Unveiling Ranalexin-1G activity against polymicrobial skin infections

Area of Science:

• Antimicrobial Peptides
• Virology
• Bacteriology

Background:

• Herpes simplex virus (HSV-1, HSV-2) and Staphylococcus epidermidis co-infections pose clinical challenges.
• Increasing antimicrobial resistance necessitates novel therapeutic strategies.
• Amphibian-derived antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) represent a potential alternative.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the antiviral and antibacterial properties of Ranalexin-1G, an AMP from Rana grylio.
• To evaluate Ranalexin-1G's efficacy against HSV and S. epidermidis, including resistant strains.
• To assess Ranalexin-1G's potential in treating viral-bacterial co-infections.

Main Methods:

• Antiviral activity assessed via plaque reduction assay and qPCR.
• Antibacterial activity determined by growth inhibition and MIC against S. epidermidis.
• In vitro co-infection model using HaCaT keratinocytes evaluated dual functionality.

Main Results:

• Ranalexin-1G demonstrated potent antiviral activity against HSV-1, HSV-2, and acyclovir-resistant HSV-1 (IC50: 3-10 μM).
• Strong antibacterial activity against S. epidermidis (90% growth inhibition; MIC: 3.125-6.25 μM).
• Significantly reduced bacterial invasion in an in vitro HSV-1/S. epidermidis co-infection model.

Conclusions:

• Ranalexin-1G exhibits dual antiviral and antibacterial efficacy.
• It is a promising candidate for treating polymicrobial skin infections, including viral-bacterial co-infections.
• The peptide possesses a balanced efficacy and low cytotoxicity profile.