Alginolyticus Virulence: An Overview

Abstract

Introduction: Marine habitats harbor the gram-negative, halophilic Vibrio alginolyticus. Usually connected with aquatic life, it poses a serious health risk to humans, especially seafood and marine workers. Marine economic animals like prawns, fish, and shellfish can develop serious illnesses with rapid progression and significant fatality rates. Pathogenic relatives such as Vibrio cholerae and Vibrio parahaemolyticus, which carry genes for several virulence factors, have inherited its virulence, thereby increasing its clinical importance. No effective treatments exist to stop V. alginolyticus dissemination and infection; therefore, studying its virulence mechanisms is crucial to understanding its pathogenicity and improving prevention and therapy. Objectives: To analyze the virulence factors and antibiotic resistance mechanisms of Vibrio alginolyticus to improve prevention and control strategies for managing infections in aquaculture and public health settings. Methods: This study is a literature review synthesising findings from recent research on V. alginolyticus. Sources include peer-reviewed articles, clinical studies, and microbiological research focusing on virulence factors and antibiotic resistance. Data collection involved searching databases like PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, filtering for studies on V. alginolyticus’s virulence mechanisms, antibiotic resistance, and impacts on public health and aquaculture. We selected key studies to gain a comprehensive understanding of the pathogenic characteristics and resistance profiles of the bacterium. Results: The results show that V. alginolyticus uses many ways to be strong, like quorum sensing, making virulence proteins, secreting haemolysin, and making biofilms, which make it more dangerous to humans and marine animals. Several resistance genes and efflux systems contribute to its antibiotic resistance, thereby impeding the effectiveness of treatment. Studies also show that biofilm formation and quorum sensing facilitate survival in hostile environments, making infections more challenging to manage. Conclusions: Understanding the virulence factors and antibiotic resistance mechanisms of Vibrio alginolyticus is crucial for developing effective control strategies. This bacterium’s rapid spread and severe impact on marine life and human health necessitate new approaches in aquaculture management and clinical interventions. Enhanced monitoring and targeted research are essential to curb its spread and prevent infection, ultimately improving aquaculture productivity and reducing public health risks associated with this pathogen.