Staphyloxanthin inhibitory potential of trans-anethole: A preliminary study
The article focuses on the inhibitory potential of trans-anethole (TA) on staphyloxanthin (STX) production, a carotenoid pigment and virulence factor of Staphylococcus aureus. The study analyzes the impact of TA on the biosynthetic pathway of STX, particularly the expression of genes (crtOPQMN operon and aldH) encoding enzymes involved in STX production. Using HPLC-MS and molecular docking, the research reveals that TA reduces STX levels by interfering with its biosynthesis at multiple enzymatic stages rather than altering gene expression. These findings suggest TA as a promising anti-virulence agent, potentially enhancing bacterial susceptibility to oxidative stress and host immune responses. Further studies are recommended to explore its antibacterial applications.
Suggested by Prof. Katarzyna Mankowska