1
|
Armitage CW, Bryan ER, Trim L, Palframan E, Wager L, Beagley KW, Carey AJ. Haematopoietic innate interleukin 17A production drives immunopathology in female mouse genital Chlamydia muridarum infection. Scand J Immunol 2024; 99:e13359. [PMID: 38605527 DOI: 10.1111/sji.13359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2023] [Revised: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024]
Abstract
Chlamydia trachomatis infection is the leading cause of bacterial urogenital infection and has been demonstrated to drive inflammation and scarring of the reproductive tract. Recent studies have identified key triggers of proinflammatory adaptive immune responses driven by innate leukocytes and epithelia driving immunopathology. Utilizing chimeric mouse models, we investigated the definitive source and role of IL17 and IL17 signalling receptors during early Chlamydia muridarum infection of the female urogenital tract. Bone marrow transplants from wild-type (WT) and IL17A-/- mice to recipients demonstrated equivocal infection kinetics in the reproductive tract, but interestingly, adoptive transfer of IL17A-/- immune cells to WT recipients resulted in no infertility, suggesting a haematopoietic (as opposed to tissue) source of IL17 driving immunopathology. To further delineate the role of IL17 in immunopathology, we infected WT and IL17 receptor A (IL17RA)-/- female mice and observed a significant reduction in immunopathology in IL17RA-/- mice. WT bone marrow transplants to IL17RA-/- recipient mice prevented hydrosalpinx, suggesting signalling through IL17RA drives immunopathology. Furthermore, early chemical inhibition of IL17 signalling significantly reduced hydrosalpinx, suggesting IL17 acts as an innate driver of disease. Early during the infection, IL17 was produced by γδ T cells in the cervico-vagina, but more importantly, by neutrophils at the site of infertility in the oviducts. Taken together, these data suggest innate production of IL17 by haematopoietic leukocytes drives immunopathology in the epithelia during early C. muridarum infection of the female reproductive tract.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Charles W Armitage
- School of Biomedical Science and Centre for Immunology and Infection Control, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Peter Goher Department of Immunobiology, Kings College London, London, UK
| | - Emily R Bryan
- School of Biomedical Science and Centre for Immunology and Infection Control, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Logan Trim
- School of Biomedical Science and Centre for Immunology and Infection Control, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Ella Palframan
- School of Biomedical Science and Centre for Immunology and Infection Control, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Lucas Wager
- School of Biomedical Science and Centre for Immunology and Infection Control, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Kenneth W Beagley
- School of Biomedical Science and Centre for Immunology and Infection Control, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Alison J Carey
- School of Biomedical Science and Centre for Immunology and Infection Control, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Proctor J, Stadler M, Cortes LM, Brodsky D, Poisson L, Gerdts V, Smirnov AI, Smirnova TI, Barua S, Leahy D, Beagley KW, Harris JM, Darville T, Käser T. A TriAdj-Adjuvanted Chlamydia trachomatis CPAF Protein Vaccine Is Highly Immunogenic in Pigs. Vaccines (Basel) 2024; 12:423. [PMID: 38675805 PMCID: PMC11054031 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines12040423] [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: 03/05/2024] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Chlamydia trachomatis (Ct) infections are the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI). Despite effective antibiotics for Ct, undetected infections or delayed treatment can lead to infertility, ectopic pregnancies, and chronic pelvic pain. Besides humans, chlamydia poses similar health challenges in animals such as C. suis (Cs) in pigs. Based on the similarities between humans and pigs, as well as their chlamydia species, we use pigs as a large biomedical animal model for chlamydia research. In this study, we used the pig model to develop a vaccine candidate against Ct. The vaccine candidate consists of TriAdj-adjuvanted chlamydial-protease-like activity factor (CPAF) protein. We tested two weekly administration options-twice intranasal (IN) followed by twice intramuscular (IM) and twice IM followed by twice IN. We assessed the humoral immune response in both serum using CPAF-specific IgG (including antibody avidity determination) and also in cervical and rectal swabs using CPAF-specific IgG and IgA ELISAs. The systemic T-cell response was analyzed following in vitro CPAF restimulation via IFN-γ and IL-17 ELISpots, as well as intracellular cytokine staining flow cytometry. Our data demonstrate that while the IN/IM vaccination mainly led to non-significant systemic immune responses, the vaccine candidate is highly immunogenic if administered IM/IN. This vaccination strategy induced high serum anti-CPAF IgG levels with strong avidity, as well as high IgA and IgG levels in vaginal and rectal swabs and in uterine horn flushes. In addition, this vaccination strategy prompted a pronounced cellular immune response. Besides inducing IL-17 production, the vaccine candidate induced a strong IFN-γ response with CD4 T cells. In IM/IN-vaccinated pigs, these cells also significantly downregulated their CCR7 expression, a sign of differentiation into peripheral-tissue-homing effector/memory cells. Conclusively, this study demonstrates the strong immunogenicity of the IM/IN-administered TriAdj-adjuvanted Ct CPAF vaccine candidate. Future studies will test the vaccine efficacy of this promising Ct vaccine candidate. In addition, this project demonstrates the suitability of the Cs pre-exposed outbred pig model for Ct vaccine development. Thereby, we aim to open the bottleneck of large animal models to facilitate the progression of Ct vaccine candidates into clinical trials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Proctor
- Department of Population Health and Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA
| | - Maria Stadler
- Department of Biological Sciences and Pathobiology, Center of Pathobiology, Immunology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, 1210 Vienna, Austria
| | - Lizette M. Cortes
- Department of Population Health and Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA
| | - David Brodsky
- Department of Population Health and Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA
| | - Lydia Poisson
- Department of Population Health and Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA
| | - Volker Gerdts
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization (VIDO), University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5A3, Canada
| | - Alex I. Smirnov
- Department of Chemistry, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA
| | - Tatyana I. Smirnova
- Department of Chemistry, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA
| | - Subarna Barua
- Department of Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA;
| | - Darren Leahy
- Centre for Immunology and Infection Control, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane 4000, Australia
| | - Kenneth W. Beagley
- Centre for Immunology and Infection Control, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane 4000, Australia
| | - Jonathan M. Harris
- Centre for Immunology and Infection Control, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane 4000, Australia
| | - Toni Darville
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, USA
| | - Tobias Käser
- Department of Population Health and Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA
- Department of Biological Sciences and Pathobiology, Center of Pathobiology, Immunology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, 1210 Vienna, Austria
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Dockterman J, Reitano JR, Everitt JI, Wallace GD, Hendrix M, Taylor GA, Coers J. Irgm proteins attenuate inflammatory disease in mouse models of genital Chlamydia infection. mBio 2024; 15:e0030324. [PMID: 38501887 PMCID: PMC11005385 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.00303-24] [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: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Chlamydiae are obligate intracellular bacterial pathogens that may cause genital pathology via induction of destructive host immune responses. Human-adapted Chlamydia trachomatis causes inflammatory disease in human hosts but is easily cleared in mice, and mouse-adapted Chlamydia muridarum establishes a productive and pathogenic infection in murine hosts. While numerous anti-chlamydial host resistance factors have been discovered in mice and humans alike, little is known about host factors promoting host fitness independent of host resistance. Here, we show that interferon-inducible immunity-related GTPase M (Irgm) proteins function as such host factors ameliorating infection-associated sequalae in the murine female genital tract, thus characterizing Irgm proteins as mediators of disease tolerance. Specifically, we demonstrate that mice deficient for all three murine Irgm paralogs (pan-Irgm-/-) are defective for cell-autonomous immunity to C. trachomatis, which correlates with an early and transient increase in bacterial burden and sustained hyperinflammation in vivo. In contrast, upon infection of pan-Irgm-/- mice with C. muridarum, bacterial burden is unaffected, yet genital inflammation and scarring pathology are nonetheless increased, demonstrating that Irgm proteins can promote host fitness without altering bacterial burden. Additionally, pan-Irgm-/- mice display increased granulomatous inflammation in genital Chlamydia infection, implicating Irgm proteins in the regulation of granuloma formation and maintenance. These findings demonstrate that Irgm proteins regulate pathogenic immune responses to Chlamydia infection in vivo, establishing an effective infection model to examine the immunoregulatory functions and mechanisms of Irgm proteins. IMPORTANCE In response to genital Chlamydia infection, the immune system mounts a proinflammatory response to resist the pathogen, yet inflammation must be tightly controlled to avoid collateral damage and scarring to host genital tissue. Variation in the human IRGM gene is associated with susceptibility to autoinflammatory diseases but its role in ameliorating inflammatory diseases caused by infections is poorly defined. Here, we use mice deficient for all three murine Irgm paralogs to demonstrate that Irgm proteins not only provide host resistance to Chlamydia infections but also limit associated inflammation in the female genital tract. In particular, we find that murine Irgm expression prevents granulomatous inflammation, which parallels inflammatory diseases associated with variants in human IRGM. Our findings therefore establish genital Chlamydia infection as a useful model to study the roles for Irgm proteins in both promoting protective immunity and limiting pathogenic inflammation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jacob Dockterman
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
- Department of Immunology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Jeffrey R. Reitano
- Department of Immunology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Jeffrey I. Everitt
- Department of Pathology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Graham D. Wallace
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Meghan Hendrix
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
- Department of Immunology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Gregory A. Taylor
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
- Department of Immunology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
- Geriatric Research, Education, and Clinical Center, VA Health Care Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Geriatrics, and Center for the Study of Aging and Human Development, Duke Universitygrid.26009.3d Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Jörn Coers
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
- Department of Immunology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Mishkin N, Miranda IC, Carrasco SE, Cheleuitte-Nieves C, Arbona RRJ, Wingert C, Sun JC, Lipman NS. Chlamydia muridarum Associated Pulmonary and Urogenital Disease and Pathology in a Colony of Enzootically Infected Il12rb2 Deficient and Stat1 Knockout Mice. Comp Med 2024; 74:121-129. [PMID: 38561234 PMCID: PMC11078279 DOI: 10.30802/aalas-cm-24-000002] [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: 01/05/2024] [Revised: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 02/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Chlamydia muridarum (Cm), an intracellular bacterium of historical importance, was recently rediscovered as moderately prevalent in research mouse colonies. Cm was first reported as a causative agent of severe pneumonia in mice about 80 y ago, and while it has been used experimentally to model Chlamydia trachomatis infection of humans, there have been no further reports of clinical disease associated with natural infection. We observed clinical disease and pathology in 2 genetically engi- neered mouse (GEM) strains, Il12rb2 KO and STAT1 KO, with impaired interferon-γ signaling and Th1 CD4+ T cell responses in a colony of various GEM strains known to be colonized with and shedding Cm. Clinical signs included poor condition, hunched posture, and poor fecundity. Histopathology revealed disseminated Cm with lesions in pulmonary, gastrointestinal, and urogenital tissues. The presence of Cm was confirmed using both immunohistochemistry for Cm major outer membrane protein-1 antigen and in situ hybridization using a target probe directed against select regions of Cm strain Nigg. Cm was also found in association with a urothelial papilloma in one mouse. These cases provide additional support for excluding Cm from research mouse colonies.
Collapse
Key Words
- cm, chlamydia muridarum
- ecp, eosinophilic crystalline pneumonia
- galt, gut-associated lymphoid tissue
- gem, genetically engineered mouse
- he, hematoxylin and eosin
- ifu, inclusion-forming units
- ihc, immunohistochemistry
- il12rb2, beta 2 gene of the interleukin-12 receptor
- il12rb2ko, b6.129s1-il12rb2tm1jm/j
- ish, in situ hybridization
- momp, major outer membrane protein
- msk, memorial sloan kettering cancer center
- nsg, nod.cg-prkdcscid il2rgtm1wjl/szj
- stat1, signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 gene
- stat1ko, b6.129s(cg)-stat1tm1dlv/j
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Noah Mishkin
- Tri-Institutional Training Program in Laboratory Animal Medicine and Science, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medicine, and The Rockefeller University, New York, New York;,
| | - Ileana C Miranda
- Tri-Institutional Training Program in Laboratory Animal Medicine and Science, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medicine, and The Rockefeller University, New York, New York; Center of Comparative Medicine and Pathology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Sebastian E Carrasco
- Tri-Institutional Training Program in Laboratory Animal Medicine and Science, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medicine, and The Rockefeller University, New York, New York; Center of Comparative Medicine and Pathology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Christopher Cheleuitte-Nieves
- Tri-Institutional Training Program in Laboratory Animal Medicine and Science, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medicine, and The Rockefeller University, New York, New York; Center of Comparative Medicine and Pathology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Rodolfo Ricart J Arbona
- Tri-Institutional Training Program in Laboratory Animal Medicine and Science, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medicine, and The Rockefeller University, New York, New York; Center of Comparative Medicine and Pathology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Claire Wingert
- Program in Immunology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Joseph C Sun
- Program in Immunology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Neil S Lipman
- Tri-Institutional Training Program in Laboratory Animal Medicine and Science, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medicine, and The Rockefeller University, New York, New York; Center of Comparative Medicine and Pathology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York;,
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Rixon JA, Fong KD, Morris C, Nguyen AT, Depew CE, McSorley SJ. Elimination of Chlamydia muridarum from the female reproductive tract is IL-12p40 dependent, but independent of Th1 and Th2 cells. PLoS Pathog 2024; 20:e1011914. [PMID: 38166152 PMCID: PMC10786385 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1011914] [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: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Chlamydia vaccine approaches aspire to induce Th1 cells for optimal protection, despite the fact that there is no direct evidence demonstrating Th1-mediated Chlamydia clearance from the female reproductive tract (FRT). We recently reported that T-bet-deficient mice can resolve primary Chlamydia infection normally, undermining the potentially protective role of Th1 cells in Chlamydia immunity. Here, we show that T-bet-deficient mice develop robust Th17 responses and that mice deficient in Th17 cells exhibit delayed bacterial clearance, demonstrating that Chlamydia-specific Th17 cells represent an underappreciated protective population. Additionally, Th2-deficient mice competently clear cervicovaginal infection. Furthermore, we show that sensing of IFN-γ by non-hematopoietic cells is essential for Chlamydia immunity, yet bacterial clearance in the FRT does not require IFN-γ secretion by CD4 T cells. Despite the fact that Th1 cells are not necessary for Chlamydia clearance, protective immunity to Chlamydia is still dependent on MHC class-II-restricted CD4 T cells and IL-12p40. Together, these data point to IL-12p40-dependent CD4 effector maturation as essential for Chlamydia immunity, and Th17 cells to a lesser extent, yet neither Th1 nor Th2 cell development is critical. Future Chlamydia vaccination efforts will be more effective if they focus on induction of this protective CD4 T cell population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jordan A. Rixon
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Cell Biology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, California, United States of America
| | - Kevin D. Fong
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Cell Biology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, California, United States of America
| | - Claire Morris
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Cell Biology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, California, United States of America
| | - Alana T. Nguyen
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Cell Biology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, California, United States of America
| | - Claire E. Depew
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Cell Biology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, California, United States of America
| | - Stephen J. McSorley
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Cell Biology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, California, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Harpring M, Cox JV. Plasticity in the cell division processes of obligate intracellular bacteria. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2023; 13:1205488. [PMID: 37876871 PMCID: PMC10591338 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1205488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Most bacteria divide through a highly conserved process called binary fission, in which there is symmetric growth of daughter cells and the synthesis of peptidoglycan at the mid-cell to enable cytokinesis. During this process, the parental cell replicates its chromosomal DNA and segregates replicated chromosomes into the daughter cells. The mechanisms that regulate binary fission have been extensively studied in several model organisms, including Eschericia coli, Bacillus subtilis, and Caulobacter crescentus. These analyses have revealed that a multi-protein complex called the divisome forms at the mid-cell to enable peptidoglycan synthesis and septation during division. In addition, rod-shaped bacteria form a multi-protein complex called the elongasome that drives sidewall peptidoglycan synthesis necessary for the maintenance of rod shape and the lengthening of the cell prior to division. In adapting to their intracellular niche, the obligate intracellular bacteria discussed here have eliminated one to several of the divisome gene products essential for binary fission in E. coli. In addition, genes that encode components of the elongasome, which were mostly lost as rod-shaped bacteria evolved into coccoid organisms, have been retained during the reductive evolutionary process that some coccoid obligate intracellular bacteria have undergone. Although the precise molecular mechanisms that regulate the division of obligate intracellular bacteria remain undefined, the studies summarized here indicate that obligate intracellular bacteria exhibit remarkable plasticity in their cell division processes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - John V. Cox
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Biochemistry, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, United States
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Jin Y, Li W, Ba X, Li Y, Wang Y, Zhang H, Li Z, Zhou J. Gut microbiota changes in horses with Chlamydia. BMC Microbiol 2023; 23:246. [PMID: 37660043 PMCID: PMC10474637 DOI: 10.1186/s12866-023-02986-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Zoonotic diseases pose a significant threat to public health. Chlamydia, as an intracellular pathogen, can colonize the intestinal tract of humans and animals, changing the gut microbiota. However, only a few studies have evaluated alterations in the gut microbiota of horses infected with Chlamydia. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate gut microbiota and serum biochemical indicators in horses with Chlamydial infection (IG) and healthy horses (HG). Fecal and blood samples were collected from 16 horses (IG: 10; HG: 6) before morning feeding for the determination of gut microbiota and serum biochemical parameters. RESULTS The results showed that total globulin (GLB), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and creatine kinase (CK) levels were significantly increased in IG compared with HG. Notably, the gut microbial diversity increased in IG compared with HG. Furthermore, Moraxellaceae and Akkermanisa abundance decreased in IG, while Streptococcus, Treponema, Prevotella, and Paraprevotella abundances (13 genera of bacterial species) increased. Compared with HG, carbohydrate metabolism increased in IG while amino acid metabolism decreased. In addition, the abundance of 18 genera of bacteria was associated with the level of five serum biochemical indicators. CONCLUSIONS In summary, this study elucidated the influence of Chlamydia infection in horses on the gut microbiota, unraveling consequential alterations in its composition and metabolic profile. Therefore, this study improves the understanding of Chlamydia-induced intestinal infections.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Youshun Jin
- State Key Laboratory for Animal Disease Control and Prevention, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Public Health of Agriculture Ministry Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, 730046, China
- State Key Laboratory for Animal Disease Control and Prevention, College of Veterinary Medicine, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Lanzhou University, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, 730000, China
| | - Wei Li
- State Key Laboratory for Animal Disease Control and Prevention, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Public Health of Agriculture Ministry Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, 730046, China
| | - Xuli Ba
- State Key Laboratory for Animal Disease Control and Prevention, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Public Health of Agriculture Ministry Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, 730046, China
- State Key Laboratory for Animal Disease Control and Prevention, College of Veterinary Medicine, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Lanzhou University, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, 730000, China
| | - Yunhui Li
- Animal Pathology Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang, 712100, China
| | - Yanyan Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Animal Disease Control and Prevention, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Public Health of Agriculture Ministry Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, 730046, China
| | - Huaiyu Zhang
- Animal Pathology Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang, 712100, China
| | - Zhaocai Li
- State Key Laboratory for Animal Disease Control and Prevention, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Public Health of Agriculture Ministry Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, 730046, China
| | - Jizhang Zhou
- State Key Laboratory for Animal Disease Control and Prevention, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Public Health of Agriculture Ministry Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, 730046, China.
- State Key Laboratory for Animal Disease Control and Prevention, College of Veterinary Medicine, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Lanzhou University, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, 730000, China.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Bei J, Qiu Y, Cockrell D, Chang Q, Husseinzadeh S, Zhou C, Fang X, Bao X, Jin Y, Gaitas A, Khanipov K, Saito TB, Gong B. Identification of common sequence motifs shared exclusively among selectively packed exosomal pathogenic microRNAs during rickettsial infections. J Cell Physiol 2023; 238:1937-1948. [PMID: 37334929 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.31061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2023] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/21/2023]
Abstract
We previously reported that microRNA (miR)23a and miR30b are selectively sorted into exosomes derived from rickettsia-infected endothelial cells (R-ECExos). Yet, the mechanism remains unknown. Cases of spotted fever rickettsioses have been increasing, and infections with these bacteria cause life-threatening diseases by targeting brain and lung tissues. Therefore, the goal of the present study is to further dissect the molecular mechanism underlying R-ECExos-induced barrier dysfunction of normal recipient microvascular endothelial cells (MECs), depending on their exosomal RNA cargos. Infected ticks transmit the rickettsiae to human hosts following a bite and injections of the bacteria into the skin. In the present study, we demonstrate that treatment with R-ECExos, which were derived from spotted fever group R parkeri infected human dermal MECs, induced disruptions of the paracellular adherens junctional protein VE-cadherin, and breached the paracellular barrier function in recipient pulmonary MECs (PMECs) in an exosomal RNA-dependent manner. We did not detect different levels of miRs in parent dermal MECs following rickettsial infections. However, we demonstrated that the microvasculopathy-relevant miR23a-27a-24 cluster and miR30b are selectively enriched in R-ECExos. Bioinformatic analysis revealed that common sequence motifs are shared exclusively among the exosomal, selectively-enriched miR23a cluster and miR30b at different levels. Taken together, these data warrant further functional identification and characterization of a monopartition, bipartition, or tripartition among ACA, UCA, and CAG motifs that guide recognition of microvasculopathy-relevant miR23a-27a-24 and miR30b, and subsequently results in their selective enrichments in R-ECExos.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiani Bei
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Yuan Qiu
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Diane Cockrell
- Laboratory of Bacteriology, Division of Intramural Research, NIAID-NIH, Hamilton, Montana, USA
| | - Qing Chang
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Sorosh Husseinzadeh
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Changcheng Zhou
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Xiang Fang
- Department of Neurology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Xiaoyong Bao
- Department of Pediatric, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Yang Jin
- Department of Medicine, Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine Division, Boston University Medical Campus, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Angelo Gaitas
- Department of Neurology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Kamil Khanipov
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Tais B Saito
- Laboratory of Bacteriology, Division of Intramural Research, NIAID-NIH, Hamilton, Montana, USA
| | - Bin Gong
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Riffaud CM, Rucks EA, Ouellette SP. Persistence of obligate intracellular pathogens: alternative strategies to overcome host-specific stresses. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2023; 13:1185571. [PMID: 37284502 PMCID: PMC10239878 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1185571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/08/2023] Open
Abstract
In adapting to the intracellular niche, obligate intracellular bacteria usually undergo a reduction of genome size by eliminating genes not needed for intracellular survival. These losses can include, for example, genes involved in nutrient anabolic pathways or in stress response. Living inside a host cell offers a stable environment where intracellular bacteria can limit their exposure to extracellular effectors of the immune system and modulate or outright inhibit intracellular defense mechanisms. However, highlighting an area of vulnerability, these pathogens are dependent on the host cell for nutrients and are very sensitive to conditions that limit nutrient availability. Persistence is a common response shared by evolutionarily divergent bacteria to survive adverse conditions like nutrient deprivation. Development of persistence usually compromises successful antibiotic therapy of bacterial infections and is associated with chronic infections and long-term sequelae for the patients. During persistence, obligate intracellular pathogens are viable but not growing inside their host cell. They can survive for a long period of time such that, when the inducing stress is removed, reactivation of their growth cycles resumes. Given their reduced coding capacity, intracellular bacteria have adapted different response mechanisms. This review gives an overview of the strategies used by the obligate intracellular bacteria, where known, which, unlike model organisms such as E. coli, often lack toxin-antitoxin systems and the stringent response that have been linked to a persister phenotype and amino acid starvation states, respectively.
Collapse
|
10
|
Cheong HC, Cheok YY, Chan YT, Tang TF, Sulaiman S, Looi CY, Gupta R, Arulanandam B, Chang LY, Wong WF. Chlamydia trachomatis plasmid-encoding Pgp3 protein induces secretion of distinct inflammatory signatures from HeLa cervical epithelial cells. BMC Microbiol 2023; 23:58. [PMID: 36870960 PMCID: PMC9985209 DOI: 10.1186/s12866-023-02802-3] [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: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Genital Chlamydia trachomatis infection is the most common bacterial sexual transmitted disease that causes severe complications including pelvic inflammatory disease, ectopic pregnancy, and infertility in females. The Pgp3 protein encoded by C. trachomatis plasmid has been speculated to be an important player in chlamydial pathogenesis. However, the precise function of this protein is unknown and thus remains to be thoroughly investigated. METHODS In this study, we synthesized Pgp3 protein for in vitro stimulation in the Hela cervical carcinoma cells. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION We showed that Pgp3 induced prominent expression of host inflammatory cytokine genes including interleukin-6 (IL-6), IL-8, tumor necrosis factor alpha-induced protein 3 (TNFAIP3), and chemokine C-X-C motif ligand 1 (CXCL1), implying a possible role of Pgp3 in modulating the inflammatory reaction in the host.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Heng Choon Cheong
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Yi Ying Cheok
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Yee Teng Chan
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Ting Fang Tang
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Sofiah Sulaiman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Chung Yeng Looi
- School of Biosciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Taylor's University, 47500, Subang Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Rishein Gupta
- South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Bernard Arulanandam
- South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA.,Department of Immunology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, 02111, USA
| | - Li-Yen Chang
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Won Fen Wong
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Hocking JS, Geisler WM, Kong FYS. Update on the Epidemiology, Screening, and Management of Chlamydia trachomatis Infection. Infect Dis Clin North Am 2023; 37:267-288. [PMID: 37005162 DOI: 10.1016/j.idc.2023.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/03/2023]
Abstract
Chlamydia trachomatis infection ("chlamydia") is the most commonly diagnosed bacterial sexually transmitted infection globally, occurring in the genitals (urethra or vagina/cervix), rectum, or pharynx. If left untreated in women, genital chlamydia can ascend into the upper genital tract causing pelvic inflammatory disease, increasing their risk for ectopic pregnancy, infertility, and chronic pelvic pain. In men, chlamydia can cause epididymitis and proctitis. However, chlamydia is asymptomatic in over 80% of cases. This article provides an update on the epidemiology, natural history, and clinical manifestations of chlamydia in adults and discusses the current approaches to its management and control policy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jane S Hocking
- Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, 3/207 Bouverie Street, Carlton South, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia 3053.
| | - William M Geisler
- Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 703 19th Street South, ZRB 242, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
| | - Fabian Y S Kong
- Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, 3/207 Bouverie Street, Carlton South, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia 3053
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
In Search of a Mechanistic Link between Chlamydia trachomatis-Induced Cellular Pathophysiology and Oncogenesis. Infect Immun 2023; 91:e0044322. [PMID: 36695575 PMCID: PMC9933725 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00443-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Centrosome duplication and cell cycle progression are essential cellular processes that must be tightly controlled to ensure cellular integrity. Despite their complex regulatory mechanisms, microbial pathogens have evolved sophisticated strategies to co-opt these processes to promote infection. While misregulation of these processes can greatly benefit the pathogen, the consequences to the host cell can be devastating. During infection, the obligate intracellular pathogen Chlamydia trachomatis induces gross cellular abnormalities, including supernumerary centrosomes, multipolar spindles, and defects in cytokinesis. While these observations were made over 15 years ago, identification of the bacterial factors responsible has been elusive due to the genetic intractability of Chlamydia. Recent advances in techniques of genetic manipulation now allows for the direct linking of bacterial virulence factors to manipulation of centrosome duplication and cell cycle progression. In this review, we discuss the impact, both immediate and downstream, of C. trachomatis infection on the host cell cycle regulatory apparatus and centrosome replication. We highlight links between C. trachomatis infection and cervical and ovarian cancers and speculate whether perturbations of the cell cycle and centrosome are sufficient to initiate cellular transformation. We also explore the biological mechanisms employed by Inc proteins and other secreted effector proteins implicated in the perturbation of these host cell pathways. Future work is needed to better understand the nuances of each effector's mechanism and their collective impact on Chlamydia's ability to induce host cellular abnormalities.
Collapse
|
13
|
Tryptophan Availability during Persistence of Chlamydia trachomatis Directly Impacts Expression of Chlamydial Cell Division Proteins. Infect Immun 2023; 91:e0051322. [PMID: 36645295 PMCID: PMC9933654 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00513-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Chlamydia is an obligate intracellular pathogen with a highly reduced genome devoid of major stress response genes like relA and spoT, which mediate the stringent response. Interestingly, as an intracellular bacterium dependent on its host for nutrients and as a tryptophan (Trp) auxotroph, Chlamydia is very sensitive to Trp starvation, which is induced in vivo by the host cytokine interferon-γ. In response to Trp starvation, Chlamydia enters a viable but nonreplicating state called persistence. A major characteristic of chlamydial persistence is a block in cell division. We hypothesized that cell division is blocked during persistence by the inability to translate Trp-rich cell division proteins. To test this, we first investigated the translation of various cell division proteins under Trp starvation conditions using inducible expression strains. We observed that the Trp-poor protein MurG and the Trp-neutral protein FtsL were still expressed during persistence, while the expression of the Trp-rich proteins Pbp2, RodA, FtsI/Pbp3, and MraY was significantly reduced. As proof of concept for our hypothesis, we compared expression of a wild-type and mutant isoform of RodZ in which its four Trp codons were mutated. These experiments demonstrated that decreased expression of RodZ during persistence was reversed when no Trp was present in the protein, thus directly linking its expression to its Trp content. Together, these experiments indicate that specific cell division proteins are not produced during persistence. For the first time, our data provide a mechanism that explains the inhibition of cell division during chlamydial persistence mediated by Trp starvation.
Collapse
|
14
|
Mayavannan A, Shantz E, Haidl ID, Wang J, Marshall JS. Mast cells selectively produce inflammatory mediators and impact the early response to Chlamydia reproductive tract infection. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1166068. [PMID: 37138882 PMCID: PMC10150091 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1166068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Chlamydia trachomatis (C. trachomatis) is a Gram-negative obligate intracellular bacterium that causes reproductive tract complications in women, including ectopic pregnancies and tubal factor infertility. We hypothesized that mast cells, which are common at mucosal barriers, may contribute to responses to Chlamydia infection and aimed to define human mast cell responses to C. trachomatis. Methods Human cord blood-derived mast cells (CBMCs) were exposed to C. trachomatis to assess bacterial uptake, mast cell degranulation, gene expression, and production of inflammatory mediators. The role of formyl peptide receptors and Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2) were investigated using pharmacological inhibitors and soluble TLR2. Mast cell-deficient mice and littermate controls were used to examine the in vivo role of mast cells in influencing the immune response to Chlamydia infection in the female reproductive tract. Results C. trachomatis bacteria were taken up by human mast cells but did not replicate efficiently inside CBMCs. C. trachomatis-activated mast cells did not degranulate but maintained viability and exhibited cellular activation with homotypic aggregation and upregulation of ICAM-1. However, they significantly enhanced the gene expression of IL1B, CCL3, NFKB1, CXCL8, and IL6. Inflammatory mediators were produced, including TNF, IL-1β, IL-1RA, IL-6, GM-CSF, IL-23, CCL3, CCL5, and CXCL8. Endocytic blockade resulted in reduced gene expression of IL6, IL1B, and CCL3, suggesting C. trachomatis induced mast cell activation in both extracellular and intracellular locations. The IL-6 response to C. trachomatis was reduced when CBMCs were treated with C. trachomatis coated with soluble TLR2. Mast cells derived from TLR2-deficient mice also demonstrated a reduced IL-6 response to C. muridarum. Five days following C. muridarum infection, mast cell-deficient mice showed attenuated CXCL2 production and significantly reduced numbers of neutrophils, eosinophils, and B cells in the reproductive tract when compared with mast cell-containing littermates. Discussion Taken together, these data demonstrate that mast cells are reactive to Chlamydia spp. through multiple mechanisms that include TLR2-dependent pathways. Mast cells also play an important role in shaping in vivo immune responses in Chlamydia reproductive tract infection through both effector cell recruitment and modification of the chemokine microenvironment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Animamalar Mayavannan
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Emily Shantz
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Ian D. Haidl
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Jun Wang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
- Canadian Center for Vaccinology, Izaak Walton Killam (IWK) Health Centre, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Jean S. Marshall
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
- Department of Pathology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
- *Correspondence: Jean S. Marshall,
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Gravitte A, Kintner J, Brown S, Cobble A, Kennard B, Hall JV. The hormonal environment and estrogen receptor signaling alters Chlamydia muridarum infection in vivo. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:939944. [PMID: 36636722 PMCID: PMC9831676 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.939944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Genital Chlamydia is the most common bacterial sexually transmitted infection in the United States and worldwide. Previous studies indicate that the progression of chlamydial infection is influenced by various factors, including the female sex hormones estrogen and progesterone. Sex hormone levels naturally fluctuate in women throughout their menstrual cycle. Varying concentrations of estrogen and progesterone may impact the progression of chlamydial infection and the host's immune response to Chlamydia. Estrogen signals through estrogen receptors (ERs), ERα and ERβ. These receptors are similar in structure and function, but are differentially expressed in tissues throughout the body, including the genital tract and on cells of the immune system. In this study, we used ovariectomized (OVT) BALB/c mice to investigate the impact of long-term administration of physiologically relevant concentrations of estrogen (E2), progesterone (P4), or a combination of E2/P4 on the progression of and immune response to C. muridarum infection. Additionally, we used ERα and ERβ knockout C57/BL6 mice to determine the how ERs affect chlamydial infection and the resulting immune response. Estrogen exposure prevented C. muridarum infection in vaginally infected OVT mice exposed to E2 alone or in combination with P4, while OVT or Sham mice exposed to hormone free, P4 or depo-medroxyprogesterone acetate shed similar amounts of chlamydiae. The hormonal environment also altered T cell recruitment and IFNϵ production the genital tracts of infected OVT and Sham mice on day 10 post infection. The absence of ERα, but not ERβ, in ER knockout mouse strains significantly changed the timing of C. muridarum infection. ERαKO mice shed significantly more chlamydiae at day 3 post infection and resolved the infection faster than WT or ERβKO animals. At day 9 post infection, flow cytometry showed that ERαKO mice had more T cells present and targeted RNA sequencing revealed increased expression of CD4 and FOXP3, suggesting that ERαKO mice had increased numbers of regulatory T cells compared to ERβKO and WT mice. Mock and chlamydia-infected ERαKO mice also expressed more IFNϵ early during infection. Overall, the data from these studies indicate that sex hormones and their receptors, particularly ERα and ERβ, differentially affect C. muridarum infection in murine models of infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amy Gravitte
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, United States,Center of Excellence for Inflammation, Infection Disease, and Immunity, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, United States
| | - Jennifer Kintner
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, United States
| | - Stacy Brown
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Bill Gatton College of Pharmacy, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, United States
| | - Allison Cobble
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Bill Gatton College of Pharmacy, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, United States
| | - Benjamin Kennard
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Bill Gatton College of Pharmacy, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, United States
| | - Jennifer V. Hall
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, United States,Center of Excellence for Inflammation, Infection Disease, and Immunity, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, United States,*Correspondence: Jennifer V. Hall,
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Klasinc R, Battin C, Paster W, Reiter M, Schatzlmaier P, Rhein P, Spittler A, Steinberger P, Stockinger H. TLR4/CD14/MD2 Revealed as the Limited Toll-like Receptor Complex for Chlamydia trachomatis-Induced NF-κB Signaling. Microorganisms 2022; 10:microorganisms10122489. [PMID: 36557742 PMCID: PMC9783372 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10122489] [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: 11/06/2022] [Revised: 12/10/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Chlamydia trachomatis (Ct) is the most common cause of genital tract infections as well as preventable blindness worldwide. Pattern recognition receptors such as toll-like receptors (TLRs) represent the initial step in recognizing pathogenic microorganisms and are crucial for the initiation of an appropriate immune response. However, our understanding of TLR-signaling in Chlamydia-infected immune cells is incomplete. For a better comprehension of pathological inflammatory responses, robust models for interrogating TLR-signaling upon chlamydial infections are needed. To analyze the TLR response, we developed and utilized a highly sensitive and selective fluorescent transcriptional cellular reporter system to measure the activity of the transcription factor NF-κB. Upon incubation of the reporter cells with different preparations of Ct, we were able to pinpoint which components of TLRs are involved in the recognition of Ct. We identified CD14 associated with unique characteristics of different serovars as the crucial factor of the TLR4/CD14/MD2 complex for Ct-mediated activation of the NF-κB pathway. Furthermore, we found the TLR4/CD14/MD2 complex to be decisive for the uptake of Ct-derived lipopolysaccharides but not for infection and replication of Ct. Imaging flow cytometry provided information about inclusion formation in myeloid- as well as lymphocytic cells and was highest for Ct L2 with at least 25% of inclusion forming cells. Ct E inclusion formation was eminent in Jurkat cells without CD14 expression (11.1%). Thus, our model enables to determine Ct uptake and signal induction by pinpointing individual components of the recognition and signaling pathways to better understand the immune response towards infectious pathogens.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Romana Klasinc
- Medical University of Vienna, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Institute for Hygiene and Applied Immunology, 1090 Vienna, Austria
- Correspondence:
| | - Claire Battin
- Medical University of Vienna, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Institute of Immunology, Division of Immune Receptors and T Cell Activation, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Wolfgang Paster
- Medical University of Vienna, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Institute of Immunology, Division of Immune Receptors and T Cell Activation, 1090 Vienna, Austria
- St. Anna Children’s Cancer Research Institute (CCRI), 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Michael Reiter
- Medical University of Vienna, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Institute for Hygiene and Applied Immunology, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Philipp Schatzlmaier
- Medical University of Vienna, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Institute for Hygiene and Applied Immunology, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Peter Rhein
- Luminex B.V., A DiaSorin Company, 5215 MV ‘s-Hertogenbosch, The Netherlands
| | - Andreas Spittler
- Medical University of Vienna, Core Facility Flow Cytometry and Department of Surgery, Research Laboratories, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Peter Steinberger
- Medical University of Vienna, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Institute of Immunology, Division of Immune Receptors and T Cell Activation, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Hannes Stockinger
- Medical University of Vienna, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Institute for Hygiene and Applied Immunology, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Fields KA, Bodero MD, Scanlon KR, Jewett TJ, Wolf K. A Minimal Replicon Enables Efficacious, Species-Specific Gene Deletion in Chlamydia and Extension of Gene Knockout Studies to the Animal Model of Infection Using Chlamydia muridarum. Infect Immun 2022; 90:e0045322. [PMID: 36350146 PMCID: PMC9753632 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00453-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The genus Chlamydia consists of diverse, obligate intracellular bacteria that infect various animals, including humans. Although chlamydial species share many aspects of the typical intracellular lifestyle, such as the biphasic developmental cycle and the preference for invasion of epithelial cells, each chlamydial strain also employs sophisticated species-specific strategies that contribute to an extraordinary diversity in organ and/or tissue tropism and disease manifestation. In order to discover and understand the mechanisms underlying how these pathogens infect particular hosts and cause specific diseases, it is imperative to develop a mutagenesis approach that would be applicable to every chlamydial species. We present functional evidence that the region between Chlamydia trachomatis and Chlamydia muridarum pgp6 and pgp7, containing four 22-bp tandem repeats that are present in all chlamydial endogenous plasmids, represents the plasmid origin of replication. Furthermore, by introducing species-specific ori regions into an engineered 5.45-kb pUC19-based plasmid, we generated vectors that can be successfully transformed into and propagated under selective pressure by C. trachomatis serovars L2 and D, as well as C. muridarum. Conversely, these vectors were rapidly lost upon removal of the selective antibiotic. This conditionally replicating system was used to generate a tarP deletion mutant by fluorescence-reported allelic exchange mutagenesis in both C. trachomatis serovar D and C. muridarum. The strains were analyzed using in vitro invasion and fitness assays. The virulence of the C. muridarum strains was then assessed in a murine infection model. Our approach represents a novel and efficient strategy for targeted genetic manipulation in Chlamydia beyond C. trachomatis L2. This advance will support comparative studies of species-specific infection biology and enable studies in a well-established murine model of chlamydial pathogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth A. Fields
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Molecular Genetics, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
| | - Maria D. Bodero
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Molecular Genetics, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
| | - Kaylyn R. Scanlon
- Division of Immunity and Pathogenesis, Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida, USA
| | - Travis J. Jewett
- Division of Immunity and Pathogenesis, Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida, USA
| | - Katerina Wolf
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Molecular Genetics, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Zhong W, Kollipara A, Liu Y, Wang Y, O’Connell CM, Poston TB, Yount K, Wiesenfeld HC, Hillier SL, Li Y, Darville T, Zheng X. Genetic susceptibility loci for Chlamydia trachomatis endometrial infection influence expression of genes involved in T cell function, tryptophan metabolism and epithelial integrity. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1001255. [PMID: 36248887 PMCID: PMC9562917 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1001255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives Identify genetic loci of enhanced susceptibility to Chlamydial trachomatis (Ct) upper genital tract infection in women. Methods We performed an integrated analysis of DNA genotypes and blood-derived mRNA profiles from 200 Ct-exposed women to identify expression quantitative trait loci (eQTL) and determine their association with endometrial chlamydial infection using a mediation test. We further evaluated the effect of a lead eQTL on the expression of CD151 by immune cells from women with genotypes associated with low and high whole blood expression of CD151, respectively. Results We identified cis-eQTLs modulating mRNA expression of 81 genes (eGenes) associated with altered risk of ascending infection. In women with endometrial infection, eGenes involved in proinflammatory signaling were upregulated. Downregulated eGenes included genes involved in T cell functions pivotal for chlamydial control. eGenes encoding molecules linked to metabolism of tryptophan, an essential chlamydial nutrient, and formation of epithelial tight junctions were also downregulated in women with endometrial infection. A lead eSNP rs10902226 was identified regulating CD151, a tetrospanin molecule important for immune cell adhesion and migration and T cell proliferation. Further in vitro experiments showed that women with a CC genotype at rs10902226 had reduced rates of endometrial infection with increased CD151 expression in whole blood and T cells when compared to women with a GG genotype. Conclusions We discovered genetic variants associated with altered risk for Ct ascension. A lead eSNP for CD151 is a candidate genetic marker for enhanced CD4 T cell function and reduced susceptibility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wujuan Zhong
- Department of Biostatistics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Avinash Kollipara
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Yutong Liu
- Department of Biostatistics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Yuhan Wang
- Department of Biostatistics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Catherine M. O’Connell
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Taylor B. Poston
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Kacy Yount
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Harold C. Wiesenfeld
- The University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and the Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Sharon L. Hillier
- The University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and the Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Yun Li
- Department of Biostatistics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
- Department of Genetics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Toni Darville
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
- *Correspondence: Xiaojing Zheng, ; Toni Darville,
| | - Xiaojing Zheng
- Department of Biostatistics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
- *Correspondence: Xiaojing Zheng, ; Toni Darville,
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Borges ÁH, Follmann F, Dietrich J. Chlamydia trachomatis vaccine development - a view on the current challenges and how to move forward. Expert Rev Vaccines 2022; 21:1555-1567. [PMID: 36004386 DOI: 10.1080/14760584.2022.2117694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Chlamydia trachomatis is the most common sexually transmitted bacterial pathogen in the world. A licensed vaccine is not yet available, but the first vaccines have entered clinical trials. AREAS COVERED : We describe the progress that has been made in our understanding of the type of immunity that a protective vaccine should induce, and the challenges that vaccine developers face. We also focus on the clinical development of a chlamydia vaccine. The first chlamydia vaccine candidate has now been tested in a clinical phase-I trial, and another phase-I trial is currently running. We discuss what it will take to continue this development and what future trial setups could look like. EXPERT OPINION The chlamydia field is coming of age and the first phase I clinical trial of a C. trachomatis vaccine has been successfully completed. We expect and hope that this will motivate various stakeholders to support further development of chlamydia vaccines in humans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Álvaro H Borges
- Statens Serum Institut, Department of Infectious Diseases Immunology, Kobenhavn, 2300 Denmark
| | | | - Jes Dietrich
- Statens Serum Institut, Department of Infectious Diseases Immunology, Kobenhavn, 2300 Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Verweij SP, Peters RPH, Catsburg A, de Vries HJC, Ouburg S, Morré SA. Genetic Variation in the MBL2 Gene Is Associated with Chlamydia trachomatis Infection and Host Humoral Response to Chlamydia trachomatis Infection. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23169292. [PMID: 36012556 PMCID: PMC9409028 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23169292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2022] [Revised: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aims to assess the potential association of MBL2 gene single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) to Chlamydia trachomatis infection. We analysed a selected sample of 492 DNA and serum specimens from Dutch Caucasian women. Women were categorized into four groups of infection status based on the results of DNA and antibody tests for C. trachomatis: Ct-DNA+/IgG+, Ct-DNA+/IgG−, Ct-DNA−/IgG+, and Ct-DNA−/IgG−. We compared six MBL2 SNPs (−619G > C (H/L), −290G > C (Y/X), −66C > T (P/Q), +154C > T (A/D), +161A > G (A/B), and +170A > G (A/C)) and their respective haplotypes in relation to these different subgroups. The −619C (L) allele was less present within the Ct-DNA−/IgG+ group compared with the Ct-DNA−/IgG− group (OR = 0.49; 95% CI: 0.28−0.83), while the +170G (C) allele was observed more in the Ct-DNA+/IgG+ group as compared with the Ct-DNA−/IgG− group (OR = 2.4; 95% CI: 1.1−5.4). The HYA/HYA haplotype was more often present in the Ct-DNA−/IgG− group compared with the Ct-DNA+/IgG+ group (OR = 0.37; 95% CI: 0.16−0.87). The +170G (C) allele was associated with increased IgG production (p = 0.048) in C. trachomatis PCR-positive women. This study shows associations for MBL in immune reactions to C. trachomatis. We showed clear associations between MBL2 genotypes, haplotypes, and individuals’ stages of C. trachomatis DNA and IgG positivity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stephan P. Verweij
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, University Medical Centre Utrecht, 3584 CX Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Correspondence:
| | - Remco P. H. Peters
- Research Unit, Foundation for Professional Development, East London 5200, South Africa
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Pretoria, Pretoria P.O. Box 14679, South Africa
| | | | - Henry J. C. de Vries
- Cluster of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service Amsterdam, 1018 WT Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Center for Infection and Immunity Amsterdam (CINIMA), Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Dermatology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Centre for Infectious Diseases Control, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (Rijksinstituut voor Volksgezondheid en Milieu, RIVM), 3720 BA Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | - Sander Ouburg
- Microbe & Lab B.V., 1105 AG Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Servaas A. Morré
- Department of Genetics and Cell Biology, Faculty of Health, Medicine & Life Sciences, Institute of Public Health Genomics, Research Institute GROW, University of Maastricht, 6216 LK Maastricht, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Bommana S, Richards G, Kama M, Kodimerla R, Jijakli K, Read TD, Dean D. Metagenomic Shotgun Sequencing of Endocervical, Vaginal, and Rectal Samples among Fijian Women with and without Chlamydia trachomatis Reveals Disparate Microbial Populations and Function across Anatomic Sites: a Pilot Study. Microbiol Spectr 2022; 10:e0010522. [PMID: 35579443 PMCID: PMC9241848 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.00105-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2022] [Accepted: 04/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Chlamydia trachomatis is a sexually transmitted pathogen and a global public health concern. Little is known about the microbial composition and function across endocervical, vaginal, and rectal microbiomes in the context of C. trachomatis infection. We evaluated the microbiomes of 10 age-matched high-risk Fijian women with and without C. trachomatis using metagenomic shotgun sequencing (MSS). Lactobacillus iners and Lactobacillus crispatus dominated the vagina and endocervix of uninfected women. Species often found in higher relative abundance in bacterial vaginosis (BV)-Mageeibacillus indolicus, Prevotella spp., Sneathia spp., Gardnerella vaginalis, and Veillonellaceae spp.-were dominant in C. trachomatis-infected women. This combination of BV pathogens was unique to Pacific Islanders compared to previously studied groups. The C. trachomatis-infected endocervix had a higher diversity of microbiota and microbial profiles that were somewhat different from those of the vagina. However, community state type III (CST-III) and CST-IV predominated, reflecting pathogenic microbiota regardless of C. trachomatis infection status. Rectal microbiomes were dominated by Prevotella and Bacteroides, although four women had unique microbiomes with Gardnerella, Akkermansia, Bifidobacterium, and Brachyspira. A high level of microbial similarity across microbiomes in two C. trachomatis-infected women suggested intragenitorectal transmission. A number of metabolic pathways in the endocervix, driven by BV pathogens and C. trachomatis to meet nutritional requirements for survival/growth, 5-fold higher than that in the vagina indicated that endocervical microbial functions are likely more diverse and complex than those in the vagina. Our novel findings provide the impetus for larger prospective studies to interrogate microbial/microbiome interactions that promote C. trachomatis infection and better define the unique genitorectal microbiomes of Pacific Islanders. IMPORTANCE Chlamydia trachomatis is the primary cause of bacterial sexually transmitted infections worldwide, with a disturbing increase in annual rates. While there is a plethora of data on healthy and pathogenic vaginal microbiomes-defining microbial profiles and associations with sexually transmitted infections (STIs)-far fewer studies have similarly examined the endocervix or rectum. Further, vulnerable populations, such as Pacific Islanders, remain underrepresented in research. We investigated the microbial composition, structure, and function of these anatomic microbiomes using metagenomic shotgun sequencing among a Fijian cohort. We found, primarily among C. trachomatis-infected women, unique microbial profiles in endocervical, vaginal, and rectal microbiomes with an increased diversity and more complex microbial pathways in endocervical than vaginal microbiomes. Similarities in microbiome composition across sites for some women suggested intragenitorectal transmission. These novel insights into genitorectal microbiomes and their purported function require prospective studies to better define Pacific Islander microbiomes and microbial/microbiome interactions that promote C. trachomatis infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sankhya Bommana
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Francisco, Oakland, California, USA
| | - Gracie Richards
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Francisco, Oakland, California, USA
| | - Mike Kama
- Ministry of Health and Medical Services, Suva, Fiji
| | - Reshma Kodimerla
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Francisco, Oakland, California, USA
| | - Kenan Jijakli
- Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Timothy D. Read
- Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Deborah Dean
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Francisco, Oakland, California, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, Joint Graduate Program, University of California San Francisco and University of California Berkeley, San Francisco, California, USA
- Bixby Center for Global Reproductive Health, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
- Benioff Center for Microbiome Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Abstract
Trachoma is a neglected tropical disease caused by infection with conjunctival strains of Chlamydia trachomatis. It can result in blindness. Pathophysiologically, trachoma is a disease complex composed of two linked chronic processes: a recurrent, generally subclinical infectious-inflammatory disease that mostly affects children, and a non-communicable, cicatricial and, owing to trichiasis, eventually blinding disease that supervenes in some individuals later in life. At least 150 infection episodes over an individual's lifetime are needed to precipitate trichiasis; thus, opportunity exists for a just global health system to intervene to prevent trachomatous blindness. Trachoma is found at highest prevalence in the poorest communities of low-income countries, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa; in June 2021, 1.8 million people worldwide were going blind from the disease. Blindness attributable to trachoma can appear in communities many years after conjunctival C. trachomatis transmission has waned or ceased; therefore, the two linked disease processes require distinct clinical and public health responses. Surgery is offered to individuals with trichiasis and antibiotic mass drug administration and interventions to stimulate facial cleanliness and environmental improvement are designed to reduce infection prevalence and transmission. Together, these interventions comprise the SAFE strategy, which is achieving considerable success. Although much work remains, a continuing public health problem from trachoma in the year 2030 will be difficult for the world to excuse.
Collapse
|
23
|
Heterologous prime-boost vaccination based on Polymorphic protein D protects against intravaginal Chlamydia trachomatis infection in mice. Sci Rep 2022; 12:6664. [PMID: 35459778 PMCID: PMC9030682 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-10633-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
The control of the worldwide spread of sexually transmitted Chlamydia trachomatis (Ct) infection urgently demands the development of a preventive vaccine. In this work, we designed a vaccine based on a fragment of polymorphic protein D (FPmpD) that proved to be immunogenic enough to generate a robust systemic and mucosal IgG humoral immune response in two strains of mice. We used a heterologous prime-boost strategy, including simultaneous systemic and mucosal administration routes. The high titers of anti-PmpD antibodies elicited by this immunization scheme did not affect murine fertility. We tested the vaccine in a mouse model of Ct intravaginal infection. Anti-PmpD antibodies displayed potent neutralizing activity in vitro and protective effects in uterine tissues in vivo. Notably, the humoral immune response of PmpD-vaccinated mice was faster and stronger than the primary immune response of non-vaccinated mice when exposed to Ct. FPmpD-based vaccine effectively reduced Ct shedding into cervicovaginal fluids, bacterial burden at the genitourinary tract, and overall infectivity. Hence, the FPmpD-based vaccine might constitute an efficient tool to protect against Ct intravaginal infection and decrease the infection spreading.
Collapse
|
24
|
Th1 cells are dispensable for primary clearance of Chlamydia from the female reproductive tract of mice. PLoS Pathog 2022; 18:e1010333. [PMID: 35196366 PMCID: PMC8901068 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1010333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2021] [Revised: 03/07/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Protective immune responses to Chlamydia infection within the female reproductive tract (FRT) are incompletely understood. MHC class II-restricted CD4 Th1 responses are believed to be vital for bacterial clearance due to their capacity to secrete IFN-γ, but an essential requirement for T-bet-expressing Th1 cells has yet to be demonstrated in the mouse model of Chlamydia infection. Here, we investigated the role of T-bet and IFN-γ in primary clearance of Chlamydia after FRT infection. Surprisingly, IFN-γ producing CD4 T cells from the FRT expressed low levels of T-bet throughout infection, suggesting that classical T-bet-expressing Th1 cells are inefficiently generated and therefore unlikely to participate in bacteria clearance. Furthermore, mice deficient in T-bet expression or with a CD4-specific T-bet deficiency cleared FRT infection similarly to wild-type controls. T-bet-deficient mice displayed significant skewing of FRT CD4 T cells towards Th17 responses, demonstrating that compensatory effector pathways are generated in the absence of Th1 cells. In marked contrast, IFN-γ-, and IFN-γR-deficient mice were able to reduce FRT bacterial burdens, but suffered systemic bacterial dissemination and 100% mortality. Together, these data demonstrate that IFN-γ signaling is essential to protect mice from fatal systemic disease, but that classical T-bet-expressing Th1 cells are non-essential for primary clearance within the FRT. Exploring the protective contribution of Th1 cells versus other CD4 effector lineages could provide important information for the generation of new Chlamydia vaccines. The production of IFN-γ by CD4 Th1 cells is thought to be critical for the clearance of Chlamydia from the female reproductive tract (FRT), but this has not been formally tested. Here we demonstrate that T-bet+ Th1 cells are not essential for effective Chlamydia clearance. Furthermore, the impact of IFN-γ deficiency or depletion is largely observed as a failure to control bacterial dissemination, rather than clearance from the FRT. Together, these data suggest that different immunological mechanisms are responsible for restraining systemic spread of bacteria versus FRT control. Defining alternative non-Th1 CD4 effector mechanisms that are responsible for controlling Chlamydia replication within the FRT could be foundational for future vaccine development.
Collapse
|
25
|
Seleem MA, Wood NA, Brinkworth AJ, Manam S, Carabeo RA, Murthy AK, Ouellette SP, Conda-Sheridan M. In Vitro and In Vivo Activity of (Trifluoromethyl)pyridines as Anti- Chlamydia trachomatis Agents. ACS Infect Dis 2022; 8:227-241. [PMID: 34935346 PMCID: PMC9516413 DOI: 10.1021/acsinfecdis.1c00553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Chlamydia trachomatis is the leading pathogen in sexually transmitted bacterial infections across the globe. The development of a selective treatment against this pathogen could be an attractive therapeutic option that will reduce the overuse of broad-spectrum antibiotics. Previously, we reported some sulfonylpyridine-based compounds that showed selectivity against C. trachomatis. Here, we describe a set of related compounds that display enhanced anti-chlamydial potency when compared to our early leads. We found that the active molecules are bactericidal and have no impact on Staphylococcus aureus or Escherichia coli strains. Importantly, the molecules were not toxic to mammalian cells. Furthermore, a combination of molecule 20 (the most active molecule) and azithromycin at subinhibitory concentrations acted synergistically to inhibit chlamydial growth. Molecule 20 also eradicated Chlamydia in a 3D infection model and accelerated the recovery of Chlamydia-infected mice. This work presents compounds that could be further developed to be used alone or in combination with existing treatment regimens against chlamydial infections.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed A. Seleem
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska 68198, United States
| | - Nicholas A. Wood
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska 68198, United States
| | - Amanda J. Brinkworth
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska 68198, United States
| | - Srikanth Manam
- Department of Pathology and Population Medicine, Midwestern University, Glendale, Arizona 85308, United States
| | - Rey A. Carabeo
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska 68198, United States
| | - Ashlesh K. Murthy
- Department of Pathology and Population Medicine, Midwestern University, Glendale, Arizona 85308, United States
| | - Scot P. Ouellette
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska 68198, United States
| | - Martin Conda-Sheridan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska 68198, United States
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Webster E, Seiger KW, Core SB, Collar AL, Knapp-Broas H, Graham J, Shrestha M, Afzaal S, Geisler WM, Wheeler CM, Chackerian B, Frietze KM, Lijek RS. Immunogenicity and Protective Capacity of a Virus-like Particle Vaccine against Chlamydia trachomatis Type 3 Secretion System Tip Protein, CT584. Vaccines (Basel) 2022; 10:vaccines10010111. [PMID: 35062772 PMCID: PMC8779370 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines10010111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Revised: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/07/2022] [Indexed: 10/28/2022] Open
Abstract
An effective vaccine against Chlamydia trachomatis is urgently needed as infection rates continue to rise and C. trachomatis causes reproductive morbidity. An obligate intracellular pathogen, C. trachomatis employs a type 3 secretion system (T3SS) for host cell entry. The tip of the injectosome is composed of the protein CT584, which represents a potential target for neutralization with vaccine-induced antibody. Here, we investigate the immunogenicity and efficacy of a vaccine made of CT584 epitopes coupled to a bacteriophage virus-like particle (VLP), a novel platform for Chlamydia vaccines modeled on the success of HPV vaccines. Female mice were immunized intramuscularly, challenged transcervically with C. trachomatis, and assessed for systemic and local antibody responses and bacterial burden in the upper genital tract. Immunization resulted in a 3-log increase in epitope-specific IgG in serum and uterine homogenates and in the detection of epitope-specific IgG in uterine lavage at low levels. By contrast, sera from women infected with C. trachomatis and virgin controls had similarly low titers to CT584 epitopes, suggesting these epitopes are not systemically immunogenic during natural infection but can be rendered immunogenic by the VLP platform. C. trachomatis burden in the upper genital tract of mice varied after active immunization, yet passive protection was achieved when immune sera were pre-incubated with C. trachomatis prior to inoculation into the genital tract. These data demonstrate the potential for antibody against the T3SS to contribute to protection against C. trachomatis and the value of VLPs as a novel platform for C. trachomatis vaccines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Everett Webster
- Department of Biological Sciences, Mount Holyoke College, 50 College St., South Hadley, MA 01075, USA; (E.W.); (K.W.S.); (H.K.-B.); (J.G.); (M.S.); (S.A.)
| | - Kyra W. Seiger
- Department of Biological Sciences, Mount Holyoke College, 50 College St., South Hadley, MA 01075, USA; (E.W.); (K.W.S.); (H.K.-B.); (J.G.); (M.S.); (S.A.)
| | - Susan B. Core
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, School of Medicine, University of New Mexico, MSC 08-4660, 1 University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA; (S.B.C.); (A.L.C.); (B.C.); (K.M.F.)
| | - Amanda L. Collar
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, School of Medicine, University of New Mexico, MSC 08-4660, 1 University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA; (S.B.C.); (A.L.C.); (B.C.); (K.M.F.)
| | - Hannah Knapp-Broas
- Department of Biological Sciences, Mount Holyoke College, 50 College St., South Hadley, MA 01075, USA; (E.W.); (K.W.S.); (H.K.-B.); (J.G.); (M.S.); (S.A.)
| | - June Graham
- Department of Biological Sciences, Mount Holyoke College, 50 College St., South Hadley, MA 01075, USA; (E.W.); (K.W.S.); (H.K.-B.); (J.G.); (M.S.); (S.A.)
| | - Muskan Shrestha
- Department of Biological Sciences, Mount Holyoke College, 50 College St., South Hadley, MA 01075, USA; (E.W.); (K.W.S.); (H.K.-B.); (J.G.); (M.S.); (S.A.)
| | - Sarah Afzaal
- Department of Biological Sciences, Mount Holyoke College, 50 College St., South Hadley, MA 01075, USA; (E.W.); (K.W.S.); (H.K.-B.); (J.G.); (M.S.); (S.A.)
| | - William M. Geisler
- Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 703 19th St. S, ZRB 242, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA;
| | - Cosette M. Wheeler
- Center for HPV Prevention, University of New Mexico Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, MSC 08-4640, 1 University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA;
| | - Bryce Chackerian
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, School of Medicine, University of New Mexico, MSC 08-4660, 1 University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA; (S.B.C.); (A.L.C.); (B.C.); (K.M.F.)
| | - Kathryn M. Frietze
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, School of Medicine, University of New Mexico, MSC 08-4660, 1 University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA; (S.B.C.); (A.L.C.); (B.C.); (K.M.F.)
- Clinical and Translational Science Center, University of New Mexico Health Sciences, MSC 08-4635, 1 University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA
| | - Rebeccah S. Lijek
- Department of Biological Sciences, Mount Holyoke College, 50 College St., South Hadley, MA 01075, USA; (E.W.); (K.W.S.); (H.K.-B.); (J.G.); (M.S.); (S.A.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-(413)-538-2487
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Dimond ZE, Suchland RJ, Baid S, LaBrie SD, Soules KR, Stanley J, Carrell S, Kwong F, Wang Y, Rockey DD, Hybiske K, Hefty PS. Inter-species lateral gene transfer focused on the Chlamydia plasticity zone identifies loci associated with immediate cytotoxicity and inclusion stability. Mol Microbiol 2021; 116:1433-1448. [PMID: 34738268 PMCID: PMC9119408 DOI: 10.1111/mmi.14832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Accepted: 10/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Chlamydia muridarum actively grows in murine mucosae and is a representative model of human chlamydial genital tract disease. In contrast, C. trachomatis infections in mice are limited and rarely cause disease. The factors that contribute to these differences in host adaptation and specificity remain elusive. Overall genomic similarity leads to challenges in the understanding of these significant differences in tropism. A region of major genetic divergence termed the plasticity zone (PZ) has been hypothesized to contribute to the host specificity. To evaluate this hypothesis, lateral gene transfer was used to generate multiple hetero-genomic strains that are predominately C. trachomatis but have replaced regions of the PZ with those from C. muridarum. In vitro analysis of these chimeras revealed C. trachomatis-like growth as well as poor mouse infection capabilities. Growth-independent cytotoxicity phenotypes have been ascribed to three large putative cytotoxins (LCT) encoded in the C. muridarum PZ. However, analysis of PZ chimeras supported that gene products other than the LCTs are responsible for cytopathic and cytotoxic phenotypes. Growth analysis of associated chimeras also led to the discovery of an inclusion protein, CTL0402 (CT147), and homolog TC0424, which was critical for the integrity of the inclusion and preventing apoptosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zoe E. Dimond
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas, USA
| | - Robert J. Suchland
- Division of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Srishti Baid
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas, USA
| | - Scott D. LaBrie
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas, USA
| | - Katelyn R. Soules
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas, USA
| | - Jacob Stanley
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas, USA
| | - Steven Carrell
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon, USA
| | - Forrest Kwong
- Division of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Yibing Wang
- Division of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Daniel D. Rockey
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon, USA
| | - Kevin Hybiske
- Division of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - P. Scott Hefty
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas, USA
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Vaginal delivery of vaccines. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2021; 178:113956. [PMID: 34481031 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2021.113956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2021] [Revised: 08/06/2021] [Accepted: 08/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Recent estimates suggest that one in two sexually active individuals will acquire a sexually transmitted infection by age 25, an alarming statistic that amounts to over 1 million new infections per day worldwide. Vaccination against STIs is highly desirable for alleviating this global burden of disease. Vaginal immunization is a promising strategy to combat transmission via the vaginal mucosa. The vagina is typically considered a poor inductive site for common correlates of adaptive immunity. However, emerging evidence suggests that immune tolerance may be overcome by precisely engineered vaccination schemes that orchestrate cell-mediated immunity and establish tissue resident memory immune cells. In this review, we will discuss the unique immunological milieu of the vaginal mucosa and our current understanding of correlates of pathogenesis and protection for several common STIs. We then present a summary of recent vaginal vaccine studies and explore the role that mucosal adjuvants and delivery systems play in enhancing protection according to requisite features of immunity. Finally, we offer perspectives on the challenges and future directions of vaginal vaccine delivery, discussing remaining physiological barriers and innovative vaccine formulations that may overcome them.
Collapse
|
29
|
The Reaction of Innate Lymphoid Cells in the Mouse Female Genital Tract to Chlamydial Infection. Infect Immun 2021; 89:e0080020. [PMID: 34424753 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00800-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) comprise five distinct subsets. ILCs are found at mucosal barriers and may fight invading pathogens. Chlamydia is an intracellular bacterium that infects the mucosa of the genital tract and can cause severe tissue damage. Here, we used a mouse infection model with Chlamydia muridarum to measure the reaction of genital tract ILCs to the infection. Tissue-resident natural killer (NK) cells were the largest group in the uninfected female genital tract, and their number did not substantially change. Conventional NK cells were present in the greatest numbers during acute infection, while ILC1s continuously increased to high numbers. ILC2 and ILC3s were found at lower numbers that oscillated by a factor of 2 to 4. The majority of ILC3s transdifferentiated into ILC1s. NK cells and ILC1s produced gamma interferon (IFN-γ) and, rarely, tumor necrosis factor (TNF), but only early in the infection. Lack of B and T cells increased ILC numbers, while the loss of myeloid cells decreased them. ILCs accumulated to a high density in the oviduct, a main site of tissue destruction. ILC subsets are part of the inflammatory and immune reaction during infection with C. muridarum and may contribute to tissue damage during chlamydial infection.
Collapse
|
30
|
Amaral AF, McQueen BE, Bellingham-Johnstun K, Poston TB, Darville T, Nagarajan UM, Laplante C, Käser T. Host-Pathogen Interactions of Chlamydia trachomatis in Porcine Oviduct Epithelial Cells. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10101270. [PMID: 34684219 PMCID: PMC8540921 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10101270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2021] [Revised: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Chlamydia trachomatis (Ct) causes the most prevalent bacterial sexually transmitted disease leading to ectopic pregnancy and infertility. Swine not only have many similarities to humans, but they are also susceptible to Ct. Despite these benefits and the ease of access to primary tissue from this food animal, in vitro research in swine has been underutilized. This study will provide basic understanding of the Ct host–pathogen interactions in porcine oviduct epithelial cells (pOECs)—the counterparts of human Fallopian tube epithelial cells. Using NanoString technology, flow cytometry, and confocal and transmission-electron microscopy, we studied the Ct developmental cycle in pOECs, the cellular immune response, and the expression and location of the tight junction protein claudin-4. We show that Ct productively completes its developmental cycle in pOECs and induces an immune response to Ct similar to human cells: Ct mainly induced the upregulation of interferon regulated genes and T-cell attracting chemokines. Furthermore, Ct infection induced an accumulation of claudin-4 in the Ct inclusion with a coinciding reduction of membrane-bound claudin-4. Downstream effects of the reduced membrane-bound claudin-4 expression could potentially include a reduction in tight-junction expression, impaired epithelial barrier function as well as increased susceptibility to co-infections. Thereby, this study justifies the investigation of the effect of Ct on tight junctions and the mucosal epithelial barrier function. Taken together, this study demonstrates that primary pOECs represent an excellent in vitro model for research into Ct pathogenesis, cell biology and immunity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amanda F. Amaral
- Department of Population Health and Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, 1060 William Moore Drive, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA;
- Comparative Medicine Institute, North Carolina State University, 1060 William Moore Drive, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA
| | - Bryan E. McQueen
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of North Carolina, 116 Manning Drive, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; (B.E.M.); (T.D.)
| | - Kimberly Bellingham-Johnstun
- Department of Molecular Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, 1060 William Moore Drive, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA; (K.B.-J.); (C.L.)
| | - Taylor B. Poston
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina, 116 Manning Drive, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; (T.B.P.); (U.M.N.)
| | - Toni Darville
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of North Carolina, 116 Manning Drive, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; (B.E.M.); (T.D.)
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina, 116 Manning Drive, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; (T.B.P.); (U.M.N.)
| | - Uma M. Nagarajan
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina, 116 Manning Drive, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; (T.B.P.); (U.M.N.)
| | - Caroline Laplante
- Department of Molecular Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, 1060 William Moore Drive, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA; (K.B.-J.); (C.L.)
| | - Tobias Käser
- Department of Population Health and Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, 1060 William Moore Drive, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA;
- Comparative Medicine Institute, North Carolina State University, 1060 William Moore Drive, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-919-513-6352
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Yang C, Lei L, Collins JWM, Briones M, Ma L, Sturdevant GL, Su H, Kashyap AK, Dorward D, Bock KW, Moore IN, Bonner C, Chen CY, Martens CA, Ricklefs S, Yamamoto M, Takeda K, Iwakura Y, McClarty G, Caldwell HD. Chlamydia evasion of neutrophil host defense results in NLRP3 dependent myeloid-mediated sterile inflammation through the purinergic P2X7 receptor. Nat Commun 2021; 12:5454. [PMID: 34526512 PMCID: PMC8443728 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-25749-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2020] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Chlamydia trachomatis infection causes severe inflammatory disease resulting in blindness and infertility. The pathophysiology of these diseases remains elusive but myeloid cell-associated inflammation has been implicated. Here we show NLRP3 inflammasome activation is essential for driving a macrophage-associated endometritis resulting in infertility by using a female mouse genital tract chlamydial infection model. We find the chlamydial parasitophorous vacuole protein CT135 triggers NLRP3 inflammasome activation via TLR2/MyD88 signaling as a pathogenic strategy to evade neutrophil host defense. Paradoxically, a consequence of CT135 mediated neutrophil killing results in a submucosal macrophage-associated endometritis driven by ATP/P2X7R induced NLRP3 inflammasome activation. Importantly, macrophage-associated immunopathology occurs independent of macrophage infection. We show chlamydial infection of neutrophils and epithelial cells produce elevated levels of extracellular ATP. We propose this source of ATP serves as a DAMP to activate submucosal macrophage NLRP3 inflammasome that drive damaging immunopathology. These findings offer a paradigm of sterile inflammation in infectious disease pathogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chunfu Yang
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology and Microbiology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Lei Lei
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology and Microbiology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - John W Marshall Collins
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology and Microbiology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Michael Briones
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology and Microbiology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Li Ma
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology and Microbiology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Gail L Sturdevant
- Laboratory of Virology, Rocky Mountain Laboratories, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Hamilton, MT, USA
| | - Hua Su
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology and Microbiology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Anuj K Kashyap
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology and Microbiology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - David Dorward
- Research Technology Branch, Rocky Mountain Laboratories, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Hamilton, MT, USA
| | - Kevin W Bock
- Infectious Disease Pathogenesis Section, Comparative Medicine Branch, National Institutes of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Ian N Moore
- Infectious Disease Pathogenesis Section, Comparative Medicine Branch, National Institutes of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Christine Bonner
- National Microbiology Laboratory, Public Health Agency of Canada, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Chih-Yu Chen
- National Microbiology Laboratory, Public Health Agency of Canada, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Craig A Martens
- Genomics Unit, Research Technology Branch, Rocky Mountain Laboratories, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Hamilton, MT, USA
| | - Stacy Ricklefs
- Genomics Unit, Research Technology Branch, Rocky Mountain Laboratories, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Hamilton, MT, USA
| | - Masahiro Yamamoto
- Department of Immunoparasitology, Research Institute for Microbial Diseases (RIMD), Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Kiyoshi Takeda
- Laboratory of Mucosal Immunology, WPI Immunology Frontier Research Center, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Yoichiro Iwakura
- Institute for Biomedical Sciences, Tokyo University of Science, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Grant McClarty
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Harlan D Caldwell
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology and Microbiology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Greydanus DE, Cabral MD, Patel DR. Pelvic inflammatory disease in the adolescent and young adult: An update. Dis Mon 2021; 68:101287. [PMID: 34521505 DOI: 10.1016/j.disamonth.2021.101287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is an infection of the female upper genital tract that is typically polymicrobial with classic core involvement of Neisseria gonorrhoeae and/or Chlamydia trachomatis, though other endogenous flora from the vagino-cervical areas can be involved as well. It is often a sexually transmitted disease but other etiologic routes are also noted. A variety of risk factors have been identified including adolescence, young adulthood, adolescent cervical ectropion, multiple sexual partners, immature immune system, history of previous PID, risky contraceptive practices and others. An early diagnosis and prompt treatment are necessary to reduce risks of PID complications such as chronic pelvic pain, ectopic pregnancy and infertility. Current management principles of PID are also reviewed. It is important for clinicians to screen sexually active females for common sexually transmitted infections such as Chlamydia trachomatis and provide safer sex education to their adolescent and young adult patients. Clinicians should provide comprehensive management to persons with PID and utilize established guidelines such as those from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Donald E Greydanus
- Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Western Michigan University, Homer Stryker M.D. School of Medicine, 1000 Oakland Drive, Kalamazoo, Michigan, 49008, United States of America.
| | - Maria Demma Cabral
- Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Western Michigan University, Homer Stryker M.D. School of Medicine, 1000 Oakland Drive, Kalamazoo, Michigan, 49008, United States of America.
| | - Dilip R Patel
- Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Western Michigan University, Homer Stryker M.D. School of Medicine, 1000 Oakland Drive, Kalamazoo, Michigan, 49008, United States of America.
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Callan T, Woodcock S, Huston WM. Ascension of Chlamydia is moderated by uterine peristalsis and the neutrophil response to infection. PLoS Comput Biol 2021; 17:e1009365. [PMID: 34492008 PMCID: PMC8448331 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pcbi.1009365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2020] [Revised: 09/17/2021] [Accepted: 08/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Chlamydia trachomatis is a common sexually transmitted infection that is associated with a range of serious reproductive tract sequelae including in women Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID), tubal factor infertility, and ectopic pregnancy. Ascension of the pathogen beyond the cervix and into the upper reproductive tract is thought to be necessary for these pathologies. However, Chlamydia trachomatis does not encode a mechanism for movement on its genome, and so the processes that facilitate ascension have not been elucidated. Here, we evaluate the factors that may influence chlamydial ascension in women. We constructed a mathematical model based on a set of stochastic dynamics to elucidate the moderating factors that might influence ascension of infections in the first month of an infection. In the simulations conducted from the stochastic model, 36% of infections ascended, but only 9% had more than 1000 bacteria ascend. The results of the simulations indicated that infectious load and the peristaltic contractions moderate ascension and are inter-related in impact. Smaller initial loads were much more likely to ascend. Ascension was found to be dependent on the neutrophil response. Overall, our results indicate that infectious load, menstrual cycle timing, and the neutrophil response are critical factors in chlamydial ascension in women.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Torrington Callan
- Faculty of Science, School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Stephen Woodcock
- Faculty of Science, School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Wilhelmina May Huston
- Faculty of Science, School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Yang X, Siddique A, Khan AA, Wang Q, Malik A, Jan AT, Rudayni HA, Chaudhary AA, Khan S. Chlamydia Trachomatis Infection: Their potential implication in the Etiology of Cervical Cancer. J Cancer 2021; 12:4891-4900. [PMID: 34234859 PMCID: PMC8247366 DOI: 10.7150/jca.58582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2021] [Accepted: 05/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Pathogenic bacterial strains can alter the normal function of cells and induce different levels of inflammatory responses that are connected to the development of different diseases, such as tuberculosis, diarrhea, cancer etc. Chlamydia trachomatis (C. trachomatis) is an intracellular obligate gram-negative bacterium which has been connected with the cervical cancer etiology. Nevertheless, establishment of causality and the underlying mechanisms of carcinogenesis of cervical cancer associated with C. trachomatis remain unclear. Studies reveal the existence of C. trachomatis in cervical cancer patients. The DNA repair pathways including mismatch repair, nucleotide excision, and base excision are vital in the abatement of accumulated mutations that can direct to the process of carcinogenesis. C. trachomatis recruits DDR proteins away from sites of DNA damage and, in this way, impedes the DDR. Therefore, by disturbing host cell-cycle control, chromatin and DDR repair, C. trachomatis makes a situation favorable for malignant transformation. Inflammation originated due to infection directs over production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and consequent oxidative DNA damage. This review may aid our current understanding of the etiology of cervical cancer in C. trachomatis-infected patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xingju Yang
- Department of Nursing, Jinan People's Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong 271199, China
| | - Anam Siddique
- Department of Biosciences, Shri Ram Group of College (SRGC), Muzaffarnagar 251001, India
| | - Abdul Arif Khan
- Division of Microbiology, Indian Council of Medical Research-National AIDS Research Institute, Pune, Maharashtra, India
| | - Qian Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jinan Fifth People's Hospital, Jinan, Shandong, 250022, China
| | - Abdul Malik
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, P.O. Box 2457, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Arif Tasleem Jan
- School of Biosciences and Biotechnology, Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah University, Rajouri 185236, India
| | - Hassan Ahmed Rudayni
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU), Riyadh 11623, Saudi Arabia
| | - Anis Ahmad Chaudhary
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU), Riyadh 11623, Saudi Arabia
| | - Shahanavaj Khan
- Department of Biosciences, Shri Ram Group of College (SRGC), Muzaffarnagar 251001, India
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, P.O. Box 2457, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Health Sciences, Novel Global Community Educational Foundation, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Abstract
Spotted fever group rickettsioses (SFRs) are devastating human infections. Vascular endothelial cells (ECs) are the primary targets of rickettsial infection. Edema resulting from EC barrier dysfunction occurs in the brain and lungs in most cases of lethal SFR, but the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. The aim of the study was to explore the potential role of Rickettsia-infected, EC-derived exosomes (Exos) during infection. Using size exclusion chromatography (SEC), we purified Exos from conditioned, filtered, bacterium-free media collected from Rickettsia parkeri-infected human umbilical vein ECs (HUVECs) (R-ECExos) and plasma of Rickettsia australis- or R. parkeri-infected mice (R-plsExos). We observed that rickettsial infection increased the release of heterogeneous plsExos, but endothelial exosomal size, morphology, and production were not significantly altered following infection. Compared to normal plsExos and ECExos, both R-plsExos and R-ECExos induced dysfunction of recipient normal brain microvascular ECs (BMECs). The effect of R-plsExos on mouse recipient BMEC barrier function is dose dependent. The effect of R-ECExos on human recipient BMEC barrier function is dependent on the exosomal RNA cargo. Next-generation sequencing analysis and stem-loop quantitative reverse transcription-PCR (RT-qPCR) validation revealed that rickettsial infection triggered the selective enrichment of endothelial exosomal mir-23a and mir-30b, which potentially target the endothelial barrier. To our knowledge, this is the first report on the functional role of extracellular vesicles following infection by obligately intracellular bacteria.
Collapse
|
36
|
Lundy SR, Abney K, Ellerson D, Igietseme JU, Carroll D, Eko FO, Omosun YO. MiR-378b Modulates Chlamydia-Induced Upper Genital Tract Pathology. Pathogens 2021; 10:566. [PMID: 34067003 PMCID: PMC8151610 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10050566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2021] [Revised: 05/01/2021] [Accepted: 05/03/2021] [Indexed: 04/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Genital Chlamydia trachomatis infection causes severe reproductive pathologies such as salpingitis and pelvic inflammatory disease that can lead to tubal factor infertility. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are evolutionarily conserved regulators of mammalian gene expression in development, immunity and pathophysiologic processes during inflammation and infection, including Chlamydia infection. Among the miRNAs involved in regulating host responses and pathologic outcome of Chlamydia infection, we have shown that miR-378b was significantly differentially expressed during primary infection and reinfection. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that miR-378b is involved in the pathological outcome of Chlamydia infection. We developed miR-378b knockout mice (miR-378b-/-) using Crispr/Cas and infected them along with their wild-type (WT) control with Chlamydia to compare the infectivity and reproductive pathologies. The results showed that miR-378b-/- mice were unable to clear the infection compared to WT mice; also, miR-378b-/- mice exhibited a relatively higher Chlamydia burden throughout the duration of infection. However, gross pathology results showed that miR-378b-/- mice had significantly reduced uterine dilatations and pathologic lesions after two infections compared to WT mice. In addition, the pregnancy and fertility rates for infected miR-378b-/- mice showed protection from Chlamydia-induced infertility with fertility rate that was comparable to uninfected WT mice. These results are intriguing as they suggest that miR-378b is important in regulating host immune responses that control Chlamydial replication and drive the inflammation that causes complications such as infertility. The finding has important implications for biomarkers of Chlamydial complications and targets for prevention of disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie R. Lundy
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry & Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30310, USA; (S.R.L.); (K.A.); (J.U.I.); (F.O.E.)
| | - Kobe Abney
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry & Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30310, USA; (S.R.L.); (K.A.); (J.U.I.); (F.O.E.)
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Spelman College, Atlanta, GA 30310, USA
| | - Debra Ellerson
- Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), Atlanta, GA 30333, USA; (D.E.); (D.C.)
| | - Joseph U. Igietseme
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry & Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30310, USA; (S.R.L.); (K.A.); (J.U.I.); (F.O.E.)
- Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), Atlanta, GA 30333, USA; (D.E.); (D.C.)
| | - Darin Carroll
- Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), Atlanta, GA 30333, USA; (D.E.); (D.C.)
| | - Francis O. Eko
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry & Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30310, USA; (S.R.L.); (K.A.); (J.U.I.); (F.O.E.)
| | - Yusuf O. Omosun
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry & Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30310, USA; (S.R.L.); (K.A.); (J.U.I.); (F.O.E.)
- Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), Atlanta, GA 30333, USA; (D.E.); (D.C.)
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Pillay J, Wingert A, MacGregor T, Gates M, Vandermeer B, Hartling L. Screening for chlamydia and/or gonorrhea in primary health care: systematic reviews on effectiveness and patient preferences. Syst Rev 2021; 10:118. [PMID: 33879251 PMCID: PMC8056106 DOI: 10.1186/s13643-021-01658-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2019] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND We conducted systematic reviews on the benefits and harms of screening compared with no screening or alternative screening approaches for Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) and Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG) in non-pregnant sexually active individuals, and on the relative importance patients' place on the relevant outcomes. Findings will inform recommendations by the Canadian Task Force on Preventive Health Care. METHODS We searched five databases (to January 24, 2020), trial registries, conference proceedings, and reference lists for English and French literature published since 1996. Screening, study selection, and risk of bias assessments were independently undertaken by two reviewers, with consensus for final decisions. Data extraction was conducted by one reviewer and checked by another for accuracy and completeness. Meta-analysis was conducted where appropriate. We used the GRADE approach to rate the certainty of the evidence. The Task Force and content experts provided input on determining thresholds for important effect sizes and on interpretation of findings. RESULTS Of 41 included studies, 17 and 11 reported on benefits and harms of screening, respectively, and 14 reported on patient preferences. Universal screening for CT in general populations 16 to 29 years of age, using population-based or opportunistic approaches achieving low screening rates, may make little-to-no difference for a female's risk of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) (2 RCTs, n=141,362; 0.3 more in 1000 [7.6 fewer to 11 more]) or ectopic pregnancy (1 RCT, n=15,459; 0.20 more per 1000 [2.2 fewer to 3.9 more]). It may also not make a difference for CT transmission (3 RCTs, n=41,709; 3 fewer per 1000 [11.5 fewer to 6.9 more]). However, benefits may be achieved for reducing PID if screening rates are increased (2 trials, n=30,652; 5.7 fewer per 1000 [10.8 fewer to 1.1 more]), and for reducing CT and NG transmission when intensely screening high-prevalence female populations (2 trials, n=6127; 34.3 fewer per 1000 [4 to 58 fewer]; NNS 29 [17 to 250]). Evidence on infertility in females from CT screening and on transmission of NG in males and both sexes from screening for CT and NG is very uncertain. No evidence was found for cervicitis, chronic pelvic pain, or infertility in males from CT screening, or on any clinical outcomes from NG screening. Undergoing screening, or having a diagnosis of CT, may cause a small-to-moderate number of people to experience some degree of harm, mainly due to feelings of stigmatization and anxiety about future infertility risk. The number of individuals affected in the entire screening-eligible population is likely smaller. Screening may make little-to-no difference for general anxiety, self-esteem, or relationship break-up. Evidence on transmission from studies comparing home versus clinic screening is very uncertain. Four studies on patient preferences found that although utility values for the different consequences of CT and NG infections are probably quite similar, when considering the duration of the health state experiences, infertility and chronic pelvic pain are probably valued much more than PID, ectopic pregnancy, and cervicitis. How patients weigh the potential benefits versus harms of screening is very uncertain (1 survey, 10 qualitative studies); risks to reproductive health and transmission appear to be more important than the (often transient) psychosocial harms. DISCUSSION Most of the evidence on screening for CT and/or NG offers low or very low certainty about the benefits and harms. Indirectness from use of comparison groups receiving some screening, incomplete outcome ascertainment, and use of outreach settings was a major contributor to uncertainty. Patient preferences indicate that the potential benefits from screening appear to outweigh the possible harms. Direct evidence about which screening strategies and intervals to use, which age to start and stop screening, and whether screening males in addition to females is necessary to prevent clinical outcomes is scarce, and further research in these areas would be informative. Apart from the evidence in this review, information on factors related to equity, acceptability, implementation, cost/resources, and feasibility will support recommendations made by the Task Force. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO), registration number CRD42018100733 .
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Pillay
- Alberta Research Centre for Health Evidence, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, 11405 87 Avenue, Edmonton, Alberta, T6G 1C9, Canada.
| | - Aireen Wingert
- Alberta Research Centre for Health Evidence, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, 11405 87 Avenue, Edmonton, Alberta, T6G 1C9, Canada
| | - Tara MacGregor
- Alberta Research Centre for Health Evidence, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, 11405 87 Avenue, Edmonton, Alberta, T6G 1C9, Canada
| | - Michelle Gates
- Alberta Research Centre for Health Evidence, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, 11405 87 Avenue, Edmonton, Alberta, T6G 1C9, Canada
| | - Ben Vandermeer
- Alberta Research Centre for Health Evidence, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, 11405 87 Avenue, Edmonton, Alberta, T6G 1C9, Canada
| | - Lisa Hartling
- Alberta Research Centre for Health Evidence, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, 11405 87 Avenue, Edmonton, Alberta, T6G 1C9, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Keck J, Chambers JP, Yu JJ, Cheng X, Christenson LK, Guentzel MN, Gupta R, Arulanandam BP. Modulation of Immune Response to Chlamydia muridarum by Host miR-135a. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2021; 11:638058. [PMID: 33928045 PMCID: PMC8076868 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2021.638058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Previously, our laboratory established the role of small, noncoding RNA species, i.e., microRNA (miRNA) including miR-135a in anti-chlamydial immunity in infected hosts. We report here chlamydial infection results in decreased miR-135a expression in mouse genital tissue and a fibroblast cell line. Several chemokine and chemokine receptor genes (including CXCL10, CCR5) associated with chlamydial pathogenesis were identified in silico to contain putative miR-135a binding sequence(s) in the 3' untranslated region. The role of miR-135a in the host immune response was investigated using exogenous miR-135a mimic to restore the immune phenotype associated with decreased miR-135a following Chlamydia muridarum (Cm) infection. We observed miR-135a regulation of Cm-primed bone marrow derived dendritic cells (BMDC) via activation of Cm-immune CD4+ T cells for clonal expansion and CCR5 expression. Using a transwell cell migration assay, we explore the role of miR-135a in regulation of genital tract CXCL10 expression and recruitment of CXCR3+ CD4+ T cells via the CXCL10/CXCR3 axis. Collectively, data reported here support miR-135a affecting multiple cellular processes in response to chlamydial infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jonathon Keck
- South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, Department of Biology, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, United States
| | - James P Chambers
- South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, Department of Biology, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, United States
| | - Jieh-Juen Yu
- South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, Department of Biology, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, United States
| | - Xingguo Cheng
- Department of Materials & Bioengineering, Southwest Research Institute, San Antonio, TX, United States
| | - Lane K Christenson
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, United States
| | - M N Guentzel
- South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, Department of Biology, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, United States
| | - Rishein Gupta
- South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, Department of Biology, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, United States
| | - Bernard P Arulanandam
- South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, Department of Biology, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, United States
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Poli-Neto OB, Carlos D, Favaretto A, Rosa-E-Silva JC, Meola J, Tiezzi D. Eutopic endometrium from women with endometriosis and chlamydial endometritis share immunological cell types and DNA repair imbalance: A transcriptome meta-analytical perspective. J Reprod Immunol 2021; 145:103307. [PMID: 33725527 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2021.103307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2020] [Revised: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to identify the key similarities between the eutopic endometrium of women with endometriosis and chlamydia-induced endometritis taking into account tissue microenvironment heterogeneity, transcript gene profile, and enriched pathways. A meta-analysis of whole transcriptome microarrays was performed using publicly available data, including samples containing both glandular and stromal endometrial components. Control samples were obtained from women without any reported pathological condition. Only samples obtained during the proliferative menstrual phase were included. Cellular tissue heterogeneity was predicted using a method that integrates gene set enrichment and deconvolution approaches. The batch effect was estimated by principal variant component analysis and removed using an empirical Bayes method. Differentially expressed genes were identified using an adjusted p-value < 0.05 and fold change = 1.5. The protein-protein interaction network was built using the STRING database and interaction score over 400. The Molecular Signatures Database was used to analyse the functional enrichment analysis. Both conditions showed similarities in cell types in the microenvironment, particularly CD4+ and CD8+ Tem cells, NKT cells, Th2 cells, basophils, and eosinophils. With regards to the regulation of cellular senescence and DNA integrity/damage checkpoint, which are commonly enriched pathways, 21 genes were down-regulated and directly related to DNA repair. Compared to the endometriosis samples, some chlamydial endometritis samples presented a lack of enriched immune pathways. Our results suggest that both conditions show similar distributions of microenvironment cell types, the downregulation of genes involved in DNA repair and cell cycle control, and pathways involved in immune response evasion.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Omero Benedicto Poli-Neto
- Gynecological and Obstetrics Department, Ribeirão Preto Medical School of the University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, 14049-900, SP, Brazil.
| | - Daniela Carlos
- Biochemistry and Immunology Department, Ribeirão Preto Medical School of the University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, 14049-900, Brazil
| | - Aureo Favaretto
- Gynecological and Obstetrics Department, Ribeirão Preto Medical School of the University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, 14049-900, SP, Brazil
| | - Julio Cesar Rosa-E-Silva
- Gynecological and Obstetrics Department, Ribeirão Preto Medical School of the University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, 14049-900, SP, Brazil
| | - Juliana Meola
- Gynecological and Obstetrics Department, Ribeirão Preto Medical School of the University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, 14049-900, SP, Brazil
| | - Daniel Tiezzi
- Gynecological and Obstetrics Department, Ribeirão Preto Medical School of the University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, 14049-900, SP, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Merselis LC, Rivas ZP, Munson GP. Breaching the Bacterial Envelope: The Pivotal Role of Perforin-2 (MPEG1) Within Phagocytes. Front Immunol 2021; 12:597951. [PMID: 33692780 PMCID: PMC7937864 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.597951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2020] [Accepted: 01/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The membrane attack complex (MAC) of the complement system and Perforin-1 are well characterized innate immune effectors. MAC is composed of C9 and other complement proteins that target the envelope of gram-negative bacteria. Perforin-1 is deployed when killer lymphocytes degranulate to destroy virally infected or cancerous cells. These molecules polymerize with MAC-perforin/cholesterol-dependent cytolysin (MACPF/CDC) domains of each monomer deploying amphipathic β-strands to form pores through target lipid bilayers. In this review we discuss one of the most recently discovered members of this family; Perforin-2, the product of the Mpeg1 gene. Since their initial description more than 100 years ago, innumerable studies have made macrophages and other phagocytes some of the best understood cells of the immune system. Yet remarkably it was only recently revealed that Perforin-2 underpins a pivotal function of phagocytes; the destruction of phagocytosed microbes. Several studies have established that phagocytosed bacteria persist and in some cases flourish within phagocytes that lack Perforin-2. When challenged with either gram-negative or gram-positive pathogens Mpeg1 knockout mice succumb to infectious doses that the majority of wild-type mice survive. As expected by their immunocompromised phenotype, bacterial pathogens replicate and disseminate to deeper tissues of Mpeg1 knockout mice. Thus, this evolutionarily ancient gene endows phagocytes with potent bactericidal capability across taxa spanning sponges to humans. The recently elucidated structures of mammalian Perforin-2 reveal it to be a homopolymer that depends upon low pH, such as within phagosomes, to transition to its membrane-spanning pore conformation. Clinical manifestations of Mpeg1 missense mutations further highlight the pivotal role of Perforin-2 within phagocytes. Controversies and gaps within the field of Perforin-2 research are also discussed as well as animal models that may be used to resolve the outstanding issues. Our review concludes with a discussion of bacterial counter measures against Perforin-2.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Leidy C Merselis
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Zachary P Rivas
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, United States
| | - George P Munson
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, United States
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Innate IFN-γ Is Essential for Systemic Chlamydia muridarum Control in Mice, While CD4 T Cell-Dependent IFN-γ Production Is Highly Redundant in the Female Reproductive Tract. Infect Immun 2021; 89:IAI.00541-20. [PMID: 33257535 PMCID: PMC8097277 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00541-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2020] [Accepted: 11/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Protective immunity against the obligate intracellular bacterium Chlamydia has long been thought to rely on CD4 T cell-dependent gamma interferon (IFN-γ) production. Nevertheless, whether IFN-γ is produced by other cellular sources during Chlamydia infection and how CD4 T cell-dependent and -independent IFN-γ contribute differently to host resistance have not been carefully evaluated. In this study, we dissected the requirements of IFN-γ produced by innate immune cells and CD4 T cells for resolution of Chlamydia muridarum female reproductive tract (FRT) infection. After C. muridarum intravaginal infection, IFN-γ-deficient and T cell-deficient mice exhibited opposite phenotypes for survival and bacterial shedding at the FRT mucosa, demonstrating the distinct requirements for IFN-γ and CD4 T cells in host defense against Chlamydia In Rag1-deficient mice, IFN-γ produced by innate lymphocytes (ILCs) accounted for early bacterial control and prolonged survival in the absence of adaptive immunity. Although type I ILCs are potent IFN-γ producers, we found that mature NK cells and ILC1s were not the sole sources of innate IFN-γ in response to Chlamydia By conducting T cell adoptive transfer, we showed definitively that IFN-γ-deficient CD4 T cells were sufficient for effective bacterial killing in the FRT during the first 21 days of infection and reduced bacterial burden more than 1,000-fold, although mice receiving IFN-γ-deficient CD4 T cells failed to completely eradicate the bacteria from the FRT like their counterparts receiving wild-type (WT) CD4 T cells. Together, our results revealed that innate IFN-γ is essential for preventing systemic Chlamydia dissemination, whereas IFN-γ produced by CD4 T cells is largely redundant at the FRT mucosa.
Collapse
|
42
|
Dockterman J, Coers J. Immunopathogenesis of genital Chlamydia infection: insights from mouse models. Pathog Dis 2021; 79:6128668. [PMID: 33538819 DOI: 10.1093/femspd/ftab012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2020] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Chlamydiae are pathogenic intracellular bacteria that cause a wide variety of diseases throughout the globe, affecting the eye, lung, coronary arteries and female genital tract. Rather than by direct cellular toxicity, Chlamydia infection generally causes pathology by inducing fibrosis and scarring that is largely mediated by host inflammation. While a robust immune response is required for clearance of the infection, certain elements of that immune response may also damage infected tissue, leading to, in the case of female genital infection, disease sequelae such as pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility and ectopic pregnancy. It has become increasingly clear that the components of the immune system that destroy bacteria and those that cause pathology only partially overlap. In the ongoing quest for a vaccine that prevents Chlamydia-induced disease, it is important to target mechanisms that can achieve protective immunity while preventing mechanisms that damage tissue. This review focuses on mouse models of genital Chlamydia infection and synthesizes recent studies to generate a comprehensive model for immunity in the murine female genital tract, clarifying the respective contributions of various branches of innate and adaptive immunity to both host protection and pathogenic genital scarring.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jacob Dockterman
- Department of Immunology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 22710, USA
| | - Jörn Coers
- Department of Immunology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 22710, USA.,Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 22710, USA
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Debonnet C, Robin G, Prasivoravong J, Vuotto F, Catteau-Jonard S, Faure K, Dessein R, Robin C. [Update of Chlamydia trachomatis infection]. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 49:608-616. [PMID: 33434747 DOI: 10.1016/j.gofs.2021.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) is the most common sexually transmitted bacterial infection worldwide. It is asymptomatic in most cases and mainly affects young women, with potential long term sequelae (pelvic inflammatory disease, tubal infertility, obstetric complications). The impact on male fertility is controversial. Screening methods as well as antibiotics use have recently been reassessed due to resistance phenomena and the negative effect on the urogenital microbiota. Positive CT serology may be indicative of tuboperitoneal pathology, which may not be noticed on hysterosalpingography. New research on single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) aims to establish a patient profile at higher risk of infectious tubal damage due to CT. CT seropositivity is also associated with decreased spontaneous pregnancy rates and is a predictive factor for obstetrical complications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C Debonnet
- Service de médecine de la reproduction, université de Lille, CHU Lille, 59000 Lille, France.
| | - G Robin
- Service de médecine de la reproduction, université de Lille, CHU Lille, 59000 Lille, France; Service d'andrologie, université de Lille, CHU Lille, 59000 Lille, France
| | - J Prasivoravong
- Service d'andrologie, université de Lille, CHU Lille, 59000 Lille, France
| | - F Vuotto
- Service de maladies infectieuses, université de Lille, CHU Lille, 59000 Lille, France
| | - S Catteau-Jonard
- Service de médecine de la reproduction, université de Lille, CHU Lille, 59000 Lille, France
| | - K Faure
- Service de maladies infectieuses, université de Lille, CHU Lille, 59000 Lille, France
| | - R Dessein
- Institut de microbiologie et service de bactériologie, université de Lille, CHU Lille, 59000 Lille, France
| | - C Robin
- Service de médecine de la reproduction, université de Lille, CHU Lille, 59000 Lille, France
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Effectiveness of Platelet-Rich Plasma in the Prevention of Chlamydia-Induced Hydrosalpinx in a Murine Model. Reprod Sci 2020; 28:1031-1040. [PMID: 32989630 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-020-00329-w] [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: 05/15/2020] [Accepted: 09/20/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Chlamydia trachomatis (C. trachomatis) is a major pathogen implicated in the formation of hydrosalpinx in the female reproductive tract. In mice, a related strain of Chlamydia, Chlamydia trachomatis (C. trachomatis) can induce almost 100% bilateral hydrosalpinx. This model was used as a hydrosalpinx induction model to test whether oviduct delivery of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) can attenuate chlamydia induction of hydrosalpinx in a mouse model. Mice were infected intravaginally with Chlamydia muridarum organisms, and 21 days after the infection, PRP was instilled into the lumen of one oviduct, and a sham instillation with phosphate buffer solution was performed on the contralateral oviduct. Mice were then sacrificed at designated time points after infection for oviduct pathologic evaluation including incidence, severity, and histopathologic grade of chronic inflammation. Oviduct instillation of PRP was associated with a 36% reduction in the incidence of hydrosalpinx and a 33% reduction in severity compared with sham. The median grade of chronic inflammation on histopathology was significantly lower with PRP instillation compared with sham and control. No differences were observed in vaginal or rectal shedding of C. muridarum between the test group and the control group. In short, the results suggest that oviduct instillation of PRP can significantly reduce the incidence and severity of C. muridarum-induced hydrosalpinx without affecting chlamydial infection courses in CBA/J mice.
Collapse
|
45
|
Lundy SR, Richardson S, Ramsey A, Ellerson D, Fengxia Y, Onyeabor S, Kirlin W, Thompson W, Black CM, DeBruyne JP, Davidson AJ, Immergluck LC, Blas-Machado U, Eko FO, Igietseme JU, He Q, Omosun YO. Shift work influences the outcomes of Chlamydia infection and pathogenesis. Sci Rep 2020; 10:15389. [PMID: 32958779 PMCID: PMC7505842 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-72409-5] [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: 06/05/2020] [Accepted: 08/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Shift work, performed by approximately 21 million Americans, is irregular or unusual work schedule hours occurring after 6:00 pm. Shift work has been shown to disrupt circadian rhythms and is associated with several adverse health outcomes and chronic diseases such as cancer, gastrointestinal and psychiatric diseases and disorders. It is unclear if shift work influences the complications associated with certain infectious agents, such as pelvic inflammatory disease, ectopic pregnancy and tubal factor infertility resulting from genital chlamydial infection. We used an Environmental circadian disruption (ECD) model mimicking circadian disruption occurring during shift work, where mice had a 6-h advance in the normal light/dark cycle (LD) every week for a month. Control group mice were housed under normal 12/12 LD cycle. Our hypothesis was that compared to controls, mice that had their circadian rhythms disrupted in this ECD model will have a higher Chlamydia load, more pathology and decreased fertility rate following Chlamydia infection. Results showed that, compared to controls, mice that had their circadian rhythms disrupted (ECD) had higher Chlamydia loads, more tissue alterations or lesions, and lower fertility rate associated with chlamydial infection. Also, infected ECD mice elicited higher proinflammatory cytokines compared to mice under normal 12/12 LD cycle. These results imply that there might be an association between shift work and the increased likelihood of developing more severe disease from Chlamydia infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie R Lundy
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry & Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine, 720 Westview Drive, S.W., Atlanta, GA, 30310, USA
| | - Shakyra Richardson
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry & Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine, 720 Westview Drive, S.W., Atlanta, GA, 30310, USA
| | - Anne Ramsey
- Department of Neurobiology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30310, USA
| | - Debra Ellerson
- Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), Atlanta, GA, 30333, USA
| | - Yan Fengxia
- Department of Community Health and Preventive Medicine, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30310, USA
| | - Sunny Onyeabor
- Department of Community Health and Preventive Medicine, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30310, USA
| | - Ward Kirlin
- Department of Pharmacology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30310, USA
| | - Winston Thompson
- Department of Physiology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30310, USA
| | - Carolyn M Black
- Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), Atlanta, GA, 30333, USA
| | - Jason P DeBruyne
- Department of Pharmacology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30310, USA
| | - Alec J Davidson
- Department of Neurobiology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30310, USA
| | - Lilly C Immergluck
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry & Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine, 720 Westview Drive, S.W., Atlanta, GA, 30310, USA
- Pediatric Clinical & Translational Research Unit, Clinical Research Center, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30310, USA
| | - Uriel Blas-Machado
- Athens Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, Department of Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
| | - Francis O Eko
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry & Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine, 720 Westview Drive, S.W., Atlanta, GA, 30310, USA
| | - Joseph U Igietseme
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry & Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine, 720 Westview Drive, S.W., Atlanta, GA, 30310, USA
- Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), Atlanta, GA, 30333, USA
| | - Qing He
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry & Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine, 720 Westview Drive, S.W., Atlanta, GA, 30310, USA
- Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), Atlanta, GA, 30333, USA
| | - Yusuf O Omosun
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry & Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine, 720 Westview Drive, S.W., Atlanta, GA, 30310, USA.
- Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), Atlanta, GA, 30333, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Sánchez A, Mejía SP, Orozco J. Recent Advances in Polymeric Nanoparticle-Encapsulated Drugs against Intracellular Infections. Molecules 2020; 25:E3760. [PMID: 32824757 PMCID: PMC7464666 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25163760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2020] [Revised: 07/31/2020] [Accepted: 08/11/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Polymeric nanocarriers (PNs) have demonstrated to be a promising alternative to treat intracellular infections. They have outstanding performance in delivering antimicrobials intracellularly to reach an adequate dose level and improve their therapeutic efficacy. PNs offer opportunities for preventing unwanted drug interactions and degradation before reaching the target cell of tissue and thus decreasing the development of resistance in microorganisms. The use of PNs has the potential to reduce the dose and adverse side effects, providing better efficiency and effectiveness of therapeutic regimens, especially in drugs having high toxicity, low solubility in the physiological environment and low bioavailability. This review provides an overview of nanoparticles made of different polymeric precursors and the main methodologies to nanofabricate platforms of tuned physicochemical and morphological properties and surface chemistry for controlled release of antimicrobials in the target. It highlights the versatility of these nanosystems and their challenges and opportunities to deliver antimicrobial drugs to treat intracellular infections and mentions nanotoxicology aspects and future outlooks.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Arturo Sánchez
- Max Planck Tandem Group in Nanobioengineering, University of Antioquia, Complejo Ruta N, Calle 67 Nº 52-20, Medellín 050010, Colombia; (A.S.); (S.P.M.)
| | - Susana P. Mejía
- Max Planck Tandem Group in Nanobioengineering, University of Antioquia, Complejo Ruta N, Calle 67 Nº 52-20, Medellín 050010, Colombia; (A.S.); (S.P.M.)
- Experimental and Medical Micology Group, Corporación para Investigaciones Biológicas (CIB), Carrera, 72A Nº 78B–141 Medellín 050010, Colombia
| | - Jahir Orozco
- Max Planck Tandem Group in Nanobioengineering, University of Antioquia, Complejo Ruta N, Calle 67 Nº 52-20, Medellín 050010, Colombia; (A.S.); (S.P.M.)
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Chlamydia trachomatis Plasmid Gene Protein 3 Is Essential for the Establishment of Persistent Infection and Associated Immunopathology. mBio 2020; 11:mBio.01902-20. [PMID: 32817110 PMCID: PMC7439461 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.01902-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Chlamydia trachomatis can cause persistent infection that drives damaging inflammatory responses resulting in infertility and blindness. Little is known about chlamydial genes that cause persistence or factors that drive damaging pathology. In this work, we show that the C. trachomatis plasmid protein gene 3 (Pgp3) is the essential virulence factor for establishing persistent female genital tract infection and provide supportive evidence that Pgp3 functions similarly in a nonhuman primate trachoma model. We further show that persistent Ppg3-dependent infection drives damaging immunopathology. These results are important advances in understanding the pathophysiology of chlamydial persistence. Chlamydia trachomatis is an obligate intracellular bacterial pathogen that causes blinding trachoma and sexually transmitted disease afflicting hundreds of millions of people globally. A fundamental but poorly understood pathophysiological characteristic of chlamydial infection is the propensity to cause persistent infection that drives damaging inflammatory disease. The chlamydial plasmid is a virulence factor, but its role in the pathogenesis of persistent infection capable of driving immunopathology is unknown. Here, we show by using mouse and nonhuman primate infection models that the secreted plasmid gene protein 3 (Pgp3) is essential for establishing persistent infection. Ppg3-dependent persistent genital tract infection resulted in a severe endometritis caused by an intense infiltration of endometrial submucosal macrophages. Pgp3 released from the cytosol of lysed infected oviduct epithelial cells, not organism outer membrane-associated Pgp3, inhibited the chlamydial killing activity of antimicrobial peptides. Genetic Pgp3 rescue experiments in cathelin-related antimicrobial peptide (CRAMP)-deficient mice showed Pgp3-targeted antimicrobial peptides to subvert innate immunity as a pathogenic strategy to establish persistent infection. These findings provide important advances in understanding the role of Pgp3 in the pathogenesis of persistent chlamydial infection and associated immunopathology.
Collapse
|
48
|
Keb G, Fields KA. An Ancient Molecular Arms Race: Chlamydia vs. Membrane Attack Complex/Perforin (MACPF) Domain Proteins. Front Immunol 2020; 11:1490. [PMID: 32760406 PMCID: PMC7371996 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.01490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2020] [Accepted: 06/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Dynamic interactions that govern the balance between host and pathogen determine the outcome of infection and are shaped by evolutionary pressures. Eukaryotic hosts have evolved elaborate and formidable defense mechanisms that provide the basis for innate and adaptive immunity. Proteins containing a membrane attack complex/Perforin (MACPF) domain represent an important class of immune effectors. These pore-forming proteins induce cell killing by targeting microbial or host membranes. Intracellular bacteria can be shielded from MACPF-mediated killing, and Chlamydia spp. represent a successful paradigm of obligate intracellular parasitism. Ancestors of present-day Chlamydia likely originated at evolutionary times that correlated with or preceded many host defense pathways. We discuss the current knowledge regarding how chlamydiae interact with the MACPF proteins Complement C9, Perforin-1, and Perforin-2. Current evidence indicates a degree of resistance by Chlamydia to MACPF effector mechanisms. In fact, chlamydiae have acquired and adapted their own MACPF-domain protein to facilitate infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gabrielle Keb
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Molecular Genetics, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, KY, United States
| | - Kenneth A Fields
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Molecular Genetics, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, KY, United States
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Inic-Kanada A, Stojanovic M, Miljkovic R, Stein E, Filipovic A, Frohns A, Zöller N, Kuratli J, Barisani-Asenbauer T, Borel N. Water-filtered Infrared A and visible light (wIRA/VIS) treatment reduces Chlamydia caviae-induced ocular inflammation and infectious load in a Guinea pig model of inclusion conjunctivitis. JOURNAL OF PHOTOCHEMISTRY AND PHOTOBIOLOGY B-BIOLOGY 2020; 209:111953. [PMID: 32653859 DOI: 10.1016/j.jphotobiol.2020.111953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2019] [Revised: 06/12/2020] [Accepted: 07/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Trachoma is a devastating neglected tropical disease caused by Chlamydia trachomatis and the leading global cause of infectious blindness. Although antibiotic treatment against trachoma is efficient (SAFE strategy), additional affordable therapeutic strategies are of high interest. Water-filtered infrared A and visible light (wIRA/VIS) irradiation has proven to reduce chlamydial infectivity in vitro and ex vivo. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether wIRA/VIS can reduce chlamydial infection load and/or ocular pathology in vivo, in a guinea pig model of inclusion conjunctivitis. Guinea pigs were infected with 1 × 106 inclusion-forming units/eye of Chlamydia caviae via the ocular conjunctiva on day 0. In infected animals, wIRA/VIS irradiation (2100 W/m2) was applied on day 2 (single treatment) and on days 2 and 4 (double treatment) post-infection (pi). wIRA/VIS reduced the clinical pathology score on days 7 and 14 pi and the conjunctival chlamydial load on days 2, 4, 7, and 14 pi in comparison with C. caviae-infected, not irradiated, controls. Furthermore, numbers of chlamydial inclusions were decreased in wIRA/VIS treated C. caviae-infected guinea pigs on day 21 pi compared to C. caviae-infected, non-irradiated, controls. Double treatment with wIRA/VIS (days 2 and 4 pi) was more efficient than a single treatment on day 2 pi. wIRA/VIS treatment did neither induce macroscopic nor histologic changes in ocular tissues. Our results indicate that wIRA/VIS shows promising efficacy to reduce chlamydial infectivity in vivo without causing irradiation related pathologies in the follow-up period. wIRA/VIS irradiation is a promising approach to reduce trachoma transmission and pathology of ocular chlamydial infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandra Inic-Kanada
- Institute of Specific Prophylaxis and Tropical Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
| | | | | | | | - Ana Filipovic
- Institute of Virology, Vaccines and Sera - TORLAK, Belgrade, Serbia
| | | | - Nadja Zöller
- Universitätsklinikum Frankfurt, Klinik für Dermatologie, Venerologie und Allergologie, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Jasmin Kuratli
- Institute of Veterinary Pathology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Talin Barisani-Asenbauer
- Institute of Specific Prophylaxis and Tropical Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Nicole Borel
- Institute of Veterinary Pathology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Amaral AF, Rahman KS, Kick AR, Cortes LM, Robertson J, Kaltenboeck B, Gerdts V, O’Connell CM, Poston TB, Zheng X, Liu C, Omesi SY, Darville T, Käser T. Mucosal Vaccination with UV-Inactivated Chlamydia suis in Pre-Exposed Outbred Pigs Decreases Pathogen Load and Induces CD4 T-Cell Maturation into IFN-γ + Effector Memory Cells. Vaccines (Basel) 2020; 8:vaccines8030353. [PMID: 32630694 PMCID: PMC7564508 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines8030353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Revised: 06/26/2020] [Accepted: 06/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Chlamydia trachomatis (Ct) infections are the most frequent bacterial sexually transmitted disease, and they can lead to ectopic pregnancy and infertility. Despite these detrimental long-term sequelae, a vaccine is not available. Success in preclinical animal studies is essential for vaccines to move to human clinical trials. Pigs are the natural host to Chlamydia suis (Cs)-a chlamydia species closely related to Ct, and are susceptible to Ct, making them a valuable animal model for Ct vaccine development. Before making it onto market, Ct vaccine candidates must show efficacy in a high-risk human population. The high prevalence of human Ct infection combined with the fact that natural infection does not result in sterilizing immunity, results in people at risk likely having been pre-exposed, and thus having some level of underlying non-protective immunity. Like human Ct, Cs is highly prevalent in outbred pigs. Therefore, the goal of this study was to model a trial in pre-exposed humans, and to determine the immunogenicity and efficacy of intranasal Cs vaccination in pre-exposed outbred pigs. The vaccine candidates consisted of UV-inactivated Cs particles in the presence or absence of an adjuvant (TriAdj). In this study, both groups of vaccinated pigs had a lower Cs burden compared to the non-vaccinated group; especially the TriAdj group induced the differentiation of CD4+ cells into tissue-trafficking CCR7- IFN-γ-producing effector memory T cells. These results indicate that Cs vaccination of pre-exposed pigs effectively boosts a non-protective immune response induced by natural infection; moreover, they suggest that a similar approach could be applied to human vaccine trials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amanda F. Amaral
- Department of Population Health and Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, 1060 William Moore Drive, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA; (A.F.A.); (A.R.K.); (L.M.C.)
- Comparative Medicine Institute, North Carolina State University, 1060 William Moore Drive, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA
| | - Khondaker S. Rahman
- Department of Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA; (K.S.R.); (B.K.)
| | - Andrew R. Kick
- Department of Population Health and Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, 1060 William Moore Drive, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA; (A.F.A.); (A.R.K.); (L.M.C.)
- Comparative Medicine Institute, North Carolina State University, 1060 William Moore Drive, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA
| | - Lizette M. Cortes
- Department of Population Health and Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, 1060 William Moore Drive, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA; (A.F.A.); (A.R.K.); (L.M.C.)
| | - James Robertson
- College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, 1060 William Moore Drive, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA;
| | - Bernhard Kaltenboeck
- Department of Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA; (K.S.R.); (B.K.)
| | - Volker Gerdts
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization—International Vaccine Centre (VIDO-InterVac), University of Saskatchewan, 120 Veterinary Road, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5E3, Canada;
| | - Catherine M. O’Connell
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; (C.M.O.); (T.B.P.); (X.Z.); (S.Y.O.); (T.D.)
| | - Taylor B. Poston
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; (C.M.O.); (T.B.P.); (X.Z.); (S.Y.O.); (T.D.)
| | - Xiaojing Zheng
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; (C.M.O.); (T.B.P.); (X.Z.); (S.Y.O.); (T.D.)
- Department of Biostatistics, University of North Carolina Gillings School of Global Public Health, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA;
| | - Chuwen Liu
- Department of Biostatistics, University of North Carolina Gillings School of Global Public Health, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA;
| | - Sam Y. Omesi
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; (C.M.O.); (T.B.P.); (X.Z.); (S.Y.O.); (T.D.)
| | - Toni Darville
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; (C.M.O.); (T.B.P.); (X.Z.); (S.Y.O.); (T.D.)
| | - Tobias Käser
- Department of Population Health and Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, 1060 William Moore Drive, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA; (A.F.A.); (A.R.K.); (L.M.C.)
- Comparative Medicine Institute, North Carolina State University, 1060 William Moore Drive, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-919-513-6352
| |
Collapse
|