Targeting bacterial integration host factor to disrupt biofilms associated with cystic fibrosis.

Abstract

BACKGROUND:

This study aims to identify whether the bacterial protein, Integration Host Factor (IHF), is present within sputum solids collected from cystic fibrosis (CF) patients and thus might contribute to the structural stability of biofilms within the lungs.

METHODS:

The presence of IHF in sputum was determined by immunohistochemistry. The role of IHF in stabilizing biofilms within sputum was tested in vitro wherein anti-IHF was used to attempt to dissolve sputum solids.

RESULTS:

Thirty-seven of 44 sputum samples (84%) were positive for anti-IHF staining. Treatment with anti-IHF or DNase of 6 representative samples, dissolved sputum solids significantly better than treatment with normal saline in vitro, and strong synergism was observed when these agents were used in combination.

CONCLUSIONS:

IHF was detected in the majority of sputum samples from patients with CF and in vitro treatment with anti-IHF induced dissolution of sputum solids. These data support further investigation of IHF as a potential therapeutic target for patients with CF.

• Authors: Jodi E Gustave, Joseph A Jurcisek, Karen S McCoy, Steven D Goodman, Lauren O Bakaletz
• Journal: Journal of cystic fibrosis : official journal of the European Cystic Fibrosis Society (J Cyst Fibros) Vol. 12 Issue 4 Pg. 384-9 (Jul 2013) ISSN: 1873-5010 [Electronic] Netherlands
• PMID: 23168017 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural)
• Copyright: Copyright © 2012 European Cystic Fibrosis Society. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Chemical References

• Integration Host Factors

Topics

• Adolescent
• Adult
• Biofilms
• Child
• Child, Preschool
• Cystic Fibrosis (drug therapy)
• Female
• Humans
• Integration Host Factors (analysis, antagonists & inhibitors)
• Male
• Middle Aged
• Sputum (chemistry)
• Young Adult