Effect of mesoporous silica under Neisseria meningitidis transformation process: environmental effects under meningococci transformation
2011

Effects of Mesoporous Silica on Neisseria Meningitidis Transformation

publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Hollanda Luciana M, Cury Gisele CG, Pereira Rafaella FC, Ferreira Gracielle A, Sousa Andreza, Sousa Edesia MB, Lancellotti Marcelo

Primary Institution: State University of Campinas UNICAMP

Hypothesis

The study aimed to investigate the effects of mesoporous silica on the transformation frequency of Neisseria meningitidis.

Conclusion

Mesoporous silica particles increased the capsule replacement frequency in Neisseria meningitidis.

Supporting Evidence

  • The study verified an increase in capsular gene replacement with three mesoporous silica nanoparticles.
  • The use of mesoporous silica was shown to significantly increase transformation frequencies in N. meningitidis.

Takeaway

The study found that tiny silica particles can help bacteria change their outer coating, which might help them avoid vaccines.

Methodology

Three different mesoporous silica particles were used to verify their action on N. meningitidis transformation frequency.

Limitations

The exact mechanism of capsular switching is still under investigation.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.05

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1477-3155-9-28

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