Extracellular vesicles from bacteria and fungi: mechanistic insights and implications for urinary tract infections

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Immunology
• Pathogenesis

Background:

• Urinary tract infections (UTIs) affect millions globally, causing significant morbidity and mortality.
• Bacterial and fungal pathogens are the primary causes of UTIs, leading to severe symptoms and complications.
• Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are increasingly recognized as crucial mediators in disease processes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current understanding of bacterial and fungal-derived EVs in UTI pathogenesis.
• To elucidate the mechanisms by which EVs contribute to UTI development and progression.
• To explore the potential of EVs as therapeutic targets or agents in managing UTIs.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies investigating extracellular vesicles in urinary tract infections.
• Analysis of the molecular cargo and functions of microbial EVs.
• Synthesis of current knowledge on EV-mediated mechanisms in UTI.

Main Results:

• Microbial EVs facilitate UTI by promoting colonization, immune evasion, and tissue invasion.
• EVs can transfer virulence factors and contribute to antimicrobial resistance.
• Specific biomolecules within EVs play distinct roles in modulating host responses during infection.

Conclusions:

• Extracellular vesicles are critical effectors in bacterial and fungal UTIs.
• Targeting microbial EVs presents a promising avenue for novel UTI therapies.
• Further research into EV-host interactions is essential for developing effective treatments.