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Krausfeldt LE, Shmakova E, Lee HW, Mazzei V, Loftin KA, Smith RP, Karwacki E, Fortman PE, Rosen BH, Urakawa H, Dadlani M, Colwell RR, Lopez JV. Microbial diversity, genomics, and phage-host interactions of cyanobacterial harmful algal blooms. mSystems 2024:e0070923. [PMID: 38856205 DOI: 10.1128/msystems.00709-23] [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: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/11/2024] Open
Abstract
The occurrence of cyanobacterial harmful algal blooms (cyanoHABs) is related to their physical and chemical environment. However, less is known about their associated microbial interactions and processes. In this study, cyanoHABs were analyzed as a microbial ecosystem, using 1 year of 16S rRNA sequencing and 70 metagenomes collected during the bloom season from Lake Okeechobee (Florida, USA). Biogeographical patterns observed in microbial community composition and function reflected ecological zones distinct in their physical and chemical parameters that resulted in bloom "hotspots" near major lake inflows. Changes in relative abundances of taxa within multiple phyla followed increasing bloom severity. Functional pathways that correlated with increasing bloom severity encoded organic nitrogen and phosphorus utilization, storage of nutrients, exchange of genetic material, phage defense, and protection against oxidative stress, suggesting that microbial interactions may promote cyanoHAB resilience. Cyanobacterial communities were highly diverse, with picocyanobacteria ubiquitous and oftentimes most abundant, especially in the absence of blooms. The identification of novel bloom-forming cyanobacteria and genomic comparisons indicated a functionally diverse cyanobacterial community with differences in its capability to store nitrogen using cyanophycin and to defend against phage using CRISPR and restriction-modification systems. Considering blooms in the context of a microbial ecosystem and their interactions in nature, physiologies and interactions supporting the proliferation and stability of cyanoHABs are proposed, including a role for phage infection of picocyanobacteria. This study displayed the power of "-omics" to reveal important biological processes that could support the effective management and prediction of cyanoHABs. IMPORTANCE Cyanobacterial harmful algal blooms pose a significant threat to aquatic ecosystems and human health. Although physical and chemical conditions in aquatic systems that facilitate bloom development are well studied, there are fundamental gaps in the biological understanding of the microbial ecosystem that makes a cyanobacterial bloom. High-throughput sequencing was used to determine the drivers of cyanobacteria blooms in nature. Multiple functions and interactions important to consider in cyanobacterial bloom ecology were identified. The microbial biodiversity of blooms revealed microbial functions, genomic characteristics, and interactions between cyanobacterial populations that could be involved in bloom stability and more coherently define cyanobacteria blooms. Our results highlight the importance of considering cyanobacterial blooms as a microbial ecosystem to predict, prevent, and mitigate them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren E Krausfeldt
- Department of Biological Sciences, Guy Harvey Oceanographic Center, Nova Southeastern University, Dania Beach, Florida, USA
| | - Elizaveta Shmakova
- Department of Biological Sciences, Guy Harvey Oceanographic Center, Nova Southeastern University, Dania Beach, Florida, USA
| | - Hyo Won Lee
- Department of Biological Sciences, Guy Harvey Oceanographic Center, Nova Southeastern University, Dania Beach, Florida, USA
| | - Viviana Mazzei
- U.S. Geological Survey, Caribbean-Florida Water Science Center, Orlando, Florida, USA
| | - Keith A Loftin
- U.S. Geological Survey, Kansas Water Science Center, Lawrence, Kansas, USA
| | - Robert P Smith
- Department of Biological Sciences, Guy Harvey Oceanographic Center, Nova Southeastern University, Dania Beach, Florida, USA
- Cell Therapy Institute, Kiran Patel College of Allopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, Florida, USA
| | - Emily Karwacki
- U.S. Geological Survey, Caribbean-Florida Water Science Center, Orlando, Florida, USA
| | - P Eric Fortman
- Department of Biological Sciences, Guy Harvey Oceanographic Center, Nova Southeastern University, Dania Beach, Florida, USA
| | - Barry H Rosen
- Department of Ecology and Environmental Studies, Florida Gulf Coast University, Fort Myers, Florida, USA
| | - Hidetoshi Urakawa
- Department of Ecology and Environmental Studies, Florida Gulf Coast University, Fort Myers, Florida, USA
| | | | - Rita R Colwell
- Institute for Advanced Computer Studies, University of Maryland College Park, College Park, Maryland, USA
| | - Jose V Lopez
- Department of Biological Sciences, Guy Harvey Oceanographic Center, Nova Southeastern University, Dania Beach, Florida, USA
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Tsai KP, Kirschman ZA, Moldaenke C, Chaffin JD, McClure A, Seo Y, Bridgeman TB. Field and laboratory studies of fluorescence-based technologies for real-time tracking of cyanobacterial cell lysis and potential microcystins release. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 920:171121. [PMID: 38382604 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.171121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 02/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
Elevated levels of dissolved microcystins (MCs) in source water due to rapid cell lysis of harmful cyanobacterial blooms may pose serious challenges for drinking water treatment. Catastrophic cell lysis can result from outbreaks of naturally-occurring cyanophages - as documented in Lake Erie during the Toledo water crisis of 2014 and in 2019, or through the application of algaecides or water treatment chemicals. Real-time detection of cyanobacterial cell lysis in source water would provide a valuable tool for drinking water plant and reservoir managers. In this study we explored two real-time fluorescence-based devices, PhycoSens and PhycoLA, that can detect unbound phycocyanin (uPC) as a potential indication of cell lysis and MCs release. The PhycoSens was deployed at the Low Service pump station of the City of Toledo Lake Erie drinking water treatment plant from July 15 to October 19, 2022 during the annual cyanobacteria bloom season. It measured major algal groups and uPC in incoming lake water at 15-min intervals during cyanobacteria dominant and senescence periods. Intermittent uPC detections from the PhycoSens over a three-month period coincided with periods of increasing proportions of extracellular MCs relative to total (intracellular and extracellular) MCs, indicating potential for uPC use as an indicator of cyanobacterial cell integrity. Following exposures of laboratory-cultured MCs-producing Microcystis aeruginosa NIES-298 (120 μg chlorophyll/L) to cyanophage Ma-LMM01, copper sulfate (0.5 and 1 mg Cu/L), sodium carbonate peroxyhydrate (PAK® 27, 6.7 and 10 mg H2O2/L), and potassium permanganate (2.5 and 4 mg/L), appearance of uPC coincided with elevated fractions of extracellular MCs. The PhycoLA was used to monitor batch samples collected daily from Lake Erie water exposed to algaecides in the laboratory. Concurrence of uPC signal and surge of dissolved MCs was observed following 24-h exposures to copper sulfate and PAK 27. Overall results indicate the appearance of uPC is a useful indicator of the onset of cyanobacterial cell lysis and the release of MCs when MCs are present.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kuo-Pei Tsai
- Lake Erie Center, University of Toledo, OH, USA.
| | - Zachary A Kirschman
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Toledo, OH, USA
| | | | - Justin D Chaffin
- F.T. Stone Laboratory and Ohio Sea Grant, The Ohio State University, OH, USA
| | - Andrew McClure
- Division of Water Treatment for the City of Toledo, OH, USA
| | - Youngwoo Seo
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Toledo, OH, USA; Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Toledo, OH, USA
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3
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Anam GB, Ahn YH. The interplay of low H 2O 2 doses, lytic cyanophage, and Microcystis aeruginosa: Implications for cyanobacterial bloom control and microcystin production/release. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 916:170327. [PMID: 38266727 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.170327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 01/26/2024]
Abstract
Low H2O2 doses can suppress cyanobacterial blooms without damaging non-target species but enable undesirable regrowth. Besides, the role of cyanophage in preventing regrowth after low H2O2 exposure remains unclear. Applying phages to cyanobacteria pre-exposed to low H2O2 in early growth stages may improve host removal and reduce microcystin (MC) production/release. Lytic cyanophage MDM-1 with a 172 PFU/cell burst size, 2-day short latent period against MCs-producing Microcystis, shows high H2O2 stability. Low H2O2 (1 to 2.5 mg/L) doses significantly (p < 0.05) inhibited Microcystis aeruginosa growth rate, biofilm and MCs concentration reduction in a dose-dependent manner but regrowth occurred at all concentrations. Phage treatment eliminated cells without H2O2 pretreatment within 3 days and reduced MC production. H2O2-pretreated M. aeruginosa cells altered the phage dynamics, affecting adsorption, latency, production, and cell lysis in response to H2O2-induced oxidative stress. At 1.5 mg H2O2/L pretreatment, cells were eliminated with reduced MC production, like untreated cells. H2O2 pretreatment with 2.0 and 2.5 mg/L resulted in an extension of the phage absorption phase and the latent period. This was accompanied by a reduction in lysis efficacy, attributed to the increased ROS production. At 2.5 mg H2O2/L, 17.10 % of phages remain un-adsorbed, with cell lysis rate dropped from 0.89 d-1 to 0.26 d-1 compared to the untreated control. The highest phage titer (70 %) was obtained with 1.5 mg/H2O2 pretreated cells. This study emphasizes that low-dose H2O2 eliminates Microcystis but severely affects phage lysis and MCs release depending on H2O2-induced ROS levels. It is a crucial consideration when using phages to control cyanobacterial blooms with H2O2-induced stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giridhar Babu Anam
- Department of Civil Engineering, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan 38541, Gyeongbuk, Republic of Korea.
| | - Young-Ho Ahn
- Department of Civil Engineering, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan 38541, Gyeongbuk, Republic of Korea.
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Harris TD, Reinl KL, Azarderakhsh M, Berger SA, Berman MC, Bizic M, Bhattacharya R, Burnet SH, Cianci-Gaskill JA, Domis LNDS, Elfferich I, Ger KA, Grossart HPF, Ibelings BW, Ionescu D, Kouhanestani ZM, Mauch J, McElarney YR, Nava V, North RL, Ogashawara I, Paule-Mercado MCA, Soria-Píriz S, Sun X, Trout-Haney JV, Weyhenmeyer GA, Yokota K, Zhan Q. What makes a cyanobacterial bloom disappear? A review of the abiotic and biotic cyanobacterial bloom loss factors. HARMFUL ALGAE 2024; 133:102599. [PMID: 38485445 DOI: 10.1016/j.hal.2024.102599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2023] [Revised: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
Cyanobacterial blooms present substantial challenges to managers and threaten ecological and public health. Although the majority of cyanobacterial bloom research and management focuses on factors that control bloom initiation, duration, toxicity, and geographical extent, relatively little research focuses on the role of loss processes in blooms and how these processes are regulated. Here, we define a loss process in terms of population dynamics as any process that removes cells from a population, thereby decelerating or reducing the development and extent of blooms. We review abiotic (e.g., hydraulic flushing and oxidative stress/UV light) and biotic factors (e.g., allelopathic compounds, infections, grazing, and resting cells/programmed cell death) known to govern bloom loss. We found that the dominant loss processes depend on several system specific factors including cyanobacterial genera-specific traits, in situ physicochemical conditions, and the microbial, phytoplankton, and consumer community composition. We also address loss processes in the context of bloom management and discuss perspectives and challenges in predicting how a changing climate may directly and indirectly affect loss processes on blooms. A deeper understanding of bloom loss processes and their underlying mechanisms may help to mitigate the negative consequences of cyanobacterial blooms and improve current management strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ted D Harris
- Kansas Biological Survey and Center for Ecological Research, University of Kansas, 2101 Constant Ave., Lawrence, KS, 66047
| | - Kaitlin L Reinl
- Lake Superior National Estuarine Research Reserve, University of Wisconsin - Madison Division of Extension, 14 Marina Dr, Superior, WI 54880
| | - Marzi Azarderakhsh
- Department of Construction and Civil Engineering, New York City College of Technology, 300 Jay Street, New York, NY 11201
| | - Stella A Berger
- Department of Plankton and Microbial Ecology, Leibniz Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries, Zur alten Fischerhütte 2, 16775 Stechlin, Germany
| | - Manuel Castro Berman
- Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY 12180 and Darrin Freshwater Institute, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Bolton Landing, NY, 12814
| | - Mina Bizic
- Department of Plankton and Microbial Ecology, Leibniz Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries, Zur alten Fischerhütte 2, 16775 Stechlin, Germany
| | - Ruchi Bhattacharya
- Department of Biological, Geological & Environmental Sciences, Cleveland State University, Cleveland, OH 44115
| | - Sarah H Burnet
- University of Idaho, Fish and Wildlife Sciences, Moscow, ID, USA, 83844
| | - Jacob A Cianci-Gaskill
- Old Woman Creek National Estuarine Research Reserve, Ohio Department of Natural Resources, 2514 Cleveland Rd East, Huron, OH 44839
| | - Lisette N de Senerpont Domis
- Department of Aquatic Ecology, Netherlands Institute of Ecology (NIOO-KNAW), P.O. Box 50, 6708 PB Wageningen, The Netherlands; Department of Water Resources and Pervasive Systems Group, faculty of EEMCS and ITC, University of Twente, The Netherlands
| | - Inge Elfferich
- Cardiff University, Earth and Environmental Sciences, Main Building, Park Place CF10 3AT, Cardiff, UK
| | - K Ali Ger
- Department of Ecology, Center for Biosciences, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, R. das Biociencias, Lagoa Nova, Natal, RN, 59078-970, Brazil
| | - Hans-Peter F Grossart
- Department of Plankton and Microbial Ecology, Leibniz Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries, Zur alten Fischerhütte 2, 16775 Stechlin, Germany; Potsdam University, Institute of Biochemistry and Biology, Maulbeeralle 2, 14469 Potsdam, Germany
| | - Bas W Ibelings
- Department F.-A. Forel for Environmental and Aquatic Sciences, University of Geneva, 66 Blvd Carl Vogt, 1205, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Danny Ionescu
- Department of Plankton and Microbial Ecology, Leibniz Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries, Zur alten Fischerhütte 2, 16775 Stechlin, Germany
| | - Zohreh Mazaheri Kouhanestani
- School of Natural Resources, University of Missouri-Columbia, Anheuser-Busch Natural Resources Building, Columbia, MO, 65211-7220
| | - Jonas Mauch
- Department of Community and Ecosystem Ecology, Leibniz Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries, Müggelseedamm 301, 12587 Berlin, Germany
| | - Yvonne R McElarney
- Fisheries and Aquatic Ecosystems, Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute, Belfast, Northern Ireland
| | - Veronica Nava
- Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Milano-Bicocca, Piazza della Scienza 1, 20126 Milano, MI, Italy.
| | - Rebecca L North
- School of Natural Resources, University of Missouri-Columbia, Anheuser-Busch Natural Resources Building, Columbia, MO, 65211-7220
| | - Igor Ogashawara
- Department of Plankton and Microbial Ecology, Leibniz Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries, Zur alten Fischerhütte 2, 16775 Stechlin, Germany
| | - Ma Cristina A Paule-Mercado
- Institute of Hydrobiology, Biology Centre of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Na Sádkách 7, České Budějovice 370 05, Czech Republic
| | - Sara Soria-Píriz
- Département des sciences biologiques, Université du Québec à Montréal, 141 Av. du Président-Kennedy, Montréal, QC H2 × 1Y4, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Xinyu Sun
- Department of Fisheries and Wildlife, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | | | - Gesa A Weyhenmeyer
- Department of Ecology and Genetics/Limnology, Uppsala University, Norbyvägen 18D, 75236 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Kiyoko Yokota
- Biology Department, State University of New York at Oneonta, Oneonta, NY 13820, USA
| | - Qing Zhan
- Department of Aquatic Ecology, Netherlands Institute of Ecology (NIOO-KNAW), P.O. Box 50, 6708 PB Wageningen, The Netherlands
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5
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Pierce EF, Schnetzer A. Microcystin Concentrations, Partitioning, and Structural Composition during Active Growth and Decline: A Laboratory Study. Toxins (Basel) 2023; 15:684. [PMID: 38133188 PMCID: PMC10746996 DOI: 10.3390/toxins15120684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Microcystin can be present in variable concentrations, phases (dissolved and particulate), and structural forms (congeners), all which impact the toxicity and persistence of the algal metabolite. Conducting incubation experiments with six bloom assemblages collected from the Chowan River, North Carolina, we assessed microcystin dynamics during active growth and biomass degradation. Upon collection, average particulate and dissolved microcystin ranged between 0.2 and 993 µg L-1 and 0.5 and 3.6 µg L-1, respectively. The presence of congeners MC-LA, -LR, -RR, and -YR was confirmed with MC-RR and MC-LR being the most prevalent. Congener composition shifted over time and varied between dissolved and particulate phases. Particulate microcystin exponentially declined in five of six incubations with an average half-life of 10.2 ± 3.7 days, while dissolved microcystin remained detectable until the end of the incubation trials (up to 100 days). Our findings suggest that concerns about food-web transfer via intracellular toxins seem most warranted within the first few weeks of the bloom peak, while dissolved toxins linger for several months in the aftermath of the event. Also, it was indicated there were differences in congener profiles linked to the sampling method. We believe this study can inform monitoring strategies and aid microcystin-exposure risk assessments for cyanobacterial blooms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily F Pierce
- Department of Marine, Earth and Atmospheric Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
| | - Astrid Schnetzer
- Department of Marine, Earth and Atmospheric Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
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6
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Zhu L, Cao P, Yang S, Lin F, Wang J. Prolonged exposure to environmental levels of microcystin-LR triggers ferroptosis in brain via the activation of Erk/MAPK signaling pathway. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2023; 267:115651. [PMID: 37913581 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.115651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2023] [Revised: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023]
Abstract
While existing research has illuminated the environmental dangers and neurotoxic effects of MC-LR exposure, the molecular underpinnings of brain damage from environmentally-relevant MC-LR exposure remain elusive. Employing a comprehensive approach involving RNA sequencing, histopathological examination, and biochemical analyses, we discovered genes differentially expressed and enriched in the ferroptosis pathway. This finding was associated with mitochondrial structural impairment and downregulation of Gpx4 and Slc7a11 in mice brains subjected to low-dose MC-LR over 180 days. Mirroring these findings, we noted reduced cell viability and GSH/GSSH ratio, along with an increased ROS level, in HT-22, BV-2, and bEnd.3 cells following MC-LR exposure. Intriguingly, MC-LR also amplified phospho-Erk levels in both in vivo and in vitro settings, and the effects were mitigated by treatment with PD98059, an Erk inhibitor. Taken together, our findings implicate the activation of the Erk/MAPK signaling pathway in MC-LR-induced ferroptosis, shedding valuable light on the neurotoxic mechanisms of MC-LR. These insights could guide future strategies to prevent MC-induced neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingyun Zhu
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Pingping Cao
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Suisui Yang
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Fan Lin
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.
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7
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MacKeigan PW, Zastepa A, Taranu ZE, Westrick JA, Liang A, Pick FR, Beisner BE, Gregory-Eaves I. Microcystin concentrations and congener composition in relation to environmental variables across 440 north-temperate and boreal lakes. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 884:163811. [PMID: 37121330 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.163811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Revised: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Understanding the environmental conditions and taxa that promote the occurrence of cyanobacterial toxins is imperative for effective management of lake ecosystems. Herein, we modeled total microcystin presence and concentrations with a broad suite of environmental predictors and cyanobacteria community data collected across 440 Canadian lakes using standardized methods. We also conducted a focused analysis targeting 14 microcystin congeners across 190 lakes, to examine how abiotic and biotic factors influence their relative proportions. Microcystins were detected in 30 % of lakes, with the highest total concentrations occurring in the most eutrophic lakes located in ecozones of central Canada. The two most commonly detected congeners were MC-LR (61 % of lakes) and MC-LA (37 % of lakes), while 11 others were detected more sporadically across waterbodies. Congener diversity peaked in central Canada where cyanobacteria biomass was highest. Using a zero-altered hurdle model, the probability of detecting microcystin was best explained by increasing Microcystis biomass, Daphnia and cyclopoid biomass, soluble reactive phosphorus, pH and wind. Microcystin concentrations increased with the biomass of Microcystis and other less dominant cyanobacteria taxa, as well as total phosphorus, cyclopoid copepod biomass, dissolved inorganic carbon and water temperature. Collectively, these models accounted for 34 % and 70 % of the variability, respectively. Based on a multiple factor analysis of microcystin congeners, cyanobacteria community data, environmental and zooplankton data, we found that the relative abundance of most congeners varied according to trophic state and were related to a combination of cyanobacteria genera biomasses and environmental variables.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul W MacKeigan
- Department of Biology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Interuniversity Research Group in Limnology (GRIL), Quebec, Canada.
| | - Arthur Zastepa
- Environment and Climate Change Canada, Canada Centre for Inland Waters, Burlington, Ontario, Canada
| | - Zofia E Taranu
- Aquatic Contaminants Research Division, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Judy A Westrick
- Department of Chemistry, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, United States
| | - Anqi Liang
- Environment and Climate Change Canada, Canada Centre for Inland Waters, Burlington, Ontario, Canada
| | - Frances R Pick
- Department of Biology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Beatrix E Beisner
- Interuniversity Research Group in Limnology (GRIL), Quebec, Canada; Department of Biological Sciences, University of Quebec at Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Irene Gregory-Eaves
- Department of Biology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Interuniversity Research Group in Limnology (GRIL), Quebec, Canada
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Zhao L, Geng Q, Corchis-Scott R, McKay RM, Norton J, Xagoraraki I. Targeting a free viral fraction enhances the early alert potential of wastewater surveillance for SARS-CoV-2: a methods comparison spanning the transition between delta and omicron variants in a large urban center. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1140441. [PMID: 37546328 PMCID: PMC10400354 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1140441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Wastewater surveillance has proven to be a valuable approach to monitoring the spread of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Recognizing the benefits of wastewater surveillance as a tool to support public health in tracking SARS-CoV-2 and other respiratory pathogens, numerous wastewater virus sampling and concentration methods have been tested for appropriate applications as well as their significance for actionability by public health practices. Methods Here, we present a 34-week long wastewater surveillance study that covers nearly 4 million residents of the Detroit (MI, United States) metropolitan area. Three primary concentration methods were compared with respect to recovery of SARS-CoV-2 from wastewater: Virus Adsorption-Elution (VIRADEL), polyethylene glycol precipitation (PEG), and polysulfone (PES) filtration. Wastewater viral concentrations were normalized using various parameters (flow rate, population, total suspended solids) to account for variations in flow. Three analytical approaches were implemented to compare wastewater viral concentrations across the three primary concentration methods to COVID-19 clinical data for both normalized and non-normalized data: Pearson and Spearman correlations, Dynamic Time Warping (DTW), and Time Lagged Cross Correlation (TLCC) and peak synchrony. Results It was found that VIRADEL, which captures free and suspended virus from supernatant wastewater, was a leading indicator of COVID-19 cases within the region, whereas PEG and PES filtration, which target particle-associated virus, each lagged behind the early alert potential of VIRADEL. PEG and PES methods may potentially capture previously shed and accumulated SARS-CoV-2 resuspended from sediments in the interceptors. Discussion These results indicate that the VIRADEL method can be used to enhance the early-warning potential of wastewater surveillance applications although drawbacks include the need to process large volumes of wastewater to concentrate sufficiently free and suspended virus for detection. While lagging the VIRADEL method for early-alert potential, both PEG and PES filtration can be used for routine COVID-19 wastewater monitoring since they allow a large number of samples to be processed concurrently while being more cost-effective and with rapid turn-around yielding results same day as collection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liang Zhao
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States
| | - Qiudi Geng
- Great Lakes Institute for Environmental Research, University of Windsor, Windsor, ON, Canada
| | - Ryland Corchis-Scott
- Great Lakes Institute for Environmental Research, University of Windsor, Windsor, ON, Canada
| | - Robert Michael McKay
- Great Lakes Institute for Environmental Research, University of Windsor, Windsor, ON, Canada
- Great Lakes Center for Fresh Waters and Human Health, Bowling Green State University, Bowling Green, OH, United States
| | - John Norton
- Great Lakes Water Authority, Detroit, MI, United States
| | - Irene Xagoraraki
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States
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9
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Aranda YN, Bhatt P, Ates N, Engel BA, Simsek H. Cyanophage-cyanobacterial interactions for sustainable aquatic environment. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 229:115728. [PMID: 36966999 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.115728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2023] [Revised: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Cyanobacteria are a type of bloom-forming phytoplankton that cause environmental problems in aquatic ecosystems worldwide. Cyanobacterial harmful algal blooms (cyanoHAB) often produce cyanotoxins that affect public health by contaminating surface waters and drinking water reservoirs. Conventional drinking water treatment plants are ineffective in treating cyanotoxins, even though some treatment methods are available. Therefore, innovative and advanced treatment methods are required to control cyanoHABs and their cyanotoxins. The goal of this review paper is to provide insight into the use of cyanophages as an effective form of biological control method for the removal of cyanoHABs in aquatic systems. Moreover, the review contains information on cyanobacterial blooms, cyanophage-cyanobacteria interactions, including infection mechanisms, as well as examples of different types of cyanobacteria and cyanophages. Moreover, the real-life application of cyanophages in marine and freshwater environments and the mode of action of cyanophages were compiled.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yolanys Nadir Aranda
- Department of Agricultural & Biological Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, 47906, USA
| | - Pankaj Bhatt
- Department of Agricultural & Biological Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, 47906, USA
| | - Nuray Ates
- Department of Environmental Engineering Department, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkiye
| | - Bernard A Engel
- Department of Agricultural & Biological Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, 47906, USA
| | - Halis Simsek
- Department of Agricultural & Biological Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, 47906, USA.
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10
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Ecological Dynamics of Broad- and Narrow-Host-Range Viruses Infecting the Bloom-Forming Toxic Cyanobacterium Microcystis aeruginosa. Appl Environ Microbiol 2023; 89:e0211122. [PMID: 36688685 PMCID: PMC9972985 DOI: 10.1128/aem.02111-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Microcystis aeruginosa is predicted to interact and coexist with diverse broad- and narrow-host-range viruses within a bloom; however, little is known about their affects on Microcystis population dynamics. Here, we developed a real-time PCR assay for the quantification of these viruses that have different host ranges. During the sampling period, total Microcystis abundance showed two peaks in May and August with a temporary decrease in June. The Microcystis population is largely divided into three phylotypes based on internal transcribed sequences (ITS; ITS types I to III). ITS I was the dominant phylotype (66% to 88%) except in June. Although the ITS II and III phylotypes were mostly less abundant, these phylotypes temporarily increased to approximately equivalent abundances of the ITS I population in June. During the same sampling period, the abundances of the broad-host-range virus MVGF_NODE331 increased from April to May and from July to October with a temporary decrease in June, in which its dynamics were in proportion to the increase of total Microcystis abundances regardless of changes in host ITS population composition. In contrast, the narrow-host-range viruses MVG_NODE620 and Ma-LMM01 were considerably less abundant than the broad-host-range virus and generally did not fluctuate in the environment. Considering that M. aeruginosa could increase the abundance and sustain the bloom under the prevalence of the broad-host-range virus, host abundant and diverse antiviral mechanisms might contribute to coexistence with its viruses. IMPORTANCE The bloom-forming toxic cyanobacterium Microcystis aeruginosa interacts with diverse broad- and narrow-host-range viruses. However, the dynamics of the Microcystis population (at the intraspecies level) and viruses with different host ranges remain unknown. Our real-time PCR assays unveiled that the broad-host-range virus gradually increased in abundance over the sampling period, in proportion to the increase in total Microcystis abundance regardless of changes in genotypic composition. The narrow-host-range viruses were considerably less abundant than the broad-host-range virus and did not generally fluctuate in the environment. The expansion and maintenance of the Microcystis bloom even under the increased infection by the broad-host-range virus suggested that highly abundant and diverse antiviral mechanisms allowed them to coexist with viruses under selective pressure. This paper expands our knowledge about the ecological dynamics of Microcystis viruses and provides potential insights into their coexistence with their host.
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11
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Agha R, Gerphagnon M, Schampera C, Rohrlack T, Fastner J, Wolinska J. Fate of hepatotoxin microcystin during infection of cyanobacteria by fungal chytrid parasites. HARMFUL ALGAE 2022; 118:102288. [PMID: 36195431 DOI: 10.1016/j.hal.2022.102288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2022] [Revised: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Chytrid parasites are increasingly recognized as ubiquitous and potent control agents of phytoplankton, including bloom-forming toxigenic cyanobacteria. In order to explore the fate of the cyanobacterial toxin microcystins (MCs) and assess potential upregulation of their production under parasite attack, a laboratory experiment was conducted to evaluate short- and long-term variation in extracellular and intracellular MC in the cyanobacteria Planktothrix agardhii and P. rubescens, both under chytrid infection and in the presence of lysates of previously infected cyanobacteria. MCs release under parasite infection was limited and not different to uninfected cyanobacteria, with extracellular toxin shares never exceeding 10%, substantially below those caused by mechanical lysis induced by a cold-shock. Intracellular MC contents in P. rubescens under infection were not significantly different from uninfected controls, whereas infected P. agardhii showed a 1.5-fold increase in intracellular MC concentrations, but this was detected within the first 48 hours after parasite inoculation and not later, indicating no substantial MC upregulation in cells being infected. The presence of lysates of previously infected cyanobacteria did not elicit higher intracellular MC contents in exposed cyanobacteria, speaking against a putative upregulation of toxin production induced via quorum sensing in response to parasite attack. These results indicate that chytrid epidemics can constitute a bloom decay mechanism that is not accompanied by massive release of toxins into the medium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramsy Agha
- Department of Evolutionary and Integrative Ecology, Leibniz Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Mélanie Gerphagnon
- Department of Evolutionary and Integrative Ecology, Leibniz Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries, Berlin, Germany
| | - Charlotte Schampera
- Department of Evolutionary and Integrative Ecology, Leibniz Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries, Berlin, Germany; Water Quality Engineering, Technical University of Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Thomas Rohrlack
- Norwegian University of LifeSciences (NMBU), Department of Environmental Sciences, Ås, Norway
| | - Jutta Fastner
- German Environment Agency, Section Protection of Drinking Water Resources, Schichauweg 58, 12307 Berlin
| | - Justyna Wolinska
- Department of Evolutionary and Integrative Ecology, Leibniz Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries, Berlin, Germany; Department of Biology, Chemistry, Pharmacy, Institute of Biology, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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12
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Cianci-Gaskill JA, Knott KK, O'Hearn R, Argerich A, Niswonger D, Wenzel J, Whittier JB, North RL. Microcystin accumulation in Sportfish from an agricultural reservoir differs among feeding guild, tissue type, and time of sampling. AQUATIC TOXICOLOGY (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2022; 250:106242. [PMID: 35878488 DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2022.106242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2021] [Revised: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Cyanobacterial blooms sometimes create secondary metabolites that can be transferred between trophic levels and accumulate in fish, but little is known about what time of year fish are most susceptible. Here, we examine microcystin in the muscle, liver, and kidney of bluegill and largemouth bass from an agricultural reservoir over 12 months. We identify which fish characteristics and water parameters best explain microcystin accumulation in fish tissues. Microcystin in bluegill was significantly higher than largemouth bass. In both species, microcystin was highest in livers (bluegill mean = 57.6 ng g - 1, largemouth bass mean = 71.8 ng g - 1 wet weight [ww]), then kidneys (bluegill mean = 27.1, largemouth bass mean = 22.7 ng g - 1 ww), followed by muscles (bluegill mean = 7.6, largemouth bass mean = 5.7 ng g - 1 ww). Adult bluegill feed on benthic macroinvertebrates and zooplankton, which may explain their higher microcystin concentrations compared to largemouth bass, which are primarily piscivorous. Harvest date emerged as the best predictor of microcystin in muscles and kidneys, with the highest concentrations occurring in April. Microcystin in water also emerged as a significant predictor, albeit much lower than harvest date, suggesting that low but persistent microcystin concentrations in water may result in accumulation of this cyanotoxin in fish. This study is the first to examine microcystin in fish from the North American Great Plains and one of only 5 studies that investigate microcystin in bluegill and largemouth bass. Additional investigation into the relationship between cyanobacteria and fish health is warranted, especially during spring when fish microcystin concentrations were highest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob A Cianci-Gaskill
- School of Natural Resources, College of Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources, University of Missouri, 103 Anheuser-Busch Natural Resources Building, Columbia, MO, United States.
| | - Katrina K Knott
- Central Regional Office and Conservation Research Center, Missouri Department of Conservation, 3500 East Gans Road, MO, United States
| | - Rebecca O'Hearn
- Central Regional Office and Conservation Research Center, Missouri Department of Conservation, 3500 East Gans Road, MO, United States
| | - Alba Argerich
- School of Natural Resources, College of Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources, University of Missouri, 103 Anheuser-Busch Natural Resources Building, Columbia, MO, United States
| | - Darby Niswonger
- Central Regional Office and Conservation Research Center, Missouri Department of Conservation, 3500 East Gans Road, MO, United States
| | - Jeff Wenzel
- Bureau of Environmental Epidemiology, Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, 930 Wildwood Drive, Jefferson City, MO, United States
| | - Joanna B Whittier
- School of Natural Resources, College of Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources, University of Missouri, 103 Anheuser-Busch Natural Resources Building, Columbia, MO, United States
| | - Rebecca L North
- School of Natural Resources, College of Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources, University of Missouri, 103 Anheuser-Busch Natural Resources Building, Columbia, MO, United States
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13
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Antosiak A, Šulčius S, Malec P, Tokodi N, Łobodzińska A, Dziga D. Cyanophage infections reduce photosynthetic activity and expression of CO 2 fixation genes in the freshwater bloom-forming cyanobacterium Aphanizomenon flos-aquae. HARMFUL ALGAE 2022; 116:102215. [PMID: 35710200 DOI: 10.1016/j.hal.2022.102215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2021] [Revised: 02/20/2022] [Accepted: 02/25/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Cyanobacteria play a significant role in ecosystem functioning as photosynthetic and CO2 fixing microorganisms. Whether and to what extent cyanophages alter these carbon and energy cycles in their cyanobacterial hosts is still poorly understood. In this study, we investigated changes in photosynthetic activity (PSII), expression of genes associated with the light phase of photosynthesis (psbA, petA, ndhK) and carbon metabolism (rbcL, zwf) as well as intracellular ATP and NADHP concentrations in freshwater bloom-forming filamentous cyanobacterium Aphanizomenon flos-aquae infected by cyanophage vB_AphaS-CL131. We found that PSII activity and expression level of rbcL genes, indicating potential for CO2 fixation, had decreased in response to cyanophage adsorption and DNA injection. During the period of viral DNA replication and assembly, PSII performance and gene expression remained at this decreased level and did not change significantly, indicating lack of transcriptional shutdown by the cyanophage. Combined, these observations suggest that although there is little to no interference between cyanophage DNA replication, host transcription and cellular metabolism, A. flos-aquae underwent a physiological state-shift toward lower efficiency of carbon and energy cycling. This further suggest potential cascading effect for co-occurring non-infected members of the microbial community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Antosiak
- Laboratory of Metabolomics, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 7, 30387 Krakow, Poland.
| | - Sigitas Šulčius
- Laboratory of Algology and Microbial Ecology, Nature Research Centre, Akademijos str. 2, 08412 Vilnius, Lithuania.
| | - Przemysław Malec
- Department of Plant Physiology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 7, 30387 Krakow, Poland.
| | - Nada Tokodi
- Laboratory of Metabolomics, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 7, 30387 Krakow, Poland; Department of Biology and Ecology, University of Novi Sad, Faculty of Sciences, Trg Dositeja Obradovića 3, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia.
| | - Antonia Łobodzińska
- Laboratory of Metabolomics, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 7, 30387 Krakow, Poland.
| | - Dariusz Dziga
- Laboratory of Metabolomics, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 7, 30387 Krakow, Poland.
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14
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Chaffin JD, Westrick JA, Furr E, Birbeck JA, Reitz LA, Stanislawczyk K, Li W, Weber PK, Bridgeman TB, Davis TW, Mayali X. Quantification of microcystin production and biodegradation rates in the western basin of Lake Erie. LIMNOLOGY AND OCEANOGRAPHY 2022; 67:1470-1483. [PMID: 36248197 PMCID: PMC9543754 DOI: 10.1002/lno.12096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Revised: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Cyanobacterial biomass forecasts currently cannot predict the concentrations of microcystin, one of the most ubiquitous cyanotoxins that threaten human and wildlife health globally. Mechanistic insights into how microcystin production and biodegradation by heterotrophic bacteria change spatially and throughout the bloom season can aid in toxin concentration forecasts. We quantified microcystin production and biodegradation during two growth seasons in two western Lake Erie sites with different physicochemical properties commonly plagued by summer Microcystis blooms. Microcystin production rates were greater with elevated nutrients than under ambient conditions and were highest nearshore during the initial phases of the bloom, and production rates were lower in later bloom phases. We examined biodegradation rates of the most common and toxic microcystin by adding extracellular stable isotope-labeled microcystin-LR (1 μg L-1), which remained stable in the abiotic treatment (without bacteria) with minimal adsorption onto sediment, but strongly decreased in all unaltered biotic treatments, suggesting biodegradation. Greatest biodegradation rates (highest of -8.76 d-1, equivalent to the removal of 99.98% in 18 h) were observed during peak bloom conditions, while lower rates were observed with lower cyanobacteria biomass. Cell-specific nitrogen incorporation from microcystin-LR by nanoscale imaging mass spectrometry showed that a small percentage of the heterotrophic bacterial community actively degraded microcystin-LR. Microcystin production and biodegradation rates, combined with the microcystin incorporation by single cells, suggest that microcystin predictive models could be improved by incorporating toxin production and biodegradation rates, which are influenced by cyanobacterial bloom stage (early vs. late bloom), nutrient availability, and bacterial community composition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin D. Chaffin
- F.T. Stone Laboratory and Ohio Sea GrantThe Ohio State UniversityPut‐In‐BayOhioUSA
| | - Judy A. Westrick
- Lumigen Instrument CenterWayne State UniversityDetroitMichiganUSA
| | - Elliot Furr
- Department of Biological SciencesBowling Green State UniversityBowling GreenOhioUSA
| | | | - Laura A. Reitz
- Department of Biological SciencesBowling Green State UniversityBowling GreenOhioUSA
- Present address:
Department of Earth and Environmental SciencesUniversity of MichiganAnn ArborMichiganUSA
| | - Keara Stanislawczyk
- F.T. Stone Laboratory and Ohio Sea GrantThe Ohio State UniversityPut‐In‐BayOhioUSA
| | - Wei Li
- Physical and Life Sciences DirectorateLawrence Livermore National LaboratoryLivermoreCaliforniaUSA
| | - Peter K. Weber
- Physical and Life Sciences DirectorateLawrence Livermore National LaboratoryLivermoreCaliforniaUSA
| | | | - Timothy W. Davis
- Department of Biological SciencesBowling Green State UniversityBowling GreenOhioUSA
| | - Xavier Mayali
- Physical and Life Sciences DirectorateLawrence Livermore National LaboratoryLivermoreCaliforniaUSA
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15
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Sukenik A, Kaplan A. Cyanobacterial Harmful Algal Blooms in Aquatic Ecosystems: A Comprehensive Outlook on Current and Emerging Mitigation and Control Approaches. Microorganisms 2021; 9:1472. [PMID: 34361909 PMCID: PMC8306311 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms9071472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2021] [Revised: 07/04/2021] [Accepted: 07/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
An intensification of toxic cyanobacteria blooms has occurred over the last three decades, severely affecting coastal and lake water quality in many parts of the world. Extensive research is being conducted in an attempt to gain a better understanding of the driving forces that alter the ecological balance in water bodies and of the biological role of the secondary metabolites, toxins included, produced by the cyanobacteria. In the long-term, such knowledge may help to develop the needed procedures to restore the phytoplankton community to the pre-toxic blooms era. In the short-term, the mission of the scientific community is to develop novel approaches to mitigate the blooms and thereby restore the ability of affected communities to enjoy coastal and lake waters. Here, we critically review some of the recently proposed, currently leading, and potentially emerging mitigation approaches in-lake novel methodologies and applications relevant to drinking-water treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Assaf Sukenik
- The Yigal Allon Kinneret Limnological Laboratory, Israel Oceanographic and Limnological Research, P.O. Box 447, Migdal 14950, Israel
| | - Aaron Kaplan
- Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, Edmond J. Safra Campus, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Givat Ram, Jerusalem 9190401, Israel;
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16
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Dick GJ, Duhaime MB, Evans JT, Errera RM, Godwin CM, Kharbush JJ, Nitschky HS, Powers MA, Vanderploeg HA, Schmidt KC, Smith DJ, Yancey CE, Zwiers CC, Denef VJ. The genetic and ecophysiological diversity of Microcystis. Environ Microbiol 2021; 23:7278-7313. [PMID: 34056822 DOI: 10.1111/1462-2920.15615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2021] [Revised: 05/24/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Microcystis is a cyanobacterium that forms toxic blooms in freshwater ecosystems around the world. Biological variation among taxa within the genus is apparent through genetic and phenotypic differences between strains and via the spatial and temporal distribution of strains in the environment, and this fine-scale diversity exerts strong influence over bloom toxicity. Yet we do not know how varying traits of Microcystis strains govern their environmental distribution, the tradeoffs and links between these traits, or how they are encoded at the genomic level. Here we synthesize current knowledge on the importance of diversity within Microcystis and on the genes and traits that likely underpin ecological differentiation of taxa. We briefly review spatial and environmental patterns of Microcystis diversity in the field and genetic evidence for cohesive groups within Microcystis. We then compile data on strain-level diversity regarding growth responses to environmental conditions and explore evidence for variation of community interactions across Microcystis strains. Potential links and tradeoffs between traits are identified and discussed. The resulting picture, while incomplete, highlights key knowledge gaps that need to be filled to enable new models for predicting strain-level dynamics, which influence the development, toxicity and cosmopolitan nature of Microcystis blooms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory J Dick
- Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.,Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Melissa B Duhaime
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Jacob T Evans
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Reagan M Errera
- National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration Great Lakes Environmental Research Lab, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Casey M Godwin
- School for Environment and Sustainability, Cooperative Institute for Great Lakes Research, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Jenan J Kharbush
- Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Helena S Nitschky
- Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - McKenzie A Powers
- Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Henry A Vanderploeg
- National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration Great Lakes Environmental Research Lab, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Kathryn C Schmidt
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Derek J Smith
- Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Colleen E Yancey
- Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Claire C Zwiers
- Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Vincent J Denef
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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17
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Isolation and Characterization of Rhizophydiales sp. (Chytridiomycota), Obligate Parasite of Planktothrix agardhii in a Laurentian Great Lakes Embayment. Appl Environ Microbiol 2021; 87:AEM.02308-20. [PMID: 33310722 PMCID: PMC7851699 DOI: 10.1128/aem.02308-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Planktothrix agardhii dominates the cyanobacterial harmful algal bloom community in Sandusky Bay, Lake Erie (USA) from May through September. This filamentous cyanobacterium is host to a known obligate parasite; the chytrid Rhizophydium sp. During the 2018 bloom season, by utilizing dilution and single filament isolation techniques, 7 chytrid and 12 P. agardhii strains were isolated from Sandusky Bay. These 7 chytrids and a selection of P. agardhii hosts were then characterized with respect to infection rates. Infections by the isolated chytrids were specific to Planktothrix planktonic species and were not found on other filamentous cyanobacterial taxa present in the bay (Aphanizomenon sp. and Cuspidothrix sp.). Even among the potential P. agardhii host strains, individual chytrid isolates had different degrees of infectivity and showed preference for different host isolates, suggesting possible ecological partitioning even within the same sample population. Examining mechanisms of chytrid pathogenesis, the zoospores displayed a swarming pattern to attack and fracture the host filament and create new infection sites at the trichome termini. Infections by these parasitic chytrids also led to a release of intracellular microcystin toxins from the hosts. Additionally, infections were dependent on media type, highlighting the importance of media choice on experimental outcomes. Media in which chytrid swarming was observed closely matched the ionic strength of the natural environment. Understanding pathogenesis by fungal parasites will assist future efforts aimed at determining environmental factors favoring loss mechanisms for Planktothrix agardhii-dominated blooms.IMPORTANCE Whereas many studies have focused on the factors contributing to the establishment and persistence of cyanobacterial harmful algal blooms (cHABs), few studies have examined bloom pathogenesis. Chytrid fungi infect cyanobacteria and stimulate food web interactions through manipulation of previously hard to digest filaments and the release of nutrients to support heterotrophic microbes. Specifically, chytrids infective on filamentous Planktothrix agardhii exhibit a species-specific infection that fragments trichomes into shorter units that can be consumed more easily by grazers. Chytrid zoospores also serve as a high-quality food source for the lower food web. Understanding host-pathogen relationships and mechanisms of pathogenesis on cyanobacteria will be necessary to effectively model the ecology of cHABs.
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Roles of Nutrient Limitation on Western Lake Erie CyanoHAB Toxin Production. Toxins (Basel) 2021; 13:toxins13010047. [PMID: 33435505 PMCID: PMC7828104 DOI: 10.3390/toxins13010047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2020] [Revised: 01/04/2021] [Accepted: 01/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Cyanobacterial harmful algal bloom (CyanoHAB) proliferation is a global problem impacting ecosystem and human health. Western Lake Erie (WLE) typically endures two highly toxic CyanoHABs during summer: a Microcystis spp. bloom in Maumee Bay that extends throughout the western basin, and a Planktothrix spp. bloom in Sandusky Bay. Recently, the USA and Canada agreed to a 40% phosphorus (P) load reduction to lessen the severity of the WLE blooms. To investigate phosphorus and nitrogen (N) limitation of biomass and toxin production in WLE CyanoHABs, we conducted in situ nutrient addition and 40% dilution microcosm bioassays in June and August 2019. During the June Sandusky Bay bloom, biomass production as well as hepatotoxic microcystin and neurotoxic anatoxin production were N and P co-limited with microcystin production becoming nutrient deplete under 40% dilution. During August, the Maumee Bay bloom produced microcystin under nutrient repletion with slight induced P limitation under 40% dilution, and the Sandusky Bay bloom produced anatoxin under N limitation in both dilution treatments. The results demonstrate the importance of nutrient limitation effects on microcystin and anatoxin production. To properly combat cyanotoxin and cyanobacterial biomass production in WLE, both N and P reduction efforts should be implemented in its watershed.
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Plaas HE, Paerl HW. Toxic Cyanobacteria: A Growing Threat to Water and Air Quality. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2021; 55:44-64. [PMID: 33334098 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.0c06653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
The global expansion of harmful cyanobacterial blooms (CyanoHABs) poses an increasing threat to public health. CyanoHABs are characterized by the production of toxic metabolites known as cyanotoxins. Human exposure to cyanotoxins is challenging to forecast, and perhaps the least understood exposure route is via inhalation. While the aerosolization of toxins from marine harmful algal blooms (HABs) has been well documented, the aerosolization of cyanotoxins in freshwater systems remains understudied. In recent years, spray aerosol (SA) produced in the airshed of the Laurentian Great Lakes (United States and Canada) has been characterized, suggesting that freshwater systems may impact atmospheric aerosol loading more than previously understood. Therefore, further investigation regarding the impact of CyanoHABs on human respiratory health is warranted. This review examines current research on the incorporation of cyanobacterial cells and cyanotoxins into SA of aquatic ecosystems which experience HABs. We present an overview of cyanotoxin fate in the environment, biological incorporation into SA, existing data on cyanotoxins in SA, relevant collection methods, and adverse health outcomes associated with cyanotoxin inhalation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haley E Plaas
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Gillings School of Global Public Health, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, United States
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Institute of Marine Sciences, Morehead City, NC 28557, United States
| | - Hans W Paerl
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Gillings School of Global Public Health, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, United States
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Institute of Marine Sciences, Morehead City, NC 28557, United States
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