Current and Ongoing Developments in Targeting Clostridioides difficile Infection and Recurrence
Publication Name
Microorganisms
Abstract
Clostridioides difficile is a Gram-positive, spore-forming anaerobic bacterial pathogen that causes severe gastrointestinal infection in humans. This review provides background information on C. difficile infection and the pathogenesis and toxigenicity of C. difficile. The risk factors, causes, and the problem of recurrence of disease and current therapeutic treatments are also discussed. Recent therapeutic developments are reviewed including small molecules that inhibit toxin formation, disrupt the cell membrane, inhibit the sporulation process, and activate the host immune system in cells. Other treatments discussed include faecal microbiota treatment, antibody-based immunotherapies, probiotics, vaccines, and violet-blue light disinfection.
Open Access Status
This publication may be available as open access
Volume
12
Issue
6
Article Number
1206
Funding Number
1145760
Funding Sponsor
University of Wollongong