201
|
Loperena-Barber M, Elizalde-Bielsa A, Salvador-Bescós M, Ruiz-Rodríguez P, Pellegrini JM, Renau-Mínguez C, Lancaster R, Zúñiga-Ripa A, Iriarte M, Bengoechea JA, Coscollá M, Gorvel JP, Moriyón I, Conde-Álvarez R. "Phylogenomic insights into brucellaceae: The Pseudochrobactrum algeriensis case". INFECTION, GENETICS AND EVOLUTION : JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR EPIDEMIOLOGY AND EVOLUTIONARY GENETICS IN INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2024; 123:105625. [PMID: 38906517 DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2024.105625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2024] [Revised: 06/17/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/23/2024]
Abstract
The genus Pseudochrobactrum encompasses free-living bacteria phylogenetically close to Ochrobactrum opportunistic pathogens and to Brucella, facultative intracellular parasites causing brucellosis, a worldwide-extended and grave zoonosis. Recently, Pseudochrobactrum strains were isolated from Brucella natural hosts on Brucella selective media, potentially causing diagnostic confusions. Strikingly, P. algeriensis was isolated from cattle lymph nodes, organs that are inimical to bacteria. Here, we analyse P. algeriensis potential virulence factors in comparison with Ochrobactrum and Brucella. Consistent with genomic analyses, Western-Blot analyses confirmed that P. algeriensis lacks the ability to synthesize the N-formylperosamine O-polysaccharide characteristic of the lipopolysaccharide (LPS) of smooth Brucella core species. However, unlike other Pseudochrobactrum but similar to some early diverging brucellae, P. algeriensis carries genes potentially synthetizing a rhamnose-based O-polysaccharide LPS. Lipid A analysis by MALDI-TOF demonstrated that P. algeriensis LPS bears a lipid A with a reduced pathogen-associated molecular pattern, a trait shared with Ochrobactrum and Brucella that is essential to generate a highly stable outer membrane and to delay immune activation. Also, although not able to multiply intracellularly in macrophages, the analysis of P. algeriensis cell lipid envelope revealed the presence of large amounts of cationic aminolipids, which may account for the extremely high resistance of P. algeriensis to bactericidal peptides and could favor colonization of mucosae and transient survival in Brucella hosts. However, two traits critical in Brucella pathogenicity are either significantly different (T4SS [VirB]) or absent (erythritol catabolic pathway) in P. algeriensis. This work shows that, while diverging in other characteristics, lipidic envelope features relevant in Brucella pathogenicity are conserved in Brucellaceae. The constant presence of these features strongly suggests that reinforcement of the envelope integrity as an adaptive advantage in soil was maintained in Brucella because of the similarity of some environmental challenges, such as the action of cationic peptide antibiotics and host defense peptides. This information adds knowledge about the evolution of Brucellaceae, and also underlines the taxonomical differences of the three genera compared.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maite Loperena-Barber
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IdISNA) and Departamento de Microbiología y Parasitología, Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Aitor Elizalde-Bielsa
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IdISNA) and Departamento de Microbiología y Parasitología, Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Miriam Salvador-Bescós
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IdISNA) and Departamento de Microbiología y Parasitología, Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Paula Ruiz-Rodríguez
- Institute for Integrative Systems Biology, Universidad de Valencia-CSIC, Valencia, Spain
| | | | - Chantal Renau-Mínguez
- Institute for Integrative Systems Biology, Universidad de Valencia-CSIC, Valencia, Spain
| | - Rebecca Lancaster
- Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, United Kingdom
| | - Amaia Zúñiga-Ripa
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IdISNA) and Departamento de Microbiología y Parasitología, Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Maite Iriarte
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IdISNA) and Departamento de Microbiología y Parasitología, Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Jose A Bengoechea
- Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, United Kingdom
| | - Mireia Coscollá
- Institute for Integrative Systems Biology, Universidad de Valencia-CSIC, Valencia, Spain
| | - Jean-Pierre Gorvel
- Centre d'Immunologie de Marseille-Luminy, CNRS, INSERM, Aix-Marseille University, Marseille, France
| | - Ignacio Moriyón
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IdISNA) and Departamento de Microbiología y Parasitología, Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Raquel Conde-Álvarez
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IdISNA) and Departamento de Microbiología y Parasitología, Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain.
| |
Collapse
|
202
|
Jiang C, Zhao Z, Grossart HP, Ju F, Zhao Y, Gadd GM, Korzeniewska E, Yang Y. Health risk ranking of antibiotic resistance genes in the Yangtze River. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND ECOTECHNOLOGY 2024; 21:100388. [PMID: 38351955 PMCID: PMC10862502 DOI: 10.1016/j.ese.2024.100388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2023] [Revised: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
Antibiotic resistance is an escalating global health concern, exacerbated by the pervasive presence of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) in natural environments. The Yangtze River, the world's third-longest river, traversing areas with intense human activities, presents a unique ecosystem for studying the impact of these genes on human health. Here, we explored ARGs in the Yangtze River, examining 204 samples from six distinct habitats of approximately 6000 km of the river, including free-living and particle-associated settings, surface and bottom sediments, and surface and bottom bank soils. Employing shotgun sequencing, we generated an average of 13.69 Gb reads per sample. Our findings revealed a significantly higher abundance and diversity of ARGs in water-borne bacteria compared to other habitats. A notable pattern of resistome coalescence was observed within similar habitat types. In addition, we developed a framework for ranking the risk of ARG and a corresponding method for calculating the risk index. Applying them, we identified water-borne bacteria as the highest contributors to health risks, and noted an increase in ARG risks in particle-associated bacteria correlating with heightened anthropogenic activities. Further analysis using a weighted ARG risk index pinpointed the Chengdu-Chongqing and Yangtze River Delta urban agglomerations as regions of elevated health risk. These insights provide a critical new perspective on ARG health risk assessment, highlighting the urgent need for strategies to mitigate the impact of ARGs on human health and to preserve the ecological and economic sustainability of the Yangtze River for future human use.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chunxia Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Aquatic Botany and Watershed Ecology, Wuhan Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430074, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
- Danjiangkou Wetland Ecosystem Field Scientific Observation and Research Station, Chinese Academy of Sciences & Hubei Province, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Zelong Zhao
- Liaoning Key Laboratory of Marine Fishery Molecular Biology, Liaoning Key Lab of Germplasm Improvement and Fine Seed Breeding of Marine Aquatic Animals, Liaoning Ocean and Fisheries Science Research Institute, Dalian, 116023, China
| | - Hans-Peter Grossart
- Leibniz-Institute for Freshwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries (IGB), Neuglobsow, 16775, Germany
- Institute for Biochemistry and Biology, Potsdam University, Potsdam, 14469, Germany
| | - Feng Ju
- Key Laboratory of Coastal Environment and Resources of Zhejiang Province, School of Engineering, Westlake University, Hangzhou, 310030, China
| | - Yi Zhao
- School of Water Resources and Environment, China University of Geosciences (Beijing), Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Geoffrey Michael Gadd
- Geomicrobiology Group, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee, DD1 5EH, Scotland, UK
- State Key Laboratory of Heavy Oil Processing, State Key Laboratory of Petroleum Pollution Control, China University of Petroleum, Beijing, 102249, China
| | - Ewa Korzeniewska
- Department of Water Protection Engineering and Environmental Microbiology, Faculty of Geoengineering, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Olsztyn, 10-720, Poland
| | - Yuyi Yang
- Key Laboratory of Aquatic Botany and Watershed Ecology, Wuhan Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430074, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
- Danjiangkou Wetland Ecosystem Field Scientific Observation and Research Station, Chinese Academy of Sciences & Hubei Province, Wuhan, 430074, China
| |
Collapse
|
203
|
Tsakem B, Li G, Teponno RB. Structures, biosynthesis and biological activities of benastatins, anthrabenzoxocinones and fredericamycins. Bioorg Chem 2024; 150:107572. [PMID: 38901281 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2024.107572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2024] [Revised: 06/16/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024]
Abstract
The fast spread of antibiotic resistance results in the requirement for a constant introduction of new candidates. Pentangular polyphenols, a growing family of actinomycetes-derived aromatic type II polyketides, have attracted considerable attention due to their intriguing polycyclic systems and potent antimicrobial activity. Among them, benastatins, anthrabenzoxocinones (ABXs), and fredericamycins, display unique variations in their polycyclic frameworks, yet concurrently share structural commonalities within their substitutions. The present review summarizes advances in the isolation, spectroscopic characteristics, biosynthesis, and biological activities of pentangular polyphenols benastatins (1-16), ABXs (17-39), and fredericamycins (40-42) from actinomycetes. The information presented here thus prompts researchers to further explore and discover additional congeners within these three small classes of pentangular polyphenols.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bienvenu Tsakem
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Dschang, P.O. Box 67, Dschang, Cameroon
| | - Gang Li
- China-Cameroon Joint Laboratory on Bioactive Natural Products from Endophytes, Department of Natural Medicinal Chemistry and Pharmacognosy, School of Pharmacy, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, People's Republic of China.
| | - Rémy Bertrand Teponno
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Dschang, P.O. Box 67, Dschang, Cameroon.
| |
Collapse
|
204
|
Zhu HX, Wright BW, Logel DY, Needham P, Yehl K, Molloy MP, Jaschke PR. IbpAB small heat shock proteins are not host factors for bacteriophage ϕX174 replication. Virology 2024; 597:110169. [PMID: 38996611 DOI: 10.1016/j.virol.2024.110169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2024] [Revised: 06/20/2024] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024]
Abstract
Bacteriophage ϕX174 is a small icosahedral virus of the Microviridae with a rapid replication cycle. Previously, we found that in ϕX174 infections of Escherichia coli, the most highly upregulated host proteins are two small heat shock proteins, IbpA and IbpB, belonging to the HSP20 family, which is a universally conserved group of stress-induced molecular chaperones that prevent irreversible aggregation of proteins. Heat shock proteins were found to protect against ϕX174 lysis, but IbpA/B have not been studied. In this work, we disrupted the ibpA and ibpB genes and measured the effects on ϕX174 replication. We found that in contrast to other E. coli heat shock proteins, they are not necessary for ϕX174 replication; moreover, their absence has no discernible effect on ϕX174 fecundity. These results suggest IbpA/B upregulation is a response to ϕX174 protein expression but does not play a role in phage replication, and they are not Microviridae host factors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hannah X Zhu
- School of Natural Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia; ARC Centre of Excellence in Synthetic Biology, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Bradley W Wright
- School of Natural Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia; ARC Centre of Excellence in Synthetic Biology, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Dominic Y Logel
- School of Natural Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia; ARC Centre of Excellence in Synthetic Biology, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Patrick Needham
- Miami University, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Oxford, 45056, USA
| | - Kevin Yehl
- Miami University, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Oxford, 45056, USA
| | - Mark P Molloy
- School of Natural Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia; Kolling Institute, School of Medical Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Paul R Jaschke
- School of Natural Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia; ARC Centre of Excellence in Synthetic Biology, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
205
|
Majdi C, Meffre P, Benfodda Z. Recent advances in the development of bacterial response regulators inhibitors as antibacterial and/or antibiotic adjuvant agent: A new approach to combat bacterial resistance. Bioorg Chem 2024; 150:107606. [PMID: 38968903 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2024.107606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2024] [Revised: 06/21/2024] [Accepted: 06/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/07/2024]
Abstract
The number of new antibacterial agents currently being discovered is insufficient to combat bacterial resistance. It is extremely challenging to find new antibiotics and to introduce them to the pharmaceutical market. Therefore, special attention must be given to find new strategies to combat bacterial resistance and prevent bacteria from developing resistance. Two-component system is a transduction system and the most prevalent mechanism employed by bacteria to respond to environmental changes. This signaling system consists of a membrane sensor histidine kinase that perceives environmental stimuli and a response regulator which acts as a transcription factor. The approach consisting of developing response regulators inhibitors with antibacterial activity or antibiotic adjuvant activity is a novel approach that has never been previously reviewed. In this review we report for the first time, the importance of targeting response regulators and summarizing all existing studies carried out from 2008 until now on response regulators inhibitors as antibacterial agents or / and antibiotic adjuvants. Moreover, we describe the antibacterial activity and/or antibiotic adjuvants activity against the studied bacterial strains and the mechanism of different response regulator inhibitors when it's possible.
Collapse
|
206
|
Jan H, Ghayas S, Higazy D, Ahmad NM, Yaghmur A, Ciofu O. Antibacterial and anti-biofilm activities of antibiotic-free phosphatidylglycerol/docosahexaenoic acid lamellar and non-lamellar liquid crystalline nanoparticles. J Colloid Interface Sci 2024; 669:537-551. [PMID: 38729002 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2024.04.186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2024] [Revised: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024]
Abstract
Infectious diseases, particularly those associated with biofilms, are challenging to treat due to an increased tolerance to commonly used antibiotics. This underscores the urgent need for innovative antimicrobial strategies. Here, we present an alternative simple-by-design approach focusing on the development of biocompatible and antibiotic-free nanocarriers from docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) that has the potential to combat microbial infections and phosphatidylglycerol (DOPG), which is attractive for use as a biocompatible prominent amphiphilic component of Gram-positive bacterial cell membranes. We assessed the anti-bacterial and anti-biofilm activities of these nanoformulations (hexosomes and vesicles) against S. aureus and S. epidermidis, which are the most common causes of infections on catheters and medical devices by different methods (including resazurin assay, time-kill assay, and confocal laser scanning microscopy on an in vitro catheter biofilm model). In a DHA-concentration-dependent manner, these nano-self-assemblies demonstrated strong anti-bacterial and anti-biofilm activities, particularly against S. aureus. A five-fold reduction of the planktonic and a four-fold reduction of biofilm populations of S. aureus were observed after treatment with hexosomes. The nanoparticles had a bacteriostatic effect against S. epidermidis planktonic cells but no anti-biofilm activity was detected. We discuss the findings in terms of nanoparticle-bacterial cell interactions, plausible alterations in the phospholipid membrane composition, and potential penetration of DHA into these membranes, leading to changes in their structural and biophysical properties. The implications for the future development of biocompatible nanocarriers for the delivery of DHA alone or in combination with other anti-bacterial agents are discussed, as novel treatment strategies of Gram-positive infections, including biofilm-associated infections.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Habibullah Jan
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - Sana Ghayas
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - Doaa Higazy
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Costerton Biofilm Center, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen N, Denmark
| | - Nasir Mahmood Ahmad
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - Anan Yaghmur
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark.
| | - Oana Ciofu
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Costerton Biofilm Center, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen N, Denmark.
| |
Collapse
|
207
|
Jaeger I, Köhn CR, Evans JD, Frazzon J, Renault P, Kothe CI. Nutritional and microbial profiles of ripened plant-based cheese analogs collected from the European market. Food Res Int 2024; 191:114724. [PMID: 39059920 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodres.2024.114724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2024] [Revised: 06/30/2024] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024]
Abstract
Plant-based cheese analogs have emerged as a novel global market trend driven by sustainability concerns for our planet. This study examines eleven soft ripened plant-based cheese analogs produced in Europe, primarily with bloomy rinds and cashew nuts as the main ingredient. First, we focused on exploring the macronutrients and salt content stated on the labels, as well a detailed fatty acid analysis of the samples. Compared to dairy cheeses, plant-based cheeses share similarities in lipid content, but their fatty acid profiles diverge significantly, with higher ratio of mono- and polyunsaturated fatty acids such as oleic and linoleic acids. We also investigated the microbiota of these analog products, employing a culture-dependent and -independent approaches. We identified a variety of microorganisms in the plant-based cheeses, with Lactococcus lactis and Leuconostoc mesenteroides being the dominant bacterial species, and Geotrichum candidum and Penicillium camemberti the dominant fungal species. Most of the species characterized are similar to those present in dairy cheeses, suggesting that they have been inoculated as culture starters to contribute to the sensorial acceptance of plant-based cheeses. However, we also identify several species that are possibly intrinsic to plant matrices or originate from the production environment, such as Pediococcus pentosaceus and Enterococcus spp. This coexistence of typical dairy-associated organisms with plant associated species highlights the potential microbial dynamics inherent in the production of plant-based cheese. These findings will contribute to a better understanding of plant-based cheese alternatives, enable the development of sustainable products, and pave the way for future research exploring the use of plant-based substrates in the production of cheese analogues.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Isabela Jaeger
- Food Science Institute, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves, 9500, 91501-970 Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil; Université Paris-Saclay, INRAE, Micalis Institute, 78350 Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Cecília R Köhn
- Food Science Institute, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves, 9500, 91501-970 Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Joshua D Evans
- Sustainable Food Innovation Group, The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability, Technical University of Denmark, Denmark
| | - Jeverson Frazzon
- Food Science Institute, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves, 9500, 91501-970 Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Pierre Renault
- Université Paris-Saclay, INRAE, Micalis Institute, 78350 Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Caroline Isabel Kothe
- Université Paris-Saclay, INRAE, Micalis Institute, 78350 Jouy-en-Josas, France; Sustainable Food Innovation Group, The Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability, Technical University of Denmark, Denmark.
| |
Collapse
|
208
|
Pannetta M, Smal M, Ferravante C, Eletto D, Di Rosa D, Alexandrova E, Rizzo F, Voli A, Tosco A, Weisz A, Porta A. Transcriptome analysis of macrophages during Brucella abortus infection clarifies the survival mechanisms of the bacteria. Diagn Microbiol Infect Dis 2024; 110:116401. [PMID: 38878343 DOI: 10.1016/j.diagmicrobio.2024.116401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2024] [Revised: 06/11/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
Brucellosis is a critical zoonotic disease impacting humans and animals globally, causing symptoms like fever and arthritis in humans and reproductive issues in animals. The disease stems from the Brucella genus, adept at evading the immune system and proliferating within host cells. This study explores how Brucella abortus manipulates host cellular mechanisms to sustain infection, focusing on the interaction with murine macrophages over 24 h. Initial host defenses involve innate immune responses, while Brucella's survival strategies include evading lysosomal degradation and modulating host cell functions through various pathways. The research identified significant transcriptional changes in macrophages post-infection, highlighting pathways such as cytokine storm, pyroptosis signaling, Toll-like receptor pathways, and LXRs/RXRs signaling. The findings shed light on Brucella's complex mechanisms to undermine host defenses and underscore the need for further investigation into therapeutic targets to combat brucellosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Martina Pannetta
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Fisciano, SA, Italy; Ph.D. Program in Drug Discovery and Development, University of Salerno, Fisciano, SA, Italy
| | - Marharyta Smal
- Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Genomics, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry "Scuola Medica Salernitana" University of Salerno, Baronissi, SA, Italy
| | - Carlo Ferravante
- Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Genomics, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry "Scuola Medica Salernitana" University of Salerno, Baronissi, SA, Italy; Medical Genomics Program and Division of Oncology, AOU "S. Giovanni di Dio e Ruggi d'Aragona", University of Salerno, Salerno, Italy
| | - Daniela Eletto
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Fisciano, SA, Italy
| | - Domenico Di Rosa
- Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Genomics, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry "Scuola Medica Salernitana" University of Salerno, Baronissi, SA, Italy
| | - Elena Alexandrova
- Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Genomics, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry "Scuola Medica Salernitana" University of Salerno, Baronissi, SA, Italy
| | - Francesca Rizzo
- Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Genomics, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry "Scuola Medica Salernitana" University of Salerno, Baronissi, SA, Italy; Medical Genomics Program and Division of Oncology, AOU "S. Giovanni di Dio e Ruggi d'Aragona", University of Salerno, Salerno, Italy; Genome Research Center for Health-CRGS, Campus of Medicine of the University of Salerno, Baronissi, SA, Italy
| | - Antonia Voli
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Fisciano, SA, Italy; Ph.D. Program in Drug Discovery and Development, University of Salerno, Fisciano, SA, Italy
| | - Alessandra Tosco
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Fisciano, SA, Italy
| | - Alessandro Weisz
- Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Genomics, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry "Scuola Medica Salernitana" University of Salerno, Baronissi, SA, Italy; Medical Genomics Program and Division of Oncology, AOU "S. Giovanni di Dio e Ruggi d'Aragona", University of Salerno, Salerno, Italy; Genome Research Center for Health-CRGS, Campus of Medicine of the University of Salerno, Baronissi, SA, Italy
| | - Amalia Porta
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Fisciano, SA, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
209
|
Bhattacharya S, Chakraborty S, Manna D, Thakur P, Chakravorty N, Mukherjee B. Deciphering the intricate dynamics of inflammasome regulation in visceral and post-kala-azar dermal leishmaniasis: A meta-analysis of consistencies. Acta Trop 2024; 257:107313. [PMID: 38964632 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2024.107313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2024] [Revised: 06/27/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024]
Abstract
Post Kala-azar dermal leishmaniasis (PKDL) arises as a significant dermal sequel following Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) caused by protozoan parasite Leishmania donovani (LD). PKDL acts as a significant constrain for VL elimination serving as a crucial reservoir for LD. PKDL patients exhibit depigmented macular and papular lesions on their skin, which results in social discrimination due to loss of natural skin color. Inflammatory reactions, prevalent in both VL and PKDL, potentially lead to tissue damage in areas harboring the parasite. Disruption of the immune-inflammasomal network not only facilitates LD persistence but also leads to the skin hypopigmentation seen in PKDL, impacting social well-being. Activation of inflammasomal markers like STAT1, NLRP1, NLRP3, AIM2, CASP11, and NLRP12 have been identified as a common host-defense mechanism across various Leishmania infections. Conversely, Leishmania modulates inflammasome activation to sustain its presence within the host. Nevertheless, in specific instances of Leishmania infection, inflammasome activation can worsen disease pathology by promoting parasite proliferation and persistence. This study encompasses recent transcriptomic analyses conducted between 2016 and 2023 on human and murine subjects afflicted with VL/PKDL, elucidating significant alterations in inflammasomal markers in both conditions. It offers a comprehensive understanding how these markers contribute in disease progression, drawing upon available literature for logical analysis. Furthermore, our analysis identifies validated miRNA network that could potentially disrupt this crucial immune-inflammasomal network, thereby offering a plausible explanation on how secreted LD-factors could enable membrane-bound LD, isolated from the host cytoplasm, to modulate cytoplasmic inflammasomal markers. Insights from this study could guide the development of host-directed therapeutics to impede transmission and address hypopigmentation, thereby mitigating the social stigma associated with PKDL.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Debolina Manna
- School of Medical Science and Technology, IIT Kharagpur, Kharagpur 721302, India
| | - Pradipti Thakur
- School of Medical Science and Technology, IIT Kharagpur, Kharagpur 721302, India
| | - Nishant Chakravorty
- School of Medical Science and Technology, IIT Kharagpur, Kharagpur 721302, India
| | - Budhaditya Mukherjee
- School of Medical Science and Technology, IIT Kharagpur, Kharagpur 721302, India.
| |
Collapse
|
210
|
Kumar T, Maitra S, Rai R, Priyanka, Maitra S, Tirkey NN, Kumari R. The dichotomy between probiotic lactic acid bacteria and Plasmodium: A promising therapeutic avenue. Acta Trop 2024; 257:107284. [PMID: 38857820 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2024.107284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2024] [Revised: 06/02/2024] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024]
Abstract
Our understanding of gut microbial populations and their immense influence on host immunity, health, and diseases has increased deeply in recent years. Numerous reports have identified the role of mosquito and mammalian gut microbiota in the modulation of host susceptibility to Plasmodium infection. Artemisinin resistance in malaria-endemic regions necessitates the development of new, safer, and more affordable treatments to supplement existing therapies. In this review, we compiled a colossal amount of data from numerous studies that have assessed the roles played by gut microbial communities in Plasmodium infection, progression, transmission, and severity. Most interestingly, our study points to the overwhelming evidence from experimental studies in mural malaria to human trials, suggesting that the presence of lactic acid bacteria in the gut microbiota of mammalian hosts provides a great degree of protection against malaria. Therefore, our study provides a compelling narrative for probiotic administration as an adjunct therapy for combatting malaria.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tarkeshwar Kumar
- Department of Zoology, Panch Pargana Kisan College, Ranchi University, Ranchi, Jharkhand, 835204, India.
| | - Satarupa Maitra
- Special Centre for Molecular Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India
| | - Richa Rai
- Department of Zoology, Allahabad University, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Priyanka
- Department of Zoology, Allahabad University, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Satwat Maitra
- Noida International Institute of Medical Sciences, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | | | - Rajesh Kumari
- Department of Zoology, Allahabad University, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, India
| |
Collapse
|
211
|
Ci Y, Ku T, Su Y, He Z, Zhang Y, Ji J, Ning X, Yin S, Zhang K. Response signatures of intestinal microbiota and gene transcription of yellow catfish (Pelteobagrus fulvidraco) to Aeromonas hydrophila infection. FISH & SHELLFISH IMMUNOLOGY 2024; 152:109797. [PMID: 39084276 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsi.2024.109797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2024] [Revised: 07/15/2024] [Accepted: 07/28/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024]
Abstract
Bacterial intestinal inflammation is a common disease of yellow catfish (Pelteobagrus fulvidraco) in high-density aquaculture. Understanding the interactions between host and intestinal bacteria is helpful to intestinal inflammatory disease control. Here, we constructed a model of intestinal inflammation after Aeromonas hydrophila infection in yellow catfish, and characterized variations in gene expression and microbiome in the gut through high-throughput sequencing. Furthermore, host gene-microbiome interactions were identified. Histology observation showed disordered distribution of columnar epithelial cells and decrease of goblet cells in intestine. A total of 4741 genes showed differentially expression, mostly in comparisons between 12 hpi group with each other groups respectively, including control, 24 hpi and 48 hpi groups. These genes were enriched in immune-related pathways including the IL-17 signaling pathway, triggering strong inflammatory response at the invading stage within 12 h. Subsequently, the host strengthened energy consumption by activating carbohydrate and lipid metabolism pathways to repair the intestinal mucosal immune defense line. In addition, fish with A. hydrophila infection show decreased richness of gut microbial, reduced relative abundance of probiotics including Akkermansia, and elevated pathogenic bacteria such as Plesimonas. An integrative analysis identified A. hydrophila-related genes, such as il22 and stat3, for which expression level is close associated with the shift of A. hydrophila-related bacteria relative abundance, such as Akkermansia and Cetobacterium. Aside from picturing the variations of intestine gene expression and mucosal microbiome of yellow catfish coping with A. hydrophila infection, our study probed the underlying host-microbe interactions in A. hydrophila infection induced intestinal inflammatory, providing new insights for disease control in aquaculture.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuting Ci
- College of Marine Science and Engineering, Nanjing Normal University, Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center for Aquatic Animals Breeding and Green Efficient Aquacultural Technology, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Tinglan Ku
- College of Marine Science and Engineering, Nanjing Normal University, Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center for Aquatic Animals Breeding and Green Efficient Aquacultural Technology, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Yiting Su
- College of Marine Science and Engineering, Nanjing Normal University, Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center for Aquatic Animals Breeding and Green Efficient Aquacultural Technology, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Zhimin He
- College of Marine Science and Engineering, Nanjing Normal University, Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center for Aquatic Animals Breeding and Green Efficient Aquacultural Technology, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Yufei Zhang
- College of Marine Science and Engineering, Nanjing Normal University, Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center for Aquatic Animals Breeding and Green Efficient Aquacultural Technology, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Jie Ji
- College of Marine Science and Engineering, Nanjing Normal University, Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center for Aquatic Animals Breeding and Green Efficient Aquacultural Technology, Nanjing, 210023, China; Co-Innovation Center for Marine Bio-Industry Technology, Lian Yungang, Jiangsu, 222005, China
| | - Xianhui Ning
- College of Marine Science and Engineering, Nanjing Normal University, Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center for Aquatic Animals Breeding and Green Efficient Aquacultural Technology, Nanjing, 210023, China; Co-Innovation Center for Marine Bio-Industry Technology, Lian Yungang, Jiangsu, 222005, China
| | - Shaowu Yin
- College of Marine Science and Engineering, Nanjing Normal University, Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center for Aquatic Animals Breeding and Green Efficient Aquacultural Technology, Nanjing, 210023, China; Co-Innovation Center for Marine Bio-Industry Technology, Lian Yungang, Jiangsu, 222005, China
| | - Kai Zhang
- College of Marine Science and Engineering, Nanjing Normal University, Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center for Aquatic Animals Breeding and Green Efficient Aquacultural Technology, Nanjing, 210023, China; Co-Innovation Center for Marine Bio-Industry Technology, Lian Yungang, Jiangsu, 222005, China.
| |
Collapse
|
212
|
Wang Z, Li T, Lin L, Xiong Y, Chen H, Ye J, Ji J, Wang S. Investigating the effects of dexamethasone on pulmonary surfactant lipids based on lipidomics studies. Biomed Chromatogr 2024; 38:e5937. [PMID: 38922717 DOI: 10.1002/bmc.5937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2024] [Revised: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 06/01/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
Dexamethasone, a glucocorticoid commonly used in pediatric patients, has potent anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties. However, it is associated with side effects such as reduced lung function and decreased immunity. Pulmonary surfactant lipids are closely linked to lung disease and play a role in reducing surface tension, immune response and antiviral activity. The dysregulation of lipid metabolism is closely associated with lung disease. Hence, untargeted lipidomics may be instrumental in elucidating the effects of dexamethasone on pulmonary surfactant lipids. We obtained surfactant lipid samples from the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid of young mice injected subcutaneously with dexamethasone and conducted a comprehensive lipidomic analysis, comparing them with a control group. We observed a decrease in lipids, such as phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylglycerol and phosphatidylethanolamine, and an increase in ceramide, fatty acid, diacylglycerol and monoglyceride, which may impact lung health. This study revealed the influence of dexamethasone on pulmonary surfactant lipids, offering new insights into adverse reactions in clinical settings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhao Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Pediatric Respiratory Disease, Institute of Pediatrics, Medical Metabolomics Center, Pediatrics Department, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Tao Li
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Pediatric Respiratory Disease, Institute of Pediatrics, Medical Metabolomics Center, Pediatrics Department, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Lili Lin
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Pediatric Respiratory Disease, Institute of Pediatrics, Medical Metabolomics Center, Pediatrics Department, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Yingcai Xiong
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Pediatric Respiratory Disease, Institute of Pediatrics, Medical Metabolomics Center, Pediatrics Department, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Hui Chen
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Pediatric Respiratory Disease, Institute of Pediatrics, Medical Metabolomics Center, Pediatrics Department, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Jin Ye
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Pediatric Respiratory Disease, Institute of Pediatrics, Medical Metabolomics Center, Pediatrics Department, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Jianjian Ji
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Pediatric Respiratory Disease, Institute of Pediatrics, Medical Metabolomics Center, Pediatrics Department, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Shouchuan Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Pediatric Respiratory Disease, Institute of Pediatrics, Medical Metabolomics Center, Pediatrics Department, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| |
Collapse
|
213
|
Zhang Z, Wang Z, Zhang T, Yin B, Li R, Sheng Z, Li S. Variations in soil microbial communities in different saline soils under typical Populus spp. vegetation in alpine region of the Qaidam Basin, NW China. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2024; 282:116747. [PMID: 39024946 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2024.116747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2023] [Revised: 07/11/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024]
Abstract
Salinization is a severe threat to agriculture and the environment in many areas, and the same in Qaidam Basin, Qinghai Province, Northwestern China. Microorganisms have an important influence on regulating the biochemical cycles of ecosystems; however, systematic research exploring microbial diversity and interactions with saline-soil ecosystems' environmental variables remains scarce. Thus, 16 S rRNA high-throughput sequencing was performed in this paper to characterize microbial diversity under different levels of salinized soils: non-salinized (NS, 2.25 g/L), moderately salinized (MS, 6.14 g/L) and highly salinized (HS, 9.82 g/L). The alpha diversity results showed that the HS soil was significantly different from the NS and MS soils. An analysis of similarity (ANOSIM) and a principal co-ordinates analysis (PCoA) indicated that NS and MS clustered closely while HS separated from the other two. Significant differences in microbial composition were observed at the taxonomic level. Proteobacteria (42.29-79.23 %) were the most abundant phyla in the studied soils. Gammaproteobacteria (52.49 and 66.61 %) had higher abundance in the MS and HS soils at the class level; Methylophaga and Pseudomonas were the predominant bacteria in the HS soil; and Azotobacter and Methylobacillus were abundant in the MS soil. Most genera belonging to Proteobacteria and Actinobacteria were detected via a linear discriminate analysis (LDA) effect size (LEfSe) analysis, which indicated that microbes with the ability to degrade organic matter and accomplish nutrient cycling can be well-adapted to salt conditions. Further analyses (redundancy analysis and Mantel test) showed that the microbial communities were mainly related to the soil salinity, electrical conductivity (EC1:5), total phosphorus (TP) and ammonia nitrogen (NH4+-N). Overall, the findings of the study can provide insights for better understanding the dominant indigenous microbes and their roles in biochemical cycles in different saline soils in the Qaidam Basin, Qinghai Province, China. The researches related to microbial community under typical poplar species should further clarify the mechanism of plant-microbial interaction and benefit for microbial utilization in salt soil remediation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhenzhong Zhang
- Department of Hydraulic Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Zhongjing Wang
- Department of Hydraulic Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China; Breeding Base for State Key Laboratory of Land Degradation and Ecological Restoration in Northwest China, Ningxia University, Yinchuan 750021, China.
| | - Tan Zhang
- Rizhao River and Lake Management and Protection Center, Rizhao 276800, China
| | - Baosi Yin
- Yunnan Traffic Science Research Institute Co. Ltd., Kunming 650000, China
| | - Runjie Li
- State Key Laboratory of Plateau Ecology and Agriculture, College of Agriculture and Animal Husbandry, Qinghai University, Xining 810016, China
| | - Zhuping Sheng
- Texas A&M AgriLife Research Center, El Paso TX 79927, USA
| | - Shen Li
- Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
214
|
Fritsche S, Fronek F, Mach RL, Steiger MG. Applicability of non-invasive and live-cell holotomographic imaging on fungi. J Microbiol Methods 2024; 224:106983. [PMID: 38945304 DOI: 10.1016/j.mimet.2024.106983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2024] [Revised: 06/25/2024] [Accepted: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024]
Abstract
The ability to acquire three-dimensional (3D) information of cellular structures without the need for fluorescent tags or staining makes holotomographic imaging a powerful tool in cellular biology. It provides valuable insights by measuring the refractive index (RI), an optical parameter describing the phase delay of light that passes through the living cell. Here, we demonstrate holotomographic imaging on industrial relevant ascomycete fungi and study their development and morphogenesis. This includes conidial germination, subcellular dynamics, and cytoplasmic flow during hyphal growth in Aspergillus niger. In addition, growth and budding of Aureobasidium pullulans cells are captured using holotomographic microscopy. Coupled to fluorescence imaging, lipid droplets, vacuoles, the mitochondrial network, and nuclei are targeted and analyzed in the 3D RI reconstructed images. While lipid droplets and vacuoles can be assigned to a specific RI pattern, mitochondria and nuclei were not pronounced. We show, that the lower sensitivity of RI measurements derives from the fungal cell wall that acts as an additional barrier for the illumination light of the microscope. After cell wall digest of hyphae and protoplast formation of A. niger expressing GFP-tagged histone H2A, location of nuclei could be determined by non-invasive RI measurements. Furthermore, we used coupled fluorescence microscopy to observe migration of nuclei in unperturbed hyphal segments and duplication during growth on a single-cell level. Detailed micromorphological studies in Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Trichoderma reesei are challenging due to cell size restrictions. Overall, holotomography opens up new avenues for exploring dynamic cellular processes in real time and enables the visualization of fungi from a new perspective.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Susanne Fritsche
- acib - Austrian Centre of Industrial Biotechnology, Muthgasse 18, Vienna, Austria; Institute of Chemical, Environmental and Bioscience Engineering, Research Unit of Biochemical Technology, Technische Universität Wien, Gumpendorferstraße 1A, Vienna, Austria
| | - Felix Fronek
- acib - Austrian Centre of Industrial Biotechnology, Muthgasse 18, Vienna, Austria; Institute of Chemical, Environmental and Bioscience Engineering, Research Unit of Biochemical Technology, Technische Universität Wien, Gumpendorferstraße 1A, Vienna, Austria
| | - Robert L Mach
- Institute of Chemical, Environmental and Bioscience Engineering, Research Unit of Biochemical Technology, Technische Universität Wien, Gumpendorferstraße 1A, Vienna, Austria
| | - Matthias G Steiger
- acib - Austrian Centre of Industrial Biotechnology, Muthgasse 18, Vienna, Austria; Institute of Chemical, Environmental and Bioscience Engineering, Research Unit of Biochemical Technology, Technische Universität Wien, Gumpendorferstraße 1A, Vienna, Austria.
| |
Collapse
|
215
|
Almeida BK, Tran EH, Afkhami ME. Phyllosphere fungal diversity generates pervasive nonadditive effects on plant performance. THE NEW PHYTOLOGIST 2024; 243:2416-2429. [PMID: 38719779 DOI: 10.1111/nph.19792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 08/23/2024]
Abstract
Plants naturally harbor diverse microbiomes that can dramatically impact their health and productivity. However, it remains unclear how fungal microbiome diversity, especially in the phyllosphere, impacts intermicrobial interactions and consequent nonadditive effects on plant productivity. Combining manipulative experiments, field collections, culturing, microbiome sequencing, and synthetic consortia, we experimentally tested for the first time how foliar fungal community diversity impacts plant productivity. We inoculated morning glories (Ipomoea hederifolia L.) with 32 phyllosphere consortia of either low or high diversity or with single fungal taxa, and measured effects on plant productivity and allocation. We found the following: (1) nonadditive effects were pervasive with 56% of fungal consortia interacting synergistically or antagonistically to impact plant productivity, including some consortia capable of generating acute synergism (e.g. > 1000% increase in productivity above the additive expectation), (2) interactions among 'commensal' fungi were responsible for this nonadditivity in diverse consortia, (3) synergistic interactions were approximately four times stronger than antagonistic effects, (4) fungal diversity affected the magnitude but not frequency or direction of nonadditivity, and (5) diversity affected plant performance nonlinearly with the highest performance in low-diversity treatments. These findings highlight the importance of interpreting plant-microbiome interactions under a framework that incorporates intermicrobial interactions and nonadditive outcomes to understand natural complexity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Brianna K Almeida
- Department of Biology, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, 33146, USA
| | - Elan H Tran
- Department of Biology, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, 33146, USA
| | - Michelle E Afkhami
- Department of Biology, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, 33146, USA
| |
Collapse
|
216
|
Yu Q, Tungsuchat-Huang T, Ioannou A, Barkan A, Maliga P. Posttranscriptional tuning of gene expression over a large dynamic range in synthetic tobacco chloroplast operons. THE PLANT JOURNAL : FOR CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2024; 119:2437-2449. [PMID: 39031552 DOI: 10.1111/tpj.16930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2024] [Revised: 06/02/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/22/2024]
Abstract
Achieving optimally balanced gene expression within synthetic operons requires regulatory elements capable of providing a spectrum of expression levels. In this study, we investigate the expression of gfp reporter gene in tobacco chloroplasts, guided by variants of the plastid atpH 5' UTR, which harbors a binding site for PPR10, a protein that activates atpH at the posttranscriptional level. Our findings reveal that endogenous tobacco PPR10 confers distinct levels of reporter activation when coupled with the tobacco and maize atpH 5' UTRs in different design contexts. Notably, high GFP expression was not coupled to the stabilization of monocistronic gfp transcripts in dicistronic reporter lines, adding to the evidence that PPR10 activates translation via a mechanism that is independent of its stabilization of monocistronic transcripts. Furthermore, the incorporation of a tRNA upstream of the UTR nearly abolishes gfp mRNA (and GFP protein), presumably by promoting such rapid RNA cleavage and 5' exonucleolytic degradation that PPR10 had insufficient time to bind and protect gfp RNA, resulting in a substantial reduction in GFP accumulation. When combined with a mutant atpH 5' UTR, the tRNA leads to an exceptionally low level of transgene expression. Collectively, this approach allows for tuning of reporter gene expression across a wide range, spanning from a mere 0.02-25% of the total soluble cellular protein. These findings highlight the potential of employing cis-elements from heterologous species and expand the toolbox available for plastid synthetic biology applications requiring multigene expression at varying levels.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qiguo Yu
- Waksman Institute of Microbiology, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, 08854, USA
| | | | - Alexander Ioannou
- Waksman Institute of Microbiology, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, 08854, USA
| | - Alice Barkan
- Institute of Molecular Biology, University of Oregon, Eugene, Oregon, 97403, USA
| | - Pal Maliga
- Waksman Institute of Microbiology, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, 08854, USA
- Department of Plant Biology, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey, 08901, USA
| |
Collapse
|
217
|
Wang J, Zhang B, Huang Y, Zhu X, Xia A, Zhu X, Liao Q. Temperature-controlled microalgal biofilm detachment and harvesting assisted by ultrasonic from 3D porous substrates grafted with thermosensitive gels. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 256:119245. [PMID: 38810821 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2024.119245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2024] [Revised: 05/20/2024] [Accepted: 05/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
Microalgae have been renowned as the most promising energy organism with significant potential in carbon fixation. In the large-scale cultivation of microalgae, the 3D porous substrate with higher specific surface area is favorable to microalgae adsorption and biofilm formation, whereas difficult for biofilm detachment and microalgae harvesting. To solve this contradiction, N-isopropylacrylamide, a temperature-responsive gels material, was grafted onto the inner surface of the 3D porous substrate to form temperature-controllable interface wettability. The interfacial free energy between microalgae biofilm and the substrates increased from -63.02 mJ/m2 to -31.89 mJ/m2 when temperature was lowered from 32 °C to 17 °C, weakening the adsorption capacity of cells to the surface, and making the biofilm detachment ratio increased to 50.8%. When further cooling the environmental temperature to 4 °C, the detachment capability of microalgae biofilm kept growing. 91.6% of the cells in the biofilm were harvesting from the 3D porous substrate. And the biofilm detached rate was up to 19.84 g/m2/h, realizing the temperature-controlled microalgae biofilm harvesting. But, microalgae growth results in the secretion of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS), which enhanced biofilm adhesion and made cell detachment more difficult. Thus, ultrasonic vibration was used to reinforce biofilm detachment. With the help of ultrasonic vibration, microalgae biofilm detached rate increased by 143.45% to 41.07 g/m2/h. These findings provide a solid foundation for further development of microalgae biofilm detachment and harvesting technology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiale Wang
- Key Laboratory of Low-grade Energy Utilization Technologies and Systems, Chongqing University, Ministry of Education, Chongqing, 400044, China; Institute of Engineering Thermophysics, School of Energy and Power Engineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China
| | - Beiyu Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Low-grade Energy Utilization Technologies and Systems, Chongqing University, Ministry of Education, Chongqing, 400044, China; Institute of Engineering Thermophysics, School of Energy and Power Engineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China
| | - Yun Huang
- Key Laboratory of Low-grade Energy Utilization Technologies and Systems, Chongqing University, Ministry of Education, Chongqing, 400044, China; Institute of Engineering Thermophysics, School of Energy and Power Engineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China.
| | - Xianqing Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Low-grade Energy Utilization Technologies and Systems, Chongqing University, Ministry of Education, Chongqing, 400044, China; Institute of Engineering Thermophysics, School of Energy and Power Engineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China
| | - Ao Xia
- Key Laboratory of Low-grade Energy Utilization Technologies and Systems, Chongqing University, Ministry of Education, Chongqing, 400044, China; Institute of Engineering Thermophysics, School of Energy and Power Engineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China
| | - Xun Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Low-grade Energy Utilization Technologies and Systems, Chongqing University, Ministry of Education, Chongqing, 400044, China; Institute of Engineering Thermophysics, School of Energy and Power Engineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China
| | - Qiang Liao
- Key Laboratory of Low-grade Energy Utilization Technologies and Systems, Chongqing University, Ministry of Education, Chongqing, 400044, China; Institute of Engineering Thermophysics, School of Energy and Power Engineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China
| |
Collapse
|
218
|
Balasubramaniam K, He T, Chen H, Lin Z, He CY. Cytoplasmic preassembly of the flagellar outer dynein arm complex in Trypanosoma brucei. Mol Biol Cell 2024; 35:br16. [PMID: 39024276 DOI: 10.1091/mbc.e24-06-0263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/20/2024] Open
Abstract
The outer dynein arm (ODA) is a large, multimeric protein complex essential for ciliary motility. The composition and assembly of ODA are best characterized in the green algae Chlamydomonas reinhardtii, where individual ODA subunits are synthesized and preassembled into a mature complex in the cytosol prior to ciliary import. The single-cellular parasite Trypanosoma brucei contains a motile flagellum essential for cell locomotion and pathogenesis. Similar to human motile cilia, T. brucei flagellum contains a two-headed ODA complex arranged at 24 nm intervals along the axonemal microtubule doublets. The subunit composition and the preassembly of the ODA complex in T. brucei, however, have not been investigated. In this study, we affinity-purified the ODA complex from T. brucei cytoplasmic extract. Proteomic analyses revealed the presence of two heavy chains (ODAα and ODAβ), two intermediate chains (IC1and IC2) and several light chains. We showed that both heavy chains and both intermediate chains are indispensable for flagellar ODA assembly. Our study also provided biochemical evidence supporting the presence of a cytoplasmic, preassembly pathway for T. brucei ODA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Karthika Balasubramaniam
- Department of Biological Science, The Centre for Bioimaging Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117543
| | - Tingting He
- Department of Biological Science, The Centre for Bioimaging Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117543
| | - Helen Chen
- Department of Biological Science, The Centre for Bioimaging Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117543
| | - Zhewang Lin
- Department of Biological Science, The Centre for Bioimaging Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117543
| | - Cynthia Y He
- Department of Biological Science, The Centre for Bioimaging Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117543
| |
Collapse
|
219
|
Hu J, Tian J, Deng X, Liu X, Zhou F, Yu J, Chi R, Xiao C. Heterotrophic nitrification processes driven by glucose and sodium acetate: New insights into microbial communities, functional genes and nitrogen metabolism from metagenomics and metabolomics. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2024; 408:131226. [PMID: 39111401 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2024.131226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2024] [Revised: 07/30/2024] [Accepted: 08/04/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024]
Abstract
Heterotrophic nitrification (HN) bacteria use organic carbon sources to remove ammonia nitrogen (NH4+-N); however, the mechanisms of carbon and nitrogen metabolism are unknown. To understand this mechanism, HN functional microbial communities named MG and MA were enriched with glucose and sodium acetate, respectively. The NH4+-N removal efficiencies were 98.87 % and 98.91 %, with 88.06 % and 69.77 % nitrogen assimilation for MG and MA at 22 h and 10 h, respectively. Fungi (52.86 %) were more competitive in MG, and bacteria (99.99 %) were dominant in MA. Metagenomic and metabolomic analyses indicated that HN might be a signaling molecule (NO) in the production and detoxification processes when MG metabolizes glucose (amo, hao, and nosZ were not detected). MA metabolizes sodium acetate to produce less energy and promotes nitrogen oxidation reduction; however, genes (hao, hox, and NOS2) were not detected. These results suggest that NO and energy requirements induce microbial HN.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jingang Hu
- Key Laboratory of Novel Biomass-Based Environmental and Energy Materials in Petroleum and Chemical Industry, Key Laboratory for Green Chemical Process of Ministry of Education, School of Environmental Ecology and Biological Engineering, Wuhan Institute of Technology, Wuhan 430205, PR China
| | - Jiaoyang Tian
- Key Laboratory of Novel Biomass-Based Environmental and Energy Materials in Petroleum and Chemical Industry, Key Laboratory for Green Chemical Process of Ministry of Education, School of Environmental Ecology and Biological Engineering, Wuhan Institute of Technology, Wuhan 430205, PR China
| | - Xiangyi Deng
- Key Laboratory of Novel Biomass-Based Environmental and Energy Materials in Petroleum and Chemical Industry, Key Laboratory for Green Chemical Process of Ministry of Education, School of Environmental Ecology and Biological Engineering, Wuhan Institute of Technology, Wuhan 430205, PR China
| | - Xuemei Liu
- Key Laboratory of Novel Biomass-Based Environmental and Energy Materials in Petroleum and Chemical Industry, Key Laboratory for Green Chemical Process of Ministry of Education, School of Environmental Ecology and Biological Engineering, Wuhan Institute of Technology, Wuhan 430205, PR China
| | - Fang Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Novel Biomass-Based Environmental and Energy Materials in Petroleum and Chemical Industry, Key Laboratory for Green Chemical Process of Ministry of Education, School of Environmental Ecology and Biological Engineering, Wuhan Institute of Technology, Wuhan 430205, PR China
| | - Junxia Yu
- Key Laboratory of Novel Biomass-Based Environmental and Energy Materials in Petroleum and Chemical Industry, Key Laboratory for Green Chemical Process of Ministry of Education, School of Environmental Ecology and Biological Engineering, Wuhan Institute of Technology, Wuhan 430205, PR China
| | - Ruan Chi
- Key Laboratory of Novel Biomass-Based Environmental and Energy Materials in Petroleum and Chemical Industry, Key Laboratory for Green Chemical Process of Ministry of Education, School of Environmental Ecology and Biological Engineering, Wuhan Institute of Technology, Wuhan 430205, PR China; Hubei Three Gorges Laboratory, Yichang 443007, PR China
| | - Chunqiao Xiao
- Key Laboratory of Novel Biomass-Based Environmental and Energy Materials in Petroleum and Chemical Industry, Key Laboratory for Green Chemical Process of Ministry of Education, School of Environmental Ecology and Biological Engineering, Wuhan Institute of Technology, Wuhan 430205, PR China; Hubei Three Gorges Laboratory, Yichang 443007, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
220
|
Rosenthal PJ, Asua V, Bailey JA, Conrad MD, Ishengoma DS, Kamya MR, Rasmussen C, Tadesse FG, Uwimana A, Fidock DA. The emergence of artemisinin partial resistance in Africa: how do we respond? THE LANCET. INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2024; 24:e591-e600. [PMID: 38552654 DOI: 10.1016/s1473-3099(24)00141-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2024] [Revised: 02/17/2024] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/21/2024]
Abstract
Malaria remains one of the most important infectious diseases in the world, with the greatest burden in sub-Saharan Africa, primarily from Plasmodium falciparum infection. The treatment and control of malaria is challenged by resistance to most available drugs, but partial resistance to artemisinins (ART-R), the most important class for the treatment of malaria, was until recently confined to southeast Asia. This situation has changed, with the emergence of ART-R in multiple countries in eastern Africa. ART-R is mediated primarily by single point mutations in the P falciparum kelch13 protein, with several mutations present in African parasites that are now validated resistance mediators based on clinical and laboratory criteria. Major priorities at present are the expansion of genomic surveillance for ART-R mutations across the continent, more frequent testing of the efficacies of artemisinin-based regimens against uncomplicated and severe malaria in trials, more regular assessment of ex-vivo antimalarial drug susceptibilities, consideration of changes in treatment policy to deter the spread of ART-R, and accelerated development of new antimalarial regimens to overcome the impacts of ART-R. The emergence of ART-R in Africa is an urgent concern, and it is essential that we increase efforts to characterise its spread and mitigate its impact.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Philip J Rosenthal
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | - Victor Asua
- Infectious Diseases Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda; University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Jeffrey A Bailey
- Center for Computational Molecular Biology, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA; Departments of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Melissa D Conrad
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Deus S Ishengoma
- National Institute for Medical Research, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania; Department of Biochemistry, Kampala International University in Tanzania, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania; School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Moses R Kamya
- Infectious Diseases Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda; Department of Medicine, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Fitsum G Tadesse
- Armauer Hansen Research Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia; London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Aline Uwimana
- Rwanda Biomedical Center, Kigali, Rwanda; Louvain Drug Research Institute, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - David A Fidock
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology and Center for Malaria Therapeutics and Antimicrobial Resistance, Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| |
Collapse
|
221
|
Amhmed M, Liu H, Häkkinen L, Haapasalo M, Shen Y. Antimicrobial efficacy of DJK-5 peptide in combination with EDTA against biofilms in dentinal tubules: Primary irrigation, recovery and re-irrigation. Int Endod J 2024; 57:1343-1359. [PMID: 38837723 DOI: 10.1111/iej.14104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2024] [Revised: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
AIM To investigate the dynamic recovery of biofilms within dentinal tubules after primary irrigation with different protocols, and to evaluate the efficacy of various re-irrigation protocols on recovered biofilm, considering factors such as smear layer, nutrient conditions, and primary irrigants. METHODOLOGY A total of 416 mono or multi-species biofilms samples were prepared from human teeth and incubated for 3 weeks. After inducing a smear layer on half of the samples, all specimens were irrigated with one of the following irrigant sequences: (1) 6% NaOCl +17% EDTA, (2) 6% NaOCl +8.5% EDTA, (3) 6% NaOCl and (8.5% EDTA +10 μg/mL DJK-5 antimicrobial peptide), or (4) sterile water. Thirty-two samples were used to assess immediate effect, whilst the rest were re-incubated to assess biofilms recovery. Nutrient conditions were defined based on whether culture media were changed (nutrient-rich) or not (nutrient-poor) during re-incubation. After 16 weeks, recovered biofilms underwent re-irrigation using four additional protocols, with or without DJK-5 peptide, based on primary irrigants. Confocal laser scanning microscopy was employed to evaluate immediate irrigant effects, biofilms recovery intervals (1, 3, 5, 8, 12, and 16 weeks after primary irrigation), and re-irrigation effects at the 16-week. Statistical analysis included one-way anova and two-way mixed anova tests. RESULTS The DJK-5 peptide irrigation protocols demonstrated the highest killing rates during primary irrigation and resulted in a longer biofilms recovery time of 16 weeks compared to non-peptide protocols (p < .001). Both primary irrigation type and smear layer presence significantly influenced biofilms recovery (p < .001). In the absence of smear layer, re-irrigation efficacy didn't significantly differ from primary irrigation, regardless of primary irrigation type or nutrient conditions. However, with a smear layer present, re-irrigation led to significantly higher proportion of dead bacteria compared to primary irrigation (p < .05). Inclusion of the DJK-5 peptide into the re-irrigation protocol displayed superior killing rate compared to other protocols (p < .001). CONCLUSIONS Biofilms exhibited susceptibility to both peptide and non-peptide protocols during re-irrigation, irrespective of nutrient conditions or primary irrigation protocols. The DJK-5 peptide irrigation protocols consistently displayed superior effectiveness compared to non-peptide protocols.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Amhmed
- Department of Oral Biological and Medical Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Division of Prosthodontics, Department of Oral Health Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Department of Oral Biology, Faculty of Dentistry, The University of Sebha, Sebha, Libya
| | - He Liu
- Department of Oral Biological and Medical Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Lari Häkkinen
- Department of Oral Biological and Medical Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Markus Haapasalo
- Department of Oral Biological and Medical Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Ya Shen
- Department of Oral Biological and Medical Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
222
|
Fu Q, Chen T, Wang Y, Zhou H, Zhang K, Zheng R, Zhang Y, Liu R, Yin X, Liu G, Xu Y. Plasmopara viticola effector PvCRN20 represses the import of VvDEG5 into chloroplasts to suppress immunity in grapevine. THE NEW PHYTOLOGIST 2024; 243:2311-2331. [PMID: 39091140 DOI: 10.1111/nph.20002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024]
Abstract
Chloroplasts play a crucial role in plant defense against pathogens, making them primary targets for pathogen effectors that suppress host immunity. This study characterizes the Plasmopara viticola CRN-like effector, PvCRN20, which interacts with DEG5 in the cytoplasm but not with its interacting protein, DEG8, which is located in the chloroplast. By transiently overexpressing in tobacco leaves, we show that PvCRN20 could inhibit INF1- and Bax-triggered cell death. Constitutive expression of PvCRN20 suppresses the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and promotes pathogen colonization. PvCRN20 reduces DEG5 entry into chloroplasts, thereby disrupting DEG5 and DEG8 interactions in chloroplasts. Overexpression of VvDEG5 and VvDEG8 induces ROS accumulation and enhances grapevine resistance to P. viticola, whereas knockout of VvDEG8 represses ROS production and promotes P. viticola colonization. Consistently, ectopic expression of VvDEG5 and VvDEG8 in tobacco promotes chloroplast-derived ROS accumulation, whereas co-expression of PvCRN20 counteracted this promotion by VvDEG5. Therefore, DEG5 is essential for the virulence function of PvCRN20. Although PvCRN20 is located in both the nucleus and cytoplasm, only cytoplasmic PvCRN20 suppresses plant immunity and promotes pathogen infection. Our results reveal that PvCRN20 dampens plant defenses by repressing the chloroplast import of DEG5, thus reducing host ROS accumulation and facilitating pathogen colonization.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qingqing Fu
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Resistance and High-Efficiency Production, College of Horticulture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China
- Key Laboratory of Horticultural Plant Biology and Germplasm Innovation in Northwest China, Ministry of Agriculture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China
| | - Tingting Chen
- College of Agricultural Science, Xichang University, Xichang, 615000, China
| | - Yunlei Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Resistance and High-Efficiency Production, College of Horticulture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China
- Key Laboratory of Horticultural Plant Biology and Germplasm Innovation in Northwest China, Ministry of Agriculture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China
| | - Huixuan Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Resistance and High-Efficiency Production, College of Horticulture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China
- Key Laboratory of Horticultural Plant Biology and Germplasm Innovation in Northwest China, Ministry of Agriculture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China
| | - Kangzhuang Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Resistance and High-Efficiency Production, College of Horticulture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China
- Key Laboratory of Horticultural Plant Biology and Germplasm Innovation in Northwest China, Ministry of Agriculture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China
| | - Runlong Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Resistance and High-Efficiency Production, College of Horticulture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China
- Key Laboratory of Horticultural Plant Biology and Germplasm Innovation in Northwest China, Ministry of Agriculture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China
| | - Yanan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Resistance and High-Efficiency Production, College of Horticulture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China
- Key Laboratory of Horticultural Plant Biology and Germplasm Innovation in Northwest China, Ministry of Agriculture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China
| | - Ruiqi Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Resistance and High-Efficiency Production, College of Horticulture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China
- Key Laboratory of Horticultural Plant Biology and Germplasm Innovation in Northwest China, Ministry of Agriculture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China
| | - Xiao Yin
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Resistance and High-Efficiency Production, College of Horticulture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China
- Key Laboratory of Horticultural Plant Biology and Germplasm Innovation in Northwest China, Ministry of Agriculture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China
| | - Guotian Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Resistance and High-Efficiency Production, College of Horticulture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China
- Key Laboratory of Horticultural Plant Biology and Germplasm Innovation in Northwest China, Ministry of Agriculture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China
| | - Yan Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Resistance and High-Efficiency Production, College of Horticulture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China
- Key Laboratory of Horticultural Plant Biology and Germplasm Innovation in Northwest China, Ministry of Agriculture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China
| |
Collapse
|
223
|
Pan Z, Luo H, He F, Du Y, Wang J, Zeng H, Xu Z, Sun Y, Li M. Guava polysaccharides attenuate high fat and STZ-induced hyperglycemia by regulating gut microbiota and arachidonic acid metabolism. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 276:133725. [PMID: 38986994 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.133725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2024] [Revised: 06/18/2024] [Accepted: 07/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024]
Abstract
This study investigated the hypoglycemic mechanism of guava polysaccharides (GP) through the gut microbiota (GM) and related metabolites. Our findings demonstrated that GP significantly mitigated high-fat diet- and streptozotocin-induced hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, hyperlipidemia, elevated alanine aminotransferase, high hepatic inflammation levels, and prevented pancreatic atrophy and hepatomegaly. Interestingly, the benefits of GP were attributed to alterations in the GM. GP decreased the ratio of Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes, significantly inhibiting deleterious bacteria, including Uncultured_f_Desulfovibrionaceae, Bilophila, and Desulfovibrio, while promoting the proliferation of probiotic Bifidobacterium and Bacteroides. In addition, GP promoted the generation of short-chain fatty acids. Notably, the arachidonic acid (AA) metabolism pathway was enriched in liver metabolites. GP significantly elevated hepatic AA and 15-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid, while reducing prostaglandin E2 and 5- and 12-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid. This modulation is accompanied by the downregulation of hepatic cyclooxygenase-1, 12-lipoxygenase, P38, and c-Jun N-terminal kinase mRNA expression, and the upregulation of cytochrome P4502J5 and insulin receptor substrate 1/2 mRNA expression. However, GP antibiotic treatment did not induce significant alterations in FBG and AA levels or gene expression. Overall, our findings suggest that the hypoglycemic effect of GP may be intricately linked to alterations in AA metabolism, which depends on the GM.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhuangguang Pan
- Guangdong Provincial Key Lab of Food Safety and Quality, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510642, PR China; College of Food Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, PR China
| | - Haolin Luo
- Guangdong Provincial Key Lab of Food Safety and Quality, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510642, PR China; College of Food Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, PR China
| | - Fangqing He
- Guangdong Provincial Key Lab of Food Safety and Quality, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510642, PR China; College of Food Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, PR China
| | - Yixuan Du
- Guangdong Provincial Key Lab of Food Safety and Quality, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510642, PR China; College of Food Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, PR China
| | - Junyi Wang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Lab of Food Safety and Quality, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510642, PR China; College of Food Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, PR China
| | - Huize Zeng
- Guangdong Provincial Key Lab of Food Safety and Quality, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510642, PR China; College of Food Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, PR China
| | - Zhenlin Xu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Lab of Food Safety and Quality, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510642, PR China; College of Food Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, PR China
| | - Yuanming Sun
- Guangdong Provincial Key Lab of Food Safety and Quality, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510642, PR China; College of Food Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, PR China
| | - Meiying Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Lab of Food Safety and Quality, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510642, PR China; College of Food Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
224
|
Nakayama A, Morinaga Y, Izuno R, Morikane K, Yanagihara K. Evaluation of MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry coupled with ClinProTools as a rapid tool for toxin-producing Clostridioides difficile. J Infect Chemother 2024; 30:847-852. [PMID: 38423297 DOI: 10.1016/j.jiac.2024.02.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2024] [Revised: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The performance of MALDI-TOF MS combined with analysis platform for identification of toxin-producing Clostridiodes difficile is yet to be known. METHODS Between August 2018 and September 2020, 61 isolates from stool specimens of patients with C. difficile-associated diarrhea were analyzed using the MALDI Biotyper system. A C. difficile toxin-producer detection model was developed using ClinProTools. The model was validated using 28 known strains that differed from the isolates used to develop the model. RESULTS The sensitivity and specificity of the Genetic Algorithm (GA) model using isolates grown on Brucella with hemin and vitamin K (BHK) agar plates were 91.7% and 44.4%, respectively. When isolates grown on cycloserine-cefoxitin mannitol agar were analyzed by the model, sensitivity and specificity were 6.3% and 100%, respectively. The GA model using BHK medium showed the highest discriminatory performance in detection of toxin-producing C. difficile. However, a discrepancy in detection of toxin-producing C. difficile was observed in the results generated when the model was being developed and when the model was validated which suggests that incubation conditions may have affected the results. CONCLUSION MALDI-TOF analysis using ClinProTools has a potential to be a cost-effective tool for rapid diagnosis and contribute to antimicrobial stewardship by differentiating toxin-producing C. difficile from non-producers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Asami Nakayama
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki, Japan; Department of Laboratory Medicine, Tohoku University Hospital, Miyagi, Japan
| | - Yoshitomo Morinaga
- Department of Microbiology, Graduate School of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Toyama, Toyama, Japan; Center for Advanced Antibody Drug Development, University of Toyama, Toyama, Japan; Clinical and Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Toyama University Hospital, Toyama, Japan.
| | - Ryota Izuno
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Yamagata University Hospital, Yamagata, Japan
| | - Keita Morikane
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Yamagata University Hospital, Yamagata, Japan
| | - Katsunori Yanagihara
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
225
|
Peng J, Xiao R, Wu C, Zheng Z, Deng Y, Chen K, Xiang Y, Xu C, Zou L, Liao M, Zhang J. Characterization of the prevalence of Salmonella in different retail chicken supply modes using genome-wide and machine-learning analyses. Food Res Int 2024; 191:114654. [PMID: 39059904 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodres.2024.114654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2024] [Revised: 06/14/2024] [Accepted: 06/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024]
Abstract
Salmonella is a foodborne pathogen that causes salmonellosis, of which retail chicken meat is a major source. However, the prevalence of Salmonella in different retail chicken supply modes and the threat posed to consumers remains unclear. The prevalence, serotype distribution, antibiotic resistance, and genomic characteristics of Salmonella in three supply modes of retail chicken (live poultry, frozen, and chilled) were investigated using whole-genome sequencing (WGS) and machine learning (ML). In this study, 480 retail chicken samples from live poultry, frozen, and chilled supply modes in Guangzhou from 2020 to 2021, as well as 253 Salmonella isolates (total isolation rate = 53.1 %), were collected. The prevalence of isolates in the live poultry mode (67.5 %, 81/120) was statistically higher than in the frozen (50.0 %, 120/240) and chilled (43.3 %, 52/120) (P < 0.05) modes. Serotype identification showed significant differences in the serotype distribution of Salmonella in different supply modes. S. Enteritis (46.7 %) and S. Indiana (14.2 %) were predominant in the frozen mode. S. Agona (23.5 %) and S. Saintpaul (13.6 %) were predominant in live poultry, while S. Enteritis (40.4 %) and S. Kentucky (17.3 %) were predominant in chilled mode. Antibiotic testing showed that frozen mode isolates were more resistant; the multidrug-resistant (MDR) rate of isolates in the frozen mode reached 91.8 %, significantly higher than in the chilled (86.5 %) and live (74.1 %) (P < 0.05) modes. WGS was performed on 155 top serotypes (S. Enteritidis, S. Kentucky, S. Indiana, and S. Agona). The antibiotic resistance gene analysis showed that the abundance and carrying rate of antibiotic resistance genes of Salmonella in the frozen mode (54 types, 16.1 %) were significantly higher than in other modes (live poultry: 36 types, 9.4 %, P < 0.05; chilled: 31 types, 11.6 %). The blaNDM-1 and blaNDM-9 genes encoding carbapenem resistance were found in frozen mode isolates on a complex transposon consisting of TnAS3-IS26. Virulence factors and plasmid replicons were abundant in the studied frozen mode isolates. In addition, single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) phylogenetic tree results showed that in the frozen supply mode, the S. Enteritidis clonal clade continued to contaminate retail chicken meat and was homologous to S. Enteritidis strains found in farm chicken embryos, slaughterhouse chicken carcasses, and patients from hospitals in China (SNP 0 = 10). Notably, the pan-genome-based ML model showed that characteristic genes in frozen and live poultry isolates differed. The narZ gene was a key characteristic gene in frozen isolates, encoding nitrate reductase, relating to anaerobic bacterial growth. The ydgJ gene is a key characteristic gene in the live mode and encodes an oxidoreductase related to oxidative function in bacteria. The high prevalence of live poultry mode Salmonella and the transmission of frozen mode MDR Salmonella in this study pose serious risks to food safety and public health, emphasizing the importance of improving disinfection and cold storage measures to reduce Salmonella contamination and transmission. In conclusion, the continued surveillance of Salmonella across different supply models and the development of an epidemiological surveillance system based on WGS is necessary.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Junhao Peng
- National and Regional Joint Engineering Laboratory for Medicament of Zoonoses Prevention and Control; Key Laboratory of Zoonoses, Ministry of Agriculture; Key Laboratory of Zoonoses Prevention and Control of Guangdong Province; Animal Infectious Diseases Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Renhang Xiao
- National and Regional Joint Engineering Laboratory for Medicament of Zoonoses Prevention and Control; Key Laboratory of Zoonoses, Ministry of Agriculture; Key Laboratory of Zoonoses Prevention and Control of Guangdong Province; Animal Infectious Diseases Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Canji Wu
- National and Regional Joint Engineering Laboratory for Medicament of Zoonoses Prevention and Control; Key Laboratory of Zoonoses, Ministry of Agriculture; Key Laboratory of Zoonoses Prevention and Control of Guangdong Province; Animal Infectious Diseases Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Zexin Zheng
- National and Regional Joint Engineering Laboratory for Medicament of Zoonoses Prevention and Control; Key Laboratory of Zoonoses, Ministry of Agriculture; Key Laboratory of Zoonoses Prevention and Control of Guangdong Province; Animal Infectious Diseases Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Yuhui Deng
- National and Regional Joint Engineering Laboratory for Medicament of Zoonoses Prevention and Control; Key Laboratory of Zoonoses, Ministry of Agriculture; Key Laboratory of Zoonoses Prevention and Control of Guangdong Province; Animal Infectious Diseases Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Kaifeng Chen
- National and Regional Joint Engineering Laboratory for Medicament of Zoonoses Prevention and Control; Key Laboratory of Zoonoses, Ministry of Agriculture; Key Laboratory of Zoonoses Prevention and Control of Guangdong Province; Animal Infectious Diseases Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Yuwei Xiang
- National and Regional Joint Engineering Laboratory for Medicament of Zoonoses Prevention and Control; Key Laboratory of Zoonoses, Ministry of Agriculture; Key Laboratory of Zoonoses Prevention and Control of Guangdong Province; Animal Infectious Diseases Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Chenggang Xu
- National and Regional Joint Engineering Laboratory for Medicament of Zoonoses Prevention and Control; Key Laboratory of Zoonoses, Ministry of Agriculture; Key Laboratory of Zoonoses Prevention and Control of Guangdong Province; Animal Infectious Diseases Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Likou Zou
- College of Resource, Sichuan Agricultural University, 611130 Yaan, China
| | - Ming Liao
- National and Regional Joint Engineering Laboratory for Medicament of Zoonoses Prevention and Control; Key Laboratory of Zoonoses, Ministry of Agriculture; Key Laboratory of Zoonoses Prevention and Control of Guangdong Province; Animal Infectious Diseases Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; School of Resources and Environmental, Zhongkai College of Agricultural Engineering, Guangxin Road No. 388, Baiyun District, Guangzhou 510550, Guangdong, China.
| | - Jianmin Zhang
- National and Regional Joint Engineering Laboratory for Medicament of Zoonoses Prevention and Control; Key Laboratory of Zoonoses, Ministry of Agriculture; Key Laboratory of Zoonoses Prevention and Control of Guangdong Province; Animal Infectious Diseases Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China.
| |
Collapse
|
226
|
Davis EC, Monaco CL, Insel R, Järvinen KM. Gut microbiome in the first 1000 days and risk for childhood food allergy. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol 2024; 133:252-261. [PMID: 38494114 PMCID: PMC11344696 DOI: 10.1016/j.anai.2024.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2024] [Revised: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To summarize recent data on the association between gut microbiome composition and food allergy (FA) in early childhood and highlight potential host-microbiome interactions that reinforce or abrogate oral tolerance. DATA SOURCES PubMed search of English-language articles related to FA, other atopic disease, and the gut microbiome in pregnancy and early childhood. STUDY SELECTIONS Human studies published after 2015 assessing the relationship between the gut bacteriome and virome in the first 2 years of life and FA or food sensitization development in early childhood were prioritized. Additional human studies conducted on the prenatal gut microbiome or other atopic diseases and preclinical studies are also discussed. RESULTS Children who developed FA harbored lower abundances of Bifidobacterium and Clostridia species and had a less mature microbiome during infancy. The early bacterial microbiome protects against FA through production of anti-inflammatory metabolites and induction of T regulatory cells and may also affect FA risk through a role in trained immunity. Infant enteric phage communities are related to childhood asthma development, though no data are available for FA. Maternal gut microbiome during pregnancy is associated with childhood FA risk, potentially through transplacental delivery of maternal bacterial metabolites, though human studies are lacking. CONCLUSION The maternal and infant microbiomes throughout the first 1000 days of life influence FA risk through a number of proposed mechanisms. Further large, longitudinal cohort studies using taxonomic, functional, and metabolomic analysis of the bacterial and viral microbiomes are needed to provide further insight on the host-microbe interactions underlying FA pathogenesis in childhood.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Erin C Davis
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Center for Food Allergy, Department of Pediatrics, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Golisano Children's Hospital, Rochester, New York
| | - Cynthia L Monaco
- Division of Infectious Disease, Department of Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York; Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York
| | - Richard Insel
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Center for Food Allergy, Department of Pediatrics, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Golisano Children's Hospital, Rochester, New York
| | - Kirsi M Järvinen
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Center for Food Allergy, Department of Pediatrics, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Golisano Children's Hospital, Rochester, New York; Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York; Division of Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York.
| |
Collapse
|
227
|
Kamel EM, Alqhtani HA, Bin-Jumah M, Rudayni HA, El-Bassuony AA, Mokhtar Lamsabhi A. Deciphering molecular mechanisms underlying the inhibition of β-glucuronidase by xanthones from Centaurium spicatum. Bioorg Chem 2024; 150:107609. [PMID: 38964145 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2024.107609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2024] [Revised: 06/27/2024] [Accepted: 06/29/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024]
Abstract
Herein, we scrutinized the inhibitory potential of five xanthones and a flavonoid, sourced from Centaurium spicatum, against β-glucuronidase activity. The results showed that gentisin and azaleatin emerged as the most potent inhibitors, with significantly lower IC50 values of 0.96 ± 0.10 and 0.57 ± 0.04 μM, respectively. The evaluation of enzyme kinetics unveiled that the isolated xanthones manifested inhibition of β-glucuronidase through a mixed inhibition mode, whereas azaleatin exhibited a noncompetitive inhibition mechanism. The findings from molecular docking analysis unveiled that the compounds under investigation, particularly azaleatin, displayed comparatively diminished binding affinities towards β-glucuronidase. Furthermore, the tested drugs were shown to occupy a common binding site as the employed reference drug. Our comprehensive Molecular Dynamics (MD) simulations analysis revealed consistent trajectories for the investigated drugs, wherein azaleatin and gentisin demonstrated notable stabilization of energy levels. Analysis of various MD parameters revealed that drugs with the lowest IC50 values maintained relatively stable interactions with β-glucuronidase. These drugs were shown to exert notable alterations in their conformation or flexibility upon complexation with the target enzyme. Conversely, the flexibility and accessibility of β-glucuronidase was reduced upon drug binding, particularly with azaleatin and gentisin, underscoring the stability of the drug-enzyme complexes. Analysis of Coul-SR and LJ-SR interaction energies unveiled consistent and stable interactions between certain isolated drugs and β-glucuronidase. Azaleatin notably displayed the lowest average Coul-SR interaction energy, suggesting strong electrostatic interactions with the enzyme's active site and significant conformational variability during simulation. Remarkably, LJ-SR interaction energies across different xanthones complexes were more negative than their Coul-SR counterparts, emphasizing the predominant role of van der Waals interactions, encompassing attractive dispersion and repulsive forces, in stabilizing the drug-enzyme complexes rather than electrostatic interactions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emadeldin M Kamel
- Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef 62514, Egypt.
| | - Haifa A Alqhtani
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, P.O. BOX 84428, Riyadh 11671, Saudi Arabia
| | - May Bin-Jumah
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, P.O. BOX 84428, Riyadh 11671, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hassan A Rudayni
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University, Riyadh 11623, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ashraf A El-Bassuony
- Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef 62514, Egypt
| | - Al Mokhtar Lamsabhi
- Departamento de Química, Módulo 13, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Campus de Excelencia UAM-CSIC Cantoblanco, 28049 Madrid, Spain; Institute for Advanced Research in Chemical Sciences (IAdChem), Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28049 Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
228
|
Zemanick ET, Rosas-Salazar C. The Role of the Microbiome in Pediatric Respiratory Diseases. Clin Chest Med 2024; 45:587-597. [PMID: 39069323 DOI: 10.1016/j.ccm.2024.02.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
Numerous studies have examined the role of the microbiome and microbiome-based therapeutics in many childhood airway and lung diseases. In this narrative review, the authors first give a brief overview of the current methods used in microbiome research. The authors then review the literature linking the microbiome with (1) early-life acute respiratory infections due to respiratory syncytial virus, (2) childhood asthma onset, (3) cystic fibrosis, and (4) bronchopulmonary dysplasia, focusing on recent studies that have used culture-independent methods to characterize the respiratory or gut microbiome in the pediatric population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Edith T Zemanick
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus and Children's Hospital Colorado, 13123 East 16th Avenue, B-395, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Christian Rosas-Salazar
- Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center and Monroe Carell Jr. Children's Hospital at Vanderbilt, 2200 Children's Way, Doctors' Office Tower, Suite 11215, Nashville, TN 37232, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
229
|
Ritter MR, Oliveira MTD, Ardisson JS, Gonçalves RDCR, Kitagawa RR, Lima DDS, Seixas FAV, Nakamura CV, Mello JCPD. Trichilia catigua against Helicobacter pylori: An in vitro, molecular and in silico approach. Fitoterapia 2024; 177:106101. [PMID: 38945495 DOI: 10.1016/j.fitote.2024.106101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2024] [Revised: 06/24/2024] [Accepted: 06/27/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024]
Abstract
Helicobacter pylori is a bacterium that is present in the stomach of about 50% of the global population and is associated with several gastric disorders, including cancer. Natural products with antimicrobial activity have been tested against H. pylori, among them Trichilia catigua (catuaba), which is widely distributed in Brazil. This study aimed to evaluate extracts of T. catigua bark against H. pylori via determination of the minimum inhibitory and bactericidal concentrations (MIC and MBC); evaluation of virulence factors by real-time PCR, synergism with standard antimicrobials and morphology by scanning electron microscopy and simulations of the mechanism of action by molecular docking. The ethyl acetate fraction provided the best results, with an MIC50 of 250 μg/mL and a 42.34% reduction in urease activity, along with reduced expression of the CagA and VacA genes, which encode for the main virulence factors. This fraction presented synergistic activity with clarithromycin, reducing the MIC of the drug by four-fold. Docking simulations suggested that the extracts inhibit fatty acid synthesis by the FAS-II system, causing damage to the cell membrane. Therefore, T. catigua extracts have potential as an adjuvant to treatment and are promising for the development of new anti-H. pylori drugs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mariane Roberta Ritter
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biology, Palafito, Department of Pharmacy, Universidade Estadual de Maringá, Maringá, Brazil
| | - Marcelo Tempesta de Oliveira
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biology, Palafito, Department of Pharmacy, Universidade Estadual de Maringá, Maringá, Brazil
| | - Juliana Santa Ardisson
- Graduate Program in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Vitória, Brazil
| | | | - Rodrigo Rezende Kitagawa
- Graduate Program in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Vitória, Brazil
| | - Diego de Souza Lima
- Department of Technology, Universidade Estadual de Maringá, Umuarama, Brazil
| | | | - Celso Vataru Nakamura
- Technological Innovation Laboratory in the Development of Pharmaceuticals and Cosmetics, Universidade Estadual de Maringá, Brazil
| | - João Carlos Palazzo de Mello
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biology, Palafito, Department of Pharmacy, Universidade Estadual de Maringá, Maringá, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
230
|
Liu J, He C, Tan W, Zheng JH. Path to bacteriotherapy: From bacterial engineering to therapeutic perspectives. Life Sci 2024; 352:122897. [PMID: 38971366 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2024.122897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2024] [Revised: 06/30/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/08/2024]
Abstract
The major reason for the failure of conventional therapies is the heterogeneity and complexity of tumor microenvironments (TMEs). Many malignant tumors reprogram their surface antigens to evade the immune surveillance, leading to reduced antigen-presenting cells and hindered T-cell activation. Bacteria-mediated cancer immunotherapy has been extensively investigated in recent years. Scientists have ingeniously modified bacteria using synthetic biology and nanotechnology to enhance their biosafety with high tumor specificity, resulting in robust anticancer immune responses. To enhance the antitumor efficacy, therapeutic proteins, cytokines, nanoparticles, and chemotherapeutic drugs have been efficiently delivered using engineered bacteria. This review provides a comprehensive understanding of oncolytic bacterial therapies, covering bacterial design and the intricate interactions within TMEs. Additionally, it offers an in-depth comparison of the current techniques used for bacterial modification, both internally and externally, to maximize their therapeutic effectiveness. Finally, we outlined the challenges and opportunities ahead in the clinical application of oncolytic bacterial therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jinling Liu
- The Affiliated Xiangtan Central Hospital of Hunan University, School of Biomedical Sciences, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, China; College of Biology, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, China
| | - Chongsheng He
- College of Biology, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, China
| | - Wenzhi Tan
- School of Food Science and Bioengineering, Changsha University of Science & Technology, Changsha, Hunan 410114, China.
| | - Jin Hai Zheng
- The Affiliated Xiangtan Central Hospital of Hunan University, School of Biomedical Sciences, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, China.
| |
Collapse
|
231
|
Sher EK, Džidić-Krivić A, Sesar A, Farhat EK, Čeliković A, Beća-Zećo M, Pinjic E, Sher F. Current state and novel outlook on prevention and treatment of rising antibiotic resistance in urinary tract infections. Pharmacol Ther 2024; 261:108688. [PMID: 38972453 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2024.108688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2024] [Revised: 04/16/2024] [Accepted: 07/04/2024] [Indexed: 07/09/2024]
Abstract
Antibiotic-resistant bacteria are currently an important public health concern posing a serious threat due to their resistance to the current arsenal of antibiotics. Uropathogens Escherichia coli (UPEC), Proteus mirabilis, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Enterococcus faecalis, antibiotic-resistant gram-negative bacteria, cause serious cases of prolonged UTIs, increasing healthcare costs and potentially even leading to the death of an affected patient. This review discusses current knowledge about the increasing resistance to currently recommended antibiotics for UTI therapy, as well as novel therapeutic options. Traditional antibiotics are still a part of the therapy guidelines for UTIs, although they are often not effective and have serious side effects. Hence, novel drugs are being developed, such as combinations of β-lactam antibiotics with cephalosporins and carbapenems. Siderophoric cephalosporins, such as cefiderocol, have shown potential in the treatment of individuals with significant gram-negative bacterial infections, as well as aminoglycosides, fluoroquinolones and tetracyclines that are also undergoing clinical trials. The use of cranberry and probiotics is another potential curative and preventive method that has shown antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects. However, further studies are needed to assess the efficacy and safety of probiotics containing cranberry extract for UTI prevention and treatment. An emerging novel approach for UTI treatment is the use of immuno-prophylactic vaccines, as well as different nanotechnology solutions such as nanoparticles (NP). NP have the potential to be used as delivery systems for drugs to specific targets. Furthermore, nanotechnology could enable the development of nano antibiotics with improved features by the application of different NPs in their structure, such as gold and copper NPs. However, further high-quality research is required for the synthesis and testing of these novel molecules, such as safety evaluation and pharmacovigilance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emina K Sher
- School of Science and Technology, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham NG11 8NS, United Kingdom.
| | - Amina Džidić-Krivić
- Department of Neurology, Cantonal Hospital Zenica, Zenica 72000, Bosnia and Herzegovina; International Society of Engineering Science and Technology, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Ana Sesar
- International Society of Engineering Science and Technology, Nottingham, United Kingdom; Faculty of Health Studies, Victoria International University, Mostar 88000, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Esma K Farhat
- International Society of Engineering Science and Technology, Nottingham, United Kingdom; Faculty of Food Technology, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, Croatia
| | - Amila Čeliković
- International Society of Engineering Science and Technology, Nottingham, United Kingdom; Faculty of Medicine, University of Zenica, Zenica 71000, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Merima Beća-Zećo
- International Society of Engineering Science and Technology, Nottingham, United Kingdom; Faculty of Health Studies, Victoria International University, Mostar 88000, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Emma Pinjic
- Department of Radiology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC), Boston, MA, United States
| | - Farooq Sher
- Department of Engineering, School of Science and Technology, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham NG11 8NS, United Kingdom.
| |
Collapse
|
232
|
Xu M, Chen Y, Chen L, Chen Y, Yin X, Ji N, Cai Y, Sun S, Shen X. Investigating the molecular mechanisms of Pseudalteromonas sp. LD-B1's algicidal effects on the harmful alga Heterosigma akashiwo. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2024; 282:116690. [PMID: 38981394 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2024.116690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2024] [Revised: 06/29/2024] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/11/2024]
Abstract
Heterosigma akashiwo is a harmful algal bloom species that causes significant detrimental effects on marine ecosystems worldwide. The algicidal bacterium Pseudalteromonas sp. LD-B1 has demonstrated potential effectiveness in mitigating these blooms. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying LD-B1's inhibitory effects on H. akashiwo remain poorly understood. In this study, we employed the comprehensive methodology, including morphological observation, assessment of photosynthetic efficiency (Fv/Fm), and transcriptomic analysis, to investigate the response of H. akashiwo to LD-B1. Exposure to LD-B1 resulted in a rapid decline of H. akashiwo's Fv/Fm ratio, with cells transitioning to a rounded shape within 2 hours, subsequently undergoing structural collapse and cytoplasmic leakage. Transcriptomic data revealed sustained downregulation of photosynthetic genes, indicating impaired functionality of the photosynthetic system. Additionally, genes related to the respiratory electron transfer chain and antioxidant defenses were consistently downregulated, suggesting prolonged oxidative stress beyond the cellular antioxidative capacity. Notably, upregulation of autophagy-related genes was observed, indicating autophagic responses in the algal cells. This study elucidates the molecular basis of LD-B1's algicidal effects on H. akashiwo, advancing our understanding of algicidal mechanisms and contributing to the development of effective strategies for controlling harmful algal blooms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mingyang Xu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Marine Bioresources and Environment/Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology, Jiangsu Ocean University, Lianyungang 222005, China; Co-Innovation Center of Jiangsu Marine Bio-industry Technology, Jiangsu Ocean University, Lianyungang, 222005China
| | - Yujiao Chen
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Marine Bioresources and Environment/Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology, Jiangsu Ocean University, Lianyungang 222005, China; Co-Innovation Center of Jiangsu Marine Bio-industry Technology, Jiangsu Ocean University, Lianyungang, 222005China
| | - Lei Chen
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Marine Bioresources and Environment/Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology, Jiangsu Ocean University, Lianyungang 222005, China; Co-Innovation Center of Jiangsu Marine Bio-industry Technology, Jiangsu Ocean University, Lianyungang, 222005China
| | - Yifan Chen
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Marine Bioresources and Environment/Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology, Jiangsu Ocean University, Lianyungang 222005, China; Co-Innovation Center of Jiangsu Marine Bio-industry Technology, Jiangsu Ocean University, Lianyungang, 222005China
| | - Xueyao Yin
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Marine Bioresources and Environment/Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology, Jiangsu Ocean University, Lianyungang 222005, China; Co-Innovation Center of Jiangsu Marine Bio-industry Technology, Jiangsu Ocean University, Lianyungang, 222005China
| | - Nanjing Ji
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Marine Bioresources and Environment/Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology, Jiangsu Ocean University, Lianyungang 222005, China; Co-Innovation Center of Jiangsu Marine Bio-industry Technology, Jiangsu Ocean University, Lianyungang, 222005China; Jiangsu Marine Resources Development Research Institute, Lianyungang 222005, China; CAS Key Laboratory of Marine Ecology and Environmental Sciences, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao 266071, China.
| | - Yuefeng Cai
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Marine Bioresources and Environment/Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology, Jiangsu Ocean University, Lianyungang 222005, China; Co-Innovation Center of Jiangsu Marine Bio-industry Technology, Jiangsu Ocean University, Lianyungang, 222005China
| | - Song Sun
- CAS Key Laboratory of Marine Ecology and Environmental Sciences, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Xin Shen
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Marine Bioresources and Environment/Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology, Jiangsu Ocean University, Lianyungang 222005, China; Co-Innovation Center of Jiangsu Marine Bio-industry Technology, Jiangsu Ocean University, Lianyungang, 222005China.
| |
Collapse
|
233
|
Blasco-Lavilla N, López-López A, De la Rúa P, Barribeau SM. Infection by Crithidia bombi increases relative abundance of Lactobacillus spp. in the gut of Bombus terrestris. Mol Ecol 2024; 33:e17478. [PMID: 39075965 DOI: 10.1111/mec.17478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Revised: 05/20/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/31/2024]
Abstract
Gut microbial communities confer protection against natural pathogens in important pollinators from the genera Bombus and Apis. In commercial species B. terrestris and B. impatiens, the microbiota increases their resistance to the common and virulent trypanosomatid parasite Crithidia bombi. However, the mechanisms by which gut microorganisms protect the host are still unknown. Here, we test two hypotheses: microbiota protect the host (1) through stimulation of its immune response or protection of the gut epithelium and (2) by competing for resources with the parasite inside the gut. To test them, we reduced the microbiota of workers and then rescued the microbial community by feeding them with microbiota supplements. We then exposed them to an infectious dose of C. bombi and characterised gene expression and gut microbiota composition. We examined the expression of three antimicrobial peptide genes and Mucin-5AC, a gene with a putative role in gut epithelium protection, using qPCR. Although a protective effect against C. bombi was observed in bumblebees with supplemented microbiota, we did not observe an effect of the microbiota on gene expression that could explain alone the protective effect observed. On the other hand, we found an increased relative abundance of Lactobacillus bacteria within the gut of infected workers and a negative correlation of this genus with Gilliamella and Snodgrassella genera. Therefore, our results point to a displacement of bumblebee endosymbionts by C. bombi that might be caused by competition for space and nutrients between the parasite and the microbiota within the gut.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nuria Blasco-Lavilla
- Department of Zoology and Physical Anthropology, Faculty of Veterinary, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
- Department of Ecology, Evolution and Behaviour, Institute of Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Alejandro López-López
- Department of Zoology and Physical Anthropology, Faculty of Veterinary, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
- Department of Invertebrate Evolution, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Faculty of Biology, Jagiellonian University, Kraków, Poland
| | - Pilar De la Rúa
- Department of Zoology and Physical Anthropology, Faculty of Veterinary, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Seth Michael Barribeau
- Department of Ecology, Evolution and Behaviour, Institute of Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| |
Collapse
|
234
|
Zhang Q, Wei Y, Liu L. GraphPro: An interpretable graph neural network-based model for identifying promoters in multiple species. Comput Biol Med 2024; 180:108974. [PMID: 39096613 DOI: 10.1016/j.compbiomed.2024.108974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2024] [Revised: 07/29/2024] [Accepted: 07/30/2024] [Indexed: 08/05/2024]
Abstract
Promoters are DNA sequences that bind with RNA polymerase to initiate transcription, regulating this process through interactions with transcription factors. Accurate identification of promoters is crucial for understanding gene expression regulation mechanisms and developing therapeutic approaches for various diseases. However, experimental techniques for promoter identification are often expensive, time-consuming, and inefficient, necessitating the development of accurate and efficient computational models for this task. Enhancing the model's ability to recognize promoters across multiple species and improving its interpretability pose significant challenges. In this study, we introduce a novel interpretable model based on graph neural networks, named GraphPro, for multi-species promoter identification. Initially, we encode the sequences using k-tuple nucleotide frequency pattern, dinucleotide physicochemical properties, and dna2vec. Subsequently, we construct two feature extraction modules based on convolutional neural networks and graph neural networks. These modules aim to extract specific motifs from the promoters, learn their dependencies, and capture the underlying structural features of the promoters, providing a more comprehensive representation. Finally, a fully connected neural network predicts whether the input sequence is a promoter. We conducted extensive experiments on promoter datasets from eight species, including Human, Mouse, and Escherichia coli. The experimental results show that the average Sn, Sp, Acc and MCC values of GraphPro are 0.9123, 0.9482, 0.8840 and 0.7984, respectively. Compared with previous promoter identification methods, GraphPro not only achieves better recognition accuracy on multiple species, but also outperforms all previous methods in cross-species prediction ability. Furthermore, by visualizing GraphPro's decision process and analyzing the sequences matching the transcription factor binding motifs captured by the model, we validate its significant advantages in biological interpretability. The source code for GraphPro is available at https://github.com/liuliwei1980/GraphPro.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qi Zhang
- College of Science, Dalian Jiaotong University, Dalian, 116028, China
| | - Yuxiao Wei
- College of Software, Dalian Jiaotong University, Dalian, 116028, China
| | - Liwei Liu
- College of Science, Dalian Jiaotong University, Dalian, 116028, China.
| |
Collapse
|
235
|
Khan MAS, Chaity SC, Hosen MA, Rahman SR. Genomic epidemiology of multidrug-resistant clinical Acinetobacter baumannii in Bangladesh. INFECTION, GENETICS AND EVOLUTION : JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR EPIDEMIOLOGY AND EVOLUTIONARY GENETICS IN INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2024; 123:105656. [PMID: 39116952 DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2024.105656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2024] [Revised: 07/04/2024] [Accepted: 08/05/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024]
Abstract
The rising frequency of multidrug-resistant (MDR) Acinetobacter baumannii infections represents a significant public health challenge in Bangladesh. Genomic analysis of bacterial pathogens enhances surveillance and control efforts by providing insights into genetic diversity, antimicrobial resistance (AMR) profiles, and transmission dynamics. In this study, we conducted a comprehensive bioinformatic analysis of 82 whole-genome sequences (WGS) of A. baumannii from Bangladesh to understand their genomic epidemiological characteristics. WGS of the MDR and biofilm-forming A. baumannii strain S1C revealed the presence of 28 AMR genes, predicting its pathogenicity and classification within sequence type ST2. Multi-locus sequence typing (MLST) genotyping suggested heterogeneity in the distribution of clinical A. baumannii strains in Bangladesh, with a predominance of ST575. The resistome diversity was evident from the detection of 82 different AMR genes, with antibiotic inactivation being the most prevalent resistance mechanism. All strains were predicted to be multidrug-resistant. The observed virulence genes were associated with immune evasion, biofilm formation, adherence, nutrient acquisition, effector delivery, and other mechanisms. Mobile genetic elements carrying AMR genes were predicted in 68.29% (N = 56) of the genomes. The "open" state of the pan-genome and a high proportion of accessory genes highlighted the genome plasticity and diversity of A. baumannii in Bangladesh. Additionally, phylogenomic analysis indicated clustering of A. baumannii strains into three separate clades according to sequence type. In summary, our findings offer detailed insights into the genomic landscape of A. baumannii in Bangladesh, contributing to our understanding of its epidemiology and pathogenicity and informing strategies to combat this pathogen.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Md Arman Hosen
- Department of Microbiology, University of Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | | |
Collapse
|
236
|
Qi R, Zhang B, Qiu X, Liu X, Bao S, Wang J, Wang Q, Yang Y, Yang H, Liu Z. Microbiome and metabolome analyses indicate variations in the gut microbiota that disrupt regulation of appetite. FASEB J 2024; 38:e70003. [PMID: 39157946 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202401360r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2024] [Revised: 08/02/2024] [Accepted: 08/07/2024] [Indexed: 08/20/2024]
Abstract
The mechanism connecting gut microbiota to appetite regulation is not yet fully understood. This study identifies specific microbial community and metabolites that may influence appetite regulation. In the initial phase of the study, mice were administered a broad-spectrum antibiotic cocktail (ABX) for 10 days. The treatment significantly reduced gut microbes and disrupted the metabolism of arginine and tryptophan. Consequently, ABX-treated mice demonstrated a notable reduction in feed consumption. The hypothalamic expression levels of CART and POMC, two key anorexigenic factors, were significantly increased, while orexigenic factors, such as NPY and AGRP, were decreased. Notably, the levels of appetite-suppressing hormone cholecystokinin in the blood were significantly elevated. In the second phase, control mice were maintained, while the ABX-treated mice received saline, probiotics, and short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) for an additional 10 days to restore their gut microbiota. The microbiota reconstructed by probiotic and SCFA treatments were quite similar, while microbiota of the naturally recovering mice demonstrated greater resemblance to that of the control mice. Notably, the abundance of Akkermansia and Bacteroides genera significantly increased in the reconstructed microbiota. Moreover, microbiota reconstruction corrected the disrupted arginine and tryptophan metabolism and the abnormal peripheral hormone levels caused by ABX treatment. Among the groups, SCFA-treated mice had the highest feed intake and NPY expression. Our findings indicate that gut microbes, especially Akkermansia, regulate arginine and tryptophan metabolism, thereby influencing appetite through the microbe-gut-brain axis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Renli Qi
- Chongqing Academy of Animal Science, Chongqing, China
| | - Bin Zhang
- Chongqing Academy of Animal Science, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiaoyu Qiu
- Chongqing Academy of Animal Science, Chongqing, China
| | - Xin Liu
- Chongqing Academy of Animal Science, Chongqing, China
| | - Shili Bao
- Rongchang District People's Hospital, Chongqing, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Chongqing Academy of Animal Science, Chongqing, China
| | - Qi Wang
- Chongqing Academy of Animal Science, Chongqing, China
| | - Yong Yang
- Chongqing Academy of Animal Science, Chongqing, China
| | - Haili Yang
- College of animal science and technology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Zuohua Liu
- Chongqing Academy of Animal Science, Chongqing, China
- National Pig Technology Innovation Center, Chongqing, China
| |
Collapse
|
237
|
Gaddy KE, Bensch EM, Cavanagh J, Milton ME. Insights into DNA-binding motifs and mechanisms of Francisella tularensis novicida two-component system response regulator proteins QseB, KdpE, and BfpR. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2024; 722:150150. [PMID: 38805787 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2024.150150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2024] [Revised: 05/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024]
Abstract
Two component system bacterial response regulators are typically DNA-binding proteins which enable the genetic regulation of many adaptive bacterial behaviors. Despite structural similarity across response regulator families, there is a diverse array of DNA-binding mechanisms. Bacteria usually encode several dozen two-component system response regulators, but Francisella tularensis only encodes three. Due to their simplified response regulatory network, Francisella species are a model for studying the role of response regulator proteins in virulence. Here, we show that Francisella response regulators QseB, KdpE, and BfpR all utilize different DNA-binding mechanisms. Our evidence suggests that QseB follows a simple mechanism whereby it binds a single inverted repeat sequence with a higher affinity upon phosphorylation. This behavior is independent of whether QseB is a positive or negative regulator of the gene as demonstrated by qseB and priM promoter sequences, respectively. Similarly, KdpE binds DNA more tightly upon phosphorylation, but also exhibits a cooperative binding isotherm. While we propose a KdpE binding site, it is possible that KdpE has a complex DNA-binding mechanism potentially involving multiple copies of KdpE being recruited to a promoter region. Finally, we show that BfpR appears to bind a region of its own promoter sequence with a lower affinity upon phosphorylation. Further structural and enzymatic work will need to be performed to deconvolute the KdpE and BfpR binding mechanisms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Keegan E Gaddy
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA
| | - Elody M Bensch
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA
| | - John Cavanagh
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA
| | - Morgan E Milton
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
238
|
Chen L, Kang Z, Shen J, Zhao R, Miao Y, Zhang L, Zheng Z, Zhang Z, Liu N, Wang C, Fang H, Zhou J, Wang Y, Liu Z, Yang Y, Chen Q. An emerging antibacterial nanovaccine for enhanced chemotherapy by selectively eliminating tumor-colonizing bacteria. Sci Bull (Beijing) 2024; 69:2565-2579. [PMID: 38918142 DOI: 10.1016/j.scib.2024.06.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2023] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
Fusobacterium nucleatum (F. nucleatum), an oral anaerobe, is prevalent in colorectal cancer and is closely related to increased cancer cell growth, metastasis, and poor treatment outcomes. Bacterial vaccines capable of selectively eliminating bacteria present a promising approach to targeting intratumor F. nucleatum, thereby enhancing cancer treatment. Although adjuvants have been employed to enhance the immune response, the vaccine's effectiveness is constrained by inadequate T-cell activation necessary for eradicating intracellular pathogens. In this study, we developed a minimalistic, biomimetic nanovaccine by integrating highly immunostimulatory adjuvant cholesterol-modified CpG oligonucleotides into the autologously derived F. nucleatum membranes. Compared to the traditional vaccines consisting of inactivated bacteria and Alum adjuvant, the nanovaccine coupled with bacterial membranes and adjuvants could remarkably improve multiple antigens and adjuvant co-delivery to dendritic cells, maximizing their ability to achieve effective antigen presentation and strong downstream immune progress. Notably, the nanovaccine exhibits outstanding selective prophylactic and therapeutic effects, eliminating F. nucleatum without affecting intratumoral and gut microbiota. It significantly enhances chemotherapy efficacy and reduces cancer metastasis in F. nucleatum-infected colorectal cancer. Overall, this work represents the rational application of bacterial nanovaccine and provides a blueprint for future development in enhancing the antitumor effect against bacterial-infected cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Linfu Chen
- Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Carbon-Based Functional Materials & Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Zheyu Kang
- Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Carbon-Based Functional Materials & Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Jingjing Shen
- Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Carbon-Based Functional Materials & Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Rui Zhao
- Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Carbon-Based Functional Materials & Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Yu Miao
- Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Carbon-Based Functional Materials & Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Lin Zhang
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, The International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - Zixuan Zheng
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Zhemin Zhang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Nanhui Liu
- Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Carbon-Based Functional Materials & Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Cheng Wang
- Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Carbon-Based Functional Materials & Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Huapan Fang
- Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Carbon-Based Functional Materials & Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Jun Zhou
- Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Carbon-Based Functional Materials & Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Yudong Wang
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, The International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - Zhuang Liu
- Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Carbon-Based Functional Materials & Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Yang Yang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Qian Chen
- Institute of Functional Nano & Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Carbon-Based Functional Materials & Devices, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China.
| |
Collapse
|
239
|
Iqbal H, Onyedibe K. The utilization of an unconventional approach to introduce basic bacteriology in a medical school bridge program. JOURNAL OF MICROBIOLOGY & BIOLOGY EDUCATION 2024; 25:e0018522. [PMID: 38785387 DOI: 10.1128/jmbe.00185-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Bacteria form an intense portion of reading and learning for students enrolled in microbiology education. As a part of the foundational course outline of bacteriology, bacterial classification is a significant topic of discussion. The purpose of our study was to analyze whether bacterial classification can be taught with a phylogenetic tree approach that might be more engaging and beneficial to student learners of microbiology. This methodology is unique compared to the conventional approach applied in introductory lectures of bacteriology that relies on morphology and Gram-staining to classify bacteria. The participants of this study were students enrolled in a two-semester medical school bridge program that offers a Master's degree in Pre-clinical Sciences. We presented bacterial origin and classification in the light of evolution and used a phylogenetic tree to signify clinically relevant groups of bacteria. Students were also taught the traditional bacterial classification using Gram stains and morphology. Both methods of classification were delivered in a didactic classroom session considering equal time spent and utilizing the same format. An online survey was distributed to the students after the session to collect their feedback. The results from the survey showed that 74% of participants would prefer learning bacterial classification using a combined approach that includes both Gram-staining and morphology as well as the phylogenetic tree. When asked if the study of bacterial classification through an evolutionary tree diagram is a clear and concise way of understanding bacteria, 79% of the students either agreed or strongly agreed with this statement. Interestingly, the alternative phylogenetic tree approach was considered more engaging and regarded as a means to expand the clinical knowledge of bacteria by 78% and 71% of the students, respectively. Overall, our study strongly supports the use of tree-based classification as an additional method to improve the learning of medically important groups of bacteria at varying levels of education.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Henna Iqbal
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Mercer University School of Medicine, Macon, Georgia, USA
| | - Kenneth Onyedibe
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Mercer University School of Medicine, Macon, Georgia, USA
| |
Collapse
|
240
|
Hu JC, Sethi S. New methods to detect bacterial or viral infections in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Expert Rev Respir Med 2024:1-15. [PMID: 39175157 DOI: 10.1080/17476348.2024.2396413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2024] [Revised: 07/22/2024] [Accepted: 08/21/2024] [Indexed: 08/24/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are frequently colonized and infected by respiratory pathogens. Identifying these infectious etiologies is critical for understanding the microbial dynamics of COPD and for the appropriate use of antimicrobials during exacerbations. AREAS COVERED Traditional methods, such as bacterial and viral cultures, have been standard in diagnosing respiratory infections. However, these methods have significant limitations, including lack of sensitivity and prolonged turnaround time. Modern molecular approaches offer rapid, sensitive, and specific detection, though they also come with their own challenges. This review explores and evaluates the clinical utility of the latest advancements in detecting bacterial and viral respiratory infections in COPD, encompassing molecular techniques, biomarkers, and emerging technologies. EXPERT OPINION In the evolving landscape of COPD management, integrating molecular diagnostics and emerging technologies holds great promise. The enhanced sensitivity of molecular techniques has significantly advanced our understanding of the role of microbes in COPD. However, many of these technologies have primarily been developed for pneumonia diagnosis or research applications, and their clinical utility in managing COPD requires further evaluation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- John C Hu
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Sanjay Sethi
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, Department of Medicine, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA
| |
Collapse
|
241
|
He L, Wang Q, Wang X, Zhou F, Yang C, Li Y, Liao L, Zhu Z, Ke F, Wang Y. Liquid-liquid phase separation is essential for reovirus viroplasm formation and immune evasion. J Virol 2024:e0102824. [PMID: 39194247 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.01028-24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2024] [Accepted: 07/19/2024] [Indexed: 08/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Grass carp reovirus (GCRV) is the most virulent pathogen in the genus Aquareovirus, belonging to the family Spinareoviridae. Members of the Spinareoviridae family are known to replicate and assemble in cytoplasmic inclusion bodies termed viroplasms; however, the detailed mechanism underlying GCRV viroplasm formation and its specific roles in virus infection remains largely unknown. Here, we demonstrate that GCRV viroplasms form through liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) of the nonstructural protein NS80 and elucidate the specific role of LLPS during reovirus infection and immune evasion. We observe that viroplasms coalesce within the cytoplasm of GCRV-infected cells. Immunofluorescence and transmission electron microscopy indicate that GCRV viroplasms are membraneless structures. Live-cell imaging and fluorescence recovery after photobleaching assay reveal that GCRV viroplasms exhibit liquid-like properties and are highly dynamic structures undergoing fusion and fission. Furthermore, by using a reagent to inhibit the LLPS process and constructing an NS80 mutant defective in LLPS, we confirm that the liquid-like properties of viroplasms are essential for recruiting viral dsRNA, viral RdRp, and viral proteins to participate in viral genome replication and virion assembly, as well as for sequestering host antiviral factors for immune evasion. Collectively, our findings provide detailed insights into reovirus viroplasm formation and reveal the specific functions of LLPS during virus infection and immune evasion, identifying potential targets for the prevention and control of this virus. IMPORTANCE Grass carp reovirus (GCRV) poses a significant threat to the aquaculture industry, particularly in China, where grass carp is a vital commercial fish species. However, detailed information regarding how GCRV viroplasms form and their specific roles in GCRV infection remains largely unknown. We discovered that GCRV viroplasms exhibit liquid-like properties and are formed through a physico-chemical biological phenomenon known as liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS), primarily driven by the nonstructural protein NS80. Furthermore, we confirmed that the liquid-like properties of viroplasms are essential for virus replication, assembly, and immune evasion. Our study not only contributes to a deeper understanding of GCRV infection but also sheds light on broader aspects of viroplasm biology. Given that viroplasms are a universal feature of reovirus infection, inhibiting LLPS and then blocking viroplasms formation may serve as a potential pan-reovirus inhibition strategy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Libo He
- State Key Laboratory of Breeding Biotechnology and Sustainable Aquaculture, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Qian Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Breeding Biotechnology and Sustainable Aquaculture, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xuyang Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Breeding Biotechnology and Sustainable Aquaculture, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Fang Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Breeding Biotechnology and Sustainable Aquaculture, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China
| | - Cheng Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Breeding Biotechnology and Sustainable Aquaculture, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China
| | - Yongming Li
- State Key Laboratory of Breeding Biotechnology and Sustainable Aquaculture, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China
| | - Lanjie Liao
- State Key Laboratory of Breeding Biotechnology and Sustainable Aquaculture, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China
| | - Zuoyan Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Breeding Biotechnology and Sustainable Aquaculture, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China
| | - Fei Ke
- State Key Laboratory of Breeding Biotechnology and Sustainable Aquaculture, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yaping Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Breeding Biotechnology and Sustainable Aquaculture, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China
- Innovative Academy of Seed Design, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
242
|
Zhu T, Yang Y, Hu C, Ma L, Sheng J, Chang R, Liao Y, Wang L, Zhu Y, Zhao M, Li B, Li T, Liao C. Effects of Enterobacter cloacae insecticidal protein on the Duox-ROS system and midgut bacterial community and function of Galleria mellonella larvae. Toxicon 2024; 247:107850. [PMID: 38971137 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2024.107850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2023] [Revised: 07/01/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/08/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Enterobacter cloacae insecticidal proteins have been reported to kill Galleria mellonella larvae through affecting their midgut microbiome. However, the mechanisms involved remain unclear. Here we aim to investigate how the insecticidal proteins act on the midgut Duox-ROS system and microbial community of G. mellonella larvae. METHODS Reverse transcription qPCR and fluorescence probes were utilized to assess the Duox expression levels and to evaluate quantitative changes of the ROS levels. Sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene sequences of the midgut bacteria of G. mellonella larvae was conducted for further analyses of bacterial diversity, composition, and abundance. RESULTS After the injection of the insecticidal proteins, the Duox expression levels first increased within 28 h, then dramatically peaked at 36 h, and slowly decreased thereafter. Simultaneously, the ROS levels increased significantly at 36 h, peaked at 48 h, and rapidly declined to the normal level at 60 h. Responsive to the change of the ROS levels, the structure of the midgut microbial community was altered substantially, compared to that of the untreated larvae. The relative abundance of Enterobacteriaceae and other specific pathogenic bacteria increased significantly, whereas that of Lactobacillus decreased sharply. Importantly, notable shifts were observed in the crucial midgut predicted metabolic functions, including membrane transportation, carbohydrate metabolism, and amino acid metabolism. CONCLUSION Insecticidal proteins of E. cloacae kill G. mellonella larvae mainly through generation of high oxidative stress, alterations of the midgut microbial community and function, and damage to the physiological functions. These findings provide insights into the inhibition mechanism of E. cloacae insecticidal proteins to G. mellonella larvae.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tao Zhu
- College of Life Science and Engineering, Henan University of Urban Construction, Pingdingshan, Henan, China; Center of Healthy Food Engineering and Technology of Henan, Henan University of Urban Construction, Pingdingshan, Henan, China; Laboratory of Water Pollution Control and Rehabilitation Technology, Henan University of Urban Construction, Pingdingshan, Henan, China
| | - Yi Yang
- College of Life Science and Engineering, Henan University of Urban Construction, Pingdingshan, Henan, China
| | - Chao Hu
- Pingdingshan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, China
| | - Liang Ma
- College of Life Science and Engineering, Henan University of Urban Construction, Pingdingshan, Henan, China
| | - Jiaqing Sheng
- College of Life Science and Engineering, Henan University of Urban Construction, Pingdingshan, Henan, China
| | - Ruiying Chang
- College of Life Science and Engineering, Henan University of Urban Construction, Pingdingshan, Henan, China
| | - Yanfei Liao
- College of Life Science and Engineering, Henan University of Urban Construction, Pingdingshan, Henan, China
| | - Lianzhe Wang
- College of Life Science and Engineering, Henan University of Urban Construction, Pingdingshan, Henan, China; Center of Healthy Food Engineering and Technology of Henan, Henan University of Urban Construction, Pingdingshan, Henan, China; Laboratory of Water Pollution Control and Rehabilitation Technology, Henan University of Urban Construction, Pingdingshan, Henan, China
| | - Yutao Zhu
- College of Life Science and Engineering, Henan University of Urban Construction, Pingdingshan, Henan, China; Center of Healthy Food Engineering and Technology of Henan, Henan University of Urban Construction, Pingdingshan, Henan, China
| | - Mei Zhao
- College of Life Science and Engineering, Henan University of Urban Construction, Pingdingshan, Henan, China; Center of Healthy Food Engineering and Technology of Henan, Henan University of Urban Construction, Pingdingshan, Henan, China
| | - Bingbing Li
- College of Life Science and Engineering, Henan University of Urban Construction, Pingdingshan, Henan, China; Center of Healthy Food Engineering and Technology of Henan, Henan University of Urban Construction, Pingdingshan, Henan, China; Laboratory of Water Pollution Control and Rehabilitation Technology, Henan University of Urban Construction, Pingdingshan, Henan, China.
| | - Taotao Li
- College of Life Science and Engineering, Henan University of Urban Construction, Pingdingshan, Henan, China; Center of Healthy Food Engineering and Technology of Henan, Henan University of Urban Construction, Pingdingshan, Henan, China; Laboratory of Water Pollution Control and Rehabilitation Technology, Henan University of Urban Construction, Pingdingshan, Henan, China.
| | - Chunli Liao
- College of Life Science and Engineering, Henan University of Urban Construction, Pingdingshan, Henan, China; Center of Healthy Food Engineering and Technology of Henan, Henan University of Urban Construction, Pingdingshan, Henan, China; Laboratory of Water Pollution Control and Rehabilitation Technology, Henan University of Urban Construction, Pingdingshan, Henan, China.
| |
Collapse
|
243
|
Dziuba MK, McIntire KM, Davenport ES, Baird E, Huerta C, Jaye R, Corcoran F, McCreadie P, Nelson T, Duffy MA. Microsporidian coinfection reduces fitness of a fungal pathogen due to rapid host mortality. mBio 2024:e0058324. [PMID: 39194186 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.00583-24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 07/29/2024] [Indexed: 08/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Infection outcomes can be strongly context dependent, shifting a host-symbiont relationship along a parasitism-mutualism continuum. Numerous studies show that under stressful conditions, symbionts that are typically mutualistic can become parasitic. The reverse possibility, a parasite becoming mutualistic, has received much less study. We investigated whether the parasitic microsporidium Ordospora pajunii can become beneficial for its host Daphnia dentifera in the presence of the more virulent fungal pathogen Metschnikowia bicuspidata. We found that, even though infection with O. pajunii reduces the frequency of penetration of M. bicuspidata spores into the host body cavity, it does not improve the survival or reproduction of the host; conversely, coinfection increased the mortality of Daphnia. This shorter lifespan of coinfected hosts disrupted the life cycle of M. bicuspidata, greatly reducing its fitness. Thus, coinfection with both pathogens was detrimental to the host at the individual level but might be beneficial for the host population as a result of greatly reduced production of M. bicuspidata spores. If so, this would mean that O. pajunii outbreaks should delay or prevent M. bicuspidata outbreaks. In support of this, in an analysis of dynamics of naturally occurring outbreaks in two lakes where these pathogens co-occur, we found a time lag in occurrence between O. pajunii and M. bicuspidata, with M. bicuspidata epidemics only occurring after the collapse of O. pajunii epidemics. Thus, these results suggest that the interaction between co-occurring symbionts, and the net impact of a symbiont on a host, might be qualitatively different at different scales.IMPORTANCEUnderstanding the factors that modify infection probability and virulence is crucial for identifying the drivers of infection outbreaks and modeling disease epidemic progression, and increases our ability to control diseases and reduce the harm they cause. One factor that can strongly influence infection probability and virulence is the presence of other pathogens. However, while coexposures and coinfections are incredibly common, we still have only a limited understanding of how pathogen interactions alter infection outcomes or whether their impacts are scale dependent. We used a system of one host and two pathogens to show that sequential coinfection can have a tremendous impact on the host and the infecting pathogens and that the outcome of (co-)infection can be negative or positive depending on the focal organization level.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marcin K Dziuba
- Department of Ecology & Evolutionary Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Kristina M McIntire
- Department of Ecology & Evolutionary Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Elizabeth S Davenport
- Department of Ecology & Evolutionary Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Emma Baird
- Department of Ecology & Evolutionary Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Cristian Huerta
- Department of Ecology & Evolutionary Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Riley Jaye
- Department of Ecology & Evolutionary Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Fiona Corcoran
- Department of Ecology & Evolutionary Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Paige McCreadie
- Department of Ecology & Evolutionary Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Taleah Nelson
- Department of Ecology & Evolutionary Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Meghan A Duffy
- Department of Ecology & Evolutionary Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| |
Collapse
|
244
|
Ferriol-González C, Concha-Eloko R, Bernabéu-Gimeno M, Fernández-Cuenca F, Cañada-García JE, García-Cobos S, Sanjuán R, Domingo-Calap P. Targeted phage hunting to specific Klebsiella pneumoniae clinical isolates is an efficient antibiotic resistance and infection control strategy. Microbiol Spectr 2024:e0025424. [PMID: 39194291 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.00254-24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 08/06/2024] [Indexed: 08/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Klebsiella pneumoniae is one of the most threatening multi-drug-resistant pathogens today, with phage therapy being a promising alternative for personalized treatments. However, the intrinsic capsule diversity in Klebsiella spp. poses a substantial barrier to the phage host range, complicating the development of broad-spectrum phage-based treatments. Here, we have isolated and genomically characterized phages capable of infecting each of the acquired 77 reference serotypes of Klebsiella spp., including capsular types widespread among high-risk K. pneumoniae clones causing nosocomial infections. We demonstrated the possibility of isolating phages for all capsular types in the collection, revealing high capsular specificity among taxonomically related phages, in contrast to a few phages that exhibited broad-spectrum infection capabilities. To decipher the determinants of the specificity of these phages, we focused on their receptor-binding proteins, with particular attention to depolymerases. We also explored the possibility of designing a broad-spectrum phage cocktail based on phages isolated in reference capsular-type strains and determining the ability to lyse relevant clinical isolates. A combination of 12 phages capable of infecting 55% of the reference Klebsiella spp. serotypes was tested on a panel of carbapenem-resistant K. pneumoniae clinical isolates. Thirty-one percent of isolates were susceptible to the phage cocktail. However, our results suggest that in a highly variable encapsulated bacterial host, phage hunting must be directed to the specific Klebsiella isolates. This work is a step forward in the understanding of the complexity of phage-host interactions and highlights the importance of implementing precise and phage-specific strategies to treat K. pneumoniae infections worldwide.IMPORTANCEThe emergence of resistant bacteria is a serious global health problem. In the absence of effective treatments, phages are a personalized and effective therapeutic alternative. However, little is still known about phage-host interactions, which are key to implementing effective strategies. Here, we focus on the study of Klebsiella pneumoniae, a highly pathogenic encapsulated bacterium. The complexity and variability of the capsule, where in most cases phage receptors are found, make it difficult for phage-based treatments. Here, we isolated a large collection of Klebsiella phages against all the reference strains and in a cohort of clinical isolates. Our results suggest that clinical isolates represent a challenge, especially high-risk clones. Thus, we propose targeted phage hunting as an effective strategy to implement phage-derived therapies. Our results are a step forward for new phage-based strategies to control K. pneumoniae infections, highlighting the importance of understanding phage-host interactions to design personalized treatments against Klebsiella spp.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Celia Ferriol-González
- Instituto de Biología Integrativa de Sistemas, Universitat de València-CSIC, Paterna, Spain
| | - Robby Concha-Eloko
- Instituto de Biología Integrativa de Sistemas, Universitat de València-CSIC, Paterna, Spain
| | - Mireia Bernabéu-Gimeno
- Instituto de Biología Integrativa de Sistemas, Universitat de València-CSIC, Paterna, Spain
| | - Felipe Fernández-Cuenca
- Unidad Clínica de Enfermedades Infecciosas y Microbiología, Hospital Universitario Virgen Macarena, Sevilla, Spain
- Instituto de Biomedicina de Sevilla, Hospital Universitario Virgen Macarena-CSIC-Universidad de Sevilla, Sevilla, Spain
- CIBER de Enfermedades Infecciosas (CIBERINFEC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Javier E Cañada-García
- CIBER de Enfermedades Infecciosas (CIBERINFEC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- Laboratorio de Referencia e Investigación en Resistencia a Antibióticos e Infecciones Relacionadas con la Asistencia Sanitaria, Centro Nacional de Microbiología, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Silvia García-Cobos
- CIBER de Enfermedades Infecciosas (CIBERINFEC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- Laboratorio de Referencia e Investigación en Resistencia a Antibióticos e Infecciones Relacionadas con la Asistencia Sanitaria, Centro Nacional de Microbiología, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Rafael Sanjuán
- Instituto de Biología Integrativa de Sistemas, Universitat de València-CSIC, Paterna, Spain
| | - Pilar Domingo-Calap
- Instituto de Biología Integrativa de Sistemas, Universitat de València-CSIC, Paterna, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
245
|
Pham TT, Nguyen TD, Nguyen TT, Pham MN, Nguyen PT, Nguyen TUT, Huynh TTN, Nguyen HT. Rhizosphere bacterial exopolysaccharides: composition, biosynthesis, and their potential applications. Arch Microbiol 2024; 206:388. [PMID: 39196410 DOI: 10.1007/s00203-024-04113-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2024] [Revised: 08/16/2024] [Accepted: 08/17/2024] [Indexed: 08/29/2024]
Abstract
Bacterial exopolysaccharides (EPS) are biopolymers of carbohydrates, often released from cells into the extracellular environment. Due to their distinctive physicochemical properties, biocompatibility, biodegradability, and non-toxicity, EPS finds applications in various industrial sectors. However, the need for alternative EPS has grown over the past few decades as lactic acid bacteria's (LAB) low-yield EPS is unable to meet the demand. In this case, rhizosphere bacteria with the diverse communities in soil leading to variations in composition and structure, are recognized as a potential source of EPS applicable in various industries. In addition, media components and cultivation conditions have an impact on EPS production, which ultimately affects the quantity, structure, and biological functions of the EPS. Therefore, scientists are currently working on manipulating bacterial EPS by developing cultures and applying abiotic and biotic stresses, so that better production of exopolysaccharides can be attained. This review highlights the composition, biosynthesis, and effects of environmental factors on EPS production along with the potential applications in different fields of industry. Ultimately, an overview of potential future paths and tactics for improving EPS implementation and commercialization is pointed out.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Thi-Tho Nguyen
- Hutech Institute of Applied Science, HUTECH University, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
| | - Minh-Nhut Pham
- Hutech Institute of Applied Science, HUTECH University, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Phu-Tho Nguyen
- An Giang University, An Giang, Vietnam
- Vietnam National University, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - To-Uyen Thi Nguyen
- Graduate University of Sciences and Technology, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, Ha Noi, Vietnam
| | | | - Huu-Thanh Nguyen
- An Giang University, An Giang, Vietnam.
- Vietnam National University, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
| |
Collapse
|
246
|
Shin J, Zielinski DC, Palsson BO. Modulating bacterial function utilizing A knowledge base of transcriptional regulatory modules. Nucleic Acids Res 2024:gkae742. [PMID: 39193902 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkae742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2024] [Revised: 07/29/2024] [Accepted: 08/19/2024] [Indexed: 08/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Synthetic biology enables the reprogramming of cellular functions for various applications. However, challenges in scalability and predictability persist due to context-dependent performance and complex circuit-host interactions. This study introduces an iModulon-based engineering approach, utilizing machine learning-defined co-regulated gene groups (iModulons) as design parts containing essential genes for specific functions. This approach identifies the necessary components for genetic circuits across different contexts, enhancing genome engineering by improving target selection and predicting module behavior. We demonstrate several distinct uses of iModulons: (i) discovery of unknown iModulons to increase protein productivity, heat tolerance and fructose utilization; (ii) an iModulon boosting approach, which amplifies the activity of specific iModulons, improved cell growth under osmotic stress with minimal host regulation disruption; (iii) an iModulon rebalancing strategy, which adjusts the activity levels of iModulons to balance cellular functions, significantly increased oxidative stress tolerance while minimizing trade-offs and (iv) iModulon-based gene annotation enabled natural competence activation by predictably rewiring iModulons. Comparative experiments with traditional methods showed our approach offers advantages in efficiency and predictability of strain engineering. This study demonstrates the potential of iModulon-based strategies to systematically and predictably reprogram cellular functions, offering refined and adaptable control over complex regulatory networks.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jongoh Shin
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Daniel C Zielinski
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Bernhard O Palsson
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability, Technical University of Denmark, Lyngby 2800, Denmark
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| |
Collapse
|
247
|
Wolf YI, Schurov IV, Makarova KS, Katsnelson MI, Koonin EV. Long range segmentation of prokaryotic genomes by gene age and functionality. Nucleic Acids Res 2024:gkae745. [PMID: 39193895 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkae745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2024] [Revised: 07/19/2024] [Accepted: 08/21/2024] [Indexed: 08/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Bacterial and archaeal genomes encompass numerous operons that typically consist of two to five genes. On larger scales, however, gene order is poorly conserved through the evolution of prokaryotes. Nevertheless, non-random localization of different classes of genes on prokaryotic chromosomes could reflect important functional and evolutionary constraints. We explored the patterns of genomic localization of evolutionarily conserved (ancient) and variable (young) genes across the diversity of bacteria and archaea. Nearly all bacterial and archaeal chromosomes were found to encompass large segments of 100-300 kb that were significantly enriched in either ancient or young genes. Similar clustering of genes with lethal knockout phenotype (essential genes) was observed as well. Mathematical modeling of genome evolution suggests that this long-range gene clustering in prokaryotic chromosomes reflects perpetual genome rearrangement driven by a combination of selective and neutral processes rather than evolutionary conservation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuri I Wolf
- National Center for Biotechnology Information, National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20894, USA
| | - Ilya V Schurov
- Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Nijmegen 6525AJ, The Netherlands
| | - Kira S Makarova
- National Center for Biotechnology Information, National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20894, USA
| | - Mikhail I Katsnelson
- Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Nijmegen 6525AJ, The Netherlands
| | - Eugene V Koonin
- National Center for Biotechnology Information, National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20894, USA
| |
Collapse
|
248
|
Kopping EJ, Benziger PT, Thanassi DG. TolC and EmrA1 contribute to Francisella novicida multidrug resistance and modulation of host cell death. J Bacteriol 2024:e0024624. [PMID: 39194223 DOI: 10.1128/jb.00246-24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2024] [Accepted: 07/29/2024] [Indexed: 08/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Francisella spp. are Gram-negative, facultative intracellular pathogens. Francisella tularensis causes the human disease tularemia and is considered a biological threat agent due to its high infectivity and virulence. A central aspect of Francisella virulence is its ability to dampen host immune responses. We previously identified the outer membrane channel (OMC) protein TolC as a critical F. tularensis virulence factor required for suppression of apoptotic and proinflammatory responses during macrophage infection. TolC functions as part of multidrug efflux systems and the type I secretion pathway that exports bacterial effector proteins. In these systems, TolC forms tripartite complexes together with an inner membrane transporter and periplasmic membrane fusion protein (MFP). To advance understanding of TolC function in Francisella, we analyzed OMC and MFP homologs in Francisella novicida, a widely used model species that causes a tularemia-like disease in mice. In agreement with the previous F. tularensis studies, all three OMCs present in F. novicida contributed to multidrug resistance, but only TolC was important for suppressing macrophage cell death. In addition, we identified the EmrA1 MFP as important for resisting antimicrobial compounds and dampening host cell death. In contrast to results obtained with F. tularensis, the cell death triggered during infection with the F. novicida tolC and emrA1 mutants was dominated by pyroptosis rather than apoptosis. These data expand our understanding of TolC function in Francisella and underscore both conserved and differential aspects of F. novicida and F. tularensis. IMPORTANCE Francisella tularensis is a Gram-negative intracellular bacterial pathogen and causative agent of tularemia. We previously identified the outer membrane channel protein TolC as contributing to antimicrobial resistance and subversion of host responses by F. tularensis. To advance understanding of TolC function in Francisella and to identify components that might work together with TolC, we took advantage of a transposon mutant library in F. novicida, a model species that causes a tularemia-like disease in mice. Our findings identify TolC and the membrane fusion protein EmrA1 as important for both antimicrobial resistance and suppression of macrophage cell death. This study also revealed differences in cell death pathways triggered by F. novicida versus F. tularensis infection that may relate to differences in virulence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Erik J Kopping
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York, USA
- Center for Infectious Diseases, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York, USA
| | - P Todd Benziger
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York, USA
- Center for Infectious Diseases, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York, USA
| | - David G Thanassi
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York, USA
- Center for Infectious Diseases, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York, USA
| |
Collapse
|
249
|
Janović A, Maldener I, Menzel C, Parrett GA, Risser DD. The role of FraI in cell-cell communication and differentiation in the hormogonia-forming cyanobacterium Nostoc punctiforme. mSphere 2024; 9:e0051024. [PMID: 39037261 PMCID: PMC11351039 DOI: 10.1128/msphere.00510-24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2024] [Accepted: 06/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Multicellular cyanobacteria, like Nostoc punctiforme, rely on septal junctions for cell-cell communication, which is crucial for coordinating various physiological processes including differentiation of N2-fixing heterocysts, spore-like akinetes, and hormogonia-short, motile filaments important for dispersal. In this study, we functionally characterize a protein, encoded by gene Npun_F4142, which in a random mutagenesis approach, initially showed a motility-related function. The reconstructed Npun_F4142 knockout mutant exhibits further distinct phenotypic traits, including altered hormogonia formation with significant reduced motility, inability to differentiate heterocysts and filament fragmentation. For that reason, we named the protein FraI (fragmentation phenotype). The mutant displays severely impaired cell-cell communication, due to almost complete absence of the nanopore array in the septal cell wall, which is an essential part of the septal junctions. Despite lack of communication, hormogonia in the ΔfraI mutant maintain motility and phototactic behavior, even though less pronounced than the wild type (WT). This suggests an alternative mechanism for coordinated movement beyond septal junctions. Our study underscores the significance of FraI in nanopore formation and cell differentiation, and provides additional evidence for the importance of septal junction formation and communication in various differentiation traits of cyanobacteria. The findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the regulatory networks governing multicellular cyanobacterial behavior, with implications for broader insights into microbial multicellularity. IMPORTANCE The filament-forming cyanobacterium Nostoc punctiforme serves as a valuable model for studying cell differentiation, including the formation of nitrogen-fixing heterocysts and hormogonia. Hormogonia filaments play a crucial role in dispersal and plant colonization, providing a nitrogen source through atmospheric nitrogen fixation, thus holding promise for fertilizer-free agriculture. The coordination among the hormogonia cells enabling uniform movement toward the positive signal remains poorly understood. This study investigates the role of septal junction-mediated communication in hormogonia differentiation and motility, by studying a ΔfraI mutant with significantly impaired communication. Surprisingly, impaired communication does not abolish synchronized filament movement, suggesting an alternative coordination mechanism. These findings deepen our understanding of cyanobacterial biology and have broader implications for multicellular behavior in prokaryotes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ana Janović
- Interfaculty Institute of Microbiology and Infection Medicine Tübingen, Organismic Interactions, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Iris Maldener
- Interfaculty Institute of Microbiology and Infection Medicine Tübingen, Organismic Interactions, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Claudia Menzel
- Interfaculty Institute of Microbiology and Infection Medicine Tübingen, Organismic Interactions, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Gabriel A. Parrett
- Department of Biology, University of Colorado, Colorado Springs, Colorado, USA
| | - Douglas D. Risser
- Department of Biology, University of Colorado, Colorado Springs, Colorado, USA
| |
Collapse
|
250
|
McDonald LC, Young VB, Wilcox MH, Halpin AL, Chaves RL. Public health case for microbiome-sparing antibiotics and new opportunities for drug development. mSphere 2024; 9:e0041724. [PMID: 39092918 DOI: 10.1128/msphere.00417-24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Although antibiotics remain a cornerstone of modern medicine, the issues of widespread antibiotic resistance and collateral damage to the microbiome from antibiotic use are driving a need for drug developers to consider more tailored, patient-directed products to avoid antibiotic-induced perturbations of the structure and function of the indigenous microbiota. This perspective summarizes a cascade of microbiome health effects that is initiated by antibiotic-mediated microbiome disruption at an individual level and ultimately leads to infection and transmission of multidrug-resistant pathogens across patient populations. The scientific evidence behind each of the key steps of this cascade is presented. The interruption of this cascade through the use of highly targeted, microbiome-sparing antibiotics aiming to improve health outcomes is discussed. Further, this perspective reflects on some key clinical trial design and reimbursement considerations to be addressed as part of the drug development path.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- L Clifford McDonald
- Division of Healthcare Quality Promotion, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Vincent B Young
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Mark H Wilcox
- Department of Microbiology, Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Leeds Institute of Medical Research, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Alison Laufer Halpin
- Division of Healthcare Quality Promotion, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
- United States Public Health Service, Rockville, Maryland, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|