The mechanosensitive channel of large conductance (MscL) is a protein found in bacteria like Klebsiella pneumoniae and Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae . MscL responds to mechanical stimuli, such as changes in membrane tension, which can occur due to osmotic stress or other environmental factors . Recombinant MscL is produced using genetic engineering techniques, often in Escherichia coli, to study its structure, function, and potential applications .
MscL plays a crucial role in bacteria by acting as an emergency release valve when the cell experiences sudden changes in osmotic pressure . When osmotic pressure increases, the cell membrane stretches, activating MscL. This activation opens a channel through the membrane, allowing ions and small molecules to flow out of the cell, reducing the internal pressure and preventing cell lysis .
MscL's function extends beyond osmoregulation. Research indicates its involvement in antibiotic resistance, biofilm formation, and potentially, protein secretion . Targeting MscL may offer a strategy for developing new antibacterial compounds that increase bacterial specificity and decrease acquired resistance .
Klebsiella pneumoniae is a bacterium that can cause pneumonia and other infections . Antibiotic-resistant strains of K. pneumoniae pose a significant challenge in clinical settings . Studies suggest MscL influences the bacterium's response to antibiotics and its ability to form biofilms, which contribute to its pathogenicity .
MscL contributes to the ability of A. pleuropneumoniae to adapt to hyperosmotic conditions by regulating cell length . Deletion of mscL decreased the sensitivity of A. pleuropneumoniae to multiple antibiotics .
MscL contributes to biofilm formation in A. pleuropneumoniae .
Direct activation of MscL underlies the membrane permeabilization effect of certain antibacterial compounds .
Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapy can modulate the immune cell profile and enhance the resolution of lung injury induced by Klebsiella infection . Naive MSCs did not alter mRNA levels of collagen I or collagen VI compared to vehicle. Pre-activated UC-MSCs decreased collagen VI, and both pre-activated BM- and UC-MSCs decreased collagen I .
| Gene | Naive MSCs | Pre-activated BM-MSCs | Pre-activated UC-MSCs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Collagen I | No change | Decrease | Decrease |
| Collagen VI | No change | No change | Decrease |
| ICAM-1 | Decrease | No change | No change |
| MPO | No change | No change | No change |
| Measurement | Naive MSCs | Pre-activated MSCs |
|---|---|---|
| Neutrophil count | Not significantly different from vehicle control | Significantly higher than sham |
| Monocyte count | Not significantly different from vehicle control | Significantly higher than sham |
| ROS production | Increased | Not significantly affected |
| Phagocytic index (BM-MSCs) | Unchanged | Increased |
KEGG: kpe:KPK_0425