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Amid the growing challenge of antibiotic resistance on a global scale, there has been a notable resurgence in bacteriophage-based treatments, signaling a shift in our approach to managing infections. Bacteriophages (BPs), bacterial predators of nature, present a promising alternative for tackling infections caused by antibiotic-resistant pathogens. This review delves into the intricate relationship between bacteriophages and resistant bacteria, exploring various treatment strategies. Drawing upon both preclinical and clinical studies, the review highlights the effectiveness of bacteriophage therapy, particularly when integrated synergistically with conventional antibiotics. It discusses various treatment approaches for systemic and localized infections, demonstrating the adaptability of bacteriophage therapy across different clinical scenarios. Furthermore, the formulation and delivery of bacteriophages shed light on the various methods used to encapsulate and administer them effectively. It also acknowledges the challenge of bacterial resistance to bacteriophages and the ongoing efforts to overcome this hurdle. In addition, this review highlights the importance of the bacteriophage sensitivity profile (phagogram), which helps tailor treatment regimens to individual patients and specific pathogens. By surpassing the limitations of traditional antibiotics, bacteriophage-based therapies offer a personalized and potent solution against antibiotic resistance, promising to reshape the future of infectious disease management.

In this study, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were synthesized in an environmentally friendly manner using plant extracts from Luisia tristis. The formation of the nanoparticles was confirmed by a reddish-brown colour change and further characterized using ultraviolet–visible (UV–Vis), Fourier transform infrared spectrometer (FTIR), scanning electron microscope (SEM), and transmission electron microscope (TEM) techniques. The average size of the particles was found to be 16–48 nm. The antimicrobial activity of the AgNPs was evaluated against harmful bacteria and compared to the commonly used antibiotic ciprofloxacin. The AgNPs were found to be highly effective, with a 24 mm zone of inhibition against Escherichia coli, and more effective than ciprofloxacin. Additionally, a minimum inhibitory concentration assay was performed with a concentration of 100 mg/mL of AgNPs, which were found to effectively inhibit the growth of selected pathogens. Overall, the study demonstrates the potential for using plant-derived AgNPs as a natural and eco-friendly alternative for antimicrobial and antioxidant applications. This method is a fast, cost-effective way to generate silver nanoparticles at room temperature and may be useful in creating environmentally friendly antibacterial solutions for biomedical applications.

Severe cases of COVID-19 are characterized by hyperinflammation induced by cytokine storm, ARDS leading to multiorgan failure and death. JAK-STAT signaling has been implicated in immunopathogenesis of COVID-19 infection under different stages such as viral entry, escaping innate immunity, replication, and subsequent inflammatory processes. Prompted by this fact and prior utilization as an immunomodulatory agent for several autoimmune, allergic, and inflammatory conditions, Jakinibs have been recognized as validated small molecules targeting the rapid release of proinflammatory cytokines, primarily IL-6, and GM-CSF. Various clinical trials are under investigation to evaluate Jakinibs as potential candidates for treating COVID-19. Till date, there is only one small molecule Jakinib known as baricitinib has received FDA-approval as a standalone immunomodulatory agent in treating critical COVID-19 patients. Though various meta-analyses have confirmed and validated the safety and efficacy of Jakinibs, further studies are required to understand the elaborated pathogenesis of COVID-19, duration of Jakinib treatment, and assess the combination therapeutic strategies. In this review, we highlighted JAK-STAT signalling in the pathogenesis of COVID-19 and clinically approved Jakinibs. Moreover, this review described substantially the promising use of Jakinibs and discussed their limitations in the context of COVID-19 therapy. Hence, this review article provides a concise, yet significant insight into the therapeutic implications of Jakinibs as potential anti-COVID agents which opens up a new horizon in the treatment of COVID-19, effectively.

Background. Streptococcus agalactiae apart from being a colonizer in the genital region is also associated with several other invasive infections in all age groups. With the varied distribution of serotypes across different regions of the world, universal vaccination is also unattainable. However, in India, the knowledge of group B Streptococcus (GBS) genotype distribution is deficient. Thus, this study was initiated to add data on this aspect. Methodology. A cross-sectional study was conducted using isolates of group B Streptococcus from all clinical specimens. Along with that, the clinical specimen type and the antibiotic resistance profile of the isolates were correlated with the genotypes recognized through a multiplex PCR assay. Results. Among the 86 isolates subjected to multiplex PCR for genotype identification, five genotypes were identified with genotype Ib as the predominant one (34.9%), followed by III (20.9%), II (16.3%), Ia (12.7%), and V (11.6%). Conclusion. The results demonstrated a correlation of types Ib and III with vaginal colonization and type II with urine specimens in the current study. This preliminary study exhibited the distribution of common genotypes and their antibiotic resistance profiles in various GBS isolates. However, multiple studies across the country with larger sample sizes are needed to validate these findings.

Trichosporon colonizes the skin, vagina, gastrointestinal and respiratory tract of humans. Superficial infections are common, while disseminated trichosporonosis is rare, specifically seen among immunocompromised patients and often associated with high mortality. We report a rare case Trichosporon asahii infection in a 78-year-old diabetic, with associated acute interstitial glomerulonephritis. Molecular identification of the isolate was confirmed by sequencing IGS1 region of rDNA. Our study adds to a rather limited literature on renal complications of Trichosporonosis.

Rhino-orbital mucormycosis is a life-threatening opportunistic fungal infection, which affects mainly immunocompromised hosts. It is commonly caused by ubiquitous fungi belonging to the order Mucorales, family Mucoraceae, which is also commonly known as the black fungus among the general population. The prevalence of mucormycosis (approximately 0.14 cases/1000 population) in India is about 80 times higher than in other developed countries. Despite aggressive treatment with surgical debridement and timely antifungal administration, the overall mortality rate is high. COVID 19 pandemic has led to an increase in the incidence of rhino-orbital mucormycosis. A multidisciplinary approach with early diagnosis and timely treatment with good control of glycemic levels, judicious use of steroids, and addressing immune status of patients helps in reducing the mortality and aids in improving survival rates of mucormycosis patients.