Staphylococcus aureus(S.aureus)is the third most common pathogen causing 10.6%of bacterial foodborne illnesses in China in 2021[1].Heat-stable Staphylococcal Enterotoxins(SEs)produced by S.aureus are the main contribu...Staphylococcus aureus(S.aureus)is the third most common pathogen causing 10.6%of bacterial foodborne illnesses in China in 2021[1].Heat-stable Staphylococcal Enterotoxins(SEs)produced by S.aureus are the main contributors to staphylococcal food poisoning(SFP),causing vomiting,diarrhea,abdominal pain,headache,muscle cramps,and other acute gastroenteritis symptoms.More than 25 SEs and staphylococcal enterotoxin-like toxins(SE/s)have been described and which together comprise a superfamily of pyrogenic toxin superantigens(SAgs)[2].展开更多
This study was conducted to analyze the effects of sodium nitrite,nisin,potassium sorbate,and sodium lactate against Staphylococcus aureus(S.aureus)growth and staphylococcal enterotoxins(SEs)production in cooked pork ...This study was conducted to analyze the effects of sodium nitrite,nisin,potassium sorbate,and sodium lactate against Staphylococcus aureus(S.aureus)growth and staphylococcal enterotoxins(SEs)production in cooked pork sausage by inoculating sausage samples containing preservative with an S.aureus strain producing staphylococcal enterotoxin A(SEA)and then storing them at 37℃ for 36 h.Samples were analyzed every 3 h to count the S.aureus colonies and to detect SEA.The modified Gompertz model was used to describe S.aureus growth in the samples under various conditions,and the preservatives with a significant antimicrobial effect were selected.In addition,the antimicrobial effects of the selected preservatives under various concentrations were tested.Results showed that sodium nitrite,nisin,and potassium sorbate had a weak effect against S.aureus growth and had no effect against SEA production,whereas sodium lactate could significantly inhibit S.aureus growth and SEA production.Moreover,the antimicrobial effect of sodium lactate was concentration-dependent,wherein sodium lactate concentration<12 g/kg showed no inhibitory effect,but when the concentration was increased to 24 g/kg,sodium lactate could effectively inhibit S.aureus growth and SEA production,and at 48 g/kg,sodium lactate had a significant inhibitory effect.展开更多
Objective:To determine the pattern of antibiotic resistance among Staphylococcus aureus(S. aureus) isolates from clinical specimens and to identify community-acquired methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus(CA-MRS...Objective:To determine the pattern of antibiotic resistance among Staphylococcus aureus(S. aureus) isolates from clinical specimens and to identify community-acquired methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus(CA-MRSA) in specimens that have been collected from patients referring to one of the hospitals of Ahvaz.Methods:S.aureus isolates from a hospital in Ahvaz were screened for resistance to various antibiotics including methicillin.The susceptibility of the isolates was determined by Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method.The MRSA was also treated with ethidium bromide to find the origin of resistance.Results:Among the bacterial isolates,all of 11 S.aureus were resistant to methicillin and cefixime,2 were resistant to ciprofloxacin,6 were resistant to tetracycline and the reminder were sensitive or intermediate to other antibiotics.The treated isolates were reminded resistant to methicillin and this suggested that the plasmid was not the origin of resistance in these isolates.Conclusions:These results showed that infection due to MRSA is widespread in Ahvaz and with respect to the spread of vancomycin resistance among MRSA and appearance of overwhelming infections.It is necessary to identify continuously the profile of antibiotic resistance among S.aureus isolates in other regions and finding appropriate antibiotic for infection control and eradication.展开更多
Predictive microbiology was utilized to model Staphylococcus aureus （S. aureus） growth and staphylococcal enterotoxin A （SEA） production in milk in this study. The modifed logistic model, modifed Gompertz model an...Predictive microbiology was utilized to model Staphylococcus aureus （S. aureus） growth and staphylococcal enterotoxin A （SEA） production in milk in this study. The modifed logistic model, modifed Gompertz model and Baranyi model were applied to model growth data of S. aureus between 15℃ and 37℃. Model comparisons indicated that Baranyi model described the growth data more accurately than two others with a mean square error of 0.0129. Growth rates generated from Baranyi model matched the observed ones with a bias factor of 0.999 and an accuracy factor of 1.01, and ft a square root model with respect to temperature; other two modifed models both overestimated the observed ones. SEA amount began to be detected when the cell number reached106.4 cfu ？ mL-1, and showed the linear correlation with time. Besides, the rate of SEA production ftted an exponential relationship as a function of temperature. Predictions based on the study could be applied to indicate possible growth of S. aureus and prevent the occurrence of staphylococcal food poisoning.展开更多
In this study,circular dichroism(CD)and molecular dynamics(MD)simulation were used to investigate the thermal unfolding pathway of staphylococcal enterotoxin B(SEB)at temperatures of 298–371 and 298–500 K,and the re...In this study,circular dichroism(CD)and molecular dynamics(MD)simulation were used to investigate the thermal unfolding pathway of staphylococcal enterotoxin B(SEB)at temperatures of 298–371 and 298–500 K,and the relationship between the experimental and simulation results were explored.Our computational findings on the secondary structure of SEB showed that at room temperature,the CD spectroscopic results were highly consistent with the MD results.Moreover,under heating conditions,the changing trends of helix,sheet and random coil obtained by CD spectral fitting were highly consistent with those obtained by MD.In order to gain a deeper understanding of the thermal stability mechanism of SEB,the MD trajectories were analyzed in terms of root mean square deviation(RMSD),secondary structure assignment(SSA),radius of gyration(R_(g)),free energy surfaces(FES),solvent-accessible surface area(SASA),hydrogen bonds and salt bridges.The results showed that at low heating temperature,domain Ⅰ without loops(omitting the mobile loop region)mainly relied on hydrophobic interaction to maintain its thermal stability,whereas the thermal stability of domain Ⅱ was mainly controlled by salt bridges and hydrogen bonds.Under high heating temperature conditions,the hydrophobic interactions in domain Ⅰ without loops were destroyed and the secondary structure was almost completely lost,while domain Ⅱ could still rely on salt bridges as molecular staples to barely maintain the stability of the secondary structure.These results help us to understand the thermodynamic and kinetic mechanisms that maintain the thermal stability of SEB at the molecular level,and provide a direction for establishing safer and more effective food sterilization processes.展开更多
Objective: To investigate the molecular epidemiology and antimicrobial resistance patterns of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus(MRSA) among healthcare workers and patients.Methods: MRSA isolates were recover...Objective: To investigate the molecular epidemiology and antimicrobial resistance patterns of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus(MRSA) among healthcare workers and patients.Methods: MRSA isolates were recovered from nasal swabs collected at a tertiary care hospital of Nepal and confirmed on the basis of Gram staining, conventional biochemical tests, and PCR amplification of mec A gene. PCRs were also used for detection of the different resistance genes and staphylococcal cassette chromosome(SCC) mec types.Antibiotic susceptibility patterns of isolates were assessed by disc diffusion method and minimum inhibitory concentrations were determined by E-test.Results: A total of 29 MRSA were isolated from 536 nasal swabs(5.4%) of health care workers and patients at a tertiary care hospital in Nepal. All isolates were susceptible to amikacin, gentamicin, vancomycin(minimal inhibitory concentrations < 2 mg/m L), tigecycline, tetracycline, nitrofurantoin, rifampicin, quinupristin-dalfopristin, and linezolid. Among the 29 MRSA isolates, resistance to erythromycin(72%), ciprofloxacin(75%), co-trimoxazole(62%), clindamycin(10%), and chloramphenicol(10%) was found, and fifteen isolates(51%)exhibited high-level mupirocin resistance(minimal inhibitory concentrations > 1 024 mg/m L).Fourteen isolates were found harboring the mup A gene and one isolate was found carrying the novel mup B gene. High prevalence(68%) of SCCmec I type was found, followed by SCCmec V(13%) and SCCmec III(3%) among all the MRSA isolates.Conclusions: We found the emergence of SCCmec type I with high-level mupirocin resistance among MRSA in Nepal. Data also suggest that MRSA SCCmec type V strain has spread from the community to the hospital.展开更多
Internal solvation of protein was studied by site-directed mutagenesis, with which an intrinsically fluorescent probe,tryptophan, is inserted into the desired position inside a protein molecule for ultrafast spectrosc...Internal solvation of protein was studied by site-directed mutagenesis, with which an intrinsically fluorescent probe,tryptophan, is inserted into the desired position inside a protein molecule for ultrafast spectroscopic study. Here we review this unique method for protein dynamics research. We first introduce the frontiers of protein solvation, site-directed mutagenesis, protein stability and characteristics, and the spectroscopic methods. Then we present time-resolved spectroscopic dynamics of solvation dynamics inside cavities of active sites. The studies are carried out on a globular protein, staphylococcal nuclease. The solvation at sites inside the protein molecule＇s cavities clearly reveals characteristics of the local environment. These solvation behaviors are directly correlated to enzyme activity.展开更多
Objective To explore distinctive clinical manifestations and appropriate treatment, and assess prognosis of staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome （SSSS）. Methods A retrospective analysis was conducted of the data of ...Objective To explore distinctive clinical manifestations and appropriate treatment, and assess prognosis of staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome （SSSS）. Methods A retrospective analysis was conducted of the data of 82 cases of SSSS hospitalized at Xinhua Hospital during the period from May 1993 to September 2003. Results The disease in all the 82 patients occurred in their first decade （mean 2.5 years）. Possible predisposing factors were found in 48 （58. 5% ）. Fever was present in 78 （95. 1% ）. Radial spokes of crusting around mouth were present in 80 （ 97. 6% ）. Erythema began on the face, especially around the mouth and eye in 63 （ 76. 8% ）. The course was acute in all cases and the eruptions quickly spread to the whole body within one day to two days. Of the 82 cases of SSSS, 47 were complete form of SSSS, 27 were abortive form of SSSS, and 8 were between the two forms. Staphylococcus aureus with positive staphylocoagulase was isolated from the possible primary infection sites including pharynx, eyelid, conjunctiva, nose, ear, and skin in 18 of 31 patients. Microbiological cultures of bullae and little pustulae developed after the onset were negative in 16 cases. All the 82 patients completely recovered after receiving antibiotic therapy （ ceftriaxone, oxacillin） alone or in combination with human immunoglobulin （IVIG） therapy. Additional IVIG therapy was used in those patients who had systemic involvements such as pneumonia, fever higher than 38. 5℃ or leukocytosis. Conclusion SSSS is a spectrum disease. Besides abortive and complete forms, presenting between the two forms a new form might be appeared in 8 cases who developed both scarlatiniform rash and flaccid bullae. The abortive form and complete form are usually misdiagnosed clinically. Radial spokes of crusting around mouth seem to be characteristic manifestation of SSSS. All the patients in this study had favorable prognosis after receiving prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment.展开更多
Objective To observe the role of superantigen staphylococcal enterotoxin B(SEB) andD - galactosamine (D - GalN) on Balb/c mouse hepatocytes and its mechanism. Methods After Balb/c mice wereinjected intraperitoneally w...Objective To observe the role of superantigen staphylococcal enterotoxin B(SEB) andD - galactosamine (D - GalN) on Balb/c mouse hepatocytes and its mechanism. Methods After Balb/c mice wereinjected intraperitoneally with SEB, D- GalN or both, blood samples were collected and livers were removed at 2,6, 12, 24h. Patterns of hepatocellular death were studied morphologically and biochemically, circulating cytokines(TNF, IFN-γ) were determined, and mice mortality within 24h was assessed. Results SEB could induce thetypical apoptotic changes of hepatocytes morphologically and biochemically. The mechanism is probably associatedwith the production and release of Cytokines (such as TNF, IFN- γ, etc).D - GalN could induce hepatocytesapoptosis and degeneration at the same time. Besides this, we confirmed hepatocytes of the mice which wereadministered SEB and D - GalN developing apoptosis at 2, 6h, but after 12h hepatocytes were characterized bysevere injury, the mice mortality within 24h is 50%. Conclusion SEB or D - GalN alone could induce the typicalapoptotic changes of hepatocytes. SEB+D-GalN developed hepatocytes apoptosis in the early stage and necrosisin the later. It suggests that there is some relationship between hepatic cell apoptosis and necrosis, and massivehepatocyte apoptosis is the probably initiating step of acute hepatic necrosis in mice.展开更多
Staphylococcal enterotoxin A(SEA)derived from Staphylococcus aureus,as a superantigen,shows potential for cancer immunotherapy,but systemic immunotoxicity restricts its clinical application.Targeted delivery of SEA to...Staphylococcal enterotoxin A(SEA)derived from Staphylococcus aureus,as a superantigen,shows potential for cancer immunotherapy,but systemic immunotoxicity restricts its clinical application.Targeted delivery of SEA to tumor site provides a promising option for reducing the systemic toxicity.Here,we constructed an iRGD peptide(H-[Cys-Arg-Gly-Asp-Lys-Gly-Pro-Asp-Cys]-NH_(2))modified nanoparticle(iDPP)to deliver plasmids encoding SEA for melanoma treatment.The iDPP/SEA nanocomplexes efficiently mediated SEA expression in B16-F10 cells in vivo and in vitro and induced the activation of lymphocytes and maturation of murine bone marrow-derived dendritic cells(BMDCs)in vitro.In the subcutaneous B16-F10 melanoma model,the iDPP/SEA nanocomplexes could effectively enhance immune response and T lymphocytes infiltration in tumor site after intravenous administration,thereby considerably decreased melanoma growth.Meanwhile,no obvious adverse effect was observed after intravenous administration of the iDPP/SEA nanocomplexes in vivo.Our findings demonstrated that gene therapy of SEA is a potential candidate for melanoma treatment.展开更多
The anti-tumor effect and mechanism of the staphylococcal enterotoxin A (SEA) were studied. The mouse gastric tumor model was produced by subcutaneously inoculating gastric tumor ceils (MGC80-3). The experimental grou...The anti-tumor effect and mechanism of the staphylococcal enterotoxin A (SEA) were studied. The mouse gastric tumor model was produced by subcutaneously inoculating gastric tumor ceils (MGC80-3). The experimental group was treated with SEA, and the control group was treated with normal saline. The percentage of tumor generation and tumor mass was measured. The results showed that the percentage of the tumor generation in the SEA-treated mice was lower than in the control group, but there was no significant difference (P>0. 05). However, the tumor mass in the experimental group was significantly lighter than in the control group, with the difference being very significant (P<0. 001). There were more CD4+ T cells and CD8+ T cells in the tumor of the mice treated with SEA than those of the control group. SEA has an obvious anti-tumor effect on mice gastric tumor. The mechanism might be that SEA induces the effect of superantigen-dependent cell mediated cytotoxicity to the tumor cells.展开更多
Staphylococcal Enterotoxin B (SEB) is considered a potential biological weapon. It is toxic by both inhalation and ingestion. Effects of ingestion include fever, vomiting and diarrhoea, while inhalation may additional...Staphylococcal Enterotoxin B (SEB) is considered a potential biological weapon. It is toxic by both inhalation and ingestion. Effects of ingestion include fever, vomiting and diarrhoea, while inhalation may additionally result in chest pain, dyspnoea, pulmonary oedema and respiratory failure. Severe exposure may be fatal and treatment relies on symptomatic support. At a cellular level, SEB up-regulates T-cell proliferation leading to a pathological inflammatory response. Deguelin, a rotenoid isolated from the African plant Mundulea sericea (Leguminosae), has been shown to reduce cellular proliferation by inhibiting the phosphoinositide 3-kinase/Akt (PI3K/Akt) signalling pathway. Using isolated murine splenocytes, we have demonstrated that treatment with deguelin reduces SEB inducing T cell proliferation by 60%. Deguelin treatment also decreased IL-2 and CCL2 secretion by splenocytes exposed to SEB. We demonstrate that targeting cellular proliferation can significantly reduce inflammation after SEB exposure and suggest that anti-proliferatives may have a role as potential generic medical counter measures if superantigens are used as biological weapons.展开更多
Tryptophan （Trp） is an intrinsic fluorescent probe for detecting the site-specified dynamics inside/outside protein. It is found that the Trp can easily be inserted in desired sites of protein, which affects the int...Tryptophan （Trp） is an intrinsic fluorescent probe for detecting the site-specified dynamics inside/outside protein. It is found that the Trp can easily be inserted in desired sites of protein, which affects the integrity of the overall structure. To evaluate this effect, we design thirteen double point mutants of staphylococcal nuclease, each of which has a single Trp residue planted at an internal site. The studies on Trp fluorescence, ANS-binding fluorescence, far- and near-UV CD spectra, and enzymatic activity are carried out. It is found that the mutation at the hydrophobic core of protein generates molten globular state conformation, which is a loose structure compared to their original compactness in wild type （WT）. Its enzyme activity and surface hydrophobicity are also affected. The studies show that by proper site designing and external binding, Trp mutagenesis is a suitable method for carrying out the study on site specified dynamics of proteins.展开更多
The coagulase-negative staphylococci (CoNS) have long been considered to be low pathogenicity. The possibility of a horizontal transfer of resistance and virulence genes from S. aureus to CoNS could increase the patho...The coagulase-negative staphylococci (CoNS) have long been considered to be low pathogenicity. The possibility of a horizontal transfer of resistance and virulence genes from S. aureus to CoNS could increase the pathogenicity of these bacteria. The objective of this work is to contribute to a better knowledge of the pathogenicity of (CoNS) strains isolated from surfaces and medico-technical materials of the University Hospital of Abomey-Calavi/Sô-Ava. Seventy strains of CoNS isolated from surfaces and medico-technical materials of the University Hospital of Abomey-Calavi were tested for methicillin resistance. The resistance to methicillin was evaluated phenotypically by the resistance of the strains to cefoxitin and then confirmed by the search for the mecA gene using PCR. The genes encoding staphylococcal chromosomal cassette (SCCmec) types I, II and III originally found in S. aureus were tested in CoNS by multiplex PCR using specific primers. All the strains studied showed resistance to methicillin. However, only 28.5% (20/70) carried the mecA gene. SCCmec was identified in only 17.14% (12/70) of these strains. Four strains carried mecA gene as well as one of the three types of SCCmec searched. SCCmec types I, II and III were identified in CoNS strains studied. SCCmec type I was the most frequent chromosomal cassette in mecA<sup>+</sup> strains, only or in association with another SCCmec. The study also revealed methicillin-resistant strains carrying SCCmec lacking the mecA gene. Finally, 60% (12/20) of the strains were found to be non-typeable. Our results show that CoNS strains present a high resistance to methicillin and the source of this resistance in the CoNS of our study is not only the mecA gene. There is also a high diversity of SCCmec, justified by a large number of non-typeable CoNS strains. The mecA<sup>−</sup> SCCmec<sup>+</sup> methicillin-resistant strains deserve to be sequenced for further studies.展开更多
Objective:To summarize the clinical features,diagnosis,and treatment of neonatal staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome(SSSS).Methods:The clinical data with SSSS was analyzed,and the related literature was reviewed.Resu...Objective:To summarize the clinical features,diagnosis,and treatment of neonatal staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome(SSSS).Methods:The clinical data with SSSS was analyzed,and the related literature was reviewed.Results:The acute onset of the disease was characterized by generalized erythema,epidermis exfoliation,skin non-touch,radial chapping around the mouth,and positive Nissl sign.The culture of binocular secretions and neck exudates showed Staphylococcus aureus and was diagnosed as SSSS.According to the results of drug sensitivity of secretions and exudates,vancomycin was selected for anti-infective treatment,and skincare and symptomatic support were given simultaneously.The child was cured and discharged after ten days of treatment.Conclusion:SSSS belongs to neonatal acute and critical illness.Improving etiological examination and timely targeted anti-infective treatment is the key to correct diagnosis and recovery.展开更多
基金supported by the Ministry of Science and Technology of the People’s Republic of China(2022YFD1800400).
文摘Staphylococcus aureus(S.aureus)is the third most common pathogen causing 10.6%of bacterial foodborne illnesses in China in 2021[1].Heat-stable Staphylococcal Enterotoxins(SEs)produced by S.aureus are the main contributors to staphylococcal food poisoning(SFP),causing vomiting,diarrhea,abdominal pain,headache,muscle cramps,and other acute gastroenteritis symptoms.More than 25 SEs and staphylococcal enterotoxin-like toxins(SE/s)have been described and which together comprise a superfamily of pyrogenic toxin superantigens(SAgs)[2].
基金Development of Application Technology Project(No:2015-114)issued by Science and Technology Committee of Shanghai Municipal GovernmentNational Key Scientific Instruments Project(No:2013YQ150557)issued by Ministry of Science and Technology of the P.R.China.
文摘This study was conducted to analyze the effects of sodium nitrite,nisin,potassium sorbate,and sodium lactate against Staphylococcus aureus(S.aureus)growth and staphylococcal enterotoxins(SEs)production in cooked pork sausage by inoculating sausage samples containing preservative with an S.aureus strain producing staphylococcal enterotoxin A(SEA)and then storing them at 37℃ for 36 h.Samples were analyzed every 3 h to count the S.aureus colonies and to detect SEA.The modified Gompertz model was used to describe S.aureus growth in the samples under various conditions,and the preservatives with a significant antimicrobial effect were selected.In addition,the antimicrobial effects of the selected preservatives under various concentrations were tested.Results showed that sodium nitrite,nisin,and potassium sorbate had a weak effect against S.aureus growth and had no effect against SEA production,whereas sodium lactate could significantly inhibit S.aureus growth and SEA production.Moreover,the antimicrobial effect of sodium lactate was concentration-dependent,wherein sodium lactate concentration<12 g/kg showed no inhibitory effect,but when the concentration was increased to 24 g/kg,sodium lactate could effectively inhibit S.aureus growth and SEA production,and at 48 g/kg,sodium lactate had a significant inhibitory effect.
基金Shahid Chamran University for providing the research grant
文摘Objective:To determine the pattern of antibiotic resistance among Staphylococcus aureus(S. aureus) isolates from clinical specimens and to identify community-acquired methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus(CA-MRSA) in specimens that have been collected from patients referring to one of the hospitals of Ahvaz.Methods:S.aureus isolates from a hospital in Ahvaz were screened for resistance to various antibiotics including methicillin.The susceptibility of the isolates was determined by Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method.The MRSA was also treated with ethidium bromide to find the origin of resistance.Results:Among the bacterial isolates,all of 11 S.aureus were resistant to methicillin and cefixime,2 were resistant to ciprofloxacin,6 were resistant to tetracycline and the reminder were sensitive or intermediate to other antibiotics.The treated isolates were reminded resistant to methicillin and this suggested that the plasmid was not the origin of resistance in these isolates.Conclusions:These results showed that infection due to MRSA is widespread in Ahvaz and with respect to the spread of vancomycin resistance among MRSA and appearance of overwhelming infections.It is necessary to identify continuously the profile of antibiotic resistance among S.aureus isolates in other regions and finding appropriate antibiotic for infection control and eradication.
基金Supported by"Academic Backbone"Project of Northeast Agricultural University(15XG26)the National High-level Talents Special Support Program of China
文摘Predictive microbiology was utilized to model Staphylococcus aureus （S. aureus） growth and staphylococcal enterotoxin A （SEA） production in milk in this study. The modifed logistic model, modifed Gompertz model and Baranyi model were applied to model growth data of S. aureus between 15℃ and 37℃. Model comparisons indicated that Baranyi model described the growth data more accurately than two others with a mean square error of 0.0129. Growth rates generated from Baranyi model matched the observed ones with a bias factor of 0.999 and an accuracy factor of 1.01, and ft a square root model with respect to temperature; other two modifed models both overestimated the observed ones. SEA amount began to be detected when the cell number reached106.4 cfu ？ mL-1, and showed the linear correlation with time. Besides, the rate of SEA production ftted an exponential relationship as a function of temperature. Predictions based on the study could be applied to indicate possible growth of S. aureus and prevent the occurrence of staphylococcal food poisoning.
文摘In this study,circular dichroism(CD)and molecular dynamics(MD)simulation were used to investigate the thermal unfolding pathway of staphylococcal enterotoxin B(SEB)at temperatures of 298–371 and 298–500 K,and the relationship between the experimental and simulation results were explored.Our computational findings on the secondary structure of SEB showed that at room temperature,the CD spectroscopic results were highly consistent with the MD results.Moreover,under heating conditions,the changing trends of helix,sheet and random coil obtained by CD spectral fitting were highly consistent with those obtained by MD.In order to gain a deeper understanding of the thermal stability mechanism of SEB,the MD trajectories were analyzed in terms of root mean square deviation(RMSD),secondary structure assignment(SSA),radius of gyration(R_(g)),free energy surfaces(FES),solvent-accessible surface area(SASA),hydrogen bonds and salt bridges.The results showed that at low heating temperature,domain Ⅰ without loops(omitting the mobile loop region)mainly relied on hydrophobic interaction to maintain its thermal stability,whereas the thermal stability of domain Ⅱ was mainly controlled by salt bridges and hydrogen bonds.Under high heating temperature conditions,the hydrophobic interactions in domain Ⅰ without loops were destroyed and the secondary structure was almost completely lost,while domain Ⅱ could still rely on salt bridges as molecular staples to barely maintain the stability of the secondary structure.These results help us to understand the thermodynamic and kinetic mechanisms that maintain the thermal stability of SEB at the molecular level,and provide a direction for establishing safer and more effective food sterilization processes.
基金Supported by Central Department of Microbiology,Tribhuvan University and Annapurna Neurological Institute and Allied Sciences and supported from National Research Council of Thailand 2016(R2560B064)
文摘Objective: To investigate the molecular epidemiology and antimicrobial resistance patterns of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus(MRSA) among healthcare workers and patients.Methods: MRSA isolates were recovered from nasal swabs collected at a tertiary care hospital of Nepal and confirmed on the basis of Gram staining, conventional biochemical tests, and PCR amplification of mec A gene. PCRs were also used for detection of the different resistance genes and staphylococcal cassette chromosome(SCC) mec types.Antibiotic susceptibility patterns of isolates were assessed by disc diffusion method and minimum inhibitory concentrations were determined by E-test.Results: A total of 29 MRSA were isolated from 536 nasal swabs(5.4%) of health care workers and patients at a tertiary care hospital in Nepal. All isolates were susceptible to amikacin, gentamicin, vancomycin(minimal inhibitory concentrations < 2 mg/m L), tigecycline, tetracycline, nitrofurantoin, rifampicin, quinupristin-dalfopristin, and linezolid. Among the 29 MRSA isolates, resistance to erythromycin(72%), ciprofloxacin(75%), co-trimoxazole(62%), clindamycin(10%), and chloramphenicol(10%) was found, and fifteen isolates(51%)exhibited high-level mupirocin resistance(minimal inhibitory concentrations > 1 024 mg/m L).Fourteen isolates were found harboring the mup A gene and one isolate was found carrying the novel mup B gene. High prevalence(68%) of SCCmec I type was found, followed by SCCmec V(13%) and SCCmec III(3%) among all the MRSA isolates.Conclusions: We found the emergence of SCCmec type I with high-level mupirocin resistance among MRSA in Nepal. Data also suggest that MRSA SCCmec type V strain has spread from the community to the hospital.
基金Project supported by the National Basic Research Program of China(Grant Nos.2013CB921904,2009CB930504,and 2013CB328700)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant Nos.11074016,11121091,10934001,61177020,11134001,and 10828407)
文摘Internal solvation of protein was studied by site-directed mutagenesis, with which an intrinsically fluorescent probe,tryptophan, is inserted into the desired position inside a protein molecule for ultrafast spectroscopic study. Here we review this unique method for protein dynamics research. We first introduce the frontiers of protein solvation, site-directed mutagenesis, protein stability and characteristics, and the spectroscopic methods. Then we present time-resolved spectroscopic dynamics of solvation dynamics inside cavities of active sites. The studies are carried out on a globular protein, staphylococcal nuclease. The solvation at sites inside the protein molecule＇s cavities clearly reveals characteristics of the local environment. These solvation behaviors are directly correlated to enzyme activity.
文摘Objective To explore distinctive clinical manifestations and appropriate treatment, and assess prognosis of staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome （SSSS）. Methods A retrospective analysis was conducted of the data of 82 cases of SSSS hospitalized at Xinhua Hospital during the period from May 1993 to September 2003. Results The disease in all the 82 patients occurred in their first decade （mean 2.5 years）. Possible predisposing factors were found in 48 （58. 5% ）. Fever was present in 78 （95. 1% ）. Radial spokes of crusting around mouth were present in 80 （ 97. 6% ）. Erythema began on the face, especially around the mouth and eye in 63 （ 76. 8% ）. The course was acute in all cases and the eruptions quickly spread to the whole body within one day to two days. Of the 82 cases of SSSS, 47 were complete form of SSSS, 27 were abortive form of SSSS, and 8 were between the two forms. Staphylococcus aureus with positive staphylocoagulase was isolated from the possible primary infection sites including pharynx, eyelid, conjunctiva, nose, ear, and skin in 18 of 31 patients. Microbiological cultures of bullae and little pustulae developed after the onset were negative in 16 cases. All the 82 patients completely recovered after receiving antibiotic therapy （ ceftriaxone, oxacillin） alone or in combination with human immunoglobulin （IVIG） therapy. Additional IVIG therapy was used in those patients who had systemic involvements such as pneumonia, fever higher than 38. 5℃ or leukocytosis. Conclusion SSSS is a spectrum disease. Besides abortive and complete forms, presenting between the two forms a new form might be appeared in 8 cases who developed both scarlatiniform rash and flaccid bullae. The abortive form and complete form are usually misdiagnosed clinically. Radial spokes of crusting around mouth seem to be characteristic manifestation of SSSS. All the patients in this study had favorable prognosis after receiving prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
文摘Objective To observe the role of superantigen staphylococcal enterotoxin B(SEB) andD - galactosamine (D - GalN) on Balb/c mouse hepatocytes and its mechanism. Methods After Balb/c mice wereinjected intraperitoneally with SEB, D- GalN or both, blood samples were collected and livers were removed at 2,6, 12, 24h. Patterns of hepatocellular death were studied morphologically and biochemically, circulating cytokines(TNF, IFN-γ) were determined, and mice mortality within 24h was assessed. Results SEB could induce thetypical apoptotic changes of hepatocytes morphologically and biochemically. The mechanism is probably associatedwith the production and release of Cytokines (such as TNF, IFN- γ, etc).D - GalN could induce hepatocytesapoptosis and degeneration at the same time. Besides this, we confirmed hepatocytes of the mice which wereadministered SEB and D - GalN developing apoptosis at 2, 6h, but after 12h hepatocytes were characterized bysevere injury, the mice mortality within 24h is 50%. Conclusion SEB or D - GalN alone could induce the typicalapoptotic changes of hepatocytes. SEB+D-GalN developed hepatocytes apoptosis in the early stage and necrosisin the later. It suggests that there is some relationship between hepatic cell apoptosis and necrosis, and massivehepatocyte apoptosis is the probably initiating step of acute hepatic necrosis in mice.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation(No.82073363)the Sichuan Science and Technology Program(Nos.2020YFQ0059,2022YFQ0004)the Natural Science Foundation of Sichuan Province(No.2022NSFSC1304).
文摘Staphylococcal enterotoxin A(SEA)derived from Staphylococcus aureus,as a superantigen,shows potential for cancer immunotherapy,but systemic immunotoxicity restricts its clinical application.Targeted delivery of SEA to tumor site provides a promising option for reducing the systemic toxicity.Here,we constructed an iRGD peptide(H-[Cys-Arg-Gly-Asp-Lys-Gly-Pro-Asp-Cys]-NH_(2))modified nanoparticle(iDPP)to deliver plasmids encoding SEA for melanoma treatment.The iDPP/SEA nanocomplexes efficiently mediated SEA expression in B16-F10 cells in vivo and in vitro and induced the activation of lymphocytes and maturation of murine bone marrow-derived dendritic cells(BMDCs)in vitro.In the subcutaneous B16-F10 melanoma model,the iDPP/SEA nanocomplexes could effectively enhance immune response and T lymphocytes infiltration in tumor site after intravenous administration,thereby considerably decreased melanoma growth.Meanwhile,no obvious adverse effect was observed after intravenous administration of the iDPP/SEA nanocomplexes in vivo.Our findings demonstrated that gene therapy of SEA is a potential candidate for melanoma treatment.
文摘The anti-tumor effect and mechanism of the staphylococcal enterotoxin A (SEA) were studied. The mouse gastric tumor model was produced by subcutaneously inoculating gastric tumor ceils (MGC80-3). The experimental group was treated with SEA, and the control group was treated with normal saline. The percentage of tumor generation and tumor mass was measured. The results showed that the percentage of the tumor generation in the SEA-treated mice was lower than in the control group, but there was no significant difference (P>0. 05). However, the tumor mass in the experimental group was significantly lighter than in the control group, with the difference being very significant (P<0. 001). There were more CD4+ T cells and CD8+ T cells in the tumor of the mice treated with SEA than those of the control group. SEA has an obvious anti-tumor effect on mice gastric tumor. The mechanism might be that SEA induces the effect of superantigen-dependent cell mediated cytotoxicity to the tumor cells.
文摘Staphylococcal Enterotoxin B (SEB) is considered a potential biological weapon. It is toxic by both inhalation and ingestion. Effects of ingestion include fever, vomiting and diarrhoea, while inhalation may additionally result in chest pain, dyspnoea, pulmonary oedema and respiratory failure. Severe exposure may be fatal and treatment relies on symptomatic support. At a cellular level, SEB up-regulates T-cell proliferation leading to a pathological inflammatory response. Deguelin, a rotenoid isolated from the African plant Mundulea sericea (Leguminosae), has been shown to reduce cellular proliferation by inhibiting the phosphoinositide 3-kinase/Akt (PI3K/Akt) signalling pathway. Using isolated murine splenocytes, we have demonstrated that treatment with deguelin reduces SEB inducing T cell proliferation by 60%. Deguelin treatment also decreased IL-2 and CCL2 secretion by splenocytes exposed to SEB. We demonstrate that targeting cellular proliferation can significantly reduce inflammation after SEB exposure and suggest that anti-proliferatives may have a role as potential generic medical counter measures if superantigens are used as biological weapons.
基金Supported by the National Key Basic Research Program of China under Grant Nos 2013CB921904,2013CB328701-2013CB328706the National Natural Science Foundation of China under Grant Nos 11074016,11121091,61177020,11134001and 10828407
文摘Tryptophan （Trp） is an intrinsic fluorescent probe for detecting the site-specified dynamics inside/outside protein. It is found that the Trp can easily be inserted in desired sites of protein, which affects the integrity of the overall structure. To evaluate this effect, we design thirteen double point mutants of staphylococcal nuclease, each of which has a single Trp residue planted at an internal site. The studies on Trp fluorescence, ANS-binding fluorescence, far- and near-UV CD spectra, and enzymatic activity are carried out. It is found that the mutation at the hydrophobic core of protein generates molten globular state conformation, which is a loose structure compared to their original compactness in wild type （WT）. Its enzyme activity and surface hydrophobicity are also affected. The studies show that by proper site designing and external binding, Trp mutagenesis is a suitable method for carrying out the study on site specified dynamics of proteins.
文摘The coagulase-negative staphylococci (CoNS) have long been considered to be low pathogenicity. The possibility of a horizontal transfer of resistance and virulence genes from S. aureus to CoNS could increase the pathogenicity of these bacteria. The objective of this work is to contribute to a better knowledge of the pathogenicity of (CoNS) strains isolated from surfaces and medico-technical materials of the University Hospital of Abomey-Calavi/Sô-Ava. Seventy strains of CoNS isolated from surfaces and medico-technical materials of the University Hospital of Abomey-Calavi were tested for methicillin resistance. The resistance to methicillin was evaluated phenotypically by the resistance of the strains to cefoxitin and then confirmed by the search for the mecA gene using PCR. The genes encoding staphylococcal chromosomal cassette (SCCmec) types I, II and III originally found in S. aureus were tested in CoNS by multiplex PCR using specific primers. All the strains studied showed resistance to methicillin. However, only 28.5% (20/70) carried the mecA gene. SCCmec was identified in only 17.14% (12/70) of these strains. Four strains carried mecA gene as well as one of the three types of SCCmec searched. SCCmec types I, II and III were identified in CoNS strains studied. SCCmec type I was the most frequent chromosomal cassette in mecA<sup>+</sup> strains, only or in association with another SCCmec. The study also revealed methicillin-resistant strains carrying SCCmec lacking the mecA gene. Finally, 60% (12/20) of the strains were found to be non-typeable. Our results show that CoNS strains present a high resistance to methicillin and the source of this resistance in the CoNS of our study is not only the mecA gene. There is also a high diversity of SCCmec, justified by a large number of non-typeable CoNS strains. The mecA<sup>−</sup> SCCmec<sup>+</sup> methicillin-resistant strains deserve to be sequenced for further studies.
文摘Objective:To summarize the clinical features,diagnosis,and treatment of neonatal staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome(SSSS).Methods:The clinical data with SSSS was analyzed,and the related literature was reviewed.Results:The acute onset of the disease was characterized by generalized erythema,epidermis exfoliation,skin non-touch,radial chapping around the mouth,and positive Nissl sign.The culture of binocular secretions and neck exudates showed Staphylococcus aureus and was diagnosed as SSSS.According to the results of drug sensitivity of secretions and exudates,vancomycin was selected for anti-infective treatment,and skincare and symptomatic support were given simultaneously.The child was cured and discharged after ten days of treatment.Conclusion:SSSS belongs to neonatal acute and critical illness.Improving etiological examination and timely targeted anti-infective treatment is the key to correct diagnosis and recovery.
