1
|
Liu Y, Li H, Dai D, He J, Liang Z. Gene Regulatory Mechanism of Mycobacterium Tuberculosis during Dormancy. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2024; 46:5825-5844. [PMID: 38921019 PMCID: PMC11203133 DOI: 10.3390/cimb46060348] [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: 04/10/2024] [Revised: 06/05/2024] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Tuberculosis (TB), caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) complex, is a zoonotic disease that remains one of the leading causes of death worldwide. Latent tuberculosis infection reactivation is a challenging obstacle to eradicating TB globally. Understanding the gene regulatory network of Mtb during dormancy is important. This review discusses up-to-date information about TB gene regulatory networks during dormancy, focusing on the regulation of lipid and energy metabolism, dormancy survival regulator (DosR), White B-like (Wbl) family, Toxin-Antitoxin (TA) systems, sigma factors, and MprAB. We outline the progress in vaccine and drug development associated with Mtb dormancy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yiduo Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, No. 100 University West Road, Nanning 530004, China (D.D.)
- College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Han Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, No. 100 University West Road, Nanning 530004, China (D.D.)
| | - Dejia Dai
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, No. 100 University West Road, Nanning 530004, China (D.D.)
| | - Jiakang He
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, No. 100 University West Road, Nanning 530004, China (D.D.)
| | - Zhengmin Liang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, No. 100 University West Road, Nanning 530004, China (D.D.)
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Cioetto-Mazzabò L, Sorze D, Babic F, Boldrin F, Segafreddo G, Provvedi R, Manganelli R. Structure of the SigE regulatory network in Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Front Microbiol 2024; 15:1407500. [PMID: 38873166 PMCID: PMC11173970 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2024.1407500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024] Open
Abstract
SigE is one of the main regulators of mycobacterial stress response and is characterized by a complex regulatory network based on two pathways, which have been partially characterized in conditions of surface stress. The first pathway is based on the induction of sigE transcription by the two-component system MprAB, while the second is based on the degradation of SigE anti-sigma factor RseA by ClpC1P2, a protease whose structural genes are induced by ClgR. We characterized the dynamics of the SigE network activation in conditions of surface stress and low pH in Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Using a series of mutants in which the main regulatory nodes of the network have been inactivated, we could explore their hierarchy, and we determined that MprAB had a key role in the network activation in both stress conditions through the induction of sigE. However, while in conditions of surface stress the absence of MprAB totally abrogated sigE induction, under low pH conditions it only resulted in a small delay of the induction of sigE. In this case, sigE induction was due to SigH, which acted as a MprAB backup system. The ClgR pathway, leading to the degradation of the SigE anti-sigma factor RseA, was shown to be essential for the activation of the SigE network only following surface stress, where it showed an equal hierarchy with the MprAB pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Davide Sorze
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Fedora Babic
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Francesca Boldrin
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Greta Segafreddo
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
3
|
Gries R, Chhen J, van Gumpel E, Theobald SJ, Sonnenkalb L, Utpatel C, Metzen F, Koch M, Dallenga T, Djaout K, Baulard A, Dal Molin M, Rybniker J. Discovery of dual-active ethionamide boosters inhibiting the Mycobacterium tuberculosis ESX-1 secretion system. Cell Chem Biol 2024; 31:699-711.e6. [PMID: 38181799 DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2023.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2023] [Revised: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2024]
Abstract
Drug-resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) remains a major public health concern requiring complementary approaches to standard anti-tuberculous regimens. Anti-virulence molecules or compounds that enhance the activity of antimicrobial prodrugs are promising alternatives to conventional antibiotics. Exploiting host cell-based drug discovery, we identified an oxadiazole compound (S3) that blocks the ESX-1 secretion system, a major virulence factor of Mtb. S3-treated mycobacteria showed impaired intracellular growth and a reduced ability to lyse macrophages. RNA sequencing experiments of drug-exposed bacteria revealed strong upregulation of a distinct set of genes including ethA, encoding a monooxygenase activating the anti-tuberculous prodrug ethionamide. Accordingly, we found a strong ethionamide boosting effect in S3-treated Mtb. Extensive structure-activity relationship experiments revealed that anti-virulence and ethionamide-boosting activity can be uncoupled by chemical modification of the primary hit molecule. To conclude, this series of dual-active oxadiazole compounds targets Mtb via two distinct mechanisms of action.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Raphael Gries
- Department I of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, 50937 Cologne, Germany; Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, 50931 Cologne, Germany; German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Bonn-Cologne, 50931 Cologne, Germany
| | - Jason Chhen
- Department I of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, 50937 Cologne, Germany; Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, 50931 Cologne, Germany
| | - Edeltraud van Gumpel
- Department I of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, 50937 Cologne, Germany; Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, 50931 Cologne, Germany
| | - Sebastian J Theobald
- Department I of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, 50937 Cologne, Germany; Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, 50931 Cologne, Germany
| | - Lindsay Sonnenkalb
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Hamburg-Lübeck-Borstel-Riems, 23845 Borstel, Germany; Molecular and Experimental Mycobacteriology, Research Center Borstel, Leibniz Lung Center, 23845 Borstel, Germany
| | - Christian Utpatel
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Hamburg-Lübeck-Borstel-Riems, 23845 Borstel, Germany; Molecular and Experimental Mycobacteriology, Research Center Borstel, Leibniz Lung Center, 23845 Borstel, Germany
| | - Fabian Metzen
- Institute for Dental Research and Oral Musculoskeletal Biology, Center for Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, 50931 Cologne, Germany
| | - Manuel Koch
- Institute for Dental Research and Oral Musculoskeletal Biology, Center for Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, 50931 Cologne, Germany
| | - Tobias Dallenga
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Hamburg-Lübeck-Borstel-Riems, 23845 Borstel, Germany; Cellular Microbiology, Research Center Borstel, Leibniz Lung Center, 23845 Borstel, Germany
| | - Kamel Djaout
- University of Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, Center for Infection and Immunity of Lille, 59000 Lille, France
| | - Alain Baulard
- University of Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, Center for Infection and Immunity of Lille, 59000 Lille, France
| | - Michael Dal Molin
- Department I of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, 50937 Cologne, Germany; Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, 50931 Cologne, Germany
| | - Jan Rybniker
- Department I of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, 50937 Cologne, Germany; Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), University of Cologne, 50931 Cologne, Germany; German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Bonn-Cologne, 50931 Cologne, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Singha B, Murmu S, Nair T, Rawat RS, Sharma AK, Soni V. Metabolic Rewiring of Mycobacterium tuberculosis upon Drug Treatment and Antibiotics Resistance. Metabolites 2024; 14:63. [PMID: 38248866 PMCID: PMC10820029 DOI: 10.3390/metabo14010063] [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: 12/25/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Tuberculosis (TB), caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb), remains a significant global health challenge, further compounded by the issue of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). AMR is a result of several system-level molecular rearrangements enabling bacteria to evolve with better survival capacities: metabolic rewiring is one of them. In this review, we present a detailed analysis of the metabolic rewiring of Mtb in response to anti-TB drugs and elucidate the dynamic mechanisms of bacterial metabolism contributing to drug efficacy and resistance. We have discussed the current state of AMR, its role in the prevalence of the disease, and the limitations of current anti-TB drug regimens. Further, the concept of metabolic rewiring is defined, underscoring its relevance in understanding drug resistance and the biotransformation of drugs by Mtb. The review proceeds to discuss the metabolic adaptations of Mtb to drug treatment, and the pleiotropic effects of anti-TB drugs on Mtb metabolism. Next, the association between metabolic changes and antimycobacterial resistance, including intrinsic and acquired drug resistance, is discussed. The review concludes by summarizing the challenges of anti-TB treatment from a metabolic viewpoint, justifying the need for this discussion in the context of novel drug discovery, repositioning, and repurposing to control AMR in TB.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Biplab Singha
- Department of Microbiology and Physiological Systems, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA;
| | - Sumit Murmu
- Regional Centre of Biotechnology, Faridabad 121001, India;
| | - Tripti Nair
- Leonard Davis School of Gerontology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA;
| | - Rahul Singh Rawat
- Eukaryotic Gene Expression Laboratory, National Institute of Immunology, New Delhi 110067, India;
| | - Aditya Kumar Sharma
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Vijay Soni
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Weill Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10021, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Allué-Guardia A, Garcia-Vilanova A, Schami AM, Olmo-Fontánez AM, Hicks A, Peters J, Maselli DJ, Wewers MD, Wang Y, Torrelles JB. Exposure of Mycobacterium tuberculosis to human alveolar lining fluid shows temporal and strain-specific adaptation to the lung environment. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.09.27.559381. [PMID: 37808780 PMCID: PMC10557635 DOI: 10.1101/2023.09.27.559381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/10/2023]
Abstract
Upon infection, Mycobacterium tuberculosis ( M.tb ) reaches the alveolar space and comes in close contact with human alveolar lining fluid (ALF) for an uncertain period of time prior to its encounter with alveolar cells. We showed that homeostatic ALF hydrolytic enzymes modify the M.tb cell envelope, driving M.tb -host cell interactions. Still, the contribution of ALF during M.tb infection is poorly understood. Here, we exposed 4 M.tb strains with different levels of virulence, transmissibility, and drug resistance (DR) to physiological concentrations of human ALF for 15-min and 12-h, and performed RNA sequencing. Gene expression analysis showed a temporal and strain-specific adaptation to human ALF. Differential expression (DE) of ALF-exposed vs. unexposed M.tb revealed a total of 397 DE genes associated with lipid metabolism, cell envelope and processes, intermediary metabolism and respiration, and regulatory proteins, among others. Most DE genes were detected at 12-h post-ALF exposure, with DR- M.tb strain W-7642 having the highest number of DE genes. Interestingly, genes from the KstR2 regulon, which controls the degradation of cholesterol C and D rings, were significantly upregulated in all strains post-ALF exposure. These results indicate that M.tb -ALF contact drives initial metabolic and physiologic changes in M.tb , with potential implications in infection outcome. IMPORTANCE Tuberculosis, caused by airborne pathogen Mycobacterium tuberculosis ( M.tb ), is one of the leading causes of mortality worldwide. Upon infection, M.tb reaches the alveoli and gets in contact with human alveolar lining fluid (ALF), where ALF hydrolases modify the M.tb cell envelope driving subsequent M.tb -host cell interactions. Still, the contributions of ALF during infection are poorly understood. We exposed 4 M.tb strains to ALF for 15-min and 12-h and performed RNA sequencing, demonstrating a temporal and strain-specific adaptation of M.tb to ALF. Interestingly, genes associated with cholesterol degradation were highly upregulated in all strains. This study shows for the first time that ALF drives global metabolic changes in M.tb during the initial stages of the infection, with potential implications in disease outcome. Biologically relevant networks and common and strain-specific bacterial determinants derived from this study could be further investigated as potential therapeutic candidates.
Collapse
|
6
|
Manganelli R, Cioetto-Mazzabò L, Segafreddo G, Boldrin F, Sorze D, Conflitti M, Serafini A, Provvedi R. SigE: A master regulator of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1075143. [PMID: 36960291 PMCID: PMC10027907 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1075143] [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: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The Extracellular function (ECF) sigma factor SigE is one of the best characterized out of the 13 sigma factors encoded in the Mycobacterium tuberculosis chromosome. SigE is required for blocking phagosome maturation and full virulence in both mice and guinea pigs. Moreover, it is involved in the response to several environmental stresses as surface stress, oxidative stress, acidic pH, and phosphate starvation. Underscoring its importance in M. tuberculosis physiology, SigE is subjected to a very complex regulatory system: depending on the environmental conditions, its expression is regulated by three different sigma factors (SigA, SigE, and SigH) and a two-component system (MprAB). SigE is also regulated at the post-translational level by an anti-sigma factor (RseA) which is regulated by the intracellular redox potential and by proteolysis following phosphorylation from PknB upon surface stress. The set of genes under its direct control includes other regulators, as SigB, ClgR, and MprAB, and genes involved in surface remodeling and stabilization. Recently SigE has been shown to interact with PhoP to activate a subset of genes in conditions of acidic pH. The complex structure of its regulatory network has been suggested to result in a bistable switch leading to the development of heterogeneous bacterial populations. This hypothesis has been recently reinforced by the finding of its involvement in the development of persister cells able to survive to the killing activity of several drugs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Greta Segafreddo
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Francesca Boldrin
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Davide Sorze
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Marta Conflitti
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Agnese Serafini
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | | |
Collapse
|
7
|
Oh Y, Lee HN, Ko EM, Jeong JA, Park SW, Oh JI. Mycobacterial Regulatory Systems Involved in the Regulation of Gene Expression Under Respiration-Inhibitory Conditions. J Microbiol 2023; 61:297-315. [PMID: 36847970 DOI: 10.1007/s12275-023-00026-8] [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: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/01/2023]
Abstract
Mycobacterium tuberculosis is the causative agent of tuberculosis. M. tuberculosis can survive in a dormant state within the granuloma, avoiding the host-mounting immune attack. M. tuberculosis bacilli in this state show increased tolerance to antibiotics and stress conditions, and thus the transition of M. tuberculosis to the nonreplicating dormant state acts as an obstacle to tuberculosis treatment. M. tuberculosis in the granuloma encounters hostile environments such as hypoxia, nitric oxide, reactive oxygen species, low pH, and nutrient deprivation, etc., which are expected to inhibit respiration of M. tuberculosis. To adapt to and survive in respiration-inhibitory conditions, it is required for M. tuberculosis to reprogram its metabolism and physiology. In order to get clues to the mechanism underlying the entry of M. tuberculosis to the dormant state, it is important to understand the mycobacterial regulatory systems that are involved in the regulation of gene expression in response to respiration inhibition. In this review, we briefly summarize the information regarding the regulatory systems implicated in upregulation of gene expression in mycobacteria exposed to respiration-inhibitory conditions. The regulatory systems covered in this review encompass the DosSR (DevSR) two-component system, SigF partner switching system, MprBA-SigE-SigB signaling pathway, cAMP receptor protein, and stringent response.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuna Oh
- Department of Integrated Biological Science, Pusan National University, Busan, 46241, Republic of Korea
| | - Ha-Na Lee
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Eon-Min Ko
- Division of Bacterial Disease Research, Center for Infectious Disease Research, Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, National Institute of Health, Osong, 28159, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji-A Jeong
- Division of Bacterial Disease Research, Center for Infectious Disease Research, Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, National Institute of Health, Osong, 28159, Republic of Korea
| | - Sae Woong Park
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Jeong-Il Oh
- Department of Integrated Biological Science, Pusan National University, Busan, 46241, Republic of Korea. .,Microbiological Resource Research Institute, Pusan National University, Busan, 46241, Republic of Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Liebenberg D, Gordhan BG, Kana BD. Drug resistant tuberculosis: Implications for transmission, diagnosis, and disease management. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:943545. [PMID: 36211964 PMCID: PMC9538507 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.943545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Drug resistant tuberculosis contributes significantly to the global burden of antimicrobial resistance, often consuming a large proportion of the healthcare budget and associated resources in many endemic countries. The rapid emergence of resistance to newer tuberculosis therapies signals the need to ensure appropriate antibiotic stewardship, together with a concerted drive to develop new regimens that are active against currently circulating drug resistant strains. Herein, we highlight that the current burden of drug resistant tuberculosis is driven by a combination of ongoing transmission and the intra-patient evolution of resistance through several mechanisms. Global control of tuberculosis will require interventions that effectively address these and related aspects. Interrupting tuberculosis transmission is dependent on the availability of novel rapid diagnostics which provide accurate results, as near-patient as is possible, together with appropriate linkage to care. Contact tracing, longitudinal follow-up for symptoms and active mapping of social contacts are essential elements to curb further community-wide spread of drug resistant strains. Appropriate prophylaxis for contacts of drug resistant index cases is imperative to limit disease progression and subsequent transmission. Preventing the evolution of drug resistant strains will require the development of shorter regimens that rapidly eliminate all populations of mycobacteria, whilst concurrently limiting bacterial metabolic processes that drive drug tolerance, mutagenesis and the ultimate emergence of resistance. Drug discovery programs that specifically target bacterial genetic determinants associated with these processes will be paramount to tuberculosis eradication. In addition, the development of appropriate clinical endpoints that quantify drug tolerant organisms in sputum, such as differentially culturable/detectable tubercle bacteria is necessary to accurately assess the potential of new therapies to effectively shorten treatment duration. When combined, this holistic approach to addressing the critical problems associated with drug resistance will support delivery of quality care to patients suffering from tuberculosis and bolster efforts to eradicate this disease.
Collapse
|
9
|
Miotto P, Sorrentino R, De Giorgi S, Provvedi R, Cirillo DM, Manganelli R. Transcriptional regulation and drug resistance in Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:990312. [PMID: 36118045 PMCID: PMC9480834 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.990312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2022] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Bacterial drug resistance is one of the major challenges to present and future human health, as the continuous selection of multidrug resistant bacteria poses at serious risk the possibility to treat infectious diseases in the near future. One of the infection at higher risk to become incurable is tuberculosis, due to the few drugs available in the market against Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Drug resistance in this species is usually due to point mutations in the drug target or in proteins required to activate prodrugs. However, another interesting and underexplored aspect of bacterial physiology with important impact on drug susceptibility is represented by the changes in transcriptional regulation following drug exposure. The main regulators involved in this phenomenon in M. tuberculosis are the sigma factors, and regulators belonging to the WhiB, GntR, XRE, Mar and TetR families. Better understanding the impact of these regulators in survival to drug treatment might contribute to identify new drug targets and/or to design new strategies of intervention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Miotto
- Emerging Bacterial Pathogens Unit, Div. of Immunology, Transplantation and Infectious Diseases IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milano, Italy
| | - Rita Sorrentino
- Emerging Bacterial Pathogens Unit, Div. of Immunology, Transplantation and Infectious Diseases IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milano, Italy
| | - Stefano De Giorgi
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | | | - Daniela Maria Cirillo
- Emerging Bacterial Pathogens Unit, Div. of Immunology, Transplantation and Infectious Diseases IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milano, Italy
| | | |
Collapse
|
10
|
Activation of the SigE-SigB signaling pathway by inhibition of the respiratory electron transport chain and its effect on rifampicin resistance in Mycobacterium smegmatis. J Microbiol 2022; 60:935-947. [DOI: 10.1007/s12275-022-2202-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2022] [Revised: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
|
11
|
Li H, Yuan J, Duan S, Pang Y. Resistance and tolerance of Mycobacterium tuberculosis to antimicrobial agents-How M. tuberculosis can escape antibiotics. WIREs Mech Dis 2022; 14:e1573. [PMID: 35753313 DOI: 10.1002/wsbm.1573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Revised: 05/22/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Tuberculosis (TB) poses a serious threat to public health worldwide since it was discovered. Until now, TB has been one of the top 10 causes of death from a single infectious disease globally. The treatment of active TB cases majorly relies on various anti-tuberculosis drugs. However, under the selection pressure by drugs, the continuous evolution of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) facilitates the emergence of drug-resistant strains, further resulting in the accumulation of tubercle bacilli with multiple drug resistance, especially deadly multidrug-resistant TB and extensively drug-resistant TB. Researches on the mechanism of drug action and drug resistance of Mtb provide a new scheme for clinical management of TB patients, and prevention of drug resistance. In this review, we summarized the molecular mechanisms of drug resistance of existing anti-TB drugs to better understand the evolution of drug resistance of Mtb, which will provide more effective strategies against drug-resistant TB, and accelerate the achievement of the EndTB Strategy by 2035. This article is categorized under: Infectious Diseases > Molecular and Cellular Physiology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Haoran Li
- Department of Bacteriology and Immunology, Beijing Chest Hospital, Capital Medical University/Beijing Tuberculosis and Thoracic Tumor Research Institute, Beijing, China
| | - Jinfeng Yuan
- Department of Bacteriology and Immunology, Beijing Chest Hospital, Capital Medical University/Beijing Tuberculosis and Thoracic Tumor Research Institute, Beijing, China
| | - Shujuan Duan
- School of Medical Technology, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, China
| | - Yu Pang
- Department of Bacteriology and Immunology, Beijing Chest Hospital, Capital Medical University/Beijing Tuberculosis and Thoracic Tumor Research Institute, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Urbaniec J, Xu Y, Hu Y, Hingley-Wilson S, McFadden J. Phenotypic heterogeneity in persisters: a novel 'hunker' theory of persistence. FEMS Microbiol Rev 2022; 46:fuab042. [PMID: 34355746 PMCID: PMC8767447 DOI: 10.1093/femsre/fuab042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 08/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Persistence has been linked to treatment failure since its discovery over 70 years ago and understanding formation, nature and survival of this key antibiotic refractory subpopulation is crucial to enhancing treatment success and combatting the threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). The term 'persistence' is often used interchangeably with other terms such as tolerance or dormancy. In this review we focus on 'antibiotic persistence' which we broadly define as a feature of a subpopulation of bacterial cells that possesses the non-heritable character of surviving exposure to one or more antibiotics; and persisters as cells that possess this characteristic. We discuss novel molecular mechanisms involved in persister cell formation, as well as environmental factors which can contribute to increased antibiotic persistence in vivo, highlighting recent developments advanced by single-cell studies. We also aim to provide a comprehensive model of persistence, the 'hunker' theory which is grounded in intrinsic heterogeneity of bacterial populations and a myriad of 'hunkering down' mechanisms which can contribute to antibiotic survival of the persister subpopulation. Finally, we discuss antibiotic persistence as a 'stepping-stone' to AMR and stress the urgent need to develop effective anti-persister treatment regimes to treat this highly clinically relevant bacterial sub-population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J Urbaniec
- Department of Microbial Sciences and University of Surrey, Guildford, Surrey, GU27XH, UK
| | - Ye Xu
- Department of Microbial Sciences and University of Surrey, Guildford, Surrey, GU27XH, UK
| | - Y Hu
- Farnborough Sensonic limited, Farnborough road, GU14 7NA, UK
| | - S Hingley-Wilson
- Department of Microbial Sciences and University of Surrey, Guildford, Surrey, GU27XH, UK
| | - J McFadden
- Department of Microbial Sciences and University of Surrey, Guildford, Surrey, GU27XH, UK
- Quantum biology doctoral training centre, University of Surrey, Guildford, Surrey, GU27XH, UK
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
The Neglected Contribution of Streptomycin to the Tuberculosis Drug Resistance Problem. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:genes12122003. [PMID: 34946952 PMCID: PMC8701281 DOI: 10.3390/genes12122003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2021] [Revised: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The airborne pathogen Mycobacterium tuberculosis is responsible for a present major public health problem worsened by the emergence of drug resistance. M. tuberculosis has acquired and developed streptomycin (STR) resistance mechanisms that have been maintained and transmitted in the population over the last decades. Indeed, STR resistant mutations are frequently identified across the main M. tuberculosis lineages that cause tuberculosis outbreaks worldwide. The spread of STR resistance is likely related to the low impact of the most frequent underlying mutations on the fitness of the bacteria. The withdrawal of STR from the first-line treatment of tuberculosis potentially lowered the importance of studying STR resistance. However, the prevalence of STR resistance remains very high, could be underestimated by current genotypic methods, and was found in outbreaks of multi-drug (MDR) and extensively drug (XDR) strains in different geographic regions. Therefore, the contribution of STR resistance to the problem of tuberculosis drug resistance should not be neglected. Here, we review the impact of STR resistance and detail well-known and novel candidate STR resistance mechanisms, genes, and mutations. In addition, we aim to provide insights into the possible role of STR resistance in the development of multi-drug resistant tuberculosis.
Collapse
|
14
|
Joshi H, Kandari D, Bhatnagar R. Insights into the molecular determinants involved in Mycobacterium tuberculosis persistence and their therapeutic implications. Virulence 2021; 12:2721-2749. [PMID: 34637683 PMCID: PMC8565819 DOI: 10.1080/21505594.2021.1990660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2021] [Revised: 09/17/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The establishment of persistent infections and the reactivation of persistent bacteria to active bacilli are the two hurdles in effective tuberculosis treatment. Mycobacterium tuberculosis, an etiologic tuberculosis agent, adapts to numerous antibiotics and resists the host immune system causing a disease of public health concern. Extensive research has been employed to combat this disease due to its sheer ability to persist in the host system, undetected, waiting for the opportunity to declare itself. Persisters are a bacterial subpopulation that possesses transient tolerance to high doses of antibiotics. There are certain inherent mechanisms that facilitate the persister cell formation in Mycobacterium tuberculosis, some of those had been characterized in the past namely, stringent response, transcriptional regulators, energy production pathways, lipid metabolism, cell wall remodeling enzymes, phosphate metabolism, and proteasome protein degradation. This article reviews the recent advancements made in various in vitro persistence models that assist to unravel the mechanisms involved in the persister cell formation and to hunt for the possible preventive or treatment measures. To tackle the persister population the immunodominant proteins that express specifically at the latent phase of infection can be used for diagnosis to distinguish between the active and latent tuberculosis, as well as to select potential drug or vaccine candidates. In addition, we discuss the genes engaged in the persistence to get more insights into resuscitation and persister cell formation. The in-depth understanding of persistent cells of mycobacteria can certainly unravel novel ways to target the pathogen and tackle its persistence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hemant Joshi
- Molecular Biology and Genetic Engineering Laboratory, School of Biotechnology, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India
| | - Divya Kandari
- Molecular Biology and Genetic Engineering Laboratory, School of Biotechnology, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India
| | - Rakesh Bhatnagar
- Molecular Biology and Genetic Engineering Laboratory, School of Biotechnology, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India
- Amity University of Rajasthan, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Zorzan I, Del Favero S, Giaretta A, Manganelli R, Di Camillo B, Schenato L. Mathematical modelling of SigE regulatory network reveals new insights into bistability of mycobacterial stress response. BMC Bioinformatics 2021; 22:558. [PMID: 34798803 PMCID: PMC8605609 DOI: 10.1186/s12859-021-04372-5] [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: 01/07/2021] [Accepted: 09/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The ability to rapidly adapt to adverse environmental conditions represents the key of success of many pathogens and, in particular, of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Upon exposition to heat shock, antibiotics or other sources of stress, appropriate responses in terms of genes transcription and proteins activity are activated leading part of a genetically identical bacterial population to express a different phenotype, namely to develop persistence. When the stress response network is mathematically described by an ordinary differential equations model, development of persistence in the bacterial population is associated with bistability of the model, since different emerging phenotypes are represented by different stable steady states. Results In this work, we develop a mathematical model of SigE stress response network that incorporates interactions not considered in mathematical models currently available in the literature. We provide, through involved analytical computations, accurate approximations of the system’s nullclines, and exploit the obtained expressions to determine, in a reliable though computationally efficient way, the number of equilibrium points of the system. Conclusions Theoretical analysis and perturbation experiments point out the crucial role played by the degradation pathway involving RseA, the anti-sigma factor of SigE, for coexistence of two stable equilibria and the emergence of bistability. Our results also indicate that a fine control on RseA concentration is a necessary requirement in order for the system to exhibit bistability. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12859-021-04372-5.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Irene Zorzan
- Department of Information Engineering, University of Padova, 35131, Padova, Italy.
| | - Simone Del Favero
- Department of Information Engineering, University of Padova, 35131, Padova, Italy
| | - Alberto Giaretta
- Department of Information Engineering, University of Padova, 35131, Padova, Italy
| | - Riccardo Manganelli
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, 35121, Padova, Italy
| | - Barbara Di Camillo
- Department of Information Engineering, University of Padova, 35131, Padova, Italy.,Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padova, 35020, Legnaro (Padova), Italy
| | - Luca Schenato
- Department of Information Engineering, University of Padova, 35131, Padova, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Matern WM, Parker H, Danchik C, Hoover L, Bader JS, Karakousis PC. Genetic Determinants of Intrinsic Antibiotic Tolerance in Mycobacterium avium. Microbiol Spectr 2021; 9:e0024621. [PMID: 34523947 PMCID: PMC8557931 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.00246-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) is one of the most prevalent causes of nontuberculous mycobacteria pulmonary infection in the United States, and yet it remains understudied. Current MAC treatment requires more than a year of intermittent to daily combination antibiotic therapy, depending on disease severity. In order to shorten and simplify curative regimens, it is important to identify the innate bacterial factors contributing to reduced antibiotic susceptibility, namely, antibiotic tolerance genes. In this study, we performed a genome-wide transposon screen to elucidate M. avium genes that play a role in the bacterium's tolerance to first- and second-line antibiotics. We identified a total of 193 unique M. avium mutants with significantly altered susceptibility to at least one of the four clinically used antibiotics we tested, including two mutants (in DFS55_00905 and DFS55_12730) with panhypersusceptibility. The products of the antibiotic tolerance genes we have identified may represent novel targets for future drug development studies aimed at shortening the duration of therapy for MAC infections. IMPORTANCE The prolonged treatment required to eradicate Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) infection is likely due to the presence of subpopulations of antibiotic-tolerant bacteria with reduced susceptibility to currently available drugs. However, little is known about the genes and pathways responsible for antibiotic tolerance in MAC. In this study, we performed a forward genetic screen to identify M. avium antibiotic tolerance genes, whose products may represent attractive targets for the development of novel adjunctive drugs capable of shortening the curative treatment for MAC infections.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- William M. Matern
- High-Throughput Biology Center, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Center for Systems Approaches to Infectious Diseases (C-SAID), Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Center for Tuberculosis Research, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Harley Parker
- Center for Systems Approaches to Infectious Diseases (C-SAID), Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Center for Tuberculosis Research, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Carina Danchik
- Center for Systems Approaches to Infectious Diseases (C-SAID), Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Center for Tuberculosis Research, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Leah Hoover
- Center for Systems Approaches to Infectious Diseases (C-SAID), Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Center for Tuberculosis Research, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Joel S. Bader
- High-Throughput Biology Center, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Center for Systems Approaches to Infectious Diseases (C-SAID), Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Petros C. Karakousis
- Center for Systems Approaches to Infectious Diseases (C-SAID), Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Center for Tuberculosis Research, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Protein Integrated Network Analysis to Reveal Potential Drug Targets Against Extended Drug-Resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis XDR1219. Mol Biotechnol 2021; 63:1252-1267. [PMID: 34382159 DOI: 10.1007/s12033-021-00377-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/30/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
The reconstruction and analysis of the protein-protein interaction (PPI) network is a powerful approach to understand the complex biological and molecular functions in normal and disease states of the cell. The interactome of most organisms is largely unidentified except some model organisms. The current study focused on the construction of PPI network for the human pathogen Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB)-resistant strain XDR1219 using computational methods. In this work, a bioinformatics approach was employed to reveal potential drug targets. The pipeline adopted the combination of an extensive integrated network analysis that led to identify 22 key proteins involved in drug resistance, resistant metabolic pathways, virulence, pathogenesis and persistency of the infection. The MTB XDR1219 interactome consists of 11,383 non-redundant PPIs among 1499 proteins covering 38% of the entire MTB XDR1219 proteome. The overall quality of the network was assessed and topological parameters of the PPI were calculated. The predicted interactions were functionally annotated and their relevance was assessed with the functional similarity. The study attempts to present the interactome of previously unidentified MTB XDR1219 and revealed potential drug targets that can be further explored by scientific community.
Collapse
|
18
|
Zhao P, Tian P. Biosynthesis pathways and strategies for improving 3-hydroxypropionic acid production in bacteria. World J Microbiol Biotechnol 2021; 37:117. [PMID: 34128152 DOI: 10.1007/s11274-021-03091-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2021] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
3-Hydroxypropionic acid (3-HP) represents an economically important platform compound from which a panel of bulk chemicals can be derived. Compared with petroleum-dependent chemical synthesis, bioproduction of 3-HP has attracted more attention due to utilization of renewable biomass. This review outlines bacterial production of 3-HP, covering aspects of host strains (e.g., Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae), metabolic pathways, key enzymes, and hurdles hindering high-level production. Inspired by the state-of-the-art advances in metabolic engineering and synthetic biology, we come up with protocols to overcome the hurdles constraining 3-HP production. The protocols range from rewiring of metabolic networks, alleviation of metabolite toxicity, to dynamic control of cell size and density. Especially, this review highlights the substantial contribution of microbial growth to 3-HP production, as we recognize the synchronization between cell growth and 3-HP formation. Accordingly, we summarize the following growth-promoting strategies: (i) optimization of fermentation conditions; (ii) construction of gene circuits to alleviate feedback inhibition; (iii) recruitment of RNA polymerases to overexpress key enzymes which in turn boost cell growth and 3-HP production. Lastly, we propose metabolic engineering approaches to simplify downstream separation and purification. Overall, this review aims to portray a picture of bacterial production of 3-HP.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Peng Zhao
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Bioprocess, College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, 100029, People's Republic of China
| | - Pingfang Tian
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Bioprocess, College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, 100029, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Thiede JM, Dillon NA, Howe MD, Aflakpui R, Modlin SJ, Hoffner SE, Valafar F, Minato Y, Baughn AD. Pyrazinamide Susceptibility Is Driven by Activation of the SigE-Dependent Cell Envelope Stress Response in Mycobacterium tuberculosis. mBio 2021; 13:e0043921. [PMID: 35100871 PMCID: PMC8805019 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.00439-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2021] [Accepted: 01/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Pyrazinamide (PZA) plays a crucial role in first-line tuberculosis drug therapy. Unlike other antimicrobial agents, PZA is active against Mycobacterium tuberculosis only at low pH. The basis for this conditional drug susceptibility remains undefined. In this study, we utilized a genome-wide approach to interrogate potentiation of PZA action. We found that mutations in numerous genes involved in central metabolism as well as cell envelope maintenance and stress response are associated with PZA resistance. Further, we demonstrate that constitutive activation of the cell envelope stress response can drive PZA susceptibility independent of environmental pH. Consequently, exposure to peptidoglycan synthesis inhibitors, such as beta-lactams and d-cycloserine, potentiate PZA action through triggering this response. These findings illuminate a regulatory mechanism for conditional PZA susceptibility and reveal new avenues for enhancing potency of this important drug through targeting activation of the cell envelope stress response. IMPORTANCE For decades, pyrazinamide has served as a cornerstone of tuberculosis therapy. Unlike any other antitubercular drug, pyrazinamide requires an acidic environment to exert its action. Despite its importance, the driver of this conditional susceptibility has remained unknown. In this study, a genome-wide approach revealed that pyrazinamide action is governed by the cell envelope stress response. This observation was validated by orthologous approaches that demonstrate that a central player of this response, SigE, is both necessary and sufficient for potentiation of pyrazinamide action. Moreover, constitutive activation of this response through deletion of the anti-sigma factor gene rseA or exposure of bacilli to drugs that target the cell wall was found to potently drive pyrazinamide susceptibility independent of environmental pH. These findings force a paradigm shift in our understanding of pyrazinamide action and open new avenues for improving diagnostic and therapeutic tools for tuberculosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joshua M. Thiede
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Nicholas A. Dillon
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Michael D. Howe
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Ranee Aflakpui
- West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Samuel J. Modlin
- Laboratory for Pathogenesis of Clinical Drug Resistance and Persistence, Biomedical Informatics Research Center, Division of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, San Diego State University, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Sven E. Hoffner
- Laboratory for Pathogenesis of Clinical Drug Resistance and Persistence, Biomedical Informatics Research Center, Division of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, San Diego State University, San Diego, California, USA
- Department of Global Public Health, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Faramarz Valafar
- Laboratory for Pathogenesis of Clinical Drug Resistance and Persistence, Biomedical Informatics Research Center, Division of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, San Diego State University, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Yusuke Minato
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
- Department of Microbiology, Fujita Health University School of Medicine, Toyoake, Japan
| | - Anthony D. Baughn
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Cantillon D, Wroblewska J, Cooper I, Newport MJ, Waddell SJ. Three-dimensional low shear culture of Mycobacterium bovis BCG induces biofilm formation and antimicrobial drug tolerance. NPJ Biofilms Microbiomes 2021; 7:12. [PMID: 33526771 PMCID: PMC7851154 DOI: 10.1038/s41522-021-00186-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2020] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Mycobacteria naturally grow as corded biofilms in liquid media without detergent. Such detergent-free biofilm phenotypes may reflect the growth pattern of bacilli in tuberculous lung lesions. New strategies are required to treat tuberculosis, which is responsible for more deaths each year than any other bacterial disease. The lengthy 6-month regimen for drug-sensitive tuberculosis is necessary to remove antimicrobial drug tolerant populations of bacilli that persist through drug therapy. The role of biofilm-like growth in the generation of these sub-populations remains poorly understood despite the hypothesised clinical significance and mounting evidence of biofilms in pathogenesis. We adapt a three-dimensional Rotary Cell Culture System to model M. bovis BCG biofilm growth in low-shear detergent-free liquid suspension. Importantly, biofilms form without attachment to artificial surfaces and without severe nutrient starvation or environmental stress. Biofilm-derived planktonic bacilli are tolerant to isoniazid and streptomycin, but not rifampicin. This phenotypic drug tolerance is lost after passage in drug-free media. Transcriptional profiling reveals induction of cell surface regulators, sigE and BCG_0559c alongside the ESX-5 secretion apparatus in these low-shear liquid-suspension biofilms. This study engineers and characterises mycobacteria grown as a suspended biofilm, illuminating new drug discovery pathways for this deadly disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daire Cantillon
- grid.12082.390000 0004 1936 7590Global Health and Infection, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, University of Sussex, Brighton, BN1 9PX UK
| | - Justyna Wroblewska
- grid.12082.390000 0004 1936 7590Global Health and Infection, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, University of Sussex, Brighton, BN1 9PX UK
| | - Ian Cooper
- grid.12477.370000000121073784School of Pharmacy & Biomolecular Sciences, University of Brighton, Brighton, BN2 4GJ UK
| | - Melanie J. Newport
- grid.12082.390000 0004 1936 7590Global Health and Infection, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, University of Sussex, Brighton, BN1 9PX UK
| | - Simon J. Waddell
- grid.12082.390000 0004 1936 7590Global Health and Infection, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, University of Sussex, Brighton, BN1 9PX UK
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Eisenreich W, Rudel T, Heesemann J, Goebel W. Persistence of Intracellular Bacterial Pathogens-With a Focus on the Metabolic Perspective. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2021; 10:615450. [PMID: 33520740 PMCID: PMC7841308 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2020.615450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Persistence has evolved as a potent survival strategy to overcome adverse environmental conditions. This capability is common to almost all bacteria, including all human bacterial pathogens and likely connected to chronic infections caused by some of these pathogens. Although the majority of a bacterial cell population will be killed by the particular stressors, like antibiotics, oxygen and nitrogen radicals, nutrient starvation and others, a varying subpopulation (termed persisters) will withstand the stress situation and will be able to revive once the stress is removed. Several factors and pathways have been identified in the past that apparently favor the formation of persistence, such as various toxin/antitoxin modules or stringent response together with the alarmone (p)ppGpp. However, persistence can occur stochastically in few cells even of stress-free bacterial populations. Growth of these cells could then be induced by the stress conditions. In this review, we focus on the persister formation of human intracellular bacterial pathogens, some of which belong to the most successful persister producers but lack some or even all of the assumed persistence-triggering factors and pathways. We propose a mechanism for the persister formation of these bacterial pathogens which is based on their specific intracellular bipartite metabolism. We postulate that this mode of metabolism ultimately leads, under certain starvation conditions, to the stalling of DNA replication initiation which may be causative for the persister state.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wolfgang Eisenreich
- Department of Chemistry, Chair of Biochemistry, Technische Universität München, Garching, Germany
| | - Thomas Rudel
- Chair of Microbiology, Biocenter, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Jürgen Heesemann
- Max von Pettenkofer-Institute, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, München, Germany
| | - Werner Goebel
- Max von Pettenkofer-Institute, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, München, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Goossens SN, Sampson SL, Van Rie A. Mechanisms of Drug-Induced Tolerance in Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Clin Microbiol Rev 2020; 34:e00141-20. [PMID: 33055230 PMCID: PMC7566895 DOI: 10.1128/cmr.00141-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Successful treatment of tuberculosis (TB) can be hampered by Mycobacterium tuberculosis populations that are temporarily able to survive antibiotic pressure in the absence of drug resistance-conferring mutations, a phenomenon termed drug tolerance. We summarize findings on M. tuberculosis tolerance published in the past 20 years. Key M. tuberculosis responses to drug pressure are reduced growth rates, metabolic shifting, and the promotion of efflux pump activity. Metabolic shifts upon drug pressure mainly occur in M. tuberculosis's lipid metabolism and redox homeostasis, with reduced tricarboxylic acid cycle activity in favor of lipid anabolism. Increased lipid anabolism plays a role in cell wall thickening, which reduces sensitivity to most TB drugs. In addition to these general mechanisms, drug-specific mechanisms have been described. Upon isoniazid exposure, M. tuberculosis reprograms several pathways associated with mycolic acid biosynthesis. Upon rifampicin exposure, M. tuberculosis upregulates the expression of its drug target rpoB Upon bedaquiline exposure, ATP synthesis is stimulated, and the transcription factors Rv0324 and Rv0880 are activated. A better understanding of M. tuberculosis's responses to drug pressure will be important for the development of novel agents that prevent the development of drug tolerance following treatment initiation. Such agents could then contribute to novel TB treatment-shortening strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sander N Goossens
- Family Medicine and Population Health (FAMPOP), Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Samantha L Sampson
- DSI/NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research/SA MRC Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Annelies Van Rie
- Family Medicine and Population Health (FAMPOP), Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Xiang X, Gong Z, Deng W, Sun Q, Xie J. Mycobacterial ethambutol responsive genes and implications in antibiotics resistance. J Drug Target 2020; 29:284-293. [PMID: 33210572 DOI: 10.1080/1061186x.2020.1853733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M. tuberculosis), the causative agent of tuberculosis (TB), remains a formidable threat in mortality and morbidity worldwide. Ethambutol (EMB) is one of the first-line drugs regimens for TB treatment. Arabinosyl transferases are established targets of EMB, which is involved in the biosynthesis of arabinogalactan (AG) and lipoarabinomannan (LAM). Mutations among embCAB operon are responsible for around 70% clinical EMB resistant M. tuberculosis. In this review, we summarised other potential factors associated with EMB resistance via analysing whole genome, proteome and transcriptome of M. tuberculosis exposed to EMB. This will help to design better diagnosis of EMB resistance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohong Xiang
- School of Pharmacy, Chongqing Medical and Pharmaceutical College, Chongqing, China
| | - Zhen Gong
- State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Eco-Environment and Bio-Resource of the Three Gorges Area, Key Laboratory of Eco-environments in Three Gorges Reservoir Region, Ministry of Education, School of Life Sciences, Institute of Modern Biopharmaceuticals, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Wanyan Deng
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Infectious Diseases (Ministry of Education), Institute for Viral Hepatitis, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Qingyu Sun
- State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Eco-Environment and Bio-Resource of the Three Gorges Area, Key Laboratory of Eco-environments in Three Gorges Reservoir Region, Ministry of Education, School of Life Sciences, Institute of Modern Biopharmaceuticals, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jianping Xie
- State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Eco-Environment and Bio-Resource of the Three Gorges Area, Key Laboratory of Eco-environments in Three Gorges Reservoir Region, Ministry of Education, School of Life Sciences, Institute of Modern Biopharmaceuticals, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Ranganathan N, Johnson R, Edwards AM. The general stress response of Staphylococcus aureus promotes tolerance of antibiotics and survival in whole human blood. MICROBIOLOGY (READING, ENGLAND) 2020; 166:1088-1094. [PMID: 33095698 PMCID: PMC7723259 DOI: 10.1099/mic.0.000983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2020] [Accepted: 10/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Staphylococcus aureus is a frequent cause of invasive human infections such as bacteraemia and infective endocarditis. These infections frequently relapse or become chronic, suggesting that the pathogen has mechanisms to tolerate the twin threats of therapeutic antibiotics and host immunity. The general stress response of S. aureus is regulated by the alternative sigma factor B (σB) and provides protection from multiple stresses including oxidative, acidic and heat. σB also contributes to virulence, intracellular persistence and chronic infection. However, the protective effect of σB on bacterial survival during exposure to antibiotics or host immune defences is poorly characterized. We found that σB promotes the survival of S. aureus exposed to the antibiotics gentamicin, ciprofloxacin, vancomycin and daptomycin, but not oxacillin or clindamycin. We also found that σB promoted staphylococcal survival in whole human blood, most likely via its contribution to oxidative stress resistance. Therefore, we conclude that the general stress response of S. aureus may contribute to the development of chronic infection by conferring tolerance to both antibiotics and host immune defences.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nisha Ranganathan
- MRC Centre for Molecular Bacteriology and Infection, Imperial College London, Armstrong Rd, London, SW7 2AZ, UK
- Present address: Charing Cross Hospital, Fulham, Palace Road, W6 8RF, UK
| | - Rebecca Johnson
- MRC Centre for Molecular Bacteriology and Infection, Imperial College London, Armstrong Rd, London, SW7 2AZ, UK
- Present address: Horizon Discovery, Waterbeach, Cambridge, CB25 9TL, UK
| | - Andrew M. Edwards
- MRC Centre for Molecular Bacteriology and Infection, Imperial College London, Armstrong Rd, London, SW7 2AZ, UK
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Boldrin F, Provvedi R, Cioetto Mazzabò L, Segafreddo G, Manganelli R. Tolerance and Persistence to Drugs: A Main Challenge in the Fight Against Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Front Microbiol 2020; 11:1924. [PMID: 32983003 PMCID: PMC7479264 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2020.01924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2020] [Accepted: 07/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The treatment of tuberculosis is extremely long. One of the reasons why Mycobacterium tuberculosis elimination from the organism takes so long is that in particular environmental conditions it can become tolerant to drugs and/or develop persisters able to survive killing even from very high drug concentrations. Tolerance develops in response to a harsh environment exposure encountered by bacteria during infection, mainly due to the action of the immune system, whereas persistence results from the presence of heterogeneous bacterial populations with different degrees of drug sensitivity, and can be induced by exposure to stress conditions. Here, we review the actual knowledge on the stress response mechanisms enacted by M. tuberculosis during infection, which leads to increased drug tolerance or development of a highly drug-resistant subpopulation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Boldrin
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | | | | | - Greta Segafreddo
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | | |
Collapse
|
26
|
Zhan L, Wang J, Wang L, Qin C. The correlation of drug resistance and virulence in Mycobacterium tuberculosis. BIOSAFETY AND HEALTH 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bsheal.2020.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
|
27
|
Gestal MC, Howard LK, Dewan K, Johnson HM, Barbier M, Bryant C, Soumana IH, Rivera I, Linz B, Blas-Machado U, Harvill ET. Enhancement of immune response against Bordetella spp. by disrupting immunomodulation. Sci Rep 2019; 9:20261. [PMID: 31889098 PMCID: PMC6937331 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-56652-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2019] [Accepted: 12/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Well-adapted pathogens must evade clearance by the host immune system and the study of how they do this has revealed myriad complex strategies and mechanisms. Classical bordetellae are very closely related subspecies that are known to modulate adaptive immunity in a variety of ways, permitting them to either persist for life or repeatedly infect the same host. Exploring the hypothesis that exposure to immune cells would cause bordetellae to induce expression of important immunomodulatory mechanisms, we identified a putative regulator of an immunomodulatory pathway. The deletion of btrS in B. bronchiseptica did not affect colonization or initial growth in the respiratory tract of mice, its natural host, but did increase activation of the inflammasome pathway, and recruitment of inflammatory cells. The mutant lacking btrS recruited many more B and T cells into the lungs, where they rapidly formed highly organized and distinctive Bronchial Associated Lymphoid Tissue (BALT) not induced by any wild type Bordetella species, and a much more rapid and strong antibody response than observed with any of these species. Immunity induced by the mutant was measurably more robust in all respiratory organs, providing completely sterilizing immunity that protected against challenge infections for many months. Moreover, the mutant induced sterilizing immunity against infection with other classical bordetellae, including B. pertussis and B. parapertussis, something the current vaccines do not provide. These findings reveal profound immunomodulation by bordetellae and demonstrate that by disrupting it much more robust protective immunity can be generated, providing a pathway to greatly improve vaccines and preventive treatments against these important pathogens.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Monica C Gestal
- Department of Infectious Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, United States of America.
| | - Laura K Howard
- Department of Infectious Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Kalyan Dewan
- Department of Infectious Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Hannah M Johnson
- Department of Infectious Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Mariette Barbier
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Cell Biology, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, United States of America
- Vaccine Development Center at West Virginia University Health Sciences Center, Morgantown, West Virginia, United States of America
| | - Clare Bryant
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB3 0ES, United Kingdom
| | - Illiassou Hamidou Soumana
- Department of Infectious Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Israel Rivera
- Department of Infectious Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Bodo Linz
- Department of Infectious Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Uriel Blas-Machado
- Department of Pathology, Athens Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Eric T Harvill
- Department of Infectious Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, United States of America.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Construction and Characterization of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis sigE fadD26 Unmarked Double Mutant as a Vaccine Candidate. Infect Immun 2019; 88:IAI.00496-19. [PMID: 31591165 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00496-19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2019] [Accepted: 09/30/2019] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite the great increase in the understanding of the biology and pathogenesis of Mycobacterium tuberculosis achieved by the scientific community in recent decades, tuberculosis (TB) still represents one of the major threats to global human health. The only available vaccine (Mycobacterium bovis BCG) protects children from disseminated forms of TB but does not effectively protect adults from the respiratory form of the disease, making the development of new and more-efficacious vaccines against the pulmonary forms of TB a major goal for the improvement of global health. Among the different strategies being developed to reach this goal is the construction of attenuated strains more efficacious and safer than BCG. We recently showed that a sigE mutant of M. tuberculosis was more attenuated and more efficacious than BCG in a mouse model of infection. In this paper, we describe the construction and characterization of an M. tuberculosis sigE fadD26 unmarked double mutant fulfilling the criteria of the Geneva Consensus for entering human clinical trials. The data presented suggest that this mutant is even more attenuated and slightly more efficacious than the previous sigE mutant in different mouse models of infection and is equivalent to BCG in a guinea pig model of infection.
Collapse
|
29
|
Statistical analysis of variability in TnSeq data across conditions using zero-inflated negative binomial regression. BMC Bioinformatics 2019; 20:603. [PMID: 31752678 PMCID: PMC6873424 DOI: 10.1186/s12859-019-3156-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2019] [Accepted: 10/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Deep sequencing of transposon mutant libraries (or TnSeq) is a powerful method for probing essentiality of genomic loci under different environmental conditions. Various analytical methods have been described for identifying conditionally essential genes whose tolerance for insertions varies between two conditions. However, for large-scale experiments involving many conditions, a method is needed for identifying genes that exhibit significant variability in insertions across multiple conditions. Results In this paper, we introduce a novel statistical method for identifying genes with significant variability of insertion counts across multiple conditions based on Zero-Inflated Negative Binomial (ZINB) regression. Using likelihood ratio tests, we show that the ZINB distribution fits TnSeq data better than either ANOVA or a Negative Binomial (in a generalized linear model). We use ZINB regression to identify genes required for infection of M. tuberculosis H37Rv in C57BL/6 mice. We also use ZINB to perform a analysis of genes conditionally essential in H37Rv cultures exposed to multiple antibiotics. Conclusions Our results show that, not only does ZINB generally identify most of the genes found by pairwise resampling (and vastly out-performs ANOVA), but it also identifies additional genes where variability is detectable only when the magnitudes of insertion counts are treated separately from local differences in saturation, as in the ZINB model.
Collapse
|
30
|
Vilchèze C, Jacobs WR. The Isoniazid Paradigm of Killing, Resistance, and Persistence in Mycobacterium tuberculosis. J Mol Biol 2019; 431:3450-3461. [PMID: 30797860 PMCID: PMC6703971 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2019.02.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2018] [Revised: 02/05/2019] [Accepted: 02/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Isoniazid (INH) was the first synthesized drug that mediated bactericidal killing of the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis, a major clinical breakthrough. To this day, INH remains a cornerstone of modern tuberculosis (TB) chemotherapy. This review describes the serendipitous discovery of INH, its effectiveness on TB patients, and early studies to discover its mechanisms of bacteriocidal activity. Forty years after its introduction as a TB drug, the development of gene transfer in mycobacteria enabled the discovery of the genes encoding INH resistance, namely, the activator (katG) and the target (inhA) of INH. Further biochemical and x-ray crystallography studies on KatG and InhA proteins and mutants provided comprehensive understanding of INH mode of action and resistance mechanisms. Bacterial cultures can harbor subpopulations that are genetically or phenotypically resistant cells, the latter known as persisters. Treatment of exponentially growing cultures of M. tuberculosis with INH reproducibly kills 99% to 99.9% of cells in 3 days. Importantly, the surviving cells are slowly replicating or non-replicating cells expressing a unique stress response signature: these are the persisters. These persisters can be visualized using dual-reporter mycobacteriophages and their formation prevented using reducing compounds, such as N-acetylcysteine or vitamin C, that enhance M. tuberculosis' respiration. Altogether, this review portrays a detailed molecular analysis of INH killing and resistance mechanisms including persistence. The phenomenon of persistence is clearly the single greatest impediment to TB control, and research aimed at understanding persistence will provide new strategies to improve TB chemotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Vilchèze
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, 1301 Morris Park Avenue, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
| | - William R Jacobs
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, 1301 Morris Park Avenue, Bronx, NY 10461, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Abstract
Mycobacterial σB belongs to the group II family of sigma factors, which are widely considered to transcribe genes required for stationary-phase survival and the response to stress. Here we explored the mechanism underlying the observed hypersensitivity of ΔsigB deletion mutants of Mycobacterium smegmatis, M. abscessus, and M. tuberculosis to rifampin (RIF) and uncovered an additional constitutive role of σB during exponential growth of mycobacteria that complements the function of the primary sigma factor, σA Using chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing (ChIP-Seq), we show that during exponential phase, σB binds to over 200 promoter regions, including those driving expression of essential housekeeping genes, like the rRNA gene. ChIP-Seq of ectopically expressed σA-FLAG demonstrated that at least 61 promoter sites are recognized by both σA and σB These results together suggest that RNA polymerase holoenzymes containing either σA or σB transcribe housekeeping genes in exponentially growing mycobacteria. The RIF sensitivity of the ΔsigB mutant possibly reflects a decrease in the effective housekeeping holoenzyme pool, which results in susceptibility of the mutant to lower doses of RIF. Consistent with this model, overexpression of σA restores the RIF tolerance of the ΔsigB mutant to that of the wild type, concomitantly ruling out a specialized role of σB in RIF tolerance. Although the properties of mycobacterial σB parallel those of Escherichia coli σ38 in its ability to transcribe a subset of housekeeping genes, σB presents a clear departure from the E. coli paradigm, wherein the cellular levels of σ38 are tightly controlled during exponential growth, such that the transcription of housekeeping genes is initiated exclusively by a holoenzyme containing σ70 (E.σ70).IMPORTANCE All mycobacteria encode a group II sigma factor, σB, closely related to the group I principal housekeeping sigma factor, σA Group II sigma factors are widely believed to play specialized roles in the general stress response and stationary-phase transition in the bacteria that encode them. Contrary to this widely accepted view, we show an additional housekeeping function of σB that complements the function of σA in logarithmically growing cells. These findings implicate a novel and dynamic partnership between σA and σB in maintaining the expression of housekeeping genes in mycobacteria and can perhaps be extended to other bacterial species that possess multiple group II sigma factors.
Collapse
|
32
|
Exploiting tandem repetitive promoters for high-level production of 3-hydroxypropionic acid. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2019; 103:4017-4031. [DOI: 10.1007/s00253-019-09772-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2019] [Revised: 03/07/2019] [Accepted: 03/12/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
|
33
|
Assessing the role of Rv1222 (RseA) as an anti-sigma factor of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis extracytoplasmic sigma factor SigE. Sci Rep 2019; 9:4513. [PMID: 30872756 PMCID: PMC6418294 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-41183-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2018] [Accepted: 02/19/2019] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
σE is one of the 13 sigma factors encoded by the Mycobacterium tuberculosis chromosome, and its involvement in stress response and virulence has been extensively characterized. Several sigma factors are post-translationally regulated by proteins named anti-sigma factors, which prevent their binding to RNA polymerase. Rv1222 (RseA), whose gene lays immediately downstream sigE, has been proposed in the past as the σE-specific anti sigma factor. However, its role as anti-sigma factor was recently challenged and a new mechanism of action was hypothesized predicting RseA binding to RNA polymerase and DNA to slow down RNA transcription in a not specific way. In this manuscript, using specific M. tuberculosis mutants, we showed that by changing the levels of RseA expression, M. tuberculosis growth rate does not change (as hypothesized in case of non-specific decrease of RNA transcription) and has an impact only on the transcription level of genes whose transcriptional control is under σE, supporting a direct role of RseA as a specific anti-σE factor.
Collapse
|
34
|
Ortega Ugalde S, Boot M, Commandeur JNM, Jennings P, Bitter W, Vos JC. Function, essentiality, and expression of cytochrome P450 enzymes and their cognate redox partners in Mycobacterium tuberculosis: are they drug targets? Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2019; 103:3597-3614. [PMID: 30810776 PMCID: PMC6469627 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-019-09697-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2018] [Revised: 02/08/2019] [Accepted: 02/10/2019] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
This review covers the current knowledge of the cytochrome P450 enzymes (CYPs) of the human pathogen Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) and their endogenous redox partners, focusing on their biological function, expression, regulation, involvement in antibiotic resistance, and suitability for exploitation as antitubercular targets. The Mtb genome encodes twenty CYPs and nine associated redox partners required for CYP catalytic activity. Transposon insertion mutagenesis studies have established the (conditional) essentiality of several of these enzymes for in vitro growth and host infection. Biochemical characterization of a handful of Mtb CYPs has revealed that they have specific physiological functions in bacterial virulence and persistence in the host. Analysis of the transcriptional response of Mtb CYPs and redox partners to external insults and to first-line antibiotics used to treat tuberculosis showed a diverse expression landscape, suggesting for some enzymes a potential role in drug resistance. Combining the knowledge about the physiological roles and expression profiles indicates that, at least five Mtb CYPs, CYP121A1, CYP125A1, CYP139A1, CYP142A1, and CYP143A1, as well as two ferredoxins, FdxA and FdxC, can be considered promising novel therapeutic targets.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Ortega Ugalde
- Division of Molecular Toxicology, Amsterdam Institute for Molecules Medicines and Systems (AIMMS), Faculty of Sciences, Vrije Universiteit, De Boelelaan 1108, 1081 HZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Maikel Boot
- Department of Microbial Pathogenesis, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Jan N M Commandeur
- Division of Molecular Toxicology, Amsterdam Institute for Molecules Medicines and Systems (AIMMS), Faculty of Sciences, Vrije Universiteit, De Boelelaan 1108, 1081 HZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Paul Jennings
- Division of Molecular Toxicology, Amsterdam Institute for Molecules Medicines and Systems (AIMMS), Faculty of Sciences, Vrije Universiteit, De Boelelaan 1108, 1081 HZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Wilbert Bitter
- Section of Molecular Microbiology, AIMMS, Faculty of Sciences, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - J Chris Vos
- Division of Molecular Toxicology, Amsterdam Institute for Molecules Medicines and Systems (AIMMS), Faculty of Sciences, Vrije Universiteit, De Boelelaan 1108, 1081 HZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Del Portillo P, García-Morales L, Menéndez MC, Anzola JM, Rodríguez JG, Helguera-Repetto AC, Ares MA, Prados-Rosales R, Gonzalez-y-Merchand JA, García MJ. Hypoxia Is Not a Main Stress When Mycobacterium tuberculosis Is in a Dormancy-Like Long-Chain Fatty Acid Environment. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2019; 8:449. [PMID: 30687646 PMCID: PMC6333855 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2018.00449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2018] [Accepted: 12/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The capacity of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) to sense, respond and adapt to a variable and hostile environment within the host makes it one of the most successful human pathogens. During different stages of infection, Mtb is surrounded by a plethora of lipid molecules and current evidence points out the relevance of fatty acids during the infectious process. In this study, we have compared the transcriptional response of Mtb to hypoxia in cultures supplemented with a mix of even long-chain fatty acids or dextrose as main carbon sources. Using RNA sequencing, we have identified differential expressed genes in early and late hypoxia, defined according to the in vitro Wayne and Hayes model, and compared the results with the exponential phase of growth in both carbon sources. We show that the number of genes over-expressed in the lipid medium was quite low in both, early and late hypoxia, relative to conditions including dextrose, with the exception of transcripts of stable and non-coding RNAs, which were more expressed in the fatty acid medium. We found that sigB and sigE were over-expressed in the early phase of hypoxia, confirming their pivotal role in early adaptation to low oxygen concentration independently of the carbon source. A drastic contrast was found with the transcriptional regulatory factors at early hypoxia. Only 2 transcriptional factors were over-expressed in early hypoxia in the lipid medium compared to 37 that were over-expressed in the dextrose medium. Instead of Rv0081, known to be the central regulator of hypoxia in dextrose, Rv2745c (ClgR), seems to play a main role in hypoxia in the fatty acid medium. The low level of genes associated to the stress-response during their adaptation to hypoxia in fatty acids, suggests that this lipid environment makes hypoxia a less stressful condition for the tubercle bacilli. Taken all together, these results indicate that the presence of lipid molecules shapes the metabolic response of Mtb to an adaptive state for different stresses within the host, including hypoxia. This fact could explain the success of Mtb to establish long-term survival during latent infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Patricia Del Portillo
- Departamento de Biotecnología Molecular y Biología Computacional y Bioinformática, Corporación CorpoGen, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Lázaro García-Morales
- Departamento de Biomedicina Molecular, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional (CINVESTAV), Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - María Carmen Menéndez
- Departamento de Medicina Preventiva, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Juan Manuel Anzola
- Departamento de Biotecnología Molecular y Biología Computacional y Bioinformática, Corporación CorpoGen, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Juan Germán Rodríguez
- Departamento de Biotecnología Molecular y Biología Computacional y Bioinformática, Corporación CorpoGen, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Addy Cecilia Helguera-Repetto
- Departamento de Inmunobioquímica, Torre de Investigación, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología Isidro Espinosa de los Reyes, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Miguel A. Ares
- Unidad de Investigación Médica en Enfermedades Infecciosas y Parasitarias, Centro Médico Nacional Siglo XXI, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Rafael Prados-Rosales
- Departamento de Medicina Preventiva, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Center for Cooperative Research bioGUNE (CICbioGUNE), Bizkaia Technology Park, Derio, Spain
| | - Jorge A. Gonzalez-y-Merchand
- Departamento de Microbiología, Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biológicas, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - María Jesús García
- Departamento de Medicina Preventiva, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Wang Z, Cumming BM, Mao C, Zhu Y, Lu P, Steyn AJC, Chen S, Hu Y. RbpA and σ B association regulates polyphosphate levels to modulate mycobacterial isoniazid-tolerance. Mol Microbiol 2018; 108:627-640. [PMID: 29575247 DOI: 10.1111/mmi.13952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
To facilitate survival under drug stresses, a small population of Mycobacterium tuberculosis can tolerate bactericidal concentrations of drugs without genetic mutations. These drug-tolerant mycobacteria can be induced by environmental stresses and contribute to recalcitrant infections. However, mechanisms underlying the development of drug-tolerant mycobacteria remain obscure. Herein, we characterized a regulatory pathway which is important for the tolerance to isoniazid (INH) in Mycobacterium smegmatis. We found that the RNA polymerase binding protein RbpA associates with the stress response sigma factor σB , to activate the transcription of ppk1, the gene encoding polyphosphate kinase. Subsequently, intracellular levels of inorganic polyphosphate increase to promote INH-tolerant mycobacteria. Interestingly, σB and ppk1 expression varied proportionately in mycobacterial populations and positively correlated with tolerance to INH in individual mycobacteria. Moreover, sigB and ppk1 transcription are both induced upon nutrient depletion, a condition that stimulates the formation of INH-tolerant mycobacteria. Over-expression of ppk1 in rbpA knockdown or sigB deleted strains successfully restored the number of INH-tolerant mycobacteria under both normal growth and nutrient starved conditions. These data suggest that RbpA and σB regulate ppk1 expression to control drug tolerance both during the logarithmic growth phase and under the nutrition starved conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhongwei Wang
- Key Laboratory of Special Pathogens and Biosafety, Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | | | - Chunyou Mao
- Key Laboratory of Special Pathogens and Biosafety, Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yan Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Special Pathogens and Biosafety, Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Pei Lu
- Key Laboratory of Special Pathogens and Biosafety, Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China
| | - Adrie J C Steyn
- Africa Health Research Institute, Durban, South Africa.,Department of Microbiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, 35294, USA
| | - Shiyun Chen
- Key Laboratory of Special Pathogens and Biosafety, Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China
| | - Yangbo Hu
- Key Laboratory of Special Pathogens and Biosafety, Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China
| |
Collapse
|