Conclusion
Kurarinone and sophoraflavanone G showed promising antimicrobial properties against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, suggesting that they may be potential candidates for the development of new antibiotic agents against multidrug-resistant bacteria.
Methods
The effects of sophoraflavanone G and kurarinone on methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus were comprehensively investigated by a combination of proteomics and metabolomics studies. Bacterial morphology was observed by scanning electron microscopy. Membrane fluidity, membrane potential, and membrane integrity were determined using the fluorescent probes Laurdan, DiSC3(5), and propidium iodide, respectively. Adenosine triphosphate and reactive oxygen species levels were determined using the adenosine triphosphate kit and reactive oxygen species kit, respectively. The affinity activity of sophoraflavanone G to the cell membrane was determined by isothermal titration calorimetry assays.
Objective
To explore the antimicrobial activities and related mechanisms of two lavandulylated flavonoids, sophoraflavanone G and kurarinone in Sophora flavescens against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus.
Results
Sophoraflavanone G and kurarinone showed significant antibacterial activity and anti-multidrug resistance properties. Mechanistic studies mainly showed that they could target the bacterial membrane and cause the destruction of the membrane integrity and biosynthesis. They could inhibit cell wall synthesis, induce hydrolysis and prevent bacteria from synthesizing biofilms. In addition, they can interfere with the energy metabolism of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and disrupt the normal physiological activities of the bacteria. In vivo studies have shown that they can significantly improve wound infection and promote wound healing.