This record provides bibliographic details and links to the original research. An editorial study breakdown is not available.
What the researchers found
CGRP at very low concentrations (-12 M) significantly stimulates Staphylococcus epidermidis virulence by increasing its adherence to keratinocytes and inducing interleukin 8 release, without altering secretion of classical virulence factors. The bacterial DnaK protein acts as the CGRP sensor, and the effects are mediated via MscL mechanosensitive channels, as shown by inhibition with gadolinium chloride.
Why it matters
Understanding how neurohormones like CGRP regulate skin bacteria virulence reveals new aspects of skin microbiome-host communication, which could inform treatments for skin infections or inflammatory conditions involving Staphylococcus epidermidis.
How the study worked
The study exposed Staphylococcus epidermidis and Staphylococcus aureus to CGRP and measured changes in bacterial virulence properties, including adherence, internalization, biofilm formation, and induction of immune responses in keratinocytes. Protein binding assays identified the bacterial CGRP receptor, and channel inhibitors were used to explore signaling mechanisms.
What this study cannot tell us
The study does not specify the in vivo relevance or clinical impact of CGRP-induced changes in bacterial virulence, and the exact downstream signaling pathways remain to be fully elucidated.
Read the original research
Skin-bacteria communication: Involvement of the neurohormone Calcitonin Gene Related Peptide (CGRP) in the regulation of Staphylococcus epidermidis virulence.
Scientific reports, 6, 35379
Citation
N'Diaye, Awa R; Leclerc, Camille; Kentache, Takfarinas; Hardouin, Julie; Poc, Cecile Duclairoir; Konto-Ghiorghi, Yoan; Chevalier, Sylvie; Lesouhaitier, Olivier; Feuilloley, Marc G J. (2016). Skin-bacteria communication: Involvement of the neurohormone Calcitonin Gene Related Peptide (CGRP) in the regulation of Staphylococcus epidermidis virulence.. Scientific reports, 6, 35379. https://doi.org/10.1038/srep35379