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Chen YC, Destouches L, Cook A, Fedorec AJH. Synthetic microbial ecology: engineering habitats for modular consortia. J Appl Microbiol 2024; 135:lxae158. [PMID: 38936824 DOI: 10.1093/jambio/lxae158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2024] [Revised: 06/13/2024] [Accepted: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
Microbiomes, the complex networks of micro-organisms and the molecules through which they interact, play a crucial role in health and ecology. Over at least the past two decades, engineering biology has made significant progress, impacting the bio-based industry, health, and environmental sectors; but has only recently begun to explore the engineering of microbial ecosystems. The creation of synthetic microbial communities presents opportunities to help us understand the dynamics of wild ecosystems, learn how to manipulate and interact with existing microbiomes for therapeutic and other purposes, and to create entirely new microbial communities capable of undertaking tasks for industrial biology. Here, we describe how synthetic ecosystems can be constructed and controlled, focusing on how the available methods and interaction mechanisms facilitate the regulation of community composition and output. While experimental decisions are dictated by intended applications, the vast number of tools available suggests great opportunity for researchers to develop a diverse array of novel microbial ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Casey Chen
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Louie Destouches
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Alice Cook
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Alex J H Fedorec
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK
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2
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Shastry RP, Bajire SK, Banerjee S, Shastry KP, Hameed A. Association Between Biofilm Formation and Extended-Spectrum Beta-Lactamase Production in Klebsiella pneumoniae Isolated from Fresh Fruits and Vegetables. Curr Microbiol 2024; 81:206. [PMID: 38831051 DOI: 10.1007/s00284-024-03723-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024]
Abstract
The presence of extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL)-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae in fresh fruits and vegetables is a growing public health concern. The primary objective of this study was to investigate the relationship between biofilm formation and extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL) production in K. pneumoniae strains obtained from fresh fruits and vegetables. Out of 120 samples analysed, 94 samples (78%) were found to be positive for K. pneumoniae. Among the K. pneumoniae strains isolated, 74.5% were from vegetables, whereas the remaining (25.5%) were from fresh fruits. K. pneumoniae isolates were resistant to at least three different classes of antibiotics, with ceftazidime (90%) and cefotaxime (70%) showing the highest resistance rates. While the high occurrence of ESBL-producing and biofilm-forming K. pneumoniae strains were detected in vegetables (73.5% and 73.7%, respectively), considerable amounts of the same were also found in fresh fruits (26.5% and 26.3%, respectively). The results further showed a statistically significant (P < 0.001) association between biofilm formation and ESBL production in K. pneumoniae strains isolated from fresh fruits and vegetables. Furthermore, the majority (81%) of the ESBL-producing strains harbored the blaCTX-M gene, while a smaller proportion of strains carried the blaTEM gene (30%), blaSHV gene (11%) or blaOXA (8%). This study highlights the potential public health threat posed by K. pneumoniae in fresh fruits and vegetables and emphasizes the need for strict surveillance and control measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajesh Padumane Shastry
- Division of Microbiology and Biotechnology, Yenepoya Research Centre, Yenepoya (Deemed to Be University), University Road, Deralakatte, Mangaluru, 575018, India.
| | - Sukesh Kumar Bajire
- Division of Microbiology and Biotechnology, Yenepoya Research Centre, Yenepoya (Deemed to Be University), University Road, Deralakatte, Mangaluru, 575018, India
| | - Shukla Banerjee
- Division of Microbiology and Biotechnology, Yenepoya Research Centre, Yenepoya (Deemed to Be University), University Road, Deralakatte, Mangaluru, 575018, India
| | - Kavyashree Padumane Shastry
- Department of Microbiology, Yenepoya Institute of Arts, Science, Commerce and Management, Yenepoya (Deemed to Be University), Kulur, Mangaluru, 575013, India
| | - Asif Hameed
- Division of Microbiology and Biotechnology, Yenepoya Research Centre, Yenepoya (Deemed to Be University), University Road, Deralakatte, Mangaluru, 575018, India
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3
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Mikhailovich V, Heydarov R, Zimenkov D, Chebotar I. Stenotrophomonas maltophilia virulence: a current view. Front Microbiol 2024; 15:1385631. [PMID: 38741741 PMCID: PMC11089167 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2024.1385631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Stenotrophomonas maltophilia is an opportunistic pathogen intrinsically resistant to multiple and broad-spectrum antibiotics. Although the bacterium is considered a low-virulence pathogen, it can cause various severe diseases and contributes significantly to the pathogenesis of multibacterial infections. During the COVID-19 pandemic, S. maltophilia has been recognized as one of the most common causative agents of respiratory co-infections and bacteremia in critically ill COVID-19 patients. The high ability to adapt to unfavorable environments and new habitat niches, as well as the sophisticated switching of metabolic pathways, are unique mechanisms that attract the attention of clinical researchers and experts studying the fundamental basis of virulence. In this review, we have summarized the current knowledge on the molecular aspects of S. maltophilia virulence and putative virulence factors, partially touched on interspecific bacterial interactions and iron uptake systems in the context of virulence, and have not addressed antibiotic resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vladimir Mikhailovich
- Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Rustam Heydarov
- Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Danila Zimenkov
- Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Igor Chebotar
- Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russia
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Galdino ACM, Vaillancourt M, Celedonio D, Huse K, Doi Y, Lee JS, Jorth P. Siderophores promote cooperative interspecies and intraspecies cross-protection against antibiotics in vitro. Nat Microbiol 2024; 9:631-646. [PMID: 38409256 PMCID: PMC11239084 DOI: 10.1038/s41564-024-01601-4] [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: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
The antibiotic cefiderocol hijacks iron transporters to facilitate its uptake and resists β-lactamase degradation. While effective, resistance has been detected clinically with unknown mechanisms. Here, using experimental evolution, we identified cefiderocol resistance mutations in Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Resistance was multifactorial in host-mimicking growth media, led to multidrug resistance and paid fitness costs in cefiderocol-free environments. However, kin selection drove some resistant populations to cross-protect susceptible individuals from killing by increasing pyoverdine secretion via a two-component sensor mutation. While pyochelin sensitized P. aeruginosa to cefiderocol killing, pyoverdine and the enterobacteria siderophore enterobactin displaced iron from cefiderocol, preventing uptake by susceptible cells. Among 113 P. aeruginosa intensive care unit clinical isolates, pyoverdine production directly correlated with cefiderocol tolerance, and high pyoverdine producing isolates cross-protected susceptible P. aeruginosa and other Gram-negative bacteria. These in vitro data show that antibiotic cross-protection can occur via degradation-independent mechanisms and siderophores can serve unexpected protective cooperative roles in polymicrobial communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Clara M Galdino
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Mylene Vaillancourt
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Diana Celedonio
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Kara Huse
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Yohei Doi
- Center for Innovative Antimicrobial Therapy, Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Janet S Lee
- Acute Lung Injury Center of Excellence, Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, Vascular Medicine Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Peter Jorth
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
- Department of Medicine, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
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Hesse E, O’Brien S. Ecological dependencies and the illusion of cooperation in microbial communities. MICROBIOLOGY (READING, ENGLAND) 2024; 170:001442. [PMID: 38385784 PMCID: PMC10924460 DOI: 10.1099/mic.0.001442] [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: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
Ecological dependencies - where organisms rely on other organisms for survival - are a ubiquitous feature of life on earth. Multicellular hosts rely on symbionts to provide essential vitamins and amino acids. Legume plants similarly rely on nitrogen-fixing rhizobia to convert atmospheric nitrogen to ammonia. In some cases, dependencies can arise via loss-of-function mutations that allow one partner to benefit from the actions of another. It is common in microbiology to label ecological dependencies between species as cooperation - making it necessary to invoke cooperation-specific frameworks to explain the phenomenon. However, in many cases, such traits are not (at least initially) cooperative, because they are not selected for because of the benefits they confer on a partner species. In contrast, dependencies in microbial communities may originate from fitness benefits gained from genomic-streamlining (i.e. Black Queen Dynamics). Here, we outline how the Black Queen Hypothesis predicts the formation of metabolic dependencies via loss-of-function mutations in microbial communities, without needing to invoke any cooperation-specific explanations. Furthermore we outline how the Black Queen Hypothesis can act as a blueprint for true cooperation as well as discuss key outstanding questions in the field. The nature of interactions in microbial communities can predict the ability of natural communities to withstand and recover from disturbances. Hence, it is vital to gain a deeper understanding of the factors driving these dynamic interactions over evolutionary time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elze Hesse
- College of Life and Environmental Science, University of Exeter, Penryn, Cornwall, TR10 9FE, UK
| | - Siobhán O’Brien
- Moyne Institute of Preventive Medicine, Department of Microbiology, School of Genetics and Microbiology, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, Ireland
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Kitamura N, Kajihara T, Volpiano CG, Naung M, Méric G, Hirabayashi A, Yano H, Yamamoto M, Yoshida F, Kobayashi T, Yamanashi S, Kawamura T, Matsunaga N, Okochi J, Sugai M, Yahara K. Exploring the effects of antimicrobial treatment on the gut and oral microbiomes and resistomes from elderly long-term care facility residents via shotgun DNA sequencing. Microb Genom 2024; 10:001180. [PMID: 38376378 PMCID: PMC10926694 DOI: 10.1099/mgen.0.001180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Monitoring antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARB) and understanding the effects of antimicrobial drugs on the human microbiome and resistome are crucial for public health. However, no study has investigated the association between antimicrobial treatment and the microbiome-resistome relationship in long-term care facilities, where residents act as reservoirs of ARB but are not included in the national surveillance for ARB. We conducted shotgun metagenome sequencing of oral and stool samples from long-term care facility residents and explored the effects of antimicrobial treatment on the human microbiome and resistome using two types of comparisons: cross-sectional comparisons based on antimicrobial treatment history in the past 6 months and within-subject comparisons between stool samples before, during and 2-4 weeks after treatment using a single antimicrobial drug. Cross-sectional analysis revealed two characteristics in the group with a history of antimicrobial treatment: the archaeon Methanobrevibacter was the only taxon that significantly increased in abundance, and the total abundance of antimicrobial resistance genes (ARGs) was also significantly higher. Within-subject comparisons showed that taxonomic diversity did not decrease during treatment, suggesting that the effect of the prescription of a single antimicrobial drug in usual clinical treatment on the gut microbiota is likely to be smaller than previously thought, even among very elderly people. Additional analysis of the detection limit of ARGs revealed that they could not be detected when contig coverage was <2.0. This study is the first to report the effects of usual antimicrobial treatments on the microbiome and resistome of long-term care facility residents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Norikazu Kitamura
- Antimicrobial Resistance Research Center, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Toshiki Kajihara
- Antimicrobial Resistance Research Center, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Camila Gazolla Volpiano
- Cambridge Baker Systems Genomics Initiative, Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Cardiometabolic Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Myo Naung
- Cambridge Baker Systems Genomics Initiative, Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Cardiometabolic Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Guillaume Méric
- Cambridge Baker Systems Genomics Initiative, Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Cardiometabolic Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Cardiovascular Research, Translation and Implementation, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Aki Hirabayashi
- Antimicrobial Resistance Research Center, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hirokazu Yano
- Antimicrobial Resistance Research Center, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masaya Yamamoto
- Saiseikai Matsuyama Nigitatsuen Geriatric Health Service Facility, Ehime, Japan
| | | | | | - Sari Yamanashi
- Uraraen Geriatric Health Service Facility, Fukushima, Japan
| | | | - Nobuaki Matsunaga
- AMR Clinical Reference Center, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Jiro Okochi
- Tatsumanosato Geriatric Health Service Facility, Osaka, Japan
| | - Motoyuki Sugai
- Antimicrobial Resistance Research Center, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Koji Yahara
- Antimicrobial Resistance Research Center, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan
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Scotti R, Casciaro B, Stringaro A, Maggi F, Colone M, Gabbianelli R. Fighting Microbial Infections from Escherichia coli O157:H7: The Combined Use of Three Essential Oils of the Cymbopogon Genus and a Derivative of Esculentin-1a Peptide. Antibiotics (Basel) 2024; 13:86. [PMID: 38247645 PMCID: PMC10812396 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics13010086] [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: 12/20/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
The absence of effective therapy against Escherichia coli O157:H7 infections has led to the need to develop new antimicrobial agents. As the use of synergistic combinations of natural antimicrobial compounds is growing as a new weapon in the fight against multidrug-resistant bacteria, here, we have tested new synergistic combinations of natural agents. Notably, we investigated a possible synergistic effect of combinations of essential oils and natural peptides to counteract the formation of biofilm. We chose three essential oils (i.e., Cymbopogon citratus, C. flexuosus and C. martinii) and one peptide already studied in our previous works. We determined the fractional inhibitory concentration (FIC) by analyzing the combination of the peptide derived from esculentin-1a, Esc(1-21), with the three essential oils. We also studied the effects of combinations by time-kill curves, scanning electron microscopy on biofilm and Sytox Green on cell membrane permeability. Finally, we analyzed the expression of different genes implicated in motility, biofilm formation and stress responses. The results showed a different pattern of gene expression in bacteria treated with the mixtures compared to those treated with the peptide or the single C. citratus essential oil. In conclusion, we demonstrated that the three essential oils used in combination with the peptide showed synergy against the E. coli O157:H7, proving attractive as an alternative strategy against E. coli pathogen infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raffaella Scotti
- Biological Service, Italian National Institute of Health, 00161 Rome, Italy;
| | - Bruno Casciaro
- Laboratory Affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Department of Biochemical Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy;
| | - Annarita Stringaro
- National Center for Drug Research and Evaluation, Italian National Institute of Health, 00161 Rome, Italy; (A.S.); (M.C.)
| | - Filippo Maggi
- Chemistry Interdisciplinary Project (ChIP) Research Center, School of Pharmacy, University of Camerino, 62032 Camerino, Italy;
| | - Marisa Colone
- National Center for Drug Research and Evaluation, Italian National Institute of Health, 00161 Rome, Italy; (A.S.); (M.C.)
| | - Roberta Gabbianelli
- Biological Service, Italian National Institute of Health, 00161 Rome, Italy;
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Gadar K, McCarthy RR. Using next generation antimicrobials to target the mechanisms of infection. NPJ ANTIMICROBIALS AND RESISTANCE 2023; 1:11. [PMID: 38686217 PMCID: PMC11057201 DOI: 10.1038/s44259-023-00011-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
The remarkable impact of antibiotics on human health is being eroded at an alarming rate by the emergence of multidrug resistant pathogens. There is a recognised consensus that new strategies to tackle infection are urgently needed to limit the devasting impact of antibiotic resistance on our global healthcare infrastructure. Next generation antimicrobials (NGAs) are compounds that target bacterial virulence factors to disrupt pathogenic potential without impacting bacterial viability. By disabling the key virulence factors required to establish and maintain infection, NGAs make pathogens more vulnerable to clearance by the immune system and can potentially render them more susceptible to traditional antibiotics. In this review, we discuss the developing field of NGAs and how advancements in this area could offer a viable standalone alternative to traditional antibiotics or an effective means to prolong antibiotic efficacy when used in combination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kavita Gadar
- Division of Biosciences, Department of Life Sciences, College of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Brunel University London, Uxbridge, UB8 3PH United Kingdom
| | - Ronan R. McCarthy
- Division of Biosciences, Department of Life Sciences, College of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Brunel University London, Uxbridge, UB8 3PH United Kingdom
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9
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Wang Q, Wei S, Silva AF, Madsen JS. Cooperative antibiotic resistance facilitates horizontal gene transfer. THE ISME JOURNAL 2023; 17:846-854. [PMID: 36949153 PMCID: PMC10203111 DOI: 10.1038/s41396-023-01393-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2022] [Revised: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/24/2023]
Abstract
The rise of β-lactam resistance among pathogenic bacteria, due to the horizontal transfer of plasmid-encoded β-lactamases, is a current global health crisis. Importantly, β-lactam hydrolyzation by β-lactamases, not only protects the producing cells but also sensitive neighboring cells cooperatively. Yet, how such cooperative traits affect plasmid transmission and maintenance is currently poorly understood. Here we experimentally show that KPC-2 β-lactamase expression and extracellular activity were higher when encoded on plasmids compared with the chromosome, resulting in the elevated rescue of sensitive non-producers. This facilitated efficient plasmid transfer to the rescued non-producers and expanded the potential plasmid recipient pool and the probability of plasmid transfer to new genotypes. Social conversion of non-producers by conjugation was efficient yet not absolute. Non-cooperative plasmids, not encoding KPC-2, were moderately more competitive than cooperative plasmids when β-lactam antibiotics were absent. However, in the presence of a β-lactam antibiotic, strains with non-cooperative plasmids were efficiently outcompeted. Moreover, plasmid-free non-producers were more competitive than non-producers imposed with the metabolic burden of a plasmid. Our results suggest that cooperative antibiotic resistance especially promotes the fitness of replicons that transfer horizontally such as conjugative plasmids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qinqin Wang
- Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Shaodong Wei
- National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, 2800, Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Ana Filipa Silva
- Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Toirac B, Aguilera-Correa JJ, Mediero A, Esteban J, Jiménez-Morales A. The Antimicrobial Activity of Micron-Thin Sol-Gel Films Loaded with Linezolid and Cefoxitin for Local Prevention of Orthopedic Prosthesis-Related Infections. Gels 2023; 9:gels9030176. [PMID: 36975625 PMCID: PMC10048042 DOI: 10.3390/gels9030176] [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: 01/30/2023] [Revised: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Orthopedic prosthesis-related infections (OPRI) are an essential health concern. OPRI prevention is a priority and a preferred option over dealing with poor prognosis and high-cost treatments. Micron-thin sol-gel films have been noted for a continuous and effective local delivery system. This study aimed to perform a comprehensive in vitro evaluation of a novel hybrid organic-inorganic sol-gel coating developed from a mixture of organopolysiloxanes and organophosphite and loaded with different concentrations of linezolid and/or cefoxitin. The kinetics of degradation and antibiotics release from the coatings were measured. The inhibition of biofilm formation of the coatings against Staphylococcus aureus, S. epidermidis, and Escherichia coli strains was studied, as well as the cell viability and proliferation of MC3T3-E1 osteoblasts. The microbiological assays demonstrated that sol-gel coatings inhibited the biofilm formation of the evaluated Staphylococcus species; however, no inhibition of the E. coli strain was achieved. A synergistic effect of the coating loaded with both antibiotics was observed against S. aureus. The cell studies showed that the sol-gels did not compromise cell viability and proliferation. In conclusion, these coatings represent an innovative therapeutic strategy with potential clinical use to prevent staphylococcal OPRI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatriz Toirac
- Materials Science and Engineering and Chemical Engineering Department, Carlos III University of Madrid, 28911 Madrid, Spain
| | - John Jairo Aguilera-Correa
- Clinical Microbiology Department, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz, UAM, 28040 Madrid, Spain
- CIBERINFEC-Consorcio Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red (CIBER) de Enfermedades Infecciosas, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Aranzazu Mediero
- Bone and Joint Unit, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz, UAM, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Jaime Esteban
- Clinical Microbiology Department, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz, UAM, 28040 Madrid, Spain
- CIBERINFEC-Consorcio Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red (CIBER) de Enfermedades Infecciosas, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Antonia Jiménez-Morales
- Materials Science and Engineering and Chemical Engineering Department, Carlos III University of Madrid, 28911 Madrid, Spain
- CIBERINFEC-Consorcio Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red (CIBER) de Enfermedades Infecciosas, 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Alvaro Alonso Barba Technological Institute of Chemistry and Materials, Carlos III University of Madrid, 28911 Madrid, Spain
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Semenec L, Cain AK, Dawson CJ, Liu Q, Dinh H, Lott H, Penesyan A, Maharjan R, Short FL, Hassan KA, Paulsen IT. Cross-protection and cross-feeding between Klebsiella pneumoniae and Acinetobacter baumannii promotes their co-existence. Nat Commun 2023; 14:702. [PMID: 36759602 PMCID: PMC9911699 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-36252-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Acinetobacter baumannii and Klebsiella pneumoniae are opportunistic pathogens frequently co-isolated from polymicrobial infections. The infections where these pathogens co-exist can be more severe and recalcitrant to therapy than infections caused by either species alone, however there is a lack of knowledge on their potential synergistic interactions. In this study we characterise the genomes of A. baumannii and K. pneumoniae strains co-isolated from a single human lung infection. We examine various aspects of their interactions through transcriptomic, phenomic and phenotypic assays that form a basis for understanding their effects on antimicrobial resistance and virulence during co-infection. Using co-culturing and analyses of secreted metabolites, we discover the ability of K. pneumoniae to cross-feed A. baumannii by-products of sugar fermentation. Minimum inhibitory concentration testing of mono- and co-cultures reveals the ability for A. baumannii to cross-protect K. pneumoniae against the cephalosporin, cefotaxime. Our study demonstrates distinct syntrophic interactions occur between A. baumannii and K. pneumoniae, helping to elucidate the basis for their co-existence in polymicrobial infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucie Semenec
- ARC Centre of Excellence in Synthetic Biology, School of Natural Sciences, Macquarie University, North Ryde, NSW, 2113, Australia
- School of Natural Sciences, Macquarie University, North Ryde, NSW, 2113, Australia
| | - Amy K Cain
- ARC Centre of Excellence in Synthetic Biology, School of Natural Sciences, Macquarie University, North Ryde, NSW, 2113, Australia
- School of Natural Sciences, Macquarie University, North Ryde, NSW, 2113, Australia
| | - Catherine J Dawson
- School of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
| | - Qi Liu
- School of Natural Sciences, Macquarie University, North Ryde, NSW, 2113, Australia
| | - Hue Dinh
- ARC Centre of Excellence in Synthetic Biology, School of Natural Sciences, Macquarie University, North Ryde, NSW, 2113, Australia
- School of Natural Sciences, Macquarie University, North Ryde, NSW, 2113, Australia
| | - Hannah Lott
- School of Natural Sciences, Macquarie University, North Ryde, NSW, 2113, Australia
| | - Anahit Penesyan
- ARC Centre of Excellence in Synthetic Biology, School of Natural Sciences, Macquarie University, North Ryde, NSW, 2113, Australia
- School of Natural Sciences, Macquarie University, North Ryde, NSW, 2113, Australia
| | - Ram Maharjan
- ARC Centre of Excellence in Synthetic Biology, School of Natural Sciences, Macquarie University, North Ryde, NSW, 2113, Australia
- School of Natural Sciences, Macquarie University, North Ryde, NSW, 2113, Australia
| | - Francesca L Short
- Department of Microbiology, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Karl A Hassan
- ARC Centre of Excellence in Synthetic Biology, School of Natural Sciences, Macquarie University, North Ryde, NSW, 2113, Australia.
- School of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia.
| | - Ian T Paulsen
- ARC Centre of Excellence in Synthetic Biology, School of Natural Sciences, Macquarie University, North Ryde, NSW, 2113, Australia.
- School of Natural Sciences, Macquarie University, North Ryde, NSW, 2113, Australia.
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12
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Lissens M, Joos M, Lories B, Steenackers HP. Evolution-proof inhibitors of public good cooperation: a screening strategy inspired by social evolution theory. FEMS Microbiol Rev 2022; 46:6604382. [PMID: 35675280 PMCID: PMC9616471 DOI: 10.1093/femsre/fuac019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Revised: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Interference with public good cooperation provides a promising novel antimicrobial strategy since social evolution theory predicts that resistant mutants will be counter-selected if they share the public benefits of their resistance with sensitive cells in the population. Although this hypothesis is supported by a limited number of pioneering studies, an extensive body of more fundamental work on social evolution describes a multitude of mechanisms and conditions that can stabilize public behaviour, thus potentially allowing resistant mutants to thrive. In this paper we theorize on how these different mechanisms can influence the evolution of resistance against public good inhibitors. Based hereon, we propose an innovative 5-step screening strategy to identify novel evolution-proof public good inhibitors, which involves a systematic evaluation of the exploitability of public goods under the most relevant experimental conditions, as well as a careful assessment of the most optimal way to interfere with their action. Overall, this opinion paper is aimed to contribute to long-term solutions to fight bacterial infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maries Lissens
- Centre of Microbial and Plant Genetics (CMPG), Department of Microbial and Molecular Systems, KU Leuven, Leuven, B-3001, Belgium
| | - Mathieu Joos
- Centre of Microbial and Plant Genetics (CMPG), Department of Microbial and Molecular Systems, KU Leuven, Leuven, B-3001, Belgium
| | - Bram Lories
- Centre of Microbial and Plant Genetics (CMPG), Department of Microbial and Molecular Systems, KU Leuven, Leuven, B-3001, Belgium
| | - Hans P Steenackers
- Corresponding author: Centre of Microbial and Plant Genetics (CMPG), Kasteelpark Arenberg 20 – Box 2460, B-3001 Leuven, Belgium. E-mail:
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13
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De Wit G, Svet L, Lories B, Steenackers HP. Microbial Interspecies Interactions and Their Impact on the Emergence and Spread of Antimicrobial Resistance. Annu Rev Microbiol 2022; 76:179-192. [PMID: 35609949 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-micro-041320-031627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Bacteria are social organisms that commonly live in dense communities surrounded by a multitude of other species. The competitive and cooperative interactions between these species not only shape the bacterial communities but also influence their susceptibility to antimicrobials. While several studies have shown that mixed-species communities are more tolerant toward antimicrobials than their monospecies counterparts, only limited empirical data are currently available on how interspecies interactions influence resistance development. We here propose a theoretic framework outlining the potential impact of interspecies social behavior on different aspects of resistance development. We identify factors by which interspecies interactions might influence resistance evolution and distinguish between their effect on (a) the emergence of a resistant mutant and (b) the spread of this resistance throughout the population. Our analysis indicates that considering the social life of bacteria is imperative to the rational design of more effective antibiotic treatment strategies with a minimal hazard for resistance development. Expected final online publication date for the Annual Review of Microbiology, Volume 76 is September 2022. Please see http://www.annualreviews.org/page/journal/pubdates for revised estimates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gitta De Wit
- Centre of Microbial and Plant Genetics (CMPG), Department of Microbial and Molecular Systems, KU Leuven, 3001 Leuven, Belgium; , , ,
| | - Luka Svet
- Centre of Microbial and Plant Genetics (CMPG), Department of Microbial and Molecular Systems, KU Leuven, 3001 Leuven, Belgium; , , ,
| | - Bram Lories
- Centre of Microbial and Plant Genetics (CMPG), Department of Microbial and Molecular Systems, KU Leuven, 3001 Leuven, Belgium; , , ,
| | - Hans P Steenackers
- Centre of Microbial and Plant Genetics (CMPG), Department of Microbial and Molecular Systems, KU Leuven, 3001 Leuven, Belgium; , , ,
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14
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Giedraitiene A, Pereckaite L, Bredelyte-Gruodiene E, Virgailis M, Ciapiene I, Tatarunas V. CTX-M-producing Escherichia coli strains: resistance to temocillin, fosfomycin, nitrofurantoin and biofilm formation. Future Microbiol 2022; 17:789-802. [PMID: 35549350 DOI: 10.2217/fmb-2021-0202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim: ESBL-producing and bacterial biofilms-forming Escherichia coli are associated with antimicrobial treatment failure. This study aimed to investigate the phenotypic resistance mechanisms of CTX-M E. coli against old antibiotics - cell wall synthesis inhibitors temocillin, nitrofurantoin and fosfomycin. Materials & Methods: Susceptibility to old antibiotics testing was performed using disk diffusion method, biofilm formation was evaluated spectrophotometrically, and PCR was used for the determination of CTX-M type. Results & conclusion: Temocillin was active against nearly 93%, nitrofurantoin and fosfomycin, respectively, 91.7% and 98.6% of tested E. coli. Thus, it demonstrated to be a good alternative therapeutic option against ESBL infections. Bacteria resistant to old antibiotics had CTX-M-15 or CTX-M-15, TEM-1 and OXA-1 combinations. No significant association was found between CTX-M E. coli resistance to temocillin, nitrofurantoin and fosfomycin; however, the level of biofilm formation was found as not affected by the type of CTX-M β-lactamases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agne Giedraitiene
- Institute of Microbiology & Virology, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Kaunas, LT-50162, Lithuania
| | - Laura Pereckaite
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Kaunas, LT-50161, Lithuania
| | | | - Marius Virgailis
- Institute of Microbiology & Virology, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Kaunas, LT-50162, Lithuania
| | - Ieva Ciapiene
- Institute of Cardiology, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Kaunas, LT-50161, Lithuania
| | - Vacis Tatarunas
- Institute of Cardiology, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Kaunas, LT-50161, Lithuania
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15
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Persistence of plasmids targeted by CRISPR interference in bacterial populations. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2022; 119:e2114905119. [PMID: 35394860 PMCID: PMC9169639 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2114905119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
RNA-guided CRISPR-Cas nucleases efficiently protect bacterial cells from phage infection and plasmid transformation. Yet, the efficiency of CRISPR-Cas defense is not absolute. Mutations in either CRISPR-Cas components of the host or mobile genetic elements regions targeted by CRISPR-Cas inactivate the defensive action. Here, we show that even at conditions of active CRISPR-Cas and unaltered targeted plasmids, a kinetic equilibrium between CRISPR-Cas nucleases action and plasmid replication processes allows for existence of a small subpopulation of plasmid-bearing cells on the background of cells that have been cured from the plasmid. In nature, the observed diversification of phenotypes may allow rapid changes in the population structure to meet the demands of the environment. CRISPR-Cas systems provide prokaryotes with an RNA-guided defense against foreign mobile genetic elements (MGEs) such as plasmids and viruses. A common mechanism by which MGEs avoid interference by CRISPR consists of acquisition of escape mutations in regions targeted by CRISPR. Here, using microbiological, live microscopy and microfluidics analyses we demonstrate that plasmids can persist for multiple generations in some Escherichia coli cell lineages at conditions of continuous targeting by the type I-E CRISPR-Cas system. We used mathematical modeling to show how plasmid persistence in a subpopulation of cells mounting CRISPR interference is achieved due to the stochastic nature of CRISPR interference and plasmid replication events. We hypothesize that the observed complex dynamics provides bacterial populations with long-term benefits due to continuous maintenance of mobile genetic elements in some cells, which leads to diversification of phenotypes in the entire community and allows rapid changes in the population structure to meet the demands of a changing environment.
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16
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Kin selection for cooperation in natural bacterial populations. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2022; 119:2119070119. [PMID: 35193981 PMCID: PMC8892524 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2119070119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Bacteria secrete many molecules outside the cell, where they provide benefits to other cells. One potential reason for producing these “public goods” is that they benefit closely related cells that share the gene for cooperation (kin selection). While many laboratory studies have supported this hypothesis, there is a lack of evidence that kin selection favors cooperation in natural populations. We examined bacterial genomes from the environment and used population genetics theory to analyze the DNA sequences. Our analyses suggest that public goods cooperation has indeed been favored by kin selection in natural populations. Bacteria produce a range of molecules that are secreted from the cell and can provide a benefit to the local population of cells. Laboratory experiments have suggested that these “public goods” molecules represent a form of cooperation, favored because they benefit closely related cells (kin selection). However, there is a relative lack of data demonstrating kin selection for cooperation in natural populations of bacteria. We used molecular population genetics to test for signatures of kin selection at the genomic level in natural populations of the opportunistic pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa. We found consistent evidence from multiple traits that genes controlling putatively cooperative traits have higher polymorphism and greater divergence and are more likely to harbor deleterious mutations relative to genes controlling putatively private traits, which are expressed at similar rates. These patterns suggest that cooperative traits are controlled by kin selection, and we estimate that the relatedness for social interactions in P. aeruginosa is r = 0.84. More generally, our results demonstrate how molecular population genetics can be used to study the evolution of cooperation in natural populations.
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17
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Raymond B, Erdos Z. Passage and the evolution of virulence in invertebrate pathogens: Fundamental and applied perspectives. J Invertebr Pathol 2021; 187:107692. [PMID: 34798134 DOI: 10.1016/j.jip.2021.107692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2021] [Revised: 11/11/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Understanding the ecological and genetic factors that determine the evolution of virulence has broad value for invertebrate pathology. In addition to helping us understand the fundamental biology of our study organisms this body of theory has important applications in microbial biocontrol. Experimental tests of virulence theory are often carried out in invertebrate models and yet theory rarely informs applied passage experiments that aim to increase or maintain virulence. This review summarizes recent progress in this field with a focus on work most relevant to biological control: the virulence of invertebrate pathogens that are 'obligate killers' and which require cadavers for the production of infectious propagules. We discuss recent theory and fundamental and applied experimental evolution with bacteria, fungi, baculoviruses and nematodes. While passage experiments using baculoviruses have a long history of producing isolates with increased virulence, studies with other pathogens have not been so successful. Recent passage experiments that have applied evolution of virulence frameworks based on cooperation (kin selection) have produced novel methods and promising mutants with increased killing power. Evolution of virulence theory can provide plausible explanations for the varied results of passage experiments as well as a predictive framework for improving artificial selection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben Raymond
- Centre for Ecology and Conservation, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Penryn, TR10 9FE, UK.
| | - Zoltan Erdos
- Centre for Ecology and Conservation, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Penryn, TR10 9FE, UK
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18
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Lee IPA, Eldakar OT, Gogarten JP, Andam CP. Bacterial cooperation through horizontal gene transfer. Trends Ecol Evol 2021; 37:223-232. [PMID: 34815098 DOI: 10.1016/j.tree.2021.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Revised: 10/27/2021] [Accepted: 11/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Cooperation exists across all scales of biological organization, from genetic elements to complex human societies. Bacteria cooperate by secreting molecules that benefit all individuals in the population (i.e., public goods). Genes associated with cooperation can spread among strains through horizontal gene transfer (HGT). We discuss recent findings on how HGT mediated by mobile genetic elements promotes bacterial cooperation, how cooperation in turn can facilitate more frequent HGT, and how the act of HGT itself may be considered as a form of cooperation. We propose that HGT is an important enforcement mechanism in bacterial populations, thus creating a positive feedback loop that further maintains cooperation. To enforce cooperation, HGT serves as a homogenizing force by transferring the cooperative trait, effectively eliminating cheaters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isaiah Paolo A Lee
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Biomedical Sciences, University of New Hampshire, Durham, NH 03824, USA
| | - Omar Tonsi Eldakar
- Department of Biological Sciences, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33314, USA
| | - J Peter Gogarten
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269, USA.
| | - Cheryl P Andam
- Department of Biological Sciences, University at Albany, State University of New York, Albany, NY 12222, USA.
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Balasubramanian S, Yu K, Cardenas DV, Aubin-Tam ME, Meyer AS. Emergent Biological Endurance Depends on Extracellular Matrix Composition of Three-Dimensionally Printed Escherichia coli Biofilms. ACS Synth Biol 2021; 10:2997-3008. [PMID: 34652130 PMCID: PMC8609572 DOI: 10.1021/acssynbio.1c00290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
![]()
Biofilms are three-dimensional
(3D) bacterial communities that
exhibit a highly self-organized nature in terms of their composition
and complex architecture. Bacteria in biofilms display emergent biological
properties, such as resistance to antimicrobials and disinfectants
that the individual planktonic cells lack. Bacterial biofilms possess
specialized architectural features including unique extracellular
matrix compositions and a distinct spatially patterned arrangement
of cells and matrix components within the biofilm. It is unclear which
of these architectural elements of bacterial biofilms lead to the
development of their emergent biological properties. Here, we report
a 3D printing-based technique for studying the emergent resistance
behaviors of Escherichia coli biofilms
as a function of their architecture. Cellulose and curli are the major
extracellular-matrix components in E. coli biofilms. We show that 3D-printed biofilms expressing either curli
alone or both curli and cellulose in their extracellular matrices
show higher resistance to exposure against disinfectants than 3D prints
expressing either cellulose alone or no biofilm-matrix components.
The 3D-printed biofilms expressing cellulose and/or curli also show
thicker anaerobic zones than nonbiofilm-forming E.
coli 3D prints. Thus, the matrix composition plays
a crucial role in the emergent spatial patterning and biological endurance
of 3D-printed biofilms. In contrast, initial spatial distribution
of bacterial density or curli-producing cells does not have an effect
on biofilm resistance phenotypes. Further, these 3D-printed biofilms
could be reversibly attached to different surfaces (bacterial cellulose,
glass, and polystyrene) and display resistance to physical distortions
by retaining their shape and structure. This physical robustness highlights
their potential in applications including bioremediation, protective
coatings against pathogens on medical devices, or wastewater treatment,
among many others. This new understanding of the emergent behavior
of bacterial biofilms could aid in the development of novel engineered
living materials using synthetic biology and materials science approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Srikkanth Balasubramanian
- Department of Sustainable Design Engineering, Faculty of Industrial Design Engineering, Delft University of Technology, 2628 CE Delft, The Netherlands
| | - Kui Yu
- Department of Bionanoscience & Kavli Institute of Nanoscience, Delft University of Technology, 2629 HZ Delft, The Netherlands
| | - Diana Vasquez Cardenas
- Department of Biotechnology, Delft University of Technology, 2629 HZ Delft, The Netherlands
| | - Marie-Eve Aubin-Tam
- Department of Bionanoscience & Kavli Institute of Nanoscience, Delft University of Technology, 2629 HZ Delft, The Netherlands
| | - Anne S. Meyer
- Department of Biology, University of Rochester, Rochester, New York 14627, United States
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Combining Colistin with Furanone C-30 Rescues Colistin Resistance of Gram-Negative Bacteria in Vitro and in Vivo. Microbiol Spectr 2021; 9:e0123121. [PMID: 34730415 PMCID: PMC8567244 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.01231-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The spread of multidrug-resistant (MDR) Gram-negative bacteria (GNB) has led to serious public health problems worldwide. Colistin, as a “last resort” for the treatment of MDR bacterial infections, has been used significantly in recent years and has led to the continuous emergence of colistin-resistant strains. In this study, we aimed to investigate the synergistic effect on the antimicrobial and antibiofilm activities of a colistin/furanone C-30 combination against colistin-resistant GNB in vitro and in vivo. According to antimicrobial resistance profiles, most of the colistin-resistant strains we collected showed MDR phenotypes. The checkerboard method and time-kill curve showed that the combination with furanone C-30 increases the antibacterial activity of colistin significantly. In addition, the furanone C-30/colistin combination can not only inhibit the formation of bacterial biofilm but also has a better eradication effect on preformed mature biofilms. The result of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) demonstrated that the furanone C-30/colistin combination led to a significant reduction in the number of cells in biofilms. Furthermore, furanone C-30 at 50 μg/ml did not cause any additional toxicity to RAW264.7 cells according to a cytotoxicity assay. In in vivo infection experiments, the furanone C-30/colistin combination increased the survival rate of infected Galleria mellonella larvae as well as decreased the microbial load in a mouse thigh infection model. The synergistic effect of the furanone C-30/colistin combination against colistin-resistant GNB is encouraging, and this work may shed light on a new therapeutic approach to combat colistin-resistant pathogens. IMPORTANCE Colistin is among the few antibiotics effective against multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacteria (GNB) clinical isolates. However, colistin-resistant GNB strains have emerged in recent years. Therefore, the combination of colistin and nonantibacterial drugs has attracted much attention. In this study, the furanone C-30/colistin combination showed good antibacterial and antibiofilm activity in vitro and in vivo. In addition, increased membrane permeability leads to the synergistic effect of the furanone C-30/colistin combination. Because of the low cytotoxicity of furanone C-30, this combination has good application prospects in clinical anti-infective therapy. This finding might shed light on the discovery of combination therapy for infections caused by colistin-resistant GNB pathogens.
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21
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Sharma A, Wood KB. Spatial segregation and cooperation in radially expanding microbial colonies under antibiotic stress. THE ISME JOURNAL 2021; 15:3019-3033. [PMID: 33953363 PMCID: PMC8443724 DOI: 10.1038/s41396-021-00982-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2020] [Revised: 03/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Antibiotic resistance in microbial communities reflects a combination of processes operating at different scales. In this work, we investigate the spatiotemporal dynamics of bacterial colonies comprised of drug-resistant and drug-sensitive cells undergoing range expansion under antibiotic stress. Using the opportunistic pathogen Enterococcus faecalis with plasmid-encoded β-lactamase, we track colony expansion dynamics and visualize spatial patterns in fluorescently labeled populations exposed to antibiotics. We find that the radial expansion rate of mixed communities is approximately constant over a wide range of drug concentrations and initial population compositions. Imaging of the final populations shows that resistance to ampicillin is cooperative, with sensitive cells surviving in the presence of resistant cells at otherwise lethal concentrations. The populations exhibit a diverse range of spatial segregation patterns that depend on drug concentration and initial conditions. Mathematical models indicate that the observed dynamics are consistent with global cooperation, despite the fact that β-lactamase remains cell-associated. Experiments confirm that resistant colonies provide a protective effect to sensitive cells on length scales multiple times the size of a single colony, and populations seeded with (on average) no more than a single resistant cell can produce mixed communities in the presence of the drug. While biophysical models of drug degradation suggest that individual resistant cells offer only short-range protection to neighboring cells, we show that long-range protection may arise from synergistic effects of multiple resistant cells, providing surprisingly large protection zones even at small population fractions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anupama Sharma
- Department of Biophysics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, USA
- Department of Mathematics, BITS Pilani K K Birla Goa Campus, Goa, India
| | - Kevin B Wood
- Department of Biophysics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, USA.
- Department of Physics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, USA.
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22
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Majumder S, Jung D, Ronholm J, George S. Prevalence and mechanisms of antibiotic resistance in Escherichia coli isolated from mastitic dairy cattle in Canada. BMC Microbiol 2021; 21:222. [PMID: 34332549 PMCID: PMC8325273 DOI: 10.1186/s12866-021-02280-5] [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] [Received: 04/08/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Bovine mastitis is the most common infectious disease in dairy cattle with major economic implications for the dairy industry worldwide. Continuous monitoring for the emergence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) among bacterial isolates from dairy farms is vital not only for animal husbandry but also for public health. Methods In this study, the prevalence of AMR in 113 Escherichia coli isolates from cases of bovine clinical mastitis in Canada was investigated. Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion test with 18 antibiotics and microdilution method with 3 heavy metals (copper, zinc, and silver) was performed to determine the antibiotic and heavy-metal susceptibility. Resistant strains were assessed for efflux and ß-lactamase activities besides assessing biofilm formation and hemolysis. Whole-genome sequences for each of the isolates were examined to detect the presence of genes corresponding to the observed AMR and virulence factors. Results Phenotypic analysis revealed that 32 isolates were resistant to one or more antibiotics and 107 showed resistance against at least one heavy metal. Quinolones and silver were the most efficient against the tested isolates. Among the AMR isolates, AcrAB-TolC efflux activity and ß-lactamase enzyme activities were detected in 13 and 14 isolates, respectively. All isolates produced biofilm but with different capacities, and 33 isolates showed α-hemolysin activity. A positive correlation (Pearson r = + 0.89) between efflux pump activity and quantity of biofilm was observed. Genes associated with aggregation, adhesion, cyclic di-GMP, quorum sensing were detected in the AMR isolates corroborating phenotype observations. Conclusions This investigation showed the prevalence of AMR in E. coli isolates from bovine clinical mastitis. The results also suggest the inadequacy of antimicrobials with a single mode of action to curtail AMR bacteria with multiple mechanisms of resistance and virulence factors. Therefore, it calls for combinatorial therapy for the effective management of AMR infections in dairy farms and combats its potential transmission to the food supply chain through the milk and dairy products. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12866-021-02280-5.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satwik Majumder
- Department of Food Science and Agricultural Chemistry, McGill University, Macdonald Campus, 21111 Lakeshore Ste Anne de Bellevue, H9X 3V9, Quebec, Canada
| | - Dongyun Jung
- Department of Food Science and Agricultural Chemistry, McGill University, Macdonald Campus, 21111 Lakeshore Ste Anne de Bellevue, H9X 3V9, Quebec, Canada
| | - Jennifer Ronholm
- Department of Food Science and Agricultural Chemistry, McGill University, Macdonald Campus, 21111 Lakeshore Ste Anne de Bellevue, H9X 3V9, Quebec, Canada. .,Department of Animal Science, McGill University, Macdonald Campus, 21111 Lakeshore Ste Anne de Bellevue, H9X 3V9, Quebec, Canada.
| | - Saji George
- Department of Food Science and Agricultural Chemistry, McGill University, Macdonald Campus, 21111 Lakeshore Ste Anne de Bellevue, H9X 3V9, Quebec, Canada.
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Flieger J, Flieger W, Baj J, Maciejewski R. Antioxidants: Classification, Natural Sources, Activity/Capacity Measurements, and Usefulness for the Synthesis of Nanoparticles. MATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2021; 14:4135. [PMID: 34361329 PMCID: PMC8347950 DOI: 10.3390/ma14154135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2021] [Revised: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Natural extracts are the source of many antioxidant substances. They have proven useful not only as supplements preventing diseases caused by oxidative stress and food additives preventing oxidation but also as system components for the production of metallic nanoparticles by the so-called green synthesis. This is important given the drastically increased demand for nanomaterials in biomedical fields. The source of ecological technology for producing nanoparticles can be plants or microorganisms (yeast, algae, cyanobacteria, fungi, and bacteria). This review presents recently published research on the green synthesis of nanoparticles. The conditions of biosynthesis and possible mechanisms of nanoparticle formation with the participation of bacteria are presented. The potential of natural extracts for biogenic synthesis depends on the content of reducing substances. The assessment of the antioxidant activity of extracts as multicomponent mixtures is still a challenge for analytical chemistry. There is still no universal test for measuring total antioxidant capacity (TAC). There are many in vitro chemical tests that quantify the antioxidant scavenging activity of free radicals and their ability to chelate metals and that reduce free radical damage. This paper presents the classification of antioxidants and non-enzymatic methods of testing antioxidant capacity in vitro, with particular emphasis on methods based on nanoparticles. Examples of recent studies on the antioxidant activity of natural extracts obtained from different species such as plants, fungi, bacteria, algae, lichens, actinomycetes were collected, giving evaluation methods, reference antioxidants, and details on the preparation of extracts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jolanta Flieger
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Medical University of Lublin, Chodźki 4A, 20-093 Lublin, Poland
| | - Wojciech Flieger
- Chair and Department of Anatomy, Medical University of Lublin, Jaczewskiego 4, 20-090 Lublin, Poland; (W.F.); (J.B.); (R.M.)
| | - Jacek Baj
- Chair and Department of Anatomy, Medical University of Lublin, Jaczewskiego 4, 20-090 Lublin, Poland; (W.F.); (J.B.); (R.M.)
| | - Ryszard Maciejewski
- Chair and Department of Anatomy, Medical University of Lublin, Jaczewskiego 4, 20-090 Lublin, Poland; (W.F.); (J.B.); (R.M.)
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24
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Eger E, Heiden SE, Korolew K, Bayingana C, Ndoli JM, Sendegeya A, Gahutu JB, Kurz MSE, Mockenhaupt FP, Müller J, Simm S, Schaufler K. Circulation of Extended-Spectrum Beta-Lactamase-Producing Escherichia coli of Pandemic Sequence Types 131, 648, and 410 Among Hospitalized Patients, Caregivers, and the Community in Rwanda. Front Microbiol 2021; 12:662575. [PMID: 34054764 PMCID: PMC8160302 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.662575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Multi-drug resistant (MDR), gram-negative Enterobacteriaceae, such as Escherichia coli (E. coli) limit therapeutic options and increase morbidity, mortality, and treatment costs worldwide. They pose a serious burden on healthcare systems, especially in developing countries like Rwanda. Several studies have shown the effects caused by the global spread of extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL)-producing E. coli. However, limited data is available on transmission dynamics of these pathogens and the mobile elements they carry in the context of clinical and community locations in Sub-Saharan Africa. Here, we examined 120 ESBL-producing E. coli strains from patients hospitalized in the University Teaching Hospital of Butare (Rwanda), their attending caregivers as well as associated community members and livestock. Based on whole-genome analysis, the genetic diversification and phylogenetics were assessed. Moreover, the content of carried plasmids was characterized and investigated for putative transmission among strains, and for their potential role as drivers for the spread of antibiotic resistance. We show that among the 30 different sequence types (ST) detected were the pandemic clonal lineages ST131, ST648 and ST410, which combine high-level antimicrobial resistance with virulence. In addition to the frequently found resistance genes blaCTX–M–15, tet(34), and aph(6)-Id, we identified csg genes, which are required for curli fiber synthesis and thus biofilm formation. Numerous strains harbored multiple virulence-associated genes (VAGs) including pap (P fimbriae adhesion cluster), fim (type I fimbriae) and chu (Chu heme uptake system). Furthermore, we found phylogenetic relationships among strains from patients and their caregivers or related community members and animals, which indicates transmission of pathogens. Also, we demonstrated the presence and potential transfer of identical/similar ESBL-plasmids in different strains from the Rwandan setting and when compared to an external plasmid. This study highlights the circulation of clinically relevant, pathogenic ESBL-producing E. coli among patients, caregivers and the community in Rwanda. Combining antimicrobial resistance with virulence in addition to the putative exchange of mobile genetic elements among bacterial pathogens poses a significant risk around the world.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elias Eger
- Pharmaceutical Microbiology, Institute of Pharmacy, University of Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Stefan E Heiden
- Pharmaceutical Microbiology, Institute of Pharmacy, University of Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Katja Korolew
- Institute of Bioinformatics, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Claude Bayingana
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Jules M Ndoli
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda.,University Teaching Hospital of Butare, Butare, Rwanda
| | - Augustin Sendegeya
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda.,University Teaching Hospital of Butare, Butare, Rwanda
| | - Jean Bosco Gahutu
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda.,University Teaching Hospital of Butare, Butare, Rwanda
| | - Mathis S E Kurz
- Institute of Tropical Medicine and International Health, Charité Medical University of Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Frank P Mockenhaupt
- Institute of Tropical Medicine and International Health, Charité Medical University of Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Julia Müller
- Pharmaceutical Microbiology, Institute of Pharmacy, University of Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Stefan Simm
- Institute of Bioinformatics, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Katharina Schaufler
- Pharmaceutical Microbiology, Institute of Pharmacy, University of Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
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25
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Ecology and evolution of antimicrobial resistance in bacterial communities. THE ISME JOURNAL 2021; 15:939-948. [PMID: 33219299 PMCID: PMC8115348 DOI: 10.1038/s41396-020-00832-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2020] [Revised: 10/29/2020] [Accepted: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Accumulating evidence suggests that the response of bacteria to antibiotics is significantly affected by the presence of other interacting microbes. These interactions are not typically accounted for when determining pathogen sensitivity to antibiotics. In this perspective, we argue that resistance and evolutionary responses to antibiotic treatments should not be considered only a trait of an individual bacteria species but also an emergent property of the microbial community in which pathogens are embedded. We outline how interspecies interactions can affect the responses of individual species and communities to antibiotic treatment, and how these responses could affect the strength of selection, potentially changing the trajectory of resistance evolution. Finally, we identify key areas of future research which will allow for a more complete understanding of antibiotic resistance in bacterial communities. We emphasise that acknowledging the ecological context, i.e. the interactions that occur between pathogens and within communities, could help the development of more efficient and effective antibiotic treatments.
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26
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Sadiq FA, Burmølle M, Heyndrickx M, Flint S, Lu W, Chen W, Zhao J, Zhang H. Community-wide changes reflecting bacterial interspecific interactions in multispecies biofilms. Crit Rev Microbiol 2021; 47:338-358. [PMID: 33651958 DOI: 10.1080/1040841x.2021.1887079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Existence of most bacterial species, in natural, industrial, and clinical settings in the form of surface-adhered communities or biofilms has been well acknowledged for decades. Research predominantly focusses on single-species biofilms as these are relatively easy to study. However, microbiologists are now interested in studying multispecies biofilms and revealing interspecific interactions in these communities because of the existence of a plethora of different bacterial species together in almost all natural settings. Multispecies biofilms-led emergent properties are triggered by bacterial social interactions which have huge implication for research and practical knowledge useful for the control and manipulation of these microbial communities. Here, we discuss some important bacterial interactions that take place in multispecies biofilm communities and provide insights into community-wide changes that indicate bacterial interactions and elucidate underlying mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faizan Ahmed Sadiq
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China.,School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
| | - Mette Burmølle
- Section of Microbiology, Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Marc Heyndrickx
- Flanders Research Institute for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (ILVO), Technology & Food Sciences Unit, Melle, Belgium.,Department of Pathology, Bacteriology and Poultry Diseases, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Steve Flint
- School of Food and Advanced Technology, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| | - Wenwei Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China.,School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China.,National Engineering Research Center for Functional Food, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
| | - Wei Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China.,School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China.,National Engineering Research Center for Functional Food, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
| | - Jianxin Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China.,School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China.,National Engineering Research Center for Functional Food, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
| | - Hao Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China.,School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China.,National Engineering Research Center for Functional Food, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
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27
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Garde R, Ewald J, Kovács ÁT, Schuster S. Modelling population dynamics in a unicellular social organism community using a minimal model and evolutionary game theory. Open Biol 2020; 10:200206. [PMID: 33142084 PMCID: PMC7729035 DOI: 10.1098/rsob.200206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Most unicellular organisms live in communities and express different phenotypes. Many efforts have been made to study the population dynamics of such complex communities of cells, coexisting as well-coordinated units. Minimal models based on ordinary differential equations are powerful tools that can help us understand complex phenomena. They represent an appropriate compromise between complexity and tractability; they allow a profound and comprehensive analysis, which is still easy to understand. Evolutionary game theory is another powerful tool that can help us understand the costs and benefits of the decision a particular cell of a unicellular social organism takes when faced with the challenges of the biotic and abiotic environment. This work is a binocular view at the population dynamics of such a community through the objectives of minimal modelling and evolutionary game theory. We test the behaviour of the community of a unicellular social organism at three levels of antibiotic stress. Even in the absence of the antibiotic, spikes in the fraction of resistant cells can be observed indicating the importance of bet hedging. At moderate level of antibiotic stress, we witness cyclic dynamics reminiscent of the renowned rock–paper–scissors game. At a very high level, the resistant type of strategy is the most favourable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ravindra Garde
- Department of Bioinformatics, Matthias Schleiden Institute, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Ernst-Abbe-Platz 2, 07743 Jena, Germany.,Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology, Hans-Knöll-Strasse 8, 07745 Jena, Germany
| | - Jan Ewald
- Department of Bioinformatics, Matthias Schleiden Institute, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Ernst-Abbe-Platz 2, 07743 Jena, Germany
| | - Ákos T Kovács
- Bacterial Interactions and Evolution Group, DTU Bioengineering, Technical University of Denmark, Søltofts Plads Building 221, 2800 Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Stefan Schuster
- Department of Bioinformatics, Matthias Schleiden Institute, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Ernst-Abbe-Platz 2, 07743 Jena, Germany
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