Delving into the world of metallo-beta-lactamases, the podcast explores novel beta lactams, inhibitors, and their uses for MBLs. The discussion is packed with nerdy pub trivia and essential details on combatting gram-negative resistance. Global spread of metallo-beta-lactamases, next-gen inhibitors, and complex treatment challenges post liver transplant are also discussed.
MBL inhibitors face structural challenges due to zinc ions in the active site.
Combining beta-lactamase inhibitors with beta-lactam antibiotics is a common approach to combat MBL resistance.
Tani-borbactam and zero-borbactam show promise as inhibitors targeting metallo-beta-lactamases.
Deep dives
Metallo Beta-Lactamases: An Overview
Metallo beta-lactamases (MBLs) are a class of enzymes that break down beta-lactam antibiotics, but they have unique characteristics compared to other beta-lactamases. MBLs contain a zinc ion in their active site, giving them a distinct structure and mechanism of action. They are categorized into different subclasses, with B1 being the most clinically significant. MBLs can be found in various gram-negative bacteria, including Enterobacteriaceae, Pseudomonas, and Acinetobacter. The global epidemiology of MBLs shows higher prevalence in Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and certain parts of Europe. In North America, the prevalence of MBLs is relatively low but increasing. The diversity and evolution of MBLs pose challenges for treatment and development of inhibitors.
Challenges in Developing MBL Inhibitors
Developing inhibitors for MBLs is challenging due to their unique structure and mechanism of action. MBL inhibitors need to target the zinc ion in the active site or interfere with the catalytic mechanism of the enzyme. However, currently available beta-lactamase inhibitors do not inhibit MBLs. Researchers are exploring different strategies, such as binding to the metal ion, displacing the water molecule necessary for catalysis, or mimicking intermediates in the pathway. The development of cyclic boronates, such as Tani-Borboractam and QPX, shows promise as MBL inhibitors. However, resistance to these inhibitors has already been reported, underscoring the need for continued research and vigilance.
Treatment Options and Strategies
Treatment options for MBL-producing bacteria include non-beta-lactam antibiotics, such as fluoroquinolones or tetracyclines, if they remain susceptible. However, MBLs often confer resistance to these antibiotics. The standard approach to targeting MBLs is combining a beta-lactamase inhibitor with a beta-lactam antibiotic. Currently, the combination of ceftazidime-avibactam is commonly used. Ceftazidime-avibactam inactivates serine beta-lactamases, while avibactam inhibits other mechanisms of resistance, including MBLs. Other potential treatment options on the horizon include the combination of H-DoNem with avibactam and the development of oral formulations, such as oral prodrugs of tanniborbactam and zidorbactam. However, clinicians should remain vigilant for emerging resistance to these new options. Antimicrobial stewardship and surveillance are crucial to combat the evolving threat of MBLs.
Pipeline Inhibitors: Looking Towards the Future
Within the pipeline of beta-lactamase inhibitors, Tani-borbactam is leading the way as it inhibits NDM and VIM enzymes. However, it does not inhibit IMP or Ami-penemases. Meanwhile, zero-borbactam shows promise as the broadest and most potent inhibitor, inhibiting various metallo-beta-lactamases, including NDM, FIM, and certain IMP variants. In clinical development, Tani-borbactam is moving forward and may be the first inhibitor on the market specifically targeting metallo-beta-lactamases. Overall, the development of these inhibitors highlights the collaborative efforts of multidisciplinary teams and the importance of PK/PD considerations in treatment regimens.
Challenges in MBL Treatment: Case Studies and Resistance Mechanisms
Two notable cases demonstrate the complexities of treating metallo-beta-lactamase (MBL) infections. In one case, a liver transplant patient developed a biolique that was carbapenem-resistant with NDM. Treatment with ceftriaxone and cefatam showed higher MICs, challenging traditional treatment approaches. Another case involved an Uber driver in Pittsburgh who acquired a VIM-producing Enterobacter isolate without any travel history. These cases highlight the need for tailored treatment options and the importance of considering the host organism. Additionally, resistance mechanisms, such as PBP3 insertions, can impact the efficacy of certain inhibitors like ceftriaxone. Despite these challenges, ongoing research and the introduction of new inhibitors offer hope in combating MBL infections.
Drs. Robert Bonomo, Ryan Shields (@ryankshields), and Erin McCreary (@ErinMcCreary) deep dive into the world of metallo-beta-lactamases. This riveting discussion is full of the nerdiest pub trivia nuggets and the “must know” details of novel beta lactams and beta-lactamase inhibitors, and their uses for MBLs. Funding for this podcast was provided by Shionogi Inc.
Urgent need for metallo B lactamase: DOI: 10.1016/S1473-3099(20)30868-9
NDM-9 Resistance to Taniborbactam: DOI 10.1016/S1473-3099(23)00069-5
AAC Taniborbactam inhibition of NDM-1: DOI 10.1128/aac.01332-23
OFID NDM E. coli with cefiderocol and aztreonam/avibactam resistance: DOI 10.1093/ofid/ofad276
Check out our podcast host, Pinecast. Start your own podcast for free with no credit card required. If you decide to upgrade, use coupon code r-7e7a98 for 40% off for 4 months, and support Breakpoints.
Get the Snipd podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share & Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode