Use of Outer Membrane Vesicles (OMV) for the development of quinolone class antibiotic facilitating systems

• Grant number: 20/03702-0
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate (Direct)
• Start date: June 01, 2020
• End date: May 31, 2024
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Pharmacy
• Principal Investigator: Marcelo Lancellotti
• Grantee: Carlos Fernando Macedo da Silva
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas (FCF). Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP). Campinas , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Quinolones are bactericidal agents that act by inhibiting the activity of DNA girase and topoisomerase IV enzymes, which are essential for the replication and growth of bacteria. However, several studies report the appearance of strains with resistance to multiple antibiotics worldwide, and among the main causes is the lack of control in the use of these drugs by the population. The appearance of multi-resistant bacteria demands the need to develop new methods of combating these microorganisms, and to solve this problem, this project aims to use the Outer Membrane Vesicles (OMVs) as carriers of levofloxacin (a third generation quinolone). OMVs are spherical structures (between 20-250 nm in diameter) produced by Gram negatives, when small portions of the outer membrane protrude outward and come out of the bacterial cell. These vesicles have the ability to encapsulate other molecules, and act as a delivery and secretion system for bacterial products, facilitating their diffusion. Therefore, we will use this system to overcome the multiresistance barriers and transport the antibiotic from the extracellular medium, inside the cell, to inhibit enzymatic activities and consequently prevent bacterial growth. (AU)