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Spratt HG, Millis N, Levine D, Brackett J, Millis D. Bacterial Contamination of Environmental Surfaces of Veterinary Rehabilitation Clinics. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:1896. [PMID: 38998008 PMCID: PMC11240356 DOI: 10.3390/ani14131896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2024] [Revised: 06/20/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024] Open
Abstract
The presence of potentially pathogenic bacteria on veterinary clinic surfaces may be problematic. In this study, we collected swab samples (Fisherbrand, double transport swabs with Stuart's liquid medium) and water samples from five veterinary rehabilitation clinics. Swabs and water samples were transported to a microbiology lab for processing. At the lab, swabs were used to inoculate Hardy's Cdiff Banana Broth (for Clostridium difficile [Cdiff]) and five different types of bacterial growth media, including Hardy CHROM MRSA agar (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus [MRSA] and S. pseudintermedius [SIM]), mannitol salt agar (S. aureus [SA]), eosin methylene blue agar (enterics [ENT]), Pseudomonas isolation agar (Pseudomonas spp. [PS]), and tryptic soy agar [TSA] (non-specific). The most prominent presumptive species cultured was Cdiff (on nearly 55% of swabs). Bacillus spp. and enteric bacteria were encountered on nearly 35% of swabs, with MRSA and SIM on just over 10% of swabs. The most contaminated sample site was harnesses/life jackets used with the underwater treadmill (33% of swabs). The underwater treadmill water had total bacterial counts from 1,600 to 2,800 cfu/mL. Of all presumptive bacterial species detected, SIM tends to be more pathogenic for dogs. Targeted cleaning/disinfecting in these clinics could help reduce risks for both animals and caregivers utilizing these clinics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henry G. Spratt
- Department of Biology, Geology, and Environmental Science, University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, Chattanooga, TN 37403, USA;
| | - Nicholas Millis
- Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA; (N.M.); (D.M.)
| | - David Levine
- Department of Physical Therapy, University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, Chattanooga, TN 37403, USA;
| | - Jenna Brackett
- Department of Biology, Geology, and Environmental Science, University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, Chattanooga, TN 37403, USA;
| | - Darryl Millis
- Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA; (N.M.); (D.M.)
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Abouelkhair MA, Kania SA. Whole Genome Sequencing and Comparative Genomics of Six Staphylococcus schleiferi and Staphylococcus coagulans Isolates. Genes (Basel) 2024; 15:284. [PMID: 38540343 PMCID: PMC10969876 DOI: 10.3390/genes15030284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2024] [Revised: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Staphylococcus schleiferi and Staphylococcus coagulans, closely related bacterial species within the Staphylococcus genus, present a challenge in classification and diagnosis due to their close genetic proximity and overlapping phenotypic features. Moreover, our understanding of the virulence mechanisms in staphylococcal species, beyond the extensively studied Staphylococcus aureus, remains limited, underscoring the importance of using comparative data to enhance our insights into virulence within these bacterial species. This study employed a comprehensive approach, utilizing comparative genomics, to identify genomic distinctions between S. schleiferi and S. coagulans, aiming to address the challenges in the accurate classification and diagnosis of these organisms and identify unique features. Whole genome sequencing was performed on six clinical isolates, and their genomes were compared to identify variations in gene content and virulence factors. De novo assembly and annotation revealed two samples as S. coagulans and four samples as S. schleiferi. Analysis of the core genomes revealed conserved regions crucial for defining species identity, while accessory genomic elements contained unique genes, possibly impacting the pathogenicity of the species.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Stephen A. Kania
- Department of Biomedical and Diagnostic Sciences, University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA;
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Sewid AH, Kania SA. Distinguishing characteristics of Staphylococcus schleiferi and Staphylococcus coagulans of human and canine origin. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0296850. [PMID: 38330059 PMCID: PMC10852249 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0296850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Staphylococcus schleiferi and Staphylococcus coagulans are opportunistic pathogens of animals and humans. They were previously classified as Staphylococcus schleiferi subs. schleiferi and Staphylococcus schleiferi subs. coagulans, respectively, and recently reclassified as separate species. S. coagulans, is frequently associated with dogs, whereas S. schleiferi is more commonly isolated from humans. Coagulase activity status is a defining characteristic of the otherwise closely related species. However, the use of coagulase tests originally developed to distinguish S. aureus from non-coagulase-producing staphylococci, for this purpose is questionable and the basis for their host preference has not been elucidated. In the current study, a putative coa gene was identified and correlated with coagulase activity measured using a chromogenic assay with human and bovine prothrombin (closely related to canine prothrombin). The results of the tests performed with human prothrombin showed greater reactivity of S. coagulans isolates from humans than isolates obtained from dogs with the same substrate. Our data suggest that unlike S. coagulans isolates from humans, isolates from dogs have more coagulase activity with bovine prothrombin (similar to canine prothrombin) than human prothrombin. Differences in nuc and 16s rRNA genes suggest a divergence in S. coagulans and S. schleiferi. Phenotypic and genotypic variation based on the number of IgG binding domains, and the numbers of tandem repeats in C-terminal fibronectin binding motifs was also found in protein A, and fibronectin-binding protein B respectively. This study identified a coa gene and associated phenotypic activity that differentiates S. coagulans and S. schleiferi and identified key phylogenetic and phenotypic differences between the species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alaa H. Sewid
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
- Department of Biomedical and Diagnostic Sciences, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee, United States of America
| | - Stephen A. Kania
- Department of Biomedical and Diagnostic Sciences, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee, United States of America
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Tantawy E, Schwermann N, Ostermeier T, Garbe A, Bähre H, Vital M, Winstel V. Staphylococcus aureus Multiplexes Death-Effector Deoxyribonucleosides to Neutralize Phagocytes. Front Immunol 2022; 13:847171. [PMID: 35355997 PMCID: PMC8960049 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.847171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Adenosine synthase A (AdsA) is a key virulence factor of Staphylococcus aureus, a dangerous microbe that causes fatal diseases in humans. Together with staphylococcal nuclease, AdsA generates deoxyadenosine (dAdo) from neutrophil extracellular DNA traps thereby igniting caspase-3-dependent cell death in host immune cells that aim at penetrating infectious foci. Powered by a multi-technological approach, we here illustrate that the enzymatic activity of AdsA in abscess-mimicking microenvironments is not restricted to the biogenesis of dAdo but rather comprises excessive biosynthesis of deoxyguanosine (dGuo), a cytotoxic deoxyribonucleoside generated by S. aureus to eradicate macrophages of human and animal origin. Based on a genome-wide CRISPR-Cas9 knock-out screen, we further demonstrate that dGuo-induced cytotoxicity in phagocytes involves targeting of the mammalian purine salvage pathway-apoptosis axis, a signaling cascade that is concomitantly stimulated by staphylococcal dAdo. Strikingly, synchronous targeting of this route by AdsA-derived dGuo and dAdo boosts macrophage cell death, indicating that S. aureus multiplexes death-effector deoxyribonucleosides to maximize intra-host survival. Overall, these data provide unique insights into the cunning lifestyle of a deadly pathogen and may help to design therapeutic intervention strategies to combat multidrug-resistant staphylococci.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eshraq Tantawy
- Research Group Pathogenesis of Bacterial Infections, TWINCORE, Centre for Experimental and Clinical Infection Research, a Joint Venture Between the Hannover Medical School and the Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Hannover, Germany.,Institute of Medical Microbiology and Hospital Epidemiology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Nicoletta Schwermann
- Research Group Pathogenesis of Bacterial Infections, TWINCORE, Centre for Experimental and Clinical Infection Research, a Joint Venture Between the Hannover Medical School and the Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Hannover, Germany.,Institute of Medical Microbiology and Hospital Epidemiology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Tjorven Ostermeier
- Research Group Pathogenesis of Bacterial Infections, TWINCORE, Centre for Experimental and Clinical Infection Research, a Joint Venture Between the Hannover Medical School and the Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Hannover, Germany.,Institute of Medical Microbiology and Hospital Epidemiology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Annette Garbe
- Research Core Unit Metabolomics, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Heike Bähre
- Research Core Unit Metabolomics, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Marius Vital
- Institute of Medical Microbiology and Hospital Epidemiology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Volker Winstel
- Research Group Pathogenesis of Bacterial Infections, TWINCORE, Centre for Experimental and Clinical Infection Research, a Joint Venture Between the Hannover Medical School and the Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Hannover, Germany.,Institute of Medical Microbiology and Hospital Epidemiology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
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Bünsow D, Tantawy E, Ostermeier T, Bähre H, Garbe A, Larsen J, Winstel V. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus pseudintermedius synthesizes deoxyadenosine to cause persistent infection. Virulence 2021; 12:989-1002. [PMID: 33779509 PMCID: PMC8018352 DOI: 10.1080/21505594.2021.1903691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus pseudintermedius (MRSP) is an emerging zoonotic pathogen of canine origin that causes an array of fatal diseases, including bacteremia and endocarditis. Despite large-scale genome sequencing projects have gained substantial insights into the genomic landscape of MRSP, current knowledge on virulence determinants that contribute to S. pseudintermedius pathogenesis during human or canine infection is very limited. Using a panel of genetically engineered MRSP variants and a mouse abscess model, we here identified the major secreted nuclease of S. pseudintermedius designated NucB and adenosine synthase A (AdsA) as two synergistically acting enzymes required for MRSP pathogenesis. Similar to Staphylococcus aureus, S. pseudintermedius requires nuclease secretion along with the activity of AdsA to degrade mammalian DNA for subsequent biosynthesis of cytotoxic deoxyadenosine. In this manner, S. pseudintermedius selectively kills macrophages during abscess formation thereby antagonizing crucial host immune cell responses. Ultimately, bioinformatics analyses revealed that NucB and AdsA are widespread in the global S. pseudintermedius population. Together, these data suggest that S. pseudintermedius deploys the canonical Nuc/AdsA pathway to persist during invasive disease and may aid in the development of new therapeutic strategies to combat infections caused by MRSP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dorothea Bünsow
- Research Group Pathogenesis of Bacterial Infections; TWINCORE, Centre for Experimental and Clinical Infection Research, a Joint Venture between the Hannover Medical School and the Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Hannover, Germany.,Institute of Medical Microbiology and Hospital Epidemiology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Eshraq Tantawy
- Research Group Pathogenesis of Bacterial Infections; TWINCORE, Centre for Experimental and Clinical Infection Research, a Joint Venture between the Hannover Medical School and the Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Hannover, Germany.,Institute of Medical Microbiology and Hospital Epidemiology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Tjorven Ostermeier
- Research Group Pathogenesis of Bacterial Infections; TWINCORE, Centre for Experimental and Clinical Infection Research, a Joint Venture between the Hannover Medical School and the Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Hannover, Germany.,Institute of Medical Microbiology and Hospital Epidemiology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Heike Bähre
- Research Core Unit Metabolomics, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Annette Garbe
- Research Core Unit Metabolomics, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Jesper Larsen
- Department of Bacteria, Parasites, and Fungi, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Volker Winstel
- Research Group Pathogenesis of Bacterial Infections; TWINCORE, Centre for Experimental and Clinical Infection Research, a Joint Venture between the Hannover Medical School and the Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Hannover, Germany.,Institute of Medical Microbiology and Hospital Epidemiology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
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Use of molecular homology model to identify inhibitors of Staphylococcus pseudintermedius sortase A. RESULTS IN CHEMISTRY 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rechem.2021.100185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
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Targeting adenosinergic pathway and adenosine A 2A receptor signaling for the treatment of COVID-19: A hypothesis. Med Hypotheses 2020; 144:110012. [PMID: 32590324 PMCID: PMC7303042 DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2020.110012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2020] [Revised: 06/07/2020] [Accepted: 06/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The most serious health issue today is the rapid outbreak of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). More than 6,973,427 confirmed cases were diagnosed in nearly 213 countries and territories around the world and two international conveyances, causing globally over 400,000 deaths. Epidemiology, risk factors, and clinical characteristics of COVID-19 patients have been identified, but the factors influencing the immune system against COVID-19 have not been well established. Upon infection or cell damage, high amounts of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) are released from damaged cells, which serve as mediators of inflammation through purinergic cell surface receptor signaling. As a protective mechanism to prevent excessive damage to host tissue, adenosine counteracts ATP's effects by adenosine receptor stimulation to suppress the pro-inflammatory response. Adenosine is seen as a major obstacle to the efficacy of immune therapies, and the adenosinergic axis components are critical therapeutic targets for cancer and microbial infections. Pharmacologic inhibitors or antibodies specific to adenosinergic pathway components or adenosine receptors in microbial and tumor therapy have shown efficacy in pre-clinical studies and are entering the clinical arena. In this review, we provide a novel hypothesis explaining the potential for improving the efficiency of innate and adaptive immune systems by targeting adenosinergic pathway components and adenosine A2A receptor signaling for the treatment of COVID-19.
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