Mathematical modelling of Pseudomonas aeruginosa L-forms reveals complex interplay between host defence mechanisms and putative treatments

Chloe Spalding, Sandeep Shirgill, Emma Keen, Anne Marie Krachler, Sara Jabbari

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Abstract

The bacterium Pseudomonas aeruginosa has been shown to undergo a morphological transition akin to L-forms under exposure to antibiotics, a process which may contribute to persistent infections. With the further consideration of antibiotic-resistance mechanisms, this transition renders the design of effective treatment strategies challenging. Through a mathematical model, we illustrate that additionally incorporating the complexities of the host immune response can render somewhat surprising predictions from the simulations. In particular, scenarios arise whereby the addition of a treatment strategy to directly target the L-forms results in a worsened infection, while in others this treatment could turn an antibiotic-resistant infection from persistent to treatable. The study highlights the importance of understanding the in vivo interplay between immune cells and pathogens for successful treatment design.
Original languageEnglish
Article number899990
JournalFrontiers in Systems Biology
Volume2
Issue number2
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 17 Jun 2022

Keywords

  • pseuodomonas aeruginosa
  • immune response
  • l-form
  • mathematical model
  • antimicrobial resistance
  • antimicrobial pepides

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