In vitro evaluation of the antimicrobial, anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory and apoptosis-regulating effects of

Samuel Devine1, Domenico Santoro2

  • 1Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, 2015 SW 16th Ave, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA.

Abstract

Insights

Retinaldehyde shows antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects against common canine skin pathogens. This suggests its potential as a topical treatment for dermatological infections, particularly at higher concentrations.

Area of Science:

  • Veterinary Dermatology
  • Microbiology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Antimicrobial resistance in canine skin/ear infections necessitates novel therapeutics.
  • Retinoids, including retinaldehyde, have anti-inflammatory and kerato-regulatory properties.
  • Retinaldehyde may possess antimicrobial activity.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the antimicrobial effects of retinaldehyde against key canine pathogens.
  • To assess the anti-inflammatory, antioxidative, and apoptosis-regulating properties of retinaldehyde.
  • To determine the potential of retinaldehyde as a therapeutic agent for canine dermatological conditions.

Main Methods:

  • Microbroth dilution determined minimum inhibitory (MIC) and bactericidal/fungicidal (MBC/MFC) concentrations of retinaldehyde against Staphylococcus pseudintermedius, Staphylococcus coagulans, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Malassezia pachydermatis.
  • Immortalized canine keratinocytes were treated with retinaldehyde (5, 50, 500 µg/mL) with or without TNFα.
  • Quantification of IL-1β, IL-8, malondialdehyde, and caspase-3 activity via ELISA.

Main Results:

  • Retinaldehyde demonstrated antimicrobial activity against SP, SC (median MIC/MBC: 8 µg/mL), and MP (median MIC/MBC: 32 µg/mL).
  • Activity against PA was observed at 64 µg/mL for limited isolates.
  • Retinaldehyde significantly reduced TNFα-induced IL-8 secretion and modulated apoptosis in a dose-dependent manner, reducing caspase-3 activity in stimulated cells at higher concentrations.

Conclusions:

  • Retinaldehyde exhibits in vitro antimicrobial and immunomodulatory effects.
  • These findings support retinaldehyde's potential as a topical adjunct therapy for canine dermatological infections.
  • Further research, including stability studies and clinical trials, is warranted.

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