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On the Offensive: the Role of Outer Membrane Vesicles in the Successful Dissemination of New Delhi Metallo-β-lactamase (NDM-1). mBio 2021; 12:e0183621. [PMID: 34579567 PMCID: PMC8546644 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.01836-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
The emergence and worldwide dissemination of carbapenemase-producing Gram-negative bacteria are a major public health threat. Metallo-β-lactamases (MBLs) represent the largest family of carbapenemases. Regrettably, these resistance determinants are spreading worldwide. Among them, the New Delhi metallo-β-lactamase (NDM-1) is experiencing the fastest and largest geographical spread. NDM-1 β-lactamase is anchored to the bacterial outer membrane, while most MBLs are soluble, periplasmic enzymes. This unique cellular localization favors the selective secretion of active NDM-1 into outer membrane vesicles (OMVs). Here, we advance the idea that NDM-containing vesicles serve as vehicles for the local dissemination of NDM-1. We show that OMVs with NDM-1 can protect a carbapenem-susceptible strain of Escherichia coli upon treatment with meropenem in a Galleria mellonella infection model. Survival curves of G. mellonella revealed that vesicle encapsulation enhances the action of NDM-1, prolonging and favoring bacterial protection against meropenem inside the larva hemolymph. We also demonstrate that E. coli cells expressing NDM-1 protect a susceptible Pseudomonas aeruginosa strain within the larvae in the presence of meropenem. By using E. coli variants engineered to secrete variable amounts of NDM-1, we demonstrate that the protective effect correlates with the amount of NDM-1 secreted into vesicles. We conclude that secretion of NDM-1 into OMVs contributes to the survival of otherwise susceptible nearby bacteria at infection sites. These results disclose that OMVs play a role in the establishment of bacterial communities, in addition to traditional horizontal gene transfer mechanisms.
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202
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Mishra B, Khader R, Felix LO, Frate M, Mylonakis E, Meschwitz S, Fuchs BB. A Substituted Diphenyl Amide Based Novel Scaffold Inhibits Staphylococcus aureus Virulence in a Galleria mellonella Infection Model. Front Microbiol 2021; 12:723133. [PMID: 34675898 PMCID: PMC8524085 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.723133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial compounds can combat microbes through modulating host immune defense, inhibiting bacteria survival and growth, or through impeding or inhibiting virulence factors. In the present study, a panel of substituted diphenyl amide compounds previously found to disrupt bacterial quorum sensing were investigated and several were found to promote survival in the Galleria mellonella model when provided therapeutically to treat a Gram-positive bacterial infection from methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus strain MW2. Out of 21 tested compounds, N-4-Methoxyphenyl-3-(4-methoxyphenyl)-propanamide (AMI 82B) was the most potent at disrupting S. aureus virulence and promoted 50% larvae survival at 120 and 96 h when delivered at 0.5 and 5 mg/Kg, respectively, compared to untreated controls (p < 0.0001). AMI 82B did not exhibit G. mellonella toxicity (LC50 > 144 h) at a delivery concentration up to 5 mg/Kg. Further assessment with mammalian cells suggest AMI 82B hemolytic effects against erythrocytes has an HL50 greater than the highest tested concentration of 64 μg/mL. Against HepG2 hepatic cells, AMI 82B demonstrated an LD50 greater than 64 μg/mL. AMI 82B lacked direct bacteria inhibition with a minimal inhibitory concentration that exceeds 64 μg/mL and no significant reduction in S. aureus growth curve at the same concentration. Assessment via qPCR revealed that AMI 82B significantly depressed quorum sensing genes agr, spa, and icaA (p < 0.05). Thus, AMI 82B therapeutic effect against S. aureus in the G. mellonella infection model is likely an influence on bacterial quorum sensing driven virulence factors and provides an interesting hit compound for this medically important pathogen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Biswajit Mishra
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Rhode Island Hospital, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, United States
| | - Rajamohammed Khader
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Rhode Island Hospital, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, United States
| | - Lewis Oscar Felix
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Rhode Island Hospital, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, United States
| | - Marissa Frate
- Department of Chemistry, Salve Regina University, Newport, RI, United States
| | - Eleftherios Mylonakis
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Rhode Island Hospital, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, United States
| | - Susan Meschwitz
- Department of Chemistry, Salve Regina University, Newport, RI, United States
| | - Beth Burgwyn Fuchs
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Rhode Island Hospital, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, United States
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203
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Özgör E. The Effects of Nosema apis and Nosema ceranae Infection on Survival and Phenoloxidase Gene Expression in Galleria mellonella (Lepidoptera: Galleriidae) Compared to Apis mellifera. INSECTS 2021; 12:953. [PMID: 34680722 PMCID: PMC8538655 DOI: 10.3390/insects12100953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2021] [Revised: 10/13/2021] [Accepted: 10/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The study aims to prove the possibility of colonization of N. apis and N. ceranae to the intestine of the greater wax moth, detect the differences of greater wax moth based on the presence of Nosema species and examine the effect of Nosema species on the phenoloxidase level of greater wax moth compared with honeybees. Each group was fed on the 1st day of the experiment with its appropriate diet containing 106 Nosema spores per insect. Each group was checked daily, and dead insects were counted. Furthermore, changes in the level of expression of the phenoloxidase-related gene after Nosema spp. treatment on the 6th, 9th and 12th days, which was detected by Q-PCR, and the mRNA level of phenoloxidase gene were measured in all experiment groups with the CFX Connect Real-Time PCR Detection System. This study shows that Apis mellifera L. has a 66.7% mortality rate in mixed Nosema infections, a 50% mortality rate in N. ceranae infection, a 40% mortality rate in N. apis infection, while there is no death in G. mellonella. A significant difference was found in the mixed Nosema infection group compared to the single Nosema infection groups by means of A. mellifera and G. mellonella (Duncan, p < 0.05). G. mellonella histopathology also shows that Nosema spores multiply in the epithelial cells of greater wax moth without causing any death. The increase in the mRNA level of Phenoloxidase gene in A. mellifera was detected (Kruskal-Wallis, p < 0.05), while the mRNA level of the Phenoloxidase gene did not change in G. mellonella (Kruskal-Wallis, p > 0.05). These findings prove that the Nosema species can colonize into the greater wax moth, which contributes to the dissemination of these Nosema species between beehives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erkay Özgör
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Cyprus International University, 99258 Mersin-10, Turkey; ; Tel.: +90-3926711111
- Cyprus Bee and Bee Products Research Centre, Cyprus International University, 99258 Mersin-10, Turkey
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204
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Garcia-Bustos V, Cabanero-Navalon MD, Ruiz-Saurí A, Ruiz-Gaitán AC, Salavert M, Tormo MÁ, Pemán J. What Do We Know about Candida auris? State of the Art, Knowledge Gaps, and Future Directions. Microorganisms 2021; 9:2177. [PMID: 34683498 PMCID: PMC8538163 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms9102177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2021] [Revised: 10/06/2021] [Accepted: 10/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Candida auris has unprecedently emerged as a multidrug resistant fungal pathogen, considered a serious global threat due to its potential to cause nosocomial outbreaks and deep-seated infections with staggering transmissibility and mortality, that has put health authorities and institutions worldwide in check for more than a decade now. Due to its unique features not observed in other yeasts, it has been categorised as an urgent threat by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and other international agencies. Moreover, epidemiological alerts have been released in view of the increase of healthcare-associated C. auris outbreaks in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. This review summarises the current evidence on C. auris since its first description, from virulence to treatment and outbreak control, and highlights the knowledge gaps and future directions for research efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victor Garcia-Bustos
- Department of Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases, University and Polytechnic La Fe Hospital, 56026 Valencia, Spain;
- Severe Infection Research Group, Health Research Institute La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain; (A.C.R.-G.); (M.Á.T.); (J.P.)
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain;
| | - Marta D. Cabanero-Navalon
- Department of Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases, University and Polytechnic La Fe Hospital, 56026 Valencia, Spain;
| | - Amparo Ruiz-Saurí
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain;
| | - Alba C. Ruiz-Gaitán
- Severe Infection Research Group, Health Research Institute La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain; (A.C.R.-G.); (M.Á.T.); (J.P.)
| | - Miguel Salavert
- Department of Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases, University and Polytechnic La Fe Hospital, 56026 Valencia, Spain;
- Severe Infection Research Group, Health Research Institute La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain; (A.C.R.-G.); (M.Á.T.); (J.P.)
| | - María Á. Tormo
- Severe Infection Research Group, Health Research Institute La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain; (A.C.R.-G.); (M.Á.T.); (J.P.)
| | - Javier Pemán
- Severe Infection Research Group, Health Research Institute La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain; (A.C.R.-G.); (M.Á.T.); (J.P.)
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University and Polytechnic La Fe Hospital, 46026 Valencia, Spain
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205
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Frei A, Ramu S, Lowe GJ, Dinh H, Semenec L, Elliott AG, Zuegg J, Deckers A, Jung N, Bräse S, Cain AK, Blaskovich MAT. Platinum Cyclooctadiene Complexes with Activity against Gram-positive Bacteria. ChemMedChem 2021; 16:3165-3171. [PMID: 34018686 PMCID: PMC8596843 DOI: 10.1002/cmdc.202100157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Antimicrobial resistance is a looming health crisis, and it is becoming increasingly clear that organic chemistry alone is not sufficient to continue to provide the world with novel and effective antibiotics. Recently there has been an increased number of reports describing promising antimicrobial properties of metal-containing compounds. Platinum complexes are well known in the field of inorganic medicinal chemistry for their tremendous success as anticancer agents. Here we report on the promising antibacterial properties of platinum cyclooctadiene (COD) complexes. Amongst the 15 compounds studied, the simplest compounds Pt(COD)X2 (X=Cl, I, Pt1 and Pt2) showed excellent activity against a panel of Gram-positive bacteria including vancomycin and methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus. Additionally, the lead compounds show no toxicity against mammalian cells or haemolytic properties at the highest tested concentrations, indicating that the observed activity is specific against bacteria. Finally, these compounds showed no toxicity against Galleria mellonella at the highest measured concentrations. However, preliminary efficacy studies in the same animal model found no decrease in bacterial load upon treatment with Pt1 and Pt2. Serum exchange studies suggest that these compounds exhibit high serum binding which reduces their bioavailability in vivo, mandating alternative administration routes such as e. g. topical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angelo Frei
- Centre for Superbug SolutionsInstitute for Molecular BioscienceThe University of QueenslandSt. LuciaQLD 4072Australia
| | - Soumya Ramu
- Centre for Superbug SolutionsInstitute for Molecular BioscienceThe University of QueenslandSt. LuciaQLD 4072Australia
| | - Gabrielle J. Lowe
- Centre for Superbug SolutionsInstitute for Molecular BioscienceThe University of QueenslandSt. LuciaQLD 4072Australia
| | - Hue Dinh
- ARC Centre of Excellence in Synthetic BiologyDepartment of Molecular SciencesMacquarie UniversitySydneyNSWAustralia
| | - Lucie Semenec
- ARC Centre of Excellence in Synthetic BiologyDepartment of Molecular SciencesMacquarie UniversitySydneyNSWAustralia
| | - Alysha G. Elliott
- Centre for Superbug SolutionsInstitute for Molecular BioscienceThe University of QueenslandSt. LuciaQLD 4072Australia
| | - Johannes Zuegg
- Centre for Superbug SolutionsInstitute for Molecular BioscienceThe University of QueenslandSt. LuciaQLD 4072Australia
| | - Anke Deckers
- Institute of Organic ChemistryKarlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT)Fritz-Haber-Weg 676131KarlsruheGermany
| | - Nicole Jung
- Institute of Organic ChemistryKarlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT)Fritz-Haber-Weg 676131KarlsruheGermany
- Institute of Biological and Chemical Systems – Functional Molecular Systems (IBCS-FMS)Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT)Hermann-von-Helmholtz-Platz 176344Eggenstein-LeopoldshafenGermany
| | - Stefan Bräse
- Institute of Organic ChemistryKarlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT)Fritz-Haber-Weg 676131KarlsruheGermany
- Institute of Biological and Chemical Systems – Functional Molecular Systems (IBCS-FMS)Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT)Hermann-von-Helmholtz-Platz 176344Eggenstein-LeopoldshafenGermany
| | - Amy K. Cain
- ARC Centre of Excellence in Synthetic BiologyDepartment of Molecular SciencesMacquarie UniversitySydneyNSWAustralia
| | - Mark A. T. Blaskovich
- Centre for Superbug SolutionsInstitute for Molecular BioscienceThe University of QueenslandSt. LuciaQLD 4072Australia
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206
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Lin GH, Hsieh MC, Shu HY. Role of Iron-Containing Alcohol Dehydrogenases in Acinetobacter baumannii ATCC 19606 Stress Resistance and Virulence. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22189921. [PMID: 34576087 PMCID: PMC8465190 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22189921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2021] [Revised: 09/11/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Most bacteria possess alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) genes (Adh genes) to mitigate alcohol toxicity, but these genes have functions beyond alcohol degradation. Previous research has shown that ADH can modulate quorum sensing in Acinetobacter baumannii, a rising opportunistic pathogen. However, the number and nature of Adh genes in A. baumannii have not yet been fully characterized. We identified seven alcohol dehydrogenases (NAD+-ADHs) from A. baumannii ATCC 19606, and examined the roles of three iron-containing ADHs, ADH3, ADH4, and ADH6. Marker-less mutation was used to generate Adh3, Adh4, and Adh6 single, double, and triple mutants. Disrupted Adh4 mutants failed to grow in ethanol-, 1-butanol-, or 1-propanol-containing mediums, and recombinant ADH4 exhibited strongest activity against ethanol. Stress resistance assays with inorganic and organic hydroperoxides showed that Adh3 and Adh6 were key to oxidative stress resistance. Virulence assays performed on the Galleria mellonella model organism revealed that Adh4 mutants had comparable virulence to wild-type, while Adh3 and Adh6 mutants had reduced virulence. The results suggest that ADH4 is primarily involved in alcohol metabolism, while ADH3 and ADH6 are key to stress resistance and virulence. Further investigation into the roles of other ADHs in A. baumannii is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guang-Huey Lin
- Master Program of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, Tzu Chi University, Hualien 97004, Taiwan; (G.-H.L.); (M.-C.H.)
- Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Tzu Chi University, Hualien 97004, Taiwan
- International College, Tzu Chi University, Hualien 97004, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Chuan Hsieh
- Master Program of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, Tzu Chi University, Hualien 97004, Taiwan; (G.-H.L.); (M.-C.H.)
| | - Hung-Yu Shu
- Department of Bioscience Technology, Chang Jung Christian University, Tainan 71101, Taiwan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +886-6-278-5123 (ext. 3211); Fax: +886-6-278-5010
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207
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Terán LC, Mortera P, Tubio G, Alarcón SH, Blancato VS, Espariz M, Esteban L, Magni C. Genomic analysis revealed conserved acid tolerance mechanisms from native micro-organisms in fermented feed. J Appl Microbiol 2021; 132:1152-1165. [PMID: 34487594 DOI: 10.1111/jam.15292] [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: 01/07/2021] [Revised: 07/28/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Fermented feed is an agricultural practice used in many regions of the world to improve the growth performance of farm animals. This study aimed to identify and evaluate the lactic acid bacteria and yeast involved in the production of fermented feed. METHODS AND RESULTS We isolated and described two micro-organisms from autochthonous microbiota origin present in a regional feed product, Lactobacillus paracasei IBR07 (Lacticaseibacillus paracasei) and Kazachstania unispora IBR014 (Saccharomyces unisporum). Genome sequence analyses were performed to characterize both micro-organisms. Potential pathways involved in the acid response, tolerance and persistence were predicted in both genomes. Although L. paracasei and K. unispora are considered safe for animal feed, we analysed the presence of virulence factors, antibiotic resistance and pathogenicity islands. Furthermore, the Galleria mellonella model was used to support the safety of both isolates. CONCLUSIONS We conclude that IBR07 and IBR014 strains are good candidates to be used as starter cultures for feed fermentation. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY The data presented here will be helpful to explore other biotechnological aspects and constitute a starting point for further studies to establish the consumption benefit of fermented feed in farm animal production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucrecia C Terán
- Laboratorio de Fisiología y Genética de Bacterias Lácticas, Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular de Rosario (IBR), sede Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas (FBioyF), Universidad Nacional de Rosario (UNR), Consejo Nacional de Ciencia y Tecnología (CONICET), Rosario, Argentina.,Laboratorio de Biotecnología e Inocuidad de los Alimentos, Área de Biotecnología de los alimentos, FBioyF, UNR-Municipalidad de Granadero Baigorria, Rosario, Argentina.,Centro de Referencia para Lactobacilos, CERELA-CONICET, San Miguel de Tucuman, Tucumán, Argentina
| | - Pablo Mortera
- Laboratorio de Fisiología y Genética de Bacterias Lácticas, Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular de Rosario (IBR), sede Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas (FBioyF), Universidad Nacional de Rosario (UNR), Consejo Nacional de Ciencia y Tecnología (CONICET), Rosario, Argentina.,Laboratorio de Biotecnología e Inocuidad de los Alimentos, Área de Biotecnología de los alimentos, FBioyF, UNR-Municipalidad de Granadero Baigorria, Rosario, Argentina
| | - Gisela Tubio
- Instituto de Procesos Biotecnológicos y Químicos Rosario, IPROByQ (CONICET-UNR), Rosario, Argentina
| | - Sergio H Alarcón
- Laboratorio de Biotecnología e Inocuidad de los Alimentos, Área de Biotecnología de los alimentos, FBioyF, UNR-Municipalidad de Granadero Baigorria, Rosario, Argentina.,Instituto de Química de Rosario, IQUIR (CONICET-UNR), Rosario, Argentina
| | - Victor S Blancato
- Laboratorio de Fisiología y Genética de Bacterias Lácticas, Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular de Rosario (IBR), sede Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas (FBioyF), Universidad Nacional de Rosario (UNR), Consejo Nacional de Ciencia y Tecnología (CONICET), Rosario, Argentina.,Laboratorio de Biotecnología e Inocuidad de los Alimentos, Área de Biotecnología de los alimentos, FBioyF, UNR-Municipalidad de Granadero Baigorria, Rosario, Argentina
| | - Martín Espariz
- Laboratorio de Fisiología y Genética de Bacterias Lácticas, Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular de Rosario (IBR), sede Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas (FBioyF), Universidad Nacional de Rosario (UNR), Consejo Nacional de Ciencia y Tecnología (CONICET), Rosario, Argentina.,Laboratorio de Biotecnología e Inocuidad de los Alimentos, Área de Biotecnología de los alimentos, FBioyF, UNR-Municipalidad de Granadero Baigorria, Rosario, Argentina.,Área Estadística y Procesamiento de Datos, Departamento de Matemática y Estadística, FBioyF-UNR, Rosario, Argentina
| | - Luis Esteban
- Química Biológica, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, UNR, Rosario, Argentina
| | - Christian Magni
- Laboratorio de Fisiología y Genética de Bacterias Lácticas, Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular de Rosario (IBR), sede Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas (FBioyF), Universidad Nacional de Rosario (UNR), Consejo Nacional de Ciencia y Tecnología (CONICET), Rosario, Argentina.,Laboratorio de Biotecnología e Inocuidad de los Alimentos, Área de Biotecnología de los alimentos, FBioyF, UNR-Municipalidad de Granadero Baigorria, Rosario, Argentina
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208
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Kaczorowska J, Casey E, Lugli GA, Ventura M, Clarke DJ, van Sinderen D, Mahony J. In Vitro and In Vivo Assessment of the Potential of Escherichia coli Phages to Treat Infections and Survive Gastric Conditions. Microorganisms 2021; 9:microorganisms9091869. [PMID: 34576765 PMCID: PMC8472732 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms9091869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2021] [Revised: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 09/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC) and Shigella ssp. infections are associated with high rates of mortality, especially in infants in developing countries. Due to increasing levels of global antibiotic resistance exhibited by many pathogenic organisms, alternative strategies to combat such infections are urgently required. In this study, we evaluated the stability of five coliphages (four Myoviridae and one Siphoviridae phage) over a range of pH conditions and in simulated gastric conditions. The Myoviridae phages were stable across the range of pH 2 to 7, while the Siphoviridae phage, JK16, exhibited higher sensitivity to low pH. A composite mixture of these five phages was tested in vivo in a Galleria mellonella model. The obtained data clearly shows potential in treating E. coli infections prophylactically.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Kaczorowska
- School of Microbiology, University College Cork, T12 YN60 Cork, Ireland; (J.K.); (E.C.); (D.J.C.)
- APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, T12 YT20 Cork, Ireland
| | - Eoghan Casey
- School of Microbiology, University College Cork, T12 YN60 Cork, Ireland; (J.K.); (E.C.); (D.J.C.)
- APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, T12 YT20 Cork, Ireland
| | - Gabriele A. Lugli
- Laboratory of Probiogenomics, Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, 43121 Parma, Italy; (G.A.L.); (M.V.)
| | - Marco Ventura
- Laboratory of Probiogenomics, Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, 43121 Parma, Italy; (G.A.L.); (M.V.)
| | - David J. Clarke
- School of Microbiology, University College Cork, T12 YN60 Cork, Ireland; (J.K.); (E.C.); (D.J.C.)
- APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, T12 YT20 Cork, Ireland
| | - Douwe van Sinderen
- School of Microbiology, University College Cork, T12 YN60 Cork, Ireland; (J.K.); (E.C.); (D.J.C.)
- APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, T12 YT20 Cork, Ireland
- Correspondence: (D.v.S.); (J.M.); Tel.: +353-21-4901365 (D.v.S.); +353-21-4902730 (J.M.)
| | - Jennifer Mahony
- School of Microbiology, University College Cork, T12 YN60 Cork, Ireland; (J.K.); (E.C.); (D.J.C.)
- APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, T12 YT20 Cork, Ireland
- Correspondence: (D.v.S.); (J.M.); Tel.: +353-21-4901365 (D.v.S.); +353-21-4902730 (J.M.)
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209
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Esposito F, Cardoso B, Fontana H, Fuga B, Cardenas-Arias A, Moura Q, Fuentes-Castillo D, Lincopan N. Genomic Analysis of Carbapenem-Resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa Isolated From Urban Rivers Confirms Spread of Clone Sequence Type 277 Carrying Broad Resistome and Virulome Beyond the Hospital. Front Microbiol 2021; 12:701921. [PMID: 34539602 PMCID: PMC8446631 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.701921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The dissemination of antibiotic-resistant priority pathogens beyond hospital settings is both a public health and an environmental problem. In this regard, high-risk clones exhibiting a multidrug-resistant (MDR) or extensively drug-resistant (XDR) phenotype have shown rapid adaptation at the human-animal-environment interface. In this study, we report genomic data and the virulence potential of the carbapenemase, São Paulo metallo-β-lactamase (SPM-1)-producing Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains (Pa19 and Pa151) isolated from polluted urban rivers, in Brazil. Bioinformatic analysis revealed a wide resistome to clinically relevant antibiotics (carbapenems, aminoglycosides, fosfomycin, sulfonamides, phenicols, and fluoroquinolones), biocides (quaternary ammonium compounds) and heavy metals (copper), whereas the presence of exotoxin A, alginate, quorum sensing, types II, III, and IV secretion systems, colicin, and pyocin encoding virulence genes was associated with a highly virulent behavior in the Galleria mellonella infection model. These results confirm the spread of healthcare-associated critical-priority P. aeruginosa belonging to the MDR sequence type 277 (ST277) clone beyond the hospital, highlighting that the presence of these pathogens in environmental water samples can have clinical implications for humans and other animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernanda Esposito
- Department of Clinical Analysis, School of Pharmacy, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- One Health Brazilian Resistance Project (OneBR), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Brenda Cardoso
- One Health Brazilian Resistance Project (OneBR), São Paulo, Brazil
- Department of Microbiology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Herrison Fontana
- Department of Clinical Analysis, School of Pharmacy, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- One Health Brazilian Resistance Project (OneBR), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Bruna Fuga
- Department of Clinical Analysis, School of Pharmacy, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- One Health Brazilian Resistance Project (OneBR), São Paulo, Brazil
- Department of Microbiology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Adriana Cardenas-Arias
- One Health Brazilian Resistance Project (OneBR), São Paulo, Brazil
- Department of Microbiology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Quézia Moura
- Federal Institute of Education, Science and Technology of Espírito Santo, Vila Velha, Brazil
| | - Danny Fuentes-Castillo
- One Health Brazilian Resistance Project (OneBR), São Paulo, Brazil
- Department of Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Nilton Lincopan
- Department of Clinical Analysis, School of Pharmacy, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- One Health Brazilian Resistance Project (OneBR), São Paulo, Brazil
- Department of Microbiology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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210
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Pan M, Wang Q, Cheng T, Wu D, Wang T, Yan G, Shao J. Paeonol assists fluconazole and amphotericin B to inhibit virulence factors and pathogenicity of Candida albicans. BIOFOULING 2021; 37:922-937. [PMID: 34615415 DOI: 10.1080/08927014.2021.1985473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2021] [Revised: 09/04/2021] [Accepted: 09/21/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to evaluate the mono- and dual- antifungal activities of paeonol (PAE) and fluconazole (FLZ)/amphotericin B (AmB). To this end, the effects of PAE and FLZ/AmB on cell surface hydrophobicity, hydrolase activity, morphological transition were investigated in vitro and in a Galleria mellonella infection model. The results showed a relatively high minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and sessile MIC (SMIC) of PAE alone. However, compared with the single drug, the combined use of PAE and FLZ/AmB had a potent synergistic potential to inhibit the virulence factors for Candida. The concomitant use of two drugs was consistently more effective than either drug alone for increasing survival rate, decreasing the fungal burden, and alleviating the pathological features of G. mellonella infected by the fungus. Taken together, these findings demonstrate the anti-Candida effects of PAE plus FLZ/AmB and their potential to increase the sensitivity of C. albicans to FLZ/AmB of PAE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Pan
- Laboratory of Infection and Immunity, College of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine (College of Life Science), Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, P. R. China
| | - Qirui Wang
- Laboratory of Infection and Immunity, College of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine (College of Life Science), Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, P. R. China
| | - Ting Cheng
- Laboratory of Infection and Immunity, College of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine (College of Life Science), Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, P. R. China
| | - Daqiang Wu
- Laboratory of Infection and Immunity, College of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine (College of Life Science), Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, P. R. China
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui Academy of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Xin'An Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui Academy of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, P. R. China
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory for Chinese Herbal Compound, Anhui Academy of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, P. R. China
| | - Tianming Wang
- Laboratory of Infection and Immunity, College of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine (College of Life Science), Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Xin'An Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui Academy of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, P. R. China
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory for Chinese Herbal Compound, Anhui Academy of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, P. R. China
- Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, P. R. China
| | - Guiming Yan
- Laboratory of Infection and Immunity, College of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine (College of Life Science), Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, P. R. China
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui Academy of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Xin'An Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui Academy of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, P. R. China
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory for Chinese Herbal Compound, Anhui Academy of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, P. R. China
| | - Jing Shao
- Laboratory of Infection and Immunity, College of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine (College of Life Science), Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, P. R. China
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui Academy of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Xin'An Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui Academy of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, P. R. China
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory for Chinese Herbal Compound, Anhui Academy of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, P. R. China
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211
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Modification Strategy of D-leucine Residue Addition on a Novel Peptide from Odorrana schmackeri, with Enhanced Bioactivity and In Vivo Efficacy. Toxins (Basel) 2021; 13:toxins13090611. [PMID: 34564615 PMCID: PMC8473181 DOI: 10.3390/toxins13090611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Revised: 08/20/2021] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Brevinins are a well-characterised, frog-skin-derived, antimicrobial peptide (AMP) family, but their applications are limited by high cytotoxicity. In this study, a wild-type des-Leu2 brevinin peptide, named brevinin-1OS (B1OS), was identified from Odorrana schmackeri. To explore the significant role of the leucine residue at the second position, two variants, B1OS-L and B1OS-D-L, were designed by adding L-leucine and D-leucine residues at this site, respectively. The antibacterial and anticancer activities of B1OS-L and B1OS-D-L were around ten times stronger than the parent peptide. The activity of B1OS against the growth of Gram-positive bacteria was markedly enhanced after modification. Moreover, the leucine-modified products exerted in vivo therapeutic potential in an methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)-infected waxworm model. Notably, the single substitution of D-leucine significantly increased the killing speed on lung cancer cells, where no viable H838 cells survived after 2 h of treatment with B1OS-D-L at 10 μM with low cytotoxicity on normal cells. Overall, our study suggested that the conserved leucine residue at the second position from the N-terminus is vital for optimising the dual antibacterial and anticancer activities of B1OS and proposed B1OS-D-L as an appealing therapeutic candidate for development.
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212
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Pereira MF, Rossi CC, da Silva GC, Rosa JN, Bazzolli DMS. Galleria mellonella as an infection model: an in-depth look at why it works and practical considerations for successful application. Pathog Dis 2021; 78:5909969. [PMID: 32960263 DOI: 10.1093/femspd/ftaa056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2020] [Accepted: 09/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The larva of the greater wax moth Galleria mellonella is an increasingly popular model for assessing the virulence of bacterial pathogens and the effectiveness of antimicrobial agents. In this review, we discuss details of the components of the G. mellonella larval immune system that underpin its use as an alternative infection model, and provide an updated overview of the state of the art of research with G. mellonella infection models to study bacterial virulence, and in the evaluation of antimicrobial efficacy. Emphasis is given to virulence studies with relevant human and veterinary pathogens, especially Escherichia coli and bacteria of the ESKAPE group. In addition, we make practical recommendations for larval rearing and testing, and overcoming potential limitations of the use of the model, which facilitate intra- and interlaboratory reproducibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monalessa Fábia Pereira
- Laboratório de Bioquímica e Microbiologia, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade do Estado de Minas Gerais, 36800-000, Carangola, MG, Brazil
| | - Ciro César Rossi
- Laboratório de Microbiologia Molecular, Departamento de Microbiologia Médica, Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, 21941-901, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Giarlã Cunha da Silva
- Laboratório de Genética Molecular de Bactérias, Instituto de Biotecnologia Aplicada à Agropecuária-BIOAGRO, Departamento de Microbiologia, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, 36570-900, Viçosa, MG, Brazil
| | - Jéssica Nogueira Rosa
- Laboratório de Genética Molecular de Bactérias, Instituto de Biotecnologia Aplicada à Agropecuária-BIOAGRO, Departamento de Microbiologia, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, 36570-900, Viçosa, MG, Brazil
| | - Denise Mara Soares Bazzolli
- Laboratório de Genética Molecular de Bactérias, Instituto de Biotecnologia Aplicada à Agropecuária-BIOAGRO, Departamento de Microbiologia, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, 36570-900, Viçosa, MG, Brazil
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213
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Copper and zinc impact on stress biomarkers and growth parameters in a model organism, Galleria mellonella larvae. Biometals 2021; 34:1263-1273. [PMID: 34410577 DOI: 10.1007/s10534-021-00341-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 08/11/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
The objective of the present study was to investigate the impact of zinc and copper on some biomarkers in a model organism Galleria mellonella L. We investigated the effects of Cu and Zn (10, 50, and 100 mg/100 g diets) on different biomarkers such as oxidative stress parameters (SOD and CAT activities and MDA levels), energy resources (protein, lipid and glycogen levels), electrolyte contents (Ca, Na, and K levels), total hemocyte count (THC), and growth and development of G. mellonella. Additionally, the accumulation levels of the used metals were also studied. Cu caused a significant decrease in protein, lipid and glycogen levels. SOD and CAT activities significantly increased at all concentrations of Cu, while they significantly increased at only high concentrations of Zn (50 and 100 mg). Lipid peroxidation levels (MDA) significantly elevated at high concentrations of both metals. It was determined that the Cu and Zn accumulation increased depending on the increase of the concentration. Zn caused an alteration in Ca level at the concentrations of 50 and 100 mg, and K and Na levels at all concentrations. While, THC significantly reduced at all Cu concentrations, this reduction was observed only at higher Zn concentrations (50 and 100 mg). Larval and pupal development time significantly extended at the highest concentration (100 mg) of Cu, and females' lifespan significantly shortened at all concentrations of Cu. Zinc caused an extension in larval development time at the highest concentration (100 mg), and caused a shortening in females and males' lifetime at all concentrations. The observed changes in biomarkers can be used as the illustration of potential toxic effects of high levels of Cu and Zn in organisms.
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214
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Six A, Mosbahi K, Barge M, Kleanthous C, Evans T, Walker D. Pyocin efficacy in a murine model of Pseudomonas aeruginosa sepsis. J Antimicrob Chemother 2021; 76:2317-2324. [PMID: 34142136 PMCID: PMC8361349 DOI: 10.1093/jac/dkab199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2020] [Accepted: 05/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bloodstream infections with antibiotic-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa are common and increasingly difficult to treat. Pyocins are naturally occurring protein antibiotics produced by P. aeruginosa that have potential for human use. OBJECTIVES To determine if pyocin treatment is effective in a murine model of sepsis with P. aeruginosa. METHODS Recombinant pyocins S5 and AP41 were purified and tested for efficacy in a Galleria mellonella infection model and a murine model of P. aeruginosa sepsis. RESULTS Both pyocins produced no adverse effects when injected alone into mice and showed good in vitro antipseudomonal activity. In an invertebrate model of sepsis using G. mellonella, both pyocins significantly prolonged survival from 1/10 (10%) survival in controls to 80%-100% survival among groups of 10 pyocin-treated larvae. Following injection into mice, both showed extensive distribution into different organs. When administered 5 h after infection, pyocin S5 significantly increased survival from 33% (2/6) to 83% (5/6) in a murine model of sepsis (difference significant by log-rank test, P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Pyocins S5 and AP41 show in vivo biological activity and can improve survival in two models of P. aeruginosa infection. They hold promise as novel antimicrobial agents for treatment of MDR infections with this microbe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Six
- Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, University of Glasgow, Sir Graeme Davis Building, University Place, Glasgow, G12 8TA, UK
| | - Khedidja Mosbahi
- Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, University of Glasgow, Sir Graeme Davis Building, University Place, Glasgow, G12 8TA, UK
| | - Madhuri Barge
- Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, University of Glasgow, Sir Graeme Davis Building, University Place, Glasgow, G12 8TA, UK
| | - Colin Kleanthous
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3QU, UK
| | - Thomas Evans
- Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, University of Glasgow, Sir Graeme Davis Building, University Place, Glasgow, G12 8TA, UK
| | - Daniel Walker
- Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, University of Glasgow, Sir Graeme Davis Building, University Place, Glasgow, G12 8TA, UK
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215
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Peptides Affecting the Outer Membrane Lipid Asymmetry System (MlaA-OmpC/F) Reduce Avian Pathogenic Escherichia coli (APEC) Colonization in Chickens. Appl Environ Microbiol 2021; 87:e0056721. [PMID: 34132592 DOI: 10.1128/aem.00567-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Avian pathogenic Escherichia coli (APEC), an extraintestinal pathogenic E. coli (ExPEC), causes colibacillosis in chickens and is reportedly associated with urinary tract infections and meningitis in humans. Development of resistance is a major limitation of current ExPEC antibiotic therapy. New antibacterials that can circumvent resistance problem such as antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are critically needed. Here, we evaluated the efficacy of Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG)-derived peptides against APEC and uncovered their potential antibacterial targets. Three peptides (NPSRQERR [P1], PDENK [P2], and VHTAPK [P3]) displayed inhibitory activity against APEC. These peptides were effective against APEC in biofilm and chicken macrophage HD11 cells. Treatment with these peptides reduced the cecum colonization (0.5 to 1.3 log) of APEC in chickens. Microbiota analysis revealed two peptides (P1 and P2) decreased Enterobacteriaceae abundance with minimal impact on overall cecal microbiota of chickens. Bacterial cytological profiling showed peptides disrupt APEC membranes either by causing membrane shedding, rupturing, or flaccidity. Furthermore, gene expression analysis revealed that peptides downregulated the expression of ompC (>13.0-fold), ompF (>11.3-fold), and mlaA (>4.9-fold), genes responsible for the maintenance of outer membrane (OM) lipid asymmetry. Consistently, immunoblot analysis also showed decreased levels of OmpC and MlaA proteins in APEC treated with peptides. Alanine scanning studies revealed residues crucial (P1, N, E, R and P; P2, D and E; P3, T, P, and K) for their activity. Overall, our study identified peptides with a new antibacterial target that can be developed to control APEC infections in chickens, thereby curtailing poultry-originated human ExPEC infections. IMPORTANCE Avian pathogenic Escherichia coli (APEC) is a subgroup of extraintestinal pathogenic E. coli (ExPEC) and considered a foodborne zoonotic pathogen transmitted through consumption of contaminated poultry products. APEC shares genetic similarities with human ExPECs, including uropathogenic E. coli (UPEC) and neonatal meningitis E. coli (NMEC). Our study identified Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG)-derived peptides (P1 [NPSRQERR], P2 [PDENK], and P3 [VHTAPK]) effective in reducing APEC infection in chickens. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are regarded as ideal candidates for antibacterial development because of their low propensity for resistance development and ability to kill resistant bacteria. Mechanistic studies showed peptides disrupt the APEC membrane by affecting the MlaA-OmpC/F system responsible for the maintenance of outer membrane (OM) lipid asymmetry, a promising new druggable target to overcome resistance problems in Gram-negative bacteria. Altogether, these peptides can provide a valuable approach for development of novel anti-ExPEC therapies, including APEC, human ExPECs, and other related Gram-negative pathogens. Furthermore, effective control of APEC infections in chickens can curb poultry-originated ExPEC infections in humans.
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216
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Consentino L, Rejasse A, Crapart N, Bevilacqua C, Nielsen-LeRoux C. Laser capture microdissection to study Bacillus cereus iron homeostasis gene expression during Galleria mellonella in vivo gut colonization. Virulence 2021; 12:2104-2121. [PMID: 34374318 PMCID: PMC8366545 DOI: 10.1080/21505594.2021.1959790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Bacillus cereus is a Gram-positive opportunistic pathogen closely related to the entomopathogen, Bacillus thuringiensis, both of which are involved in intestinal infections. Iron is an essential micronutrient for full growth and virulence of pathogens during infection. However, little is known about iron homeostasis during gut infection. Therefore, we aimed to assess the expression of B. cereus genes related to bacterial iron homeostasis, virulence and oxidative stress. The hypothesis is that the expression of such genes would vary between early and later stage colonization in correlation to gut cell damage. To perform the study, a germ-free Galleria mellonella model was set up in order to adapt the use of Laser-capture microdissection (LCM), to select precise areas in the gut lumen from frozen whole larval cryo-sections. Analyses were performed from alive larvae and the expression of targeted genes was assessed byspecific pre-amplification of mRNA followed by quantitative PCR. Firstly, the results reinforce the reliability of LCM, despite a low amount of bacterial RNA recovered. Secondly, bacterial genes involved in iron homeostasis are expressed in the lumen at both 3 and 16 hours post force-feeding. Thirdly, iron gene expression is slightly modulated during gut infection, and lastly, the mRNA of G. mellonella encoding for ferritin and transferrin iron storage and transport are recovered too. Therefore, iron homeostasis should play a role in B. cereus gut colonization. Furthermore, we demonstrate for the first time the value of using LCM for specific in situ gene expression analysis of extracellular bacteria in a whole animal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurent Consentino
- Université Paris-Saclay, INRAE, AgroParisTech, Micalis Institute, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Agnès Rejasse
- Université Paris-Saclay, INRAE, AgroParisTech, Micalis Institute, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Nicolas Crapart
- Université Paris Saclay, INRAE, AgroParisTech, UMR GABI, Abridge, Jouy En Josas, France.,Exilone, Elancourt, France
| | - Claudia Bevilacqua
- Université Paris Saclay, INRAE, AgroParisTech, UMR GABI, Abridge, Jouy En Josas, France
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217
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Rosas-Díaz J, Escobar-Zepeda A, Adaya L, Rojas-Vargas J, Cuervo-Amaya DH, Sánchez-Reyes A, Pardo-López L. Paenarthrobacter sp. GOM3 Is a Novel Marine Species With Monoaromatic Degradation Relevance. Front Microbiol 2021; 12:713702. [PMID: 34413843 PMCID: PMC8369764 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.713702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Paenarthrobacter sp. GOM3, which is a strain that represents a new species-specific context within the genus Paenarthrobacter, is clearly a branched member independent of any group described thus far. This strain was recovered from marine sediments in the Gulf of Mexico, and despite being isolated from a consortium capable of growing with phenanthrene as a sole carbon source, this strain could not grow successfully in the presence of this substrate alone. We hypothesized that the GOM3 strain could participate in the assimilation of intermediate metabolites for the degradation of aromatic compounds. To date, there are no experimental reports of Paenarthrobacter species that degrade polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) or their intermediate metabolites. In this work, we report genomic and experimental evidence of metabolic benzoate, gentisate, and protocatechuate degradation by Paenarthrobacter sp. GOM3. Gentisate was the preferred substrate with the highest volumetric consumption rate, and genomic analysis revealed that this strain possesses multiple gene copies for the specific transport of gentisate. Furthermore, upon analyzing the GOM3 genome, we found five different dioxygenases involved in the activation of aromatic compounds, suggesting its potential for complete remediation of PAH-contaminated sites in combination with strains capable of assimilating the upper PAH degradation pathway. Additionally, this strain was characterized experimentally for its pathogenic potential and in silico for its antimicrobial resistance. An overview of the potential ecological role of this strain in the context of other members of this taxonomic clade is also reported.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaime Rosas-Díaz
- Departamento de Microbiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autoónoma de México, Cuernavaca, Mexico
| | - Alejandra Escobar-Zepeda
- Unidad Universitaria de Secuenciación Masiva y Bioinformática, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca, Mexico
| | - Libertad Adaya
- Departamento de Microbiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autoónoma de México, Cuernavaca, Mexico
| | - Jorge Rojas-Vargas
- Departamento de Microbiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autoónoma de México, Cuernavaca, Mexico
| | - Diego Humberto Cuervo-Amaya
- Departamento de Microbiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autoónoma de México, Cuernavaca, Mexico
| | - Ayixon Sánchez-Reyes
- Cátedras Conacyt – Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca, Mexico
| | - Liliana Pardo-López
- Departamento de Microbiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autoónoma de México, Cuernavaca, Mexico
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218
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Ochoa S, Fernández F, Devotto L, France Iglesias A, Collado L. Virulence assessment of enterohepatic Helicobacter species carried by dogs using the wax moth larvae Galleria mellonella as infection model. Helicobacter 2021; 26:e12808. [PMID: 33884706 DOI: 10.1111/hel.12808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Revised: 03/11/2021] [Accepted: 04/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Enterohepatic species of the genus Helicobacter (EHH) are emerging pathogens that have been associated with gastrointestinal and hepatobiliary diseases in humans. However, studies on their pathogenicity are scarce. Galleria mellonella is a recently proposed model for the study of virulence in different pathogens, such as Campylobacter spp. and Helicobacter pylori. Despite this, its usefulness in EHH has not yet been evaluated. Therefore, we determined the pathogenic potential of different EHH species isolated from dogs in this infection model. MATERIALS AND METHODS Four species of EHH (H. bilis, H. canicola, H. canis, and 'H. winghamensis') isolated from fecal samples from domestic dogs were evaluated. Three strains of each species were inoculated in cohorts of G. mellonella at a concentration of 1 × 107 CFU/mL. Survival curves were determined by the Kaplan-Meier method. In addition, the quantification of melanin, bacterial load in hemolymph, and histopathology were evaluated daily post-infection (pi). RESULTS G. mellonella larvae are susceptible to EHH infection, exhibiting intra- and inter-species variability. Melanin production became evident from 4 h pi and increased throughout the assay. All species were recovered from the hemolymph after 20 min pi; however, only H. canis could be recovered up to 48 h pi. Histopathology revealed cellular and humoral immune response, evidencing accumulation of hemocytes, nodulation, and melanin deposition in different tissues. CONCLUSION EHH species carried by dogs have considerable pathogenic potential, being H. canicola the species with the highest degree of virulence. Thus, G. mellonella is a useful model to assess virulence in these emerging pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofía Ochoa
- Institute of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Faculty of Sciences, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile.,ANID-Millennium Science Initiative Program-Millennium Nucleus in the Biology of the Intestinal Microbiota, Santiago, Chile
| | - Fabiola Fernández
- Institute of Clinical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Luis Devotto
- Institute of Agricultural Research, Ministry of Agriculture, Chillán, Chile
| | | | - Luis Collado
- Institute of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Faculty of Sciences, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile.,ANID-Millennium Science Initiative Program-Millennium Nucleus in the Biology of the Intestinal Microbiota, Santiago, Chile
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Kovacs-Simon A, Metters G, Norville I, Hemsley C, Titball RW. Coxiella burnetii replicates in Galleria mellonella hemocytes and transcriptome mapping reveals in vivo regulated genes. Virulence 2021; 11:1268-1278. [PMID: 32970966 PMCID: PMC7549970 DOI: 10.1080/21505594.2020.1819111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Larvae of the greater wax moth (Galleria mellonella) are susceptible to infection with C. burnetii, an obligate intracellular bacterial pathogen. We show that bacteria are found in hemocytes after infection, and occupy vacuoles which are morphologically similar to Coxiella-containing vacuoles seen in infected mammalian phagocytes. We characterized the infection by transcriptome profiling of bacteria isolated from the hemocytes of infected larvae and identified 46 highly upregulated genes. The encoded proteins are predicted to be involved in translation, LPS biosynthesis, biotin synthesis, scavenging of reactive oxygen species, and included a T4SS effector and 30 hypothetical proteins. Some of these genes had previously been shown to be upregulated in buffalo green monkey (BGM) cells or in mice, whilst others appear to be regulated in a host-specific manner. Altogether, our results demonstrate the value of the G. mellonella model to study intracellular growth and identify potential virulence factors of C. burnetii.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Kovacs-Simon
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences - Biosciences, University of Exeter , Exeter, UK
| | - Georgie Metters
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences - Biosciences, University of Exeter , Exeter, UK
| | - Isobel Norville
- CBR Division, Defence Science and Technology Laboratory , Porton Down,Salisbury, UK
| | - Claudia Hemsley
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences - Biosciences, University of Exeter , Exeter, UK
| | - Richard W Titball
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences - Biosciences, University of Exeter , Exeter, UK
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220
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Lee H, Ko KS. Effect of multiple, compatible plasmids on the fitness of the bacterial host by inducing transcriptional changes. J Antimicrob Chemother 2021; 76:2528-2537. [PMID: 34279638 DOI: 10.1093/jac/dkab240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Bacteria that acquire plasmids incur a biological cost. Despite this fact, clinical Enterobacteriaceae isolates commonly contain multiple co-existing plasmids harbouring carbapenemase genes. METHODS Six different plasmids carrying blaNDM-1, blaNDM-5, blaCTX-M-15, blaKPC-2, blaOXA-181 and blaOXA-232 genes were obtained from Klebsiella pneumoniae and Escherichia coli clinical isolates. Using the E. coli DH5α strain as recipient, 14 transconjugants with diverse plasmid combinations (single or double plasmids) were generated. For each of these, the effects of plasmid carriage on the bacterial host were investigated using in vitro and in vivo competition assays; additionally, the effects were investigated in the context of biofilm formation, serum resistance and survival inside macrophages. Transcriptomic changes in single- and double-plasmid recipients were also investigated. RESULTS Increased in vitro and in vivo competitiveness was observed when two plasmids carrying blaNDM-1 and blaOXA-232 were co-introduced into the host bacteria. However, DH5α::pNDM5 + pOXA232 and other double-plasmid recipients did not show such competitiveness. DH5α::pNDM5 + pOXA181 did not show any fitness cost compared with a plasmid-free host and single-plasmid transconjugants, while both the double-plasmid recipients with pCTXM15 or pKPC2 exhibited a fitness burden. The double-plasmid recipient DH5α::pNDM1 + pOXA232 also exhibited increased biofilm formation, serum resistance and survival inside macrophages. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that the genes of DH5α::pNDM1 + pOXA232 involved in metabolic pathways, transport and stress response were up-regulated, while those involved in translation were down-regulated. CONCLUSIONS Our study suggests that bacterial strains can gain fitness through the acquisition of multiple plasmids harbouring antibiotic resistance genes, which may be mediated by transcriptomic changes in the chromosomal genes of the bacterial host.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haejeong Lee
- Department of Microbiology, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Suwon 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - Kwan Soo Ko
- Department of Microbiology, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Suwon 16419, Republic of Korea
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Kombucha beverage from non-conventional edible plant infusion and green tea: Characterization, toxicity, antioxidant activities and antimicrobial properties. BIOCATALYSIS AND AGRICULTURAL BIOTECHNOLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bcab.2021.102032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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222
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Chen RY, Keddie BA. The Galleria mellonella-Enteropathogenic Escherichia coli Model System: Characterization of Pathogen Virulence and Insect Immune Responses. JOURNAL OF INSECT SCIENCE (ONLINE) 2021; 21:6329131. [PMID: 34314494 PMCID: PMC8315237 DOI: 10.1093/jisesa/ieab046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2021] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
The use of Galleria mellonella (Linnaeus) (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae), an economical insect model, for the study of enteropathogenic Escherichia coli (Migula) (EPEC), a diarrheagenic human pathogen, has been demonstrated previously but remains poorly understood. The present study characterizes the Galleria-EPEC system extensively for future studies using this system. We found that EPEC causes disease in G. mellonella larvae when injected intrahemocoelically but not orally. Disease manifests as increased mortality, decreased survival time, delayed pupation, decreased pupal mass, increased pupal duration, and hemocytopenia. Disease symptoms are dose-dependent and can be used as metrics for measuring EPEC virulence in future studies. The type III secretion system was only partially responsible for EPEC virulence in G. mellonella while the majority of the virulence remains unknown in origin. EPEC elicits insect anti-bacterial immune responses including melanization, hemolymph coagulation, nodulation, and phagocytosis. The immune responses were unable to control EPEC replication in the early stage of infection (≤3 h post-injection). EPEC clearance from the hemocoel does not guarantee insect survival. Overall, this study provided insights into EPEC virulence and pathogenesis in G. mellonella and identified areas of future research using this system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robin Y Chen
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2E9, Canada
- Corresponding author, e-mail:
| | - B Andrew Keddie
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2E9, Canada
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Ahlawat S, Singh AK, Shankar A, Yadav A, Sharma KK. Infected insect gut reveals differentially expressed proteins for cellular redox, metal resistance and secretion system in Yersinia enterocolitica-Helicoverpa armigera pathogenic model. Biotechnol Lett 2021; 43:1845-1867. [PMID: 34165641 DOI: 10.1007/s10529-021-03157-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2021] [Accepted: 06/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Mouse infection models are frequently used to study the host-pathogen interaction studies. However, due to several constraints, there is an urgent need for a simple, rapid, easy to handle, inexpensive, and ethically acceptable in vivo model system for studying the virulence of enteropathogens. Thus, the present study was performed to develop the larvae of Helicoverpa armigera as a rapid-inexpensive in vivo model system to evaluate the effect of Yersinia enterocolitica strain 8081 on its midgut via a label-free proteomic approach. RESULTS Helicoverpa armigera larvae fed with Yersinia enterocolitica strain 8081 manifested significant reduction in body weight and damage in midgut. On performing label-free proteomic study, secretory systems, putative hemolysin, and two-component system emerged as the main pathogenic proteins. Further, proteome comparison between control and Yersinia added diet-fed (YADF) insects revealed altered cytoskeletal proteins in response to increased melanization (via a prophenoloxidase cascade) and free radical generation. In concurrence, FTIR-spectroscopy, and histopathological and biochemical analysis confirmed gut damage in YADF insects. Finally, the proteome data suggests that the mechanism of infection and the host response in Y. enterocolitica-H. armigera system mimics Yersinia-mammalian gut interactions. CONCLUSIONS All data from current study collectively suggest that H. armigera larva can be considered as a potential in vivo model system for studying the enteropathogenic infection by Y. enterocolitica strain 8081.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shruti Ahlawat
- Laboratory of Enzymology and Recombinant DNA Technology, Department of Microbiology, Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak, Haryana, 124001, India
| | - Amarjeet Kumar Singh
- Centre for Genetic Manipulation of Crop Plants, University of Delhi South Campus, Benito Juarez Road, New Delhi, 110021, India
| | - Akshay Shankar
- Laboratory of Enzymology and Recombinant DNA Technology, Department of Microbiology, Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak, Haryana, 124001, India
| | - Asha Yadav
- Laboratory of Enzymology and Recombinant DNA Technology, Department of Microbiology, Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak, Haryana, 124001, India
| | - Krishna Kant Sharma
- Laboratory of Enzymology and Recombinant DNA Technology, Department of Microbiology, Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak, Haryana, 124001, India.
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Type VI Secretion System and Its Effectors PdpC, PdpD, and OpiA Contribute to Francisella Virulence in Galleria mellonella Larvae. Infect Immun 2021; 89:e0057920. [PMID: 33875476 PMCID: PMC8208517 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00579-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Francisella tularensis causes the deadly zoonotic disease tularemia in humans and is able to infect a broad range of organisms including arthropods, which are thought to play a major role in Francisella transmission. However, while mammalian in vitro and in vivo infection models are widely used to investigate Francisella pathogenicity, a detailed characterization of the major Francisella virulence factor, a noncanonical type VI secretion system (T6SS), in an arthropod in vivo infection model is missing. Here, we use Galleria mellonella larvae to analyze the role of the Francisella T6SS and its corresponding effectors in F. tularensis subsp. novicida virulence. We report that G. mellonella larvae killing depends on the functional T6SS and infectious dose. In contrast to other mammalian in vivo infection models, even one of the T6SS effectors PdpC, PdpD, or OpiA is sufficient to kill G. mellonella larvae, while sheath recycling by ClpB is dispensable. We further demonstrate that treatment by polyethylene glycol (PEG) activates Francisella T6SS in liquid culture and that this is independent of the response regulator PmrA. PEG-activated IglC secretion is dependent on T6SS structural component PdpB but independent of putative effectors PdpC, PdpD, AnmK, OpiB1, OpiB2, and OpiB3. The results of larvae infection and secretion assay suggest that AnmK, a putative T6SS component with unknown function, interferes with OpiA-mediated toxicity but not with general T6SS activity. We establish that the easy-to-use G. mellonella larvae infection model provides new insights into the function of T6SS and pathogenesis of Francisella.
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225
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Zuo XY, Gao H, Gao ML, Jin Z, Tang YZ. Antibacterial Activity of a Promising Antibacterial Agent: 22-(4-(2-(4-Nitrophenyl-piperazin-1-yl)-acetyl)-piperazin-1-yl)-22-deoxypleuromutilin. Molecules 2021; 26:3502. [PMID: 34201372 PMCID: PMC8227856 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26123502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2021] [Revised: 05/21/2021] [Accepted: 06/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
A novel pleuromutilin derivative, 22-(4-(2-(4-nitrophenyl-piperazin-1-yl)-acetyl)-piperazin-1-yl)-22-deoxypleuromutilin (NPDM), was synthesized in our laboratory and proved excellent antibacterial activity against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). In this study, more methods were used to further study its preliminary pharmacological effect. The antibacterial efficacy and toxicity of NPDM were evaluated using tiamulin as the reference drug. The in vitro antibacterial activity study showed that NPDM is a potent bactericidal agent against MRSA that induced time-dependent growth inhibition and a concentration-dependent post-antibiotic effect (PAE). Toxicity determination showed that the cytotoxicity of NPDM was slightly higher than that of tiamulin, but the acute oral toxicity study proved that NPDM was a low-toxic compound. In an in vivo antibacterial effect study, NPDM exhibited a better therapeutic effect than tiamulin against MRSA in a mouse thigh infection model as well as a mouse systemic infection model with neutropenia. The 50% effective dose (ED50) of NPDM in a Galleria mellonella infection model was 50.53 mg/kg. The pharmacokinetic properties of NPDM were also measured, which showed that NPDM was a rapid elimination drug in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang-Yi Zuo
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Veterinary Pharmaceutics Development and Safety Evaluation, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; (X.-Y.Z.); (H.G.); (M.-L.G.); (Z.J.)
| | - Hong Gao
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Veterinary Pharmaceutics Development and Safety Evaluation, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; (X.-Y.Z.); (H.G.); (M.-L.G.); (Z.J.)
| | - Mei-Ling Gao
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Veterinary Pharmaceutics Development and Safety Evaluation, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; (X.-Y.Z.); (H.G.); (M.-L.G.); (Z.J.)
| | - Zhen Jin
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Veterinary Pharmaceutics Development and Safety Evaluation, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; (X.-Y.Z.); (H.G.); (M.-L.G.); (Z.J.)
| | - You-Zhi Tang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Veterinary Pharmaceutics Development and Safety Evaluation, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; (X.-Y.Z.); (H.G.); (M.-L.G.); (Z.J.)
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou 510642, China
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226
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New Quinone Antibiotics against Methicillin-Resistant S. aureus. Antibiotics (Basel) 2021; 10:antibiotics10060614. [PMID: 34063846 PMCID: PMC8224091 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics10060614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2021] [Revised: 05/10/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
There is an urgent need for the development of new antibiotics. Here, we describe the inhibitory activity of new quinone compounds against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC® 43300), methicillin-sensitive S. aureus (ATCC® 29213), and two clinical isolates from Chile (ISP-213 and ISP-214). We observed 99.9% reduction in viability within 2 h of exposure without the cultures exhibiting any post-antibiotic effect, which was twice the kinetics to that observed with vancomycin. These clinical isolates did not acquire resistance to these quinone derivatives during the course of our study. We found that these compounds protected larvae of the greater wax moth, sp. Galleria mellonella, from infection by these MRSA clinical strains as effectively as vancomycin. These quinone derivatives are potential drug candidates worth further development.
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227
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Benítez-Chao DF, León-Buitimea A, Lerma-Escalera JA, Morones-Ramírez JR. Bacteriocins: An Overview of Antimicrobial, Toxicity, and Biosafety Assessment by in vivo Models. Front Microbiol 2021; 12:630695. [PMID: 33935991 PMCID: PMC8083986 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.630695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2020] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The world is facing a significant increase in infections caused by drug-resistant infectious agents. In response, various strategies have been recently explored to treat them, including the development of bacteriocins. Bacteriocins are a group of antimicrobial peptides produced by bacteria, capable of controlling clinically relevant susceptible and drug-resistant bacteria. Bacteriocins have been studied to be able to modify and improve their physicochemical properties, pharmacological effects, and biosafety. This manuscript focuses on the research being developed on the biosafety of bacteriocins, which is a topic that has not been addressed extensively in previous reviews. This work discusses the studies that have tested the effect of bacteriocins against pathogens and assess their toxicity using in vivo models, including murine and other alternative animal models. Thus, this work concludes the urgency to increase and advance the in vivo models that both assess the efficacy of bacteriocins as antimicrobial agents and evaluate possible toxicity and side effects, which are key factors to determine their success as potential therapeutic agents in the fight against infections caused by multidrug-resistant microorganisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diego Francisco Benítez-Chao
- Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, San Nicolás de los Garza, Mexico.,Centro de Investigación en Biotecnología y Nanotecnología, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Parque de Investigación e Innovación Tecnológica, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Apodaca, Mexico
| | - Angel León-Buitimea
- Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, San Nicolás de los Garza, Mexico.,Centro de Investigación en Biotecnología y Nanotecnología, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Parque de Investigación e Innovación Tecnológica, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Apodaca, Mexico
| | - Jordy Alexis Lerma-Escalera
- Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, San Nicolás de los Garza, Mexico.,Centro de Investigación en Biotecnología y Nanotecnología, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Parque de Investigación e Innovación Tecnológica, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Apodaca, Mexico
| | - José Rubén Morones-Ramírez
- Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, San Nicolás de los Garza, Mexico.,Centro de Investigación en Biotecnología y Nanotecnología, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Parque de Investigación e Innovación Tecnológica, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Apodaca, Mexico
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228
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Andrejko M, Mak P, Siemińska-Kuczer A, Iwański B, Wojda I, Suder P, Kuleta P, Regucka K, Cytryńska M. A comparison of the production of antimicrobial peptides and proteins by Galleria mellonella larvae in response to infection with two Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains differing in the profile of secreted proteases. JOURNAL OF INSECT PHYSIOLOGY 2021; 131:104239. [PMID: 33845095 DOI: 10.1016/j.jinsphys.2021.104239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2021] [Revised: 03/26/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The work presents identification of antimicrobial peptides and proteins (AMPs) in the hemolymph of Galleria mellonella larvae infected with two Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains (ATCC 27,853 and PA18), differing in the profile of secreted proteases. The insects were immunized with bacteria cultivated in rich (LB) and minimal (M9) media, which resulted in appearance of a similar broad set of AMPs in the hemolymph. Among them, 13 peptides and proteins were identified, i.e. proline-rich peptides 1 and 2, lebocin-like anionic peptide 1 and anionic peptide 2, defensin/galiomicin, cecropin, cecropin D-like peptide, apolipophoricin, gallerimycin, moricin-like peptide B, lysozyme, apolipophorin III, and superoxide dismutase. Bacterial strain- and/or medium-dependent changes in the level of proline-rich peptide 1, anionic peptide 1 and 2, moricin-like peptide B, cecropin D-like and gallerimycin were observed. The analysis of the expression of genes encoding cecropin, gallerimycin, and galiomicin indicated that they were differently affected by the bacterial strain but mainly by the medium used for bacterial culture. The highest expression was found for the LB medium. In addition to the antibacterial and antifungal activity, proteolytic activity was detected in the hemolymph of the P. aeruginosa-infected insects. Based on these results and those presented in our previous reports, it can be postulated that the appearance of AMPs in G. mellonella hemolymph can be triggered not only by P. aeruginosa pathogen associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) but also by bacterial extracellular proteases secreted during infection. However, although there were no qualitative differences in the set of AMPs depending on the P. aeruginosa strain and medium, differences in the level of particular AMPs synthesized in response to the bacteria used were observed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariola Andrejko
- Department of Immunobiology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, Maria Curie-Skłodowska University, Akademicka 19 St., 20-033 Lublin, Poland.
| | - Paweł Mak
- Department of Analytical Biochemistry, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 7 St., 30-387 Krakow, Poland
| | - Anna Siemińska-Kuczer
- Department of Immunobiology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, Maria Curie-Skłodowska University, Akademicka 19 St., 20-033 Lublin, Poland
| | - Bartłomiej Iwański
- Department of Immunobiology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, Maria Curie-Skłodowska University, Akademicka 19 St., 20-033 Lublin, Poland
| | - Iwona Wojda
- Department of Immunobiology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, Maria Curie-Skłodowska University, Akademicka 19 St., 20-033 Lublin, Poland
| | - Piotr Suder
- Department of Analytical Chemistry and Biochemistry, Faculty of Materials Sciences and Ceramics, AGH University of Science and Technology, Mickiewicza 30 Ave., 30-059 Krakow, Poland
| | - Paula Kuleta
- Department of Analytical Biochemistry, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 7 St., 30-387 Krakow, Poland
| | - Karolina Regucka
- Department of Analytical Biochemistry, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 7 St., 30-387 Krakow, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Cytryńska
- Department of Immunobiology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, Maria Curie-Skłodowska University, Akademicka 19 St., 20-033 Lublin, Poland
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Evans A, Kavanagh KA. Evaluation of metal-based antimicrobial compounds for the treatment of bacterial pathogens. J Med Microbiol 2021; 70:001363. [PMID: 33961541 PMCID: PMC8289199 DOI: 10.1099/jmm.0.001363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2020] [Accepted: 04/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is one of the greatest global health challenges of modern times and its prevalence is rising worldwide. AMR within bacteria reduces the efficacy of antibiotics and increases both the morbidity and the mortality associated with bacterial infections. Despite this growing risk, few antibiotics with a novel mode of action are being produced, leading to a lack of antibiotics that can effectively treat bacterial infections with AMR. Metals have a history of antibacterial use but upon the discovery of antibiotics, often became overlooked as antibacterial agents. Meanwhile, metal-based complexes have been used as treatments for other diseases, such as the gold-containing drug auranofin, used to treat rheumatoid arthritis. Metal-based antibacterial compounds have novel modes of action that provide an advantage for the treatment of bacterial infections with resistance to conventional antibiotics. In this review, the antibacterial activity, mode of action, and potential for systemic use of a number of metal-based antibacterial complexes are discussed. The current limitations of these compounds are highlighted to determine if metal-based agents are a potential solution for the treatment of bacterial infections, especially those resistant to conventional antibiotics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andris Evans
- SSPC Pharma Research Centre, Department of Biology, Maynooth University, Co. Kildare, Ireland
| | - Kevin A. Kavanagh
- SSPC Pharma Research Centre, Department of Biology, Maynooth University, Co. Kildare, Ireland
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230
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Mannix-Fisher E, McLean S. The antimicrobial activity of silver acetate against Acinetobacter baumannii in a Galleria mellonella infection model. PeerJ 2021; 9:e11196. [PMID: 33981496 PMCID: PMC8071075 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.11196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2020] [Accepted: 03/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The increasing prevalence of bacterial infections that are resistant to antibiotic treatment has caused the scientific and medical communities to look for alternate remedies aimed at prevention and treatment. In addition to researching novel antimicrobials, there has also been much interest in revisiting some of the earliest therapies used by man. One such antimicrobial is silver; its use stretches back to the ancient Greeks but interest in its medicinal properties has increased in recent years due to the rise in antibiotic resistance. Currently antimicrobial silver is found in everything from lunch boxes to medical device implants. Though much is claimed about the antimicrobial efficacy of silver salts the research in this area is mixed. Methods Herein we investigated the efficacy of silver acetate against a carbapenem resistant strain of Acinetobacter baumannii to determine the in vitro activity of this silver salt against a World Health Organisation designated category I critical pathogen. Furthermore, we use the Galleria mellonella larvae model to assess toxicity of the compound and its efficacy in treating infections in a live host. Results We found that silver acetate can be delivered safely to Galleria at medically relevant and antimicrobial levels without detriment to the larvae and that administration of silver acetate to an infection model significantly improved survival. This demonstrates the selective toxicity of silver acetate for bacterial pathogens but also highlights the need for administration of well-defined doses of the antimicrobial to provide an efficacious treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eden Mannix-Fisher
- School of Science and Technology, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, UK
| | - Samantha McLean
- School of Science and Technology, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, UK
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231
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Zheng X, Fang R, Wang C, Tian X, Lin J, Zeng W, Zhou T, Xu C. Resistance Profiles and Biological Characteristics of Rifampicin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Small-Colony Variants. Infect Drug Resist 2021; 14:1527-1536. [PMID: 33911880 PMCID: PMC8071703 DOI: 10.2147/idr.s301863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2021] [Accepted: 03/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) is a major contributor to nosocomial and community-acquired infections. S. aureus small colony variants (SCVs) which changed in relevant phenotype have made more limited and difficult for therapeutic options against S. aureus infections increasingly. Rifampicin is considered as the "last-resort" antibiotic against S. aureus. Our study investigated resistance profiles and biological characteristics of rifampicin-resistant S. aureus SCVs. Methods We collected S. aureus SCVs that were selected from 41 rifampicin-resistant clinical isolates. Then, biological characteristics, resistance spectrum, and rifampicin resistance mechanisms of tested S. aureus SCVs and corresponding parental strains were investigated by classic microbiological methods, agar dilution method, polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Moreover, the fitness cost of S. aureus SCVs, including growth, biofilm formation ability, and virulence profile, was also determined by bacterial growth curve assay, biofilm formation assay, and Galleria mellonella infection model. Results There were three S. aureus SCVs (JP310 SCVs, JP1450 SCVs, JP1486 SCVs) that were selected from 41 rifampicin-resistant S. aureus. S. aureus SCVs colonies were tiny, with decreased pigmentation, and the hemolysis circle was not obvious compared with corresponding parental strains. And SCVs could not be restored to normal-colony phenotype after hemin, menaquinone, or thymidine supplementation. Different rpoB mutations occurred in JP1486 SCVs. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing revealed MICs of SCVs were higher than corresponding parental strains. Besides, the growth ability and virulence of SCVs were lower, and biofilm formation ability of which increased compared with parental strains. Conclusion S. aureus SCVs share the rifampicin resistance mechanisms with parental strains, although there were some differences in the position of rpoB mutations. Moreover, we found that the biological characteristics of SCVs were significantly different from corresponding parental strains. In contrast, decreased susceptibility to other antibiotics of SCVs was observed during phenotype switch. Furthermore, SCVs incur the fitness cost.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangkuo Zheng
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, People's Republic of China
| | - Renchi Fang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310003, People's Republic of China
| | - Chong Wang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Qingdao Municipal Hospital, Qingdao, 266000, People's Republic of China
| | - Xuebin Tian
- School of Laboratory Medicine and Life Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, People's Republic of China
| | - Jie Lin
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, People's Republic of China
| | - Weiliang Zeng
- School of Laboratory Medicine and Life Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, People's Republic of China
| | - Tieli Zhou
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, People's Republic of China
| | - Chunquan Xu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, People's Republic of China
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232
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Ménard G, Rouillon A, Ghukasyan G, Emily M, Felden B, Donnio PY. Galleria mellonella Larvae as an Infection Model to Investigate sRNA-Mediated Pathogenesis in Staphylococcus aureus. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2021; 11:631710. [PMID: 33954118 PMCID: PMC8089379 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2021.631710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2020] [Accepted: 03/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Small regulatory RNAs (sRNAs) are key players in bacterial regulatory networks. Monitoring their expression inside living colonized or infected organisms is essential for identifying sRNA functions, but few studies have looked at sRNA expression during host infection with bacterial pathogens. Insufficient in vivo studies monitoring sRNA expression attest to the difficulties in collecting such data, we therefore developed a non-mammalian infection model using larval Galleria mellonella to analyze the roles of Staphylococcus aureus sRNAs during larval infection and to quickly determine possible sRNA involvement in staphylococcal virulence before proceeding to more complicated animal testing. We began by using the model to test infected larvae for immunohistochemical evidence of infection as well as host inflammatory responses over time. To monitor sRNA expression during infection, total RNAs were extracted from the larvae and invading bacteria at different time points. The expression profiles of the tested sRNAs were distinct and they fluctuated over time, with expression of both sprD and sprC increased during infection and associated with mortality, while rnaIII expression remained barely detectable over time. A strong correlation was observed between sprD expression and the mortality. To confirm these results, we used sRNA-knockout mutants to investigate sRNA involvement in Staphylococcus aureus pathogenesis, finding that the decrease in death rates is delayed when either sprD or sprC was lacking. These results demonstrate the relevance of this G. mellonella model for investigating the role of sRNAs as transcriptional regulators involved in staphylococcal virulence. This insect model provides a fast and easy method for monitoring sRNA (and mRNA) participation in S. aureus pathogenesis, and can also be used for other human bacterial pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guillaume Ménard
- Univ Rennes, CHU Rennes, INSERM, BRM [Bacterial Regulatory RNAs and Medicine], SB2H (service de Bactériologie Hygiène-Hospitalière), UMR_S 1230, F-35000, Rennes, France
| | - Astrid Rouillon
- Univ Rennes, INSERM, BRM (Bacterial Regulatory RNAs and Medicine), UMR_S 1230, F-35000, Rennes, France
| | - Gevorg Ghukasyan
- Univ Rennes, CNRS, INSERM, BIOSIT (Biologie, Santé, Innovation Technologique de Rennes), UMS 3480, US_S018, F-35000, Rennes, France
| | - Mathieu Emily
- Institut Agro, CNRS, Univ Rennes, IRMAR (Institut de recherche Mathématique de Rennes), UMR 6625, F-35000, Rennes, France
| | - Brice Felden
- Univ Rennes, INSERM, BRM (Bacterial Regulatory RNAs and Medicine), UMR_S 1230, F-35000, Rennes, France
| | - Pierre-Yves Donnio
- Univ Rennes, CHU Rennes, INSERM, BRM [Bacterial Regulatory RNAs and Medicine], SB2H (service de Bactériologie Hygiène-Hospitalière), UMR_S 1230, F-35000, Rennes, France
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233
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Asai M, Li Y, Spiropoulos J, Cooley W, Everest D, Robertson BD, Langford PR, Newton SM. A novel biosafety level 2 compliant tuberculosis infection model using a Δ leuDΔ panCD double auxotroph of Mycobacterium tuberculosis H37Rv and Galleria mellonella. Virulence 2021; 11:811-824. [PMID: 32530737 PMCID: PMC7550006 DOI: 10.1080/21505594.2020.1781486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Mammalian infection models have contributed significantly to our understanding of the host-mycobacterial interaction, revealing potential mechanisms and targets for novel antimycobacterial therapeutics. However, the use of conventional mammalian models such as mice, are typically expensive, high maintenance, require specialized animal housing, and are ethically regulated. Furthermore, research using Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB), is inherently difficult as work needs to be carried out at biosafety level 3 (BSL3). The insect larvae of Galleria mellonella (greater wax moth), have become increasingly popular as an infection model, and we previously demonstrated its potential as a mycobacterial infection model using Mycobacterium bovis BCG. Here we present a novel BSL2 complaint MTB infection model using G. mellonella in combination with a bioluminescent ΔleuDΔpanCD double auxotrophic mutant of MTB H37Rv (SAMTB lux) which offers safety and practical advantages over working with wild type MTB. Our results show a SAMTB lux dose dependent survival of G. mellonella larvae and demonstrate proliferation and persistence of SAMTB lux bioluminescence over a 1 week infection time course. Histopathological analysis of G. mellonella, highlight the formation of early granuloma-like structures which matured over time. We additionally demonstrate the drug efficacy of first (isoniazid, rifampicin, and ethambutol) and second line (moxifloxacin) antimycobacterial drugs. Our findings demonstrate the broad potential of this insect model to study MTB infection under BSL2 conditions. We anticipate that the successful adaptation and implementation of this model will remove the inherent limitations of MTB research at BSL3 and increase tuberculosis research output.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masanori Asai
- Section of Paediatric Infectious Disease, Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London , London, UK
| | - Yanwen Li
- Section of Paediatric Infectious Disease, Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London , London, UK
| | - John Spiropoulos
- Department of Pathology, Animal and Plant Health Agency , Addlestone, UK
| | - William Cooley
- Department of Pathology, Animal and Plant Health Agency , Addlestone, UK
| | - David Everest
- Department of Pathology, Animal and Plant Health Agency , Addlestone, UK
| | - Brian D Robertson
- MRC Centre for Molecular Bacteriology and Infection, Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London , London, UK
| | - Paul R Langford
- Section of Paediatric Infectious Disease, Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London , London, UK
| | - Sandra M Newton
- Section of Paediatric Infectious Disease, Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London , London, UK
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234
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Grosjean M, Guénard S, Giraud C, Muller C, Plésiat P, Juarez P. Targeted Genome Reduction of Pseudomonas aeruginosa Strain PAO1 Led to the Development of Hypovirulent and Hypersusceptible rDNA Hosts. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2021; 9:640450. [PMID: 33777913 PMCID: PMC7991573 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2021.640450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Accepted: 02/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a human opportunistic pathogen responsible for nosocomial infections, which is largely used as a model organism to study antibiotic resistance and pathogenesis. As other species of the genus, its wide metabolic versatility appears to be attractive to study biotechnological applications. However, its natural resistance to antibiotics and its capacity to produce a wide range of virulence factors argue against its biotechnological potential. By reducing the genome of the reference strain PAO1, we explored the development of four hypovirulent and hypersusceptible recombinant DNA hosts (rDNA hosts). Despite deleting up to 0.8% of the core genome, any of the developed strains presented alterations of fitness when cultured under standard laboratory conditions. Other features such as antibiotic susceptibility, cytotoxicity, in vivo pathogenesis, and expression of heterologous peptides were also explored to highlight the potential applications of these models. This work stands as the first stage of the development of a safe-platform strain of Pseudomonas aeruginosa that will be further optimized for biotechnological applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mélanie Grosjean
- Département Recherche et Développement, Smaltis SAS, Besançon, France.,Laboratoire de Bactériologie, UMR CNRS 6249 Chrono-Environnement, Université Bourgogne Franche-Comté, Besançon, France
| | - Sophie Guénard
- Département Recherche et Développement, Smaltis SAS, Besançon, France
| | | | - Cédric Muller
- Département Recherche et Développement, Smaltis SAS, Besançon, France
| | - Patrick Plésiat
- Laboratoire de Bactériologie, UMR CNRS 6249 Chrono-Environnement, Université Bourgogne Franche-Comté, Besançon, France.,Centre National de Référence de la Résistance aux Antibiotiques, Centre Hospitalier Régional Universitaire de Besançon, Besançon, France
| | - Paulo Juarez
- Département Recherche et Développement, Smaltis SAS, Besançon, France
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235
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Möller J, Busch A, Berens C, Hotzel H, Burkovski A. Newly Isolated Animal Pathogen Corynebacterium silvaticum Is Cytotoxic to Human Epithelial Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22073549. [PMID: 33805570 PMCID: PMC8037504 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22073549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2021] [Revised: 03/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Corynebacterium silvaticum is a newly identified animal pathogen of forest animals such as roe deer and wild boars. The species is closely related to the emerging human pathogen Corynebacterium ulcerans and the widely distributed animal pathogen Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis. In this study, Corynebacterium silvaticum strain W25 was characterized with respect to its interaction with human cell lines. Microscopy, measurement of transepithelial electric resistance and cytotoxicity assays revealed detrimental effects of C. silvaticum to different human epithelial cell lines and to an invertebrate animal model, Galleria mellonella larvae, comparable to diphtheria toxin-secreting C. ulcerans. Furthermore, the results obtained may indicate a considerable zoonotic potential of this newly identified species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jens Möller
- Microbiology Division, Department of Biology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany;
| | - Anne Busch
- Institute of Bacterial Infections and Zoonoses, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institute, 07743 Jena, Germany; (A.B.); (H.H.)
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Jena University Hospital, 07747 Jena, Germany
| | - Christian Berens
- Institute of Molecular Pathogenesis, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institute, 007743 Jena, Germany;
| | - Helmut Hotzel
- Institute of Bacterial Infections and Zoonoses, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institute, 07743 Jena, Germany; (A.B.); (H.H.)
| | - Andreas Burkovski
- Microbiology Division, Department of Biology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-9131-852-8086
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236
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Chen SJ, Shu HY, Lin GH. Regulation of tert-Butyl Hydroperoxide Resistance by Chromosomal OhrR in A. baumannii ATCC 19606. Microorganisms 2021; 9:microorganisms9030629. [PMID: 33803549 PMCID: PMC8002998 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms9030629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2021] [Revised: 03/11/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In this study, we show that Acinetobacter baumannii ATCC 19606 harbors two sets of ohrR-ohr genes, respectively encoded in chromosomal DNA and a pMAC plasmid. We found no significant difference in organic hydroperoxide (OHP) resistance between strains with or without pMAC. However, a disk diffusion assay conducted by exposing wild-type, ∆ohrR-C, C represented gene on chromosome, or ∆ohr-C single mutants, or ∆ohrR-C∆ohr-C double mutants to tert-butyl hydroperoxide (tBHP) found that the ohrR-p-ohr-p genes, p represented genes on pMAC plasmid, may be able to complement the function of their chromosomal counterparts. Interestingly, ∆ohr-C single mutants generated in A. baumannii ATCC 17978, which does not harbor pMAC, demonstrated delayed exponential growth and loss of viability following exposure to 135 μg of tBHP. In a survival assay conducted with Galleria mellonella larvae, these mutants demonstrated almost complete loss of virulence. Via an electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA), we found that OhrR-C was able to bind to the promoter regions of both chromosomal and pMAC ohr-p genes, but with varying affinity. A gain-of-function assay conducted in Escherichia coli showed that OhrR-C was not only capable of suppressing transformed ohr-C genes but may also repress endogenous enzymes. Taken together, our findings suggest that chromosomal ohrR-C-ohr-C genes act as the major system in protecting A. baumannii ATCC 19606 from OHP stresses, but the ohrR-p-ohr-p genes on pMAC can provide a supplementary protective effect, and the interaction between these genes may affect other aspects of bacterial viability, such as growth and virulence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shih-Jie Chen
- Master Program in Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, Tzu Chi University, Hualien 97004, Taiwan;
| | - Hung-Yu Shu
- Department of Bioscience Technology, Chang Jung Christian University, Tainan 71101, Taiwan;
| | - Guang-Huey Lin
- Master Program in Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, Tzu Chi University, Hualien 97004, Taiwan;
- International College, Tzu Chi University, Hualien 97004, Taiwan
- Correspondence: or
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237
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The Use of Galleria mellonella (Wax Moth) as an Infection Model for Group A Streptococcus. Methods Mol Biol 2021; 2136:279-286. [PMID: 32430829 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-0467-0_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/11/2023]
Abstract
Recently, the use of Galleria mellonella larvae as a nonmammalian model to simulate bacterial infectious diseases has shown to be a rapid, simple, and cost-effective alternative. The insect's innate immune response is remarkably similar to that of the vertebrates, and consists of both the cellular and the humoral immune response. Here, we provide a protocol for using G. mellonella larvae to study virulence of GAS, including the use of a health score system for quantitative analysis and the methods for assessing post-infection bacterial burden in vivo.
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238
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Durieux MF, Melloul É, Jemel S, Roisin L, Dardé ML, Guillot J, Dannaoui É, Botterel F. Galleria mellonella as a screening tool to study virulence factors of Aspergillus fumigatus. Virulence 2021; 12:818-834. [PMID: 33682618 PMCID: PMC7946008 DOI: 10.1080/21505594.2021.1893945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The invertebrate Galleria mellonella has increasingly and widely been used in the last few years to study complex host–microbe interactions. Aspergillus fumigatus is one of the most pathogenic fungi causing life-threatening diseases in humans and animals. Galleria mellonella larvae has been proven as a reliable model for the analysis of pathogenesis and virulence factors, enable to screen a large number of A. fumigatus strains. This review describes the different uses of G. mellonella to study A. fumigatus and provides a comparison of the different protocols to trace fungal pathogenicity. The review also includes a summary of the diverse mutants tested in G. mellonella, and their respective contribution to A. fumigatus virulence. Previous investigations indicated that G. mellonella should be considered as an interesting tool even though a mammalian model may be required to complete and verify initial data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie-Fleur Durieux
- Laboratoire de Parasitologie - Mycologie, CHU de Limoges, Limoges, France.,EA 7380 Dynamic, Université Paris Est Créteil, EnvA, USC ANSES, Créteil, France
| | - Élise Melloul
- EA 7380 Dynamic, Université Paris Est Créteil, EnvA, USC ANSES, Créteil, France
| | - Sana Jemel
- EA 7380 Dynamic, Université Paris Est Créteil, EnvA, USC ANSES, Créteil, France
| | - Lolita Roisin
- EA 7380 Dynamic, Université Paris Est Créteil, EnvA, USC ANSES, Créteil, France
| | - Marie-Laure Dardé
- Laboratoire de Parasitologie - Mycologie, CHU de Limoges, Limoges, France
| | - Jacques Guillot
- EA 7380 Dynamic, Université Paris Est Créteil, EnvA, USC ANSES, Créteil, France.,École Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - Éric Dannaoui
- EA 7380 Dynamic, Université Paris Est Créteil, EnvA, USC ANSES, Créteil, France.,Unité de Parasitologie-mycologie, Service de Microbiologie, Université Paris Descartes, Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | - Françoise Botterel
- EA 7380 Dynamic, Université Paris Est Créteil, EnvA, USC ANSES, Créteil, France.,Unité de Mycologie, Département de Prévention, Diagnostic Et Traitement Des Infections, Groupe Hospitalier Henri Mondor - Albert Chenevier, APHP, France
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239
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Toscani A, Hind C, Clifford M, Kim SH, Gucic A, Woolley C, Saeed N, Rahman KM, Sutton JM, Castagnolo D. Development of photoactivable phenanthroline-based manganese(I) CO-Releasing molecules (PhotoCORMs) active against ESKAPE bacteria and bacterial biofilms. Eur J Med Chem 2021; 213:113172. [PMID: 33516984 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2021.113172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2020] [Revised: 01/06/2021] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
The synthesis and biological evaluation of a series of phenanthroline-based visible-light-activated manganese(I) carbon-monoxide-releasing molecules (PhotoCORMs) against ESKAPE bacteria and bacterial biofilms is reported. Four carbonyl compounds of general formula fac-[Mn(N∧N)(CO)3(L)] have been synthesized and characterized. Despite being thermally stable in the absence of light, these PhotoCORMs readily release CO upon blue (435-450 nm) LED light irradiation as confirmed by spectrophotometric CO releasing experiments (Mb Assay). The antibacterial activity of the four PhotoCORMs has been investigated against a panel of ESKAPE bacteria. The compounds 1-3 were found to be effective antibacterials at low concentrations against multidrug-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae and Acinetobacter baumannii when photoactivated with blue-light. In addition, the PhotoCORMs 1-2 were found to inhibit the formation of Klebsiella pneumoniae and Acinetobacter baumannii bacterial biofilms at low concentrations (MIC = 4-8 μg/mL), turning out to be promising candidates to combat antimicrobial resistance. The antibacterial and biofilm inhibitory effect of the PhotoCORMs is plausibly due to the release of CO as well as the formation of phenanthroline photo-by-products as revealed by spectroscopy and microbiology experiments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anita Toscani
- School of Cancer and Pharmaceutical Sciences, King's College London, London SE1 1DB, United Kingdom
| | - Charlotte Hind
- Research and Development Institute, National Infections Service, Porton Down, Public Health England, Salisbury SP4 0JG, Wiltshire, United Kingdom
| | - Melanie Clifford
- Research and Development Institute, National Infections Service, Porton Down, Public Health England, Salisbury SP4 0JG, Wiltshire, United Kingdom
| | - Seong-Heun Kim
- School of Cancer and Pharmaceutical Sciences, King's College London, London SE1 1DB, United Kingdom
| | - Antonia Gucic
- School of Cancer and Pharmaceutical Sciences, King's College London, London SE1 1DB, United Kingdom
| | - Charlotte Woolley
- Research and Development Institute, National Infections Service, Porton Down, Public Health England, Salisbury SP4 0JG, Wiltshire, United Kingdom
| | - Naima Saeed
- School of Cancer and Pharmaceutical Sciences, King's College London, London SE1 1DB, United Kingdom
| | - Khondaker Miraz Rahman
- School of Cancer and Pharmaceutical Sciences, King's College London, London SE1 1DB, United Kingdom
| | - J Mark Sutton
- Research and Development Institute, National Infections Service, Porton Down, Public Health England, Salisbury SP4 0JG, Wiltshire, United Kingdom.
| | - Daniele Castagnolo
- School of Cancer and Pharmaceutical Sciences, King's College London, London SE1 1DB, United Kingdom.
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240
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Xie N, Jiang L, Chen M, Zhang G, Liu Y, Li J, Huang X. In vitro and in vivo Antibacterial Activity of Linezolid Plus Fosfomycin Against Staphylococcus aureus with Resistance to One Drug. Infect Drug Resist 2021; 14:639-649. [PMID: 33658805 PMCID: PMC7917344 DOI: 10.2147/idr.s290332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2020] [Accepted: 01/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective The purpose of this study is to assess the in vitro/vivo activities of linezolid plus fosfomycin against Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) isolates with varying susceptibility to the study drugs. Methods The increasing concentration stepwise method was used to induce S. aureus resistant strains. The in vitro antibacterial activity of linezolid combined with fosfomycin against S. aureus in vitro was studied by time-kill curve and PAE. The transmission electron microscopy (TEM) was employed to observe the cell morphology of bacteria treated with drug, and the changes of cell wall thickness were recorded. The Galleria mellonella infection model was established to demonstrate the in vivo efficacy of linezolid and fosfomycin against S. aureus with varying susceptibility. Results The antibiotic combination showed excellent synergistic or additive effects on the original and the linezolid-resistant strain, but showed indifferent effect for fosfomycin-resistant strain. TEM images showed that fosfomycin alone and in combined could reduce the cell wall thickness of the strains resistant to linezolid and cell lysis, while linezolid increases the cell wall thickness of the strains resistant to fosfomycin. In the Galleria mellonella infection model, the survival rate of the antibiotic combined was improved compared with that of the single drug. There was a good correlation between in vivo efficacy and in vitro susceptibility. Conclusion The type of interaction expressed in the test combination was highly dependent on fosfomycin resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Xie
- Department of Basic and Clinical Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, People's Republic of China
| | - Lifang Jiang
- Department of Basic and Clinical Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, People's Republic of China
| | - Mingtao Chen
- Department of Basic and Clinical Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, People's Republic of China
| | - Guijun Zhang
- Department of Basic and Clinical Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, People's Republic of China
| | - Yanyan Liu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiabin Li
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaohui Huang
- Department of Basic and Clinical Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, People's Republic of China
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241
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Senior NJ, Titball RW. Isolation and primary culture of Galleria mellonella hemocytes for infection studies. F1000Res 2021; 9:1392. [PMID: 33520196 PMCID: PMC7818094 DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.27504.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/11/2021] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Galleria mellonella larvae are increasingly used to study the mechanisms of virulence of microbial pathogens and to assess the efficacy of antimicrobials. The G. mellonella model can faithfully reproduce many aspects of microbial disease which are seen in mammals, and therefore allows a reduction in the use of mammals. The model is now being widely used by researchers in universities, research institutes and industry. An attraction of the model is the interaction between pathogen and host. Hemocytes are specialised phagocytic cells which resemble neutrophils in mammals and play a major role in the response of the larvae to infection. However, the detailed interactions of hemocytes with pathogens is poorly understood, and is complicated by the presence of different sub-populations of cells. We report here a method for the isolation of hemocytes from Galleria mellonella. A needle-stick injury of larvae, before harvesting, markedly increased the recovery of hemocytes in the hemolymph. The majority of the hemocytes recovered were granulocyte-like cells. The hemocytes survived for at least 7 days in culture at either 28°C or 37°C. Pre-treatment of larvae with antibiotics did not enhance the survival of the cultured hemocytes. Our studies highlight the importance of including sham injected, rather than un-injected, controls when the G. mellonella model is used to test antimicrobial compounds. Our method will now allow investigations of the interactions of microbial pathogens with insect hemocytes enhancing the value of G. mellonella as an alternative model to replace the use of mammals, and for studies on hemocyte biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola J. Senior
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences - Biosciences, University of Exeter, Exeter, Devon, EX4 4QD, UK
| | - Richard W. Titball
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences - Biosciences, University of Exeter, Exeter, Devon, EX4 4QD, UK,
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242
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Lara-Reyes N, Jiménez-Cortés JG, Canales-Lazcano J, Franco B, Krams I, Contreras-Garduño J. Insect Immune Evasion by Dauer and Nondauer Entomopathogenic Nematodes. J Parasitol 2021; 107:115-124. [DOI: 10.1645/20-61] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Nancy Lara-Reyes
- Departamento de Biología, Universidad de Guanajuato, 36050, Guanajuato, Guanajuato, México
| | - J. Guillermo Jiménez-Cortés
- Laboratorio de Biología de Parásitos, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, 04510. México City, México
| | - Jorge Canales-Lazcano
- Escuela Nacional de Estudios Superiores, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, 58190, Morelia, México
| | - Bernardo Franco
- Departamento de Biología, Universidad de Guanajuato, 36050, Guanajuato, Guanajuato, México
| | - Indrikis Krams
- Department of Zoology and Animal Ecology, Faculty of Biology, University of Latvia, Riga, 1004, Latvia
| | - Jorge Contreras-Garduño
- Escuela Nacional de Estudios Superiores, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, 58190, Morelia, México
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243
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Batool N, Shamim A, Chaurasia AK, Kim KK. Genome-Wide Analysis of Staphylococcus aureus Sequence Type 72 Isolates Provides Insights Into Resistance Against Antimicrobial Agents and Virulence Potential. Front Microbiol 2021; 11:613800. [PMID: 33552024 PMCID: PMC7854921 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2020.613800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2020] [Accepted: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Staphylococcus aureus sequence type 72 (ST72) is a major community-associated (CA) methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) that has rapidly entered the hospital setting in Korea, causing mild superficial skin wounds to severe bloodstream infections. In this study, we sequenced and analyzed the genomes of one methicillin-resistant human isolate and one methicillin-sensitive human isolate of ST72 from Korea, K07-204 and K07-561, respectively. We used a subtractive genomics approach to compare these two isolates to other 27 ST72 isolates to investigate antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and virulence potential. Furthermore, we validated genotypic differences by phenotypic characteristics analysis. Comparative and subtractive genomics analysis revealed that K07-204 contains methicillin (mecA), ampicillin (blaZ), erythromycin (ermC), aminoglycoside (aadD), and tetracycline (tet38, tetracycline efflux pump) resistance genes while K07-561 has ampicillin (blaZ) and tetracycline (tet38) resistance genes. In addition to antibiotics, K07-204 was reported to show resistance to lysostaphin treatment. K07-204 also has additional virulence genes (adsA, aur, hysA, icaABCDR, lip, lukD, sdrC, and sdrE) compared to K07-561, which may explain the differential virulence potential of these human isolates of ST72. Unexpectedly, the virulence potential of K07-561 was higher in an in vivo wax-worm infection model than that of K07-204, putatively due to the presence of a 20-fold higher staphyloxanthin concentration than K07-204. Comprehensive genomic analysis of these two human isolates, with 27 ST72 isolates, and S. aureus USA300 (ST8) suggested that acquisition of both virulence and antibiotics resistance genes by ST72 isolates might have facilitated their adaptation from a community to a hospital setting where the selective pressure imposed by antibiotics selects for more resistant and virulent isolates. Taken together, the results of the current study provide insight into the genotypic and phenotypic features of various ST72 clones across the globe, delivering more options for developing therapeutics and rapid molecular diagnostic tools to detect resistant bacteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nayab Batool
- Department of Precision Medicine, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Suwon, South Korea
| | - Amen Shamim
- Department of Precision Medicine, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Suwon, South Korea
| | - Akhilesh Kumar Chaurasia
- Department of Precision Medicine, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Suwon, South Korea.,Institute of Antimicrobial Resistance and Therapeutics (IAMRT), Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU), Suwon, South Korea
| | - Kyeong Kyu Kim
- Department of Precision Medicine, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Suwon, South Korea.,Institute of Antimicrobial Resistance and Therapeutics (IAMRT), Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU), Suwon, South Korea.,Samsung Advanced Institute for Health Sciences and Technology (SAIHST), Samsung Medical Center (SMC), Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
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Asai M, Sheehan G, Li Y, Robertson BD, Kavanagh K, Langford PR, Newton SM. Innate Immune Responses of Galleria mellonella to Mycobacterium bovis BCG Challenge Identified Using Proteomic and Molecular Approaches. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2021; 11:619981. [PMID: 33634038 PMCID: PMC7900627 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2021.619981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2020] [Accepted: 01/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The larvae of the insect Galleria mellonella, have recently been established as a non-mammalian infection model for the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC). To gain further insight into the potential of this model, we applied proteomic (label-free quantification) and transcriptomic (gene expression) approaches to characterise the innate immune response of G. mellonella to infection with Mycobacterium bovis BCG lux over a 168 h time course. Proteomic analysis of the haemolymph from infected larvae revealed distinct changes in the proteome at all time points (4, 48, 168 h). Reverse transcriptase quantitative PCR confirmed induction of five genes (gloverin, cecropin, IMPI, hemolin, and Hdd11), which encoded proteins found to be differentially abundant from the proteomic analysis. However, the trend between gene expression and protein abundance were largely inconsistent (20%). Overall, the data are in agreement with previous phenotypic observations such as haemocyte internalization of mycobacterial bacilli (hemolin/β-actin), formation of granuloma-like structures (Hdd11), and melanization (phenoloxidase activating enzyme 3 and serpins). Furthermore, similarities in immune expression in G. mellonella, mouse, zebrafish and in vitro cell-line models of tuberculosis infection were also identified for the mechanism of phagocytosis (β-actin). Cecropins (antimicrobial peptides), which share the same α-helical motif as a highly potent peptide expressed in humans (h-CAP-18), were induced in G. mellonella in response to infection, giving insight into a potential starting point for novel antimycobacterial agents. We believe that these novel insights into the innate immune response further contribute to the validation of this cost-effective and ethically acceptable insect model to study members of the MTBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masanori Asai
- Section of Paediatric Infectious Disease, Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Gerard Sheehan
- SSPC Pharma Research Centre, Department of Biology, Maynooth University, Maynooth, Ireland.,Institute of Microbiology and Infection, School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Yanwen Li
- Section of Paediatric Infectious Disease, Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Brian D Robertson
- MRC Centre for Molecular Bacteriology and Infection, Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Kevin Kavanagh
- SSPC Pharma Research Centre, Department of Biology, Maynooth University, Maynooth, Ireland
| | - Paul R Langford
- Section of Paediatric Infectious Disease, Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Sandra M Newton
- Section of Paediatric Infectious Disease, Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
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245
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Mea HJ, Yong PVC, Wong EH. An overview of Acinetobacter baumannii pathogenesis: Motility, adherence and biofilm formation. Microbiol Res 2021; 247:126722. [PMID: 33618061 DOI: 10.1016/j.micres.2021.126722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2020] [Revised: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The Gram-negative opportunistic pathogen Acinetobacter baumannii has gain notoriety in recent decades, primarily due to its propensity to cause nosocomial infections in critically ill patients. Its global spread, multi-drug resistance features and plethora of virulence factors make it a serious threat to public health worldwide. Though much effort has been expended in uncovering its successes, it continues to confound researchers due to its highly adaptive nature, mutating to meet the needs of a given environment. Its persistence in the clinical setting allows it to be in close proximity to a potential host, where contact can be made facilitating infection and colonization. In this article, we aim to provide a current overview of the bacterial virulence factors, specifically focusing on factors involved in the initial stages of infection, highlighting the role of adaptation facilitated by two-component systems and biofilm formation. Finally, the study of host-pathogen interactions using available animal models, their suitability, notable findings and some perspectives moving forward are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hing Jian Mea
- School of Biosciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Taylor's University Lakeside Campus, 47500, Subang Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia
| | - Phelim Voon Chen Yong
- School of Biosciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Taylor's University Lakeside Campus, 47500, Subang Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia
| | - Eng Hwa Wong
- School of Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Taylor's University Lakeside Campus, 47500, Subang Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia.
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246
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Bidaud AL, Schwarz P, Herbreteau G, Dannaoui E. Techniques for the Assessment of In Vitro and In Vivo Antifungal Combinations. J Fungi (Basel) 2021; 7:jof7020113. [PMID: 33557026 PMCID: PMC7913650 DOI: 10.3390/jof7020113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2021] [Revised: 01/28/2021] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic fungal infections are associated with high mortality rates despite adequate treatment. Moreover, acquired resistance to antifungals is increasing, which further complicates the therapeutic management. One strategy to overcome antifungal resistance is to use antifungal combinations. In vitro, several techniques are used to assess drug interactions, such as the broth microdilution checkerboard, agar-diffusion methods, and time-kill curves. Currently, the most widely used technique is the checkerboard method. The aim of all these techniques is to determine if the interaction between antifungal agents is synergistic, indifferent, or antagonistic. However, the interpretation of the results remains difficult. Several methods of analysis can be used, based on different theories. The most commonly used method is the calculation of the fractional inhibitory concentration index. Determination of the usefulness of combination treatments in patients needs well-conducted clinical trials, which are difficult. It is therefore important to study antifungal combinations in vivo, in experimental animal models of fungal infections. Although mammalian models have mostly been used, new alternative animal models in invertebrates look promising. To evaluate the antifungal efficacy, the most commonly used criteria are the mortality rate and the fungal load in the target organs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne-Laure Bidaud
- Parasitology-Mycology Unit, Microbiology Department, APHP, European Georges Pompidou Hospital, Paris-Descartes University, F-75015 Paris, France;
| | - Patrick Schwarz
- Department of Internal Medicine, Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, University Hospital Marburg, Baldingerstraße, D-35043 Marburg, Germany;
- Center for Invasive Mycoses and Antifungals, Philipps University Marburg, D-35037 Marburg, Germany
| | | | - Eric Dannaoui
- Parasitology-Mycology Unit, Microbiology Department, APHP, European Georges Pompidou Hospital, Paris-Descartes University, F-75015 Paris, France;
- Dynamyc Research Group, Paris Est Créteil University (UPEC, EnvA), F-94010 Paris, France
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +33-1-56-09-39-48; Fax: +33-1-56-09-24-46
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247
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Rethinking animal models of sepsis - working towards improved clinical translation whilst integrating the 3Rs. Clin Sci (Lond) 2021; 134:1715-1734. [PMID: 32648582 PMCID: PMC7352061 DOI: 10.1042/cs20200679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2020] [Revised: 06/24/2020] [Accepted: 06/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Sepsis is a major worldwide healthcare issue with unmet clinical need. Despite extensive animal research in this area, successful clinical translation has been largely unsuccessful. We propose one reason for this is that, sometimes, the experimental question is misdirected or unrealistic expectations are being made of the animal model. As sepsis models can lead to a rapid and substantial suffering – it is essential that we continually review experimental approaches and undertake a full harm:benefit impact assessment for each study. In some instances, this may require refinement of existing sepsis models. In other cases, it may be replacement to a different experimental system altogether, answering a mechanistic question whilst aligning with the principles of reduction, refinement and replacement (3Rs). We discuss making better use of patient data to identify potentially useful therapeutic targets which can subsequently be validated in preclinical systems. This may be achieved through greater use of construct validity models, from which mechanistic conclusions are drawn. We argue that such models could provide equally useful scientific data as face validity models, but with an improved 3Rs impact. Indeed, construct validity models may not require sepsis to be modelled, per se. We propose that approaches that could support and refine clinical translation of research findings, whilst reducing the overall welfare burden on research animals.
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248
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Role of CgTpo4 in Polyamine and Antimicrobial Peptide Resistance: Determining Virulence in Candida glabrata. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22031376. [PMID: 33573089 PMCID: PMC7866538 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22031376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Revised: 01/18/2021] [Accepted: 01/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Candida glabrata is an emerging fungal pathogen whose success depends on its ability to resist antifungal drugs but also to thrive against host defenses. In this study, the predicted multidrug transporter CgTpo4 (encoded by ORF CAGL0L10912g) is described as a new determinant of virulence in C. glabrata, using the infection model Galleria mellonella. The CgTPO4 gene was found to be required for the C. glabrata ability to kill G. mellonella. The transporter encoded by this gene is also necessary for antimicrobial peptide (AMP) resistance, specifically against histatin-5. Interestingly, G. mellonella’s AMP expression was found to be strongly activated in response to C. glabrata infection, suggesting AMPs are a key antifungal defense. CgTpo4 was also found to be a plasma membrane exporter of polyamines, especially spermidine, suggesting that CgTpo4 is able to export polyamines and AMPs, thus conferring resistance to both stress agents. Altogether, this study presents the polyamine exporter CgTpo4 as a determinant of C. glabrata virulence, which acts by protecting the yeast cells from the overexpression of AMPs, deployed as a host defense mechanism.
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249
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Burkholderia pseudomallei OMVs derived from infection mimicking conditions elicit similar protection to a live-attenuated vaccine. NPJ Vaccines 2021; 6:18. [PMID: 33514749 PMCID: PMC7846723 DOI: 10.1038/s41541-021-00281-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2020] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Burkholderia pseudomallei is a Gram-negative, facultative intracellular bacillus that causes the disease melioidosis. B. pseudomallei expresses a number of proteins that contribute to its intracellular survival in the mammalian host. We previously demonstrated that immunization with OMVs derived from B. pseudomallei grown in nutrient-rich media protects mice against lethal disease. Here, we evaluated if OMVs derived from B. pseudomallei grown under macrophage-mimicking growth conditions could be enriched with intracellular-stage proteins in order to improve the vaccine. We show that OMVs produced in this manner (M9 OMVs) contain proteins associated with intracellular survival yet are non-toxic to living cells. Immunization of mice provides significant protection against pulmonary infection similar to that achieved with a live attenuated vaccine and is associated with increased IgG, CD4+, and CD8+ T cells. OMVs possess inherent adjuvanticity and drive DC activation and maturation. These results indicate that M9 OMVs constitute a new promising vaccine against melioidosis.
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250
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Hesketh-Best PJ, Mouritzen MV, Shandley-Edwards K, Billington RA, Upton M. Galleria mellonella larvae exhibit a weight-dependent lethal median dose when infected with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. Pathog Dis 2021; 79:6121426. [PMID: 33503238 DOI: 10.1093/femspd/ftab003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Galleria mellonella is a recognised model to study antimicrobial efficacy; however, standardisation across the scientific field and investigations of methodological components are needed. Here, we investigate the impact of weight on mortality following infection with Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Larvae were separated into six weight groups (180-300 mg at 20 mg intervals) and infected with a range of doses of MRSA to determine the 50% lethal dose (LD50), and the 'lipid weight' of larvae post-infection was quantified. A model of LD50 values correlated with weight was developed. The LD50 values, as estimated by our model, were further tested in vivo to prove our model. We establish a weight-dependent LD50 in larvae against MRSA and demonstrate that G. mellonella is a stable model within 180-260 mg. We present multiple linear models correlating weight with: LD50, lipid weight, and larval length. We demonstrate that the lipid weight is reduced as a result of MRSA infection, identifying a potentially new measure in which to understand the immune response. Finally, we demonstrate that larval length can be a reasonable proxy for weight. Refining the methodologies in which to handle and design experiments involving G. mellonella, we can improve the reliability of this powerful model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Poppy J Hesketh-Best
- School of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Plymouth, Drake Circus, Plymouth, PL4 8AA, UK
| | - Michelle V Mouritzen
- School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Plymouth, Derriford Research Facility, Plymouth Science Park, Plymouth, PL6 8BT, UK
| | - Kayleigh Shandley-Edwards
- School of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Plymouth, Drake Circus, Plymouth, PL4 8AA, UK
| | - Richard A Billington
- School of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Plymouth, Drake Circus, Plymouth, PL4 8AA, UK
| | - Mathew Upton
- School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Plymouth, Derriford Research Facility, Plymouth Science Park, Plymouth, PL6 8BT, UK
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