Supramolecular Cationic Assemblies against Multidrug-Resistant Microorganisms: Activity and Mechanism of Action

Author(s)

de Melo Carrasco, Leticia Dias ; Mello Sampaio, Jorge Luiz ; Carmona-Ribeiro, Ana Maria

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES; v. 16, n. 3, p. 16-pg., 2015-03-01.

Abstract

The growing challenge of antimicrobial resistance to antibiotics requires novel synthetic drugs or new formulations for old drugs. Here, cationic nanostructured particles (NPs) self-assembled from cationic bilayer fragments and polyelectrolytes are tested against four multidrug-resistant (MDR) strains of clinical importance. The non-hemolytic poly(diallyldimethylammonium) chloride (PDDA) polymer as the outer NP layer shows a remarkable activity against these organisms. The mechanism of cell death involves bacterial membrane lysis as determined from the leakage of inner phosphorylated compounds and possibly disassembly of the NP with the appearance of multilayered fibers made of the NP components and the biopolymers withdrawn from the cell wall. The NPs display broad-spectrum activity against MDR microorganisms, including Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria and yeast. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 11/00046-5 - Interactions between membranes, biomolecules and surfaces
• Grantee: Ana Maria Carmona-Ribeiro
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants
• FAPESP's process: 12/24534-1 - Supramolecular assemblies of cationic lipid, antibiotics and polymers: preparation, characterization and activity against multiresistant bacteria and fast-growing mycobacteria
• Grantee: Letícia Dias de Melo Carrasco
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate