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d'Udekem d'Acoz O, Hue F, Ye T, Wang L, Leroux M, Rajngewerc L, Tran T, Phan K, Ramirez MS, Reisner W, Tolmasky ME, Reyes-Lamothe R. Dynamics and quantitative contribution of the aminoglycoside 6'- N-acetyltransferase type Ib to amikacin resistance. mSphere 2024; 9:e0078923. [PMID: 38353533 DOI: 10.1128/msphere.00789-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Aminoglycosides are essential components in the available armamentarium to treat bacterial infections. The surge and rapid dissemination of resistance genes strongly reduce their efficiency, compromising public health. Among the multitude of modifying enzymes that confer resistance to aminoglycosides, the aminoglycoside 6'-N-acetyltransferase type Ib [AAC(6')-Ib] is the most prevalent and relevant in the clinical setting as it can inactivate numerous aminoglycosides, such as amikacin. Although the mechanism of action, structure, and biochemical properties of the AAC(6')-Ib protein have been extensively studied, the contribution of the intracellular milieu to its activity remains unclear. In this work, we used a fluorescent-based system to quantify the number of AAC(6')-Ib per cell in Escherichia coli, and we modulated this copy number with the CRISPR interference method. These tools were then used to correlate enzyme concentrations with amikacin resistance levels. Our results show that resistance to amikacin increases linearly with a higher concentration of AAC(6')-Ib until it reaches a plateau at a specific protein concentration. In vivo imaging of this protein shows that it diffuses freely within the cytoplasm of the cell, but it tends to form inclusion bodies at higher concentrations in rich culture media. Addition of a chelating agent completely dissolves these aggregates and partially prevents the plateau in the resistance level, suggesting that AAC(6')-Ib aggregation lowers resistance to amikacin. These results provide the first step in understanding the cellular impact of each AAC(6')-Ib molecule on aminoglycoside resistance. They also highlight the importance of studying its dynamic behavior within the cell.IMPORTANCEAntibiotic resistance is a growing threat to human health. Understanding antibiotic resistance mechanisms can serve as foundation for developing innovative treatment strategies to counter this threat. While numerous studies clarified the genetics and dissemination of resistance genes and explored biochemical and structural features of resistance enzymes, their molecular dynamics and individual contribution to resistance within the cellular context remain unknown. Here, we examined this relationship modulating expression levels of aminoglycoside 6'-N-acetyltransferase type Ib, an enzyme of clinical relevance. We show a linear correlation between copy number of the enzyme per cell and amikacin resistance levels up to a threshold where resistance plateaus. We propose that at concentrations below the threshold, the enzyme diffuses freely in the cytoplasm but aggregates at the cell poles at concentrations over the threshold. This research opens promising avenues for studying enzyme solubility's impact on resistance, creating opportunities for future approaches to counter resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Fong Hue
- Center for Applied Biotechnology Studies, California State University Fullerton, Fullerton, California, USA
- Department of Biological Science, California State University Fullerton, Fullerton, California, USA
| | - Tianyi Ye
- Department of Biology, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Louise Wang
- Department of Biology, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Maxime Leroux
- Department of Biology, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Lucila Rajngewerc
- Center for Applied Biotechnology Studies, California State University Fullerton, Fullerton, California, USA
- Department of Biological Science, California State University Fullerton, Fullerton, California, USA
| | - Tung Tran
- Center for Applied Biotechnology Studies, California State University Fullerton, Fullerton, California, USA
- Department of Biological Science, California State University Fullerton, Fullerton, California, USA
| | - Kimberly Phan
- Center for Applied Biotechnology Studies, California State University Fullerton, Fullerton, California, USA
- Department of Biological Science, California State University Fullerton, Fullerton, California, USA
| | - Maria S Ramirez
- Center for Applied Biotechnology Studies, California State University Fullerton, Fullerton, California, USA
- Department of Biological Science, California State University Fullerton, Fullerton, California, USA
| | - Walter Reisner
- Department of Physics, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Marcelo E Tolmasky
- Center for Applied Biotechnology Studies, California State University Fullerton, Fullerton, California, USA
- Department of Biological Science, California State University Fullerton, Fullerton, California, USA
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Bender JK, Fleige C, Funk F, Moretó-Castellsagué C, Fischer MA, Werner G. Linezolid Resistance Genes and Mutations among Linezolid-Susceptible Enterococcus spp.-A Loose Cannon? Antibiotics (Basel) 2024; 13:101. [PMID: 38275330 PMCID: PMC10812394 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics13010101] [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: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
The National Reference Centre for Enterococci receives an increasing number of linezolid-resistant Enterococcus isolates. Linezolid (LIN) resistance is mediated by G2576T 23S rDNA gene mutations and/or acquisition of resistance genes (cfr, optrA, poxtA). There are anecdotal reports that those resistance traits may be present in phenotypically linezolid-susceptible isolates. We aimed to determine the prevalence of LIN resistance genes and mutations in enterococci with a LIN MIC of 4 mg/L in broth microdilution (EUCAST = susceptible) isolated from German hospital patients 2019-2021. LIN MICs were additionally determined by ETEST® and VITEK2. Selected strains were subjected to LIN selective pressure and growth was monitored with increasing antibiotic concentrations. We received 195 isolates (LIN MIC = 4 mg/L). In total, 78/195 (40%) isolates contained either a putative resistance gene, the G2576T mutation, or a combination thereof. Very major error was high for broth microdilution. The ability to predict phenotypic resistance from genotypic profile was highest for G2576T-mediated resistance. Selection experiments revealed that, in particular, E. faecium isolates with resistance gene mutations or poxtA rapidly adapt to MICs above the clinical breakpoint. In conclusion, LIN resistance genes and mutations can be observed in phenotypically linezolid-susceptible enterococci. Those isolates may rapidly develop resistance under LIN selective pressure potentially leading to treatment failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer K. Bender
- Nosocomial Pathogens and Antibiotic Resistances Unit, Department of Infectious Diseases, Robert Koch Institute, 38855 Wernigerode, Germany (F.F.); (C.M.-C.); (M.A.F.); (G.W.)
| | - Carola Fleige
- Nosocomial Pathogens and Antibiotic Resistances Unit, Department of Infectious Diseases, Robert Koch Institute, 38855 Wernigerode, Germany (F.F.); (C.M.-C.); (M.A.F.); (G.W.)
| | - Finn Funk
- Nosocomial Pathogens and Antibiotic Resistances Unit, Department of Infectious Diseases, Robert Koch Institute, 38855 Wernigerode, Germany (F.F.); (C.M.-C.); (M.A.F.); (G.W.)
| | - Clara Moretó-Castellsagué
- Nosocomial Pathogens and Antibiotic Resistances Unit, Department of Infectious Diseases, Robert Koch Institute, 38855 Wernigerode, Germany (F.F.); (C.M.-C.); (M.A.F.); (G.W.)
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, University Hospital of Bellvitge, 08907 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Martin A. Fischer
- Nosocomial Pathogens and Antibiotic Resistances Unit, Department of Infectious Diseases, Robert Koch Institute, 38855 Wernigerode, Germany (F.F.); (C.M.-C.); (M.A.F.); (G.W.)
| | - Guido Werner
- Nosocomial Pathogens and Antibiotic Resistances Unit, Department of Infectious Diseases, Robert Koch Institute, 38855 Wernigerode, Germany (F.F.); (C.M.-C.); (M.A.F.); (G.W.)
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3
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d'Acoz OD, Hue F, Ye T, Wang L, Leroux M, Rajngewerc L, Tran T, Phan K, Ramirez MS, Reisner W, Tolmasky ME, Reyes-Lamothe R. Dynamics and quantitative contribution of the aminoglycoside 6'- N-acetyltransferase type Ib [AAC(6')-Ib] to amikacin resistance. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.09.05.556435. [PMID: 38168340 PMCID: PMC10760054 DOI: 10.1101/2023.09.05.556435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Aminoglycosides are essential components in the available armamentarium to treat bacterial infections. The surge and rapid dissemination of resistance genes strongly reduce their efficiency, compromising public health. Among the multitude of modifying enzymes that confer resistance to aminoglycosides, the aminoglycoside acetyltransferase AAC(6')-Ib is the most prevalent and relevant in the clinical setting as it can inactivate numerous aminoglycosides, such as amikacin. Although the mechanism of action, structure, and biochemical properties of the AAC(6')-Ib protein have been extensively studied, the contribution of the intracellular milieu to its activity remains unclear. In this work, we used a fluorescent-based system to quantify the number of AAC(6')-Ib per cell in Escherichia coli, and we modulated this copy number with the CRISPR interference method. These tools were then used to correlate enzyme concentrations with amikacin resistance levels. Our results show that resistance to amikacin increases linearly with a higher concentration of AAC(6')-Ib until it reaches a plateau at a specific protein concentration. In vivo imaging of this protein shows that it diffuses freely within the cytoplasm of the cell, but it tends to form inclusion bodies at higher concentrations in rich culture media. Addition of a chelating agent completely dissolves these aggregates and partially prevents the plateau in the resistance level, suggesting that AAC(6')-Ib aggregation lowers resistance to amikacin. These results provide the first step in understanding the cellular impact of each AAC(6')-Ib molecule on aminoglycoside resistance. They also highlight the importance of studying its dynamic behavior within the cell.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ophélie d'Udekem d'Acoz
- Department of Biology, McGill University, 3649 Sir William Osler, Montréal, Québec, H3G 0B1, Canada
| | - Fong Hue
- Center for Applied Biotechnology Studies, Department of Biological Science, California State University Fullerton, Fullerton, California
| | - Tianyi Ye
- Department of Biology, McGill University, 3649 Sir William Osler, Montréal, Québec, H3G 0B1, Canada
| | - Louise Wang
- Department of Biology, McGill University, 3649 Sir William Osler, Montréal, Québec, H3G 0B1, Canada
| | - Maxime Leroux
- Department of Biology, McGill University, 3649 Sir William Osler, Montréal, Québec, H3G 0B1, Canada
| | - Lucila Rajngewerc
- Center for Applied Biotechnology Studies, Department of Biological Science, California State University Fullerton, Fullerton, California
| | - Tung Tran
- Center for Applied Biotechnology Studies, Department of Biological Science, California State University Fullerton, Fullerton, California
| | - Kimberly Phan
- Center for Applied Biotechnology Studies, Department of Biological Science, California State University Fullerton, Fullerton, California
| | - Maria S Ramirez
- Center for Applied Biotechnology Studies, Department of Biological Science, California State University Fullerton, Fullerton, California
| | - Walter Reisner
- Department of Physics, McGill University, 3600 rue université, Montréal, Québec, H3A 2T8, Canada
| | - Marcelo E Tolmasky
- Center for Applied Biotechnology Studies, Department of Biological Science, California State University Fullerton, Fullerton, California
| | - Rodrigo Reyes-Lamothe
- Department of Biology, McGill University, 3649 Sir William Osler, Montréal, Québec, H3G 0B1, Canada
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Petit M, Tessier J, Sahli C, Schmitzer AR. Confronting the Threat: Designing Highly Effective bis-Benzimidazolium Agents to Overcome Biofilm Persistence and Antimicrobial Resistance. ACS Infect Dis 2023; 9:2202-2214. [PMID: 37882623 DOI: 10.1021/acsinfecdis.3c00289] [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] [Indexed: 10/27/2023]
Abstract
The objective of this study is to take the initial steps toward developing novel antibiotics to counteract the escalating problem of antimicrobial and bacterial persistence, particularly in relation to biofilms. Our approach involves emulating the structural characteristics of cationic antimicrobial peptides. To circumvent resistance development, we have designed a library of bis-benzimidazolium salts that selectively target the microbial membranes in a nonspecific manner. To explore their structure-activity relationship, we conducted experiments using these compounds on various pathogens known for their resistance to conventional antibiotics, including Gram-positive methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecium (VRE), and Gram-negative Escherichia coli (E. coli). Notably, two bis-benzimidazolium salts exhibited robust antimicrobial activity while maintaining a high level of selectivity compared with mammalian cells. Our investigations revealed significant antibiofilm activity, as these compounds rapidly acted against established biofilms. In addition, bis-benzimidazolium compounds exhibited consistent results in resistance development and cross-resistance studies. Consequently, amphiphilic bis-benzimidazolium salts hold promise as potential candidates to combat resistance-associated infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maude Petit
- Département de Chimie, Faculté des Arts et des Sciences, Université de Montréal, Campus MIL, 1375, Ave. Thérèse Lavoie-Roux, Montréal, Québec H2 V 0B3, Canada
| | - Jérémie Tessier
- Département de Chimie, Faculté des Arts et des Sciences, Université de Montréal, Campus MIL, 1375, Ave. Thérèse Lavoie-Roux, Montréal, Québec H2 V 0B3, Canada
- Collège Bois-de-Boulogne, 10555 Ave. de Bois-de-Boulogne, Montréal H4N 1L4, Canada
| | - Célia Sahli
- Département de Chimie, Faculté des Arts et des Sciences, Université de Montréal, Campus MIL, 1375, Ave. Thérèse Lavoie-Roux, Montréal, Québec H2 V 0B3, Canada
- CNRS-UMR 7086, Interfaces, Traitements, Organisation et Dynamique des Systèmes (ITODYS), Université Paris Cité, Paris 75013 , France
| | - Andreea R Schmitzer
- Département de Chimie, Faculté des Arts et des Sciences, Université de Montréal, Campus MIL, 1375, Ave. Thérèse Lavoie-Roux, Montréal, Québec H2 V 0B3, Canada
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5
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Michaelis C, Grohmann E. Horizontal Gene Transfer of Antibiotic Resistance Genes in Biofilms. Antibiotics (Basel) 2023; 12:antibiotics12020328. [PMID: 36830238 PMCID: PMC9952180 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics12020328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 68.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Most bacteria attach to biotic or abiotic surfaces and are embedded in a complex matrix which is known as biofilm. Biofilm formation is especially worrisome in clinical settings as it hinders the treatment of infections with antibiotics due to the facilitated acquisition of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs). Environmental settings are now considered as pivotal for driving biofilm formation, biofilm-mediated antibiotic resistance development and dissemination. Several studies have demonstrated that environmental biofilms can be hotspots for the dissemination of ARGs. These genes can be encoded on mobile genetic elements (MGEs) such as conjugative and mobilizable plasmids or integrative and conjugative elements (ICEs). ARGs can be rapidly transferred through horizontal gene transfer (HGT) which has been shown to occur more frequently in biofilms than in planktonic cultures. Biofilm models are promising tools to mimic natural biofilms to study the dissemination of ARGs via HGT. This review summarizes the state-of-the-art of biofilm studies and the techniques that visualize the three main HGT mechanisms in biofilms: transformation, transduction, and conjugation.
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Hu M, Kalimuthu S, Zhang C, Ali IAA, Neelakantan P. Trans-cinnamaldehyde-Biosurfactant Complex as a Potent Agent against Enterococcus faecalis Biofilms. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:2355. [PMID: 36365173 PMCID: PMC9692797 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14112355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 10/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Enterococcus faecalis is an opportunistic microbial pathogen frequently associated with diverse infections, including those of the skin and teeth, as well as those from surgical wounds. It forms robust biofilms that are highly tolerant to most antimicrobials and first-line antibiotics. Therefore, investigating alternative strategies to eradicate its biofilms is a critical need. We recently demonstrated that trans-cinnamaldehyde (TC) potently kills E. faecalis biofilm cells and prevents biofilm recovery, and yet, the extreme hydrophobicity of TC hampers clinical translation. Here, we report that a complex of TC with an FDA-approved biosurfactant (acidic sophorolipid/ASL) significantly reduces the bacterial viability and biomass of E. faecalis biofilms, compared to TC alone. A confocal laser-scanning microscopic analysis demonstrated that the TC-ASL treatment significantly decreased the biofilm thickness and volume. In conclusion, our study highlights the anti-biofilm potential of the newly developed TC-ASL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingxin Hu
- Faculty of Dentistry, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | | | - Chengfei Zhang
- Faculty of Dentistry, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Islam A. A. Ali
- Department of Endodontics, Faculty of Dentistry, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt
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Ali IAA, Neelakantan P. Antibiofilm activity of phytochemicals against Enterococcus faecalis: A literature review. Phytother Res 2022; 36:2824-2838. [PMID: 35522168 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.7488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2021] [Revised: 02/17/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Enterococcus faecalis is a leading causative pathogen of recalcitrant infections affecting heart valves, urinary tract, surgical wounds and dental root canals. Its robust biofilm formation, production of virulence factors and antibiotic resistance contribute significantly to its pathogenicity in persistent infections. The decreased effectiveness of most of antibiotics in preventing and/or eradicating E. faecalis biofilms mandates the discovery of alternative novel antibiofilm agents. Phytochemicals are potential sources of antibiofilm agents due to their antivirulence activity, diversity of chemical structure and multiple mechanisms of action. In this review, we describe the phenotypic and genetic attributes that contribute to antimicrobial tolerance of E. faecalis biofilms. We illuminate the benefits of implementing the phytochemicals to tackle microbial pathogens. Finally, we report the antibiofilm activity of phytochemicals against E. faecalis, and explain their mechanisms of action. These compounds belong to different chemical classes such as terpenes, phenylpropenes, flavonoids, curcuminoids and alkaloids. They demonstrate the ability to inhibit the formation of and/or eradicate E. faecalis biofilms. However, the exact mechanisms of action of most of these compounds are not fully understood. Therefore, the future studies should elucidate the underlying mechanisms in detail.
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Affiliation(s)
- Islam A A Ali
- Faculty of Dentistry, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR
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Chen X, Ling X, Liu G, Xiao J. Antimicrobial Coating: Tracheal Tube Application. Int J Nanomedicine 2022; 17:1483-1494. [PMID: 35378882 PMCID: PMC8976493 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s353071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) is a common and serious nosocomial infection in mechanically ventilated patients, increasing mortality, prolonging the patient length of stay, and increasing costs. In recent years, extensive studies on ventilator-associated pneumonia have shown that tracheal intubation plays an essential role in the pathogenesis of VAP, with the primary mechanism being the rapid colonization of the tracheal intubation surface by microbiota. Antibiotics do not combat microbial airway colonization, and antimicrobial coating materials offer new ideas to solve this problem. This paper reviews the current research progress on the role of endotracheal tube (ET) biofilms in the pathogenesis of VAP and antimicrobial coating materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuemeng Chen
- Department of Anesthesiology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaomei Ling
- Department of Anesthesiology, Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Gaowang Liu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jinfang Xiao
- Department of Anesthesiology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People’s Republic of China
- Correspondence: Jinfang Xiao, Department of Anaesthesiology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Jingxi Street, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, People’s Republic of China, Tel +86 198 6518 2069, Email
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9
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Lee IPA, Eldakar OT, Gogarten JP, Andam CP. Bacterial cooperation through horizontal gene transfer. Trends Ecol Evol 2021; 37:223-232. [PMID: 34815098 DOI: 10.1016/j.tree.2021.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Revised: 10/27/2021] [Accepted: 11/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Cooperation exists across all scales of biological organization, from genetic elements to complex human societies. Bacteria cooperate by secreting molecules that benefit all individuals in the population (i.e., public goods). Genes associated with cooperation can spread among strains through horizontal gene transfer (HGT). We discuss recent findings on how HGT mediated by mobile genetic elements promotes bacterial cooperation, how cooperation in turn can facilitate more frequent HGT, and how the act of HGT itself may be considered as a form of cooperation. We propose that HGT is an important enforcement mechanism in bacterial populations, thus creating a positive feedback loop that further maintains cooperation. To enforce cooperation, HGT serves as a homogenizing force by transferring the cooperative trait, effectively eliminating cheaters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isaiah Paolo A Lee
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Biomedical Sciences, University of New Hampshire, Durham, NH 03824, USA
| | - Omar Tonsi Eldakar
- Department of Biological Sciences, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33314, USA
| | - J Peter Gogarten
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269, USA.
| | - Cheryl P Andam
- Department of Biological Sciences, University at Albany, State University of New York, Albany, NY 12222, USA.
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10
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Tarabal VS, Silva FG, Sinisterra RD, Gonçalves D, Silva J, Granjeiro JM, Speziali M, Granjeiro PA. Impact of DMPEI on Biofilm Adhesion on Latex Urinary Catheter. Recent Pat Biotechnol 2021; 15:51-66. [PMID: 33588743 DOI: 10.2174/1872208315666210215084127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2020] [Revised: 11/25/2020] [Accepted: 12/31/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Microorganisms can migrate from the external environment to the patient's organism through the insertion of catheters. Despite being indispensable medical device, the catheter surface can be colonized by microorganisms and become a starting point for biofilm formation. Therefore, new technologies are being developed in order to modify surfaces to prevent the adhesion and survival of microorganisms. Patents with the use of DMPEI have been filed. OBJECTIVE In the present work, we coated latex catheter surfaces with 2 mg mL-1 DMPEI in different solvents, evaluated the wettability of the surface and the anti- biofilm activity of the coated catheter against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Candida albicans. METHODS We coated the inner and outer catheter surfaces with 2 mg mL-1 of DMPEI solubilized in butanol, dimethylformamide, and cyclohexanone and the surfaces were analyzed visually. Contact angle measurement allowed the analysis of the wettability of the surfaces. The CFU mL-1 count evaluated E. coli, S. aureus, and C. albicans adhesion onto the control and treated surfaces. RESULTS The contact angle decreased from 50.48º to 46.93º on the inner surface and from 55.83º to 50.91º on the outer surface of latex catheters coated with DMPEI. The catheter coated with DMPEI showed anti-biofilm activity of 83%, 88%, and 93% on the inner surface and 100%, 92%, and 86% on the outer surface for E. coli, S. aureus, and C. albicans, respectively. CONCLUSION Latex catheter coated with DMPEI efficiently impaired the biofilm formation both on the outer and inner surfaces, showing a potential antimicrobial activity along with a high anti-biofilm activity for medical devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vinícius S Tarabal
- Campus Centro-Oeste, Federal University of São João del-Rei, Divinópolis, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Flávia G Silva
- Chemistry Department, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Ruben D Sinisterra
- Chemistry Department, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Daniel Gonçalves
- Campus Centro-Oeste, Federal University of São João del-Rei, Divinópolis, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Jose Silva
- Campus Centro-Oeste, Federal University of São João del-Rei, Divinópolis, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Jose M Granjeiro
- National Institute of Metrology, Quality and Technology, Duque de Caxias, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Marcelo Speziali
- Chemistry Department, Federal University of Ouro Preto, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Paulo A Granjeiro
- Campus Centro-Oeste, Federal University of São João del-Rei, Divinópolis, Minas Gerais, Brazil
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11
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Rapacka-Zdonczyk A, Wozniak A, Nakonieczna J, Grinholc M. Development of Antimicrobial Phototreatment Tolerance: Why the Methodology Matters. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:2224. [PMID: 33672375 PMCID: PMC7926562 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22042224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Revised: 02/18/2021] [Accepted: 02/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Due to rapidly growing antimicrobial resistance, there is an urgent need to develop alternative, non-antibiotic strategies. Recently, numerous light-based approaches, demonstrating killing efficacy regardless of microbial drug resistance, have gained wide attention and are considered some of the most promising antimicrobial modalities. These light-based therapies include five treatments for which high bactericidal activity was demonstrated using numerous in vitro and in vivo studies: antimicrobial blue light (aBL), antimicrobial photodynamic inactivation (aPDI), pulsed light (PL), cold atmospheric plasma (CAP), and ultraviolet (UV) light. Based on their multitarget activity leading to deleterious effects to numerous cell structures-i.e., cell envelopes, proteins, lipids, and genetic material-light-based treatments are considered to have a low risk for the development of tolerance and/or resistance. Nevertheless, the most recent studies indicate that repetitive sublethal phototreatment may provoke tolerance development, but there is no standard methodology for the proper evaluation of this phenomenon. The statement concerning the lack of development of resistance to these modalities seem to be justified; however, the most significant motivation for this review paper was to critically discuss existing dogma concerning the lack of tolerance development, indicating that its assessment is more complex and requires better terminology and methodology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandra Rapacka-Zdonczyk
- Laboratory of Molecular Diagnostics, Intercollegiate Faculty of Biotechnology, University of Gdansk and Medical University of Gdansk, Abrahama 58, 80-307 Gdansk, Poland; (A.R.-Z.); (A.W.); (J.N.)
- Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology, The Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Gdansk, Hallera 107, 80-416 Gdansk, Poland
| | - Agata Wozniak
- Laboratory of Molecular Diagnostics, Intercollegiate Faculty of Biotechnology, University of Gdansk and Medical University of Gdansk, Abrahama 58, 80-307 Gdansk, Poland; (A.R.-Z.); (A.W.); (J.N.)
| | - Joanna Nakonieczna
- Laboratory of Molecular Diagnostics, Intercollegiate Faculty of Biotechnology, University of Gdansk and Medical University of Gdansk, Abrahama 58, 80-307 Gdansk, Poland; (A.R.-Z.); (A.W.); (J.N.)
| | - Mariusz Grinholc
- Laboratory of Molecular Diagnostics, Intercollegiate Faculty of Biotechnology, University of Gdansk and Medical University of Gdansk, Abrahama 58, 80-307 Gdansk, Poland; (A.R.-Z.); (A.W.); (J.N.)
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12
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Donkor ES, Kotey FCN. Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus in the Oral Cavity: Implications for Antibiotic Prophylaxis and Surveillance. Infect Dis (Lond) 2020; 13:1178633720976581. [PMID: 33402829 PMCID: PMC7739134 DOI: 10.1177/1178633720976581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2019] [Accepted: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The oral cavity harbors a multitude of commensal flora, which may constitute a repository of antibiotic resistance determinants. In the oral cavity, bacteria form biofilms, and this facilitates the acquisition of antibiotic resistance genes through horizontal gene transfer. Recent reports indicate high methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) carriage rates in the oral cavity. Establishment of MRSA in the mouth could be enhanced by the wide usage of antibiotic prophylaxis among at-risk dental procedure candidates. These changes in MRSA epidemiology have important implications for MRSA preventive strategies, clinical practice, as well as the methodological approaches to carriage studies of the organism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric S Donkor
- Department of Medical Microbiology, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Fleischer CN Kotey
- Department of Medical Microbiology, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
- FleRhoLife Research Consult, Teshie, Accra, Ghana
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13
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Involvement of Chromosomally Encoded Homologs of the RRNPP Protein Family in Enterococcus faecalis Biofilm Formation and Urinary Tract Infection Pathogenesis. J Bacteriol 2020; 202:JB.00063-20. [PMID: 32540933 DOI: 10.1128/jb.00063-20] [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] [Received: 01/31/2020] [Accepted: 06/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Enterococcus faecalis is an opportunistic pathogen capable of causing infections, including endocarditis and urinary tract infections (UTI). One of the well-characterized quorum-sensing pathways in E. faecalis involves coordination of the conjugal transfer of pheromone-responsive plasmids by PrgX, a member of the RRNPP protein family. Members of this protein family in various Firmicutes have also been shown to contribute to numerous cellular processes, including sporulation, competence, conjugation, nutrient sensing, biofilm formation, and virulence. As PrgX is a plasmid-encoded RRNPP family member, we surveyed the genome of the multidrug-resistant strain V583 for additional RRNPP homologs using computational searches and refined those identified hits for predicted structural similarities to known RRNPP family members. This led us to investigate the contribution of the chromosomally encoded RRNPP homologs to biofilm processes and pathogenesis in a catheter-associated urinary tract infection (CAUTI) model. In this study, we identified five such homologs and report that 3 of the 5 homologs, EF0073, EF1599, and EF1316, affect biofilm formation as well as outcomes in the CAUTI model.IMPORTANCE Enterococcus faecalis causes health care-associated infections and displays resistance to a variety of broad-spectrum antibiotics by acquisition of resistance traits as well as the ability to form biofilms. Even though a growing number of factors related to biofilm formation have been identified, mechanisms that contribute to biofilm formation are still largely unknown. Members of the RRNPP protein family regulate a diverse set of biological reactions in low-G+C Gram-positive bacteria (Firmicutes). Here, we identify three predicted structural homologs of the RRNPP family, EF0073, EF1599, and EF1316, which affect biofilm formation and CAUTI pathogenesis.
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14
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Gomes L, Monteiro G, Mergulhão F. The Impact of IPTG Induction on Plasmid Stability and Heterologous Protein Expression by Escherichia coli Biofilms. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21020576. [PMID: 31963160 PMCID: PMC7013871 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21020576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2019] [Revised: 01/06/2020] [Accepted: 01/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
This work assesses the effect of chemical induction with isopropyl β-D-1-thiogalactopyranoside (IPTG) on the expression of enhanced green fluorescent protein (eGFP) by planktonic and biofilm cells of Escherichia coli JM109(DE3) transformed with a plasmid containing a T7 promoter. It was shown that induction negatively affected the growth and viability of planktonic cultures, and eGFP production did not increase. Heterologous protein production was not limited by gene dosage or by transcriptional activity. Results suggest that plasmid maintenance at high copy number imposes a metabolic burden that precludes high level expression of the heterologous protein. In biofilm cells, the inducer avoided the overall decrease in the amount of expressed eGFP, although this was not correlated with the gene dosage. Higher specific production levels were always attained with biofilm cells and it seems that while induction of biofilm cells shifts their metabolism towards the maintenance of heterologous protein concentration, in planktonic cells the cellular resources are directed towards plasmid replication and growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luciana Gomes
- LEPABE—Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal;
| | - Gabriel Monteiro
- iBB—Institute for Bioengineering and Biosciences, Department of Bioengineering, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, 1049-001 Lisboa, Portugal;
| | - Filipe Mergulhão
- LEPABE—Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +351-225081668
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15
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Biofilms: The Microbial "Protective Clothing" in Extreme Environments. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20143423. [PMID: 31336824 PMCID: PMC6679078 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20143423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 398] [Impact Index Per Article: 79.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2019] [Revised: 07/04/2019] [Accepted: 07/11/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Microbial biofilms are communities of aggregated microbial cells embedded in a self-produced matrix of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS). Biofilms are recalcitrant to extreme environments, and can protect microorganisms from ultraviolet (UV) radiation, extreme temperature, extreme pH, high salinity, high pressure, poor nutrients, antibiotics, etc., by acting as "protective clothing". In recent years, research works on biofilms have been mainly focused on biofilm-associated infections and strategies for combating microbial biofilms. In this review, we focus instead on the contemporary perspectives of biofilm formation in extreme environments, and describe the fundamental roles of biofilm in protecting microbial exposure to extreme environmental stresses and the regulatory factors involved in biofilm formation. Understanding the mechanisms of biofilm formation in extreme environments is essential for the employment of beneficial microorganisms and prevention of harmful microorganisms.
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16
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Lunde TM, Roberts AP, Al-Haroni M. Determination of copy number and circularization ratio of Tn 916-Tn 1545 family of conjugative transposons in oral streptococci by droplet digital PCR. J Oral Microbiol 2018; 11:1552060. [PMID: 30598735 PMCID: PMC6292373 DOI: 10.1080/20002297.2018.1552060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2018] [Revised: 11/12/2018] [Accepted: 11/19/2018] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Tn916 and Tn1545 are paradigms of a large family of related, broad host range, conjugative transposons that are widely distributed in bacteria and contribute to the spread of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs). Variation in the copy number (CN) of Tn916-Tn1545 elements and the circularization ratio (CR) may play an important role in propagation of ARGs carried by these elements. Objectives and Design: In this study, the CN and CR of Tn916-Tn1545 elements in oral streptococci were determined using droplet digital PCR (ddPCR). In addition, we investigated the influence of tetracycline on the CR of Tn916-Tn1545 elements. Results: The ddPCR assay designed in this study is a reliable way to rapidly determine CN and CR of Tn916-Tn1545 elements. Conclusions: Our data also suggest that Tn916-Tn1545 elements are generally stable without selective pressure in the clinical oral Streptococcus strains investigated in this study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tracy Munthali Lunde
- Department of Clinical Dentistry, Faculty of Health Sciences, UiT the Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Adam P Roberts
- Department of Parasitology, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK.,Centre for Drugs and Diagnostics, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | - Mohammed Al-Haroni
- Department of Clinical Dentistry, Faculty of Health Sciences, UiT the Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
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17
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Mechanistic Features of the Enterococcal pCF10 Sex Pheromone Response and the Biology of Enterococcus faecalis in Its Natural Habitat. J Bacteriol 2018; 200:JB.00733-17. [PMID: 29437851 DOI: 10.1128/jb.00733-17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Conjugative transfer of plasmids in enterococci is promoted by intercellular communication using peptide pheromones. The regulatory mechanisms that control transfer have been extensively studied in vitro However, the complicated systems that regulate the spread of these plasmids did not evolve in the laboratory test tube, and remarkably little is known about this form of signaling in the intestinal tract, the primary niche of these organisms. Because the evolution of Enterococcus faecalis strains and their coresident pheromone-inducible plasmids, such as pCF10, have occurred in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, it is important to consider the functions controlled by pheromones in light of this ecology. This review summarizes our current understanding of the pCF10-encoded pheromone response. We consider how selective pressures in the natural environment may have selected for the complex and very tightly regulated systems controlling conjugation, and we pay special attention to the ecology of enterococci and the pCF10 plasmid as a gut commensal. We summarize the results of recent studies of the pheromone response at the single-cell level, as well as those of the first experiments demonstrating a role for pheromone signaling in plasmid transfer and in GI tract competitive fitness. These results will serve as a foundation for further in vivo studies that could lead to novel interventions to reduce opportunistic infections and the spread of antibiotic resistance.
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18
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Lim SY, Teh CSJ, Thong KL. Biofilm-Related Diseases and Omics: Global Transcriptional Profiling of Enterococcus faecium Reveals Different Gene Expression Patterns in the Biofilm and Planktonic Cells. OMICS-A JOURNAL OF INTEGRATIVE BIOLOGY 2018; 21:592-602. [PMID: 29049010 DOI: 10.1089/omi.2017.0119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Enterococcus faecium is an opportunistic pathogen with a remarkable ability to acquire resistance toward multiple antibiotics, including those of last-resort drugs such as vancomycin and daptomycin. The occurrence of vancomycin-resistant E. faecium is on the rise and there is a need to understand the virulence of this organism. One of the factors that contributes to the virulence is the ability to form biofilms. Since bacteria in biofilm state are more resistant to antibiotics and host immune response, understanding the molecular mechanism of biofilm development is important to control biofilm-related diseases. The aim of this study was to determine the global gene expression profiles of an E. faecium strain, VREr5, during the early event of sessile growth compared with its planktonic phase through RNA-sequencing approach. The results clearly illustrated distinct expression profiles of the planktonic and biofilm cells. A total of 177 genes were overexpressed in the biofilm cells. Most of them encode for proteins involved in adherence, such as the ebpABCfm locus. Genes associated with plasmid replication, gene exchange, and protein synthesis were also upregulated during the early event of biofilm development. Furthermore, the transcriptome analysis also identified genes such as fsrB, luxS, and spx that might suppress biofilm formation in VREr5. The putative biofilm-related bee locus was found to be downregulated. These new findings could provide caveats for future studies on the regulation and maintenance of biofilm and development of biomarkers for biofilm-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shu Yong Lim
- 1 Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya , Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Cindy Shuan Ju Teh
- 2 Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya , Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Kwai Lin Thong
- 1 Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya , Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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19
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Soares A, Gomes LC, Mergulhão FJ. Comparing the Recombinant Protein Production Potential of Planktonic and Biofilm Cells. Microorganisms 2018; 6:E48. [PMID: 29794993 PMCID: PMC6027475 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms6020048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2018] [Revised: 05/18/2018] [Accepted: 05/21/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Recombinant protein production in bacterial cells is commonly performed using planktonic cultures. However, the natural state for many bacteria is living in communities attached to surfaces forming biofilms. In this work, a flow cell system was used to compare the production of a model recombinant protein (enhanced green fluorescent protein, eGFP) between planktonic and biofilm cells. The fluorometric analysis revealed that when the system was in steady state, the average specific eGFP production from Escherichia coli biofilm cells was 10-fold higher than in planktonic cells. Additionally, epifluorescence microscopy was used to determine the percentage of eGFP-expressing cells in both planktonic and biofilm populations. In steady state, the percentage of planktonic-expressing cells oscillated around 5%, whereas for biofilms eGFP-expressing cells represented on average 21% of the total cell population. Therefore, the combination of fluorometric and microscopy data allowed us to conclude that E. coli biofilm cells can have a higher recombinant protein production capacity when compared to their planktonic counterparts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Soares
- LEPABE-Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal.
| | - Luciana Calheiros Gomes
- LEPABE-Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal.
| | - Filipe José Mergulhão
- LEPABE-Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal.
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20
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Suriyanarayanan T, Qingsong L, Kwang LT, Mun LY, Truong T, Seneviratne CJ. Quantitative Proteomics of Strong and Weak Biofilm Formers of Enterococcus faecalis Reveals Novel Regulators of Biofilm Formation. Mol Cell Proteomics 2018; 17:643-654. [PMID: 29358339 DOI: 10.1074/mcp.ra117.000461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2017] [Revised: 12/21/2017] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Enterococcus faecalis is a bacterial pathogen associated with both endodontic and systemic infections. The biofilm formation ability of E. faecalis plays a key role in its virulence and drug resistance attributes. The formation of E. faecalis biofilms on implanted medical devices often results in treatment failure. In the present study, we report protein markers associated with the biofilm formation ability of E. faecalis using iTRAQ-based quantitative proteomics approach. In order to elucidate the biofilm-associated protein markers, we investigated the proteome of strong and weak biofilm-forming E. faecalis clinical isolates in comparison with standard American Type Culture Collection (ATCC) control strains. Comparison of E. faecalis strong and weak biofilm-forming clinical isolates with ATCC control strains showed that proteins associated with shikimate kinase pathway and sulfate transport were up-regulated in the strong biofilm former, while proteins associated with secondary metabolites, cofactor biosynthesis, and tetrahydrofolate biosynthesis were down-regulated. In the weak biofilm former, proteins associated with nucleoside and nucleotide biosynthesis were up-regulated, whereas proteins associated with sulfate and sugar transport were down-regulated. Further pathway and gene ontology analyses revealed that the major differences in biofilm formation arise from differences in metabolic activity levels of the strong and weak biofilm formers, with higher levels of metabolic activity observed in the weak biofilm former. The differences in metabolic activity could therefore be a major determinant of the biofilm ability of E. faecalis The new markers identified from this study can be further characterized in order to understand their exact role in E. faecalis biofilm formation ability. This, in turn, can lead to numerous therapeutic benefits in the treatment of this oral and systemic pathogen. The data has been deposited to the ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD006542.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lin Qingsong
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, National University of Singapore
| | - Lim Teck Kwang
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, National University of Singapore
| | - Lee Yew Mun
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, National University of Singapore
| | - Thuyen Truong
- From the Oral Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, National University of Singapore
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21
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Hall CW, Mah TF. Molecular mechanisms of biofilm-based antibiotic resistance and tolerance in pathogenic bacteria. FEMS Microbiol Rev 2018; 41:276-301. [PMID: 28369412 DOI: 10.1093/femsre/fux010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 878] [Impact Index Per Article: 146.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2016] [Accepted: 02/22/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Biofilms are surface-attached groups of microbial cells encased in an extracellular matrix that are significantly less susceptible to antimicrobial agents than non-adherent, planktonic cells. Biofilm-based infections are, as a result, extremely difficult to cure. A wide range of molecular mechanisms contribute to the high degree of recalcitrance that is characteristic of biofilm communities. These mechanisms include, among others, interaction of antimicrobials with biofilm matrix components, reduced growth rates and the various actions of specific genetic determinants of antibiotic resistance and tolerance. Alone, each of these mechanisms only partially accounts for the increased antimicrobial recalcitrance observed in biofilms. Acting in concert, however, these defences help to ensure the survival of biofilm cells in the face of even the most aggressive antimicrobial treatment regimens. This review summarises both historical and recent scientific data in support of the known biofilm resistance and tolerance mechanisms. Additionally, suggestions for future work in the field are provided.
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22
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Hathroubi S, Mekni MA, Domenico P, Nguyen D, Jacques M. Biofilms: Microbial Shelters Against Antibiotics. Microb Drug Resist 2016; 23:147-156. [PMID: 27214143 DOI: 10.1089/mdr.2016.0087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Biofilms are communities of aggregated bacterial cells embedded in a self-produced extracellular polymeric matrix. Biofilms are recalcitrant to antibiotic treatment and immune defenses and are implicated in many chronic bacterial and fungal infections. In this review, we provide an overview of the contribution of biofilms to persistent infections resistant to antibiotic treatment, the impact of multispecies biofilms on drug resistance and tolerance, and recent advances in the development of antibiofilm agents. Understanding the mechanisms of antibiotic resistance and tolerance in biofilms is essential for developing new preventive and therapeutic strategies and curbing drug resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Skander Hathroubi
- 1 Department of Pathology and Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Université de Montréal , Montréal, Canada
| | - Mohamed A Mekni
- 2 The National Bone Marrow Transplant Centre , UR12ES02, Faculty of Medicine, Tunis, Tunisia
| | | | - Dao Nguyen
- 4 Meakins Christie Laboratories, Department of Medicine, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre , Montréal, Canada
| | - Mario Jacques
- 1 Department of Pathology and Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Université de Montréal , Montréal, Canada
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23
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Fiedler S, Bender JK, Klare I, Halbedel S, Grohmann E, Szewzyk U, Werner G. Tigecycline resistance in clinical isolates of Enterococcus faecium is mediated by an upregulation of plasmid-encoded tetracycline determinants tet(L) and tet(M). J Antimicrob Chemother 2015; 71:871-81. [PMID: 26682961 DOI: 10.1093/jac/dkv420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2015] [Accepted: 11/05/2015] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Tigecycline represents one of the last-line therapeutics to combat multidrug-resistant bacterial pathogens, including VRE and MRSA. The German National Reference Centre for Staphylococci and Enterococci has received 73 tigecycline-resistant Enterococcus faecium and Enterococcus faecalis isolates in recent years. The precise mechanism of how enterococci become resistant to tigecycline remains undetermined. This study documents an analysis of the role of efflux pumps in tigecycline resistance in clinical isolates of Enterococcus spp. METHODS Various tigecycline MICs were found for the different isolates analysed. Tigecycline-resistant strains were analysed with respect to genome and transcriptome differences by means of WGS and RT-qPCR. Genes of interest were cloned and expressed in Listeria monocytogenes for verification of their functionality. RESULTS Detailed comparative whole-genome analyses of three isogenic strains, showing different levels of tigecycline resistance, revealed the major facilitator superfamily (MFS) efflux pump TetL and the ribosomal protection protein TetM as possible drug resistance proteins. Subsequent RT-qPCR confirmed up-regulation of the respective genes. A correlation of gene copy number and level of MIC was inferred from further qPCR analyses. Expression of both tet(L) and tet(M) in L. monocytogenes unequivocally demonstrated the potential to increase tigecycline MICs upon acquisition of either locus. CONCLUSIONS Our results indicate that increased expression of two tetracycline resistance determinants, a tet(L)-encoded MFS pump and a tet(M)-encoded ribosomal protection protein, is capable of conferring tigecycline resistance in enterococcal clinical isolates.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Fiedler
- Division of Nosocomial Pathogens and Antibiotic Resistances, National Reference Centre for Staphylococci and Enterococci, Department of Infectious Diseases, Robert Koch Institute, Wernigerode Branch, Wernigerode, Germany
| | - J K Bender
- Division of Nosocomial Pathogens and Antibiotic Resistances, National Reference Centre for Staphylococci and Enterococci, Department of Infectious Diseases, Robert Koch Institute, Wernigerode Branch, Wernigerode, Germany
| | - I Klare
- Division of Nosocomial Pathogens and Antibiotic Resistances, National Reference Centre for Staphylococci and Enterococci, Department of Infectious Diseases, Robert Koch Institute, Wernigerode Branch, Wernigerode, Germany
| | - S Halbedel
- Division of Enteropathogenic Bacteria and Legionella, Department of Infectious Diseases, Robert Koch Institute, Wernigerode Branch, Wernigerode, Germany
| | - E Grohmann
- Department of Life Sciences and Technology, Beuth University of Applied Sciences, Berlin, Germany Division of Infectious Diseases, University Medical Centre Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - U Szewzyk
- Environmental Microbiology, Technical University Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - G Werner
- Division of Nosocomial Pathogens and Antibiotic Resistances, National Reference Centre for Staphylococci and Enterococci, Department of Infectious Diseases, Robert Koch Institute, Wernigerode Branch, Wernigerode, Germany
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24
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Dale JL, Cagnazzo J, Phan CQ, Barnes AMT, Dunny GM. Multiple roles for Enterococcus faecalis glycosyltransferases in biofilm-associated antibiotic resistance, cell envelope integrity, and conjugative transfer. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2015; 59:4094-105. [PMID: 25918141 PMCID: PMC4468649 DOI: 10.1128/aac.00344-15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2015] [Accepted: 04/21/2015] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The emergence of multidrug-resistant bacteria and the limited availability of new antibiotics are of increasing clinical concern. A compounding factor is the ability of microorganisms to form biofilms (communities of cells encased in a protective extracellular matrix) that are intrinsically resistant to antibiotics. Enterococcus faecalis is an opportunistic pathogen that readily forms biofilms and also has the propensity to acquire resistance determinants via horizontal gene transfer. There is intense interest in the genetic basis for intrinsic and acquired antibiotic resistance in E. faecalis, since clinical isolates exhibiting resistance to multiple antibiotics are not uncommon. We performed a genetic screen using a library of transposon (Tn) mutants to identify E. faecalis biofilm-associated antibiotic resistance determinants. Five Tn mutants formed wild-type biofilms in the absence of antibiotics but produced decreased biofilm biomass in the presence of antibiotic concentrations that were subinhibitory to the parent strain. Genetic determinants responsible for biofilm-associated antibiotic resistance include components of the quorum-sensing system (fsrA, fsrC, and gelE) and two glycosyltransferase (GTF) genes (epaI and epaOX). We also found that the GTFs play additional roles in E. faecalis resistance to detergent and bile salts, maintenance of cell envelope integrity, determination of cell shape, polysaccharide composition, and conjugative transfer of the pheromone-inducible plasmid pCF10. The epaOX gene is located in a variable extended region of the enterococcal polysaccharide antigen (epa) locus. These data illustrate the importance of GTFs in E. faecalis adaptation to diverse growth conditions and suggest new targets for antimicrobial design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer L Dale
- Department of Microbiology, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Julian Cagnazzo
- Department of Microbiology, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Chi Q Phan
- Department of Microbiology, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Aaron M T Barnes
- Department of Microbiology, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Gary M Dunny
- Department of Microbiology, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
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25
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Bhatty M, Cruz MR, Frank KL, Gomez JAL, Andrade F, Garsin DA, Dunny GM, Kaplan HB, Christie PJ. Enterococcus faecalis pCF10-encoded surface proteins PrgA, PrgB (aggregation substance) and PrgC contribute to plasmid transfer, biofilm formation and virulence. Mol Microbiol 2014; 95:660-77. [PMID: 25431047 DOI: 10.1111/mmi.12893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/25/2014] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Enterococcus faecalis pCF10 transfers at high frequencies upon pheromone induction of the prgQ transfer operon. This operon codes for three cell wall-anchored proteins - PrgA, PrgB (aggregation substance) and PrgC - and a type IV secretion system through which the plasmid is delivered to recipient cells. Here, we defined the contributions of the Prg surface proteins to plasmid transfer, biofilm formation and virulence using the Caenorhabditis elegans infection model. We report that a combination of PrgB and extracellular DNA (eDNA), but not PrgA or PrgC, was required for extensive cellular aggregation and pCF10 transfer at wild-type frequencies. In addition to PrgB and eDNA, production of PrgA was necessary for extensive binding of enterococci to abiotic surfaces and development of robust biofilms. However, although PrgB is a known virulence factor in mammalian infection models, we determined that PrgA and PrgC, but not PrgB, were required for efficient killing in the worm infection model. We propose that the pheromone-responsive, conjugative plasmids of E. faecalis have retained Prg-like surface functions over evolutionary time for attachment, colonization and robust biofilm development. In natural settings, these biofilms are polymicrobial in composition and constitute optimal environments for signal exchange, mating pair formation and widespread lateral gene transfer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minny Bhatty
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of Texas Medical School at Houston, 6431 Fannin Street, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
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26
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Abstract
The field of plasmid biology has historically focused on bacteria growing in liquid culture. Surface attached communities of bacterial biofilms have recently been understood to be the normal environment of bacteria in the natural world. Thus, studies examining plasmid replication, maintenance, and transfer in biofilms are essential for a true understanding of bacterial plasmid biology. This chapter reviews the current knowledge of the interplay between bacterial biofilms and plasmids, focusing on the role of plasmids in biofilm development and the role of biofilms in plasmid maintenance, copy number control, and transfer. The studies examined herein highlight the importance of biofilms as an important ecological niche in which bacterial plasmids play an essential role.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Gary M. Dunny
- Department of Microbiology, University of Minnesota, 1460 Mayo Bldg., MMC196, 420 Delaware St., SE, Minneapolis MN, 55455
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27
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Shah N, Naseby D. Bioluminescence-based measurement of viability of Pseudomonas aeruginosa
ATCC 9027 harbouring plasmid-based lux genes under the control of constitutive promoters. J Appl Microbiol 2014; 117:1373-87. [DOI: 10.1111/jam.12635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2014] [Revised: 08/08/2014] [Accepted: 08/23/2014] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- N. Shah
- Microbiology, Molecular Biology and Biotechnology Research Group; School of Life and Medical Sciences; University of Hertfordshire; Hatfield Hertfordshire UK
| | - D.C. Naseby
- Microbiology, Molecular Biology and Biotechnology Research Group; School of Life and Medical Sciences; University of Hertfordshire; Hatfield Hertfordshire UK
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28
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Vega NM, Gore J. Collective antibiotic resistance: mechanisms and implications. Curr Opin Microbiol 2014; 21:28-34. [PMID: 25271119 DOI: 10.1016/j.mib.2014.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2014] [Revised: 09/10/2014] [Accepted: 09/10/2014] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
In collective resistance, microbial communities are able to survive antibiotic exposures that would be lethal to individual cells. In this review, we explore recent advances in understanding collective resistance in bacteria. The population dynamics of 'cheating' in a system with cooperative antibiotic inactivation have been described, providing insight into the demographic factors that determine resistance allele frequency in bacteria. Extensive work has elucidated mechanisms underlying collective resistance in biofilms and addressed questions about the role of cooperation in these structures. Additionally, recent investigations of 'bet-hedging' strategies in bacteria have explored the contributions of stochasticity and regulation to bacterial phenotypic heterogeneity and examined the effects of these strategies on community survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole M Vega
- Department of Physics, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Jeff Gore
- Department of Physics, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA.
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29
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Kester JC, Fortune SM. Persisters and beyond: mechanisms of phenotypic drug resistance and drug tolerance in bacteria. Crit Rev Biochem Mol Biol 2013; 49:91-101. [PMID: 24328927 DOI: 10.3109/10409238.2013.869543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 125] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
One of the challenges in clinical infectious diseases is the problem of chronic infections, which can require long durations of antibiotic treatment and often recur. An emerging explanation for the refractoriness of some infections to treatment is the existence of subpopulations of drug tolerant cells. While typically discussed as "persister" cells, it is becoming increasingly clear that there is significant heterogeneity in drug responses within a bacterial population and that multiple mechanisms underlie the emergence of drug tolerant and drug-resistant subpopulations. Many of these parallel mechanisms have been shown to affect drug susceptibility at the level of a whole population. Here we review mechanisms of phenotypic drug tolerance and resistance in bacteria with the goal of providing a framework for understanding the similarities and differences in these cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jemila C Kester
- Department of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Harvard School of Public Health , Boston, MA , USA
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Affiliation(s)
- Gary M. Dunny
- Department of Microbiology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455;
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