Abstract
Clostridioides difficile, a spore-forming bacterium, is a nosocomial infectious pathogen which can be found in animals as well. Although various antibiotics and disinfectants were developed, C. difficile infection (CDI) remains a serious health problem. C. difficile spores have complex structures and dormant characteristics that contribute to their resistance to harsh environments, successful transmission and recurrence. C. difficile spores can germinate quickly after being exposed to bile acid and co-germinant in a suitable environment. The vegetative cells produce endospores, and the mature spores are released from the hosts for dissemination of the pathogen. Therefore, concurrent elimination of C. difficile vegetative cells and inhibition of spore germination is essential for effective control of CDI. This review focused on the molecular pathogenesis of CDI and new trends in targeting both spores and vegetative cells of this pathogen, as well as the potential contribution of nanotechnologies for the effective management of CDI.
Highlights
Clostridioides difficile, a Gram-positive bacterium that causes severe antibiotic-associated diarrheas and colitis, was first isolated from new-born infants in 1935 [1]
While novel antimicrobials are being developed against the vegetative cells of the pathogen, non-selective inhibition of bacterial growth may lead to the imbalance of normal intestinal microbiota, leading to recurrent disease and therapeutic resistance
Targeting the spores is a new strategy emerging against C. difficile infection (CDI), as the C. difficile spores are notorious for their resistance to various antibiotic treatments, chemical and physical disinfections, and can survive extremely harsh environment for disease transmission
Summary
Clostridioides (formerly Clostridium) difficile, a Gram-positive bacterium that causes severe antibiotic-associated diarrheas and colitis, was first isolated from new-born infants in 1935 [1]. Potassium peroxymonosulfate (KHSO5) (0.2%), often used to clean water, is effective [31] These approaches readily used in routine equipment surface and environment disinfection could not be applied for clinical treatment of C. difficile spores in human infection. Mixed regimens containing Lactobacillus species, Saccharomyces boulardii or C. butyricum have been extensively explored for the prophylaxis of CDI [86] Both probiotics and FMT are high-potential alternative strategies to rebalance the microbiota for effective clinical management of CDIs. FMT and probiotics still require an extended treatment course and would not be eligible for all CDI patients, rendering the unmet needs of others to be met by advanced therapeutic options
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
