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Characterization of MSlys, the endolysin of Streptococcus pneumoniae phage MS1

Maria Daniela Silva1, Hugo Oliveira1, Alberta Faustino2

  • 1CEB - Centre of Biological Engineering, LIBRO - Laboratório de Investigação em Biofilmes Rosário Oliveira, University of Minho, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal.

Biotechnology Reports (Amsterdam, Netherlands)
|November 18, 2020
PubMed

Insights

A novel bacteriophage endolysin, MSlys, shows significant antimicrobial activity against Streptococcus pneumoniae. This discovery offers a promising new therapeutic candidate for treating persistent pneumococcal infections, including otitis media.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Biotechnology
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • * *Streptococcus pneumoniae* infections remain a significant global health concern despite widespread vaccination.
  • * Novel therapeutic strategies are urgently needed to combat antibiotic-resistant pneumococcal strains.

Purpose of the Study:

  • * To identify and characterize the MSlys endolysin from phage MS1 for its potential as an antimicrobial agent.
  • * To evaluate the efficacy of MSlys against planktonic and biofilm forms of *Streptococcus pneumoniae*.

Main Methods:

  • * Recombinant expression and characterization of the MSlys endolysin.
  • * Antimicrobial activity assays against *S. pneumoniae* isolates from otitis media.
  • * Scanning electron microscopy and confocal laser scanning microscopy to assess biofilm structure.

Main Results:

  • * MSlys demonstrated potent lytic activity against *S. pneumoniae*, including clinical isolates.
  • * Treatment with MSlys significantly reduced planktonic bacterial cultures and disrupted 24- and 48-hour-old biofilms.
  • * Microscopic analysis revealed thinner and damaged biofilm structures post-MSlys treatment.

Conclusions:

  • * The endolysin MSlys exhibits promising antimicrobial properties against *Streptococcus pneumoniae*.
  • * MSlys represents a potential therapeutic candidate for treating pneumococcal infections, particularly otitis media.
Keywords:
AntibacterialBiofilmEndolysinMSlysStreptococcus pneumoniae

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