Fannyhessea vaginae causing bacteraemia and vertebral osteomyelitis: first report of invasive disease in a male
Introduction. Fannyhessea vaginae (formerly Atopobium vaginae) is an anaerobic organism commonly associated with female genital flora with rare cases of invasive disease reported in females.
Case report. We discuss the case of an 81-year-old male who presented with an acute history of back pain and signs of urinary tract infection in the context of intermittent self-urinary catheterisation. Multiple blood cultures grew Fannyhessea vaginae with a later finding of lumbar vertebral osteomyelitis as the cause of back pain. Treatment was commenced with ampicillin later switched to ceftriaxone with improvement of acute signs of infection.
Conclusion. Gram positive anaerobic organisms including Fannyhessea vaginae are possibly under-recognised causes of urinary tract particularly in older males. These bacteria may prove challenging to grow in standard protocols for urine culture; anaerobic or extended incubation could be considered particularly in complicated cases of urinary tract infection without an identifiable pathogen.
Disseminated hydatidosis an unusual presentation: A case report
Hydatidosis also known as cystic Echinococcosis is a widespread zoonosis caused by a tapeworm of the genus Echinococcus. It presents a significant public health concern particularly in endemic areas. The occurrence of disseminated hydatid disease is uncommon even in regions where it is endemic with an incidence ranging from 1 to 8%. The definitive diagnosis relies on parasitological method. In this work we present an unusual case of disseminated hydatid disease that was diagnosed in the central parasitology-mycology laboratory of “The Ibn Sina University Hospital”. This is a 21-year-old patient residing in a rural area who presented with heaviness-type pain in the right hypochondrium accompanied with nausea and vomiting. During the examination the patient mentioned the contact with dogs. Abdominal radiography (Ultrasound and CT) revealed findings suggestive of multiple hydatid cysts located in the liver and peritoneum. This suspicion was confirmed by positive hydatid serology. After 9 months of treatment with albendazole the patient underwent surgery for excision of the cysts shown on the x-ray as well as other cysts incidentally discovered intraoperatively at the pelvic and rectal levels. All of the extracted specimens were sent to the parasitology laboratory. The direct examination along with the viability test revealed the presence of hooks and scolex of non-viable Echinococcus granulosus. Disseminated hydatidosis is a rare but serious presentation and the positive diagnosis relies on several epidemiological clinical radiological and parasitological arguments. Medical and surgical treatments play a crucial role in determining the patient's prognosis.
Clinical Presentation and Outcome of Enteric Fever in Adult Patients with Cancer; A Perspective from Pakistan
Introduction:
Enteric fever is a significant health concern in endemic countries. While extensive research has been conducted to understand its presentation and outcomes in non-cancer patients limited data exist on its impact on cancer patients. This descriptive study aims to investigate the clinical presentation and outcome in cancer patients.
Methodology:
This retrospective observational study analysed 90 adult cancer patients from a single centre in Pakistan from January 2017 to December 2022. Inclusion criteria involved documented blood culture infections with Salmonella typhi or paratyphi A B or C. We examined clinical presentation laboratory parameters antimicrobial resistance complications and outcomes. Additionally we explored the effects of chemotherapy comorbidities type of malignancy and patient age on complications and mortality.
Results:
Salmonella typhi was the most prevalent organism (72.2%) followed by Salmonella paratyphi A (22.2%) and B (5.5%). Non-resistant isolates constituted 51.5% multi-drug resistant (MDR) isolates accounted for 20% extensively drug resistant (XDR) for 14.4% and ESBL-producing for 15.5% of all enteric fever infections.. Enteric fever-associated complications were observed in 21.1% of cases. Chemotherapy in the preceding month did not affect mortality nor did age gender or malignancy type. However comorbidities were statistically significant for mortality (p-value 0.03). A total of 8.8% of patients required ICU care and the all-cause 30-day mortality rate was 13.3%
Conclusion:
Enteric fever remains prevalent in our geographical region. Unlike Non-Typhoidal Salmonella (NTS) enteric fever does not behave differently in an immunocompromised population including cancer patients.
Methods to assess porous and non-porous antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral surfaces in relation to touch and droplet transfer in medical and transport applications: a gap analysis and suggested approaches.
To help assess whether a potentially antimicrobial material surface or coating provides antimicrobial efficacy a number of standardised test methods have been developed internationally. Ideally these methods should generate data that supports the materials efficacy when deployed in the intended end-use application. These methods can be categorised based on their methodological approach such as suspension tests agar plate/zone diffusion tests surface inoculation tests surface growth tests or surface adhesion tests. To further support those interested in antimicrobial coatings to make appropriate decisions on their method selection this paper brings together an exhaustive list of methods (for porous and non-porous materials) exploring the methodological (e.g. microorganism) and environmental (e.g. temperature and relative humidity) parameters to test bacteria fungi and viruses. This analysis demonstrates that methods that test either fungi or viruses are generally lacking whilst methods that test bacteria fungi and viruses are not designed to simulate end-use/lack realistic conditions. As such a number of applications for antimicrobial activity across medical touch screens medical textiles and gloves and transport seat textiles are explored providing guidance on modifications to existing methods that may better simulate the intended end-use of antimicrobial materials.
The role of nutrition in the pathogenesis of neglected tropical diseases: systematic review and meta-analysis
Background: According to the WHO neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) affect over 2 billion people worldwide. While the links between nutrition and many diseases have become clear over recent decade NTDs have lagged behind and the linkage with nutrition is largely unknown. We conducted this systematic review with meta-analysis to determine the current status of research on the role of diet in the pathogenesis of NTDs.
Methodology: PubMed Embase Scopus and African Journal online databases were searched using predefined search terms. We included all original articles with a case-control design and at least one NTD. The studies had to compare the nutritional parameters between the infected and uninfected. Articles that did not report original data were excluded. The quality of the studies was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa scale. Pooled estimates were conducted using the random-effects model. The publication bias of studies was determined by funnel plots. Q and I2 statistics were used to assess the heterogeneity of the studies.
Results: After screening 1294 articles only 16 qualified for the systematic review and 12 for meta-analysis. These predominately had a focus on soil-transmitted helminthiasis (ascariasis hookworm diseases trichuriasis) and schistosomiasis with a minority concerning leishmaniasis and leprosy. Pooled estimates showed an association between intestinal parasites and stunting in children (OR= 1.38 95%CI: 1.14-1.66 I2 = 0%). We also identified a moderate association established between blood iron deficiency (OR=4.67 95%CI: 1.91-11.44) and intestinal parasites.
Conclusions/Significance: Of the 20 NTDs the links between diet and disease have been explored only for a very few. There is a paucity of data from low and middle-income countries and least developed countries where the NTD burden is high. Therefore more research into the role of nutrition in NTD infection is recommended.
The Microbiome of C. elegans Enhances Growth of S. aureus During Infection
Staphylococcus aureus is a significant human pathogen associated with a wide range of infections. The microbiome consisting of diverse microbial communities has been recognized as a critical factor in modulating host-pathogen interactions. This study aimed to investigate the role of the Caenorhabditis elegans microbiome in Staphylococcus aureus infection by transferring worms from the standard laboratory food source (OP50) or a microbiome sample to S. aureus cultures. Our findings revealed that the C. elegans microbiome paradoxically enhanced Staphylococcus aureus colonization resulting in increased pathogen burden compared to worms transferred from E.coli OP50. These results underscore the importance of the microbiome in modulating host susceptibility.
Genomic analysis of Oceanotoga teriensis strain UFV_LIMV02, a multidrug-resistant thermophilic bacterium isolated from an offshore oil reservoir
Bacteria of the species Oceanotoga teriensis belong to the Family Petrotogaceae are moderately thermophilic and are included in the group of thiosulfate-reducing bactéria (TRB) being able to accelerate corrosion in metallic structures significantly. The O. teriensis strain UFV_LIMV02 was isolated from water samples from the separator of an offshore oil extraction platform in the Campos basin in Rio de Janeiro (Brazil). In this work we describe the man phenotypic and genotypic characteristics mainly related to hydrogen sulfide production and antimicrobial resistance to different classes of antibiotics. We also systematically investigate the presence of CRISPR-Cas loci and prophages. Through H2S titration it was possible to verify thexistence of 150 ppm of hydrogen sulfide in the solution. It presented a genome with 2812778 bp in size with 26% of GC content organized into 34 contigs 2629 genes encoding candidate proteins and identified 51 genes of different RNAs. The search for CRISPRs systems in the genome of the isolate allowed us to identify the presence of four CRISPRs arrays classified as type I-B and III-B with the presence of 272 different spacers which could provide the strain with immunity to other mobile genetic elements and infection by bacteriophages. Genomic analysis using RAST revealed the presence of resistance genes for the class of beta-lactams and fluoroquinolones; however when evaluating the antimicrobial resistance of the isolate using the disk diffusion technique it was possible to confirm not only the resistance to B-lactams and fluoroquinolones but also to four other classes of antibiotics: aminoglycoside sulfonamide lincosamide and rifamycin a total of 14 antibiotics probably due to the presence of mechanisms capable of expelling the antibiotic from the cells such as efflux pumps allowing them to grow in the presence of these antimicrobials. The results found in this study provide indications that residues from offshore oil exploration may represent a risk for the dissemination of ARGs due to the presence of multidrug-resistant bacteria. More comprehensive studies are needed on the microbial community present in oil tailings to assess the risks to public health.
Science in Schools: combining language and microbiology engagement during a pandemic
This paper presents an public engagement pedagogy designed to engage Key Stage-one and -two students. The activities were developed for a British Council Science-in-Schools visit allowing UK-based researchers to visit French territory schools delivering activities in English. Focusing on infection transmission our event aimed to enhance understanding of infection transmission concepts (coughing sneezing handwashing and surface contamination). Additionally we hosted a "masterclass" session for teachers demonstrating the activities and discussing their integration into classroom settings. Here we present lesson plans for both student- and teacher-focused sessions and detailed protocol and demonstration video for each activity. We also include vocabulary lists and flashcards which were used within the sessions to aid student comprehension of the activities and support further discussion around key concepts and findings. Finally we present a brief reflective evaluation of the visit and offer considerations for others wishing to use the materials as part of their pedagogy practice. There was a positive reception to the activities among both students and teachers. Here the activities were used with French-speaking students developing English language skills but we believe that these activities could be used with a wide range of ages scientific literacy and event types. In conclusion this paper underscores the significance of public engagement pedagogy in fostering health literacy and empowering young learners to make informed decisions regarding personal and community well-being. By combining interactive methodologies with targeted public health interventions we aim to inspire a generation of proactive global citizens equipped to address contemporary health challenges.
A comparative in silico analysis of the vlhA gene regions of Mycoplasma gallisepticum and Myc. synoviae isolates from commercial hen farms in Mexico.
Avian mycoplasmosis caused by Mycoplasma synoviae and Myc. gallisepticum poses significant economic challenges due to respiratory issues reduced production and soft eggshells. The hemagglutinin (vlhA) protein crucial for pathogenicity comprises conserved (MSPB) and variable (MSPA) regions. In this study we examined vlhA sequences from field strains in Mexico's central region (Jalisco and Mexico City) revealing a close cluster relationship distinct from sequences in GeneBank. We analyzed 124 deformed eggs and 10 laying hens from nine farms with Hy-line and Bovans breeds. Using PCR targeting mgc2 and 16S RNAr genes we characterized 24 field strains Mycoplasma synoviae (4) and Myc. gallisepticum (20). The vlhA regions based on AF035624.1 sequences were analyzed with ATTC strains as positive controls. Additionally 20 negative samples at Mycoplasma isolation validated the sensitivity of PCR testing without the need of cultivation. Two amplification regions were identified: the 1st MSPB and 2nd MSPA. Bioanalysis revealed relationships with relatives avian Mycoplasma sequences in GenBank alongside similarities with Acholeplasma laidlawii PG8 and Escherichia coli. Given vlhA's significance in pathogenicity and immune evasion the identified conserved sequences hold potential as therapeutic targets and for phylogenetic studies.
Emerging challenge of Linezolid and Vancomycin resistant Enterococci faecium:First case report from Northern Pakistan
Enterococcus faecium are among the most versatile pathogens found to infect hospitalized patients. Resistance against anti-enterococcal antibiotics is gaining access day to day and among them linezolid resistant vancomycin resistant Enterococcus faecium is a nightmare for the clinicians especially in a resource limited country like Pakistan.
A 72 year old patient presented with collection of pus and necrosis around the head of pancreases. These pockets of pus resulted as acute postsurgical complication along with surgical site infection. Pus was processed according to clinical guidelines. Enterococcus faecium was identified and confirmed by VITEK. Isolate was resistant to vancomycin and linezolid. Tigecyclin was the only option for this patient due to unavailability of quinupristin/dalfopristin as a treatment option. A regular follow up was done and patient was discharged after recovery.
Linezolid and Vancomycin resistant Enterococci (LRVRE) is the result of non-implementation of antimicrobial stewardship and it can be followed with further resistance in Enterococcus which can be havoc. Clinicians infection control team and microbiologist should work together to overcome antimicrobial resistance crises.
Meropenem resistant Burkholderia pseudomallei - A concerning single case in Australia with no prior meropenem exposure
We report a case of cutaneous melioidosis in a 54-year-old male with a meropenem resistant sub-population. He was empirically treated with episodic doxycycline and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole however the abscess re-accumulated. The patient had no prior exposure to meropenem. A sub-population of the isolate was meropenem resistant with an MIC>32 µg/ml and the identification was re-confirmed as B. pseudomallei. Whole genome sequencing with ARDaP analysis only revealed a resistance determinant to doxycycline and it didn’t reveal a resistance determinant to meropenem. Furthermore no carbapenemases were detected through multiple bioinformatics tools. To date this is the first reported case in Australia of a B. pseudomallei isolate resistant to meropenem without previous carbapenem exposure.
Characteristics of soil origin Pseudomonas batumici Koz11 isolated from a remote island in Japan
Soil samples from a remote Japanese island (Kozushima) were processed and investigated for organisms exhibiting antimicrobial activity against pathogenic strains. A Pseudomonas strain demonstrating antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) was observed leading to further investigation. Whole-genome sequencing was used to identify species and phylogenetic analysis followed by in silico molecular analysis. Chemotaxonomic and biochemical analyses were conducted to characterize the strain further. Genomic analysis identified a strain of interest Pseudomonas batumici (P. batumici) a strain initially isolated from soil of the Black Sea coast of the Caucasus in 1980. P. batumici Koz11 is the second P. batumici strain isolated and identified outside the area where it was first found. Similar to the type strain P. batumici Koz11 showed antimicrobial activity against various S. aureus strains including vancomycin-resistant S. aureus. However the previously reported gene cluster known as the "batumin gene cluster" which synthesizes antimicrobial compounds was absent from P. batumici Koz11. This study provides insights on P. batumici that were not previously known. Since the type of strain of P. batumici is exclusively deposited in the Ukrainian Collection of Microorganisms the Koz11 strain may be a surrogate to facilitate continued study of P. batumici.
Development of selective isolation media for detecting Actinomyces and Schaalia genera from oral specimens containing indigenous bacteria
To isolate specific bacteria from samples constituting the microbiota it is essential to employ selective media that suppress the growth of resident bacteria other than specific target bacteria. Selective media for clinically important Actinomyces (including Schaalia which was previously taxonomically classified as part of the Actinomyces genus) have been limited because they have been designed for a limited range of species within the genus and require ingredients which are difficult to prepare and handle. This study aimed to develop a selective medium (referred to as Actinomyces and Schaalia Selective Medium (ASSM)) for the isolation of a broad range of Actinomyces and Schaalia species from samples mixed with resident bacteria. The composition of ASSM includes yeast extract agar brain heart infusion (BHI) levofloxacin (LVFX) fosfomycin (FOM) colistin (CL) and metronidazole (MNZ). Evaluation of the medium using 24 swab samples serially collected from the roots of the teeth of a healthy individual for whom metagenome sequencing data of a saliva sample are publicly available revealed that ASSM adjusted to concentrations of LVFX 0.5 mg/L FOM 5 mg/L CL 1 mg/L and MNZ 2 mg/L and cultured anaerobically at 35°C for 7 days enabled the isolation of Actinomyces species from 37.5% of the samples. The inclusion of CL and MNZ in ASSM can also be useful for samples suspected of harbouring other bacterial species. The selective isolation medium is expected to contribute to studies investigating the relationship between these bacteria and their pathogenesis or disease.
Kaposi’s sarcoma herpesvirus viral FLICE inhibitory protein modulates A20 deubiquitinase activity
KSHV viral FLICE inhibitory protein (vFLIP) is a potent activator of NF-κB signaling and an inhibitor of apoptosis and autophagy. Inhibition of vFLIP function and NF-κB signaling promotes lytic reactivation. Here we provide evidence for a novel function of vFLIP through inhibition of the deubiquitinating (DUB) activity of the negative regulator A20. We demonstrate direct interaction of vFLIP with Itch and A20 and provide evidence for subsequent loss of A20 DUB activity. Our results provide further insight into the function of vFLIP in the regulation of NF-κB signaling.
Unearthing New Learning Opportunities: Adapting and Innovating through the “Antibiotics Under Our Feet” Citizen Science Project in Scotland during COVID-19
“Antibiotics under our feet” is a Scottish citizen science project that aimed to raise science capital in primary school learners and their teachers through measurement of microbial diversity in urban soil samples in the search for novel antimicrobial compounds. Resistance to antibiotics is rising posing a global threat to human health. Furthermore science technology engineering and mathematics (STEM) skills are in crisis jeopardising our capacity to mobilise as a society to fight antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Originally conceived as a response to the AMR and STEM emergencies our project was hit by the unprecedented challenge of engaging with schools during the COVID-19 pandemic. We describe how we adapted our project to enable remote participation from primary schools and youth groups utilising COVID-19 response initiatives as opportunities for multi-level co-creation of resources with learners in primary secondary and higher education. We produced portable kit boxes for soil sample collection with learning activities and videos linked to the Scottish Curriculum for Excellence. We also addressed glaring project specific content gaps relating to microbiology on English and Simple English Wikipedia. Our hybrid model of working extended our geographical reach and broadened inclusion. We present here the inception implementation digital resource outputs and evaluation of pedagogical aspects of “Antibiotics under our feet”. Our strategies and insights are applicable post-pandemic for educators to develop STEM skills using soil microbes and antibiotics as a theme.
How suitable is freshwater sponge Ephydatia fluviatilis (Linnaeus, 1759) for time-integrated biomonitoring of microbial water quality?
Faecal pollution of water by bacteria has a negative effect on water quality and can pose a potential health hazard. Conventional surveillance of microbial water quality relies on the analysis of low frequency spot samples and is thus likely to miss episodic or periodic pollution. This study aimed to investigate the potential of filter feeding sponges for time-integrated biomonitoring of microbial water quality. Laboratory trials tested the effects of different ratios of bacterial abundance and the sequence of exposure on bacterial retention by the freshwater sponge Ephydatia fluviatilis (Linnaeus 1759) to establish its potential to indicate bacterial exposure.
Gemmule grown sponges were simultaneously exposed to Escherichia coli and Enterococcus faecalis but at different ratios (Trial 1) or individually exposed to each bacterial species but in different sequential order (Trial 2). The E. coli and E. faecalis retained in each sponge was quantified by culture on selective agars. Data analysis was conducted using the Kruskal- Wallis test and/ or the Mann Whitney U test to compare between the numbers of bacteria retained in each treatment. Additionally the Wilcoxon Matched-Paired Signed-Rank test was used for comparison of the different bacterial abundances retained within each individual sponge.
Sponges from all trials retained E. coli and E. faecalis in small numbers relative to the exposure (<0.05% Trial 1 and <0.07% Trial 2) but exhibited higher retention of E. coli. Higher abundance of either bacterial species resulted in significantly lower (p<0.005) retention of the same species within sponges (Trial 1). An initial exposure to E. coli resulted in significantly higher (p=0.040) retention of both bacterial species than when sponges were exposed to E. faecalis first (Trial 2).
Bacterial retention by sponges was neither quantitatively representative of bacterial abundance in the ambient water nor the sequence of exposure. This implies either selective filtration or an attempt by sponges to prevent infection. However freshwater sponges may still be useful in biomonitoring as qualitative time-integrated samplers of faecal indicator bacteria as they detect different bacteria present in the water even if their quantities cannot be estimated.
Draft genome sequence of Lactiplantibacillus pentosus isolated from traditional fermented rice
Lactiplantibacillus pentosus is a probiotic bacterium reported to be present in various fermented foods such as fermented olives and it significantly influences human health. The present study concerns a lactic acid bacterial strain designated L. pentosus isolated from traditional fermented rice and has been shown to have an assortment of beneficial attributes. Using Illumina technologies we have sequenced and investigated the whole genome sequence of L. pentosus for an accurate understanding of its functionality and safety. The chromosomal genome was 3.7 Mbp in size with 46% GC (Guanine-Cytosine) content and 3192 protein-coding sequences. In accordance with this additional extensive bioinformatics investigations were carried out involving whole genome sequence assembly and annotation.
Comparative virulome analysis of four Staphylococcus epidermidis strains from human skin and platelet concentrates using whole genome sequencing
Staphylococcus epidermidis is one of the predominant bacterial contaminants in platelet concentrates (PCs) a blood component used to treat bleeding disorders. PCs are a unique niche that triggers biofilm formation the main contributor to S. epidermidis infections. We performed whole genome sequencing of four S. epidermidis strains isolated from the skin of healthy human volunteers (AZ22 and AZ39) and contaminated PCs (ST10002 and ST11003) to unravel phylogenetic relationships and decipher virulence mechanisms compared to 25 complete S. epidermidis genomes in GenBank. AZ39 and ST11003 formed a separate unique lineage with 14.1.R1 and SE95 strains while AZ22 formed a cluster with 1457 and ST10002 closely grouped with FDAAGOS_161. The four isolates were assigned to sequence types ST1175 ST1174 ST73 and ST16 respectively. All four genomes exhibited biofilm-associated genes ebh ebp sdrG sdrH and atl. Additionally AZ22 had sdrF and aap whereas ST10002 had aap and icaABCDR. Notably AZ39 possesses truncated ebh and sdrG and harbors a toxin encoding gene. All isolates carry multiple antibiotic resistance genes conferring resistance to fosfomycin (fosB) β-lactams (blaZ) and fluoroquinolones (norA). This study revealed a unique lineage for S. epidermidis and provided insight into the genetic basis of virulence and antibiotic resistance in transfusion-associated S. epidermidis strains.
Nasopharyngeal carriage rate, serotype distribution, and antimicrobial profiles of Streptococcus pneumoniae among patients with acute respiratory tract infection in Manado, North Sulawesi, Indonesia
We studied the carriage rate distribution of serotype and antimicrobial profile of Streptococcus pneumoniae (S. pneumoniae) among patients with acute respiratory tract infections (ARTI) in two primary health centers and a tertiary referral hospital from 2019 to 2020 in Manado North Sulawesi Indonesia before 13-valent PCV (PCV13) introduction. 106 nasopharyngeal swab samples were collected from children and adult patients. Serotyping of S. pneumoniae strain was performed with sequential multiplex PCR and Quellung reaction. Antimicrobial profile was performed by the disk diffusion method. We identified thirty-one patients carried S. pneumoniae strains (29%). The S. pneumoniae carriage rate was found to be higher among children aged 2-5 years (13/32; 40.6%) than in children under 1 year (8/27; 29.6%) children and adolescents under 18 years of age (5/20; 25.0%) and adult patients (5/27; 18.5%). The distribution of serotypes varied including 14 18C 19A 23F 19F and 35B (two strains each) and 1 3 6B 6C 31 9V 15C 16F 17F 23A 35F (one strain each) and non-typeable (9/31; 29%). We found S. pneumoniae isolates were susceptible to vancomycin (30/31; 97%) chloramphenicol (29/31; 94%) clindamycin (29/31; 94%) erythromycin (22/31; 71%) azithromycin (22/31; 71%) tetracycline (14/31; 45%) penicillin (11/31; 35%) and sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim (10/31; 32%). This study provides supporting baseline data on distribution of serotype and antimicrobial profile of S. pneumoniae among patients with ARTI before PCV13 introduction in Manado North Sulawesi Indonesia.
Effect of Chemotherapeutic Agents on Natural Transformation Frequency in Acinetobacter baylyi
Natural transformation is the ability of a bacterial cell to take up extracellular DNA which is subsequently available for recombination into the chromosome (or maintenance as an extrachromosomal element). Like other mechanisms of horizontal gene transfer natural transformation is a significant driver for the dissemination of antimicrobial resistance. Recent studies have shown that many pharmaceutical compounds such as antidepressants and anti-inflammatory drugs can upregulate transformation frequency in the model species Acinetobacter baylyi. Chemotherapeutic compounds have been shown to increase abundance of antimicrobial resistance genes and increase colonisation rates of potentially pathogenic bacteria in patient gastrointestinal tracts indicating an increased risk of infection and providing a pool of pathogenicity or resistance genes for transformable commensal bacteria. We here test for the effect of six cancer chemotherapeutic compounds on A. baylyi natural transformation frequency finding two compounds docetaxel and daunorubicin to significantly decrease transformation frequency and daunorubicin to also decrease growth rate significantly. Enhancing our understanding of the effect of chemotherapeutic compounds on the frequency of natural transformation could aid in preventing the horizontal spread of antimicrobial resistance genes.