Revolutionary research: How Pseudomonas Aeruginosa spreads diseases!

Revolutionary research: How Pseudomonas Aeruginosa spreads diseases!

Heinrich-Heine-Universität Düsseldorf, Deutschland - Scientists from the Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf (HHU), together with colleagues from Munich and Groningen, have made significant progress in researching biofilms. These complex accumulation of bacteria and microorganisms, which often contain pathogens, are resistant to mechanical and chemical treatments and are a serious risk of health. Studies show that pseudomonas Aeruginosa , an opportunistic germ that occurs primarily in hospitals is often associated with serious infections.

In current research, the export of the extracellular polysaccharide "PEL" by Pseudomonas aeruginosa was examined more precisely. The PelBC export complex is the last station before "PEL" is released from the cell. The results of this study were published in the specialist magazine Nature Communications , an important step to understand the mechanism of biofilm formation. These mechanistic insights are crucial because biofilms not only favor the development of antibiotic resistance, but can also severely restrict the treatment options for infections.

structures of the biofilms

biofilms consist of a matrix of extracellular polysaccharides, proteins, DNA and water. The decisive components include Alginate, PSL and PEL. According to research studies produce different tribes of pseudomonas aeruginosa in different combinations, which leads to varying structures of the biofilms.

• class I: pel-dominant matrix (e.g. PA14)
• class II: PSL-dominant matrix (e.g. PAO1)
• class III: EPS-Redundant Matrix user (bad adhesion)
• class IV: matrix over-producer (e.g. CF127, 19660)

In the study carried out by the scientists, PSL made a decisive contribution to surface liability, while PEL became more important in the later phases of biofilm development. This illustrates the flexibility of the bacteria to adapt to different environmental conditions.

challenges from biofilms

pseudomonas aeruginosa is a significant health risk factor, especially in clinical environments. The biofilms are known for reducing sensitivity to antimicrobiotics and promoting chronic infections. According to Research have patients with structural lung diseases, hematological neoplasia or recently carried out antibiotic treatments a particularly high risk.

The continuous research of the Biofilms of Pseudomonas Aeruginosa is crucial to develop new therapeutic approaches. This includes strategies for the disturbance of biofilm communities, the use of quorum-sensing inhibitors and the development of antimicrobial peptides. By understanding the complex mechanisms based on biofilm formation, the researchers hope to develop effective treatment strategies against the diverse infections caused by this opportunistic pathogen.

Current research on the protein structures, which are responsible for the synthesis and export of PEL, could help block the transport of PEL and thereby suppress the formation of biofilms. Future studies will illuminate the export process and other protein complexes involved in the synthesis of PEL.