1
|
Fatemi M, Niyyati M, Rouhani S, Karamati SA, Mirjalali H, Karanis P. Contamination of fresh vegetables in municipal stores with pathogenic Acanthamoeba genotypes; a public health concern. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH RESEARCH 2023; 33:1010-1021. [PMID: 35443833 DOI: 10.1080/09603123.2022.2067328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Acanthamoeba spp. cause keratitis and encephalitis, and are a proper carrier of foodborne pathogens. A total of 70 samples including garden cress, chives, mint, parsley, and basil were collected. Samples were cultured onto a 2% non-nutrient agar medium. The cultures were analyzed using morphological and molecular techniques. In total, 18 (25.7%) out of 70 samples were positive including garden cress 10/22 (45.45%), chives 3/12 (25%), mint 2/13 (15.38%), basil 2/13 (15.38%), and parsley 1/10 (10%). The diagnostic fragment 3 was successfully sequenced in 15 samples and represented 11 (73.3%) T4, three (20%) T5, and one T9 genotypes. In addition, three, two, and one strains, belonging to the genotypes T4, T5, and T9 were ranked highly pathogenic. This is the first study reporting contamination of the most commonly consumed fresh vegetables with pathogenic Acanthamoeba genotypes. Our findings signify the public health concerns due the contamination of vegetables in municipal public markets.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marziye Fatemi
- Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Niyyati
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Soheila Rouhani
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Ahmad Karamati
- Foodborne and Waterborne Diseases Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamed Mirjalali
- Foodborne and Waterborne Diseases Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Panagiotis Karanis
- University of Cologne, Medical Faculty and University Hospital, Cologne 50931, Germany
- Department of Basic and Clinical Sciences, Nicosia University Medical School, Nicosia, Cyprus
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Tuytschaever T, Raes K, Sampers I. Listeria monocytogenes in food businesses: From persistence strategies to intervention/prevention strategies-A review. Compr Rev Food Sci Food Saf 2023; 22:3910-3950. [PMID: 37548605 DOI: 10.1111/1541-4337.13219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Revised: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023]
Abstract
In 2023, Listeria monocytogenes persistence remains a problem in the food business. A profound understanding of how this pathogen persists may lead to better aimed intervention/prevention strategies. The lack of a uniform definition of persistence makes the comparison between studies complex. Harborage sites offer protection against adverse environmental conditions and form the ideal habitat for the formation of biofilms, one of the major persistence strategies. A retarded growth rate, disinfectant resistance/tolerance, desiccation resistance/tolerance, and protozoan protection complete the list of persistence strategies for Listeria monocytogenes and can occur on themselves or in combination with biofilms. Based on the discussed persistence strategies, intervention strategies are proposed. By enhancing the focus on four precaution principles (cleaning and disinfection, infrastructure/hygienic design, technical maintenance, and work methodology) as mentioned in Regulation (EC) No. 852/2004, the risk of persistence can be decreased. All of the intervention strategies result in obtaining and maintaining a good general hygiene status throughout the establishment at all levels ranging from separate equipment to the entire building.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tessa Tuytschaever
- Research Unit VEG-i-TEC, Department of Food Technology, Safety and Health, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Kortrijk, Belgium
| | - Katleen Raes
- Research Unit VEG-i-TEC, Department of Food Technology, Safety and Health, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Kortrijk, Belgium
| | - Imca Sampers
- Research Unit VEG-i-TEC, Department of Food Technology, Safety and Health, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Kortrijk, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Soler L, Moreno Y, Moreno-Mesonero L, Amorós I, Alonso JL, Ferrús MA. Microbiome of Free-Living Amoebae (FLA) Isolated from Fresh Organic Produce: Potential Risk to Consumers? Foods 2023; 12:3102. [PMID: 37628102 PMCID: PMC10453443 DOI: 10.3390/foods12163102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Revised: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
In response to growing global interest in organic agriculture, this study delves into the microbial landscape of organically grown raw produce with a focus on food safety. Vegetables that are consumed raw are potential vehicles for the transmission of any type of microorganism capable of causing human disease. Free-living amoebae (FLA) are ubiquitous protozoa found in many ecosystems and can serve as hosts to pathogenic bacteria. So far, data regarding the FLA bacterial microbiome in fresh produce remain scarce and are non-existent for those of organic origin. Thus, the aim of this preliminary work is to characterize the microbiome of FLA in commonly consumed raw vegetables to know their possible implications for consumers. A total of 40 organic cabbage, lettuce, spinach, and strawberry samples were analyzed. FLA were found in all samples, and their bacterial microbiome was obtained via amplicon sequencing using the Illumina MiSeq platform and pair-end protocol. Acanthamoeba spp. and Vermamoeba vermiformis were identified via qPCR in 65.0% and 25.0% of the samples, respectively. Regarding the bacterial microbiome of FLA, the most abundant genera were Pseudomonas (1.8-17.8%) and Flavobacterium (1.7-12.6%). Bacteria not previously related to FLA, such as Prosthecobacter or Cellvibrio, are described in this work. Importantly, several bacterial genera found within the FLA microbiome were identified as potential human pathogens, including Pseudomonas, Flavobacterium, Arcobacter, Klebsiella, Mycobacterium, Salmonella and Legionella. This is the first work in which FLA microbiome isolated from organic products has been characterized, underscoring the significance of understanding FLA's role as carriers of pathogenic bacteria in the context of organic food safety.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lara Soler
- Research Institute of Water and Environmental Engineering (IIAMA), Universitat Politècnica de València, Camino de Vera s/n, 46022 Valencia, Spain; (L.S.); (L.M.-M.); (I.A.); (J.L.A.)
| | - Yolanda Moreno
- Research Institute of Water and Environmental Engineering (IIAMA), Universitat Politècnica de València, Camino de Vera s/n, 46022 Valencia, Spain; (L.S.); (L.M.-M.); (I.A.); (J.L.A.)
| | - Laura Moreno-Mesonero
- Research Institute of Water and Environmental Engineering (IIAMA), Universitat Politècnica de València, Camino de Vera s/n, 46022 Valencia, Spain; (L.S.); (L.M.-M.); (I.A.); (J.L.A.)
- Biotechnology Department, Universitat Politècnica de València, Camino de Vera s/n, 46022 Valencia, Spain;
| | - Inmaculada Amorós
- Research Institute of Water and Environmental Engineering (IIAMA), Universitat Politècnica de València, Camino de Vera s/n, 46022 Valencia, Spain; (L.S.); (L.M.-M.); (I.A.); (J.L.A.)
| | - José Luís Alonso
- Research Institute of Water and Environmental Engineering (IIAMA), Universitat Politècnica de València, Camino de Vera s/n, 46022 Valencia, Spain; (L.S.); (L.M.-M.); (I.A.); (J.L.A.)
| | - María Antonia Ferrús
- Biotechnology Department, Universitat Politècnica de València, Camino de Vera s/n, 46022 Valencia, Spain;
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Soler L, Moreno Y, Moreno-Mesonero L, Amorós I, Alonso JL, Ferrús MA. Microbiome of Free-Living Amoebae (FLA) Isolated from Fresh Organic Produce: Potential Risk to Consumers? Foods 2023; 12:3102. [DOI: https:/doi.org/10.3390/foods12163102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2023] Open
Abstract
In response to growing global interest in organic agriculture, this study delves into the microbial landscape of organically grown raw produce with a focus on food safety. Vegetables that are consumed raw are potential vehicles for the transmission of any type of microorganism capable of causing human disease. Free-living amoebae (FLA) are ubiquitous protozoa found in many ecosystems and can serve as hosts to pathogenic bacteria. So far, data regarding the FLA bacterial microbiome in fresh produce remain scarce and are non-existent for those of organic origin. Thus, the aim of this preliminary work is to characterize the microbiome of FLA in commonly consumed raw vegetables to know their possible implications for consumers. A total of 40 organic cabbage, lettuce, spinach, and strawberry samples were analyzed. FLA were found in all samples, and their bacterial microbiome was obtained via amplicon sequencing using the Illumina MiSeq platform and pair-end protocol. Acanthamoeba spp. and Vermamoeba vermiformis were identified via qPCR in 65.0% and 25.0% of the samples, respectively. Regarding the bacterial microbiome of FLA, the most abundant genera were Pseudomonas (1.8–17.8%) and Flavobacterium (1.7–12.6%). Bacteria not previously related to FLA, such as Prosthecobacter or Cellvibrio, are described in this work. Importantly, several bacterial genera found within the FLA microbiome were identified as potential human pathogens, including Pseudomonas, Flavobacterium, Arcobacter, Klebsiella, Mycobacterium, Salmonella and Legionella. This is the first work in which FLA microbiome isolated from organic products has been characterized, underscoring the significance of understanding FLA’s role as carriers of pathogenic bacteria in the context of organic food safety.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lara Soler
- Research Institute of Water and Environmental Engineering (IIAMA), Universitat Politècnica de València, Camino de Vera s/n, 46022 Valencia, Spain
| | - Yolanda Moreno
- Research Institute of Water and Environmental Engineering (IIAMA), Universitat Politècnica de València, Camino de Vera s/n, 46022 Valencia, Spain
| | - Laura Moreno-Mesonero
- Research Institute of Water and Environmental Engineering (IIAMA), Universitat Politècnica de València, Camino de Vera s/n, 46022 Valencia, Spain
- Biotechnology Department, Universitat Politècnica de València, Camino de Vera s/n, 46022 Valencia, Spain
| | - Inmaculada Amorós
- Research Institute of Water and Environmental Engineering (IIAMA), Universitat Politècnica de València, Camino de Vera s/n, 46022 Valencia, Spain
| | - José Luís Alonso
- Research Institute of Water and Environmental Engineering (IIAMA), Universitat Politècnica de València, Camino de Vera s/n, 46022 Valencia, Spain
| | - María Antonia Ferrús
- Biotechnology Department, Universitat Politècnica de València, Camino de Vera s/n, 46022 Valencia, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Heck N, Freudenthal J, Dumack K. Microeukaryotic predators shape the wastewater microbiome. WATER RESEARCH 2023; 242:120293. [PMID: 37421865 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2023.120293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Revised: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/10/2023]
Abstract
The physicochemical parameters that shape the prokaryotic community composition in wastewater have been extensively studied. In contrast, it is poorly understood whether and how biotic interactions affect the prokaryotic community composition in wastewater. We used metatranscriptomics data from a bioreactor sampled weekly over 14 months to investigate the wastewater microbiome, including often neglected microeukaryotes. Our analysis revealed that while prokaryotes are unaffected by seasonal changes in water temperature, they are impacted by a seasonal, temperature-induced change in the microeukaryotic community. Our findings suggest that selective predation pressure exerted by microeukaryotes is a significant factor shaping the prokaryotic community in wastewater. This study underscores the importance of investigating the entire wastewater microbiome to develop a comprehensive understanding of wastewater treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nils Heck
- Terrestrial Ecology, Institute of Zoology, University of Cologne, Zülpicher Str. 47b, Köln 50674, Germany
| | - Jule Freudenthal
- Terrestrial Ecology, Institute of Zoology, University of Cologne, Zülpicher Str. 47b, Köln 50674, Germany
| | - Kenneth Dumack
- Terrestrial Ecology, Institute of Zoology, University of Cologne, Zülpicher Str. 47b, Köln 50674, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Bhatt K, Suyal DC, Kumar S, Singh K, Goswami P. New insights into engineered plant-microbe interactions for pesticide removal. CHEMOSPHERE 2022; 309:136635. [PMID: 36183882 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2022.136635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2022] [Revised: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 09/25/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Over the past decades, rapid industrialization along with the overutilization of organic pollutants/pesticides has altered the environmental circumstances. Moreover, various anthropogenic, xenobiotics and natural activities also affected plants, soil, and human health, in both direct and indirect ways. To counter this, several conventional methods are currently practiced, but are uneconomical, noxious, and is yet inefficient for large-scale application. Plant-microbe interactions are mediated naturally in an ecosystem and are practiced in several areas. Plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) possess certain attributes affecting plant and soil consequently performing decontamination activity via a direct and indirect mechanism. PGPR also harbors indispensable genes stimulating the mineralization of several organic and inorganic compounds. This makes microbes potential candidates for contributing to sustainably remediating the harmful pesticide contaminants. There is a limited piece of information about the plant-microbe interaction pertaining predict and understand the overall interaction concerning a sustainable environment. Therefore, this review focuses on the plant-microbe interaction in the rhizosphere and inside the plant's tissues, along with the utilization augmenting the crop productivity, reduction in plant stress along with decontamination of pesticides/organic pollutants in soil for sustainable environmental management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kalpana Bhatt
- Department of Food Science, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, 47907, USA.
| | - Deep Chandra Suyal
- Department of Microbiology, Akal College of Basic Sciences, Eternal University, Baru Sahib, Sirmour, Himachal Pradesh, India.
| | - Saurabh Kumar
- ICAR-Research Complex for Eastern Region, Patna, 800014, Bihar, India
| | - Kuldeep Singh
- Department of Microbiology, Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, 125004, India
| | - Priya Goswami
- Department of Biotechnology, Mangalayatan University, Uttar Pradesh, India
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Trelis M, Sáez-Durán S, Puchades P, Castro N, Miquel A, Gozalbo M, Fuentes MV. Survey of the occurrence of Giardia duodenalis cysts and Cryptosporidium spp. oocysts in green leafy vegetables marketed in the city of Valencia (Spain). Int J Food Microbiol 2022; 379:109847. [PMID: 35905648 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijfoodmicro.2022.109847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Revised: 07/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The role of vegetables usually consumed without prior culinary treatment is known to contribute to the prevalence of foodborne diseases. Cysts and oocysts can contaminate food, which can then be the source of infection in humans. The aim of the study was to assess the occurrence of Giardia duodenalis and Cryptosporidium spp. (oo)cysts in green leafy vegetables marketed in the city of Valencia (Spain) combining parasitological methods, two real-time qPCRs and light microscopy. An experimental field study was conducted on 129 vegetable samples, 64 from conventional farms and 65 from ecological (organic) farms. The samples were washed with water, and the resulting solution after removing the vegetables, was subjected to 24-hour sedimentation. The concentrated sediment was used for the search for protozoa. A positive result by both real-time PCRs, or a positive result by one qPCR and confirmation by microscopy was established as a positivity criterion. Giardia duodenalis was detected in 23.0 % of the samples, and Cryptosporidium spp. in 7.8 %. G. duodenalis (41.5 %) and Cryptosporidium spp. (20.0 %) were more frequent in ecological crops. The high level of contamination detected in organic vegetables may be due to the type of fertilizers and the quality of the water used for their irrigation and reinforces the need to take extreme hygiene measures in vegetables that are consumed raw.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- María Trelis
- Parasite & Health Research Group, Department of Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Technology and Parasitology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Valencia, Burjassot, 46100, Valencia, Spain; Joint Research Unit on Endocrinology, Nutrition and Clinical Dietetics, University of Valencia-Health Research Institute La Fe, 46026, Valencia, Spain.
| | - Sandra Sáez-Durán
- Parasite & Health Research Group, Department of Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Technology and Parasitology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Valencia, Burjassot, 46100, Valencia, Spain.
| | - Pablo Puchades
- Parasite & Health Research Group, Department of Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Technology and Parasitology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Valencia, Burjassot, 46100, Valencia, Spain.
| | - Nicole Castro
- Parasite & Health Research Group, Department of Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Technology and Parasitology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Valencia, Burjassot, 46100, Valencia, Spain
| | - Ana Miquel
- Parasite & Health Research Group, Department of Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Technology and Parasitology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Valencia, Burjassot, 46100, Valencia, Spain.
| | - Mónica Gozalbo
- Area of Nutrition and Bromatology, University of Valencia, 46010, Valencia, Spain.
| | - Màrius Vicent Fuentes
- Parasite & Health Research Group, Department of Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Technology and Parasitology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Valencia, Burjassot, 46100, Valencia, Spain.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Moreno-Mesonero L, Hortelano I, Moreno Y, Ferrús MA. Evidence of viable Helicobacter pylori and other bacteria of public health interest associated with free-living amoebae in lettuce samples by next generation sequencing and other molecular techniques. Int J Food Microbiol 2020; 318:108477. [PMID: 31855786 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijfoodmicro.2019.108477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2019] [Revised: 12/04/2019] [Accepted: 12/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Vegetables are one of the sources from which Helicobacter pylori can be acquired. This bacterium infects >50% of the global population and is a recognized type I human carcinogen. H. pylori enters into the viable but non-culturable state when it is in the environment, and therefore the use of molecular techniques is much convenient for its detection. Free-living amoebae (FLA) are protozoans found in vegetables. They are transmission vehicles for amoeba-resistant bacteria, among which H. pylori is included. The aim of this study is to study the occurrence and viability of H. pylori from lettuce samples, H. pylori internalized into FLA and the microbiome of FLA isolated from these samples. Special focus was pointed to human pathogenic bacteria. H. pylori was not directly detected in any lettuce sample by means of molecular techniques and neither by culture. However, intra-amoebic H. pylori DNA was detected by means of PMA-qPCR in 55% of the samples and viable intra-amoebic H. pylori cells in 25% of the samples by means of DVC-FISH technique. When FLA microbiome was studied, 21 bacterial genera were part of FLA microbiome in all samples. Helicobacter genus was detected as part of the FLA microbiome in two samples. Other bacteria of public health interest such as Aeromonas sp., Arcobacter sp., Legionella sp., Mycobacterium sp., Pseudomonas sp. and Salmonella sp. were detected as part of FLA microbiome along the analysed samples. This study demonstrates for the first time that H. pylori is internalized as well as alive inside FLA isolated from vegetables. Moreover, this study shows that FLA promote H. pylori detection in environmental samples. In addition, as far as we are aware, this is the first study which studies the microbiome of FLA isolated from vegetables. Among the FLA microbiome, bacteria of public health interest were detected, pointing out that FLA are carriers of these pathogens which can reach humans and cause a public health concern.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Moreno-Mesonero
- Research Institute of Water and Environmental Engineering (IIAMA), Universitat Politècnica de València, 46022 Valencia, Spain.
| | - Irene Hortelano
- Research Institute of Water and Environmental Engineering (IIAMA), Universitat Politècnica de València, 46022 Valencia, Spain.
| | - Yolanda Moreno
- Research Institute of Water and Environmental Engineering (IIAMA), Universitat Politècnica de València, 46022 Valencia, Spain.
| | - Mª Antonia Ferrús
- Biotechnology Department, Universitat Politècnica de València, 46022 Valencia, Spain.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Flues S, Blokker M, Dumack K, Bonkowski M. Diversity of Cercomonad Species in the Phyllosphere and Rhizosphere of Different Plant Species with a Description of Neocercomonas epiphylla (Cercozoa, Rhizaria) a Leaf-Associated Protist. J Eukaryot Microbiol 2018; 65:587-599. [PMID: 29377417 DOI: 10.1111/jeu.12503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2017] [Revised: 01/16/2018] [Accepted: 01/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Cercomonads are among the most abundant and diverse groups of heterotrophic flagellates in terrestrial systems and show an affinity to plants. However, we still lack basic knowledge of plant-associated protists. We isolated 75 Cercomonadida strains from the phyllosphere and rhizosphere of plants from three functional groups: grasses (Poa sp.), legumes (Trifolium sp.) and forbs (Plantago sp.), representing 28 OTUs from the genera Cercomonas, Neocercomonas and Paracercomonas. The community composition differed clearly between phyllosphere and rhizosphere, but was not influenced by plant species identity. From these isolates we describe three novel cercomonad species including Neocercomonas epiphylla that was consistently and exclusively isolated from the phyllosphere. For each new species we provide a detailed morphological description as well as an 18S rDNA gene sequence as a distinct marker of species identity. Our data contribute to a better resolution of the systematics of cercomonads and their association with plants, by describing three novel species and adding gene sequences of 10 new cercomonad genotypes and of nine previously described species. In view of the functional importance of cercozoan communities in the phyllosphere and rhizosphere of plants, a more detailed understanding of their composition, function and predator-prey interactions are clearly required.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Flues
- Department of Terrestrial Ecology, Institute for Zoology, University of Cologne, Cologne, 50674, Germany
| | - Malte Blokker
- Department of Terrestrial Ecology, Institute for Zoology, University of Cologne, Cologne, 50674, Germany
| | - Kenneth Dumack
- Department of Terrestrial Ecology, Institute for Zoology, University of Cologne, Cologne, 50674, Germany
| | - Michael Bonkowski
- Department of Terrestrial Ecology, Institute for Zoology, University of Cologne, Cologne, 50674, Germany.,Cluster of Excellence on Plant Sciences (CEPLAS), University of Cologne, Cologne, 50674, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Sapp M, Ploch S, Fiore-Donno AM, Bonkowski M, Rose LE. Protists are an integral part of the Arabidopsis thaliana
microbiome. Environ Microbiol 2017; 20:30-43. [DOI: 10.1111/1462-2920.13941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2017] [Revised: 09/19/2017] [Accepted: 09/21/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Melanie Sapp
- Institute of Population Genetics, Universitätstrasse 1; Cluster of Excellence on Plant Sciences (CEPLAS), Heinrich Heine University; Universitätstrasse 40225 Düsseldorf Germany
- Institute of Zoology, Department of Terrestrial Ecology, Zülpicher Str 47b; Cluster of Excellence on Plant Sciences (CEPLAS), University of Cologne; Zülpicher Strasse 50674 Köln Germany
| | - Sebastian Ploch
- Institute of Population Genetics, Universitätstrasse 1; Cluster of Excellence on Plant Sciences (CEPLAS), Heinrich Heine University; Universitätstrasse 40225 Düsseldorf Germany
- Biodiversity and Climate Research Centre, Senckenberg Gesellschaft für Naturforschung, Senckenberganlage 25; 60325 Frankfurt am Main Germany
| | - Anna M. Fiore-Donno
- Institute of Zoology, Department of Terrestrial Ecology, Zülpicher Str 47b; Cluster of Excellence on Plant Sciences (CEPLAS), University of Cologne; Zülpicher Strasse 50674 Köln Germany
| | - Michael Bonkowski
- Institute of Zoology, Department of Terrestrial Ecology, Zülpicher Str 47b; Cluster of Excellence on Plant Sciences (CEPLAS), University of Cologne; Zülpicher Strasse 50674 Köln Germany
| | - Laura E. Rose
- Institute of Population Genetics, Universitätstrasse 1; Cluster of Excellence on Plant Sciences (CEPLAS), Heinrich Heine University; Universitätstrasse 40225 Düsseldorf Germany
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Deng W, Gibson KE. Interaction of microorganisms within leafy green phyllospheres: Where do human noroviruses fit in? Int J Food Microbiol 2017; 258:28-37. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijfoodmicro.2017.07.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2017] [Revised: 06/21/2017] [Accepted: 07/18/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
|
12
|
Flues S, Bass D, Bonkowski M. Grazing of leaf‐associated Cercomonads (Protists: Rhizaria: Cercozoa) structures bacterial community composition and function. Environ Microbiol 2017; 19:3297-3309. [DOI: 10.1111/1462-2920.13824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2016] [Revised: 06/06/2017] [Accepted: 06/07/2017] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Flues
- Department of Terrestrial Ecology, Institute of ZoologyUniversity of CologneZülpicher Straße 47bKöln 50674 Germany
| | - David Bass
- Department of Life SciencesThe Natural History MuseumCromwell RoadLondonSW7 5BD UK
- CefasBarrack Road, The Nothe, Weymouth, Dorset DT4 8UB UK
| | - Michael Bonkowski
- Department of Terrestrial Ecology, Institute of ZoologyUniversity of CologneZülpicher Straße 47bKöln 50674 Germany
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Ploch S, Rose LE, Bass D, Bonkowski M. High Diversity Revealed in Leaf-Associated Protists (Rhizaria: Cercozoa) of Brassicaceae. J Eukaryot Microbiol 2016; 63:635-41. [PMID: 27005328 PMCID: PMC5031217 DOI: 10.1111/jeu.12314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2015] [Revised: 01/20/2016] [Accepted: 03/12/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The largest biological surface on earth is formed by plant leaves. These leaf surfaces are colonized by a specialized suite of leaf-inhabiting microorganisms, recently termed "phyllosphere microbiome". Microbial prey, however, attract microbial predators. Protists in particular have been shown to structure bacterial communities on plant surfaces, but virtually nothing is known about the community composition of protists on leaves. Using newly designed specific primers targeting the 18S rDNA gene of Cercozoa, we investigated the species richness of this common protist group on leaves of four Brassicaceae species from two different locations in a cloning-based approach. The generated sequences revealed a broad diversity of leaf-associated Cercozoa, mostly bacterial feeders, but also including known plant pathogens and a taxon of potential endophytes that were recently described as algal predators in freshwater systems. This initial study shows that protists must be regarded as an integral part of the microbial diversity in the phyllosphere of plants.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Ploch
- Institute of Population Genetics, Cluster of Excellence in Plant Sciences, University of Düsseldorf, Universitätsstr. 1, D-40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
- Senckenberg Biodiversity and Climate Research Center, Georg-Voigt-Street 14-16, D-60325, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Laura E Rose
- Institute of Population Genetics, Cluster of Excellence in Plant Sciences, University of Düsseldorf, Universitätsstr. 1, D-40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - David Bass
- Department of Life Sciences, The Natural History Museum, London, SW7 5BD, United Kingdom
- Centre for Environment, Fisheries, and Aquaculture Science (Cefas), Barrack Road, The Nothe, Weymouth, Dorset, DT4 8UB, United Kingdom
| | - Michael Bonkowski
- Department of Terrestrial Ecology, Institute of Zoology, University of Cologne, Zülpicher Street 47b, D-50674, Köln, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Siqueira-Castro ICV, Greinert-Goulart JA, Bonatti TR, Yamashiro S, Franco RMB. First report of predation of Giardia sp. cysts by ciliated protozoa and confirmation of predation of Cryptosporidium spp. oocysts by ciliate species. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2016; 23:11357-11362. [PMID: 27098881 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-016-6689-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2016] [Accepted: 04/12/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Ciliated protozoa are important components of the microbial food web in various habitats, especially aquatic environments. These organisms are useful bioindicators for both environmental quality assessment and the wastewater purification process. The pathogenic parasitic protozoan species Giardia and Cryptosporidium represent a significant concern for human health, being responsible for numerous disease outbreaks worldwide. The predation of cysts and oocysts in 15 ciliate species from water and sewage samples collected in Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil were verified under laboratory conditions. The ciliated protozoan species were selected based on their mode of nutrition, and only bacterivorous and suspension-feeders were considered for the experiments. The species Blepharisma sinuosum, Euplotes aediculatus, Sterkiella cavicola, Oxytricha granulifera, Vorticella infusionum, Spirostomum minus, and Stentor coeruleus ingested cysts and oocysts, the resistance forms of Giardia spp. and Cryptosporidium spp., respectively. This is the first time that the ingestion of Giardia cysts by ciliated protozoa has been reported. These findings may contribute to a better understanding of the biological removal of these pathogens from aquatic environments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Isabel Cristina Vidal Siqueira-Castro
- Protozoology Laboratory, Biology Institute, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil.
- Cidade Universitária Zeferino Vaz, Rua Monteiro Lobato 255, CEP 13.083-862, Campinas, SP, Brazil.
| | - Juliane Araújo Greinert-Goulart
- Protozoology Laboratory, Biology Institute, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
- Parasitology Laboratory, Regional University of Blumenau (FURB), Blumenau, SC, Brazil
| | - Tais Rondello Bonatti
- Protozoology Laboratory, Biology Institute, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sandra Yamashiro
- Protozoology Laboratory, Biology Institute, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Regina Maura Bueno Franco
- Protozoology Laboratory, Biology Institute, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Chavatte N, Lambrecht E, Van Damme I, Sabbe K, Houf K. Abundance, diversity and community composition of free-living protozoa on vegetable sprouts. Food Microbiol 2015; 55:55-63. [PMID: 26742616 DOI: 10.1016/j.fm.2015.11.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2015] [Revised: 11/09/2015] [Accepted: 11/20/2015] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Interactions with free-living protozoa (FLP) have been implicated in the persistence of pathogenic bacteria on food products. In order to assess the potential involvement of FLP in this contamination, detailed knowledge on their occurrence, abundance and diversity on food products is required. In the present study, enrichment and cultivation methods were used to inventory and quantify FLP on eight types of commercial vegetable sprouts (alfalfa, beetroot, cress, green pea, leek, mung bean, red cabbage and rosabi). In parallel, total aerobic bacteria and Escherichia coli counts were performed. The vegetable sprouts harbored diverse communities of FLP, with Tetrahymena (ciliate), Bodo saltans and cercomonads (flagellates), and Acanthamoeba and Vannella (amoebae) as the dominant taxa. Protozoan community composition and abundance significantly differed between the sprout types. Beetroot harbored the most abundant and diverse FLP communities, with many unique species such as Korotnevella sp., Vannella sp., Chilodonella sp., Podophrya sp. and Sphaerophrya sp. In contrast, mung bean sprouts were species-poor and had low FLP numbers. Sampling month and company had no significant influence, suggesting that seasonal and local factors are of minor importance. Likewise, no significant relationship between protozoan community composition and bacterial load was observed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- N Chavatte
- Department of Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium.
| | - E Lambrecht
- Department of Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium.
| | - I Van Damme
- Department of Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium.
| | - K Sabbe
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281, 9000 Ghent, Belgium.
| | - K Houf
- Department of Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Lambrecht E, Baré J, Chavatte N, Bert W, Sabbe K, Houf K. Protozoan Cysts Act as a Survival Niche and Protective Shelter for Foodborne Pathogenic Bacteria. Appl Environ Microbiol 2015; 81:5604-12. [PMID: 26070667 PMCID: PMC4510183 DOI: 10.1128/aem.01031-15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2015] [Accepted: 06/04/2015] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The production of cysts, an integral part of the life cycle of many free-living protozoa, allows these organisms to survive adverse environmental conditions. Given the prevalence of free-living protozoa in food-related environments, it is hypothesized that these organisms play an important yet currently underinvestigated role in the epidemiology of foodborne pathogenic bacteria. Intracystic bacterial survival is highly relevant, as this would allow bacteria to survive the stringent cleaning and disinfection measures applied in food-related environments. The present study shows that strains of widespread and important foodborne bacteria (Salmonella enterica, Escherichia coli, Yersinia enterocolitica, and Listeria monocytogenes) survive inside cysts of the ubiquitous amoeba Acanthamoeba castellanii, even when exposed to either antibiotic treatment (100 μg/ml gentamicin) or highly acidic conditions (pH 0.2) and resume active growth in broth media following excystment. Strain- and species-specific differences in survival periods were observed, with Salmonella enterica surviving up to 3 weeks inside amoebal cysts. Up to 53% of the cysts were infected with pathogenic bacteria, which were located in the cyst cytosol. Our study suggests that the role of free-living protozoa and especially their cysts in the persistence and epidemiology of foodborne bacterial pathogens in food-related environments may be much more important than hitherto assumed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ellen Lambrecht
- Department of Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Julie Baré
- Department of Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Natascha Chavatte
- Department of Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Wim Bert
- Nematology Research Unit, Department of Biology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Koen Sabbe
- Laboratory of Protistology and Aquatic Ecology, Department of Biology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Kurt Houf
- Department of Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Ramirez-Martinez ML, Olmos-Ortiz LM, Barajas-Mendiola MA, Giono Cerezo S, Avila EE, Cuellar-Mata P. A PCR procedure for the detection of Giardia intestinalis cysts and Escherichia coli in lettuce. Lett Appl Microbiol 2015; 60:517-23. [PMID: 25689035 DOI: 10.1111/lam.12402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2014] [Revised: 01/30/2015] [Accepted: 02/01/2015] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Giardia intestinalis is a pathogen associated with foodborne outbreaks and Escherichia coli is commonly used as a marker of faecal contamination. Implementation of routine identification methods of G. intestinalis is difficult for the analysis of vegetables and the microbiological detection of E. coli requires several days. This study proposes a PCR-based assay for the detection of E. coli and G. intestinalis cysts using crude DNA isolated from artificially contaminated lettuce. The G. intestinalis and E. coli PCR assays targeted the β-giardin and uidA genes, respectively, and were 100% specific. Forty lettuces from local markets were analysed by both PCR and light microscopy and no cysts were detected, the calculated detection limit was 20 cysts per gram of lettuce; however, by PCR, E. coli was detected in eight of ten randomly selected samples of lettuce. These data highlight the need to validate procedures for routine quality assurance. These PCR-based assays can be employed as alternative methods for the detection of G. intestinalis and E. coli and have the potential to allow for the automation and simultaneous detection of protozoa and bacterial pathogens in multiple samples. Significance and impact of the study: There are few studies for Giardia intestinalis detection in food because methods for its identification are difficult for routine implementation. Here, we developed a PCR-based method as an alternative to the direct observation of cysts in lettuce by light microscopy. Additionally, Escherichia coli was detected by PCR and the sanitary quality of lettuce was evaluated using molecular and standard microbiological methods. Using PCR, the detection probability of Giardia cysts inoculated onto samples of lettuce was improved compared to light microscopy, with the advantage of easy automation. These methods may be employed to perform timely and affordable detection of foodborne pathogens.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M L Ramirez-Martinez
- Departamento de Biologia, Division de Ciencias Naturales y Exactas, Universidad de Guanajuato, Guanajuato, Mexico
| | - L M Olmos-Ortiz
- Departamento de Biologia, Division de Ciencias Naturales y Exactas, Universidad de Guanajuato, Guanajuato, Mexico
| | - M A Barajas-Mendiola
- Departamento de Biologia, Division de Ciencias Naturales y Exactas, Universidad de Guanajuato, Guanajuato, Mexico
| | - S Giono Cerezo
- Departamento de Microbiologia, Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biologicas, Instituto Politecnico Nacional, Delegacion Miguel Hidalgo, DF, Mexico
| | - E E Avila
- Departamento de Biologia, Division de Ciencias Naturales y Exactas, Universidad de Guanajuato, Guanajuato, Mexico
| | - P Cuellar-Mata
- Departamento de Biologia, Division de Ciencias Naturales y Exactas, Universidad de Guanajuato, Guanajuato, Mexico
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Santos-Montañez J, Benavides-Montaño JA, Hinz AK, Vadyvaloo V. Yersinia pseudotuberculosis IP32953 survives and replicates in trophozoites and persists in cysts of Acanthamoeba castellanii. FEMS Microbiol Lett 2015; 362:fnv091. [PMID: 26025069 DOI: 10.1093/femsle/fnv091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/26/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Yersinia pseudotuberculosis is a foodborne enteric pathogen that causes a mild self-limiting diarrhea in humans. Yersinia pseudotuberculosis is able to persist in soil and water and in association with fresh produce, but the mechanism by which it persists is unknown. It has been shown that Y. pseudotuberculosis co-occurs with protozoans in these environments; therefore, this study investigates if bacterivorous free-living amoeba (FLA) are able to support persistence of Y. pseudotuberculosis. Coculture studies of Y. pseudotuberculosis and the prototype FLA, Acanthamoeba castellanii revealed that bacteria had an enhanced capacity to survive in association with amoeba and in the absence of any cytotoxic effects. Yersinia pseudotuberculosis is able to survive and replicate in trophozoites specifically localized within vacuoles, and persists within cysts over a period of at least a week. These data present the first evidence that Y. pseudotuberculosis is able to resist the bacterivorous nature of FLA and instead exhibits an enhanced ability to replicate and persist in coculture with amoeba. This study sheds light on the potential role of FLA in the ecology of Y. pseudotuberculosis which may have implications for food safety.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Santos-Montañez
- Paul G. Allen School for Global Animal Health, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, WA 99164, USA
| | - Javier A Benavides-Montaño
- Paul G. Allen School for Global Animal Health, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, WA 99164, USA Departamento Ciencia Animal, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, A. A. 237, Palmira Valle, Colombia
| | - Angela K Hinz
- Paul G. Allen School for Global Animal Health, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, WA 99164, USA
| | - Viveka Vadyvaloo
- Paul G. Allen School for Global Animal Health, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, WA 99164, USA
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Chavatte N, Baré J, Lambrecht E, Van Damme I, Vaerewijck M, Sabbe K, Houf K. Co-occurrence of free-living protozoa and foodborne pathogens on dishcloths: Implications for food safety. Int J Food Microbiol 2014; 191:89-96. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijfoodmicro.2014.08.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2014] [Revised: 08/21/2014] [Accepted: 08/24/2014] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
|
20
|
Vaerewijck MJ, Baré J, Lambrecht E, Sabbe K, Houf K. Interactions of Foodborne Pathogens with Free-living Protozoa: Potential Consequences for Food Safety. Compr Rev Food Sci Food Saf 2014. [DOI: 10.1111/1541-4337.12100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Julie Baré
- Dept. of Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety, Ghent Univ; Belgium
| | - Ellen Lambrecht
- Dept. of Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety, Ghent Univ; Belgium
| | - Koen Sabbe
- Laboratory of Protistology and Aquatic Ecology; Dept. of Biology, Ghent Univ; Belgium
| | - Kurt Houf
- Dept. of Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety, Ghent Univ; Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Schuppler M. How the interaction of Listeria monocytogenes and Acanthamoeba spp. affects growth and distribution of the food borne pathogen. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2014; 98:2907-16. [PMID: 24557567 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-014-5546-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2013] [Revised: 01/10/2014] [Accepted: 01/13/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Listeria monocytogenes is a foodborne opportunistic pathogen capable to switch from an environmental saprophyte to a potentially fatal human pathogen. The fact that the pathogen maintains the genes suitable for an elaborate infectious process indicates that these genes are required to survive in the environment. However, no environmental host reservoir for L. monocytogenes has been identified so far. The similarity of free-living, bacteria-scavenging amoebae to macrophages led to the hypothesis that protozoa may represent the missing link in the ecology and pathology of L. monocytogenes. Consequently, numerous studies have been published reporting on the potential of Acanthamoeba spp. to serve as host for a variety of pathogenic bacteria. However, the data on the interaction of L. monocytogenes with Acanthamoeba spp. are inconsistent and relatively little information on the impact of this interaction on growth and distribution of the foodborne pathogen is currently available. Hence, this review focuses on the interaction of L. monocytogenes and Acanthamoeba spp. affecting survival and growth of the foodborne pathogen in natural and man-made environments, in order to highlight the potential impact of this interplay on food safety and human health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Markus Schuppler
- Institute of Food, Nutrition and Health, ETH Zurich, Schmelzbergstrasse 7, 8092, Zurich, Switzerland,
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Lambrecht E, Baré J, Van Damme I, Bert W, Sabbe K, Houf K. Behavior of Yersinia enterocolitica in the presence of the bacterivorous Acanthamoeba castellanii. Appl Environ Microbiol 2013; 79:6407-13. [PMID: 23934496 PMCID: PMC3811209 DOI: 10.1128/aem.01915-13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2013] [Accepted: 08/06/2013] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Free-living protozoa play an important role in the ecology and epidemiology of human-pathogenic bacteria. In the present study, the interaction between Yersinia enterocolitica, an important food-borne pathogen, and the free-living amoeba Acanthamoeba castellanii was studied. Several cocultivation assays were set up to assess the resistance of Y. enterocolitica to A. castellanii predation and the impact of environmental factors and bacterial strain-specific characteristics. Results showed that all Y. enterocolitica strains persist in association with A. castellanii for at least 14 days, and associations with A. castellanii enhanced survival of Yersinia under nutrient-rich conditions at 25°C and under nutrient-poor conditions at 37°C. Amoebae cultivated in the supernatant of one Yersinia strain showed temperature- and time-dependent permeabilization. Intraprotozoan survival of Y. enterocolitica depended on nutrient availability and temperature, with up to 2.8 log CFU/ml bacteria displaying intracellular survival at 7°C for at least 4 days in nutrient-rich medium. Transmission electron microscopy was performed to locate the Yersinia cells inside the amoebae. As Yersinia and Acanthamoeba share similar ecological niches, this interaction identifies a role of free-living protozoa in the ecology and epidemiology of Y. enterocolitica.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- E. Lambrecht
- Department of Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - J. Baré
- Department of Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - I. Van Damme
- Department of Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - W. Bert
- Nematology Unit, Department of Biology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - K. Sabbe
- Laboratory of Protistology and Aquatic Ecology, Department of Biology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - K. Houf
- Department of Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|