1
|
Juárez-Cortés MZ, Vázquez LEC, Díaz SFM, Cardona Félix CS. Streptococcus iniae in aquaculture: a review of pathogenesis, virulence, and antibiotic resistance. Int J Vet Sci Med 2024; 12:25-38. [PMID: 38751408 PMCID: PMC11095286 DOI: 10.1080/23144599.2024.2348408] [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: 09/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
One of the main challenges in aquaculture is pathogenic bacterial control. Streptococcus iniae stands out for its ability to cause high mortality rates in populations of commercially important fish populations and its recent recognition as an emerging zoonotic pathogen. The rise in identifying over 80 strains some displaying antibiotic resistance coupled with the emerging occurrence of infections in marine mammal species and wild fish underscores the urgent need of understanding pathogenesis, virulence and drug resistance mechanisms of this bacterium. This understanding is crucial to ensure effective control strategies. In this context, the present review conducts a bibliometric analysis to examine research trends related to S. iniae, extending into the mechanisms of infection, virulence, drug resistance and control strategies, whose relevance is highlighted on vaccines and probiotics to strengthen the host immune system. Despite the advances in this field, the need for developing more efficient identification methods is evident, since they constitute the basis for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Luz Edith Casados Vázquez
- CONAHCYT- Universidad de Guanajuato. Food Department, Life Science Division, University of Guanajuato Campus Irapuato-Salamanca. Irapuato, Guanajuato, México
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
2
|
Ma J, Wu H, Ma Z, Wu Z. Bacterial and host factors involved in zoonotic Streptococcal meningitis. Microbes Infect 2024:105335. [PMID: 38582147 DOI: 10.1016/j.micinf.2024.105335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2024] [Revised: 04/01/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/08/2024]
Abstract
Zoonotic streptococci cause several invasive diseases with high mortality rates, especially meningitis. Numerous studies elucidated the meningitis pathogenesis of zoonotic streptococci, some specific to certain bacterial species. In contrast, others are shared among different bacterial species, involving colonization and invasion of mucosal barriers, survival in the bloodstream, breaching the blood-brain and/or blood-cerebrospinal fluid barrier to access the central nervous system, and triggering inflammation of the meninges. This review focuses on the recent advancements in comprehending the molecular and cellular events of five major zoonotic streptococci responsible for causing meningitis in humans or animals, including Streptococcus agalactiae, Streptococcus equi subspecies zooepidemicus, Streptococcus suis, Streptococcus dysgalactiae, and Streptococcus iniae. The underlying mechanism was summarized into four themes, including 1) bacterial survival in blood, 2) brain microvascular endothelial cell adhesion and invasion, 3) penetration of the blood-brain barrier, and 4) activation of the immune system and inflammatory reaction within the brain. This review may contribute to developing therapeutics to prevent or mitigate injury of streptococcal meningitis and improve risk stratification.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiale Ma
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210014, China; Key Lab of Animal Bacteriology, Ministry of Agriculture, Nanjing 210014, China; WOAH Reference Lab for Swine Streptococcosis, Nanjing 210014, China
| | - Huizhen Wu
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210014, China; Key Lab of Animal Bacteriology, Ministry of Agriculture, Nanjing 210014, China; WOAH Reference Lab for Swine Streptococcosis, Nanjing 210014, China
| | - Zhe Ma
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210014, China; Key Lab of Animal Bacteriology, Ministry of Agriculture, Nanjing 210014, China; Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou 225009, China.
| | - Zongfu Wu
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210014, China; Key Lab of Animal Bacteriology, Ministry of Agriculture, Nanjing 210014, China; WOAH Reference Lab for Swine Streptococcosis, Nanjing 210014, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Research on the Technology of Pig-breeding and Pig-disease Prevention, Guangzhou 511400, China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Xiong X, Chen R, Lai J. Comparative genomics analysis of Streptococcus iniae isolated from Trachinotus ovatus: novel insight into antimicrobial resistance and virulence differentiation. BMC Genomics 2023; 24:775. [PMID: 38097934 PMCID: PMC10720119 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-023-09882-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Streptococcus iniae is an important fish pathogen that cause significant economic losses to the global aquaculture industry every year. Although there have some reports on the genotype of S.iniae and its relationship with virulence, no genome-scale comparative analysis has been performed so far. In our previous work, we characterized 17 isolates of S.iniae from Trachinotus ovatus and divided them into two genotypes using RAPD and rep-PCR methods. Among them, BH15-2 was classified as designated genotype A (in RAPD) and genotype 1 (in rep-PCR), while BH16-24 was classified as genotype B and genotype 2. Herein, we compared the differences in growth, drug resistance, virulence, and genome between BH15-2 and BH16-24. RESULTS The results showed that the growth ability of BH16-24 was significantly faster than that of BH15-2 at the exponential stage. Antimicrobial tests revealed that BH15-2 was susceptible to most of the tested antibiotics except neomycin and gentamycin. In contrast, BH16-24 was resistant to 7 antibiotics including penicillin, sulfasomizole, compound sulfamethoxazole tablets, polymyxin B, spectinomycin, rifampin and ceftazidime. Intraperitoneal challenge of T.ovatus, showed that the LD50 value of BH15-2 was 4.0 × 102 CFU/g, while that of BH16-24 was 1.2 × 105 CFU/g. The genome of S.iniae BH15-2 was 2,175,659 bp with a GC content of 36.80%. Meanwhile, the genome of BH16-24 was 2,153,918 bp with a GC content of 36.83%. Comparative genome analysis indicated that compared with BH15-2, BH16-24 genome had a large-scale genomic inversion fragment, at the location from 502,513 bp to 1,788,813 bp, resulting in many of virulence and resistance genes differentially expression. In addition, there was a 46 kb length, intact phage sequence in BH15-2 genome, which was absent in BH16-24. CONCLUSION Comparative genomic studies of BH15-2 and BH16-24 showed that the main difference is a 1.28 Mbp inversion fragment. The inversion fragment may lead to abnormal expression of drug resistant and virulence genes, which is believed to be the main reason for the multiple resistance and weakened virulence of BH16-24. Our study revealed the potential mechanisms in underlying the differences of multidrug resistance and virulence among different genotypes of S.iniae.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiangying Xiong
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science, Guangxi Academy of Marine Sciences, Guangxi Academy of Sciences, 98 Daling Road, Nanning, 530007, Guangxi, China.
- Guangxi Institute of Oceanology Limited Liability Company, Beihai, 536000, Guangxi, China.
- Beibu Gulf Marine Industry Research Institute, Fangchenggang, 538000, Guangxi, China.
| | - Ruifang Chen
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science, Guangxi Academy of Marine Sciences, Guangxi Academy of Sciences, 98 Daling Road, Nanning, 530007, Guangxi, China
- Guangxi Institute of Oceanology Limited Liability Company, Beihai, 536000, Guangxi, China
- Beibu Gulf Marine Industry Research Institute, Fangchenggang, 538000, Guangxi, China
| | - Junxiang Lai
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science, Guangxi Academy of Marine Sciences, Guangxi Academy of Sciences, 98 Daling Road, Nanning, 530007, Guangxi, China
- Beibu Gulf Marine Industry Research Institute, Fangchenggang, 538000, Guangxi, China
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Phasunon R, Taengphu S, Panphut W, Chatchaiphan S, Dong HT, Senapin S. Improving the diagnosis of Streptococcus iniae using a novel probe-based qPCR assay combined with an enrichment step. JOURNAL OF FISH DISEASES 2023; 46:1391-1401. [PMID: 37723600 DOI: 10.1111/jfd.13857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Revised: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/20/2023]
Abstract
Streptococcus iniae is a bacterial pathogen that causes streptococcosis, leading to significant losses in fish aquaculture globally. This study reported a newly developed probe-based quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) method for the detection of S. iniae. The primers and probes were designed to target the lactate oxidase gene. The optimized method demonstrated a detection limit of 20 copies per reaction and was specific to S. iniae, as evidenced by no cross-reactivity when assayed against genetic materials extracted from 23 known aquatic animal pathogens, and fish samples infected with Streptococcus agalactiae or Streptococcus dysgalactiae. To validate the newly developed qPCR protocol with field samples, fish specimens were systematically investigated following the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations & Network of Aquaculture Centres in Asia-Pacific three diagnostic levels approach, which integrated basic and advanced techniques for disease diagnosis, including observation of gross signs (level I), bacterial isolation (level II), qPCR and 16S rDNA sequencing (level III). The result showed that 7/7 affected farms (three Asian seabass farms and four tilapia farms) experiencing clinical signs of streptococcosis were diagnosed positive for S. iniae. qPCR assays using DNA extracted directly from fish tissue detected S. iniae in 11 out of 36 fish samples (30.6%), while 24 out of 36 samples (66.7%) tested positive after an enrichment step, including apparently healthy fish from affected farms. Bacterial isolation of S. iniae was only successful in a proportion of clinically diseased fish but not in healthy-looking fish from the same farm. Overall, the newly developed qPCR protocol combined with enrichment would be a useful tool for the diagnosis and surveillance of S. iniae infections in fish populations, thereby aiding in the disease control and prevention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ramida Phasunon
- Faculty of Science and Technology, Suan Sunandha Rajabhat University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Suwimon Taengphu
- Fish Health Platform, Center of Excellence for Shrimp Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (Centex Shrimp), Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
- National Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (BIOTEC), National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA), Klong Luang, Pathum Thani, Thailand
| | - Wattana Panphut
- Faculty of Science and Technology, Suan Sunandha Rajabhat University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Satid Chatchaiphan
- Department of Aquaculture, Faculty of Fisheries, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Ha Thanh Dong
- Department of Food, Agriculture and Bioresources, Aquaculture and Aquatic Resources Management Program, Asian Institute of Technology (AIT), School of Environment, Resources and Development, Klong Luang, Pathum Thani, Thailand
| | - Saengchan Senapin
- Fish Health Platform, Center of Excellence for Shrimp Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (Centex Shrimp), Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
- National Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (BIOTEC), National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA), Klong Luang, Pathum Thani, Thailand
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Glajzner P, Szewczyk EM, Szemraj M. Phenotypic and Genotypic Characterization of Antimicrobial Resistance in Streptococci Isolated from Human and Animal Clinical Specimens. Curr Microbiol 2023; 80:228. [PMID: 37256427 DOI: 10.1007/s00284-023-03337-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Recently, the phenomenon of infection of humans as hosts by animal pathogens has been increasing. Streptococcus is an example of a genus in which bacteria overcome the species barrier. Therefore, monitoring infections caused by new species of human pathogens is critical to their spread. Seventy-five isolates belonging to streptococcal species that have recently been reported as a cause of human infections with varying frequency, were tested. The aim of the study was to determine the drug resistance profiles of the tested strains, the occurrence of resistance genes and genes encoding the most important streptococcal virulence factors. All tested isolates retained sensitivity to β-lactam antibiotics. Resistance to tetracyclines occurred in 56% of the tested strains. We have detected the MLSB type resistance (cross-resistance to macrolide, lincosamide, and streptogramin B) in 20% of the tested strains. 99% of the strains had tetracycline resistance genes. The erm class genes encoding MLSB resistance were present in 47% of strains. Among the strains with MLSB resistance, 92% had the streptokinase gene, 58% the streptolysin O gene and 33% the streptolysin S gene. The most extensive resistance concerned isolates that accumulated the most traits and genes, both resistance genes and virulence genes, increasing their pathogenic potential. Among the tested strains, the gene encoding streptokinase was the most common. The results of the prove that bacteria of the species S. uberis, S. dysgalactiae and S. gallolyticus are characterized by a high pathogenic potential and can pose a significant threat in case of infection of the human body.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paulina Glajzner
- Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology and Microbiological Diagnostics, Medical University of Lodz, Ul. Muszyńskiego 1, 90-001, Łódź, Poland
| | - Eligia M Szewczyk
- Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology and Microbiological Diagnostics, Medical University of Lodz, Ul. Muszyńskiego 1, 90-001, Łódź, Poland
| | - Magdalena Szemraj
- Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology and Microbiological Diagnostics, Medical University of Lodz, Ul. Muszyńskiego 1, 90-001, Łódź, Poland.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Whole-Genome Sequence of Streptococcus iniae Strain AH1, Isolated from Hybrid Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus × Oreochromis aureus). Microbiol Resour Announc 2022; 11:e0008722. [PMID: 35616379 PMCID: PMC9202401 DOI: 10.1128/mra.00087-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Here, we describe the whole-genome sequence of Streptococcus iniae strain AH1, which was isolated from moribund farmed hybrid tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus × Oreochromis aureus) in Saudi Arabia. The genome is composed of a single linear chromosome of 2,068,661 bp, with a G+C content of 36.8%.
Collapse
|
7
|
Rashidian G, Mahboub HH, Fahim A, Hefny AA, Prokić MD, Rainis S, Boldaji JT, Faggio C. Mooseer (Allium hirtifolium) boosts growth, general health status, and resistance of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) against Streptococcus iniae infection. FISH & SHELLFISH IMMUNOLOGY 2022; 120:360-368. [PMID: 34910977 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsi.2021.12.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2021] [Revised: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
In large-scale aquaculture, the fast growth rate of fish is positively influenced by feed additives such as medicinal plants. This is however; infectious disease may reduce fish growth and cause devastating economic loss. The present study investigated in vitro antibacterial efficacy of Mooseer (Allium hirtifolium) extract against Streptococcus iniae and its in vivo effects on growth, biochemical parameters, innate immunity of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). Therefore, six experimental diets were designed to include different levels of Mooseer from zero (as control), 5, 10, 15, 20, and 25 g per kg diet respectively referred to as M1 to M5. Results from the antibacterial evaluation showed that Mooseer extract inhibits S. iniae growth with MIC and MBC values of 128 and 256 μg ml-1. Appreciable results were obtained in the groups supplemented with Mooseer. Mooseer enhanced growth performance, and modulated serum biochemical and immunological parameters (total protein, albumin, triglyceride, glucose, cortisol, cholesterol, lysozyme, Ig, ACH50, ALP, and protease activity), and liver enzymes (ALT, AST and ALP). The greatest effects were found for higher doses of Mooseer supplementation (M4 and M5). Meanwhile, results from the survival rate of fish challenged with S. iniae showed higher survival in M2 and M4 treatments. The present findings suggest the beneficial use of Mooseer in rainbow trout diet, with 20 g kg-1 inclusion as the recommended dose.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ghasem Rashidian
- Department of Aquaculture, Faculty of Marine Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Noor, 4641776489, Iran.
| | - Heba H Mahboub
- Department of Fish Diseases and Management, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, 44511, Egypt.
| | - Azin Fahim
- Department of Aquaculture, Faculty of Marine Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Noor, 4641776489, Iran
| | - Ahmed A Hefny
- Colleague of Microbiology, Veterinary Hospital, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, 44511, Egypt.
| | - Marko D Prokić
- Department of Physiology, Institute for Biological Research "Siniša Stanković", National Institute of Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, 11060, Belgrade, Serbia.
| | | | - Javad Tahmasebi Boldaji
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomolecolare (DISB), Facoltà di Farmacia, Università degli Studi di Urbino "Carlo Bo", Via Aurelio Saffi 2, 61029, Urbino, PU, Italy.
| | - Caterina Faggio
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Ferdinando Stagno d'Alcontres 31, 98166, Messina, ME, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Glajzner P, Szewczyk EM, Szemraj M. Pathogenicity and drug resistance of animal streptococci responsible for human infections. J Med Microbiol 2021; 70. [PMID: 33750514 DOI: 10.1099/jmm.0.001339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Bacteria of the genus Streptococcus, earlier considered typically animal, currently have also been causing infections in humans. It is necessary to make clinicians aware of the emergence of new species that may cause the development of human diseases. There is an increasing frequency of isolation of streptococci such as S. suis, S. dysgalactiae, S. iniae and S. equi from people. Isolation of Streptococcus bovis/Streptococcus equinus complex bacteria has also been reported. The streptococcal species described in this review are gaining new properties and virulence factors by which they can thrive in new environments. It shows the potential of these bacteria to changes in the genome and the settlement of new hosts. Information is presented on clinical cases that concern streptococcus species belonging to the groups Bovis, Pyogenic and Suis. We also present the antibiotic resistance profiles of these bacteria. The emerging resistance to β-lactams has been reported. In this review, the classification, clinical characteristics and antibiotic resistance of groups and species of streptococci considered as animal pathogens are summarized.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paulina Glajzner
- Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology and Microbiological Diagnostics, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland
| | - Eligia Maria Szewczyk
- Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology and Microbiological Diagnostics, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland
| | - Magdalena Szemraj
- Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology and Microbiological Diagnostics, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Zondervan NA, Martins Dos Santos VAP, Suarez-Diez M, Saccenti E. Phenotype and multi-omics comparison of Staphylococcus and Streptococcus uncovers pathogenic traits and predicts zoonotic potential. BMC Genomics 2021; 22:102. [PMID: 33541265 PMCID: PMC7860044 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-021-07388-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2020] [Accepted: 01/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Staphylococcus and Streptococcus species can cause many different diseases, ranging from mild skin infections to life-threatening necrotizing fasciitis. Both genera consist of commensal species that colonize the skin and nose of humans and animals, and of which some can display a pathogenic phenotype. RESULTS We compared 235 Staphylococcus and 315 Streptococcus genomes based on their protein domain content. We show the relationships between protein persistence and essentiality by integrating essentiality predictions from two metabolic models and essentiality measurements from six large-scale transposon mutagenesis experiments. We identified clusters of strains within species based on proteins associated to similar biological processes. We built Random Forest classifiers that predicted the zoonotic potential. Furthermore, we identified shared attributes between of Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes that allow them to cause necrotizing fasciitis. CONCLUSIONS Differences observed in clustering of strains based on functional groups of proteins correlate with phenotypes such as host tropism, capability to infect multiple hosts and drug resistance. Our method provides a solid basis towards large-scale prediction of phenotypes based on genomic information.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Niels A Zondervan
- Laboratory of Systems and Synthetic Biology, Wageningen University & Research, Stippeneng 4, 6708WE, Wageningen, Netherlands
| | - Vitor A P Martins Dos Santos
- Laboratory of Systems and Synthetic Biology, Wageningen University & Research, Stippeneng 4, 6708WE, Wageningen, Netherlands
- LifeGlimmer GmBH, Markelstraße 38, 12163, Berlin, Germany
| | - Maria Suarez-Diez
- Laboratory of Systems and Synthetic Biology, Wageningen University & Research, Stippeneng 4, 6708WE, Wageningen, Netherlands
| | - Edoardo Saccenti
- Laboratory of Systems and Synthetic Biology, Wageningen University & Research, Stippeneng 4, 6708WE, Wageningen, Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Torres-Corral Y, Santos Y. Development of a real-time PCR assay for detection and quantification of Streptococcus iniae using the lactate permease gene. JOURNAL OF FISH DISEASES 2021; 44:53-61. [PMID: 32959452 DOI: 10.1111/jfd.13267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2020] [Revised: 08/21/2020] [Accepted: 08/24/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study is the development and evaluation of a rapid and accurate quantitative PCR (qPCR)-based protocol for detection of zoonotic pathogen Streptococcus iniae in bacterial cultures and tissues of diseased fish. For this purpose, the lactate permease-encoding (lldY) gene was selected as a target for the design of S. iniae-specific primers based on comparative genomic analysis using 45 sequences retrieved from NCBI genome database. Specificity and applicability of these primers were tested using 115 bacterial strains and fish tissues infected with S. iniae. Sensitivity, reproducibility and efficiency of qPCR assay were also determined. The developed qPCR assay showed 100% specificity with pure bacterial cultures or DNA extracted from S. iniae or tissues of fish infected with the bacterium. The method has high sensitivity with a detection limit of 1.12 × 101 amplicon copies per assay (equivalent to 2 × 10-9 ng/µl) using bacterial DNA and of 1.44 × 101 gene copies in tissues of fish infected with S. iniae. In conclusion, this qPCR protocol provides an accurate and sensitive alternative for the identification of S. iniae and its detection on fish tissues that can be implemented as a routine tool in microbiological laboratories.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yolanda Torres-Corral
- Departamento de Microbiología y Parasitología, Instituto de Análisis Químico y Biológico (IAQBUS), Universidad de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Ysabel Santos
- Departamento de Microbiología y Parasitología, Instituto de Análisis Químico y Biológico (IAQBUS), Universidad de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Young EJ, Bannister J, Buller NB, Vaughan-Higgins RJ, Stephens NS, Whiting SD, Yeap L, Miller TL, Warren KS. Streptococcus iniae associated mass marine fish kill off Western Australia. DISEASES OF AQUATIC ORGANISMS 2020; 142:197-201. [PMID: 33331287 DOI: 10.3354/dao03545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Streptococcus iniae causes high mortality in cultured and wild fish stocks globally. Since the first report in captive Amazon river dolphins Inia geoffrensis in 1976, it has emerged in finfish across all continents except Antarctica. In March 2016, an estimated 17000 fish were observed dead and dying along a remote 70 km stretch of the Kimberley coastline north of Broome, Western Australia. Affected species included finfish (lionfish Pterois volitans, angelfish Pomacanthus sp., stripey snapper Lutjanus carponotatus, sand bass Psammoperca waigiensis, yellowtail grunter Amniataba caudavittata, damselfish Pomacentridae sp.), flatback sea turtles Natator depressus, and olive (Aipysurus laevis) and black-ringed (Hydrelaps darwiniensis) sea snakes. Moribund fish collected during the event exhibited exophthalmia and abnormal behaviour, such as spiralling on the surface or within the water column. Subsequent histopathological examination of 2 fish species revealed bacterial septicaemia with chains of Gram-positive cocci seen in multiple organs and within brain tissue. S. iniae was isolated and identified by bacterial culture, species-specific PCR, Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Ionisation Time-Of-Flight (MALDI-TOF) and biochemical testing. This is the first report of S. iniae associated with a major multi-species wild marine fish kill in Australia. Extreme weather events in the region including a marked decrease in water temperatures, followed by an extended period of above-average coastal water temperatures, were implicated as stressors potentially contributing to this outbreak.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Erina J Young
- Conservation Medicine Program, School of Veterinary Medicine, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA 6150, Australia
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
12
|
Heckman TI, Griffin MJ, Camus AC, LaFrentz BR, Morick D, Smirnov R, Ofek T, Soto E. Multilocus sequence analysis of diverse Streptococcus iniae isolates indicates an underlying genetic basis for phenotypic heterogeneity. DISEASES OF AQUATIC ORGANISMS 2020; 141:53-69. [PMID: 32940251 DOI: 10.3354/dao03521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Streptococcus iniae is a Gram-positive, opportunistically zoonotic bacterium infective to a wide variety of farmed and wild fish species worldwide. Outbreaks in wild fish can have detrimental environmental and cultural impacts, and mortality events in aquaculture can result in significant economic losses. As an emerging or re-emerging pathogen of global significance, understanding the coalescing factors contributing to piscine streptococcosis is crucial for developing strategies to control infections. Intraspecific antigenic and genetic variability of S. iniae has made development of autogenous vaccines a challenge, particularly where the diversity of locally endemic S. iniae strains is unknown. This study genetically and phenotypically characterized 11 S. iniae isolates from diseased wild and farmed fish from North America, Central America, and the Caribbean. A multilocus sequence analysis (MLSA) scheme was developed to phylogenetically compare these isolates to 84 other strains of Streptococcus spp. relevant to aquaculture. MLSA generated phylogenies comparable to established genotyping methods, and isolates formed distinct clades related to phenotype and host species. The endothelial Oreochromis mossambicus bulbus arteriosus cell line and whole blood from rainbow trout Oncorhynchus mykiss, Nile tilapia Oreochromis niloticus, and white sturgeon Acipenser transmontanus were used to investigate the persistence and virulence of the 11 isolates using in vitro assays. In vivo challenges using an O. niloticus model were used to evaluate virulence by the intragastric route of infection. Isolates showed significant differences (p < 0.05) in virulence and persistence, with some correlation to genogroup, establishing a basis for further work uncovering genetic factors leading to increased pathogenicity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Taylor I Heckman
- Aquatic Animal Health Laboratory, Department of Medicine & Epidemiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
Soh KY, Loh JMS, Hall C, Proft T. Functional Analysis of Two Novel Streptococcus iniae Virulence Factors Using a Zebrafish Infection Model. Microorganisms 2020; 8:E1361. [PMID: 32899555 PMCID: PMC7564053 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms8091361] [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] [Received: 08/18/2020] [Revised: 08/31/2020] [Accepted: 09/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Streptococcus iniae is a major fish pathogen that contributes to large annual losses in the aquaculture industry, exceeding US$100 million. It is also reported to cause opportunistic infections in humans. We have recently identified two novel S. iniae virulence factors, an extracellular nuclease (SpnAi) and a secreted nucleotidase (S5nAi), and verified their predicted enzymatic activities using recombinant proteins. Here, we report the generation of green fluorescent S. iniae spnAi and s5nAi deletion mutants and their evaluation in a transgenic zebrafish infection model. Our results show nuclease and nucleotidase activities in S. iniae could be attributed to SpnAi and S5nAi, respectively. Consistent with this, larvae infected with the deletion mutants demonstrated enhanced survival and bacterial clearance, compared to those infected with wild-type (WT) S. iniae. Deletion of spnAi and s5nAi resulted in sustained recruitment of neutrophils and macrophages, respectively, to the site of infection. We also show that recombinant SpnAi is able to degrade neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) isolated from zebrafish kidney tissue. Our results suggest that both enzymes play an important role in S. iniae immune evasion and might present potential targets for the development of therapeutic agents or vaccines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kar Yan Soh
- Department of Molecular Medicine & Pathology, School of Medical Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland 1142, New Zealand; (K.Y.S.); (J.M.S.L.)
- Maurice Wilkins Centre for Biomolecular Discoveries, The University of Auckland, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
| | - Jacelyn Mei San Loh
- Department of Molecular Medicine & Pathology, School of Medical Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland 1142, New Zealand; (K.Y.S.); (J.M.S.L.)
- Maurice Wilkins Centre for Biomolecular Discoveries, The University of Auckland, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
| | - Christopher Hall
- Department of Molecular Medicine & Pathology, School of Medical Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland 1142, New Zealand; (K.Y.S.); (J.M.S.L.)
| | - Thomas Proft
- Department of Molecular Medicine & Pathology, School of Medical Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland 1142, New Zealand; (K.Y.S.); (J.M.S.L.)
- Maurice Wilkins Centre for Biomolecular Discoveries, The University of Auckland, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Nguyen DT, Marancik D, Soto E. Intracoelomic- and Intramuscular-Injection Challenge Model of Piscine Streptococcosis in White Sturgeon Fingerlings. JOURNAL OF AQUATIC ANIMAL HEALTH 2020; 32:133-138. [PMID: 32845532 DOI: 10.1002/aah.10112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2020] [Revised: 06/24/2020] [Accepted: 07/05/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Streptococcus iniae is a zoonotic pathogen and one of the major aetiologic agents of streptococcosis. In White Sturgeon Acipenser transmontanus, S. iniae infection typically presents as a necrotizing and heterophilic myositis, causing 30-50% mortality in infected fish. To gain a better understanding of the pathogenesis of streptococcosis in White Sturgeon, and to identify the experimental route of infection that most closely mimics the natural disease, fingerlings were challenged with a single dose of 1.3 × 108 cells/fish of S. iniae that was administered via intracoelomic/intraperitoneal (IC) or intramuscular (IM) routes. Acute mortalities were present only in the IM-challenged fish, with first mortality occurring 4 d postchallenge and the mortality rate reaching 18.3% after 9 d. The challenged fish presented erratic swimming, ulcerative skin lesions, and hemorrhages in the liver and swim bladder. Streptococcus iniae was recovered from the kidney and brain tissues of moribund and dead fish. Histopathologic analysis of fish that died acutely revealed massive proliferation of bacteria in the muscle at the injection site and within vascular organs such as the heart and spleen, with variable amounts of tissue necrosis including a necrotizing myositis. Fish that died closer to 9 d postchallenge demonstrated more pronounced multifocal to locally extensive granulomatous inflammation of skeletal muscle at the injection site, liver, kidney, and spleen. No mortality, clinical signs, or gross changes were observed in the control or IC-challenged fish. Postmortem evaluation of 10 survivors in each treatment was performed to determine carrier status in the brain and posterior kidney tissues. The prevalence of S. iniae in survivors was 10% and 0% in the IM- and IC-challenged groups, respectively. The results from this study suggest that IM-injection challenge methods are suitable for inducing streptococcosis in White Sturgeon, and they may be the preferred method for studying the pathogenesis of the naturally occurring disease in this species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Diem Thu Nguyen
- Department of Medicine and Epidemiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, California, 95616, USA
- Department of Pathobiology, St. George's University School of Veterinary Medicine, Grenada
| | - David Marancik
- Department of Pathobiology, St. George's University School of Veterinary Medicine, Grenada
| | - Esteban Soto
- Department of Medicine and Epidemiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, California, 95616, USA
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Ting CH, Chen YC, Chen JY. Nile tilapia fry fed on antimicrobial peptide Epinecidin-1-expressing Artemia cyst exhibit enhanced immunity against acute bacterial infection. FISH & SHELLFISH IMMUNOLOGY 2018; 81:37-48. [PMID: 29981882 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsi.2018.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2018] [Revised: 06/25/2018] [Accepted: 07/04/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Artemia are often used as a live feed for fry in aquaculture. We have previously demonstrated that supplementing adult zebrafish feed with Artemia, which express an Epinephelus coioides-derived antimicrobial peptide, Epinecidin-1 (Epi-1), protects against bacterial infection. Thus, Artemia may serve as a bioreactor for producing biofunctional molecules. However, the application of Epi-1 transgenic Artemia in larval aquaculture of commercial fish species has not been investigated. Here we used a Tol2-transposon system to generate stable Epi-1 expressing Artemia. Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) fry were then fed with decapsulated transgenic cysts and acutely challenged with Gram-positive Streptococcus iniae or Gram-negative Vibrio vulnificus (204). Survival analysis revealed that tilapia fry fed with Epi-1 transgenic cysts were resistant to acute bacterial infection. Immune-related gene expression profiling showed that S. iniae and V. vulnificus inoculations produced distinct immunomodulatory effects in the tilapia fry. Upon S. iniae infection, tilapia fry fed on control diet exhibited an immune response dominated by Tlr-7/MyD88, wherein Tnf-α, Il-8 and Cxcl-10 expression were all induced; conversely, the tilapia fry fed with Epi-1 transgenic cysts showed a Tlr-2/Tlr-5-dominant immune response, marked by the induction of Il-1β, Il-8 and Il-12 expression. However, after V. vulnificus (204) infection control fry exhibited a Tlr-2/MyD88/Traf-6-dominant response with activation of Tnf-α and Il-8 expression; meanwhile tilapia fry fed on Epi-1 transgenic cyst showed a dominant Tlr-2/Tlr-5-mediated immune response, including induction of Il-1β, Il-8, Il-12, and Cxcl-10 expression. These findings suggest that feeding larval fish fry with Epi-1 transgenic Artemia cysts confers enhanced immunity toward bacterial challenge. Epi-1 transgenic cysts should therefore be considered as a potential functional feed for larval aquaculture.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chen-Hung Ting
- Marine Research Station, Institute of Cellular and Organismic Biology, Academia Sinica, 23-10, Dahuen Road, Jiaushi, Ilan, 262, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Chun Chen
- Marine Research Station, Institute of Cellular and Organismic Biology, Academia Sinica, 23-10, Dahuen Road, Jiaushi, Ilan, 262, Taiwan
| | - Jyh-Yih Chen
- Marine Research Station, Institute of Cellular and Organismic Biology, Academia Sinica, 23-10, Dahuen Road, Jiaushi, Ilan, 262, Taiwan.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Comparative evaluation of 16S rRNA gene in world-wide strains of Streptococcus iniae and Streptococcus parauberis for early diagnostic marker. Genes Genomics 2017. [DOI: 10.1007/s13258-017-0542-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
|
17
|
Complete Genome Sequence of Streptococcus iniae 89353, a Virulent Strain Isolated from Diseased Tilapia in Taiwan. GENOME ANNOUNCEMENTS 2017; 5:5/4/e01524-16. [PMID: 28126946 PMCID: PMC5270705 DOI: 10.1128/genomea.01524-16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Streptococcus iniae 89353 is a virulent strain isolated from diseased tilapia in Taiwan. The full-genome sequence of S. iniae 89353 is 2,098,647 bp. The revealed genome information will be beneficial for identification and understanding of potential virulence genes of Streptococcus iniae and possible immunogens for vaccine development against streptococcosis.
Collapse
|
18
|
Song Z, Yue R, Sun Y, Liu C, Khan SH, Li C, Zhao Y, Zhou X, Yang L, Zhao D. Fatal bacterial septicemia in a bottlenose dolphin Tursiops truncatus caused by Streptococcus iniae. DISEASES OF AQUATIC ORGANISMS 2017; 122:195-203. [PMID: 28117298 DOI: 10.3354/dao03069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
A captive 8 yr old male bottlenose dolphin Tursiops truncatus succumbed to septicemia with multisystemic inflammation including suppurative enteritis, encephalitis, and pneumonia with chronic pancreatitis. A pure culture of beta-hemolytic, catalase- and oxidase-negative, Gram-positive cocci was isolated from the hilar lymph nodes and pancreas. The isolate was identified by 16S rDNA sequencing as Streptococcus iniae. Histological examination of the digestive system revealed a mixed infection of both bacteria and fungus. Recognized as a pathogen in fish, dolphins, and humans, this is the first report of S. iniae in a dolphin in mainland China. As the number of managed animals in oceanariums is increasing, so is the frequency of contact with fish used as food for marine mammals and humans, highlighting the importance of education and appropriate personal protective protocols to minimize the risk of transmission. An understanding of marine mammal infectious disease organisms is essential to ensuring the health of marine mammals and humans coming into contact with such animals and their food. This study illustrates a systematic clinical, microbiological, and pathological investigation into a septicemic bottlenose dolphin infected with S. iniae. Our findings provide useful information for those involved in the diagnosis and control of infectious diseases in marine mammals and offer insight into an important zoonotic pathogen.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhiqi Song
- The State Key Laboratories for Agrobiotechnology, Key Lab of Animal Epidemiology and Zoonosis, Ministry of Agriculture; National Animal Transmissible Spongiform Encephalopathy Laboratory; Department of Veterinary Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, PR China
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Cai XH, Peng YH, Wang ZC, Huang T, Xiong XY, Huang YC, Wang B, Xu LW, Wu ZH. Characterization and identification of streptococci from golden pompano in China. DISEASES OF AQUATIC ORGANISMS 2016; 119:207-217. [PMID: 27225204 DOI: 10.3354/dao02998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Streptococcal infections cause significant mortality and high economic losses in the fish farm industry worldwide, including in the culture of golden pompano Trachinotus ovatus L., a species gaining popularity in China. A total of 9 streptococcal strains were isolated from cage-cultured diseased golden pompano in Beihai, Zhanjing, and Shenzhen, China, between 2012 and 2014. Conventional and rapid identification systems were used to determine that the isolates were Streptococcus agalactiae, S. iniae, and S. dysgalactiae subsp. dysgalactiae. All isolates were gram-positive cocci cells in pairs or short-chain, non-motile, catalase negative, α or β hemolytic cocci. The results of multiplex PCR assays and 16S rRNA BLAST analysis also showed that the β hemolytic strains were S. agalactiae and S. iniae and the α hemolytic strain was S. dysgalactiae subsp. dysgalactiae, respectively. Pathogenicity assays revealed that S. agalactiae (lethal dose [LD50]: 6.38 × 10(4) CFU ml(-1)) was more virulent for golden pompano than S. iniae (LD50: 1.47 × 10(7) CFU ml(-1)) and S. dysgalactiae subsp. dysgalactiae (LD50: 2.57 × 10(6) CFU ml(-1)) when they were challenged by intraperiotoneal (i.p.) injection. The results of antibiotic susceptibility showed that all strains were extremely susceptible to cefradine, erythromycin, and cefotaxime but resistant to gentamicin, penicillin G, novobiocin, neomycin, ciprofloxacin, roxithromycin, furazolidone, enrofloxacin, norfloxacin, kanamycin, ampicillin, tetracycline, and vancomycin This is the first report of a phenomenon of golden pompano coinfection with S. agalactiae and S. iniae, which will contribute to the diagnosis and prevention of streptococcicosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- X H Cai
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Biology and Epidemiology for Aquatic Economic Animals, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Control for Diseases of Aquatic Economic Animals, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang 524088, PR China
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Cloning and Characterization of Surface-Localized α-Enolase of Streptococcus iniae, an Effective Protective Antigen in Mice. Int J Mol Sci 2015; 16:14490-510. [PMID: 26121302 PMCID: PMC4519854 DOI: 10.3390/ijms160714490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2015] [Revised: 06/11/2015] [Accepted: 06/15/2015] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Streptococcus iniae is a major fish pathogen that can also cause human bacteremia, cellulitis and meningitis. Screening for and identification of protective antigens plays an important role in developing therapies against S. iniae infections. In this study, we indicated that the α-enolase of S. iniae was not only distributed in the cytoplasm and associated to cell walls, but was also secreted to the bacterial cell surface. The functional identity of the purified recombinant α-enolase protein was verified by its ability to catalyze the conversion of 2-phosphoglycerate (2-PGE) to phosphoenolpyruvate (PEP), and both the recombinant and native proteins interacted with human plasminogen. The rabbit anti-rENO serum blockade assay shows that α-enolase participates in S. iniae adhesion to and invasion of BHK-21 cells. In addition, the recombinant α-enolase can confer effective protection against S. iniae infection in mice, which suggests that α-enolase has potential as a vaccine candidate in mammals. We conclude that S. iniae α-enolase is a moonlighting protein that also associates with the bacterial outer surface and functions as a protective antigen in mice.
Collapse
|
21
|
|
22
|
The Genus Streptococcus – Part I: Emerging Pathogens in the “Pyogenic Cocci” and the “Streptococcus bovis” Groups. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clinmicnews.2014.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
|
23
|
Rowe HM, Withey JH, Neely MN. Zebrafish as a model for zoonotic aquatic pathogens. DEVELOPMENTAL AND COMPARATIVE IMMUNOLOGY 2014; 46:96-107. [PMID: 24607289 PMCID: PMC4096445 DOI: 10.1016/j.dci.2014.02.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2013] [Revised: 02/22/2014] [Accepted: 02/22/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Aquatic habitats harbor a multitude of bacterial species. Many of these bacteria can act as pathogens to aquatic species and/or non-aquatic organisms, including humans, that come into contact with contaminated water sources or colonized aquatic organisms. In many instances, the bacteria are not pathogenic to the aquatic species they colonize and are only considered pathogens when they come into contact with humans. There is a general lack of knowledge about how the environmental lifestyle of these pathogens allows them to persist, replicate and produce the necessary pathogenic mechanisms to successfully transmit to the human host and cause disease. Recently, the zebrafish infectious disease model has emerged as an ideal system for examining aquatic pathogens, both in the aquatic environment and during infection of the human host. This review will focus on how the zebrafish has been used successfully to analyze the pathogenesis of aquatic bacterial pathogens.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hannah M Rowe
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA.
| | - Jeffrey H Withey
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA.
| | - Melody N Neely
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Complete Genome Sequence of a Virulent Strain, Streptococcus iniae ISET0901, Isolated from Diseased Tilapia. GENOME ANNOUNCEMENTS 2014; 2:2/3/e00553-14. [PMID: 24903878 PMCID: PMC4047457 DOI: 10.1128/genomea.00553-14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Streptococcus iniae ISET0901 is a virulent strain isolated in 2007 from diseased tilapia. Its full genome is 2,070,856 bp. The availability of this genome will allow comparative genomics to identify virulence genes important for the pathogenesis of streptococcosis caused by S. iniae, as well as possible immunogens for vaccine development.
Collapse
|
25
|
Complete Genome Sequence of the Attenuated Novobiocin-Resistant Streptococcus iniae Vaccine Strain ISNO. GENOME ANNOUNCEMENTS 2014; 2:2/3/e00510-14. [PMID: 24874684 PMCID: PMC4038889 DOI: 10.1128/genomea.00510-14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Streptococcus iniae ISNO is an attenuated novobiocin-resistant vaccine strain. Its full genome is 2,070,182 bp in length. The availability of this genome will allow comparative genomics to identify potential virulence genes important for pathogenesis of S. iniae and potential mechanisms associated with novobiocin resistance in this strain.
Collapse
|
26
|
Keirstead ND, Brake JW, Griffin MJ, Halliday-Simmonds I, Thrall MA, Soto E. Fatal septicemia caused by the zoonotic bacterium Streptococcus iniae during an outbreak in Caribbean reef fish. Vet Pathol 2013; 51:1035-41. [PMID: 24078005 DOI: 10.1177/0300985813505876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
An outbreak of Streptococcus iniae occurred in the early months of 2008 among wild reef fish in the waters of the Federation of St Kitts and Nevis, lasting almost 2 months. Moribund and dead fish were collected for gross, histological, bacteriological, and molecular analysis. Necropsy findings included diffuse fibrinous pericarditis, pale friable livers, and serosal petechiation. Cytological and histological analysis revealed granulocytic and granulomatous inflammation with abundant coccoid bacterial organisms forming long chains. Necrosis, inflammation, and vasculitis were most severe in the pericardium, meninges, liver, kidneys, and gills. Bacterial isolates revealed β-hemolytic, Gram-positive coccoid bacteria identified as S. iniae by amplification and 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequencing. Results from biochemical and antimicrobial susceptibility analysis, together with repetitive element palindromic polymerase chain reaction fingerprinting, suggest that a single strain was responsible for the outbreak. The inciting cause for this S. iniae-associated cluster of mortalities is unknown.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- N D Keirstead
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, St Kitts, West Indies Innovative Medicines DSM, AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals LP, Waltham, MA, USA
| | - J W Brake
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, St Kitts, West Indies
| | - M J Griffin
- Department of Pathobiology and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Mississippi State University, Stoneville, MS, USA
| | - I Halliday-Simmonds
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, St Kitts, West Indies
| | - M A Thrall
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, St Kitts, West Indies
| | - E Soto
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, St Kitts, West Indies
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Fitness cost, gyrB mutation, and absence of phosphotransferase system fructose specific IIABC component in novobiocin-resistant Streptococcus iniae vaccine strain ISNO. Vet Microbiol 2013; 165:384-91. [PMID: 23623616 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetmic.2013.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2013] [Revised: 04/01/2013] [Accepted: 04/03/2013] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
To understand the fitness cost of novobiocin-resistance in an attenuated Streptococcus iniae vaccine strain ISNO compared to its virulent parent strain ISET0901, cell proliferation rate of the two strains were compared to each other. Our results revealed that the cell proliferation rates of ISNO were significantly (P<0.05) smaller than that of ISET0901. To understand whether there was any mutation at the target site of novobiocin, DNA gyrase subunit B (gyrB) was sequenced from both strains. Sequencing results revealed a point mutation of AGA to AGC, resulting in a deduced amino acid substitution of R635S. To determine whether any unique DNA sequence was present in ISET0901 but absent in ISNO, PCR-select bacterial genome subtractive hybridization was performed. A phosphotransferase system fructose specific IIABC component sequence was confirmed to be present in ISET0901 but absent in ISNO. Using genomic DNAs from ten field-strains of S. iniae as templates, the phosphotransferase system fructose specific IIABC component sequence was found to be present in five highly virulent strains, but absent in five avirulent strains. Taken together, our results suggest that: (1) As fitness cost of novobicin resistance, ISNO had significantly smaller cell proliferation rate; (2) point mutation at target site gyrB resulting in R635S substitution was associated with novobiocin resistance in ISNO; and (3) phosphotransferase system fructose specific IIABC component was associated with virulence of S. iniae.
Collapse
|
28
|
Wright EE, Elliman JR, Owens L. Induction and characterization of lysogenic bacteriophages from Streptococcus iniae. J Appl Microbiol 2013; 114:1616-24. [PMID: 23490045 DOI: 10.1111/jam.12192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2012] [Revised: 03/04/2013] [Accepted: 03/07/2013] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
AIMS To investigate the presence of prophage in Streptococcus iniae, a highly problematic fish pathogen. METHODS AND RESULTS Cross-spotting assays and mitomycin C inductions were conducted to screen for prophage in 48 Strep. iniae isolates. Bacteriophages were characterized by plaque assays, transmission electron microscopy and DNA restriction enzyme digestion. Plaque assays confirmed prophages in 14·6% of isolates. Phages vB_SinS-44, vB_SinS-45, vB_SinS-46 and vB_SinS-48 lysed 78·5% of Strep. iniae isolates and displayed distinctive host ranges. Microscopy revealed virions exhibiting long, non-contractile tails and isometric heads consistent with phages from the family Siphoviridae. Restriction digests revealed genome sizes ranging from 27·5 to 66·3 kbp, with distinct cutting patterns that indicate the presence of related prophages in bacteria isolated from different geographic regions. CONCLUSIONS The rate of prophage carriage found is comparably low and induction rates varied between phages. The four characterized Siphoviridae phages have broad host ranges within the Strep. iniae isolates. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY This is the first description and characterization of lysogenic phages from Strep. iniae. These phages are candidates for research and diagnosis of the bacterium and their identification should accelerate the discovery of lytic phages to be trialled against Strep. iniae infections in fish.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- E E Wright
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, Qld, Australia.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
29
|
Richards VP, Zadoks RN, Pavinski Bitar PD, Lefébure T, Lang P, Werner B, Tikofsky L, Moroni P, Stanhope MJ. Genome characterization and population genetic structure of the zoonotic pathogen, Streptococcus canis. BMC Microbiol 2012; 12:293. [PMID: 23244770 PMCID: PMC3541175 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2180-12-293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2012] [Accepted: 12/06/2012] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Streptococcus canis is an important opportunistic pathogen of dogs and cats that can also infect a wide range of additional mammals including cows where it can cause mastitis. It is also an emerging human pathogen. Results Here we provide characterization of the first genome sequence for this species, strain FSL S3-227 (milk isolate from a cow with an intra-mammary infection). A diverse array of putative virulence factors was encoded by the S. canis FSL S3-227 genome. Approximately 75% of these gene sequences were homologous to known Streptococcal virulence factors involved in invasion, evasion, and colonization. Present in the genome are multiple potentially mobile genetic elements (MGEs) [plasmid, phage, integrative conjugative element (ICE)] and comparison to other species provided convincing evidence for lateral gene transfer (LGT) between S. canis and two additional bovine mastitis causing pathogens (Streptococcus agalactiae, and Streptococcus dysgalactiae subsp. dysgalactiae), with this transfer possibly contributing to host adaptation. Population structure among isolates obtained from Europe and USA [bovine = 56, canine = 26, and feline = 1] was explored. Ribotyping of all isolates and multi locus sequence typing (MLST) of a subset of the isolates (n = 45) detected significant differentiation between bovine and canine isolates (Fisher exact test: P = 0.0000 [ribotypes], P = 0.0030 [sequence types]), suggesting possible host adaptation of some genotypes. Concurrently, the ancestral clonal complex (54% of isolates) occurred in many tissue types, all hosts, and all geographic locations suggesting the possibility of a wide and diverse niche. Conclusion This study provides evidence highlighting the importance of LGT in the evolution of the bacteria S. canis, specifically, its possible role in host adaptation and acquisition of virulence factors. Furthermore, recent LGT detected between S. canis and human bacteria (Streptococcus urinalis) is cause for concern, as it highlights the possibility for continued acquisition of human virulence factors for this emerging zoonotic pathogen.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vincent P Richards
- Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
30
|
Baums CG, Hermeyer K, Leimbach S, Adamek M, Czerny CP, Hörstgen-Schwark G, Valentin-Weigand P, Baumgärtner W, Steinhagen D. Establishment of a model of Streptococcus iniae meningoencephalitis in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). J Comp Pathol 2012; 149:94-102. [PMID: 23218409 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcpa.2012.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2011] [Revised: 08/23/2012] [Accepted: 10/15/2012] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Streptococcus iniae is an invasive pathogen causing meningitis and other lesions in various fish species. Furthermore, S. iniae is an emerging zoonotic agent that causes cellulitis in man. The aims of this study were to establish an intraperitoneal infection model for S. iniae in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) and to develop a new histopathological scoring system to reflect the degree and extent of inflammation as well as the presence of necrosis in the brain and eye. Intraperitoneal administration of 10(6) colony-forming units (CFU) led to 80% mortality and numerous fish developing clinical signs of central nervous system dysfunction. Microscopical examination of four regions of the brain (olfactory bulb, cerebellum, cerebrum and optical lobe) and the eye revealed the presence of lymphohistiocytic leptomeningitis, meningoencephalitis and endophthalmitis. Lesions were dominated by macrophages that often contained intracellular bacteria. Necrosis was recorded in some cases. Bacteriological screening revealed that multiple organs, including brain and eye, were infected with S. iniae and S. iniae colonized the scales and gills in high number. S. iniae was detected in tank water during the first week post infection, suggesting that infected tilapia might shed up to 3 × 10(7) CFU of S. iniae within 24 h. A multiplex polymerase chain reaction allowed confirmation of the challenge strain by detection of the virulence factors simA, scpI, cpsD, pgi, pgm and sagA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C G Baums
- Institute for Microbiology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine, D-30173 Hannover, Germany.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
31
|
Abstract
Zoonotic infections caused by Streptococcus spp. have been neglected in spite of the fact that frequency and severity of outbreaks increased dramatically in recent years. This may be due to non-identification since respective species are often not considered in human medical diagnostic procedures. On the other hand, an expanding human population concomitant with an increasing demand for food and the increased number of companion animals favour conditions for host species adaptation of animal streptococci. This review aims to give an overview on streptococcal zoonoses with focus on epidemiology and pathogenicity of four major zoonotic species, Streptococcus canis, Streptococcus equi sub. zooepidemicus, Streptococcus iniae and Streptococcus suis.
Collapse
|
32
|
Pridgeon JW, Klesius PH, Mu X, Yancey RJ, Kievit MS, Dominowski PJ. Efficacy of QCDCR formulated CpG ODN 2007 in Nile tilapia against Streptococcus iniae and identification of upregulated genes. Vet Immunol Immunopathol 2011; 145:179-90. [PMID: 22129787 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetimm.2011.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2011] [Revised: 10/31/2011] [Accepted: 11/03/2011] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
The potential of using a QCDCR (quilA:cholesterol:dimethyl dioctadecyl ammonium bromide:carbopol:R1005 glycolipid) formulated CpG oligodeoxynucleotide (ODN), ODN 2007, to confer protection in Nile tilapia against Streptococcus iniae infection was evaluated in this study. At two days post treatment, QCDCR formulated ODN 2007 elicited significant (P<0.05) protection to Nile tilapia, with relative percent survival of 63% compared to fish treated by QCDCR alone. To understand the molecular mechanisms involved in the protective immunity elicited by ODN 2007, suppression subtractive cDNA hybridization technique was used to identify upregulated genes induced by ODN 2007. A total of 69 expressed sequence tags (ESTs) were identified from the subtractive cDNA library. Quantitative PCR revealed that 44 ESTs were significantly (P<0.05) upregulated by ODN 2007, including 29 highly (>10-fold) and 15 moderately (<10-fold) upregulated ESTs. Of all ESTs, putative peroxisomal sarcosine oxidase was upregulated the highest. The 69 ESTs only included six genes that had putative functions related to immunity, of which only two (putative glutaredoxin-1 and carboxypeptidase N catalytic chain) were confirmed to be significantly upregulated. Our results suggest that the protection elicited by ODN 2007 is mainly through innate immune responses directly or indirectly related to immunity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julia W Pridgeon
- Aquatic Animal Health Research Unit, USDA-ARS, 990 Wire Road, Auburn, AL 36832, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
33
|
Finkelstein R, Oren I. Soft tissue infections caused by marine bacterial pathogens: epidemiology, diagnosis, and management. Curr Infect Dis Rep 2011; 13:470-7. [PMID: 21785929 DOI: 10.1007/s11908-011-0199-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Skin and soft tissue infections (SSTIs) are one of the most common infection syndromes and may be caused by a large number of microorganisms. Some principles of aquatic injuries are different than those of land-based trauma. Wounds sustained in marine environment are exposed to a milieu of bacteria rarely encountered in different settings. These include Vibrio spp., Aeromonas spp., Shewanella spp., Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae, Mycobacterium marinum, Streptococcus iniae, and other microbes. Failure to recognize and treat these uncommon pathogens in a timely manner may result in significant morbidity or death. These infections are frequently contracted as a result of recreational swimming, fishing injuries, or seafood handling. The spectrum of manifestations is wide, varying from cases of mild cellulitis, to severe life-threatening necrotizing fasciitis requiring radical surgery, to sepsis and death. This review will focus on the epidemiology, clinical manifestations, and treatment of SSTIs caused by the most important marine pathogens.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Renato Finkelstein
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Rambam Healthcare Campus, 31096, Haifa, Israel,
| | | |
Collapse
|
34
|
Pridgeon JW, Klesius PH. Development and efficacy of a novobiocin-resistant Streptococcus iniae as a novel vaccine in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). Vaccine 2011; 29:5986-93. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2011.06.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2011] [Revised: 06/08/2011] [Accepted: 06/12/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
|
35
|
Pridgeon JW, Klesius PH. Identification and expression profile of multiple genes in Nile tilapia in response to formalin killed Streptococcus iniae vaccination. Vet Immunol Immunopathol 2011; 142:201-6. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vetimm.2011.05.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2011] [Revised: 04/14/2011] [Accepted: 05/06/2011] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
|
36
|
Abstract
Streptococcus iniae is an emerging zoonotic pathogen; such infections generally occur through injuries associated with preparing whole fresh fish for cooking. Those infected to date have been of Asian descent, are usually elderly (average age 68 years), and have had >/=1 underlying conditions that may predispose them to infection. Studies of the foundations of growth characteristics of S. iniae and its interactions with piscine host cells have recently been complemented by molecular studies. Advances in molecular biology have allowed research groups to identify numerous virulence factors and to explore their roles in the progression of S. iniae infection. Many of these virulence factors are homologous to those found in the major human pathogen S. pyogenes. An increased understanding of the properties of these factors and their effect on the success of infection is leading to novel approaches to control S. iniae infection; in particular, vaccination programs at fish farms have reduced the reservoir of infection for additional clinical cases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Justice C F Baiano
- The University of Queensland, Aquatic Animal Health Laboratory, Centre for Marine Studies, St. Lucia, Queensland 4072, Australia.
| | | |
Collapse
|
37
|
Milani CJE, Aziz RK, Locke JB, Dahesh S, Nizet V, Buchanan JT. The novel polysaccharide deacetylase homologue Pdi contributes to virulence of the aquatic pathogen Streptococcus iniae. MICROBIOLOGY-SGM 2009; 156:543-554. [PMID: 19762441 DOI: 10.1099/mic.0.028365-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The aquatic zoonotic pathogen Streptococcus iniae represents a threat to the worldwide aquaculture industry and poses a risk to humans who handle raw fish. Because little is known about the mechanisms of S. iniae pathogenesis or virulence factors, we established a high-throughput system combining whole-genome pyrosequencing and transposon mutagenesis that allowed us to identify virulence proteins, including Pdi, the polysaccharide deacetylase of S. iniae, that we describe here. Using bioinformatics tools, we identified a highly conserved signature motif in Pdi that is also conserved in the peptidoglycan deacetylase PgdA protein family. A Deltapdi mutant was attenuated for virulence in the hybrid striped bass model and for survival in whole fish blood. Moreover, Pdi was found to promote bacterial resistance to lysozyme killing and the ability to adhere to and invade epithelial cells. On the other hand, there was no difference in the autolytic potential, resistance to oxidative killing or resistance to cationic antimicrobial peptides between S. iniae wild-type and Deltapdi. In conclusion, we have demonstrated that pdi is involved in S. iniae adherence and invasion, lysozyme resistance and survival in fish blood, and have shown that pdi plays a role in the pathogenesis of S. iniae. Identification of Pdi and other S. iniae virulence proteins is a necessary initial step towards the development of appropriate preventive and therapeutic measures against diseases and economic losses caused by this pathogen.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carlo J E Milani
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, MC 0687, La Jolla, CA 92093-0687, USA
| | - Ramy K Aziz
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, 11562 Cairo, Egypt
| | - Jeffrey B Locke
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, MC 0687, La Jolla, CA 92093-0687, USA
| | - Samira Dahesh
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, MC 0687, La Jolla, CA 92093-0687, USA
| | - Victor Nizet
- Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, MC 0657, La Jolla, CA 92093-0657, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, MC 0687, La Jolla, CA 92093-0687, USA
| | - John T Buchanan
- Aqua Bounty Technologies, 8395 Camino Santa Fe, Suite E, San Diego, CA 92121, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, MC 0687, La Jolla, CA 92093-0687, USA
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Koh TH, Sng LH, Yuen SM, Thomas CK, Tan PL, Tan SH, Wong NS. Streptococcal Cellulitis Following Preparation of Fresh Raw Seafood. Zoonoses Public Health 2009; 56:206-8. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1863-2378.2008.01213.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
|
39
|
Woo P, Lau S, Teng J, Tse H, Yuen KY. Then and now: use of 16S rDNA gene sequencing for bacterial identification and discovery of novel bacteria in clinical microbiology laboratories. Clin Microbiol Infect 2008; 14:908-34. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1469-0691.2008.02070.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 524] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
|