Future Microbiology

Future Microbiology

Published by Taylor & Francis

Online ISSN: 1746-0921

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Print ISSN: 1746-0913

Disciplines: Microbiology

Journal websiteAuthor guidelines

Top-read articles

17 reads in the past 30 days

Spotlight on the epidemiology and antimicrobial susceptibility profiles of Vibrio species in the MENA region, 2000-2023

September 2024

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103 Reads

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Recent cholera outbreaks in many countries in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region have raised public health concerns and focused attention on the genus Vibrio. However, the epidemiology of Vibrio species in humans, water, and seafood is often anecdotal in this region. In this review, we screened the literature and provided a comprehensive assessment of the distribution and antibiotic resistance properties of Vibrio species in different clinical and environmental samples in the region. This review will contribute to understanding closely the real burden of Vibrio species and the spread of antibiotic-resistant strains in the MENA region. The overall objective is to engage epidemiologists, sanitarians and public health stakeholders to address this problem under the One-health ethos.

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15 reads in the past 30 days

Prevalence of ocular toxoplasmosis among people living with HIV: a systematic review and meta-analysis

March 2024

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42 Reads

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3 Citations

Aim: To determine the prevalence of ocular toxoplasmosis among people living with HIV through a systematic review and meta-analysis. Materials & methods: A literature search was conducted, estimating pooled prevalence and performing quality assessment, outlier, influential and meta-regression analyses. Results: Twenty-nine studies were included in the analysis, revealing that the rate of ocular toxoplasmosis among people living with HIV was 0.37% (95% CI: 0.2–0.6). Substantial heterogeneity was observed among the studies. Despite analyzing continuous variables, including year of publication, proportion of males, mean age and proportion of patients receiving antiretroviral therapy, no statistically significant associations were found. Conclusion: This study provides an overview of the prevalence of ocular toxoplasmosis in people living with HIV, emphasizing the need for further research to uncover factors contributing to its development.

Aims and scope


Future Microbiology is a MEDLINE-indexed, peer-reviewed journal from the Future Science Group providing essential information to the research community, covering basic, translational and clinical research in microbiology (bacteriology, virology, mycology and parasitology) and the impact on human health.

Recent articles


Efficacy of nitrofuran derivatives against biofilms of Histoplasma capsulatum strains and their in vivo toxicity
  • Article

February 2025

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9 Reads


Tracking bla CTX-M transmission through transposable elements in uropathogenic and commensal E. coli

January 2025

ABSTRACT Aim To investigate the nucleotide sequences associated with transposable elements carrying blaCTX-M allelic variants as potential markers for the transmission of antimicrobial resistance genes between domestic animals, humans and the environment. Materials & methods We conducted whole-genome sequencing and analyzed the nucleotide sequences of most abundant blaCTX-M allelic variants (blaCTX-M-27, blaCTX-M-55, and blaCTX-M-65) in commensal Escherichia coli (n = 20) from household members in Quito and uropathogenic E. coli (UPEC) (n = 149) isolated from nine clinics in Quito, Ecuador. Results The Ecuadorian commensal E. coli and UPEC displayed identical nucleotide sequences surrounding the blaCTX-M gene and the synteny was similar to those found in other parts of the world; however phylogenetic analysis indicated that the genetic environments in Ecuadorian isolates were unique. Conclusion These findings suggest that the nucleotide sequences flanking the blaCTX-M genes may be useful for resolving ARG transmission pathways, especially inter-regional analyses.





Activity of extracts and isolated compounds Trichilia catigua against clinically relevant candida species

December 2024

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6 Reads

Objectives: To evaluate the in vitro antifungal activity of extracts and compounds from Trichilia catigua against clinically relevant Candida species, notably Candida glabrata, and investigate possible mechanisms of action using electron microscopy and in silico techniques. Methods: Extracts and fractions of T. catigua were obtained through turboextraction and partitioning, while the isolated compounds were previously purified. The ethyl acetate fraction (EAF) was characterized by HPLC. Antifungal activity against C. glabrata was evaluated through MIC tests, synergism was assessed via checkerboard assays, and structural changes were analyzed via electron microscopy. Molecular docking was performed to identify potential targets of action. Results: The EAF and isolated compounds (cinchonains and procyanidin B2) exhibited significant activity against C. glabrata, with MICs of 9.76 µg/mL (EAF) and 3.9 µg/mL (cinchonains Ia and Ib). Cinchonain Ib combined with epicatechin or procyanidin B2 displayed synergistic effects, particularly with amphotericin B. Microscopy analysis revealed cell membrane damage, and reverse docking analysis suggested that the compounds may target an enzyme essential to the metabolic processes of C. glabrata. Conclusions: The findings suggest that compounds isolated from T. catigua hold considerable potential for developing new antifungal agents against Candida species, particularly C. glabrata, with promising safety and synergistic profiles.


Changes in the gut microbiota and derived fecal metabolites may play a role in tacrolimus-induced diabetes in mice

December 2024

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2 Reads

Aims: A notable scarcity of research has focused on examining alterations in gut microbiota and its metabolites within tacrolimus (TAC)-induced diabetes models. Methods: Tacrolimus-induced changes in glucose and lipid metabolism indices were analyzed through different routes of administration. The potential role of gut microbiota and its metabolites in TAC-induced diabetes was investigated using 16S rRNA sequencing and non-targeted metabolomics. Results: After intraperitoneal(ip) and oral(po) administration of TAC, the α-diversity index of gut microbiota was significantly increased. The gut microbiota of the three groups of mice was significantly separated, and there were significant changes in composition and functional genes. Fecal metabolites changed significantly after TAC administration by different routes, and 53 metabolites (38 down-regulated and 15 up-regulated) were identified (CON vs. TACip). Similarly, 29 metabolites (8 down-regulated and 21 up-regulated) were identified (CON vs. TACpo). KEGG pathway analysis identified 4 and 13 significantly altered metabolic pathways, respectively. Correlation analysis suggested that microbiota and metabolites were involved in the pathogenesis of TAC-induced diabetes. Conclusion: This study investigated the alterations in gut microbiota and fecal metabolites in TAC-induced diabetic mice and evaluated the correlation between these changes. These findings provide valuable insights into potential biomarkers in the development of TAC-induced diabetes.


A novel inhibitory strategy of Leishmania major using Kluyveromyces lactis and Saccharomyces cerevisiae killer toxins

December 2024

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11 Reads

Aim: Leishmaniasis is a globally prevalent parasitic disease that has drawn significant attention. Killer yeasts offer a novel biological control method, presenting a potential alternative for treating leishmaniasis. This study evaluates the antileishmanial activity of Kluyveromyces lactis and Saccharomyces cerevisiae killer toxins against Leishmania major. Materials & methods: Killer yeasts were isolated using the Well method. The genes encoding K2 and K.L killer toxins were identified by PCR, and the toxins were purified via SDS-PAGE. Antileishmanial and cytotoxic effects on L. major promastigotes and amastigotes were evaluated using the MTT assay. Results: The first killer isolate was identified as Saccharomyces cerevisiae ZBAM (GenBank accession: OQ376749.1) and the second as Kluyveromyces lactis ZBAM (GenBank accession: OQ401036.1). IC50 values of K2 and K.L toxins against L. major promastigotes were significantly lower than Glucantime and Amphotericin B. The EC50 values at 24 hours for Glucantime, K2, and K.L were 11.83 ± 0.02 μg/ml, 2.35 ± 0.01 μg/ml, and 3.23 ± 0.03 μg/ml, respectively. The EC50 values for K2 and K.L against L. major amastigotes were also lower than Glucantime. Conclusion: This is the first report of the antileishmanial effects of K2 and K.L toxins against L. major, suggesting these yeasts as promising candidates for biological leishmaniasis treatment.


First case report of Corynebacterium minutissimum septic arthritis associated with an indwelling device

December 2024

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6 Reads

Corynebacterium minutissimum usually presents with erythrasma, a macular rash, but rarely it can cause extracutaneous infections such as endocarditis, peritonitis, pyelonephritis, and catheter-related bloodstream infections. Here, we present the first case of septic arthritis caused by C. minutissimum and a literature review of invasive C. minutissimum infections. The diagnosis was confirmed by the patient's clinical findings and microbiological examination of the joint fluid. Considering the patients hemodialysis catheter and the pathogenic nature of the C. minutissimum, we strongly suspected a catheter-related infection. Clinical and laboratory follow-ups showed consistent improvement with treatment, characterized by reduced pain, swelling, and localized warmth in the left knee, along with a significant decline in acute-phase reactants. The patient achieved full recovery following a four-week course of antibiotics and catheter removal. Our report emphasizes the importance of not disregarding the isolation of non-diphtheria Corynebacterium from appropriately collected sterile samples in symptomatic patients, particularly those with indwelling devices. Based on this case report, clinicians should consider the rare possibility of this microorganism being the cause of septic arthritis.


Sex and gender in rhinosinusitis: a review

December 2024

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10 Reads

Rhinosinusitis is a highly prevalent, inflammatory condition affecting the nose and paranasal sinuses, impacting an individual's quality of life with significant health care burden. Sinusitis is more frequent in females, and they typically present with more severe symptoms and worse quality of life scores. Males are more likely to present with nasal polyps and have higher objective scores on imaging studies. Differences in sinus microbiota by sex may play a role in understanding differences in clinical presentations between them, but additional research is required. An improved understanding of sex and gender-based differences in pathophysiology and clinical presentations will help to decrease inequities in accessing healthcare and optimizing long-term personalized patient outcomes.





Figure 1. (a) The flowchart for grouping of the study participants (strongly suspected pleural TB cases/non-TB controls) for MPT-64 detection by MB-AuNP-I-PCR vs. magneto-ELISA. (b) The flowchart for grouping of the study participants (clinically suspected pleural TB cases/non-TB controls) by GeneXpert vs. MB-AuNP-I-PCR.
Figure 2. Physicochemical characterization of AuNPs, AuNPs+detection antibodies and functionalized AuNPs by TEM: (a) AuNPs (i) TEM image at 200 KX magnification revealed spherical monodispersed AuNPs (ii) size histogram revealed an average size of AuNPs ranging between 16 to 20 nm and (iii) HRTEM at 800 KX magnification revealed the crystal lattice arrangement of AuNPs. (b) AuNPs+detection antibodies (i) image at 200 KX (ii) size histogram for TEM with an average size of 15-22 nm and (iii) HRTEM of AuNPs+detection antibodies at 800 KX. (c) functionalized AuNPs (i) image at 200 KX (ii) size histogram for TEM with an average size of 16-23 nm and (iii) HRTEM of functionalized AuNPs at 800 KX.
Figure 3. FTIR spectra of AuNPs (red colored), AuNPs+anti-MPT-64 pAbs (detection antibodies) (green colored) and functionalized AuNPs (black colored).
Figure 4. LOD for the purified MPT-64 by MB-AuNP-I-PCR, wherein a 76 bp amplicon indicated a positive result on 4% agarose gel: lane M, 20 bp ladder; lanes 1-12, serial ten-fold dilutions of the purified MPT-64 (from 1 μg/mL to 10 ag/mL); lane 13, I-PCR-negative control (no antigen coated, rest all the reagents added); lane 14, PCR-negative control (no template DNA, rest all the reagents added); lane 15, PCR positive control (signal DNA, 1 ng/mL). The experiments were performed twice and one of the representative figures has been shown.
Detection of MPT-64 protein in pleural tuberculosis cases by magnetic bead-gold nanoparticle-PCR amplified immunoassay
  • Article
  • Full-text available

November 2024

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32 Reads

Aim: Diagnosis of pleural tuberculosis (TB) is challenging; thus, an efficient method is urgently needed. Methods: We developed a magnetic-bead-gold nanoparticle-PCR amplified immunoassay (MB-AuNP-I-PCR, liquid system) to detect the Mycobacterium tuberculosis MPT-64 protein in pleural TB patients. AuNPs functionalized with detection antibodies/oligonucleotides were characterized by UV-vis spectroscopy, Transmission/Scanning electron microscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectrometer, ELISA, and PCR, whereas MBs conjugated with detection antibodies were validated by magneto-ELISA/UV-vis spectroscopy. Results: We utilized the MB-AuNP-I-PCR for MPT-64 detection in 99 clinical specimens which displayed 85.2% sensitivity and 97.8% specificity to diagnose pleural TB cases. Markedly, the sensitivity achieved by MB-AuNP-I-PCR was noticeably higher (p < 0.01) than magneto-ELISA and GeneXpert. Conclusion: This is a preliminary report to diagnose pleural TB cases by MB-AuNP-I-PCR with promising results that require further corroboration in a higher number of specimens.



Parasite-microbiota interactions: a pathway to innovative interventions for Chagas disease, leishmaniasis, and ascariasis

November 2024

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54 Reads

Juan David Ramírez

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Parasitic infections are a major global health challenge, driven in part by complex interactions between parasites, host microbiota, and immune responses. Recent advances in microbiome research highlight the critical role of microbiota in influencing disease outcomes and treatment effectiveness. This review examines how changes in the microbiota impact parasite transmission, disease progression, and responses to treatment, focusing on key parasitic diseases such as Chagas disease, leishmaniasis, and ascariasis. The microbiota can either exacerbate or mitigate disease severity, depending on its composition, providing critical insights for novel therapeutic strategies. Emerging approaches discussed include the use of targeted probiotics, prebiotics, and microbiota-modulating drugs to influence parasite dynamics and enhance conventional therapies. The review also explores the potential of integrating microbiota knowledge into vaccine design and immunotherapy, aiming to develop vaccines that elicit stronger immune responses and identify new therapeutic targets. A multidisciplinary approach is essential for translating these findings into effective clinical solutions, with future research focusing on validating microbiota-based interventions in clinical settings. In conclusion, the interaction between microbiota and parasitic infections presents a promising avenue for innovative therapies, with the potential to significantly improve global health outcomes.





Streptococcus intermedius: an underestimated pathogen in brain infection?

November 2024

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21 Reads

Streptococcus intermedius is an oral commensal organism belonging to the Streptococcus anginosus group (SAG). S. intermedius causes periodontitis as well as invasive, pyogenic infection of the central nervous system, pleural space or liver. Compared with other SAG organisms, S. intermedius has a higher mortality as well as a predilection for intracranial infection, suggesting it is likely to possess virulence factors that mediate specific interactions with the host resulting in bacteria reaching the brain. The mechanisms involved are not well described. Intracranial suppuration (ICS) due to S. intermedius infection can manifest as an abscess within the brain parenchyma, or a collection of pus (empyema) in the sub- or extra-dural space. These infections necessitate neurosurgery and prolonged antibiotic treatment and are associated with a considerable burden of morbidity and mortality. The incidence of ICS is increasing in several settings, with SAG species accounting for an increasing proportion of cases. There is a paucity of published literature regarding S. intermedius pathogenesis as well as few published genomes, hampering molecular epidemiological research. This perspective evaluates what is known about the clinical features and pathogenesis of ICS due to S. intermedius and explores hypothetical explanations why the incidence of these infections may be increasing.


Photoinactivation mechanism of hypericin nanoencapsulated in P123 against Microsporum canis

November 2024

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5 Reads

Aim: To evaluate the photodynamic mechanism of hypericin nanoencapsulated in P123 copolymer micelles against Microsporum canis in vitro.Material & methods: Antifungal susceptibility tests were performed, including the determination of the minimum fungicidal concentration and time-kill curve. Flow cytometry was used to evaluate the internalization of P123-Hyp in conidia and the activation of PDT type I and II mechanisms via the detection of reactive oxygen species (ROS), as well as to assess changes in the cell membrane using propidium iodide (PI) and cell morphology.Results: P123-Hyp-PDT exerted a fungistatic action on fungus, maintaining this action up to 24 h after exposure, corroborating the PS internalization results, which showed satisfactory uptake of P123-Hyp from a concentration of 3.125 μmol/l. Among the ROS studied, singlet oxygen was detected. Furthermore, the increased fluorescence intensity of PI in treated cells indicated necrotic cell death, while the size and granularity of the cells were also altered.Conclusion: Our results show, for the first time, a proposal for the mechanism of action of P123-Hyp-mediated PDT against M. canis, proving that it has a prolonged action on the fungus through activation of the type II photodynamic pathway, which resulted in disruption of the plasma membrane and cellular alterations.


Causal associations between gut Bifidobacteriaceae and transplant failure: a Mendelian randomization study

November 2024

Aim: Transplant rejection and failure are the primary causes of shortened lifespan in transplant patients and are closely associated with the status of the human immune system. Gut microbiota have the capacity to modulate the human immune system. However, it remains unclear whether any gut microbiota can influence the risk of transplant failure.Materials & methods: A Mendelian randomization study was conducted to explore the causal relationship between gut microbiota and transplant failure. This study utilized three Genome-Wide Association Study results focusing on the gut microbiome, transplant failure and transplantation status. Single nucleotide polymorphisms that were strongly associated with gut microbiota abundance were selected as instrumental variables.Results: The abundance of Bifidobacteriaceae demonstrated a significant causal relationship with transplant failure (inverse variance weighted [IVW] p = 0.049, OR = 0.658, 95% CI: 0.433-0.998), but was not related to the risk of transplantation status (IVW p > 0.200). Notably, a higher intestinal abundance of Bifidobacteriaceae corresponded to a decreased risk of transplant failure. Bifidobacteriaceae instrumental variables were enriched in pathways related to synapses and membranes.Conclusion: The Bifidobacteriaceae may play a crucial role in the mechanism of transplant failure. These study results contribute to elucidating the mechanisms underlying transplant failure.


A rare case of granulomatous mastitis by Brucella species

November 2024

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9 Reads

Granulomatous mastitis (GM) is a rare, chronic, benign inflammatory disease of the breast. Here, we present a rare case of GM caused by brucellosis and present the first review to compile the cases in the literature. The diagnosis was confirmed by the patient's serological and histopathological results. The patient was successfully treated with doxycycline+rifampicin combination therapy for six weeks. In conclusion, infectious agents, especially brucellosis, should be considered in the differential diagnosis of GM in endemic regions. Diagnostic methods, such as tissue culture and serological tests, should be used to detect possible infectious agents if necessary.


Treatment outcome in patients with spinal neurocysticercosis: a systematic review of published cases and case series

November 2024

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32 Reads

Aims: Spinal neurocysticercosis is a rare central nervous system infection caused by the larval form of the Taenia solium. Due to its rarity, most knowledge is derived from isolated case reports. This review aims to evaluate existing case reports and observational studies to provide a comprehensive overview of the disease's clinical presentation and treatment outcomes. Methods: Following PRISMA guidelines, a comprehensive search was performed across various databases. The review included case reports, case series, and observational studies, and it is registered with PROSPERO (CRD42024496957). Results: This review analyzed 206 spinal neurocysticercosis cases (from 171 published reports). Symptoms persisted for one week to six months in 49% of cases, and common presentations included paraparesis/quadriparesis (61.7%) and neck/limb/back pain (40.8%). CSF abnormalities were observed in 23.8%. Thoracic involvement was most frequent (39.3%), followed by cervical (27.2%). Neurocysticercosis lesions in other regions, primarily the brain, were found in 18.9%. Differential diagnoses included spinal cord tumors (13.1%). Treatment often involved surgery alone (32%) or with cysticidal drugs (45.6%), with a 91.3% improvement rate, indicating favorable outcomes. Conclusions: Spinal neurocysticercosis primarily affects the thoracic and cervical regions. Most patients respond well to medical therapy; surgery is mainly for progressive neurological deficits.


Nitric oxide-releasing self-healing hydrogel for antibacterial and antibiofilm efficacy against polymicrobial infection

November 2024

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55 Reads

Aim: Bacterial infections and the formation of biofilms are currently key factors in the delay of wound healing. S-Nitroso glutathione (GSNO) is recognized as a nitric oxide (NO) donor that exhibits potent antibacterial and antibiofilm activities. However, some of the stability limitations of NO require it to be prepared pharmaceutically.Materials & methods: Here, we developed a self-healing hydrogel dressing consisting of GSNO, polyvinyl alcohol/borax (PVA/B) and carboxymethyl chitosan (cmCHI). This research aimed to determine the antibacterial and antibiofilm activities of a self-healing hydrogel (PVA-B-cmCHI/GSNO) against multiple bacteria and polymicrobial biofilms.Results: Forty mg/ml PVA-B-cmCHI/GSNO significantly increased the antibacterial activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, S. aureus, Methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), as indicated by a >5 log reduction in bacterial viability (∼99.999% killing). PVA-B-cmCHI/GSNO showed antibiofilm activity three-times greater than that of the blank self-healing hydrogel (PVA-B-cmCHI) by inhibiting 80% of the biofilm formation.Conclusion: The results suggest that the NO-releasing self-healing hydrogels exhibit notable antibacterial and antibiofilm properties and thus could be a promising approach for the treatment of bacterial or biofilm-infected wounds.


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