Effect of membrane vesicles produced under different pH conditions on the ability of <i>Enterococcus faecalis</i> to tolerate stressful environments and macrophages’ inflammatory response

Persistent apical periodontitis is a prevalent oral disease that may result in tooth loss. <i>Enterococcus faecalis</i> is a common pathogen in the root canals of persistent apical periodontitis, exhibiting a remarkable capacity to endure extreme stress conditions. <i>E. faecalis</i> has been observed to secrete membrane vesicles, which are associated with bacterial pathogenicity, stress responses, and modulation of host immune regulation. The findings of this study suggest that the release of membrane vesicles by <i>E. faecalis</i> under varying pH conditions is correlated with the regulation of macrophage immune-inflammatory responses and the ability to withstand stressful environments. This research provides valuable insights into the pathogenic mechanisms underlying persistent <i>E. faecalis</i> infections in persistent apical periodontitis.