1
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Doloman A, Besteman MS, Sanders MG, Sousa DZ. Methanogenic partner influences cell aggregation and signalling of Syntrophobacterium fumaroxidans. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2024; 108:127. [PMID: 38229305 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-023-12955-w] [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: 08/25/2023] [Revised: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
For several decades, the formation of microbial self-aggregates, known as granules, has been extensively documented in the context of anaerobic digestion. However, current understanding of the underlying microbial-associated mechanisms responsible for this phenomenon remains limited. This study examined morphological and biochemical changes associated with cell aggregation in model co-cultures of the syntrophic propionate oxidizing bacterium Syntrophobacterium fumaroxidans and hydrogenotrophic methanogens, Methanospirillum hungatei or Methanobacterium formicicum. Formerly, we observed that when syntrophs grow for long periods with methanogens, cultures tend to form aggregates visible to the eye. In this study, we maintained syntrophic co-cultures of S. fumaroxidans with either M. hungatei or M. formicicum for a year in a fed-batch growth mode to stimulate aggregation. Millimeter-scale aggregates were observed in both co-cultures within the first 5 months of cultivation. In addition, we detected quorum sensing molecules, specifically N-acyl homoserine lactones, in co-culture supernatants preceding the formation of macro-aggregates (with diameter of more than 20 μm). Comparative transcriptomics revealed higher expression of genes related to signal transduction, polysaccharide secretion and metal transporters in the late-aggregation state co-cultures, compared to the initial ones. This is the first study to report in detail both biochemical and physiological changes associated with the aggregate formation in syntrophic methanogenic co-cultures. KEYPOINTS: • Syntrophic co-cultures formed mm-scale aggregates within 5 months of fed-batch cultivation. • N-acyl homoserine lactones were detected during the formation of aggregates. • Aggregated co-cultures exhibited upregulated expression of adhesins- and polysaccharide-associated genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Doloman
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Wageningen University & Research, Stippeneng 4, 6708, WE, Wageningen, The Netherlands.
| | - Maaike S Besteman
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Wageningen University & Research, Stippeneng 4, 6708, WE, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Mark G Sanders
- Laboratory of Food Chemistry, Wageningen University, Bornse Weilanden 9, 6708, WG, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Diana Z Sousa
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Wageningen University & Research, Stippeneng 4, 6708, WE, Wageningen, The Netherlands
- Centre for Living Technologies, Eindhoven-Wageningen-Utrecht Alliance, Princetonlaan 6, 3584, CB, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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2
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Jeong GJ, Khan F, Tabassum N, Kim YM. Motility of Acinetobacter baumannii: regulatory systems and controlling strategies. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2024; 108:3. [PMID: 38159120 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-023-12975-6] [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: 10/05/2023] [Revised: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Acinetobacter baumannii is a Gram-negative opportunistic zoonotic pathogenic bacterium that causes nosocomial infections ranging from minor to life-threatening. The clinical importance of this zoonotic pathogen is rapidly increasing due to the development of multiple resistance mechanisms and the synthesis of numerous virulence factors. Although no flagellum-mediated motility exists, it may move through twitching or surface-associated motility. Twitching motility is a coordinated multicellular movement caused by the extension, attachment, and retraction of type IV pili, which are involved in surface adherence and biofilm formation. Surface-associated motility is a kind of movement that does not need appendages and is most likely driven by the release of extra polymeric molecules. This kind of motility is linked to the production of 1,3-diaminopropane, lipooligosaccharide formation, natural competence, and efflux pump proteins. Since A. baumannii's virulence qualities are directly tied to motility, it is possible that its motility may be used as a specialized preventative or therapeutic measure. The current review detailed the signaling mechanism and involvement of various proteins in controlling A. baumannii motility. As a result, we have thoroughly addressed the role of natural and synthetic compounds that impede A. baumannii motility, as well as the underlying action mechanisms. Understanding the regulatory mechanisms behind A. baumannii's motility features will aid in the development of therapeutic drugs to control its infection. KEY POINTS: • Acinetobacter baumannii exhibits multiple resistance mechanisms. • A. baumannii can move owing to twitching and surface-associated motility. • Natural and synthetic compounds can attenuate A. baumannii motility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geum-Jae Jeong
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Pukyong National University, Busan, 48513, Republic of Korea
| | - Fazlurrahman Khan
- Institute of Fisheries Sciences, Pukyong National University, Busan, 48513, Republic of Korea.
- Marine Integrated Biomedical Technology Center, The National Key Research Institutes in Universities, Pukyong National University, Busan, 48513, Republic of Korea.
- Research Center for Marine Integrated Bionics Technology, Pukyong National University, Busan, 48513, Republic of Korea.
| | - Nazia Tabassum
- Marine Integrated Biomedical Technology Center, The National Key Research Institutes in Universities, Pukyong National University, Busan, 48513, Republic of Korea
- Research Center for Marine Integrated Bionics Technology, Pukyong National University, Busan, 48513, Republic of Korea
| | - Young-Mog Kim
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Pukyong National University, Busan, 48513, Republic of Korea.
- Marine Integrated Biomedical Technology Center, The National Key Research Institutes in Universities, Pukyong National University, Busan, 48513, Republic of Korea.
- Research Center for Marine Integrated Bionics Technology, Pukyong National University, Busan, 48513, Republic of Korea.
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3
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Schaible GA, Jay ZJ, Cliff J, Schulz F, Gauvin C, Goudeau D, Malmstrom RR, Ruff SE, Edgcomb V, Hatzenpichler R. Multicellular magnetotactic bacteria are genetically heterogeneous consortia with metabolically differentiated cells. PLoS Biol 2024; 22:e3002638. [PMID: 38990824 PMCID: PMC11239054 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pbio.3002638] [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: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Consortia of multicellular magnetotactic bacteria (MMB) are currently the only known example of bacteria without a unicellular stage in their life cycle. Because of their recalcitrance to cultivation, most previous studies of MMB have been limited to microscopic observations. To study the biology of these unique organisms in more detail, we use multiple culture-independent approaches to analyze the genomics and physiology of MMB consortia at single-cell resolution. We separately sequenced the metagenomes of 22 individual MMB consortia, representing 8 new species, and quantified the genetic diversity within each MMB consortium. This revealed that, counter to conventional views, cells within MMB consortia are not clonal. Single consortia metagenomes were then used to reconstruct the species-specific metabolic potential and infer the physiological capabilities of MMB. To validate genomic predictions, we performed stable isotope probing (SIP) experiments and interrogated MMB consortia using fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) combined with nanoscale secondary ion mass spectrometry (NanoSIMS). By coupling FISH with bioorthogonal noncanonical amino acid tagging (BONCAT), we explored their in situ activity as well as variation of protein synthesis within cells. We demonstrate that MMB consortia are mixotrophic sulfate reducers and that they exhibit metabolic differentiation between individual cells, suggesting that MMB consortia are more complex than previously thought. These findings expand our understanding of MMB diversity, ecology, genomics, and physiology, as well as offer insights into the mechanisms underpinning the multicellular nature of their unique lifestyle.
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Affiliation(s)
- George A Schaible
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Montana State University, Bozeman, Montana, United States of America
- Center for Biofilm Engineering, Montana State University, Bozeman, Montana, United States of America
| | - Zackary J Jay
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Montana State University, Bozeman, Montana, United States of America
- Center for Biofilm Engineering, Montana State University, Bozeman, Montana, United States of America
- Thermal Biology Institute, Montana State University, Bozeman, Montana, United States of America
| | - John Cliff
- Environmental Molecular Sciences Laboratory, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Richland, Washington, United States of America
| | - Frederik Schulz
- Department of Energy Joint Genome Institute, Berkeley, California, United States of America
| | - Colin Gauvin
- Center for Biofilm Engineering, Montana State University, Bozeman, Montana, United States of America
- Thermal Biology Institute, Montana State University, Bozeman, Montana, United States of America
| | - Danielle Goudeau
- Department of Energy Joint Genome Institute, Berkeley, California, United States of America
| | - Rex R Malmstrom
- Department of Energy Joint Genome Institute, Berkeley, California, United States of America
| | - S Emil Ruff
- Ecosystems Center and Bay Paul Center, Marine Biological Laboratory, Woods Hole, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Virginia Edgcomb
- Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, Falmouth, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Roland Hatzenpichler
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Montana State University, Bozeman, Montana, United States of America
- Center for Biofilm Engineering, Montana State University, Bozeman, Montana, United States of America
- Thermal Biology Institute, Montana State University, Bozeman, Montana, United States of America
- Department of Microbiology and Cell Biology, Montana State University, Bozeman, Montana, United States of America
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4
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Ouyang Z, Zhao M, Li J, Zhang Y, Zhao J. Cyclic diguanylate differentially regulates the expression of virulence factors and pathogenesis-related phenotypes in Clostridioides difficile. Microbiol Res 2024; 286:127811. [PMID: 38909416 DOI: 10.1016/j.micres.2024.127811] [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: 02/23/2024] [Revised: 06/03/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024]
Abstract
Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) caused by toxigenic C. difficile is the leading cause of antimicrobial and healthcare-associated diarrhea. The pathogenicity of C. difficile relies on the synergistic effect of multiple virulence factors, including spores, flagella, type IV pili (T4P), toxins, and biofilm. Spores enable survival and transmission of C. difficile, while adhesion factors such as flagella and T4P allow C. difficile to colonize and persist in the host intestine. Subsequently, C. difficile produces the toxins TcdA and TcdB, causing pseudomembranous colitis and other C. difficile-associated diseases; adhesion factors bind to the extracellular matrix to form biofilm, allowing C. difficile to evade drug and immune system attack and cause recurrent infection. Cyclic diguanylate (c-di-GMP) is a near-ubiquitous second messenger that extensively regulates morphology, the expression of virulence factors, and multiple physiological processes in C. difficile. In this review, we summarize current knowledge of how c-di-GMP differentially regulates the expression of virulence factors and pathogenesis-related phenotypes in C. difficile. We highlight that C. difficile spore formation and expression of toxin and flagella genes are inhibited at high intracellular levels of c-di-GMP, while T4P biosynthesis, cell aggregation, and biofilm formation are induced. Recent studies have enhanced our understanding of the c-di-GMP signaling networks in C. difficile and provided insights for the development of c-di-GMP-dependent strategies against CDI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zirou Ouyang
- Hebei Provincial Center for Clinical Laboratories, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Min Zhao
- Hebei Provincial Center for Clinical Laboratories, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Jiayiren Li
- Hebei Provincial Center for Clinical Laboratories, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Yulian Zhang
- Hebei Provincial Center for Clinical Laboratories, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Jianhong Zhao
- Hebei Provincial Center for Clinical Laboratories, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China.
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5
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Liu J, Eastep GN, Cvirkaite-Krupovic V, Rich-New ST, Kreutzberger MAB, Egelman EH, Krupovic M, Wang F. Two distinct archaeal type IV pili structures formed by proteins with identical sequence. Nat Commun 2024; 15:5049. [PMID: 38877064 PMCID: PMC11178852 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-45062-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Type IV pili (T4P) represent one of the most common varieties of surface appendages in archaea. These filaments, assembled from small pilin proteins, can be many microns long and serve diverse functions, including adhesion, biofilm formation, motility, and intercellular communication. Here, we determine atomic structures of two distinct adhesive T4P from Saccharolobus islandicus via cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM). Unexpectedly, both pili were assembled from the same pilin polypeptide but under different growth conditions. One filament, denoted mono-pilus, conforms to canonical archaeal T4P structures where all subunits are equivalent, whereas in the other filament, the tri-pilus, the same polypeptide exists in three different conformations. The three conformations in the tri-pilus are very different from the single conformation found in the mono-pilus, and involve different orientations of the outer immunoglobulin-like domains, mediated by a very flexible linker. Remarkably, the outer domains rotate nearly 180° between the mono- and tri-pilus conformations. Both forms of pili require the same ATPase and TadC-like membrane pore for assembly, indicating that the same secretion system can produce structurally very different filaments. Our results show that the structures of archaeal T4P appear to be less constrained and rigid than those of the homologous archaeal flagellar filaments that serve as helical propellers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junfeng Liu
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, Archaeal Virology Unit, Paris, France
| | - Gunnar N Eastep
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | | | - Shane T Rich-New
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Mark A B Kreutzberger
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Edward H Egelman
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA.
| | - Mart Krupovic
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, Archaeal Virology Unit, Paris, France.
| | - Fengbin Wang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA.
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA.
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6
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Suzuki S, Ishii S, Chadwick GL, Tanaka Y, Kouzuma A, Watanabe K, Inagaki F, Albertsen M, Nielsen PH, Nealson KH. A non-methanogenic archaeon within the order Methanocellales. Nat Commun 2024; 15:4858. [PMID: 38871712 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-48185-5] [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: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Serpentinization, a geochemical process found on modern and ancient Earth, provides an ultra-reducing environment that can support microbial methanogenesis and acetogenesis. Several groups of archaea, such as the order Methanocellales, are characterized by their ability to produce methane. Here, we generate metagenomic sequences from serpentinized springs in The Cedars, California, and construct a circularized metagenome-assembled genome of a Methanocellales archaeon, termed Met12, that lacks essential methanogenesis genes. The genome includes genes for an acetyl-CoA pathway, but lacks genes encoding methanogenesis enzymes such as methyl-coenzyme M reductase, heterodisulfide reductases and hydrogenases. In situ transcriptomic analyses reveal high expression of a multi-heme c-type cytochrome, and heterologous expression of this protein in a model bacterium demonstrates that it is capable of accepting electrons. Our results suggest that Met12, within the order Methanocellales, is not a methanogen but a CO2-reducing, electron-fueled acetogen without electron bifurcation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shino Suzuki
- Geobiology and Astrobiology Laboratory, RIKEN Cluster for Pioneering Research, Wako, Saitama, Japan.
- Institute of Space and Astronautical Science (ISAS), Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), Sagamihara, Kanagawa, Japan.
- School of Physical Sciences, SOKENDAI (Graduate University for Advanced Studies), Sagamihara, Kanagawa, Japan.
- Institute for Extra-cutting-edge Science and Technology Avant-garde Research (X-star), Japan Agency for Marine and Earth Science and Technology (JAMSTEC), Yokosuka, Kanagawa, Japan.
| | - Shun'ichi Ishii
- Institute for Extra-cutting-edge Science and Technology Avant-garde Research (X-star), Japan Agency for Marine and Earth Science and Technology (JAMSTEC), Yokosuka, Kanagawa, Japan.
| | - Grayson L Chadwick
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Yugo Tanaka
- School of Life Sciences, Tokyo University of Pharmacy and Life Sciences, Hachioji, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Atsushi Kouzuma
- School of Life Sciences, Tokyo University of Pharmacy and Life Sciences, Hachioji, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kazuya Watanabe
- School of Life Sciences, Tokyo University of Pharmacy and Life Sciences, Hachioji, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Fumio Inagaki
- Advanced Institute for Marine Ecosystem Change (WPI-AIMEC), JAMSTEC, Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan
- Department of Earth Science, Graduate School of Science, Tohoku University, Sendai, Miyagi, Japan
| | - Mads Albertsen
- Center for Microbial Communities, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Per H Nielsen
- Center for Microbial Communities, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Kenneth H Nealson
- Department of Earth Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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7
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Liu Y, Yao Z, Mao Z, Tang M, Chen H, Qian C, Zeng W, Zhou T, Wu Q. Quorum sensing gene lasR promotes phage vB_Pae_PLY infection in Pseudomonas aeruginosa. BMC Microbiol 2024; 24:207. [PMID: 38858621 PMCID: PMC11163716 DOI: 10.1186/s12866-024-03349-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Quorum sensing (QS) is a cell density-based intercellular communication system that controls virulence gene expression and biofilm formation. In Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa), the LasR system sits at the top of the QS hierarchy and coordinates the expression of a series of important traits. However, the role of lasR in phage infection remains unclear. This study aims to investigate the role of lasR QS in phage infection. METHODS The P. aeruginosa phage was isolated from sewage, and its biological characteristics and whole genome were analyzed. The adsorption receptor was identified via a phage adsorption assay. Following lasR gene knockout, the adsorption rate and bactericidal activity of phage were analyzed. Finally, real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) was conducted to explore how lasR promoting phage infection. RESULTS The lytic phage vB_Pae_PLY was isolated and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) was identified as its adsorption receptor. The adsorption rate and bactericidal activity of vB_Pae_PLY were reduced after lasR knockout. RT-qPCR results showed that the expression of galU, a key gene involved in LPS synthesis, was down-regulated, and several genes related to type IV pili (T4P) were also down-regulated in the lasR mutant PaΔlasR. CONCLUSIONS The study showed that QS lasR may promote phage vB_Pae_PLY infection by involving in the synthesis of LPS and T4P. This study provides an example of QS in promoting phage infection and deepens the understanding of phage-bacteria interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Liu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Key Laboratory of Clinical Laboratory Diagnosis and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Zhuocheng Yao
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Key Laboratory of Clinical Laboratory Diagnosis and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Zhenzhi Mao
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Key Laboratory of Clinical Laboratory Diagnosis and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Miran Tang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Key Laboratory of Clinical Laboratory Diagnosis and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Huanchang Chen
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Key Laboratory of Clinical Laboratory Diagnosis and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Changrui Qian
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Key Laboratory of Clinical Laboratory Diagnosis and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Weiliang Zeng
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Key Laboratory of Clinical Laboratory Diagnosis and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Tieli Zhou
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Key Laboratory of Clinical Laboratory Diagnosis and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China.
| | - Qing Wu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Key Laboratory of Clinical Laboratory Diagnosis and Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China.
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Ellison TJ, Ellison CK. DNA binding is rate-limiting for natural transformation. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.06.06.597730. [PMID: 38895488 PMCID: PMC11185590 DOI: 10.1101/2024.06.06.597730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
Bacteria take up environmental DNA using dynamic appendages called type IV pili (T4P) to elicit horizontal gene transfer in a process called natural transformation. Natural transformation is widespread amongst bacteria yet determining how different factors universally contribute to or limit this process across species has remained challenging. Here we show that Acinetobacter baylyi, the most naturally transformable species, is highly transformable due to its ability to robustly bind nonspecific DNA via a dedicated orphan minor pilin, FimT. We show that, compared to its homologues, A. baylyi FimT contains multiple positively charged residues that additively promote DNA binding efficiency. Expression of A. baylyi FimT in a closely related Acinetobacter pathogen is sufficient to substantially improve its capacity for natural transformation, demonstrating that T4P-DNA binding is a rate-limiting step in this process. These results demonstrate the importance of T4P-DNA binding efficiency in driving natural transformation, establishing a key factor limiting horizontal gene transfer.
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9
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Geiger CJ, Wong GCL, O'Toole GA. A bacterial sense of touch: T4P retraction motor as a means of surface sensing by Pseudomonas aeruginosa PA14. J Bacteriol 2024:e0044223. [PMID: 38832786 DOI: 10.1128/jb.00442-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Most microbial cells found in nature exist in matrix-covered, surface-attached communities known as biofilms. This mode of growth is initiated by the ability of the microbe to sense a surface on which to grow. The opportunistic pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa (Pa) PA14 utilizes a single polar flagellum and type 4 pili (T4P) to sense surfaces. For Pa, T4P-dependent "twitching" motility is characterized by effectively pulling the cell across a surface through a complex process of cooperative binding, pulling, and unbinding. T4P retraction is powered by hexameric ATPases. Pa cells that have engaged a surface increase production of the second messenger cyclic AMP (cAMP) over multiple generations via the Pil-Chp system. This rise in cAMP allows cells and their progeny to become better adapted for surface attachment and activates virulence pathways through the cAMP-binding transcription factor Vfr. While many studies have focused on mechanisms of T4P twitching and regulation of T4P production and function by the Pil-Chp system, the mechanism by which Pa senses and relays a surface-engagement signal to the cell is still an open question. Here we review the current state of the surface sensing literature for Pa, with a focus on T4P, and propose an integrated model of surface sensing whereby the retraction motor PilT senses and relays the signal to the Pil-Chp system via PilJ to drive cAMP production and adaptation to a surface lifestyle.
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Affiliation(s)
- C J Geiger
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, New Hampshire, USA
| | - G C L Wong
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
- California NanoSystems Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - G A O'Toole
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, New Hampshire, USA
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10
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Otto SB, Servajean R, Lemopoulos A, Bitbol AF, Blokesch M. Interactions between pili affect the outcome of bacterial competition driven by the type VI secretion system. Curr Biol 2024; 34:2403-2417.e9. [PMID: 38749426 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2024.04.041] [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: 10/26/2023] [Revised: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024]
Abstract
The bacterial type VI secretion system (T6SS) is a widespread, kin-discriminatory weapon capable of shaping microbial communities. Due to the system's dependency on contact, cellular interactions can lead to either competition or kin protection. Cell-to-cell contact is often accomplished via surface-exposed type IV pili (T4Ps). In Vibrio cholerae, these T4Ps facilitate specific interactions when the bacteria colonize natural chitinous surfaces. However, it has remained unclear whether and, if so, how these interactions affect the bacterium's T6SS-mediated killing. In this study, we demonstrate that pilus-mediated interactions can be harnessed by T6SS-equipped V. cholerae to kill non-kin cells under liquid growth conditions. We also show that the naturally occurring diversity of pili determines the likelihood of cell-to-cell contact and, consequently, the extent of T6SS-mediated competition. To determine the factors that enable or hinder the T6SS's targeted reduction of competitors carrying pili, we developed a physics-grounded computational model for autoaggregation. Collectively, our research demonstrates that T4Ps involved in cell-to-cell contact can impose a selective burden when V. cholerae encounters non-kin cells that possess an active T6SS. Additionally, our study underscores the significance of T4P diversity in protecting closely related individuals from T6SS attacks through autoaggregation and spatial segregation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon B Otto
- Laboratory of Molecular Microbiology, Global Health Institute, School of Life Sciences, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Richard Servajean
- Laboratory of Computational Biology and Theoretical Biophysics, Institute of Bioengineering, School of Life Sciences, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland; SIB Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Alexandre Lemopoulos
- Laboratory of Molecular Microbiology, Global Health Institute, School of Life Sciences, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Anne-Florence Bitbol
- Laboratory of Computational Biology and Theoretical Biophysics, Institute of Bioengineering, School of Life Sciences, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland; SIB Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Melanie Blokesch
- Laboratory of Molecular Microbiology, Global Health Institute, School of Life Sciences, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland.
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Chen YYM, Yang YC, Shieh HR, Lin YJ, Ke WJ, Chiu CH. Functional Analysis of the Major Pilin Proteins of Type IV Pili in Streptococcus sanguinis CGMH010. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:5402. [PMID: 38791440 PMCID: PMC11121087 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25105402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2024] [Revised: 05/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
The pil gene cluster for Type IV pilus (Tfp) biosynthesis is commonly present and highly conserved in Streptococcus sanguinis. Nevertheless, Tfp-mediated twitching motility is less common among strains, and the factors determining twitching activity are not fully understood. Here, we analyzed the functions of three major pilin proteins (PilA1, PilA2, and PilA3) in the assembly and activity of Tfp in motile S. sanguinis CGMH010. Using various recombinant pilA deletion strains, we found that Tfp composed of different PilA proteins varied morphologically and functionally. Among the three PilA proteins, PilA1 was most critical in the assembly of twitching-active Tfp, and recombinant strains expressing motility generated more structured biofilms under constant shearing forces compared to the non-motile recombinant strains. Although PilA1 and PilA3 shared 94% identity, PilA3 could not compensate for the loss of PilA1, suggesting that the nature of PilA proteins plays an essential role in twitching activity. The single deletion of individual pilA genes had little effect on the invasion of host endothelia by S. sanguinis CGMH010. In contrast, the deletion of all three pilA genes or pilT, encoding the retraction ATPase, abolished Tfp-mediated invasion. Tfp- and PilT-dependent invasion were also detected in the non-motile S. sanguinis SK36, and thus, the retraction of Tfp, but not active twitching, was found to be essential for invasion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Ywan M. Chen
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan; (H.-R.S.); (Y.-J.L.); (W.-J.K.)
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan;
- Molecular Infectious Disease Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou 333, Taiwan;
| | - Yuan-Chen Yang
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan;
| | - Hui-Ru Shieh
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan; (H.-R.S.); (Y.-J.L.); (W.-J.K.)
| | - Yu-Juan Lin
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan; (H.-R.S.); (Y.-J.L.); (W.-J.K.)
| | - Wan-Ju Ke
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan; (H.-R.S.); (Y.-J.L.); (W.-J.K.)
| | - Cheng-Hsun Chiu
- Molecular Infectious Disease Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou 333, Taiwan;
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12
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Wang Y, Theodore M, Xing Z, Narsaria U, Yu Z, Zeng L, Zhang J. Structural mechanisms of Tad pilus assembly and its interaction with an RNA virus. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2024; 10:eadl4450. [PMID: 38701202 PMCID: PMC11067988 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adl4450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024]
Abstract
Caulobacter crescentus Tad (tight adherence) pili, part of the type IV pili family, are crucial for mechanosensing, surface adherence, bacteriophage (phage) adsorption, and cell-cycle regulation. Unlike other type IV pilins, Tad pilins lack the typical globular β sheet domain responsible for pilus assembly and phage binding. The mechanisms of Tad pilus assembly and its interaction with phage ΦCb5 have been elusive. Using cryo-electron microscopy, we unveiled the Tad pilus assembly mechanism, featuring a unique network of hydrogen bonds at its core. We then identified the Tad pilus binding to the ΦCb5 maturation protein (Mat) through its β region. Notably, the amino terminus of ΦCb5 Mat is exposed outside the capsid and phage/pilus interface, enabling the attachment of fluorescent and affinity tags. These engineered ΦCb5 virions can be efficiently assembled and purified in Escherichia coli, maintaining infectivity against C. crescentus, which presents promising applications, including RNA delivery and phage display.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuhang Wang
- Center for Phage Technology, Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Matthew Theodore
- Center for Phage Technology, Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Zhongliang Xing
- Center for Phage Technology, Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Utkarsh Narsaria
- Center for Phage Technology, Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Zihao Yu
- Center for Phage Technology, Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
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13
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Bhattacharyya A, Banerjee G, Chattopadhyay P. Probable Role of Type IV Pili of Aeromonas hydrophila in Human Pathogenicity. Pathogens 2024; 13:365. [PMID: 38787217 PMCID: PMC11124393 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens13050365] [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: 02/18/2024] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Aeromonas hydrophila is a widely recognized broad-spectrum pathogen that primarily targets the gastrointestinal tract. Type IV pili (T4P) are proteinaceous nano-machines located on the bacterial cell surface, playing a crucial role in host colonization and infection. Regrettably, the T4P systems of A. hydrophila remain largely underexplored. METHODS A. hydrophila genomes with complete genome assembly and annotation reports up to 31 March 2023, were obtained from the NCBI Genome database or KEGG genome database, followed by a global search for T4P secretion system genes. Protein sequences of these manually curetted genes were used as secondary quarry for Synteny analysis. Protein-protein interaction analysis was performed by string analysis and in silico study of genomic islands. RESULTS We identified 27 orthologs of type IV pili (T4P) nano-machine components in A. hydrophila. These orthologs are primarily distributed across three operons: pilABCD, pilMNOPQ, and pilVWXY. While the first two operons are commonly found in all experimental genomes, the presence of the pilVWXY operon, coding for 11 orthologs, is reported here for the first time in A. hydrophila. Notably, the complete pilVWXY operon is absent in nonvirulent strains. A genomic islands study between a nonvirulent and hypervirulent strain also confirms absence of most of the genes coded by pilVWXY in nonvirulent strain. Interestingly, among the 51 experimental genomes analyzed, the pilVWXY operon was completely absent in 10 strains, most of which are categorized as nonvirulent; Conclusions: The distribution of two major type IV pili (T4P) nano-machines, PilABCDMNOPQ and PilVWXY, is reported here for the first time in A. hydrophila. Additionally, this study suggests a potential role for the PilVWXY nano-machine in establishing human disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agradip Bhattacharyya
- Raja Rammohun Roy Mahavidyalaya, Radhanagar, Nangulpara, Hooghly, West Bengal 712406, India;
| | - Goutam Banerjee
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
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14
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Treuner-Lange A, Zheng W, Viljoen A, Lindow S, Herfurth M, Dufrêne YF, Søgaard-Andersen L, Egelman EH. Tight-packing of large pilin subunits provides distinct structural and mechanical properties for the Myxococcus xanthus type IVa pilus. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2321989121. [PMID: 38625941 PMCID: PMC11046646 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2321989121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Type IVa pili (T4aP) are ubiquitous cell surface filaments important for surface motility, adhesion to surfaces, DNA uptake, biofilm formation, and virulence. T4aP are built from thousands of copies of the major pilin subunit and tipped by a complex composed of minor pilins and in some systems also the PilY1 adhesin. While major pilins of structurally characterized T4aP have lengths of <165 residues, the major pilin PilA of Myxococcus xanthus is unusually large with 208 residues. All major pilins have a conserved N-terminal domain and a variable C-terminal domain, and the additional residues of PilA are due to a larger C-terminal domain. We solved the structure of the M. xanthus T4aP (T4aPMx) at a resolution of 3.0 Å using cryo-EM. The T4aPMx follows the structural blueprint of other T4aP with the pilus core comprised of the interacting N-terminal α1-helices, while the globular domains decorate the T4aP surface. The atomic model of PilA built into this map shows that the large C-terminal domain has more extensive intersubunit contacts than major pilins in other T4aP. As expected from these greater contacts, the bending and axial stiffness of the T4aPMx is significantly higher than that of other T4aP and supports T4aP-dependent motility on surfaces of different stiffnesses. Notably, T4aPMx variants with interrupted intersubunit interfaces had decreased bending stiffness, pilus length, and strongly reduced motility. These observations support an evolutionary scenario whereby the large major pilin enables the formation of a rigid T4aP that expands the environmental conditions in which the T4aP system functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anke Treuner-Lange
- Department of Ecophysiology, Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology, Marburg35043, Germany
| | - Weili Zheng
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA22903
| | - Albertus Viljoen
- Louvain Institute of Biomolecular Science and Technology, UCLouvain, Louvain-la-NeuveB-1348, Belgium
| | - Steffi Lindow
- Department of Ecophysiology, Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology, Marburg35043, Germany
| | - Marco Herfurth
- Department of Ecophysiology, Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology, Marburg35043, Germany
| | - Yves F. Dufrêne
- Louvain Institute of Biomolecular Science and Technology, UCLouvain, Louvain-la-NeuveB-1348, Belgium
| | - Lotte Søgaard-Andersen
- Department of Ecophysiology, Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology, Marburg35043, Germany
| | - Edward H. Egelman
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA22903
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15
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Corcionivoschi N, Balta I, McCleery D, Bundurus I, Pet I, Calaway T, Nichita I, Stef L, Morariu S. Mechanisms of Pathogenic Escherichia coli Attachment to Meat. Foodborne Pathog Dis 2024. [PMID: 38593459 DOI: 10.1089/fpd.2023.0164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Escherichia coli are present in the human and animal microbiome as facultative anaerobes and are viewed as an integral part of the whole gastrointestinal environment. In certain circumstances, some species can also become opportunistic pathogens responsible for severe infections in humans. These infections are caused by the enterotoxinogenic E. coli, enteroinvasive E. coli, enteropathogenic E. coli and the enterohemorrhagic E. coli species, frequently present in food products and on food matrices. Severe human infections can be caused by consumption of meat contaminated upon exposure to animal feces, and as such, farm animals are considered to be a natural reservoir. The mechanisms by which these four major species of E. coli adhere and persist in meat postslaughter are of major interest to public health and food processors given their frequent involvement in foodborne outbreaks. This review aims to structure and provide an update on the mechanistic roles of environmental factors, curli, type I and type IV pili on E. coli adherence/interaction with meat postslaughter. Furthermore, we emphasize on the importance of bacterial surface structures, which can be used in designing interventions to enhance food safety and protect public health by reducing the burden of foodborne illnesses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolae Corcionivoschi
- Bacteriology Branch, Veterinary Sciences Division, Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute, Belfast, United Kingdom
- Faculty of Bioengineering of Animal Resources, University of Life Sciences King Mihai I from Timisoara, Timisoara, Romania
- Academy of Romanian Scientists, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Igori Balta
- Faculty of Bioengineering of Animal Resources, University of Life Sciences King Mihai I from Timisoara, Timisoara, Romania
| | - David McCleery
- Bacteriology Branch, Veterinary Sciences Division, Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute, Belfast, United Kingdom
| | - Iulia Bundurus
- Faculty of Bioengineering of Animal Resources, University of Life Sciences King Mihai I from Timisoara, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Ioan Pet
- Faculty of Bioengineering of Animal Resources, University of Life Sciences King Mihai I from Timisoara, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Todd Calaway
- Department of Animal and Dairy Science, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA
| | - Ileana Nichita
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Life Sciences King Mihai I from Timisoara, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Lavinia Stef
- Faculty of Bioengineering of Animal Resources, University of Life Sciences King Mihai I from Timisoara, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Sorin Morariu
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Life Sciences King Mihai I from Timisoara, Timisoara, Romania
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16
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Li Y, Ma R, Gao C, Li Z, Zheng Y, Fang F, Wang C, Li G, Du X, Xu C, Xu M, Liu R, Deng X, Zheng Z. Integrated bacterial transcriptome and host metabolome analysis reveals insights into " Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus" population dynamics in the fruit pith of three citrus cultivars with different tolerance. Microbiol Spectr 2024; 12:e0405223. [PMID: 38440971 PMCID: PMC10986616 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.04052-23] [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: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024] Open
Abstract
"Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus" (CLas), the causal agent of citrus Huanglongbing (HLB), is able to multiply to a high abundance in citrus fruit pith. However, little is known about the biological processes and phytochemical substances that are vital for CLas colonization and growth in fruit pith. In this study, CLas-infected fruit pith of three citrus cultivars ("Shatangju" mandarin, "Guanxi" pomelo, and "Shatian" pomelo) exhibiting different tolerance to CLas were collected and used for dual RNA-Seq and untargeted metabolome analysis. Comparative transcriptome analysis found that the activation of the CLas noncyclic TCA pathway and pathogenic-related effectors could contribute to the colonization and growth of CLas in fruit pith. The pre-established Type 2 prophage in the CLas genome and the induction of its CRISPR/cas system could enhance the phage resistance of CLas and, in turn, facilitate CLas population growth in fruit pith. CLas infection caused the accumulation of amino acids that were correlated with tolerance to CLas. The accumulation of most sugars and organic acids in CLas-infected fruit pith, which could be due to the phloem blockage caused by CLas infection, was thought to be beneficial for CLas growth in localized phloem tissue. The higher levels of flavonoids and terpenoids in the fruit pith of CLas-tolerant cultivars, particularly those known for their antimicrobial properties, could hinder the growth of CLas. This study advances our understanding of CLas multiplication in fruit pith and offers novel insight into metabolites that could be responsible for tolerance to CLas or essential to CLas population growth.IMPORTANCECitrus Huanglongbing (HLB, also called citrus greening disease) is a highly destructive disease currently threatening citrus production worldwide. HLB is caused by an unculturable bacterial pathogen, "Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus" (CLas). However, the mechanism of CLas colonization and growth in citrus hosts is poorly understood. In this study, we utilized the fruit pith tissue, which was able to maintain the CLas at a high abundance, as the materials for dual RNA-Seq and untargeted metabolome analysis, aiming to reveal the biological processes and phytochemical substances that are vital for CLas colonization and growth. We provided a genome-wide CLas transcriptome landscape in the fruit pith of three citrus cultivars with different tolerance and identified the important genes/pathways that contribute to CLas colonization and growth in the fruit pith. Metabolome profiling identified the key metabolites, which were mainly affected by CLas infection and influenced the population dynamic of CLas in fruit pith.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun Li
- National Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Microbial Signals and Disease Control, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ruifeng Ma
- Institute of Fruit Tree Research, Meizhou Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Meizhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Chenying Gao
- National Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Microbial Signals and Disease Control, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ziyi Li
- National Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Microbial Signals and Disease Control, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yongqin Zheng
- National Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Microbial Signals and Disease Control, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Fang Fang
- National Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Microbial Signals and Disease Control, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Cheng Wang
- National Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Microbial Signals and Disease Control, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Guohua Li
- Institute of Fruit Tree Research, Meizhou Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Meizhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiaozhen Du
- Institute of Fruit Tree Research, Meizhou Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Meizhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Changbao Xu
- College of Horticulture, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Meirong Xu
- National Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Microbial Signals and Disease Control, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Rui Liu
- Institute of Fruit Tree Research, Meizhou Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Meizhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiaoling Deng
- National Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Microbial Signals and Disease Control, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zheng Zheng
- National Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Microbial Signals and Disease Control, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
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17
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Jin C, Sengupta A. Microbes in porous environments: from active interactions to emergent feedback. Biophys Rev 2024; 16:173-188. [PMID: 38737203 PMCID: PMC11078916 DOI: 10.1007/s12551-024-01185-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Microbes thrive in diverse porous environments-from soil and riverbeds to human lungs and cancer tissues-spanning multiple scales and conditions. Short- to long-term fluctuations in local factors induce spatio-temporal heterogeneities, often leading to physiologically stressful settings. How microbes respond and adapt to such biophysical constraints is an active field of research where considerable insight has been gained over the last decades. With a focus on bacteria, here we review recent advances in self-organization and dispersal in inorganic and organic porous settings, highlighting the role of active interactions and feedback that mediates microbial survival and fitness. We discuss open questions and opportunities for using integrative approaches to advance our understanding of the biophysical strategies which microbes employ at various scales to make porous settings habitable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenyu Jin
- Physics of Living Matter Group, Department of Physics and Materials Science, University of Luxembourg, 162 A, Avenue de la Faïencerie, Luxembourg City, L-1511 Luxembourg
| | - Anupam Sengupta
- Physics of Living Matter Group, Department of Physics and Materials Science, University of Luxembourg, 162 A, Avenue de la Faïencerie, Luxembourg City, L-1511 Luxembourg
- Institute for Advanced Studies, University of Luxembourg, 2 Avenue de l’Université, Esch-sur-Alzette, L-4365 Luxembourg
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18
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Meng R, Xing Z, Chang JY, Yu Z, Thongchol J, Xiao W, Wang Y, Chamakura K, Zeng Z, Wang F, Young R, Zeng L, Zhang J. Structural basis of Acinetobacter type IV pili targeting by an RNA virus. Nat Commun 2024; 15:2746. [PMID: 38553443 PMCID: PMC10980823 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-47119-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Acinetobacters pose a significant threat to human health, especially those with weakened immune systems. Type IV pili of acinetobacters play crucial roles in virulence and antibiotic resistance. Single-stranded RNA bacteriophages target the bacterial retractile pili, including type IV. Our study delves into the interaction between Acinetobacter phage AP205 and type IV pili. Using cryo-electron microscopy, we solve structures of the AP205 virion with an asymmetric dimer of maturation proteins, the native Acinetobacter type IV pili bearing a distinct post-translational pilin cleavage, and the pili-bound AP205 showing its maturation proteins adapted to pilin modifications, allowing each phage to bind to one or two pili. Leveraging these results, we develop a 20-kilodalton AP205-derived protein scaffold targeting type IV pili in situ, with potential for research and diagnostics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ran Meng
- Center for Phage Technology, Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
- Yale University, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
| | - Zhongliang Xing
- Center for Phage Technology, Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Jeng-Yih Chang
- Center for Phage Technology, Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
- UMass Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01655, USA
| | - Zihao Yu
- Center for Phage Technology, Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Jirapat Thongchol
- Center for Phage Technology, Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Wen Xiao
- Center for Phage Technology, Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Yuhang Wang
- Center for Phage Technology, Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Karthik Chamakura
- Center for Phage Technology, Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
- Armata Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Marina del Rey, CA, 90292, USA
| | - Zhiqi Zeng
- Center for Phage Technology, Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Fengbin Wang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, 35294, USA
| | - Ry Young
- Center for Phage Technology, Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Lanying Zeng
- Center for Phage Technology, Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Junjie Zhang
- Center for Phage Technology, Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA.
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19
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Hernández-Sánchez A, Páez-Pérez ED, Alfaro-Saldaña E, Olivares-Illana V, García-Meza JV. Understanding a Core Pilin of the Type IVa Pili of Acidithiobacillus thiooxidans, PilV. J Microbiol Biotechnol 2024; 34:527-537. [PMID: 38346803 PMCID: PMC11016768 DOI: 10.4014/jmb.2310.10033] [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: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
Pilins are protein subunits of pili. The pilins of type IV pili (T4P) in pathogenic bacteria are well characterized, but anything is known about the T4P proteins in acidophilic chemolithoautotrophic microorganisms such as the genus Acidithiobacillus. The interest in T4P of A. thiooxidans is because of their possible role in cell recruitment and bacterial aggregation on the surface of minerals during biooxidation of sulfide minerals. In this study we present a successful ad hoc methodology for the heterologous expression and purification of extracellular proteins such as the minor pilin PilV of the T4P of A. thiooxidans, a pilin exposed to extreme conditions of acidity and high oxidation-reduction potentials, and that interact with metal sulfides in an environment rich in dissolved minerals. Once obtained, the model structure of A. thiooxidans PilV revealed the core basic architecture of T4P pilins. Because of the acidophilic condition, we carried out in silico characterization of the protonation status of acidic and basic residues of PilV in order to calculate the ionization state at specific pH values and evaluated their pH stability. Further biophysical characterization was done using UV-visible and fluorescence spectroscopy and the results showed that PilV remains soluble and stable even after exposure to significant changes of pH. PilV has a unique amino acid composition that exhibits acid stability, with significant biotechnology implications such as biooxidation of sulfide minerals. The biophysics profiles of PilV open new paradigms about resilient proteins and stimulate the study of other pilins from extremophiles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Araceli Hernández-Sánchez
- Geomicrobiología, Metalurgia, Universidad Autónoma de San Luis Potosí, Sierra Leona 550, San Luis Potosí, 78210, SLP, México
| | - Edgar D. Páez-Pérez
- Geomicrobiología, Metalurgia, Universidad Autónoma de San Luis Potosí, Sierra Leona 550, San Luis Potosí, 78210, SLP, México
| | - Elvia Alfaro-Saldaña
- Geomicrobiología, Metalurgia, Universidad Autónoma de San Luis Potosí, Sierra Leona 550, San Luis Potosí, 78210, SLP, México
| | - Vanesa Olivares-Illana
- Laboratorio de Interacciones Biomoleculares y Cáncer. Instituto de Física, Universidad Autónoma de San Luis Potosí, Av. Parque Chapultepec 1570, Privadas del Pedregal, San Luis Potosí, 78210, SLP, México
| | - J. Viridiana García-Meza
- Geomicrobiología, Metalurgia, Universidad Autónoma de San Luis Potosí, Sierra Leona 550, San Luis Potosí, 78210, SLP, México
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20
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Zuke JD, Burton BM. From isotopically labeled DNA to fluorescently labeled dynamic pili: building a mechanistic model of DNA transport to the cytoplasmic membrane. Microbiol Mol Biol Rev 2024; 88:e0012523. [PMID: 38466096 PMCID: PMC10966944 DOI: 10.1128/mmbr.00125-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/12/2024] Open
Abstract
SUMMARYNatural competence, the physiological state wherein bacteria produce proteins that mediate extracellular DNA transport into the cytosol and the subsequent recombination of DNA into the genome, is conserved across the bacterial domain. DNA must successfully translocate across formidable permeability barriers during import, including the cell membrane(s) and the cell wall, that are normally impermeable to large DNA polymers. This review will examine the mechanisms underlying DNA transport from the extracellular space to the cytoplasmic membrane. First, the challenges inherent to DNA movement through the cell periphery will be discussed to provide context for DNA transport during natural competence. The following sections will trace the development of a comprehensive model for DNA translocation to the cytoplasmic membrane, highlighting the crucial studies performed over the last century that have contributed to building contemporary DNA import models. Finally, this review will conclude by reflecting on what is still unknown about the process and the possible solutions to overcome these limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason D. Zuke
- Department of Bacteriology, University of Wisconsin–Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
- Microbiology Doctoral Training Program, University of Wisconsin–Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Briana M. Burton
- Department of Bacteriology, University of Wisconsin–Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
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21
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Carvia-Hermoso C, Cuéllar V, Bernabéu-Roda LM, van Dillewijn P, Soto MJ. Sinorhizobium meliloti GR4 Produces Chromosomal- and pSymA-Encoded Type IVc Pili That Influence the Interaction with Alfalfa Plants. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 13:628. [PMID: 38475474 DOI: 10.3390/plants13050628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2024] [Revised: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024]
Abstract
Type IVc Pili (T4cP), also known as Tad or Flp pili, are long thin microbial filaments that are made up of small-sized pilins. These appendages serve different functions in bacteria, including attachment, biofilm formation, surface sensing, motility, and host colonization. Despite their relevant role in diverse microbial lifestyles, knowledge about T4cP in bacteria that establish symbiosis with legumes, collectively referred to as rhizobia, is still limited. Sinorhizobium meliloti contains two clusters of T4cP-related genes: flp-1 and flp-2, which are located on the chromosome and the pSymA megaplasmid, respectively. Bundle-forming pili associated with flp-1 are involved in the competitive nodulation of alfalfa plants, but the role of flp-2 remains elusive. In this work, we have performed a comprehensive bioinformatic analysis of T4cP genes in the highly competitive S. meliloti GR4 strain and investigated the role of its flp clusters in pilus biogenesis, motility, and in the interaction with alfalfa. Single and double flp-cluster mutants were constructed on the wild-type genetic background as well as in a flagellaless derivative strain. Our data demonstrate that both chromosomal and pSymA flp clusters are functional in pili biogenesis and contribute to surface translocation and nodule formation efficiency in GR4. In this strain, the presence of flp-1 in the absence of flp-2 reduces the competitiveness for nodule occupation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Carvia-Hermoso
- Department of Biotechnology and Environmental Protection, Estación Experimental del Zaidín, CSIC, 18008 Granada, Spain
| | - Virginia Cuéllar
- Department of Biotechnology and Environmental Protection, Estación Experimental del Zaidín, CSIC, 18008 Granada, Spain
| | - Lydia M Bernabéu-Roda
- Department of Biotechnology and Environmental Protection, Estación Experimental del Zaidín, CSIC, 18008 Granada, Spain
| | - Pieter van Dillewijn
- Department of Biotechnology and Environmental Protection, Estación Experimental del Zaidín, CSIC, 18008 Granada, Spain
| | - María J Soto
- Department of Biotechnology and Environmental Protection, Estación Experimental del Zaidín, CSIC, 18008 Granada, Spain
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22
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Lei ZC, Wang X, Yang L, Qu H, Sun Y, Yang Y, Li W, Zhang WB, Cao XY, Fan C, Li G, Wu J, Tian ZQ. What can molecular assembly learn from catalysed assembly in living organisms? Chem Soc Rev 2024; 53:1892-1914. [PMID: 38230701 DOI: 10.1039/d3cs00634d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
Molecular assembly is the process of organizing individual molecules into larger structures and complex systems. The self-assembly approach is predominantly utilized in creating artificial molecular assemblies, and was believed to be the primary mode of molecular assembly in living organisms as well. However, it has been shown that the assembly of many biological complexes is "catalysed" by other molecules, rather than relying solely on self-assembly. In this review, we summarize these catalysed-assembly (catassembly) phenomena in living organisms and systematically analyse their mechanisms. We then expand on these phenomena and discuss related concepts, including catalysed-disassembly and catalysed-reassembly. Catassembly proves to be an efficient and highly selective strategy for synergistically controlling and manipulating various noncovalent interactions, especially in hierarchical molecular assemblies. Overreliance on self-assembly may, to some extent, hinder the advancement of artificial molecular assembly with powerful features. Furthermore, inspired by the biological catassembly phenomena, we propose guidelines for designing artificial catassembly systems and developing characterization and theoretical methods, and review pioneering works along this new direction. Overall, this approach may broaden and deepen our understanding of molecular assembly, enabling the construction and control of intelligent assembly systems with advanced functionality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi-Chao Lei
- State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, Collaborative Innovation Center of Chemistry for Energy Materials (iChEM), Innovation Laboratory for Sciences and Technologies of Energy Materials of Fujian Province (IKKEM), College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, P. R. China.
- National Laboratory of Biomacromolecules, CAS Center for Excellence in Biomacromolecules, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, P. R. China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, P. R. China
| | - Xinchang Wang
- School of Electronic Science and Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, P. R. China
| | - Liulin Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, Collaborative Innovation Center of Chemistry for Energy Materials (iChEM), Innovation Laboratory for Sciences and Technologies of Energy Materials of Fujian Province (IKKEM), College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, P. R. China.
| | - Hang Qu
- State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, Collaborative Innovation Center of Chemistry for Energy Materials (iChEM), Innovation Laboratory for Sciences and Technologies of Energy Materials of Fujian Province (IKKEM), College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, P. R. China.
| | - Yibin Sun
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, Key Laboratory of Polymer Chemistry & Physics of Ministry of Education, Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871, P. R. China
| | - Yang Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, Collaborative Innovation Center of Chemistry for Energy Materials (iChEM), Innovation Laboratory for Sciences and Technologies of Energy Materials of Fujian Province (IKKEM), College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, P. R. China.
| | - Wei Li
- National Laboratory of Biomacromolecules, CAS Center for Excellence in Biomacromolecules, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, P. R. China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, P. R. China
| | - Wen-Bin Zhang
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, Key Laboratory of Polymer Chemistry & Physics of Ministry of Education, Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871, P. R. China
| | - Xiao-Yu Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, Collaborative Innovation Center of Chemistry for Energy Materials (iChEM), Innovation Laboratory for Sciences and Technologies of Energy Materials of Fujian Province (IKKEM), College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, P. R. China.
| | - Chunhai Fan
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Frontiers Science, Center for Transformative Molecules and National Center for Translational Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, P. R. China
| | - Guohong Li
- National Laboratory of Biomacromolecules, CAS Center for Excellence in Biomacromolecules, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, P. R. China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, P. R. China
| | - Jiarui Wu
- Key Laboratory of Systems Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200031, P. R. China
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, 201210, P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Systems Health Science of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Science, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310024, P. R. China
| | - Zhong-Qun Tian
- State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, Collaborative Innovation Center of Chemistry for Energy Materials (iChEM), Innovation Laboratory for Sciences and Technologies of Energy Materials of Fujian Province (IKKEM), College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, P. R. China.
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23
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Zhang J, Li F, Liu D, Liu Q, Song H. Engineering extracellular electron transfer pathways of electroactive microorganisms by synthetic biology for energy and chemicals production. Chem Soc Rev 2024; 53:1375-1446. [PMID: 38117181 DOI: 10.1039/d3cs00537b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
The excessive consumption of fossil fuels causes massive emission of CO2, leading to climate deterioration and environmental pollution. The development of substitutes and sustainable energy sources to replace fossil fuels has become a worldwide priority. Bio-electrochemical systems (BESs), employing redox reactions of electroactive microorganisms (EAMs) on electrodes to achieve a meritorious combination of biocatalysis and electrocatalysis, provide a green and sustainable alternative approach for bioremediation, CO2 fixation, and energy and chemicals production. EAMs, including exoelectrogens and electrotrophs, perform extracellular electron transfer (EET) (i.e., outward and inward EET), respectively, to exchange energy with the environment, whose rate determines the efficiency and performance of BESs. Therefore, we review the synthetic biology strategies developed in the last decade for engineering EAMs to enhance the EET rate in cell-electrode interfaces for facilitating the production of electricity energy and value-added chemicals, which include (1) progress in genetic manipulation and editing tools to achieve the efficient regulation of gene expression, knockout, and knockdown of EAMs; (2) synthetic biological engineering strategies to enhance the outward EET of exoelectrogens to anodes for electricity power production and anodic electro-fermentation (AEF) for chemicals production, including (i) broadening and strengthening substrate utilization, (ii) increasing the intracellular releasable reducing equivalents, (iii) optimizing c-type cytochrome (c-Cyts) expression and maturation, (iv) enhancing conductive nanowire biosynthesis and modification, (v) promoting electron shuttle biosynthesis, secretion, and immobilization, (vi) engineering global regulators to promote EET rate, (vii) facilitating biofilm formation, and (viii) constructing cell-material hybrids; (3) the mechanisms of inward EET, CO2 fixation pathway, and engineering strategies for improving the inward EET of electrotrophic cells for CO2 reduction and chemical production, including (i) programming metabolic pathways of electrotrophs, (ii) rewiring bioelectrical circuits for enhancing inward EET, and (iii) constructing microbial (photo)electrosynthesis by cell-material hybridization; (4) perspectives on future challenges and opportunities for engineering EET to develop highly efficient BESs for sustainable energy and chemical production. We expect that this review will provide a theoretical basis for the future development of BESs in energy harvesting, CO2 fixation, and chemical synthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junqi Zhang
- Frontier Science Center for Synthetic Biology (Ministry of Education), Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering, and School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072, China.
| | - Feng Li
- Frontier Science Center for Synthetic Biology (Ministry of Education), Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering, and School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072, China.
| | - Dingyuan Liu
- Frontier Science Center for Synthetic Biology (Ministry of Education), Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering, and School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072, China.
| | - Qijing Liu
- Frontier Science Center for Synthetic Biology (Ministry of Education), Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering, and School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072, China.
| | - Hao Song
- Frontier Science Center for Synthetic Biology (Ministry of Education), Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering, and School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072, China.
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24
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Würstle S, Lee A, Kortright KE, Winzig F, An W, Stanley GL, Rajagopalan G, Harris Z, Sun Y, Hu B, Blazanin M, Hajfathalian M, Bollyky PL, Turner PE, Koff JL, Chan BK. Optimized preparation pipeline for emergency phage therapy against Pseudomonas aeruginosa at Yale University. Sci Rep 2024; 14:2657. [PMID: 38302552 PMCID: PMC10834462 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-52192-3] [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: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Bacteriophage therapy is one potential strategy to treat antimicrobial resistant or persistent bacterial infections, and the year 2021 marked the centennial of Felix d'Hérelle's first publication on the clinical applications of phages. At the Center for Phage Biology & Therapy at Yale University, a preparatory modular approach has been established to offer safe and potent phages for single-patient investigational new drug applications while recognizing the time constraints imposed by infection(s). This study provides a practical walkthrough of the pipeline with an Autographiviridae phage targeting Pseudomonas aeruginosa (phage vB_PaeA_SB, abbreviated to ΦSB). Notably, a thorough phage characterization and the evolutionary selection pressure exerted on bacteria by phages, analogous to antibiotics, are incorporated into the pipeline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Würstle
- Yale Center for Phage Biology and Therapy, Yale University, 165 Prospect Street, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 06519, USA
- Technical University of Munich, 81675, Munich, Germany
| | - Alina Lee
- Yale Center for Phage Biology and Therapy, Yale University, 165 Prospect Street, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
| | - Kaitlyn E Kortright
- Yale Center for Phage Biology and Therapy, Yale University, 165 Prospect Street, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
| | - Franziska Winzig
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
- Technical University of Munich, 81675, Munich, Germany
| | - William An
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
| | - Gail L Stanley
- Yale Center for Phage Biology and Therapy, Yale University, 165 Prospect Street, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 06519, USA
| | - Govindarajan Rajagopalan
- Yale Center for Phage Biology and Therapy, Yale University, 165 Prospect Street, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 06519, USA
| | - Zach Harris
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 06519, USA
| | - Ying Sun
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 06519, USA
| | - Buqu Hu
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 06519, USA
| | - Michael Blazanin
- Yale Center for Phage Biology and Therapy, Yale University, 165 Prospect Street, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
| | - Maryam Hajfathalian
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Geographic Medicine, Department of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Paul L Bollyky
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Geographic Medicine, Department of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Paul E Turner
- Yale Center for Phage Biology and Therapy, Yale University, 165 Prospect Street, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 06519, USA
- Program in Microbiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
| | - Jonathan L Koff
- Yale Center for Phage Biology and Therapy, Yale University, 165 Prospect Street, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA.
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 06519, USA.
| | - Benjamin K Chan
- Yale Center for Phage Biology and Therapy, Yale University, 165 Prospect Street, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA.
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA.
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25
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Liu X, Tachiyama S, Zhou X, Mathias RA, Bonny SQ, Khan MF, Xin Y, Roujeinikova A, Liu J, Ottemann KM. Bacterial flagella hijack type IV pili proteins to control motility. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2317452121. [PMID: 38236729 PMCID: PMC10823254 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2317452121] [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: 10/08/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Bacterial flagella and type IV pili (TFP) are surface appendages that enable motility and mechanosensing through distinct mechanisms. These structures were previously thought to have no components in common. Here, we report that TFP and some flagella share proteins PilO, PilN, and PilM, which we identified as part of the Helicobacter pylori flagellar motor. H. pylori mutants lacking PilO or PilN migrated better than wild type in semisolid agar because they continued swimming rather than aggregated into microcolonies, mimicking the TFP-regulated surface response. Like their TFP homologs, flagellar PilO/PilN heterodimers formed a peripheral cage that encircled the flagellar motor. These results indicate that PilO and PilN act similarly in flagella and TFP by differentially regulating motility and microcolony formation when bacteria encounter surfaces.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaolin Liu
- Department of Microbiology and Environmental Toxicology, University of California, Santa Cruz, CA95064
| | - Shoichi Tachiyama
- Department of Microbial Pathogenesis, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT06536
- Microbial Sciences Institute, Yale University, West Haven, CT06516
| | - Xiaotian Zhou
- Infection and Immunity Program, Department of Microbiology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC3800, Australia
| | - Rommel A. Mathias
- Infection and Immunity Program, Department of Microbiology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC3800, Australia
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC3800, Australia
| | - Sharmin Q. Bonny
- Infection and Immunity Program, Department of Microbiology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC3800, Australia
| | - Mohammad F. Khan
- Infection and Immunity Program, Department of Microbiology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC3800, Australia
| | - Yue Xin
- Infection and Immunity Program, Department of Microbiology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC3800, Australia
| | - Anna Roujeinikova
- Infection and Immunity Program, Department of Microbiology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC3800, Australia
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC3800, Australia
| | - Jun Liu
- Department of Microbial Pathogenesis, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT06536
- Microbial Sciences Institute, Yale University, West Haven, CT06516
| | - Karen M. Ottemann
- Department of Microbiology and Environmental Toxicology, University of California, Santa Cruz, CA95064
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26
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Rhodes KA, Rendón MA, Ma MC, Agellon A, Johnson AC, So M. Type IV pilus retraction is required for Neisseria musculi colonization and persistence in a natural mouse model of infection. mBio 2024; 15:e0279223. [PMID: 38084997 PMCID: PMC10790696 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.02792-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2024] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE We describe the importance of Type IV pilus retraction to colonization and persistence by a mouse commensal Neisseria, N. musculi, in its native host. Our findings have implications for the role of Tfp retraction in mediating interactions of human-adapted pathogenic and commensal Neisseria with their human host due to the relatedness of these species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine A. Rhodes
- Immunobiology Department, University of Arizona College of Medicine, Tucson, Arizona, USA
- BIO5 Institute, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, USA
| | - María A. Rendón
- Immunobiology Department, University of Arizona College of Medicine, Tucson, Arizona, USA
- BIO5 Institute, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, USA
| | - Man Cheong Ma
- Immunobiology Department, University of Arizona College of Medicine, Tucson, Arizona, USA
- BIO5 Institute, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, USA
| | - Al Agellon
- School of Animal and Comparative Biomedical Sciences, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, USA
| | - Andrew C.E. Johnson
- Immunobiology Department, University of Arizona College of Medicine, Tucson, Arizona, USA
| | - Magdalene So
- Immunobiology Department, University of Arizona College of Medicine, Tucson, Arizona, USA
- BIO5 Institute, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, USA
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27
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Prüßner T, Meinderink D, Zhu S, Orive AG, Kielar C, Huck M, Steinrück HG, Keller A, Grundmeier G. Molecular Adhesion of a Pilus-Derived Peptide Involved in Pseudomonas aeruginosa Biofilm Formation on Non-Polar ZnO-Surfaces. Chemistry 2024; 30:e202302464. [PMID: 37909474 DOI: 10.1002/chem.202302464] [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: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023]
Abstract
Bacterial colonization and biofilm formation on abiotic surfaces are initiated by the adhesion of peptides and proteins. Understanding the adhesion of such peptides and proteins at a molecular level thus represents an important step toward controlling and suppressing biofilm formation on technological and medical materials. This study investigates the molecular adhesion of a pilus-derived peptide that facilitates biofilm formation of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a multidrug-resistant opportunistic pathogen frequently encountered in healthcare settings. Single-molecule force spectroscopy (SMFS) was performed on chemically etched ZnO11 2 ‾ 0 ${\left(11\bar{2}0\right)}$ surfaces to gather insights about peptide adsorption force and its kinetics. Metal-free click chemistry for the fabrication of peptide-terminated SMFS cantilevers was performed on amine-terminated gold cantilevers and verified by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and polarization-modulated infrared reflection absorption spectroscopy (PM-IRRAS). Atomic force microscopy (AFM) and XPS analyses reveal stable topographies and surface chemistries of the substrates that are not affected by SMFS. Rupture events described by the worm-like chain model (WLC) up to 600 pN were detected for the non-polar ZnO surfaces. The dissociation barrier energy at zero force ΔG(0), the transition state distance xb and bound-unbound dissociation rate at zero force koff (0) for the single crystalline substrate indicate that coordination and hydrogen bonds dominate the peptide/surface interaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tim Prüßner
- Technical and Macromolecular Chemistry, Paderborn University, Warburger Str. 100, 33098, Paderborn, Germany
| | - Dennis Meinderink
- Technical and Macromolecular Chemistry, Paderborn University, Warburger Str. 100, 33098, Paderborn, Germany
| | - Siqi Zhu
- Technical and Macromolecular Chemistry, Paderborn University, Warburger Str. 100, 33098, Paderborn, Germany
| | - Alejandro G Orive
- Department of Chemistry, Materials and Nanotechnology Institute, University of La Laguna, Avda. Astrofisico Francisco Sánchez s/n, 38206, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
| | - Charlotte Kielar
- Insitute of Resource Ecology, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, Bautzner Landstraße 400, 01328, Dresden, Germany
| | - Marten Huck
- Chemistry Department, Paderborn University, 33098, Paderborn, Germany
| | | | - Adrian Keller
- Technical and Macromolecular Chemistry, Paderborn University, Warburger Str. 100, 33098, Paderborn, Germany
| | - Guido Grundmeier
- Technical and Macromolecular Chemistry, Paderborn University, Warburger Str. 100, 33098, Paderborn, Germany
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28
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Guilvout I, Samsudin F, Huber RG, Bond PJ, Bardiaux B, Francetic O. Membrane platform protein PulF of the Klebsiella type II secretion system forms a trimeric ion channel essential for endopilus assembly and protein secretion. mBio 2024; 15:e0142323. [PMID: 38063437 PMCID: PMC10790770 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.01423-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2024] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Type IV pili and type II secretion systems are members of the widespread type IV filament (T4F) superfamily of nanomachines that assemble dynamic and versatile surface fibers in archaea and bacteria. The assembly and retraction of T4 filaments with diverse surface properties and functions require the plasma membrane platform proteins of the GspF/PilC superfamily. Generally considered dimeric, platform proteins are thought to function as passive transmitters of the mechanical energy generated by the ATPase motor, to somehow promote insertion of pilin subunits into the nascent pilus fibers. Here, we generate and experimentally validate structural predictions that support the trimeric state of a platform protein PulF from a type II secretion system. The PulF trimers form selective proton or sodium channels which might energize pilus assembly using the membrane potential. The conservation of the channel sequence and structural features implies a common mechanism for all T4F assembly systems. We propose a model of the oligomeric PulF-PulE ATPase complex that provides an essential framework to investigate and understand the pilus assembly mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ingrid Guilvout
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, CNRS UMR 3528, Biochemistry of Macromolecular Interactions Unit, Paris, France
| | | | | | - Peter J. Bond
- Bioinformatics Institute (A-STAR), Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Benjamin Bardiaux
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, CNRS UMR 3528, Structural Bioinformatics Unit, Paris, France
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, CNRS UMR 3528, Bacterial Transmembrane Systems Unit, Paris, France
| | - Olivera Francetic
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, CNRS UMR 3528, Biochemistry of Macromolecular Interactions Unit, Paris, France
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29
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Izadi-Pruneyre N, Karami Y, Nilges M. Structure and Dynamics of Type 4a Pili and Type 2 Secretion System Endopili. Subcell Biochem 2024; 104:549-563. [PMID: 38963500 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-58843-3_21] [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] [Indexed: 07/05/2024]
Abstract
Within the highly diverse type four filament (TFF or T4F) superfamily, the machineries of type IVa pili (T4aP) and the type 2 secretion system (T2SS) in diderm bacteria exhibit a substantial sequence similarity despite divergent functions and distinct appearances: T4aP can extend micrometers beyond the outer membrane, whereas the endopili in the T2SS are restricted to the periplasm. The determination of the structure of individual components and entire filaments is crucial to understand how their structure enables them to serve different functions. However, the dynamics of these filaments poses a challenge for their high-resolution structure determination. This review presents different approaches that have been used to study the structure and dynamics of T4aP and T2SS endopili by means of integrative structural biology, cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM), and molecular dynamics simulations. Their conserved features and differences are presented. The non-helical stretch in the long-conserved N-terminal helix which is characteristic of all members of the TFF and the impact of calcium on structure, function, and dynamics of these filaments are discussed in detail.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadia Izadi-Pruneyre
- Bacterial Transmembrane Systems Unit, Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, CNRS UMR, Paris, France
| | - Yasaman Karami
- Structural Bioinformatics Unit, Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, CNRS UMR, Paris, France
| | - Michael Nilges
- Structural Bioinformatics Unit, Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, CNRS UMR, Paris, France.
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Maire J, Philip GK, Livingston J, Judd LM, Blackall LL, van Oppen MJH. Functional potential and evolutionary response to long-term heat selection of bacterial associates of coral photosymbionts. mSystems 2023; 8:e0086023. [PMID: 37909753 PMCID: PMC10746172 DOI: 10.1128/msystems.00860-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Symbiotic microorganisms are crucial for the survival of corals and their resistance to coral bleaching in the face of climate change. However, the impact of microbe-microbe interactions on coral functioning is mostly unknown but could be essential factors for coral adaption to future climates. Here, we investigated interactions between cultured dinoflagellates of the Symbiodiniaceae family, essential photosymbionts of corals, and associated bacteria. By assessing the genomic potential of 49 bacteria, we found that they are likely beneficial for Symbiodiniaceae, through the production of B vitamins and antioxidants. Additionally, bacterial genes involved in host-symbiont interactions, such as secretion systems, accumulated mutations following long-term exposure to heat, suggesting symbiotic interactions may change under climate change. This highlights the importance of microbe-microbe interactions in coral functioning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin Maire
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Gayle K. Philip
- Melbourne Bioinformatics, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jadzia Livingston
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Louise M. Judd
- Doherty Applied Microbial Genomics, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The University of Melbourne at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Linda L. Blackall
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Madeleine J. H. van Oppen
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Australian Institute of Marine Science, Townsville, Queensland, Australia
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Li F, Zhang J, Liu D, Yu H, Li C, Liu Q, Chen Z, Song H. Engineering extracellular polymer substrates biosynthesis and carbon felt-carbon nanotube hybrid electrode to promote biofilm electroactivity and bioelectricity production. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 904:166595. [PMID: 37659546 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.166595] [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: 06/26/2023] [Revised: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/04/2023]
Abstract
Organic-rich thin stillage is a significant by-product of the liquor brewing industry, and its direct release into the environment can cause severe water pollution. Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) offer the possibility for converting organic matters in thin stillage into clean electricity. However, limited biofilm formation and conductivity are crucial bottlenecks in restricting the power harvest of MFCs. Here, to efficiently harvest electricity power from thin stillage of liquor industry, we adopted a modular engineering strategy to increase biofilm formation and conductivity of Shewanella oneidensis via enhancing the component biosynthesis of extracellular polymer substrates (EPS) matrix, regulating intracellular c-di-GMP level, and constructing of artificial hybrid system. The results showed that the constructed CNTs@CF-EnBF2 hybrid system with low charge-transfer resistance enabled a maximum output power density of 576.77 mW/m2 in lactate-fed MFCs. Also, to evaluate the capability of harvesting electricity from actual wastewater, the CNTs@CF-EnBF2 system was employed to treat actual thin stillage, obtaining a maximum output power density of 495.86 mW/m2, 3.3-fold higher than the wild-type strain. Our research suggested that engineering and regulating EPS biosynthesis effectively promoted bioelectricity harvest, providing a green and sustainable treatment strategy for thin stillage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Li
- Frontier Science Center for Synthetic Biology (MOE), and Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China; School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Junqi Zhang
- Frontier Science Center for Synthetic Biology (MOE), and Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China; School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Dingyuan Liu
- Frontier Science Center for Synthetic Biology (MOE), and Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China; School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Huan Yu
- Frontier Science Center for Synthetic Biology (MOE), and Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China; School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Chao Li
- Frontier Science Center for Synthetic Biology (MOE), and Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China; School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Qijing Liu
- Frontier Science Center for Synthetic Biology (MOE), and Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China; School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Zheng Chen
- Frontier Science Center for Synthetic Biology (MOE), and Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China; School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Hao Song
- Frontier Science Center for Synthetic Biology (MOE), and Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China; School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China.
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Sonani RR, Sanchez JC, Baumgardt JK, Kundra S, Wright ER, Craig L, Egelman EH. Tad and toxin-coregulated pilus structures reveal unexpected diversity in bacterial type IV pili. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2023; 120:e2316668120. [PMID: 38011558 PMCID: PMC10710030 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2316668120] [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: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Type IV pili (T4P) are ubiquitous in both bacteria and archaea. They are polymers of the major pilin protein, which has an extended and protruding N-terminal helix, α1, and a globular C-terminal domain. Cryo-EM structures have revealed key differences between the bacterial and archaeal T4P in their C-terminal domain structure and in the packing and continuity of α1. This segment forms a continuous α-helix in archaeal T4P but is partially melted in all published bacterial T4P structures due to a conserved helix breaking proline at position 22. The tad (tight adhesion) T4P are found in both bacteria and archaea and are thought to have been acquired by bacteria through horizontal transfer from archaea. Tad pilins are unique among the T4 pilins, being only 40 to 60 residues in length and entirely lacking a C-terminal domain. They also lack the Pro22 found in all high-resolution bacterial T4P structures. We show using cryo-EM that the bacterial tad pilus from Caulobacter crescentus is composed of continuous helical subunits that, like the archaeal pilins, lack the melted portion seen in other bacterial T4P and share the packing arrangement of the archaeal T4P. We further show that a bacterial T4P, the Vibrio cholerae toxin coregulated pilus, which lacks Pro22 but is not in the tad family, has a continuous N-terminal α-helix, yet its α1 s are arranged similar to those in other bacterial T4P. Our results highlight the role of Pro22 in helix melting and support an evolutionary relationship between tad and archaeal T4P.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ravi R. Sonani
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA22903
| | - Juan Carlos Sanchez
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI53706
| | - Joseph K. Baumgardt
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI53706
| | - Shivani Kundra
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BCV5A 1S6, Canada
| | - Elizabeth R. Wright
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI53706
| | - Lisa Craig
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BCV5A 1S6, Canada
| | - Edward H. Egelman
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA22903
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Zhang L, Gade V, Kirienko NV. Pathogen-induced dormancy in liquid limits gastrointestinal colonization of Caenorhabditis elegans. Virulence 2023; 14:2204004. [PMID: 37096826 PMCID: PMC10132241 DOI: 10.1080/21505594.2023.2204004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 04/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Colonization is generally considered a prerequisite for infection, but this event is context-dependent, as evidenced by the differing ability of the human pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa to efficiently colonize Caenorhabditis elegans on agar but not in liquid . In this study, we examined the impact of the environment, pathogen, host, and their interactions on host colonization. We found that the transition to a liquid environment reduces food uptake by about two-fold. Also expression of specific adhesins was significantly altered in liquid-based assays for P. aeruginosa, suggesting that it may be one factor driving diminished colonization. Unexpectedly, host immune pathways did not appear to play a significant role in decreased colonization in liquid. Although knocking down key immune pathways (e.g. daf-16 or zip-2), either alone or in combination, significantly reduced survival, the changes in colonization were very small. In spite of the limited bacterial accumulation in the liquid setting, pathogenic colonization was still required for the virulence of Enterococcus faecalis. In addition, we found that a pathogen-induced dormancy was displayed by C. elegans in liquid medium after pathogen exposure, resulting in cessation of pharyngeal pumping and a decrease in bacterial intake. We conclude that poor colonization in liquid is likely due to a combination of environmental factors and host-pathogen interactions. These results provide new insights into mechanisms for colonization in different models, enabling pathogenesis models to be fine-tuned to more accurately represent the conditions seen in human infections so that new tools for curbing bacterial and fungal infections can be developed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liyang Zhang
- Department of BioSciences, Rice University, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Vyshnavi Gade
- Department of BioSciences, Rice University, Houston, TX, USA
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Schaible GA, Jay ZJ, Cliff J, Schulz F, Gauvin C, Goudeau D, Malmstrom RR, Emil Ruff S, Edgcomb V, Hatzenpichler R. Multicellular magnetotactic bacterial consortia are metabolically differentiated and not clonal. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.11.27.568837. [PMID: 38076927 PMCID: PMC10705294 DOI: 10.1101/2023.11.27.568837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
Consortia of multicellular magnetotactic bacteria (MMB) are currently the only known example of bacteria without a unicellular stage in their life cycle. Because of their recalcitrance to cultivation, most previous studies of MMB have been limited to microscopic observations. To study the biology of these unique organisms in more detail, we use multiple culture-independent approaches to analyze the genomics and physiology of MMB consortia at single cell resolution. We separately sequenced the metagenomes of 22 individual MMB consortia, representing eight new species, and quantified the genetic diversity within each MMB consortium. This revealed that, counter to conventional views, cells within MMB consortia are not clonal. Single consortia metagenomes were then used to reconstruct the species-specific metabolic potential and infer the physiological capabilities of MMB. To validate genomic predictions, we performed stable isotope probing (SIP) experiments and interrogated MMB consortia using fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) combined with nano-scale secondary ion mass spectrometry (NanoSIMS). By coupling FISH with bioorthogonal non-canonical amino acid tagging (BONCAT) we explored their in situ activity as well as variation of protein synthesis within cells. We demonstrate that MMB consortia are mixotrophic sulfate reducers and that they exhibit metabolic differentiation between individual cells, suggesting that MMB consortia are more complex than previously thought. These findings expand our understanding of MMB diversity, ecology, genomics, and physiology, as well as offer insights into the mechanisms underpinning the multicellular nature of their unique lifestyle.
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Affiliation(s)
- George A. Schaible
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT 59717
- Center for Biofilm Engineering, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT 59717
| | - Zackary J. Jay
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT 59717
- Center for Biofilm Engineering, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT 59717
- Thermal Biology Institute, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT 59717
| | - John Cliff
- Environmental Molecular Sciences Laboratory, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Richland, WA 99354
| | - Frederik Schulz
- Department of Energy Joint Genome Institute, Berkeley, CA, 94720
| | - Colin Gauvin
- Center for Biofilm Engineering, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT 59717
- Thermal Biology Institute, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT 59717
| | - Danielle Goudeau
- Department of Energy Joint Genome Institute, Berkeley, CA, 94720
| | - Rex R. Malmstrom
- Department of Energy Joint Genome Institute, Berkeley, CA, 94720
| | - S. Emil Ruff
- Ecosystems Center and Bay Paul Center, Marine Biological Laboratory, Woods Hole, MA, 02543
| | | | - Roland Hatzenpichler
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT 59717
- Center for Biofilm Engineering, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT 59717
- Thermal Biology Institute, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT 59717
- Department of Microbiology and Cell Biology, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT 59717
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Herfurth M, Pérez-Burgos M, Søgaard-Andersen L. The mechanism for polar localization of the type IVa pilus machine in Myxococcus xanthus. mBio 2023; 14:e0159323. [PMID: 37754549 PMCID: PMC10653833 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.01593-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Type IVa pili (T4aP) are widespread bacterial cell surface structures with important functions in motility, surface adhesion, biofilm formation, and virulence. Different bacteria have adapted different piliation patterns. To address how these patterns are established, we focused on the bipolar localization of the T4aP machine in the model organism Myxococcus xanthus by studying the localization of the PilQ secretin, the first component of this machine that assembles at the poles. Based on experiments using a combination of fluorescence microscopy, biochemistry, and computational structural analysis, we propose that PilQ, and specifically its AMIN domains, binds septal and polar peptidoglycan, thereby enabling polar Tgl localization, which then stimulates PilQ multimerization in the outer membrane. We also propose that the presence and absence of AMIN domains in T4aP secretins contribute to the different piliation patterns across bacteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Herfurth
- Department of Ecophysiology, Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology, Marburg, Germany
| | - María Pérez-Burgos
- Department of Ecophysiology, Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology, Marburg, Germany
| | - Lotte Søgaard-Andersen
- Department of Ecophysiology, Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology, Marburg, Germany
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Zhao Z, Luo YH, Wang TH, Sinha S, Ling L, Rittmann B, Alvarez P, Perreault F, Westerhoff P. Phenotypic and Transcriptional Responses of Pseudomonas aeruginosa Biofilms to UV-C Irradiation via Side-Emitting Optical Fibers: Implications for Biofouling Control. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2023; 57:15736-15746. [PMID: 37802050 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c04658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/08/2023]
Abstract
Biofilms give rise to a range of issues, spanning from harboring pathogens to accelerating microbial-induced corrosion in pressurized water systems. Introducing germicidal UV-C (200-280 nm) irradiation from light-emitting diodes (LEDs) into flexible side-emitting optical fibers (SEOFs) presents a novel light delivery method to inhibit the accumulation of biofilms on surfaces found in small-diameter tubing or other intricate geometries. This work used surfaces fully submerged in flowing water that contained Pseudomonas aeruginosa, an opportunistic pathogen commonly found in water system biofilms. A SEOF delivered a UV-C gradient to the surface for biofilm inhibition. Biofilm growth over time was monitored in situ using optical conference tomography. Biofilm formation was effectively inhibited when the 275 nm UV-C irradiance was ≥8 μW/cm2. Biofilm samples were collected from several regions on the surface, representing low and high UV-C irradiance. RNA sequencing of these samples revealed that high UV-C irradiance inhibited the expression of functional genes related to energy metabolism, DNA repair, quorum sensing, polysaccharide production, and mobility. However, insufficient sublethal UV-C exposure led to upregulation genes for SOS response and quorum sensing as survival strategies against the UV-C stress. These results underscore the need to maintain minimum UV-C exposure on surfaces to effectively inhibit biofilm formation in water systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhe Zhao
- NSF Nanosystems Engineering Research Center for Nanotechnology-Enabled Water Treatment, School of Sustainable Engineering and the Built Environment, Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona 85287-3005, United States
| | - Yi-Hao Luo
- NSF Nanosystems Engineering Research Center for Nanotechnology-Enabled Water Treatment, School of Sustainable Engineering and the Built Environment, Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona 85287-3005, United States
- Biodesign Swette Center for Environmental Biotechnology, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona 85287-5701, United States
- Engineering Research Center of Low-Carbon Treatment and Green Development of Polluted Water in Northeast China, Northeast Normal University, Changchun 130117, China
| | - Tzu-Heng Wang
- NSF Nanosystems Engineering Research Center for Nanotechnology-Enabled Water Treatment, School of Sustainable Engineering and the Built Environment, Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona 85287-3005, United States
| | - Shahnawaz Sinha
- NSF Nanosystems Engineering Research Center for Nanotechnology-Enabled Water Treatment, School of Sustainable Engineering and the Built Environment, Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona 85287-3005, United States
| | - Li Ling
- Advanced Interdisciplinary Institute of Environment and Ecology, Beijing Normal University, Zhuhai, 519087, China
| | - Bruce Rittmann
- NSF Nanosystems Engineering Research Center for Nanotechnology-Enabled Water Treatment, School of Sustainable Engineering and the Built Environment, Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona 85287-3005, United States
- Biodesign Swette Center for Environmental Biotechnology, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona 85287-5701, United States
| | - Pedro Alvarez
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Rice University, Houston, Texas 77005, United States
| | - François Perreault
- NSF Nanosystems Engineering Research Center for Nanotechnology-Enabled Water Treatment, School of Sustainable Engineering and the Built Environment, Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona 85287-3005, United States
| | - Paul Westerhoff
- NSF Nanosystems Engineering Research Center for Nanotechnology-Enabled Water Treatment, School of Sustainable Engineering and the Built Environment, Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona 85287-3005, United States
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Páez-Pérez ED, Hernández-Sánchez A, Alfaro-Saldaña E, García-Meza JV. Disorder and amino acid composition in proteins: their potential role in the adaptation of extracellular pilins to the acidic media, where Acidithiobacillus thiooxidans grows. Extremophiles 2023; 27:31. [PMID: 37848738 DOI: 10.1007/s00792-023-01317-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/19/2023]
Abstract
There are few biophysical studies or structural characterizations of the type IV pilin system of extremophile bacteria, such as the acidophilic Acidithiobacillus thiooxidans. We set out to analyze their pili-comprising proteins, pilins, because these extracellular proteins are in constant interaction with protons of the acidic medium in which At. thiooxidans grows. We used the web server Operon Mapper to analyze and identify the cluster codified by the minor pilin of At. thiooxidans. In addition, we carried an in-silico characterization of such pilins using the VL-XT algorithm of PONDR® server. Our results showed that structural disorder prevails more in pilins of At. thiooxidans than in non-acidophilic bacteria. Further computational characterization showed that the pilins of At. thiooxidans are significantly enriched in hydroxy (serine and threonine) and amide (glutamine and asparagine) residues, and significantly reduced in charged residues (aspartic acid, glutamic acid, arginine and lysine). Similar results were obtained when comparing pilins from other Acidithiobacillus and other acidophilic bacteria from another genus versus neutrophilic bacteria, suggesting that these properties are intrinsic to pilins from acidic environments, most likely by maintaining solubility and stability in harsh conditions. These results give guidelines for the application of extracellular proteins of acidophiles in protein engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edgar D Páez-Pérez
- Geomicrobiología, Metalurgia, Universidad Autónoma de San Luis Potosí, Sierra Leona 550, 78210, San Luis Potosí, SLP, Mexico.
| | - Araceli Hernández-Sánchez
- Geomicrobiología, Metalurgia, Universidad Autónoma de San Luis Potosí, Sierra Leona 550, 78210, San Luis Potosí, SLP, Mexico.
| | - Elvia Alfaro-Saldaña
- Geomicrobiología, Metalurgia, Universidad Autónoma de San Luis Potosí, Sierra Leona 550, 78210, San Luis Potosí, SLP, Mexico
| | - J Viridiana García-Meza
- Geomicrobiología, Metalurgia, Universidad Autónoma de San Luis Potosí, Sierra Leona 550, 78210, San Luis Potosí, SLP, Mexico
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Palalay JJS, Simsek AN, Reed JL, Koch MD, Sabass B, Sanfilippo JE. Shear force enhances adhesion of Pseudomonas aeruginosa by counteracting pilus-driven surface departure. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2023; 120:e2307718120. [PMID: 37788310 PMCID: PMC10576114 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2307718120] [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: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Fluid flow is thought to prevent bacterial adhesion, but some bacteria use adhesins with catch bond properties to enhance adhesion under high shear forces. However, many studies on bacterial adhesion either neglect the influence of shear force or use shear forces that are not typically found in natural systems. In this study, we use microfluidics and single-cell imaging to examine how the human pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa interacts with surfaces when exposed to shear forces typically found in the human body (0.1 pN to 10 pN). Through cell tracking, we demonstrate that the angle between the cell and the surface predicts if a cell will depart the surface. We discover that at lower shear forces, type IV pilus retraction tilts cells away from the surface, promoting surface departure. Conversely, we show that higher shear forces counterintuitively enhance adhesion by counteracting type IV pilus retraction-dependent cell tilting. Thus, our results reveal that P. aeruginosa exhibits behavior reminiscent of a catch bond, without having a specific adhesin that is enhanced by force. Instead, P. aeruginosa couples type IV pilus dynamics and cell geometry to tune adhesion to its mechanical environment, which likely provides a benefit in dynamic host environments.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ahmet N. Simsek
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Institute for Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich80752, Germany
| | - Jessie L. Reed
- Department of Biology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX77843
| | - Matthias D. Koch
- Department of Biology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX77843
| | - Benedikt Sabass
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Institute for Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich80752, Germany
| | - Joseph E. Sanfilippo
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL61801
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Larsen F, Offersen SM, Li VR, Deng L, Nielsen DS, Rasmussen TS. Choice of Ultrafilter Affects Recovery Rate of Bacteriophages. Viruses 2023; 15:2051. [PMID: 37896828 PMCID: PMC10612031 DOI: 10.3390/v15102051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Revised: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Studies into the viral fraction of complex microbial communities, like in the mammalian gut, have recently garnered much interest. Yet there is still no standardized protocol for extracting viruses from such samples, and the protocols that exist employ procedures that skew the viral community of the sample one way or another. The first step of the extraction pipeline often consists of the basic filtering of macromolecules and bacteria, yet even this affects the viruses in a strain-specific manner. In this study, we investigate a protocol for viral extraction based on ultrafiltration and how the choice of ultrafilter might influence the extracted viral community. Clinical samples (feces, vaginal swabs, and tracheal suction samples) were spiked with a mock community of known phages (T4, c2, Φ6, Φ29, Φx174, and Φ2972), filtered, and quantified using spot and plaque assays to estimate the loss in recovery. The enveloped Φ6 phage is especially severely affected by the choice of filter, but also tailed phages such as T4 and c2 have a reduced infectivity after ultrafiltration. We conclude that the pore size of ultrafilters may affect the recovery of phages in a strain- and sample-dependent manner, suggesting the need for greater thought when selecting filters for virus extraction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frej Larsen
- Department of Food Science, University of Copenhagen, 1958 Frederiksberg C, Denmark; (L.D.); (D.S.N.)
| | - Simone Margaard Offersen
- Section for Comparative Pediatrics and Nutrition, Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 1870 Frederiksberg C, Denmark; (S.M.O.)
| | - Viktoria Rose Li
- Section for Comparative Pediatrics and Nutrition, Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 1870 Frederiksberg C, Denmark; (S.M.O.)
| | - Ling Deng
- Department of Food Science, University of Copenhagen, 1958 Frederiksberg C, Denmark; (L.D.); (D.S.N.)
| | - Dennis Sandris Nielsen
- Department of Food Science, University of Copenhagen, 1958 Frederiksberg C, Denmark; (L.D.); (D.S.N.)
| | - Torben Sølbeck Rasmussen
- Department of Food Science, University of Copenhagen, 1958 Frederiksberg C, Denmark; (L.D.); (D.S.N.)
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Lin S, Wu F, Zhang Y, Chen H, Guo H, Chen Y, Liu J. Surface-modified bacteria: synthesis, functionalization and biomedical applications. Chem Soc Rev 2023; 52:6617-6643. [PMID: 37724854 DOI: 10.1039/d3cs00369h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/21/2023]
Abstract
The past decade has witnessed a great leap forward in bacteria-based living agents, including imageable probes, diagnostic reagents, and therapeutics, by virtue of their unique characteristics, such as genetic manipulation, rapid proliferation, colonization capability, and disease site targeting specificity. However, successful translation of bacterial bioagents to clinical applications remains challenging, due largely to their inherent susceptibility to environmental insults, unavoidable toxic side effects, and limited accumulation at the sites of interest. Cell surface components, which play critical roles in shaping bacterial behaviors, provide an opportunity to chemically modify bacteria and introduce different exogenous functions that are naturally unachievable. With the help of surface modification, a wide range of functionalized bacteria have been prepared over the past years and exhibit great potential in various biomedical applications. In this article, we mainly review the synthesis, functionalization, and biomedical applications of surface-modified bacteria. We first introduce the approaches of chemical modification based on the bacterial surface structure and then highlight several advanced functions achieved by modifying specific components on the surface. We also summarize the advantages as well as limitations of surface chemically modified bacteria in the applications of bioimaging, diagnosis, and therapy and further discuss the current challenges and possible solutions in the future. This work will inspire innovative design thinking for the development of chemical strategies for preparing next-generation biomedical bacterial agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sisi Lin
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Nucleic Acid Chemistry and Nanomedicine, Institute of Molecular Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200127, China.
| | - Feng Wu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Nucleic Acid Chemistry and Nanomedicine, Institute of Molecular Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200127, China.
| | - Yifan Zhang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Nucleic Acid Chemistry and Nanomedicine, Institute of Molecular Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200127, China.
| | - Huan Chen
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Nucleic Acid Chemistry and Nanomedicine, Institute of Molecular Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200127, China.
| | - Haiyan Guo
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Nucleic Acid Chemistry and Nanomedicine, Institute of Molecular Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200127, China.
| | - Yanmei Chen
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Nucleic Acid Chemistry and Nanomedicine, Institute of Molecular Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200127, China.
| | - Jinyao Liu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Nucleic Acid Chemistry and Nanomedicine, Institute of Molecular Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200127, China.
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Liu M, Wei G, Lai Q, Huang Z, Li M, Shao Z. Genomic and metabolic insights into the first host-associated isolate of Psychrilyobacter. Microbiol Spectr 2023; 11:e0399022. [PMID: 37754757 PMCID: PMC10580919 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.03990-22] [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: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Although gut bacteria are vital to their hosts, few studies have focused on marine animals. Psychrilyobacter is frequently related to various marine animals, but its interaction with host remains unknown due to the lack of host-associated isolate or genomic information. Here, we combined cultivation-independent and cultivation-dependent methods to uncover the potential roles of Psychrilyobacter in the host abalone. The high-throughput sequencing and literature compiling results indicated that Psychrilyobacter is widely distributed in marine and terrestrial ecosystems with both host-associated and free-living lifestyles, but with a strong niche preference in the guts of marine invertebrates, especially abalone. By in vitro enrichment that mimicked the gut inner environment, the first host-related pure culture of Psychrilyobacter was isolated from the abalone intestine. Phylogenetic, physiological, and biochemical characterizations suggested that it represents a novel species named Psychrilyobacter haliotis B1. Carbohydrate utilization experiments and genomic evidence indicated that B1 can utilize diverse host-food-related monosaccharides and disaccharides but not polysaccharides, implying its potential role in the downstream fermentation instead of the upstream food degradation in the gut. Particularly, this strain showed potential to colonize the gut and benefit the host via different strategies, such as the short-chain fatty acids generation by fermenting peptides and/or amino acids, and the putative production of diverse vitamins and antibiotics to support the host growth and antipathogenicity. To our knowledge, strain B1 represents the first host-related pure culture of Psychrilyobacter; genomic and metabolic evidence showed some beneficial characteristics of the dominant gut anaerobe to the host. IMPORTANCE Psychrilyobacter is a globally distributed bacterial genus and with an inhabiting preference for guts of marine invertebrates. Due to the difficulty of cultivation and the limited genomic information, its role in host remains largely unknown. We isolated the first host-associated Psychrilyobacter species from abalone gut and uncovered its functional potential to the host through different mechanisms. Our findings provide some insights into the understanding of host-microbe interactions on a core taxon with the marine invertebrates, and the isolate may have an application potential in the protection of marine animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meijia Liu
- Key Laboratory of Marine Biogenetic Resources, Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources of the PR China; State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Marine Genetic Resources; Fujian Key Laboratory of Marine Genetic Resources, Xiamen, China
| | - Guangshan Wei
- Key Laboratory of Marine Biogenetic Resources, Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources of the PR China; State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Marine Genetic Resources; Fujian Key Laboratory of Marine Genetic Resources, Xiamen, China
- Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Zhuhai), School of Marine Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Zhuhai, China
| | - Qiliang Lai
- Key Laboratory of Marine Biogenetic Resources, Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources of the PR China; State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Marine Genetic Resources; Fujian Key Laboratory of Marine Genetic Resources, Xiamen, China
| | - Zhaobin Huang
- Key Laboratory of Marine Biogenetic Resources, Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources of the PR China; State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Marine Genetic Resources; Fujian Key Laboratory of Marine Genetic Resources, Xiamen, China
| | - Min Li
- College of Ocean and Earth Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Zongze Shao
- Key Laboratory of Marine Biogenetic Resources, Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources of the PR China; State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Marine Genetic Resources; Fujian Key Laboratory of Marine Genetic Resources, Xiamen, China
- Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Zhuhai), School of Marine Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Zhuhai, China
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Zuke JD, Erickson R, Hummels KR, Burton BM. Visualizing dynamic competence pili and DNA capture throughout the long axis of Bacillus subtilis. J Bacteriol 2023; 205:e0015623. [PMID: 37695859 PMCID: PMC10521363 DOI: 10.1128/jb.00156-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The first step in the process of bacterial natural transformation is DNA capture. Although long hypothesized based on genetics and functional experiments, the pilus structure responsible for initial DNA binding had not yet been visualized for Bacillus subtilis. Here, we visualize functional competence pili in Bacillus subtilis using fluorophore-conjugated maleimide labeling in conjunction with epifluorescence microscopy. In strains that produce pilin monomers within tenfold of wild-type levels, the median length of detectable pili is 300 nm. These pili are retractile and associate with DNA. The analysis of pilus distribution at the cell surface reveals that they are predominantly located along the long axis of the cell. The distribution is consistent with localization of proteins associated with subsequent transformation steps, DNA binding, and DNA translocation in the cytosol. These data suggest a distributed model for B. subtilis transformation machinery, in which initial steps of DNA capture occur throughout the long axis of the cell and subsequent steps may also occur away from the cell poles. IMPORTANCE This work provides novel visual evidence for DNA translocation across the cell wall during Bacillus subtilis natural competence, an essential step in the natural transformation process. Our data demonstrate the existence of natural competence-associated retractile pili that can bind exogenous DNA. Furthermore, we show that pilus biogenesis occurs throughout the cell long axis. These data strongly support DNA translocation occurring all along the lateral cell wall during natural competence, wherein pili are produced, bind to free DNA in the extracellular space, and finally retract to pull the bound DNA through the gap in the cell wall created during pilus biogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason D. Zuke
- Department of Bacteriology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
- Microbiology Doctoral Training Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Rachel Erickson
- Department of Bacteriology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Katherine R. Hummels
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Briana M. Burton
- Department of Bacteriology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
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Rivier AJ, Myers KS, Garcia AK, Sobol MS, Kaçar B. Regulatory response to a hybrid ancestral nitrogenase in Azotobacter vinelandii. Microbiol Spectr 2023; 11:e0281523. [PMID: 37702481 PMCID: PMC10581106 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.02815-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Biological nitrogen fixation, the microbial reduction of atmospheric nitrogen to bioavailable ammonia, represents both a major limitation on biological productivity and a highly desirable engineering target for synthetic biology. However, the engineering of nitrogen fixation requires an integrated understanding of how the gene regulatory dynamics of host diazotrophs respond across sequence-function space of its central catalytic metalloenzyme, nitrogenase. Here, we interrogate this relationship by analyzing the transcriptome of Azotobacter vinelandii engineered with a phylogenetically inferred ancestral nitrogenase protein variant. The engineered strain exhibits reduced cellular nitrogenase activity but recovers wild-type growth rates following an extended lag period. We find that expression of genes within the immediate nitrogen fixation network is resilient to the introduced nitrogenase sequence-level perturbations. Rather the sustained physiological compatibility with the ancestral nitrogenase variant is accompanied by reduced expression of genes that support trace metal and electron resource allocation to nitrogenase. Our results spotlight gene expression changes in cellular processes adjacent to nitrogen fixation as productive engineering considerations to improve compatibility between remodeled nitrogenase proteins and engineered host diazotrophs. IMPORTANCE Azotobacter vinelandii is a key model bacterium for the study of biological nitrogen fixation, an important metabolic process catalyzed by nitrogenase enzymes. Here, we demonstrate that compatibilities between engineered A. vinelandii strains and nitrogenase variants can be modulated at the regulatory level. The engineered strain studied here responds by adjusting the expression of proteins involved in cellular processes adjacent to nitrogen fixation, rather than that of nitrogenase proteins themselves. These insights can inform future strategies to transfer nitrogenase variants to non-native hosts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex J. Rivier
- Department of Bacteriology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Kevin S. Myers
- Great Lakes Bioenergy Research Center and the Wisconsin Energy Institute, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Amanda K. Garcia
- Department of Bacteriology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Morgan S. Sobol
- Department of Bacteriology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Betül Kaçar
- Department of Bacteriology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
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Arnold ND, Garbe D, Brück TB. Proteomic and Transcriptomic Analyses to Decipher the Chitinolytic Response of Jeongeupia spp. Mar Drugs 2023; 21:448. [PMID: 37623729 PMCID: PMC10455584 DOI: 10.3390/md21080448] [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: 07/25/2023] [Revised: 08/12/2023] [Accepted: 08/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
In nature, chitin, the most abundant marine biopolymer, does not accumulate due to the action of chitinolytic organisms, whose saccharification systems provide instructional blueprints for effective chitin conversion. Therefore, discovery and deconstruction of chitinolytic machineries and associated enzyme systems are essential for the advancement of biotechnological chitin valorization. Through combined investigation of the chitin-induced secretome with differential proteomic and transcriptomic analyses, a holistic system biology approach has been applied to unravel the chitin response mechanisms in the Gram-negative Jeongeupia wiesaeckerbachi. Hereby, the majority of the genome-encoded chitinolytic machinery, consisting of various glycoside hydrolases and a lytic polysaccharide monooxygenase, could be detected extracellularly. Intracellular proteomics revealed a distinct translation pattern with significant upregulation of glucosamine transport, metabolism, and chemotaxis-associated proteins. While the differential transcriptomic results suggested the overall recruitment of more genes during chitin metabolism compared to that of glucose, the detected protein-mRNA correlation was low. As one of the first studies of its kind, the involvement of over 350 unique enzymes and 570 unique genes in the catabolic chitin response of a Gram-negative bacterium could be identified through a three-way systems biology approach. Based on the cumulative data, a holistic model for the chitinolytic machinery of Jeongeupia spp. is proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Thomas B. Brück
- TUM School of Natural Sciences, Department of Chemistry, Technical University of Munich, Werner-Siemens Chair for Synthetic Biotechnology (WSSB), Lichtenbergstr. 4, 85748 Garching, Germany; (N.D.A.); (D.G.)
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Liu J, Eastep GN, Cvirkaite-Krupovic V, Rich-New ST, Kreutzberger MAB, Egelman EH, Krupovic M, Wang F. Two dramatically distinct archaeal type IV pili structures formed by the same pilin. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.08.07.552285. [PMID: 37609343 PMCID: PMC10441282 DOI: 10.1101/2023.08.07.552285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/24/2023]
Abstract
Type IV pili (T4P) represent one of the most common varieties of surface appendages in archaea. These filaments, assembled from relatively small pilin proteins, can be many microns long and serve diverse functions, including adhesion, biofilm formation, motility, and intercellular communication. Using cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM), we determined atomic structures of two dramatically different T4P from Saccharolobus islandicus REY15A. Unexpectedly, both pili were assembled from the same pilin protein but under different growth conditions. One filament, denoted mono-pilus, conforms to canonical archaeal T4P structures where all subunits are equivalent, whereas in the other filament, the tri-pilus, the same protein exists in three different conformations. The three conformations involve different orientations of the outer immunoglobulin (Ig)-like domains, mediated by a very flexible linker, and all three of these conformations are very different from the single conformation found in the mono-pilus. Remarkably, the outer domains rotate nearly 180° between the mono- and tri-pilus conformations, formally similar to what has been shown for outer domains in bacterial flagellar filaments, despite lack of homology between bacterial flagella and archaeal T4P. Interestingly, both forms of pili require the same ATPase and TadC-like membrane pore for assembly, indicating that the same secretion system can produce structurally very different filaments. However, the expression of the ATPase and TadC genes was significantly different under the conditions yielding mono- and tri-pili. While archaeal T4P are homologs of archaeal flagellar filaments, our results show that in contrast to the rigid supercoil that the flagellar filaments must adopt to serve as helical propellers, archaeal T4P are likely to have fewer constraints on their structure and enjoy more internal degrees of freedom.
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Treuner-Lange A, Zheng W, Viljoen A, Lindow S, Herfurth M, Dufrêne YF, Søgaard-Andersen L, Egelman EH. Large pilin subunits provide distinct structural and mechanical properties for the Myxococcus xanthus type IV pilus. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.07.22.550172. [PMID: 37503255 PMCID: PMC10370171 DOI: 10.1101/2023.07.22.550172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
Type IV pili (T4P) are ubiquitous bacterial cell surface filaments important for surface motility, adhesion to biotic and abiotic surfaces, DNA uptake, biofilm formation, and virulence. T4P are built from thousands of copies of the major pilin subunit and tipped by a complex composed of minor pilins and in some systems also the PilY1 adhesin. While the major pilins of structurally characterized T4P have lengths of up to 161 residues, the major pilin PilA of Myxococcus xanthus is unusually large with 208 residues. All major pilins have a highly conserved N-terminal domain and a highly variable C-terminal domain, and the additional residues in the M. xanthus PilA are due to a larger C-terminal domain. We solved the structure of the M. xanthus T4P (T4P Mx ) at a resolution of 3.0 Å using cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM). The T4P Mx follows the structural blueprint observed in other T4P with the pilus core comprised of the extensively interacting N-terminal α1-helices while the globular domains decorate the T4P surface. The atomic model of PilA built into this map shows that the large C-terminal domain has much more extensive intersubunit contacts than major pilins in other T4P. As expected from these greater contacts, the bending and axial stiffness of the T4P Mx is significantly higher than that of other T4P and supports T4P-dependent motility on surfaces of different stiffnesses. Notably, T4P Mx variants with interrupted intersubunit interfaces had decreased bending stiffness and strongly reduced motility on all surfaces. These observations support an evolutionary scenario whereby the large major pilin enables the formation of a rigid T4P that expands the environmental conditions in which the T4P system functions.
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Rocha ST, Shah DD, Zhu Q, Shrivastava A. The prevalence of motility within the human oral microbiota. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.07.17.549387. [PMID: 37503047 PMCID: PMC10370060 DOI: 10.1101/2023.07.17.549387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
The human oral and nasal microbiota contains approximately 770 cultivable bacterial species. More than 2000 genome sequences of these bacteria can be found in the expanded Human Oral Microbiome Database (eHOMD). We developed HOMDscrape, a freely available Python software tool to programmatically retrieve and process amino acid sequences and sequence identifiers from BLAST results acquired from the eHOMD website. Using the data obtained through HOMDscrape, the phylogeny of proteins involved in bacterial flagellar motility, Type 4 pilus driven twitching motility, and Type 9 Secretion system (T9SS) driven gliding motility was constructed. A comprehensive phylogenetic analysis was conducted for all components of the rotary T9SS, a machinery responsible for secreting various enzymes, virulence factors, and enabling bacterial gliding motility. Results revealed that the T9SS outer membrane ß-barrel protein SprA of human oral microbes underwent horizontal evolution. Overall, we catalog motile microbes that inhabit the human oral microbiota and document their evolutionary connections. These results will serve as a guide for further studies exploring the impact of motility on shaping of the human oral microbiota.
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Kreutzberger MAB, Cvirkaite-Krupovic V, Liu Y, Baquero DP, Liu J, Sonani RR, Calladine CR, Wang F, Krupovic M, Egelman EH. The evolution of archaeal flagellar filaments. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2023; 120:e2304256120. [PMID: 37399404 PMCID: PMC10334743 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2304256120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 07/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Flagellar motility has independently arisen three times during evolution: in bacteria, archaea, and eukaryotes. In prokaryotes, the supercoiled flagellar filaments are composed largely of a single protein, bacterial or archaeal flagellin, although these two proteins are not homologous, while in eukaryotes, the flagellum contains hundreds of proteins. Archaeal flagellin and archaeal type IV pilin are homologous, but how archaeal flagellar filaments (AFFs) and archaeal type IV pili (AT4Ps) diverged is not understood, in part, due to the paucity of structures for AFFs and AT4Ps. Despite having similar structures, AFFs supercoil, while AT4Ps do not, and supercoiling is essential for the function of AFFs. We used cryo-electron microscopy to determine the atomic structure of two additional AT4Ps and reanalyzed previous structures. We find that all AFFs have a prominent 10-strand packing, while AT4Ps show a striking structural diversity in their subunit packing. A clear distinction between all AFF and all AT4P structures involves the extension of the N-terminal α-helix with polar residues in the AFFs. Additionally, we characterize a flagellar-like AT4P from Pyrobaculum calidifontis with filament and subunit structure similar to that of AFFs which can be viewed as an evolutionary link, showing how the structural diversity of AT4Ps likely allowed for an AT4P to evolve into a supercoiling AFF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark A. B. Kreutzberger
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA22903
| | | | - Ying Liu
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, CNRS UMR6047, Archaeal Virology Unit, Paris75015, France
| | - Diana P. Baquero
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, CNRS UMR6047, Archaeal Virology Unit, Paris75015, France
| | - Junfeng Liu
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, CNRS UMR6047, Archaeal Virology Unit, Paris75015, France
| | - Ravi R. Sonani
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA22903
| | - Chris R. Calladine
- Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, CambridgeCB2 1PZ, United Kingdom
| | - Fengbin Wang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA22903
| | - Mart Krupovic
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, CNRS UMR6047, Archaeal Virology Unit, Paris75015, France
| | - Edward H. Egelman
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA22903
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Yang P, Qu C, Yuan M, Xi B, Jia X, Zhang B, Zhang L. Genetic Basis and Expression Pattern Indicate the Biocontrol Potential and Soil Adaption of Lysobacter capsici CK09. Microorganisms 2023; 11:1768. [PMID: 37512940 PMCID: PMC10384520 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11071768] [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: 06/06/2023] [Revised: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Lysobacter species have attracted increasing attention in recent years due to their capacities to produce diverse secondary metabolites against phytopathogens. In this research, we analyzed the genomic and transcriptomic patterns of Lysobacter capsici CK09. Our data showed that L. capsici CK09 harbored various contact-independent biocontrol traits, such as fungal cell wall lytic enzymes and HSAF/WAP-8294A2 biosynthesis, as well as several contact-dependent machineries, including type 2/4/6 secretion systems. Additionally, a variety of hydrolytic enzymes, particularly extracellular enzymes, were found in the L. capsici CK09 genome and predicted to improve its adaption in soil. Furthermore, several systems, including type 4 pili, type 3 secretion system and polysaccharide biosynthesis, can provide a selective advantage to L. capsici CK09, enabling the species to live on the surface in soil. The expression of these genes was then confirmed via transcriptomic analysis, indicating the activities of these genes. Collectively, our research provides a comprehensive understanding of the biocontrol potential and soil adaption of L. capsici CK09 and implies the potential of this strain for application in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pu Yang
- School of Life Science, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, China
| | - Chaofan Qu
- School of Life Science, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, China
| | - Miaomiao Yuan
- School of Life Science, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, China
| | - Bo Xi
- School of Life Science, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, China
| | - Xiu Jia
- Institute of Biodiversity, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Cluster of Excellence Balance of the Microverse, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, 07745 Jena, Germany
| | - Ben Zhang
- School of Life Science, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, China
| | - Lizhen Zhang
- School of Life Science, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, China
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50
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Iruegas R, Pfefferle K, Göttig S, Averhoff B, Ebersberger I. Feature architecture aware phylogenetic profiling indicates a functional diversification of type IVa pili in the nosocomial pathogen Acinetobacter baumannii. PLoS Genet 2023; 19:e1010646. [PMID: 37498819 PMCID: PMC10374093 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1010646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The Gram-negative bacterial pathogen Acinetobacter baumannii is a major cause of hospital-acquired opportunistic infections. The increasing spread of pan-drug resistant strains makes A. baumannii top-ranking among the ESKAPE pathogens for which novel routes of treatment are urgently needed. Comparative genomics approaches have successfully identified genetic changes coinciding with the emergence of pathogenicity in Acinetobacter. Genes that are prevalent both in pathogenic and a-pathogenic Acinetobacter species were not considered ignoring that virulence factors may emerge by the modification of evolutionarily old and widespread proteins. Here, we increased the resolution of comparative genomics analyses to also include lineage-specific changes in protein feature architectures. Using type IVa pili (T4aP) as an example, we show that three pilus components, among them the pilus tip adhesin ComC, vary in their Pfam domain annotation within the genus Acinetobacter. In most pathogenic Acinetobacter isolates, ComC displays a von Willebrand Factor type A domain harboring a finger-like protrusion, and we provide experimental evidence that this finger conveys virulence-related functions in A. baumannii. All three genes are part of an evolutionary cassette, which has been replaced at least twice during A. baumannii diversification. The resulting strain-specific differences in T4aP layout suggests differences in the way how individual strains interact with their host. Our study underpins the hypothesis that A. baumannii uses T4aP for host infection as it was shown previously for other pathogens. It also indicates that many more functional complexes may exist whose precise functions have been adjusted by modifying individual components on the domain level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruben Iruegas
- Applied Bioinformatics Group, Inst of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Katharina Pfefferle
- Molecular Microbiology & Bioenergetics, Institute of Molecular Biosciences, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Stephan Göttig
- Institute for Medical Microbiology and Infection Control, University Hospital, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Beate Averhoff
- Molecular Microbiology & Bioenergetics, Institute of Molecular Biosciences, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Ingo Ebersberger
- Applied Bioinformatics Group, Inst of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Senckenberg Biodiversity and Climate Research Centre (S-BIK-F), Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- LOEWE Centre for Translational Biodiversity Genomics (TBG), Frankfurt am Main, Germany
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