1
|
Mes W, Lücker S, Jetten MSM, Siepel H, Gorissen M, van Kessel MAHJ. Comparison of the gill and gut microbiomes of common carp (Cyprinus carpio) and zebrafish (Danio rerio) and their RAS environment. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 896:165212. [PMID: 37391154 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.165212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/02/2023]
Abstract
Recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) are increasingly being used to grow fish, as intensive water reuse reduces water consumption and environmental impact. RAS use biofilters containing nitrogen-cycling microorganisms that remove ammonia from the aquaculture water. Knowledge of how RAS microbial communities relate to the fish-associated microbiome is limited, as is knowledge of fish-associated microbiota in general. Recently, nitrogen-cycling bacteria have been discovered in zebrafish and carp gills and shown to detoxify ammonia in a manner similar to the RAS biofilter. Here, we compared RAS water and biofilter microbiomes with fish-associated gut and gill microbial communities in laboratory RAS housing either zebrafish (Danio rerio) or common carp (Cyprinus carpio) using 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing. The phylogeny of ammonia-oxidizing bacteria in the gills and the RAS environment was investigated in more detail by phylogenetic analysis of the ammonia monooxygenase subunit A (amoA). The location from which the microbiome was sampled (RAS compartments and gills or gut) had a stronger effect on community composition than the fish species, but species-specific differences were also observed. We found that carp- and zebrafish-associated microbiomes were highly distinct from their respective RAS microbiomes, characterized by lower overall diversity and a small core microbiome consisting of taxa specifically adapted to the respective organ. The gill microbiome was also defined by a high proportion of unique taxa. Finally, we found that amoA sequences from the gills were distinct from those from the RAS biofilter and water. Our results showed that the gut and gill microbiomes of carp and zebrafish share a common and species-specific core microbiome that is distinct from the microbially-rich RAS environment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wouter Mes
- Cluster Microbiology, Radboud Institute for Biological and Environmental Sciences, Radboud University, Nijmegen, the Netherlands; Cluster Ecology & Physiology, Radboud Institute for Biological and Environmental Sciences, Radboud University, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Sebastian Lücker
- Cluster Microbiology, Radboud Institute for Biological and Environmental Sciences, Radboud University, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Mike S M Jetten
- Cluster Microbiology, Radboud Institute for Biological and Environmental Sciences, Radboud University, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Henk Siepel
- Cluster Ecology & Physiology, Radboud Institute for Biological and Environmental Sciences, Radboud University, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Marnix Gorissen
- Cluster Ecology & Physiology, Radboud Institute for Biological and Environmental Sciences, Radboud University, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Maartje A H J van Kessel
- Cluster Microbiology, Radboud Institute for Biological and Environmental Sciences, Radboud University, Nijmegen, the Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Dang M, Dien TD, Ha VT, Hua VC, Thanh NTH, Nowak BF. Epitheliocystis in armoured catfish (Pterygoplichthys spp.), anabas (Anabas testudineus) and tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) in central Vietnam. JOURNAL OF FISH DISEASES 2022; 45:755-760. [PMID: 35180313 DOI: 10.1111/jfd.13598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2021] [Revised: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/11/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Mai Dang
- Institute for Veterinary Research and Development of Central Vietnam, Nha Trang, Vietnam
| | - Tran Duc Dien
- Coastal Branch, Vietnam - Russia Tropical Center, Nha Trang, Vietnam
| | - Vo Thi Ha
- Coastal Branch, Vietnam - Russia Tropical Center, Nha Trang, Vietnam
| | - Viet Cuong Hua
- Institute for Veterinary Research and Development of Central Vietnam, Nha Trang, Vietnam
| | | | - Barbara F Nowak
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, Launceston, Tasmania, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Screening and validation of reference genes for qPCR analysis in gonads and embryos of Takifugu bimaculatus. AQUACULTURE AND FISHERIES 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.aaf.2020.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
|
4
|
Dinh-Hung N, Dong HT, Soontara C, Rodkhum C, Nimitkul S, Srisapoome P, Kayansamruaj P, Chatchaiphan S. Co-infection of Candidatus Piscichlamydia Trichopodus (Order Chlamydiales) and Henneguya sp. (Myxosporea, Myxobolidae) in Snakeskin Gourami Trichopodus pectoralis (Regan 1910). Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:847977. [PMID: 35359670 PMCID: PMC8961658 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.847977] [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: 01/03/2022] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study describes a simultaneous infection of a novel Chlamydia-like organism (CLO) with a Myxozoa parasite, Henneguya sp. in snakeskin gourami Trichopodus pectoralis in Thailand. A new CLO is proposed “Candidatus Piscichlamydia trichopodus” (CPT) based on 16S rRNA phylogenetic analysis. Systemic intracellular CPT infection was confirmed by histological examination, in situ hybridization, PCR assay, and sequencing of 16S rRNA. This novel pathogen belongs to the order Chlamydiales but differs in certain aspects from other species. The histopathological changes associated with CPT infection were different from the typical pathological lesions of epitheliocystis caused by previously known CLO. Unlike other CLO, CPT localized in the connective tissue rather than in the epithelial cells and formed smaller clumps of intracellular bacteria that stained dark blue with hematoxylin. On the other hand, typical myxospores of the genus Henneguya with tails were observed in the gill sections. Infection with Henneguya sp. resulted in extensive destruction of the gill filaments, most likely leading to respiratory distress. Due to the frequency of co-infections and the unavailability of culture methods for CLO and Henneguya sp., it was difficult to determine which pathogens were directly responsible for the associated mortality. However, co-infections may increase the negative impact on the host and the severity of the disease. Given the commercial importance of the snakeskin gourami and its significant aquaculture potential, the findings of this study are important for further studies on disease prevention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nguyen Dinh-Hung
- The International Graduate Program of Veterinary Science and Technology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Center of Excellence in Fish Infectious Diseases, Department of Veterinary Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Ha Thanh Dong
- Department of Food, Agriculture and Bioresources, Aquaculture and Aquatic Resources Management Program, Asian Institute of Technology, School of Environment, Klong Luang, Thailand
| | - Chayanit Soontara
- Department of Aquaculture, Faculty of Fisheries, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Channarong Rodkhum
- The International Graduate Program of Veterinary Science and Technology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Center of Excellence in Fish Infectious Diseases, Department of Veterinary Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Sukkrit Nimitkul
- Department of Aquaculture, Faculty of Fisheries, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Prapansak Srisapoome
- Department of Aquaculture, Faculty of Fisheries, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Center of Excellence in Aquatic Animal Health Management, Faculty of Fisheries, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Pattanapon Kayansamruaj
- Department of Aquaculture, Faculty of Fisheries, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Center of Excellence in Aquatic Animal Health Management, Faculty of Fisheries, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, Thailand
- *Correspondence: Pattanapon Kayansamruaj
| | - Satid Chatchaiphan
- Department of Aquaculture, Faculty of Fisheries, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Satid Chatchaiphan
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Novacovsky GN, Palacios MG, Sueiro MC. Epitheliocystis in wild marine fishes and its relation with anthropogenic pollution. JOURNAL OF FISH BIOLOGY 2021; 99:1519-1523. [PMID: 34159586 DOI: 10.1111/jfb.14826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2020] [Revised: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Epitheliocystis is a fish disease with recorded in increasing numbers globally. Here we show that (a) pollution-exposed wild marine fishes have higher infection prevalence than nonexposed individuals from reference sites, suggesting that anthropogenic pollution predisposes individuals to this disease in natural systems, (b) the effect of pollution on infection status did not vary significantly between two sympatric fish species, and (c) infected and noninfected individuals from both species did not differ significantly in selected immune and general-health parameters, a result that deserves further study with increased sample sizes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela N Novacovsky
- Centro para el Estudio de Sistemas Marinos, Centro Nacional Patagónico - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas), Puerto Madryn, Argentina
| | - María G Palacios
- Centro para el Estudio de Sistemas Marinos, Centro Nacional Patagónico - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas), Puerto Madryn, Argentina
| | - María C Sueiro
- Centro para el Estudio de Sistemas Marinos, Centro Nacional Patagónico - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas), Puerto Madryn, Argentina
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Abstract
"The piscine respiratory system is represented by gills. Gill diseases are extremely common and may be caused by a large variety of etiologic agents. The gills are in direct contact with water and reflect its quality, for example, pollution, and they also must face the presence of biotic agents, such as viruses, bacteria, fungi, and parasites. Evolution has established many defense mechanisms to combat these agents. Failure of these mechanisms is life-threatening for the fish, due to impaired respiration. Gills are relatively easily accessible for clinical examination and sampling, which facilitates intravital diagnosis."
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ladislav Novotny
- Finn Pathologists, CVS Group plc, Norfolk, UK; Novopath Ltd, Ceperka, Czech Republic.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Mangus LM, França MS, Shivaprasad HL, Wolf JC. Research-Relevant Background Lesions and Conditions in Common Avian and Aquatic Species. ILAR J 2021; 62:169-202. [PMID: 33782706 DOI: 10.1093/ilar/ilab008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2020] [Revised: 11/18/2020] [Accepted: 12/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-mammalian vertebrates including birds, fish, and amphibians have a long history of contributing to ground-breaking scientific discoveries. Because these species offer several experimental advantages over higher vertebrates and share extensive anatomic and genetic homology with their mammalian counterparts, they remain popular animal models in a variety of fields such as developmental biology, physiology, toxicology, drug discovery, immunology, toxicology, and infectious disease. As with all animal models, familiarity with the anatomy, physiology, and spontaneous diseases of these species is necessary for ensuring animal welfare, as well as accurate interpretation and reporting of study findings. Working with avian and aquatic species can be especially challenging in this respect due to their rich diversity and array of unique adaptations. Here, we provide an overview of the research-relevant anatomic features, non-infectious conditions, and infectious diseases that impact research colonies of birds and aquatic animals, including fish and Xenopus species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lisa M Mangus
- Department of Molecular and Comparative Pathobiology, Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Monique S França
- Poultry Diagnostic and Research Center, The University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA
| | - H L Shivaprasad
- California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory System, University of California, Davis, Tulare, California, USA
| | - Jeffrey C Wolf
- Experimental Pathology Laboratories, Inc., Sterling, Virginia, USA
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Ji Q, Wang S, Ma J, Liu Q. A review: Progress in the development of fish Vibrio spp. vaccines. Immunol Lett 2020; 226:46-54. [DOI: 10.1016/j.imlet.2020.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2020] [Revised: 06/28/2020] [Accepted: 07/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
|
9
|
CHLAMYDIAL INFECTION MONITORING WITHIN WILD MAMMALS IN UKRAINE. WORLD OF MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2019. [DOI: 10.26724/2079-8334-2019-1-67-227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
|
10
|
Munang'andu HM. Intracellular Bacterial Infections: A Challenge for Developing Cellular Mediated Immunity Vaccines for Farmed Fish. Microorganisms 2018; 6:microorganisms6020033. [PMID: 29690563 PMCID: PMC6027125 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms6020033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2018] [Revised: 04/15/2018] [Accepted: 04/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Aquaculture is one of the most rapidly expanding farming systems in the world. Its rapid expansion has brought with it several pathogens infecting different fish species. As a result, there has been a corresponding expansion in vaccine development to cope with the increasing number of infectious diseases in aquaculture. The success of vaccine development for bacterial diseases in aquaculture is largely attributed to empirical vaccine designs based on inactivation of whole cell (WCI) bacteria vaccines. However, an upcoming challenge in vaccine design is the increase of intracellular bacterial pathogens that are not responsive to WCI vaccines. Intracellular bacterial vaccines evoke cellular mediated immune (CMI) responses that “kill” and eliminate infected cells, unlike WCI vaccines that induce humoral immune responses whose protective mechanism is neutralization of extracellular replicating pathogens by antibodies. In this synopsis, I provide an overview of the intracellular bacterial pathogens infecting different fish species in aquaculture, outlining their mechanisms of invasion, replication, and survival intracellularly based on existing data. I also bring into perspective the current state of CMI understanding in fish together with its potential application in vaccine development. Further, I highlight the immunological pitfalls that have derailed our ability to produce protective vaccines against intracellular pathogens for finfish. Overall, the synopsis put forth herein advocates for a shift in vaccine design to include CMI-based vaccines against intracellular pathogens currently adversely affecting the aquaculture industry.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hetron Mweemba Munang'andu
- Section of Aquatic Medicine and Nutrition, Department of Basic Sciences and Aquatic Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Biosciences, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Ullevålsveien 72, P.O. Box 8146, Dep NO-0033, 046 Oslo, Norway.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Sood N, Pradhan PK, Verma DK, Yadav MK, Dev AK, Swaminathan TR, Sood NK. Candidatus Actinochlamydia pangasiae sp. nov. (Chlamydiales, Actinochlamydiaceae), a bacterium associated with epitheliocystis in Pangasianodon hypophthalmus. JOURNAL OF FISH DISEASES 2018; 41:281-290. [PMID: 28940578 DOI: 10.1111/jfd.12711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2017] [Revised: 08/01/2017] [Accepted: 08/02/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Chlamydial infections are recognised as causative agent of epitheliocystis, reported from over 90 fish species. In the present study, the farmed striped catfish Pangasianodon hypophthalmus (14-15 cm, 70-90 g) with a history of cumulative mortality of about 23% during June and July 2015, were brought to the laboratory. The histopathological examination of gills from the affected fish revealed presence of granular basophilic intracellular inclusions, mostly at the base of the interlamellar region and in gill filaments. A concurrent infection with Trichodina spp., Ichthyobodo spp. and Dactylogyrus spp. was observed in the gills. The presence of chlamydial DNA in the gills of affected fish was confirmed by amplification and sequencing of 16S rRNA gene. BLAST-n analysis of these amplicons revealed maximum similarity (96%) with Candidatus Actinochlamydia clariae. On the basis of phylogenetic analysis, it was inferred that the epitheliocystis agents from striped catfish were novel and belonged to the taxon Ca. Actinochlamydia. It is proposed that epitheliocystis agents from striped catfish will be named as Ca. Actinochlamydia pangasiae. The 16S rRNA gene amplicons from novel chlamydiae were labelled and linked to inclusions by in situ hybridisation. This is the first report of epitheliocystis from India in a new fish host P. hypophthalmus.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- N Sood
- ICAR-National Bureau of Fish Genetic Resources, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - P K Pradhan
- ICAR-National Bureau of Fish Genetic Resources, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - D K Verma
- ICAR-National Bureau of Fish Genetic Resources, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - M K Yadav
- ICAR-National Bureau of Fish Genetic Resources, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - A K Dev
- ICAR-National Bureau of Fish Genetic Resources, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - T R Swaminathan
- Peninsular and Marine Fish Genetic Resources Centre, ICAR-NBFGR, Kochi, Kerala
| | - N K Sood
- Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Ludhiana, Punjab, India
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Ross PM, Pande A, Jones JB, Cope J, Flowers G. First detection of gas bubble disease and Rickettsia-like organisms in Paphies ventricosa, a New Zealand surf clam. JOURNAL OF FISH DISEASES 2018; 41:187-190. [PMID: 28708277 DOI: 10.1111/jfd.12684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2017] [Revised: 06/10/2017] [Accepted: 06/12/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- P M Ross
- University of Waikato, Coastal Marine Field Station, Tauranga, New Zealand
| | - A Pande
- Animal Health Laboratory, Ministry for Primary Industries, Upper Hutt, New Zealand
| | - J B Jones
- Animal Health Laboratory, Ministry for Primary Industries, Upper Hutt, New Zealand
| | - J Cope
- University of Waikato, Coastal Marine Field Station, Tauranga, New Zealand
| | - G Flowers
- University of Waikato, Coastal Marine Field Station, Tauranga, New Zealand
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Fu D, Bridle A, Leef M, Norte Dos Santos C, Nowak B. Hepatic expression of metal-related genes and gill histology in sand flathead (Platycephalus bassensis) from a metal contaminated estuary. MARINE ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2017; 131:80-89. [PMID: 28943068 DOI: 10.1016/j.marenvres.2017.09.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2017] [Revised: 09/12/2017] [Accepted: 09/16/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Hepatic gene expression and gill histology were measured in sand flathead (Platycephalus bassensis) from a metal polluted estuary. The gene expression analyses were conducted on fish from two most polluted sites and a reference site. The metal-related genes were metal-regulatory transcription factor 1 (MTF1), transferrin (TF), ferriportin1 (FPN1), ferritin and metallothionein. The transcripts of MTF1, TF, and FPN1 were significantly higher in the liver of fish caught at polluted sites, suggesting these genes are potential biomarkers for environmental exposure to metal. Strong correlations were found between the transcripts of these three genes. Four types of gill lesions such as hyperplasia and lamellar fusion, epitheliocystis, telangiectasis, and deformed filament were observed in sampled fish. There was significant difference in the prevalence of epitheliocystis and telangiectasis between the fish from the polluted areas and reference area. Gill parasites were less prevalent in the flathead from polluted sites. The gill histopathological results indicated both pollutants and infections could contribute to gill lesions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dingkun Fu
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, Locked Bag 1370, Launceston, Tasmania 7250, Australia.
| | - Andrew Bridle
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, Locked Bag 1370, Launceston, Tasmania 7250, Australia
| | - Melanie Leef
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, Locked Bag 1370, Launceston, Tasmania 7250, Australia
| | - Catarina Norte Dos Santos
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, Locked Bag 1370, Launceston, Tasmania 7250, Australia
| | - Barbara Nowak
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, Locked Bag 1370, Launceston, Tasmania 7250, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Guevara Soto M, Vidondo B, Vaughan L, Rubin JF, Segner H, Samartin S, Schmidt-Posthaus H. Investigations into the temporal development of epitheliocystis infections in brown trout: a histological study. JOURNAL OF FISH DISEASES 2017; 40:811-819. [PMID: 27670837 DOI: 10.1111/jfd.12562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2016] [Revised: 08/30/2016] [Accepted: 08/30/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Epitheliocystis in Swiss brown trout (Salmo trutta) is a chlamydial infection, mainly caused by Candidatus Piscichlamydia salmonis and Candidatus Clavichlamydia salmonicola. To gain a better understanding of the temporal development of infections in wild brown trout, we investigated epitheliocystis infections during the course of the summer and autumn months of a single year (2015), and compared this to sampling points over the span of the years 2012-2014. The survey focused on tributaries (Venoge and Boiron) of the Rhone flowing in to Lake Geneva. When evaluated histologically, epitheliocystis infections were found throughout the period of investigation with the exception of the month of June. Fifty to 86 animals per sampling were investigated. Highest prevalence and infection intensities were seen in September. A correlation between epitheliocystis infection and water temperatures was not evident. Interyear comparison revealed consistent levels of prevalence and infection intensities in late summer. The absence of infections in June, combined with the consistent interyear results, indicates seasonal fluctuation of epitheliocystis infections in brown trout with a reservoir persisting during winter months from which infections can re-initiate each year. This could either be at levels below detection limits within the brown trout population itself or in an alternative host.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Guevara Soto
- Centre of Fish and Wildlife Health, Department of Infectious Diseases and Pathobiology, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - B Vidondo
- Institute of Veterinary Public Health, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - L Vaughan
- Institute of Veterinary Pathology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - J-F Rubin
- Fondation de la Maison de la Rivière, Tolochenaz, Switzerland
| | - H Segner
- Centre of Fish and Wildlife Health, Department of Infectious Diseases and Pathobiology, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - S Samartin
- Institute of Veterinary Public Health, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - H Schmidt-Posthaus
- Centre of Fish and Wildlife Health, Department of Infectious Diseases and Pathobiology, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Seth-Smith HMB, Katharios P, Dourala N, Mateos JM, Fehr AGJ, Nufer L, Ruetten M, Guevara Soto M, Vaughan L. Ca. Similichlamydia in Epitheliocystis Co-infection of Gilthead Seabream Gills: Unique Morphological Features of a Deep Branching Chlamydial Family. Front Microbiol 2017; 8:508. [PMID: 28424665 PMCID: PMC5371595 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2017.00508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2016] [Accepted: 03/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
The Planctomycetes-Verrucomicrobia-Chlamydiae (PVC) bacterial superphylum constitutes a broad range of organisms with an intriguing array of ultrastructural morphologies, including intracellular membranes and compartments and their corresponding complex genomes encoding these forms. The phylum Chlamydiae are all obligate intracellular bacteria and, although much is already known of their genomes from various families and how these regulate the various morphological forms, we know remarkably little about what is likely the deepest rooting clade of this phylum, which has only been found to contain pathogens of marine and fresh water vertebrates. The disease they are associated with is called epitheliocystis; however, analyses of the causative agents is hindered by an inability to cultivate them for refined in vitro experimentation. For this reason, we have developed tools to analyse both the genomes and the ultrastructures of bacteria causing this disease, directly from infected tissues. Here we present structural data for a member of the family Ca. Similichlamydiaceae from this deep-rooted clade, which we have identified using molecular tools, in epitheliocystis lesions of gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata) in Greece. We present evidence that the chlamydial inclusions appear to develop in a perinuclear location, similar to other members of the phylum and that a chlamydial developmental cycle is present, with chlamydial forms similar to reticular bodies (RBs) and elementary bodies (EBs) detected. Division of the RBs appeared to follow a budding process, and larger RBs with multiple condensed nucleoids were detected using both transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and by focused-ion beam, scanning electron microscopy (FIB-SEM). As model hosts, fish offer many advantages for investigation, and we hope by these efforts to encourage others to explore the biology of fish pathogens from the PVC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Helena M B Seth-Smith
- Vetsuisse Faculty, Institute for Veterinary Pathology, University of ZürichZürich, Switzerland.,Functional Genomics Center Zürich, University of ZürichZürich, Switzerland
| | - Pantelis Katharios
- Hellenic Center for Marine Research, Institute of Marine Biology, Biotechnology and AquacultureHeraklion, Greece
| | | | - José M Mateos
- Center for Microscopy and Image Analysis, University of ZürichZürich, Switzerland
| | - Alexander G J Fehr
- Vetsuisse Faculty, Institute for Veterinary Pathology, University of ZürichZürich, Switzerland
| | - Lisbeth Nufer
- Vetsuisse Faculty, Institute for Veterinary Pathology, University of ZürichZürich, Switzerland
| | - Maja Ruetten
- Vetsuisse Faculty, Institute for Veterinary Pathology, University of ZürichZürich, Switzerland.,Pathovet AGTagelswangen, Switzerland
| | - Maricruz Guevara Soto
- Vetsuisse Faculty, Institute for Veterinary Pathology, University of ZürichZürich, Switzerland.,Department of Infectious Diseases and Pathobiology, Centre of Fish and Wildlife Health, University of BernBern, Switzerland
| | - Lloyd Vaughan
- Vetsuisse Faculty, Institute for Veterinary Pathology, University of ZürichZürich, Switzerland.,Pathovet AGTagelswangen, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
The value of cultures to modern microbiology. Antonie van Leeuwenhoek 2017; 110:1247-1256. [DOI: 10.1007/s10482-017-0840-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2016] [Accepted: 01/31/2017] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
|
17
|
Fehr AGJ, Ruetten M, Seth-Smith HMB, Nufer L, Voegtlin A, Lehner A, Greub G, Crosier PS, Neuhauss SCF, Vaughan L. A Zebrafish Model for Chlamydia Infection with the Obligate Intracellular Pathogen Waddlia chondrophila. Front Microbiol 2016; 7:1829. [PMID: 27917158 PMCID: PMC5114312 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2016.01829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2016] [Accepted: 11/01/2016] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Obligate intracellular chlamydial bacteria of the Planctomycetes-Verrucomicrobia-Chlamydiae (PVC) superphylum are important pathogens of terrestrial and marine vertebrates, yet many features of their pathogenesis and host specificity are still unknown. This is particularly true for families such as the Waddliacea which, in addition to epithelia, cellular targets for nearly all Chlamydia, can infect and replicate in macrophages, an important arm of the innate immune system or in their free-living amoebal counterparts. An ideal pathogen model system should include both host and pathogen, which led us to develop the first larval zebrafish model for chlamydial infections with Waddlia chondrophila. By varying the means and sites of application, epithelial cells of the swim bladder, endothelial cells of the vasculature and phagocytosing cells of the innate immune system became preferred targets for infection in zebrafish larvae. Through the use of transgenic zebrafish, we could observe recruitment of neutrophils to the infection site and demonstrate for the first time that W. chondrophila is taken up and replicates in these phagocytic cells and not only in macrophages. Furthermore, we present evidence that myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88) mediated signaling plays a role in the innate immune reaction to W. chondrophila, eventually by Toll-like receptor (TLRs) recognition. Infected larvae with depleted levels of MyD88 showed a higher infection load and a lower survival rate compared to control fish. This work presents a new and potentially powerful non-mammalian experimental model to study the pathology of chlamydial virulence in vivo and opens up new possibilities for investigation of other members of the PVC superphylum.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexander G J Fehr
- Vetsuisse Faculty, Institute for Veterinary Pathology, University of Zurich Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Maja Ruetten
- Vetsuisse Faculty, Institute for Veterinary Pathology, University of Zurich Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Helena M B Seth-Smith
- Vetsuisse Faculty, Institute for Veterinary Pathology, University of ZurichZurich, Switzerland; Functional Genomics Center Zurich, Molecular and Life Sciences, University of ZurichZurich, Switzerland
| | - Lisbeth Nufer
- Vetsuisse Faculty, Institute for Veterinary Pathology, University of Zurich Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Andrea Voegtlin
- Vetsuisse Faculty, Institute of Veterinary Bacteriology, University of Zurich Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Angelika Lehner
- Vetsuisse Faculty, Institute for Food Safety and Hygiene, University of Zurich Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Gilbert Greub
- Institute of Microbiology, University Hospital Center and University of Lausanne Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Philip S Crosier
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Pathology, School of Medical Sciences, University of Auckland Auckland, New Zealand
| | | | - Lloyd Vaughan
- Vetsuisse Faculty, Institute for Veterinary Pathology, University of Zurich Zurich, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Burnard D, Polkinghorne A. Chlamydial infections in wildlife-conservation threats and/or reservoirs of 'spill-over' infections? Vet Microbiol 2016; 196:78-84. [PMID: 27939160 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetmic.2016.10.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2016] [Revised: 10/12/2016] [Accepted: 10/14/2016] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Members of the order Chlamydiales are biphasic intracellular pathogens known to cause disease in both humans and animals. As we learn more about the genetic diversity of this group of pathogens, evidence is growing that these bacteria infect a broader range of animal hosts than previously thought. Over 400 host species are now documented globally with the majority of these being wild animals. Given the impact of chlamydial infections on humans and domesticated animals, the identification of members of the order Chlamydiales in wildlife raises significant questions over a) their impact on animal health and b) the relationships to those strains also found in humans and domestic animals. In some species such as the iconic marsupial, the koala, the conservation impact is known with chlamydial infections associated with debilitating disease, however, in general, little is known about the pathogenic potential of Chlamydiae infecting most wildlife hosts. Accumulating evidence suggests contact with wild animals is a risk factor for infections in domestic animals and/or humans. Beyond the well-recognised zoonotic pathogen, Chlamydia psittaci, a range of studies have now reported traditional pathogens in the family Chlamydiaceae such as Chlamydia pecorum, Chlamydia suis, Chlamydia pneumoniae and Chlamydia abortus in wild animals. The spectre of cross-host transmission 'spill-over' and 'spill-back' in the epidemiology of infections is of potential concern, however, comprehensive epidemiological studies are lacking for most of these. Accurate evaluation of the significance of chlamydial infections in wildlife is otherwise hampered by i) the cross-sectional nature of most impact studies, ii) a lack of standardised diagnostic approaches, iii) limited study sizes, and iv) biases associated with opportunistic sampling.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Delaney Burnard
- Centre for Animal Health Innovation, Faculty of Science, Health, Education and Engineering, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, Queensland 4556, Australia
| | - Adam Polkinghorne
- Centre for Animal Health Innovation, Faculty of Science, Health, Education and Engineering, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, Queensland 4556, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Hu YOO, Karlson B, Charvet S, Andersson AF. Diversity of Pico- to Mesoplankton along the 2000 km Salinity Gradient of the Baltic Sea. Front Microbiol 2016; 7:679. [PMID: 27242706 PMCID: PMC4864665 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2016.00679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2015] [Accepted: 04/26/2016] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Microbial plankton form the productive base of both marine and freshwater ecosystems and are key drivers of global biogeochemical cycles of carbon and nutrients. Plankton diversity is immense with representations from all major phyla within the three domains of life. So far, plankton monitoring has mainly been based on microscopic identification, which has limited sensitivity and reproducibility, not least because of the numerical majority of plankton being unidentifiable under the light microscope. High-throughput sequencing of taxonomic marker genes offers a means to identify taxa inaccessible by traditional methods; thus, recent studies have unveiled an extensive previously unknown diversity of plankton. Here, we conducted ultra-deep Illumina sequencing (average 105 sequences/sample) of rRNA gene amplicons of surface water eukaryotic and bacterial plankton communities sampled in summer along a 2000 km transect following the salinity gradient of the Baltic Sea. Community composition was strongly correlated with salinity for both bacterial and eukaryotic plankton assemblages, highlighting the importance of salinity for structuring the biodiversity within this ecosystem. In contrast, no clear trends in alpha-diversity for bacterial or eukaryotic communities could be detected along the transect. The distribution of major planktonic taxa followed expected patterns as observed in monitoring programs, but groups novel to the Baltic Sea were also identified, such as relatives to the coccolithophore Emiliana huxleyi detected in the northern Baltic Sea. This study provides the first ultra-deep sequencing-based survey on eukaryotic and bacterial plankton biogeography in the Baltic Sea.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yue O O Hu
- Science for Life Laboratory, Division of Gene Technology, School of Biotechnology, KTH Royal Institute of Technology Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Bengt Karlson
- Oceanography, Research & Development, Swedish Meteorological and Hydrological Institute Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Sophie Charvet
- Leibniz Institute for Baltic Sea Research Warnemünde Rostock, Germany
| | - Anders F Andersson
- Science for Life Laboratory, Division of Gene Technology, School of Biotechnology, KTH Royal Institute of Technology Stockholm, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Emerging pathogens of gilthead seabream: characterisation and genomic analysis of novel intracellular β-proteobacteria. ISME JOURNAL 2016; 10:1791-803. [PMID: 26849311 DOI: 10.1038/ismej.2015.223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2015] [Revised: 10/11/2015] [Accepted: 10/26/2015] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
New and emerging environmental pathogens pose some of the greatest threats to modern aquaculture, a critical source of food protein globally. As with other intensive farming practices, increasing our understanding of the biology of infections is important to improve animal welfare and husbandry. The gill infection epitheliocystis is increasingly problematic in gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata), a major Mediterranean aquaculture species. Epitheliocystis is generally associated with chlamydial bacteria, yet we were not able to localise chlamydial targets within the major gilthead seabream lesions. Two previously unidentified species within a novel β-proteobacterial genus were instead identified. These co-infecting intracellular bacteria have been characterised using high-resolution imaging and genomics, presenting the most comprehensive study on epitheliocystis agents to date. Draft genomes of the two uncultured species, Ca. Ichthyocystis hellenicum and Ca. Ichthyocystis sparus, have been de novo sequenced and annotated from preserved material. Analysis of the genomes shows a compact core indicating a metabolic dependency on the host, and an accessory genome with an unprecedented number of tandemly arrayed gene families. This study represents a critical insight into novel, emerging fish pathogens and will be used to underpin future investigations into the bacterial origins, and to develop diagnostic and treatment strategies.
Collapse
|
21
|
The emergence of epitheliocystis in the upper Rhone region: evidence for Chlamydiae in wild and farmed salmonid populations. Arch Microbiol 2016; 198:315-24. [PMID: 26802008 DOI: 10.1007/s00203-016-1192-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2015] [Revised: 12/17/2015] [Accepted: 01/12/2016] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
We present the first study comparing epitheliocystis in a wild and farmed salmonid in Europe. Sampling three tributaries to the Lake Geneva, including one from headwaters to river mouth, revealed an unequal distribution of epitheliocystis in brown trout (Salmo trutta). When evaluated histologically and comparing sites grouped as wild versus farm, the probability of finding infected trout is higher on farms. In contrast, the infection intensities, as estimated by the number of cysts per gill arch, were higher on average and showed maximum values in the wild trout. Sequence analysis showed the most common epitheliocystis agents were Candidatus Piscichlamydia salmonis, all clustering into a single clade, whereas Candidatus Clavichlamydia salmonicola sequences cluster in two closely related subspecies, of which one was mostly found in farmed fish and the other exclusively in wild brown trout, indicating that farms are unlikely to be the source of infections in wild trout. A detailed morphological analysis of cysts using transmission electron microscopy revealed unique features illustrating the wide divergence existing between Ca. P. salmonis and Ca. C. salmonicola within the phylum Chlamydiae.
Collapse
|
22
|
Hu YOO, Karlson B, Charvet S, Andersson AF. Diversity of Pico- to Mesoplankton along the 2000 km Salinity Gradient of the Baltic Sea. Front Microbiol 2016; 7:679. [PMID: 27242706 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2016.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2015] [Accepted: 04/26/2016] [Indexed: 05/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Microbial plankton form the productive base of both marine and freshwater ecosystems and are key drivers of global biogeochemical cycles of carbon and nutrients. Plankton diversity is immense with representations from all major phyla within the three domains of life. So far, plankton monitoring has mainly been based on microscopic identification, which has limited sensitivity and reproducibility, not least because of the numerical majority of plankton being unidentifiable under the light microscope. High-throughput sequencing of taxonomic marker genes offers a means to identify taxa inaccessible by traditional methods; thus, recent studies have unveiled an extensive previously unknown diversity of plankton. Here, we conducted ultra-deep Illumina sequencing (average 10(5) sequences/sample) of rRNA gene amplicons of surface water eukaryotic and bacterial plankton communities sampled in summer along a 2000 km transect following the salinity gradient of the Baltic Sea. Community composition was strongly correlated with salinity for both bacterial and eukaryotic plankton assemblages, highlighting the importance of salinity for structuring the biodiversity within this ecosystem. In contrast, no clear trends in alpha-diversity for bacterial or eukaryotic communities could be detected along the transect. The distribution of major planktonic taxa followed expected patterns as observed in monitoring programs, but groups novel to the Baltic Sea were also identified, such as relatives to the coccolithophore Emiliana huxleyi detected in the northern Baltic Sea. This study provides the first ultra-deep sequencing-based survey on eukaryotic and bacterial plankton biogeography in the Baltic Sea.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yue O O Hu
- Science for Life Laboratory, Division of Gene Technology, School of Biotechnology, KTH Royal Institute of Technology Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Bengt Karlson
- Oceanography, Research & Development, Swedish Meteorological and Hydrological Institute Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Sophie Charvet
- Leibniz Institute for Baltic Sea Research Warnemünde Rostock, Germany
| | - Anders F Andersson
- Science for Life Laboratory, Division of Gene Technology, School of Biotechnology, KTH Royal Institute of Technology Stockholm, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Environmental marine pathogen isolation using mesocosm culture of sharpsnout seabream: striking genomic and morphological features of novel Endozoicomonas sp. Sci Rep 2015; 5:17609. [PMID: 26639610 PMCID: PMC4671022 DOI: 10.1038/srep17609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2015] [Accepted: 11/02/2015] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Aquaculture is a burgeoning industry, requiring diversification into new farmed species, which are often at risk from infectious disease. We used a mesocosm technique to investigate the susceptibility of sharpsnout seabream (Diplodus puntazzo) larvae to potential environmental pathogens in seawater compared to control borehole water. Fish exposed to seawater succumbed to epitheliocystis from 21 days post hatching, causing mortality in a quarter of the hosts. The pathogen responsible was not chlamydial, as is often found in epitheliocystis, but a novel species of the γ-proteobacterial genus Endozoicomonas. Detailed characterisation of this pathogen within the infectious lesions using high resolution fluorescent and electron microscopy showed densely packed rod shaped bacteria. A draft genome sequence of this uncultured bacterium was obtained from preserved material. Comparison with the genome of the Endozoicomonas elysicola type strain shows that the genome of Ca. Endozoicomonas cretensis is undergoing decay through loss of functional genes and insertion sequence expansion, often indicative of adaptation to a new niche or restriction to an alternative lifestyle. These results demonstrate the advantage of mesocosm studies for investigating the effect of environmental bacteria on susceptible hosts and provide an important insight into the genome dynamics of a novel fish pathogen.
Collapse
|
24
|
Characteristics of chlamydia-like organisms pathogenic to fish. J Appl Genet 2015; 57:135-41. [PMID: 26160214 PMCID: PMC4731428 DOI: 10.1007/s13353-015-0303-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2015] [Revised: 06/11/2015] [Accepted: 06/22/2015] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Bacteria from the Chlamydiales order have been long known, especially as pathogenic bacteria to humans and many animal species, principally including birds and mammals. But for slightly over 20 years, they have been identified in the aquatic environment as endosymbionts of amoebas and sea worms. For several years, they have also been recorded as a cause of diseases among fish, causing respiratory system infections in the form of epitheliocystis of the gill. At present, 11 chlamydia-like organisms pathogenic to fish have been described, including nine new ones, classified into six families, four of which are already known (Parachlamydiaceae, Rhabdochlamydiaceae, Candidatus Parilichlamydiaceae, Candidatus Clavichlamydiaceae) and two newly created families, namely Candidatus Actinochlamydiaceae and Candidatus Parilichlamydiaceae. This paper characterises 11 chlamydia-like organisms, as well as seven isolates not classified into families, which are pathogenic to fish, presenting their genetical properties allowing for their classification, as well as morphological properties and diseases caused.
Collapse
|