Pathogen-targeting glycovesicles as a therapy for salmonellosis

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Drug Delivery Systems
• Gastroenterology

Background:

• Antibiotic therapy is generally not advised for salmonellosis due to limited efficacy and potential for prolonged fecal shedding.
• Salmonella infections can cause significant gastrointestinal distress and alterations in gut microbiota.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the potential of hydrogen sulfide (H₂S)-responsive glycovesicles for targeted antibiotic delivery in salmonellosis treatment.
• To evaluate the efficacy of this novel delivery system in alleviating disease symptoms and modulating gut microbiota in a mouse model.

Main Methods:

• Development of H₂S-responsive glycovesicles encapsulating antibiotics.
• Administration of glycovesicles to a mouse model of Salmonella infection.
• Assessment of antibiotic release, pathogen targeting, symptom severity, and gut microbiota composition.

Main Results:

• Antibiotics were selectively released in the presence of Salmonella due to H₂S production by the pathogen.
• Localized drug delivery to the gut reduced systemic absorption and alleviated disease symptoms in mice.
• The treatment minimized antibiotic-induced dysbiosis and promoted the growth of beneficial lactobacilli.

Conclusions:

• H₂S-responsive glycovesicles represent a promising strategy for targeted antibiotic delivery in salmonellosis.
• This approach enhances therapeutic efficacy while mitigating adverse effects on the gut microbiome.