Draft:Antibiotic resistance in actinobacteria

Actinobacteria is a diverse group of gram-positive bacteria known for their ability to form biofilms, which are complex communities of microorganisms that adhere to surfaces and produce extracellular polymeric substances (EPS). These biofilms can be found in various environments, including soil, water, and the human body, where they can cause infections and diseases. Certain types of actinobacteria have been shown to be resistant against antibiotics, creating health scares for certain groups of people.

Mycobacterium Biofilms

One type of actinobacteria that is particularly notorious for its biofilm-forming ability is Mycobacterium. Mycobacterium is a genus of acid-fast bacteria that includes species such as Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the causative agent of tuberculosis, and Mycobacterium leprae, the causative agent of leprosy.

Biofilms formed by Mycobacterium are particularly challenging to treat with antibiotics because they are highly resistant to penetration. This resistance is due to a combination of factors, including the EPS matrix that surrounds the biofilm, the slow growth rate of the bacteria within the biofilm, and the presence of persister cells.

The EPS Matrix

The EPS matrix is a key component of the biofilm that provides structural support and protects the bacteria from environmental stressors such as antibiotics. The matrix is composed of various polysaccharides, proteins, and lipids that can act as a physical barrier to antibiotic penetration. The bacteria can encase themselves in a hydrated matrix of polysaccharide and protein, preventing antibiotics from killing the bacteria. Additionally, the matrix can also sequester antibiotics, making them unavailable to the bacteria within the biofilm.

Slow Growth Rate

The slow growth rate of bacteria within the biofilm also contributes to antibiotic resistance. Many antibiotics target actively growing cells, and bacteria within the biofilm are often in a dormant or slow-growing state, making them less susceptible to these drugs. This is because antibiotics are often designed to target specific cellular processes, such as DNA replication or cell wall synthesis, that are only active during periods of rapid growth.

Persister Cells

Finally, persister cells are a subpopulation of bacteria within the biofilm that are in a state of dormancy and are highly tolerant to antibiotics. These cells are thought to be responsible for recalcitrant infections that persist despite antibiotic treatment. Persister cells are able to survive antibiotic treatment by entering a dormant state, during which they are metabolically inactive and resistant to many antibiotics.

Clinical Risks

The combination of these factors makes Mycobacterium biofilms highly resistant to antibiotic treatment. This resistance has significant clinical implications, as Mycobacterium infections are often difficult to treat and can lead to chronic disease. In addition, individuals with implanted medical devices are at risk of having medical complications due to these biofilm formations. Overall, the emergence of antibiotic-resistant strains of Mycobacterium further complicates treatment options.

New Approaches and Solutions

New approaches are needed to combat Mycobacterium biofilms. One promising strategy is to target the EPS matrix that surrounds the biofilm. This could involve the development of enzymes that break down the matrix or the use of agents that disrupt the physical structure of the matrix, making it more permeable to antibiotics.

Another approach is to target persister cells directly. This could involve the development of drugs that specifically target the metabolic pathways that allow persister cells to enter a dormant state, or the use of agents that trigger persister cells to become active and susceptible to antibiotics.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Mycobacterium is a genus of actinobacteria that is known for its ability to form strong biofilms that are resistant to antibiotic treatment. The EPS matrix, slow growth rate, and persister cells are all factors that contribute to this resistance. New strategies are needed to combat Mycobacterium biofilms, and targeting the EPS matrix or persister cells directly may provide promising avenues for future research.

Bibliography

• Stewart, P S; Costerton, J W (2001-07-14). "Antibiotic resistance of bacteria in biofilms". National Library of Medicine.
  • This is an official health website in the United States and is a highly sourced and peer reviewed article, establishing its notability.
• Esteban, Jaime; Garcia-Coca, Marta (2018-01-18). "Mycobacterium Biofilms". National Library of Medicine.
  • This is an official health website for the United States and is part of the National Center for Biotechnology Information. It covers the topic in-depth with specific research and an abundant amount of analysis, establishing clear notability.
• Bacteriol, J (2010-10-08). "Emergence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa Strains Producing High Levels of Persister Cells in Patients with Cystic Fibrosis". National Library of Medicine.
  • This a highly peer reviewed article that has been published in several journals and science research papers around the world, showing that it has a high degree of notability.
• Piddock, Laura J V (2011-11-17). "The crisis of no new antibiotics -- what is the way forward?". National Library of Medicine.
  • This article has also been peer reviewed and updated over the years, showing that is a credible source and has notability.