Microbiological & Immunological Communications
https://rootspress.org/journals/index.php/MIC
<p>Microbiological & Immunological Communications is a Biannual, peer-reviewed, open-access journal published online, that includes studies investigating all aspects of the relationships between infectious agents (bacteria, viruses, fungi, etc.) and hosts. Clinical studies and investigations carried out at organismal, organ, and tissue levels can be submitted to this journal, however, studies exploring cellular and molecular mechanisms are encouraged. Animal studies investigating molecular aspects of disease prevention, diagnosis, pathogenesis, and treatment, especially targeting their immunological aspects using <em>in vitro</em>, <em>in vivo</em>, and <em>in silico</em> tools, are also welcomed. The journal also publishes research in mycology and parasitology.</p>Roots PressenMicrobiological & Immunological Communications2959-2518Lactobacillus Rhamnosus & Lactobacillus Salivarius Modulate Planktonic and Biofilm State of Cariogenic Streptococcus Mutans
https://rootspress.org/journals/index.php/MIC/article/view/468
<p><em>Streptococcus mutans</em> is one of the early colonizers of the oral cavity and contributes to dental caries and decays. Therefore, any intervention that reduces their number in the oral cavity is considered helpful in reducing dental infections. Probiotics confer health benefits and several studies highlighted their curative effects in the oral cavity. In this study, the antimicrobial and biofilm inhibiting potential of <em>Lactobacillus rhamnosus </em>and <em>Lactobacillus salivarius </em>in co-culture with cariogenic bacterium <em>S. mutans</em> was evaluated. <em>S. mutans</em> formed significant biofilm both in the presence and absence of sucrose with OD > 3-4 at 48h and 72h. On the contrary, <em>L. rhamnosus </em>and <em>L. salivarius</em> made weak biofilm as compared to <em>S. mutans</em>. Both the <em>Lactobacillus</em> strains significantly reduced the bacterial load up to 4-5 folds with 70 – 80% biofilm formation of <em>S. mutans</em> in co-culture experiments. The cell-free supernatant of both the <em>Lactobacillus</em> strains also reduced the biofilm formation and bacterial load. Propidium monoazide (PMA) assays also showed a significant reduction of <em>S. mutans</em> count when co-cultured with <em>L. rhamnosus </em>and <em>L. salivarius</em>. Gene expression analysis showed the downregulation of the quorum sensing (<em>LuxS</em>) gene when co-cultured with the <em>Lactobacillus</em> strains. We conclude that <em>L. rhamnosus </em>and <em>L. salivarius </em>can be used to control cariogenic bacteria i.e., <em>S. mutans</em>.</p>
Research ArticlesStreptococcus mutansLactobacillus rhamnosusLactobacillus salivariusProbioticsBiofilmAyaz AhmedLiu JinjuanXin Yi
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2023-12-302023-12-309710710.55627/mic.002.02.0468Evaluating Fluoxetine's Growth-Inhibitory Impact on Clinical Isolates of Enteric Bacteria: Harnessing Repurposing Potential
https://rootspress.org/journals/index.php/MIC/article/view/454
<p>The over-the-counter use and imprudent utilization of antibiotics in recent times have led to the emergence of microbial resistance. This has given rise to an alarming situation, prompting researchers to explore novel strategies for managing infections induced by antibiotic-resistant species. However, the process of drug discovery is time-consuming and expensive, which makes it a challenging endeavor. In recent years, drug repurposing has gained significant attention as an alternative strategy. Notably, several antidepressants have piqued interest as potential candidates for repositioning as antibiotics. Thus, the present study was aimed at investigating the anti-bacterial potential of different classes of antidepressants i.e., fluoxetine, venlafaxine, and phenelzine in clinical isolates of <em>Escherichia coli, Enterobacter aerogenes, Enterococcus faecalis, Klebsiella pneumonia, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Proteus mirabilis, Salmonella typhi, Shigella dysenteriae, </em>and<em> Staphylococcus aureus</em>. The strains were cultivated on Mueller Hinton agar, with the aforementioned antidepressants or conventional antibiotics. Following a 24-hour incubation period, the extent of growth inhibition was assessed by measuring the zone of inhibition, serving as an indicator of their inhibitory potential. The findings showed that fluoxetine arrested the growth of almost all isolates with maximal effect against <em>Pseudomonas aeruginosa</em>. The impact of venlafaxine was exclusively observed in <em>Enterobacter aerogenes</em>, with phenelzine demonstrating complete ineffectiveness in bacterial growth suppression. In conclusion, the current study elucidates the efficacy of fluoxetine in clinical isolates, thereby positioning it as a promising contender for the advancement of novel antimicrobial agents. Additionally, our data raises questions regarding the proposed mechanisms of antibacterial action for selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and challenges the notion of dysbiosis as a potential mode of action for antidepressants.</p>
Research ArticlesFluoxetinedrug repositioningantimicrobial activityrepurposing potential Affhan ShoaibAimen SultanJazib ShafiqGhulam AbbasRimsha SoomroYasir Raza
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2023-12-302023-12-30899610.55627/mic.002.02.0454Search for Natural Remedies for the Treatment of Salmonella Typhi Infections
https://rootspress.org/journals/index.php/MIC/article/view/421
<p>Typhoid is a major public health threat, particularly in areas lacking access to clean water, proper nutrition, and hygienic practices. The emergence of antibiotic resistance, inaccessibility of vaccines to the global south, and asymptomatic carriers of <em>Salmonella typhi</em> (<em>S. typhi</em>) have made tackling the scourge of typhoid a major challenge. Plant-based antimicrobial compounds have opened a new avenue for effectively managing typhoid by minimizing drug-related side effects and targeting the resistant strains of typhoidal <em>salmonella</em> cost-effectively. This review article contains many such candidates, who can potentially modify the typhoid treatment guidelines like <em>Azadirachta indica, Canarium schweinfurthii-</em>derived scopoletin<em>, </em>and<em> Punic granatum, </em>and those that target the resistant strains of<em> S. typhi</em>, like <em>Amaranthus hybridus,</em> and<em> Quercus infectoria and Phyllanthus emblica</em>. The article will also shed light on the challenges and promises associated with phytocompound extraction and standardization as the researchers navigate the uncharted waters of alternative medicinal sources. </p>
Review ArticlesAnti-typhoid phytocompoundSalmonella typhiphytoextarctsAMR-typhoidtyphoid managementNida SaleemTehreem Shahid
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2023-12-302023-12-3012113410.55627/mic.002.02.0421Host Defence and Toxoplasma gondii: A Mini Review
https://rootspress.org/journals/index.php/MIC/article/view/411
<p style="margin: 0in; text-align: justify;"><em><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: 'Palatino Linotype',serif;">Toxoplasma gondii</span></em><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: 'Palatino Linotype',serif;"> is a parasite intracellular in nature that affects pregnant animals and humans especially immunocompromised persons. Infected hosts show a robust inherent response followed by an adaptive response to contain the parasitic infection. More focus has recently been placed on innate lymphocytes, inflammatory monocytes, and inherent immunological processes. The operation of MyD88 independent pathways is necessary for these processes to function. Despite the host's immense immune reaction, the parasite has evolved to overcome the host's immune response either by down-regulation of signaling pathways or altering host gene expression. Also, the parasite continues to thrive as a lifelong infection in the infected individuals and may revive to its lethal form in stress conditions.</span></p>
Review ArticlesToxoplasma gondiiinnate immunityadaptive immunityimmune evasionKashif NazirShahzad HurAsmat NawazMashal MehreenMoazam Ali SaimSeraj ud DinMahnoorRuqia Bano
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2023-12-302023-12-3010912010.55627/mic.002.02.0411Antimicrobial and Antibiofilm Potential of PEGylated Chitosan-Based Nano-Antibiotics Against Multidrug-Resistant E Coli Strains
https://rootspress.org/journals/index.php/MIC/article/view/402
<p>Antibiotic resistance is a major public health burden in the contemporary world, imposing high levels of mortality, morbidity, and financial losses annually. <em>Escherichia coli</em> is a widespread food and waterborne pathogen causing severe ailments. In the current study, chitosan (CS) and polyethylene glycol (PEG) based hybrid nanosystems were developed and their intrinsic and synergistic (with antibiotics) antibacterial activity was assessed against multidrug-resistant <em>E. coli </em>strains. Enteropathogenic (EPEC) and enterotoxigenic (ETEC) strains of <em>E. coli </em>exhibited resistance against multiple classes of antibiotics. PEGylated CS nanosystems demonstrated higher encapsulation efficiency for ciprofloxacin (61.3 ± 0.76%), compared to ceftriaxone encapsulation (49.4 ± 0.52%). Scanning electron microscopy revealed a smooth surface and homogenous distribution of void and loaded nanosystems. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) spectra indicated no new chemical bonding and change in functional groups therefore it can be said antibiotics were successfully incorporated into the nanosystems by electrostatic interactions. Growth kinetics and colony forming unit (CFU) assay revealed restored activity of antibiotics encapsulated in hybrid PEGylated CS nano-conjugates against resistant <em>E. coli </em>strains<em>.</em> Furthermore, PEGylated CS hybrid nanosystems with intrinsic activity effectively curbed the biofilm formation in EPEC and ETEC strains. For future biopharmaceutical manufacturing, we propose that PEGylated CS hybrid nanosystems can be a potential therapy against resistant <em>E. coli</em> and biofilm-associated chronic illnesses.</p>
Research ArticlesChitosanhybrid nanosystemsnano-antibioticsantimicrobial resistanceE coliSaadia AmbreenAyesha SajidOmera NaseerAamer IkramMuhammad Imran
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2023-12-302023-12-30698710.55627/mic.002.02.0402Editor's Summaries of the Articles Published in This Issue of Microbiological & Immunological Communications
https://rootspress.org/journals/index.php/MIC/article/view/346
<p>In this issue, Shafiq et al. evaluate the serum levels of interleukin (IL)‐2, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)- α, IL-1β, interferons (IFN)-α, IFN-β, IFN-γ, and IL-10 in patients infected with SARS-CoV-2, Akbar and colleagues isolated and identified the infectious agents of dermatophytes related infections in patients, and screened selected natural remedies for their treatment, Urooj et al., assessed the samples of water collected from different dental units placed in different departments of tertiary care dental hospitals in Karachi to evaluate their conditions, Talpur and colleagues isolated and identified coliform bacteria in the drinking water of Shah Abdul Latif University, Campus, Khairpur (Mir’s) Sindh, Pakistan, while Khan and Xin reviewed gut micro biome’s role in the development of the immune system, including oral tolerance and immunity.</p>
In This IssueEditorial Staff
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2023-06-302023-06-30030410.55627/mic.002.01.0346The Promise of Gut Microbiota
https://rootspress.org/journals/index.php/MIC/article/view/331
<p>The gut microbiota consists of trillions of microorganisms in the digestive tract. It holds immense promise in various aspects of human health and well-being. Our understanding of its full potential is still developing. It has implications for digestive health, mental health and brain function, personalized medicine, immune system regulation, disease prevention and treatment, metabolic health, weight management, and others. Here we highlight some aspects of gut microbiota that have shown significant promise in recent research.</p> <p>Personalized Microbiome Medicine: Researchers have been increasingly focusing on personalized microbiome medicine. This involves understanding how an individual's unique gut microbiota composition can influence their health and disease risk. This understanding could lead to personalized dietary and therapeutic interventions based on a person's microbiome profile.</p> <p>Gut-Brain Axis and Mental Health: The connection between the gut and the brain, known as the gut-brain axis, has gained significant attention. Emerging research suggests that gut microbiota can influence mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, and neurodegenerative disorders. This has led to exploring novel treatments targeting the gut microbiota to improve mental health outcomes.</p> <p>Microbiota Transplants: Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) has continued to be an area of research interest. FMT involves transferring fecal material from a healthy donor to a recipient's gut to restore a balanced microbial ecosystem. It has shown promise in treating certain gastrointestinal disorders, such as recurrent Clostridium difficile infections, and researchers are also investigating its potential for other conditions.</p> <p>Diet and Microbiota interaction: The impact of diet on the gut microbiota composition and its subsequent influence on health has been a focus of recent research. Studies have demonstrated how different diets, such as high-fiber diets or those rich in certain plant-based foods, can promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria and contribute to overall well-being.</p> <p>Metagenomics: Advances in metagenomics and sequencing technologies have allowed researchers to study gut microbiota with higher resolution. This has enabled the identification of previously unknown microbial species and functions, leading to a deeper understanding of the complex microbial communities residing in the gut.</p> <p>Microbiota and Immune System: Research has shown that gut microbiota plays a crucial role in regulating the immune system. Dysbiosis, an imbalance in the gut microbiota, has been linked to various autoimmune diseases and allergic conditions. Understanding these interactions could potentially lead to innovative immune-modulating therapies.</p> <p>Metabolic Diseases: There's growing evidence that the gut microbiota is linked to metabolic disorders like obesity, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome. Researchers are studying how specific bacterial species and their metabolites impact metabolism and contribute to these conditions.</p> <p>Synthetic Microbiota and Therapeutics: Scientists are exploring the possibility of designing synthetic microbial communities (synbiotics) to target specific health outcomes. These synthetic communities could be used as therapeutic interventions for various diseases, offering a controlled and tailored approach to manipulating the gut microbiota.</p> <p>The future of gut microbiota research holds exciting possibilities as our understanding of the complex interactions between microbiota and human health continues to deepen. One important area to look for in the future is the application of artificial intelligence tools to gut microbiota. Applying machine learning and artificial intelligence to gut microbiota data will help identify patterns and correlations that traditional analyses may miss. These tools could aid in understanding complex microbial communities and their associations with health and disease.</p>
EditorialSaeed Khan
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2023-06-302023-06-30010210.55627/mic.002.01.0331The Role of Dietary Peptides and the Gut Bacteria in Maintaining Intestinal and Homeostatic Balance
https://rootspress.org/journals/index.php/MIC/article/view/191
<p>The gut bacteria and the host have a mutually beneficial relationship. This complex interdependence plays a critical role in resource collection via prebiotic carbohydrate breakdown in the intestinal tract, the supply of important nutrients, vitamin synthesis, metabolic operations and maintenance, as well as sheltering against colonization of pathogens, and opportunistic fungal infections. This leads to ‘gut microbiota homeostasis’ or ‘gut microbial equilibrium’, i.e., a stable and healthy gastrointestinal tract microbial community. In this review, we discuss the gut micro biome’s role in the development of the immune system, including oral tolerance and immunity. The therapeutic approach must begin with the interaction of functional foods and enterocytes. Furthermore, we discuss current knowledge and the promising application of functional foods that may stimulate the immune system to perform a further pro- or anti-inflammatory activity in the gastrointestinal system. When evaluating the immune system function of nutraceuticals, designs that modulate the membrane must be used whenever possible. Moreover, nutraceutical products’ claim to be immunity boosters should have valid and accurate data to back it up. While assessing the stimulation of blood cell immunity through functional foods is more useful, it does not accurately reflect physical reality, and an investigation into the colonic immune response is a better way to understand it.</p>
Review ArticlesFunctional peptideintestinal microbiotaprotein hydrolysatebioactive peptideimmunomodulationAsif Iqbal KhanYi Xin
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2023-06-302023-06-30416310.55627/mic.002.01.0191Microbiological Assessment of Dental Unit Water Lines at a Tertiary Care Dental Teaching Hospital in Karachi
https://rootspress.org/journals/index.php/MIC/article/view/236
<p>The dental practice depends on many factors, including the ample water supply through the plastic tubing system to irrigate the oral cavity's working area. It is used not only with dental materials but also to keep the machinery cool and evade the heat produced while working high-speed rotating instruments. The water is supplied by the tubing system known as the 'dental unit water lines' (DUWL). The main source of DUWL is usually the main supply of municipal water or the bottled water system. There is a high prevalence of microorganisms in this system, and limits have been set to control the spread of infection in dental settings. The formation of biofilm in the luminal surfaces of DUWL is another problem that can lead to the continuous growth of microorganisms inside DUWL. In this study, we assessed the samples of water collected from different dental units placed in different departments of tertiary care dental hospitals in Karachi to evaluate their conditions. The results showed the total viable plate count at 37ºC was positive for all samples. The mean total viable plate count (TVC) at 37° C was >200 colony forming units (CFU)/100 ml for all of the samples. The total <em>coliform </em>was found in 18 samples out of 38 (47.5%). Whereas fecal<em> E. coli</em> and fecal <em>Enterococci/ Streptococci</em> are not found in any sample, <em>Pseudomonas</em> species were found in all samples. The study concluded that strict disinfection practice is mandatory to avoid cross-infection in dental settings. </p>
Research Articlesdental unit water linesbacteriaaerosol contaminationArsala UroojMarium ZaheerAnwar AliKhurram Pervez
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2023-06-302023-06-30273310.55627/mic.002.01.0236Levels of Cytokines In SARS-Cov-2 Infected Patients
https://rootspress.org/journals/index.php/MIC/article/view/244
<p>Cytokine dysregulation is the proposed mechanism for Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). This study aimed to evaluate the serum levels of interleukin (IL)‐2, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)- α, IL-1β, interferons (IFN)-α, IFN-β, IFN-γ, and IL-10 in patients infected with SARS-CoV-2. The study was conducted in 120 adult patients with COVID‐19 and compared with 40 age and gender-matched healthy subjects as controls. The age range in both groups was 18–70 years. The patients were classified into the mild/moderate group (60 patients) and the severe group (60 patients). Serum samples were collected from all participants and tested for cytokine levels by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method. Statistical analysis was performed using the one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). Serum cytokines in SARS-CoV-2 patients, which indicate the host's immune responses against the coronavirus inflammation, seem different from what has been observed with other viral pathogens. The difference in the serum levels of IL-2, TNF-α, INF-α, INF-β, and IL-10 between the two groups was insignificant. However, higher levels of IL-2, TNF-α, and INF-β are reported in mild COVID-19 patients compared to healthy individuals and severe COVID-19 patients. Varying levels of cytokines were detected in the COVID-19 group than in the control group, suggesting distinct immunoregulatory mechanisms involved in COVID-19 pathogenesis.</p>
Research ArticlesCOVID-19SARS-CoV-2inflammationcytokinesinterleukinscoronavirusesAlmina ShafiqueMuhammad RomanFaheem ShahzadRomeeza TahirKhursheed JavaidMuhammad Bilal SarwarMuhammad Asif NaveedMaria ZahidSeema AftabShah Jahan
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2023-06-302023-06-30051310.55627/mic.002.01.0244Dermatophytes Isolation from Patients and In-vitro Application of Selected Natural Extracts and Oils for Anti-Dermatophytic Activity
https://rootspress.org/journals/index.php/MIC/article/view/233
<p>Dermatophytosis, commonly known as ringworm, is caused by a group of fungi termed dermatophytes. It can invade the keratinized tissue of the skin, nails, and hair. Dermatophytosis is classified based on the site of infection, such as tinea pedis, tinea capitis, and tinea unguium. This study was performed at Bolan Medical College Hospital, Quetta, to isolate and identify the infectious agents of dermatophytes related infections in patients following all the codal formalities and ethical procedures. A total of 19 patients' samples were analyzed in the study, where ten samples were positive for infectious agents. The organisms were grown on specified media, such as dermatophytes test medium agar and potato dextrose agar, supplemented with antibiotics. The isolates were preliminary identified with the help of their growth on specific media and finally confirmed with the help of compound microscopic examination. Some common natural compounds, such as apple peel extract (APE), grapes peduncle extract (GPE), propolis oil (PO), and bitter apricot kernel oil (BAKO), were used against the dermatophytes isolates and were found positive for activity against a few isolates. The APE showed inhibitory activity of 31% against <em>Trichophyton</em> <em>tonsurans</em> and 80% against <em>Epidermophyton</em> <em>flocosum</em>, while the GPE showed 27% and 74%, PO showed 42% and 69%, and BAKO showed 78% and 70% activity against <em>Trichophyton</em> <em>tonsurans</em> and <em>Epidermophyton</em> <em>flocosum, </em>respectively. The bioactive compounds in these extracts were analyzed through Fourier Transformed Infrared Spectroscopy.</p>
Research ArticlesAntifungalantimicrobialtinea fungal infectionsQuettaBalochistanAli AkbarGhulam Ishaq KhanZareen GulNosheen AkhterHaleema Sadia
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2023-06-302023-06-30152510.55627/mic.002.01.0233Isolation and Identification of Coliform Bacteria from the Drinking Water of the Shah Abdul Latif University Khairpur
https://rootspress.org/journals/index.php/MIC/article/view/231
<p>Contamination of drinking water in a developing countries is mostly due to the lack of awareness of the risks, and inadequate training of personnel and management working on drinking water systems. This usually results in avoidable disease outbreaks. A study was carried out to isolate and identify coliform bacteria in the drinking water of Shah Abdul Latif University, Campus, Khairpur (Mir’s) Sindh, Pakistan. Several water samples from different sites of the University were collected and analyzed for coliform bacteria. <em>E.coli</em> was used as an indicator organism, and various types of coliform bacteria were detected. Most of the samples isolated from the campus were contaminated with multiple bacteria. The main water supply of the university showed contamination with <em>E.coli</em>, <em>Salmonella, Enterobacter</em>, <em>Shigella,</em> and <em>Neisseria</em>. The most common microorganism found in water samples was <em>E coli. </em>It is recommended that efforts should be made to de-contaminatethe water supply of the university which might result in catastrophic outbreaks of the disease if the water supply remains contaminated.</p>
Research ArticlesDrinking waterwater contaminationisolation Identification coliformE. coliEnterobacterSalmonellaShigella Mir Muhammad Ali TalpurImdadullah KatoharAmjad Ali MughalZuhaib Ahmed SamejoSaadullah Khoharo
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2023-06-302023-06-30353910.55627/mic.002.01.0231Editor's Summaries of the Articles Published in This Issue of Microbiological & Immunological Communications
https://rootspress.org/journals/index.php/MIC/article/view/209
<p>In this issue, Ejaz and colleagues investigated the prevalence and antibiotic susceptibility pattern of isolates from patients with urinary tract infection in Karachi, Pakistan; Ahmed and Kazmi studied the role of Siderophore as a therapeutic agent, Faruqui et al. determined the prevalence of latent tuberculosis infection among healthcare workers of a tertiary care hospital in Karachi, Pakistan, Khan and colleagues reported that hepatitis B-virus genotype D is the most prevalent in the multiethnic population of Karachi, Pakistan, while Athar and colleagues reviewed and discussed the molecular diagnosis of hepatitis C viruses, their technologies, and clinical applications.</p>
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2023-01-142023-01-14030510.55627/mic.001.01.0209Welcome to Microbiological & Immunological Communications
https://rootspress.org/journals/index.php/MIC/article/view/205
<p>Welcome to the inaugural issue of <em>Microbiological & Immunological</em> <em>Communications</em>-a biannual, open access, and peer-reviewed journal aiming to publish high-quality research articles in the field of basic & clinical microbiology and immunology. The journal covers topics such as clinical practice, education, research, policy, and technology in the field of microbiology and immunology. It strives to promote knowledge exchange and collaboration between researchers, clinicians, educators, policymakers, and other professionals in the microbiology and immunology community.</p> <p><em>Microbiological & Immunological</em> Communications, available online and in print, publishes scholarly input from the scientific and broader community related to the important themes in microbiological and immunological sciences. The journal emphasizes studies integrating the more expansive interdisciplinary fields of microbiology and immunology with hardcore evidenced based.</p> <p>Microbiological & Immunological publishes studies investigating all aspects of the relationships between infectious agents (bacteria, viruses, fungi, etc) and hosts. Clinical studies and investigations carried out at organismal, organ, and tissue levels can be submitted to this journal, however, studies exploring cellular and molecular mechanisms are encouraged. Animal studies investigating molecular aspects of disease prevention, diagnosis, pathogenesis, and treatment, especially targeting their immunological aspects using <em>in vitro</em>, <em>in vivo</em>, and <em>in silico</em> tools, are also welcomed. The journal also publishes research in mycology and parasitology.</p> <p>The purpose of this journal is to provide a platform to the scientific fraternity, especially regional and national academics, where they could get their studies published after a rapid, transparent, and high-quality peer review. All the articles published in <em>Microbiological & Immunological Communications</em> will be freely available to readers immediately after publication. The open-access policy of our journal is likely to increase the readership of articles and enhance their visibility and citation potential. Therefore, I invite you to submit your work to <em>Microbiological & Immunological Communications</em>. We look forward to receiving your submissions!</p> <p>Professor Dr. Saeed Khan</p> <p>Editor-In-Chief</p> <p><em>Microbiological & Immunological Communications</em></p>
EditorialSaeed Khan
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2022-12-312022-12-31010110.55627/mic.001.01.0205Molecular Diagnosis of Hepatitis C Viruses; Technologies and Their Clinical Applications
https://rootspress.org/journals/index.php/MIC/article/view/193
<p>Hepatitis-C is one of the most common viral diseases caused by hepatitis C virus (HCV). It is responsible for millions of deaths each year in the developing world. The common dissemination paths of HCV include the use of contaminated water and transfusion of infected blood. Control of this virus has become a challenge for scientists and health professionals due to its versatility and adaptability in different host environments. Along with other problems, lack of efficient diagnosis, quantification and genotyping of viral strains are the major hindrances in a management of this notorious epidemic. The knowledge of HCV genotype and an amount of virus in patient’s blood are pre-requisites to determine the duration and method of treatment. In this review, we discuss the implications of HCV molecular diagnostic methods and their clinical applications. We conclude that while, several commercial and home-brewed methods are available for this purpose, and there is a visible vacuum for cost effective, robust, sensitive assays that can detect multiple viral genotypes in a single reaction. We are of the view that the level of sensitivity offered by Reverse Transcriptase-Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) technique is unequivocal as compared to other techniques. Therefore, researchers may explore further possibilities using this technique in the management of HCV.</p> <p><strong>Key words: </strong>Hepatitis C virus, Genotyping, Mixed infection, Fluorescence melting curve analysis, Viral Load, Quantification</p>
Review ArticlesHepatitis C virus, genotyping mixed infectionfluorescence melting curve analysisviral loadquantificationMuhammad Ammar AtharVakil Ahmad Inaam Ullah Malik Sami Ullah
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2022-12-312022-12-31557310.55627/mic.001.01.0193Prevalence and Antibiotic Susceptibility Pattern of Isolates from Patients with Urinary Tract Infection in Karachi
https://rootspress.org/journals/index.php/MIC/article/view/179
<p style="margin: 0in; margin-bottom: .0001pt; text-align: justify; tab-stops: center 225.65pt left 246.4pt; background: white;"><strong><span style="font-size: 9.0pt; font-family: 'Palatino Linotype',serif;">The prevalence of urinary tract infections (UTIs) can vary significantly in males and females among different age groups. With the increased use of antibiotics, UTIs have now become more challenging to treat and a major healthcare issue in developing countries. Therefore, this retrospective study was designed to recognize the resistance profile of isolates from samples of UTI patients in Karachi, Pakistan, so that a proper treatment plan against the infection can be prescribed. One thousand seven hundred hundred urine samples were processed to isolate pathogens at the One Health Diagnostics Microbiology department, Karachi, for 6 months in 2020. Results were analyzed to determine the age group affected, gender affected, the correlation of age group and gender, the most frequent to least frequent isolates found, and the susceptibility patterns of isolates. Pearson Chi-square test was applied to identify whether an association existed between the different variables. The degree of association between the risk factors and UTI was determined by calculating Cramer's V and Odds Ratio (OR). Out of 1700 samples, 1130 (66.5%) were positive samples for UTI, with 910 (80.5%) females and 220 (19.5%) males. The most frequent isolates were <em>E. coli</em> (50.44%), <em>Klebsiella</em> <em>spp.</em> (21.23%), and Coagulase Negative Staphylococcus (7.52%). It was found that the patients between the age group 18-30 and above 60 were the most susceptible, 37% and 32% of the total cases, respectively. Piperacillin-Tazobactam was observed as the most effective drug, as 52.24% of isolates were sensitive to it. Similarly, Doxycycline was found to be the least effective, as 57.75% of isolates were resistant. The most effective antibiotic regime against the most prevalent organism, i.e., <em>E. coli</em> was Imipenem (93.75% sensitive), Amikacin (90.63%), and Fosfomycin (91.28%). A statistically significant association was found between gender and UTI (P<0.01, OR=0.416 (0.326-0.532)) and the most prevalent organism and UTI (P<0.01).</span></strong></p>
Research ArticlesSyeda Maha EjazMuhammad Sufyan VohraYasir Raza
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2022-12-312022-12-31071910.55627/mic.001.01.0179Hepatitis B-Virus Genotype D is Prevalent in a Multi-Ethnic Population of Karachi, Pakistan
https://rootspress.org/journals/index.php/MIC/article/view/190
<p>The Hepatitis B virus (HBV) remains a major cause of chronic hepatitis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) globally. HBV is broadly classified into ten genotypes (A-J). Each genotype is distinctive due to its geographical distribution, response to certain treatments, and association with disease severity. The investigation of HBV genotypes is worthwhile as it will help predict patient prognosis and ensure effective treatment. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the prevalent HBV genotypes in the multiethnic population of Karachi, Pakistan. A total of 206 patients were enrolled in the study from January 2011 to April 2016. Of the 206 patients that we investigated, a total of 159 patients were positive for HBV infection. Furthermore, genotyping analysis of the positive samples revealed that the most common genotypes were HBV D (59% samples (n=94)), co-infection with genotype A & D (22% (n=35)) and genotype A (16% (n=26)). Most of the HBV-positive patients were males between 21 to 40 years of age. As genotype D is associated with worse outcomes, it is imperative that HBV awareness programs are launched to prevent the further spread of infections in this densely populated city.</p>
Research ArticlesChronic hepatitis HBV genotypes hepatocellular carcinomaPakistanFatima KhanMaria ZahidAmanullah LailNajeeb Ur Rehman
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2022-12-312022-12-31455310.55627/mic.001.01.0190Risk And Prevalence of Latent Tuberculosis Infection Among Healthcare Workers of Tertiary Care Hospital in Karachi Pakistan
https://rootspress.org/journals/index.php/MIC/article/view/182
<p>More than 10 million people fall sick due to TB annually; Pakistan ranks 5th for highest tuberculosis (TB) burden globally. Latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) is asymptomatic TB infection that can reactivate later on, causing transmission and disease. Health care workers dealing with positive Mycobacterium Tuberculosis (MTB) samples and patients are at high risk of TB infection. In this study, we investigated the frequency of LTBI in health care workers as well as a comparative group of patients suspected to have LTBI by their physicians. A total of 77 healthy healthcare workers (including phlebotomists, medical technologists, nurses, doctors, and faculty members working closely with TB samples or patients) and 104 patients diagnosed with TB were recruited in our study after institutional ethical approval. 3ml of whole blood was collected from study participants and was dispensed into three specific QFT tubes. (NIL, TB, Mitogen). Samples were investigated for interferon specifically released against TB according to the manufacturer’s protocol by using QuantiFERON TB Gold assay kit. Out of 77 healthcare workers, 16.8% (n=13) were positive for LTBI; these included microbiologists, technicians, phlebotomists, and housekeeping staff. However, none of the doctors and medical technologists tested positive. On the other hand, out of 104 patients, 23.1 % (n=24) were found to be positive, 10.5% (n=11) were indeterminate and 65.3% (n=68) were negative for LTB. The one-tail chi-square test revealed 35.14% risk to the highly exposed HCWs with the overall estimated risk of 42.54%. This study reports a high prevalence of LTBI in HCWs. Among the HCWs, microbiologists and technicians were the most affected. Housekeeping staff was also found to have LTBI. This study also found a higher risk for LTBI in technicians, medical technologists, microbiologists, and phlebotomist as compared to doctors and interns. This highlights the importance of regular screening of all HCWs, including housekeeping staff, in order to control and prevent the spread of this disease.</p>
Research ArticlesHafsa FaruquiMaria ZahidIrfan Ali KhanSeema Aftab
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2022-12-312022-12-31354410.55627/mic.001.01.0182Siderophore Production and its Role as Therapeutic Agent
https://rootspress.org/journals/index.php/MIC/article/view/181
<p>Siderophores are iron chelators, which are produced by bacteria under iron-deficient conditions required for their growth. Therefore, siderophores can be used as a carrier to direct drugs into the bacteria and kill them. The present study was designed to screen siderophore production using different bacteria using an iron-deficient medium and its synergistic capability to kill drug-resistant bacteria. Siderophore under iron-deprived condition was evaluated by chrome azurol S (CAS) assay. Whereas, broth micro-dilution method and checkerboard assay were used to determine the antimicrobial properties of selected drugs or epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) individually or in combination with synthetic siderophore. Results demonstrated that the entire tested microorganisms produced siderophore under the iron-deprived condition as evidenced by orange halo zones in CAS agar plates. Gram-negative bacteria produced more siderophores as reflected by orange color with bacterial zone inhibition of 17-22mm as compared to Gram-positive bacteria (13-15mm). As compared to antibiotics and EGCG, acetohydroxamic acid (aHa; synthetic siderophore) showed no antibacterial properties (1500 - 6500 µg/ml). The synergism of aHa with tetracycline, ceftriaxone, and EGCG (FIC index <0.5) against <em>S. typhi</em>, methicillin-resistant and sensitive <em>Staphylococcus aureus,</em> and <em>E. coli</em> were evident. In conclusion, siderophore may be considered a potential candidate to design different combination therapy against emerging antimicrobial-resistant pathogens.</p>
Research ArticlesSiderophoreAntimicrobialIron Deprived conditionTherapeuticsAyaz AhmedShahana Kazmi
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2022-12-312022-12-31213310.55627/mic.001.01.0181