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Yang S, Zeng J, Yu J, Sun R, Tuo Y, Bai H. Insights into Chlamydia Development and Host Cells Response. Microorganisms 2024; 12:1302. [PMID: 39065071 PMCID: PMC11279054 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms12071302] [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: 05/29/2024] [Revised: 06/15/2024] [Accepted: 06/23/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Chlamydia infections commonly afflict both humans and animals, resulting in significant morbidity and imposing a substantial socioeconomic burden worldwide. As an obligate intracellular pathogen, Chlamydia interacts with other cell organelles to obtain necessary nutrients and establishes an intracellular niche for the development of a biphasic intracellular cycle. Eventually, the host cells undergo lysis or extrusion, releasing infectious elementary bodies and facilitating the spread of infection. This review provides insights into Chlamydia development and host cell responses, summarizing the latest research on the biphasic developmental cycle, nutrient acquisition, intracellular metabolism, host cell fates following Chlamydia invasion, prevalent diseases associated with Chlamydia infection, treatment options, and vaccine prevention strategies. A comprehensive understanding of these mechanisms will contribute to a deeper comprehension of the intricate equilibrium between Chlamydia within host cells and the progression of human disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Hong Bai
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Immunology (The Educational Ministry of China), Tianjin Institute of Immunology, Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, China; (S.Y.); (J.Z.); (J.Y.); (R.S.); (Y.T.)
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2
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Jury B, Fleming C, Huston WM, Luu LDW. Molecular pathogenesis of Chlamydia trachomatis. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2023; 13:1281823. [PMID: 37920447 PMCID: PMC10619736 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1281823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Chlamydia trachomatis is a strict intracellular human pathogen. It is the main bacterial cause of sexually transmitted infections and the etiologic agent of trachoma, which is the leading cause of preventable blindness. Despite over 100 years since C. trachomatis was first identified, there is still no vaccine. However in recent years, the advancement of genetic manipulation approaches for C. trachomatis has increased our understanding of the molecular pathogenesis of C. trachomatis and progress towards a vaccine. In this mini-review, we aimed to outline the factors related to the developmental cycle phase and specific pathogenesis activity of C. trachomatis in order to focus priorities for future genetic approaches. We highlight the factors known to be critical for developmental cycle stages, gene expression regulatory factors, type III secretion system and their effectors, and individual virulence factors with known impacts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brittany Jury
- School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW, Australia
| | - Charlotte Fleming
- School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW, Australia
| | | | - Laurence Don Wai Luu
- School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW, Australia
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3
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Turman BJ, Darville T, O'Connell CM. Plasmid-mediated virulence in Chlamydia. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2023; 13:1251135. [PMID: 37662000 PMCID: PMC10469868 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1251135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Chlamydia trachomatis infection of ocular conjunctiva can lead to blindness, while infection of the female genital tract can lead to chronic pelvic pain, ectopic pregnancy, and/or infertility. Conjunctival and fallopian tube inflammation and the resulting disease sequelae are attributed to immune responses induced by chlamydial infection at these mucosal sites. The conserved chlamydial plasmid has been implicated in enhancing infection, via improved host cell entry and exit, and accelerating innate inflammatory responses that lead to tissue damage. The chlamydial plasmid encodes eight open reading frames, three of which have been associated with virulence: a secreted protein, Pgp3, and putative transcriptional regulators, Pgp4 and Pgp5. Although Pgp3 is an important plasmid-encoded virulence factor, recent studies suggest that chlamydial plasmid-mediated virulence extends beyond the expression of Pgp3. In this review, we discuss studies of genital, ocular, and gastrointestinal infection with C. trachomatis or C. muridarum that shed light on the role of the plasmid in disease development, and the potential for tissue and species-specific differences in plasmid-mediated pathogenesis. We also review evidence that plasmid-associated inflammation can be independent of bacterial burden. The functions of each of the plasmid-encoded proteins and potential molecular mechanisms for their role(s) in chlamydial virulence are discussed. Although the understanding of plasmid-associated virulence has expanded within the last decade, many questions related to how and to what extent the plasmid influences chlamydial infectivity and inflammation remain unknown, particularly with respect to human infections. Elucidating the answers to these questions could improve our understanding of how chlamydia augment infection and inflammation to cause disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Breanna J. Turman
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Toni Darville
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
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4
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Virulence Protein Pgp3 Is Insufficient To Mediate Plasmid-Dependent Infectivity of Chlamydia trachomatis. Infect Immun 2023; 91:e0039222. [PMID: 36722979 PMCID: PMC9933628 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00392-22] [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: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Chlamydia trachomatis is the most common cause of infectious blindness and sexually transmitted bacterial infection globally. C. trachomatis contains a conserved chlamydial plasmid with eight coding sequences. Plasmid-cured Chlamydia strains are attenuated and display reduced infectivity in cell culture and in vivo genital infection of female mice. Mutants that do not express the plasmid-encoded proteins Pgp3, a secreted protein with unknown function, or Pgp4, a putative regulator of pgp3 and other chromosomal loci, display an infectivity defect similar to plasmid-deficient strains. Our objective was to determine the combined and individual contributions of Pgp3 and Pgp4 to this phenotype. Deletion of pgp3 and pgp4 resulted in an infectivity defect detected by competition assay in cell culture and in mice. The pgp3 locus was placed under the control of an anhydrotetracycline-inducible promoter to examine the individual contributions of Pgp3 and Pgp4 to infectivity. Expression of pgp3 was induced 100- to 1,000-fold after anhydrotetracycline administration, regardless of the presence or absence of pgp4. However, secreted Pgp3 was not detected when pgp4 was deleted, confirming a role for Pgp4 in Pgp3 secretion. We discovered that expression of pgp3 or pgp4 alone was insufficient to restore normal infectivity, which required expression of both Pgp3 and Pgp4. These results suggest Pgp3 and Pgp4 are both required for infectivity during C. trachomatis infection. Future studies are required to determine the mechanism by which Pgp3 and Pgp4 influence chlamydial infectivity as well as the potential roles of Pgp4-regulated loci.
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5
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Intracellular lifestyle of Chlamydia trachomatis and host-pathogen interactions. Nat Rev Microbiol 2023:10.1038/s41579-023-00860-y. [PMID: 36788308 DOI: 10.1038/s41579-023-00860-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, substantial progress has been made in the understanding of the intracellular lifestyle of Chlamydia trachomatis and how the bacteria establish themselves in the human host. As an obligate intracellular pathogenic bacterium with a strongly reduced coding capacity, C. trachomatis depends on the provision of nutrients from the host cell. In this Review, we summarize the current understanding of how C. trachomatis establishes its intracellular replication niche, how its metabolism functions in the host cell, how it can defend itself against the cell autonomous and innate immune response and how it overcomes adverse situations through the transition to a persistent state. In particular, we focus on those processes for which a mechanistic understanding has been achieved.
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Pant S, Bhati T, Dimri A, Arora R, Siraj F, Raisuddin S, Rastogi S. Chlamydia trachomatis infection regulates the expression of tetraspanins, activin-A, and inhibin-A in tubal ectopic pregnancy. Pathog Dis 2023; 81:ftad018. [PMID: 37480234 DOI: 10.1093/femspd/ftad018] [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: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Mechanism of Chlamydia trachomatis causing tubal ectopic pregnancy (EP) is not well understood. Tetraspanins (tspans), activin-A, and inhibin-A might play a role in the development of pathological conditions leading to EP. The study aimed to elucidate the expression of tspans, activin-A, and inhibin-A with a role of associated cytokines in C. trachomatis-associated EP and analyze interacting partners of DEGs, with an expression of a few important interacting genes. Fallopian tissue and serum were collected from 100 EP (Group I) and 100 controls (Group II) from SJH, New Delhi, India. Detection of C. trachomatis was done by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and IgG antibodies were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Expression of tspans, activin-A, inhibin-A, and cytokines was analyzed by real time (RT)-PCR and their interacting genes were assessed by STRING. Expression of few disease-associated interacting genes was studied by RT-PCR. A total of 29% (Group I) were C. trachomatis positive. Tspans and activin-A were significantly upregulated, while inhibin-A was significantly downregulated in Group Ia. ITGA1, TLR-2, ITGB2, and Smad-3 were a few interacting genes. Expression of ITGA1, TLR-2, and Smad-3 was significantly upregulated in C. trachomatis-positive EP. Results suggested dysregulated tspans, activin-A, and inhibin-A might play a role in C. trachomatis-infected tubal EP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shipra Pant
- Molecular Microbiology Laboratory, ICMR-National Institute of Pathology, Sriramachari Bhawan, Safdarjung Hospital Campus, Post Box 4909, New Delhi 110029, India
| | - Tanu Bhati
- Molecular Microbiology Laboratory, ICMR-National Institute of Pathology, Sriramachari Bhawan, Safdarjung Hospital Campus, Post Box 4909, New Delhi 110029, India
| | - Astha Dimri
- Molecular Microbiology Laboratory, ICMR-National Institute of Pathology, Sriramachari Bhawan, Safdarjung Hospital Campus, Post Box 4909, New Delhi 110029, India
| | - Renu Arora
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Vardhman Mahavir Medical College (VMMC) and Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi 110029, India
| | - Fouzia Siraj
- Pathology Laboratory, ICMR-National Institute of Pathology, Sriramachari Bhawan, Safdarjung Hospital Campus, Post Box 4909, New Delhi 110029, India
| | - Sheikh Raisuddin
- Department of Medical Elementology and Toxicology, Jamia Hamdard, Hamdard Nagar, New Delhi 10062, India
| | - Sangita Rastogi
- Molecular Microbiology Laboratory, ICMR-National Institute of Pathology, Sriramachari Bhawan, Safdarjung Hospital Campus, Post Box 4909, New Delhi 110029, India
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Dong M, Dong Y, Bai J, Li H, Ma X, Li B, Wang C, Li H, Qi W, Wang Y, Fan A, Han C, Xue F. Interactions between microbiota and cervical epithelial, immune, and mucus barrier. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2023; 13:1124591. [PMID: 36909729 PMCID: PMC9998931 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1124591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The female reproductive tract harbours hundreds of bacterial species and produces numerous metabolites. The uterine cervix is located between the upper and lower parts of the female genital tract. It allows sperm and birth passage and hinders the upward movement of microorganisms into a relatively sterile uterus. It is also the predicted site for sexually transmitted infection (STI), such as Chlamydia, human papilloma virus (HPV), and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). The healthy cervicovaginal microbiota maintains cervical epithelial barrier integrity and modulates the mucosal immune system. Perturbations of the microbiota composition accompany changes in microbial metabolites that induce local inflammation, damage the cervical epithelial and immune barrier, and increase susceptibility to STI infection and relative disease progression. This review examined the intimate interactions between the cervicovaginal microbiota, relative metabolites, and the cervical epithelial-, immune-, and mucus barrier, and the potent effect of the host-microbiota interaction on specific STI infection. An improved understanding of cervicovaginal microbiota regulation on cervical microenvironment homeostasis might promote advances in diagnostic and therapeutic approaches for various STI diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengting Dong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Health and Eugenic, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Yalan Dong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Health and Eugenic, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Junyi Bai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Health and Eugenic, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Huanrong Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Health and Eugenic, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Xiaotong Ma
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Health and Eugenic, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Bijun Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Health and Eugenic, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Chen Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Health and Eugenic, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Huiyang Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Health and Eugenic, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Wenhui Qi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Health and Eugenic, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Yingmei Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Health and Eugenic, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Aiping Fan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Health and Eugenic, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Cha Han
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Health and Eugenic, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- *Correspondence: Cha Han, ; Fengxia Xue,
| | - Fengxia Xue
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Health and Eugenic, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- *Correspondence: Cha Han, ; Fengxia Xue,
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Dolat L, Carpenter VK, Chen YS, Suzuki M, Smith EP, Kuddar O, Valdivia RH. Chlamydia repurposes the actin-binding protein EPS8 to disassemble epithelial tight junctions and promote infection. Cell Host Microbe 2022; 30:1685-1700.e10. [PMID: 36395759 PMCID: PMC9793342 DOI: 10.1016/j.chom.2022.10.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Invasive microbial pathogens often disrupt epithelial barriers, yet the mechanisms used to dismantle tight junctions are poorly understood. Here, we show that the obligate pathogen Chlamydia trachomatis uses the effector protein TepP to transiently disassemble tight junctions early during infection. TepP alters the tyrosine phosphorylation status of host proteins involved in cytoskeletal regulation, including the filamentous actin-binding protein EPS8. We determined that TepP and EPS8 are necessary and sufficient to remodel tight junctions and that the ensuing disruption of epithelial barrier function promotes secondary invasion events. The genetic deletion of EPS8 renders epithelial cells and endometrial organoids resistant to TepP-mediated tight junction remodeling. Finally, TepP and EPS8 promote infection in murine models of infections, with TepP mutants displaying defects in ascension to the upper genital tract. These findings reveal a non-canonical function of EPS8 in the disassembly of epithelial junctions and an important role for Chlamydia pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lee Dolat
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Victoria K Carpenter
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Yi-Shan Chen
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Michitaka Suzuki
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Erin P Smith
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Ozge Kuddar
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Raphael H Valdivia
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA.
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9
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Romero MD, Carabeo RA. Distinct roles of the Chlamydia trachomatis effectors TarP and TmeA in the regulation of formin and Arp2/3 during entry. J Cell Sci 2022; 135:jcs260185. [PMID: 36093837 PMCID: PMC9659389 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.260185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The obligate intracellular pathogen Chlamydia trachomatis manipulates the host actin cytoskeleton to assemble actin-rich structures that drive pathogen entry. The recent discovery of TmeA, which, like TarP, is an invasion-associated type III effector implicated in actin remodeling, raised questions regarding the nature of their functional interaction. Quantitative live-cell imaging of actin remodeling at invasion sites revealed differences in recruitment and turnover kinetics associated with the TarP and TmeA pathways, with the former accounting for most of the robust actin dynamics at invasion sites. TarP-mediated recruitment of actin nucleators, i.e. formins and the Arp2/3 complex, was crucial for rapid actin kinetics, generating a collaborative positive feedback loop that enhanced their respective actin-nucleating activities within invasion sites. In contrast, the formin Fmn1 was not recruited to invasion sites and did not collaborate with Arp2/3 within the context of TmeA-associated actin recruitment. Although the TarP-Fmn1-Arp2/3 signaling axis is responsible for the majority of actin dynamics, its inhibition had similar effects as the deletion of TmeA on invasion efficiency, consistent with the proposed model that TarP and TmeA act on different stages of the same invasion pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew D. Romero
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5900, USA
| | - Rey A. Carabeo
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5900, USA
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Lujan AL, Croci DO, Rabinovich GA, Damiani MT. Galectins as potential therapeutic targets in STIs in the female genital tract. Nat Rev Urol 2022; 19:240-252. [PMID: 35105978 DOI: 10.1038/s41585-021-00562-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Every day, more than one million people worldwide acquire a sexually transmitted infection (STI). This public health problem has a direct effect on women's reproductive and sexual health as STIs can cause irreversible damage to fertility and can have negative consequences associated with discrimination and social exclusion. Infection with one sexually transmitted pathogen predisposes to co-infection with others, suggesting the existence of shared pathways that serve as molecular links between these diseases. Galectins, a family of β-galactoside-binding proteins, have emerged as endogenous mediators that facilitate cell-surface binding, internalization and cell invasion of many sexually transmitted pathogens, including Chlamydia trachomatis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Trichomonas vaginalis, Candida albicans, HIV and herpes simplex virus. The ability of certain galectins to dimerize or form multimeric complexes confers the capacity to interact simultaneously with glycosylated ligands on both the pathogen and the cervico-vaginal tissue on these proteins. Galectins can act as a bridge by engaging glycans from the pathogen surface and glycosylated receptors from host cells, which is a mechanism that has been shown to be shared by several sexually transmitted pathogens. In the case of viruses and obligate intracellular bacteria, binding to the cell surface promotes pathogen internalization and cell invasion. Inflammatory responses that occur in cervico-vaginal tissue might trigger secretion of galectins, which in turn control the establishment, evolution and severity of STIs. Thus, galectin-targeted therapies could potentially prevent or decrease STIs caused by a diverse array of pathogenic microorganisms; furthermore, anti-galectin agents might reduce treatment costs of STIs and reach the most vulnerable populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agustin L Lujan
- Laboratorio de Bioquímica e Inmunidad, Instituto de Bioquímica y Biotecnología, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Instituto de Medicina y Biología Experimental de Cuyo (IMBECU), Universidad Nacional de Cuyo (UNCUYO), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Mendoza, Argentina.,Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Diego O Croci
- Laboratorio de Inmunopatología, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Instituto de Histología y Embriología de Mendoza (IHEM), Universidad Nacional de Cuyo (UNCUYO), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Mendoza, Argentina
| | - Gabriel A Rabinovich
- Laboratorio de Glicomedicina, Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina. .,Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), C1428AGE, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - Maria T Damiani
- Laboratorio de Bioquímica e Inmunidad, Instituto de Bioquímica y Biotecnología, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Instituto de Medicina y Biología Experimental de Cuyo (IMBECU), Universidad Nacional de Cuyo (UNCUYO), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Mendoza, Argentina.
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11
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Li X, Zuo Z, Wang Y, Hegemann JH, He C. Polymorphic Membrane Protein 17G of Chlamydia psittaci Mediated the Binding and Invasion of Bacteria to Host Cells by Interacting and Activating EGFR of the Host. Front Immunol 2022; 12:818487. [PMID: 35173712 PMCID: PMC8841347 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.818487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 12/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Chlamydia psittaci (C. psittaci) is an obligate intracellular, gram-negative bacterium, and mainly causes systemic disease in psittacine birds, domestic poultry, and wild fowl. The pathogen is threating to human beings due to closely contacted to employees in poultry industry. The polymorphic membrane proteins (Pmps) enriched in C. psittaci includes six subtypes (A, B/C, D, E/F, G/I and H). Compared to that of the 1 pmpG gene in Chlamydia trachomatis (C. trachomatis), the diverse pmpG gene-coding proteins of C. psittaci remain elusive. In the present study, polymorphic membrane protein 17G (Pmp17G) of C. psittaci mediated adhesion to different host cells. More importantly, expression of Pmp17G in C. trachomatis upregulated infections to host cells. Afterwards, crosstalk between Pmp17G and EGFR was screened and identified by MALDI-MS and Co-IP. Subsequently, EGFR overexpression in CHO-K1 cells and EGFR knockout in HeLa 229 cells were assessed to determine whether Pmp17G directly correlated with EGFR during Chlamydial adhesion. Finally, the EGFR phosphorylation was recognized by Grb2, triggering chlamydial invasion. Based on above evidence, Pmp17G possesses adhesive property that serves as an adhesin and activate intracellular bacterial internalization by recognizing EGFR during C. psittaci infection
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohui Li
- Key Lab of Animal Epidemiology and Zoonoses of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Zonghui Zuo
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Breeding and Healthy Husbandry, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Tianjin Agricultural University, Tianjin, China
- Department of Biology, Institute for Functional Microbial Genomics, Heinrich-Heine-Universität Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Yihui Wang
- Key Lab of Animal Epidemiology and Zoonoses of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Johannes H. Hegemann
- Department of Biology, Institute for Functional Microbial Genomics, Heinrich-Heine-Universität Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Cheng He
- Key Lab of Animal Epidemiology and Zoonoses of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Cheng He,
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12
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Chatterjee R, Chowdhury AR, Mukherjee D, Chakravortty D. Lipid larceny: channelizing host lipids for establishing successful pathogenesis by bacteria. Virulence 2021; 12:195-216. [PMID: 33356849 PMCID: PMC7808437 DOI: 10.1080/21505594.2020.1869441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2020] [Revised: 12/03/2020] [Accepted: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Lipids are complex organic compounds made up of carbon, oxygen, and hydrogen. These play a diverse and intricate role in cellular processes like membrane trafficking, protein sorting, signal transduction, and bacterial infections. Both Gram-positive bacteria (Staphylococcus sp., Listeria monocytogenes, etc.) and Gram-negative bacteria (Chlamydia sp., Salmonella sp., E. coli, etc.) can hijack the various host-lipids and utilize them structurally as well as functionally to mount a successful infection. The pathogens can deploy with various arsenals to exploit host membrane lipids and lipid-associated receptors as an attachment for toxins' landing or facilitate their entry into the host cellular niche. Bacterial species like Mycobacterium sp. can also modulate the host lipid metabolism to fetch its carbon source from the host. The sequential conversion of host membrane lipids into arachidonic acid and prostaglandin E2 due to increased activity of cPLA-2 and COX-2 upon bacterial infection creates immunosuppressive conditions and facilitates the intracellular growth and proliferation of bacteria. However, lipids' more debatable role is that they can also be a blessing in disguise. Certain host-lipids, especially sphingolipids, have been shown to play a crucial antibacterial role and help the host in combating the infections. This review shed light on the detailed role of host lipids in bacterial infections and the current understanding of the lipid in therapeutics. We have also discussed potential prospects and the need of the hour to help us cope in this race against deadly pathogens and their rapidly evolving stealthy virulence strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ritika Chatterjee
- Department of Microbiology and Cell Biology, Division of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, India
| | - Atish Roy Chowdhury
- Department of Microbiology and Cell Biology, Division of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, India
| | - Debapriya Mukherjee
- Department of Microbiology and Cell Biology, Division of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, India
| | - Dipshikha Chakravortty
- Department of Microbiology and Cell Biology, Division of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, India
- Centre for Biosystems Science and Engineering, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, India
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13
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Liang L, Liu D, Li Z, Zhou J, Tong D. Chlamydia abortus OmcB protein is essential for adhesion to host cells. J Basic Microbiol 2021; 61:1145-1152. [PMID: 34695236 DOI: 10.1002/jobm.202100312] [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: 06/29/2021] [Revised: 09/17/2021] [Accepted: 10/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Chlamydia abortus (C. abortus) is one of the most important zoonotic pathogens, causing a number of serious diseases. The adhesion of C. abortus to host cells is the first and crucial step in the process of infection. Outer membrane protein 2 (OmcB) is the second most abundant outer membrane protein. It has been shown to be an important adhesin of Chlamydia trachomatis and Chlamydia pneumoniae. In the present study, the OmcB gene of C. abortus was cloned and expressed in Escherichia coli, and the recombinant OmcB protein with His-tag was used to prepare polyclonal antibodies. Infectivity inhibition assays carried out with C. abortus in the presence of recombinant OmcB showed a considerable reduction (∼50%) in infectivity. Using anti-OmcB serum in infectivity inhibition assays resulted in a 30% reduction in infectivity. Anti-OmcB serum and recombinant OmcB protein in infection inhibition assays showed that OmcB is a surface-exposed protein that functions as an adhesin. The constructed deletion variant of the OmcB motif for infection inhibition assays showed that the first XBBXBX motif of the C. abortus OmcB protein is essential for binding to host cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Liang
- Animal Pathology Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, China
- Teaching Management Department, Kunlun College of Qinghai University, Xining, China
| | - Donghui Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, China
| | - Zhaocai Li
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, China
| | - Jizhang Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, China
| | - Dewen Tong
- Animal Pathology Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
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14
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Liu C, Hufnagel K, O'Connell CM, Goonetilleke N, Mokashi N, Waterboer T, Tollison TS, Peng X, Wiesenfeld HC, Hillier SL, Zheng X, Darville T. Reduced Endometrial Ascension and Enhanced Reinfection Associated with IgG Antibodies to Specific Chlamydia trachomatis Proteins in Women at Risk for Chlamydia. J Infect Dis 2021; 225:846-855. [PMID: 34610131 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiab496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2021] [Accepted: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous research revealed antibodies targeting Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) elementary bodies was not associated with reduced endometrial or incident infection in CT-exposed women. However, data on the role of CT protein-specific antibodies in protection are limited. METHODS A whole-proteome CT array screening serum pools from CT-exposed women identified 121 immunoprevalent proteins. Individual sera were probed using a focused array. IgG antibody frequencies and endometrial or incident infection relationships were examined using Wilcoxon Rank sum test. The impact of breadth and magnitude of protein-specific IgGs on ascension and incident infection were examined using multivariable stepwise logistic regression. Complementary RNA-sequencing quantified CT gene transcripts in cervical swabs from infected women. RESULTS IgG to Pgp3 and CT005 were associated with reduced endometrial infection; anti-CT443, -CT486 and -CT123 were associated with increased incident infection. Increased breadth of protein recognition did not however predict protection from endometrial or incident infection. mRNAs for immunoprevalent CT proteins were highly abundant in the cervix. CONCLUSIONS Protein-specific CT antibodies are not sufficient to protect against ascending or incident infection but broad recognition of CT proteins by IgG correlates with cervical CT gene transcript abundance, suggesting CT protein abundance correlates with immunogenicity and signifies their potential as vaccine candidates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuwen Liu
- Department of Biostatistics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Katrin Hufnagel
- Division of Infections and Cancer Epidemiology, German Cancer Research Center (Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum, DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Catherine M O'Connell
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Nilu Goonetilleke
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Neha Mokashi
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Tim Waterboer
- Division of Infections and Cancer Epidemiology, German Cancer Research Center (Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum, DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Tammy S Tollison
- Department of Molecular Biomedical Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
| | - Xinxia Peng
- Department of Molecular Biomedical Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA.,Bioinformatics Research Center, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
| | - Harold C Wiesenfeld
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, The University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, The Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Sharon L Hillier
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, The University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, The Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Xiaojing Zheng
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Toni Darville
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
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15
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Horner PJ, Flanagan H, Horne AW. Is There a Hidden Burden of Disease as a Result of Epigenetic Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition Following Chlamydia trachomatis Genital Tract Infection? J Infect Dis 2021; 224:S128-S136. [PMID: 34396405 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiab088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Chlamydia trachomatis (CT), the most common bacterial sexually transmitted infection worldwide, has been widely researched for its involvement in many disease pathologies in the reproductive tract, including pelvic inflammatory disease, ectopic pregnancy, and tubal factor infertility. Recent findings, through the efforts to understand the pathogenesis of CT, suggest that CT can induce the process of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) through epigenetic changes in the epithelium of the female reproductive tract. This literature review aims to analyze the evidence for CT's ability to promote EMT and to pinpoint the areas that merit further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick J Horner
- Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom.,National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit in Behavioural Science and Evaluation, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Heather Flanagan
- Medical Research Council Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew W Horne
- Medical Research Council Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
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16
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Favaroni A, Hegemann JH. Chlamydia trachomatis Polymorphic Membrane Proteins (Pmps) Form Functional Homomeric and Heteromeric Oligomers. Front Microbiol 2021; 12:709724. [PMID: 34349750 PMCID: PMC8326573 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.709724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2021] [Accepted: 06/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Chlamydiae are Gram-negative, obligate intracellular bacteria, which infect animals and humans. Adhesion to host cells, the first step in the infection process, is mediated by polymorphic membrane proteins (Pmps). Pmps constitute the largest chlamydial protein family, with 9 members (subdivided into six subtypes) in C. trachomatis and 21 in C. pneumoniae, and are characterized by the presence of multiple copies of GGA(I,L,V) and FxxN motifs. Motif-rich fragments of all nine C. trachomatis Pmps act as adhesins and are essential for infection. As autotransporters, most Pmp proteins are secreted through their β-barrel domain and localize on the surface of the chlamydial cell, where most of them are proteolytically processed. Classical autotransporters are monomeric proteins, which can function as toxins, proteases, lipases and monoadhesive adhesins. Here we show that selected recombinant C. trachomatis Pmp fragments form functional adhesion-competent multimers. They assemble into homomeric and heteromeric filaments, as revealed by non-denaturing gel electrophoresis, size-exclusion chromatography and electron microscopy. Heteromeric filaments reach 2 μm in length, significantly longer than homomeric structures. Filament formation was independent of the number of motifs present in the fragment(s) concerned and their relative affinity for host cells. Our functional studies demonstrated that only adhesion-competent oligomers were able to block a subsequent infection. Pre-loading of infectious chlamydial cells with adhesion-competent Pmp oligomers maintained the subsequent infection, while adhesion-incompetent structures reduced infectivity, presumably by blocking the function of endogenous Pmps. The very large number of possible heteromeric and homomeric Pmp complexes represents a novel mechanism to ensure stable adhesion and possibly host cell immune escape.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison Favaroni
- Institute of Functional Microbial Genomics, Heinrich-Heine-University, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Johannes H Hegemann
- Institute of Functional Microbial Genomics, Heinrich-Heine-University, Duesseldorf, Germany
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17
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Prophylactic Multi-Subunit Vaccine against Chlamydia trachomatis: In Vivo Evaluation in Mice. Vaccines (Basel) 2021; 9:vaccines9060609. [PMID: 34204170 PMCID: PMC8226540 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines9060609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2021] [Revised: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Chlamydia trachomatis is the most frequent sexually-transmitted disease-causing bacterium. Urogenital serovars of this intracellular pathogen lead to urethritis and cervicitis. Ascending infections result in pelvic inflammatory disease, salpingitis, and oophoritis. One of 200 urogenital infections leads to tubal infertility. Serovars A–C cause trachoma with visual impairment. There is an urgent need for a vaccine. We characterized a new five-component subunit vaccine in a mouse vaccination-lung challenge infection model. Four recombinant Pmp family-members and Ctad1 from C. trachomatis serovar E, all of which participate in adhesion and binding of chlamydial elementary bodies to host cells, were combined with the mucosal adjuvant cyclic-di-adenosine monophosphate. Intranasal application led to a high degree of cross-serovar protection against urogenital and ocular strains of C. trachomatis, which lasted at least five months. Critical evaluated parameters were body weight, clinical score, chlamydial load, a granulocyte marker and the cytokines IFN-γ/TNF-α in lung homogenate. Vaccine antigen-specific antibodies and a mixed Th1/Th2/Th17 T cell response with multi-functional CD4+ and CD8+ T cells correlate with protection. However, serum-transfer did not protect the recipients suggesting that circulating antibodies play only a minor role. In the long run, our new vaccine might help to prevent the feared consequences of human C. trachomatis infections.
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18
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Howard S, Richardson S, Benyeogor I, Omosun Y, Dye K, Medhavi F, Lundy S, Adebayo O, Igietseme JU, Eko FO. Differential miRNA Profiles Correlate With Disparate Immunity Outcomes Associated With Vaccine Immunization and Chlamydial Infection. Front Immunol 2021; 12:625318. [PMID: 33692799 PMCID: PMC7937703 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.625318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2020] [Accepted: 01/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Vaccine-induced immune responses following immunization with promising Chlamydia vaccines protected experimental animals from Chlamydia-induced upper genital tract pathologies and infertility. In contrast, primary genital infection with live Chlamydia does not protect against these pathologies. We hypothesized that differential miRNA profiles induced in the upper genital tracts (UGT) of mice correlate with the disparate immunity vs. pathologic outcomes associated with vaccine immunization and chlamydial infection. Thus, miRNA expression profiles in the UGT of mice after Chlamydia infection (Live EB) and immunization with dendritic cell (DC)-based vaccine (DC vaccine) or VCG-based vaccine (VCG vaccine) were compared using the NanoString nCounter Mouse miRNA assay. Of the 602 miRNAs differentially expressed (DE) in the UGT of immunized and infected mice, we selected 58 with counts >100 and p-values < 0.05 for further analysis. Interestingly, vaccine immunization and Chlamydia infection induced the expression of distinct miRNA profiles with a higher proportion in vaccine-immunized compared to Chlamydia infected mice; DC vaccine (41), VCG vaccine (23), and Live EB (15). Hierarchical clustering analysis showed notable differences in the uniquely DE miRNAs for each experimental group, with DC vaccine showing the highest number (21 up-regulated, five down-regulated), VCG vaccine (two up-regulated, five down-regulated), and live EB (two up-regulated, four down-regulated). The DC vaccine-immunized group showed the highest number (21 up-regulated and five down-regulated compared to two up-regulated and four down-regulated in the live Chlamydia infected group). Pathway analysis showed that the DE miRNAs target genes that regulate several biological processes and functions associated with immune response and inflammation. These results suggest that the induction of differential miRNA expression plays a significant role in the disparate immunity outcomes associated with Chlamydia infection and vaccination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone Howard
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Shakyra Richardson
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Ifeyinwa Benyeogor
- Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Yusuf Omosun
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Kamran Dye
- Department of Chemistry, Morehouse College, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Fnu Medhavi
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Stephanie Lundy
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Olayinka Adebayo
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Joseph U. Igietseme
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Francis O. Eko
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
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19
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Keb G, Ferrell J, Scanlon KR, Jewett TJ, Fields KA. Chlamydia trachomatis TmeA Directly Activates N-WASP To Promote Actin Polymerization and Functions Synergistically with TarP during Invasion. mBio 2021; 12:e02861-20. [PMID: 33468693 PMCID: PMC7845632 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.02861-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2020] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Chlamydia trachomatis is a medically significant human pathogen and is an epithelial-tropic obligate intracellular parasite. Invasion of nonprofessional phagocytes represents a crucial step in the infection process and has likely promoted the evolution of a redundant mechanism and routes of entry. Like many other viral and invasive bacterial pathogens, manipulation of the host cell cytoskeleton represents a focal point in Chlamydia entry. The advent of genetic techniques in C. trachomatis, such as creation of complete gene deletions via fluorescence-reported allelic exchange mutagenesis (FRAEM), is providing important tools to unravel the contributions of bacterial factors in these complex pathways. The type III secretion chaperone Slc1 directs delivery of at least four effectors during the invasion process. Two of these, TarP and TmeA, have been associated with manipulation of actin networks and are essential for normal levels of invasion. The functions of TarP are well established, whereas TmeA is less well characterized. We leverage chlamydial genetics and proximity labeling here to provide evidence that TmeA directly targets host N-WASP to promote Arp2/3-dependent actin polymerization. Our work also shows that TmeA and TarP influence separate, yet synergistic pathways to accomplish chlamydial entry. These data further support an appreciation that a pathogen, confined by a reductionist genome, retains the ability to commit considerable resources to accomplish bottle-neck steps during the infection process.IMPORTANCE The increasing genetic tractability of Chlamydia trachomatis is accelerating the ability to characterize the unique infection biology of this obligate intracellular parasite. These efforts are leading to a greater understanding of the molecular events associated with key virulence requirements. Manipulation of the host actin cytoskeleton plays a pivotal role throughout Chlamydia infection, yet a thorough understanding of the molecular mechanisms initiating and orchestrating actin rearrangements has lagged. Our work highlights the application of genetic manipulation to address open questions regarding chlamydial invasion, a process essential to survival. We provide definitive insight regarding the role of the type III secreted effector TmeA and how that activity relates to another prominent effector, TarP. In addition, our data implicate at least one source that contributes to the functional divergence of entry mechanisms among chlamydial species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabrielle Keb
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
| | - Joshua Ferrell
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and 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
| | - Kenneth A Fields
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
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20
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Lipofectamine enhances Chlamydia infectivity in cell culture. Anal Biochem 2020; 610:113985. [PMID: 33065117 DOI: 10.1016/j.ab.2020.113985] [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: 06/08/2020] [Revised: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 10/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Cultivation of Chlamydia species in cell lines requires centrifugation of the inoculum onto diethylaminoethyl-dextran-pretreated cell monolayers to improve the infection efficiency. Here we report that the addition of DNA transfection reagent Lipofectamine in the inoculum significantly enhances the infectivity of Chlamydia abortus in mouse fibroblast McCoy cells, with an infection efficiency equivalent to that of the centrifugation method. Similar enhancement effects of Lipofectamine on the infectivity of C. psittaci and C. trachomatis were also observed. This study provides an alternative and convenient method for the cultivation of Chlamydia species in vitro in the absence of centrifugation.
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21
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Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor and Transforming Growth Factor β Signaling Pathways Cooperate To Mediate Chlamydia Pathogenesis. Infect Immun 2020; 88:IAI.00819-19. [PMID: 31964750 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00819-19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2019] [Accepted: 01/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Human genital Chlamydia infection is a major public health concern due to the serious reproductive system complications. Chlamydia binds several receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) on host cells, including the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), and activates cellular signaling cascades for host invasion, cytoskeletal remodeling, optimal inclusion development, and induction of pathogenic epithelial-mesenchyme transition (EMT). Chlamydia also upregulates transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) expression, whose signaling pathway synergizes with the EGFR cascade, but its role in infectivity, inclusions, and EMT induction is unknown. We hypothesized that the EGFR and TGF-β signaling pathways cooperate during chlamydial infection for optimal inclusion development and stable EMT induction. The results revealed that Chlamydia upregulated TGF-β expression as early as 6 h postinfection of epithelial cells and stimulated both the EGFR and TGF-β signaling pathways. Inhibition of either the EGFR or TGF-βR1 signaling substantially reduced inclusion development; however, the combined inhibition of both EGFR and TGF-βR1 signaling reduced inclusions by over 90% and prevented EMT induction. Importantly, EGFR inhibition suppressed TGF-β expression, and an inhibitory thrombospondin-1 (Tsp1)-based peptide inhibited chlamydia-induced EMT, revealing a major source of active TGF-β during infection. Finally, TGF-βR signaling inhibition suppressed the expression of transforming acidic coiled-coil protein-3 (TACC3), which stabilizes EGFR signaling, suggesting reciprocal regulation between TGF-β and EGFR signaling during chlamydial infection. Thus, RTK-mediated host invasion by chlamydia upregulated TGF-β expression and signaling, which cooperated with other cellular signaling cascades and cytoskeletal remodeling to support optimal inclusion development and EMT induction. This finding may provide new targets for chlamydial disease biomarkers and prevention.
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22
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Caven L, Carabeo RA. Pathogenic Puppetry: Manipulation of the Host Actin Cytoskeleton by Chlamydia trachomatis. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 21:ijms21010090. [PMID: 31877733 PMCID: PMC6981773 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21010090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2019] [Revised: 12/18/2019] [Accepted: 12/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The actin cytoskeleton is crucially important to maintenance of the cellular structure, cell motility, and endocytosis. Accordingly, bacterial pathogens often co-opt the actin-restructuring machinery of host cells to access or create a favorable environment for their own replication. The obligate intracellular organism Chlamydia trachomatis and related species exemplify this dynamic: by inducing actin polymerization at the site of pathogen-host attachment, Chlamydiae induce their own uptake by the typically non-phagocytic epithelium they infect. The interaction of chlamydial adhesins with host surface receptors has been implicated in this effect, as has the activity of the chlamydial effector TarP (translocated actin recruitment protein). Following invasion, C. trachomatis dynamically assembles and maintains an actin-rich cage around the pathogen’s membrane-bound replicative niche, known as the chlamydial inclusion. Through further induction of actin polymerization and modulation of the actin-crosslinking protein myosin II, C. trachomatis promotes egress from the host via extrusion of the inclusion. In this review, we present the experimental findings that can inform our understanding of actin-dependent chlamydial pathogenesis, discuss lingering questions, and identify potential avenues of future study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liam Caven
- School of Molecular Biosciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164, USA;
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5900, USA
| | - Rey A. Carabeo
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5900, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-402-836-9778
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23
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Gitsels A, Sanders N, Vanrompay D. Chlamydial Infection From Outside to Inside. Front Microbiol 2019; 10:2329. [PMID: 31649655 PMCID: PMC6795091 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2019.02329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2019] [Accepted: 09/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Chlamydia are obligate intracellular bacteria, characterized by a unique biphasic developmental cycle. Specific interactions with the host cell are crucial for the bacteria’s survival and amplification because of the reduced chlamydial genome. At the start of infection, pathogen-host interactions are set in place in order for Chlamydia to enter the host cell and reach the nutrient-rich peri-Golgi region. Once intracellular localization is established, interactions with organelles and pathways of the host cell enable the necessary hijacking of host-derived nutrients. Detailed information on the aforementioned processes will increase our understanding on the intracellular pathogenesis of chlamydiae and hence might lead to new strategies to battle chlamydial infection. This review summarizes how chlamydiae generate their intracellular niche in the host cell, acquire host-derived nutrients in order to enable their growth and finally exit the host cell in order to infect new cells. Moreover, the evolution in the development of molecular genetic tools, necessary for studying the chlamydial infection biology in more depth, is discussed in great detail.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arlieke Gitsels
- Laboratory for Immunology and Animal Biotechnology, Department of Animal Sciences and Aquatic Ecology, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Niek Sanders
- Laboratory of Gene Therapy, Department of Nutrition, Genetics and Ethology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Daisy Vanrompay
- Laboratory for Immunology and Animal Biotechnology, Department of Animal Sciences and Aquatic Ecology, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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24
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Pekmezovic M, Mogavero S, Naglik JR, Hube B. Host-Pathogen Interactions during Female Genital Tract Infections. Trends Microbiol 2019; 27:982-996. [PMID: 31451347 DOI: 10.1016/j.tim.2019.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2019] [Revised: 06/25/2019] [Accepted: 07/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Dysbiosis in the female genital tract (FGT) is characterized by the overgrowth of pathogenic bacterial, fungal, or protozoan members of the microbiota, leading to symptomatic or asymptomatic infections. In this review, we discuss recent advances in studies dealing with molecular mechanisms of pathogenicity factors of Gardnerella vaginalis, Mycoplasma genitalium, Mycoplasma hominis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Streptococcus agalactiae, Chlamydia trachomatis, Trichomonas vaginalis, and Candida spp., as well as their interactions with the host and microbiota in the various niches of the FGT. Taking a holistic approach to identifying fundamental commonalities and differences during these infections could help us to better understand reproductive tract health and improve current prevention and treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Pekmezovic
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Hans Knoell Institute, Jena, Germany
| | - Selene Mogavero
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Hans Knoell Institute, Jena, Germany
| | - Julian R Naglik
- Centre for Host-Microbiome Interactions, Faculty of Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Sciences, King's College London, SE1 1UL, UK
| | - Bernhard Hube
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Hans Knoell Institute, Jena, Germany; Institute of Microbiology, Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany. @leibniz-hki.de
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Bugalhão JN, Mota LJ. The multiple functions of the numerous Chlamydia trachomatis secreted proteins: the tip of the iceberg. MICROBIAL CELL 2019; 6:414-449. [PMID: 31528632 PMCID: PMC6717882 DOI: 10.15698/mic2019.09.691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Chlamydia trachomatis serovars are obligate intracellular bacterial pathogens mainly causing ocular and urogenital infections that affect millions of people worldwide and which can lead to blindness or sterility. They reside and multiply intracellularly within a membrane-bound vacuolar compartment, known as inclusion, and are characterized by a developmental cycle involving two morphologically and physiologically distinct chlamydial forms. Completion of the developmental cycle involves the secretion of > 70 C. trachomatis proteins that function in the host cell cytoplasm and nucleus, in the inclusion membrane and lumen, and in the extracellular milieu. These proteins can, for example, interfere with the host cell cytoskeleton, vesicular and non-vesicular transport, metabolism, and immune signalling. Generally, this promotes C. trachomatis invasion into, and escape from, host cells, the acquisition of nutrients by the chlamydiae, and evasion of cell-autonomous, humoral and cellular innate immunity. Here, we present an in-depth review on the current knowledge and outstanding questions about these C. trachomatis secreted proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joana N Bugalhão
- UCIBIO, Departamento de Ciências da Vida, Faculdade de Ciências e Tecnologia, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Caparica, Portugal
| | - Luís Jaime Mota
- UCIBIO, Departamento de Ciências da Vida, Faculdade de Ciências e Tecnologia, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Caparica, Portugal
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Lepanto MS, Rosa L, Paesano R, Valenti P, Cutone A. Lactoferrin in Aseptic and Septic Inflammation. Molecules 2019; 24:molecules24071323. [PMID: 30987256 PMCID: PMC6480387 DOI: 10.3390/molecules24071323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2019] [Revised: 03/29/2019] [Accepted: 04/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Lactoferrin (Lf), a cationic glycoprotein able to chelate two ferric irons per molecule, is synthesized by exocrine glands and neutrophils. Since the first anti-microbial function attributed to Lf, several activities have been discovered, including the relevant anti-inflammatory one, especially associated to the down-regulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines, as IL-6. As high levels of IL-6 are involved in iron homeostasis disorders, Lf is emerging as a potent regulator of iron and inflammatory homeostasis. Here, the role of Lf against aseptic and septic inflammation has been reviewed. In particular, in the context of aseptic inflammation, as anemia of inflammation, preterm delivery, Alzheimer’s disease and type 2 diabetes, Lf administration reduces local and/or systemic inflammation. Moreover, Lf oral administration, by decreasing serum IL-6, reverts iron homeostasis disorders. Regarding septic inflammation occurring in Chlamydia trachomatis infection, cystic fibrosis and inflammatory bowel disease, Lf, besides the anti-inflammatory activity, exerts a significant activity against bacterial adhesion, invasion and colonization. Lastly, a critical analysis of literature in vitro data reporting contradictory results on the Lf role in inflammatory processes, ranging from pro- to anti-inflammatory activity, highlighted that they depend on cell models, cell metabolic status, stimulatory or infecting agents as well as on Lf iron saturation degree, integrity and purity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Stefania Lepanto
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, University of Rome La Sapienza, 00185 Rome, Italy.
| | - Luigi Rosa
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, University of Rome La Sapienza, 00185 Rome, Italy.
| | | | - Piera Valenti
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, University of Rome La Sapienza, 00185 Rome, Italy.
| | - Antimo Cutone
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, University of Rome La Sapienza, 00185 Rome, Italy.
- Department of Biosciences and Territory, University of Molise, 86090 Pesche, Italy.
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Benyeogor I, Simoneaux T, Wu Y, Lundy S, George Z, Ryans K, McKeithen D, Pais R, Ellerson D, Lorenz WW, Omosun T, Thompson W, Eko FO, Black CM, Blas-Machado U, Igietseme JU, He Q, Omosun Y. A unique insight into the MiRNA profile during genital chlamydial infection. BMC Genomics 2019; 20:143. [PMID: 30777008 PMCID: PMC6379932 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-019-5495-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2018] [Accepted: 01/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Genital C. trachomatis infection may cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) that can lead to tubal factor infertility (TFI). Understanding the pathogenesis of chlamydial complications including the pathophysiological processes within the female host genital tract is important in preventing adverse pathology. MicroRNAs regulate several pathophysiological processes of infectious and non-infectious etiologies. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that the miRNA profile of single and repeat genital chlamydial infections will be different and that these differences will be time dependent. Thus, we analyzed and compared differentially expressed mice genital tract miRNAs after single and repeat chlamydia infections using a C. muridarum mouse model. Mice were sacrificed and their genital tract tissues were collected at 1, 2, 4, and 8 weeks after a single and repeat chlamydia infections. Histopathology, and miRNA sequencing were performed. Results Histopathology presentation showed that the oviduct and uterus of reinfected mice were more inflamed, distended and dilated compared to mice infected once. The miRNAs expression profile was different in the reproductive tissues after a reinfection, with a greater number of miRNAs expressed after reinfection. Also, the number of miRNAs expressed each week after chlamydia infection and reinfection varied, with weeks eight and one having the highest number of differentially expressed miRNAs for chlamydia infection and reinfection respectively. Ten miRNAs; mmu-miR-378b, mmu-miR-204-5p, mmu-miR-151-5p, mmu-miR-142-3p, mmu-miR-128-3p, mmu-miR-335-3p, mmu-miR-195a-3p, mmu-miR-142-5p, mmu-miR-106a-5p and mmu-miR-92a-3p were common in both primary chlamydia infection and reinfection. Pathway analysis showed that, amongst other functions, the differentially regulated miRNAs control pathways involved in cellular and tissue development, disease conditions and toxicity. Conclusions This study provides insights into the changes in miRNA expression over time after chlamydia infection and reinfection, as well as the pathways they regulate to determine pathological outcomes. The miRNAs networks generated in our study shows that there are differences in the focus molecules involved in significant biological functions in chlamydia infection and reinfection, implying that chlamydial pathogenesis occurs differently for each type of infection and that this could be important when determining treatments regime and disease outcome. The study underscores the crucial role of host factors in chlamydia pathogenesis. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12864-019-5495-6) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ifeyinwa Benyeogor
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry & Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine, 720 Westview Drive, S.W, Atlanta, GA, 30310, USA
| | - Tankya Simoneaux
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry & Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine, 720 Westview Drive, S.W, Atlanta, GA, 30310, USA
| | - Yuehao Wu
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry & Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine, 720 Westview Drive, S.W, Atlanta, GA, 30310, USA
| | - Stephanie Lundy
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry & Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine, 720 Westview Drive, S.W, Atlanta, GA, 30310, USA
| | - Zenas George
- Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), Atlanta, GA, 30333, USA
| | - Khamia Ryans
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry & Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine, 720 Westview Drive, S.W, Atlanta, GA, 30310, USA
| | - Danielle McKeithen
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry & Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine, 720 Westview Drive, S.W, Atlanta, GA, 30310, USA
| | - Roshan Pais
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry & Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine, 720 Westview Drive, S.W, Atlanta, GA, 30310, USA
| | - Debra Ellerson
- Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), Atlanta, GA, 30333, USA
| | - W Walter Lorenz
- Institute of Bioinformatics, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
| | - Tolulope Omosun
- Department of Physical Sciences, Georgia State University, Covington, GA, 30014, USA
| | - Winston Thompson
- Department of Physiology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30310, USA
| | - Francis O Eko
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry & Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine, 720 Westview Drive, S.W, Atlanta, GA, 30310, USA
| | - Carolyn M Black
- Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), Atlanta, GA, 30333, USA
| | - Uriel Blas-Machado
- Department of Pathology, University of Georgia, College of Veterinary Medicine, Athens, GA, 30602, 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 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.
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Parolin C, Frisco G, Foschi C, Giordani B, Salvo M, Vitali B, Marangoni A, Calonghi N. Lactobacillus crispatus BC5 Interferes With Chlamydia trachomatis Infectivity Through Integrin Modulation in Cervical Cells. Front Microbiol 2018; 9:2630. [PMID: 30459737 PMCID: PMC6232233 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2018.02630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2018] [Accepted: 10/16/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Lactobacilli play a crucial role in maintaining the ecological equilibrium of the vaginal niche, preventing the colonization of exogenous microorganisms. Although many studies have discussed the mechanisms displayed by lactobacilli in counteracting several urogenital pathogens, a few data are available on the interaction between lactobacilli and Chlamydia trachomatis. This study aimed to elucidate the molecular bases of the interaction among vaginal lactobacilli, the sexually transmitted pathogen C. trachomatis and the epithelial cervical cells. We evaluated the in vitro activity of 15 Lactobacillus strains, belonging to different species (i.e., L. crispatus, L. gasseri, L. vaginalis), against C. trachomatis. In particular, we evaluated the capability of lactobacilli cells to interfere with C. trachomatis infection in HeLa cells, by exclusion assays. Lactobacilli significantly reduced C. trachomatis infectivity, being L. crispatus the most active species. Although a dose-dependent effect was noticed, a significant antagonistic activity was maintained even at lower doses. As other Gram-positive bacteria (i.e., Streptococcus agalactiae, Enterococcus faecalis, and Bacillus subtilis) failed to interfere with C. trachomatis infectivity, Lactobacillus activity proved to be specific. The potential mechanism of protection was investigated in Lactobacillus crispatus BC5, chosen as the model strain. The incubation of HeLa cell line with BC5 cells induced important modifications in the epithelial plasma membrane, by altering lipid composition and α5 integrin subunit exposure. When α5 integrin subunits were masked by a specific blocking antibody or ITGA5 gene expression was silenced, Chlamydia infection was significantly reduced. It follows that α5 integrin subunit is crucial for the pathogen infection process, and the anti-Chlamydia activity can be directly linked to membrane properties modifications in cervical cells. The three Gram-positive bacteria used as controls failed to modify the expression of α5β1 integrin. In conclusion, we identified a potential molecular mechanism at the basis of the protection exerted by L. crispatus BC5 against C. trachomatis, getting insights into the role of the cervico-vaginal microbiota for the woman’s health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carola Parolin
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Giulia Frisco
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Claudio Foschi
- Microbiology, Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Barbara Giordani
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Melissa Salvo
- Microbiology, Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Beatrice Vitali
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Antonella Marangoni
- Microbiology, Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Natalia Calonghi
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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Mackern-Oberti JP, Motrich RD, Damiani MT, Saka HA, Quintero CA, Sánchez LR, Moreno-Sosa T, Olivera C, Cuffini C, Rivero VE. Male genital tract immune response against Chlamydia trachomatis infection. Reproduction 2018; 154:R99-R110. [PMID: 28878094 DOI: 10.1530/rep-16-0561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2016] [Revised: 07/01/2017] [Accepted: 07/11/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Chlamydia trachomatis is the most commonly reported agent of sexually transmitted bacterial infections worldwide. This pathogen frequently leads to persistent, long-term, subclinical infections, which in turn may cause severe pathology in susceptible hosts. This is in part due to the strategies that Chlamydia trachomatis uses to survive within epithelial cells and to evade the host immune response, such as subverting intracellular trafficking, interfering signaling pathways and preventing apoptosis. Innate immune receptors such as toll-like receptors expressed on epithelial and immune cells in the genital tract mediate the recognition of chlamydial molecular patterns. After bacterial recognition, a subset of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines are continuously released by epithelial cells. The innate immune response is followed by the initiation of the adaptive response against Chlamydia trachomatis, which in turn may result in T helper 1-mediated protection or in T helper 2-mediated immunopathology. Understanding the molecular mechanisms developed by Chlamydia trachomatis to avoid killing and host immune response would be crucial for designing new therapeutic approaches and developing protective vaccines. In this review, we focus on chlamydial survival strategies and the elicited immune responses in male genital tract infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Pablo Mackern-Oberti
- Instituto de Medicina y Biología Experimental de Cuyo. IMBECU-CONICETMendoza, Argentina .,Instituto de Fisiología. Facultad de Ciencias MédicasUniversidad Nacional de Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina
| | - Rubén Darío Motrich
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología CIBICI-CONICETDepartamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Maria Teresa Damiani
- Instituto de Histología y Embriología de Mendoza. IHEM-CONICETFacultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina
| | - Héctor Alex Saka
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología CIBICI-CONICETDepartamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | | | - Leonardo Rodolfo Sánchez
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología CIBICI-CONICETDepartamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Tamara Moreno-Sosa
- Instituto de Medicina y Biología Experimental de Cuyo. IMBECU-CONICETMendoza, Argentina
| | - Carolina Olivera
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología CIBICI-CONICETDepartamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Cecilia Cuffini
- Instituto de Virología Dr. J. M. VanellaFacultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Virginia Elena Rivero
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología CIBICI-CONICETDepartamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
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30
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Glycosylation-dependent galectin-receptor interactions promote Chlamydia trachomatis infection. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2018; 115:E6000-E6009. [PMID: 29891717 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1802188115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Chlamydia trachomatis (Ct) constitutes the most prevalent sexually transmitted bacterium worldwide. Chlamydial infections can lead to severe clinical sequelae including pelvic inflammatory disease, ectopic pregnancy, and tubal infertility. As an obligate intracellular pathogen, Ct has evolved multiple strategies to promote adhesion and invasion of host cells, including those involving both bacterial and host glycans. Here, we show that galectin-1 (Gal1), an endogenous lectin widely expressed in female and male genital tracts, promotes Ct infection. Through glycosylation-dependent mechanisms involving recognition of bacterial glycoproteins and N-glycosylated host cell receptors, Gal1 enhanced Ct attachment to cervical epithelial cells. Exposure to Gal1, mainly in its dimeric form, facilitated bacterial entry and increased the number of infected cells by favoring Ct-Ct and Ct-host cell interactions. These effects were substantiated in vivo in mice lacking Gal1 or complex β1-6-branched N-glycans. Thus, disrupting Gal1-N-glycan interactions may limit the severity of chlamydial infection by inhibiting bacterial invasion of host cells.
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Abstract
Human and bovine lactoferrin (hLf and bLf) are multifunctional iron-binding glycoprotein constitutively synthesized and secreted by glandular epithelial cells and by neutrophils following induction. HLf and bLf possess very high similarity of sequence. Therefore, most of the in vitro and in vivo studies are carried out with commercial bLf (cbLf), available in large quantities and recognized by Food and Drug Administration (FDA, USA) as a safe substance. Physico-chemical heterogeneity of different cbLf preparations influences their effectiveness. CbLf iron-saturation affects thermal stability and resistance to proteolysis. Moreover, other metal ions such as Al(III), Cu(II), Mg(II), Mn(II), Zn(II) are chelated by cbLf, even if at lower affinity than Fe(III). Ca(II) is also sequestered by the carboxylate groups of sialic acid present on glycan chains of cbLf thus provoking the release of LPS, contributing to bactericidal activity. Similarly to more than 50% of eukaryotic proteins, cbLf possesses five N-glycosylation sites, also contributing to the resistance to proteolysis and, putatively, to the protection of intestinal mucosa from pathogens. CbLfs possess several functions as anti-microbial, anti-biofilm, anti-adhesive, anti-invasive and anti-inflammatory activities. They are also relevant modulators of iron and inflammatory homeostasis. However, the efficacy of cbLfs in exerting several functions can be erratic mainly depending from integrity, degree of iron and other metal ions saturation, N-glycosylation sites and chains, desialylated forms, Ca(II) sequestration, presence of contaminants and finally the ability to enter inside nucleus.
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Valenti P, Rosa L, Capobianco D, Lepanto MS, Schiavi E, Cutone A, Paesano R, Mastromarino P. Role of Lactobacilli and Lactoferrin in the Mucosal Cervicovaginal Defense. Front Immunol 2018; 9:376. [PMID: 29545798 PMCID: PMC5837981 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.00376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2017] [Accepted: 02/09/2018] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The innate defense system of the female mucosal genital tract involves a close and complex interaction among the healthy vaginal microbiota, different cells, and various proteins that protect the host from pathogens. Vaginal lactobacilli and lactoferrin represent two essential actors in the vaginal environment. Lactobacilli represent the dominant bacterial species able to prevent facultative and obligate anaerobes outnumber in vaginal microbiota maintaining healthy microbial homeostasis. Several mechanisms underlie the protection exerted by lactobacilli: competition for nutrients and tissue adherence, reduction of the vaginal pH, modulation of immunity, and production of bioactive compounds. Among bioactive factors of cervicovaginal mucosa, lactoferrin, an iron-binding cationic glycoprotein, is a multifunctional glycoprotein with antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, and antiparasitic activities, recently emerging as an important modulator of inflammation. Lactobacilli and lactoferrin are largely under the influence of female hormones and of paracrine production of various cytokines. Lactoferrin is strongly increased in lower genital tract mucosal fluid of women affected by Neisseria gonorrheae, Chlamydia trachomatis, and Trichomonas vaginalis infections promoting both innate and adaptive immune responses. In vaginal dysbiosis characterized by low amounts of vaginal lactobacilli and increased levels of endogenous anaerobic bacteria, the increase in lactoferrin could act as an immune modulator assuming the role normally played by the healthy microbiota in vaginal mucosa. Then lactoferrin and lactobacilli may be considered as biomarkers of altered microbial homeostasis at vaginal level. Considering the shortage of effective treatments to counteract recurrent and/or antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections, the intravaginal administration of lactobacilli and lactoferrin could be a novel efficient therapeutic strategy and a valuable tool to restore mucosal immune homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piera Valenti
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, University of Rome La Sapienza, Rome, Italy
| | - Luigi Rosa
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, University of Rome La Sapienza, Rome, Italy
| | - Daniela Capobianco
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, University of Rome La Sapienza, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Stefania Lepanto
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, University of Rome La Sapienza, Rome, Italy
| | - Elisa Schiavi
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, University of Rome La Sapienza, Rome, Italy
| | - Antimo Cutone
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, University of Rome La Sapienza, Rome, Italy
| | - Rosalba Paesano
- Department of Gynecological-Obstetric and Urological Sciences, University of Rome La Sapienza, Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Mastromarino
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, University of Rome La Sapienza, Rome, Italy
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Ahmad SF, Brown JK, Campbell LL, Koscielniak M, Oliver C, Wheelhouse N, Entrican G, McFee S, Wills GS, McClure MO, Horner PJ, Gaikoumelou S, Lee KF, Critchley HOD, Duncan WC, Horne AW. Pelvic Chlamydial Infection Predisposes to Ectopic Pregnancy by Upregulating Integrin β1 to Promote Embryo-tubal Attachment. EBioMedicine 2018; 29:159-165. [PMID: 29500127 PMCID: PMC5925620 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2018.02.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2017] [Revised: 02/11/2018] [Accepted: 02/21/2018] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Tubal ectopic pregnancies are a leading cause of global maternal morbidity and mortality. Previous infection with Chlamydia trachomatis is a major risk factor for tubal embryo implantation but the biological mechanism behind this association is unclear. Successful intra-uterine embryo implantation is associated with increased expression of endometrial "receptivity" integrins (cell adhesion molecules). We examined integrin expression in Fallopian tubes of women with previous C. trachomatis infection, in mice experimentally infected with C. trachomatis, in immortalised human oviductal epithelial cells (OE-E6/E7) and in an in vitro model of human embryo attachment (trophoblast spheroid-OE-E6/7 cell co-culture). Previous exposure with C. trachomatis increased Fallopian tube/oviduct integrin-subunit beta-1 (ITGB1) in women and mice compared to controls. C. trachomatis increased OE-E6/E7 cell ITGB1 expression and promoted trophoblast attachment to OE-E6/E7 cells which was negated by anti-ITGB1-antibody. We demonstrate that infection with C. trachomatis increases tubal ITGB1 expression, predisposing to tubal embryo attachment and ectopic pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Syed F Ahmad
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Jeremy K Brown
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Lisa L Campbell
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Magda Koscielniak
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Catriona Oliver
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Nick Wheelhouse
- Moredun Research Institute and Napier University, Edinburgh, Midlothian, UK
| | - Gary Entrican
- Moredun Research Institute and the Roslin Institute at the University of Edinburgh, Midlothian, UK
| | - Stuart McFee
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Gillian S Wills
- Jefferiss Research Trust Laboratories, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Myra O McClure
- Jefferiss Research Trust Laboratories, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Patrick J Horner
- Department of Medical Microbiology, North Bristol NHS Trust, Bristol, UK
| | | | - Kai F Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | | | - W Colin Duncan
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Andrew W Horne
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.
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Sessa R, Di Pietro M, Filardo S, Bressan A, Mastromarino P, Biasucci AV, Rosa L, Cutone A, Berlutti F, Paesano R, Valenti P. Lactobacilli-lactoferrin interplay in Chlamydia trachomatis infection. Pathog Dis 2018; 75:3828106. [PMID: 28505248 DOI: 10.1093/femspd/ftx054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2016] [Accepted: 05/12/2017] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
In the cervicovaginal microenvironment, lactobacilli are known to protect against genital infections and, amongst the host defence compounds, lactoferrin has recently acquired importance for its anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties. An abnormal genital microenvironment facilitates the acquisition of pathogens like Chlamydia trachomatis, the leading cause of bacterial sexually transmitted infections worldwide. The aim of our study is to investigate the effects of Lactobacillus crispatus, Lactobacillus brevis and bovine lactoferrin on chlamydial infection, in order to shed light on the complex interplay between host defence mechanisms and C. trachomatis. We have also evaluated the effect of these defence factors to modulate the chlamydia-mediated inflammatory state. To this purpose, we have determined the infectivity and progeny production of C. trachomatis as well as interleukin-8 and interleukin-6 synthesis. The main result of our study is that the combination of L. brevis and bovine lactoferrin is the most effective in inhibiting the early phases (adhesion and invasion) of C. trachomatis infection of cervical epithelial cells and in decreasing the levels of both cytokines. In conclusion, the interaction between L. brevis and lactoferrin seems to play a role in the protection against C. trachomatis, reducing the infection and regulating the immunomodulatory activity, thus decreasing the risk of severe complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosa Sessa
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, University of Rome 'Sapienza'
| | - Marisa Di Pietro
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, University of Rome 'Sapienza'
| | - Simone Filardo
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, University of Rome 'Sapienza'
| | - Alessia Bressan
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, University of Rome 'Sapienza'
| | - Paola Mastromarino
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, University of Rome 'Sapienza'
| | | | - Luigi Rosa
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, University of Rome 'Sapienza'
| | - Antimo Cutone
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, University of Rome 'Sapienza'
| | - Francesca Berlutti
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, University of Rome 'Sapienza'
| | - Rosalba Paesano
- Department of Gynecological-Obstetric and Urological Sciences, University of Rome 'Sapienza', 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Piera Valenti
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, University of Rome 'Sapienza'
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35
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McKuen MJ, Mueller KE, Bae YS, Fields KA. Fluorescence-Reported Allelic Exchange Mutagenesis Reveals a Role for Chlamydia trachomatis TmeA in Invasion That Is Independent of Host AHNAK. Infect Immun 2017; 85:e00640-17. [PMID: 28970272 PMCID: PMC5695130 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00640-17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2017] [Accepted: 09/21/2017] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Development of approaches to genetically manipulate Chlamydia is fostering important advances in understanding pathogenesis. Fluorescence-reported allelic exchange mutagenesis (FRAEM) now enables the complete deletion of specific genes in C. trachomatis L2. We have leveraged this technology to delete the coding sequences for a known type III effector. The evidence provided here indicates that CT694/CTL0063 is a virulence protein involved in chlamydial invasion. Based on our findings, we designate the gene product corresponding to ct694-ctl0063translocated membrane-associated effector A (TmeA). Deletion of tmeA did not impact development of intracellular chlamydiae. However, the absence of TmeA manifested as a decrease in infectivity in both tissue culture and murine infection models. The in vitro defect was reflected by impaired invasion of host cells. TmeA binds human AHNAK, and we demonstrate here that AHNAK is transiently recruited by invading chlamydiae. TmeA, however, is not required for endogenous AHNAK recruitment. TmeA also impairs AHNAK-dependent actin bundling activity. This TmeA-mediated effect likely does not explain impaired invasion displayed by the tmeA strain of Chlamydia, since AHNAK-deficient cells revealed no invasion phenotype. Overall, our data indicate the efficacy of FRAEM and reveal a role of TmeA during chlamydial invasion that manifests independently of effects on AHNAK.
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Affiliation(s)
- M J McKuen
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - K E Mueller
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Molecular Genetics, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
| | - Y S Bae
- Department of Life Science, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - K A Fields
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Molecular Genetics, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
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36
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Rosa L, Cutone A, Lepanto MS, Paesano R, Valenti P. Lactoferrin: A Natural Glycoprotein Involved in Iron and Inflammatory Homeostasis. Int J Mol Sci 2017; 18:1985. [PMID: 28914813 PMCID: PMC5618634 DOI: 10.3390/ijms18091985&n948647=v984776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Human lactoferrin (hLf), an iron-binding multifunctional cationic glycoprotein secreted by exocrine glands and by neutrophils, is a key element of host defenses. HLf and bovine Lf (bLf), possessing high sequence homology and identical functions, inhibit bacterial growth and biofilm dependently from iron binding ability while, independently, bacterial adhesion to and the entry into cells. In infected/inflamed host cells, bLf exerts an anti-inflammatory activity against interleukin-6 (IL-6), thus up-regulating ferroportin (Fpn) and transferrin receptor 1 (TfR1) and down-regulating ferritin (Ftn), pivotal actors of iron and inflammatory homeostasis (IIH). Consequently, bLf inhibits intracellular iron overload, an unsafe condition enhancing in vivo susceptibility to infections, as well as anemia of inflammation (AI), re-establishing IIH. In pregnant women, affected by AI, bLf oral administration decreases IL-6 and increases hematological parameters. This surprising effect is unrelated to iron supplementation by bLf (80 μg instead of 1-2 mg/day), but to its role on IIH. AI is unrelated to the lack of iron, but to iron delocalization: cellular/tissue overload and blood deficiency. BLf cures AI by restoring iron from cells to blood through Fpn up-expression. Indeed, anti-inflammatory activity of oral and intravaginal bLf prevents preterm delivery. Promising bLf treatments can prevent/cure transitory inflammation/anemia/oral pathologies in athletes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Rosa
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, University of Rome La Sapienza, 00185 Rome, Italy.
| | - Antimo Cutone
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, University of Rome La Sapienza, 00185 Rome, Italy.
| | - Maria Stefania Lepanto
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, University of Rome La Sapienza, 00185 Rome, Italy.
| | - Rosalba Paesano
- Department of Gynecological-Obstetric and Urological Sciences, University of Rome La Sapienza, 00185 Rome, Italy.
| | - Piera Valenti
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, University of Rome La Sapienza, 00185 Rome, Italy.
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37
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Rosa L, Cutone A, Lepanto MS, Paesano R, Valenti P. Lactoferrin: A Natural Glycoprotein Involved in Iron and Inflammatory Homeostasis. Int J Mol Sci 2017; 18:E1985. [PMID: 28914813 PMCID: PMC5618634 DOI: 10.3390/ijms18091985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 211] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2017] [Revised: 09/11/2017] [Accepted: 09/12/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Human lactoferrin (hLf), an iron-binding multifunctional cationic glycoprotein secreted by exocrine glands and by neutrophils, is a key element of host defenses. HLf and bovine Lf (bLf), possessing high sequence homology and identical functions, inhibit bacterial growth and biofilm dependently from iron binding ability while, independently, bacterial adhesion to and the entry into cells. In infected/inflamed host cells, bLf exerts an anti-inflammatory activity against interleukin-6 (IL-6), thus up-regulating ferroportin (Fpn) and transferrin receptor 1 (TfR1) and down-regulating ferritin (Ftn), pivotal actors of iron and inflammatory homeostasis (IIH). Consequently, bLf inhibits intracellular iron overload, an unsafe condition enhancing in vivo susceptibility to infections, as well as anemia of inflammation (AI), re-establishing IIH. In pregnant women, affected by AI, bLf oral administration decreases IL-6 and increases hematological parameters. This surprising effect is unrelated to iron supplementation by bLf (80 μg instead of 1-2 mg/day), but to its role on IIH. AI is unrelated to the lack of iron, but to iron delocalization: cellular/tissue overload and blood deficiency. BLf cures AI by restoring iron from cells to blood through Fpn up-expression. Indeed, anti-inflammatory activity of oral and intravaginal bLf prevents preterm delivery. Promising bLf treatments can prevent/cure transitory inflammation/anemia/oral pathologies in athletes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Rosa
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, University of Rome La Sapienza, 00185 Rome, Italy.
| | - Antimo Cutone
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, University of Rome La Sapienza, 00185 Rome, Italy.
| | - Maria Stefania Lepanto
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, University of Rome La Sapienza, 00185 Rome, Italy.
| | - Rosalba Paesano
- Department of Gynecological-Obstetric and Urological Sciences, University of Rome La Sapienza, 00185 Rome, Italy.
| | - Piera Valenti
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, University of Rome La Sapienza, 00185 Rome, Italy.
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38
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Samanta D, Mulye M, Clemente TM, Justis AV, Gilk SD. Manipulation of Host Cholesterol by Obligate Intracellular Bacteria. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2017; 7:165. [PMID: 28529926 PMCID: PMC5418226 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2017.00165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2017] [Accepted: 04/18/2017] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Cholesterol is a multifunctional lipid that plays important metabolic and structural roles in the eukaryotic cell. Despite having diverse lifestyles, the obligate intracellular bacterial pathogens Chlamydia, Coxiella, Anaplasma, Ehrlichia, and Rickettsia all target cholesterol during host cell colonization as a potential source of membrane, as well as a means to manipulate host cell signaling and trafficking. To promote host cell entry, these pathogens utilize cholesterol-rich microdomains known as lipid rafts, which serve as organizational and functional platforms for host signaling pathways involved in phagocytosis. Once a pathogen gains entrance to the intracellular space, it can manipulate host cholesterol trafficking pathways to access nutrient-rich vesicles or acquire membrane components for the bacteria or bacteria-containing vacuole. To acquire cholesterol, these pathogens specifically target host cholesterol metabolism, uptake, efflux, and storage. In this review, we examine the strategies obligate intracellular bacterial pathogens employ to manipulate cholesterol during host cell colonization. Understanding how obligate intracellular pathogens target and use host cholesterol provides critical insight into the host-pathogen relationship.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dhritiman Samanta
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Indiana University School of MedicineIndianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Minal Mulye
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Indiana University School of MedicineIndianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Tatiana M Clemente
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Indiana University School of MedicineIndianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Anna V Justis
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Indiana University School of MedicineIndianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Stacey D Gilk
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Indiana University School of MedicineIndianapolis, IN, USA
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39
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Sessa R, Di Pietro M, Filardo S, Bressan A, Rosa L, Cutone A, Frioni A, Berlutti F, Paesano R, Valenti P. Effect of bovine lactoferrin on Chlamydia trachomatis infection and inflammation. Biochem Cell Biol 2016; 95:34-40. [PMID: 28094551 DOI: 10.1139/bcb-2016-0049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Chlamydia trachomatis is an obligate, intracellular pathogen responsible for the most common sexually transmitted bacterial disease worldwide, causing acute and chronic infections. The acute infection is susceptible to antibiotics, whereas the chronic one needs prolonged therapies, thus increasing the risk of developing antibiotic resistance. Novel alternative therapies are needed. The intracellular development of C. trachomatis requires essential nutrients, including iron. Iron-chelating drugs inhibit C. trachomatis developmental cycle. Lactoferrin (Lf), a pleiotropic iron binding glycoprotein, could be a promising candidate against C. trachomatis infection. Similarly to the efficacy against other intracellular pathogens, bovine Lf (bLf) could both interfere with C. trachomatis entry into epithelial cells and exert an anti-inflammatory activity. In vitro and in vivo effects of bLf against C. trachomatis infectious and inflammatory process has been investigated. BLf inhibits C. trachomatis entry into host cells when incubated with cell monolayers before or at the moment of the infection and down-regulates IL-6/IL-8 synthesized by infected cells. Six out of 7 pregnant women asymptomatically infected by C. trachomatis, after 30 days of bLf intravaginal administration, were negative for C. trachomatis and showed a decrease of cervical IL-6 levels. This is the first time that the bLf protective effect against C. trachomatis infection has been demonstrated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosa Sessa
- a Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, University of Rome, La Sapienza, Rome, Italy
| | - Marisa Di Pietro
- a Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, University of Rome, La Sapienza, Rome, Italy
| | - Simone Filardo
- a Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, University of Rome, La Sapienza, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessia Bressan
- a Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, University of Rome, La Sapienza, Rome, Italy
| | - Luigi Rosa
- a Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, University of Rome, La Sapienza, Rome, Italy
| | - Antimo Cutone
- a Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, University of Rome, La Sapienza, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandra Frioni
- a Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, University of Rome, La Sapienza, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Berlutti
- a Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, University of Rome, La Sapienza, Rome, Italy
| | - Rosalba Paesano
- b Department of Gynecological-Obstetric and Urological Sciences, University of Rome, La Sapienza, Rome, Italy
| | - Piera Valenti
- a Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, University of Rome, La Sapienza, Rome, Italy
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40
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Luczak SET, Smits SHJ, Decker C, Nagel-Steger L, Schmitt L, Hegemann JH. The Chlamydia pneumoniae Adhesin Pmp21 Forms Oligomers with Adhesive Properties. J Biol Chem 2016; 291:22806-22818. [PMID: 27551038 PMCID: PMC5077213 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m116.728915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2016] [Revised: 08/09/2016] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Chlamydiae sp. are obligate intracellular pathogens that cause a variety of diseases in humans. The adhesion of Chlamydiae to the eukaryotic host cell is a pivotal step in pathogenesis. The adhesin family of polymorphic membrane proteins (Pmp) in Chlamydia pneumoniae consists of 21 members. Pmp21 binds to the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). Pmps contain large numbers of FXXN (where X is any amino acid) and GGA(I/L/V) motifs. At least two of these motifs are crucial for adhesion by certain Pmp21 fragments. Here we describe how the two FXXN motifs in Pmp21-D (D-Wt), a domain of Pmp21, influence its self-interaction, folding, and adhesive capacities. Refolded D-Wt molecules form oligomers with high sedimentation values (8-85 S). These oligomers take the form of elongated protofibrils, which exhibit Thioflavin T fluorescence, like the amyloid protein fragment β42. A mutant version of Pmp21-D (D-Mt), with FXXN motifs replaced by SXXV, shows a markedly reduced capacity to form oligomers. Secondary-structure assays revealed that monomers of both variants exist predominantly as random coils, whereas the oligomers form predominantly β-sheets. Adhesion studies revealed that oligomers of D-Wt (D-Wt-O) mediate significantly enhanced binding to human epithelial cells relative to D-Mt-O and monomeric protein species. Moreover, D-Wt-O binds EGFR more efficiently than D-Wt monomers. Importantly, pretreatment of human cells with D-Wt-O reduces infectivity upon subsequent challenge with C. pneumoniae more effectively than all other protein species. Hence, the FXXN motif in D-Wt induces the formation of β-sheet-rich oligomeric protofibrils, which are important for adhesion to, and subsequent infection of human cells.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Christina Decker
- Institute of Physical Biology, Heinrich-Heine-University, Universitaetsstrasse 1, 40225 Duesseldorf, Germany and
| | - Luitgard Nagel-Steger
- Institute of Physical Biology, Heinrich-Heine-University, Universitaetsstrasse 1, 40225 Duesseldorf, Germany and
- ICS-6 Research Center Juelich, 52425 Juelich, Germany
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41
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Abstract
Etiology, transmission and protection: Chlamydia
trachomatis is the leading cause of bacterial sexually transmitted
infection (STI) globally. However, C. trachomatis also causes
trachoma in endemic areas, mostly Africa and the Middle East, and is a leading
cause of preventable blindness worldwide. Epidemiology, incidence and
prevalence: The World Health Organization estimates 131 million
new cases of C. trachomatis genital infection occur annually.
Globally, infection is most prevalent in young women and men (14-25 years),
likely driven by asymptomatic infection, inadequate partner treatment and
delayed development of protective immunity.
Pathology/Symptomatology: C.
trachomatis infects susceptible squamocolumnar or transitional
epithelial cells, leading to cervicitis in women and urethritis in men. Symptoms
are often mild or absent but ascending infection in some women may lead to
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID), resulting in reproductive sequelae such as
ectopic pregnancy, infertility and chronic pelvic pain. Complications of
infection in men include epididymitis and reactive arthritis.
Molecular mechanisms of infection: Chlamydiae
manipulate an array of host processes to support their obligate intracellular
developmental cycle. This leads to activation of signaling pathways resulting in
disproportionate influx of innate cells and the release of tissue damaging
proteins and pro-inflammatory cytokines. Treatment and
curability: Uncomplicated urogenital infection is treated with
azithromycin (1 g, single dose) or doxycycline (100 mg twice daily x 7 days).
However, antimicrobial treatment does not ameliorate established disease. Drug
resistance is rare but treatment failures have been described. Development of an
effective vaccine that protects against upper tract disease or that limits
transmission remains an important goal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine M O'Connell
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Morgan E Ferone
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
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42
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Abstract
Chlamydia spp. are important causes of human disease for which no effective vaccine exists. These obligate intracellular pathogens replicate in a specialized membrane compartment and use a large arsenal of secreted effectors to survive in the hostile intracellular environment of the host. In this Review, we summarize the progress in decoding the interactions between Chlamydia spp. and their hosts that has been made possible by recent technological advances in chlamydial proteomics and genetics. The field is now poised to decipher the molecular mechanisms that underlie the intimate interactions between Chlamydia spp. and their hosts, which will open up many exciting avenues of research for these medically important pathogens.
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43
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Nogueira AT, Pedrosa AT, Carabeo RA. Manipulation of the Host Cell Cytoskeleton by Chlamydia. Curr Top Microbiol Immunol 2016; 412:59-80. [PMID: 27197645 DOI: 10.1007/82_2016_10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/10/2022]
Abstract
Chlamydiae are obligate intracellular pathogens. They undergo a biphasic developmental cycle differentiating between the infectious but metabolically quiescent elementary body and the vegetative, but non-infectious reticulate body. Chlamydia spends a significant portion of its development in the non-infectious stage, demanding an effective strategy of manipulating the host cells to ensure its intracellular survival and replication. A common target of all Chlamydia species studied so far is the host cell cytoskeleton, with past and recent findings revealing crucial roles in invasion, inclusion maintenance, nutrient acquisition, and egress. The molecular details of how Chlamydia co-opts the cytoskeleton is becoming clearer, with bacterial factors and their corresponding host cell targets identified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana T Nogueira
- School of Molecular Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA
| | - Antonio T Pedrosa
- School of Molecular Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA
| | - Rey A Carabeo
- School of Molecular Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA.
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