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Sakai T, Oishi T, Takashina Y, Hirao M. Serum 25(OH)D and vitamin K 1 levels in patients with severe motor and intellectual disability: A Japanese single-center experience. Brain Dev 2024; 46:268-273. [PMID: 38876823 DOI: 10.1016/j.braindev.2024.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2023] [Revised: 05/29/2024] [Accepted: 06/09/2024] [Indexed: 06/16/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate whether patients with severe motor and intellectual disability (SMID) have nutritional vitamin D and K insufficiencies and clarify the required vitamin supplementation. METHODS This prospective observational study enrolled Japanese adults with SMID receiving institutionalized care who underwent blood sampling between February 2020 and February 2022 during annual medical checkups. Serum vitamin K1 and 25-hydroxy vitamin D (25(OH)D) levels were measured to determine their relationship with serum uncarboxylated osteocalcin (ucOC) levels. Vitamin D and K intake was compared among tube-fed and oral-intake patients with SMID and control participants using corresponding serum levels. RESULTS The study included 124 patients with SMID (56 men and 68 women; mean age: 53.0 years) and 20 control participants. Serum 25(OH)D levels were significantly higher in the SMID group than in the control group and the oral intake SMID group than in the tube-fed SMID group. In the tube-fed SMID group, vitamin D intake was lower than the daily recommended intake and correlated with serum 25(OH)D levels. Daily vitamin K intake in the tube-fed group was lower than recommended but not correlated with serum vitamin K levels. Serum ucOC levels were significantly higher in the SMID group than in the control group. Tube feeding was significantly and positively correlated with serum 25(OH)D levels. Serum 25(OH)D levels were not correlated with serum vitamin K1 levels. CONCLUSIONS The SMID group had higher ucOC levels than the control group, possibly owing to daily vitamin K and D deficiencies. Vitamin D supplementation is recommended to decrease ucOC levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomoko Sakai
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan.
| | - Tsutomu Oishi
- Department of Pediatrics, Akitsu Ryoiku-en, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yusuke Takashina
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masanobu Hirao
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
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52
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Kim YM, Son JY, Ahn DK. Botulinum toxin type A is a potential therapeutic drug for chronic orofacial pain. J Oral Biosci 2024; 66:496-503. [PMID: 38908515 DOI: 10.1016/j.job.2024.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2024] [Revised: 06/17/2024] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 06/24/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Botulinum toxin type A (BTX-A), produced by the gram-positive anaerobic bacterium Clostridium botulinum, acts by cleaving synaptosome-associated protein-25 (SNAP-25), an essential component of the presynaptic neuronal membrane that is necessary for fusion with the membrane proteins of neurotransmitter-containing vesicles. Recent studies have highlighted the efficacy of BTX-A in treating chronic pain conditions, including lower back pain, chronic neck pain, neuropathic pain, and trigeminal neuralgia, particularly when patients are unresponsive to traditional painkillers. This review focuses on the analgesic effects of BTX-A in various chronic pain conditions, with a particular emphasis on the orofacial region. HIGHLIGHT This review focuses on the mechanisms by which BTX-A induces analgesia in patients with inflammatory and temporomandibular joint pain. This review also highlights the fact that BTX-A can effectively manage neuropathic pain and trigeminal neuralgia, which are difficult-to-treat chronic pain conditions. Herein, we present a comprehensive assessment of the central analgesic effects of BTX-A and a discussion of its various applications in clinical dental practice. CONCLUSION BTX-A is an approved treatment option for various chronic pain conditions. Although there is evidence of axonal transport of BTX-A from peripheral to central endings in motor neurons, the precise mechanism underlying its pain-modulating effects remains unclear. This review discusses the evidence supporting the effectiveness of BTX-A in controlling chronic pain conditions in the orofacial region. BTX-A is a promising therapeutic agent for treating pain conditions that do not respond to conventional analgesics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Mi Kim
- Department of Oral Physiology, School of Dentistry, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, South Korea
| | - Jo-Young Son
- Department of Oral Physiology, School of Dentistry, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, South Korea
| | - Dong-Kuk Ahn
- Department of Oral Physiology, School of Dentistry, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, South Korea.
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53
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Hu JC, Sethi S. New methods to detect bacterial or viral infections in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Expert Rev Respir Med 2024:1-15. [PMID: 39175157 DOI: 10.1080/17476348.2024.2396413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2024] [Revised: 07/22/2024] [Accepted: 08/21/2024] [Indexed: 08/24/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are frequently colonized and infected by respiratory pathogens. Identifying these infectious etiologies is critical for understanding the microbial dynamics of COPD and for the appropriate use of antimicrobials during exacerbations. AREAS COVERED Traditional methods, such as bacterial and viral cultures, have been standard in diagnosing respiratory infections. However, these methods have significant limitations, including lack of sensitivity and prolonged turnaround time. Modern molecular approaches offer rapid, sensitive, and specific detection, though they also come with their own challenges. This review explores and evaluates the clinical utility of the latest advancements in detecting bacterial and viral respiratory infections in COPD, encompassing molecular techniques, biomarkers, and emerging technologies. EXPERT OPINION In the evolving landscape of COPD management, integrating molecular diagnostics and emerging technologies holds great promise. The enhanced sensitivity of molecular techniques has significantly advanced our understanding of the role of microbes in COPD. However, many of these technologies have primarily been developed for pneumonia diagnosis or research applications, and their clinical utility in managing COPD requires further evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- John C Hu
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Sanjay Sethi
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, Department of Medicine, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA
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54
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Tenore A, Russo F, Jacob J, Grattepanche JD, Buttaro B, Klapper I. A Mathematical Model of Diel Activity and Long Time Survival in Phototrophic Mixed-Species Subaerial Biofilms. Bull Math Biol 2024; 86:123. [PMID: 39196435 DOI: 10.1007/s11538-024-01348-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 08/01/2024] [Indexed: 08/29/2024]
Abstract
Subaerial biofilms (SAB) are intricate microbial communities living on terrestrial surfaces, of interest in a variety of contexts including cultural heritage preservation, microbial ecology, biogeochemical cycling, and biotechnology. Here we propose a mathematical model aimed at better understanding the interplay between cyanobacteria and heterotrophic bacteria, common microbial SAB constituents, and their mutual dependence on local environmental conditions. SABs are modeled as thin mixed biofilm-liquid water layers sitting on stone. A system of ordinary differential equations regulates the dynamics of key SAB components: cyanobacteria, heterotrophs, polysaccharides and decayed biomass, as well as cellular levels of organic carbon, nitrogen and energy. These components are interconnected through a network of energetically dominant metabolic pathways, modeled with limitation terms reflecting the impact of biotic and abiotic factors. Daily cylces of temperature, humidity, and light intensity are considered as input model variables that regulate microbial activity by influencing water availability and metabolic kinetics. Relevant physico-chemical processes, including pH regulation, further contribute to a description of the SAB ecology. Numerical simulations explore the dynamics of SABs in a real-world context, revealing distinct daily activity periods shaped by water activity and light availability, as well as longer time scale survivability conditions. Results also suggest that heterotrophs could play a substantial role in decomposing non-volatile carbon compounds and regulating pH, thus influencing the overall composition and stability of the biofilm.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Tenore
- Department of Mathematics and Applications, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy.
| | - F Russo
- Department of Mathematics and Applications, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - J Jacob
- U.S. National Park Service, North Atlantic-Appalachian Region, Historic Architecture, Conservation, and Engineering Program, New York, USA
| | | | - B Buttaro
- Sol Sherry Thrombosis Research Center, Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - I Klapper
- Department of Mathematics, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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55
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Kutkat O, Gomaa M, Moatasim Y, Taweel AE, Kamel MN, Sayes ME, GabAllah M, Kandeil A, McKenzie PP, Webby RJ, Kayali G, Ali MA, El-Shesheny R. Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Virus H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4b in Wild Rats in Egypt during 2023. Emerg Microbes Infect 2024:2396874. [PMID: 39193629 DOI: 10.1080/22221751.2024.2396874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/29/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Omnia Kutkat
- Centre of Scientific Excellence for Influenza Viruses, National Research Centre, Giza 12622, Egypt
| | - Mokhtar Gomaa
- Centre of Scientific Excellence for Influenza Viruses, National Research Centre, Giza 12622, Egypt
| | - Yassmin Moatasim
- Centre of Scientific Excellence for Influenza Viruses, National Research Centre, Giza 12622, Egypt
| | - Ahmed El Taweel
- Centre of Scientific Excellence for Influenza Viruses, National Research Centre, Giza 12622, Egypt
| | - Mina Nabil Kamel
- Centre of Scientific Excellence for Influenza Viruses, National Research Centre, Giza 12622, Egypt
| | - Mohamed El Sayes
- Centre of Scientific Excellence for Influenza Viruses, National Research Centre, Giza 12622, Egypt
| | - Mohamed GabAllah
- Centre of Scientific Excellence for Influenza Viruses, National Research Centre, Giza 12622, Egypt
| | - Ahmed Kandeil
- Centre of Scientific Excellence for Influenza Viruses, National Research Centre, Giza 12622, Egypt
- Department of Infectious Diseases, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | - Pamela P McKenzie
- Department of Infectious Diseases, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | - Richard J Webby
- Department of Infectious Diseases, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA
| | | | - Mohamed Ahmed Ali
- Centre of Scientific Excellence for Influenza Viruses, National Research Centre, Giza 12622, Egypt
| | - Rabeh El-Shesheny
- Centre of Scientific Excellence for Influenza Viruses, National Research Centre, Giza 12622, Egypt
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Freppel W, Silva LA, Stapleford KA, Herrero LJ. Pathogenicity and virulence of chikungunya virus. Virulence 2024:2396484. [PMID: 39193780 DOI: 10.1080/21505594.2024.2396484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2024] [Revised: 08/09/2024] [Accepted: 08/14/2024] [Indexed: 08/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) is a mosquito-transmitted, RNA virus that causes an often-severe musculoskeletal illness characterized by fever, joint pain, and a range of debilitating symptoms. The virus has re-emerged as a global health threat in recent decades, spreading from its origin in Africa across Asia and the Americas, leading to widespread outbreaks impacting millions of people. Despite more than fifty years of research into the pathogenesis of CHIKV, there is still no curative treatment available. Current management of CHIKV infections primarily involves providing supportive care to alleviate symptoms and improve the patient's quality of life. Given the ongoing threat of CHIKV, there is an urgent need to better understand its pathogenesis. This understanding is crucial for deciphering the mechanisms underlying the disease and for developing effective strategies for both prevention and management. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of CHIKV and its pathogenesis, shedding light on the complex interactions of viral genetics, host factors, immune responses, and vector-related factors. By exploring these intricate connections, the review seeks to contribute to the knowledge base surrounding CHIKV, offering insights that may ultimately lead to more effective prevention and management strategies for this re-emerging global health threat.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wesley Freppel
- Institute for Biomedicine and Glycomics, Gold Coast Campus, Griffith University, Southport, Australia
| | - Laurie A Silva
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Kenneth A Stapleford
- Department of Microbiology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Lara J Herrero
- Institute for Biomedicine and Glycomics, Gold Coast Campus, Griffith University, Southport, Australia
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57
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Kalbfleisch TS, Ahammad T, Lorigan GA, Jaeger VW. Thermodynamic Details of Pinholin S 2168 Activation Revealed Using Alchemical Free Energy Simulations. J Phys Chem B 2024. [PMID: 39197172 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpcb.4c03302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/30/2024]
Abstract
Pinholin S2168 is a viral integral membrane protein whose function is to form nanoscopic "pinholes" in bacterial cell membranes to induce cell lysis as part of the viral replication cycle. Pinholin can transition from an inactive to an active conformation by exposing a transmembrane domain (TMD1) to the extracellular fluid. Upon activation, several copies of the protein assemble via interactions among a second transmembrane domain (TMD2) to form a single pore, thus hastening cell lysis and viral escape. The following experiments provide conformational descriptors of pinholin in active and inactive states and elucidate the molecular driving forces that control pinholin activity. In the present study, molecular dynamics (MD) simulations have been used to refine experimentally derived conformational descriptors into an atomistically detailed model of irsS2168, an antiholin mutant. To provide additional details about the thermodynamics of pinholin activation and to overcome large intrinsic kinetic barriers to activation, alchemical free energy simulations have been conducted. Alchemical mutations reveal the change in folding free energy upon mutation. The results suggest that alchemical mutations are an effective tool to rationalize experimental observations and predict the effects of site mutations on conformational states for proteins integrated into lipid bilayers. S16F, A17Q, A17Q+G21Q, and A17Q+G21Q+G14Q mutants reveal how changes in hydrophilicity and disruption of the glycine zipper motif influence pinholin's thermodynamic equilibrium, favoring the active conformation. These findings align with experimental observations from DEER spectroscopy, demonstrating that mutations increasing the hydrophilicity of TMD1 promote activation by making TMD1 more likely to exit the membrane and enter the extracellular fluid.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theodore S Kalbfleisch
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky 40292, United States
| | - Tanbir Ahammad
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Miami University, Oxford, Ohio 45056, United States
| | - Gary A Lorigan
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Miami University, Oxford, Ohio 45056, United States
| | - Vance W Jaeger
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky 40292, United States
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58
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Wan T, Cao Y, Lai YJ, Pan Z, Li YZ, Zhuo L. Functional investigation of the two ClpPs and three ClpXs in Myxococcus xanthus DK1622. mSphere 2024:e0036324. [PMID: 39189774 DOI: 10.1128/msphere.00363-24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 07/16/2024] [Indexed: 08/28/2024] Open
Abstract
ClpXP is a protease complex that plays important roles in protein quality control and cell cycle regulation, but the functions of multiple ClpXs and multiple ClpPs in M. xanthus remain unknown. The genome of Myxococcus xanthus DK1622 contains two clpPs and three clpXs. The clpP1 and clpX1 genes are cotranscribed and are both essential, while the other copies are isolated in the genome and are deletable. The deletion of clpX2 caused the mutant to be deficient in fruiting body development, while the clpX3 gene is involved in resistance to thermal stress. Both ClpPs possess catalytic active sites, but only ClpP1 shows in vitro peptidase activity on the typical substrate Suc-LY-AMC. All of these clpP and clpX genes exhibit strong transcriptional upregulation in the stationary phase, and the transcription of the three clpX genes appears to be coordinated. Our results demonstrated that multiple ClpPs and multiple ClpXs are functionally divergent and may assist in the environmental adaptation and functional diversification of M. xanthus.IMPORTANCEClpXP is an important protease complex of bacteria and is involved in various physiological processes. Myxococcus xanthus DK1622 possesses two ClpPs and three ClpXs with unclear functions. We investigated the functions of these genes and demonstrated the essential roles of clpP1 and clpX1. Only ClpP1 has in vitro peptidase activity on Suc-LY-AMC, and the isolated clpX copies participate in distinct cellular processes. All of these genes exhibited significant transcriptional upregulation in the stationary phase. Divergent functions appear in multiple ClpPs and multiple ClpXs in M. xanthus DK1622.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianyu Wan
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology, Institute of Microbial Technology, Shandong University, Qingdao, China
| | - Ying Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology, Institute of Microbial Technology, Shandong University, Qingdao, China
| | - Ya-Jun Lai
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology, Institute of Microbial Technology, Shandong University, Qingdao, China
| | - Zhuo Pan
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology, Institute of Microbial Technology, Shandong University, Qingdao, China
| | - Yue-Zhong Li
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology, Institute of Microbial Technology, Shandong University, Qingdao, China
| | - Li Zhuo
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology, Institute of Microbial Technology, Shandong University, Qingdao, China
- Shenzhen Research Institute, Shandong University, Shenzhen, China
- Suzhou Research Institute, Shandong University, Suzhou, China
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59
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Reed KB, Kim W, Lu H, Larue CT, Guo S, Brooks SM, Montez MR, Wagner JW, Zhang YJ, Alper HS. Evolving dual-trait EPSP synthase variants using a synthetic yeast selection system. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2317027121. [PMID: 39159366 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2317027121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2024] [Indexed: 08/21/2024] Open
Abstract
The enzyme 5-enolpyruvylshikimate-3-phosphate synthase (EPSPS) functions in the shikimate pathway which is responsible for the production of aromatic amino acids and precursors of other essential secondary metabolites in all plant species. EPSPS is also the molecular target of the herbicide glyphosate. While some plant EPSPS variants have been characterized with reduced glyphosate sensitivity and have been used in biotechnology, the glyphosate insensitivity typically comes with a cost to catalytic efficiency. Thus, there exists a need to generate additional EPSPS variants that maintain both high catalytic efficiency and high glyphosate tolerance. Here, we create a synthetic yeast system to rapidly study and evolve heterologous EPSP synthases for these dual traits. Using known EPSPS variants, we first validate that our synthetic yeast system is capable of recapitulating growth characteristics observed in plants grown in varying levels of glyphosate. Next, we demonstrate that variants from mutagenesis libraries with distinct phenotypic traits can be isolated depending on the selection criteria applied. By applying strong dual-trait selection pressure, we identify a notable EPSPS mutant after just a single round of evolution that displays robust glyphosate tolerance (Ki of nearly 1 mM) and improved enzymatic efficiency over the starting point (~2.5 fold). Finally, we show the crystal structure of corn EPSPS and the top resulting mutants and demonstrate that certain mutants have the potential to outperform previously reported glyphosate-resistant EPSPS mutants, such as T102I and P106S (denoted as TIPS), in whole-plant testing. Altogether, this platform helps explore the trade-off between glyphosate resistance and enzymatic efficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin B Reed
- McKetta Department of Chemical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712
| | - Wantae Kim
- McKetta Department of Chemical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712
| | - Hongyuan Lu
- McKetta Department of Chemical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712
| | | | - Shirley Guo
- Crop Science Division, Bayer, Chesterfield, MO 63017
| | - Sierra M Brooks
- McKetta Department of Chemical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712
| | - Michael R Montez
- McKetta Department of Chemical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712
| | - James W Wagner
- McKetta Department of Chemical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712
| | - Y Jessie Zhang
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712
| | - Hal S Alper
- McKetta Department of Chemical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712
- Institute for Cellular and Molecular Biology, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712
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Ando K, Miyahara S, Hanada S, Fukuda K, Saito M, Sakai A, Maruo A, Zenke Y. Effective biofilm eradication in MRSA isolates with aminoglycoside-modifying enzyme genes using high-concentration and prolonged gentamicin treatment. Microbiol Spectr 2024:e0064724. [PMID: 39191399 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.00647-24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2024] [Accepted: 07/31/2024] [Indexed: 08/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Bone and soft tissue infections caused by biofilm-forming bacteria, such as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), remain a significant clinical challenge. While the control of local infection is necessary, systemic treatment is also required, and biofilm eradication is a critical target for successful management. Topical antibiotic treatments, such as antibiotic-loaded bone cement (ALBC), have been used for some time, and continuous local antibiotic perfusion therapy, a less invasive method, has been developed by our group. However, the optimal antibiotics and concentrations for biofilms of clinical isolates are still not well understood. We examined the efficacy of high concentrations of gentamicin against MRSA biofilms and the role of gentamicin resistance genes in biofilm eradication. We collected 101 MRSA samples from a hospital in Japan and analyzed their gene properties, including methicillin and gentamicin resistance, and their minimum biofilm eradication concentration (MBEC) values. Our results showed that high concentrations of gentamicin are effective against MRSA biofilms and that even concentrations lower than the MBEC value could eliminate biofilms after prolonged exposure. We also identified three aminoglycoside/gentamicin resistance genes [aac(6')-aph(2″), aph(3')-III, and ant(4')-IA] and found that the presence or absence of these genes may inform the selection of treatments. It was also found that possession of the aac(6')-aph(2″) gene correlated with the minimum inhibitory concentration/MBEC values of gentamicin. Although this study provides insight into the efficacy of gentamicin against MRSA biofilms and the role of gentamicin resistance genes, careful selection of the optimal treatment strategy is needed for clinical application. IMPORTANCE Our analysis of 101 MRSA clinical isolates has provided valuable insights that could enhance treatment selection for biofilm infections in orthopedics. We found that high concentrations of gentamicin were effective against MRSA biofilms, and even prolonged exposure to concentrations lower than the minimum biofilm eradication concentration (MBEC) value could eliminate biofilms. The presence of the aac(6')-aph(2″) gene, an aminoglycoside resistance gene, was found to correlate with the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and MBEC values of gentamicin, providing a potential predictive tool for treatment susceptibility. These results suggest that extended high concentrations of local gentamicin treatment could effectively eliminate MRSA biofilms in orthopedic infections. Furthermore, testing for gentamicin MIC or the possession of the aac(6')-aph(2″) gene could help select treatment, including topical gentamicin administration and surgical debridement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kohei Ando
- Department of Emergency and Intensive Care Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Kitakyushu, Japan
| | - Satoshi Miyahara
- Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Kitakyushu, Japan
| | - Shuhei Hanada
- Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Kitakyushu, Japan
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Kitakyushu, Japan
| | - Kazumasa Fukuda
- Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Kitakyushu, Japan
| | - Mitsumasa Saito
- Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Kitakyushu, Japan
| | - Akinori Sakai
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Kitakyushu, Japan
| | - Akihiro Maruo
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Hyogo Prefectural Harima-Himeji General Medical Center, Himeji, Japan
| | - Yukichi Zenke
- Department of Emergency and Intensive Care Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Kitakyushu, Japan
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Nogawa S, Morishita S, Saito K, Kato H. Genome-wide association meta-analysis identifies two novel loci associated with dental caries. BMC Oral Health 2024; 24:1003. [PMID: 39192244 DOI: 10.1186/s12903-024-04799-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2024] [Accepted: 08/23/2024] [Indexed: 08/29/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tooth loss significantly impacts oral function and overall health deterioration. Dental caries and periodontal disease are major contributors to tooth loss, emphasizing the critical need to prevent these conditions. Genetic studies have played a crucial role in deepening our understanding of the underlying mechanisms of these diseases. While large-scale genome-wide association studies (GWAS) on dental caries and periodontal disease have been conducted extensively, research focusing on Asian populations remains limited. Given substantial genetic and lifestyle variations across ethnicities, conducting studies across diverse populations is imperative. This study aimed to uncover new insights into the genetic mechanisms of these diseases, contributing to broader knowledge and potential targeted interventions. METHODS We conducted a GWAS using genome data from 45,525 Japanese individuals, assessing their self-reported history of dental caries and periodontal disease. Additionally, we performed a meta-analysis by integrating our results with those from a previous large-scale GWAS predominantly involving European populations. RESULTS While no new loci associated with periodontal disease were identified, we discovered two novel loci associated with dental caries. The lead variants of these loci were intron variant rs10974056 in GLIS3 and intron variant rs4801882 in SIGLEC5. CONCLUSION Our study findings are anticipated to advance understanding of the underlying mechanisms of dental caries and periodontal disease. Thes insights may inform better management strategies for patients affected by these conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shun Nogawa
- Genequest Inc, Siba 5-29-11, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 108-0014, Japan
| | - Satoru Morishita
- Research and Development Headquarters, Lion Corporation, Odawara, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Kenji Saito
- Genequest Inc, Siba 5-29-11, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 108-0014, Japan
| | - Hisanori Kato
- Laboratory of Health Nutrition, Department of Applied Biological Chemistry, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, 1-1-1 Yayoi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8657, Japan.
- Department of Applied Nutrition, School of Nutrition, Kagawa Nutrition University, 3-9-21 Chiyoda, Sakado, 350-0299, Saitama, Japan.
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Ingmer H, Leisner JJ, Fulaz S. Forssman and the staphylococcal hemolysins. APMIS 2024. [PMID: 39188243 DOI: 10.1111/apm.13459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2024] [Accepted: 08/05/2024] [Indexed: 08/28/2024]
Abstract
Forssman was a Swedish pathologist and microbiologist who, in the 1920s and 1930s conducted a long series of experiments that led to unique insights into surface antigens of blood cells, as well as added to the discrimination of toxins produced by staphylococci that lyse red blood cells. This review takes offset in the studies published by Forssman in APMIS addressing the hemolytic properties of staphylococcal toxins displayed against erythrocytes of animal and human origin. In light of current knowledge, we will discuss the insights we now have and how they may pave the way for curing infections with pathogenic staphylococci, including Staphylococcus aureus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanne Ingmer
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Science, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jørgen J Leisner
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Science, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Stephanie Fulaz
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Science, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Salasar Moghaddam F, Tabibian M, Absalan M, Tavoosidana G, Ghahremani MH, Tabatabaei N, Abdolhosseini M, Shafiee Sabet M, Motevaseli E. Comparative analysis of Escherichia coli Nissle 1917 ghosts quality: a study of two chemical methods. Arch Microbiol 2024; 206:386. [PMID: 39190149 DOI: 10.1007/s00203-024-04095-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2024] [Revised: 07/25/2024] [Accepted: 07/28/2024] [Indexed: 08/28/2024]
Abstract
The gram-negative bacterium Escherichia coli Nissle 1917 (EcN) has long been recognized for its therapeutic potential in treating various intestinal diseases. Bacterial ghosts (BGs) are empty shells of non-living bacterial cells that demonstrate enormous potential for medicinal applications. Genetic and chemical techniques can create these BGs. In the current study, we produced Escherichia coli Nissle 1917 ghosts (EcNGs) for the first time using benzoic acid (BA) and sodium hydroxide (SH). BA is a feeble acidic chemical that enhances gram-negative bacteria's external membrane permeability, reduces energy production, and decreases internal pH. SH has shown success in producing BGs from some gram-negative and gram-positive organisms. This research aims to produce EcNGs using the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of SH and BA, specifically 3.125 mg/mL. We assessed the bacterial quality of the BGs produced using quantitative PCR (qPCR) and Bradford protein assays. Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) showed the three-dimensional structure of EcNGs. The study confirmed the presence of tunnel-like pores on the outer surface, indicating the preservation of cell membrane integrity. Importantly, this investigation introduces BA as a novel chemical inducer of EcNGs, suggesting its potential alongside SH for efficient EcNG formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fahimeh Salasar Moghaddam
- Department of Molecular Medicine, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mobina Tabibian
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Life Sciences and Biotechnologies, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Moloud Absalan
- Department of Molecular Medicine, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Gholamreza Tavoosidana
- Department of Molecular Medicine, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hossein Ghahremani
- Department of Molecular Medicine, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Pharmacology-Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nasrollah Tabatabaei
- Department of Medical Nanotechnology, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mansoreh Abdolhosseini
- Department of Molecular Medicine, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahdi Shafiee Sabet
- Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Elahe Motevaseli
- Department of Molecular Medicine, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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64
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Ruan J, Yang Y, Carrière Y, Wu Y. Development of resistance monitoring for Helicoverpa armigera (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) resistance to pyramided Bt cotton in China. JOURNAL OF ECONOMIC ENTOMOLOGY 2024:toae194. [PMID: 39186571 DOI: 10.1093/jee/toae194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2024] [Revised: 07/26/2024] [Accepted: 08/09/2024] [Indexed: 08/28/2024]
Abstract
The cotton bollworm, Helicoverpa armigera (Hübner) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), is a significant cotton pest worldwide. Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) cotton producing Cry1Ac has been used since 1997 for the control of this pest in China and a significant increase in H. armigera resistance to Cry1Ac has occurred in northern China. To mitigate resistance evolution, it is necessary to develop and plant pyramided 2- and 3-toxin Bt cotton to replace Cry1Ac cotton. For sustainable use of pyramided Bt cotton, we used diet overlay bioassays to measure the baseline susceptibility of H. armigera to Cry2Ab in 33 populations collected in 2017, 2018, and 2021 in 12 locations from major cotton-producing areas of China. The lethal concentration killing 50% (LC50) or 99% (LC99) of individuals from the populations ranged from 0.030 to 0.138 µg/cm2 and 0.365 to 2.964 µg/cm2, respectively. The ratio of the LC50 for the most resistant and susceptible population was 4.6, indicating moderate among-population variability in resistance. The susceptibility of H. armigera to Cry2Ab did not vary significantly over years. A diagnostic concentration of 2 µg/cm2 was calculated as twice the LC99 from an analysis of pooled data for the field-collected populations. This concentration discriminated well between susceptible and resistant individuals, as it killed all larvae from a susceptible laboratory strain and 0%, 0%, and 23% of larvae from 3 laboratory strains with > 100-fold resistance to Cry2Ab. These baseline susceptibility data and diagnostic concentration for Cry2Ab will be useful for monitoring the evolution of H. armigera resistance to pyramided Bt cotton in China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianqiu Ruan
- Department of Entomology, College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Yihua Yang
- Department of Entomology, College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Yves Carrière
- Department of Entomology, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Yidong Wu
- Department of Entomology, College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
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65
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Pal A, Ghosh D, Thakur P, Nagpal P, Irulappan M, Maruthan K, Mukherjee S, Patil NG, Dutta T, Veeraraghavan B, Vivekanandan P. Clinically relevant mutations in regulatory regions of metabolic genes facilitate early adaptation to ciprofloxacin in Escherichia coli. Nucleic Acids Res 2024:gkae719. [PMID: 39180403 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkae719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Revised: 07/31/2024] [Accepted: 08/09/2024] [Indexed: 08/26/2024] Open
Abstract
The genomic landscape associated with early adaptation to ciprofloxacin is poorly understood. Although the interplay between core metabolism and antimicrobial resistance is being increasingly recognized, mutations in metabolic genes and their biological role remain elusive. Here, we exposed Escherichia coli to increasing gradients of ciprofloxacin with intermittent transfer-bottlenecking and identified mutations in three non-canonical targets linked to metabolism including a deletion (tRNA-ArgΔ414-bp) and point mutations in the regulatory regions of argI (ARG box) and narU. Our findings suggest that these mutations modulate arginine and carbohydrate metabolism, facilitate anaerobiosis and increased ATP production during ciprofloxacin stress. Furthermore, mutations in the regulatory regions of argI and narU were detected in over 70% of sequences from clinical E. coli isolates and were overrepresented among ciprofloxacin-resistant isolates. In sum, we have identified clinically relevant mutations in the regulatory regions of metabolic genes as a central theme that drives physiological changes necessary for adaptation to ciprofloxacin stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arijit Pal
- Kusuma School of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi 110016, India
- Department of Zoology, Raiganj Surendranath Mahavidyalaya, Sudarshanpur, Raiganj, Uttar Dinajpur, West Bengal733134, India
| | - Dipannita Ghosh
- Kusuma School of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi 110016, India
| | - Pratyusha Thakur
- RNA Biology Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi 110016, India
| | - Priya Nagpal
- Kusuma School of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi 110016, India
| | - Madhumathi Irulappan
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Christian Medical College, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Karthik Maruthan
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Christian Medical College, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Sanket Mukherjee
- Kusuma School of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi 110016, India
| | - Nikita G Patil
- Kusuma School of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi 110016, India
- Amity Institute of Virology and Immunology, Amity University, Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Tanmay Dutta
- RNA Biology Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi 110016, India
| | - Balaji Veeraraghavan
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Christian Medical College, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Perumal Vivekanandan
- Kusuma School of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi 110016, India
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66
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Mohamed Noor MH, Ngadi N. Ecotoxicological risk assessment on coagulation-flocculation in water/wastewater treatment: a systematic review. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2024:10.1007/s11356-024-34700-0. [PMID: 39177740 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-024-34700-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2024] [Accepted: 08/08/2024] [Indexed: 08/24/2024]
Abstract
It is undeniable that removal efficiency is the main factor in coagulation-flocculation (C-F) process for wastewater treatment. However, as far as environmental safety is concerned, the ecotoxicological aspect of the C-F process needs to be examined further. In this study, a systematic review was performed based on publications related to the toxicity research in C-F technology for wastewater treatment. Through a series of screening steps, available toxicity studies were categorized into four themes, namely acute toxicity, phytotoxicity, cytotoxicity, and genotoxicity, which comprised 48 articles. A compilation of the methodologies executed for each theme was also outlined. The findings show that conventional metallic coagulants (e.g., alum, iron chloride, and iron sulfate) were less toxic when tested on test species such as Daphnia magna (water flea), Lattuca sativa (lettuce), and animal cells compared to synthetic polymers. Natural coagulants such as chitosan or Moringa oleifera were less toxic compared to metallic coagulants; however, inconsistent results were observed. Moreover, an advanced C-F (electrocoagulation) as well as integration between C-F and Fenton, adsorption, and photocatalytic does not significantly change the toxicological profile of the system. It was found that diverse coagulants and flocculants, species sensitivity, complexity in toxicity testing, and dynamic environmental conditions were some key challenges faced in this field. Finally, it was expected that advances in technology, interdisciplinary collaboration, and a growing awareness of environmental sustainability will drive efforts to develop more effective and eco-friendly coagulants and flocculants, improve toxicity testing methodologies, and enhance the overall efficiency and safety of water and wastewater treatment processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Hizam Mohamed Noor
- Faculty of Chemical and Energy Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, 81310, Skudai, Johor, Malaysia
| | - Norzita Ngadi
- Faculty of Chemical and Energy Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, 81310, Skudai, Johor, Malaysia.
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67
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Kumar D, Gayen A, Chandra M. Growth Phase Contribution in Dictating Drug Transport and Subcellular Accumulation inside Escherichia coli. ACS Infect Dis 2024. [PMID: 39178142 DOI: 10.1021/acsinfecdis.4c00252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/25/2024]
Abstract
Depending upon nutrient availability, bacteria transit to multiple growth phases. The transition from the active to nongrowing phase results in reduced drug efficacy and, in some cases, even multidrug resistance. However, due to multiple alterations in the cell envelope, probing the drug permeation kinetics during growth phases becomes perplexing, especially across the Gram-negative bacteria's complex dual membrane envelope. To advance the understanding of drug permeation during the life cycle of Gram-negative bacteria, we sought to address two underlying objectives: (a) how changes are occurring inside the bacterial envelope during growth and (b) how the drug permeation and accumulation vary across both the membranes and in subcellular compartments during growth. Both objectives are met with the help of nonlinear optical technique second-harmonic generation spectroscopy (SHG). Specifically, using SHG, we probed the transport kinetics and accumulation of a quaternary ammonium compound (QAC), malachite green, inside Escherichia coli in various growth phases. Further insight about another QAC molecule, propidium iodide, is accomplished using fluorescence microscopy. Results indicate that actively growing cells have faster drug transport and higher cytoplasmic accumulation than slow- or nongrowing cells. In this regard, the rpoS gene plays a crucial role in limiting drug transport across the saturation phase cultures. Moreover, within a particular growth phase, membrane permeability undergoes gradual changes much before the subsequent growth phase commences. These outcomes signify the importance of reporting the growth phase and rate in drug efficacy studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepak Kumar
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh 208016, India
| | - Anindita Gayen
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh 208016, India
| | - Manabendra Chandra
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh 208016, India
- Center of Excellence: Tropical and Infectious Diseases, Gangwal School of Medical Sciences and Technology, Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh 208016, India
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68
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Pedersen BH, Simões FB, Pogrebnyakov I, Welch M, Johansen HK, Molin S, La Rosa R. Metabolic specialization drives reduced pathogenicity in Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolates from cystic fibrosis patients. PLoS Biol 2024; 22:e3002781. [PMID: 39178315 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pbio.3002781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 08/01/2024] [Indexed: 08/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Metabolism provides the foundation for all cellular functions. During persistent infections, in adapted pathogenic bacteria metabolism functions radically differently compared with more naïve strains. Whether this is simply a necessary accommodation to the persistence phenotype or if metabolism plays a direct role in achieving persistence in the host is still unclear. Here, we characterize a convergent shift in metabolic function(s) linked with the persistence phenotype during Pseudomonas aeruginosa colonization in the airways of people with cystic fibrosis. We show that clinically relevant mutations in the key metabolic enzyme, pyruvate dehydrogenase, lead to a host-specialized metabolism together with a lower virulence and immune response recruitment. These changes in infection phenotype are mediated by impaired type III secretion system activity and by secretion of the antioxidant metabolite, pyruvate, respectively. Our results show how metabolic adaptations directly impinge on persistence and pathogenicity in this organism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bjarke Haldrup Pedersen
- The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Filipa Bica Simões
- Department of Clinical Microbiology 9301, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ivan Pogrebnyakov
- The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Martin Welch
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Helle Krogh Johansen
- Department of Clinical Microbiology 9301, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Søren Molin
- The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Ruggero La Rosa
- The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Microbiology 9301, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
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69
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Hohensee L, Scheibner D, Luttermann C, Shelton H, Dorhoi A, Abdelwhab EM, Blohm U. PB1-F2 of low pathogenicity H7N7 restricts apoptosis in avian cells. Virus Res 2024; 349:199444. [PMID: 39089370 DOI: 10.1016/j.virusres.2024.199444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2024] [Revised: 07/26/2024] [Accepted: 07/29/2024] [Indexed: 08/03/2024]
Abstract
Avian influenza viruses (AIV) pose a continuous challenge to global health and economy. While countermeasures exist to control outbreaks in poultry, the persistent circulation of AIV in wild aquatic and shorebirds presents a significant challenge to effective disease prevention efforts. PB1-F2 is a non-structural protein expressed from a second open reading frame (+1) of the polymerase basic 1 (PB1) segment. The sequence and length of the PB1-F2 protein can vary depending on the host of origin. While avian isolates typically carry full-length PB1-F2, isolates from mammals, often express truncated forms. The selective advantage of the full-length PB1-F2 in avian isolates is not fully understood. Most research on the role of PB1-F2 in influenza virus replication has been conducted in mammalian systems, where PB1-F2 interfered with the host immune response and induced apoptosis. Here, we used Low Pathogenicity (LP) AIV H7N7 expressing full-length PB1-F2 as well as a knockout mutant. We found that the full-length PB1-F2 of LPAIV prolonged survival of infected cells by limiting apoptotic cell death. Furthermore, PB1-F2 knockout LPAIV significantly decreased MHC-I expression on fibroblasts, delayed tissue healing and increased phagocytic uptake of infected cells, whereas LPAIV expressing PB1-F2 has limited effects. These findings indicate that full-length PB1-F2 enables AIV to cause prolonged infections without severely harming the avian host. Our observations may explain maintenance of AIV in the natural bird reservoir in absence of severe clinical signs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luise Hohensee
- Institute of Immunology, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Südufer 10, Greifswald, Insel Riems 17493, Germany
| | - David Scheibner
- Institute of Molecular Virology and Cell Biology, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Südufer 10, Greifswald, Insel Riems 17493, Germany; Institute of Novel and Emerging Infectious Diseases, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Südufer 10, Greifswald, Insel Riems 17493, Germany
| | - Christine Luttermann
- Institute of Immunology, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Südufer 10, Greifswald, Insel Riems 17493, Germany
| | - Holly Shelton
- The Pirbright Institute, Pirbright, Ash Road, Surrey GU24 0NF, United Kingdom
| | - Anca Dorhoi
- Institute of Immunology, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Südufer 10, Greifswald, Insel Riems 17493, Germany
| | - Elsayed M Abdelwhab
- Institute of Molecular Virology and Cell Biology, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Südufer 10, Greifswald, Insel Riems 17493, Germany
| | - Ulrike Blohm
- Institute of Immunology, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Südufer 10, Greifswald, Insel Riems 17493, Germany.
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70
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Zhou L, Zeng Y, Xu C, Al-Dhabi NA, Wang S, Sun S, Wang J, Tang W, Li T, Wang X. Exogenous paths regulate electron transfer enhancing sediment phosphorus immobilization. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 951:175689. [PMID: 39173749 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.175689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2024] [Revised: 08/19/2024] [Accepted: 08/19/2024] [Indexed: 08/24/2024]
Abstract
The lack of electron acceptors in anaerobic sediments leads to endogenous phosphorus release and low removal efficiency of organic pollutants. This study introduced electrodes and iron oxides into sediments to construct electron network transport chains to supplement electron acceptors. The sediment total organic carbon (TOC) removal efficiencies of closed-circuit (CC) and closed-circuit with Fe addition (CC-Fe) were estimated to be 1.4 and 1.7 times of the control. Unlike the fluctuation of phosphorus in the overlying water of the controls, the CC-Fe was stabled at 0.04-0.08 mg/L during the 84-d operation. The phosphorus in interstitial water of CC-Fe was 30 % less than in control, whereas in sediment, the redox sensitive phosphorus was increased by 14 %, indicating phosphorus was preferred to fix into sediments rather than interstitial water. This is important to reduce the risk of endogenous phosphorus returning to the overlying water. Microbial community analysis showed that the multiplication of Fonticella in CC-Fe (20 %) was 1.8-fold of control (11 %) which improved the TOC removal efficiency. While electroactive microorganisms accumulated near the electrode reduced the abundance of Fe-reducing bacteria, such as Desulfitobacterium (2.4 %), leading to better phosphorus fixation. These findings suggest a strategy for the efficient bioremediation of endogenous pollution in water, with broader implications for regulating electron transport paths and element cycles in aquatic environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lean Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Dongting Lake Aquatic Eco-Environmental Control and Restoration of Hunan Province, School of Hydraulic and Environmental Engineering, Changsha University of Science & Technology, Changsha 410114, China
| | - Yuting Zeng
- Key Laboratory of Dongting Lake Aquatic Eco-Environmental Control and Restoration of Hunan Province, School of Hydraulic and Environmental Engineering, Changsha University of Science & Technology, Changsha 410114, China
| | - Chong Xu
- Key Laboratory of Dongting Lake Aquatic Eco-Environmental Control and Restoration of Hunan Province, School of Hydraulic and Environmental Engineering, Changsha University of Science & Technology, Changsha 410114, China
| | - Naif Abdullah Al-Dhabi
- Department of Botany and Microbiology, College of Science, King Saud University, P. O. Box 2455, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Shu Wang
- PowerChina Northwest Engineering Corporation Limited, Xi'an 710065, China
| | - Shiquan Sun
- Key Laboratory of Dongting Lake Aquatic Eco-Environmental Control and Restoration of Hunan Province, School of Hydraulic and Environmental Engineering, Changsha University of Science & Technology, Changsha 410114, China
| | - Jinting Wang
- Key Laboratory of Dongting Lake Aquatic Eco-Environmental Control and Restoration of Hunan Province, School of Hydraulic and Environmental Engineering, Changsha University of Science & Technology, Changsha 410114, China
| | - Wangwang Tang
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Ministry of Education), Hunan University, Changsha 410082, China
| | - Tian Li
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Xin Wang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China.
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71
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Coleman HJ, Yang Q, Robert A, Padgette H, Funke HH, Catalano CE, Randolph TW. Formulation of three tailed bacteriophages by spray-drying and atomic layer deposition for thermal stability and controlled release. J Pharm Sci 2024:S0022-3549(24)00305-8. [PMID: 39173744 DOI: 10.1016/j.xphs.2024.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2024] [Revised: 08/08/2024] [Accepted: 08/08/2024] [Indexed: 08/24/2024]
Abstract
Deep infection is the second most common complication of arthroplasty following loosening of the implant. Antibiotic-loaded bone cements (ALBCs) and high concentrations of systemic broad-spectrum antibiotics are commonly used to prevent infections following injury and surgery. However, clinical data fails to show that ALBCs are effective against deep infection, and negative side effects can result following prolonged administration of antibiotics. Additionally, the rise of multidrug resistant (MDR) bacteria provides an urgent need for alternatives to broad-spectrum antibiotics. Phage therapy, or the use of bacteriophages (viruses that infect bacteria) to target pathogenic bacteria, might offer a safe alternative to combat MDR bacteria. Application of phage therapy in the setting of deep infections requires formulation strategies that would stabilize bacteriophage against chemical and thermal stress during bone-cement polymerization, that maintain bacteriophage activity for weeks or months at physiological temperatures, and that allow for sustained release of phage to combat slow-growing, persistent bacteria. Here, we demonstrate the formulation of three phages that target diverse bacterial pathogens, which includes spray-drying of the particles for enhanced thermal stability at 37 °C and above. Additionally, we use atomic layer deposition (ALD) to coat spray-dried powders with alumina to allow for delayed release of phage from the dry formulations, and potentially protect phage against chemical damage during bone cement polymerization. Together, these findings present a strategy to formulate phages that possess thermal stability and sustained release properties for use in deep infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Holly J Coleman
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado, Boulder, Boulder, CO, 80303, USA
| | - Qin Yang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Amanda Robert
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado, Boulder, Boulder, CO, 80303, USA
| | - Hannah Padgette
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado, Boulder, Boulder, CO, 80303, USA
| | - Hans H Funke
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado, Boulder, Boulder, CO, 80303, USA
| | - Carlos E Catalano
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Theodore W Randolph
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado, Boulder, Boulder, CO, 80303, USA.
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72
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Mai LD, Wimberley SC, Champion JA. Intracellular delivery strategies using membrane-interacting peptides and proteins. NANOSCALE 2024; 16:15465-15480. [PMID: 39091235 PMCID: PMC11340348 DOI: 10.1039/d4nr02093f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2024] [Accepted: 07/22/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024]
Abstract
While the cellular cytosol and organelles contain attractive targets for disease treatments, it remains a challenge to deliver therapeutic biomacromolecules to these sites. This is due to the selective permeability of the plasma and endosomal membranes, especially for large and hydrophilic therapeutic cargos such as proteins and nucleic acids. In response, many different delivery systems and molecules have been devised to help therapeutics cross these barriers to reach cytosolic targets. Among them are peptide and protein-based systems, which have several advantages over other natural and synthetic materials including their ability to interact with cell membranes. In this review, we will describe recent advances and current challenges of peptide and protein strategies that leverage cell membrane association and modulation to enable cytosolic delivery of biomacromolecule cargo. The approaches covered here include peptides and proteins derived from or inspired by natural sequences as well as those designed de novo for delivery function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linh D Mai
- School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, 950 Atlantic Dr NW, Atlanta, GA, 30332-2000, USA.
| | - Sydney C Wimberley
- School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, 950 Atlantic Dr NW, Atlanta, GA, 30332-2000, USA.
- BioEngineering Program, Georgia Institute of Technology, USA
| | - Julie A Champion
- School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, 950 Atlantic Dr NW, Atlanta, GA, 30332-2000, USA.
- BioEngineering Program, Georgia Institute of Technology, USA
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73
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Taylor ZA, Chen P, Noeparvar P, Pham DN, Walker AR, Kitten T, Zeng L. Glycerol metabolism contributes to competition by oral streptococci through production of hydrogen peroxide. J Bacteriol 2024:e0022724. [PMID: 39171915 DOI: 10.1128/jb.00227-24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2024] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 08/23/2024] Open
Abstract
As a biological byproduct from both humans and microbes, glycerol's contribution to microbial homeostasis in the oral cavity remains understudied. In this study, we examined glycerol metabolism by Streptococcus sanguinis, a commensal associated with oral health. Genetic mutants of glucose-PTS enzyme II (manL), glycerol metabolism (glp and dha pathways), and transcriptional regulators were characterized with regard to glycerol catabolism, growth, production of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), transcription, and competition with Streptococcus mutans. Biochemical assays identified the glp pathway as a novel source for H2O2 production by S. sanguinis that is independent of pyruvate oxidase (SpxB). Genetic analysis indicated that the glp pathway requires glycerol and a transcriptional regulator, GlpR, for expression and is negatively regulated by PTS, but not the catabolite control protein, CcpA. Conversely, deletion of either manL or ccpA increased the expression of spxB and a second, H2O2-non-producing glycerol metabolic pathway (dha), indicative of a mode of regulation consistent with conventional carbon catabolite repression (CCR). In a plate-based antagonism assay and competition assays performed with planktonic and biofilm-grown cells, glycerol greatly benefited the competitive fitness of S. sanguinis against S. mutans. The glp pathway appears to be conserved in several commensal streptococci and actively expressed in caries-free plaque samples. Our study suggests that glycerol metabolism plays a more significant role in the ecology of the oral cavity than previously understood. Commensal streptococci, though not able to use glycerol as a sole carbohydrate source for growth, benefit from the catabolism of glycerol through production of both ATP and H2O2. IMPORTANCE Glycerol is an abundant carbohydrate in the oral cavity. However, little is understood regarding the metabolism of glycerol by commensal streptococci, some of the most abundant oral bacteria. This was in part because most streptococci cannot grow on glycerol as the sole carbon source. In this study, we show that Streptococcus sanguinis, a commensal associated with dental health, can degrade glycerol for persistence and competition through two pathways, one of which generates hydrogen peroxide at levels capable of inhibiting Streptococcus mutans. Preliminary studies suggest that several additional commensal streptococci are also able to catabolize glycerol, and glycerol-related genes are actively expressed in human dental plaque samples. Our findings reveal the potential of glycerol to significantly impact microbial homeostasis, which warrants further exploration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zachary A Taylor
- Department of Oral Biology, University of Florida College of Dentistry, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Ping Chen
- Department of Oral Biology, University of Florida College of Dentistry, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Payam Noeparvar
- Department of Oral Biology, University of Florida College of Dentistry, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Danniel N Pham
- Department of Oral Biology, University of Florida College of Dentistry, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Alejandro R Walker
- Department of Oral Biology, University of Florida College of Dentistry, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Todd Kitten
- Philips Institute for Oral Health Research, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Dentistry, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Lin Zeng
- Department of Oral Biology, University of Florida College of Dentistry, Gainesville, Florida, USA
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Lam NM, Tsang TF, Qu J, Tsang MW, Tao Y, Kan CH, Zou Q, Chan KH, Chu AJ, Ma C, Yang X. Development of a luciferase-based Gram-positive bacterial reporter system for the characterization of antimicrobial agents. Appl Environ Microbiol 2024; 90:e0071724. [PMID: 39016615 PMCID: PMC11337827 DOI: 10.1128/aem.00717-24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Mechanistic investigations are of paramount importance in elucidating the modes of action of antibiotics and facilitating the discovery of novel drugs. We reported a luciferase-based reporter system using bacterial cells to unveil mechanisms of antimicrobials targeting transcription and translation. The reporter gene Nluc encoding NanoLuciferase (NanoLuc) was integrated into the genome of the Gram-positive model organism, Bacillus subtilis, to generate a reporter strain BS2019. Cellular transcription and translation levels were assessed by quantifying the amount of Nluc mRNA as well as the luminescence catalyzed by the enzyme NanoLuc. We validated this system using three known inhibitors of transcription (rifampicin), translation (chloramphenicol), and cell wall synthesis (ampicillin). The B. subtilis reporter strain BS2019 successfully revealed a decline in Nluc expression by rifampicin and NanoLuc enzyme activity by chloramphenicol, while ampicillin produced no observable effect. The assay was employed to characterize a previously discovered bacterial transcription inhibitor, CUHK242, with known antimicrobial activity against drug-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. Production of Nluc mRNA in our reporter BS2019 was suppressed in the presence of CUHK242, demonstrating the usefulness of the construct, which provides a simple way to study the mechanism of potential antibiotic candidates at early stages of drug discovery. The reporter system can also be modified by adopting different promoters and reporter genes to extend its scope of contribution to other fields of work. IMPORTANCE Discovering new classes of antibiotics is desperately needed to combat the emergence of multidrug-resistant pathogens. To facilitate the drug discovery process, a simple cell-based assay for mechanistic studies is essential to characterize antimicrobial candidates. In this work, we developed a luciferase-based reporter system to quantify the transcriptional and translational effects of potential compounds and validated our system using two currently marketed drugs. Reporter strains generated in this study provide readily available means for identifying bacterial transcription inhibitors as prospective novel antibacterials. We also provided a series of plasmids for characterizing promoters under various conditions such as stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nga Man Lam
- Department of Microbiology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Tsz Fung Tsang
- Department of Microbiology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Jiayi Qu
- Department of Microbiology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Man Wai Tsang
- Department of Microbiology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Yuan Tao
- Department of Microbiology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Cheuk Hei Kan
- Department of Microbiology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Qingyu Zou
- Department of Microbiology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - King Hong Chan
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Adrian Jun Chu
- Department of Microbiology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Cong Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Xiao Yang
- Department of Microbiology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
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Novikova IV, Soldatova AV, Moser TH, Thibert SM, Romano CA, Zhou M, Tebo BM, Evans JE, Spiro TG. Cryo-EM Structure of the Mnx Protein Complex Reveals a Tunnel Framework for the Mechanism of Manganese Biomineralization. J Am Chem Soc 2024; 146:22950-22958. [PMID: 39056168 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.3c06537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/28/2024]
Abstract
The global manganese cycle relies on microbes to oxidize soluble Mn(II) to insoluble Mn(IV) oxides. Some microbes require peroxide or superoxide as oxidants, but others can use O2 directly, via multicopper oxidase (MCO) enzymes. One of these, MnxG from Bacillus sp. strain PL-12, was isolated in tight association with small accessory proteins, MnxE and MnxF. The protein complex, called Mnx, has eluded crystallization efforts, but we now report the 3D structure of a point mutant using cryo-EM single particle analysis, cross-linking mass spectrometry, and AlphaFold Multimer prediction. The β-sheet-rich complex features MnxG enzyme, capped by a heterohexameric ring of alternating MnxE and MnxF subunits, and a tunnel that runs through MnxG and its MnxE3F3 cap. The tunnel dimensions and charges can accommodate the mechanistically inferred binuclear manganese intermediates. Comparison with the Fe(II)-oxidizing MCO, ceruloplasmin, identifies likely coordinating groups for the Mn(II) substrate, at the entrance to the tunnel. Thus, the 3D structure provides a rationale for the established manganese oxidase mechanism, and a platform for further experiments to elucidate mechanistic details of manganese biomineralization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irina V Novikova
- Environmental Molecular Sciences Laboratory, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, 3335 Innovation Blvd, Richland, Washington 99354, United States
| | - Alexandra V Soldatova
- Department of Chemistry, University of Washington, Box 351700, Seattle, Washington 98195, United States
| | - Trevor H Moser
- Environmental Molecular Sciences Laboratory, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, 3335 Innovation Blvd, Richland, Washington 99354, United States
| | - Stephanie M Thibert
- Environmental Molecular Sciences Laboratory, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, 3335 Innovation Blvd, Richland, Washington 99354, United States
| | - Christine A Romano
- Division of Environmental and Biomolecular Systems, Institute of Environmental Health, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon 97239, United States
| | - Mowei Zhou
- Environmental Molecular Sciences Laboratory, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, 3335 Innovation Blvd, Richland, Washington 99354, United States
| | - Bradley M Tebo
- Department of Chemistry, University of Washington, Box 351700, Seattle, Washington 98195, United States
- Division of Environmental and Biomolecular Systems, Institute of Environmental Health, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon 97239, United States
| | - James E Evans
- Environmental Molecular Sciences Laboratory, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, 3335 Innovation Blvd, Richland, Washington 99354, United States
| | - Thomas G Spiro
- Department of Chemistry, University of Washington, Box 351700, Seattle, Washington 98195, United States
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76
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Wang L, Cheng X, Guo Y, Cao J, Sun M, Hwang JS, Liu R, Fang J. Novel isolates of hydrogen-oxidizing chemolithoautotrophic Sulfurospirillum provide insight to the functions and adaptation mechanisms of Campylobacteria in shallow-water hydrothermal vents. mSystems 2024:e0014824. [PMID: 39166872 DOI: 10.1128/msystems.00148-24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 07/24/2024] [Indexed: 08/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Enhancing the availability of representative isolates from hydrothermal vents (HTVs) is imperative for comprehending the microbial processes that propel the vent ecosystem. In recent years, Campylobacteria have emerged as the predominant and ubiquitous taxon across both shallow and deep-sea vent systems. Nevertheless, only a few isolates have been cultured, primarily originating from deep-sea HTVs. Presently, no cultivable isolates of Campylobacteria are accessible in shallow water vent systems (<200 m), which exhibit markedly distinct environmental conditions from their deep-sea counterparts. In this study, we enriched a novel isolate (genus Sulfurospirillum, Campylobacteria) from shallow-water HTVs of Kueishan Island. Genomic and physiological analysis revealed that this novel Campylobacteria species grows on a variety of substrate and carbon/energy sources. The pan-genome and phenotypic comparisons with 12 previously isolated Sulfurospirillum species from different environments supported the identification of functional features in Sulfurospirillum genomes crucial for adaptation to vent environments, such as sulfur oxidation, carbon fixation, biofilm formation, and benzoate/toluene degradation, as well as diverse genes related with signal transportation. To conclude, the metabolic characteristics of this novel Campylobacteria augment our understanding of Campylobacteria spanning from deep-sea to shallow-water vent systems.IMPORTANCECampylobacteria emerge as the dominant and ubiquitous taxa within vent systems, playing important roles in the vent ecosystems. However, isolated representatives of Campylobacteria have been mainly from the deep-sea hydrothermal fields, leaving a significant knowledge gap regarding the functions, activities, and adaptation strategies of the vent microorganisms in shallow-water hydrothermal vents (HTVs). This study bridges this gap by providing insights into the phenomics and genomic diversity of genus Sulfurospirillum (order Campylobacterales, class Campylobacteria) based on data derived from a novel isolate obtained from shallow-water HTVs. Our mesophilic isolate of Sulfurospirillum not only augments the genus diversity of Campylobacteria pure cultures derived from vent systems but also serves as the inaugural reference isolate for Campylobacteria in shallow-water environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Wang
- College of Oceanography and Ecological Science, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xinyi Cheng
- College of Oceanography and Ecological Science, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yizhe Guo
- College of Oceanography and Ecological Science, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, China
| | - Junwei Cao
- College of Oceanography and Ecological Science, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, China
| | - Mingye Sun
- College of Oceanography and Ecological Science, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiang-Shiou Hwang
- Institute of Marine Biology, National Taiwan Ocean University, Keelung, Taiwan
| | - Rulong Liu
- College of Oceanography and Ecological Science, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiasong Fang
- College of Oceanography and Ecological Science, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, China
- Laboratory for Marine Biology and Biotechnology, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao, China
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77
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Pu Y, Kang H, Meyers PA, Zhang H, Yang M. Assessing the potential of n-alkyl amides and n-alkyl nitriles in the arid sedimentary strata of northwestern China as environmental indicators. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 951:175688. [PMID: 39173767 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.175688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2024] [Revised: 07/17/2024] [Accepted: 08/19/2024] [Indexed: 08/24/2024]
Abstract
Recent advancements in the application of lipid biomarkers as paleoenvironmental indicators have provided invaluable insights into the dynamics of climatic variations, vegetative histories, and anthropogenic impacts. However, our current understanding of nitrogen-containing lipid biomarkers (NCLBs) in sedimentary deposits remains limited, notwithstanding their potential significance in global nitrogen cycling. To bridge this research gap, a comprehensive study was conducted to characterize the distribution patterns of n-alkyl amides (NAAs) and n-alkyl nitriles (NANs) in representative paleo-lake and loess sedimentary profiles from the arid region of northwestern China (NWC). The widespread occurrence of these NCLBs across late Quaternary strata, with distinct distribution patterns observed in various settings, suggests their formation under diverse environmental conditions. The prevalence of NAAs in arid sedimentary deposits can primarily be attributed to the diverse array of local biota, including vascular plants, algae, and fungi, rather than being solely associated with biomass burning, as commonly assumed. Furthermore, the distribution patterns of NANs closely align with those of NAAs, indicating their formation through thermally induced dehydration of precursor NAAs. Both groups of NCLBs exhibit significant preservation potential in sediments within NWC, which is believed to be intimately linked to the region's arid and cold climate as well as its neutral or weakly alkaline depositional setting. These findings underscore the prospective use of NAAs as indicators of environmental changes and NANs as potential markers of past fire-related activities, making them valuable tools for paleoenvironmental reconstructions of late Quaternary strata, especially in arid, cold, and weakly alkaline regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Pu
- School of Geographical Sciences, Nanjing University of Information Science and Technology, Nanjing 210044, China.
| | - Hong Kang
- School of Geographical Sciences, Nanjing University of Information Science and Technology, Nanjing 210044, China
| | - Philip A Meyers
- Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, The University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Hucai Zhang
- Institute for Ecological Research and Pollution Control of Plateau Lakes, School of Ecology and Environmental Science, Yunnan University, Kunming 650500, China
| | - Mingsheng Yang
- College of Resources, Environment and Chemical Engineering, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330031, China
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78
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Hemmati YB, Bahrami R, Pourhajibagher M. Assessing the physico-mechanical, anti-bacterial, and anti-demineralization properties of orthodontic resin composite containing different concentrations of photoactivated zinc oxide nanoparticles on Streptococcus mutans biofilm around ceramic and metal orthodontic brackets: An ex vivo study. Int Orthod 2024; 22:100901. [PMID: 39173494 DOI: 10.1016/j.ortho.2024.100901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2024] [Revised: 07/30/2024] [Accepted: 07/31/2024] [Indexed: 08/24/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE The aim of this study was to evaluate the physico-mechanical, anti-bacterial, and anti-demineralization properties of orthodontic resin composite containing photoactivated zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) on Streptococcus mutans biofilm around ceramic and metal brackets. MATERIAL AND METHODS Following the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) determination for ZnONPs, shear bond strength (SBS) was tested for composites containing different concentrations of ZnONPs. The chosen concentration was used to evaluate the microleakage, anti-bacterial, and anti-demineralization properties. RESULTS Adding 50μg/mL of ZnONPs to the orthodontic composite did not negatively affect its physico-mechanical properties. ZnONPs (50μg/mL)-mediated aPDT and 0.2% chlorhexidine significantly (P=0.000) reduced S. mutans biofilms compared to the phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) groups (metal/PBS=7.47±0.7×106, and ceramic/PBS=7.47±0.7×106), with the lowest colony count observed in these groups (metal/chlorhexidine=1.06±0.4×105, ceramic/chlorhexidine=1±0.2×105, metal/ZnONPs-mediated aPDT=1.33±0.3×105, and ceramic/ZnONPs-mediated aPDT=1.2±0.3×105). Sodium fluoride varnish and ZnONPs-mediated aPDT showed the highest efficacy in anti-demineralization and significantly improving the enamel surface microhardness compared to the artificial saliva, especially in ceramic bracket groups (524.17±42.78N and 441.00±29.48N, 394.17±46.83N, P=0.000, and P=0.003, respectively). CONCLUSION ZnONPs (50μg/mL)-mediated aPDT effectively inhibited S. mutans biofilm and promoted anti-demineralization without adverse effects on the physico-mechanical properties of the composite resin. These results suggest the potential of this method in preventing white spot lesions during orthodontic treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasamin Babaee Hemmati
- Dental Sciences Research Center, Department of Orthodontics, School of Dentistry, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
| | - Rashin Bahrami
- Department of Orthodontics, School of Dentistry, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Maryam Pourhajibagher
- Dental Research Center, Dentistry Research Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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79
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Deng J, Zhang W, Zhang L, Qin C, Wang H, Ling W. Micro-interfacial behavior of antibiotic-resistant bacteria and antibiotic resistance genes in the soil environment: A review. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2024; 191:108972. [PMID: 39180776 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2024.108972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2024] [Revised: 08/11/2024] [Accepted: 08/19/2024] [Indexed: 08/26/2024]
Abstract
Overutilization and misuse of antibiotics in recent decades markedly intensified the rapid proliferation and diffusion of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) within the environment, thereby elevating ARGs to the status of a global public health crisis. Recognizing that soil acts as a critical reservoir for ARGs, environmental researchers have made great progress in exploring the sources, distribution, and spread of ARGs in soil. However, the microscopic state and micro-interfacial behavior of ARGs in soil remains inadequately understood. In this study, we reviewed the micro-interfacial behaviors of antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARB) in soil and porous media, predominantly including migration-deposition, adsorption, and biofilm formation. Meanwhile, adsorption, proliferation, and degradation were identified as the primary micro-interfacial behaviors of ARGs in the soil, with component of soil serving as significant determinant. Our work contributes to the further comprehension of the microstates and processes of ARB and ARGs in the soil environments and offers a theoretical foundation for managing and mitigating the risks associated with ARG contamination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jibao Deng
- Institute of Organic Contaminant Control and Soil Remediation, College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Wenkang Zhang
- Institute of Organic Contaminant Control and Soil Remediation, College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Lingyu Zhang
- Institute of Organic Contaminant Control and Soil Remediation, College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Chao Qin
- Institute of Organic Contaminant Control and Soil Remediation, College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Hefei Wang
- Institute of Organic Contaminant Control and Soil Remediation, College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China.
| | - Wanting Ling
- Institute of Organic Contaminant Control and Soil Remediation, College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China.
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Pinheiro TL, Becker V, da Cunha KPV, Frota A, Monicelli F, Araújo F, Capelo-Neto J. The use of coagulant and natural soil to control cyanobacterial blooms in a tropical reservoir. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 939:173378. [PMID: 38795993 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.173378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2024] [Revised: 04/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/28/2024]
Abstract
Cyanobacterial blooms have been a growing problem in water bodies and attracted attention from researcher and water companies worldwide. Different treatment methods have been researched and applied either inside water treatment plants or directly into reservoirs. We tested a combination of coagulants, polyaluminium chloride (PAC) and iron(III) chloride (FeCl3), and ballasts, luvisol (LUV) and planosol (PLAN), known as the 'Floc and Sink' technique, to remove positively buoyant cyanobacteria from a tropical reservoir water. Response Surface Methodology (RSM) based on Central Composite Design (CCD) was used to optimize the two reaction variables - coagulant dosage (x1) and ballast dosage (x2) to remove the response variables: chlorophyll-a, turbidity, true color, and organic matter. Results showed that the combination of LUV with PAC effectively reduced the concentration of the response variables, while PLAN was ineffective in removing cyanobacteria when combined to PAC or FeCl3. Furthermore, FeCl3 presented poorer floc formation and lower removal efficiency compared to PAC. This study may contribute to the theoretical and practical knowledge of the algal biomass removal for mitigating eutrophication trough different dosages of coagulants and ballasts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thaís Lopes Pinheiro
- Federal University of Ceará, Department of Hydraulic and Environmental Engineering, Block 713, Campus Pici, Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil.
| | - Vanessa Becker
- Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Postgraduate Program in Civil and Environmental Engineering, Natal, Brazil
| | | | - André Frota
- Federal University of Ceará, Department of Hydraulic and Environmental Engineering, Block 713, Campus Pici, Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil
| | - Fernanda Monicelli
- Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Postgraduate Program in Ecology, Natal, Brazil
| | - Fabiana Araújo
- Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Postgraduate Program in Civil and Environmental Engineering, Natal, Brazil
| | - José Capelo-Neto
- Federal University of Ceará, Department of Hydraulic and Environmental Engineering, Block 713, Campus Pici, Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil
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81
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Jain S, Chakravortty D, Basu S. Interfacial Stresses within Droplets and Channels Influence Bacterial Physiology: A Perspective. LANGMUIR : THE ACS JOURNAL OF SURFACES AND COLLOIDS 2024; 40:17161-17169. [PMID: 39101817 DOI: 10.1021/acs.langmuir.4c01923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/06/2024]
Abstract
Bacterial cells frequently experience fluid motion in their natural environments, like water bodies, aerosols, fomites, human capillaries, etc., a phenomenon that researchers have largely overlooked. Nevertheless, some reports have suggested that the interfacial stresses caused by fluid motion inside evaporating droplets or shear flows within capillaries may trigger physiological and morphological changes in the bacterial cells. Remarkably, the virulence of bacterial cells exhibits significant alterations in response to fluctuations in stress levels and external environmental factors. The dynamics of bacterial systems are analogous to colloidal systems but with the distinction that bacterial systems exhibit responsiveness, necessitating thorough exploration in dynamic environments. In this perspective, we discuss the important issue pertaining to bacterial survival, virulence, and disease transmission. Furthermore, we delineate a pathway and underscore emerging opportunities that demand exploration to unveil new avenues in the domains of bacterial pathogenicity, drug development, and strategies for disease mitigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siddhant Jain
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru 560012, India
| | - Dipshikha Chakravortty
- Department of Microbiology and Cell Biology, Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru 560012, India
| | - Saptarshi Basu
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru 560012, India
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Li X, Wang J, Yang Y, Jin H, Wang H, Zhang Z, Li X, Cui Y, Wang X, Yan J. Sequential Reductive Dechlorination of Triclosan by Sediment Microbiota Harboring Organohalide-Respiring Dehalococcoidia. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024; 58:14843-14854. [PMID: 39106339 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.4c04594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/09/2024]
Abstract
Aquatic ecosystems represent a prominent reservoir of xenobiotic compounds, including triclosan (TCS), a broad-spectrum biocide extensively used in pharmaceuticals and personal care products. As a biogeochemical hotspot, the potential of aquatic sediments for the degradation of TCS remains largely unexplored. Here, we demonstrated anaerobic biotransformation of TCS in a batch microcosm established with freshwater sediment. The initial 43.4 ± 2.2 μM TCS was completely dechlorinated to diclosan, followed by subsequent conversion to 5-chloro-2-phenoxyphenol, a monochlorinated TCS (MCS) congener. Analyses of community profile and population dynamics revealed substrate-specific, temporal-growth of Dehalococcoides and Dehalogenimonas, which are organohalide-respiring bacteria (OHRB) affiliated with class Dehalococcoidia. Dehalococcoides growth was linked to the formation of diclosan but not MCS, yielding 3.6 ± 0.4 × 107 cells per μmol chloride released. A significant increase in Dehalogenimonas cells, from 1.5 ± 0.4 × 104 to 1.5 ± 0.3 × 106 mL-1, only occurred during the reductive dechlorination of diclosan to MCS. Dehalococcoidia OHRB gradually disappeared following consecutive transfers, likely due to the removal of sediment materials with strong adsorption capacity that could alleviate TCS's antimicrobial toxicity. Consequently, a solid-free, functionally stable TCS-dechlorinating consortium was not obtained. Our results provide insights into the microbial determinants controlling the environmental fate of TCS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiuying Li
- Key Laboratory of Pollution Ecology and Environmental Engineering, Institute of Applied Ecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang, Liaoning 110016, China
- Liaoning Technical Innovation Center for Ecological Restoration of Polluted Environment, Shenyang, Liaoning 110016, China
| | - Jingjing Wang
- Key Laboratory of Pollution Ecology and Environmental Engineering, Institute of Applied Ecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang, Liaoning 110016, China
- Liaoning Technical Innovation Center for Ecological Restoration of Polluted Environment, Shenyang, Liaoning 110016, China
| | - Yi Yang
- Key Laboratory of Pollution Ecology and Environmental Engineering, Institute of Applied Ecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang, Liaoning 110016, China
- Liaoning Technical Innovation Center for Ecological Restoration of Polluted Environment, Shenyang, Liaoning 110016, China
| | - Huijuan Jin
- Key Laboratory of Pollution Ecology and Environmental Engineering, Institute of Applied Ecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang, Liaoning 110016, China
- Liaoning Technical Innovation Center for Ecological Restoration of Polluted Environment, Shenyang, Liaoning 110016, China
| | - Hongyan Wang
- Key Laboratory of Pollution Ecology and Environmental Engineering, Institute of Applied Ecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang, Liaoning 110016, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Zhipeng Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Pollution Ecology and Environmental Engineering, Institute of Applied Ecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang, Liaoning 110016, China
- College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang 110866, China
| | - Xiaocui Li
- Key Laboratory of Pollution Ecology and Environmental Engineering, Institute of Applied Ecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang, Liaoning 110016, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yiru Cui
- Key Laboratory of Pollution Ecology and Environmental Engineering, Institute of Applied Ecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang, Liaoning 110016, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Xin Wang
- Key Laboratory of Pollution Ecology and Environmental Engineering, Institute of Applied Ecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang, Liaoning 110016, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Jun Yan
- Key Laboratory of Pollution Ecology and Environmental Engineering, Institute of Applied Ecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang, Liaoning 110016, China
- Liaoning Technical Innovation Center for Ecological Restoration of Polluted Environment, Shenyang, Liaoning 110016, China
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83
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Aarthi Y, Anjana A, Tejal G, Shanmugaraja M, Ramadevi S, Princess R. A Simple and Rapid Method of Probiotic Bacterial Ghost Cell Preparation to Deliver Mycobacterium tuberculosis Antigen. Mol Biotechnol 2024:10.1007/s12033-024-01260-0. [PMID: 39162910 DOI: 10.1007/s12033-024-01260-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2024] [Accepted: 06/29/2024] [Indexed: 08/21/2024]
Abstract
A bacterial ghost cell is an empty cell envelope of bacteria lacking cytoplasmic content. Bacterial ghost cells (BGs) can be used for various applications such as vaccines, adjuvants, and drug delivery systems. Since BGs offer many advantages over classically prepared vaccines, developing novel methods for the preparation of high-quality BGs remains to be an interesting field of study by various research groups. Several novel methodologies have been reported that involve the biological (gene E mediated) and combination of various chemicals such as NaOH, SDS, H2O2, CaCO3, and ethanol, non-detergent method using Tween80, limulus antimicrobial peptide, and high hydrostatic pressure method, the porcine myeloid antimicrobial peptide (PMPA) 36-lysozyme fusion method, NaOH-Penicillin/Streptolysin combination method. In this study, we have reported a novel methodology that combines the action of chemical and physical factors to produce ghost cells from gram-negative bacteria, the probiotic E.coli Nissle 1917. The mild detergent Triton X-100 and NaCl alter the permeability of the cell membrane which is further amplified by heat shock induction. This enables the cell to expel its cytoplasmic components without affecting the external morphology. The efficiency of this method was analyzed based on viability assay, cell leakage assay, live-dead cell assay, and scanning electron microscopic analysis. Moreover, the protein loading capacity was optimized for Mycobacterium tuberculosis antigen namely, ESAT-6.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yesupatham Aarthi
- Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chettinad Hospital and Research Institute, Chettinad Academy of Research and Education, Kelambakkam, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, 603103, India
| | - Aravindha Anjana
- Department of Biotechnology, Mepco Schlenk Engineering College (Autonomous), Sivakasi, Tamil Nadu, 626005, India
| | - Glaudia Tejal
- Department of Biotechnology, Mepco Schlenk Engineering College (Autonomous), Sivakasi, Tamil Nadu, 626005, India
| | - Meenakshi Shanmugaraja
- Department of Biotechnology, Mepco Schlenk Engineering College (Autonomous), Sivakasi, Tamil Nadu, 626005, India.
| | - S Ramadevi
- Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chettinad Hospital and Research Institute, Chettinad Academy of Research and Education, Kelambakkam, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, 603103, India
| | - R Princess
- Department of Biotechnology, Mepco Schlenk Engineering College (Autonomous), Sivakasi, Tamil Nadu, 626005, India
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84
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Chauhan V, Baptista ISC, Arsh AM, Jagadeesan R, Dash S, Ribeiro AS. Transcription Attenuation in Synthetic Promoters in Nonoverlapping Tandem Formation. Biochemistry 2024; 63:2009-2022. [PMID: 38997112 PMCID: PMC11339919 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biochem.4c00012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2024] [Revised: 07/01/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024]
Abstract
Closely spaced promoters are ubiquitous in prokaryotic and eukaryotic genomes. How their structure and dynamics relate remains unclear, particularly for tandem formations. To study their transcriptional interference, we engineered two pairs and one trio of synthetic promoters in nonoverlapping, tandem formation, in single-copy plasmids transformed into Escherichia coli cells. From in vivo measurements, we found that these promoters in tandem formation can have attenuated transcription rates. The attenuation strength can be widely fine-tuned by the promoters' positioning, natural regulatory mechanisms, and other factors, including the antibiotic rifampicin, which is known to hamper RNAP promoter escape. From this, and supported by in silico models, we concluded that the attenuation in these constructs emerges from premature terminations generated by collisions between RNAPs elongating from upstream promoters and RNAPs occupying downstream promoters. Moreover, we found that these collisions can cause one or both RNAPs to falloff. Finally, the broad spectrum of possible, externally regulated, attenuation strengths observed in our synthetic tandem promoters suggests that they could become useful as externally controllable regulators of future synthetic circuits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vatsala Chauhan
- Faculty
of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere
University, 33520 Tampere, Finland
- Department
of Cell and Molecular Biology (ICM), Uppsala
University, 751 24 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Ines S. C. Baptista
- Faculty
of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere
University, 33520 Tampere, Finland
| | - Amir M. Arsh
- Faculty
of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere
University, 33520 Tampere, Finland
| | - Rahul Jagadeesan
- Faculty
of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere
University, 33520 Tampere, Finland
| | - Suchintak Dash
- Faculty
of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere
University, 33520 Tampere, Finland
| | - Andre S. Ribeiro
- Faculty
of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere
University, 33520 Tampere, Finland
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85
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Jung H, Inaba Y, Banta S. CRISPR/dCas12a knock-down of Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans electron transport chain bc 1 complexes enables enhanced metal sulfide bioleaching. J Biol Chem 2024:107703. [PMID: 39173952 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2024.107703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2024] [Revised: 08/13/2024] [Accepted: 08/16/2024] [Indexed: 08/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans is an acidophilic chemolithoautotroph that plays an important role in biogeochemical iron and sulfur cycling and is a member of the consortia used in industrial hydrometallurgical processing of copper. Metal sulfide bioleaching is catalyzed by the regeneration of ferric iron, however, bioleaching of chalcopyrite, the dominant unmined form of copper on Earth, is inhibited by surface passivation. Here, we report the implementation of CRISPR interference (CRISPRi) using the catalytically inactive Cas12a (dCas12a) in A. ferrooxidans to knockdown the expression of genes in the petI and petII operons. These operons encode bc1 complex proteins and knockdown of these genes enabled the manipulation (enhancement or repression) of iron oxidation. The petB2 gene knockdown strain enhanced iron oxidation, leading to enhanced pyrite and chalcopyrite oxidation, which correlated with reduced biofilm formation and decreased surface passivation of the minerals. These findings highlight the utility of CRISPRi/dCas12a technology for engineering A. ferrooxidans while unveiling a new strategy to manipulate and improve bioleaching efficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heejung Jung
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, New York
| | - Yuta Inaba
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, New York
| | - Scott Banta
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, New York.
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86
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Abstract
How did specific useful protein sequences arise from simpler molecules at the origin of life? This seemingly needle-in-a-haystack problem has remarkably close resemblance to the old Protein Folding Problem, for which the solution is now known from statistical physics. Based on the logic that Origins must have come only after there was an operative evolution mechanism-which selects on phenotype, not genotype-we give a perspective that proteins and their folding processes are likely to have been the primary driver of the early stages of the origin of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles D. Kocher
- Laufer Center for Physical and Quantitative Biology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY11794
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY11794
| | - Ken A. Dill
- Laufer Center for Physical and Quantitative Biology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY11794
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY11794
- Department of Chemistry, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY11794
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87
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Zhang ST, Deng SK, Li T, Maloney ME, Li DF, Spain JC, Zhou NY. Discovery of the 1-naphthylamine biodegradation pathway reveals a broad-substrate-spectrum enzyme catalyzing 1-naphthylamine glutamylation. eLife 2024; 13:e95555. [PMID: 39163210 PMCID: PMC11335346 DOI: 10.7554/elife.95555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2024] [Indexed: 08/22/2024] Open
Abstract
1-Naphthylamine (1NA), which is harmful to human and aquatic animals, has been used widely in the manufacturing of dyes, pesticides, and rubber antioxidants. Nevertheless, little is known about its environmental behavior and no bacteria have been reported to use it as the growth substrate. Herein, we describe a pathway for 1NA degradation in the isolate Pseudomonas sp. strain JS3066, determine the structure and mechanism of the enzyme NpaA1 that catalyzes the initial reaction, and reveal how the pathway evolved. From genetic and enzymatic analysis, a five gene-cluster encoding a dioxygenase system was determined to be responsible for the initial steps in 1NA degradation through glutamylation of 1NA. The γ-glutamylated 1NA was subsequently oxidized to 1,2-dihydroxynaphthalene which was further degraded by the well-established pathway of naphthalene degradation via catechol. A glutamine synthetase-like (GS-like) enzyme (NpaA1) initiates 1NA glutamylation, and this enzyme exhibits a broad substrate selectivity toward a variety of anilines and naphthylamine derivatives. Structural analysis revealed that the aromatic residues in the 1NA entry tunnel and the V201 site in the large substrate-binding pocket significantly influence NpaA1's substrate preferences. The findings enhance understanding of degrading polycyclic aromatic amines, and will also enable the application of bioremediation at naphthylamine contaminated sites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shu-Ting Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism, Joint International Research Laboratory of Metabolic and Developmental Sciences, and School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Shi-Kai Deng
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism, Joint International Research Laboratory of Metabolic and Developmental Sciences, and School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Tao Li
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism, Joint International Research Laboratory of Metabolic and Developmental Sciences, and School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Megan E Maloney
- Center for Environmental Diagnostics and Bioremediation, University of West FloridaPensacolaUnited States
| | - De-Feng Li
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Resources, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Jim C Spain
- Center for Environmental Diagnostics and Bioremediation, University of West FloridaPensacolaUnited States
| | - Ning-Yi Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism, Joint International Research Laboratory of Metabolic and Developmental Sciences, and School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong UniversityShanghaiChina
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88
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Mrnjavac N, Schwander L, Brabender M, Martin WF. Chemical Antiquity in Metabolism. Acc Chem Res 2024; 57:2267-2278. [PMID: 39083571 PMCID: PMC11339923 DOI: 10.1021/acs.accounts.4c00226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2024] [Revised: 07/04/2024] [Accepted: 07/05/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024]
Abstract
ConspectusLife is an exergonic chemical reaction. The same was true when the very first cells emerged at life's origin. In order to live, all cells need a source of carbon, energy, and electrons to drive their overall reaction network (metabolism). In most cells, these are separate pathways. There is only one biochemical pathway that serves all three needs simultaneously: the acetyl-CoA pathway of CO2 fixation. In the acetyl-CoA pathway, electrons from H2 reduce CO2 to pyruvate for carbon supply, while methane or acetate synthesis are coupled to energy conservation as ATP. This simplicity and thermodynamic favorability prompted Georg Fuchs and Erhard Stupperich to propose in 1985 that the acetyl-CoA pathway might mark the origin of metabolism, at the same time that Steve Ragsdale and Harland Wood were uncovering catalytic roles for Fe, Co, and Ni in the enzymes of the pathway. Subsequent work has provided strong support for those proposals.In the presence of Fe, Co, and Ni in their native metallic state as catalysts, aqueous H2 and CO2 react specifically to formate, acetate, methane, and pyruvate overnight at 100 °C. These metals (and their alloys) thus replace the function of over 120 enzymes required for the conversion of H2 and CO2 to pyruvate via the pathway and its cofactors, an unprecedented set of findings in the study of biochemical evolution. The reactions require alkaline conditions, which promote hydrogen oxidation by proton removal and are naturally generated in serpentinizing (H2-producing) hydrothermal vents. Serpentinizing hydrothermal vents furthermore produce natural deposits of native Fe, Co, Ni, and their alloys. These are precisely the metals that reduce CO2 with H2 in the laboratory; they are also the metals found at the active sites of enzymes in the acetyl-CoA pathway. Iron, cobalt and nickel are relicts of the environments in which metabolism arose, environments that still harbor ancient methane- and acetate-producing autotrophs today. This convergence indicates bedrock-level antiquity for the acetyl-CoA pathway. In acetogens and methanogens growing on H2 as reductant, the acetyl-CoA pathway requires flavin-based electron bifurcation as a source of reduced ferredoxin (a 4Fe4S cluster-containing protein) in order to function. Recent findings show that H2 can reduce the 4Fe4S clusters of ferredoxin in the presence of native iron, uncovering an evolutionary precursor of flavin-based electron bifurcation and suggesting an origin of FeS-dependent electron transfer in proteins. Traditionally discussed as catalysts in early evolution, the most common function of FeS clusters in metabolism is one-electron transfer, also in radical SAM enzymes, a large and ancient enzyme family. The cofactors and active sites in enzymes of the acetyl-CoA pathway uncover chemical antiquity in metabolism involving metals, methyl groups, methyl transfer reactions, cobamides, pterins, GTP, S-adenosylmethionine, radical SAM enzymes, and carbon-metal bonds. The reaction sequence from H2 and CO2 to pyruvate on naturally deposited native metals is maximally simple. It requires neither nitrogen, sulfur, phosphorus, RNA, ion gradients, nor light. Solid-state metal catalysts tether the origin of metabolism to a H2-producing, serpentinizing hydrothermal vent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Mrnjavac
- Institute
of Molecular Evolution, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Loraine Schwander
- Institute
of Molecular Evolution, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Max Brabender
- Institute
of Molecular Evolution, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - William F. Martin
- Institute
of Molecular Evolution, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
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89
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Baker BJ, Hyde E, Leão P. Nature should be the model for microbial sciences. J Bacteriol 2024:e0022824. [PMID: 39158294 DOI: 10.1128/jb.00228-24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Until recently, microbiologists have relied on cultures to understand the microbial world. As a result, model organisms have been the focus of research into understanding Bacteria and Archaea at a molecular level. Diversity surveys and metagenomic sequencing have revealed that these model species are often present in low abundance in the environment; instead, there are microbial taxa that are cosmopolitan in nature. Due to the numerical dominance of these microorganisms and the size of their habitats, these lineages comprise mind-boggling population sizes upward of 1028 cells on the planet. Many of these dominant groups have cultured representatives and have been shown to be involved in mediating key processes in nature. Given their importance and the increasing need to understand changes due to climate change, we propose that members of Nitrosophaerota (Nitrosopumilus maritimus), SAR11 (Pelagibacter ubique), Hadesarchaeia, Bathyarchaeia, and others become models in the future. Abundance should not be the only measure of a good model system; there are other organisms that are well suited to advance our understanding of ecology and evolution. For example, the most well-studied symbiotic bacteria, like Buchnera, Aliivibrio, and Rhizobium, should be models for understanding host-associations. Also, there are organisms that hold new insights into major transitions in the evolution of life on the planet like the Asgard Archaea (Heimdallarchaeia). Innovations in a variety of in situ techniques have enabled us to circumvent culturing when studying everything from genetics to physiology. Our deepest understanding of microbiology and its impact on the planet will come from studying these microbes in nature. Laboratory-based studies must be grounded in nature, not the other way around.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brett J Baker
- Department of Marine Science, University of Texas at Austin, Marine Science Institute, Port Aransas, Texas, USA
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, USA
| | - Emily Hyde
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, USA
| | - Pedro Leão
- Department of Marine Science, University of Texas at Austin, Marine Science Institute, Port Aransas, Texas, USA
- Department of Microbiology-RIBES, Radboud University, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
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90
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Varela K, Yoshimoto FK. Syntheses of deuterium-labeled dihydroartemisinic acid (DHAA) isotopologues and mechanistic studies focused on elucidating the conversion of DHAA to artemisinin. Org Biomol Chem 2024. [PMID: 39158554 DOI: 10.1039/d4ob00777h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/20/2024]
Abstract
Dihydroartemisinic acid (DHAA), a sesquiterpenoid natural product from Artemisia annua, converts to artemisinin, an anti-malarial natural product that contains an endoperoxide bridge. The endoperoxide moiety is responsible for the biological activity of artemisinin. Therefore, understanding the biosynthesis of this functional group could lead to the optimization of the process to produce this medicine. DHAA converts to artemisinin through the incorporation of two molecules of oxygen in a four-step process. The reaction is a spontaneous cascade process that involves (i) the initial incorporation of a molecule of oxygen through the reaction of an allylic C-H bond of DHAA, (ii) followed by the cleavage of a C-C bond, (iii) the incorporation of a second molecule of oxygen, and (iv) polycyclization to yield artemisinin. This manuscript is focused on describing the chemical syntheses of regioselectively polydeuterated DHAA isotopologues at C3 and C15, in addition to research efforts related to clarifying how the endoperoxide-forming process of artemisinin occurs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaitlyn Varela
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Texas San Antonio (UTSA), One UTSA Circle, San Antonio, TX 78249-0698, USA.
| | - Francis K Yoshimoto
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Texas San Antonio (UTSA), One UTSA Circle, San Antonio, TX 78249-0698, USA.
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91
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Liu K, Wang X, Qi Y, Li Y, Shi Y, Ren Y, Wang A, Cheng P, Wang B. Effector Protein Serine Carboxypeptidase FgSCP Is Essential for Full Virulence in Fusarium graminearum and Is Involved in Modulating Plant Immune Responses. PHYTOPATHOLOGY 2024:PHYTO02240068R. [PMID: 38831556 DOI: 10.1094/phyto-02-24-0068-r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2024]
Abstract
Fusarium head blight caused by Fusarium graminearum is a significant pathogen affecting wheat crops. During the infection process, effector proteins are secreted to modulate plant immunity and promote infection. The toxin deoxynivalenol is produced in infected wheat grains, posing a threat to human and animal health. Serine carboxypeptidases (SCPs) belong to the α/β hydrolase family of proteases and are widely distributed in plant and fungal vacuoles, as well as animal lysosomes. Research on SCPs mainly focuses on the isolation, purification, and production of a small number of fungi. The role of SCPs in plant secretion, growth and development, and stress resistance has also been extensively studied. However, their functions in F. graminearum, a fungal pathogen, remain relatively unknown. In this study, the biological functions of the FgSCP gene in F. graminearum were investigated. The study revealed that mutations in FgSCP affected the nutritional growth, sexual reproduction, and stress tolerance of F. graminearum. Furthermore, the deletion of FgSCP resulted in reduced pathogenicity and hindered the biosynthesis of deoxynivalenol. The upregulation of FgSCP expression 3 days after infection indicated its involvement in host invasion, possibly acting as a "smokescreen" to deceive the host and suppress the expression of host defensive genes. Subsequently, we confirmed the secretion ability of FgSCP and its ability to inhibit the cell death induced by INF1 in Nicotiana benthamiana cells, indicating its potential role as an effector protein in suppressing plant immune responses and promoting infection. In summary, we have identified FgSCP as an essential effector protein in F. graminearum, playing critical roles in growth, virulence, secondary metabolism, and host invasion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kouhan Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Biology for Arid Areas, College of Plant Protection, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Xintong Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Biology for Arid Areas, College of Plant Protection, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Yuzhe Qi
- Jilin Academy of Agricultural Sciences (Northeast Agricultural Research of China), Changchun, Jilin 136100, China
| | - Ying Li
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Biology for Arid Areas, College of Plant Protection, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Yifeng Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Biology for Arid Areas, College of Plant Protection, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Yanyan Ren
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Biology for Arid Areas, College of Plant Protection, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Aolin Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Biology for Arid Areas, College of Plant Protection, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Peng Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Biology for Arid Areas, College of Plant Protection, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Baotong Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Biology for Arid Areas, College of Plant Protection, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
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92
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Zhang Y, Cui P, Shi J, Zeng X, Jiang Y, Chen Y, Zhang J, Wang C, Wang Y, Tian G, Chen H, Kong H, Deng G. A broad-spectrum vaccine candidate against H5 viruses bearing different sub-clade 2.3.4.4 HA genes. NPJ Vaccines 2024; 9:152. [PMID: 39160189 PMCID: PMC11333769 DOI: 10.1038/s41541-024-00947-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2024] [Accepted: 08/06/2024] [Indexed: 08/21/2024] Open
Abstract
The global spread of H5 clade 2.3.4.4 highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) viruses threatens poultry and public health. The continuous circulation of these viruses has led to their considerable genetic and antigenic evolution, resulting in the formation of eight subclades (2.3.4.4a-h). Here, we examined the antigenic sites that determine the antigenic differences between two H5 vaccine strains, H5-Re8 (clade 2.3.4.4g) and H5-Re11 (clade 2.3.4.4h). Epitope mapping data revealed that all eight identified antigenic sites were located within two classical antigenic regions, with five sites in region A (positions 115, 120, 124, 126, and 140) and three in region B (positions 151, 156, and 185). Through antigenic cartography analysis of mutants with varying numbers of substitutions, we confirmed that a combination of mutations in these eight sites reverses the antigenicity of H5-Re11 to that of H5-Re8, and vice versa. More importantly, our analyses identified H5-Re11_Q115L/R120S/A156T (H5-Re11 + 3) as a promising candidate for a broad-spectrum vaccine, positioned centrally in the antigenic map, and offering potential universal protection against all variants within the clade 2.3.4.4. H5-Re11 + 3 serum has better cross-reactivity than sera generated with other 2.3.4.4 vaccines, and H5-Re11 + 3 vaccine provided 100% protection of chickens against antigenically drifted H5 viruses from various 2.3.4.4 antigenic groups. Our findings suggest that antigenic regions A and B are immunodominant in H5 viruses, and that antigenic cartography-guided vaccine design is a promising strategy for selecting a broad-spectrum vaccine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuancheng Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Disease Control and Prevention, Harbin Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Harbin, China
| | - Pengfei Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Disease Control and Prevention, Harbin Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Harbin, China
| | - Jianzhong Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Disease Control and Prevention, Harbin Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Harbin, China
| | - Xianying Zeng
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Disease Control and Prevention, Harbin Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Harbin, China
| | - Yongping Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Disease Control and Prevention, Harbin Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Harbin, China
| | - Yuan Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Disease Control and Prevention, Harbin Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Harbin, China
| | - Jie Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Disease Control and Prevention, Harbin Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Harbin, China
| | - Congcong Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Disease Control and Prevention, Harbin Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Harbin, China
| | - Yan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Disease Control and Prevention, Harbin Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Harbin, China
| | - Guobin Tian
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Disease Control and Prevention, Harbin Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Harbin, China
| | - Hualan Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Disease Control and Prevention, Harbin Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Harbin, China
| | - Huihui Kong
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Disease Control and Prevention, Harbin Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Harbin, China.
| | - Guohua Deng
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Disease Control and Prevention, Harbin Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Harbin, China.
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93
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Hamidi F, Taghipour N. miRNA, New Perspective to World of Intestinal Protozoa and Toxoplasma. Acta Parasitol 2024:10.1007/s11686-024-00888-x. [PMID: 39158784 DOI: 10.1007/s11686-024-00888-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2024] [Accepted: 07/30/2024] [Indexed: 08/20/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND miRNAs are known as non-coding RNAs that can regulate gene expression. They are reported in many microorganisms and their host cells. Parasite infection can change or shift host miRNAs expression, which can aim at both parasite eradication and infection. PURPOSE This study dealt with examination of miRNA expressed in intestinal protozoan, coccidia , as well as profile changes in host cell miRNA after parasitic infection and their role in protozoan clearance/ survival. METHODS The authors searched ISI Web of Sciences, Pubmed, Scholar, Scopus, another databases and articles published up to 2024 were included. The keywords of miRNA, intestinal protozoa, toxoplasma and some words associated with topics were used in this search. RESULTS Transfection of miRNA mimics or inhibitors can control parasitic diseases, and be introduced as a new therapeutic option in parasitology. CONCLUSION This review can be used to provide up-to date knowledge for future research on these issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faezeh Hamidi
- Department of Laboratory Sciences and Microbiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tabriz Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Niloofar Taghipour
- Department of Tissue Engineering and Applied Cell Sciences, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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94
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Pascal R. Evolutionary Abilities of Minimalistic Physicochemical Models of Life Processes. Chemistry 2024; 30:e202401780. [PMID: 39074967 DOI: 10.1002/chem.202401780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 07/31/2024]
Abstract
The ability of living organisms to persist, grow, evolve and invade environments seemingly challenges physical laws. Emerging Autonomous Systems representing autocatalytic cycles constituted of energized components in a state of Dynamic Kinetic Stability feature some of these properties. These simple theoretical models can grow, can be transferred but need an initiation to emerge and can collapse. Moreover, they can undergo kinetic selection in a way consistent with Darwinian behaviour, though they lack the ability to undergo change. The mere existence of these systems and their open-ended growth potential are proposed to constitute a transmissible factor of a non-coded kind. The onset and selection of epigenetic factors may therefore have preceded that of genetic polymers. Here is addressed the question of how these systems may arise from the diversity exhibited by abiotic organic matter, sometimes associated with intractable mixtures, which may actually be useful in providing initiators. The Darwinian description of evolution may therefore be merged without critical discontinuity within an origin scenario. Accordingly, such a theory would rests solely on physicochemical laws beginning with the potential of emerging autonomous systems to compete and invade the space dimension, and to further develop along other available dimensions including variability and, possibly, cognition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Pascal
- Institut Origines, PIIM, service 232, Aix-Marseille Université - CNRS, Ave Escadrille Normandie Niemen, 13013, Marseille, France
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95
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Forterre P. The Last Universal Common Ancestor of Ribosome-Encoding Organisms: Portrait of LUCA. J Mol Evol 2024:10.1007/s00239-024-10186-9. [PMID: 39158619 DOI: 10.1007/s00239-024-10186-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/20/2024]
Abstract
The existence of LUCA in the distant past is the logical consequence of the binary mechanism of cell division. The biosphere in which LUCA and contemporaries were living was the product of a long cellular evolution from the origin of life to the second age of the RNA world. A parsimonious scenario suggests that the molecular fabric of LUCA was much simpler than those of modern organisms, explaining why the evolutionary tempo was faster at the time of LUCA than it was during the diversification of the three domains. Although LUCA was possibly equipped with a RNA genome and most likely lacked an ATP synthase, it was already able to perform basic metabolic functions and to produce efficient proteins. However, the proteome of LUCA and its inferred metabolism remains to be correctly explored by in-depth phylogenomic analyses and updated datasets. LUCA was probably a mesophile or a moderate thermophile since phylogenetic analyses indicate that it lacked reverse gyrase, an enzyme systematically present in all hyperthermophiles. The debate about the position of Eukarya in the tree of life, either sister group to Archaea or descendants of Archaea, has important implications to draw the portrait of LUCA. In the second alternative, one can a priori exclude the presence of specific eukaryotic features in LUCA. In contrast, if Archaea and Eukarya are sister group, some eukaryotic features, such as the spliceosome, might have been present in LUCA and later lost in Archaea and Bacteria. The nature of the LUCA virome is another matter of debate. I suggest here that DNA viruses only originated during the diversification of the three domains from an RNA-based LUCA to explain the odd distribution pattern of DNA viruses in the tree of life.
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96
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Wu XX, Law SK, Ma H, Jiang Z, Li YF, Au DCT, Wong CK, Luo DX. Bio-active metabolites from Chinese Medicinal Herbs for treatment of skin diseases. Nat Prod Res 2024:1-23. [PMID: 39155491 DOI: 10.1080/14786419.2024.2391070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2024] [Revised: 07/23/2024] [Accepted: 08/07/2024] [Indexed: 08/20/2024]
Abstract
Skin diseases have become serious issues to human health and affect one-third of the world's population according to the World Health Organisation (WHO). These consist of internal (endogenous) and external (exogenous) factors referring to genetics, hormones, and the body's immune system, as well as environmental situations, UV radiation, or environmental pollution respectively. Generally, Western Medicines (WMs) are usually treated with topical creams or strong medications for skin diseases that help superficially, and often do not treat the root cause. The relief may be instant and strong, sometimes these medicines have adverse reactions that are too strong to be able and sustained over a long period, especially steroid drug type. Chinese Medicinal Herbs (CMHs) are natural resources and relatively mild in the treatment of both manifestation and the root cause of disease. Nowadays, CMHs are attractive to many scientists, especially in studying their formulations for the treatment of skin diseases. METHODS The methodology of this review was searched in nine electronic databases including WanFang Data, PubMed, Science Direct, Scopus, Web of Science, Springer Link, SciFinder, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), without regard to language constraints. All eligible studies are analysed and summarised. RESULTS Based on the literature findings, some extracts or active metabolites divided from CMHs, including Curcumin, Resveratrol, Liquorice, Dandelions, Cortex Moutan, and Calendula officinalis L., are effective for the treatment and prevention of skin diseases because of a wide range of pharmacological activities, e.g. anti-bacterial, anti-microbial, anti-virus, and anti-inflammation to enhance the body's immune system. It is also responsible for skin whitening to prevent pigmentation and premature ageing through several mechanisms, such as regulation or inhibition of nuclear factor kappa B (IκB/NF-κB) signalling pathways. CONCLUSION This is possible to develop CMHs, such as Curcumin, Resveratrol, Liquorice, Dandelions, Cortex Moutan and Calendula officinalis L. The ratio of multiple CMH formulations and safety assessments on human skin diseases required studying to achieve better pharmacological activities. Nano formulations are the future investigation for CMHs to combat skin diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Xiao Wu
- Laboratory Medicine Centre, Shenzhen Nanshan People's Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Siu Kan Law
- Department of Food and Health Sciences, The Technological and Higher Education Institute of Hong Kong, New Territories, Hong Kong, China
| | - Hui Ma
- Institute of Chinese Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, New Territories, Hong Kong, China
| | - Zhou Jiang
- Laboratory Medicine Centre, Shenzhen Nanshan People's Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yi Fan Li
- Laboratory Medicine Centre, Shenzhen Nanshan People's Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Dawn Ching Tung Au
- Department of Food and Health Sciences, The Technological and Higher Education Institute of Hong Kong, New Territories, Hong Kong, China
| | - Chun Kwok Wong
- Institute of Chinese Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, New Territories, Hong Kong, China
- Department of Chemical Pathology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- State Key Laboratory of Research on Bioactivities and Clinical Applications of Medicinal Plants, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Li Dak Sum Yip Yio Chin R & D Centre for Chinese Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Di Xian Luo
- Laboratory Medicine Centre, Shenzhen Nanshan People's Hospital, Shenzhen, China
- Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen, China
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97
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Fang XM, Li J, Wang NF, Zhang T, Yu LY. Metagenomics uncovers microbiome and resistome in soil and reindeer faeces from Ny-Ålesund (Svalbard, High Arctic). ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 262:119788. [PMID: 39159777 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2024.119788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2024] [Revised: 07/29/2024] [Accepted: 08/12/2024] [Indexed: 08/21/2024]
Abstract
Research on the microbiome and resistome in polar environments, such as the Arctic, is crucial for understanding the emergence and spread of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) in the environment. In this study, soil and reindeer faeces samples collected from Ny-Ålesund (Svalbard, High Arctic) were examined to analyze the microbiome, ARGs, and biocide/metal resistance genes (BMRGs). The dominant phyla in both soil and faeces were Pseudomonadota, Actinomycetota, and Bacteroidota. A total of 2618 predicted Open Reading Frames (ORFs) containing antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) were detected. These ARGs belong to 162 different genes across 17 antibiotic classes, with rifamycin and multidrug resistance genes being the most prevalent. We focused on investigating antibiotic resistance mechanisms in the Ny-Ålesund environment by analyzing the resistance genes and their biological pathways. Procrustes analysis demonstrated a significant correlation between bacterial communities and ARG/BMRG profiles in soil and faeces samples. Correlation analysis revealed that Pseudomonadota contributed most to multidrug and triclosan resistance, while Actinomycetota were predominant contributors to rifamycin and aminoglycoside resistance. The geochemical factors, SiO42- and NH4+, were found to significantly influence the microbial composition and ARG distribution in the soil samples. Analysis of ARGs, BMRGs, virulence factors (VFs), and pathogens identified potential health risks associated with certain bacteria, such as Cryobacterium and Pseudomonas, due to the presence of different genetic elements. This study provided valuable insights into the molecular mechanisms and geochemical factors contributing to antibiotic resistance and enhanced our understanding of the evolution of antibiotic resistance genes in the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Mei Fang
- China Pharmaceutical Culture Collection, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100050, P.R. China; Division for Medicinal Microorganism-Related Strains, CAMS Collection Center of Pathogenic Microorganisms, Beijing, 100050, P.R. China
| | - Jun Li
- China Pharmaceutical Culture Collection, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100050, P.R. China; Division for Medicinal Microorganism-Related Strains, CAMS Collection Center of Pathogenic Microorganisms, Beijing, 100050, P.R. China
| | - Neng-Fei Wang
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Linyi University, Linyi, 276005, P.R. China
| | - Tao Zhang
- China Pharmaceutical Culture Collection, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100050, P.R. China; Division for Medicinal Microorganism-Related Strains, CAMS Collection Center of Pathogenic Microorganisms, Beijing, 100050, P.R. China.
| | - Li-Yan Yu
- China Pharmaceutical Culture Collection, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100050, P.R. China; Division for Medicinal Microorganism-Related Strains, CAMS Collection Center of Pathogenic Microorganisms, Beijing, 100050, P.R. China.
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98
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Pyle JD, Lund SR, O'Toole KH, Saleh L. Virus-encoded glycosyltransferases hypermodify DNA with diverse glycans. Cell Rep 2024; 43:114631. [PMID: 39154342 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2024.114631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2024] [Revised: 07/08/2024] [Accepted: 07/30/2024] [Indexed: 08/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Enzymatic modification of DNA nucleobases can coordinate gene expression, nuclease protection, or mutagenesis. We recently discovered a clade of phage-specific cytosine methyltransferase (MT) and 5-methylpyrimidine dioxygenase (5mYOX) enzymes that produce 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5hmC) as a precursor for enzymatic hypermodifications on viral genomes. Here, we identify phage MT- and 5mYOX-associated glycosyltransferases (GTs) that catalyze linkage of diverse sugars to 5hmC nucleobase substrates. Metavirome mining revealed thousands of biosynthetic gene clusters containing enzymes with predicted roles in cytosine sugar hypermodification. We developed a platform for high-throughput screening of GT-containing pathways, relying on the Escherichia coli metabolome as a substrate pool. We successfully reconstituted several pathways and isolated diverse sugar modifications appended to cytosine, including mono-, di-, or tri-saccharides comprised of hexoses, N-acetylhexosamines, or heptose. These findings expand our knowledge of hypermodifications on nucleic acids and the origins of corresponding sugar-installing enzymes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesse D Pyle
- Research Department, New England Biolabs, 240 County Road, Ipswich, MA 01938, USA
| | - Sean R Lund
- Research Department, New England Biolabs, 240 County Road, Ipswich, MA 01938, USA
| | - Katherine H O'Toole
- Research Department, New England Biolabs, 240 County Road, Ipswich, MA 01938, USA
| | - Lana Saleh
- Research Department, New England Biolabs, 240 County Road, Ipswich, MA 01938, USA.
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99
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Villanueva CD, Bohunická M, Johansen JR. We are doing it wrong: Putting homology before phylogeny in cyanobacterial taxonomy. JOURNAL OF PHYCOLOGY 2024. [PMID: 39152777 DOI: 10.1111/jpy.13491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2024] [Revised: 07/11/2024] [Accepted: 07/18/2024] [Indexed: 08/19/2024]
Abstract
The rapid expansion of whole genome sequencing in bacterial taxonomy has revealed deep evolutionary relationships and speciation signals, but assembly methods often miss true nucleotide diversity in the ribosomal operons. Though it lacks sufficient phylogenetic signal at the species level, the 16S ribosomal RNA gene is still much used in bacterial taxonomy. In cyanobacterial taxonomy, comparisons of 16S-23S Internal Transcribed Spacer (ITS) regions are used to bridge this information gap. Although ITS rRNA region analyses are routinely being used to identify species, researchers often do not identify orthologous operons, which leads to improper comparisons. No method for delineating orthologous operon copies from paralogous ones has been established. A new method for recognizing orthologous ribosomal operons by quantifying the conserved paired nucleotides in a helical domain of the ITS, has been developed. The D1' Index quantifies differences in the ratio of pyrimidines to purines in paired nucleotide sequences of this helix. Comparing 111 operon sequences from 89 strains of Brasilonema, four orthologous operon types were identified. Plotting D1' Index values against the length of helices produced clear separation of orthologs. Most orthologous operons in this study were observed both with and without tRNA genes present. We hypothesize that genomic rearrangement, not gene duplication, is responsible for the variation among orthologs. This new method will allow cyanobacterial taxonomists to utilize ITS rRNA region data more correctly, preventing erroneous taxonomic hypotheses. Moreover, this work could assist genomicists in identifying and preserving evident sequence variability in ribosomal operons, which is an important proxy for evolution in prokaryotes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chelsea D Villanueva
- Department of Biological, Geological, & Environmental Sciences, Cleveland State University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
- Department of Biology, John Carroll University, University Heights, Ohio, USA
| | - Markéta Bohunická
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Hradec Králové, Hradec Králové, Czech Republic
| | - Jeffrey R Johansen
- Department of Biology, John Carroll University, University Heights, Ohio, USA
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100
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Wu YJ, Weng TY, Yeh TY, Chou PJ, Whang LM. Nitrogen removal strategy for real swine wastewater by combining partial nitrification-denitrification process with anammox. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 364:143116. [PMID: 39159763 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.143116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2024] [Revised: 08/06/2024] [Accepted: 08/14/2024] [Indexed: 08/21/2024]
Abstract
Anammox process offers reduced operational cost and energy requirement compared to nitrification-denitrification methods due to lower biomass generation and no need for external carbon sources and aeration. High ammonia concetration and low biodegradable anaerobic digester of swaine wastewater provided an advantage for the growth of anammox microorangism. An anoxic/oxic (A/O) SBR and an anammox SBR were implemented parallelly to treat the same swine wastewater with partial nitrification/denitrification and partial nitrification/anammox process, respectively, and to compare their nitrogen removal efficiency. The nitrogen removal rates (NRRs) of the A/O SBR and anammox SBR were 0.054 and 0.26 kg-N/m3/day, respectively. The lower NRR of the A/O SBR could be attributed to insufficient biodegradable organic carbon sources in the denitrification process. The kinetic parameters obtained from the two SBRs were applied to estimate the time required for using the A/O process and partial nitrification/anammox process to treat the same amount of ammonia with the same reaction volume. Results showed that the A/O process required 3.3 times the reaction time of the partial nitrification/anammox process, suggesting that the partial nitrification/anammox process is a more efficient and economic nitrogen removal process for swine wastewater treatment. The next generation sequencing results revealed that Candidatus Brocadia, ranging from 10 to 23%, was the predominant anammox bacteria in the anammox SBR. More than 78.2 % of nitrite in the anammox SBR was removed through the anammox reaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Ju Wu
- Department of Environmental Engineering, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, 70101, Taiwan.
| | - Tzu-Ya Weng
- Department of Environmental Engineering, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, 70101, Taiwan.
| | - Ting-Yu Yeh
- Department of Environmental Engineering, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, 70101, Taiwan.
| | - Pei-Jane Chou
- Taiwan Sugar Research Institute (TSRI), Tainan, 701036, Taiwan
| | - Liang-Ming Whang
- Department of Environmental Engineering, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, 70101, Taiwan; Sustainable Environment Research Laboratory (SERL), National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, 70101, Taiwan.
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