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Montelongo Hernandez C, Putonti C, Wolfe AJ. Urinary Plasmids Reduce Permissivity to Coliphage Infection. Microbiol Spectr 2023; 11:e0130923. [PMID: 37409956 PMCID: PMC10433841 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.01309-23] [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: 03/26/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The microbial community of the urinary tract (urinary microbiota or urobiota) has been associated with human health. Bacteriophages (phages) and plasmids present in the urinary tract, like in other niches, may shape urinary bacterial dynamics. While urinary Escherichia coli strains associated with urinary tract infection (UTI) and their phages have been catalogued for the urobiome, bacterium-plasmid-phage interactions have yet to be explored. In this study, we characterized urinary E. coli plasmids and their ability to decrease permissivity to E. coli phage (coliphage) infection. Putative F plasmids were predicted in 47 of 67 urinary E. coli isolates, and most of these plasmids carried genes that encode toxin-antitoxin (TA) modules, antibiotic resistance, and/or virulence. Urinary E. coli plasmids, from urinary microbiota strains UMB0928 and UMB1284, were conjugated into E. coli K-12 strains. These transconjugants included genes for antibiotic resistance and virulence, and they decreased permissivity to coliphage infection by the laboratory phage P1vir and the urinary phages Greed and Lust. Plasmids in one transconjugant were maintained in E. coli K-12 for up to 10 days in the absence of antibiotic resistance selection; this included the maintenance of the antibiotic resistance phenotype and decreased permissivity to phage. Finally, we discuss how F plasmids present in urinary E. coli strains could play a role in coliphage dynamics and the maintenance of antibiotic resistance in urinary E. coli. IMPORTANCE The urinary tract contains a resident microbial community called the urinary microbiota or urobiota. Evidence exists that it is associated with human health. Bacteriophages (phages) and plasmids present in the urinary tract, like in other niches, may shape urinary bacterial dynamics. Bacterium-plasmid-phage interactions have been studied primarily in laboratory settings and are yet to be thoroughly tested in complex communities. This is especially true of the urinary tract, where the bacterial genetic determinants of phage infection are not well understood. In this study, we characterized urinary E. coli plasmids and their ability to decrease permissivity to E. coli phage (coliphage) infection. Urinary E. coli plasmids, encoding antibiotic resistance and transferred by conjugation into naive laboratory E. coli K-12 strains, decreased permissivity to coliphage infection. We propose a model by which urinary plasmids present in urinary E. coli strains could help to decrease phage infection susceptibility and maintain the antibiotic resistance of urinary E. coli. This has consequences for phage therapy, which could inadvertently select for plasmids that encode antibiotic resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cesar Montelongo Hernandez
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stritch School of Medicine, Loyola University Chicago, Maywood, Illinois, USA
| | - Catherine Putonti
- Bioinformatics Program, Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Department of Biology, Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Alan J. Wolfe
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stritch School of Medicine, Loyola University Chicago, Maywood, Illinois, USA
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Jędrusiak A, Fortuna W, Majewska J, Górski A, Jończyk-Matysiak E. Phage Interactions with the Nervous System in Health and Disease. Cells 2023; 12:1720. [PMID: 37443756 PMCID: PMC10341288 DOI: 10.3390/cells12131720] [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: 05/08/2023] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The central nervous system manages all of our activities (e.g., direct thinking and decision-making processes). It receives information from the environment and responds to environmental stimuli. Bacterial viruses (bacteriophages, phages) are the most numerous structures occurring in the biosphere and are also found in the human organism. Therefore, understanding how phages may influence this system is of great importance and is the purpose of this review. We have focused on the effect of natural bacteriophages in the central nervous system, linking them to those present in the gut microbiota, creating the gut-brain axis network, as well as their interdependence. Importantly, based on the current knowledge in the field of phage application (e.g., intranasal) in the treatment of bacterial diseases associated with the brain and nervous system, bacteriophages may have significant therapeutic potential. Moreover, it was indicated that bacteriophages may influence cognitive processing. In addition, phages (via phage display technology) appear promising as a targeted therapeutic tool in the treatment of, among other things, brain cancers. The information collected and reviewed in this work indicates that phages and their impact on the nervous system is a fascinating and, so far, underexplored field. Therefore, the aim of this review is not only to summarize currently available information on the association of phages with the nervous system, but also to stimulate future studies that could pave the way for novel therapeutic approaches potentially useful in treating bacterial and non-bacterial neural diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Jędrusiak
- Bacteriophage Laboratory, Hirszfeld Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Sciences, 53-114 Wroclaw, Poland; (A.J.); (J.M.); (A.G.)
| | - Wojciech Fortuna
- Department of Neurosurgery, Wroclaw Medical University, Borowska 213, 54-427 Wroclaw, Poland;
- Phage Therapy Unit, Hirszfeld Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Sciences, 53-114 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Joanna Majewska
- Bacteriophage Laboratory, Hirszfeld Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Sciences, 53-114 Wroclaw, Poland; (A.J.); (J.M.); (A.G.)
| | - Andrzej Górski
- Bacteriophage Laboratory, Hirszfeld Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Sciences, 53-114 Wroclaw, Poland; (A.J.); (J.M.); (A.G.)
- Phage Therapy Unit, Hirszfeld Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Sciences, 53-114 Wroclaw, Poland
- Infant Jesus Hospital, The Medical University of Warsaw, 02-006 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Ewa Jończyk-Matysiak
- Bacteriophage Laboratory, Hirszfeld Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Sciences, 53-114 Wroclaw, Poland; (A.J.); (J.M.); (A.G.)
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3
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Kim DS, Lee JW. Urinary Tract Infection and Microbiome. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:diagnostics13111921. [PMID: 37296773 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13111921] [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: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Urinary tract infection is one of the most common bacterial infections and can cause major burdens, not only to individuals but also to an entire society. Current knowledge of the microbial communities in the urinary tract has increased exponentially due to next-generation sequencing and expanded quantitative urine culture. We now acknowledge a dynamic urinary tract microbiome that we once thought was sterile. Taxonomic studies have identified the normal core microbiota of the urinary tract, and studies on the changes in microbiome due to sexuality and age have set the foundation for microbiome studies in pathologic states. Urinary tract infection is not only caused by invading uropathogenic bacteria but also by changes to the uromicrobiome milieu, and interactions with other microbial communities can also contribute. Recent studies have provided insights into the pathogenesis of recurrent urinary tract infections and antimicrobial resistance. New therapeutic options for urinary tract infections also show promise; however, further research is needed to fully understand the implications of the urinary microbiome in urinary tract infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong Soo Kim
- Department of Urology, Kyung Hee University College of Medicine, Kyung Hee University Hospital, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeong Woo Lee
- Department of Urology, Kyung Hee University College of Medicine, Kyung Hee University Hospital, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
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4
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Kielholz T, Rohde F, Jung N, Windbergs M. Bacteriophage-loaded functional nanofibers for treatment of P. aeruginosa and S. aureus wound infections. Sci Rep 2023; 13:8330. [PMID: 37221194 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-35364-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The increasing incidence of infected skin wounds poses a major challenge in clinical practice, especially when conventional antibiotic therapy fails. In this context, bacteriophages emerged as promising alternatives for the treatment of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. However, clinical implementation remains hampered by the lack of efficient delivery approaches to infected wound tissue. In this study, bacteriophage-loaded electrospun fiber mats were successfully developed as next-generation wound dressings for the treatment of infected wounds. We employed a coaxial electrospinning approach, creating fibers with a protective polymer shell, enveloping bacteriophages in the core while maintaining their antimicrobial activity. The novel fibers exhibited a reproducible fiber diameter range and morphology, while the mechanical fiber properties were ideal for application onto wounds. Further, immediate release kinetics for the phages were confirmed as well as the biocompatibility of the fibers with human skin cells. Antimicrobial activity was demonstrated against Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa and the core/shell formulation maintained the bacteriophage activity for 4 weeks when stored at - 20 °C. Based on these promising characteristics, our approach holds great potential as a platform technology for the encapsulation of bioactive bacteriophages to enable the translation of phage therapy into clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tobias Kielholz
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Technology and Buchmann Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Goethe University Frankfurt, Max-Von-Laue-Str. 9, 60438, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Felix Rohde
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Technology and Buchmann Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Goethe University Frankfurt, Max-Von-Laue-Str. 9, 60438, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Nathalie Jung
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Technology and Buchmann Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Goethe University Frankfurt, Max-Von-Laue-Str. 9, 60438, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Maike Windbergs
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Technology and Buchmann Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Goethe University Frankfurt, Max-Von-Laue-Str. 9, 60438, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
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Crum E, Merchant Z, Ene A, Miller-Ensminger T, Johnson G, Wolfe AJ, Putonti C. Coliphages of the human urinary microbiota. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0283930. [PMID: 37053131 PMCID: PMC10101464 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0283930] [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: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Due to its frequent association with urinary tract infections (UTIs), Escherichia coli is the best characterized constituent of the urinary microbiota (urobiome). However, uropathogenic E. coli is just one member of the urobiome. In addition to bacterial constituents, the urobiome of both healthy and symptomatic individuals is home to a diverse population of bacterial viruses (bacteriophages). A prior investigation found that most bacterial species in the urobiome are lysogens, harboring one or more phages integrated into their genome (prophages). Many of these prophages are temperate phages, capable of entering the lytic cycle and thus lysing their bacterial host. This transition from the lysogenic to lytic life cycle can impact the bacterial diversity of the urobiome. While many phages that infect E. coli (coliphages) have been studied for decades in the laboratory setting, the coliphages within the urobiome have yet to be cataloged. Here, we investigated the diversity of urinary coliphages by first identifying prophages in all publicly available urinary E. coli genomes. We detected 3,038 intact prophage sequences, representative of 1,542 unique phages. These phages include both novel species as well as species also found within the gut microbiota. Ten temperate phages were isolated from urinary E. coli strains included in our analysis, and we assessed their ability to infect and lyse urinary E. coli strains. We also included in these host range assays other urinary coliphages and laboratory coliphages. The temperate phages and other urinary coliphages were successful in lysing urinary E. coli strains. We also observed that coliphages from non-urinary sources were most efficient in killing urinary E. coli strains. The two phages, T2 and N4, were capable of lysing 83.5% (n = 86) of strains isolated from females with UTI symptoms. In conclusion, our study finds a diverse community of coliphages in the urobiome, many of which are predicted to be temperate phages, ten of which were confirmed here. Their ability to infect and lyse urinary E. coli strains suggests that urinary coliphages may play a role in modulating the E. coli strain diversity of the urobiome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elias Crum
- Bioinformatics Program, Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
- Department of Biology, Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Zubia Merchant
- Department of Biology, Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Adriana Ene
- Bioinformatics Program, Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
- Department of Biology, Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Taylor Miller-Ensminger
- Bioinformatics Program, Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Genevieve Johnson
- Bioinformatics Program, Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Alan J. Wolfe
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stritch School of Medicine, Loyola University Chicago, Maywood, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Catherine Putonti
- Bioinformatics Program, Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
- Department of Biology, Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stritch School of Medicine, Loyola University Chicago, Maywood, Illinois, United States of America
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Zaki BM, Mohamed AA, Dawoud A, Essam K, Hammouda ZK, Abdelsattar AS, El-Shibiny A. Isolation, screening and characterization of phage. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2023; 200:13-60. [PMID: 37739553 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmbts.2023.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/24/2023]
Abstract
Bacterial resistance threatens public health due to a lack of novel antibacterial classes since the 21st century. Bacteriophages, the most ubiquitous microorganism on Earth and natural predators of bacteria, have the potential to save the world from the post-antibiotic era. Therefore, phage isolation and characterization are in high demand to find suitable phages for therapeutic and bacterial control applications. The chapter presents brief guidance supported by recommendations on the isolation of phages, and initial screening of phage antimicrobial efficacy, in addition to, conducting comprehensive characterization addressing morphological, biological, genomic, and taxonomic features.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bishoy Maher Zaki
- Center for Microbiology and Phage Therapy, Zewail City of Science and Technology, Giza, Egypt; Microbiology and Immunology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, October University for Modern Sciences and Arts (MSA), Giza, Egypt
| | - Amira A Mohamed
- Center for Microbiology and Phage Therapy, Zewail City of Science and Technology, Giza, Egypt
| | - Alyaa Dawoud
- Center for Microbiology and Phage Therapy, Zewail City of Science and Technology, Giza, Egypt; Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Kareem Essam
- Center for Microbiology and Phage Therapy, Zewail City of Science and Technology, Giza, Egypt
| | - Zainab K Hammouda
- Microbiology and Immunology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, October University for Modern Sciences and Arts (MSA), Giza, Egypt
| | - Abdallah S Abdelsattar
- Center for Microbiology and Phage Therapy, Zewail City of Science and Technology, Giza, Egypt
| | - Ayman El-Shibiny
- Center for Microbiology and Phage Therapy, Zewail City of Science and Technology, Giza, Egypt; Faculty of Environmental Agricultural Sciences, Arish University, Arish, Egypt
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7
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Brüssow H. The human microbiome project at ten years - some critical comments and reflections on "our third genome", the human virome. MICROBIOME RESEARCH REPORTS 2023; 2:7. [PMID: 38045612 PMCID: PMC10688805 DOI: 10.20517/mrr.2022.20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2022] [Revised: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Abstract
The Human Microbiome Project (HMP) has raised great expectations claiming the far-reaching influence of the microbiome on human health and disease ranging from obesity and malnutrition to effects going well beyond the gut. So far, with the notable exception of fecal microbiota transplantation in Clostridioides difficile infection, practical application of microbiome intervention has only achieved modest clinical effects. It is argued here that we need criteria for the link between microbiome and disease modelled on the links between pathogens and infectious disease in Koch's postulates. The most important question is whether the microbiome change is a cause of the given disease or a consequence of a pathology leading to disease where the microbiome change is only a parallel event without a causal connection to the disease - in philosophical parlance, an epiphenomenon. Also discussed here is whether human virome research is a necessary complement to the microbiome project with a high potential for practical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harald Brüssow
- KU Leuven, Department of Biosystems, Laboratory of Gene Technology, Leuven B-3001, Belgium
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8
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Graham EH, Tom WA, Neujahr AC, Adamowicz MS, Clarke JL, Herr JR, Fernando SC. The persistence and stabilization of auxiliary genes in the human skin virome. Virol J 2023; 20:49. [PMID: 36949545 PMCID: PMC10031188 DOI: 10.1186/s12985-023-02012-3] [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: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The human skin contains a diverse microbiome that provides protective functions against environmental pathogens. Studies have demonstrated that bacteriophages modulate bacterial community composition and facilitate the transfer of host-specific genes, potentially influencing host cellular functions. However, little is known about the human skin virome and its role in human health. Especially, how viral-host relationships influence skin microbiome structure and function is poorly understood. RESULTS Population dynamics and genetic diversity of bacteriophage communities in viral metagenomic data collected from three anatomical skin locations from 60 subjects at five different time points revealed that cutaneous bacteriophage populations are mainly composed of tailed Caudovirales phages that carry auxiliary genes to help improve metabolic remodeling to increase bacterial host fitness through antimicrobial resistance. Sequence variation in the MRSA associated antimicrobial resistance gene, erm(C) was evaluated using targeted sequencing to further confirm the presence of antimicrobial resistance genes in the human virome and to demonstrate how functionality of such genes may influence persistence and in turn stabilization of bacterial host and their functions. CONCLUSIONS This large temporal study of human skin associated viruses indicates that the human skin virome is associated with auxiliary metabolic genes and antimicrobial resistance genes to help increase bacterial host fitness.
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Grants
- 2017-IJ-CX-0025, 2019-75-CX-0075, and 2019-R2-CX-0048 U.S. Department of Justice
- 2017-IJ-CX-0025, 2019-75-CX-0075, and 2019-R2-CX-0048 U.S. Department of Justice
- 2017-IJ-CX-0025, 2019-75-CX-0075, and 2019-R2-CX-0048 U.S. Department of Justice
- 2017-IJ-CX-0025, 2019-75-CX-0075, and 2019-R2-CX-0048 U.S. Department of Justice
- 2017-IJ-CX-0025, 2019-75-CX-0075, and 2019-R2-CX-0048 U.S. Department of Justice
- 2018-67015-27496 and 2018-68003-27545 National Institute of Food and Agriculture
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Affiliation(s)
- Ema H Graham
- PhD Program in Complex Biosystems, University of Nebraska, 3940 Fair St, C220K, Lincoln, NE, 68583, USA
| | - Wesley A Tom
- Department of Animal Science, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE, 68583, USA
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE, 68588, USA
| | - Alison C Neujahr
- PhD Program in Complex Biosystems, University of Nebraska, 3940 Fair St, C220K, Lincoln, NE, 68583, USA
- Department of Animal Science, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE, 68583, USA
| | - Michael S Adamowicz
- College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE, 68583, USA
| | - Jennifer L Clarke
- PhD Program in Complex Biosystems, University of Nebraska, 3940 Fair St, C220K, Lincoln, NE, 68583, USA
- Department of Statistics, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE, 68588, USA
- Food Science and Technology Department, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE, 68588, USA
| | - Joshua R Herr
- PhD Program in Complex Biosystems, University of Nebraska, 3940 Fair St, C220K, Lincoln, NE, 68583, USA
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE, 68588, USA
- Department of Plant Pathology, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE, 68503, USA
- Center for Plant Science Innovation, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE, 68503, USA
- Nebraska Center for Virology, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE, 68583, USA
| | - Samodha C Fernando
- PhD Program in Complex Biosystems, University of Nebraska, 3940 Fair St, C220K, Lincoln, NE, 68583, USA.
- Department of Animal Science, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE, 68583, USA.
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE, 68588, USA.
- College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE, 68583, USA.
- Food Science and Technology Department, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE, 68588, USA.
- Nebraska Center for Virology, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE, 68583, USA.
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When Plaquing Is Not Possible: Computational Methods for Detecting Induced Phages. Viruses 2023; 15:v15020420. [PMID: 36851634 PMCID: PMC9964552 DOI: 10.3390/v15020420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2022] [Revised: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
High-throughput sequencing of microbial communities has uncovered a large, diverse population of phages. Frequently, phages found are integrated into their bacterial host genome. Distinguishing between phages in their integrated (lysogenic) and unintegrated (lytic) stage can provide insight into how phages shape bacterial communities. Here we present the Prophage Induction Estimator (PIE) to identify induced phages in genomic and metagenomic sequences. PIE takes raw sequencing reads and phage sequence predictions, performs read quality control, read assembly, and calculation of phage and non-phage sequence abundance and completeness. The distribution of abundances for non-phage sequences is used to predict induced phages with statistical confidence. In silico tests were conducted to benchmark this tool finding that PIE can detect induction events as well as phages with a relatively small burst size (10×). We then examined isolate genome sequencing data as well as a mock community and urinary metagenome data sets and found instances of induced phages in all three data sets. The flexibility of this software enables users to easily include phage predictions from their preferred tool of choice or phage sequences of interest. Thus, genomic and metagenomic sequencing now not only provides a means for discovering and identifying phage sequences but also the detection of induced prophages.
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10
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Zhu B, Tao Z, Edupuganti L, Serrano MG, Buck GA. Roles of the Microbiota of the Female Reproductive Tract in Gynecological and Reproductive Health. Microbiol Mol Biol Rev 2022; 86:e0018121. [PMID: 36222685 PMCID: PMC9769908 DOI: 10.1128/mmbr.00181-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The microbiome of the female reproductive tract defies the convention that high biodiversity is a hallmark of an optimal ecosystem. Although not universally true, a homogeneous vaginal microbiome composed of species of Lactobacillus is generally associated with health, whereas vaginal microbiomes consisting of other taxa are generally associated with dysbiosis and a higher risk of disease. The past decade has seen a rapid advancement in our understanding of these unique biosystems. Of particular interest, substantial effort has been devoted to deciphering how members of the microbiome of the female reproductive tract impact pregnancy, with a focus on adverse outcomes, including but not limited to preterm birth. Herein, we review recent research efforts that are revealing the mechanisms by which these microorganisms of the female reproductive tract influence gynecologic and reproductive health of the female reproductive tract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Zhu
- Microbiology & Immunology, School of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
- Center for Microbiome Engineering and Data Analysis, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Zhi Tao
- Microbiology & Immunology, School of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
- Center for Microbiome Engineering and Data Analysis, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, School of Clinical Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Laahirie Edupuganti
- Microbiology & Immunology, School of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
- Center for Microbiome Engineering and Data Analysis, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Myrna G. Serrano
- Microbiology & Immunology, School of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
- Center for Microbiome Engineering and Data Analysis, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Gregory A. Buck
- Microbiology & Immunology, School of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
- Center for Microbiome Engineering and Data Analysis, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
- Computer Science, School of Engineering, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
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11
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Pallares-Mendez R, Cervantes-Miranda DE, Gonzalez-Colmenero AD, Ochoa-Arvizo MA, Gutierrez-Gonzalez A. A Perspective of the Urinary Microbiome in Lower Urinary Tract Infections - A Review. Curr Urol Rep 2022; 23:235-244. [PMID: 36053406 DOI: 10.1007/s11934-022-01108-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Greater availability of sequencing methods has broadened the knowledge of the urinary microbiome in an environment previously believed to be sterile. This review discusses internal and external influences that promote either a balance or a dysbiosis of the urinary tract and the future perspectives in understanding lower urinary tract infections. RECENT FINDINGS Efforts have been made to identify a "core" urinary microbiome in which Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes account for most of the bacterial representations. A shift to a Proteobacteria-dominant representation shapes the fingerprint of the infectious urinary microbiome; furthermore, the virome and the mycobiome are important modulators of the urinary microbiome, which have been recently explored to determine their role in the health-disease process of the lower urinary tract. A disturbance of bacterial representation and diversity triggers a transition from health to disease; conversely, a functional cooperative interplay between the host and microbiome allows for basic metabolic and immune functions to take place.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rigoberto Pallares-Mendez
- Department of Urology, Hospital Universitario "Dr. José Eleuterio González", Universidad Autonoma de Nuevo Leon, Monterrey, Mexico.
| | - Daniel E Cervantes-Miranda
- Department of Urology, Hospital Universitario "Dr. José Eleuterio González", Universidad Autonoma de Nuevo Leon, Monterrey, Mexico
| | | | - Mario A Ochoa-Arvizo
- Department of Urology, Hospital Universitario "Dr. José Eleuterio González", Universidad Autonoma de Nuevo Leon, Monterrey, Mexico
| | - Adrian Gutierrez-Gonzalez
- Department of Urology, Hospital Universitario "Dr. José Eleuterio González", Universidad Autonoma de Nuevo Leon, Monterrey, Mexico
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12
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Li Z, Liu Y, Zhang L. Role of the microbiome in oral cancer occurrence, progression and therapy. Microb Pathog 2022; 169:105638. [PMID: 35718272 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2022.105638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2022] [Revised: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 06/10/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The oral cavity, like other digestive or mucosal sites, contains a site-specific microbiome that plays a significant role in maintaining health and homeostasis. Strictly speaking, the gastrointestinal tract starts from the oral cavity, with special attention paid to the specific flora of the oral cavity. In healthy people, the microbiome of the oral microenvironment is governed by beneficial bacteria, that benefit the host by symbiosis. When a microecological imbalance occurs, changes in immune and metabolic signals affect the characteristics of cancer, as well as chronic inflammation, disruption of the epithelial barrier, changes in cell proliferation and cell apoptosis, genomic instability, angiogenesis, and epithelial barrier destruction and metabolic regulation. These pathophysiological changes could result in oral cancer. Rising evidence suggests that oral dysbacteriosis and particular microbes may play a positive role in the evolution, development, progression, and metastasis of oral cancer, for instance, oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) through direct or indirect action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhengrui Li
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200000, China.
| | - Yuan Liu
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200000, China.
| | - Ling Zhang
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200000, China.
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13
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Woong Yoo S, Young Kwon S, Kang SR, Min JJ. Molecular imaging approaches to facilitate bacteria-mediated cancer therapy. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2022; 187:114366. [PMID: 35654213 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2022.114366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2022] [Revised: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Bacteria-mediated cancer therapy is a potential therapeutic strategy for cancer that has unique properties, including broad tumor-targeting ability, various administration routes, the flexibility of delivery, and facilitating the host's immune responses. The molecular imaging of bacteria-mediated cancer therapy allows the therapeutically injected bacteria to be visualized and confirms the accurate delivery of the therapeutic bacteria to the target lesion. Several hurdles make bacteria-specific imaging challenging, including the need to discriminate therapeutic bacterial infection from inflammation or other pathologic lesions. To realize the full potential of bacteria-specific imaging, it is necessary to develop bacteria-specific targets that can be associated with an imaging assay. This review describes the current status of bacterial imaging techniques together with the advantages and disadvantages of several imaging modalities. Also, we describe potential targets for bacterial-specific imaging and related applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Su Woong Yoo
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital, Hwasun, Jeonnam, Korea
| | - Seong Young Kwon
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital, Hwasun, Jeonnam, Korea; Department of Nuclear Medicine, Chonnam National University Medical School, Hwasun, Jeonnam, Korea
| | - Sae-Ryung Kang
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital, Hwasun, Jeonnam, Korea
| | - Jung-Joon Min
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital, Hwasun, Jeonnam, Korea; Department of Nuclear Medicine, Chonnam National University Medical School, Hwasun, Jeonnam, Korea.
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14
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In Vitro and In Vivo Assessments of Two Newly Isolated Bacteriophages against an ST13 Urinary Tract Infection Klebsiella pneumoniae. Viruses 2022; 14:v14051079. [PMID: 35632820 PMCID: PMC9144312 DOI: 10.3390/v14051079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Revised: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Antibiotic resistance represents a major public health concern requiring new alternatives including phage therapy. Klebsiella pneumoniae belongs to the ESKAPE bacteria and can cause urinary tract infections (UTIs). The aims of this study were to isolate and characterize new bacteriophages against a K. pneumoniae strain isolated from UTIs and to assess their efficacy in vitro and in vivo in a Galleria (G.) mellonella larvae model. For this purpose, two bacteriophages were newly isolated against an ST13 K. pneumoniae strain isolated from a UTI and identified as K3 capsular types by wzi gene PCR. Genomic analysis showed that these bacteriophages, named vB_KpnP_K3-ULINTkp1 and vB_KpnP_K3-ULINTkp2, belong to the Drulisvirus genus. Bacteriophage vB_KpnP_K3-ULINTkp1 had the narrowest host spectrum (targeting only K3), while vB_KpnP_K3-ULINTkp2 also infected other Klebsiella types. Short adsorption times and latent periods were observed for both bacteriophages. In vivo experiments showed their ability to replicate in G. mellonella larvae and to decrease host bacterial titers. Moreover, both bacteriophages improved the survival of the infected larvae. In conclusion, these two bacteriophages had different in vitro properties and showed in vivo efficacy in a G. mellonella model with a better efficiency for vB_KpnP_K3-ULINTkp2.
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15
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Giannattasio-Ferraz S, Ene A, Gomes VJ, Queiroz CO, Maskeri L, Oliveira AP, Putonti C, Barbosa-Stancioli EF. Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa Isolated From Urine of Healthy Bovine Have Potential as Emerging Human and Bovine Pathogens. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:764760. [PMID: 35330764 PMCID: PMC8940275 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.764760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The study of livestock microbiota has immediate benefits for animal health as well as mitigating food contamination and emerging pathogens. While prior research has indicated the gastrointestinal tract of cattle as the source for many zoonoses, including Shiga-toxin producing Escherichia coli and antibiotic resistant bacteria, the bovine urinary tract microbiota has yet to be thoroughly investigated. Here, we describe 5 E. coli and 4 Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains isolated from urine of dairy Gyr cattle. While both species are typically associated with urinary tract infections and mastitis, all of the animals sampled were healthy. The bovine urinary strains were compared to E. coli and P. aeruginosa isolates from other bovine samples as well as human urinary samples. While the bovine urinary E. coli isolates had genomic similarity to isolates from the gastrointestinal tract of cattle and other agricultural animals, the bovine urinary P. aeruginosa strains were most similar to human isolates suggesting niche adaptation rather than host adaptation. Examination of prophages harbored by these bovine isolates revealed similarity with prophages within distantly related E. coli and P. aeruginosa isolates from the human urinary tract. This suggests that related urinary phages may persist and/or be shared between mammals. Future studies of the bovine urinary microbiota are needed to ascertain if E. coli and P. aeruginosa are resident members of this niche and/or possible sources for emerging pathogens in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Giannattasio-Ferraz
- Departamento de Microbiologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Adriana Ene
- Bioinformatics Program, Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Vitor Júnio Gomes
- Departamento de Microbiologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Cid Oliveira Queiroz
- Departamento de Microbiologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Laura Maskeri
- Bioinformatics Program, Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | | | - Catherine Putonti
- Bioinformatics Program, Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States.,Department of Biology, Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States.,Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stritch School of Medicine, Loyola University Chicago, Maywood, IL, United States
| | - Edel F Barbosa-Stancioli
- Departamento de Microbiologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
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16
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Kenneally C, Murphy CP, Sleator RD, Culligan EP. The Urinary Microbiome and Biological Therapeutics: Novel Therapies For Urinary Tract Infections. Microbiol Res 2022; 259:127010. [DOI: 10.1016/j.micres.2022.127010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2022] [Revised: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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17
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González-Villalobos E, Molina-López J, Balcázar JL. Phage therapy for urinary tract infections: does it really work? Int Microbiol 2022; 25:665-667. [DOI: 10.1007/s10123-022-00237-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Revised: 01/16/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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18
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Xu HM, Xu WM, Zhang L. Current Status of Phage Therapy against Infectious Diseases and Potential Application beyond Infectious Diseases. Int J Clin Pract 2022; 2022:4913146. [PMID: 36263241 PMCID: PMC9550513 DOI: 10.1155/2022/4913146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Intestinal microbiota plays a key role in regulating the pathogenesis of human disease and maintaining health. Many diseases, mainly induced by bacteria, are on the rise due to the emergence of antibiotic-resistant strains. Intestinal microorganisms include organisms such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi. They play an important role in maintaining human health. Among these microorganisms, phages are the main members of intestinal viromes. In particular, the viral fraction, composed essentially of phages, affects homeostasis by exerting selective pressure on bacterial communities living in the intestinal tract. In recent years, with the widespread use and even abuse of antibacterial drugs, more and more drug-resistant bacteria have been found, and they show a trend of high drug resistance and multidrug resistance. Therefore, it has also become increasingly difficult to treat serious bacterial infections. Phages, a natural antibacterial agent with strong specificity and rapid proliferation, have come back to the field of vision of clinicians and scholars. In this study, the current state of research on intestinal phages was discussed, with an exploration of the impact of phage therapy against infectious diseases, as well as potential application beyond infectious diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao-Ming Xu
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Guangzhou Digestive Disease Center, Guangzhou First People's Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510180, China
| | - Wen-Min Xu
- Department of Endoscopy, Affiliated Cancer Hospital and Institute of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510091, China
| | - Long Zhang
- Department of Endoscopy, Affiliated Cancer Hospital and Institute of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510091, China
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19
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Montelongo Hernandez C, Putonti C, Wolfe AJ. Characterizing Plasmids in Bacteria Species Relevant to Urinary Health. Microbiol Spectr 2021; 9:e0094221. [PMID: 34937183 PMCID: PMC8694116 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.00942-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The urinary tract has a microbial community (the urinary microbiota or urobiota) that has been associated with human health. Whole genome sequencing of bacteria is a powerful tool, allowing investigation of the genomic content of the urobiota, also called the urinary microbiome (urobiome). Bacterial plasmids are a significant component of the urobiome yet are understudied. Because plasmids can be vectors and reservoirs for clinically relevant traits, they are important for urobiota dynamics and thus may have relevance to urinary health. In this project, we sought plasmids in 11 clinically relevant urinary species: Aerococcus urinae, Corynebacterium amycolatum, Enterococcus faecalis, Escherichia coli, Gardnerella vaginalis, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Lactobacillus gasseri, Lactobacillus jensenii, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Streptococcus anginosus, and Streptococcus mitis. We found evidence of plasmids in E. faecalis, E. coli, K. pneumoniae, S. epidermidis, and S. anginosus but insufficient evidence in other species sequenced thus far. Some identified plasmidic assemblies were predicted to have putative virulence and/or antibiotic resistance genes, although the majority of their annotated coding regions were of unknown predicted function. In this study, we report on plasmids from urinary species as a first step to understanding the role of plasmids in the bacterial urobiota. IMPORTANCE The microbial community of the urinary tract (urobiota) has been associated with human health. Whole genome sequencing of bacteria permits examination of urobiota genomes, including plasmids. Because plasmids are vectors and reservoirs for clinically relevant traits, they are important for urobiota dynamics and thus may have relevance to urinary health. Currently, urobiota plasmids are understudied. Here, we sought plasmids in 11 clinically relevant urinary species. We found evidence of plasmids in E. faecalis, E. coli, K. pneumoniae, S. epidermidis, and S. anginosus but insufficient evidence in the other 6 species. We identified putative virulence and/or antibiotic resistance genes in some of the plasmidic assemblies, but most of their annotated coding regions were of unknown function. This is a first step to understanding the role of plasmids in the bacterial urobiota.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cesar Montelongo Hernandez
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stritch School of Medicine, Loyola University Chicago, Maywood, Illinois, USA
| | - Catherine Putonti
- Bioinformatics Program, Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Department of Biology, Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Alan J. Wolfe
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stritch School of Medicine, Loyola University Chicago, Maywood, Illinois, USA
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20
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Happel AU, Balle C, Maust BS, Konstantinus IN, Gill K, Bekker LG, Froissart R, Passmore JA, Karaoz U, Varsani A, Jaspan H. Presence and Persistence of Putative Lytic and Temperate Bacteriophages in Vaginal Metagenomes from South African Adolescents. Viruses 2021; 13:2341. [PMID: 34960611 PMCID: PMC8708031 DOI: 10.3390/v13122341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Revised: 11/18/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The interaction between gut bacterial and viral microbiota is thought to be important in human health. While fluctuations in female genital tract (FGT) bacterial microbiota similarly determine sexual health, little is known about the presence, persistence, and function of vaginal bacteriophages. We conducted shotgun metagenome sequencing of cervicovaginal samples from South African adolescents collected longitudinally, who received no antibiotics. We annotated viral reads and circular bacteriophages, identified CRISPR loci and putative prophages, and assessed their diversity, persistence, and associations with bacterial microbiota composition. Siphoviridae was the most prevalent bacteriophage family, followed by Myoviridae, Podoviridae, Herelleviridae, and Inoviridae. Full-length siphoviruses targeting bacterial vaginosis (BV)-associated bacteria were identified, suggesting their presence in vivo. CRISPR loci and prophage-like elements were common, and genomic analysis suggested higher diversity among Gardnerella than Lactobacillus prophages. We found that some prophages were highly persistent within participants, and identical prophages were present in cervicovaginal secretions of multiple participants, suggesting that prophages, and thus bacterial strains, are shared between adolescents. The number of CRISPR loci and prophages were associated with vaginal microbiota stability and absence of BV. Our analysis suggests that (pro)phages are common in the FGT and vaginal bacteria and (pro)phages may interact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna-Ursula Happel
- Department of Pathology, Institute of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Anzio Road, Cape Town 7925, South Africa; (A.-U.H.); (C.B.); (I.N.K.); (J.-A.P.)
| | - Christina Balle
- Department of Pathology, Institute of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Anzio Road, Cape Town 7925, South Africa; (A.-U.H.); (C.B.); (I.N.K.); (J.-A.P.)
| | - Brandon S. Maust
- Seattle Children’s Research Institute, 307 Westlake Ave. N, Seattle, WA 98109, USA;
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine, 1959 NE Pacific St., Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Iyaloo N. Konstantinus
- Department of Pathology, Institute of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Anzio Road, Cape Town 7925, South Africa; (A.-U.H.); (C.B.); (I.N.K.); (J.-A.P.)
- Namibia Institute of Pathology, Hosea Kutako, Windhoek 10005, Namibia
| | - Katherine Gill
- Desmond Tutu HIV Centre, University of Cape Town, Anzio Road, Cape Town 7925, South Africa; (K.G.); (L.-G.B.)
- NRF-DST CAPRISA Centre of Excellence in HIV Prevention, 719 Umbilo Road, Congella, Durban 4013, South Africa
| | - Linda-Gail Bekker
- Desmond Tutu HIV Centre, University of Cape Town, Anzio Road, Cape Town 7925, South Africa; (K.G.); (L.-G.B.)
- NRF-DST CAPRISA Centre of Excellence in HIV Prevention, 719 Umbilo Road, Congella, Durban 4013, South Africa
| | - Rémy Froissart
- CNRS, IRD, Université Montpellier, UMR 5290, MIVEGEC, 34394 Montpellier, France;
| | - Jo-Ann Passmore
- Department of Pathology, Institute of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Anzio Road, Cape Town 7925, South Africa; (A.-U.H.); (C.B.); (I.N.K.); (J.-A.P.)
- Desmond Tutu HIV Centre, University of Cape Town, Anzio Road, Cape Town 7925, South Africa; (K.G.); (L.-G.B.)
- NRF-DST CAPRISA Centre of Excellence in HIV Prevention, 719 Umbilo Road, Congella, Durban 4013, South Africa
- National Health Laboratory Service, Anzio Road, Cape Town 7925, South Africa
| | - Ulas Karaoz
- Earth and Environmental Science, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratories, 1 Cyclotron Rd., Berkeley, CA 94720, USA;
| | - Arvind Varsani
- The Biodesign Center of Fundamental and Applied Microbiomics, Center for Evolution and Medicine, School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, 1001 S. McAllister Ave., Tempe, AZ 85281, USA
- Structural Biology Research Unit, Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Anzio Road, Cape Town 7925, South Africa
| | - Heather Jaspan
- Department of Pathology, Institute of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Anzio Road, Cape Town 7925, South Africa; (A.-U.H.); (C.B.); (I.N.K.); (J.-A.P.)
- Seattle Children’s Research Institute, 307 Westlake Ave. N, Seattle, WA 98109, USA;
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine, 1959 NE Pacific St., Seattle, WA 98195, USA
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington School of Public Health, 1510 San Juan Road NE, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
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21
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Terwilliger A, Clark J, Karris M, Hernandez-Santos H, Green S, Aslam S, Maresso A. Phage Therapy Related Microbial Succession Associated with Successful Clinical Outcome for a Recurrent Urinary Tract Infection. Viruses 2021; 13:v13102049. [PMID: 34696479 PMCID: PMC8541385 DOI: 10.3390/v13102049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Revised: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 10/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
We rationally designed a bacteriophage cocktail to treat a 56-year-old male liver transplant patient with complex, recurrent prostate and urinary tract infections caused by an extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL)-producing Escherichia coli (E. coli) (UCS1). We screened our library for phages that killed UCS1, with four promising candidates chosen for their virulence, mucolytic properties, and ability to reduce bacterial resistance. The patient received 2 weeks of intravenous phage cocktail with concomitant ertapenem for 6 weeks. Weekly serum and urine samples were collected to track the patient’s response. The patient tolerated the phage therapy without any adverse events with symptom resolution. The neutralization of the phage activity occurred with sera collected 1 to 4 weeks after the first phage treatment. This was consistent with immunoassays that detected the upregulation of immune stimulatory analytes. The patient developed asymptomatic recurrent bacteriuria 6 and 11 weeks following the end of phage therapy—a condition that did not require antibiotic treatment. The bacteriuria was caused by a sister strain of E. coli (UCS1.1) that remained susceptible to the original phage cocktail and possessed putative mutations in the proteins involved in adhesion and invasion compared to UCS1. This study highlights the utility of rationally designed phage cocktails with antibiotics at controlling E. coli infection and suggests that microbial succession, without complete eradication, may produce desirable clinical outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Austen Terwilliger
- TAILΦR Labs, Molecular Virology and Microbiology Department, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (A.T.); (J.C.); (H.H.-S.); (S.G.)
| | - Justin Clark
- TAILΦR Labs, Molecular Virology and Microbiology Department, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (A.T.); (J.C.); (H.H.-S.); (S.G.)
| | - Maile Karris
- Center for Innovative Phage Applications and Therapeutics, Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, University of California, San Diego, CA 92093, USA;
| | - Haroldo Hernandez-Santos
- TAILΦR Labs, Molecular Virology and Microbiology Department, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (A.T.); (J.C.); (H.H.-S.); (S.G.)
| | - Sabrina Green
- TAILΦR Labs, Molecular Virology and Microbiology Department, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (A.T.); (J.C.); (H.H.-S.); (S.G.)
| | - Saima Aslam
- Center for Innovative Phage Applications and Therapeutics, Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, University of California, San Diego, CA 92093, USA;
- Correspondence: (S.A.); (A.M.); Tel.: +1-858-657-7643 (S.A.); +1-713-798-7369 (A.M.)
| | - Anthony Maresso
- TAILΦR Labs, Molecular Virology and Microbiology Department, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (A.T.); (J.C.); (H.H.-S.); (S.G.)
- Correspondence: (S.A.); (A.M.); Tel.: +1-858-657-7643 (S.A.); +1-713-798-7369 (A.M.)
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22
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Podlacha M, Grabowski Ł, Kosznik-Kawśnicka K, Zdrojewska K, Stasiłojć M, Węgrzyn G, Węgrzyn A. Interactions of Bacteriophages with Animal and Human Organisms-Safety Issues in the Light of Phage Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:8937. [PMID: 34445641 PMCID: PMC8396182 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22168937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Revised: 08/12/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Bacteriophages are viruses infecting bacterial cells. Since there is a lack of specific receptors for bacteriophages on eukaryotic cells, these viruses were for a long time considered to be neutral to animals and humans. However, studies of recent years provided clear evidence that bacteriophages can interact with eukaryotic cells, significantly influencing the functions of tissues, organs, and systems of mammals, including humans. In this review article, we summarize and discuss recent discoveries in the field of interactions of phages with animal and human organisms. Possibilities of penetration of bacteriophages into eukaryotic cells, tissues, and organs are discussed, and evidence of the effects of phages on functions of the immune system, respiratory system, central nervous system, gastrointestinal system, urinary tract, and reproductive system are presented and discussed. Modulations of cancer cells by bacteriophages are indicated. Direct and indirect effects of virulent and temperate phages are discussed. We conclude that interactions of bacteriophages with animal and human organisms are robust, and they must be taken under consideration when using these viruses in medicine, especially in phage therapy, and in biotechnological applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Podlacha
- Department of Molecular Biology, University of Gdansk, Wita Stwosza 59, 80-308 Gdansk, Poland; (M.P.); (K.Z.); (M.S.); (G.W.)
| | - Łukasz Grabowski
- Laboratory of Phage Therapy, Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Polish Academy of Sciences, Kładki 24, 80-822 Gdansk, Poland; (Ł.G.); (K.K.-K.)
| | - Katarzyna Kosznik-Kawśnicka
- Laboratory of Phage Therapy, Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Polish Academy of Sciences, Kładki 24, 80-822 Gdansk, Poland; (Ł.G.); (K.K.-K.)
| | - Karolina Zdrojewska
- Department of Molecular Biology, University of Gdansk, Wita Stwosza 59, 80-308 Gdansk, Poland; (M.P.); (K.Z.); (M.S.); (G.W.)
| | - Małgorzata Stasiłojć
- Department of Molecular Biology, University of Gdansk, Wita Stwosza 59, 80-308 Gdansk, Poland; (M.P.); (K.Z.); (M.S.); (G.W.)
| | - Grzegorz Węgrzyn
- Department of Molecular Biology, University of Gdansk, Wita Stwosza 59, 80-308 Gdansk, Poland; (M.P.); (K.Z.); (M.S.); (G.W.)
| | - Alicja Węgrzyn
- Laboratory of Phage Therapy, Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Polish Academy of Sciences, Kładki 24, 80-822 Gdansk, Poland; (Ł.G.); (K.K.-K.)
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23
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Slobodníková L, Markusková B, Kajsík M, Andrezál M, Straka M, Liptáková A, Drahovská H. Characterization of Anti-Bacterial Effect of the Two New Phages against Uropathogenic Escherichia coli. Viruses 2021; 13:v13071348. [PMID: 34372554 PMCID: PMC8310266 DOI: 10.3390/v13071348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2021] [Revised: 06/24/2021] [Accepted: 07/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are among the events that most frequently need medical intervention. Uropathogenic Escherichia coli are frequently their causative agents and the infections are sometimes complicated by the presence of polyresistant nosocomial strains. Phage therapy is a tool that has good prospects for the treatment of these infections. In the present study, we isolated and characterized two bacteriophages with broad host specificity against a panel of local uropathogenic E. coli strains and combined them into a phage cocktail. According to genome sequencing, these phages were closely related and belonged to the Tequatrovirus genus. The newly isolated phages showed very good activity on a panel of local clinical E. coli strains from urinary tract infections. In the form of a two-phage cocktail, they were active on E. coli strains belonging to phylogroups B2 and D, with relatively lower activity in B1 and no response in phylogroup A. Our study is a preliminary step toward the establishment of a national phage bank containing local, well-characterized phages with therapeutic potential for patients in Slovakia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lívia Slobodníková
- Medical Faculty, Institute of Microbiolog, Comenius University in Bratislava, 81108 Bratislava, Slovakia; (L.S.); (M.S.)
| | - Barbora Markusková
- Department of Molecular Biology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Comenius University in Bratislava, Ilkovičova 6, 84104 Bratislava, Slovakia; (B.M.); (M.K.); (M.A.); (H.D.)
| | - Michal Kajsík
- Department of Molecular Biology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Comenius University in Bratislava, Ilkovičova 6, 84104 Bratislava, Slovakia; (B.M.); (M.K.); (M.A.); (H.D.)
- Comenius University Science Park, Ilkovičova 8, 84104 Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Michal Andrezál
- Department of Molecular Biology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Comenius University in Bratislava, Ilkovičova 6, 84104 Bratislava, Slovakia; (B.M.); (M.K.); (M.A.); (H.D.)
| | - Marek Straka
- Medical Faculty, Institute of Microbiolog, Comenius University in Bratislava, 81108 Bratislava, Slovakia; (L.S.); (M.S.)
| | - Adriána Liptáková
- Medical Faculty, Institute of Microbiolog, Comenius University in Bratislava, 81108 Bratislava, Slovakia; (L.S.); (M.S.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Hana Drahovská
- Department of Molecular Biology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Comenius University in Bratislava, Ilkovičova 6, 84104 Bratislava, Slovakia; (B.M.); (M.K.); (M.A.); (H.D.)
- Comenius University Science Park, Ilkovičova 8, 84104 Bratislava, Slovakia
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Perez-Carrasco V, Soriano-Lerma A, Soriano M, Gutiérrez-Fernández J, Garcia-Salcedo JA. Urinary Microbiome: Yin and Yang of the Urinary Tract. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2021; 11:617002. [PMID: 34084752 PMCID: PMC8167034 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2021.617002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2020] [Accepted: 04/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The application of next generation sequencing techniques has allowed the characterization of the urinary tract microbiome and has led to the rejection of the pre-established concept of sterility in the urinary bladder. Not only have microbial communities in the urinary tract been implicated in the maintenance of health but alterations in their composition have also been associated with different urinary pathologies, such as urinary tract infections (UTI). Therefore, the study of the urinary microbiome in healthy individuals, as well as its involvement in disease through the proliferation of opportunistic pathogens, could open a potential field of study, leading to new insights into prevention, diagnosis and treatment strategies for urinary pathologies. In this review we present an overview of the current state of knowledge about the urinary microbiome in health and disease, as well as its involvement in the development of new therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virginia Perez-Carrasco
- GENYO, Centre for Genomics and Oncological Research, Pfizer, University of Granada, Granada, Spain.,Microbiology Unit, University Hospital Virgen de las Nieves, Biosanitary Research Institute (IBS.Granada), Granada, Spain
| | - Ana Soriano-Lerma
- GENYO, Centre for Genomics and Oncological Research, Pfizer, University of Granada, Granada, Spain.,Department of Physiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Institute of Nutrition and Food Technology "Jose' Mataix", University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Miguel Soriano
- GENYO, Centre for Genomics and Oncological Research, Pfizer, University of Granada, Granada, Spain.,Center for Intensive Mediterranean Agrosystems and Agri-food Biotechnology (CIAMBITAL), University of Almeria, Almeria, Spain
| | - José Gutiérrez-Fernández
- Microbiology Unit, University Hospital Virgen de las Nieves, Biosanitary Research Institute (IBS.Granada), Granada, Spain
| | - Jose A Garcia-Salcedo
- GENYO, Centre for Genomics and Oncological Research, Pfizer, University of Granada, Granada, Spain.,Microbiology Unit, University Hospital Virgen de las Nieves, Biosanitary Research Institute (IBS.Granada), Granada, Spain
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25
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Bacteriophage-based advanced bacterial detection: Concept, mechanisms, and applications. Biosens Bioelectron 2021; 177:112973. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2021.112973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2020] [Revised: 12/24/2020] [Accepted: 01/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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26
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Brubaker L, Putonti C, Dong Q, Wolfe AJ. The human urobiome. Mamm Genome 2021; 32:232-238. [PMID: 33651197 DOI: 10.1007/s00335-021-09862-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2020] [Accepted: 02/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Traditionally, the healthy urinary bladder has been considered to be sterile. Several teams have used metagenomic (DNA-dependent) and metaculturomic (culture-dependent) methods to debunk this longstanding dogma. In fact, resident microbial communities (urobiome) have been detected in both adult females and males. Although the field is young, several observations have been made. For example, the urobiome differs between men and women, likely due to anatomical and hormonal differences. Importantly, the urobiome has been associated with a variety of lower urinary tract disorders, including overactive bladder and post-operative urinary tract infection, raising the possibility that clinicians might one day treat symptoms by modifying the urobiome instead of killing the suspected uropathogen. Little is known concerning the relationship between the urobiome and host genetics; so far, only a single paper has reported such a study. However, major efforts have gone into understanding the genomics of the urobiome itself, a process facilitated by the fact that many urobiome studies have used metaculturomic methods to detect and identify microbes. In this narrative review, we will introduce the urobiome with separate sections on the female and male urobiomes, discuss challenges specific to the urobiome, describe newly discovered associations between the urobiome and lower urinary tract symptoms, and highlight the one study that has attempted to relate host genetics and the urobiome. We will finish with a section on how metagenomic surveys and whole genome sequencing of bacterial isolates are improving our understanding of the urobiome and its relationship to lower urinary tract health and disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Brubaker
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - C Putonti
- Bioinformatics Program, Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA.,Department of Biology, Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Q Dong
- Department of Medicine and Center for Biomedical Informatics, Stritch School of Medicine, Loyola University Chicago, Maywood, IL, USA
| | - A J Wolfe
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stritch School of Medicine, Loyola University Chicago, Maywood, IL, 60089, USA.
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Abstract
The human body hosts vast microbial communities, termed the microbiome. Less well known is the fact that the human body also hosts vast numbers of different viruses, collectively termed the 'virome'. Viruses are believed to be the most abundant and diverse biological entities on our planet, with an estimated 1031 particles on Earth. The human virome is similarly vast and complex, consisting of approximately 1013 particles per human individual, with great heterogeneity. In recent years, studies of the human virome using metagenomic sequencing and other methods have clarified aspects of human virome diversity at different body sites, the relationships to disease states and mechanisms of establishment of the human virome during early life. Despite increasing focus, it remains the case that the majority of sequence data in a typical virome study remain unidentified, highlighting the extent of unexplored viral 'dark matter'. Nevertheless, it is now clear that viral community states can be associated with adverse outcomes for the human host, whereas other states are characteristic of health. In this Review, we provide an overview of research on the human virome and highlight outstanding recent studies that explore the assembly, composition and dynamics of the human virome as well as host-virome interactions in health and disease.
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28
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Żaczek M, Weber-Dąbrowska B, Międzybrodzki R, Górski A. Phage Prevalence in the Human Urinary Tract-Current Knowledge and Therapeutic Implications. Microorganisms 2020; 8:microorganisms8111802. [PMID: 33212807 PMCID: PMC7696197 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms8111802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2020] [Revised: 11/05/2020] [Accepted: 11/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent metagenomic analyses imply an immense abundance of phages in the human body. Samples collected from different sites (lungs, skin, oral cavity, intestines, ascitic fluid, and urine) reveal a generally greater number of phage particles than that of eukaryotic viruses. The presence of phages in those tissues and fluids reflects the paths they must overcome in the human body, but may also relate to the health statuses of individuals. Besides shaping bacterial metabolism and community structure, the role of phages circulating in body fluids has not been fully understood yet. The lack of relevant reports is especially visible with regard to the human urobiome. Certainly, phage presence and the role they have to fulfill in the human urinary tract raises questions on potential therapeutic connotations. Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are among the most common bacterial infections in humans and their treatment poses a difficult therapeutic dilemma. Despite effective antibiotic therapy, these infections tend to recur. In this review, we summarized the recent data on phage presence in the human urinary tract and its possible implications for health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maciej Żaczek
- Bacteriophage Laboratory, Ludwik Hirszfeld Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Sciences, 53-114 Wrocław, Poland; (M.Ż.); (B.W.-D.); (R.M.)
| | - Beata Weber-Dąbrowska
- Bacteriophage Laboratory, Ludwik Hirszfeld Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Sciences, 53-114 Wrocław, Poland; (M.Ż.); (B.W.-D.); (R.M.)
- Phage Therapy Unit, Ludwik Hirszfeld Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Sciences, 53-114 Wrocław, Poland
| | - Ryszard Międzybrodzki
- Bacteriophage Laboratory, Ludwik Hirszfeld Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Sciences, 53-114 Wrocław, Poland; (M.Ż.); (B.W.-D.); (R.M.)
- Phage Therapy Unit, Ludwik Hirszfeld Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Sciences, 53-114 Wrocław, Poland
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Transplantation Institute, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-006 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Andrzej Górski
- Bacteriophage Laboratory, Ludwik Hirszfeld Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Sciences, 53-114 Wrocław, Poland; (M.Ż.); (B.W.-D.); (R.M.)
- Phage Therapy Unit, Ludwik Hirszfeld Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Sciences, 53-114 Wrocław, Poland
- Infant Jesus Hospital, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-005 Warsaw, Poland
- Correspondence:
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Fernandez-Garcia L, Pacios O, González-Bardanca M, Blasco L, Bleriot I, Ambroa A, López M, Bou G, Tomás M. Viral Related Tools against SARS-CoV-2. Viruses 2020; 12:E1172. [PMID: 33081350 PMCID: PMC7589879 DOI: 10.3390/v12101172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2020] [Revised: 10/14/2020] [Accepted: 10/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
At the end of 2019, a new disease appeared and spread all over the world, the COVID-19, produced by the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2. As a consequence of this worldwide health crisis, the scientific community began to redirect their knowledge and resources to fight against it. Here we summarize the recent research on viruses employed as therapy and diagnostic of COVID-19: (i) viral-vector vaccines both in clinical trials and pre-clinical phases; (ii) the use of bacteriophages to find antibodies specific to this virus and some studies of how to use the bacteriophages themselves as a treatment against viral diseases; and finally, (iii) the use of CRISPR-Cas technology both to obtain a fast precise diagnose of the patient and also the possible use of this technology as a cure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Fernandez-Garcia
- Microbiology Department-Research Institute Biomedical A Coruña (INIBIC), Hospital A Coruña (CHUAC), University of A Coruña (UDC), 15006 A Coruña, Spain; (L.F.-G.); (O.P.); (M.G.-B.); (L.B.); (I.B.); (A.A.); (M.L.); (G.B.)
- Study Group on Mechanisms of Action and Resistance to Antimicrobials (GEMARA) of Spanish Society of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology (SEIMC), 28003 Madrid, Spain
| | - Olga Pacios
- Microbiology Department-Research Institute Biomedical A Coruña (INIBIC), Hospital A Coruña (CHUAC), University of A Coruña (UDC), 15006 A Coruña, Spain; (L.F.-G.); (O.P.); (M.G.-B.); (L.B.); (I.B.); (A.A.); (M.L.); (G.B.)
- Study Group on Mechanisms of Action and Resistance to Antimicrobials (GEMARA) of Spanish Society of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology (SEIMC), 28003 Madrid, Spain
| | - Mónica González-Bardanca
- Microbiology Department-Research Institute Biomedical A Coruña (INIBIC), Hospital A Coruña (CHUAC), University of A Coruña (UDC), 15006 A Coruña, Spain; (L.F.-G.); (O.P.); (M.G.-B.); (L.B.); (I.B.); (A.A.); (M.L.); (G.B.)
- Study Group on Mechanisms of Action and Resistance to Antimicrobials (GEMARA) of Spanish Society of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology (SEIMC), 28003 Madrid, Spain
| | - Lucia Blasco
- Microbiology Department-Research Institute Biomedical A Coruña (INIBIC), Hospital A Coruña (CHUAC), University of A Coruña (UDC), 15006 A Coruña, Spain; (L.F.-G.); (O.P.); (M.G.-B.); (L.B.); (I.B.); (A.A.); (M.L.); (G.B.)
- Study Group on Mechanisms of Action and Resistance to Antimicrobials (GEMARA) of Spanish Society of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology (SEIMC), 28003 Madrid, Spain
| | - Inés Bleriot
- Microbiology Department-Research Institute Biomedical A Coruña (INIBIC), Hospital A Coruña (CHUAC), University of A Coruña (UDC), 15006 A Coruña, Spain; (L.F.-G.); (O.P.); (M.G.-B.); (L.B.); (I.B.); (A.A.); (M.L.); (G.B.)
- Study Group on Mechanisms of Action and Resistance to Antimicrobials (GEMARA) of Spanish Society of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology (SEIMC), 28003 Madrid, Spain
| | - Antón Ambroa
- Microbiology Department-Research Institute Biomedical A Coruña (INIBIC), Hospital A Coruña (CHUAC), University of A Coruña (UDC), 15006 A Coruña, Spain; (L.F.-G.); (O.P.); (M.G.-B.); (L.B.); (I.B.); (A.A.); (M.L.); (G.B.)
- Study Group on Mechanisms of Action and Resistance to Antimicrobials (GEMARA) of Spanish Society of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology (SEIMC), 28003 Madrid, Spain
| | - María López
- Microbiology Department-Research Institute Biomedical A Coruña (INIBIC), Hospital A Coruña (CHUAC), University of A Coruña (UDC), 15006 A Coruña, Spain; (L.F.-G.); (O.P.); (M.G.-B.); (L.B.); (I.B.); (A.A.); (M.L.); (G.B.)
- Study Group on Mechanisms of Action and Resistance to Antimicrobials (GEMARA) of Spanish Society of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology (SEIMC), 28003 Madrid, Spain
| | - German Bou
- Microbiology Department-Research Institute Biomedical A Coruña (INIBIC), Hospital A Coruña (CHUAC), University of A Coruña (UDC), 15006 A Coruña, Spain; (L.F.-G.); (O.P.); (M.G.-B.); (L.B.); (I.B.); (A.A.); (M.L.); (G.B.)
- Study Group on Mechanisms of Action and Resistance to Antimicrobials (GEMARA) of Spanish Society of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology (SEIMC), 28003 Madrid, Spain
- Spanish Network for the Research in Infectious Diseases (REIPI), 41071 Sevilla, Spain
| | - Maria Tomás
- Microbiology Department-Research Institute Biomedical A Coruña (INIBIC), Hospital A Coruña (CHUAC), University of A Coruña (UDC), 15006 A Coruña, Spain; (L.F.-G.); (O.P.); (M.G.-B.); (L.B.); (I.B.); (A.A.); (M.L.); (G.B.)
- Study Group on Mechanisms of Action and Resistance to Antimicrobials (GEMARA) of Spanish Society of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology (SEIMC), 28003 Madrid, Spain
- Spanish Network for the Research in Infectious Diseases (REIPI), 41071 Sevilla, Spain
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Leitner L, Ujmajuridze A, Chanishvili N, Goderdzishvili M, Chkonia I, Rigvava S, Chkhotua A, Changashvili G, McCallin S, Schneider MP, Liechti MD, Mehnert U, Bachmann LM, Sybesma W, Kessler TM. Intravesical bacteriophages for treating urinary tract infections in patients undergoing transurethral resection of the prostate: a randomised, placebo-controlled, double-blind clinical trial. THE LANCET. INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2020; 21:427-436. [PMID: 32949500 DOI: 10.1016/s1473-3099(20)30330-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 151] [Impact Index Per Article: 37.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2020] [Revised: 03/25/2020] [Accepted: 04/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are among the most prevalent microbial diseases and their financial burden on society is substantial. In the context of increasing antibiotic resistance, finding alternative treatments for UTIs is a top priority. We aimed to determine whether intravesical bacteriophage therapy with a commercial bacteriophage cocktail is effective in treating UTI. METHODS We did a randomised, placebo-controlled, clinical trial, at the Alexander Tsulukidze National Centre of Urology, Tbilisi, Georgia. Men older than 18 years of age, who were scheduled for transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP), with complicated UTI or recurrent uncomplicated UTI but no signs of systemic infection, were allocated by block randomisation in a 1:1:1 ratio to receive intravesical Pyo bacteriophage (Pyophage; 20 mL) or intravesical placebo solution (20 mL) in a double-blind manner twice daily for 7 days, or systemically applied antibiotics (according to sensitivities) as an open-label standard-of-care comparator. Urine culture was taken via urinary catheter at the end of treatment (ie, day 7) or at withdrawal from the trial. The primary outcome was microbiological treatment response after 7 days of treatment, measured by urine culture; secondary outcomes included clinical and safety parameters during the treatment period. Analyses were done in a modified intention-to-treat population of patients having received at least one dose of the allocated treatment regimen. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03140085. FINDINGS Between June 2, 2017, and Dec 14, 2018, 474 patients were screened for eligibility and 113 (24%) patients were randomly assigned to treatment (37 to Pyophage, 38 to placebo, and 38 to antibiotic treatment). 97 patients (28 Pyophage, 32 placebo, 37 antibiotics) received at least one dose of their allocated treatment and were included in the primary analysis. Treatment success rates did not differ between groups. Normalisation of urine culture was achieved in five (18%) of 28 patients in the Pyophage group compared with nine (28%) of 32 patients in the placebo group (odds ratio [OR] 1·60 [95% CI 0·45-5·71]; p=0·47) and 13 (35%) of 37 patients in the antibiotic group (2·66 [0·79-8·82]; p=0·11). Adverse events occurred in six (21%) of 28 patients in the Pyophage group compared with 13 (41%) of 32 patients in the placebo group (OR 0·36 [95% CI 0·11-1·17]; p=0·089) and 11 (30%) of 37 patients in the antibiotic group (0·66 [0·21-2·07]; p=0·47). INTERPRETATION Intravesical bacteriophage therapy was non-inferior to standard-of-care antibiotic treatment, but was not superior to placebo bladder irrigation, in terms of efficacy or safety in treating UTIs in patients undergoing TURP. Moreover, the bacteriophage safety profile seems to be favourable. Although bacteriophages are not yet a recognised or approved treatment option for UTIs, this trial provides new insight to optimise the design of further large-scale clinical studies to define the role of bacteriophages in UTI treatment. FUNDING Swiss Continence Foundation, the Swiss National Science Foundation, and the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation. TRANSLATIONS For the Georgian and German translations of the abstract see Supplementary Materials section.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorenz Leitner
- Department of Neuro-Urology, Balgrist University Hospital, University of Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | | | - Nina Chanishvili
- Eliava Institute of Bacteriophage, Microbiology, and Virology, Tbilisi, Georgia
| | | | - Irina Chkonia
- Eliava Institute of Bacteriophage, Microbiology, and Virology, Tbilisi, Georgia
| | - Sophia Rigvava
- Eliava Institute of Bacteriophage, Microbiology, and Virology, Tbilisi, Georgia
| | - Archil Chkhotua
- Alexander Tsulukidze National Centre of Urology, Tbilisi, Georgia
| | | | - Shawna McCallin
- Department of Neuro-Urology, Balgrist University Hospital, University of Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland; Division of Infectious Diseases, Geneva University Hospitals and Faculty of Medicine, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Marc P Schneider
- Department of Neuro-Urology, Balgrist University Hospital, University of Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Martina D Liechti
- Department of Neuro-Urology, Balgrist University Hospital, University of Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Ulrich Mehnert
- Department of Neuro-Urology, Balgrist University Hospital, University of Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | | | - Wilbert Sybesma
- Department of Neuro-Urology, Balgrist University Hospital, University of Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland; Yoba for Life Foundation, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Thomas M Kessler
- Department of Neuro-Urology, Balgrist University Hospital, University of Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland.
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Completed Genomic Sequence of Bacillus thuringiensis HER1410 Reveals a Cry-Containing Chromosome, Two Megaplasmids, and an Integrative Plasmidial Prophage. G3-GENES GENOMES GENETICS 2020; 10:2927-2939. [PMID: 32690586 PMCID: PMC7466992 DOI: 10.1534/g3.120.401361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Bacillus thuringiensis is the most used biopesticide in agriculture. Its entomopathogenic capacity stems from the possession of plasmid-borne insecticidal crystal genes (cry), traditionally used as discriminant taxonomic feature for that species. As such, crystal and plasmid identification are key to the characterization of this species. To date, about 600 B. thuringiensis genomes have been reported, but less than 5% have been completed, while the other draft genomes are incomplete, hindering full plasmid delineation. Here we present the complete genome of Bacillus thuringiensis HER1410, a strain closely related to B. thuringiensis entomocidus and a known host for a variety of Bacillus phages. The combination of short and long-read techniques allowed fully resolving the genome and delineation of three plasmids. This enabled the accurate detection of an unusual location of a unique cry gene, cry1Ba4, located in a genomic island near the chromosome replication origin. Two megaplasmids, pLUSID1 and pLUSID2 could be delineated: pLUSID1 (368 kb), a likely conjugative plasmid involved in virulence, and pLUSID2 (156 kb) potentially related to the sporulation process. A smaller plasmidial prophage pLUSID3, with a dual lifestyle whose integration within the chromosome causes the disruption of a flagellar key component. Finally, phylogenetic analysis placed this strain within a clade comprising members from the B. thuringiensis serovar thuringiensis and other serovars and with B. cereus s. s. in agreement with the intermingled taxonomy of B. cereus sensu lato group.
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Miller-Ensminger T, Mormando R, Maskeri L, Shapiro JW, Wolfe AJ, Putonti C. Introducing Lu-1, a Novel Lactobacillus jensenii Phage Abundant in the Urogenital Tract. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0234159. [PMID: 32525961 PMCID: PMC7289420 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0234159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2020] [Accepted: 05/19/2020] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Bacteriophages (phages) play a key role in shaping microbial communities, including those of the human body. Phages are abundant members of the urogenital tract, most often persisting through the lysogenic life cycle as prophages integrated within the genomes of their bacterial hosts. While numerous studies of the urogenital microbiota have focused on the most abundant bacterial member of this niche–Lactobacillus species–very little is known about Lactobacillus phages. Focusing on Lactobacillus jensenii strains from the urinary tract, we identified numerous prophages related to the previously characterized Lv-1 phage from a vaginal L. jensenii strain. Furthermore, we identified a new L. jensenii phage, Lu-1. Evidence suggests that both phages are abundant within the urogenital tract. CRISPR spacer sequences matching to Lv-1 and Lu-1 prophages were identified. While first detected in urinary isolates, the Lu-1 phage was also discovered in L. jensenii isolates from vaginal and perineal swabs, and both phages were found in metagenomic data sets. The prevalence of these phages in the isolates suggests that both phages are active members of the urogenital microbiota.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rita Mormando
- Bioinformatics Program, Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States of America
| | - Laura Maskeri
- Bioinformatics Program, Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States of America
| | - Jason W. Shapiro
- Department of Biology, Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States of America
| | - Alan J. Wolfe
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stritch School of Medicine, Loyola University Chicago, Maywood, IL, United States of America
| | - Catherine Putonti
- Bioinformatics Program, Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States of America
- Department of Biology, Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States of America
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stritch School of Medicine, Loyola University Chicago, Maywood, IL, United States of America
- Department of Computer Science, Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Leitner L, Kessler TM, Klumpp J. Bacteriophages: a Panacea in Neuro-Urology? Eur Urol Focus 2020; 6:518-521. [DOI: 10.1016/j.euf.2019.10.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2019] [Revised: 10/14/2019] [Accepted: 10/28/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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Łaniewski P, Ilhan ZE, Herbst-Kralovetz MM. The microbiome and gynaecological cancer development, prevention and therapy. Nat Rev Urol 2020; 17:232-250. [PMID: 32071434 PMCID: PMC9977514 DOI: 10.1038/s41585-020-0286-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 172] [Impact Index Per Article: 43.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The female reproductive tract (FRT), similar to other mucosal sites, harbours a site-specific microbiome, which has an essential role in maintaining health and homeostasis. In the majority of women of reproductive age, the microbiota of the lower FRT (vagina and cervix) microenvironment is dominated by Lactobacillus species, which benefit the host through symbiotic relationships. By contrast, the upper FRT (uterus, Fallopian tubes and ovaries) might be sterile in healthy individuals or contain a low-biomass microbiome with a diverse mixture of microorganisms. When dysbiosis occurs, altered immune and metabolic signalling can affect hallmarks of cancer, including chronic inflammation, epithelial barrier breach, changes in cellular proliferation and apoptosis, genome instability, angiogenesis and metabolic dysregulation. These pathophysiological changes might lead to gynaecological cancer. Emerging evidence shows that genital dysbiosis and/or specific bacteria might have an active role in the development and/or progression and metastasis of gynaecological malignancies, such as cervical, endometrial and ovarian cancers, through direct and indirect mechanisms, including modulation of oestrogen metabolism. Cancer therapies might also alter microbiota at sites throughout the body. Reciprocally, microbiota composition can influence the efficacy and toxic effects of cancer therapies, as well as quality of life following cancer treatment. Modulation of the microbiome via probiotics or microbiota transplant might prove useful in improving responsiveness to cancer treatment and quality of life. Elucidating these complex host-microbiome interactions, including the crosstalk between distal and local sites, will translate into interventions for prevention, therapeutic efficacy and toxic effects to enhance health outcomes for women with gynaecological cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paweł Łaniewski
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine – Phoenix, University of Arizona, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Zehra Esra Ilhan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine – Phoenix, University of Arizona, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Melissa M. Herbst-Kralovetz
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine – Phoenix, University of Arizona, Phoenix, AZ, USA,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine – Phoenix, University of Arizona, Phoenix, AZ, USA,UA Cancer Center, University of Arizona, Phoenix/Tucson, AZ, USA,Correspondence:
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Caflisch KM, Suh GA, Patel R. Biological challenges of phage therapy and proposed solutions: a literature review. Expert Rev Anti Infect Ther 2019; 17:1011-1041. [PMID: 31735090 DOI: 10.1080/14787210.2019.1694905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: In light of the emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, phage (bacteriophage) therapy has been recognized as a potential alternative or addition to antibiotics in Western medicine for use in humans.Areas covered: This review assessed the scientific literature on phage therapy published between 1 January 2007 and 21 October 2019, with a focus on the successes and challenges of this prospective therapeutic.Expert opinion: Efficacy has been shown in animal models and experimental findings suggest promise for the safety of human phagotherapy. Significant challenges remain to be addressed prior to the standardization of phage therapy in the West, including the development of phage-resistant bacteria; the pharmacokinetic complexities of phage; and any potential human immune response incited by phagotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine M Caflisch
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Gina A Suh
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Robin Patel
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA.,Division of Clinical Microbiology, Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
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Ackerman AL, Chai TC. The Bladder is Not Sterile: an Update on the Urinary Microbiome. CURRENT BLADDER DYSFUNCTION REPORTS 2019; 14:331-341. [PMID: 32612735 DOI: 10.1007/s11884-019-00543-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Purpose of Review The article discusses (1) techniques used to study bacterial urinary microbiota; (2) existence of non-bacterial urinary microbiota; (3) associations between changes in urinary microbiota and various benign lower urinary tract disorders. Recent Findings Urine harbors a diverse microbial community that resides within it. A multitude of studies have identified differences in these communities associated with urologic conditions, suggesting that microbial communities may maintain normal bladder homeostasis. Technological advances in analytic approaches have improved our understanding of the urinary microbiome. The choice of urine sampling method (voided, catheterized, or aspirated) will significantly influence microbiome findings. Sex and age highly influence urinary microbiota; in addition to rigorous inclusion criteria, microbial studies must be sufficiently powered to overcome the substantial interindividual variability of urinary microbiota. Regardless of these complicating factors, studies have identified microbial patterns correlating with both urologic diagnoses and treatment responses. Summary Without a clear understanding of the variability of and exogenous influences on the urinary microbiota in the absence of disease, it has been challenging to reveal the microbial patterns responsible for disease pathophysiology. Host mechanisms in response to the urinary microbiome are also poorly understood. Additional research can address whether the manipulation of urinary microbiota will benefit lower urinary tract health.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Lenore Ackerman
- Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, 99 N. La Cienega Blvd. Suite M102, Beverly Hills, CA 90211, USA
| | - Toby C Chai
- Boston Medical Center, Boston University School of Medicine, 725 Albany St., Suite 3B, Shapiro Building, Boston, MA 02118, USA
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Johnson G, Putonti C. Genome Sequence of Pseudomonas Phage UMP151, Isolated from the Female Bladder Microbiota. Microbiol Resour Announc 2019; 8:e00853-19. [PMID: 31416880 PMCID: PMC6696655 DOI: 10.1128/mra.00853-19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2019] [Accepted: 07/24/2019] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
A temperate bacteriophage, designated UMP151, was isolated from a Pseudomonas aeruginosa strain from a catheterized urine sample of a woman with overactive bladder (OAB) symptoms. The 41,303-bp genome sequence of Pseudomonas phage UMP151 exhibits sequence similarity to prophage and lytic phage sequences isolated from other areas of the human body.
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Affiliation(s)
- Genevieve Johnson
- Bioinformatics Program, Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Catherine Putonti
- Bioinformatics Program, Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Department of Biology, Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Department of Computer Science, Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Loyola University Chicago, Maywood, Illinois, USA
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