized with beneficial associative bacteria Pseudomonas putida KT2442 and Rhodococcus erythropolis X5 was studied in vitro and in vivo. Plants grown with
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The effect of a coating material containing organic photoluminophore (PL) on the growth and development of mustard Brassica juncea L. plants colonized with beneficial associative bacteria Pseudomonas putida KT2442 and Rhodococcus erythropolis X5 was studied in vitro and in vivo. Plants grown with the use of microbial bacterization in combination with a photoluminophore coating (PLC) had significantly faster growth rates in vitro (2.1 times faster, P. putida; 1.8 times faster, R. erythropolis) than those grown using PLC alone (1.2 times faster). The leaves of plants grown with PLC had higher contents of glucose and fructose (28.4 ± 0.3% more glucose and 60.4 ± 0.3% more fructose accumulated compared to plants grown without PLC). It was found that seed weights and seed number increased 1.9-fold and 1.6-fold, respectively, for plants grown with PLC and colonized with beneficial P. putida KT2442 bacteria. The stimulatory effect of PLC on photosynthetic parameters of Photosystem II (PSII) was observed in colonized plants grown in vitro. For the first time, it was shown that providing plants with a PLC for only 4 weeks may make it possible to support further plant growth without PLC to obtain higher yields in the future. Thus, PLCs that convert shorter-wavelength radiation into red light may induce enhancement of biochemical processes not only in plants but also in microorganisms that supply plants with growth regulators and other active compounds. The results indicate the need for further research to understand the mechanisms of photobiological and photoregulatory systems in the interaction of microbes and plants.
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Cicer arietinum Extract Suppresses Lung Sepsis Induced by Cecal Ligation and Puncture in Rats
by
Amer Al Ali, Mohammed H. Abu-Alghayth, Khaled I. Ghaleb and Sara Ibrahim
Microbiol. Res. 2024, 15(3), 1939-1956; https://doi.org/10.3390/microbiolres15030130 - 23 Sep 2024
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Sepsis is characterized by multiple organ dysfunction, which is now accepted to be due to oxidative damage. The lung is the first organ exposed to this damage, and its injury is one of the leading causes of death. Therefore, many pharmacological strategies are
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Sepsis is characterized by multiple organ dysfunction, which is now accepted to be due to oxidative damage. The lung is the first organ exposed to this damage, and its injury is one of the leading causes of death. Therefore, many pharmacological strategies are employed to attenuate sepsis. This study aimed to evaluate the in silico and in vitro antibacterial activity of Cicer arietinum extract (CAE) against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa and the in vivo modulatory effect of CAE against sepsis induced by cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) in rats. This study identified seven bioactive components in Cicer arietinum extract, revealing promising interactions between these components and Staphylococcus aureus-PBP2a and Pseudomonas aeruginosa-PBP3 proteins, highlighting their potential as novel antibacterial agents. After ensuring the bactericidal ability of CAE against Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, an in vivo study was performed. Twenty-four rats were divided into sham-operated rats, CLP-septic rats, CLP rats treated with CAE (500 mg/kg b.wt), and CLP rats treated with hydrocortisone (25 mg/ kg b.wt). CAE was administered orally for 3 days post-operation, and animals were euthanized on the fourth day. Another twenty-four rats were used to study survival for 5 days. This study revealed that CAE, like hydrocortisone, can rescue CLP rats from death by suppressing lung procalcitonin (PCT) and MDA and enhancing SOD, CAT, and GSH levels significantly, as compared with the CLP group. The histopathological results were parallel with the biochemical results since the CLP rats treated with CAE had lower histological/inflammatory scores in the lung like hydrocortisone. The beneficial role of CAE may result from its antibacterial and antioxidant activities, and CAE can be considered as a lung antiseptic extract. This study provides a novel treatment for sepsis-induced ALI. However, the beneficial impact of CAE needs extensive study to obtain evidence.
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The Mechanism of Bacterial Endotoxin Invasion Pathways in Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome Virus-Positive Porcine Endometrial Epithelial Cells
by
Siyi Xing, Aohang Yu, Mengran Zhang and Chenchen Wu
Microbiol. Res. 2024, 15(3), 1924-1938; https://doi.org/10.3390/microbiolres15030129 - 18 Sep 2024
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Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) causes abortions, stillbirths, and dummy pregnancies. Previous studies found that PRRSV can promote secondary bacterial infections and elevate bacterial endotoxin levels, further increasing the abortion rate in sows. However, the pathways by which bacterial endotoxins invade
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Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) causes abortions, stillbirths, and dummy pregnancies. Previous studies found that PRRSV can promote secondary bacterial infections and elevate bacterial endotoxin levels, further increasing the abortion rate in sows. However, the pathways by which bacterial endotoxins invade the bodies of PRRSV(+) sows and aggravate their clinical symptoms are unknown. In this study, we established a model of PRRSV and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) working together on porcine endometrial epithelial cells (PEECs). We speculate that PRRSV and LPS affect PEECs through viral protein interaction with cytokines and cytokine receptors, natural killer cell-mediated cytotoxicity, and regulation of actin cytoskeleton signaling pathways by analyzing seq-RNA. The PRRSV proteins act on inflammatory factors and their receptors to activate chemokines-5 (CCL5), chemokines-4 (CCL4), and chemokines-8 (CCL8) mRNA expression, causing severe inflammatory reactions. In addition, the elevation of MEK1/2 factors and the integrins acting on NK cells promote the upregulation of VAV1/Tiam1, RAC, and IRSp53, leading to increased expression of Arp2/3 and F-actin in PEECs in the PRRSV + LPS(+) groups. However, the highly expressed cell microfilaments and cytoskeleton disrupt the original network structure, causing changes in the original physiological function of the PEECs. In summary, the PRRSV protein interacts with cytokines and cytokine receptors of PEECs, thereby enhancing virus-mediated chemokine factors and their receptor activity, accelerating bacterial endotoxin entry into the body and the invasion of cells. They destroy the cytoskeletal structure of the cells and increase damage to uterine tissue.
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