Iranian Journal of Microbiology

Diagnostic value comparative analysis of the commercial kits for the detection of SARS-CoV-2 in clinical samples: a systematic review and meta-analysis

2025-10-26T12:15:36+00:00

Background and Objectives: Rapid and accurate identification of suspicious SARS-CoV-2 patients is essential in con- trolling the infection. Numerous commercial kits are developed which target diverse regions of the SARS-CoV-2 virus ge- nome. This systematic review addresses the lack of comprehensive analyses comparing the diagnostic value of commercial kits for SARS-CoV-2 detection. We aimed to compare diagnostic value of commercial SARS-CoV-2 kits in clinical samples using a systematic review and meta-analysis method.

Materials and Methods: A comprehensive search was conducted on main databases of Medline (PubMed), Embase, Web of Science and Scopus from 2019 to October 2021 using the appropriate keywords. Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis guideline PRISMA checklist was used to select eligible studies.

Results: The most frequent introduced kits were from USA (33 cases) and China (27). Among all studies, 11, 9 and 7 papers had assessed FDA –CDC, Sansure and Allplex kits, respectively. The majority of the kits were based on RT-PCR (52 cases) and the most frequent genes target was N protein (63 cases). The overall sensitivity of the kits was 80.5%. The lowest sensi- tivity was reported for Daan Kit, while the highest sensitivity was seen for many kits. The specificity of the kits ranged from 87.9% to 99.8% and the overall specificity was 97.9%. Both PPV and NPV of the kits ranged from 87.9% to 99.8% for PPV and 82.9% to 99.8% for NPV.

Conclusion: Based on DOR obtained from three different formulas, GeneFinder, InBios, NxTAG, Simplexa and FDA-CDC kit have better detection performance. The GeneFinder Kit appears to be among the more suitable options regarding cost-ef- fectiveness for each reaction.

Application of Saccharomyces boulardii in feed to improve health, wellness and productivity

2025-10-26T12:15:55+00:00

One of the main pillars of human health depends on healthy nutrition. Chicken makes up a significant part of human nu- trition particularly in societies experiencing economic inflation and severe disruptions to people's livelihoods. So livestock and poultry pose a crucial impact on food safety and immunity. Probiotics have acquired worldwide acceptance as a healthy ingredient for usage as a potential feed supplement to reduce food-borne diseases and confirm food hygiene from farm to fork. Feed additives containing live yeast, e.g. Saccharomyces boulardii, and yeast derivative products can increase feed in- take and intestinal health, and improve productivity. This probiotic, non-pathogenic yeast possesses several health-beneficial properties for poultry and livestock. However, it was previously believed that yeast did not have an effective probiotic effect in chicken and poultry. In this review, the advantages of using Saccharomyces boulardii has been introduced as a probiotic for poultry and livestock. This comprehensive analysis explores the multifaceted applications of probiotics in animal feed from health and AMR perspectives, examining their mechanisms of action, benefits, and potential to transform sustainable animal production practices.

Serological diagnosis of human brucellosis in Morocco and prospects for advanced diagnostic techniques

2025-10-26T12:16:11+00:00

Background and Objectives: Brucellosis, a contagious infection caused by Brucella spp, remains the most widely reported bacterial zoonosis globally. Since the clinical manifestations are often non-specific, reliable laboratory confirmation, in ac- cordance with World Health Organization recommendations, is essential. This study reports human brucellosis cases between

2017 and 2025 based on serological confirmation; it also discusses approaches to improve diagnostic accuracy for better surveillance, timely treatment, and support public health strategies.

Materials and Methods: A total of 95 serum samples were obtained from patients presenting with clinical manifestations suggestive of brucellosis. Initial screening was performed using the Rose Bengal test, and positive or equivocal samples were further analyzed by Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay to detect both IgG and IgM antibodies for serological confirmation.

Results: Among the 95 patients investigated, the Rose Bengal test yielded positive results in 69.5% of cases. Serological confirmation by ELISA demonstrated IgM seropositivity in 57.9% of patients and IgG seropositivity in 55.8%. The diagnos- tic performance of ELISA showed a sensitivity of 83.3% for IgM detection and 80.3% for IgG detection. Regarding patient demographics, the mean age was 37.9 ± 16.4 years, with a slight male predominance (54.7%).

Conclusion: The study reveals a considerable proportion of brucellosis-positive cases, confirming the value of serological testing in endemic regions such as Morocco. Nonetheless, serology should be complemented with advanced diagnostic methods, including PCR to improve both the accuracy and timeliness of diagnosis. These findings support the adoption of integrated diagnostic approaches and the reinforcement of laboratory capacity in high-risk areas.

Serotypes and antibiotic resistance patterns of group B streptococci isolated from pregnant women at Urmia University Hospital, Iran

2025-10-26T12:16:32+00:00

Background and Objectives: Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is a common bacterium found in the gastrointestinal tract and genitalia of both humans and animals. GBS infections can lead to a range of conditions, including meningitis, pneumonia, and sepsis. The present study aimed to analyze the colonization rate, antibiotic susceptibility, and serotypes of GBS in preg- nant women in Urmia, Iran.

Materials and Methods: Following GBS isolation from pregnant women and confirming its presence through PCR, antibi- otic susceptibility testing was conducted to assess resistance patterns, followed by amplification of resistance genes (mefA, ermB, ermTR, linB) and molecular serotyping to determine the genetic characteristics of the strains.

Results: Out of 400 samples, 31 (7.75%) were positive for GBS, with 22 (70.97%) showing multidrug resistance. Clindamy- cin had the highest resistance rate (80.65%), while penicillin showed the lowest (3.23%). Serotypes II and V were the most common (38.71% each), followed by Ia (19.35%) and III (3.23%). The ermB gene was detected in 4 strains, while mefA, ermTR, and linB were not found.

Conclusion: Optimal management of GBS infections in pregnant women necessitates ongoing surveillance and antibiotic stewardship, considering penicillin resistance and observed resistance patterns.

Helicobacter pylori dysregulates the expression of autophagy-related genes in human gastric adenocarcinoma cell line in vitro

2025-10-26T12:16:43+00:00

Background and Objectives: Studies have indicated that Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection could correlate with autophagy dysregulation. This research was undertaken to investigate whether H. pylori can dysregulate the expression of genes related to autophagy in human gastric adenocarcinoma (AGS) cells.

Materials and Methods: Ten H. pylori clinical isolates recovered from peptic ulcer disease (PUD) and chronic gastritis (CG) patients were used for cell infection assays. AGS cells infected with H. pylori strains at a multiplicity of infection (MOI) of 100 were incubated at 37°C for 12 h. The expression of autophagy-related genes (atg5, atg12, atg16L1, LC3B, and beclin-1) was determined in AGS cells by RT-qPCR. ELISA was applied to measure IL-8 production.

Results: The gene expression of atg5, atg12, atg16L1, LC3B was upregulated by both CG and PUD strains. The overexpres- sion was more pronounced in PUD than CG strains. On the contrary, beclin-1 gene was downregulated in all H. pylori-in- fected AGS cells. In addition, H. pylori strains could significantly produce IL-8 in AGS cells.

Conclusion: Our in vitro study demonstrates that H. pylori could alter the expression of autophagy-related genes. Further investigation could precisely uncover the mechanism whereby H. pylori dysregulates host autophagy.

Comparative molecular detection of Helicobacter spp. and Wolinella in the oral cavity of cats and dogs with periodontal disease and healthy individuals

2025-10-26T12:17:15+00:00

Background and Objectives: Helicobacter and Wolinella are gram-negative bacteria belonging to the Helicobacteraceae family. While Helicobacter species are well-known for their role in gastric disorders, emerging evidence suggests their pres- ence in the oral cavity and potential involvement in periodontal diseases.

Materials and Methods: Helicobacter and Wolinella species were investigated in 122 saliva and periodontal plaque samples from dogs and cats by DNA extraction, PCR amplification, and 16S rDNA gene identification.

Results: Comparing the periodontitis group and the healthy group, a higher incidence of positive Wolinella and Helico- bacter species was shown in both dog and cat groups. 16S rDNA genes of Helicobacter were detected in 60% of the cats and 67.7% of the dogs. Detection of 16S rDNA genes of the Wolinella group in felines was 78.3% which was higher than in canines (67.7%). Helicobacter felis (35%) was the most common species detected in cats, contrary to dogs, in which Helicobacter heilmannii (30%) detection was higher (in both groups). Helicobacter pylori was not detected in either group.

Conclusion: Comparing the occurrence of Helicobacter and Wolinella in the mouths of dogs and cats, their association with periodontal disease, and the possibility of a common source of infections between humans and companion animals is of great importance for the management of oral health in animals and humans.

Incidence of drug resistance and expression of bla and adeA genes among Acinetobacter baumannii strains isolated from hospitalized patients at a government hospital in Irbid, Jordan

2025-10-26T12:17:19+00:00

Background and Objectives: Acinetobacter baumannii (A. baumannii) is an opportunistic bacterial pathogen principally related with hospital-acquired infections. This study aimed to isolate and identify A. baumannii strains, investigate their resistance to various antibiotics, and characterize A. baumannii at the molecular level.

Materials and Methods: A total of 100 samples were obtained from various hospital departments, including the intensive care unit (ICU), emergency room, kidney dialysis and surgery units. The incidence of drug resistance was studied using the Vitek 2 Compact system and further using molecular techniques such as polymerase chain reaction to analyze the genes responsible for resistance.

Results: The study exhibited a high prevalence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) A. baumannii isolates, especially in ICU pa- tients. The males were the predominant group, accounting for 60% whereas females were 40%. The most frequent samples were from urine (43%) and skin (24%). Majority of samples were from the ICU (42%) and emergency departments (20%).The tested isolates exhibited the highest resistance (66%) to oxacillin, whereas the maximum sensitivity (52%) was recordedfor Erythromycin. Molecular analysis revealed the occurrence of resistance genes bla, bla, bla , and bla ,which contribute to carbapenem resistance.

Conclusion: The findings emphasize that A. baumannii remains a formidable nosocomial pathogen, and there is pressing requirement for enhanced infection control procedures and antibiotic stewardship. Through improved molecular observation, judicious use of antibiotics and improved infection control practices, healthcare providers can alleviate the impact of MDR A. baumannii infections and improve the prognosis for affected patients in Jordan and beyond.

Phenotypic and genotypic analysis of hypermucoviscous Klebsiella pneumoniae (hmkp) strain

2025-10-26T12:17:37+00:00

Background and Objectives: Hypermucoviscous Klebsiella pneumoniae exhibits distinct phenotypic and genetic char- acteristics that distinguish it from the classic K. pneumoniae pathogen. The aim of current study was to investigate some phenotypic and genetic markers used for hmKp identification.

Materials and Methods: Seventy-one K. pneumoniae isolates were obtained from the respiratory care unit in Al-Diwanyiah Teaching Hospital \Diwanyah, Iraq, from the first of November 2024 to the first of March 2025. The bacteria were identified, and antibiotic sensitivity testing was performed using VITEK 2 ID-GN and AST cards. Hypermucoviscosity was assessed using the string test, and an investigation into several adherence and virulence genes was conducted for all isolates. Then, multi-locus sequence typing was performed for hypermucoviscous K. pneumoniae isolates.

Results: 3 (4.22%) of 71 isolates were hypermucoviscous. The virulence and adherence genes were present in 100% of the isolates, whereas rmpA was only found in hypermucoviscous isolates. The results showed that the hmKp isolates were mem- bers of clonal group 147 (CG147) and were assigned to sequence type (ST) 293.

Conclusion: The string test is the primary phenotypical diagnosis for hmKp, while the genetically encoded rmpA gene is the most reliable genetic marker for hmKp identification. However, MLST is not beneficial for identification. The central positioning of ST392 within the MST highlights its potential role as an emerging high-risk clone.

Phylogenetic analysis of bla NDM genes of carbapenem resistant uropathogens isolated from federal tertiary care hospital, Pakistan: insights into the evolution and dissemination of drug resistance

2025-10-26T12:17:56+00:00

Background and Objectives: Global health is seriously threatened by the rise of carbapenem-resistant Enterobacterales (CRE). The bla NDM gene, a key carbapenemase coding gene, causes global health concern due to its multidrug resistance and easy spread through mobile genetic elements. This study aimed to identify and genetically characterize the bla uropathogens, its antibiotic susceptibility, and its correlation with global sequences. NDM genes from

Materials and Methods: Urine samples were processed following microbiological guidelines. Isolates were identified using API-20E. Antibiotic susceptibility was tested using disc diffusion method, and bacterial DNAs were extracted for bla gene sequencing for phylogenetic analysis. NDM

Results: CREs were detected in 11.92% (n=51) of the 428 Enterobacterales. Among CRE isolates, 45% (n=23) were positive for bla NDM gene harbored by Klebsiella pneumoniae (57%), followed by Escherichia coli (26%). Uropathogenic CRE, har- boring bla , revealed susceptibility of 34.78%, 60.87%, and 65.22% to amikacin, nitrofurantoin, and fosfomycin respec- tively. The bla NDM-5 variant was most common (69.57%), followed by bla NDM-1 (26.09%) and bla NDM-7 (4.35%). Phylogenetic analysis revealed that bla NDM variants exhibit diverse relationships with Pakistani and worldwide sequences.

Conclusion: The significant presence of bla NDM in uropathogens, along with extensive antibiotic resistance, underscores the urgent need for continuous monitoring and antibiotic stewardship programs to manage the growing threat of CRE infections.

Molecular characterization of multidrug-resistant Proteus mirabilis isolates from pregnant women with recurrent urinary tract infection in Erbil city, Iraq

2025-10-26T12:18:13+00:00

Background and Objectives: Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common in pregnancy and can cause maternal and fetal complications. Proteus mirabilis is a significant pathogen in recurrent UTIs due to its virulence factors. This study investi- gated the virulence genes and antibiotic resistance patterns of P. mirabilis isolates from pregnant women with UTIs in Erbil, Iraq.

Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study (September 2024–January 2025) included 120 urine specimens from pregnant women (15-44 years) with UTI symptoms. Bacterial identification was performed using culture, biochemical tests, as well as the Vitek 2 system. Virulence genes were detected by PCR, and antimicrobial susceptibility was assessed by stan- dard methods.

Results: Of the 120 samples, 103 (85.8%) showed bacterial growth; 8 (6.7%) were positive for P. mirabilis, while 95 (79.1%) yielded other bacteria. The most affected age group was 25-34 years (52.5%), predominantly in the second trimester (42.5%) and urban residents (60.8%). Antimicrobial resistance was significant to ampicillin, trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, amox- icillin/clavulanic acid, and cephalosporins, although susceptibility was observed with several antibiotics. All P. mirabilis isolates harbored the UreC gene, and 75% possessed the MrpA virulence gene.

Conclusion: Multidrug-resistant P. mirabilis with key virulence genes was detected in pregnant women with UTIs. Regular screening and resistance monitoring are essential for effective management.

Distribution of MBL and serine-β-lactamase-producing pathogens in ventilator-associated pneumonia: insights into MDR and XDR strains

2025-10-26T12:19:06+00:00

Background and Objectives: Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) caused by carbapenem-resistant Gram-negative bac- teria is a serious ICU challenge. This study determined the prevalence, antimicrobial susceptibility profiles, and phenotypic carbapenemase resistance mechanisms of Gram-negative isolates from VAP patients in two tertiary hospitals in Karachi, Pakistan.

Materials and Methods: We included 104 consecutive cases of VAP (July 2021–January 2023). A total of 67 carbapen- em-resistant Gram-negative isolates were identified and tested. Antibiotic susceptibility was assessed by disk diffusion and broth micro dilution, according to CLSI and EUCAST guidelines. Modified and enhanced carbapenem inactivation methods (mCIM/eCIM) were used to distinguish metallo-β-lactamase (MBL) and serine carbapenemase production.

Results:The mean age was 44.6 ± 18.3 years; 52.2% were male. Early-onset VAP accounted for 37.3% and late-onset for62.7%. The most frequent pathogens were Acinetobacter baumannii (49.3%, 33/67) and Klebsiella pneumoniae (20.9%,14/67). Notably, 67% of isolates produced MBLs, and 33% produced serine carbapenemases (phenotypically). The preva-lence of multidrug-resistant (MDR), extensively drug-resistant (XDR), and pan drug-resistant (PDR) phenotypes was 42.6%,31.3%, and 19.4%, respectively.

Conclusion: VAP in our ICUs was dominated by A. baumannii and K. pneumoniae with high levels of MBL-mediated resis- tance. These findings highlight the urgent need for surveillance, stewardship, and new therapeutic options.

Evaluation of the relationship between quorum sensing system genes and antibiotic resistance in isolated Pseudomonas aeruginosa from cystic fibrosis patients

2025-10-26T12:19:18+00:00

Background and Objectives: Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a Gram-negative bacterium that causes respiratory infections in individuals with cystic fibrosis. Its level of virulence is primarily controlled through Quorum Sensing (QS), a communication mechanism that utilizes small signaling molecules. This study investigates P. aeruginosa antibiotic resistance in CF patients in Imam Khomeini Hospital and examines the presence of QS genes in resistant strains.

Materials and Methods: Sixty-five P. aeruginosa samples were identified in CF patients in Imam Khomeini Hospital in Tehran. Antibiotic resistance was assessed using the disk diffusion method, and QS genes (rhlI, rhlR, lasI, lasR) were eval- uated by applying PCR.

Results: Approximately 61.5 % of P. aeruginosa strains were multiple-drug-resistant (MDR), with 30.7% classified as ex- tensively drug-resistant (XDR). The highest resistance was observed against amoxicillin, amikacin, and cefepime. The most common QS gene in MDR and XDR strains was rhlR. Additionally, 78.9% of XDR isolates carried rhlI, rhlR, lasI, and lasR genes.

Conclusion: The study specified that more than half of the P. aeruginosa strains exhibited resistance to five antibiotic classes, and effective antibiotics against P. aeruginosa were colistin, meropenem, ciprofloxacin, piperacillin/tazobactam, and cefo- taxime. A noteworthy correlation was identified between MDR and XDR strains and the existence of QS genes in the strains.

Staphylococcus epidermidis modulates EMT-related gene expression and viability in MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells

2025-10-26T12:19:35+00:00

Background and Objectives: Breast tissue microbiota differs between healthy and cancerous tissues, with some bacteria influencing tumor progression. Staphylococcus epidermidis, a common skin commensal found in breast tumors, may play a role in epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), a key step in metastasis. This study evaluated the effects of S. epidermidis culture and cell-free supernatant (CFS) on MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cell survival and expression of EMT-related genes Snail1, fibronectin 1 (FN1), and N-cadherin (CDH2).

Materials and Methods: Different concentrations of S. epidermidis cultures and their CFS were applied to MDA-MB-231 cells. Cytotoxic effects were assessed by MTT assay at 2, 4, and 24 hours post-treatment. Real-time PCR analyzed gene expression after 24 hours of exposure to non-toxic concentrations (MOI 50 and 100 for cultures; 14% for CFS).

Results: Low concentrations did not affect viability, while higher doses (MOI 100 and 14% CFS) reduced viability by up to 60% and 90%, respectively, at 24 hours. MOI 50 did not significantly alter gene expression. At MOI 100, Snail1 and FN1 were significantly upregulated, but CDH2 was unchanged. Treatment with 5% and 7% CFS significantly increased all three EMT gene expressions, indicating EMT induction.

Conclusion: S. epidermidis affects EMT gene expression and cell viability, indicating potential involvement in breast cancer progression.

Nano-based mouthwash containing white basil essential oil a potent alternative for oral hygiene

2025-10-26T12:19:51+00:00

Background and Objectives: White basil (Ocimum gratissimum L. Lamiaceae) essential oil exhibits potent antibacterial effects but its aqueous insolubility and high volatility restrict its applications. This study aimed to develop a nanodispersed mouthwash containing white basil essential oil, optimizing of surfactant/co-surfactant type and ratio, assess its physicochem- ical stability and antibacterial efficacy against Streptococcus mutans ATCC 25175.

Materials and Methods: Formulations combining white basil essential oil, Tween-80, isopropanol, Labrasol and water were prepared. Particle size, zeta potential, and pH were measured. Stability was evaluated under accelerated (40°C, 75% RH) and stressed (60°C, 75% RH) conditions over three months. Antimicrobial efficacy was assessed via minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) after 30-second exposure.

Results: Characterization of the optimized formulation revealed an average particle size of 128 nm, neutral zeta potential, pH 3.42. Stability testing demonstrated thermodynamic resistance under all storage conditions for three months without phase separation or significant size change. The MBC against Streptococcus mutans was 0.4% w/v essential oil following 30 seconds of exposure. A corresponding mouthwash with 0.4% w/v essential oil demonstrated equivalent bactericidal activity.

Conclusion: Nanodispersion offers a promising strategy for white basil essential oil in mouthwash formulations. The de- veloped formulation shows favorable stability and rapid bactericidal action, supporting further evaluation for clinical and commercial development.

Assessing the beneficial effect of Lactobacillus plantarum MS1 and Lactobacillus delbrueckii YN1 on colitis in a rat model

2025-10-26T12:20:07+00:00

Background and Objectives: Probiotics are effective in improving inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). This study assessed the effect of mesalazine and two candidate probiotics on the improvement of acetic acid (AA)-induced colitis model. Materials and Methods: Lactobacillus plantarum MS1and Lactobacillus delbrueckii YN1 were used for IBD model in rat. Twenty-five male Wistar rats weighing 250 ± 50 grams were used in 5 classified groups: Control (CO); Colitis (CL); Colitis, Probiotic (CLP); Colitis, Mesalazine (CLM); Colitis, Probiotic, Mesalazine (CLPM) and the treatment period was 3 weeks. The rats were treated with mesalazine 30 mg/kg and probiotic 109 CFU/ml after induction of colitis. Histopathological and immunological analyses were performed to evaluate the effects of probiotic bacteria on IBD.

Results: The results showed that the probiotic bacteria reduced inflammation (P<0.05), extent (P<0.01), crypt abscesses (P<0.01), edema (P<0.05), inflammatory cell infiltration (P<0.5), and increased mucosa (P<0.001) in rats. Mesalazine admin- istration in animals with colitis did not have a significant effect. Administration of probiotics in both CLP and CLPM groups reduced extent, crypt abscesses, edema, and inflammatory cell infiltration and showed an important role in the down-regu- lation of consolidation of pro-inflammatory factors (TNFα, IL-6, and IL-17), as well as up-regulation of anti-inflammatory factors such as IL-10.

Conclusion: Lactobacillus plantarum MS1 and Lactobacillus delbrueckii YN1 have shown significant potential in alleviat- ing AA-induced colitis symptoms. Their administration leads to a marked reduction in pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α, IL-17, and IL-6, while enhancing IL-10 levels, indicating their promise as therapeutic candidates for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

Investigation of the virulence, antibiotic resistance, and enterotoxin genes of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) isolated from nugget and salad samples

2025-10-26T12:20:31+00:00

Background and Objectives: Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a significant cause of illness from consuming contaminated food. MRSA is mainly known for its ability to develop resistance to antibiotics including meth- icillin. This research examined the antimicrobial resistance pattern, enterotoxigenic dispensation, virulence factors, and biotyping for MRSA isolates.

Materials and Methods: Susceptibility of S. aureus isolates to 13 types of antibiotics were assessed, and the genes associ- ated with the resistance were investigated. Disk diffusion was used to identify the phenotypic tenet of antibiotic resistance. PCR is instrumental in detecting genes that confer resistance to antibiotics, virulence and enterotoxin genes.

Results: S. aureus were found in 167 out of 363 nugget and salad samples, representing 46% of the total sample count. Seventy-eight isolates (46.71%) were identified as MRSA bacteria. Its prevalence in different sources was as follows: 10% in bovine, 0% in ovine, 30% in poultry, and 56% in humans. MRSA displays high prevalence of resistance to cefotaxime and tetracycline (100%). coa was the most prevalent virulence factor (100%) in MRSA.

Conclusion: Distribution of antibiotic resistance genes in MRSA, highlights a serious health issue, as the presence of different antibiotic resistance genes exacerbates multidrug resistance in MRSA isolates.

SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccine candidate encoding RBD chimera of Delta and Omicron variants: immunogenic potential and validation

2025-10-26T12:20:43+00:00

Background and Objectives: The emergence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) variants has presented a challenging issue for global health in the 21st century. Frequent mutations in viral genomes have diminished the effectiveness of current vaccines against new variants. Messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccine is a promising platform for eliciting a robust T cell immune response.

Materials and Methods: We evaluated the uptake of mRNA-LNPs into human monocyte-derived dendritic cells by mea- suring the intensity of enhanced eGFP expression in the transfected cells. Next, we assessed the effect of mRNA-LNPs on immune response induction in mice following a prime-boost immunization strategy, along with analyzing cytokine release. The safety of the vaccine candidate was examined through pyrogenicity and toxicity assays.

Results: Upon intramuscular injection of mice, potent antibodies specific to viral S protein, robust Th1-biased cell-mediated immunity, and enhanced IFN-γ expression were induced. These observations indicate that mRNA-LNP was taken up and that it migrated to the lymph nodes. Furthermore, the vaccine candidate did not cause inflammation or local reactions after injection, as confirmed by biochemical, hematological, and histopathological examinations.

Conclusion: Because of its ability to target immune cells, the mRNA vaccine candidate can potentially improve immune responses against circulating or emerging variants.

Investigating the correlation between oncogenic HPV, sexually transmitted disease, and vaginal microbiota in patients with normal Pap smear

2025-10-26T12:21:38+00:00

Background and Objectives: This study investigated the correlation between high-risk (HR) human papillomavirus (HPV), sexually transmitted disease (STD), and vaginal microbiota in patients with a normal Pap smear.

Materials and Methods: For women who were referred for their routine cervical cancer screening, in addition to co-testing, some samples were taken from the vaginal and cervical environment to check the presence of the most common STD patho- gens. The diagnosis of the organisms was done by means of PCR and microbial cultures.

Results: HR HPV was detected in 67 women, and STD was positive in 80% of them, while in HR HPV negative women, this was 67%. The HPV positive group reported a significantly higher rate of STD history (92% vs. 82%) and frequency of inter- course weekly (86% vs. 3.96%) (p<0.05). Lactobacilli, streptococcus, and staphylococcus concentrations were significantly lower in the HPV positive group compared to the HPV negative group (p<0.007; OR = 4.17). Ureaplasma urealyticum and Ureaplasma parvum were significantly (p<0.001) more prevalent in the HPV positive group compared to the HPV negative group.

Conclusion: This study showed that the existence of other STDs and the composition of the vaginal and cervical microbiome play an important role in either the clearance or the progression of high-risk HPV.

Neonatal vaccination and HBV prevalence: Evidence from Esfandiar village, Iran

2025-10-26T12:21:47+00:00

Background and Objectives: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) remains a major public health challenge, particularly in hyperendem- ic regions. This study assessed the effectiveness of Iran's national HBV vaccination program in Esfandiar village, South Kho- rasan Province, where HBV prevalence substantially exceeds the national average. We compared hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) prevalence between cohorts born before and after implementation of the universal vaccination program in 1993. Materials and Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional seroprevalence study encompassing both unvaccinated individuals (born before 1993) and vaccinated individuals (born 1993 onwards) in Esfandiar village. Serum samples were analyzed for HBsAg, hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg), and hepatitis B core antibody (HBcAb) using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

Results: HBsAg prevalence was markedly higher among unvaccinated individuals (22.56%, 132/585) compared to vaccinat- ed individuals (1.19%, 3/252), yielding a vaccine effectiveness of 94.74%. Among vaccinated children, 54% maintained pro- tective antibody titers (>10 mIU/mL), with highest levels observed in children born to HBsAg-positive mothers. Conversely,

46% of vaccinated children demonstrated suboptimal antibody titers (<10 mIU/mL), predominantly among those born to HBsAg-negative mothers. Notably, all three HBsAg-positive vaccinated children were born to mothers with concurrent HBsAg and HBeAg positivity.

Conclusion: The national HBV vaccination program demonstrates remarkable effectiveness in reducing HBsAg prevalence, underscoring the critical importance of universal neonatal immunization in endemic settings. Enhanced preventive strategies, including hepatitis B immunoglobulin (HBIG) administration to infants of HBeAg-positive mothers, could further optimize protection. Sustained surveillance and rigorous adherence to vaccination protocols remain essential for achieving compre- hensive HBV control.

Investigation of the antifungal activity of panobinostat, tamoxifen, and miltefosine alone and in combination with some conventional antifungal drugs against fluconazole-resistant Candida species

2025-10-26T12:22:07+00:00

Background and Objectives: The increasing incidence of antifungal-resistant Candida infections, particularly among can- cer patients, emphasizes the urgency of exploring alternative therapeutic strategies. This study aimed to assess the in vitro antifungal efficacy of three anticancer agents—tamoxifen, panobinostat, and miltefosine—both individually and in combina- tion with the antifungals fluconazole and itraconazole, against fluconazole-resistant Candida strains.

Materials and Methods: A total of 21 clinical Candida isolates (C. albicans, C. parapsilosis, C. glabrata, C. tropicalis, and C. auris) were evaluated. Antifungal susceptibility testing was conducted following the microdilution protocol outlined by CLSI.

Results: The combination of panobinostat with fluconazole exhibited full synergistic activity against C. albicans and C. tropicalis. Conversely, antagonistic effects were observed with C. parapsilosis and C. glabrata, while C. auris displayed an indifferent response. Panobinostat paired with itraconazole showed synergy exclusively against C. albicans. Similarly, miltefosine combined with itraconazole demonstrated synergism with C. albicans, but no interaction was found with fluco- nazole. Tamoxifen in conjunction with itraconazole revealed a synergistic response against C. albicans, antagonism with C. tropicalis, and indifference with other species.

Conclusion: Certain combinations of antifungals and anticancer agents could potentiate antifungal activity against resistant Candida isolates. Therefore, precise species-level identification is vital for tailoring effective combination therapies, partic- ularly in immunocompromised individuals.

Shifting etiological agents of dermatophytosis: a molecular epidemiological study from Iran

2025-10-26T12:22:24+00:00

Background and Objectives: Dermatophytosis is a significant worldwide health concern, particularly in tropical and sub- tropical regions. Tinea unguium (TU) and Tinea capitis (TC) are among the most prevalent clinical manifestations of der- matophytosis caused by several dermatophyte fungi. This study investigated the molecular epidemiology and distribution of dermatophytes causing TU and TC in Tehran, Iran.

Materials and Methods: From March 2023 to March 2024, a clinical mycology center in Tehran received 342 suspected cases of TU and TC. The diagnostic methods included the conventional and molecular methods by sequencing the ITS region of ribosomal DNA.

Results: Overall prevalence of dermatophytosis was 59/342 (17.2%) among suspected patients by direct examination. TU and TC were diagnosed in 31/59 (53%) and 28/59 (47%), respectively. The final prevalence among suspected patients was 43/342 (12.5%) by PCR-sequencing, and TC accounted for the largest group of them, 25/43 (58%). Females repre- sented the largest group of suspected TU cases (204/303, 67%; mean age: 57 years), while males predominated among TC patients (28/39, 74%; mean age: 10 years). PCR-sequencing revealed Trichophyton tonsurans was the most common agent of TC, 22/25 (88%), and Trichophyton indotineae emerged as a notable cause of TU in 5/18 (28%) of confirmed cases.

Conclusion: In our study, T. tonsurans remained the predominant cause of TC, while T. indotineae emerged as a signifi- cant cause of TU. Agreement between conventional and molecular methods was substantial (κ=0.73, 95% CI: 0.61–0.85), with 81.8% misidentification of the T. mentagrophytes complex but complete accuracy for T. tonsurans and Microsporum canis.