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Shanmugasundaram S, Nayak N, Puzhankara L, Kedlaya MN, Rajagopal A, Karmakar S. Bacteriophages: the dawn of a new era in periodontal microbiology? Crit Rev Microbiol 2024; 50:212-223. [PMID: 36883683 DOI: 10.1080/1040841x.2023.2182667] [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: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 01/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2023]
Abstract
The oral microbiome, populated by a diverse range of species, plays a critical role in the initiation and progression of periodontal disease. The most dominant yet little-discussed players in the microbiome, the bacteriophages, influence the health and disease of the host in various ways. They, not only contribute to periodontal health by preventing the colonization of pathogens and disrupting biofilms but also play a role in periodontal disease by upregulating the virulence of periodontal pathogens through the transfer of antibiotic resistance and virulence factors. Since bacteriophages selectively infect only bacterial cells, they have an enormous scope to be used as a therapeutic strategy; recently, phage therapy has been successfully used to treat antibiotic-resistant systemic infections. Their ability to disrupt biofilms widens the scope against periodontal pathogens and dental plaque biofilms in periodontitis. Future research focussing on the oral phageome and phage therapy's effectiveness and safety could pave way for new avenues in periodontal therapy. This review explores our current understanding of bacteriophages, their interactions in the oral microbiome, and their therapeutic potential in periodontal disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shashikiran Shanmugasundaram
- Department of Periodontology, Manipal College of Dental Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India
| | - Namratha Nayak
- Department of Periodontology, Manipal College of Dental Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India
| | - Lakshmi Puzhankara
- Department of Periodontology, Manipal College of Dental Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India
| | - Madhurya N Kedlaya
- Department of Periodontology, Manipal College of Dental Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India
| | - Anjale Rajagopal
- Department of Periodontology, Manipal College of Dental Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India
| | - Shaswata Karmakar
- Department of Periodontology, Manipal College of Dental Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India
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2
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Zhou Q, Mi K, Ma W, Feng F, Huo M, Sun Y, Huang L. Metagenomic analysis reveals impact of acyl homoserine endolipid-like signaling molecules on the aqueous sediment resistome under florfenicol stress. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2024; 395:130318. [PMID: 38219924 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2024.130318] [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: 11/03/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
Quorum sensing potentially helps microorganisms adapt to antibiotic stress encountered in the environment. This experiment investigated the effect of acyl homoserine endolipid-like signaling molecules on microbial antibiotic resistance gene structures in aqueous sediments under florfenicol stress. Additional acyl homoserine endolipid-like signaling molecules (AHLs) alter the structure of multidrug resistance genes in florfenicol-stressed sediments, particularly the multidrug resistance efflux pump gene family. Prophages and integrative and conjugative elements (ICEs) determined the resistance genes structure, and pathways related to mobile genetic elements (MGEs) transfer may play an essential role in this process. The practical application of AHLs to regulate quorum sensing systems may alter bacterial stress responses to environmental florfenicol residues, thereby reducing the development of antibiotic resistance in the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qin Zhou
- National Reference Laboratory of Veterinary Drug Residues, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China; MOA Key Laboratory for Detection of Veterinary Drug Residues, Wuhan 430070, China; MOA Laboratory for Risk Assessment of Quality and Safety of Livestock and Poultry Products,Whan 430070, China; Frontiers Science Center for Animal Breeding and Sustainable Production, Wuhan 430070, China; National Laboratory of Safety Evaluation (Environmental Assessment) of Veterinary Drugs, National Risk Assessment Laboratory for Antimicrobial Resistance of Animal Original Bacteria, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, 483 Wushan Road, Guangzhou 510642, China|
| | - Kun Mi
- National Reference Laboratory of Veterinary Drug Residues, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China; MOA Key Laboratory for Detection of Veterinary Drug Residues, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Wenjin Ma
- National Reference Laboratory of Veterinary Drug Residues, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China; MOA Key Laboratory for Detection of Veterinary Drug Residues, Wuhan 430070, China; Frontiers Science Center for Animal Breeding and Sustainable Production, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Fenglin Feng
- National Laboratory of Safety Evaluation (Environmental Assessment) of Veterinary Drugs, National Risk Assessment Laboratory for Antimicrobial Resistance of Animal Original Bacteria, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, 483 Wushan Road, Guangzhou 510642, China|
| | - Meixia Huo
- National Reference Laboratory of Veterinary Drug Residues, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China; MOA Key Laboratory for Detection of Veterinary Drug Residues, Wuhan 430070, China; Frontiers Science Center for Animal Breeding and Sustainable Production, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Yongxue Sun
- National Laboratory of Safety Evaluation (Environmental Assessment) of Veterinary Drugs, National Risk Assessment Laboratory for Antimicrobial Resistance of Animal Original Bacteria, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, 483 Wushan Road, Guangzhou 510642, China|
| | - Lingli Huang
- National Reference Laboratory of Veterinary Drug Residues, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China; MOA Key Laboratory for Detection of Veterinary Drug Residues, Wuhan 430070, China; MOA Laboratory for Risk Assessment of Quality and Safety of Livestock and Poultry Products,Whan 430070, China; Frontiers Science Center for Animal Breeding and Sustainable Production, Wuhan 430070, China.
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3
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Fuchsman CA, Hays MD. Increased cyanophage infection at the bottom of the euphotic zone, especially in the fall. Environ Microbiol 2023; 25:3349-3363. [PMID: 37861083 DOI: 10.1111/1462-2920.16525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
Picocyanobacteria contribute greatly to offshore primary production with cells extending through the deep euphotic zone. Literature indicates high viral infection of cyanobacteria in ocean transition zones. We postulate that the bottom of the euphotic zone is a transition zone, where communities transition from phototrophic to aphotic processes. We use single-copy core genes to examine cyanophage to cyanobacteria ratios in cellular metagenomes in the subtropical North Atlantic and Pacific. Cyanophage to cyanobacteria terL/rpoB ratios generally increase to >10 in the deep euphotic zone. As light levels decrease in the fall, Prochlorococcus in the deep euphotic zone experience reduced light levels. We find clear differences between spring (Geotraces GA02) and fall (GA03) in the North Atlantic, with terL/rpoB ratios increasing to >40 in the fall. When examining 23 months of the North Pacific Hawaii Ocean Timeseries, the depth of elevated cyanophage to cyanobacteria ratios in cellular metagenomes negatively correlated with surface photosynthetic radiation (PAR), particularly with the change in PAR, which reflected the season. In fall, all picocyanobacteria ecotypes were found at depths enriched with viruses, while in summer, only low light ecotypes were affected. Thus, we find high cyanophage infection both in the deep euphotic zone and during seasonal transitions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clara A Fuchsman
- Horn Point Laboratory, University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science, Cambridge, Maryland, USA
| | - Matthew D Hays
- Horn Point Laboratory, University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science, Cambridge, Maryland, USA
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4
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Igler C. Phenotypic flux: The role of physiology in explaining the conundrum of bacterial persistence amid phage attack. Virus Evol 2022; 8:veac086. [PMID: 36225237 PMCID: PMC9547521 DOI: 10.1093/ve/veac086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2022] [Revised: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 09/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Bacteriophages, the viruses of bacteria, have been studied for over a century. They were not only instrumental in laying the foundations of molecular biology, but they are also likely to play crucial roles in shaping our biosphere and may offer a solution to the control of drug-resistant bacterial infections. However, it remains challenging to predict the conditions for bacterial eradication by phage predation, sometimes even under well-defined laboratory conditions, and, most curiously, if the majority of surviving cells are genetically phage-susceptible. Here, I propose that even clonal phage and bacterial populations are generally in a state of continuous 'phenotypic flux', which is caused by transient and nongenetic variation in phage and bacterial physiology. Phenotypic flux can shape phage infection dynamics by reducing the force of infection to an extent that allows for coexistence between phages and susceptible bacteria. Understanding the mechanisms and impact of phenotypic flux may be key to providing a complete picture of phage-bacteria coexistence. I review the empirical evidence for phenotypic variation in phage and bacterial physiology together with the ways they have been modeled and discuss the potential implications of phenotypic flux for ecological and evolutionary dynamics between phages and bacteria, as well as for phage therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Igler
- Department of Environmental Systems Science, ETH Zürich, Institute of Integrative Biology, Universitätstrasse 16, Zurich 8092, Switzerland
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5
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Nutrient Availability and Phage Exposure Alter the Quorum-Sensing and CRISPR-Cas-Controlled Population Dynamics of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. mSystems 2022; 7:e0009222. [PMID: 35699339 PMCID: PMC9426516 DOI: 10.1128/msystems.00092-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Quorum sensing (QS) coordinates bacterial communication and cooperation essential for virulence and dominance in polymicrobial settings. QS also regulates the CRISPR-Cas system for targeted defense against parasitic genomes from phages and horizontal gene transfer. Although the QS and CRISPR-Cas systems are vital for bacterial survival, they undergo frequent selection in response to biotic and abiotic factors. Using the opportunistic Pseudomonas aeruginosa with well-established QS and CRISPR-Cas systems, we show how the social interactions between the acyl-homoserine lactone (AHL)-QS signal-blind mutants (ΔlasRrhlR) and the CRISPR-Cas mutants are affected by phage exposure and nutrient availability. We demonstrate that media conditions and phage exposure alter the resistance and relative fitness of ΔlasRrhlR and CRISPR-Cas mutants while tipping the fitness advantage in favor of the QS signal-blind mutants under nutrient-limiting conditions. We also show that the AHL signal-blind mutants are less selected by phages under QS-inducing conditions than the CRISPR-Cas mutants, whereas the mixed population of the CRISPR-Cas and AHL signal-blind mutants reduce phage infectivity, which can improve survival during phage exposure. Our data reveal that phage exposure and nutrient availability reshape the population dynamics between the ΔlasRrhlR QS mutants and CRISPR-Cas mutants, with key indications for cooperation and conflict between the strains. IMPORTANCE The increase in antimicrobial resistance has created the need for alternative interventions such as phage therapy. However, as previously observed with antimicrobial resistance, phage therapy will not be effective if bacteria evolve resistance and persist in the presence of the phages. The QS is commonly known as an arsenal for bacteria communication, virulence, and regulation of the phage defense mechanism, the CRISPR-Cas system. The QS and CRISPR-Cas systems are widespread in bacteria. However, they are known to evolve rapidly under the influence of biotic and abiotic factors in the bacterial environment, resulting in alteration in bacterial genotypes, which enhance phage resistance and fitness. We believe that adequate knowledge of the influence of environmental factors on the bacterial community lifestyle and phage defense mechanisms driven by the QS and CRISPR-Cas system is necessary for developing effective phage therapy.
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Venturini C, Petrovic Fabijan A, Fajardo Lubian A, Barbirz S, Iredell J. Biological foundations of successful bacteriophage therapy. EMBO Mol Med 2022; 14:e12435. [PMID: 35620963 PMCID: PMC9260219 DOI: 10.15252/emmm.202012435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Revised: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Bacteriophages (phages) are selective viral predators of bacteria. Abundant and ubiquitous in nature, phages can be used to treat bacterial infections (phage therapy), including refractory infections and those resistant to antibiotics. However, despite an abundance of anecdotal evidence of efficacy, significant hurdles remain before routine implementation of phage therapy into medical practice, including a dearth of robust clinical trial data. Phage-bacterium interactions are complex and diverse, characterized by co-evolution trajectories that are significantly influenced by the environments in which they occur (mammalian body sites, water, soil, etc.). An understanding of the molecular mechanisms underpinning these dynamics is essential for successful clinical translation. This review aims to cover key aspects of bacterium-phage interactions that affect bacterial killing by describing the most relevant published literature and detailing the current knowledge gaps most likely to influence therapeutic success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carola Venturini
- Centre for Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Westmead, NSW, Australia.,Faculty of Science, Sydney School of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Aleksandra Petrovic Fabijan
- Centre for Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Westmead, NSW, Australia.,Faculty of Health and Medicine, School of Medicine, Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Alicia Fajardo Lubian
- Centre for Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Westmead, NSW, Australia.,Faculty of Health and Medicine, School of Medicine, Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Stefanie Barbirz
- Department of Medicine, Science Faculty, MSB Medical School Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Jonathan Iredell
- Centre for Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Westmead, NSW, Australia.,Faculty of Health and Medicine, School of Medicine, Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Westmead Hospital, Western Sydney Local Health District, Westmead, NSW, Australia
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7
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RetS Regulates Phage Infection in Pseudomonas aeruginosa via Modulating the GacS/GacA Two-Component System. J Virol 2022; 96:e0019722. [PMID: 35348363 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.00197-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
In Pseudomonas aeruginosa, the complex multisensing regulatory networks RetS-GacS/GacA have been demonstrated to play key roles in controlling the switch between planktonic and sessile lifestyles. However, whether this multisensing system is involved in the regulation of phage infection has not been investigated. Here, we provide a link between the sensors RetS/GacS and infection of phages vB_Pae_QDWS and vB_Pae_W3. Our data suggest that the sensors kinases RetS and GacS in Pseudomonas aeruginosa play opposite regulatory functions on phage infection. Mutation in retS increased phage resistance. Cellular levels of RsmY and RsmZ increased in PaΔretS and were positively correlated with phage resistance. Further analysis demonstrated that RetS regulated phage infection by affecting the type IV pilus (T4P)-mediated adsorption. The regulation of RetS on phage infection depends on the GacS/GacA two-component system and is likely a dynamic process in response to environmental signals. The findings offer additional support for the rapid emergence of phage resistance. IMPORTANCE Our knowledge on the molecular mechanisms behind bacterium-phage interactions remains limited. Our study reported that the complex multisensing regulatory networks RetS-GacS/GacA of Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1 play key roles in controlling phage infection. The main observation was that the mutation in RetS could result in increased phage resistance by reducing the type IV pilus-mediated phage adsorption. The bacterial defense strategy is generally applicable to various phages since many P. aeruginosa phages can use type IV pilus as their receptors. The results also suggest that the phage infection is likely to be regulated dynamically, which depends on the environmental stimuli. Reduction of the signals that RetS favors would increase phage resistance. Our study is particularly remarkable for uncovering a signal transduction system that was involved in phage infection, which may help in filling some knowledge gaps in this field.
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8
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Mechanisms of interactions between bacteria and bacteriophage mediate by quorum sensing systems. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2022; 106:2299-2310. [PMID: 35312824 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-022-11866-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Revised: 03/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Bacteriophage (phage) and their host bacteria coevolve with each other over time. Quorum sensing (QS) systems play an important role in the interaction between bacteria and phage. In this review paper, we summarized the function of QS systems in bacterial biofilm formation, phage adsorption, lysis-lysogeny conversion of phage, coevolution of bacteria and phage, and information exchanges in phage, which may provide reference to future research on alternative control strategies for antibiotic-resistant and biofilm-forming pathogens by phage. KEY POINTS: • Quorum sensing (QS) systems influence bacteria-phage interaction. • QS systems cause phage adsorption and evolution and lysis-lysogeny conversion. • QS systems participate in biofilm formation and co-evolution with phage of bacteria.
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9
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Morawska LP, Hernandez-Valdes JA, Kuipers OP. Diversity of bet-hedging strategies in microbial communities-Recent cases and insights. WIREs Mech Dis 2022; 14:e1544. [PMID: 35266649 PMCID: PMC9286555 DOI: 10.1002/wsbm.1544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2021] [Revised: 10/05/2021] [Accepted: 10/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Microbial communities are continuously exposed to unpredictable changes in their environment. To thrive in such dynamic habitats, microorganisms have developed the ability to readily switch phenotypes, resulting in a number of differently adapted subpopulations expressing various traits. In evolutionary biology, a particular case of phenotypic heterogeneity that evolved in an unpredictably changing environment has been defined as bet‐hedging. Bet‐hedging is a risk‐spreading strategy where isogenic populations stochastically (randomly) diversify their phenotypes, often resulting in maladapted individuals that suffer lower reproductive success. This fitness trade‐off in a specific environment may have a selective advantage upon the sudden environmental shift. Thus, a bet‐hedging strategy allows populations to persist in very dynamic habitats, but with a particular fitness cost. In recent years, numerous examples of phenotypic heterogeneity in different microorganisms have been observed, some suggesting bet‐hedging. Here, we highlight the latest reports concerning bet‐hedging phenomena in various microorganisms to show how versatile this strategy is within the microbial realms. This article is categorized under:Infectious Diseases > Molecular and Cellular Physiology
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Affiliation(s)
- Luiza P Morawska
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Groningen Biomolecular Sciences and Biotechnology Institute, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Jhonatan A Hernandez-Valdes
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Groningen Biomolecular Sciences and Biotechnology Institute, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Oscar P Kuipers
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Groningen Biomolecular Sciences and Biotechnology Institute, Groningen, The Netherlands
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10
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Singh A, Padmesh S, Dwivedi M, Kostova I. How Good are Bacteriophages as an Alternative Therapy to Mitigate Biofilms of Nosocomial Infections. Infect Drug Resist 2022; 15:503-532. [PMID: 35210792 PMCID: PMC8860455 DOI: 10.2147/idr.s348700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Bacteria survive on any surface through the generation of biofilms that provide a protective environment to grow as well as making them drug resistant. Extracellular polymeric matrix is a crucial component in biofilm formation. The presence of biofilms consisting of common opportunistic and nosocomial, drug-resistant pathogens has been reported on medical devices like catheters and prosthetics, leading to many complications. Several approaches are under investigation to combat drug-resistant bacteria. Deployment of bacteriophages is one of the promising approaches to invade biofilm that may expose bacteria to the conditions adverse for their growth. Penetration into these biofilms and their destruction by bacteriophages is brought about due to their small size and ability of their progeny to diffuse through the bacterial cell wall. The other mechanisms employed by phages to infect biofilms may include their relocation through water channels to embedded host cells, replication at local sites followed by infection to the neighboring cells and production of depolymerizing enzymes to decompose viscous biofilm matrix, etc. Various research groups are investigating intricacies involved in phage therapy to mitigate the bacterial infection and biofilm formation. Thus, bacteriophages represent a good control over different biofilms and further understanding of phage-biofilm interaction at molecular level may overcome the clinical challenges in phage therapy. The present review summarizes the comprehensive details on dynamic interaction of phages with bacterial biofilms and the role of phage-derived enzymes - endolysin and depolymerases in extenuating biofilms of clinical and medical concern. The methodology employed was an extensive literature search, using several keywords in important scientific databases, such as Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed, ScienceDirect, etc. The keywords were also used with Boolean operator "And". More than 250 relevant and recent articles were selected and reviewed to discuss the evidence-based data on the application of phage therapy with recent updates, and related potential challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aditi Singh
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Lucknow Campus, Lucknow, 226028, India
| | - Sudhakar Padmesh
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Lucknow Campus, Lucknow, 226028, India
| | - Manish Dwivedi
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Lucknow Campus, Lucknow, 226028, India
| | - Irena Kostova
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University, Sofia, 1000, Bulgaria
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11
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Hendrix H, Zimmermann-Kogadeeva M, Zimmermann M, Sauer U, De Smet J, Muchez L, Lissens M, Staes I, Voet M, Wagemans J, Ceyssens PJ, Noben JP, Aertsen A, Lavigne R. Metabolic reprogramming of Pseudomonas aeruginosa by phage-based quorum sensing modulation. Cell Rep 2022; 38:110372. [PMID: 35172131 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2022.110372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Revised: 07/29/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The Pseudomonas quinolone signal (PQS) is a multifunctional quorum sensing molecule of key importance to P. aeruginosa. Here, we report that the lytic Pseudomonas bacterial virus LUZ19 targets this population density-dependent signaling system by expressing quorum sensing targeting protein (Qst) early during infection. We demonstrate that Qst interacts with PqsD, a key host quinolone signal biosynthesis pathway enzyme, resulting in decreased levels of PQS and its precursor 2-heptyl-4(1H)-quinolone. The lack of a functional PqsD enzyme impairs LUZ19 infection but is restored by external supplementation of 2-heptyl-4(1H)-quinolone, suggesting that LUZ19 exploits the PQS system for successful infection. We establish a broad functional interaction network of Qst, which includes enzymes of cofactor biosynthesis pathways (CoaC/ThiD) and a non-ribosomal peptide synthetase pathway (PA1217). Qst therefore represents an exquisite example of intricate reprogramming of the bacterium by a phage, which may be further exploited as tool to combat antibiotic resistant bacterial pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanne Hendrix
- Laboratory of Gene Technology, Department of Biosystems, KU Leuven, 3001 Heverlee, Belgium
| | | | - Michael Zimmermann
- Institute of Molecular Systems Biology, ETH Zurich, 8092 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Uwe Sauer
- Institute of Molecular Systems Biology, ETH Zurich, 8092 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Jeroen De Smet
- Laboratory of Gene Technology, Department of Biosystems, KU Leuven, 3001 Heverlee, Belgium
| | - Laurens Muchez
- Centre for Surface Chemistry and Catalysis, Department of Microbial and Molecular Systems, KU Leuven, 3001 Heverlee, Belgium
| | - Maries Lissens
- Laboratory of Gene Technology, Department of Biosystems, KU Leuven, 3001 Heverlee, Belgium
| | - Ines Staes
- Laboratory of Food Microbiology, Department of Microbial and Molecular Systems, KU Leuven, 3001 Heverlee, Belgium
| | - Marleen Voet
- Laboratory of Gene Technology, Department of Biosystems, KU Leuven, 3001 Heverlee, Belgium
| | - Jeroen Wagemans
- Laboratory of Gene Technology, Department of Biosystems, KU Leuven, 3001 Heverlee, Belgium
| | - Pieter-Jan Ceyssens
- Laboratory of Gene Technology, Department of Biosystems, KU Leuven, 3001 Heverlee, Belgium
| | - Jean-Paul Noben
- Biomedical Research Institute and Transnational University Limburg, School of Life Sciences, Hasselt University, 3590 Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Abram Aertsen
- Laboratory of Food Microbiology, Department of Microbial and Molecular Systems, KU Leuven, 3001 Heverlee, Belgium
| | - Rob Lavigne
- Laboratory of Gene Technology, Department of Biosystems, KU Leuven, 3001 Heverlee, Belgium.
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12
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Expression of a phage-encoded Gp21 protein protects Pseudomonas aeruginosa against phage infection. J Virol 2022; 96:e0176921. [PMID: 35020473 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.01769-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
There is a continuously expanding gap between predicted phage gene sequences and their corresponding functions, which largely hampered the development of phage therapy. Previous studies reported several phage proteins that could interfere with the intracellular processes of the host to obtain efficient infection. But few phage proteins that protect host against phage infection has been identified and characterized in detail. Here, we isolate a phage vB_Pae_QDWS capable of infecting Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1, and report its encoded Gp21 protein protects PAO1 against phage infection. Expressing of Gp21 regulate bacterial quorum sensing with an inhibitory effect in low cell density and activation effect in high cell density. By testing the TFPs-mediated twitching motility and transmission electron microscopy analysis, Gp21 was found decreased the pilus synthesis. Further constructing the TFPs synthesis gene pilB mutant and performing adsorption and phage resistance assay, we demonstrated Gp21 protein could block phage infection via decreasing the TFPs-mediated phage adsorption. Gp21 is a novel protein that inhibit phage efficacy against bacteria. The study deepens our understanding of phage-host interactions. Importance The majority of the annotated phage genes are currently deposited as "hypothetical protein" with unknown function. Researches revealed that some phage proteins serve to inhibit or redirect the host intracellular processes for phage infection. Differently, we report a phage encoded protein Gp21 that protect the host against phage infection. The pathways that Gp21 involved in anti-phage defense in Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1 are interfering with quorum sensing and decreasing the type IV pilus-mediated phage adsorption. Gp21 is a novel protein with a low sequence homology with other reported twitching inhibitory proteins. As a lytic phage derived protein, Gp21 expression protects P. aeruginosa PAO1 from reinfection by phage vB_Pae_QDWS, which may explain the well-known pseudolysogeny caused by virulent phages. Our discoveries provide valuable new insight into the phage-host evolutionary dynamics.
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13
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Ding Y, Zhang D, Zhao X, Tan W, Zheng X, Zhang Q, Ji X, Wei Y. Autoinducer-2-mediated quorum-sensing system resists T4 phage infection in Escherichia coli. J Basic Microbiol 2021; 61:1113-1123. [PMID: 34783039 DOI: 10.1002/jobm.202100344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2021] [Revised: 09/26/2021] [Accepted: 10/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
In response to the restriction of nutrients and predation by natural enemies, bacteria have evolved complex coping strategies to ensure the reproduction and survival of individual species. Quorum sensing (QS) is involved in the bacterial response to phage predation and regulation of cellular metabolism. However, to date, no clear evidence exists regarding the involvement of autoinducer-2 (AI-2)-mediated QS systems in Escherichia coli in response to the challenges of nutrient restriction and phage infection. In this study, the role of the AI-2-mediated QS system in resisting T4 phage infection and regulating cell mechanisms in E. coli was revealed for the first time. This effect of the AI-2-mediated QS was achieved by simultaneously downregulating the T4 absorption site and carbon and glucose metabolism. Additionally, we found that lsrB, a metabolic brake, participates in AI-2-mediated regulation and maintenance of the normal metabolic balance of cells. The novel phage defense strategy and regulation and maintenance of cellular metabolism effectively limited the expansion of the phage population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yafang Ding
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
| | - Dongfang Zhang
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
| | - Xiaoman Zhao
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
| | - Wenzhang Tan
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
| | - Xiaodan Zheng
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
| | - Qi Zhang
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
| | - Xiuling Ji
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
| | - Yunlin Wei
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
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14
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Silva J, Dias R, Junior JI, Marcelino M, Silva M, Carmo A, Sousa M, Silva C, de Paula S. A Rapid Method for Performing a Multivariate Optimization of Phage Production Using the RCCD Approach. Pathogens 2021; 10:1100. [PMID: 34578135 PMCID: PMC8468216 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10091100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2021] [Revised: 08/24/2021] [Accepted: 08/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Bacteriophages can be used in various applications, from the classical approach as substitutes for antibiotics (phage therapy) to new biotechnological uses, i.e., as a protein delivery vehicle, a diagnostic tool for specific strains of bacteria (phage typing), or environmental bioremediation. The demand for bacteriophage production increases daily, and studies that improve these production processes are necessary. This study evaluated the production of a T4-like bacteriophage vB_EcoM-UFV09 (an E. coli-infecting phage with high potential for reducing environmental biofilms) in seven types of culture media (Luria-Bertani broth and the M9 minimal medium with six different carbon sources) employing four cultivation variables (temperature, incubation time, agitation, and multiplicity of infection). For this purpose, the rotatable central composite design (RCCD) methodology was used, combining and comparing all parameters to determine the ideal conditions for starting to scale up the production process. We used the RCCD to set up the experimental design by combining the cultivation parameters in a specific and systematic way. Despite the high number of conditions evaluated, the results showed that when specific conditions were utilized, viral production was effective even when using a minimal medium, such as M9/glucose, which is less expensive and can significantly reduce costs during large-scale phage production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Silva
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunovirology, Department of General Biology, Federal University of Viçosa, Viçosa, Minas Gerais 36570-900, Brazil; (J.S.); (R.D.); (M.M.); (M.S.); (A.C.); (M.S.)
| | - Roberto Dias
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunovirology, Department of General Biology, Federal University of Viçosa, Viçosa, Minas Gerais 36570-900, Brazil; (J.S.); (R.D.); (M.M.); (M.S.); (A.C.); (M.S.)
| | - José Ivo Junior
- Department of Statistics, Federal University of Viçosa, Viçosa, Minas Gerais 36570-900, Brazil;
| | - Maraísa Marcelino
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunovirology, Department of General Biology, Federal University of Viçosa, Viçosa, Minas Gerais 36570-900, Brazil; (J.S.); (R.D.); (M.M.); (M.S.); (A.C.); (M.S.)
| | - Mirelly Silva
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunovirology, Department of General Biology, Federal University of Viçosa, Viçosa, Minas Gerais 36570-900, Brazil; (J.S.); (R.D.); (M.M.); (M.S.); (A.C.); (M.S.)
| | - Adriele Carmo
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunovirology, Department of General Biology, Federal University of Viçosa, Viçosa, Minas Gerais 36570-900, Brazil; (J.S.); (R.D.); (M.M.); (M.S.); (A.C.); (M.S.)
| | - Maira Sousa
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunovirology, Department of General Biology, Federal University of Viçosa, Viçosa, Minas Gerais 36570-900, Brazil; (J.S.); (R.D.); (M.M.); (M.S.); (A.C.); (M.S.)
- Leopoldo Américo Miguez de Mello Research Center (CENPES), Petrobras, Rio de Janeiro 20230-010, Brazil
| | - Cynthia Silva
- Department of Microbiology, Federal University of Viçosa, Viçosa, Minas Gerais 36570-900, Brazil;
| | - Sergio de Paula
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunovirology, Department of General Biology, Federal University of Viçosa, Viçosa, Minas Gerais 36570-900, Brazil; (J.S.); (R.D.); (M.M.); (M.S.); (A.C.); (M.S.)
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15
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Abstract
Bacteriophages and bacterial biofilms are widely present in natural environments, a fact that has accelerated the evolution of phages and their bacterial hosts in these particular niches. Phage-host interactions in biofilm communities are rather complex, where phages are not always merely predators but also can establish symbiotic relationships that induce and strengthen biofilms. In this review we provide an overview of the main features affecting phage-biofilm interactions as well as the currently available methods of studying these interactions. In addition, we address the applications of phages for biofilm control in different contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana P Pires
- Centre of Biological Engineering, University of Minho, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal;
| | - Luís D R Melo
- Centre of Biological Engineering, University of Minho, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal;
| | - Joana Azeredo
- Centre of Biological Engineering, University of Minho, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal;
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16
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Abstract
Bacteriophages are the most diverse and abundant biological entities on the Earth and require host bacteria to replicate. Because of this obligate relationship, in addition to the challenging conditions of surrounding environments, phages must integrate information about extrinsic and intrinsic factors when infecting their host. This integration helps to determine whether the infection becomes lytic or lysogenic, which likely influences phage spreading and long-term survival. Although a variety of environmental and physiological clues are known to modulate lysis-lysogeny decisions, the social interplay among phages and host populations has been overlooked until recently. A growing body of evidence indicates that cell-cell communication in bacteria and, more recently, peptide-based communication among phage-phage populations, affect phage-host interactions by controlling phage lysis-lysogeny decisions and phage counter-defensive strategies in bacteria. Here, we explore and discuss the role of signal molecules as well as quorum sensing and quenching factors that mediate phage-host interactions. Our aim is to provide an overview of population-dependent mechanisms that influence phage replication, and how social communication may affect the dynamics and evolution of microbial communities, including their implications in phage therapy.
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17
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Oliveira VDC, Steixner S, Nascimento CD, Pagnano VO, Silva-Lovato CH, Paranhos HDFO, Wilflingseder D, Coraça-Huber D, Watanabe E. Expression of virulence factors by Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilm after bacteriophage infection. Microb Pathog 2021; 154:104834. [PMID: 33691179 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2021.104834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2020] [Revised: 02/16/2021] [Accepted: 02/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The use of bacteriophages for the treatment of bacterial infections has been extensively studied. Nonetheless, the stress response regarding bacteriophage infection and the expression of virulence factors of Pseudomonas aeruginosa after phage infection is poorly discussed. In this study, we evaluated biofilm formation capacity and expression of virulence factors of P. aeruginosa after bacteriophage infection. Biofilm growth rates, biofilm morphology, pyocyanin production and elastase activity were evaluated after 2, 8, 24 and 48 h of co-cultivation with bacteriophages that was recently characterized and showed to be infective towards clinical isolates. In parallel, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reactions were carried out to verify the expression of virulence-related genes. Bacteriophages promoted substantial changes in P. aeruginosa biofilm growth at early co-culture time. In addition, at 8 h, we observed that some cultures developed filaments. Although bacteriophages did not alter both pyocyanin and protease activity, changes on the expression level of genes related to virulence factors were detected. Usually, lasI, pslA, lasB and phzH genes were upregulated after 2 and 48 h of co-culture. These results highlight the need for extensive investigation of pathways and molecules involved in phage infection, since the transcriptional changes would suggest a response activation by P. aeruginosa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viviane de Cássia Oliveira
- Human Exposome and Infectious Diseases Network - HEID, School of Nursing of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil; Department of Dental Materials and Prostheses, School of Dentistry of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Stephan Steixner
- Research Laboratory for Biofilms and Implant Associated Infections (BIOFILM LAB), Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Experimental Orthopedics, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Cássio do Nascimento
- Department of Dental Materials and Prostheses, School of Dentistry of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Valéria Oliveira Pagnano
- Department of Dental Materials and Prostheses, School of Dentistry of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Cláudia Helena Silva-Lovato
- Department of Dental Materials and Prostheses, School of Dentistry of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Helena de Freitas Oliveira Paranhos
- Department of Dental Materials and Prostheses, School of Dentistry of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Doris Wilflingseder
- Division of Hygiene and Medical Microbiology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Débora Coraça-Huber
- Research Laboratory for Biofilms and Implant Associated Infections (BIOFILM LAB), Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Experimental Orthopedics, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Evandro Watanabe
- Human Exposome and Infectious Diseases Network - HEID, School of Nursing of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil; Department of Restorative Dentistry, School of Dentistry of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.
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18
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A Spontaneous rapZ Mutant Impairs Infectivity of Lytic Bacteriophage vB_EcoM_JS09 against Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli. mSphere 2021; 6:6/2/e01286-20. [PMID: 33658278 PMCID: PMC8546717 DOI: 10.1128/msphere.01286-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Our understanding of the mechanisms underlying phage-bacterium interactions remains limited. In Escherichia coli, RapZ regulates glucosamine-6-phosphate (GlcN6P) metabolism, the formation of which initiates synthesis of the bacterial cell envelope, including lipopolysaccharides (LPS). However, the role of RapZ, if any, on phage infectivity remains to be investigated. Here, we isolated strains of enterotoxigenic E. coli (ETEC) resistant to its specific lytic bacteriophage vB_EcoM_JS09 (JS09) in a phage aerosol spray experiment. Whole-genome analysis of phage-resistant bacteria revealed the rapZ gene acquired a premature stop mutation at amino acid 227. Here, we report that the mutation in the rapZ gene confers resistance by inhibiting 93.5% phage adsorption. Furthermore, this mutation changes the morphology of phage plaques, reduces efficiency of plating and phage propagation efficiency, and impairs the infectivity of phage JS09 against ETEC. Using scanning electron microscopy assays, we attribute the inability of the phage to adsorb to the loss of receptors in strains with defective RapZ. Analysis of the LPS profile shows that strains with defective RapZ inhibit phage infection by changing the LPS profile in E. coli. Preincubation of phage JS09 with LPS extracted from a wild-type (WT) strain blocked infection, suggesting LPS is the host receptor for phage JS09 adsorption. Our data uncover the mechanism by which ETEC resists infection of phage JS09 by mutating the rapZ gene and then increasing the expression of glmS and changing the phage receptor-LPS profile. These findings provide insight into the function of the rapZ gene for efficient infection of phage JS09. IMPORTANCE The development of phage-resistant bacteria is a challenging problem for phage therapy. However, our knowledge of phage resistance mechanisms is still limited. RapZ is an RNase adaptor protein encoded by the rapZ gene and plays an important function in Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Here, we report the whole-genome analysis of a phage-resistant enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC) strain, which revealed that the rapZ gene acquired a premature stop mutation (E227Stop). We show that the premature stop mutation of rapZ impairs the infectivity of phage JS09 in ETEC. Furthermore, our findings indicate that ETEC becomes resistant against the adsorption and infection of phage JS09 by mutating the rapZ gene, increasing the expression of glmS, and changing the phage receptor-LPS profile. It is also first reported here that RapZ is essential for efficient infection of phage JS09.
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García-Contreras R, Loarca D. The bright side of social cheaters: potential beneficial roles of "social cheaters" in microbial communities. FEMS Microbiol Ecol 2020; 97:6006265. [PMID: 33238304 DOI: 10.1093/femsec/fiaa239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2020] [Accepted: 11/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cooperation in microbial communities via production of public goods is susceptible to social cheating, since selfish individuals that do not contribute to their synthesis but benefit from their production thrive in the presence of cooperators. This behavior has been observed in the laboratory using bacterial and yeast models. Moreover, growing evidence indicates that cheating is frequent in natural microbial communities. In the laboratory, social cheating can promote population collapse or "tragedy of the commons" when excessive. Nevertheless, there are diverse mechanisms that counteract cheating in microbes, as well as theoretical and experimental evidence that suggests possible beneficial roles of social cheaters for the microbial populations. In this mini review manuscript we compile and discuss such possible roles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodolfo García-Contreras
- Departamento de Microbiología y Parasitología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autonoma de México, Circuto Escolar 411A, Copilco Universidad, Coyoacán, 04360, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Daniel Loarca
- Departamento de Microbiología y Parasitología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autonoma de México, Circuto Escolar 411A, Copilco Universidad, Coyoacán, 04360, Mexico City, Mexico
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20
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Cazares A, García-Contreras R, Pérez-Velázquez J. Eco-Evolutionary Effects of Bacterial Cooperation on Phage Therapy: An Unknown Risk? Front Microbiol 2020; 11:590294. [PMID: 33281786 PMCID: PMC7688660 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2020.590294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Accepted: 10/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
If there is something we have learned from the antibiotic era, it is that indiscriminate use of a therapeutic agent without a clear understanding of its long-term evolutionary impact can have enormous health repercussions. This knowledge is particularly relevant when the therapeutic agents are remarkably adaptable and diverse biological entities capable of a plethora of interactions, most of which remain largely unexplored. Although phage therapy (PT) undoubtedly holds the potential to save lives, its current efficacy in case studies recalls the golden era of antibiotics, when these compounds were highly effective and the possibility of them becoming ineffective seemed remote. Safe PT schemes depend on our understanding of how phages interact with, and evolve in, highly complex environments. Here, we summarize and review emerging evidence in a commonly overlooked theme in PT: bacteria-phage interactions. In particular, we discuss the influence of quorum sensing (QS) on phage susceptibility, the consequent role of phages in modulating bacterial cooperation, and the potential implications of this relationship in PT, including how we can use this knowledge to inform PT strategies. We highlight that the influence of QS on phage susceptibility seems to be widespread but can have contrasting outcomes depending on the bacterial host, underscoring the need to thoroughly characterize this link in various bacterial models. Furthermore, we encourage researchers to exploit competition experiments, experimental evolution, and mathematical modeling to explore this relationship further in relevant infection models. Finally, we emphasize that long-term PT success requires research on phage ecology and evolution to inform the design of optimal therapeutic schemes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrián Cazares
- EMBL’s European Bioinformatics Institute (EMBL-EBI), Wellcome Genome Campus, Cambridge, United Kingdom
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Wellcome Genome Campus, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Rodolfo García-Contreras
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Judith Pérez-Velázquez
- Zentrum Mathematik, Technical University of Munich, Garching, Germany
- Technische Hochschule Ingolstadt, Institute of Innovative Mobility, Ingolstadt, Germany
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21
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Ferriol-González C, Domingo-Calap P. Phages for Biofilm Removal. Antibiotics (Basel) 2020; 9:antibiotics9050268. [PMID: 32455536 PMCID: PMC7277876 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics9050268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2020] [Revised: 05/15/2020] [Accepted: 05/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Biofilms are clusters of bacteria that live in association with surfaces. Their main characteristic is that the bacteria inside the biofilms are attached to other bacterial cells and to the surface by an extracellular polymeric matrix. Biofilms are capable of adhering to a wide variety of surfaces, both biotic and abiotic, including human tissues, medical devices, and other materials. On these surfaces, biofilms represent a major threat causing infectious diseases and economic losses. In addition, current antibiotics and common disinfectants have shown limited ability to remove biofilms adequately, and phage-based treatments are proposed as promising alternatives for biofilm eradication. This review analyzes the main advantages and challenges that phages can offer for the elimination of biofilms, as well as the most important factors to be taken into account in order to design effective phage-based treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Pilar Domingo-Calap
- Department of Genetics, Universitat de València, 46100 Valencia, Spain;
- Institute for Integrative Systems Biology, ISysBio, Universitat de València-CSIC, 46910 Valencia, Spain
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-963-543-261
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22
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Li X, Gonzalez F, Esteves N, Scharf BE, Chen J. Formation of phage lysis patterns and implications on co-propagation of phages and motile host bacteria. PLoS Comput Biol 2020; 16:e1007236. [PMID: 32168336 PMCID: PMC7108739 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pcbi.1007236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2019] [Revised: 03/31/2020] [Accepted: 02/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Coexistence of bacteriophages, or phages, and their host bacteria plays an important role in maintaining the microbial communities. In natural environments with limited nutrients, motile bacteria can actively migrate towards locations of richer resources. Although phages are not motile themselves, they can infect motile bacterial hosts and spread in space via the hosts. Therefore, in a migrating microbial community coexistence of bacteria and phages implies their co-propagation in space. Here, we combine an experimental approach and mathematical modeling to explore how phages and their motile host bacteria coexist and co-propagate. When lytic phages encountered motile host bacteria in our experimental set up, a sector-shaped lysis zone formed. Our mathematical model indicates that local nutrient depletion and the resulting inhibition of proliferation and motility of bacteria and phages are the key to formation of the observed lysis pattern. The model further reveals the straight radial boundaries in the lysis pattern as a telltale sign for coexistence and co-propagation of bacteria and phages. Emergence of such a pattern, albeit insensitive to extrinsic factors, requires a balance between intrinsic biological properties of phages and bacteria, which likely results from coevolution of phages and bacteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaochu Li
- Department of Biological Sciences, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia, United States of America
- BIOTRANS Graduate Program, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Floricel Gonzalez
- Department of Biological Sciences, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Nathaniel Esteves
- Department of Biological Sciences, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Birgit E. Scharf
- Department of Biological Sciences, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia, United States of America
- Fralin Life Sciences Institute, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Jing Chen
- Department of Biological Sciences, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia, United States of America
- Fralin Life Sciences Institute, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia, United States of America
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23
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Mion S, Rémy B, Plener L, Brégeon F, Chabrière E, Daudé D. Quorum Quenching Lactonase Strengthens Bacteriophage and Antibiotic Arsenal Against Pseudomonas aeruginosa Clinical Isolates. Front Microbiol 2019; 10:2049. [PMID: 31551983 PMCID: PMC6734170 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2019.02049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2019] [Accepted: 08/20/2019] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Many bacteria use quorum sensing (QS), a bacterial communication system based on the diffusion and perception of small signaling molecules, to synchronize their behavior in a cell-density dependent manner. QS regulates the expression of many genes associated with virulence factor production and biofilm formation. This latter is known to be involved in antibiotic and phage resistance mechanisms. Therefore, disrupting QS, a strategy known as quorum quenching (QQ), appears to be an interesting way to reduce bacterial virulence and increase antibiotic and phage treatment efficiency. In this study, the ability of the QQ enzyme SsoPox-W263I, a lactonase able to degrade acyl-homoserine lactones, was investigated for quenching both virulence and biofilm formation in clinical isolates of Pseudomonas aeruginosa from diabetic foot ulcers, as well as in the PA14 model strain. These strains were further evolved to resist to bacteriophage cocktails. Overall, 10 antibiotics or bacteriophage resistant strains were evaluated and SsoPox-W263I was shown to decrease pyocyanin, protease and elastase production in all strains. Furthermore, a reduction of more than 70% of biofilm formation was achieved in six out of ten strains. This anti-virulence potential was confirmed in vivo using an amoeba infection model, showing enhanced susceptibility toward amoeba of nine out of ten P. aeruginosa isolates upon QQ. This amoeba model was further used to demonstrate the ability of SsoPox-W263I to enhance the susceptibility of sensitive and phage resistant bacteria to bacteriophage and antibiotic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonia Mion
- Aix-Marseille University, IRD, APHM, MEPHI, IHU-Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France
| | - Benjamin Rémy
- Aix-Marseille University, IRD, APHM, MEPHI, IHU-Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France.,Gene&GreenTK, Marseille, France
| | | | - Fabienne Brégeon
- Aix-Marseille University, IRD, APHM, MEPHI, IHU-Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France.,Service des Explorations Fonctionnelles Respiratoires Centre Hospitalo Universitaire Nord, Pôle Cardio-Vasculaire et Thoracique, Assistance Publique des Hôpitaux de Marseille, Marseille, France
| | - Eric Chabrière
- Aix-Marseille University, IRD, APHM, MEPHI, IHU-Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France
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24
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Regulatory protein SrpA controls phage infection and core cellular processes in Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Nat Commun 2018; 9:1846. [PMID: 29748556 PMCID: PMC5945682 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-018-04232-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2017] [Accepted: 04/16/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Our understanding of the molecular mechanisms behind bacteria-phage interactions remains limited. Here we report that a small protein, SrpA, controls core cellular processes in response to phage infection and environmental signals in Pseudomonas aeruginosa. We show that SrpA is essential for efficient genome replication of phage K5, and controls transcription by binding to a palindromic sequence upstream of the phage RNA polymerase gene. We identify potential SrpA-binding sites in 66 promoter regions across the P. aeruginosa genome, and experimentally validate direct binding of SrpA to some of these sites. Using transcriptomics and further experiments, we show that SrpA, directly or indirectly, regulates many cellular processes including cell motility, chemotaxis, biofilm formation, pyocyanin synthesis and protein secretion, as well as virulence in a Caenorhabditis elegans model of infection. Further research on SrpA and similar proteins, which are widely present in many other bacteria, is warranted. You et al. show that SrpA, a small protein widely conserved among bacteria, controls core cellular processes in response to phage infection and environmental signals in Pseudomonas aeruginosa, including cell motility, chemotaxis, biofilm formation, and virulence.
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25
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Mion S, Rémy B, Plener L, Chabrière E, Daudé D. [Prevent bacteria from communicating: Divide to cure]. ANNALES PHARMACEUTIQUES FRANÇAISES 2018; 76:249-264. [PMID: 29598881 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharma.2018.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2017] [Revised: 02/14/2018] [Accepted: 02/16/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Quorum Sensing (QS) is a communication system used by numerous bacteria to synchronize their behavior according to the cell density. In this way, bacteria secrete and sense small mediating molecules, called autoinducers (AI), which concentration increases in the environment proportionally to bacterial cell number. QS induces major physiological and phenotypic changes such as virulence induction and biofilm formation. Biofilm represents a physical barrier which shelters bacteria poorly sensitive to antimicrobial treatments and favors the apparition of resistance mechanisms. Disturbing QS is referred to as quorum quenching (QQ). This strategy is used by microorganisms themselves to prevent the development of specific group behaviors. Two strategies are mainly employed: the use of quorum sensing inhibitors (QSI) and of quorum quenching enzymes (QQE) that degrades AI. Many studies have been dedicated to identifying QSI (natural or synthetic) as well as QQE and demonstrating their anti-virulence and anti-biofilm effects on numerous bacterial species. Synergistic effects between QQ and traditional treatments such as antibiotherapy or with reemerging phage therapy have been put forward. The efficiency of numerous QSI and QQE was thereby demonstrated either with in vitro or in vivo animal models leading to the development of medical devices containing QSI and QQE to improve already existing treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Mion
- Aix-Marseille Université, IRD, APHM, MEPHI, IHU-Méditerranée Infection, 19-21, boulevard Jean-Moulin, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - B Rémy
- Aix-Marseille Université, IRD, APHM, MEPHI, IHU-Méditerranée Infection, 19-21, boulevard Jean-Moulin, 13005 Marseille, France; Gene&GreenTK, 19-21, boulevard Jean-Moulin, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - L Plener
- Gene&GreenTK, 19-21, boulevard Jean-Moulin, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - E Chabrière
- Aix-Marseille Université, IRD, APHM, MEPHI, IHU-Méditerranée Infection, 19-21, boulevard Jean-Moulin, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - D Daudé
- Gene&GreenTK, 19-21, boulevard Jean-Moulin, 13005 Marseille, France.
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26
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Rémy B, Mion S, Plener L, Elias M, Chabrière E, Daudé D. Interference in Bacterial Quorum Sensing: A Biopharmaceutical Perspective. Front Pharmacol 2018; 9:203. [PMID: 29563876 PMCID: PMC5845960 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2018.00203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 171] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2017] [Accepted: 02/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Numerous bacteria utilize molecular communication systems referred to as quorum sensing (QS) to synchronize the expression of certain genes regulating, among other aspects, the expression of virulence factors and the synthesis of biofilm. To achieve this process, bacteria use signaling molecules, known as autoinducers (AIs), as chemical messengers to share information. Naturally occurring strategies that interfere with bacterial signaling have been extensively studied in recent years, examining their potential to control bacteria. To interfere with QS, bacteria use quorum sensing inhibitors (QSIs) to block the action of AIs and quorum quenching (QQ) enzymes to degrade signaling molecules. Recent studies have shown that these strategies are promising routes to decrease bacterial pathogenicity and decrease biofilms, potentially enhancing bacterial susceptibility to antimicrobial agents including antibiotics and bacteriophages. The efficacy of QSIs and QQ enzymes has been demonstrated in various animal models and are now considered in the development of new medical devices against bacterial infections, including dressings, and catheters for enlarging the therapeutic arsenal against bacteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Rémy
- IRD, APHM, MEPHI, IHU-Méditerranée Infection, Aix Marseille Université, Marseille, France
- Gene&GreenTK, Marseille, France
| | - Sonia Mion
- IRD, APHM, MEPHI, IHU-Méditerranée Infection, Aix Marseille Université, Marseille, France
| | | | - Mikael Elias
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biophysics, Biotechnology Institute, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN, United States
| | - Eric Chabrière
- IRD, APHM, MEPHI, IHU-Méditerranée Infection, Aix Marseille Université, Marseille, France
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Feichtmayer J, Deng L, Griebler C. Antagonistic Microbial Interactions: Contributions and Potential Applications for Controlling Pathogens in the Aquatic Systems. Front Microbiol 2017; 8:2192. [PMID: 29184541 PMCID: PMC5694486 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2017.02192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2017] [Accepted: 10/25/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite the active and intense treatment of wastewater, pathogenic microorganisms and viruses are frequently introduced into the aquatic environment. For most human pathogens, however, this is a rather hostile place, where starvation, continuous inactivation, and decay generally occur, rather than successful reproduction. Nevertheless, a great diversity of the pathogenic microorganisms can be detected, in particular, in the surface waters receiving wastewater. Pathogen survival depends majorly on abiotic factors such as irradiation, changes in water ionic strength, temperature, and redox state. In addition, inactivation is enhanced by the biotic interactions in the environment. Although knowledge of the antagonistic biotic interactions has been available since a long time, certain underlying processes and mechanisms still remain unclear. Others are well-appreciated and increasingly are applied to the present research. Our review compiles and discusses the presently known biotic interactions between autochthonous microbes and pathogens introduced into the aquatic environment, including protozoan grazing, virus-induced bacterial cell lysis, antimicrobial substances, and predatory bacteria. An overview is provided on the present knowledge, as well as on the obvious research gaps. Individual processes that appear promising for future applications in the aquatic environment are presented and discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judith Feichtmayer
- Institute of Groundwater Ecology, Helmholtz Zentrum München GmbH, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Li Deng
- Institute of Groundwater Ecology, Helmholtz Zentrum München GmbH, Neuherberg, Germany
- Institute of Virology, Helmholtz Zentrum München GmbH, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Christian Griebler
- Institute of Groundwater Ecology, Helmholtz Zentrum München GmbH, Neuherberg, Germany
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Pires DP, Melo L, Vilas Boas D, Sillankorva S, Azeredo J. Phage therapy as an alternative or complementary strategy to prevent and control biofilm-related infections. Curr Opin Microbiol 2017; 39:48-56. [PMID: 28964986 DOI: 10.1016/j.mib.2017.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 160] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2017] [Accepted: 09/06/2017] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
The complex heterogeneous structure of biofilms confers to bacteria an important survival strategy. Biofilms are frequently involved in many chronic infections in consequence of their low susceptibility to antibiotics as well as resistance to host defences. The increasing need of novel and effective treatments to target these complex structures has led to a growing interest on bacteriophages (phages) as a strategy for biofilm control and prevention. Phages can be used alone, as a cocktail to broaden the spectra of activity, or in combination with other antimicrobials to improve their efficacy. Here, we summarize the studies involving the use of phages for the treatment or prevention of bacterial biofilms, highlighting the biofilm features that can be tackled with phages or combined therapy approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- D P Pires
- CEB - Centre of Biological Engineering, LIBRO - Laboratório de Investigação em Biofilmes Rosário Oliveira, University of Minho, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
| | - Ldr Melo
- CEB - Centre of Biological Engineering, LIBRO - Laboratório de Investigação em Biofilmes Rosário Oliveira, University of Minho, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
| | - D Vilas Boas
- CEB - Centre of Biological Engineering, LIBRO - Laboratório de Investigação em Biofilmes Rosário Oliveira, University of Minho, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
| | - S Sillankorva
- CEB - Centre of Biological Engineering, LIBRO - Laboratório de Investigação em Biofilmes Rosário Oliveira, University of Minho, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
| | - J Azeredo
- CEB - Centre of Biological Engineering, LIBRO - Laboratório de Investigação em Biofilmes Rosário Oliveira, University of Minho, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal.
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Saucedo-Mora MA, Castañeda-Tamez P, Cazares A, Pérez-Velázquez J, Hense BA, Cazares D, Figueroa W, Carballo M, Guarneros G, Pérez-Eretza B, Cruz N, Nishiyama Y, Maeda T, Belmont-Díaz JA, Wood TK, García-Contreras R. Selection of Functional Quorum Sensing Systems by Lysogenic Bacteriophages in Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Front Microbiol 2017; 8:1669. [PMID: 28912771 PMCID: PMC5583629 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2017.01669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2017] [Accepted: 08/17/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Quorum sensing (QS) in Pseudomonas aeruginosa coordinates the expression of virulence factors, some of which are used as public goods. Since their production is a cooperative behavior, it is susceptible to social cheating in which non-cooperative QS deficient mutants use the resources without investing in their production. Nevertheless, functional QS systems are abundant; hence, mechanisms regulating the amount of cheating should exist. Evidence that demonstrates a tight relationship between QS and the susceptibility of bacteria against the attack of lytic phages is increasing; nevertheless, the relationship between temperate phages and QS has been much less explored. Therefore, in this work, we studied the effects of having a functional QS system on the susceptibility to temperate bacteriophages and how this affects the bacterial and phage dynamics. We find that both experimentally and using mathematical models, that the lysogenic bacteriophages D3112 and JBD30 select QS-proficient P. aeruginosa phenotypes as compared to the QS-deficient mutants during competition experiments with mixed strain populations in vitro and in vivo in Galleria mellonella, in spite of the fact that both phages replicate better in the wild-type background. We show that this phenomenon restricts social cheating, and we propose that temperate phages may constitute an important selective pressure toward the conservation of bacterial QS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miguel A Saucedo-Mora
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, National Autonomous University of MexicoMexico City, Mexico
| | - Paulina Castañeda-Tamez
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, National Autonomous University of MexicoMexico City, Mexico
| | - Adrián Cazares
- Departamento de Genética y Biología Molecular, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico NacionalMexico City, Mexico
| | - Judith Pérez-Velázquez
- Institute of Computational Biology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH)Neuherberg, Germany.,Mathematical Modeling of Biological Systems, Zentrum Mathematik, Technical University of MunichGarching, Germany
| | - Burkhard A Hense
- Institute of Computational Biology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Gesundheit und Umwelt (GmbH)Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Daniel Cazares
- Centro de Ciencias Genomicas, National Autonomous University of MexicoCuernavaca, Mexico
| | - Wendy Figueroa
- Departamento de Genética y Biología Molecular, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico NacionalMexico City, Mexico
| | - Marco Carballo
- Departamento de Genética y Biología Molecular, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico NacionalMexico City, Mexico
| | - Gabriel Guarneros
- Departamento de Genética y Biología Molecular, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico NacionalMexico City, Mexico
| | - Berenice Pérez-Eretza
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, National Autonomous University of MexicoMexico City, Mexico
| | - Nelby Cruz
- Departamento de Genética y Biología Molecular, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico NacionalMexico City, Mexico
| | - Yoshito Nishiyama
- Department of Biological Functions Engineering, Kyushu Institute of TechnologyKitakyushu, Japan
| | - Toshinari Maeda
- Department of Biological Functions Engineering, Kyushu Institute of TechnologyKitakyushu, Japan
| | | | - Thomas K Wood
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Pennsylvania State University, University ParkPA, United States
| | - Rodolfo García-Contreras
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, National Autonomous University of MexicoMexico City, Mexico
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