Modulation of ESKAPE Bacteria Properties by NK-92 and NK-92-Derived LEVs: First Insights

ESKAPE pathogens represent a critical threat to global health. This challenge necessitates the development of novel antibacterial strategies. We investigated the antimicrobial potential of NK-92 cells and their derived large extracellular vesicles using flow cytometry, ELISA, confocal microscopy and microbiology assays. Here, we show that both NK-92 cells and NK-92-derived LEVs can interact with bacteria, as confirmed by confocal microscopy and flow cytometry. This interaction is associated with inhibition of colony formation. A possible mechanism can involve defensin-α1 secreted by NK-92 and packed in their LEVs. NK-92-derived LEVs can modulate S. aureus viability, colony growth and clindamycin susceptibility. These findings suggest NK cell-derived LEVs as promising strategies to combat multidrug-resistant bacterial infections.