Biofilm formation and dispersal under the influence of the global regulator CsrA of Escherichia coli

Complex regulatory network encompassing the Csr, c-di-GMP and motility systems of Salmonella Typhimurium

Bacterial survival depends on the ability to switch between sessile and motile lifestyles in response to changing environmental conditions. In many species, this switch is governed by (3'-5')-cyclic-diguanosine monophosphate (c-di-GMP), a signalling molecule, which is metabolized by proteins containing GGDEF and/or EAL domains. Salmonella Typhimurium contains 20 such proteins. Here, we show that the RNA-binding protein CsrA regulates the expression of eight genes encoding GGDEF, GGDEF-EAL and EAL domain proteins. CsrA bound directly to the mRNA leaders of five of these genes, suggesting that it may regulate these genes post-transcriptionally. The c-di-GMP-specific phosphodiesterase STM3611, which reciprocally controls flagella function and production of biofilm matrix components, was regulated by CsrA binding to the mRNA, but was also indirectly regulated by CsrA through the FlhDC/FliA flagella cascade and STM1344. STM1344 is an unconventional (c-di-GMP-inactive) EAL domain protein, recently identified as a negative regulator of flagella gene expression. Here, we demonstrate that CsrA directly downregulates expression of STM1344, which in turn regulates STM3611 through fliA and thus reciprocally controls motility and biofilm factors. Altogether, our data reveal that the concerted and complex regulation of several genes encoding GGDEF/EAL domain proteins allows CsrA to control the motility-sessility switch in S. Typhimurium at multiple levels.

Molecular geometry of CsrA (RsmA) binding to RNA and its implications for regulated expression

The global regulatory protein CsrA binds to the 5'-untranslated leader of target transcripts and alters their translation and/or stability. CsrA is a symmetrical homodimer containing two identical RNA-binding surfaces. Gel shift assays with model RNA substrates now show that CsrA can bind simultaneously at two target sites within a transcript (bridging or dual-site binding). An intersite distance of approximately 18 nucleotides (nt) was optimal, although bridging occurred with an intersite distance of 10 to >or=63 nt. The close 10-nt spacing reduced the stability of dual-site binding, as competition for one site by a second CsrA dimer readily occurred. Both RNA-binding surfaces of a single CsrA protein were essential for efficient in vitro repression of a glgC'-'lacZ translational fusion that contains four CsrA target sites within the untranslated leader. Heterodimeric CsrA (HD-CsrA) containing a single R44A replacement, which was defective for binding at its mutant surface but bound RNA normally at its wild-type (WT) surface, was approximately 14-fold less effective at repression than homodimeric WT-CsrA. Furthermore, deletion of a CsrA target site of glgC that lies upstream from the Shine-Dalgarno sequence did not affect regulation by HD-CsrA but decreased regulation by WT-CsrA, confirming a regulatory role of dual-site binding. Finally, we propose a mechanism whereby a globular ribonucleoprotein complex is formed between CsrA and its noncoding RNA antagonist, CsrB. Because many target sites of CsrB are located closer together than is optimal for bridging, binding to nonadjacent sites should be energetically favored, causing multiple CsrA dimers to tether CsrB into the observed globular form rather than an extended CsrA-CsrB complex.

Enhanced expression of engineered ACA-less beta-1, 6-N-acetylglucosaminidase (dispersin B) in Escherichia coli

beta-1,6-N-Acetylglucosaminidase (dispersin B), which cleaves poly-ss-(1,6)-linked N-acetylglucosamine, is encoded by dspB of Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans. To enhance the production of dispersin B, we engineered dspB to transcribe mRNAs devoid of the trinucleotide ACA. Transcription and translation levels of ACA-less and wild-type dspB expressed in Escherichia coli (E. coli) under T5 and T7 promoters were analyzed by real-time RT-PCR and protein quantification, respectively. The ACA-less dspB mRNA level was significantly higher (P < 0.01) and produced 77.6 and 34.9% more dispersin B than wild-type dspB expressed under T7 and T5 promoters, respectively. Dispersin B expression under T7 promoter caused a 98-99.5% drop in the glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (gapA) mRNA level, which was not observed with T5 promoter. Fusion of green fluorescent protein (GFP) with dispersin B allowed rapid quantification of dispersin B production by measuring fluorescence intensity in culture broth. Although the cultures containing 0.1% glucose showed sustained increase in dispersin B-GFP production until 12 h, no significant increase in dispersin B activity was observed beyond 4 and 6 h after induction when expressed under T7 and T5 promoters, respectively. This study demonstrates the effectiveness of ACA-less mRNA and the advantage of GFP tagging for enhanced dispersin B production and quantification, which could be adapted for improving the production of other commercially important proteins in E. coli.

Characterization of starvation-induced dispersion in Pseudomonas putida biofilms: genetic elements and molecular mechanisms

Pseudomonas putida OUS82 biofilm dispersal was previously shown to be dependent on the gene PP0164 (here designated lapG). Sequence and structural analysis has suggested that the LapG geneproduct belongs to a family of cysteine proteinases that function in the modification of bacterial surface proteins. We provide evidence that LapG is involved in P. putida OUS82 biofilm dispersal through modification of the outer membrane-associated protein LapA. While the P. putida lapG mutant formed more biofilm than the wild-type, P. putida lapA and P. putida lapAG mutants displayed decreased surface adhesion and were deficient in subsequent biofilm formation, suggesting that LapG affects LapA, and that the LapA protein functions both as a surface adhesin and as a biofilm matrix component. Lowering of the intracellular c-di-GMP level via induction of an EAL domain protein led to dispersal of P. putida wild-type biofilm but did not disperse P. putida lapG biofilm, indicating that LapG exerts its activity on LapA in response to a decrease in the intracellular c-di-GMP level. In addition, evidence is provided that associated to LapA a cellulase-degradable exopolysaccharide is part of the P. putida biofilm matrix.

Stenotrophomonas maltophilia genomes: a start-up comparison

The whole DNA sequences of 2 Stenotrophomonas maltophilia strains isolated from the blood of a cancer patient (K279a) and the poplar Populus trichocarpa (R551-3) have been compared. The 2 chromosomes exhibit extensive synteny, but each is punctuated by about 40 genomic islands (GEIs), which vary in size from 3 to 70kb, and may encode up to about 50 proteins. A large set of smaller DNA sequences, encoding strain-specific 'solo' orfs, contributes to genetic heterogeneity in a significant manner. S. maltophilia GEIs potentially encode several proteins mediating interactions with the environment such as transmembrane proteins, haemagglutinins, components of type I and IV secretion systems, and efflux proteins having a role in metal and/or drug resistance. The presence of specific GEIs in the S. maltophilia population was monitored by PCR and slot-blot analyses. Data suggest that some islands are present at sites different from those identified in K279a and that alternative islands may be integrated at mapped sites.

Signals, regulatory networks, and materials that build and break bacterial biofilms

Biofilms are communities of microorganisms that live attached to surfaces. Biofilm formation has received much attention in the last decade, as it has become clear that virtually all types of bacteria can form biofilms and that this may be the preferred mode of bacterial existence in nature. Our current understanding of biofilm formation is based on numerous studies of myriad bacterial species. Here, we review a portion of this large body of work including the environmental signals and signaling pathways that regulate biofilm formation, the components of the biofilm matrix, and the mechanisms and regulation of biofilm dispersal.

Different roles of host and bacterial factors in Escherichia coli extra-intestinal infections

Many host and bacterial factors contribute to the development of different Escherichia coli extra-intestinal infections. The aim of this study was to evaluate the roles of host and bacterial factors in different extra-intestinal E. coli infections. A total of 221 E. coli isolates collected from urine, bile and peritoneal fluid were included in this retrospective study. Four main phylogenetic groups of E. coli, 14 genetic determinants, static biofilm formation and antimicrobial resistance data were assessed, as well as the immunological status of the hosts. Group B2 was the most common phylogenetic group (30%), especially in cases of asymptomatic bacteriuria (ABU), urinary tract infection (UTI), acute appendicitis/gastrointestinal perforation, and spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP), and was associated with elevated prevalence of papG III, fimH, sfa, iha, hlyA, cnf1, ompT and usp. Phylogenetic group A was most common in the isolates from asymptomatic bacteriocholia, biliary tract infection, and peritoneal dialysis (PD)-related peritonitis. There was similarity with respect to both phylogenetic groups and virulence factors in strains from faeces and ABU, and in strains from faeces and SBP/PD-related peritonitis. Host characteristics were important in patients with ABU, UTI, and SBP/PD-related peritonitis. Immunocompetence of hosts was associated with a relatively high prevalence of papG II, afa and iha, and relatively low antimicrobial resistance to fluoroquinolones. This study demonstrates that, in most E. coli extra-intestinal infections, phylogenetic group B2 was predominant and was more virulent than the three other phylogenetic groups in the Taiwanese population studied. The diverse patterns of host and bacterial factors demonstrate that there were different host and bacterial factors dominating in different extra-intestinal E. coli infections.

Effect of nitrofurans and NO generators on biofilm formation by Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1 and Burkholderia cenocepacia 370

Antibacterial drugs in the nitrofuran series, such as nitrofurazone, furazidin, nitrofurantoin and nifuroxazide, as well as the nitric oxide generators sodium nitroprusside and isosorbide mononitrate in concentrations that do not suppress bacterial growth, were shown to increase the capacity of pathogenic bacteria Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1 and Burkholderia cenocepacia 370 to form biofilms. At 25-100microg/ml, nitrofurans 2-2.5-fold enhanced biofilm formation of P. aeruginosa PAO1, and NO donors 3-6-fold. For B. cenocepacia 370, the enhancement was 2-5-fold (nitrofurans) and 4.5-fold (sodium nitroprusside), respectively.

Genetic dissection of an exogenously induced biofilm in laboratory and clinical isolates of E. coli

Microbial biofilms are a dominant feature of many human infections. However, developing effective strategies for controlling biofilms requires an understanding of the underlying biology well beyond what currently exists. Using a novel strategy, we have induced formation of a robust biofilm in Escherichia coli by utilizing an exogenous source of poly-N-acetylglucosamine (PNAG) polymer, a major virulence factor of many pathogens. Through microarray profiling of competitive selections, carried out in both transposon insertion and over-expression libraries, we have revealed the genetic basis of PNAG-based biofilm formation. Our observations reveal the dominance of electrostatic interactions between PNAG and surface structures such as lipopolysaccharides. We show that regulatory modulation of these surface structures has significant impact on biofilm formation behavior of the cell. Furthermore, the majority of clinical isolates which produced PNAG also showed the capacity to respond to the exogenously produced version of the polymer.

Antimicrobial and antibiofilm efficacy of triclosan and DispersinB combination

OBJECTIVES

The objectives of this study were to examine: (i) synergy of the combination of triclosan and DispersinB (DspB); (ii) in vitro efficacy and durability of triclosan + DspB-coated vascular catheters; and (iii) in vivo efficacy of triclosan + DspB-coated catheters compared with chlorhexidine-silver sulfadiazine (CH-SS)-coated and uncoated (control) vascular catheters in preventing colonization by Staphylococcus aureus.

METHODS

We investigated the potential synergistic antimicrobial and antibiofilm activity of triclosan and DspB by biofilm assays. The in vitro antimicrobial efficacy of triclosan + DspB-coated catheters was determined by microbial colonization assays. Antimicrobial durability of the coated catheters was tested by soaking segments in bovine serum for 7 days and determining antimicrobial activity, and by a serial plate transfer method. The in vivo efficacy of triclosan + DspB-coated catheters compared with CH-SS-coated and uncoated catheters was assessed by subcutaneous implantation of segments in a rabbit model of S. aureus infection.

RESULTS

The combination of triclosan and DspB showed synergistic antimicrobial and antibiofilm activity against S. aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis and Escherichia coli, significantly reduced bacterial colonization (P < 0.05) and generally demonstrated a prolonged superior antimicrobial activity against clinical pathogens compared with CH-SS-coated catheters. Triclosan + DspB-coated and CH-SS-coated catheters exhibited equal in vivo efficacy (P <or= 0.05) in reducing colonization by S. aureus compared with uncoated catheters.

CONCLUSIONS

Catheters coated with the triclosan + DspB combination showed synergistic, broad-spectrum and durable antimicrobial activity. Furthermore, the in vivo efficacy of catheters coated with this unique antimicrobial/antibiofilm composition prompts clinical evaluation of such an innovative approach.

Engineered bacteriophage targeting gene networks as adjuvants for antibiotic therapy

Antimicrobial drug development is increasingly lagging behind the evolution of antibiotic resistance, and as a result, there is a pressing need for new antibacterial therapies that can be readily designed and implemented. In this work, we engineered bacteriophage to overexpress proteins and attack gene networks that are not directly targeted by antibiotics. We show that suppressing the SOS network in Escherichia coli with engineered bacteriophage enhances killing by quinolones by several orders of magnitude in vitro and significantly increases survival of infected mice in vivo. In addition, we demonstrate that engineered bacteriophage can enhance the killing of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, persister cells, and biofilm cells, reduce the number of antibiotic-resistant bacteria that arise from an antibiotic-treated population, and act as a strong adjuvant for other bactericidal antibiotics (e.g., aminoglycosides and beta-lactams). Furthermore, we show that engineering bacteriophage to target non-SOS gene networks and to overexpress multiple factors also can produce effective antibiotic adjuvants. This work establishes a synthetic biology platform for the rapid translation and integration of identified targets into effective antibiotic adjuvants.

A Candida albicans early stage biofilm detachment event in rich medium

BACKGROUND

Dispersal from Candida albicans biofilms that colonize catheters is implicated as a primary factor in the link between contaminated catheters and life threatening blood stream infections (BSI). Appropriate in vitro C. albicans biofilm models are needed to probe factors that induce detachment events.

RESULTS

Using a flow through system to culture C. albicans biofilms we characterized a detachment process which culminates in dissociation of an entire early stage biofilm from a silicone elastomer surface. We analyzed the transcriptome response at time points that bracketed an abrupt transition in which a strong adhesive association with the surface is weakened in the initial stages of the process, and also compared batch and biofilm cultures at relevant time points. K means analysis of the time course array data revealed categories of genes with similar patterns of expression that were associated with adhesion, biofilm formation and glycoprotein biosynthesis. Compared to batch cultures the biofilm showed a pattern of expression of metabolic genes that was similar to the C. albicans response to hypoxia. However, the loss of strong adhesion was not obviously influenced by either the availability of oxygen in the medium or at the silicone elastomer surface. The detachment phenotype of mutant strains in which selected genes were either deleted or overexpressed was characterized. The microarray data indicated that changes associated with the detachment process were complex and, consistent with this assessment, we were unable to demonstrate that transcriptional regulation of any single gene was essential for loss of the strong adhesive association.

CONCLUSION

The massive dispersal of the early stage biofilm from a biomaterial surface that we observed is not orchestrated at the level of transcriptional regulation in an obvious manner, or is only regulated at this level by a small subpopulation of cells that mediate adhesion to the surface.

Insights on Escherichia coli biofilm formation and inhibition from whole-transcriptome profiling

Biofilms transform independent cells into specialized cell communities. Here are presented some insights into biofilm formation ascertained with the best-characterized strain, Escherichia coli. Investigations of biofilm formation and inhibition with this strain using whole-transcriptome profiling coupled to phenotypic assays, in vivo DNA binding studies and isogenic mutants have led to discoveries related to the role of stress, to the role of intra- and interspecies cell signalling, to the impact of the environment on cell signalling, to biofilm inhibition by manipulating cell signalling, to the role of toxin/antitoxin genes in biofilm formation, and to the role of small RNAs on biofilm formation and dispersal. Hence, E. coli is an excellent resource for determining paradigms in biofilm formation and biofilm inhibition.

Conditional essentiality of the csrA gene in Escherichia coli

CsrA is a global posttranscriptional regulator of numerous physiological processes, such as glycogenesis and glycolysis. Here, we show that the csrA gene of Escherichia coli is essential for growth on LB and on synthetic medium containing glycolytic carbon sources. However, csrA is not necessary for growth on synthetic medium containing pyruvate, showing that the Krebs cycle is functional in the csrA::cat deletion mutant. Deletion of the glgCAP operon in the csrA::cat mutant restored the ability to grow on LB and on synthetic medium containing glycolytic carbon sources, showing that growth inhibition is due to an excess of glycogen synthesis.

A fatty acid messenger is responsible for inducing dispersion in microbial biofilms

It is well established that in nature, bacteria are found primarily as residents of surface-associated communities called biofilms. These structures form in a sequential process initiated by attachment of cells to a surface, followed by the formation of matrix-enmeshed microcolonies, and culminating in dispersion of the bacteria from the mature biofilm. In the present study, we have demonstrated that, during growth, Pseudomonas aeruginosa produces an organic compound we have identified as cis-2-decenoic acid, which is capable of inducing the dispersion of established biofilms and of inhibiting biofilm development. When added exogenously to P. aeruginosa PAO1 biofilms at a native concentration of 2.5 nM, cis-2-decenoic acid was shown to induce the dispersion of biofilm microcolonies. This molecule was also shown to induce dispersion of biofilms, formed by Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Proteus mirabilis, Streptococcus pyogenes, Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus, and the yeast Candida albicans. Active at nanomolar concentrations, cis-2-decenoic acid appears to be functionally and structurally related to the class of short-chain fatty acid signaling molecules such as diffusible signal factor, which act as cell-to-cell communication molecules in bacteria and fungi.

Toxin-antitoxin systems in Escherichia coli influence biofilm formation through YjgK (TabA) and fimbriae

The roles of toxin-antitoxin (TA) systems in bacteria have been debated. Here, the role of five TA systems in regard to biofilm development was investigated (listed as toxin/antitoxin: MazF/MazE, RelE/RelB, ChpB, YoeB/YefM, and YafQ/DinJ). Although these multiple TA systems were reported previously to not impact bacterial fitness, we found that deletion of the five TA systems decreased biofilm formation initially (8 h) on three different surfaces and then increased biofilm formation (24 h) by decreasing biofilm dispersal. Whole-transcriptome profiling revealed that the deletion of the five TA systems induced expression of a single gene, yjgK, which encodes an uncharacterized protein; quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) confirmed consistent induction of this gene (at 8, 15, and 24 h). Corroborating the complex phenotype seen upon deleting the TA systems, overexpression of YjgK decreased biofilm formation at 8 h and increased biofilm formation at 24 h; deletion of yjgK also affected biofilm formation in the expected manner by increasing biofilm formation after 8 h and decreasing biofilm formation after 24 h. In addition, YjgK significantly reduced biofilm dispersal. Whole-transcriptome profiling revealed YjgK represses fimbria genes at 8 h (corroborated by qRT-PCR and a yeast agglutination assay), which agrees with the decrease in biofilm formation upon deleting the five TA systems at 8 h, as well as that seen upon overexpressing YjgK. Sand column assays confirmed that deleting the five TA systems reduced cell attachment. Furthermore, deletion of each of the five toxins increased biofilm formation at 8 h, and overexpression of the five toxins repressed biofilm formation at 8 h, a result that is opposite that of deleting all five TA systems; this suggests that complex regulation occurs involving the antitoxins. Also, the ability of the global regulator Hha to reduce biofilm formation was dependent on the presence of these TA systems. Hence, we suggest that one role of TA systems is to influence biofilm formation.

csrA inhibits the formation of biofilms by Vibrio vulnificus

PCR screening of the shellfish-borne pathogen Vibrio vulnificus revealed csrA-negative strains, and these strains formed increased biofilm compared to csrA-positive strains. Complementation in trans with csrA resulted in reduced biofilm formation, similar to that by csrA(+) strains. Our results provide evidence that csrA inhibits biofilm formation in V. vulnificus.

The RNA binding protein CsrA controls cyclic di-GMP metabolism by directly regulating the expression of GGDEF proteins

The carbon storage regulator CsrA is an RNA binding protein that controls carbon metabolism, biofilm formation and motility in various eubacteria. Nevertheless, in Escherichia coli only five target mRNAs have been shown to be directly regulated by CsrA at the post-transcriptional level. Here we identified two new direct targets for CsrA, ycdT and ydeH, both of which encode proteins with GGDEF domains. A csrA mutation caused mRNA levels of ycdT and ydeH to increase more than 10-fold. RNA mobility shift assays confirmed the direct and specific binding of CsrA to the mRNA leaders of ydeH and ycdT. Overexpression of ycdT and ydeH resulted in a more than 20-fold increase in the cellular concentration of the second messenger cyclic di-GMP (c-di-GMP), implying that both proteins possess diguanylate cyclase activity. Phenotypic characterization revealed that both proteins are involved in the regulation of motility in a c-di-GMP-dependent manner. CsrA was also found to regulate the expression of five additional GGDEF/EAL proteins and a csrA mutation led to modestly increased cellular levels of c-di-GMP. All together, these data demonstrate a global role for CsrA in the regulation of c-di-GMP metabolism by regulating the expression of GGDEF proteins at the post-transcriptional level.

Protein translation and cell death: the role of rare tRNAs in biofilm formation and in activating dormant phage killer genes

We discovered previously that the small Escherichia coli proteins Hha (hemolysin expression modulating protein) and the adjacent, poorly-characterized YbaJ are important for biofilm formation; however, their roles have been nebulous. Biofilms are intricate communities in which cell signaling often converts single cells into primitive tissues. Here we show that Hha decreases biofilm formation dramatically by repressing the transcription of rare codon tRNAs which serves to inhibit fimbriae production and by repressing to some extent transcription of fimbrial genes fimA and ihfA. In vivo binding studies show Hha binds to the rare codon tRNAs argU, ileX, ileY, and proL and to two prophage clusters D1P12 and CP4-57. Real-time PCR corroborated that Hha represses argU and proL, and Hha type I fimbriae repression is abolished by the addition of extra copies of argU, ileY, and proL. The repression of transcription of rare codon tRNAs by Hha also leads to cell lysis and biofilm dispersal due to activation of prophage lytic genes rzpD, yfjZ, appY, and alpA and due to induction of ClpP/ClpX proteases which activate toxins by degrading antitoxins. YbaJ serves to mediate the toxicity of Hha. Hence, we have identified that a single protein (Hha) can control biofilm formation by limiting fimbriae production as well as by controlling cell death. The mechanism used by Hha is the control of translation via the availability of rare codon tRNAs which reduces fimbriae production and activates prophage lytic genes. Therefore, Hha acts as a toxin in conjunction with co-transcribed YbaJ (TomB) that attenuates Hha toxicity.

The cyclic AMP-dependent catabolite repression system of Serratia marcescens mediates biofilm formation through regulation of type 1 fimbriae

The mechanisms by which environmental carbon sources regulate biofilm formation are poorly understood. This study investigates the roles of glucose and the catabolite repression system in Serratia marcescens biofilm formation. The abilities of this opportunistic pathogen to proliferate in a wide range of environments, to cause disease, and to resist antimicrobials are linked to its ability to form biofilms. We observed that growth of S. marcescens in glucose-rich medium strongly stimulated biofilm formation, which contrasts with previous studies showing that biofilm formation is inhibited by glucose in Escherichia coli and other enteric bacteria. Glucose uptake is known to inversely mediate intracellular cyclic AMP (cAMP) synthesis through regulation of adenylate cyclase (cyaA) activity, which in turn controls fundamental processes such as motility, carbon utilization and storage, pathogenesis, and cell division in many bacteria. Here, we demonstrate that mutation of catabolite repression genes that regulate cAMP levels (crr and cyaA) or the ability to respond to cAMP (crp) confers a large increase in biofilm formation. Suppressor analysis revealed that phenotypes of a cAMP receptor protein (crp) mutant require the fimABCD operon, which is responsible for type 1 fimbria production. Consistently, fimA transcription and fimbria production were determined to be upregulated in a cyaA mutant background by using quantitative real-time reverse transcription-PCR and transmission electron microscopy analysis. The regulatory pathway by which environmental carbon sources influence cAMP concentrations to alter production of type 1 fimbrial adhesins establishes a novel mechanism by which bacteria control biofilm development.

Roles of pgaABCD genes in synthesis, modification, and export of the Escherichia coli biofilm adhesin poly-beta-1,6-N-acetyl-D-glucosamine

The linear homopolymer poly-beta-1,6-N-acetyl-D-glucosamine (beta-1,6-GlcNAc; PGA) serves as an adhesin for the maintenance of biofilm structural stability in diverse eubacteria. Its function in Escherichia coli K-12 requires the gene products of the pgaABCD operon, all of which are necessary for biofilm formation. PgaC is an apparent glycosyltransferase that is required for PGA synthesis. Using a monoclonal antibody directed against E. coli PGA, we now demonstrate that PgaD is also needed for PGA formation. The deletion of genes for the predicted outer membrane proteins PgaA and PgaB did not prevent PGA synthesis but did block its export, as shown by the results of immunoelectron microscopy (IEM) and antibody adsorption assays. IEM also revealed a conditional localization of PGA at the cell poles, the initial attachment site for biofilm formation. PgaA contains a predicted beta-barrel porin and a superhelical domain containing tetratricopeptide repeats, which may mediate protein-protein interactions, implying that it forms the outer membrane secretin for PGA. PgaB contains predicted carbohydrate binding and polysaccharide N-deacetylase domains. The overexpression of pgaB increased the primary amine content (glucosamine) of PGA. Site-directed mutations targeting the N-deacetylase catalytic activity of PgaB blocked PGA export and biofilm formation, implying that N-deacetylation promotes PGA export through the PgaA porin. The results of previous studies indicated that N-deacetylation of beta-1,6-GlcNAc in Staphylococcus epidermidis by the PgaB homolog, IcaB, anchors it to the cell surface. The deletion of icaB resulted in release of beta-1,6-GlcNAc into the growth medium. Thus, covalent modification of beta-1,6-GlcNAc by N-deacetylation serves distinct biological functions in gram-negative and gram-positive species, dictated by cell envelope differences.

A Csr-type regulatory system, including small non-coding RNAs, regulates the global virulence regulator RovA of Yersinia pseudotuberculosis through RovM

The MarR-type regulator RovA controls expression of virulence genes of Yersinia pseudotuberculosis in response to environmental signals. Using a genetic strategy to discover components that influence rovA expression, we identified new regulatory factors with homology to components of the carbon storage regulator system (Csr). We showed that overexpression of a CsrB- or a CsrC-type RNA activates rovA, whereas a CsrA-like protein represses RovA synthesis. We further demonstrate that influence of the Csr system on rovA is indirect and occurs through control of the LysR regulator RovM, which inhibits rovA transcription. The CsrA protein had also a major influence on the motility of Yersinia, which was independent of RovM. The CsrB and CsrC RNAs are differentially expressed in Yersinia. CsrC is highly induced in complex but not in minimal media, indicating that medium-dependent rovM expression is mediated through CsrC. CsrB synthesis is generally very low. However, overexpression of the response regulator UvrY was found to activate CsrB production, which in turn represses CsrC synthesis independent of the growth medium. In summary, the post-transcriptional Csr-type components were shown to be key regulators in the co-ordinated environmental control of physiological processes and virulence factors, which are crucial for the initiation of Yersinia infections.

Antibiofilm activity of sodium bicarbonate, sodium metaperiodate and SDS combination against dental unit waterline-associated bacteria and yeast

AIM

To determine the effect of sodium bicarbonate (SB), sodium metaperiodate (SMP) and sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) combination on biofilm formation and dispersal in dental unit waterline (DUWL)-associated bacteria and yeast.

METHODS AND RESULTS

The in vitro effect of SB, SMP and SDS alone and in combination on biofilm formation and dispersal in Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Actinomyces naeslundii, and Candida albicans was investigated using a 96-well microtitre plate biofilm assay. The combination showed a broad-spectrum inhibitory effect on growth as well as biofilm formation of both gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria, and yeast. In addition, the SB + SMP + SDS combination was significantly more effective in dispersing biofilm than the individual compounds. The combination dispersed more than 90% of P. aeruginosa biofilm whereas the commercial products, Oxygenal 6, Sterilex Ultra, and PeraSafe showed no biofilm dispersal activity.

CONCLUSION

The composition comprising SB, SMP, and SDS was effective in inhibiting as well as dispersing biofilms in DUWL-associated bacteria and yeast.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

This study shows that a composition comprising environmentally friendly and biologically safe compounds such as SB, SMP, and SDS has a potential application in reducing DUWL-associated acquired infections in dental clinics.

The rsmA-like gene rsmA(Xcc) of Xanthomonas campestris pv. campestris is involved in the control of various cellular processes, including pathogenesis

RsmA is an RNA-binding protein functioning as a global post-transcriptional regulator of various cellular processes in bacteria and has been demonstrated to be an important virulence regulator in many animal bacterial pathogens. However, its function in other phytopathogenic bacteria is unclear, except for the Erwinia carotovora RsmA, which acts as a negative virulence regulator. In this work, we investigated the function of the rsmA-like gene, named rsmA(Xcc), of the phytopathogen Xanthomonas campestris pv. campestris. Deletion of rsmA(Xcc) resulted in complete loss of virulence on the host plant Chinese radish, hypersensitive response on the nonhost plant pepper ECW-10R, and motility on the surface of an agar plate. The rsmA(Xcc) mutant displayed a significant reduction in the production of extracellular amylase, endoglucanase, and polysaccharide, but a significant increase in intracellular glycogen accumulation and an enhanced bacterial aggregation and cell adhesion. Microarray hybridization and semiquantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction analysis showed that deletion of rsmA(Xcc) led to significantly reduced expression of genes encoding the type III secretion system (T3SS), T3SS-effectors, and the bacterial aggregate dispersing enzyme endo-beta-1,4-mannanase. These results suggest that rsmA(Xcc) is involved in the control of various cellular processes, including pathogenesis of X. campestris pv. campestris.

Campylobacter jejuni CsrA mediates oxidative stress responses, biofilm formation, and host cell invasion

The putative global posttranscriptional regulator csrA was mutated in Campylobacter jejuni 81-176. The csrA mutant was attenuated in surviving oxidative stress. CsrA also contributed to biofilm formation and adherence to and invasion of INT407 intestinal epithelial cells, suggesting a regulatory role for CsrA in C. jejuni pathogenesis.

Environmental influences on biofilm development

Bacterial biofilms are found under diverse environmental conditions, from sheltered and specialized environments found within mammalian hosts to the extremes of biological survival. The process of forming a biofilm and the eventual return of cells to the planktonic state involve the coordination of vast amounts of genetic information. Nevertheless, the prevailing evidence suggests that the overall progression of this cycle within a given species or strain of bacteria responds to environmental conditions via a finite number of key regulatory factors and pathways, which affect enzymatic and structural elements that are needed for biofilm formation and dispersal. Among the conditions that affect biofilm development are temperature, pH, O2 levels, hydrodynamics, osmolarity, the presence of specific ions, nutrients, and factors derived from the biotic environment. The integration of these influences ultimately determines the pattern of behavior of a given bacterium with respect to biofilm development. This chapter will present examples of how environmental conditions affect biofilm development, most of which come from studies of species that have mammalian hosts.

Yersinia pestis biofilm in the flea vector and its role in the transmission of plague

Transmission by fleabite is a relatively recent evolutionary adaptation of Yersinia pestis, the bacterial agent of bubonic plague. To produce a transmissible infection, Y. pestis grows as an attached biofilm in the foregut of the flea vector. Biofilm formation both in the flea foregut and in vitro is dependent on an extracellular matrix (ECM) synthesized by the Yersinia hms gene products. The hms genes are similar to the pga and ica genes of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus epidermidis, respectively, that act to synthesize a poly-beta-1,6-N-acetyl-d-glucosamine ECM required for biofilm formation. As with extracellular polysaccharide production in many other bacteria, synthesis of the Hms-dependent ECM is controlled by intracellular levels of cyclic-di-GMP. Yersinia pseudotuberculosis, the food- and water-borne enteric pathogen from which Y. pestis evolved recently, possesses identical hms genes and can form biofilm in vitro but not in the flea. The genetic changes in Y. pestis that resulted in adapting biofilm-forming capability to the flea gut environment, a critical step in the evolution of vector-borne transmission, have yet to be identified. During a flea bite, Y. pestis is regurgitated into the dermis in a unique biofilm phenotype, and this has implications for the initial interaction with the mammalian innate immune response.

Escherichia coli biofilms

Escherichia coli is a predominant species among facultative anaerobic bacteria of the gastrointestinal tract. Both its frequent community lifestyle and the availability of a wide array of genetic tools contributed to establish E. coli as a relevant model organism for the study of surface colonization. Several key factors, including different extracellular appendages, are implicated in E. coli surface colonization and their expression and activity are finely regulated, both in space and time, to ensure productive events leading to mature biofilm formation. This chapter will present known molecular mechanisms underlying biofilm development in both commensal and pathogenic E. coli.

Inherent antibacterial activity of a peptide-based beta-hairpin hydrogel

Among several important considerations for implantation of a biomaterial, a main concern is the introduction of infection. We have designed a hydrogel scaffold from the self-assembling peptide, MAX1, for tissue regeneration applications whose surface exhibits inherent antibacterial activity. In experiments where MAX1 gels are challenged with bacterial solutions ranging in concentrations from 2 x 10(3) colony forming units (CFUs)/dm2 to 2 x 10(9) CFUs/dm2, gel surfaces exhibit broad-spectrum antibacterial activity. Results show that the hydrogel surface is active against Gram-positive (Staphylococcus epidermidis, Staphylococcus aureus, and Streptococcus pyogenes) and Gram-negative (Klebsiella pneumoniae and Escherichia coli) bacteria, all prevalent in hospital settings. Live-dead assays employing laser scanning confocal microscopy show that bacteria are killed when they engage the surface. In addition, the surface of MAX1 hydrogels was shown to cause inner and outer membrane disruption in experiments that monitor the release of beta-galactosidase from the cytoplasm of lactose permease-deficient E. coli ML-35. These data suggest a mechanism of antibacterial action that involves membrane disruption that leads to cell death upon cellular contact with the gel surface. Although the hydrogel surface exhibits bactericidal activity, co-culture experiments indicate hydrogel surfaces show selective toxicity to bacterial versus mammalian cells. Additionally, gel surfaces are nonhemolytic toward human erythrocytes, which maintain healthy morphologies when in contact with the surface. These material attributes make MAX1 gels attractive candidates for use in tissue regeneration, even in nonsterile environments.

A novel role for enzyme I of the Vibrio cholerae phosphoenolpyruvate phosphotransferase system in regulation of growth in a biofilm

Glucose is a universal energy source and a potent inducer of surface colonization for many microbial species. Highly efficient sugar assimilation pathways ensure successful competition for this preferred carbon source. One such pathway is the phosphoenolpyruvate phosphotransferase system (PTS), a multicomponent sugar transport system that phosphorylates the sugar as it enters the cell. Components required for transport of glucose through the PTS include enzyme I, histidine protein, enzyme IIA(Glc), and enzyme IIBC(Glc). In Escherichia coli, components of the PTS fulfill many regulatory roles, including regulation of nutrient scavenging and catabolism, chemotaxis, glycogen utilization, catabolite repression, and inducer exclusion. We previously observed that genes encoding the components of the Vibrio cholerae PTS were coregulated with the vps genes, which are required for synthesis of the biofilm matrix exopolysaccharide. In this work, we identify the PTS components required for transport of glucose and investigate the role of each of these components in regulation of biofilm formation. Our results establish a novel role for the phosphorylated form of enzyme I in specific regulation of biofilm-associated growth. As the PTS is highly conserved among bacteria, the enzyme I regulatory pathway may be relevant to a number of biofilm-based infections.

Characterization of regulatory pathways in Xylella fastidiosa: genes and phenotypes controlled by algU

Many virulence genes in plant bacterial pathogens are coordinately regulated by "global" regulatory genes. Conducting DNA microarray analysis of bacterial mutants of such genes, compared with the wild type, can help to refine the list of genes that may contribute to virulence in bacterial pathogens. The regulatory gene algU, with roles in stress response and regulation of the biosynthesis of the exopolysaccharide alginate in Pseudomonas aeruginosa and many other bacteria, has been extensively studied. The role of algU in Xylella fastidiosa, the cause of Pierce's disease of grapevines, was analyzed by mutation and whole-genome microarray analysis to define its involvement in aggregation, biofilm formation, and virulence. In this study, an algU::nptII mutant had reduced cell-cell aggregation, attachment, and biofilm formation and lower virulence in grapevines. Microarray analysis showed that 42 genes had significantly lower expression in the algU::nptII mutant than in the wild type. Among these are several genes that could contribute to cell aggregation and biofilm formation, as well as other physiological processes such as virulence, competition, and survival.

A three-dimensional computer model analysis of three hypothetical biofilm detachment mechanisms

Three hypothetical mechanisms of detachment were incorporated into a three-dimensional computer model of biofilm development. The model integrated processes of substrate utilization, substrate diffusion, growth, cell advection, and detachment in a cellular automata framework. The purpose of this investigation was to characterize each of the mechanisms with respect to four criteria: the resulting biofilm structure, the existence of a steady state, the propensity for sloughing events, and the dynamics during starvation. The three detachment mechanisms analyzed represented various physical and biological influences hypothesized to affect biofilm detachment. The first invoked the concept of fluid shear removing biomass that protrudes far above the surface and is therefore subjected to relatively large drag forces. The second pathway linked detachment to changes in the local availability of a nutrient. The third pathway simulated an erosive process in which individual cells are lost from the surface of a biofilm cell cluster. The detachment mechanisms demonstrated diverse behaviors with respect to the four analysis criteria. The height-dependant mechanism produced flat, steady state biofilms that lacked sloughing events. Detachment based on substrate limitation produced significant sloughing events. The resulting biofilm structures included distinct, hollow clusters separated by channels. The erosion mechanism produced neither a non-zero steady state nor sloughing events. A mechanism combining all three-detachment mechanisms produced mushroom-like structures. The dynamics of biofilm decay during starvation were distinct for each detachment mechanism. These results show that detachment is a critical determinant of biofilm structure and of the dynamics of biofilm accumulation and loss.

Effect of ovotransferrin, protamine sulfate and EDTA combination on biofilm formation by catheter-associated bacteria

AIMS

To determine the effect of a composition comprising ovotransferrin (OT), protamine sulfate (PS) and ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) on biofilm formation by catheter-associated bacteria.

METHODS AND RESULTS

The in vitro activity of OT, PS and EDTA alone and in combinations against biofilm formation by Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Proteus mirabilis, Enterococcus faecalis and Staphylococcus epidermidis was investigated. All the three compounds either alone or in combinations failed to inhibit the growth completely at the concentrations tested. However, the subinhibitory concentrations of three compounds in a composition showed synergistic inhibitory effect on biofilm formation by K. pneumoniae, Ps. aeruginosa and S. epidermidis. Furthermore, 79-95% reduction in Ps. aeruginosa and S. epidermidis biofilm formation was observed in a clear vinyl urinary catheter treated with the composition.

CONCLUSION

The subinhibitory concentrations of OT, PS and EDTA in a composition were effective in reducing biofilm formation by catheter-associated bacteria.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

This study shows that a synergistic composition-comprising non-antibiotic generally regarded as safe (GRAS) compounds such as OT, PS and EDTA may be used in the prevention of catheter-related infections.

CsrA of Bacillus subtilis regulates translation initiation of the gene encoding the flagellin protein (hag) by blocking ribosome binding

The global regulatory Csr (carbon storage regulator) and the homologous Rsm (repressor of secondary metabolites) systems of Gram-negative bacteria typically consist of an RNA-binding protein (CsrA/RsmA) and at least one sRNA that functions as a CsrA antagonist. CsrA modulates gene expression post-transcriptionally by regulating translation initiation and/or mRNA stability of target transcripts. While Csr has been extensively studied in Gram-negative bacteria, until now Csr has not been characterized in any Gram-positive organism. csrA of Bacillus subtilis is the last gene of a flagellum biosynthetic operon. In addition to the previously identified sigma(D)-dependent promoter that controls expression of the entire operon, a sigma(A)-dependent promoter was identified that temporally controls expression of the last two genes of the operon (fliW-csrA); expression peaks 1 h after cell growth deviates from exponential phase. hag, the gene encoding flagellin, was identified as a CsrA-regulated gene. CsrA was found to repress hag'-'lacZ expression, while overexpression of csrA reduces cell motility. In vitro binding studies identified two CsrA binding sites in the hag leader transcript, one of which overlaps the hag Shine-Dalgarno sequence. Toeprint and cell-free translation studies demonstrate that bound CsrA prevents ribosome binding to the hag transcript, thereby inhibiting translation initiation and Hag synthesis.

Molecular basis of messenger RNA recognition by the specific bacterial repressing clamp RsmA/CsrA

Proteins of the RsmA/CsrA family are global translational regulators in many bacterial species. We have determined the solution structure of a complex formed between the RsmE protein, a member of this family from Pseudomonas fluorescens, and a target RNA encompassing the ribosome-binding site of the hcnA gene. The RsmE homodimer with its two RNA-binding sites makes optimal contact with an 5'-A/UCANGGANGU/A-3' sequence in the mRNA. When tightly gripped by RsmE, the ANGGAN core folds into a loop, favoring the formation of a 3-base-pair stem by flanking nucleotides. We validated these findings by in vivo and in vitro mutational analyses. The structure of the complex explains well how, by sequestering the Shine-Dalgarno sequence, the RsmA/CsrA proteins repress translation.

CsrA inhibits translation initiation of Escherichia coli hfq by binding to a single site overlapping the Shine-Dalgarno sequence

Csr (carbon storage regulation) of Escherichia coli is a global regulatory system that consists of CsrA, a homodimeric RNA binding protein, two noncoding small RNAs (sRNAs; CsrB and CsrC) that function as CsrA antagonists by sequestering this protein, and CsrD, a specificity factor that targets CsrB and CsrC for degradation by RNase E. CsrA inhibits translation initiation of glgC, cstA, and pgaA by binding to their leader transcripts and preventing ribosome binding. Translation inhibition is thought to contribute to the observed mRNA destabilization. Each of the previously known target transcripts contains multiple CsrA binding sites. A position-specific weight matrix search program was developed using known CsrA binding sites in mRNA. This search tool identified a potential CsrA binding site that overlaps the Shine-Dalgarno sequence of hfq, a gene that encodes an RNA chaperone that mediates sRNA-mRNA interactions. This putative CsrA binding site matched the SELEX-derived binding site consensus sequence in 8 out of 12 positions. Results from gel mobility shift and footprint assays demonstrated that CsrA binds specifically to this site in the hfq leader transcript. Toeprint and cell-free translation results indicated that bound CsrA inhibits Hfq synthesis by competitively blocking ribosome binding. Disruption of csrA caused elevated expression of an hfq'-'lacZ translational fusion, while overexpression of csrA inhibited expression of this fusion. We also found that hfq mRNA is stabilized upon entry into stationary-phase growth by a CsrA-independent mechanism. The interaction of CsrA with hfq mRNA is the first example of a CsrA-regulated gene that contains only one CsrA binding site.

Effects of nutrients on biofilm formation and detachment of a Pseudomonas putida strain isolated from a paper machine

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of varying nutrient conditions on biofilm formation of a Pseudomonas putida strain isolated from a paper machine under controlled conditions. Biofilm accumulation, was investigated using a laminar flow cell reactor in a defined mineral medium. Our results indicate that increasing nutrient concentration (from 0.1 to 0.5 gl(-1) glucose, C/N=40, C/P=100) or phosphate concentration (from C/P=200 to C/P=100) increased the rate and extent of biofilm accumulation, however, higher nutrient (1 gl(-1) glucose, C/N=40, C/P=100) or phosphate (C/P=50) concentration reduced biofilm accumulation rate because of a higher detachment. The rate and extent of biofilm accumulation increased with nitrogen concentration (from C/N=90 to C/N=20). Detachment is a key parameter that influences biofilm accumulation since the early stage (2h) of colonisation and strongly depends on nutrient conditions. In practice, controlling nutrient levels may be interesting to reduce biofilm formation in the paper industry.

Dispersing biofilms with engineered enzymatic bacteriophage

Synthetic biology involves the engineering of biological organisms by using modular and generalizable designs with the ultimate goal of developing useful solutions to real-world problems. One such problem involves bacterial biofilms, which are crucial in the pathogenesis of many clinically important infections and are difficult to eradicate because they exhibit resistance to antimicrobial treatments and removal by host immune systems. To address this issue, we engineered bacteriophage to express a biofilm-degrading enzyme during infection to simultaneously attack the bacterial cells in the biofilm and the biofilm matrix, which is composed of extracellular polymeric substances. We show that the efficacy of biofilm removal by this two-pronged enzymatic bacteriophage strategy is significantly greater than that of nonenzymatic bacteriophage treatment. Our engineered enzymatic phage substantially reduced bacterial biofilm cell counts by approximately 4.5 orders of magnitude ( approximately 99.997% removal), which was about two orders of magnitude better than that of nonenzymatic phage. This work demonstrates the feasibility and benefits of using engineered enzymatic bacteriophage to reduce bacterial biofilms and the applicability of synthetic biology to an important medical and industrial problem.

Spent media from cultures of environmental isolates of Escherichia coli can suppress the deficiency of biofilm formation under anoxic conditions of laboratory E. coli strains

The prevailing lifestyle of bacteria is sessile and they attach to surfaces in structures known as biofilms. In Escherichia coli, as in many other bacteria, biofilms are formed at the air-liquid interface, suggesting that oxygen has a critical role in the biofilm formation process. It has been reported that anaerobically growing E. coli laboratory strains are unable to form biofilms even after 96 h of incubation on Luria Bertani (LB) medium. After analyzing 22,000 transposon-induced and 26,000 chemically-induced mutants we failed to isolate an E. coli laboratory strain with the ability to form biofilm under anaerobic growth conditions. Notably, seven strains from a collection of E. coli isolated from different hosts and the environment had the ability to form biofilm in the absence of oxygen. Interestingly, spent medium from cultures of one strain, Souza298, can promote biofilm formation of E. coli laboratory strains growing under anaerobic conditions. Our results led us to propose that laboratory E. coli strains do not release (or synthesize) a molecule needed for biofilm formation under anoxic conditions but that they bear all the required machinery needed for this process.

Biofilms in ear, nose, and throat infections: how important are they?

BACKGROUND

Biofilms present a new challenging concept in sustaining chronic, common antibiotic-resistant ear, nose, and throat (ENT) infections. They are communities of sessile bacteria embedded in a matrix of extracellular polymeric substances of their own synthesis that adhere to a foreign body or a mucosal surface with impaired host defense. The aim of this paper is to review the literature on ENT diseases that can be attributed to biofilm formation and to discuss options for future treatment.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Literature review from Medline and database sources. Electronic links and related books were also included.

STUDY SELECTION

Controlled clinical trials, animal models, ex vivo models, laboratory studies, retrospective studies, and systematic reviews.

DATA SYNTHESIS

Biofilm formation is a dynamic five-step process guided by interbacterial communicating systems. Bacteria in biofilms express different genes and have markedly different phenotypes from their planktonic counterparts. Detachment of cells, production of endotoxin, increased resistance to the host immune system, and provision of a niche for the generation of resistant organisms are biofilm processes that could initiate the infection process. Effective prevention and management strategies include interruption of quorum sensing, inhibition of related genes, disruption of the protective extrapolymer matrix, macrolides (clarithromycin and erythromycin), and mechanical debridement of the biofilm-bearing tissues. With regard to medical indwelling devices, surface treatment of fluoroplastic grommets and redesign of cochlear implants could minimize initial microbial colonization.

CONCLUSION

As the role of biofilms in human infection becomes better defined, ENT surgeons should be prepared to deal with their unique and tenacious nature.

Adaptation of a luciferase gene reporter and lac expression system to Borrelia burgdorferi

The development of new genetic systems for studying the complex regulatory events that occur within Borrelia burgdorferi is an important goal of contemporary Lyme disease research. Although recent advancements have been made in the genetic manipulation of B. burgdorferi, there still remains a paucity of basic molecular systems for assessing differential gene expression in this pathogen. Herein, we describe the adaptation of two powerful genetic tools for use in B. burgdorferi. The first is a Photinus pyralis firefly luciferase gene reporter that was codon optimized to enhance translation in B. burgdorferi. Using this modified reporter, we demonstrated an increase in luciferase expression when B. burgdorferi transformed with a shuttle vector encoding the outer surface protein C (OspC) promoter fused to the luciferase reporter was cultivated in the presence of fresh rabbit blood. The second is a lac operator/repressor system that was optimized to achieve the tightest degree of regulation. Using the aforementioned luciferase reporter, we assessed the kinetics and maximal level of isopropyl-beta-D-thiogalactopyranoside (IPTG)-dependent gene expression. This lac-inducible expression system also was used to express the gene carried on lp25 required for borrelial persistence in ticks (bptA). These advancements should be generally applicable for assessing further the regulation of other genes potentially involved in virulence expression by B. burgdorferi.

BdlA, a chemotaxis regulator essential for biofilm dispersion in Pseudomonas aeruginosa

Multiple environmental cues have been shown to trigger biofilm detachment, the transition from surface-attached, highly organized communities known as biofilms to the motile lifestyle. The goal of this study was to identify a gene product involved in sensing environmental cues that trigger biofilm dispersion in Pseudomonas aeruginosa. To do so, we focused on novel putative chemotaxis transducer proteins that could potentially be involved in environmental sensing. We identified a locus encoding such a protein that played a role in detachment, as indicated by the observation that an isogenic mutant biofilm could not disperse in response to a variety of environmental cues. The locus was termed bdlA for biofilm dispersion locus. The BdlA protein harbors an MCP (methyl-accepting chemotaxis protein) domain and two PAS (Per-Arnt-Sint) domains that have been shown to be essential for responding to environmental signals in other proteins. The dispersion-deficient phenotype of the bdlA mutant was confirmed by treatment with the biocide H(2)O(2) and by microscopic observations. The dispersion response was independent of motility. bdlA mutant biofilms were found to have increased adherent properties and increased intracellular levels of cyclic di-GMP (c-di-GMP). Our findings suggest that BdlA may be a link between sensing environmental cues, c-di-GMP levels, and detachment. Based on our findings, a possible involvement of BdlA in a signaling cascade resulting in biofilm dispersion is discussed.