Disruption of zinc homeostasis reverses tigecycline resistance in Klebsiella pneumoniae.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Zinc exhibits potent antimicrobial properties due to its ability to compromise bacterial structure and protein functionality, effectively inhibiting and eradicating bacteria. However, bacteria have evolved mechanisms to expel excess zinc ions from their cells, enabling them to thrive in environments rich in metal ions at high concentrations. This evolutionary advancement limits the clinical application of metal ions as antimicrobial agents. In this study, we aimed to investigate the potential of zinc ionophores to overcome bacterial resistance by elevating intracellular zinc ion levels.

Methods

We employed the zinc ionophore PBT2 to elevate intracellular zinc ion levels in Klebsiella pneumoniae, a bacterium known for its resistance to various antibiotics. By tre

SUBMITTER: Wang J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11860891 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature