Impact of Difluoromethylornithine and AMXT 1501 on Gene Expression and Capsule Regulation in Streptococcus pneumoniae.

ABSTRACT: Streptococcus pneumoniae (Spn), a Gram-positive bacterium, poses a significant threat to human health, causing mild respiratory infections to severe invasive conditions. Despite the availability of vaccines, challenges persist due to serotype replacement and antibiotic resistance, emphasizing the need for alternative therapeutic strategies. This study explores the intriguing role of polyamines, ubiquitous, small organic cations, in modulating virulence factors, especially the capsule, a crucial determinant of Spn's pathogenicity. Using chemical inhibitors, difluoromethylornithine (DFMO) and AMXT 1501, this research unveils distinct regulatory effects on the gene expression of the Spn D39 serotype in response to altered polyamine homeostasis. DFMO inhibits polyamine biosynthesis, dis

SUBMITTER: Ayoola MB 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10887117 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature