[Quinolones and Streptococcus pneumoniae. Mechanisms of action and resistance]
R Taléns-Visconti1, T M Garrigues, E Cantón
1Unidad de Microbiología Experimental, Centro de Investigación, Hospital Universitario La Fe, Valencia, Spain. rtalens@uv.es
Abstract:
Streptococcus pneumoniae is considered the most frequent bacterial cause of community-acquired pneumonia, and is involved in a significant number of cases of acute exacerbations of chronic bronchitis, acute otitis, sinusitis, meningitis and other infectious diseases. Fluoroquinolones have been extensively investigated in recent years in the search for new agents that has been prompted by the emergence of resistance in this microorganism. Furthermore, the study of resistance from a molecular biology standpoint has helped in elucidating almost all the biochemical mechanisms of resistance and the routes of dissemination of genetic information between bacteria. This short review is focused on the mechanism of action of quinolones and on the mechanisms responsible for resistance of S. pneumoniae to them, given their clinical and epidemiological relevance. S. pneumoniae is a case apart because bactericidal activity against this microorganism can be produced through gyrase, topoisomerase IV or both, depending on the quinolone structure, which shows that structure has an influence on the success of treatment. Knowledge of the resistance prototype is therefore important so that the appropriate antibiotic therapy can be recommended when indicated.
Insights
Streptococcus pneumoniae causes pneumonia and other infections. Understanding fluoroquinolone resistance mechanisms in S. pneumoniae is crucial for effective antibiotic treatment.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Molecular Biology
- Pharmacology
Context:
- Streptococcus pneumoniae is a leading cause of community-acquired pneumonia and other serious infections.
- Emergence of antibiotic resistance necessitates the investigation of new antimicrobial agents.
- Molecular studies have elucidated bacterial resistance mechanisms and genetic exchange.
Purpose:
- To review the mechanism of action of quinolones.
- To explore the mechanisms of fluoroquinolone resistance in S. pneumoniae.
- To highlight the clinical and epidemiological significance of S. pneumoniae resistance.
Summary:
- Fluoroquinolones target bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV.
- Resistance in S. pneumoniae can involve mutations in gyrase, topoisomerase IV, or both.
- The specific quinolone structure influences bactericidal activity and treatment outcomes.
Impact:
- Knowledge of resistance mechanisms guides the selection of appropriate antibiotic therapy.
- Understanding structure-activity relationships aids in developing new, effective fluoroquinolones.
- Informed treatment strategies are essential for combating S. pneumoniae infections.
Related Concept Videos
Mechanism of Antibiotic Resistance in MRSA
Inhibitors of Bacterial DNA Synthesis
Gene Regulation in Microbial Communities: Quorum Sensing
Inhibitors of Gram-positive Cell Wall Synthesis
Development of Antibiotic Resistance
Clinical Significance of Antibiotic Resistance

