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Singh SK, Ali MM, Mok JH, Korza G, Setlow P, Sastry SK. Mechanistic insight into roles of α/β-type small acid-soluble proteins, RecA, and inner membrane proteins during bacterial spore inactivation by ohmic heating. J Appl Microbiol 2024; 135:lxae151. [PMID: 38906847 DOI: 10.1093/jambio/lxae151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2024] [Revised: 06/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 06/23/2024]
Abstract
AIM Ohmic heating (OH) (i.e. heating by electric field) more effectively kills bacterial spores than traditional wet heating, yet its mechanism remains poorly understood. This study investigates the accelerated spore inactivation mechanism using genetically modified spores. METHODS AND RESULTS We investigated the effects of OH and conventional heating (CH) on various genetically modified strains of Bacillus subtilis: isogenic PS533 (wild type_1), PS578 [lacking spores' α/β-type small acid-soluble proteins (SASP)], PS2318 (lacking recA, encoding a DNA repair protein), isogenic PS4461 (wild type_2), and PS4462 (having the 2Duf protein in spores, which increases spore wet heat resistance and decreases spore inner membrane fluidity). Removal of SASP brought the inactivation profiles of OH and CH closer, suggesting the interaction of these proteins with the field. However, the reemergence of a difference between CH and OH killing for SASP-deficient spores at the highest tested field strength suggested there is also interaction of the field with another spore core component. Additionally, RecA-deficient spores yielded results like those with the wild-type spores for CH, while the OH resistance of this mutant increased at the lower tested temperatures, implying that RecA or DNA are a possible additional target for the electric field. Addition of the 2Duf protein markedly increased spore resistance both to CH and OH, although some acceleration of killing was observed with OH at 50 V/cm. CONCLUSIONS In summary, both membrane fluidity and interaction of the spore core proteins with electric field are key factors in enhanced spore killing with electric field-heat combinations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shyam K Singh
- Department of Food, Agricultural, and Biological Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, United States
| | - Mohamed Medhat Ali
- Department of Food, Agricultural, and Biological Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, United States
| | - Jin Hong Mok
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Pukyong National University, Busan 48513, South Korea
| | - George Korza
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biophysics, UCONN Health, Farmington, CT 06030, United States
| | - Peter Setlow
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biophysics, UCONN Health, Farmington, CT 06030, United States
| | - Sudhir K Sastry
- Department of Food, Agricultural, and Biological Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, United States
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2
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Su Y, Hu J, Wang Y, Li Y, Xiao L, He X, Zhang Z, Cai J, Pan D, Chen Y, Geng B, Li P, Shen L. N-Heterocycle Modified Graphene Quantum Dots as Topoisomerase Targeted Nanoantibiotics for Combating Microbial Infections. Adv Healthc Mater 2024; 13:e2302659. [PMID: 38011489 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202302659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Revised: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
Developing next-generation antibiotics to eliminate multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria/fungi and stubborn biofilms is challenging, because of the excessive use of currently available antibiotics. Herein, the fabrication of anti-infection graphene quantum dots (GQDs) is reported, as a new class of topoisomerase (Topo) targeting nanoantibiotics, by modification of rich N-heterocycles (pyridinic N) at edge sites. The membrane-penetrating, nucleus-localizing, DNA-binding GQDs not only damage the cell walls/membranes of bacteria or fungi, but also inhibit DNA-binding proteins, such as Topo I, thereby affecting DNA replication, transcription, and recombination. The obtained GQDs exhibit excellent broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against non-MDR bacteria, MDR bacteria, endospores, and fungi. Beyond combating planktonic microorganisms, GQDs inhibit the formation of biofilms and can kill live bacteria inside biofilms. RNA-seq further demonstrates the upregulation of riboflavin biosynthesis genes, DNA repair related genes, and transport proteins related genes in methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) in response to the stress induced by GQDs. In vivo animal experiments indicate that the biocompatible GQDs promote wound healing in MRSA or C. albicans-infected skin wound models. Thus, GQDs may be a promising antibacterial and antifungal candidate for clinical applications in treating infected wounds and eliminating already-formed biofilms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Su
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200233, China
| | - Jinyan Hu
- School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, China
| | - Yang Wang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200233, China
| | - Yuan Li
- School of Life Sciences, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, China
| | - Longfei Xiao
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Sheyang County People's Hospital, Yancheng, Jiangsu, 224300, China
| | - Xialing He
- School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, China
| | - Zhenlin Zhang
- School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, China
| | - Jinming Cai
- School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, China
| | - Dengyu Pan
- School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, China
| | - Yu Chen
- School of Life Sciences, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, China
| | - Bijiang Geng
- School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, China
| | - Ping Li
- School of Life Sciences, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, China
| | - Longxiang Shen
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200233, China
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Sheyang County People's Hospital, Yancheng, Jiangsu, 224300, China
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3
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Xu N, Li X, Luan F, Tian C, Zhang Z, Chen L, Zhuang X. Ratiometric fluorescent and electrochemiluminescent dual modal assay for detection of 2,6-pyridinedicarboxylic acid as an anthrax biomarker. Anal Chim Acta 2024; 1288:342181. [PMID: 38220309 DOI: 10.1016/j.aca.2023.342181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 12/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/25/2023] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
2,6-pyridinedicarboxylic acid (DPA) is an excellent biomarker of Bacillus anthracis (B. anthracis). The sensitive detection of DPA, especially through visual point-of-care testing, was significant for accurate and rapid diagnosis of anthrax to timely prevent anthrax disease or biological terrorist attack. Herein, a ratiometric fluorescent (R-FL) and electrochemiluminescent (ECL) dual-mode detection platform with a lanthanide ion-based metal-organic framework (Ln-MOF, i.e., M/Y-X: M = Eu, Y = Tb, and X = 4,4',4″-s-triazine-1,3,5-triyltri-m-aminobenzoic acid) was developed. Eu/Tb-TATAB nanoparticles were constructed to identify DPA. The R-FL detection platform quantitatively detected DPA by monitoring the I545/I617 ratio of the characteristic fluorescence peak intensities of Tb3+ ions and Eu3+ ions. The ECL sensing platform successfully quantified DPA by exploiting the burst effect of DPA on the ECL signal. The above methods had highly sensitive and rapid detection of DPA in water and serum samples. The results showed that this dual-mode detection platform may be projected to be a powerful instrument for preventing related biological warfare and bio-terrorism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ning Xu
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Yantai University, Yantai, 264005, China
| | - Xin Li
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Yantai University, Yantai, 264005, China
| | - Feng Luan
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Yantai University, Yantai, 264005, China
| | - Chunyuan Tian
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Yantai University, Yantai, 264005, China
| | - Zhiyang Zhang
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Coastal Environmental Processes, Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Yantai, 264003, China
| | - Lingxin Chen
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Coastal Environmental Processes, Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Yantai, 264003, China.
| | - Xuming Zhuang
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Yantai University, Yantai, 264005, China.
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Idris AL, Li W, Huang F, Lin F, Guan X, Huang T. Impacts of UV radiation on Bacillus biocontrol agents and their resistance mechanisms. World J Microbiol Biotechnol 2024; 40:58. [PMID: 38165488 DOI: 10.1007/s11274-023-03856-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Bacillus biocontrol agent(s) BCA(s) such as Bacillus cereus, Bacillus thuringiensis and Bacillus subtilis have been widely applied to control insects' pests of plants and pathogenic microbes, improve plant growth, and facilitate their resistance to environmental stresses. In the last decade, researchers have shown that, the application of Bacillus biocontrol agent(s) BCA(s) optimized agricultural production yield, and reduced disease risks in some crops. However, these bacteria encountered various abiotic stresses, among which ultraviolet (UV) radiation severely decrease their efficiency. Researchers have identified several strategies by which Bacillus biocontrol agents resist the negative effects of UV radiation, including transcriptional response, UV mutagenesis, biochemical and artificial means (addition of protective agents). These strategies are governed by distinct pathways, triggered by UV radiation. Herein, the impact of UV radiation on Bacillus biocontrol agent(s) BCA(s) and their mechanisms of resistance were discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aisha Lawan Idris
- College of Life Sciences, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, 350002, China
- State Key Laboratory of Ecological Pest Control for Fujian and Taiwan Crops, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, 350002, China
| | - Wenting Li
- College of Life Sciences, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, 350002, China
- State Key Laboratory of Ecological Pest Control for Fujian and Taiwan Crops, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, 350002, China
| | - Fugui Huang
- Fujian Polytechnic of Information Technology, Fuzhou, 350003, China
| | - Fuyong Lin
- College of Life Sciences, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, 350002, China
- State Key Laboratory of Ecological Pest Control for Fujian and Taiwan Crops, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, 350002, China
| | - Xiong Guan
- State Key Laboratory of Ecological Pest Control for Fujian and Taiwan Crops, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, 350002, China
| | - Tianpei Huang
- College of Life Sciences, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, 350002, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Ecological Pest Control for Fujian and Taiwan Crops, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, 350002, China.
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Protocol and Matters for Consideration for the Treatment of Polymerase Chain Reaction Contamination in Next-Generation Sequencing Laboratories. REV ROMANA MED LAB 2022. [DOI: 10.2478/rrlm-2022-0038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Abstract
Objective: The contamination of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) samples in molecular diagnostic laboratories can cause serious consequences. Internal quality control efforts are often inadequate, especially in clinical next-generation sequencing (NGS) laboratories.
Methods: In this study, we retrospectively investigated an incidence of PCR contamination and its decontamination process in a clinical laboratory. We performed a series of measures for decontamination. Taqman fluorescence quantification was carried out to determine the presence of contaminating DNA. SYBR-Green PCR was conducted to evaluate the effect of chlorine disinfectant on NGS library preparation.
Results: Through a series of elimination measures undertaken over 8 weeks, the decontamination process was verified as reliable. Almost no contamination was detected. Chlorine disinfectant should be forbidden in Illumina NGS laboratories because it may cause the failure of library preparation.
Conclusion: Our prevention and decontamination strategies could effectively eliminate PCR amplicons. Chlorine disinfectants should not be used in Illumina NGS laboratories.
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6
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Inactivation mechanism of slightly acidic electrolyzed water on Bacillus cereus spores. Food Microbiol 2022; 103:103951. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fm.2021.103951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Revised: 09/11/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
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Abstract
Spores of many species of the orders Bacillales and Clostridiales can be vectors for food spoilage, human diseases and intoxications, and biological warfare. Many agents are used for spore killing, including moist heat in an autoclave, dry heat at elevated temperatures, UV radiation at 254 and more recently 222 and 400 nm, ionizing radiation of various types, high hydrostatic pressures and a host of chemical decontaminants. An alternative strategy is to trigger spore germination, as germinated spores are much easier to kill than the highly resistant dormant spores—the so called “germinate to eradicate” strategy. Factors important to consider in choosing methods for spore killing include the: (1) cost; (2) killing efficacy and kinetics; (3) ability to decontaminate large areas in buildings or outside; and (4) compatibility of killing regimens with the: (i) presence of people; (ii) food quality; (iii) presence of significant amounts of organic matter; and (iv) minimal damage to equipment in the decontamination zone. This review will summarize research on spore killing and point out some common flaws which can make results from spore killing research questionable.
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8
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Levels and Characteristics of mRNAs in Spores of Firmicute Species. J Bacteriol 2021; 203:e0001721. [PMID: 33972352 DOI: 10.1128/jb.00017-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Spores of firmicute species contain 100s of mRNAs, whose major function in Bacillus subtilis is to provide ribonucleotides for new RNA synthesis when spores germinate. To determine if this is a general phenomenon, RNA was isolated from spores of multiple firmicute species and relative mRNA levels determined by transcriptome sequencing (RNA-seq). Determination of RNA levels in single spores allowed calculation of RNA nucleotides/spore, and assuming mRNA is 3% of spore RNA indicated that only ∼6% of spore mRNAs were present at >1/spore. Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus atrophaeus, and Clostridioides difficile spores had 49, 42, and 51 mRNAs at >1/spore, and numbers of mRNAs at ≥1/spore were ∼10 to 50% higher in Geobacillus stearothermophilus and Bacillus thuringiensis Al Hakam spores and ∼4-fold higher in Bacillus megaterium spores. In all species, some to many abundant spore mRNAs (i) were transcribed by RNA polymerase with forespore-specific σ factors, (ii) encoded proteins that were homologs of those encoded by abundant B. subtilis spore mRNAs and are proteins in dormant spores, and (iii) were likely transcribed in the mother cell compartment of the sporulating cell. Analysis of the coverage of RNA-seq reads on mRNAs from all species suggested that abundant spore mRNAs were fragmented, as was confirmed by reverse transcriptase quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) analysis of abundant B. subtilis and C. difficile spore mRNAs. These data add to evidence indicating that the function of at least the great majority of mRNAs in all firmicute spores is to be degraded to generate ribonucleotides for new RNA synthesis when spores germinate. IMPORTANCE Only ∼6% of mRNAs in spores of six firmicute species are at ≥1 molecule/spore, many abundant spore mRNAs encode proteins similar to B. subtilis spore proteins, and some abundant B. subtilis and C. difficile spore mRNAs were fragmented. Most of the abundant B. subtilis and other Bacillales spore mRNAs are transcribed under the control of the forespore-specific RNA polymerase σ factors, F or G, and these results may stimulate transcription analyses in developing spores of species other than B. subtilis. These findings, plus the absence of key nucleotide biosynthetic enzymes in spores, suggest that firmicute spores' abundant mRNAs are not translated when spores germinate but instead are degraded to generate ribonucleotides for new RNA synthesis by the germinated spore.
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9
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DeMarco AM, Korza G, Granados MR, Mok WWK, Setlow P. Dodecylamine rapidly kills of spores of multiple Firmicute species: properties of the killed spores and the mechanism of the killing. J Appl Microbiol 2021; 131:2612-2625. [PMID: 33998749 DOI: 10.1111/jam.15137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2021] [Revised: 03/28/2021] [Accepted: 05/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
AIMS Previous work showed that Bacillus subtilis dormant spore killing and germination by dodecylamine take place by different mechanisms. This new work aimed to optimize killing of B. subtilis and other Firmicutes spores and to determine the mechanism of the killing. METHODS AND RESULTS Spores of seven Firmicute species were killed rapidly by dodecylamine under optimal conditions and more slowly by decylamine or tetradecylamine. The killed spores were not recovered by additions to recovery media, and some of the killed spores subsequently germinated, all indicating that dodecylamine-killed spores truly are dead. Spores of two species treated with dodecylamine were more sensitive to killing by a subsequent heat treatment, and spore killing of at least one species was faster with chemically decoated spores. The cores of dodecylamine-killed spores were stained by the nucleic acid stain propidium iodide, and dodecylamine-killed wild-type and germination-deficient spores released their stores of phosphate-containing small molecules. CONCLUSIONS This work indicates that dodecylamine is likely a universal sporicide for Firmicute species, and it kills spores by damaging their inner membrane, with attendant loss of this membrane as a permeability barrier. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY There is a significant need for agents that can effectively kill spores of a number of Firmicute species, especially in wide area decontamination. Dodecylamine appears to be a universal sporicide with a novel mechanism of action, and this or some comparable molecule could be useful in wide area spore decontamination.
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Affiliation(s)
- A M DeMarco
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biophysics, UConn Health, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - G Korza
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biophysics, UConn Health, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - M R Granados
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biophysics, UConn Health, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - W W K Mok
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biophysics, UConn Health, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - P Setlow
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biophysics, UConn Health, Farmington, CT, USA
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10
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Wainwright ER, Mueller MA, Overdeep KR, Vummidi Lakshman S, Weihs TP. Measuring Heat Production from Burning Al/Zr and Al/Mg/Zr Composite Particles in a Custom Micro-Bomb Calorimeter. MATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2020; 13:E2745. [PMID: 32560379 PMCID: PMC7345939 DOI: 10.3390/ma13122745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2020] [Revised: 06/03/2020] [Accepted: 06/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
Al:Zr, Al-8Mg:Zr, and Al-38Mg:Zr nanocomposite particles fabricated by physical vapor deposition (PVD) and ball milling were reacted in 1 atm of pure O2 within a custom, highly-sensitive micro-bomb calorimeter. The heats of combustion were compared to examine the effect of particle size and composition on combustion efficiency under room temperature and in a fixed volume. All particles yielded ~60-70% of their theoretical maximum heat of combustion and exhibited an increase in heat over composite thin films of similar compositions, which is attributed to an increase in the surface area to volume ratio. The effect of particle size and geometry are mitigated owing to the sintering of the particles within the crucible, implying the importance of particle dispersion for enhanced performance. Vaporization of the metal species may transition between two diffusion flame species (Mg to Al). As Mg content is increased, more vaporization may occur at lower temperatures, leading to an additional stage of sintering. Physically intermixed Al and Mg oxides have been observed coating the surface of the particles, which implies a continuous transition of these vaporization processes. Such nano-oxides imply high vapor-flame combustion temperatures (>2700 K) and suggest viability for agent defeat applications.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Timothy P. Weihs
- Department of Materials Science & Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA; (M.A.M.); (K.R.O.); (S.V.L.)
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11
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Wood JP, Wendling M, Richter W, Rogers J. The use of ozone gas for the inactivation of Bacillus anthracis and Bacillus subtilis spores on building materials. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0233291. [PMID: 32437373 PMCID: PMC7241793 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0233291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2020] [Accepted: 05/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
A study was conducted to assess the efficacy of ozone gas in inactivating spores of both Bacillus anthracis and Bacillus subtilis inoculated onto six building materials (glass, wood, carpet, laminate, galvanized metal, and wallboard paper). Testing conditions consisted of ozone gas concentrations ranging from 7,000-12,000 parts per million (ppm), contact times from 4 to 12 h, and two relative humidity (RH) levels of 75 and 85%. Results showed that increasing the ozone concentration, contact time, and RH generally increased decontamination efficacy. The materials in which the highest decontamination efficacy was achieved for B. anthracis spores were wallboard paper, carpet, and wood with ≥ 6 log10 reduction (LR) occurring with 9,800 ppm ozone, 85% RH, for 6 h. The laminate and galvanized metal materials were generally more difficult to decontaminate, requiring 12,000 ppm ozone, 85% RH, and 9-12 h contact time to achieve ≥6 LR of B. anthracis. Lastly, overall, there were no significant differences in decontamination efficacy between the two species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph P. Wood
- Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, National Homeland Security Research Program, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Morgan Wendling
- Battelle Memorial Institute, Columbus, Ohio, United States of America
| | - William Richter
- Battelle Memorial Institute, Columbus, Ohio, United States of America
| | - James Rogers
- Battelle Memorial Institute, Columbus, Ohio, United States of America
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12
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Taylor W, Camilleri E, Craft DL, Korza G, Granados MR, Peterson J, Szczpaniak R, Weller SK, Moeller R, Douki T, Mok WWK, Setlow P. DNA Damage Kills Bacterial Spores and Cells Exposed to 222-Nanometer UV Radiation. Appl Environ Microbiol 2020; 86:AEM.03039-19. [PMID: 32033948 PMCID: PMC7117916 DOI: 10.1128/aem.03039-19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2019] [Accepted: 02/03/2020] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
This study examined the microbicidal activity of 222-nm UV radiation (UV222), which is potentially a safer alternative to the 254-nm UV radiation (UV254) that is often used for surface decontamination. Spores and/or growing and stationary-phase cells of Bacillus cereus, Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus thuringiensis, Staphylococcus aureus, and Clostridioides difficile and a herpesvirus were all killed or inactivated by UV222 and at lower fluences than with UV254B. subtilis spores and cells lacking the major DNA repair protein RecA were more sensitive to UV222, as were spores lacking their DNA-protective proteins, the α/β-type small, acid-soluble spore proteins. The spore cores' large amount of Ca2+-dipicolinic acid (∼25% of the core dry weight) also protected B. subtilis and C. difficile spores against UV222, while spores' proteinaceous coat may have given some slight protection against UV222 Survivors among B. subtilis spores treated with UV222 acquired a large number of mutations, and this radiation generated known mutagenic photoproducts in spore and cell DNA, primarily cyclobutane-type pyrimidine dimers in growing cells and an α-thyminyl-thymine adduct termed the spore photoproduct (SP) in spores. Notably, the loss of a key SP repair protein markedly decreased spore UV222 resistance. UV222-treated B. subtilis spores germinated relatively normally, and the generation of colonies from these germinated spores was not salt sensitive. The latter two findings suggest that UV222 does not kill spores by general protein damage, and thus, the new results are consistent with the notion that DNA damage is responsible for the killing of spores and cells by UV222IMPORTANCE Spores of a variety of bacteria are resistant to common decontamination agents, and many of them are major causes of food spoilage and some serious human diseases, including anthrax caused by spores of Bacillus anthracis Consequently, there is an ongoing need for efficient methods for spore eradication, in particular methods that have minimal deleterious effects on people or the environment. UV radiation at 254 nm (UV254) is sporicidal and commonly used for surface decontamination but can cause deleterious effects in humans. Recent work, however, suggests that 222-nm UV (UV222) may be less harmful to people than UV254 yet may still kill bacteria and at lower fluences than UV254 The present work has identified the damage by UV222 that leads to the killing of growing cells and spores of some bacteria, many of which are human pathogens, and UV222 also inactivates a herpesvirus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Willie Taylor
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biophysics, UConn Health, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
| | - Emily Camilleri
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biophysics, UConn Health, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
| | - D Levi Craft
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biophysics, UConn Health, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
| | - George Korza
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biophysics, UConn Health, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
| | - Maria Rocha Granados
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biophysics, UConn Health, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
| | - Jaliyah Peterson
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biophysics, UConn Health, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
| | - Renata Szczpaniak
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biophysics, UConn Health, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
| | - Sandra K Weller
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biophysics, UConn Health, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
| | - Ralf Moeller
- Space Microbiology Research Group, Radiation Biology Department, Institute for Aerospace Medicine, German Aerospace Center, Cologne, Germany
| | - Thierry Douki
- Universite Grenoble Alpes, CEA, CNRS, INAC-SYMMBEST, Grenoble, France
| | - Wendy W K Mok
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biophysics, UConn Health, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
| | - Peter Setlow
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biophysics, UConn Health, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
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Clair G, Esbelin J, Malléa S, Bornard I, Carlin F. The spore coat is essential for Bacillus subtilis spore resistance to pulsed light, and pulsed light treatment eliminates some spore coat proteins. Int J Food Microbiol 2020; 323:108592. [PMID: 32315871 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijfoodmicro.2020.108592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2019] [Revised: 12/11/2019] [Accepted: 03/15/2020] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Microbial surface contamination of equipment or of food contact material is a recurring problem in the food industry. Spore-forming bacteria are far more resistant to a wide variety of treatments than their vegetative forms. Understanding the mechanisms underlying decontamination processes is needed to improve surface decontamination strategies against endospores potentially at the source of foodborne diseases or food-spoilage. Pulsed light (PL) with xenon lamps delivers high-energy short-time pulses of light with wavelengths in the range 200 nm-1100 nm and a high UV-C fraction. Bacillus subtilis spores were exposed to either PL or to continuous UV-C. Gel electrophoresis and western blotting revealed elimination of various proteins of the spore coat, an essential outer structure that protects spores from a wide variety of environmental conditions and inactivation treatments. Proteomic analysis confirmed the elimination of some spore coat proteins after PL treatment. Transmission electron microscopy of PL treated spores revealed a gap between the lamellar inner spore coat and the outer spore coat. Overall, spores of mutant strains with defects in genes coding for spore coat proteins were more sensitive to PL than to continuous UV-C. This study demonstrates that radiations delivered by PL contribute to specific damage to the spore coat, and overall to spore inactivation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gérémy Clair
- INRAE, Avignon Université, UMR SQPOV, F-84000, Avignon, France; Integrative Omics, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, 902 Battelle Boulevard, Richland, WA 99352, USA
| | - Julia Esbelin
- INRAE, Avignon Université, UMR SQPOV, F-84000, Avignon, France
| | - Sabine Malléa
- INRAE, Avignon Université, UMR SQPOV, F-84000, Avignon, France
| | | | - Frédéric Carlin
- INRAE, Avignon Université, UMR SQPOV, F-84000, Avignon, France.
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14
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Camilleri E, Korza G, Huesca‐Espita L, Setlow B, Stamatis D, Setlow P. Mechanisms of killing of
Bacillus thuringiensis
Al Hakam spores in a blast environment with and without iodic acid. J Appl Microbiol 2020; 128:1378-1389. [DOI: 10.1111/jam.14573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2019] [Revised: 12/11/2019] [Accepted: 01/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- E. Camilleri
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biophysics UConn Health Farmington CT USA
| | - G. Korza
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biophysics UConn Health Farmington CT USA
| | - L.d.C. Huesca‐Espita
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biophysics UConn Health Farmington CT USA
- Departamento de Ingenieria Quimica Alimentos y Ambiental Universidad de las Americas Puebla Mexico
| | - B. Setlow
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biophysics UConn Health Farmington CT USA
| | - D. Stamatis
- Indian Head EODTD Naval Surface Warfare Center Indian Head MD USA
| | - P. Setlow
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biophysics UConn Health Farmington CT USA
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15
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Buhr T, Minter Z, Kennihan N, Young A, Borgers‐Klonkowski E, Osborn E, Bohmke M, Hamilton S, Kimani M, Miller C, Mackie R, Innocenti J, Bensman M, Lilly S. Combining spore germination and heat inactivation to decontaminate materials contaminated with
Bacillus anthracis
spores. J Appl Microbiol 2019; 128:124-137. [DOI: 10.1111/jam.14474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2019] [Revised: 09/24/2019] [Accepted: 09/27/2019] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- T.L. Buhr
- Naval Surface Warfare Center‐Dahlgren Division CBR Concepts and Experimentation Branch (B21) Dahlgren VA USA
| | - Z.A. Minter
- Naval Surface Warfare Center‐Dahlgren Division CBR Concepts and Experimentation Branch (B21) Dahlgren VA USA
| | - N.L. Kennihan
- Naval Surface Warfare Center‐Dahlgren Division CBR Concepts and Experimentation Branch (B21) Dahlgren VA USA
| | - A.A. Young
- Naval Surface Warfare Center‐Dahlgren Division CBR Concepts and Experimentation Branch (B21) Dahlgren VA USA
| | - E.L. Borgers‐Klonkowski
- Naval Surface Warfare Center‐Dahlgren Division CBR Concepts and Experimentation Branch (B21) Dahlgren VA USA
| | - E.B. Osborn
- Naval Surface Warfare Center‐Dahlgren Division CBR Concepts and Experimentation Branch (B21) Dahlgren VA USA
| | - M.D. Bohmke
- Naval Surface Warfare Center‐Dahlgren Division CBR Concepts and Experimentation Branch (B21) Dahlgren VA USA
| | - S.M. Hamilton
- Naval Surface Warfare Center‐Dahlgren Division CBR Concepts and Experimentation Branch (B21) Dahlgren VA USA
| | - M.B. Kimani
- Naval Surface Warfare Center‐Dahlgren Division CBR Concepts and Experimentation Branch (B21) Dahlgren VA USA
| | - C.T. Miller
- Naval Surface Warfare Center‐Dahlgren Division CBR Concepts and Experimentation Branch (B21) Dahlgren VA USA
| | - R.S. Mackie
- Naval Surface Warfare Center‐Dahlgren Division CBR Concepts and Experimentation Branch (B21) Dahlgren VA USA
| | - J.M. Innocenti
- Naval Surface Warfare Center‐Dahlgren Division CBR Concepts and Experimentation Branch (B21) Dahlgren VA USA
| | - M.D. Bensman
- Naval Surface Warfare Center‐Dahlgren Division CBR Concepts and Experimentation Branch (B21) Dahlgren VA USA
| | - S.D. Lilly
- Naval Surface Warfare Center‐Dahlgren Division CBR Concepts and Experimentation Branch (B21) Dahlgren VA USA
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16
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Nakpan W, Yermakov M, Indugula R, Reponen T, Grinshpun SA. Inactivation of bacterial and fungal spores by UV irradiation and gaseous iodine treatment applied to air handling filters. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2019; 671:59-65. [PMID: 30927728 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2019.03.310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2019] [Revised: 03/20/2019] [Accepted: 03/20/2019] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Exposure to viable bacterial and fungal spores re-aerosolized from air handling filters may create a major health risk. Assessing and controlling this exposure have been of interest to the bio-defense and indoor air quality communities. Methods are being developed for inactivating stress-resistant viable microorganisms collected on ventilation filters. Here we investigated the inactivation of spores of Bacillus thuringiensis var. kurstaki (Btk), a recognized simulant for B. antracis, and Aspergillus fumigatus, a common opportunistic pathogen used as an indicator for indoor air quality. The viability change was measured on filters treated with ultraviolet (UV) irradiation and gaseous iodine. The spores were collected on high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) and non-HEPA filters, both flattened for testing purposes to represent "surface" filters. A mixed cellulose ester (MCE) membrane filter was also tested as a reference. Additionally, a commercial HEPA unit with a deep-bed (non-flattened) filter was tested. Combined treatments of Btk spores with UV and iodine on MCE filter produced a synergistic inactivation effect. No similar synergy was observed for A. fumigatus. For spores collected on an MCE filter, the inactivation effect was about an order of magnitude greater for Btk compared to A. fumigatus. The filter type was found to be an important factor affecting the inactivation of Btk spores while it was not as influential for A. fumigatus. Overall, the combined effect of UV irradiation and gaseous iodine on viable bacterial and fungal spores collected on flat filters was found to be potent. The benefit of either simultaneous or sequential treatment was much lower for Btk spores embedded inside the deep-bed (non-flattened) HEPA filter, but for A. fumigatus the inactivation on flattened and non-flattened HEPA filters was comparable. For both species, applying UV first and gaseous iodine second produced significantly higher inactivation than when applying them simultaneously or in an opposite sequence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Worrawit Nakpan
- Center for Health-Related Aerosol Studies, Department of Environmental Health, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA
| | - Michael Yermakov
- Center for Health-Related Aerosol Studies, Department of Environmental Health, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA
| | - Reshmi Indugula
- Center for Health-Related Aerosol Studies, Department of Environmental Health, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA
| | - Tiina Reponen
- Center for Health-Related Aerosol Studies, Department of Environmental Health, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA
| | - Sergey A Grinshpun
- Center for Health-Related Aerosol Studies, Department of Environmental Health, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA.
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17
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Wood JP, Adrion AC. Review of Decontamination Techniques for the Inactivation of Bacillus anthracis and Other Spore-Forming Bacteria Associated with Building or Outdoor Materials. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2019; 53:4045-4062. [PMID: 30901213 PMCID: PMC6547374 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.8b05274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Since the intentional release of Bacillus anthracis spores through the U.S. Postal Service in the fall of 2001, research and development related to decontamination for this biological agent have increased substantially. This review synthesizes the advances made relative to B. anthracis spore decontamination science and technology since approximately 2002, referencing the open scientific literature and publicly available, well-documented scientific reports. In the process of conducting this review, scientific knowledge gaps have also been identified. This review focuses primarily on techniques that are commercially available and that could potentially be used in the large-scale decontamination of buildings and other structures, as well as outdoor environments. Since 2002, the body of scientific data related to decontamination and microbial sterilization has grown substantially, especially in terms of quantifying decontamination efficacy as a function of several factors. Specifically, progress has been made in understanding how decontaminant chemistry, the materials the microorganisms are associated with, environmental factors, and microbiological methods quantitatively impact spore inactivation. While advancement has been made in the past 15 years to further the state of the science in the inactivation of bacterial spores in a decontamination scenario, further research is warranted to close the scientific gaps that remain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph P. Wood
- United States Environmental Protection Agency, Offce of Research and Development, National Homeland Security Research Center, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina United States
- Corresponding Author: Phone: (919) 541-5029;
| | - Alden Charles Adrion
- United States Environmental Protection Agency, Offce of Research and Development, National Homeland Security Research Center, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina United States
- Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education Postdoctoral Fellow, Oak Ridge, Tennessee 37830, United States
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18
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Setlow P. Observations on research with spores of Bacillales and Clostridiales species. J Appl Microbiol 2019; 126:348-358. [PMID: 30106202 PMCID: PMC6329651 DOI: 10.1111/jam.14067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2018] [Revised: 08/03/2018] [Accepted: 08/07/2018] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this article is to highlight some areas of research with spores of bacteria of Firmicute species in which the methodology too commonly used is not optimal and generates misleading results. As a consequence, conclusions drawn from data obtained are often flawed or not appropriate. Topics covered in the article include the following: (i) the importance of using well-purified bacterial spores in studies on spore resistance, composition, killing, disinfection and germination; (ii) methods for obtaining good purification of spores of various species; (iii) appropriate experimental approaches to determine mechanisms of spore resistance and spore killing by a variety of agents, as well as known mechanisms of spore resistance and killing; (iv) common errors made in drawing conclusions about spore killing by various agents, including failure to neutralize chemical agents before plating for viable spore enumeration, and equating correlations between changes in spore properties accompanying spore killing with causation. It is hoped that a consideration of these topics will improve the quality of spore research going forward.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Setlow
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biophysics, UConn Health, Farmington, CT 06030-3305 USA
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19
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Rao L, Zhao L, Wang Y, Chen F, Hu X, Setlow P, Liao X. Mechanism of inactivation of Bacillus subtilis spores by high pressure CO 2 at high temperature. Food Microbiol 2019; 82:36-45. [PMID: 31027794 DOI: 10.1016/j.fm.2019.01.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2018] [Revised: 01/25/2019] [Accepted: 01/25/2019] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Spores of wild-type Bacillus subtilis and some isogenic mutant strains were treated by high pressure CO2 (HPCD) at high temperature (HT) (HPCD + HT) at 20 MPa and 84-86 °C for 0-60 min, and centrifuged on a high density solution to obtain pelleted spores that retained CaDPA and light spores that lost CaDPA. All treated spores were analyzed for viability, and tested for germination, outgrowth, core protein damage, mutagenesis and inner membrane (IM) properties. The results showed that (i) with HPCD + HT treated spores, most pelleted spores and all light spores were dead; ii) a significant amount of dead HPCD + HT-treated spores that retained CaDPA germinated, but outgrowth was blocked; (iii) minimal mutants were generated in survivors of HPCD + HT treatment; (iv) the GFP fluorescence decrease in HPCD + HT-treated spores with high GFP levels was slower than spore inactivation; (v) the IM of HPCD + HT-treated spores that retained CaDPA lost its ability to retain CaDPA at 85 °C, and almost all of these spores' outgrowth in high salt was blocked; and (vi) HPCD + HT-treated spores that retained CaDPA germinated with l-valine or AGFK were almost all stained with propidium iodide. These results indicated that HPCD + HT inactivated B. subtilis spores by damaging spores' IM, thus blocking spore outgrowth after germination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Rao
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Food Nutrition and Human Health, College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100083, China; Beijing Key Laboratory for Food Nonthermal Processing, National Engineering Research Center for Fruit & Vegetable Processing, Beijing, 100083, China; Key Laboratory of Fruit & Vegetable Processing, Ministry of Agriculture, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Liang Zhao
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Food Nutrition and Human Health, College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100083, China; Beijing Key Laboratory for Food Nonthermal Processing, National Engineering Research Center for Fruit & Vegetable Processing, Beijing, 100083, China; Key Laboratory of Fruit & Vegetable Processing, Ministry of Agriculture, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Yongtao Wang
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Food Nonthermal Processing, National Engineering Research Center for Fruit & Vegetable Processing, Beijing, 100083, China; Key Laboratory of Fruit & Vegetable Processing, Ministry of Agriculture, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Fang Chen
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Food Nonthermal Processing, National Engineering Research Center for Fruit & Vegetable Processing, Beijing, 100083, China; Key Laboratory of Fruit & Vegetable Processing, Ministry of Agriculture, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Xiaosong Hu
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Food Nutrition and Human Health, College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100083, China; Beijing Key Laboratory for Food Nonthermal Processing, National Engineering Research Center for Fruit & Vegetable Processing, Beijing, 100083, China; Key Laboratory of Fruit & Vegetable Processing, Ministry of Agriculture, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Peter Setlow
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biophysics, UConn Health, Farmington, CT, 06030-3305, USA
| | - Xiaojun Liao
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Food Nutrition and Human Health, College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100083, China; Beijing Key Laboratory for Food Nonthermal Processing, National Engineering Research Center for Fruit & Vegetable Processing, Beijing, 100083, China; Key Laboratory of Fruit & Vegetable Processing, Ministry of Agriculture, Beijing, 100083, China.
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20
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Life from the ashes: survival of dry bacterial spores after very high temperature exposure. Extremophiles 2018; 22:751-759. [PMID: 29869718 DOI: 10.1007/s00792-018-1035-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2018] [Accepted: 05/31/2018] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
We found that spores of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens rank amongst the most resistant to high temperatures with a maximum dry heat tolerance determined at 420 °C. We found that this extreme heat resistance was also maintained after several generations suggesting that the DNA was able to replicate after exposure to these temperatures. Nonetheless, amplifying the bacterial DNA using BOXA1R and (GTG)5 primers was unsuccessful immediately after extreme heating, but was successful after incubation of the heated then cooled spores. Moreover, enzymes such as amylases and proteases were active directly after heating and spore regeneration, indicating that DNA coding for these enzymes were not degraded at these temperatures. Our results suggest that extensive DNA damage may occur in spores of B. amyloliquefaciens directly after an extreme heat shock. However, the successful germination of spores after inoculation and incubation indicates that these spores could have a very effective DNA repair mechanism, most likely protein-based, able to function after exposure to temperatures up to 420 °C. Therefore, we propose that B. amyloliquefaciens is one of the most heat resistant life forms known to science and can be used as a model organism for studying heat resistance and DNA repair. Furthermore, the extremely high temperature resistivity of these spores has exceptional consequences for general methodology, such as the use of dry heat sterilization and, therefore, virtually all studies in the broad area of high temperature biology.
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21
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Bressuire-Isoard C, Broussolle V, Carlin F. Sporulation environment influences spore properties in Bacillus: evidence and insights on underlying molecular and physiological mechanisms. FEMS Microbiol Rev 2018; 42:614-626. [DOI: 10.1093/femsre/fuy021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2017] [Accepted: 05/16/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Christelle Bressuire-Isoard
- UMR408 SQPOV “Sécurité et Qualité des Produits d'Origine Végétale”, INRA–Avignon Université, Centre de Recherche PACA, CS40509, Site Agroparc, 84914 Avignon Cedex 9, France
| | - Véronique Broussolle
- UMR408 SQPOV “Sécurité et Qualité des Produits d'Origine Végétale”, INRA–Avignon Université, Centre de Recherche PACA, CS40509, Site Agroparc, 84914 Avignon Cedex 9, France
| | - Frédéric Carlin
- UMR408 SQPOV “Sécurité et Qualité des Produits d'Origine Végétale”, INRA–Avignon Université, Centre de Recherche PACA, CS40509, Site Agroparc, 84914 Avignon Cedex 9, France
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22
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Zheng Q. A cautionary note on the mutation frequency in microbial research. Mutat Res 2018; 809:51-55. [PMID: 29705518 DOI: 10.1016/j.mrfmmm.2018.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2018] [Revised: 04/03/2018] [Accepted: 04/17/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The mutation frequency, also known as the mutant frequency, is an unnormalized quantity, and its normalized counterpart is the mutation rate. Due to historical reasons, the mutation frequency has been a predominant yardstick of microbial mutability in the field of mutator identification. While the mean mutation frequency is infamously erratic, replacing it with the median mutation frequency is not an effective remedy. By encouraging investigators to substitute mutation rates for mutation frequencies in microbial research, this paper directs attention to substantial open problems such as false positive control and massive nonmutant cell death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Zheng
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Texas A&M School of Public Health, 212 Adriance Lab Road, College Station, TX 77843, United States.
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23
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Wu Y, Wu J, Zhang Z, Cheng C. DNA decontamination methods for internal quality management in clinical PCR laboratories. J Clin Lab Anal 2017; 32. [PMID: 28665527 DOI: 10.1002/jcla.22290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2017] [Accepted: 06/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique, one of the most commonly applied methods in diagnostic and molecular biology, has a frustrating downside: the occurrence of false-positive signals due to contamination. In previous research, various DNA decontamination methods have been developed to overcome this limitation. Unfortunately, the use of random or poorly focused sampling methods for monitoring air and/or object surfaces leads to the incomplete elimination during decontamination procedures. We herein attempted to develop a novel DNA decontamination method (environmental surveillance, including surface and air sampling) and quality management program for clinical molecular diagnostic laboratories (or clinical PCR laboratories). METHODS Here, we performed a step-by-step evaluation of current DNA decontamination methods and developed an effective procedure for assessing the presence of decontaminating DNA via PCR analysis. Performing targeted environmental surveillance by sampling, which reached optimal performance over 2 weeks, and the decontamination process had been verified as reliable. Additionally, the process was validated to not affect PCR amplification efficiency based on a comparative study. RESULTS In this study, effective guidelines for DNA decontamination were developed. The method employed ensured that surface DNA contamination could be effectively identified and eliminated. Furthermore, our study highlighted the importance of overall quality assurance and good clinical laboratory practices for preventing contamination, which are key factors for compliance with regulatory or accreditation requirements. CONCLUSIONS Taken together, we provided the evidence that the presented scheme ranged from troubleshooting to the elimination of surface contamination, could serve as critical foundation for developing regular environmental surveillance guidelines for PCR laboratories.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingping Wu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital Zhejiang University School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jianyong Wu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital Zhejiang University School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhihui Zhang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital Zhejiang University School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Chen Cheng
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital Zhejiang University School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
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24
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Li Q, Korza G, Setlow P. Killing the spores of
Bacillus
species by molecular iodine. J Appl Microbiol 2016; 122:54-64. [DOI: 10.1111/jam.13310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2016] [Revised: 09/12/2016] [Accepted: 09/24/2016] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Q. Li
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biophysics UConn Health Farmington CT USA
| | - G. Korza
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biophysics UConn Health Farmington CT USA
| | - P. Setlow
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biophysics UConn Health Farmington CT USA
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25
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Huesca-Espitia LC, Suvira M, Rosenbeck K, Korza G, Setlow B, Li W, Wang S, Li YQ, Setlow P. Effects of steam autoclave treatment on Geobacillus stearothermophilus spores. J Appl Microbiol 2016; 121:1300-1311. [PMID: 27538778 DOI: 10.1111/jam.13257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2016] [Revised: 08/10/2016] [Accepted: 08/12/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
AIMS To determine the mechanism of autoclave killing of Geobacillus stearothermophilus spores used in biological indicators (BIs) for steam autoclave sterilization, and rates of loss of spore viability and a spore enzyme used in BIs. METHODS AND RESULTS Spore viability, dipicolinic acid (DPA) release, nucleic acid staining, α-glucosidase activity, protein structure and mutagenesis were measured during autoclaving of G. stearothermophilus spores. Loss of DPA and increases in spore core nucleic acid staining were slower than loss of spore viability. Spore core α-glucosidase was also lost more slowly than spore viability, although soluble α-glucosidase in spore preparations was lost more rapidly. However, spores exposed to an effective autoclave sterilization lost all viability and α-glucosidase activity. Apparently killed autoclaved spores were not recovered by artificial germination in supportive media, much spore protein was denatured during autoclaving, and partially killed autoclave-treated spore preparations did not acquire mutations. CONCLUSIONS These results indicate that autoclave-killed spores cannot be revived, spore killing by autoclaving is likely by protein damage, and spore core α-glucosidase activity is lost more slowly than spore viability. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY This work provides insight into the mechanism of autoclave killing of spores of an organism used in BIs, and that a spore enzyme in a BI is more stable to autoclaving than spore viability.
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Affiliation(s)
- L C Huesca-Espitia
- Departamento de Ingenieria Quimica, Alimentos y Ambiental. Universidad de las Americas, Puebla, Mexico.,Department of Molecular Biology and Biophysics, UConn Health, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - M Suvira
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biophysics, UConn Health, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - K Rosenbeck
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biophysics, UConn Health, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - G Korza
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biophysics, UConn Health, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - B Setlow
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biophysics, UConn Health, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - W Li
- Department of Physics, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA
| | - S Wang
- Department of Physics, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA
| | - Y-Q Li
- Department of Physics, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA
| | - P Setlow
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biophysics, UConn Health, Farmington, CT, USA.
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26
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Xu S, Harvey A, Barbieri R, Reuter T, Stanford K, Amoako KK, Selinger LB, McAllister TA. Inactivation of Bacillus anthracis Spores during Laboratory-Scale Composting of Feedlot Cattle Manure. Front Microbiol 2016; 7:806. [PMID: 27303388 PMCID: PMC4882334 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2016.00806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2016] [Accepted: 05/12/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Anthrax outbreaks in livestock have social, economic and health implications, altering farmer’s livelihoods, impacting trade and posing a zoonotic risk. Our study investigated the survival of Bacillus thuringiensis and B. anthracis spores sporulated at 15, 20, or 37°C, over 33 days of composting. Spores (∼7.5 log10 CFU g-1) were mixed with manure and composted in laboratory scale composters. After 15 days, the compost was mixed and returned to the composter for a second cycle. Temperatures peaked at 71°C on day 2 and remained ≥55°C for an average of 7 days in the first cycle, but did not exceed 55°C in the second. For B. thuringiensis, spores generated at 15 and 21°C exhibited reduced (P < 0.05) viability of 2.7 and 2.6 log10 CFU g-1 respectively, as compared to a 0.6 log10 CFU g-1 reduction for those generated at 37°C. For B. anthracis, sporulation temperature did not impact spore survival as there was a 2.5, 2.2, and 2.8 log10 CFU g-1 reduction after composting for spores generated at 15, 21, and 37°C, respectively. For both species, spore viability declined more rapidly (P < 0.05) in the first as compared to the second composting cycle. Our findings suggest that the duration of thermophilic exposure (≥55°C) is the main factor influencing survival of B. anthracis spores in compost. As sporulation temperature did not influence survival of B. anthracis, composting may lower the viability of spores associated with carcasses infected with B. anthracis over a range of sporulation temperatures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shanwei Xu
- Lethbridge Research and Develeopment Centre, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Lethbridge AB, Canada
| | - Amanda Harvey
- Lethbridge Research and Develeopment Centre, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, LethbridgeAB, Canada; Department of Biological Sciences, University of Lethbridge, LethbridgeAB, Canada
| | - Ruth Barbieri
- Lethbridge Research and Develeopment Centre, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Lethbridge AB, Canada
| | - Tim Reuter
- Alberta Agriculture and Forestry, Lethbridge AB, Canada
| | - Kim Stanford
- Alberta Agriculture and Forestry, Lethbridge AB, Canada
| | - Kingsley K Amoako
- Lethbridge Laboratory, Canadian Food Inspection Agency, National Centres for Animal Disease, Lethbridge AB, Canada
| | - Leonard B Selinger
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge AB, Canada
| | - Tim A McAllister
- Lethbridge Research and Develeopment Centre, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Lethbridge AB, Canada
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Chemical Kinetics for the Microbial Safety of Foods Treated with High Pressure Processing or Hurdles. FOOD ENGINEERING REVIEWS 2016. [DOI: 10.1007/s12393-015-9138-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Wells-Bennik MH, Eijlander RT, den Besten HM, Berendsen EM, Warda AK, Krawczyk AO, Nierop Groot MN, Xiao Y, Zwietering MH, Kuipers OP, Abee T. Bacterial Spores in Food: Survival, Emergence, and Outgrowth. Annu Rev Food Sci Technol 2016; 7:457-82. [DOI: 10.1146/annurev-food-041715-033144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Marjon H.J. Wells-Bennik
- TI Food and Nutrition, 6700 AN Wageningen, The Netherlands
- NIZO Food Research, 6718 ZB Ede, The Netherlands;
| | - Robyn T. Eijlander
- TI Food and Nutrition, 6700 AN Wageningen, The Netherlands
- NIZO Food Research, 6718 ZB Ede, The Netherlands;
| | - Heidy M.W. den Besten
- TI Food and Nutrition, 6700 AN Wageningen, The Netherlands
- Laboratory of Food Microbiology, Wageningen University, 6700 AA Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Erwin M. Berendsen
- TI Food and Nutrition, 6700 AN Wageningen, The Netherlands
- NIZO Food Research, 6718 ZB Ede, The Netherlands;
- Molecular Genetics Department, University of Groningen, 9700 AB Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Alicja K. Warda
- TI Food and Nutrition, 6700 AN Wageningen, The Netherlands
- Laboratory of Food Microbiology, Wageningen University, 6700 AA Wageningen, The Netherlands
- Wageningen UR Food & Biobased Research, 6700 AA Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Antonina O. Krawczyk
- TI Food and Nutrition, 6700 AN Wageningen, The Netherlands
- Molecular Genetics Department, University of Groningen, 9700 AB Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Masja N. Nierop Groot
- TI Food and Nutrition, 6700 AN Wageningen, The Netherlands
- Wageningen UR Food & Biobased Research, 6700 AA Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Yinghua Xiao
- TI Food and Nutrition, 6700 AN Wageningen, The Netherlands
- Laboratory of Food Microbiology, Wageningen University, 6700 AA Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Marcel H. Zwietering
- TI Food and Nutrition, 6700 AN Wageningen, The Netherlands
- Laboratory of Food Microbiology, Wageningen University, 6700 AA Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Oscar P. Kuipers
- TI Food and Nutrition, 6700 AN Wageningen, The Netherlands
- Molecular Genetics Department, University of Groningen, 9700 AB Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Tjakko Abee
- TI Food and Nutrition, 6700 AN Wageningen, The Netherlands
- Laboratory of Food Microbiology, Wageningen University, 6700 AA Wageningen, The Netherlands
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Abstract
Spores of various Bacillus and Clostridium species are among the most resistant life forms known. Since the spores of some species are causative agents of much food spoilage, food poisoning, and human disease, and the spores of Bacillus anthracis are a major bioweapon, there is much interest in the mechanisms of spore resistance and how these spores can be killed. This article will discuss the factors involved in spore resistance to agents such as wet and dry heat, desiccation, UV and γ-radiation, enzymes that hydrolyze bacterial cell walls, and a variety of toxic chemicals, including genotoxic agents, oxidizing agents, aldehydes, acid, and alkali. These resistance factors include the outer layers of the spore, such as the thick proteinaceous coat that detoxifies reactive chemicals; the relatively impermeable inner spore membrane that restricts access of toxic chemicals to the spore core containing the spore's DNA and most enzymes; the low water content and high level of dipicolinic acid in the spore core that protect core macromolecules from the effects of heat and desiccation; the saturation of spore DNA with a novel group of proteins that protect the DNA against heat, genotoxic chemicals, and radiation; and the repair of radiation damage to DNA when spores germinate and return to life. Despite their extreme resistance, spores can be killed, including by damage to DNA, crucial spore proteins, the spore's inner membrane, and one or more components of the spore germination apparatus.
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Setlow B, Korza G, Blatt KM, Fey JP, Setlow P. Mechanism of Bacillus subtilis spore inactivation by and resistance to supercritical CO2 plus peracetic acid. J Appl Microbiol 2016; 120:57-69. [PMID: 26535794 PMCID: PMC4715516 DOI: 10.1111/jam.12995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2015] [Revised: 10/22/2015] [Accepted: 10/27/2015] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Determine how supercritical CO2 (scCO2 ) plus peracetic acid (PAA) inactivates Bacillus subtilis spores, factors important in spore resistance to scCO2 -PAA, and if spores inactivated by scCO2 -PAA are truly dead. METHODS AND RESULTS Spores of wild-type B. subtilis and isogenic mutants lacking spore protective proteins were treated with scCO2 -PAA in liquid or dry at 35°C. Wild-type wet spores (aqueous suspension) were more susceptible than dry spores. Treated spores were examined for viability (and were truly dead), dipicolinic acid (DPA), mutations, permeability to nucleic acid stains, germination under different conditions, energy metabolism and outgrowth. ScCO2 -PAA-inactivated spores retained DPA, and survivors had no notable DNA damage. However, DPA was released from inactivated spores at a normally innocuous temperature (85°C), and colony formation from treated spores was salt sensitive. The inactivated spores germinated but did not outgrow, and these germinated spores had altered plasma membrane permeability and defective energy metabolism. Wet or dry coat-defective spores had increased scCO2 -PAA sensitivity, and dry spores but not wet spores lacking DNA protective proteins were more scCO2 -PAA sensitive. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that scCO2 -PAA inactivates spores by damaging spores' inner membrane. The spore coat provided scCO2 -PAA resistance for both wet and dry spores. DNA protective proteins provided scCO2 -PAA resistance only for dry spores. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY These results provide information on mechanisms of spore inactivation of and resistance to scCO2 -PAA, an agent with increasing use in sterilization applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Setlow
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biophysics, UConn Health, Farmington, CT 06030-3305 USA
| | - George Korza
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biophysics, UConn Health, Farmington, CT 06030-3305 USA
| | | | | | - Peter Setlow
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biophysics, UConn Health, Farmington, CT 06030-3305 USA
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Stanford K, Harvey A, Barbieri R, Xu S, Reuter T, Amoako KK, Selinger LB, McAllister TA. Heat and desiccation are the predominant factors affecting inactivation of Bacillus licheniformis and Bacillus thuringiensis spores during simulated composting. J Appl Microbiol 2015; 120:90-8. [PMID: 26513540 DOI: 10.1111/jam.12991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2015] [Revised: 10/06/2015] [Accepted: 10/23/2015] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
AIMS The suitability of composting for disposal of livestock mortalities due to Bacillus anthracis was assessed by measuring viability of surrogate spores from two strains each of Bacillus licheniformis and Bacillus thuringiensis after a heating cycle modelled on a cattle composting study. METHODS AND RESULTS Sporulation was attempted from 10 to 37°C, but poor yields at lower temperatures resulted in 25, 30 and 37°C being selected to generate sufficient spores (8 log10 CFU ml(-1) ) for experiments. Spores were inoculated into 3 g autoclaved dried-ground compost rehydrated with 6 ml water or silica beads in a factorial design for each strain, sporulation temperature, matrix and sampling day (0, 25, 50, 100, 150). Maximum incubation temperature was 62°C, but spores were maintained at ≥55°C for 78 of 150 days. Although significant differences existed among Bacillus strains and sporulation temperatures, numbers of viable spores after 150 days averaged 1·3 log10 CFU g(-1) , a 5·2 log10 reduction from day 0. CONCLUSIONS Spore inactivation was likely due to heat and desiccation as matrices were autoclaved prior to incubation, negating impacts of microflora. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF STUDY Results support composting for disposal of anthrax mortalities, provided long-term thermophillic heating is achieved. Due to limited sporulation at 10°C, livestock mortalities from anthrax at this or lower ambient temperatures would likely be of lower risk for disease transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Stanford
- Alberta Agriculture and Forestry, Lethbridge, AB, Canada
| | - A Harvey
- University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, AB, Canada
| | - R Barbieri
- Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Lethbridge, AB, Canada
| | - S Xu
- Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Lethbridge, AB, Canada
| | - T Reuter
- Alberta Agriculture and Forestry, Lethbridge, AB, Canada
| | - K K Amoako
- Canadian Food Inspection Agency, Lethbridge, AB, Canada
| | - L B Selinger
- University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, AB, Canada
| | - T A McAllister
- Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Lethbridge, AB, Canada
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32
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Buhr TL, Young AA, Barnette HK, Minter ZA, Kennihan NL, Johnson CA, Bohmke MD, DePaola M, Cora-Laó M, Page MA. Test methods and response surface models for hot, humid air decontamination of materials contaminated with dirty spores of Bacillus anthracis ∆Sterne and Bacillus thuringiensis Al Hakam. J Appl Microbiol 2015; 119:1263-77. [PMID: 26258399 DOI: 10.1111/jam.12928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2015] [Revised: 07/21/2015] [Accepted: 07/22/2015] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
AIMS To develop test methods and evaluate survival of Bacillus anthracis ∆Sterne or Bacillus thuringiensis Al Hakam on materials contaminated with dirty spore preparations after exposure to hot, humid air using response surface modelling. METHODS AND RESULTS Spores (>7 log10 ) were mixed with humic acid + spent sporulation medium (organic debris) or kaolin (dirt debris). Spore samples were then dried on five different test materials (wiring insulation, aircraft performance coating, anti-skid, polypropylene, and nylon). Inoculated materials were tested with 19 test combinations of temperature (55, 65, 75°C), relative humidity (70, 80, 90%) and time (1, 2, 3 days). The slowest spore inactivation kinetics was on nylon webbing and/or after addition of organic debris. CONCLUSIONS Hot, humid air effectively decontaminates materials contaminated with dirty Bacillus spore preparations; debris and material interactions create complex decontamination kinetic patterns; and B. thuringiensis Al Hakam is a realistic surrogate for B. anthracis. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY Response surface models of hot, humid air decontamination were developed which may be used to select decontamination parameters for contamination scenarios including aircraft.
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Affiliation(s)
- T L Buhr
- Naval Surface Warfare Center-Dahlgren Division, CBR Concepts and Experimentation Branch (Z21), Dahlgren, VA, USA
| | - A A Young
- Naval Surface Warfare Center-Dahlgren Division, CBR Concepts and Experimentation Branch (Z21), Dahlgren, VA, USA
| | - H K Barnette
- Naval Surface Warfare Center-Dahlgren Division, CBR Concepts and Experimentation Branch (Z21), Dahlgren, VA, USA
| | - Z A Minter
- Naval Surface Warfare Center-Dahlgren Division, CBR Concepts and Experimentation Branch (Z21), Dahlgren, VA, USA
| | - N L Kennihan
- Naval Surface Warfare Center-Dahlgren Division, CBR Concepts and Experimentation Branch (Z21), Dahlgren, VA, USA
| | - C A Johnson
- Naval Surface Warfare Center-Dahlgren Division, CBR Concepts and Experimentation Branch (Z21), Dahlgren, VA, USA
| | - M D Bohmke
- Naval Surface Warfare Center-Dahlgren Division, CBR Concepts and Experimentation Branch (Z21), Dahlgren, VA, USA
| | - M DePaola
- Naval Surface Warfare Center-Dahlgren Division, CBR Concepts and Experimentation Branch (Z21), Dahlgren, VA, USA
| | - M Cora-Laó
- United States Army Corps of Engineers Research and Development Center, Champaign, IL, USA
| | - M A Page
- United States Army Corps of Engineers Research and Development Center, Champaign, IL, USA
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Doona CJ, Feeherry FE, Kustin K, Olinger GG, Setlow P, Malkin AJ, Leighton T. Fighting Ebola with novel spore decontamination technologies for the military. Front Microbiol 2015; 6:663. [PMID: 26322021 PMCID: PMC4533522 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2015.00663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2015] [Accepted: 06/17/2015] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Recently, global public health organizations such as Doctors without Borders (MSF), the World Health Organization (WHO), Public Health Canada, National Institutes of Health (NIH), and the U.S. government developed and deployed Field Decontamination Kits (FDKs), a novel, lightweight, compact, reusable decontamination technology to sterilize Ebola-contaminated medical devices at remote clinical sites lacking infra-structure in crisis-stricken regions of West Africa (medical waste materials are placed in bags and burned). The basis for effectuating sterilization with FDKs is chlorine dioxide (ClO2) produced from a patented invention developed by researchers at the US Army Natick Soldier RD&E Center (NSRDEC) and commercialized as a dry mixed-chemical for bacterial spore decontamination. In fact, the NSRDEC research scientists developed an ensemble of ClO2 technologies designed for different applications in decontaminating fresh produce; food contact and handling surfaces; personal protective equipment; textiles used in clothing, uniforms, tents, and shelters; graywater recycling; airplanes; surgical instruments; and hard surfaces in latrines, laundries, and deployable medical facilities. These examples demonstrate the far-reaching impact, adaptability, and versatility of these innovative technologies. We present herein the unique attributes of NSRDEC's novel decontamination technologies and a Case Study of the development of FDKs that were deployed in West Africa by international public health organizations to sterilize Ebola-contaminated medical equipment. FDKs use bacterial spores as indicators of sterility. We review the properties and structures of spores and the mechanisms of bacterial spore inactivation by ClO2. We also review mechanisms of bacterial spore inactivation by novel, emerging, and established non-thermal technologies for food preservation, such as high pressure processing, irradiation, cold plasma, and chemical sanitizers, using an array of Bacillus subtilis mutants to probe mechanisms of spore germination and inactivation. We employ techniques of high-resolution atomic force microscopy and phase contrast microscopy to examine the effects of γ-irradiation on bacterial spores of Bacillus anthracis, Bacillus thuringiensis, and Bacillus atrophaeus spp. and of ClO2 on B. subtilis spores, and present in detail assays using spore bio-indicators to ensure sterility when decontaminating with ClO2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher J Doona
- U.S. Army Natick - Soldier RD&E Center, Warfighter Directorate, Natick, MA USA
| | - Florence E Feeherry
- U.S. Army Natick - Soldier RD&E Center, Warfighter Directorate, Natick, MA USA
| | - Kenneth Kustin
- Department of Chemistry, Emeritus, Brandeis University, Waltham, MA USA
| | - Gene G Olinger
- National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Integrated Research Facility - Division of Clinical Research, Fort Detrick, MD USA
| | - Peter Setlow
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biophysics, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, CT USA
| | - Alexander J Malkin
- Biosciences and Biotechnology Division, Physical and Life Sciences Directorate, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, CA USA
| | - Terrance Leighton
- Children's Hospital - Oakland Research Institute, University of California San Francisco - Benioff, Oakland, CA USA
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Nakonieczna A, Cooper CJ, Gryko R. Bacteriophages and bacteriophage-derived endolysins as potential therapeutics to combat Gram-positive spore forming bacteria. J Appl Microbiol 2015; 119:620-31. [PMID: 26109320 DOI: 10.1111/jam.12881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2015] [Revised: 05/28/2015] [Accepted: 06/11/2015] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Since their discovery in 1915, bacteriophages have been routinely used within Eastern Europe to treat a variety of bacterial infections. Although initially ignored by the West due to the success of antibiotics, increasing levels and diversity of antibiotic resistance is driving a renaissance for bacteriophage-derived therapy, which is in part due to the highly specific nature of bacteriophages as well as their relative abundance. This review focuses on the bacteriophages and derived lysins of relevant Gram-positive spore formers within the Bacillus cereus group and Clostridium genus that could have applications within the medical, food and environmental sectors.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Nakonieczna
- Biological Threats Identification and Countermeasure Center of the Military Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology, Pulawy, Poland
| | - C J Cooper
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The Wenner-Gren Institute, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - R Gryko
- Biological Threats Identification and Countermeasure Center of the Military Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology, Pulawy, Poland
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