Construction of compatible wide-host-range shuttle vectors for lactic acid bacteria and Escherichia coli

Illuminating the oral microbiome and its host interactions: tools and approaches for molecular microbiology studies

Advancements in DNA sequencing technologies within the last decade have stimulated an unprecedented interest in the human microbiome, largely due the broad diversity of human diseases found to correlate with microbiome dysbiosis. As a direct consequence of these studies, a vast number of understudied and uncharacterized microbes have been identified as potential drivers of mucosal health and disease. The looming challenge in the field is to transition these observations into defined molecular mechanistic studies of symbiosis and dysbiosis. In order to meet this challenge, many of these newly identified microbes will need to be adapted for use in experimental models. Consequently, this review presents a comprehensive overview of the molecular microbiology tools and techniques that have played crucial roles in genetic studies of the bacteria found within the human oral microbiota. Here, we will use specific examples from the oral microbiome literature to illustrate the biology supporting these techniques, why they are needed in the field, and how such technologies have been implemented. It is hoped that this information can serve as a useful reference guide to help catalyze molecular microbiology studies of the many new understudied and uncharacterized species identified at different mucosal sites in the body.

Precision Genome Engineering in Streptococcus suis Based on a Broad-Host-Range Vector and CRISPR-Cas9 Technology

Streptococcussuis is an important zoonotic pathogen that causes severe invasive disease in pigs and humans. Current methods for genome engineering of S. suis rely on the insertion of antibiotic resistance markers, which is time-consuming and labor-intensive and does not allow the precise introduction of small genomic mutations. Here we developed a system for CRISPR-based genome editing in S. suis, utilizing linear DNA fragments for homologous recombination (HR) and a plasmid-based negative selection system for bacteria not edited by HR. To enable the use of this system in other bacteria, we engineered a broad-host-range replicon in the CRISPR plasmid. We demonstrated the utility of this system to rapidly introduce multiple gene deletions in successive rounds of genome editing and to make precise nucleotide changes in essential genes. Furthermore, we characterized a mechanism by which S. suis can escape killing by a targeted Cas9-sgRNA complex in the absence of HR. A characteristic of this new mechanism is the presence of very slow-growing colonies in a persister-like state that may allow for DNA repair or the introduction of mutations, alleviating Cas9 pressure. This does not impact the utility of CRISPR-based genome editing because the escape colonies are easily distinguished from genetically edited clones due to their small colony size. Our CRISPR-based editing system is a valuable addition to the genetic toolbox for engineering of S. suis, as it accelerates the process of mutant construction and simplifies the removal of antibiotic markers between successive rounds of genome editing.

Genetic Engineering of Resident Bacteria in the Gut Microbiome

Techniques by which to genetically manipulate members of the microbiota enable both the evaluation of host-microbe interactions and an avenue by which to monitor and modulate human physiology. Genetic engineering applications have traditionally focused on model gut residents, such as Escherichia coli and lactic acid bacteria. However, emerging efforts by which to develop synthetic biology toolsets for "nonmodel" resident gut microbes could provide an improved foundation for microbiome engineering. As genome engineering tools come online, so too have novel applications for engineered gut microbes. Engineered resident gut bacteria facilitate investigations of the roles of microbes and their metabolites on host health and allow for potential live microbial biotherapeutics. Due to the rapid pace of discovery in this burgeoning field, this minireview highlights advancements in the genetic engineering of all resident gut microbes.

In vitro assembly of plasmid DNA for direct cloning in Lactiplantibacillus plantarum WCSF1

Lactobacilli are gram-positive bacteria that are growing in importance for the healthcare industry and genetically engineering them as living therapeutics is highly sought after. However, progress in this field is hindered since most strains are difficult to genetically manipulate, partly due to their complex and thick cell walls limiting our capability to transform them with exogenous DNA. To overcome this, large amounts of DNA (>1 μg) are normally required to successfully transform these bacteria. An intermediate host, like E. coli, is often used to amplify recombinant DNA to such amounts although this approach poses unwanted drawbacks such as an increase in plasmid size, different methylation patterns and the limitation of introducing only genes compatible with the intermediate host. In this work, we have developed a direct cloning method based on in-vitro assembly and PCR amplification to yield recombinant DNA in significant quantities for successful transformation in L. plantarum WCFS1. The advantage of this method is demonstrated in terms of shorter experimental duration and the possibility to introduce a gene incompatible with E. coli into L. plantarum WCFS1.

Lactobacilli as a Vector for Delivery of Nanobodies against Norovirus Infection

Passive administration of neutralizing antibodies (Abs) is an attractive strategy for the control of gastrointestinal infections. However, an unanswered practical concern is the need to assure the stability of sufficient amounts of orally administered neutralizing Abs against intestinal pathogens (e.g., norovirus) in the harsh environment of the gastrointestinal tract. To this end, we expressed a single-domain Ab (VHH, nanobody) against norovirus on the cell surface of Lactobacillus, a natural and beneficial commensal component of the gut microbiome. First, we used intestinal epithelial cells generated from human induced pluripotent stem cells to confirm that VHH 1E4 showed neutralizing activity against GII.17 norovirus. We then expressed VHH 1E4 as a cell-wall-anchored form in Lactobacillus paracasei BL23. Flow cytometry confirmed the expression of VHH 1E4 on the surface of lactobacilli, and L. paracasei that expressed VHH 1E4 inhibited the replication of GII.17 norovirus in vitro. We then orally administered VHH 1E4-expressing L. paracasei BL23 to germ-free BALB/c mice and confirmed the presence of lactobacilli with neutralizing activity in the intestine for at least 10 days after administration. Thus, cell-wall-anchored VHH-displaying lactobacilli are attractive oral nanobody deliver vectors for passive immunization against norovirus infection.

Genome-wide high-throughput signal peptide screening via plasmid pUC256E improves protease secretion in Lactiplantibacillus plantarum and Pediococcus acidilactici

BACKGROUND

Proteases catalyze the hydrolysis of peptide bonds of proteins, thereby improving dietary protein digestibility, nutrient availability, as well as flavor and texture of fermented food and feed products. The lactobacilli Lactiplantibacillus plantarum (formerly Lactobacillus plantarum) and Pediococcus acidilactici are widely used in food and feed fermentations due to their broad metabolic capabilities and safe use. However, extracellular protease activity in these two species is low. Here, we optimized protease expression and secretion in L. plantarum and P. acidilactici via a genetic engineering strategy.

RESULTS

To this end, we first developed a versatile and stable plasmid, pUC256E, which can propagate in both L. plantarum and P. acidilactici. We then confirmed expression and secretion of protease PepG1 as a functional enzyme in both strains with the aid of the previously described L. plantarum-derived signal peptide LP_0373. To further increase secretion of PepG1, we carried out a genome-wide experimental screening of signal peptide functionality. A total of 155 predicted signal peptides originating from L. plantarum and 110 predicted signal peptides from P. acidilactici were expressed and screened for extracellular proteolytic activity in the two different strains, respectively. We identified 12 L. plantarum signal peptides and eight P. acidilactici signal peptides that resulted in improved yield of secreted PepG1. No significant correlation was found between signal peptide sequence properties and its performance with PepG1.

CONCLUSION

The vector developed here provides a powerful tool for rapid experimental screening of signal peptides in both L. plantarum and P. acidilactici. Moreover, the set of novel signal peptides identified was widely distributed across strains of the same species and even across some closely related species. This indicates their potential applicability also for the secretion of other proteins of interest in other L. plantarum or P. acidilactici host strains. Our findings demonstrate that screening a library of homologous signal peptides is an attractive strategy to identify the optimal signal peptide for the target protein, resulting in improved protein export.

Lactobacilli Expressing Broadly Neutralizing Nanobodies against HIV-1 as Potential Vectors for HIV-1 Prophylaxis?

In the absence of an active prophylactic vaccine against HIV-1, passively administered, broadly neutralizing antibodies (bnAbs) identified in some chronically infected persons were shown to prevent HIV-1 infection in animal models. However, passive administration of bnAbs may not be suited to prevent sexual HIV-1 transmission in high-risk cohorts, as a continuous high level of active bnAbs may be difficult to achieve at the primary site of sexual transmission, the human vagina with its acidic pH. Therefore, we used Lactobacillus, a natural commensal in the healthy vaginal microbiome, to express bn nanobodies (VHH) against HIV-1 that we reported previously. After demonstrating that recombinant VHHA6 expressed in E. coli was able to protect humanized mice from mucosal infection by HIV-1Bal, we expressed VHHA6 in a soluble or in a cell-wall-anchored form in Lactobacillus rhamnosus DSM14870. This strain is already clinically applied for treatment of bacterial vaginosis. Both forms of VHHA6 neutralized a set of primary epidemiologically relevant HIV-1 strains in vitro. Furthermore, VHHA6 was still active at an acidic pH. Thus, lactobacilli expressing bn VHH potentially represent an attractive vector for the passive immunization of women in cohorts at high risk of HIV-1 transmission.

Construction of a shuttle expression vector for lactic acid bacteria

Background

Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) are a diverse group of Gram-positive bacteria, which are widely distributed in various diverse natural habitats. These are used in a variety of industrial food fermentations and carry numerous traits with utmost relevance to the food industry. Genetic engineering has emerged as an effective means to improve and enhance the potential of commercially important bacterial strains. However, the biosafety of recombinant systems is an important concern during the implementation of such technologies on an industrial scale. In order to overcome this issue, cloning and expression systems have been developed preferably from fully characterized and annotated LAB plasmids encoding genes with known functions.

Results

The developed shuttle vector pPBT-GFP contains two theta-type replicons with a copy number of 4.4 and 2.8 in Pediococcus acidilactici MTCC 5101 and Lactobacillus brevis MTCC 1750, respectively. Antimicrobial “pediocin” produced by P. acidilactici MTCC 5101 and green fluorescent protein (GFP) of Aequorea victoria were successfully expressed as selectable markers. Heterologous bile salt hydrolase (BSH) from Lactobacillus fermentum NCDO 394 has been efficiently expressed in the host strains showing high specific activity of 126.12 ± 10.62 in P. acidilactici MTCC 5101 and 95.43 ± 4.26 in the case of L. brevis MTCC 1750, towards glycine-conjugated bile salts preferably as compared to taurine-conjugated salts.

Conclusion

The present article details the development of a LAB/LAB shuttle expression vector pPBT-GFP, capable of replication in LAB hosts, P. acidilactici MTCC 5101, and L. brevis MTCC 1750. Pediocin and GFP have been used as selectable markers with the efficient production of heterologous extracellular bile salt hydrolase. Thus, the constructed vector pPBT-GFP, with its ability to replicate in multiple hosts, low copy number, and stability in host cells, may serve as an ideal tool for improving LAB strains of commercial value using genetic engineering.

Single plasmid systems for inducible dual protein expression and for CRISPR-Cas9/CRISPRi gene regulation in lactic acid bacterium Lactococcus lactis

Lactococcus lactis is a food-grade lactic acid bacterium that is used in the dairy industry as a cell factory and as a host for recombinant protein expression. The nisin-controlled inducible expression (NICE) system is frequently applied in L. lactis; however new tools for its genetic modification are highly desirable. In this work NICE was adapted for dual protein expression. Plasmid pNZDual, that contains two nisin promoters and multiple cloning sites (MCSs), and pNZPolycist, that contains a single nisin promoter and two MCSs separated by the ribosome binding site, were constructed. Genes for the infrared fluorescent protein and for the human IgG-binding DARPin were cloned in all possible combinations to assess the protein yield. The dual promoter plasmid pNZDual enabled balanced expression of the two model proteins. It was exploited for the development of a single-plasmid inducible CRISPR-Cas9 system (pNZCRISPR) by using a nisin promoter, first to drive Cas9 expression and, secondly, to drive single guide RNA transcription. sgRNAs against htrA and ermR directed Cas9 against genomic or plasmid DNA and caused changes in bacterial growth and survival. Replacing Cas9 by dCas9 enabled CRISPR interference-mediated silencing of the upp gene. The present study introduces a new series of plasmids for advanced genetic modification of lactic acid bacterium L. lactis.

Lactobacillus delivery of bioactive interleukin-22

BACKGROUND

Interleukin-22 (IL-22) plays a prominent role in epithelial regeneration and dampening of chronic inflammatory responses by protecting intestinal stem cells from immune-mediated tissue damage. IL-22 has a considerable therapeutic potential in graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), which is a frequent and challenging complication following allogeneic stem cell transplantation. The aim of our study was to engineer Lactobacillus for delivery of IL-22 directly to the intestinal mucosa as a new therapeutic strategy for GVHD.

RESULTS

The secretion and surface anchoring of mouse IL-22 by Lactobacillus paracasei BL23 was demonstrated by Western blot and flow cytometry. Both secreted and anchored mouse IL-22 produced by Lactobacillus was biologically active, as determined by its ability to induce IL-10 secretion in the Colo 205 human colon cancer cell line.

CONCLUSIONS

We have demonstrated the secretion and surface anchoring of bioactive IL-22 by Lactobacillus. Our results suggest that IL-22 expressing lactobacilli may potentially be a useful mucosal therapeutic agent for the treatment of GVHD, provided that chromosomal integration of the IL-22 expression cassettes can be achieved.

Toward a genetic tool development pipeline for host-associated bacteria

Bacteria reside in externally accessible niches on and in multicellular organisms, often forming mutualistic relationships with their host. Recent studies have linked the composition of these microbial communities with alterations in the host's health, behavior, and development, yet the causative mediators of host-microbiota interactions remain poorly understood. Advances in understanding and engineering these interactions require the development of genetic tools to probe the molecular interactions driving the structure and function of microbial communities as well as their interactions with their host. This review discusses the current challenges to rendering culturable, non-model members of microbial communities genetically tractable - including overcoming barriers to DNA delivery, achieving predictable gene expression, and applying CRISPR-based tools - and details recent efforts to create generalized pipelines that simplify and expedite the tool-development process. We use the bacteria present in the human gastrointestinal tract as representative microbiota to illustrate some of the recent achievements and future opportunities for genetic tool development.

A gene network engineering platform for lactic acid bacteria

Recent developments in synthetic biology have positioned lactic acid bacteria (LAB) as a major class of cellular chassis for applications. To achieve the full potential of LAB, one fundamental prerequisite is the capacity for rapid engineering of complex gene networks, such as natural biosynthetic pathways and multicomponent synthetic circuits, into which cellular functions are encoded. Here, we present a synthetic biology platform for rapid construction and optimization of large-scale gene networks in LAB. The platform involves a copy-controlled shuttle for hosting target networks and two associated strategies that enable efficient genetic editing and phenotypic validation. By using a nisin biosynthesis pathway and its variants as examples, we demonstrated multiplex, continuous editing of small DNA parts, such as ribosome-binding sites, as well as efficient manipulation of large building blocks such as genes and operons. To showcase the platform, we applied it to expand the phenotypic diversity of the nisin pathway by quickly generating a library of 63 pathway variants. We further demonstrated its utility by altering the regulatory topology of the nisin pathway for constitutive bacteriocin biosynthesis. This work demonstrates the feasibility of rapid and advanced engineering of gene networks in LAB, fostering their applications in biomedicine and other areas.

A review of food-grade vectors in lactic acid bacteria: from the laboratory to their application

Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) have a long history of use in fermented foods and as probiotics. Genetic manipulation of these microorganisms has great potential for new applications in food safety, as well as in the development of improved food products and in health. While genetic engineering of LAB could have a major positive impact on the food and pharmaceutical industries, progress could be prevented by legal issues related to the controversy surrounding this technology. The safe use of genetically modified LAB requires the development of food-grade cloning systems containing only the DNA from homologous hosts or generally considered as safe organisms, and not dependent antibiotic markers. The rationale for the development of cloning vectors derived from cryptic LAB plasmids is the need for new genetic engineering tools, therefore a vision from cryptic plasmids to applications in food-grade vectors for LAB plasmids is shown in this review. Replicative and integrative vectors for the construction of food-grade vectors, and the relationship between resistance mechanism and expression systems, will be treated in depth in this paper. Finally, we will discuss the limited use of these vectors, and the problems arising from their use.

An Exopolysaccharide-Deficient Mutant of Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG Efficiently Displays a Protective Llama Antibody Fragment against Rotavirus on Its Surface

Rotavirus is the leading cause of infantile diarrhea in developing countries, where it causes a high number of deaths among infants. Two vaccines are available, being highly effective in developed countries although markedly less efficient in developing countries. As a complementary treatment to the vaccines, a Lactobacillus strain producing an anti-rotavirus antibody fragment in the gastrointestinal tract could potentially be used. In order to develop such an alternative therapy, the effectiveness of Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG to produce and display a VHH antibody fragment (referred to as anti-rotavirus protein 1 [ARP1]) on the surface was investigated. L. rhamnosus GG is one of the best-characterized probiotic bacteria and has intrinsic antirotavirus activity. Among four L. rhamnosus GG strains [GG (CMC), GG (ATCC 53103), GG (NCC 3003), and GG (UT)] originating from different sources, only GG (UT) was able to display ARP1 on the bacterial surface. The genomic analysis of strain GG (UT) showed that the genes welE and welF of the EPS cluster are inactivated, which causes a defect in exopolysaccharide (EPS) production, allowing efficient display of ARP1 on its surface. Finally, GG (UT) seemed to confer a level of protection against rotavirus-induced diarrhea similar to that of wild-type GG (NCC 3003) in a mouse pup model, indicating that the EPS may not be involved in the intrinsic antirotavirus activity. Most important, GG (EM233), a derivative of GG (UT) producing ARP1, was significantly more protective than the control strain L. casei BL23.

Co-expression of anti-rotavirus proteins (llama VHH antibody fragments) in Lactobacillus: development and functionality of vectors containing two expression cassettes in tandem

Rotavirus is an important pediatric pathogen, causing severe diarrhea and being associated with a high mortality rate causing approximately 500 000 deaths annually worldwide. Even though some vaccines are currently available, their efficacy is lower in the developing world, as compared to developed countries. Therefore, alternative or complementary treatment options are needed in the developing countries where the disease burden is the largest. The effect of Lactobacillus in promoting health and its use as a vehicle for delivery of protein and antibody fragments was previously shown. In this study, we have developed co-expression vectors enabling Lactobacillus paracasei BL23 to produce two VHH fragments against rotavirus (referred to as anti-rotavirus proteins 1 and 3, ARP1 and ARP3) as secreted and/or surface displayed products. ARP1 and ARP3 fragments were successfully co-expressed as shown by Western blot and flow cytometry. In addition, engineered Lactobacillus produced VHH antibody fragments were shown to bind to a broad range of rotavirus serotypes (including the human rotavirus strains 69M, Va70, F45, DS1, Wa and ST3 and simian rotavirus strains including RRV and SA11), by flow cytometry and ELISA. Hereby, we have demonstrated for the first time that when RRV was captured by one VHH displayed on the surface of co-expressor Lactobacillus, targeting other epitope was possible with another VHH secreted from the same bacterium. Therefore, Lactobacillus producing two VHH antibody fragments may potentially serve as treatment against rotavirus with a reduced risk of development of escape mutants. This co-expression and delivery platform can also be used for delivery of VHH fragments against a variety of mucosal pathogens or production of other therapeutic molecules.

Stronger T cell immunogenicity of ovalbumin expressed intracellularly in Gram-negative than in Gram-positive bacteria

This study aimed to clarify whether Gram-positive (G+) and Gram-negative (G−) bacteria affect antigen-presenting cells differently and thereby influence the immunogenicity of proteins they express. Lactobacilli, lactococci and Escherichia coli strains were transformed with plasmids conferring intracellular ovalbumin (OVA) production. Murine splenic antigen presenting cells (APCs) were pulsed with washed and UV-inactivated OVA-producing bacteria, control bacteria, or soluble OVA. The ability of the APCs to activate OVA-specific DO11.10 CD4⁺ T cells was assessed by measurments of T cell proliferation and cytokine (IFN-γ, IL-13, IL-17, IL-10) production. OVA expressed within E. coli was strongly immunogenic, since 500 times higher concentrations of soluble OVA were needed to achieve a similar level of OVA-specific T cell proliferation. Furthermore, T cells responding to soluble OVA produced mainly IL-13, while T cells responding to E. coli-expressed OVA produced high levels of both IFN-γ and IL-13. Compared to E. coli, G+ lactobacilli and lactococci were poor inducers of OVA-specific T cell proliferation and cytokine production, despite efficient intracellular expression and production of OVA and despite being efficiently phagocytosed. These results demonstrate a pronounced difference in immunogenicity of intracellular antigens in G+ and G− bacteria and may be relevant for the use of bacterial carriers in vaccine development.

A new tool for cloning and gene expression in Streptococcus pneumoniae

A new replicon suitable for cloning and gene expression was successfully introduced into Streptococcus pneumoniae. The non-integrative lactococcal vectors pIL253 (higher-copy) and pIL252 (lower-copy), which are based on the promiscuous theta-replicating plasmid pAMβ1, were established in pneumococcus. The stability and the small size of these plasmids, together with the presence of a helpful multi-cloning site make them a useful genetic tool for gene expression in this bacterium. The functionality of the system was tested by cloning and expressing the pneumococcal RNase R gene in pIL253. Full constitutive expression of the cloned gene was observed, clearly demonstrating that this plasmid can be used as an expression vector in S. pneumoniae. Moreover, gene expression can be regulated by the use of the lower- or higher-copy number vector versions. The existence of other replicative plasmids based on this family, which are also probably functional in pneumococcus, further broadens the cloning possibilities. We also show that S. pneumoniae cells can accommodate simultaneously pIL252 or pIL253 together with pLS1, a pMV158 derivative, which replicates via a rolling circle mechanism. This fact greatly increases the ability to manipulate this bacterium. The availability of a new family of replicative vectors for genetic manipulation in S. pneumoniae is an important contribution to the study of this pathogenic microorganism.

Construction and characterization of Lactobacillus pentosus expressing the D antigenic site of the spike protein of Transmissible gastroenteritis virus

This study explored the feasibility of Lactobacillus pentosus as a live vehicle to deliver and express antigen. First of all, L. pentosus transformed by electroporation with the plasmids pg611-6D (anchored) and pg612-6D (secretory) based on the xylose operon generated the recombinant strains rLppg611-6D and rLppg612-6D, respectively, expressing the D antigenic site of the spike (S) protein of Transmissible gastroenteritis virus (TGEV), for intragastric administration in mice. Secondly, we collected serum, fecal, nasal, ophthalmic, and vaginal samples from pre-immune mice and after the first immunization (on days 7, 14, 21, 28, 35, and 42) that were used to analyze the levels of immunoglobulins G and A against TGEV by using ELISA. In addition, a plaque reduction assay was performed using sera from groups pg611, pg612-6D, pg11-6D, and phosphate-buffered saline (blank control) to analyze TGEV-neutralizing antibody activity in vitro. A statistically significant difference in serum tests between groups demonstrated that rLppg612-6D induced better immunogenicity than rLppg611-6D, making rLppg612-6D the better candidate for oral vaccine. Taken together, L. pentosus possessed the potential to become a novel vector for mucosal vaccine in the future.

Integrative expression system for delivery of antibody fragments by lactobacilli

A series of expression cassettes which mediate secretion or surface display of antibody fragments was stably integrated in the chromosome of Lactobacillus paracasei. L. paracasei producing surface-anchored variable domain of llama heavy chain (VHH) (ARP1) directed against rotavirus showed efficient binding to rotavirus and protection in the mouse model of rotavirus infection.

Cloning Vectors Based on Cryptic Plasmids Isolated from Lactic Acid Bacteria:Their Characteristics and Potential Applications in Biotechnology

Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) are Gram positive bacteria, widely distributed in nature, and industrially important as they are used in a variety of industrial food fermentations. The use of genetic engineering techniques is an effective means of enhancing the industrial applicability of LAB. However, when using genetic engineering technology, safety becomes an essential factor for the application of improved LAB to the food industry. Cloning and expression systems should be derived preferably from LAB cryptic plasmids that generally encode genes for which functions can be proposed, but no phenotypes can be observed. However, some plasmid-encoded functions have been discovered in cryptic plasmids originating from Lactobacillus, Streptococcus thermophilus, and Pediococcus spp. and can be used as selective marker systems in vector construction. This article presents information concerning LAB cryptic plasmids, and their structures, functions, and applications. A total of 134 cryptic plasmids collated are discussed.

Plasmid transduction using bacteriophage Phi(adh) for expression of CC chemokines by Lactobacillus gasseri ADH

Vaginal mucosal microfloras are typically dominated by Gram-positive Lactobacillus species, and colonization of vaginal mucosa by exogenous microbicide-secreting Lactobacillus strains has been proposed as a means of enhancing this natural mucosal barrier against human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. We asked whether an alternative strategy could be utilized whereby anti-HIV molecules are expressed within the cervicovaginal milieu by endogenous vaginal Lactobacillus populations which have been engineered in situ via transduction. In this study, we therefore investigated the feasibility of utilizing transduction for the expression of two HIV coreceptor antagonists, the CC chemokines CCL5 and CCL3, in a predominant vaginal Lactobacillus species, Lactobacillus gasseri. Modifying a previously established transduction model, which utilizes L. gasseri ADH and its prophage Phiadh, we show that mitomycin C induction of L. gasseri ADH transformants containing pGK12-based plasmids with CCL5 and CCL3 expression and secretion cassettes (under the control of promoters P6 and P59, respectively) and a 232-bp Phiadh cos site fragment results in the production of transducing particles which contain 8 to 9 copies of concatemeric plasmid DNA. High-frequency transduction for these particles (almost 6 orders of magnitude greater than that for pGK12 alone) was observed, and transductants were found to contain recircularized expression plasmids upon subsequent culture. Importantly, transductants produced CC chemokines at levels comparable to those produced by electroporation-derived transformants. Our findings therefore lend support to the potential use of transduction in vaginal Lactobacillus species as a novel strategy for the prevention of HIV infection across mucosal membranes.

Characterization of four plasmids harboured in a Lactobacillus brevis strain encoding a novel bacteriocin, brevicin 925A, and construction of a shuttle vector for lactic acid bacteria and Escherichia coli

In this study we isolated over 250 lactic acid bacteria (LAB) candidates from fruit, flowers, vegetables and a fermented food to generate an LAB library. One strain, designated 925A, isolated from kimchi (a traditional Korean fermented dish made from Chinese cabbage) produced a novel type of bacteriocin, brevicin 925A, which is effective against certain LAB, including strains of Lactobacillus, Enterococcus, Streptococcus, Bacillus and Listeria. Strain 925A, identified as Lactobacillus brevis, harboured at least four plasmids and we determined the entire nucleotide sequence of each one. The four plasmids were designated pLB925A01-04, and have molecular sizes of 1815, 3524, 8881 and 65 037 bp, respectively. We obtained bacteriocin non-producing derivatives by treatment of strain 925A with novobiocin. All of these derivatives, which were susceptible to their own antibacterial product, lost the largest plasmid, pLB925A04, suggesting that the genes for bacteriocin biosynthesis (breB and breC) and immunity (breE) are located on pLB925A04. The partial amino acid sequence of purified brevicin 925A and sequence analysis of pLB925A04 showed that breB is the structural gene for brevicin 925A. We constructed a shuttle vector (pLES003, 6134 bp) that can replicate in both Escherichia coli and LAB such as Lactobacillus plantarum, Lb. brevis, Lactobacillus helveticus, Lactobacillus hilgardii and Enterococcus hirae. To determine the function of gene breE, which displays no significant similarity to any other sequences in the blast search database, the gene was inserted into pLES003. A pLB925A04-cured derivative transformed with pLES003 carrying breE acquired immunity to brevicin 925A, suggesting that breE encodes an immunity protein.

Shuttle expression plasmids for genetic studies in Streptococcus mutans

A set of shuttle plasmids containing four different constitutive promoters was generated to facilitate overexpression of foreign and native genes in streptococci, such as Streptococcus mutans. The four promoters that were chosen were: P(ami), P(spac), P(23) and P(veg). These promoters are active in many Gram-positive bacteria, and allow various levels of gene expression depending on the host bacterium. Shuttle plasmids were constructed based on two types of broad-host-range replication origins: a rolling-circle replicon (pSH71) and a theta replicon (pAMbeta1). Shuttle plasmids derived from the pAMbeta1 replicon were generated to avoid the structural and segregational stability problems associated with rolling-circle replication, since these problems may be encountered during large gene cloning. In a complementation assay, we used one such plasmid to express a gene in trans to show the utility of these plasmids. In addition, a series of plasmids was generated for the expression of recombinant proteins with an N-terminal 6xHis tag or a C-terminal Strep-tag fusion, and, using a gene derived from S. mutans, we showed a high level of recombinant protein expression in S. mutans and Streptococcus pyogenes. Since these plasmids contain broad-host-range replication origins, and because the selected promoters are functional in many bacteria, they can be used for gene expression studies, such as complementation and recombinant protein expression.

Vectors for Lactobacilli and other Gram-positive bacteria based on the minimal replicon of pRV500 from Lactobacillus sakei

The low-copy-number plasmid pRV500, belonging to the pUCL287 group of theta-type plasmids, was previously isolated from Lactobacillus sakei and characterized. We show here that the replicon of this plasmid enables replication also in Enterococcus faecalis and Bacillus subtilis but not in Lactococcus lactis. A 1.25 kb region encompassing the iterons and the repA gene was sufficient for replication, copy-number control and relative stable maintenance in L. sakei. Functional implications of host or plasmid-borne factors in the maintenance of pUCL287-type plasmids are discussed. The minimal replicon from pRV500 was fused to pBluescript for constructing the shuttle E. coli/lactobacilli cloning vector pRV610. pRV610 enables the white/blue lacZ alpha-complementation in E. coli. The cassettes for selection (erythromycin resistance) and replication (iterons and repA gene) are each bordered by unique restriction sites for easy replacement if needed. Derivatives in which chloramphenicol or tetracycline resistance replaced erythromycin resistance were constructed. In order to allow inducible gene expression, a copper-inducible promoter was placed on the pRV613 derivative. Expression of the downstream reporter gene lacZ was shown to be induced by 30 microM CuSO(4).

Point mutations within the streptococcal regulator of virulence (Srv) alter protein-DNA interactions and Srv function

Group A Streptococcus (GAS) possesses a complex regulatory system enabling the organism to colonize a range of physiologically distinct host sites. Within this network of regulators is the streptococcal regulator of virulence (Srv). Srv is a member of the CRP/FNR family of transcriptional regulators and is most similar to pleiotropic regulatory factor A (PrfA), a positive regulator of virulence in Listeria monocytogenes. Members of this family possess a characteristic C-terminal helix-turn-helix motif (HTH) that facilitates binding to DNA targets. Genome scanning identified four targets in GAS that were similar to the consensus DNA target recognized by PrfA. Furthermore, previous amino acid sequence alignments identified conserved residues within the Srv HTH which are necessary for function in PrfA and CRP. Here we investigated the ability of Srv to interact with DNA and evaluated the role of the HTH in this interaction. Purified recombinant Srv (rSrv) was found to co-purify with an untagged form of Srv. Glutaraldehyde cross-linking and gel-filtration chromatography indicated that this co-purification is likely due to the ability of Srv to oligomerize. Electrophoretic mobility shift assays (EMSAs) demonstrated that rSrv retarded the mobility of DNA targets and a supershift analysis confirmed the observation was rSrv-dependent. Competition EMSA indicated that rSrv had a higher relative affinity for the DNA targets studied than non-specific DNA. Site-directed mutagenesis of residues predicted to be in or near the HTH resulted in a decrease or abrogation of DNA binding. Complementation of MGAS5005Deltasrv with one of these site-directed mutants failed to restore wild-type SpeB activity. Taken together, these data suggest that the Srv HTH is necessary for DNA binding and Srv function.

Plasmids of lactococci – genetic accessories or genetic necessities?

Lactococci are one of the most exploited microorganisms used in the manufacture of food. These intensively used cultures are generally characterized by having a rich plasmid complement. It could be argued that it is the plasmid complement of commercially utilized cultures that gives them their technical superiority and individuality. Consequently, it is timely to reflect on the desirable characteristics encoded on lactococcal plasmids. It is argued that plasmids play a key role in the evolution of modern starter strains and are a lot more than just selfish replicosomes but more essential necessities of intensively used commercial starters. Moreover, the study of plasmid biology provides a genetic blueprint that has proved essential for the generation of molecular tools for the genetic improvement of Lactococcus lactis.

Cloning and sequencing of plasmid pLC494 isolated from human intestinal Lactobacillus casei: construction of an Escherichia coli-Lactobacillus shuttle vector

The complete nucleotide sequence of plasmid pLC494 isolated from Lactobacillus casei L-49 was determined. Plasmid pLC494 is an 8846-bp long circular molecule with a G+C content of 41.5%. Two putative open reading frames, ORF4 (282 amino acids) and ORF5 (169 amino acids), were identified as replication proteins A and B that revealed 100 and 99% similarity, respectively, with the replication proteins of plasmid pLA103 from Lactobacillus acidophilus TK8912. Upstream of ORF4 were the four repeat regions (three perfect 22-bp repeats and one imperfect motif), a putative ribosome binding site, a -10 region, and a -35 region. The shuttle vector pJLE4942 (5318 bp) was constructed using repA from pLC494, a multiple cloning site, ColE1 ori, the ori of gram-negative bacteria from vector pUC19, and the chloramphenicol resistance gene from pJIR418 as a selection marker. Transformation of several lactic acid bacteria with the vector pJLE4942 indicated that this vector might be useful as a genetic tool for the intestinal lactobacilli.

Expression of Streptococcus pneumoniae antigens, PsaA (pneumococcal surface antigen A) and PspA (pneumococcal surface protein A) by Lactobacillus casei

A number of recent research works in lactic acid bacteria aim towards the design of new strains that could be used as live vectors for the delivery of antigens for oral vaccination, or other therapeutic molecules. In this work, an inducible expression system based on the Lactobacillus casei lactose operon promoter was used to express three important surface antigens of Streptococcus pneumoniae in this lactic acid bacterium: a virulence-related pneumococcal surface antigen (PsaA) and two variants of the virulence factor PspA (pneumococcal surface protein A). Expression of the three proteins was induced upon growth on lactose and strongly repressed by glucose. These proteins were produced intracellularly. Also, secretion to the growth medium was achieved by means of a fusion to the secreting and processing signals from the L. casei surface proteinase. Interestingly, while secreted PspA proteins were found in the culture supernatants, PsaA remained trapped in the cell wall. Expression of pneumococcal antigens in a food-grade organism opens an alternative for mucosal vaccination against this important pathogen.

Optimization of the green fluorescent protein (GFP) expression from a lactose-inducible promoter in Lactobacillus casei

An expression vector for Lactobacillus casei has been constructed containing the inducible lac promoter and the gene encoding ultraviolet visible green fluorescent protein (GFP(UV)) as reporter. Different conditions to grow L. casei were assayed and fluorescence as well as total protein synthesized were quantified. The maintenance of neutral pH had the greatest incidence on GFP(UV) expression, followed by aeration and a temperature of 30 degrees C. Environmental factors favoring GFP(UV) accumulation did not exactly correlate with those enhancing fluorescence. Therefore, oxygenation, by stirring the culture, had the greatest influence on the proportion of fluorescent protein, which is in accordance with the structural requirements of this protein. The highest yield obtained was 1.3 microg of GFP per mg of total protein, from which 55% was fluorescent.

Significant differences between Lactobacillus casei subsp. casei ATCC 393T and a commonly used plasmid-cured derivative revealed by a polyphasic study

Many studies on Lactobacillus casei subsp. casei (L. casei) have been carried out using strain ATCC 393 (pLZ15-). Four strains of L. casei ATCC 393T and three of ATCC 393 (pLZ15-) were compared using phenotypic methods and many of the available genotyping techniques. These tests showed that strains of ATCC 393T obtained from independent public type-culture collections were significantly different from the plasmid-free (pLZ15-) strains of ATCC 393T. These findings were confirmed by sequencing the first 580 nt (domain I) of the 16S and 23S rDNAs of the strains. Complete sequencing of the 16S rDNA of one representative strain from each group revealed that strain ATCC 393T from culture collections was 99% similar to Lactobacillus zeae ATCC 15820T and that the strain so far considered as L. casei ATCC 393 (pLZ15-) was, in turn, 100% similar to L. casei ATCC 334 and Lactobacillus paracasei subsp. paracasei ATCC 4022. All data obtained in this work indicate that the ancestral strain of ATCC 393 (pLZ15-) might never have been the strain that is now available from culture collections.