Use of a combined antibacterial synergy approach and the ANNOgesic tool to identify novel targets within the gene networks of multidrug-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae.

ABSTRACT

Since the 1980s, the development of new drug classes for the treatment of multidrug-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae has become limited, highlighting the urgent need for novel antibiotics. To address this challenge, this study aimed to explore the synergistic interactions between chemical compounds and representative antibiotics, such as carbapenem and colistin. The primary objective of this study was not only to mitigate the adverse impact of multidrug-resistant K. pneumoniae on public health but also to establish a sustainable balance among humans, animals, and the environment. Phenotypical measurements were conducted using the broth microdilution technique to determine the drug sensitivity of bacterial strains. Additionally, a genotypical approach was employed, involving traditional RNA sequencing analysis to identify differentially expressed genes and the computational ANNOgesic tool to detect noncoding RNAs. This study revealed the existence of various pathways and regulatory RNA elements that form a functional network. These pathways, characterized by the expression of specific genes, contribute to the combined treatment effect and bacterial survival strategies. The connections between pathways are facilitated by regulatory RNA elements that respond to environmental changes. These findings suggest an adaptive response of bacteria to harsh environmental conditions.IMPORTANCENoncoding RNAs were identified as key players in post-transcriptional regulation. Moreover, this study predicted the presence of novel small regulatory RNAs that interact with target genes, as well as the involvement of riboswitches and RNA thermometers in conjunction with associated genes. These findings will contribute to the discovery of potential antimicrobial therapeutic candidates. Overall, this study offers valuable insights into the synergistic effects of chemical compounds and antibiotics, highlighting the role of regulatory RNA elements in bacterial response, and survival strategies. The identification of novel noncoding RNAs and their interactions with target genes, riboswitches, and RNA thermometers holds promise for the development of antimicrobial therapies.