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Miki T, Ito M, Okada N, Haneda T. The CpxRA two-component system of adherent and invasive Escherichia coli contributes to epithelial cell invasion and early-stage intestinal fitness in a dysbiotic mouse model mediated by type 1 fimbriae expression. Infect Immun 2024; 92:e0013224. [PMID: 38700334 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00132-24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Adherent and invasive Escherichia coli (AIEC) is a pathobiont that is involved in the onset and exacerbation of Crohn's disease. Although the inducible expression of virulence traits is a critical step for AIEC colonization in the host, the mechanism underlying AIEC colonization remains largely unclear. We here showed that the two-component signal transduction system CpxRA contributes to AIEC gut competitive colonization by activating type 1 fimbriae expression. CpxRA from AIEC strain LF82 functioned as a transcriptional regulator, as evidenced by our finding that an isogenic cpxRA mutant exhibits reduced expression of cpxP, a known regulon gene. Transcription levels of cpxP in LF82 increased in response to envelope stress, such as exposure to antimicrobials compromising the bacterial membrane, whereas the cpxRA mutant did not exhibit this response. Furthermore, we found that the cpxRA mutant exhibits less invasiveness into host cells than LF82, primarily due to reduced expression of the type 1 fimbriae. Finally, we found that the cpxRA mutant is impaired in gut competitive colonization in a mouse model. The colonization defects were reversed by the introduction of a plasmid encoding the cpxRA gene or expressing the type 1 fimbriae. Our findings indicate that modulating CpxRA activity could be a promising approach to regulating AIEC-involved Crohn's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tsuyoshi Miki
- Department of Microbiology, School of Pharmacy, Kitasato University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masahiro Ito
- Department of Microbiology, School of Pharmacy, Kitasato University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Nobuhiko Okada
- Department of Microbiology, School of Pharmacy, Kitasato University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takeshi Haneda
- Department of Microbiology, School of Pharmacy, Kitasato University, Tokyo, Japan
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Cumming A, Khananisho D, Balka M, Liljestrand N, Daley DO. Biosensor that Detects Stress Caused by Periplasmic Proteins. ACS Synth Biol 2024; 13:1477-1491. [PMID: 38676700 PMCID: PMC11106774 DOI: 10.1021/acssynbio.3c00720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Revised: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024]
Abstract
Escherichia coli is often used as a factory to produce recombinant proteins. In many cases, the recombinant protein needs disulfide bonds to fold and function correctly. These proteins are genetically fused to a signal peptide so that they are secreted to the oxidizing environment of the periplasm (where the enzymes required for disulfide bond formation exist). Currently, it is difficult to determine in vivo whether a recombinant protein is efficiently secreted from the cytoplasm and folded in the periplasm or if there is a bottleneck in one of these steps because cellular capacity has been exceeded. To address this problem, we have developed a biosensor that detects cellular stress caused by (1) inefficient secretion of proteins from the cytoplasm and (2) aggregation of proteins in the periplasm. We demonstrate how the fluorescence fingerprint obtained from the biosensor can be used to identify induction conditions that do not exceed the capacity of the cell and therefore do not cause cellular stress. These induction conditions result in more effective biomass and in some cases higher titers of soluble recombinant proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alister
J. Cumming
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Stockholm University, Stockholm SE-19468, Sweden
| | - Diana Khananisho
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Stockholm University, Stockholm SE-19468, Sweden
| | - Mateusz Balka
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Stockholm University, Stockholm SE-19468, Sweden
| | - Nicklas Liljestrand
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Stockholm University, Stockholm SE-19468, Sweden
| | - Daniel O. Daley
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Stockholm University, Stockholm SE-19468, Sweden
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3
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Correa Velez KE, Alam M, Baalousha MA, Norman RS. Wildfire Ashes from the Wildland-Urban Interface Alter Vibrio vulnificus Growth and Gene Expression. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024; 58:8169-8181. [PMID: 38690750 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c08658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
Climate change-induced stressors are contributing to the emergence of infectious diseases, including those caused by marine bacterial pathogens such as Vibrio spp. These stressors alter Vibrio temporal and geographical distribution, resulting in increased spread, exposure, and infection rates, thus facilitating greater Vibrio-human interactions. Concurrently, wildfires are increasing in size, severity, frequency, and spread in the built environment due to climate change, resulting in the emission of contaminants of emerging concern. This study aimed to understand the potential effects of urban interface wildfire ashes on Vibrio vulnificus (V. vulnificus) growth and gene expression using transcriptomic approaches. V. vulnificus was exposed to structural and vegetation ashes and analyzed to identify differentially expressed genes using the HTSeq-DESeq2 strategy. Exposure to wildfire ash altered V. vulnificus growth and gene expression, depending on the trace metal composition of the ash. The high Fe content of the vegetation ash enhanced bacterial growth, while the high Cu, As, and Cr content of the structural ash suppressed growth. Additionally, the overall pattern of upregulated genes and pathways suggests increased virulence potential due to the selection of metal- and antibiotic-resistant strains. Therefore, mixed fire ashes transported and deposited into coastal zones may lead to the selection of environmental reservoirs of Vibrio strains with enhanced antibiotic resistance profiles, increasing public health risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karlen Enid Correa Velez
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of South Carolina, 921 Assembly St., Suite 401, Columbia, South Carolina 29208, United States
- NIEHS Center for Oceans and Human Health and Climate Change Interactions, University of South Carolina, 921 Assembly St., Suite 401, Columbia, South Carolina 29208, United States
| | - Mahbub Alam
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of South Carolina, 921 Assembly St., Suite 401, Columbia, South Carolina 29208, United States
- Center for Environmental Nanoscience and Risk, University of South Carolina, 921 Assembly St., Suite 401, Columbia, South Carolina 29208, United States
| | - Mohammed A Baalousha
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of South Carolina, 921 Assembly St., Suite 401, Columbia, South Carolina 29208, United States
- Center for Environmental Nanoscience and Risk, University of South Carolina, 921 Assembly St., Suite 401, Columbia, South Carolina 29208, United States
| | - R Sean Norman
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of South Carolina, 921 Assembly St., Suite 401, Columbia, South Carolina 29208, United States
- NIEHS Center for Oceans and Human Health and Climate Change Interactions, University of South Carolina, 921 Assembly St., Suite 401, Columbia, South Carolina 29208, United States
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Cho THS, Murray C, Malpica R, Margain-Quevedo R, Thede GL, Lu J, Edwards RA, Glover JNM, Raivio TL. The sensor of the bacterial histidine kinase CpxA is a novel dimer of extracytoplasmic Per-ARNT-Sim domains. J Biol Chem 2024; 300:107265. [PMID: 38582452 PMCID: PMC11078701 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2024.107265] [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: 10/21/2023] [Revised: 03/17/2024] [Accepted: 03/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Histidine kinases are key bacterial sensors that recognize diverse environmental stimuli. While mechanisms of phosphorylation and phosphotransfer by cytoplasmic kinase domains are relatively well-characterized, the ways in which extracytoplasmic sensor domains regulate activation remain mysterious. The Cpx envelope stress response is a conserved Gram-negative two-component system which is controlled by the sensor kinase CpxA. We report the structure of the Escherichia coli CpxA sensor domain (CpxA-SD) as a globular Per-ARNT-Sim (PAS)-like fold highly similar to that of Vibrio parahaemolyticus CpxA as determined by X-ray crystallography. Because sensor kinase dimerization is important for signaling, we used AlphaFold2 to model CpxA-SD in the context of its connected transmembrane domains, which yielded a novel dimer of PAS domains possessing a distinct dimer organization compared to previously characterized sensor domains. Gain of function cpxA∗ alleles map to the dimer interface, and mutation of other residues in this region also leads to constitutive activation. CpxA activation can be suppressed by mutations that restore inter-monomer interactions, suggesting that inhibitory interactions between CpxA-SD monomers are the major point of control for CpxA activation and signaling. Searching through hundreds of structural homologs revealed the sensor domain of Pseudomonas aeruginosa sensor kinase PfeS as the only PAS structure in the same novel dimer orientation as CpxA, suggesting that our dimer orientation may be utilized by other extracytoplasmic PAS domains. Overall, our findings provide insight into the diversity of the organization of PAS sensory domains and how they regulate sensor kinase activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy H S Cho
- Departments of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Cameron Murray
- Departments of Biochemistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Roxana Malpica
- Departments of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada; Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Universidad Autónoma de Ciudad Juárez, Chihuahua, México
| | | | - Gina L Thede
- Departments of Biochemistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Jun Lu
- Departments of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada; Departments of Biochemistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Ross A Edwards
- Departments of Biochemistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - J N Mark Glover
- Departments of Biochemistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Tracy L Raivio
- Departments of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
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5
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Méndez AAE, Argüello JM, Soncini FC, Checa SK. Scs system links copper and redox homeostasis in bacterial pathogens. J Biol Chem 2024; 300:105710. [PMID: 38309504 PMCID: PMC10907172 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2024.105710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/05/2024] Open
Abstract
The bacterial envelope is an essential compartment involved in metabolism and metabolites transport, virulence, and stress defense. Its roles become more evident when homeostasis is challenged during host-pathogen interactions. In particular, the presence of free radical groups and excess copper in the periplasm causes noxious reactions, such as sulfhydryl group oxidation leading to enzymatic inactivation and protein denaturation. In response to this, canonical and accessory oxidoreductase systems are induced, performing quality control of thiol groups, and therefore contributing to restoring homeostasis and preserving survival under these conditions. Here, we examine recent advances in the characterization of the Dsb-like, Salmonella-specific Scs system. This system includes the ScsC/ScsB pair of Cu+-binding proteins with thiol-oxidoreductase activity, an alternative ScsB-partner, the membrane-linked ScsD, and a likely associated protein, ScsA, with a role in peroxide resistance. We discuss the acquisition of the scsABCD locus and its integration into a global regulatory pathway directing envelope response to Cu stress during the evolution of pathogens that also harbor the canonical Dsb systems. The evidence suggests that the canonical Dsb systems cannot satisfy the extra demands that the host-pathogen interface imposes to preserve functional thiol groups. This resulted in the acquisition of the Scs system by Salmonella. We propose that the ScsABCD complex evolved to connect Cu and redox stress responses in this pathogen as well as in other bacterial pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea A E Méndez
- Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular de Rosario, Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas, Universidad Nacional de Rosario, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Rosario, Argentina
| | - José M Argüello
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Fernando C Soncini
- Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular de Rosario, Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas, Universidad Nacional de Rosario, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Rosario, Argentina
| | - Susana K Checa
- Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular de Rosario, Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas, Universidad Nacional de Rosario, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Rosario, Argentina.
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6
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Huang WS, Lee YJ, Wang L, Chen HH, Chao YJ, Cheng V, Liaw SJ. Copper affects virulence and diverse phenotypes of uropathogenic Proteus mirabilis. JOURNAL OF MICROBIOLOGY, IMMUNOLOGY, AND INFECTION = WEI MIAN YU GAN RAN ZA ZHI 2024:S1684-1182(24)00044-6. [PMID: 38453541 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmii.2024.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Copper plays a role in urinary tract infection (UTI) and urinary copper content is increased during Proteus mirabilis UTI. We therefore investigated the effect of copper on uropathogenic P. mirabilis and the underlying mechanisms, focusing on the virulence associated aspects. METHODS Mouse colonization, swarming/swimming assays, measurement of cell length, flagellin level and urease activity, adhesion/invasion assay, biofilm formation, killing by macrophages, oxidative stress susceptibility, OMPs analysis, determination of MICs and persister cell formation, RT-PCR and transcriptional reporter assay were performed. RESULTS We found that copper-supplemented mice were more resistant to be colonized in the urinary tract, together with decreased swarming/swimming, ureases activity, expression of type VI secretion system and adhesion/invasion to urothelial cells and increased killing by macrophages of P. mirabilis at a sublethal copper level. However, bacterial biofilm formation and resistance to oxidative stress were enhanced under the same copper level. Of note, the presence of copper led to increased ciprofloxacin MIC and more persister cell formation against ampicillin. In addition, the presence of copper altered the outer membrane protein profile and triggered expression of RcsB response regulator. For the first time, we unveiled the pleiotropic effects of copper on uropathogenic P. mirabilis, especially for induction of bacterial two-component signaling system regulating fitness and virulence. CONCLUSION The finding of copper-mediated virulence and fitness reinforced the importance of copper for prevention and therapeutic interventions against P. mirabilis infections. As such, this study could facilitate the copper-based strategies against UTI by P. mirabilis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Syuan Huang
- Department and Graduate Institute of Clinical Laboratory Sciences and Medical Biotechnology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan.
| | - Yuan-Ju Lee
- Department of Urology, National Taiwan University Hospital, and National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan.
| | - Lu Wang
- Department and Graduate Institute of Clinical Laboratory Sciences and Medical Biotechnology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan.
| | - Hsuan-Hsuan Chen
- Department and Graduate Institute of Clinical Laboratory Sciences and Medical Biotechnology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan.
| | - Yueh-Jung Chao
- Department and Graduate Institute of Clinical Laboratory Sciences and Medical Biotechnology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan.
| | - Vivien Cheng
- Department and Graduate Institute of Clinical Laboratory Sciences and Medical Biotechnology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan.
| | - Shwu-Jen Liaw
- Department and Graduate Institute of Clinical Laboratory Sciences and Medical Biotechnology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan; Department of Laboratory Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.
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7
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Krin E, Carvalho A, Lang M, Babosan A, Mazel D, Baharoglu Z. RavA-ViaA antibiotic response is linked to Cpx and Zra2 envelope stress systems in Vibrio cholerae. Microbiol Spectr 2023; 11:e0173023. [PMID: 37861314 PMCID: PMC10848872 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.01730-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE The RavA-ViaA complex was previously found to sensitize Escherichia coli to aminoglycosides (AGs) in anaerobic conditions, but the mechanism is unknown. AGs are antibiotics known for their high efficiency against Gram-negative bacteria. In order to elucidate how the expression of the ravA-viaA genes increases bacterial susceptibility to aminoglycosides, we aimed at identifying partner functions necessary for increased tolerance in the absence of RavA-ViaA, in Vibrio cholerae. We show that membrane stress response systems Cpx and Zra2 are required in the absence of RavA-ViaA, for the tolerance to AGs and for outer membrane integrity. In the absence of these systems, the ∆ravvia strain's membrane becomes permeable to external agents such as the antibiotic vancomycin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evelyne Krin
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, CNRS UMR3525, Unité Plasticité du Génome Bactérien, Paris, France
| | - André Carvalho
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, CNRS UMR3525, Unité Plasticité du Génome Bactérien, Paris, France
- Sorbonne Université, Collège doctoral, Paris, France
| | - Manon Lang
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, CNRS UMR3525, Unité Plasticité du Génome Bactérien, Paris, France
- Sorbonne Université, Collège doctoral, Paris, France
| | - Anamaria Babosan
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, CNRS UMR3525, Unité Plasticité du Génome Bactérien, Paris, France
| | - Didier Mazel
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, CNRS UMR3525, Unité Plasticité du Génome Bactérien, Paris, France
| | - Zeynep Baharoglu
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, CNRS UMR3525, Unité Plasticité du Génome Bactérien, Paris, France
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8
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Trouillon J, Doubleday PF, Sauer U. Genomic footprinting uncovers global transcription factor responses to amino acids in Escherichia coli. Cell Syst 2023; 14:860-871.e4. [PMID: 37820729 DOI: 10.1016/j.cels.2023.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023]
Abstract
Our knowledge of transcriptional responses to changes in nutrient availability comes primarily from few well-studied transcription factors (TFs), often lacking an unbiased genome-wide perspective. Leveraging recent advances allowing bacterial genomic footprinting, we comprehensively mapped the genome-wide regulatory responses of Escherichia coli to exogenous leucine, methionine, alanine, and lysine. The global TF Lrp was found to individually sense three amino acids and mount three different target gene responses. Overall, 531 genes had altered RNA polymerase occupancy, and 32 TFs responded directly or indirectly to the presence of amino acids, including regulators of membrane and osmotic pressure homeostasis. About 70% of the detected TF-DNA interactions had not been reported before. We thus identified 682 previously unknown TF-binding locations, for a subset of which the involved TFs were identified by affinity purification. This comprehensive map of amino acid regulation illustrates the incompleteness of the known transcriptional regulation network, even in E. coli.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julian Trouillon
- Institute of Molecular Systems Biology, ETH Zürich, 8093 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Peter F Doubleday
- Institute of Molecular Systems Biology, ETH Zürich, 8093 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Uwe Sauer
- Institute of Molecular Systems Biology, ETH Zürich, 8093 Zürich, Switzerland.
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9
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Cambronne ED, Ayres C, Dowdell KS, Lawler DF, Saleh NB, Kirisits MJ. Protozoan-Priming and Magnesium Conditioning Enhance Legionella pneumophila Dissemination and Monochloramine Resistance. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2023; 57:14871-14880. [PMID: 37756220 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c04013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
Opportunistic pathogens (OPs) are of concern in drinking water distribution systems because they persist despite disinfectant residuals. While many OPs garner protection from disinfectants via a biofilm lifestyle, Legionella pneumophila (Lp) also gains disinfection resistance by being harbored within free-living amoebae (FLA). It has been long established, but poorly understood, that Lp grown within FLA show increased infectivity toward subsequent FLA or human cells (i.e., macrophage), via a process we previously coined "protozoan-priming". The objectives of this study are (i) to identify in Lp a key genetic determinant of how protozoan-priming increases its infectivity, (ii) to determine the chemical stimulus within FLA to which Lp responds during protozoan-priming, and (iii) to determine if more infectious forms of Lp also exhibit enhanced disinfectant resistance. Using Acanthamoeba castellanii as a FLA host, the priming effect was isolated to Lp's sidGV locus, which is activated upon sensing elevated magnesium concentrations. Supplementing growth medium with 8 mM magnesium is sufficient to produce Lp grown in vitro with an infectivity equivalent to that of Lp grown via the protozoan-primed route. Both Lp forms with increased infectivity (FLA-grown and Mg2+-supplemented) exhibit greater monochloramine resistance than Lp grown in standard media, indicating that passage through FLA not only increases Lp's infectivity but also enhances its monochloramine resistance. Therefore, laboratory-based testing of disinfection strategies should employ conditions that simulate or replicate intracellular growth to accurately assess disinfectant resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric D Cambronne
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, United States
| | - Craig Ayres
- Department of Civil, Architectural and Environmental Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, United States
| | - Katherine S Dowdell
- Department of Civil, Architectural and Environmental Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, United States
| | - Desmond F Lawler
- Department of Civil, Architectural and Environmental Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, United States
| | - Navid B Saleh
- Department of Civil, Architectural and Environmental Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, United States
| | - Mary Jo Kirisits
- Department of Civil, Architectural and Environmental Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, United States
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10
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Ren H, Zhong Z, Zhou S, Wei Y, Liang Y, He H, Zheng Z, Li M, He Q, Long T, Lian X, Liao X, Liu Y, Sun J. CpxA/R-Controlled Nitroreductase Expression as Target for Combinatorial Therapy against Uropathogens by Promoting Reactive Oxygen Species Generation. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 10:e2300938. [PMID: 37407509 PMCID: PMC10477892 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202300938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Revised: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023]
Abstract
The antibiotic resistances emerged in uropathogens lead to accumulative treatment failure and recurrent episodes of urinary tract infection (UTI), necessitating more innovative therapeutics to curb UTI before systematic infection. In the current study, the combination of amikacin and nitrofurantoin is found to synergistically eradicate Gram-negative uropathogens in vitro and in vivo. The mechanistic analysis demonstrates that the amikacin, as an aminoglycoside, induced bacterial envelope stress by introducing mistranslated proteins, thereby constitutively activating the cpxA/R two-component system (Cpx signaling). The activation of Cpx signaling stimulates the expression of bacterial major nitroreductases (nfsA/nfsB) through soxS/marA regulons. As a result, the CpxA/R-dependent nitroreductases overexpression generates considerable quantity of lethal reactive intermediates via nitroreduction and promotes the prodrug activation of nitrofurantoin. As such, these actions together disrupt the bacterial cellular redox balance with excessively-produced reactive oxygen species (ROS) as "Domino effect", accelerating the clearance of uropathogens. Although aminoglycosides are used as proof-of-principle to elucidate the mechanism, the synergy between nitrofurantoin is generally applicable to other Cpx stimuli. To summarize, this study highlights the potential of aminoglycoside-nitrofurantoin combination to replenish the arsenal against recurrent Gram-negative uropathogens and shed light on the Cpx signaling-controlled nitroreductase as a potential target to manipulate the antibiotic susceptibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Ren
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern AgricultureNational Risk Assessment Laboratory for Antimicrobial Resistance of Animal Original BacteriaCollege of Veterinary MedicineSouth China Agricultural UniversityGuangzhou510642China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Veterinary PharmaceuticsDevelopment and Safety EvaluationSouth China Agricultural UniversityGuangzhou510642China
| | - Zixing Zhong
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern AgricultureNational Risk Assessment Laboratory for Antimicrobial Resistance of Animal Original BacteriaCollege of Veterinary MedicineSouth China Agricultural UniversityGuangzhou510642China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Veterinary PharmaceuticsDevelopment and Safety EvaluationSouth China Agricultural UniversityGuangzhou510642China
| | - Shuang Zhou
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern AgricultureNational Risk Assessment Laboratory for Antimicrobial Resistance of Animal Original BacteriaCollege of Veterinary MedicineSouth China Agricultural UniversityGuangzhou510642China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Veterinary PharmaceuticsDevelopment and Safety EvaluationSouth China Agricultural UniversityGuangzhou510642China
| | - Yiyang Wei
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern AgricultureNational Risk Assessment Laboratory for Antimicrobial Resistance of Animal Original BacteriaCollege of Veterinary MedicineSouth China Agricultural UniversityGuangzhou510642China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Veterinary PharmaceuticsDevelopment and Safety EvaluationSouth China Agricultural UniversityGuangzhou510642China
| | - Yujiao Liang
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern AgricultureNational Risk Assessment Laboratory for Antimicrobial Resistance of Animal Original BacteriaCollege of Veterinary MedicineSouth China Agricultural UniversityGuangzhou510642China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Veterinary PharmaceuticsDevelopment and Safety EvaluationSouth China Agricultural UniversityGuangzhou510642China
| | - Huiling He
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern AgricultureNational Risk Assessment Laboratory for Antimicrobial Resistance of Animal Original BacteriaCollege of Veterinary MedicineSouth China Agricultural UniversityGuangzhou510642China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Veterinary PharmaceuticsDevelopment and Safety EvaluationSouth China Agricultural UniversityGuangzhou510642China
| | - Zijian Zheng
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern AgricultureNational Risk Assessment Laboratory for Antimicrobial Resistance of Animal Original BacteriaCollege of Veterinary MedicineSouth China Agricultural UniversityGuangzhou510642China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Veterinary PharmaceuticsDevelopment and Safety EvaluationSouth China Agricultural UniversityGuangzhou510642China
| | - Mengyuan Li
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern AgricultureNational Risk Assessment Laboratory for Antimicrobial Resistance of Animal Original BacteriaCollege of Veterinary MedicineSouth China Agricultural UniversityGuangzhou510642China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Veterinary PharmaceuticsDevelopment and Safety EvaluationSouth China Agricultural UniversityGuangzhou510642China
| | - Qian He
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern AgricultureNational Risk Assessment Laboratory for Antimicrobial Resistance of Animal Original BacteriaCollege of Veterinary MedicineSouth China Agricultural UniversityGuangzhou510642China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Veterinary PharmaceuticsDevelopment and Safety EvaluationSouth China Agricultural UniversityGuangzhou510642China
| | - Tengfei Long
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern AgricultureNational Risk Assessment Laboratory for Antimicrobial Resistance of Animal Original BacteriaCollege of Veterinary MedicineSouth China Agricultural UniversityGuangzhou510642China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Veterinary PharmaceuticsDevelopment and Safety EvaluationSouth China Agricultural UniversityGuangzhou510642China
| | - Xinlei Lian
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern AgricultureNational Risk Assessment Laboratory for Antimicrobial Resistance of Animal Original BacteriaCollege of Veterinary MedicineSouth China Agricultural UniversityGuangzhou510642China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Veterinary PharmaceuticsDevelopment and Safety EvaluationSouth China Agricultural UniversityGuangzhou510642China
| | - Xiaoping Liao
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern AgricultureNational Risk Assessment Laboratory for Antimicrobial Resistance of Animal Original BacteriaCollege of Veterinary MedicineSouth China Agricultural UniversityGuangzhou510642China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Veterinary PharmaceuticsDevelopment and Safety EvaluationSouth China Agricultural UniversityGuangzhou510642China
- Jiangsu Co‐Innovation Center for the Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Disease and ZoonosesYangzhou UniversityYangzhou225009China
| | - Yahong Liu
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern AgricultureNational Risk Assessment Laboratory for Antimicrobial Resistance of Animal Original BacteriaCollege of Veterinary MedicineSouth China Agricultural UniversityGuangzhou510642China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Veterinary PharmaceuticsDevelopment and Safety EvaluationSouth China Agricultural UniversityGuangzhou510642China
- Jiangsu Co‐Innovation Center for the Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Disease and ZoonosesYangzhou UniversityYangzhou225009China
| | - Jian Sun
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern AgricultureNational Risk Assessment Laboratory for Antimicrobial Resistance of Animal Original BacteriaCollege of Veterinary MedicineSouth China Agricultural UniversityGuangzhou510642China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Veterinary PharmaceuticsDevelopment and Safety EvaluationSouth China Agricultural UniversityGuangzhou510642China
- Jiangsu Co‐Innovation Center for the Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Disease and ZoonosesYangzhou UniversityYangzhou225009China
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11
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Falchi FA, Forti F, Carnelli C, Genco A, Pizzoccheri R, Manzari C, Pavesi G, Briani F. Human PNPase causes RNA stabilization and accumulation of R-loops in the Escherichia coli model system. Sci Rep 2023; 13:11771. [PMID: 37479726 PMCID: PMC10362022 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-38924-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Polyribonucleotide phosphorylase (PNPase) is a phosphorolytic RNA exonuclease highly conserved throughout evolution. In Escherichia coli, PNPase controls complex phenotypic traits like biofilm formation and growth at low temperature. In human cells, PNPase is located in mitochondria, where it is implicated in the RNA import from the cytoplasm, the mitochondrial RNA degradation and the processing of R-loops, namely stable RNA-DNA hybrids displacing a DNA strand. In this work, we show that the human PNPase (hPNPase) expressed in E. coli causes oxidative stress, SOS response activation and R-loops accumulation. Hundreds of E. coli RNAs are stabilized in presence of hPNPase, whereas only few transcripts are destabilized. Moreover, phenotypic traits typical of E. coli strains lacking PNPase are strengthened in presence of the human enzyme. We discuss the hypothesis that hPNPase expressed in E. coli may bind, but not degrade, the RNA, in agreement with previous in vitro data showing that phosphate concentrations in the range of those found in the bacterial cytoplasm and, more relevant, in the mitochondria, inhibit its activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica A Falchi
- Dipartimento di Bioscienze, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesca Forti
- Dipartimento di Bioscienze, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Cristina Carnelli
- Dipartimento di Bioscienze, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Aurelia Genco
- Dipartimento di Bioscienze, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Roberto Pizzoccheri
- Dipartimento di Bioscienze, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Caterina Manzari
- Dipartimento di Bioscienze, Biotecnologie e Biofarmaceutica, Università degli Studi di Bari "Aldo Moro", 70121, Bari, Italy
| | - Giulio Pavesi
- Dipartimento di Bioscienze, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133, Milan, Italy.
| | - Federica Briani
- Dipartimento di Bioscienze, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133, Milan, Italy.
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12
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Frantz R, Gwozdzinski K, Gisch N, Doijad SP, Hudel M, Wille M, Abu Mraheil M, Schwudke D, Imirzalioglu C, Falgenhauer L, Ehrmann M, Chakraborty T. A Single Residue within the MCR-1 Protein Confers Anticipatory Resilience. Microbiol Spectr 2023; 11:e0359222. [PMID: 37071007 PMCID: PMC10269488 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.03592-22] [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: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 04/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The envelope stress response (ESR) of Gram-negative enteric bacteria senses fluctuations in nutrient availability and environmental changes to avert damage and promote survival. It has a protective role toward antimicrobials, but direct interactions between ESR components and antibiotic resistance genes have not been demonstrated. Here, we report interactions between a central regulator of ESR viz., the two-component signal transduction system CpxRA (conjugative pilus expression), and the recently described mobile colistin resistance protein (MCR-1). Purified MCR-1 is specifically cleaved within its highly conserved periplasmic bridge element, which links its N-terminal transmembrane domain with the C-terminal active-site periplasmic domain, by the CpxRA-regulated serine endoprotease DegP. Recombinant strains harboring cleavage site mutations in MCR-1 are either protease resistant or degradation susceptible, with widely differing consequences for colistin resistance. Transfer of the gene encoding a degradation-susceptible mutant to strains that lack either DegP or its regulator CpxRA restores expression and colistin resistance. MCR-1 production in Escherichia coli imposes growth restriction in strains lacking either DegP or CpxRA, effects that are reversed by transactive expression of DegP. Excipient allosteric activation of the DegP protease specifically inhibits growth of isolates carrying mcr-1 plasmids. As CpxRA directly senses acidification, growth of strains at moderately low pH dramatically increases both MCR-1-dependent phosphoethanolamine (PEA) modification of lipid A and colistin resistance levels. Strains expressing MCR-1 are also more resistant to antimicrobial peptides and bile acids. Thus, a single residue external to its active site induces ESR activity to confer resilience in MCR-1-expressing strains to commonly encountered environmental stimuli, such as changes in acidity and antimicrobial peptides. Targeted activation of the nonessential protease DegP can lead to the elimination of transferable colistin resistance in Gram-negative bacteria. IMPORTANCE The global presence of transferable mcr genes in a wide range of Gram-negative bacteria from clinical, veterinary, food, and aquaculture environments is disconcerting. Its success as a transmissible resistance factor remains enigmatic, because its expression imposes fitness costs and imparts only moderate levels of colistin resistance. Here, we show that MCR-1 triggers regulatory components of the envelope stress response, a system that senses fluctuations in nutrient availability and environmental changes, to promote bacterial survival in low pH environments. We identify a single residue within a highly conserved structural element of mcr-1 distal to its catalytic site that modulates resistance activity and triggers the ESR. Using mutational analysis, quantitative lipid A profiling and biochemical assays, we determined that growth in low pH environments dramatically increases colistin resistance levels and promotes resistance to bile acids and antimicrobial peptides. We exploited these findings to develop a targeted approach that eliminates mcr-1 and its plasmid carriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renate Frantz
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research, Partner Site: Giessen-Marburg-Langen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Konrad Gwozdzinski
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research, Partner Site: Giessen-Marburg-Langen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Nicolas Gisch
- Division of Bioanalytical Chemistry, Priority Area Infections, Research Center Borstel, Leibniz Lung Center, Borstel, Germany
| | - Swapnil Prakash Doijad
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research, Partner Site: Giessen-Marburg-Langen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Martina Hudel
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Maria Wille
- Institute of Hygiene and Environmental Medicine, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Mobarak Abu Mraheil
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Dominik Schwudke
- Division of Bioanalytical Chemistry, Priority Area Infections, Research Center Borstel, Leibniz Lung Center, Borstel, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research, Partner Site: Hamburg-Lübeck-Borstel-Riems, Borstel, Germany
- Airway Research Center North, Partner Site: Research Center Borstel, Borstel, Germany
| | - Can Imirzalioglu
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
- Hessian University Competence Center for Hospital Hygiene, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research, Partner Site: Giessen-Marburg-Langen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Linda Falgenhauer
- Institute of Hygiene and Environmental Medicine, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
- Hessian University Competence Center for Hospital Hygiene, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research, Partner Site: Giessen-Marburg-Langen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Michael Ehrmann
- Center of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Biology, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
- School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Trinad Chakraborty
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
- Hessian University Competence Center for Hospital Hygiene, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research, Partner Site: Giessen-Marburg-Langen, Giessen, Germany
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13
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Modi SK, Gaur S, Sengupta M, Singh MS. Mechanistic insights into nanoparticle surface-bacterial membrane interactions in overcoming antibiotic resistance. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1135579. [PMID: 37152753 PMCID: PMC10160668 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1135579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) raises a serious concern as it contributes to the global mortality by 5 million deaths per year. The overall impact pertaining to significant membrane changes, through broad spectrum drugs have rendered the bacteria resistant over the years. The economic expenditure due to increasing drug resistance poses a global burden on healthcare community and must be dealt with immediate effect. Nanoparticles (NP) have demonstrated inherent therapeutic potential or can serve as nanocarriers of antibiotics against multidrug resistant (MDR) pathogens. These carriers can mask the antibiotics and help evade the resistance mechanism of the bacteria. The targeted delivery can be fine-tuned through surface functionalization of Nanocarriers using aptamers, antibodies etc. This review covers various molecular mechanisms acquired by resistant bacteria towards membrane modification. Mechanistic insight on 'NP surface-bacterial membrane' interactions are crucial in deciding the role of NP as therapeutic. Finally, we highlight the potential accessible membrane targets for designing smart surface-functionalized nanocarriers which can act as bacteria-targeted robots over the existing clinically available antibiotics. As the bacterial strains around us continue to evolve into resistant versions, nanomedicine can offer promising and alternative tools in overcoming AMR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suraj Kumar Modi
- Department of Biotechnology, Bennett University, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India
- Centre of Excellence for Nanosensors and Nanomedicine, Bennett University, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Smriti Gaur
- Department of Biotechnology, Bennett University, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Mrittika Sengupta
- Department of Biotechnology, Bennett University, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India
- Centre of Excellence for Nanosensors and Nanomedicine, Bennett University, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India
- Mrittika Sengupta, ;
| | - Manu Smriti Singh
- Department of Biotechnology, Bennett University, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India
- Centre of Excellence for Nanosensors and Nanomedicine, Bennett University, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India
- *Correspondence: Manu Smriti Singh, ;
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14
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Transcriptional insight into the effect of benzalkonium chloride on resistance and virulence potential in Salmonella Typhimurium. Microbiol Res 2023; 266:127240. [DOI: 10.1016/j.micres.2022.127240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Revised: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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15
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Yao Q, Xie T, Fu Y, Wan J, Zhang W, Gao X, Huang J, Sun D, Zhang F, Bei W, Lei L, Liu F. The CpxA/CpxR two-component system mediates regulation of Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae cold growth. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:1079390. [PMID: 36619992 PMCID: PMC9816388 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.1079390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction To survive in various hostile environments, two-component system is an adaptive mechanism for diverse bacteria. Activity of the CpxA/CpxR two-component system contributes to coping with different stimuli, such as pH, osmotic and heat stress. Methods However, the role of the CpxA/CpxR system in cold resistance is little-known. In this study, we showed that CpxA/CpxRwas critical for A. pleuropneumoniae growth under cold stress. Results β-Galactosidaseanalysis showed that CpxA/CpxR positively regulated the predicted cold stress gene cspC. The mutant for cold stress gene cspC was impaired in the optimal growth of A. pleuropneumoniae under cold stress. Furthermore, electrophoretic mobility shift assays demonstrated that CpxR-P could directly regulate the transcription of the cold stress gene cspC. Discussion These results presented in this study illustrated that the CpxA/CpxR system plays an important role in cold resistance by upregulating expression of CspC. The data give new insights into how A. pleuropneumoniae survives in cold stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing Yao
- College of Animal Sciences, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, Hubei, China
| | - Tingting Xie
- College of Animal Sciences, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, Hubei, China
| | - Yu Fu
- College of Animal Sciences, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, Hubei, China
| | - Jiajia Wan
- College of Animal Sciences, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, Hubei, China
| | - Wendie Zhang
- College of Animal Sciences, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, Hubei, China
| | - Xuejun Gao
- College of Animal Sciences, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, Hubei, China
| | - Jing Huang
- School of Foreign Languages, Zhejiang Gongshang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Diangang Sun
- College of Animal Sciences, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, Hubei, China
| | - Fuxian Zhang
- College of Animal Sciences, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, Hubei, China
| | - Weicheng Bei
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Liancheng Lei
- College of Animal Sciences, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, Hubei, China,College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, China,Liancheng Lei, ✉
| | - Feng Liu
- College of Animal Sciences, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, Hubei, China,*Correspondence: Feng Liu, ✉
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16
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CpxAR of Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae Contributes to Heat Stress Response by Repressing Expression of Type IV Pilus Gene apfA. Microbiol Spectr 2022; 10:e0252322. [PMID: 36259970 PMCID: PMC9769684 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.02523-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Acute pleuropneumonia in swine, caused by Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae, is characterized by a high and sustained fever. Fever creates an adverse environment for many bacteria, leading to reduced bacterial proliferation; however, most pathogenic bacteria can tolerate higher temperatures. CpxAR is a two-component regulation system, ubiquitous among Gram-negative bacteria, which senses and responds to envelope alterations that are mostly associated with protein misfolding in the periplasm. Our previous study showed that CpxAR is necessary for the optimal growth of Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae under heat stress. Here, we showed that mutation of the type IV pilin gene apfA rescued the growth defect of the cpxAR deletion strain under heat stress. RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) analyses revealed that 265 genes were differentially expressed in the ΔcpxAR strains grown at 42°C, including genes involved in type IV pilus biosynthesis. We also demonstrated direct binding of the CpxR protein to the promoter of the apf operon by an electrophoretic mobility shift assay and identified the binding site by a DNase I footprinting assay. In conclusion, our results revealed the important role of CpxAR in A. pleuropneumoniae resistance to heat stress by directly suppressing the expression of ApfA. IMPORTANCE Heat acts as a danger signal for pathogens, especially those infecting mammalian hosts in whom fever indicates infection. However, some bacteria have evolved exquisite mechanisms to survive under heat stress. Studying the mechanism of resistance to heat stress is crucial to understanding the pathogenesis of A. pleuropneumoniae during the acute stage of infection. Our study revealed that CpxAR plays an important role in A. pleuropneumoniae resistance to heat stress by directly suppressing expression of the type IV pilin protein ApfA.
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17
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Guidi C, De Wannemaeker L, De Baets J, Demeester W, Maertens J, De Paepe B, De Mey M. Dynamic feedback regulation for efficient membrane protein production using a small RNA-based genetic circuit in Escherichia coli. Microb Cell Fact 2022; 21:260. [PMID: 36522655 PMCID: PMC9753035 DOI: 10.1186/s12934-022-01983-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Membrane proteins (MPs) are an important class of molecules with a wide array of cellular functions and are part of many metabolic pathways. Despite their great potential-as therapeutic drug targets or in microbial cell factory optimization-many challenges remain for efficient and functional expression in a host such as Escherichia coli. RESULTS A dynamically regulated small RNA-based circuit was developed to counter membrane stress caused by overexpression of different MPs. The best performing small RNAs were able to enhance the maximum specific growth rate with 123%. On culture level, the total MP production was increased two-to three-fold compared to a system without dynamic control. This strategy not only improved cell growth and production of the studied MPs, it also suggested the potential use for countering metabolic burden in general. CONCLUSIONS A dynamically regulated feedback circuit was developed that can sense metabolic stress caused by, in casu, the overexpression of an MP and responds to it by balancing the metabolic state of the cell and more specifically by downregulating the expression of the MP of interest. This negative feedback mechanism was established by implementing and optimizing simple-to-use genetic control elements based on post-transcriptional regulation: small non-coding RNAs. In addition to membrane-related stress when the MP accumulated in the cytoplasm as aggregates, the sRNA-based feedback control system was still effective for improving cell growth but resulted in a decreased total protein production. This result suggests promiscuity of the MP sensor for more than solely membrane stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Guidi
- Centre for Synthetic Biology, Ghent University, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | | | - Jasmine De Baets
- Centre for Synthetic Biology, Ghent University, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Wouter Demeester
- Centre for Synthetic Biology, Ghent University, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Jo Maertens
- Centre for Synthetic Biology, Ghent University, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Brecht De Paepe
- Centre for Synthetic Biology, Ghent University, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Marjan De Mey
- Centre for Synthetic Biology, Ghent University, 9000, Ghent, Belgium.
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León-Montes N, Nava-Galeana J, Rodríguez-Valverde D, Soria-Bustos J, Rosales-Reyes R, Rivera-Gutiérrez S, Hirakawa H, Ares MA, Bustamante VH, De la Cruz MA. The Two-Component System CpxRA Represses Salmonella Pathogenicity Island 2 by Directly Acting on the ssrAB Regulatory Operon. Microbiol Spectr 2022; 10:e0271022. [PMID: 36073960 PMCID: PMC9603713 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.02710-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The acquisition of Salmonella pathogenicity island 2 (SPI-2) conferred on Salmonella the ability to survive and replicate within host cells. The ssrAB bicistronic operon, located in SPI-2, encodes the SsrAB two-component system (TCS), which is the central positive regulator that induces the expression of SPI-2 genes as well as other genes located outside this island. On the other hand, CpxRA is a two-component system that regulates expression of virulence genes in many bacteria in response to different stimuli that perturb the cell envelope. We previously reported that the CpxRA system represses the expression of SPI-1 and SPI-2 genes under SPI-1-inducing conditions by decreasing the stability of the SPI-1 regulator HilD. Here, we show that under SPI-2-inducing conditions, which mimic the intracellular environment, CpxRA represses the expression of SPI-2 genes by the direct action of phosphorylated CpxR (CpxR-P) on the ssrAB regulatory operon. CpxR-P recognized two sites located proximal and distal from the promoter located upstream of ssrA. Consistently, we found that CpxRA reduces the replication of Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium inside murine macrophages. Therefore, our results reveal CpxRA as an additional regulator involved in the intracellular lifestyle of Salmonella, which in turn adds a new layer to the intricate regulatory network controlling the expression of Salmonella virulence genes. IMPORTANCE SPI-2 encodes a type III secretion system (T3SS) that is a hallmark for the species Salmonella enterica, which is essential for the survival and replication within macrophages. Expression of SPI-2 genes is positively controlled by the two-component system SsrAB. Here, we determined a regulatory mechanism involved in controlling the overgrowth of Salmonella inside macrophages. In this mechanism, CpxRA, a two-component system that is activated by extracytoplasmic stress, directly represses expression of the ssrAB regulatory operon; as a consequence, expression of SsrAB target genes is decreased. Our findings reveal a novel mechanism involved in the intracellular lifestyle of Salmonella, which is expected to sense perturbations in the bacterial envelope that Salmonella faces inside host cells, as the synthesis of the T3SS-2 itself.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nancy León-Montes
- Unidad de Investigación Médica en Enfermedades Infecciosas y Parasitarias, Hospital de Pediatría, Centro Médico Nacional Siglo XXI, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Mexico City, Mexico
- Departamento de Microbiología, Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biológicas, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Jessica Nava-Galeana
- Departamento de Microbiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca, Mexico
| | - Diana Rodríguez-Valverde
- Unidad de Investigación Médica en Enfermedades Infecciosas y Parasitarias, Hospital de Pediatría, Centro Médico Nacional Siglo XXI, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Mexico City, Mexico
- Departamento de Microbiología, Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biológicas, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Jorge Soria-Bustos
- Unidad de Investigación Médica en Enfermedades Infecciosas y Parasitarias, Hospital de Pediatría, Centro Médico Nacional Siglo XXI, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Roberto Rosales-Reyes
- Unidad de Medicina Experimental, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Sandra Rivera-Gutiérrez
- Departamento de Microbiología, Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biológicas, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Hidetada Hirakawa
- Department of Bacteriology, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi, Japan
| | - Miguel A. Ares
- Unidad de Investigación Médica en Enfermedades Infecciosas y Parasitarias, Hospital de Pediatría, Centro Médico Nacional Siglo XXI, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Mexico City, Mexico
- Departamento de Microbiología, Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biológicas, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Víctor H. Bustamante
- Departamento de Microbiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca, Mexico
| | - Miguel A. De la Cruz
- Unidad de Investigación Médica en Enfermedades Infecciosas y Parasitarias, Hospital de Pediatría, Centro Médico Nacional Siglo XXI, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Mexico City, Mexico
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Abstract
The two-component system CpxRA can sense environmental stresses and regulate transcription of a wide range of genes for the purpose of adaptation. Despite extensive research on this system, the identification of the CpxR regulon is not systematic or comprehensive. Herein, genome-wide screening was performed using a position-specific scoring matrix, resulting in the discovery of more than 10,000 putative CpxR binding sites, which provides an extensive and selective set of targets based on sequence. More than half of the candidate genes ultimately selected (73/97) were experimentally confirmed to be CpxR-regulated genes through experimental analysis. These genes are involved in various physiological functions, indicating that the CpxRA system regulates complex cellular processes. The study also found for the first time that the CpxR-regulated genes ydeE, xylE, alx, and galP contribute to Escherichia coli resistance to acid stress, whereas prlF, alx, casA, yacH, ydeE, sbmA, and ampH contribute to E. coli resistance to cationic antimicrobial peptide stress. Among these CpxR-regulated genes, ydeE and alx responded to both stressors. In a similar way, a cationic antimicrobial peptide is capable of directly activating the periplasmic domain of CpxA kinase in vitro, which is consistent with the CpxA response to acid stress. These results greatly expand our understanding of the CpxRA-dependent stress response network in E. coli. IMPORTANCE CpxRA system is found in many pathogens and plays an essential role in sensing environmental signals and transducing information inside cells for adaptation. It usually regulates expression of specific genes in response to different environmental stresses and is important for bacterial pathogenesis. However, systematically identifying CpxRA-regulated genes and elucidating the regulative role of CpxRA in bacteria responding to environmental stress remains challenging. This study discovered more than 10,000 putative CpxR binding sites based on sequence. This bioinformatics approach, combined with experimental assays, allowed the identification of many previously unknown CpxR-regulated genes. Among the novel 73 CpxRA-regulated genes identified in this study, the role of nine of them in contributing to E. coli resistance to acid or cationic antimicrobial peptide stress was studied. The potential correlation between these two environmental stress responses provides insight into the CpxRA-dependent stress response network. This also improves our understanding of environment-bacterium interaction and Gram-negative pathogenesis.
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The Roles of the Two-Component System, MtrAB, in Response to Diverse Cell Envelope Stresses in Dietzia sp. DQ12-45-1b. Appl Environ Microbiol 2022; 88:e0133722. [PMID: 36190258 PMCID: PMC9599347 DOI: 10.1128/aem.01337-22] [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: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Two-component systems (TCSs) act as common regulatory systems allowing bacteria to detect and respond to multiple environmental stimuli, including cell envelope stress. The MtrAB TCS of Actinobacteria is critical for cell wall homeostasis, cell proliferation, osmoprotection, and antibiotic resistance, and thus is found to be highly conserved across this phylum. However, how precisely the MtrAB TCS regulates cellular homeostasis in response to environmental stress remains unclear. Here, we show that the MtrAB TCS plays an important role in the tolerance to different types of cell envelope stresses, including environmental stresses (i.e., oxidative stress, lysozyme, SDS, osmotic pressure, and alkaline pH stresses) and envelope-targeting antibiotics (i.e., isoniazid, ethambutol, glycopeptide, and β-lactam antibiotics) in Dietzia sp. DQ12-45-1b. An mtrAB mutant strain exhibited slower growth compared to the wild-type strain and was characterized by abnormal cell shapes when exposed to various environmental stresses. Moreover, deletion of mtrAB resulted in decreased resistance to isoniazid, ethambutol, and β-lactam antibiotics. Further, Cleavage under targets and tagmentation sequencing (CUT&Tag-seq) and electrophoretic mobility shift assays (EMSAs) revealed that MtrA binds the promoters of genes involved in peptidoglycan biosynthesis (ldtB, ldtA, murJ), hydrolysis (GJR88_03483, GJR88_4713), and cell division (ftsE). Together, our findings demonstrated that the MtrAB TCS is essential for the survival of Dietzia sp. DQ12-45-1b under various cell envelope stresses, primarily by controlling multiple downstream cellular pathways. Our work suggests that TCSs act as global sensors and regulators in maintaining cellular homeostasis, such as during episodes of various environmental stresses. The present study should shed light on the understanding of mechanisms for bacterial adaptivity to extreme environments. IMPORTANCE The multilayered cell envelope is the first line of bacterial defense against various extreme environments. Bacteria utilize a large number of sensing and regulatory systems to maintain cell envelope homeostasis under multiple stress conditions. The two-component system (TCS) is the main sensing and responding apparatus for environmental adaptation. The MtrAB TCS highly conserved in Actinobacteria is critical for cell wall homeostasis, cell proliferation, osmoprotection, and antibiotic resistance. However, how MtrAB works with regard to signals impacting changes to the cell envelope is not fully understood. Here, we found that in the Actinobacterium Dietzia sp. DQ12-45-1b, a TCS named MtrAB is pivotal for ensuring normal cell growth as well as maintaining proper cell morphology in response to various cell envelope stresses, namely, by regulating the expression of cell envelope-related genes. Our findings should greatly advance our understanding of the adaptive mechanisms responsible for maintaining cell integrity in times of sustained environmental shocks.
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Roles of Two-Component Signal Transduction Systems in Shigella Virulence. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12091321. [PMID: 36139160 PMCID: PMC9496106 DOI: 10.3390/biom12091321] [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] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Revised: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Two-component signal transduction systems (TCSs) are widespread types of protein machinery, typically consisting of a histidine kinase membrane sensor and a cytoplasmic transcriptional regulator that can sense and respond to environmental signals. TCSs are responsible for modulating genes involved in a multitude of bacterial functions, including cell division, motility, differentiation, biofilm formation, antibiotic resistance, and virulence. Pathogenic bacteria exploit the capabilities of TCSs to reprogram gene expression according to the different niches they encounter during host infection. This review focuses on the role of TCSs in regulating the virulence phenotype of Shigella, an intracellular pathogen responsible for severe human enteric syndrome. The pathogenicity of Shigella is the result of the complex action of a wide number of virulence determinants located on the chromosome and on a large virulence plasmid. In particular, we will discuss how five TCSs, EnvZ/OmpR, CpxA/CpxR, ArcB/ArcA, PhoQ/PhoP, and EvgS/EvgA, contribute to linking environmental stimuli to the expression of genes related to virulence and fitness within the host. Considering the relevance of TCSs in the expression of virulence in pathogenic bacteria, the identification of drugs that inhibit TCS function may represent a promising approach to combat bacterial infections.
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Simulated Colonic Fluid Replicates the In Vivo Growth Capabilities of Citrobacter rodentium cpxRA Mutants and Uncovers Additive Effects of Cpx-Regulated Genes on Fitness. Infect Immun 2022; 90:e0031422. [PMID: 36000875 PMCID: PMC9476912 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00314-22] [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: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Citrobacter rodentium is an attaching and effacing (A/E) pathogen used to model enteropathogenic and enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli infections in mice. During colonization, C. rodentium must adapt to stresses in the gastrointestinal tract, such as antimicrobial peptides, pH changes, and bile salts. The Cpx envelope stress response (ESR) is a two-component system used by some bacteria to remediate stress by modulating gene expression, and it is necessary for C. rodentium pathogenesis in mice. Here, we utilized simulated colonic fluid (SCF) to mimic the gastrointestinal environment, which we show strongly induces the Cpx ESR and highlights a fitness defect specific to the ΔcpxRA mutant. While investigating genes in the Cpx regulon that may contribute to C. rodentium pathogenesis, we found that the absence of the Cpx ESR resulted in higher expression of the locus of enterocyte effacement (LEE) master regulator, ler, and that the genes yebE, ygiB, bssR, and htpX relied on CpxRA for proper expression. We then determined that CpxRA and select gene mutants were essential for proper growth in SCF when in the presence of extraneous stressors and in competition. Although none of the Cpx-regulated gene mutants exhibited marked virulence phenotypes in vivo, the ΔcpxRA mutant had reduced colonization and attenuated virulence, as previously determined, which replicated the in vitro growth phenotypes specific to SCF. Overall, these results indicate that the ΔcpxRA virulence defect is not due to any single Cpx regulon gene examined. Instead, attenuation may be the result of defective growth in the colonic environment resulting from the collective impact of multiple Cpx-regulated genes.
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A Two-Component-System-Governed Regulon That Includes a β-Lactamase Gene is Responsive to Cell Envelope Disturbance. mBio 2022; 13:e0174922. [PMID: 35968954 PMCID: PMC9426598 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.01749-22] [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
β-Lactamase production facilitates bacterial survival in nature and affects many infection therapies. However, much of its regulation remains unexplored. We used a genetics-based approach to identify a two-component system (TCS) present in a strain of Burkholderia thailandensis essential for the regulated expression of a class A β-lactamase gene, penL, by sensing subtle envelope disturbance caused by β-lactams, polymyxin B, or other chemical agents. The genes encoding stress responses and resistance to various antibiotics were coregulated, as were the catabolic genes that enabled the B. thailandensis strain to grow on penicillin G or phenylacetate, a degradation product of penicillin G. This regulon has likely evolved to facilitate bacterial survival in the soil microbiome that contains a multitude of antibiotic producers. Practically, this regulatory system makes this TCS, which we named BesRS, an excellent drug target for the purpose of increasing antibiotic efficacy in combination therapies for Burkholderia infections.
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Lima BP, Davies JR, Wickström C, Johnstone KF, Hall JW, Svensater G, Herzberg MC. Streptococcus gordonii Poised for Glycan Feeding through a MUC5B-Discriminating, Lipoteichoic Acid-Mediated Outside-In Signaling Circuit. J Bacteriol 2022; 204:e0011822. [PMID: 35652671 PMCID: PMC9210975 DOI: 10.1128/jb.00118-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Many oral bacteria employ cell wall-anchored adhesins to bind to the salivary films coating the teeth and mucosal surfaces. Surface binding prevents clearance and facilitates catabolism of salivary film glycoproteins. We asked whether Streptococcus gordonii adhesin expression changes in response to surface salivary cues using a eukaryote-like, outside-in recognition and signaling circuit. To determine whether the cues were discriminated, S. gordonii was tested during cell adhesion and biofilm formation on a MUC5B-rich or lower-molecular-mass salivary fraction or an uncoated abiotic surface. Cells were recovered and analyzed for differences in gene expression and proteins in cell wall fractions. In salivary-free conditions, planktonic S. gordonii presented three prominent cell wall LPXTG-motif proteins, SGO_1487, SGO_0890, and MbpA (mucin-binding protein A; SGO_0707). During biofilm formation on MUC5B-coated surfaces, MbpA, a MUC5B-binding protein, and key genes in the tagatose and quorum-sensing pathways were strongly promoted. The response to MUC5B required the two-component system (TCS), streptococcal regulator of adhesins sensor and regulator (SraSR, SGO_1180/81), lipoteichoic acid (LTA), and the homologous paired adhesins, SspA and SspB (SspAB). LTA appears to link the outside signal (MUC5B) to intramembrane SraSR. Tagatose pathway gene expression may poise cells to metabolize MUC5B glycans and, with a quorum-sensing gene (luxS), may direct formation of a consortium to facilitate glycan cross-feeding by S. gordonii. We now show that a Gram-positive bacterium discriminates specific surface environmental cues using an outside-in signaling mechanism to apparently optimize colonization of saliva-coated surfaces. IMPORTANCE All organisms throughout the tree of life sense and respond to their surface environments. To discriminate among mucosal surface environmental cues, we report that Streptococcus gordonii recognizes a high-molecular-weight mucin glycoprotein, MUC5B, using the paired adhesins SspAB and lipoteichoic acid; the latter bridges the outside signal to an intramembrane two-component system to transcriptionally regulate a MUC5B-specific adhesin and genes that may facilitate glycan catabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno P. Lima
- Department of Diagnostic and Biological Sciences, School of Dentistry, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Julia R. Davies
- Section for Oral Biology and Pathology, Faculty of Odontology, Malmö University, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Claes Wickström
- Section for Oral Biology and Pathology, Faculty of Odontology, Malmö University, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Karen F. Johnstone
- Department of Diagnostic and Biological Sciences, School of Dentistry, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Jeffrey W. Hall
- Department of Diagnostic and Biological Sciences, School of Dentistry, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Gunnel Svensater
- Section for Oral Biology and Pathology, Faculty of Odontology, Malmö University, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Mark C. Herzberg
- Department of Diagnostic and Biological Sciences, School of Dentistry, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
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Targeting the Holy Triangle of Quorum Sensing, Biofilm Formation, and Antibiotic Resistance in Pathogenic Bacteria. Microorganisms 2022; 10:microorganisms10061239. [PMID: 35744757 PMCID: PMC9228545 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10061239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2022] [Revised: 06/12/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic and recurrent bacterial infections are frequently associated with the formation of biofilms on biotic or abiotic materials that are composed of mono- or multi-species cultures of bacteria/fungi embedded in an extracellular matrix produced by the microorganisms. Biofilm formation is, among others, regulated by quorum sensing (QS) which is an interbacterial communication system usually composed of two-component systems (TCSs) of secreted autoinducer compounds that activate signal transduction pathways through interaction with their respective receptors. Embedded in the biofilms, the bacteria are protected from environmental stress stimuli, and they often show reduced responses to antibiotics, making it difficult to eradicate the bacterial infection. Besides reduced penetration of antibiotics through the intricate structure of the biofilms, the sessile biofilm-embedded bacteria show reduced metabolic activity making them intrinsically less sensitive to antibiotics. Moreover, they frequently express elevated levels of efflux pumps that extrude antibiotics, thereby reducing their intracellular levels. Some efflux pumps are involved in the secretion of QS compounds and biofilm-related materials, besides being important for removing toxic substances from the bacteria. Some efflux pump inhibitors (EPIs) have been shown to both prevent biofilm formation and sensitize the bacteria to antibiotics, suggesting a relationship between these processes. Additionally, QS inhibitors or quenchers may affect antibiotic susceptibility. Thus, targeting elements that regulate QS and biofilm formation might be a promising approach to combat antibiotic-resistant biofilm-related bacterial infections.
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Popella L, Jung J, Do PT, Hayward RJ, Barquist L, Vogel J. Comprehensive analysis of PNA-based antisense antibiotics targeting various essential genes in uropathogenic Escherichia coli. Nucleic Acids Res 2022; 50:6435-6452. [PMID: 35687096 PMCID: PMC9226493 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkac362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2022] [Revised: 04/05/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Antisense peptide nucleic acids (PNAs) that target mRNAs of essential bacterial genes exhibit specific bactericidal effects in several microbial species, but our mechanistic understanding of PNA activity and their target gene spectrum is limited. Here, we present a systematic analysis of PNAs targeting 11 essential genes with varying expression levels in uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC). We demonstrate that UPEC is susceptible to killing by peptide-conjugated PNAs, especially when targeting the widely-used essential gene acpP. Our evaluation yields three additional promising target mRNAs for effective growth inhibition, i.e.dnaB, ftsZ and rpsH. The analysis also shows that transcript abundance does not predict target vulnerability and that PNA-mediated growth inhibition is not universally associated with target mRNA depletion. Global transcriptomic analyses further reveal PNA sequence-dependent but also -independent responses, including the induction of envelope stress response pathways. Importantly, we show that 9mer PNAs are generally as effective in inhibiting bacterial growth as their 10mer counterparts. Overall, our systematic comparison of a range of PNAs targeting mRNAs of different essential genes in UPEC suggests important features for PNA design, reveals a general bacterial response to PNA conjugates and establishes the feasibility of using PNA antibacterials to combat UPEC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Popella
- Institute of Molecular Infection Biology (IMIB), University of Würzburg, D-97080, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Jakob Jung
- Institute of Molecular Infection Biology (IMIB), University of Würzburg, D-97080, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Phuong Thao Do
- Helmholtz Institute for RNA-based Infection Research (HIRI), Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI), D-97080, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Regan J Hayward
- Helmholtz Institute for RNA-based Infection Research (HIRI), Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI), D-97080, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Lars Barquist
- Helmholtz Institute for RNA-based Infection Research (HIRI), Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI), D-97080, Würzburg, Germany.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Würzburg, D-97080, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Jörg Vogel
- Institute of Molecular Infection Biology (IMIB), University of Würzburg, D-97080, Würzburg, Germany.,Helmholtz Institute for RNA-based Infection Research (HIRI), Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI), D-97080, Würzburg, Germany.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Würzburg, D-97080, Würzburg, Germany
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The Wsp system of Pseudomonas aeruginosa links surface sensing and cell envelope stress. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2022; 119:e2117633119. [PMID: 35476526 PMCID: PMC9170161 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2117633119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
SignificanceBacteria must respond quickly to environmental changes to survive. One way bacteria can respond to environmental stress is by undergoing a lifestyle transition from individual, free-swimming cells to a surface-associated community called a biofilm characterized by aggregative growth. The opportunistic pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa uses the Wsp chemosensory system to sense an unknown surface-associated cue. Here we show that the Wsp system senses cell envelope stress, specifically conditions that promote unfolded or misregulated periplasmic and inner membrane proteins. This work provides direct evidence that cell envelope stress is an important feature of surface sensing in P. aeruginosa.
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Chautrand T, Souak D, Chevalier S, Duclairoir-Poc C. Gram-Negative Bacterial Envelope Homeostasis under Oxidative and Nitrosative Stress. Microorganisms 2022; 10:924. [PMID: 35630368 PMCID: PMC9144841 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10050924] [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: 03/19/2022] [Revised: 04/15/2022] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Bacteria are frequently exposed to endogenous and exogenous reactive oxygen and nitrogen species which can damage various biomolecules such as DNA, lipids, and proteins. High concentrations of these molecules can induce oxidative and nitrosative stresses in the cell. Reactive oxygen and nitrogen species are notably used as a tool by prokaryotes and eukaryotes to eradicate concurrent species or to protect themselves against pathogens. The main example is mammalian macrophages that liberate high quantities of reactive species to kill internalized bacterial pathogens. As a result, resistance to these stresses is determinant for the survival of bacteria, both in the environment and in a host. The first bacterial component in contact with exogenous molecules is the envelope. In Gram-negative bacteria, this envelope is composed of two membranes and a layer of peptidoglycan lodged between them. Several mechanisms protecting against oxidative and nitrosative stresses are present in the envelope, highlighting the importance for the cell to deal with reactive species in this compartment. This review aims to provide a comprehensive view of the challenges posed by oxidative and nitrosative stresses to the Gram-negative bacterial envelope and the mechanisms put in place in this compartment to prevent and repair the damages they can cause.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Cécile Duclairoir-Poc
- Research Unit Bacterial Communication and Anti-infectious Strategies (UR CBSA), Rouen Normandy University, Normandy University, 55 rue Saint-Germain, 27000 Evreux, France; (T.C.); (D.S.); (S.C.)
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Fortney KR, Smith SN, van Rensburg JJ, Brothwell JA, Gardner JJ, Katz BP, Ahsan N, Duerfeldt AS, Mobley HLT, Spinola SM. CpxA Phosphatase Inhibitor Activates CpxRA and Is a Potential Treatment for Uropathogenic Escherichia coli in a Murine Model of Infection. Microbiol Spectr 2022; 10:e0243021. [PMID: 35297652 PMCID: PMC9045377 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.02430-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 02/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
CpxRA is an envelope stress response system that is highly conserved in the Enterobacteriaceae. CpxA has kinase activity for CpxR and phosphatase activity for phospho-CpxR (CpxR-P), a transcription factor. In response to membrane stress, CpxR-P is produced and upregulates genes involved in membrane repair and downregulates genes that encode virulence factors that are trafficked across the cell membrane. Mutants that constitutively activate CpxRA in Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium and in uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) are attenuated in murine models. We hypothesized that pharmacologic activation of CpxR could serve as an antimicrobial/antivirulence strategy and recently showed that 2,3,4,9-tetrahydro-1H-carbazol-1-amines activate the CpxRA system by inhibiting CpxA phosphatase activity. Here, we tested the ability of a series of three CpxRA-activating compounds with increasing potency to clear UPEC stain CFT073 in a murine urinary tract infection model. We show that these compounds are well tolerated and achieve sufficient levels to activate CpxR in the kidneys, bladder, and urine. Although the first two compounds were ineffective in promoting clearance of CFT073 in the murine model, the most potent derivative, compound 26, significantly reduced bacterial recovery in the urine and trended toward reducing bacterial recovery in the bladder and kidneys, with efficacy similar to ciprofloxacin. Treatment of CFT073 cultured in human urine with compound 26 fostered accumulation of CpxR-P and decreased the expression of proteins involved in siderophore biosynthesis and binding, heme degradation, and flagellar movement. These studies suggest that chemical activation of CpxRA may present a viable strategy for treating infections due to UPEC. IMPORTANCE The increasing prevalence of urinary tract infections (UTIs) due to antibiotic-resistant uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) is a major public health concern. Bacteria contain proteins that sense their environment and have no human homologs and, thus, are attractive drug targets. CpxRA is a conserved sensing system whose function is to reduce stress in the bacterial cell membrane; activation of CpxRA reduces the expression of virulence determinants, which must cross the cell membrane to reach the bacterial surface. We previously identified a class of compounds that activate CpxRA. We show in a mouse UTI model that our most potent compound significantly reduced recovery of UPEC in the urine, trended toward reducing bacterial recovery in the bladder and kidneys, did not kill UPEC, and downregulated multiple proteins involved in UPEC virulence. Since these compounds do not act by a killing mechanism, they have potential to treat UTIs caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate R. Fortney
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Sara N. Smith
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Julia J. van Rensburg
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Julie A. Brothwell
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Jessi J. Gardner
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Oklahoma, Norman, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Barry P. Katz
- Department of Biostatistics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
- Department of Biostatistics, Richard M. Fairbanks School of Public Health, Indiana University, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Nagib Ahsan
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Oklahoma, Norman, Oklahoma, USA
- Mass Spectrometry, Proteomics and Metabolomics Core Facility, Stephenson Life Sciences Research Center, University of Oklahoma, Norman, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Adam S. Duerfeldt
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Harry L. T. Mobley
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Stanley M. Spinola
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
- Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
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Gahlot DK, Wai SN, Erickson DL, Francis MS. Cpx-signalling facilitates Hms-dependent biofilm formation by Yersinia pseudotuberculosis. NPJ Biofilms Microbiomes 2022; 8:13. [PMID: 35351893 PMCID: PMC8964730 DOI: 10.1038/s41522-022-00281-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 02/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Bacteria often reside in sessile communities called biofilms, where they adhere to a variety of surfaces and exist as aggregates in a viscous polymeric matrix. Biofilms are resistant to antimicrobial treatments, and are a major contributor to the persistence and chronicity of many bacterial infections. Herein, we determined that the CpxA-CpxR two-component system influenced the ability of enteropathogenic Yersinia pseudotuberculosis to develop biofilms. Mutant bacteria that accumulated the active CpxR~P isoform failed to form biofilms on plastic or on the surface of the Caenorhabditis elegans nematode. A failure to form biofilms on the worm surface prompted their survival when grown on the lawns of Y. pseudotuberculosis. Exopolysaccharide production by the hms loci is the major driver of biofilms formed by Yersinia. We used a number of molecular genetic approaches to demonstrate that active CpxR~P binds directly to the promoter regulatory elements of the hms loci to activate the repressors of hms expression and to repress the activators of hms expression. Consequently, active Cpx-signalling culminated in a loss of exopolysaccharide production. Hence, the development of Y. pseudotuberculosis biofilms on multiple surfaces is controlled by the Cpx-signalling, and at least in part this occurs through repressive effects on the Hms-dependent exopolysaccharide production.
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Abstract
Ceragenins are a family of synthetic amphipathic molecules designed to mimic the properties of naturally occurring cationic antimicrobial peptides (CAMPs). Although ceragenins have potent antimicrobial activity, whether their mode of action is similar to that of CAMPs has remained elusive. Here, we reported the results of a comparative study of the bacterial responses to two well-studied CAMPs, LL37 and colistin, and two ceragenins with related structures, CSA13 and CSA131. Using transcriptomic and proteomic analyses, we found that Escherichia coli responded similarly to both CAMPs and ceragenins by inducing a Cpx envelope stress response. However, whereas E. coli exposed to CAMPs increased expression of genes involved in colanic acid biosynthesis, bacteria exposed to ceragenins specifically modulated functions related to phosphate transport, indicating distinct mechanisms of action between these two classes of molecules. Although traditional genetic approaches failed to identify genes that confer high-level resistance to ceragenins, using a Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats interference (CRISPRi) approach we identified E. coli essential genes that when knocked down modify sensitivity to these molecules. Comparison of the essential gene-antibiotic interactions for each of the CAMPs and ceragenins identified both overlapping and distinct dependencies for their antimicrobial activities. Overall, this study indicated that, while some bacterial responses to ceragenins overlap those induced by naturally occurring CAMPs, these synthetic molecules target the bacterial envelope using a distinctive mode of action. IMPORTANCE The development of novel antibiotics is essential because the current arsenal of antimicrobials will soon be ineffective due to the widespread occurrence of antibiotic resistance. The development of naturally occurring cationic antimicrobial peptides (CAMPs) for therapeutics to combat antibiotic resistance has been hampered by high production costs and protease sensitivity, among other factors. The ceragenins are a family of synthetic CAMP mimics that kill a broad spectrum of bacterial species but are less expensive to produce, resistant to proteolytic degradation, and seemingly resistant to the development of high-level resistance. Determining how ceragenins function may identify new essential biological pathways of bacteria that are less prone to the development of resistance and will further our understanding of the design principles for maximizing the effects of synthetic CAMPs.
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Tsviklist V, Guest RL, Raivio TL. The Cpx Stress Response Regulates Turnover of Respiratory Chain Proteins at the Inner Membrane of Escherichia coli. Front Microbiol 2022; 12:732288. [PMID: 35154019 PMCID: PMC8831704 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.732288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
The Cpx envelope stress response is a major signaling pathway monitoring bacterial envelope integrity, activated both internally by excessive synthesis of membrane proteins and externally by a variety of environmental cues. The Cpx regulon is enriched with genes coding for protein folding and degrading factors, virulence determinants, and large envelope-localized complexes. Transcriptional repression of the two electron transport chain complexes, NADH dehydrogenase I and cytochrome bo3, by the Cpx pathway has been demonstrated, however, there is evidence that additional regulatory mechanisms exist. In this study, we examine the interaction between Cpx-regulated protein folding and degrading factors and the respiratory complexes NADH dehydrogenase I and succinate dehydrogenase in Escherichia coli. Here we show that the cellular need for Cpx-mediated stress adaptation increases when respiratory complexes are more prevalent or active, which is demonstrated by the growth defect of Cpx-deficient strains on media that requires a functional electron transport chain. Interestingly, deletion of several Cpx-regulated proteolytic factors and chaperones results in similar growth-deficient phenotypes. Furthermore, we find that the stability of the NADH dehydrogenase I protein complex is lower in cells with a functional Cpx response, while in its absence, protein turnover is impaired. Finally, we demonstrated that the succinate dehydrogenase complex has reduced activity in E. coli lacking the Cpx pathway. Our results suggest that the Cpx two-component system serves as a sentry of inner membrane protein biogenesis, ensuring the function of large envelope protein complexes and maintaining the cellular energy status of the cell.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Tsviklist
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Randi L. Guest
- Lewis Thomas Laboratory, Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, United States
| | - Tracy L. Raivio
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- *Correspondence: Tracy L. Raivio,
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Matera G, Altuvia Y, Gerovac M, El Mouali Y, Margalit H, Vogel J. Global RNA interactome of Salmonella discovers a 5' UTR sponge for the MicF small RNA that connects membrane permeability to transport capacity. Mol Cell 2022; 82:629-644.e4. [PMID: 35063132 DOI: 10.1016/j.molcel.2021.12.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2021] [Revised: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The envelope of Gram-negative bacteria is a vital barrier that must balance protection and nutrient uptake. Small RNAs are crucial regulators of the envelope composition and function. Here, using RIL-seq to capture the Hfq-mediated RNA-RNA interactome in Salmonella enterica, we discover envelope-related riboregulators, including OppX. We show that OppX acts as an RNA sponge of MicF sRNA, a prototypical porin repressor. OppX originates from the 5' UTR of oppABCDF, encoding the major inner-membrane oligopeptide transporter, and sequesters MicF's seed region to derepress the synthesis of the porin OmpF. Intriguingly, OppX operates as a true sponge, storing MicF in an inactive complex without affecting its levels or stability. Conservation of the opp-OppX-MicF-ompF axis in related bacteria suggests that it serves an important mechanism, adjusting envelope porosity to specific transport capacity. These data also highlight the resource value of this Salmonella RNA interactome, which will aid in unraveling RNA-centric regulation in enteric pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gianluca Matera
- RNA Biology Group, Institute for Molecular Infection Biology, University of Würzburg, D-97080 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Yael Altuvia
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Institute for Medical Research Israel-Canada, Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 9112102, Israel
| | - Milan Gerovac
- RNA Biology Group, Institute for Molecular Infection Biology, University of Würzburg, D-97080 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Youssef El Mouali
- Helmholtz Institute for RNA-based Infection Research (HIRI), Helmholtz Center for Infection Research (HZI), D-97080 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Hanah Margalit
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Institute for Medical Research Israel-Canada, Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 9112102, Israel
| | - Jörg Vogel
- RNA Biology Group, Institute for Molecular Infection Biology, University of Würzburg, D-97080 Würzburg, Germany; Helmholtz Institute for RNA-based Infection Research (HIRI), Helmholtz Center for Infection Research (HZI), D-97080 Würzburg, Germany.
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Joshi C, Kothari V. Bacterial Stress-response Machinery as a Target for Next-generation Antimicrobials. Infect Disord Drug Targets 2022; 22:e210322202493. [PMID: 35319398 DOI: 10.2174/1871526522666220321153332] [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: 10/16/2021] [Revised: 10/30/2021] [Accepted: 12/29/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Chinmayi Joshi
- Smt. S.S.Patel Nootan Science and Commerce College, Sankalchand Patel University, Visnagar 384315, India
| | - Vijay Kothari
- Institute of Science, Nirma University, Ahmedabad 382481, India
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Cell Envelope Stress Response in Pseudomonas aeruginosa. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2022; 1386:147-184. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-08491-1_6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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36
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Rosas NC, Lithgow T. Targeting bacterial outer-membrane remodelling to impact antimicrobial drug resistance. Trends Microbiol 2021; 30:544-552. [PMID: 34872824 DOI: 10.1016/j.tim.2021.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2021] [Revised: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The cell envelope is essential for survival and adaptation of bacteria. Bacterial membrane proteins include the major porins that mediate the influx of nutrients and several classes of antimicrobial drugs. Consequently, membrane remodelling is closely linked to antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Knowledge of bacterial membrane protein biogenesis and turnover underpins our understanding of bacterial membrane remodelling and the consequences that this process have in the evolution of AMR phenotypes. At the population level, the evolution of phenotypes is a reversible process, and we can use these insights to deploy evolutionary principles to resensitize bacteria to existing antimicrobial drugs. In our opinion, fundamental knowledge is opening a new way of thinking towards sustainable solutions to the mounting crisis in AMR. Here we discuss what is known about outer-membrane remodelling in bacteria and how the process could be targeted as a means to restore sensitivity to antimicrobial drugs. Bacteriophages are highlighted as a powerful means to exert this control over membrane remodelling but they require careful selection so as to reverse, and not exacerbate, AMR phenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia C Rosas
- Centre to Impact AMR, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia; Infection and Immunity Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute and Department of Microbiology, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Trevor Lithgow
- Centre to Impact AMR, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia; Infection and Immunity Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute and Department of Microbiology, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia.
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37
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Recacha E, Fox V, Díaz-Díaz S, García-Duque A, Docobo-Pérez F, Pascual Á, Rodríguez-Martínez JM. Disbalancing Envelope Stress Responses as a Strategy for Sensitization of Escherichia coli to Antimicrobial Agents. Front Microbiol 2021; 12:653479. [PMID: 33897667 PMCID: PMC8058218 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.653479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Disbalancing envelope stress responses was investigated as a strategy for sensitization of Escherichia coli to antimicrobial agents. Seventeen isogenic strains were selected from the KEIO collection with deletions in genes corresponding to the σE, Cpx, Rcs, Bae, and Psp responses. Antimicrobial activity against 20 drugs with different targets was evaluated by disk diffusion and gradient strip tests. Growth curves and time-kill curves were also determined for selected mutant-antimicrobial combinations. An increase in susceptibility to ampicillin, ceftazidime, cefepime, aztreonam, ertapenem, and fosfomycin was detected. Growth curves for Psp response mutants showed a decrease in optical density (OD) using sub-MIC concentrations of ceftazidime and aztreonam (ΔpspA and ΔpspB mutants), cefepime (ΔpspB and ΔpspC mutants) and ertapenem (ΔpspB mutant). Time-kill curves were also performed using 1xMIC concentrations of these antimicrobials. For ceftazidime, 2.9 log10 (ΔpspA mutant) and 0.9 log10 (ΔpspB mutant) decreases were observed at 24 and 8 h, respectively. For aztreonam, a decrease of 3.1 log10 (ΔpspA mutant) and 4 log1010 (ΔpspB mutant) was shown after 4–6 h. For cefepime, 4.2 log10 (ΔpspB mutant) and 2.6 log10 (ΔpspC mutant) decreases were observed at 8 and 4 h, respectively. For ertapenem, a decrease of up to 6 log10 (ΔpspB mutant) was observed at 24 h. A deficient Psp envelope stress response increased E. coli susceptibility to beta-lactam agents such as cefepime, ceftazidime, aztreonam and ertapenem. Its role in repairing extensive inner membrane disruptions makes this pathway essential to bacterial survival, so that disbalancing the Psp response could be an appropriate target for sensitization strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esther Recacha
- Unidad Clínica de Enfermedades Infecciosas, Microbiología y Medicina Preventiva, Hospital Universitario Virgen Macarena, Seville, Spain.,Red Española de Investigación en Patología Infecciosa (REIPI), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.,Instituto de Biomedicina de Sevilla (IBiS), Hospital Universitario Virgen del Rocío/CSIC/Universidad de Sevilla, Seville, Spain
| | - Valeria Fox
- Laboratory of Molecular Microbiology and Biotechnology, Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Sara Díaz-Díaz
- Red Española de Investigación en Patología Infecciosa (REIPI), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.,Instituto de Biomedicina de Sevilla (IBiS), Hospital Universitario Virgen del Rocío/CSIC/Universidad de Sevilla, Seville, Spain.,Departamento de Microbiología, Universidad de Sevilla, Seville, Spain
| | - Ana García-Duque
- Unidad Clínica de Enfermedades Infecciosas, Microbiología y Medicina Preventiva, Hospital Universitario Virgen Macarena, Seville, Spain
| | - Fernando Docobo-Pérez
- Red Española de Investigación en Patología Infecciosa (REIPI), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.,Instituto de Biomedicina de Sevilla (IBiS), Hospital Universitario Virgen del Rocío/CSIC/Universidad de Sevilla, Seville, Spain.,Departamento de Microbiología, Universidad de Sevilla, Seville, Spain
| | - Álvaro Pascual
- Unidad Clínica de Enfermedades Infecciosas, Microbiología y Medicina Preventiva, Hospital Universitario Virgen Macarena, Seville, Spain.,Red Española de Investigación en Patología Infecciosa (REIPI), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.,Instituto de Biomedicina de Sevilla (IBiS), Hospital Universitario Virgen del Rocío/CSIC/Universidad de Sevilla, Seville, Spain.,Departamento de Microbiología, Universidad de Sevilla, Seville, Spain
| | - José Manuel Rodríguez-Martínez
- Red Española de Investigación en Patología Infecciosa (REIPI), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.,Instituto de Biomedicina de Sevilla (IBiS), Hospital Universitario Virgen del Rocío/CSIC/Universidad de Sevilla, Seville, Spain.,Departamento de Microbiología, Universidad de Sevilla, Seville, Spain
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38
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He X, Zhang J, Wang S, Yang Z, Zhang H, Zhou X. Cloning, expression, purification, and biochemical characterization of CpxR protein from pectobacterium carotovorum. Biotechnol Appl Biochem 2021; 69:898-905. [PMID: 33811674 DOI: 10.1002/bab.2161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Accepted: 03/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
The cpxR gene, encoding a new cytoplasmic response regulator, which effects virulence, biofilm formation, chemotaxis, resistance to antimicrobials, and controls soft rot, was amplified by the polymerase chain reaction, cloned into the prokaryotic expression vector pET-15b, and expressed through the induction of isopropyl-β-d-thiogalactoside in Escherichia coli BL21 (DE3). Then, highly purified and stable CpxR protein was produced by nickel affinity chromatography and fast protein liquid chromatography, digested by thrombin and identified by Western blotting. Furthermore, the structure of the CpxR protein was estimated by circular dichroism spectroscopy and SWISS-MODEL. The CpxR protein was a functional part in signal transduction and bacterial resistance for Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis. The resear ch of the protein stability indicated the CpxR protein had excellent thermal stability and was suitable for crystallization. Then the small crystals of CpxR protein were found in the crystallizing tank. The latest 34 cpxR sequences from the public database were selected and analyzed by molecular clustering and multisequence alignment. These cpxR sequences were roughly divided into four categories. These results laid an important foundation for the further structural study of the CpxR protein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoliang He
- School of Biological Science and Engineering, Hebei University of Science and Technology, Shijiazhang, Hebei, China
| | - Jing Zhang
- School of Biological Science and Engineering, Hebei University of Science and Technology, Shijiazhang, Hebei, China
| | - Shuai Wang
- School of Biological Science and Engineering, Hebei University of Science and Technology, Shijiazhang, Hebei, China
| | - Zi Yang
- School of Biological Science and Engineering, Hebei University of Science and Technology, Shijiazhang, Hebei, China
| | - Huan Zhang
- School of Biological Science and Engineering, Hebei University of Science and Technology, Shijiazhang, Hebei, China
| | - Xiaohui Zhou
- School of Biological Science and Engineering, Hebei University of Science and Technology, Shijiazhang, Hebei, China
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39
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Jaswal K, Shrivastava M, Chaba R. Revisiting long-chain fatty acid metabolism in Escherichia coli: integration with stress responses. Curr Genet 2021; 67:573-582. [PMID: 33740112 DOI: 10.1007/s00294-021-01178-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Revised: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 03/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Long-chain fatty acids (LCFAs) are a tremendous source of metabolic energy, an essential component of membranes, and important effector molecules that regulate a myriad of cellular processes. As an energy-rich nutrient source, the role of LCFAs in promoting bacterial survival and infectivity is well appreciated. LCFA degradation generates a large number of reduced cofactors that may confer redox stress; therefore, it is imperative to understand how bacteria deal with this paradoxical situation. Although the LCFA utilization pathway has been studied in great detail, especially in Escherichia coli, where the earliest studies date back to the 1960s, the interconnection of LCFA degradation with bacterial stress responses remained largely unexplored. Recent work in E. coli shows that LCFA degradation induces oxidative stress and also impedes oxidative protein folding. Importantly, both issues arise due to the insufficiency of ubiquinone, a lipid-soluble electron carrier in the electron transport chain. However, to maintain redox homeostasis, bacteria induce sophisticated cellular responses. Here, we review these findings in light of our current knowledge of the LCFA metabolic pathway, metabolism-induced oxidative stress, the process of oxidative protein folding, and stress combat mechanisms. We discuss probable mechanisms for the activation of defense players during LCFA metabolism and the likely feedback imparted by them. We suggest that besides defending against intrinsic stresses, LCFA-mediated upregulation of stress response pathways primes bacteria to adapt to harsh external environments. Collectively, the interplay between LCFA metabolism and stress responses is likely an important factor that underlies the success of LCFA-utilizing bacteria in the host.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kanchan Jaswal
- Department of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) Mohali, SAS Nagar, Punjab, India
| | - Megha Shrivastava
- Department of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) Mohali, SAS Nagar, Punjab, India
| | - Rachna Chaba
- Department of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) Mohali, SAS Nagar, Punjab, India.
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40
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Jing W, Liu J, Wu S, Li X, Liu Y. Role of cpxA Mutations in the Resistance to Aminoglycosides and β-Lactams in Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium. Front Microbiol 2021; 12:604079. [PMID: 33613478 PMCID: PMC7889517 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.604079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2020] [Accepted: 01/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Although it has been reported that deletion of the response regulator, CpxR, in the CpxRA system confers sensitivity to aminoglycosides (AGAs) and β-lactams in Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium, the regulatory effects of CpxA on multidrug resistance (MDR) are yet to be fully investigated in this organism. Here, to explore the role of CpxA in MDR, various cpxA mutants including a null mutant (JSΔcpxA), a site-directed mutant (JSΔcpxA 38) and an internal in-frame deletion mutant (JSΔcpxA92 - 104 ) of the S. enterica serovar Typhimurium strain JS, were constructed. It was revealed that cpxA and cpxR deletion mutants have opposing roles in the regulation of resistance to AGAs and β-lactams. Amikacin and cefuroxime can activate the CpxRA system, which results in increased resistance of the wild-type compared with the cpxR deletion mutant. All the cpxA mutations significantly increased resistance to AGAs and β-lactams due to CpxRA system activation via the phosphorylation of CpxR. Moreover, AckA-Pta-dependent activation of CpxR increased the antibiotic resistance of cpxA deletion mutants. Further research revealed that the AcrAB-TolC conferred resistance to some AGAs and β-lactams but does not influence the regulation of resistance by CpxRA against these antibiotics. The detection of candidate MDR-related CpxR regulons revealed that the mRNA expression levels of spy, ycca, ppia, htpX, stm3031, and acrD were upregulated and that of ompW was downregulated in various cpxA mutants. Furthermore, the expression levels of nuoA and sdhC mRNAs were downregulated only in JSΔcpxA92 - 104 . These results suggested that cpxA mutations contribute to AGAs and β-lactams resistance, which is dependent on CpxR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenxian Jing
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, China
| | - Juan Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, China
| | - Shanshan Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, China
| | - Xuerui Li
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, China
| | - Yongsheng Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, China
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41
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Shin J, Choe D, Ransegnola B, Hong H, Onyekwere I, Cross T, Shi Q, Cho B, Westblade LF, Brito IL, Dörr T. A multifaceted cellular damage repair and prevention pathway promotes high-level tolerance to β-lactam antibiotics. EMBO Rep 2021; 22:e51790. [PMID: 33463026 PMCID: PMC7857431 DOI: 10.15252/embr.202051790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2020] [Revised: 11/17/2020] [Accepted: 12/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Bactericidal antibiotics are powerful agents due to their ability to convert essential bacterial functions into lethal processes. However, many important bacterial pathogens are remarkably tolerant against bactericidal antibiotics due to inducible damage repair responses. The cell wall damage response two-component system VxrAB of the gastrointestinal pathogen Vibrio cholerae promotes high-level β-lactam tolerance and controls a gene network encoding highly diverse functions, including negative control over multiple iron uptake systems. How this system contributes to tolerance is poorly understood. Here, we show that β-lactam antibiotics cause an increase in intracellular free iron levels and collateral oxidative damage, which is exacerbated in the ∆vxrAB mutant. Mutating major iron uptake systems dramatically increases ∆vxrAB tolerance to β-lactams. We propose that VxrAB reduces antibiotic-induced toxic iron and concomitant metabolic perturbations by downregulating iron uptake transporters and show that iron sequestration enhances tolerance against β-lactam therapy in a mouse model of cholera infection. Our results suggest that a microorganism's ability to counteract diverse antibiotic-induced stresses promotes high-level antibiotic tolerance and highlights the complex secondary responses elicited by antibiotics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jung‐Ho Shin
- Weill Institute for Cell and Molecular BiologyCornell, UniversityIthacaNYUSA
- Department of MicrobiologyCornell UniversityIthacaNYUSA
| | - Donghui Choe
- Department of Biological SciencesKorea Advanced Institute of Science and TechnologyDaejeonKorea
- KI for the BioCenturyKorea Advanced Institute of Science and TechnologyDaejeonKorea
| | - Brett Ransegnola
- Weill Institute for Cell and Molecular BiologyCornell, UniversityIthacaNYUSA
- Department of MicrobiologyCornell UniversityIthacaNYUSA
| | - Hye‐Rim Hong
- Weill Institute for Cell and Molecular BiologyCornell, UniversityIthacaNYUSA
- Department of MicrobiologyCornell UniversityIthacaNYUSA
| | - Ikenna Onyekwere
- Weill Institute for Cell and Molecular BiologyCornell, UniversityIthacaNYUSA
- Department of MicrobiologyCornell UniversityIthacaNYUSA
| | - Trevor Cross
- Weill Institute for Cell and Molecular BiologyCornell, UniversityIthacaNYUSA
- Department of MicrobiologyCornell UniversityIthacaNYUSA
| | - Qiaojuan Shi
- Meinig School of Biomedical EngineeringCornell UniversityIthacaNYUSA
| | - Byung‐Kwan Cho
- Department of Biological SciencesKorea Advanced Institute of Science and TechnologyDaejeonKorea
- KI for the BioCenturyKorea Advanced Institute of Science and TechnologyDaejeonKorea
- Intelligent Synthetic Biology CenterDaejeonKorea
| | - Lars F Westblade
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory MedicineWeill Cornell MedicineNew YorkNYUSA
- Division of Infectious DiseasesDepartment of MedicineWeill Cornell MedicineNew YorkNYUSA
| | - Ilana L Brito
- Meinig School of Biomedical EngineeringCornell UniversityIthacaNYUSA
| | - Tobias Dörr
- Weill Institute for Cell and Molecular BiologyCornell, UniversityIthacaNYUSA
- Department of MicrobiologyCornell UniversityIthacaNYUSA
- Cornell Institute of Host‐Microbe Interactions and DiseaseCornell UniversityIthacaNYUSA
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42
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Jorgenson MA, Bryant JC. A genetic screen to identify factors affected by undecaprenyl phosphate recycling uncovers novel connections to morphogenesis in Escherichia coli. Mol Microbiol 2021; 115:191-207. [PMID: 32979869 PMCID: PMC10568968 DOI: 10.1111/mmi.14609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2020] [Revised: 09/11/2020] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Undecaprenyl phosphate (Und-P) is an essential lipid carrier that ferries cell wall intermediates across the cytoplasmic membrane in bacteria. Und-P is generated by dephosphorylating undecaprenyl pyrophosphate (Und-PP). In Escherichia coli, BacA, PgpB, YbjG, and LpxT dephosphorylate Und-PP and are conditionally essential. To identify vulnerabilities that arise when Und-P metabolism is defective, we developed a genetic screen for synthetic interactions which, in combination with ΔybjG ΔlpxT ΔbacA, are lethal or reduce fitness. The screen uncovered novel connections to cell division, DNA replication/repair, signal transduction, and glutathione metabolism. Further analysis revealed several new morphogenes; loss of one of these, qseC, caused cells to enlarge and lyse. QseC is the sensor kinase component of the QseBC two-component system. Loss of QseC causes overactivation of the QseB response regulator by PmrB cross-phosphorylation. Here, we show that deleting qseB completely reverses the shape defect of ΔqseC cells, as does overexpressing rprA (a small RNA). Surprisingly, deleting pmrB only partially suppressed qseC-related shape defects. Thus, QseB is activated by multiple factors in QseC's absence and prior functions ascribed to QseBC may originate from cell wall defects. Altogether, our findings provide a framework for identifying new determinants of cell integrity that could be targeted in future therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew A. Jorgenson
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR 72205, USA
| | - Joseph C. Bryant
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR 72205, USA
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43
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Thomas GH. Microbial Musings – January 2021. Microbiology (Reading) 2021; 167. [PMID: 33512314 PMCID: PMC8116778 DOI: 10.1099/mic.0.001033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Gavin H. Thomas
- Department of Biology, University of York, York YO10 5YW, UK
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Transcriptional Responses of Pseudomonas aeruginosa to Inhibition of Lipoprotein Transport by a Small Molecule Inhibitor. J Bacteriol 2020; 202:JB.00452-20. [PMID: 32989085 PMCID: PMC7685553 DOI: 10.1128/jb.00452-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2020] [Accepted: 09/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
A key set of lipoprotein transport components, LolCDE, were inhibited by both a small molecule as well as genetic downregulation of their expression. The data show a unique signature in the Pseudomonas aeruginosa transcriptome in response to perturbation of outer membrane biogenesis. In addition, we demonstrate a transcriptional response in key genes with marked specificity compared to several antibiotic classes with different mechanisms of action. As a result of this work, we identified genes that could be of potential use as biomarkers in a cell-based screen for novel antibiotic inhibitors of lipoprotein transport in P. aeruginosa. Lipoprotein transport from the inner to the outer membrane, carried out by the Lol machinery, is essential for the biogenesis of the Gram-negative cell envelope and, consequently, for bacterial viability. Recently, small molecule inhibitors of the Lol system in Escherichia coli have been identified and shown to inhibit the growth of this organism by interfering with the function of the LolCDE complex. Analysis of the transcriptome of E. coli treated with one such molecule (compound 2) revealed that a number of envelope stress response pathways were induced in response to LolCDE inhibition. However, Pseudomonas aeruginosa is refractory to inhibition by the same small molecule, but we could demonstrate that E. colilolCDE could be substituted for the P. aeruginosa orthologues, where it functions in the correct transport of Pseudomonas lipoproteins, and the cells are inhibited by the more potent compound 2A. In the present study, we took advantage of the functionality of E. coli LolCDE in P. aeruginosa and determined the P. aeruginosa transcriptional response to LolCDE inhibition by compound 2A. We identified key genes that responded to LolCDE inhibition and also demonstrated that the same genes appeared to be affected by genetic depletion of the native P. aeruginosa LolCDE proteins. Several of the major changes were in an upregulated cluster of genes that encode determinants of alginate biosynthesis and transport, and the levels of alginate were found to be increased either by treatment with the small molecule inhibitor or upon depletion of native LolCDE. Finally, we tested several antibiotics with differing mechanisms of action to identify potential specific reporter genes for the further development of compounds that would inhibit the native P. aeruginosa Lol system. IMPORTANCE A key set of lipoprotein transport components, LolCDE, were inhibited by both a small molecule as well as genetic downregulation of their expression. The data show a unique signature in the Pseudomonas aeruginosa transcriptome in response to perturbation of outer membrane biogenesis. In addition, we demonstrate a transcriptional response in key genes with marked specificity compared to several antibiotic classes with different mechanisms of action. As a result of this work, we identified genes that could be of potential use as biomarkers in a cell-based screen for novel antibiotic inhibitors of lipoprotein transport in P. aeruginosa.
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45
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Zhang Q, Zhang C. Chronic Exposure to Low Concentration of Graphene Oxide Increases Bacterial Pathogenicity via the Envelope Stress Response. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2020; 54:12412-12422. [PMID: 32910654 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.0c04538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Graphene oxide (GO), which has diverse antimicrobial mechanisms, is a promising material to address antibiotic resistance. Considering the emergence of antibiotic tolerance/resistance due to prolonged exposure to sublethal antibiotics, it is imperative to assess the microbiological effects and related adaptive mechanisms under chronic exposure to sublethal levels of GO, which have rarely been explored. After repetitive exposure to 5 mg/L GO for 200 subcultures (400 days), evolved Escherichia coli (E. coli) cells (EGO) differed significantly from their ancestor cells according to transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses. Contact with GO surfaces transformed E. coli by activating the Cpx envelope stress response (ESR), resulting in more than twofold greater extracellular protease release and biofilm formation. The ESR also modulated the envelope structure and function via increases in membrane fluidity, permeation, and lipopolysaccharide content to fulfill growth requirements and combat envelope stress. As a consequence of metabolic adjustment, EGO cells showed advantages of surviving in an acidic and oxidative environment, which resembles the cytosol of host cells. With these adaptive features, EGO cells exhibited higher pathogenicity than ancestor E. coli cells as evidenced by increased bacterial invasion and intracellular survival and a more severe inflammatory response in macrophage cells. To conclude, we seek to raise awareness of the possible occurrence of microbial adaptation to antimicrobial nanomaterials, which may be implicated in cross-adaptation to harsh environments and eventually the prevalence of virulence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiurong Zhang
- School of Environment, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100857, China
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Chengdong Zhang
- School of Environment, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100857, China
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Jaswal K, Shrivastava M, Roy D, Agrawal S, Chaba R. Metabolism of long-chain fatty acids affects disulfide bond formation in Escherichia coli and activates envelope stress response pathways as a combat strategy. PLoS Genet 2020; 16:e1009081. [PMID: 33079953 PMCID: PMC7598926 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1009081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2020] [Revised: 10/30/2020] [Accepted: 08/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The envelope of gram-negative bacteria serves as the first line of defense against environmental insults. Therefore, its integrity is continuously monitored and maintained by several envelope stress response (ESR) systems. Due to its oxidizing environment, the envelope represents an important site for disulfide bond formation. In Escherichia coli, the periplasmic oxidoreductase, DsbA introduces disulfide bonds in substrate proteins and transfers electrons to the inner membrane oxidoreductase, DsbB. Under aerobic conditions, the reduced form of DsbB is re-oxidized by ubiquinone, an electron carrier in the electron transport chain (ETC). Given the critical role of ubiquinone in transferring electrons derived from the oxidation of reduced cofactors, we were intrigued whether metabolic conditions that generate a large number of reduced cofactors render ubiquinone unavailable for disulfide bond formation. To test this, here we investigated the influence of metabolism of long-chain fatty acid (LCFA), an energy-rich carbon source, on the redox state of the envelope. We show that LCFA degradation increases electron flow in the ETC. Further, whereas cells metabolizing LCFAs exhibit characteristics of insufficient disulfide bond formation, these hallmarks are averted in cells exogenously provided with ubiquinone. Importantly, the ESR pathways, Cpx and σE, are activated by envelope signals generated during LCFA metabolism. Our results argue that Cpx is the primary ESR that senses and maintains envelope redox homeostasis. Amongst the two ESRs, Cpx is induced to a greater extent by LCFAs and senses redox-dependent signal. Further, ubiquinone accumulation during LCFA metabolism is prevented in cells lacking Cpx response, suggesting that Cpx activation helps maintain redox homeostasis by increasing the oxidizing power for disulfide bond formation. Taken together, our results demonstrate an intricate relationship between cellular metabolism and disulfide bond formation dictated by ETC and ESR, and provide the basis for examining whether similar mechanisms control envelope redox status in other gram-negative bacteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kanchan Jaswal
- Department of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) Mohali, SAS Nagar, Punjab, India
| | - Megha Shrivastava
- Department of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) Mohali, SAS Nagar, Punjab, India
| | - Deeptodeep Roy
- Department of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) Mohali, SAS Nagar, Punjab, India
| | - Shashank Agrawal
- Department of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) Mohali, SAS Nagar, Punjab, India
| | - Rachna Chaba
- Department of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) Mohali, SAS Nagar, Punjab, India
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The impact of cell structure, metabolism and group behavior for the survival of bacteria under stress conditions. Arch Microbiol 2020; 203:431-441. [PMID: 32975620 DOI: 10.1007/s00203-020-02050-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2020] [Revised: 08/28/2020] [Accepted: 09/15/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Microbes from diverse types of habitats are continuously exposed to external challenges, which may include acidic, alkaline, and toxic metabolites stress as well as nutrient deficiencies. To promote their own survival, bacteria have to rapidly adapt to external perturbations by inducing particular stress responses that typically involve genetic and/or cellular changes. In addition, pathogenic bacteria need to sense and withstand these environmental stresses within a host to establish and maintain infection. These responses can be, in principle, induced by changes in bacterial cell structure, metabolism and group behavior. Bacterial nucleic acids may serve as the core part of the stress response, and the cell envelope and ribosomes protect genetic structures from damage. Cellular metabolism and group behavior, such as quorum sensing system, can play a more important role in resisting stress than we have now found. Since bacteria survival can be only appreciated if we better understand the mechanisms behind bacterial stress response, here we review how morphological and physiological features may lead to bacterial resistance upon exposure to particular stress-inducing factors.
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Kimkes TEP, Heinemann M. How bacteria recognise and respond to surface contact. FEMS Microbiol Rev 2020; 44:106-122. [PMID: 31769807 PMCID: PMC7053574 DOI: 10.1093/femsre/fuz029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2019] [Accepted: 11/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Bacterial biofilms can cause medical problems and issues in technical systems. While a large body of knowledge exists on the phenotypes of planktonic and of sessile cells in mature biofilms, our understanding of what happens when bacteria change from the planktonic to the sessile state is still very incomplete. Fundamental questions are unanswered: for instance, how do bacteria sense that they are in contact with a surface, and what are the very initial cellular responses to surface contact. Here, we review the current knowledge on the signals that bacteria could perceive once they attach to a surface, the signal transduction systems that could be involved in sensing the surface contact and the cellular responses that are triggered as a consequence to surface contact ultimately leading to biofilm formation. Finally, as the main obstacle in investigating the initial responses to surface contact has been the difficulty to experimentally study the dynamic response of single cells upon surface attachment, we also review recent experimental approaches that could be employed to study bacterial surface sensing, which ultimately could lead to an improved understanding of how biofilm formation could be prevented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tom E P Kimkes
- Molecular Systems Biology, Groningen Biomolecular Sciences and Biotechnology Institute, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Matthias Heinemann
- Molecular Systems Biology, Groningen Biomolecular Sciences and Biotechnology Institute, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747 AG Groningen, the Netherlands
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Royes J, Biou V, Dautin N, Tribet C, Miroux B. Inducible intracellular membranes: molecular aspects and emerging applications. Microb Cell Fact 2020; 19:176. [PMID: 32887610 PMCID: PMC7650269 DOI: 10.1186/s12934-020-01433-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2020] [Accepted: 08/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Membrane remodeling and phospholipid biosynthesis are normally tightly regulated to maintain the shape and function of cells. Indeed, different physiological mechanisms ensure a precise coordination between de novo phospholipid biosynthesis and modulation of membrane morphology. Interestingly, the overproduction of certain membrane proteins hijack these regulation networks, leading to the formation of impressive intracellular membrane structures in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. The proteins triggering an abnormal accumulation of membrane structures inside the cells (or membrane proliferation) share two major common features: (1) they promote the formation of highly curved membrane domains and (2) they lead to an enrichment in anionic, cone-shaped phospholipids (cardiolipin or phosphatidic acid) in the newly formed membranes. Taking into account the available examples of membrane proliferation upon protein overproduction, together with the latest biochemical, biophysical and structural data, we explore the relationship between protein synthesis and membrane biogenesis. We propose a mechanism for the formation of these non-physiological intracellular membranes that shares similarities with natural inner membrane structures found in α-proteobacteria, mitochondria and some viruses-infected cells, pointing towards a conserved feature through evolution. We hope that the information discussed in this review will give a better grasp of the biophysical mechanisms behind physiological and induced intracellular membrane proliferation, and inspire new applications, either for academia (high-yield membrane protein production and nanovesicle production) or industry (biofuel production and vaccine preparation).
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge Royes
- Laboratoire de Biologie Physico-Chimique des Protéines Membranaires, Université de Paris, LBPC-PM, CNRS, UMR7099, 75005, Paris, France. .,Institut de Biologie Physico-Chimique, Fondation Edmond de Rothschild pour le Développement de la Recherche Scientifique, 75005, Paris, France. .,Département de Chimie, École Normale Supérieure, PASTEUR, PSL University, CNRS, Sorbonne Université, 24 Rue Lhomond, 75005, Paris, France.
| | - Valérie Biou
- Laboratoire de Biologie Physico-Chimique des Protéines Membranaires, Université de Paris, LBPC-PM, CNRS, UMR7099, 75005, Paris, France.,Institut de Biologie Physico-Chimique, Fondation Edmond de Rothschild pour le Développement de la Recherche Scientifique, 75005, Paris, France
| | - Nathalie Dautin
- Laboratoire de Biologie Physico-Chimique des Protéines Membranaires, Université de Paris, LBPC-PM, CNRS, UMR7099, 75005, Paris, France.,Institut de Biologie Physico-Chimique, Fondation Edmond de Rothschild pour le Développement de la Recherche Scientifique, 75005, Paris, France
| | - Christophe Tribet
- Département de Chimie, École Normale Supérieure, PASTEUR, PSL University, CNRS, Sorbonne Université, 24 Rue Lhomond, 75005, Paris, France
| | - Bruno Miroux
- Laboratoire de Biologie Physico-Chimique des Protéines Membranaires, Université de Paris, LBPC-PM, CNRS, UMR7099, 75005, Paris, France. .,Institut de Biologie Physico-Chimique, Fondation Edmond de Rothschild pour le Développement de la Recherche Scientifique, 75005, Paris, France.
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Collet JF, Cho SH, Iorga BI, Goemans CV. How the assembly and protection of the bacterial cell envelope depend on cysteine residues. J Biol Chem 2020; 295:11984-11994. [PMID: 32487747 PMCID: PMC7443483 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.rev120.011201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2020] [Revised: 06/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The cell envelope of Gram-negative bacteria is a multilayered structure essential for bacterial viability; the peptidoglycan cell wall provides shape and osmotic protection to the cell, and the outer membrane serves as a permeability barrier against noxious compounds in the external environment. Assembling the envelope properly and maintaining its integrity are matters of life and death for bacteria. Our understanding of the mechanisms of envelope assembly and maintenance has increased tremendously over the past two decades. Here, we review the major achievements made during this time, giving central stage to the amino acid cysteine, one of the least abundant amino acid residues in proteins, whose unique chemical and physical properties often critically support biological processes. First, we review how cysteines contribute to envelope homeostasis by forming stabilizing disulfides in crucial bacterial assembly factors (LptD, BamA, and FtsN) and stress sensors (RcsF and NlpE). Second, we highlight the emerging role of enzymes that use cysteine residues to catalyze reactions that are necessary for proper envelope assembly, and we also explain how these enzymes are protected from oxidative inactivation. Finally, we suggest future areas of investigation, including a discussion of how cysteine residues could contribute to envelope homeostasis by functioning as redox switches. By highlighting the redox pathways that are active in the envelope of Escherichia coli, we provide a timely overview of the assembly of a cellular compartment that is the hallmark of Gram-negative bacteria.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Seung-Hyun Cho
- de Duve Institute, UCLouvain, Brussels, Belgium; WELBIO, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Bogdan I Iorga
- de Duve Institute, UCLouvain, Brussels, Belgium; Université Paris-Saclay, CNRS UPR 2301, Institut de Chimie des Substances Naturelles, Gif-sur-Yvette, France
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