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Brimer SK, Fischer EAJ, Beckstead R, White J, Cazaban C, Tatár-Kis T, Velkers FC, Elattrache J, Stegeman A. A vaccine programme comprising GA08 (GI-27) and Mass (GI-1) strains prevents DMV1639 (GI-17) infectious bronchitis virus transmission among broiler chickens. Avian Pathol 2024:1-13. [PMID: 39045705 DOI: 10.1080/03079457.2024.2383765] [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: 01/24/2024] [Revised: 07/17/2024] [Accepted: 07/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/25/2024]
Abstract
Effective control of infectious bronchitis is a challenge in commercial poultry operations due to the high transmissibility of the virus. Although multiple IBV lineages are circulating in the United States, the DMV1639-type IBV strain (GI-17) is currently the major circulating variant, creating production losses in the poultry industry. This study aimed to test whether the combination of a GA08 (GI-27) and a Mass-type (GI-1) IB vaccines could significantly reduce the transmission of a DMV1639-type (GI-17) field IBV strain in 4-week-old commercial broilers. Half of the birds were directly challenged, whereas the other half of the groupmates were put in contact 24 hours later. Two replicates of the same study setup, including 10 directly challenged and 10 contact birds per group, were run. Transmission of the challenge virus was significantly reduced in vaccinates (R = 0.0), whereas all unvaccinated birds became infected (R = 9.6). Reduced transmission of the DMV1639 IB challenge virus by the combined vaccination programme in broiler chickens was also accompanied by clinical protection. These data are important because prevention of IBV transmission by vaccination will result in overall reduced viral replication and consequently in reduced likelihood of genetic changes that can lead to new variants. This is the first published evidence of the successful transmission control of a DMV1639 IBV strain in chickens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean K Brimer
- Scientific Support and Investigation Unit, Ceva Animal Health, Lenexa, KS, USA
| | - Egil A J Fischer
- Department Population Health Sciences, Utrecht University, CL, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Robert Beckstead
- Scientific Support and Investigation Unit, Ceva Animal Health, Lenexa, KS, USA
| | - James White
- Scientific Support and Investigation Unit, Ceva Animal Health, Lenexa, KS, USA
| | - Christophe Cazaban
- Science and Investigation Department, Ceva Animal Health, Libourne, France
| | - Timea Tatár-Kis
- Scientific Support and Investigation Unit, Ceva Animal Health, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Francisca C Velkers
- Department Population Health Sciences, Utrecht University, CL, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - John Elattrache
- Science and Investigation Department, Ceva Animal Health, Libourne, France
| | - Arjan Stegeman
- Department Population Health Sciences, Utrecht University, CL, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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2
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Chen Y, Bin Q, Liu H, Xie Y, Wang S, Lu J, Ou W, Zhang M, Wang L, Yu K. A novel biosensing strategy on the dynamic and on-site detection of Vibrio coralliilyticus eDNA for coral health warnings. Bioelectrochemistry 2024; 158:108697. [PMID: 38554560 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioelechem.2024.108697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2023] [Revised: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/01/2024]
Abstract
Heat stress and coral diseases are the predominant factors causing the degradation of coral reef ecosystems. Over recent years, Vibrio coralliilyticus was identified as a temperature-dependent pathogen causing tissue lysis in Pocillopora damicornis and one of the primary pathogens causing bleaching and mortality in other corals. Yet current detection techniques for V. coralliilyticus rely primarily on qPCR and ddPCR, which cannot meet the requirements for non-invasive and real-time detection. Herein, we developed an effective electrochemical biosensor modified by an Au-MoS2/rGO (AMG) nanocomposites and a specific capture probe to dynamically detect V. coralliilyticus environment DNA (eDNA) in aquarium experiments, with a lower limit of detection (0.28 fM) for synthetic DNA and a lower limit of quantification (9.8 fg/µL, ∼0.86 copies/µL) for genomic DNA. Its reliability and accuracy were verified by comparison with the ddPCR method (P > 0.05). Notably, coral tissue started to lyse at only 29 °C when the concentration of V. coralliilyticus increased abruptly to 880 copies/µL, indicating the biosensor could reflect the types of pathogen and health risks of corals under heat stress. Overall, the novel and reliable electrochemical biosensing technology provides an efficient strategy for the on-site monitoring and early warning of coral health in the context of global warming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingzhan Chen
- School of Resources, Environment and Materials, School of Marine Sciences, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, School of Life Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China; Guangxi Laboratory on the Study of Coral Reefs in the South China Sea, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
| | - Qi Bin
- School of Resources, Environment and Materials, School of Marine Sciences, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, School of Life Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China; Guangxi Laboratory on the Study of Coral Reefs in the South China Sea, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
| | - Hongjie Liu
- School of Resources, Environment and Materials, School of Marine Sciences, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, School of Life Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
| | - Yuanyu Xie
- School of Resources, Environment and Materials, School of Marine Sciences, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, School of Life Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
| | - Shaopeng Wang
- School of Resources, Environment and Materials, School of Marine Sciences, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, School of Life Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
| | - Jie Lu
- School of Resources, Environment and Materials, School of Marine Sciences, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, School of Life Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
| | - Wenchao Ou
- School of Resources, Environment and Materials, School of Marine Sciences, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, School of Life Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China; Guangxi Laboratory on the Study of Coral Reefs in the South China Sea, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
| | - Man Zhang
- School of Resources, Environment and Materials, School of Marine Sciences, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, School of Life Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China; Guangxi Laboratory on the Study of Coral Reefs in the South China Sea, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China.
| | - Liwei Wang
- School of Resources, Environment and Materials, School of Marine Sciences, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, School of Life Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China; Guangxi Laboratory on the Study of Coral Reefs in the South China Sea, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China.
| | - Kefu Yu
- School of Resources, Environment and Materials, School of Marine Sciences, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, School of Life Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China; Guangxi Laboratory on the Study of Coral Reefs in the South China Sea, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China; Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), Guangzhou 511458, China
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3
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Sousa JF, Amaro HM, Ribeirinho-Soares S, Esteves AF, Salgado EM, Nunes OC, Pires JCM. Native Microalgae-Bacteria Consortia: A Sustainable Approach for Effective Urban Wastewater Bioremediation and Disinfection. Microorganisms 2024; 12:1421. [PMID: 39065189 PMCID: PMC11278754 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms12071421] [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: 06/20/2024] [Revised: 07/09/2024] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Urban wastewater is a significant by-product of human activities. Conventional urban wastewater treatment plants have limitations in their treatment, mainly concerning the low removal efficiency of conventional and emerging contaminants. Discharged wastewater also contains harmful microorganisms, posing risks to public health, especially by spreading antibiotic-resistant bacteria and genes. Therefore, this study assesses the potential of a native microalgae-bacteria system (MBS) for urban wastewater bioremediation and disinfection, targeting NH4+-N and PO43--P removal, coliform reduction, and antibiotic resistance gene mitigation. The MBS showed promising results, including a high specific growth rate (0.651 ± 0.155 d-1) and a significant average removal rate of NH4+-N and PO43--P (9.05 ± 1.24 mg L-1 d-1 and 0.79 ± 0.06 mg L-1 d-1, respectively). Microalgae-induced pH increase rapidly reduces coliforms (r > 0.9), including Escherichia coli, within 3 to 6 days. Notably, the prevalence of intI1 and the antibiotic resistance genes sul1 and blaTEM are significantly diminished, presenting the MBS as a sustainable approach for tertiary wastewater treatment to combat eutrophication and reduce waterborne disease risks and antibiotic resistance spread.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joana F. Sousa
- LEPABE—Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal; (J.F.S.); (H.M.A.); (S.R.-S.); (A.F.E.); (E.M.S.); (O.C.N.)
- ALiCE—Associate Laboratory in Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
| | - Helena M. Amaro
- LEPABE—Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal; (J.F.S.); (H.M.A.); (S.R.-S.); (A.F.E.); (E.M.S.); (O.C.N.)
- ALiCE—Associate Laboratory in Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
| | - Sara Ribeirinho-Soares
- LEPABE—Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal; (J.F.S.); (H.M.A.); (S.R.-S.); (A.F.E.); (E.M.S.); (O.C.N.)
- ALiCE—Associate Laboratory in Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
- LSRE-LCM—Laboratory of Separation and Reaction Engineering-Laboratory of Catalysis and Materials, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
| | - Ana F. Esteves
- LEPABE—Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal; (J.F.S.); (H.M.A.); (S.R.-S.); (A.F.E.); (E.M.S.); (O.C.N.)
- ALiCE—Associate Laboratory in Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
- LSRE-LCM—Laboratory of Separation and Reaction Engineering-Laboratory of Catalysis and Materials, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
| | - Eva M. Salgado
- LEPABE—Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal; (J.F.S.); (H.M.A.); (S.R.-S.); (A.F.E.); (E.M.S.); (O.C.N.)
- ALiCE—Associate Laboratory in Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
| | - Olga C. Nunes
- LEPABE—Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal; (J.F.S.); (H.M.A.); (S.R.-S.); (A.F.E.); (E.M.S.); (O.C.N.)
- ALiCE—Associate Laboratory in Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
| | - José C. M. Pires
- LEPABE—Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal; (J.F.S.); (H.M.A.); (S.R.-S.); (A.F.E.); (E.M.S.); (O.C.N.)
- ALiCE—Associate Laboratory in Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
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Melchior PP, Reiss E, Payne Z, Vuong N, Hovorka K, Lindsay HL, Diaz GR, Gaire T, Noyes N. Analysis of the northern pitcher plant (Sarracenia purpurea L.) phytotelm bacteriome throughout a temperate region growing season. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0306602. [PMID: 38995889 PMCID: PMC11244801 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0306602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024] Open
Abstract
The insectivorous Northern Pitcher Plant, Sarracenia purpurea, recruits a dynamic biotic community in the rainwater collected by its pitcher-shaped leaves. Insect capture and degradation within the pitcher fluid (phytotelma) has been well documented as a mechanism for supplementing the plant's nitrogen, phosphorous, and micronutrient requirements. Metagenomic studies have shown a diverse microbiome in this phytotelm environment, including taxa that contribute metabolically to prey digestion. In this investigation, we used high-throughput 16S rDNA sequencing and bioinformatics to analyze the S. purpurea phytotelm bacteriome as it changes through the growing season (May-September) in plants from the north-central region of the species' native range. Additionally, we used molecular techniques to detect and quantify bacterial nitrogenase genes (nifH) in all phytotelm samples to explore the hypothesis that diazotrophy is an additional mechanism of supplying biologically available nitrogen to S. purpurea. The results of this study indicate that while prokaryote diversity remains relatively stable in plants at different locations within our region, diversity changes significantly as the growing season progresses. Furthermore, nifH genes were detected at biologically significant concentrations in one hundred percent of samples, suggesting that nitrogen fixation may be an important contributor to the S. purpurea nutrient budget.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul P. Melchior
- Department of Biology, North Hennepin Community College, Brooklyn Park, Minnesota, United States of America
- Department of Biology, Bemidji State University, Bemidji, Minnesota, United States of America
- Department of Marine Science, Atlantic Technological University, Galway, Republic of Ireland
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Emma Reiss
- Department of Biology, North Hennepin Community College, Brooklyn Park, Minnesota, United States of America
- Department of Biology, Bemidji State University, Bemidji, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Zachary Payne
- Department of Biology, North Hennepin Community College, Brooklyn Park, Minnesota, United States of America
- Department of Biology, Bemidji State University, Bemidji, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Nhi Vuong
- Department of Biology, North Hennepin Community College, Brooklyn Park, Minnesota, United States of America
- Department of Biology, Bemidji State University, Bemidji, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Kari Hovorka
- Department of Biology, North Hennepin Community College, Brooklyn Park, Minnesota, United States of America
- Department of Biology, Bemidji State University, Bemidji, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Hunter L. Lindsay
- Department of Biology, North Hennepin Community College, Brooklyn Park, Minnesota, United States of America
- Department of Biology, Bemidji State University, Bemidji, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Gerardo R. Diaz
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Tara Gaire
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Noelle Noyes
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, Minnesota, United States of America
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5
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Govednik A, Eler K, Mihelič R, Suhadolc M. Mineral and organic fertilisation influence ammonia oxidisers and denitrifiers and nitrous oxide emissions in a long-term tillage experiment. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 928:172054. [PMID: 38569950 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.172054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Revised: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
Nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions from different agricultural systems have been studied extensively to understand the mechanisms underlying their formation. While a number of long-term field experiments have focused on individual agricultural practices in relation to N2O emissions, studies on the combined effects of multiple practices are lacking. This study evaluated the effect of different tillage [no-till (NT) vs. conventional plough tillage (CT)] in combination with fertilisation [mineral (MIN), compost (ORG), and unfertilised control (CON)] on seasonal N2O emissions and the underlying N-cycling microbial community in one maize growing season. Rainfall events after fertilisation, which resulted in increased soil water content, were the main triggers of the observed N2O emission peaks. The highest cumulative emissions were measured in MIN fertilisation, followed by ORG and CON fertilisation. In the period after the first fertilisation CT resulted in higher cumulative emissions than NT, while no significant effect of tillage was observed cumulatively across the entire season. A higher genetic potential for N2O emissions was observed under NT than CT, as indicated by an increased (nirK + nirS)/(nosZI + nosZII) ratio. The mentioned ratio under NT decreased in the order CON > MIN > ORG, indicating a higher N2O consumption potential in the NT-ORG treatment, which was confirmed in terms of cumulative emissions. The AOB/16S ratio was strongly affected by fertilisation and was higher in the MIN than in the ORG and CON treatments, regardless of the tillage system. Multiple regression has revealed that this ratio is one of the most important variables explaining cumulative N2O emissions, possibly reflecting the role of bacterial ammonia oxidisers in minerally fertilised soil. Although the AOB/16S ratio aligned well with the measured N2O emissions in our experimental field, the higher genetic potential for denitrification expressed by the (nirK + nirS)/(nosZI + nosZII) ratio in NT than CT was not realized in the form of increased emissions. Our results suggest that organic fertilisation in combination with NT shows a promising combination for mitigating N2O emissions; however, addressing the yield gap is necessary before incorporating it in recommendations for farmers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anton Govednik
- University of Ljubljana, Biotechnical Faculty, Agronomy Department, Jamnikarjeva 101, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Klemen Eler
- University of Ljubljana, Biotechnical Faculty, Agronomy Department, Jamnikarjeva 101, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Rok Mihelič
- University of Ljubljana, Biotechnical Faculty, Agronomy Department, Jamnikarjeva 101, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Marjetka Suhadolc
- University of Ljubljana, Biotechnical Faculty, Agronomy Department, Jamnikarjeva 101, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia.
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6
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Muhammad R, Boothman C, Song H, Lloyd JR, van Dongen BE. Assessing the impacts of oil contamination on microbial communities in a Niger Delta soil. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 926:171813. [PMID: 38513868 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.171813] [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: 12/08/2023] [Revised: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/17/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
Oil spills are a global challenge, contaminating the environment with organics and metals known to elicit toxic effects. Ecosystems within Nigeria's Niger Delta have suffered from prolonged severe spills for many decades but the level of impact on the soil microbial community structure and the potential for contaminant bioremediation remains unclear. Here, we assessed the extent/impact of an oil spill in this area 6 months after the accident on both the soil microbial community/diversity and the distribution of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon ring-hydroxylating dioxygenase (PAH-RHDGNα) genes, responsible for encoding enzymes involved in the degradation of PAHs, across the impacted area. Analyses confirmed the presence of oil contamination, including metals such as Cr and Ni, across the whole impacted area and at depth. The contamination impacted on the microbial community composition, resulting in a lower diversity in all contaminated soils. Gamma-, Delta-, Alpha- proteobacteria and Acidobacteriia dominated 16S rRNA gene sequences across the contaminated area, while Ktedonobacteria dominated the non-contaminated soils. The PAH-RHDαGN genes were only detected in the contaminated area, highlighting a clear relationship with the oil contamination/hydrocarbon metabolism. Correlation analysis indicated significant positive relationships between the oil contaminants (organics, Cr and Ni), PAH-RHDαGN gene, and the presence of bacteria/archaea such as Anaerolinea, Spirochaetia Bacteroidia Thermoplasmata, Methanomicrobia, and Methanobacteria indicating that the oil contamination not only impacted the microbial community/diversity present, but that the microbes across the impacted area and at depth were potentially playing an important role in degrading the oil contamination present. These findings provide new insights on the level of oil contamination remaining 6 months after an oil spill, its impacts on indigenous soil microbial communities and their potential for in situ bioremediation within a Niger Delta's ecosystem. It highlights the strength of using a cross-disciplinary approach to assess the extent of oil pollution in a single study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rakiya Muhammad
- Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences and Williamson Research Centre for Molecular Environmental Science, University of Manchester, M13 9PL, UK
| | - Christopher Boothman
- Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences and Williamson Research Centre for Molecular Environmental Science, University of Manchester, M13 9PL, UK
| | - Hokyung Song
- Division of Life Sciences, Korea Polar Research Institute, 26 Songdomirae-ro, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon 21990, Republic of Korea
| | - Jonathan R Lloyd
- Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences and Williamson Research Centre for Molecular Environmental Science, University of Manchester, M13 9PL, UK
| | - Bart E van Dongen
- Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences and Williamson Research Centre for Molecular Environmental Science, University of Manchester, M13 9PL, UK.
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7
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Du Z, Behrens SF. Effect of target gene sequence evenness and dominance on real-time PCR quantification of artificial sulfate-reducing microbial communities. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0299930. [PMID: 38452018 PMCID: PMC10919606 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0299930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Quantitative real-time PCR of phylogenetic and functional marker genes is among the most commonly used techniques to quantify the abundance of microbial taxa in environmental samples. However, in most environmental applications, the approach is a rough assessment of population abundance rather than an exact absolute quantification method because of PCR-based estimation biases caused by multiple factors. Previous studies on these technical issues have focused on primer or template sequence features or PCR reaction conditions. However, how target gene sequence characteristics (e.g., evenness and dominance) in environmental samples affect qPCR quantifications has not been well studied. Here, we compared three primer sets targeting the beta subunit of the dissimilatory sulfite reductase (dsrB) to investigate qPCR quantification performance under different target gene sequence evenness and dominance conditions using artificial gBlock template mixtures designed accordingly. Our results suggested that the qPCR quantification performance of all tested primer sets was determined by the comprehensive effect of the target gene sequence evenness and dominance in environmental samples. Generally, highly degenerate primer sets have equivalent or better qPCR quantification results than a more target-specific primer set. Low template concentration in this study (~105 copies/L) will exaggerate the qPCR quantification results difference among tested primer sets. Improvements to the accuracy and reproducibility of qPCR assays for gene copy number quantification in environmental microbiology and microbial ecology studies should be based on prior knowledge of target gene sequence information acquired by metagenomic analysis or other approaches, careful selection of primer sets, and proper reaction conditions optimization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhe Du
- Center for Environmental Health Risk Assessment and Research, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, China
- The BioTechnology Institute, University of Minnesota Twin Cities, St. Paul, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Sebastian F. Behrens
- The BioTechnology Institute, University of Minnesota Twin Cities, St. Paul, Minnesota, United States of America
- Department of Civil, Environmental, and Geo-Engineering, University of Minnesota Twin Cities, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States of America
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8
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Wei Y, Abbasi SMT, Mehmood N, Li L, Qu F, Cheng G, Hu D, Ho YP, Yuan W, Ho HP. Deep-qGFP: A Generalist Deep Learning Assisted Pipeline for Accurate Quantification of Green Fluorescent Protein Labeled Biological Samples in Microreactors. SMALL METHODS 2024; 8:e2301293. [PMID: 38010980 DOI: 10.1002/smtd.202301293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Revised: 11/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
Absolute quantification of biological samples provides precise numerical expression levels, enhancing accuracy, and performance for rare templates. Current methodologies, however, face challenges-flow cytometers are costly and complex, whereas fluorescence imaging, relying on software or manual counting, is time-consuming and error-prone. It is presented that Deep-qGFP, a deep learning-aided pipeline for the automated detection and classification of green fluorescent protein (GFP) labeled microreactors, enables real-time absolute quantification. This approach achieves an accuracy of 96.23% and accurately measures the sizes and occupancy status of microreactors using standard laboratory fluorescence microscopes, providing precise template concentrations. Deep-qGFP demonstrates remarkable speed, quantifying over 2000 microreactors across ten images in just 2.5 seconds, with a dynamic range of 56.52-1569.43 copies µL-1 . The method demonstrates impressive generalization capabilities, successfully applied to various GFP-labeling scenarios, including droplet-based, microwell-based, and agarose-based applications. Notably, Deep-qGFP is the first all-in-one image analysis algorithm successfully implemented in droplet digital polymerase chain reaction (PCR), microwell digital PCR, droplet single-cell sequencing, agarose digital PCR, and bacterial quantification, without requiring transfer learning, modifications, or retraining. This makes Deep-qGFP readily applicable in biomedical laboratories and holds potential for broader clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanyuan Wei
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, 999 077, China
| | - Syed Muhammad Tariq Abbasi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, 999 077, China
| | - Nawaz Mehmood
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, 999 077, China
| | - Luoquan Li
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, 999 077, China
| | - Fuyang Qu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, 999 077, China
| | - Guangyao Cheng
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, 999 077, China
| | - Dehua Hu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, 999 077, China
| | - Yi-Ping Ho
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, 999 077, China
- Centre for Biomaterials, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, 999 077, China
- Hong Kong Branch of CAS Center for Excellence in Animal Evolution and Genetics, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, 999 077, China
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, 999 077, China
| | - Wu Yuan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, 999 077, China
| | - Ho-Pui Ho
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, 999 077, China
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9
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Sami AJ, Bilal S, Alam S, Khalid M, Mangat HA. A Method Based on a Modified Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization (FISH) Approach for the Sensing of Staphylococcus aureus from Nasal Samples. Appl Biochem Biotechnol 2024:10.1007/s12010-024-04892-9. [PMID: 38421570 DOI: 10.1007/s12010-024-04892-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Staphylococcus aureus is a major source of bacteremia and develops several complications, causing high morbidity and mortality. Rapid identification and detection of these bacteria have become an important issue for biomedical applications. Herein, an optical method based on a modified fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) approach has been established using DNA hybridization technology for the swift detection of pathogenic S. aureus from clinical samples. The platform was constructed with single-stranded genomic DNA and microbial colony by directly immobilizing in agarose-polyvinyl alcohol (AG-PVA) hydrogel on the surface of a glass slide. The probe was based on an elongation factor encoding the tuf gene, which binds with equal affinity to single-stranded DNA targets as well as surface proteins on microbial cells. The probe was labeled with MFP488 fluorophore having excitation wavelength 501 nm. The hybridization of the labeled probe with the target DNA and surface proteins was carried out under optimal FISH conditions, and the detection of bacteria was based on temporary field excitation of the labeled probe under a fluorescence microscope. Positive hybridization signals were detected by high fluorescence intensity. In comparison to genomic DNA, robust signals were observed with microbial cells, perhaps due to the moonlighting effect of the elongation factor Tu (Ef-Tu) expressed on the surface of bacterial cells. The applicability of the developed platform was tested on pediatric nasal samples, and results were verified with real-time qPCR. The designed platform is stable and sensitive, and after detailed optimization, a portable structure for on-site detection of pathogenic bacteria from clinical samples can be produced.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amtul Jamil Sami
- School of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, University of the Punjab, Lahore, 54590, Pakistan.
- Center for Biosensor Research and Development, University of the Punjab, Lahore, 54590, Pakistan.
| | - Sehrish Bilal
- School of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, University of the Punjab, Lahore, 54590, Pakistan
- Department of Biochemistry, Gulab Devi Educational Complex, Lahore, 54600, Pakistan
| | - Sadaf Alam
- School of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, University of the Punjab, Lahore, 54590, Pakistan
| | - Madeeha Khalid
- School of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, University of the Punjab, Lahore, 54590, Pakistan
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Okara, Okara, 56300, Pakistan
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10
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Aditya S, Aggarwal R, Bashyal BM, Gurjar MS, Saharan MS, Aggarwal S. Unraveling the dynamics of wheat leaf blight complex: isolation, characterization, and insights into pathogen population under Indian conditions. Front Microbiol 2024; 15:1287721. [PMID: 38450160 PMCID: PMC10915091 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2024.1287721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Wheat, a staple food crop for 35% of the global population, faces a threat from Helminthosporium leaf blight (HLB), a complex of spot blotch (Bipolaris sorokiniana) and tan spot (Pyrenophora-tritici-repentis) diseases under warm and humid conditions. However, in Indian conditions, the knowledge of existing pathogen populations associated with the HLB complex is limited and largely dominated by only B. sorokiniana (spot blotch). To address this, diseased samples were collected from all six wheat growing zones during 2020-2022. The pathogenic species were identified through in-depth morphological characterization, supplemented with ITS-rDNA and GAPDH sequence analysis, a diagnostic SCAR marker, and pathogenicity studies on two wheat varieties: Sonalika and HD2733. The 32 isolates collected from 10 different states consist of B. spicifera (12.5% of all isolates), Exserohilum rostratum (9.3%), Bipolaris oryzae (3.1%), and B. sorokiniana (75%). B. sorokiniana exhibited the highest disease severity on both varieties. Other lesser-known pathogenic species also produced comparable disease severity as B. sorokiniana isolates and, therefore are economically important. Unraveling pathogen composition and biology aids in disease control and resistance breeding. Our study highlights economically impactful and lesser-known pathogenic species causing wheat leaf blight/spot blotch in India, guiding both current management and future resistance breeding strategies in plant pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanghmitra Aditya
- Fungal Molecular Biology Laboratory, Division of Plant Pathology, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, India
| | - Rashmi Aggarwal
- Fungal Molecular Biology Laboratory, Division of Plant Pathology, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, India
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11
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Wei J, Luo J, Yang F, Dai W, Pan X, Luo M. Identification of commensal gut bacterial strains with lipogenic effects contributing to NAFLD in children. iScience 2024; 27:108861. [PMID: 38313052 PMCID: PMC10835367 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.108861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Revised: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Gut microbiota is known to have a significant impact on nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), particularly in children with obesity. However, the specific functions of microbiota at the strain level in this population have not been fully elucidated. In this study, we successfully isolated and identified several commensal gut bacterial strains that were dominant in children with obesity and NAFLD. Among these, four novel isolates were found to have significant lipogenic effects in vitro. These strains exhibited a potential link to hepatocyte steatosis by regulating the expression of genes involved in lipid metabolism and inflammation. Moreover, a larger cohort analysis confirmed that these identified bacterial strains were enriched in the NAFLD group. The integrated analysis of these strains effectively distinguished NASH from NAFL. These four strains might serve as potential biomarkers in children with NAFLD. These findings provided new insights into the exploration of therapeutic targets for NAFLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Wei
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Clinical Epidemiology, Xiangya School of Public Health, Central South University, Changsha 410078, Hunan, China
| | - Jiayou Luo
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Clinical Epidemiology, Xiangya School of Public Health, Central South University, Changsha 410078, Hunan, China
| | - Fei Yang
- Hunan Province Key Laboratory of Typical Environmental Pollution and Health Hazards, School of Public Health, University of South China, Hengyang 421001, Hunan, China
| | - Wen Dai
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Clinical Epidemiology, Xiangya School of Public Health, Central South University, Changsha 410078, Hunan, China
| | - Xiongfeng Pan
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Clinical Epidemiology, Xiangya School of Public Health, Central South University, Changsha 410078, Hunan, China
| | - Miyang Luo
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Clinical Epidemiology, Xiangya School of Public Health, Central South University, Changsha 410078, Hunan, China
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12
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Dehghani A, Khajepour F, Dehghani M, Razmara E, Zangouey M, Abadi MFS, Nezhad RBA, Dabiri S, Garshasbi M. Hsa-miR-194-5p and hsa-miR-195-5p are down-regulated expressed in high dysplasia HPV-positive Pap smear samples compared to normal cytology HPV-positive Pap smear samples. BMC Infect Dis 2024; 24:182. [PMID: 38342922 PMCID: PMC10860252 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-023-08942-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/13/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The human papillomavirus (HPV) infection may affect the miRNA expression pattern during cervical cancer (CC) development. To demonstrate the association between high-risk HPVs and the development of cervix dysplasia, we examined the expression patterns of hsa-miR-194-5p and hsa-miR-195-5p in Pap smear samples from southeast Iranian women. We compared samples that were HPV-positive but showed no abnormality in the cytological examination to samples that were HPV-positive and had severe dysplasia. METHODS Pap smear samples were obtained from 60 HPV-positive (HPV-16/18) patients with histologically confirmed severe dysplasia (cervical intra-epithelial neoplasia (CIN 3) or carcinoma in situ) and the normal cytology group. The expression of hsa-miR-194-5p and hsa-miR-195-5p was analyzed by real-time quantitative PCR, using specific stem-loop primers and U6 snRNA as the internal reference gene. Clinicopathological features were associated with miRNA expression levels. Furthermore, functional enrichment analysis was conducted using in silico tools. The Kaplan-Meier survival method was also obtained to discriminate survival-significant candidate miRNAs in CC, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were constructed to assess the diagnostic value. RESULTS Compared to HPV-positive cytologically normal Pap smear samples, hsa-miR-194-5p and hsa-miR-195-5p relative expression decreased significantly in HPV-positive patients with a severe dysplasia Pap smear. Kaplan-Meier analysis indicated a significant association between the miR-194 decrease and poor CC survival. In essence, ROC curve analysis showed that miR-194-5p and miR-195-5p could serve as valuable markers for the development of cervix dysplasia in individuals who are positive for high-risk HPVs. CONCLUSIONS This study revealed that hsa-miR-194-5p and hsa-miR-195-5p may possess tumor suppressor capabilities in the context of cervical dysplasia progression. However, it remains uncertain whether these microRNAs are implicated in the transition of patients with high dysplasia to cervical cancer. We also showed the potential capability of candidate miRNAs as novel diagnostic biomarkers related to cervical dysplasia progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Dehghani
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fardin Khajepour
- Department of Immunology, Afzalipour Faculty of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mohammad Dehghani
- Pathology and Stem Cell Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Ehsan Razmara
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Mohammadreza Zangouey
- Pathology and Stem Cell Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | | | - Reza Bahram Abadi Nezhad
- Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran
| | - Shahriar Dabiri
- Pathology and Stem Cell Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran.
| | - Masoud Garshasbi
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran.
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Zhou T, Wu J, Tang H, Liu D, Jeon BH, Jin W, Wang Y, Zheng Y, Khan A, Han H, Li X. Enhancing tumor-specific recognition of programmable synthetic bacterial consortium for precision therapy of colorectal cancer. NPJ Biofilms Microbiomes 2024; 10:6. [PMID: 38245564 PMCID: PMC10799920 DOI: 10.1038/s41522-024-00479-8] [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: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Probiotics hold promise as a potential therapy for colorectal cancer (CRC), but encounter obstacles related to tumor specificity, drug penetration, and dosage adjustability. In this study, genetic circuits based on the E. coli Nissle 1917 (EcN) chassis were developed to sense indicators of tumor microenvironment and control the expression of therapeutic payloads. Integration of XOR gate amplify gene switch into EcN biosensors resulted in a 1.8-2.3-fold increase in signal output, as confirmed by mathematical model fitting. Co-culturing programmable EcNs with CRC cells demonstrated a significant reduction in cellular viability ranging from 30% to 50%. This approach was further validated in a mouse subcutaneous tumor model, revealing 47%-52% inhibition of tumor growth upon administration of therapeutic strains. Additionally, in a mouse tumorigenesis model induced by AOM and DSS, the use of synthetic bacterial consortium (SynCon) equipped with multiple sensing modules led to approximately 1.2-fold increased colon length and 2.4-fold decreased polyp count. Gut microbiota analysis suggested that SynCon maintained the abundance of butyrate-producing bacteria Lactobacillaceae NK4A136, whereas reducing the level of gut inflammation-related bacteria Bacteroides. Taken together, engineered EcNs confer the advantage of specific recognition of CRC, while SynCon serves to augment the synergistic effect of this approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tuoyu Zhou
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Cell Activities and Stress Adaptations, School of Life Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Jingyuan Wu
- The First Clinical Medical College of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Haibo Tang
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Cell Activities and Stress Adaptations, School of Life Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Dali Liu
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Byong-Hun Jeon
- Department of Earth Resources and Environmental Engineering, Hanyang University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Weilin Jin
- Medical Frontier Innovation Research Center, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Yiqing Wang
- The First Clinical Medical College of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | | | - Aman Khan
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Cell Activities and Stress Adaptations, School of Life Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Huawen Han
- State Key Laboratory of Grassland Agro-ecosystems, College of Pastoral Agricultural Science and Technology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China.
| | - Xiangkai Li
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Cell Activities and Stress Adaptations, School of Life Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China.
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Silva I, Alves M, Malheiro C, Silva ARR, Loureiro S, Henriques I, González-Alcaraz MN. Structural and Functional Shifts in the Microbial Community of a Heavy Metal-Contaminated Soil Exposed to Short-Term Changes in Air Temperature, Soil Moisture and UV Radiation. Genes (Basel) 2024; 15:107. [PMID: 38254996 PMCID: PMC10815596 DOI: 10.3390/genes15010107] [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: 12/20/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 01/14/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
The interplay between metal contamination and climate change may exacerbate the negative impact on the soil microbiome and, consequently, on soil health and ecosystem services. We assessed the response of the microbial community of a heavy metal-contaminated soil when exposed to short-term (48 h) variations in air temperature, soil humidity or ultraviolet (UV) radiation in the absence and presence of Enchytraeus crypticus (soil invertebrate). Each of the climate scenarios simulated significantly altered at least one of the microbial parameters measured. Irrespective of the presence or absence of invertebrates, the effects were particularly marked upon exposure to increased air temperature and alterations in soil moisture levels (drought and flood scenarios). The observed effects can be partly explained by significant alterations in soil properties such as pH, dissolved organic carbon, and water-extractable heavy metals, which were observed for all scenarios in comparison to standard conditions. The occurrence of invertebrates mitigated some of the impacts observed on the soil microbial community, particularly in bacterial abundance, richness, diversity, and metabolic activity. Our findings emphasize the importance of considering the interplay between climate change, anthropogenic pressures, and soil biotic components to assess the impact of climate change on terrestrial ecosystems and to develop and implement effective management strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel Silva
- CEF (Center for Functional Ecology), Associate Laboratory TERRA, Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of Coimbra, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal;
- CESAM (Centre for Marine and Environmental Studies), Department of Biology, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal; (C.M.); (A.R.R.S.); (S.L.)
| | - Marta Alves
- CBQF (Center for Biotechnology and Fine Chemistry), School of Biotechnology, Portuguese Catholic University, 4169-005 Porto, Portugal;
| | - Catarina Malheiro
- CESAM (Centre for Marine and Environmental Studies), Department of Biology, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal; (C.M.); (A.R.R.S.); (S.L.)
| | - Ana Rita R. Silva
- CESAM (Centre for Marine and Environmental Studies), Department of Biology, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal; (C.M.); (A.R.R.S.); (S.L.)
| | - Susana Loureiro
- CESAM (Centre for Marine and Environmental Studies), Department of Biology, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal; (C.M.); (A.R.R.S.); (S.L.)
| | - Isabel Henriques
- CEF (Center for Functional Ecology), Associate Laboratory TERRA, Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of Coimbra, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal;
| | - M. Nazaret González-Alcaraz
- CESAM (Centre for Marine and Environmental Studies), Department of Biology, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal; (C.M.); (A.R.R.S.); (S.L.)
- Department of Agricultural Engineering of the E.T.S.I.A., Technical University of Cartagena, 30203 Cartagena, Spain
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Agrawal A, Yang Z, Blenner M. Engineering Yarrowia lipolytica for the biosynthesis of geraniol. Metab Eng Commun 2023; 17:e00228. [PMID: 38029016 PMCID: PMC10652127 DOI: 10.1016/j.mec.2023.e00228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2023] [Revised: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Geraniol is a monoterpene with wide applications in the food, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical industries. Microbial production has largely used model organisms lacking favorable properties for monoterpene production. In this work, we produced geraniol in metabolically engineered Yarrowia lipolytica. First, two plant-derived geraniol synthases (GES) from Catharanthus roseus (Cr) and Valeriana officinalis (Vo) were tested based on previous reports of activity. Both wild type and truncated mutants of GES (without signal peptide targeting chloroplast) were examined by co-expressing with MVA pathway enzymes tHMG1 and IDI1. Truncated CrGES (tCrGES) produced the most geraniol and thus was used for further experimentation. The initial strain was obtained by overexpression of the truncated HMG1, IDI and tCrGES. The acetyl-CoA precursor pool was enhanced by overexpressing mevalonate pathway genes such as ERG10, HMGS or MVK, PMK. The final strain overexpressing 3 copies of tCrGES and single copies of ERG10, HMGS, tHMG1, IDI produced approximately 1 g/L in shake-flask fermentation. This is the first demonstration of geraniol production in Yarrowia lipolytica and the highest de novo titer reported to date in yeast.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayushi Agrawal
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, 590 Avenue 1743, University of Delaware, Newark, DE, 19713, USA
| | - Zhiliang Yang
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Clemson University, 206 S. Palmetto Blvd., Clemson, SC, 29634, USA
| | - Mark Blenner
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, 590 Avenue 1743, University of Delaware, Newark, DE, 19713, USA
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Clemson University, 206 S. Palmetto Blvd., Clemson, SC, 29634, USA
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Teixeira AM, Vaz-Moreira I, Calderón-Franco D, Weissbrodt D, Purkrtova S, Gajdos S, Dottorini G, Nielsen PH, Khalifa L, Cytryn E, Bartacek J, Manaia CM. Candidate biomarkers of antibiotic resistance for the monitoring of wastewater and the downstream environment. WATER RESEARCH 2023; 247:120761. [PMID: 37918195 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2023.120761] [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: 04/05/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
Urban wastewater treatment plants (UWTPs) are essential for reducing the pollutants load and protecting water bodies. However, wastewater catchment areas and UWTPs emit continuously antibiotic resistant bacteria (ARB) and antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs), with recognized impacts on the downstream environments. Recently, the European Commission recommended to monitor antibiotic resistance in UWTPs serving more than 100 000 population equivalents. Antibiotic resistance monitoring in environmental samples can be challenging. The expected complexity of these systems can jeopardize the interpretation capacity regarding, for instance, wastewater treatment efficiency, impacts of environmental contamination, or risks due to human exposure. Simplified monitoring frameworks will be essential for the successful implementation of analytical procedures, data analysis, and data sharing. This study aimed to test a set of biomarkers representative of ARG contamination, selected based on their frequent human association and, simultaneously, rare presence in pristine environments. In addition to the 16S rRNA gene, ten potential biomarkers (intI1, sul1, ermB, ermF, aph(3'')-Ib, qacEΔ1, uidA, mefC, tetX, and crAssphage) were monitored in DNA extracts (n = 116) from raw wastewater, activated sludge, treated wastewater, and surface water (upstream and downstream of UWTPs) samples collected in the Czech Republic, Denmark, Israel, the Netherlands, and Portugal. Each biomarker was sensitive enough to measure decreases (on average by up to 2.5 log-units gene copy/mL) from raw wastewater to surface water, with variations in the same order of magnitude as for the 16S rRNA gene. The use of the 10 biomarkers allowed the typing of water samples whose origin or quality could be predicted in a blind test. The results show that, based on appropriate biomarkers, qPCR can be used for a cost-effective and technically accessible approach to monitoring wastewater and the downstream environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Margarida Teixeira
- CBQF - Centro de Biotecnologia e Química Fina - Laboratório Associado, Escola Superior de Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica Portuguesa, Rua de Diogo Botelho 1327, Porto 4169-005, Portugal
| | - Ivone Vaz-Moreira
- CBQF - Centro de Biotecnologia e Química Fina - Laboratório Associado, Escola Superior de Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica Portuguesa, Rua de Diogo Botelho 1327, Porto 4169-005, Portugal
| | - David Calderón-Franco
- Department of Biotechnology, Environmental Biotechnology Section, Delft University of Technology, van der Maasweg 9, Delft, HZ 2629, the Netherlands
| | - David Weissbrodt
- Department of Biotechnology, Environmental Biotechnology Section, Delft University of Technology, van der Maasweg 9, Delft, HZ 2629, the Netherlands; Department of Biotechnology and Food Science, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim 7034, Norway
| | - Sabina Purkrtova
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Faculty of Food and Biochemical Technology, University of Chemistry and Technology Prague, 5 Technická, Prague 166 28, Czech Republic
| | - Stanislav Gajdos
- Department of Water Technology and Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Environmental Technology, University of Chemistry and Technology Prague, 5 Technická, Prague 166 28, Czech Republic
| | - Giulia Dottorini
- Department of Chemistry and Bioscience, Center for Microbial Communities, Aalborg University, Aalborg 9220, Denmark
| | - Per Halkjær Nielsen
- Department of Chemistry and Bioscience, Center for Microbial Communities, Aalborg University, Aalborg 9220, Denmark
| | - Leron Khalifa
- Institute of Soil, Water and Environmental Sciences, The Volcani Institute, Agricultural Research Organization, P.O Box 15159, Rishon Lezion 7528809, Israel
| | - Eddie Cytryn
- Institute of Soil, Water and Environmental Sciences, The Volcani Institute, Agricultural Research Organization, P.O Box 15159, Rishon Lezion 7528809, Israel
| | - Jan Bartacek
- Department of Water Technology and Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Environmental Technology, University of Chemistry and Technology Prague, 5 Technická, Prague 166 28, Czech Republic
| | - Célia M Manaia
- CBQF - Centro de Biotecnologia e Química Fina - Laboratório Associado, Escola Superior de Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica Portuguesa, Rua de Diogo Botelho 1327, Porto 4169-005, Portugal.
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Ferreira C, Luzietti L, Ribeirinho-Soares S, Nunes OC, Vaz-Moreira I, Manaia CM. Survival of clinical and environmental carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae ST147 in surface water. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 237:116928. [PMID: 37607624 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.116928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Revised: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/24/2023]
Abstract
Carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae represents a healthcare threat, already disseminated in the environment. This study aimed to compare the behaviour of a clinical and an environmental K. pneumoniae strain (multilocus sequence type ST147) harbouring the gene blaKPC-3 in water. The abundance of the genes phoE (specific for K. pneumoniae) and blaKPC-3 was monitored by quantitative PCR in urban runoff water and sterile ultra-pure water microcosms, aiming to assess survival, blaKPC-3 persistence, and the effect of the native water microbiota. In sterile ultra-pure water, the abundance of cultivable K. pneumoniae and blaKPC-3 gene did not change over the incubation period (8 days). In contrast, in urban runoff, the K. pneumoniae and the genes phoE and blaKPC genes decreased by up to 3 log-units. These results suggest that K. pneumoniae were outcompeted by the native microbiota of the urban runoff water and that the decay of blaKPC-3 gene was due to host death, rather than to gene loss. The study highlights that although native microbiota is essential to hamper the persistence of non-native bacteria, carbapenemase producing K. pneumoniae can survive in urban runoff water for at least one week.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catarina Ferreira
- Universidade Católica Portuguesa, CBQF - Centro de Biotecnologia e Química Fina - Laboratório Associado, Escola Superior de Biotecnologia, Rua de Diogo Botelho 1327, 4169-005, Porto, Portugal
| | - Lara Luzietti
- Universidade Católica Portuguesa, CBQF - Centro de Biotecnologia e Química Fina - Laboratório Associado, Escola Superior de Biotecnologia, Rua de Diogo Botelho 1327, 4169-005, Porto, Portugal
| | - Sara Ribeirinho-Soares
- LEPABE, Laboratório de Engenharia de Processos, Ambiente, Biotecnologia e Energia, Faculdade de Engenharia, Universidade do Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465, Porto, Portugal
| | - Olga C Nunes
- LEPABE, Laboratório de Engenharia de Processos, Ambiente, Biotecnologia e Energia, Faculdade de Engenharia, Universidade do Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465, Porto, Portugal
| | - Ivone Vaz-Moreira
- Universidade Católica Portuguesa, CBQF - Centro de Biotecnologia e Química Fina - Laboratório Associado, Escola Superior de Biotecnologia, Rua de Diogo Botelho 1327, 4169-005, Porto, Portugal
| | - Célia M Manaia
- Universidade Católica Portuguesa, CBQF - Centro de Biotecnologia e Química Fina - Laboratório Associado, Escola Superior de Biotecnologia, Rua de Diogo Botelho 1327, 4169-005, Porto, Portugal.
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Ossa-Trujillo C, Taylor EA, Sarwar F, Vinasco J, Jordan ER, Buitrago JAG, Hagevoort GR, Lawhon SD, Piñeiro JM, Galloway-Peña J, Norman KN, Scott HM. Two-Dose Ceftiofur Treatment Increases Cephamycinase Gene Quantities and Fecal Microbiome Diversity in Dairy Cows Diagnosed with Metritis. Microorganisms 2023; 11:2728. [PMID: 38004740 PMCID: PMC10673576 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11112728] [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: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial resistance is a significant concern worldwide; meanwhile, the impact of 3rd generation cephalosporin (3GC) antibiotics on the microbial communities of cattle and resistance within these communities is largely unknown. The objectives of this study were to determine the effects of two-dose ceftiofur crystalline-free acid (2-CCFA) treatment on the fecal microbiota and on the quantities of second-and third-generation cephalosporin, fluoroquinolone, and macrolide resistance genes in Holstein-Friesian dairy cows in the southwestern United States. Across three dairy farms, 124 matched pairs of cows were enrolled in a longitudinal study. Following the product label regimen, CCFA was administered on days 0 and 3 to cows diagnosed with postpartum metritis. Healthy cows were pair-matched based on lactation number and calving date. Fecal samples were collected on days 0, 6, and 16 and pooled in groups of 4 (n = 192) by farm, day, and treatment group for community DNA extraction. The characterization of community DNA included real-time PCR (qPCR) to quantify the following antibiotic resistance genes: blaCMY-2, blaCTX-M, mphA, qnrB19, and the highly conserved 16S rRNA back-calculated to gene copies per gram of feces. Additionally, 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing and metagenomics analyses were used to determine differences in bacterial community composition by treatment, day, and farm. Overall, blaCMY-2 gene copies per gram of feces increased significantly (p ≤ 0.05) in the treated group compared to the untreated group on day 6 and remained elevated on day 16. However, blaCTX-M, mphA, and qnrB19 gene quantities did not differ significantly (p ≥ 0.05) between treatment groups, days, or farms, suggesting a cephamycinase-specific enhancement in cows on these farms. Perhaps unexpectedly, 16S rRNA amplicon metagenomic analyses showed that the fecal bacterial communities from treated animals on day 6 had significantly greater (p ≤ 0.05) alpha and beta diversity than the untreated group. Two-dose ceftiofur treatment in dairy cows with metritis elevates cephamycinase gene quantities among all fecal bacteria while paradoxically increasing microbial diversity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Ossa-Trujillo
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA;
| | - Ethan A. Taylor
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA; (E.A.T.); (F.S.); (J.V.); (S.D.L.); (J.G.-P.)
| | - Fatima Sarwar
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA; (E.A.T.); (F.S.); (J.V.); (S.D.L.); (J.G.-P.)
| | - Javier Vinasco
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA; (E.A.T.); (F.S.); (J.V.); (S.D.L.); (J.G.-P.)
| | - Ellen R. Jordan
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, Dallas, TX 75252, USA;
| | - Jose A. García Buitrago
- Department of Extension Animal Sciences and Natural Resources, New Mexico State University, Clovis, NM 88101, USA; (J.A.G.B.); (G.R.H.)
| | - G. Robert Hagevoort
- Department of Extension Animal Sciences and Natural Resources, New Mexico State University, Clovis, NM 88101, USA; (J.A.G.B.); (G.R.H.)
| | - Sara D. Lawhon
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA; (E.A.T.); (F.S.); (J.V.); (S.D.L.); (J.G.-P.)
| | - Juan M. Piñeiro
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, Amarillo, TX 79106, USA;
| | - Jessica Galloway-Peña
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA; (E.A.T.); (F.S.); (J.V.); (S.D.L.); (J.G.-P.)
| | - Keri N. Norman
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA;
| | - Harvey Morgan Scott
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA; (E.A.T.); (F.S.); (J.V.); (S.D.L.); (J.G.-P.)
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Corona Ramírez A, Symanczik S, Gallusser T, Bodenhausen N. Quantification of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi root colonization in wheat, tomato, and leek using absolute qPCR. MYCORRHIZA 2023; 33:387-397. [PMID: 37646822 PMCID: PMC10752845 DOI: 10.1007/s00572-023-01122-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) form symbioses with most terrestrial plants and are known to have a positive effect on plant growth and health. Different methodologies have been developed to assess the AMF-plant symbiosis. The most applied method, which involves staining of roots and microscopic observation of the AMF structures, is tedious and time-consuming and the results are highly dependent on the observer. Using quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) to quantify AMF root colonization represents a reliable, high-throughput technique that allows the assessment of numerous samples. Quantification with qPCR can be performed through two methods: relative quantification and absolute quantification. In relative quantification, the target gene is normalized with a reference gene. On the other hand, absolute quantification involves the use of a standard curve, for which template DNA is serially diluted. In a previous paper, we validated the primer pair AMG1F and AM1 for a relative quantification approach to assess AMF root colonization in Petunia. Here, we tested the same primers with an absolute quantification approach and compared the results with the traditional microscopy method. We evaluated the qPCR method with three different crops, namely, wheat (cv. Colmetta and Wiwa), tomato, and leek. We observed a strong correlation between microscopy and qPCR for Colmetta (r = 0.90, p < 0.001), Wiwa (r = 0.94, p < 0.001), and tomato (r = 0.93, p < 0.001), but no correlation for leek (r = 0.27, p = 0.268). This highlights the importance of testing the primer pair for each specific crop.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Corona Ramírez
- Department of Soil Sciences, Research Institute of Organic Agriculture FiBL, Frick, Switzerland
| | - Sarah Symanczik
- Department of Soil Sciences, Research Institute of Organic Agriculture FiBL, Frick, Switzerland
| | - Tabea Gallusser
- Department of Soil Sciences, Research Institute of Organic Agriculture FiBL, Frick, Switzerland
| | - Natacha Bodenhausen
- Department of Soil Sciences, Research Institute of Organic Agriculture FiBL, Frick, Switzerland.
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20
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Han X, Beck K, Bürgmann H, Frey B, Stierli B, Frossard A. Synthetic oligonucleotides as quantitative PCR standards for quantifying microbial genes. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1279041. [PMID: 37942081 PMCID: PMC10627841 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1279041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Real-time quantitative PCR (qPCR) has been widely used to quantify gene copy numbers in microbial ecology. Despite its simplicity and straightforwardness, establishing qPCR assays is often impeded by the tedious process of producing qPCR standards by cloning the target DNA into plasmids. Here, we designed double-stranded synthetic DNA fragments from consensus sequences as qPCR standards by aligning microbial gene sequences (10-20 sequences per gene). Efficiency of standards from synthetic DNA was compared with plasmid standards by qPCR assays for different phylogenetic marker and functional genes involved in carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) cycling, tested with DNA extracted from a broad range of soils. Results showed that qPCR standard curves using synthetic DNA performed equally well to those from plasmids for all the genes tested. Furthermore, gene copy numbers from DNA extracted from soils obtained by using synthetic standards or plasmid standards were comparable. Our approach therefore demonstrates that a synthetic DNA fragment as qPCR standard provides comparable sensitivity and reliability to a traditional plasmid standard, while being more time- and cost-efficient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xingguo Han
- Forest Soils and Biogeochemistry, Swiss Federal Institute for Forest, Snow and Landscape Research (WSL), Birmensdorf, Switzerland
| | - Karin Beck
- Eawag, Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology, Kastanienbaum, Switzerland
| | - Helmut Bürgmann
- Eawag, Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology, Kastanienbaum, Switzerland
| | - Beat Frey
- Forest Soils and Biogeochemistry, Swiss Federal Institute for Forest, Snow and Landscape Research (WSL), Birmensdorf, Switzerland
| | - Beat Stierli
- Forest Soils and Biogeochemistry, Swiss Federal Institute for Forest, Snow and Landscape Research (WSL), Birmensdorf, Switzerland
| | - Aline Frossard
- Forest Soils and Biogeochemistry, Swiss Federal Institute for Forest, Snow and Landscape Research (WSL), Birmensdorf, Switzerland
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21
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Xu EY, Schneper LM, Notterman DA. A novel metric to improve mismatched primer selection and quantification accuracy in amplifying DNA repeats for quantitative polymerase chain reactions. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0292559. [PMID: 37812635 PMCID: PMC10561853 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0292559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/23/2023] [Indexed: 10/11/2023] Open
Abstract
In quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) experiments, primers containing mismatches with respect to the template are widely used in measuring repetitive DNA elements. Primer-template mismatches may lead to underestimation of the input sample quantity due to inefficient annealing and amplification. But how primer-template mismatches affect quantification accuracy has not been rigorously investigated. In this study, we performed a series of qPCR experiments in which we tested three pairs of mismatched telomere primers (tel1/tel2, tel1b/tel2b and telg/telc) and two pairs of perfect-match reference gene primers (36B4-F/-R and IFNB1-F/-R) at three different primer concentrations under four cycling conditions. Templates used were genomic DNA from two human cell lines and oligo duplexes which contained telomere sequences, reference gene sequences, or both. We demonstrated that the underestimation of input sample quantity from reactions containing mismatched primers was not due to lower amplification efficiency (E), but due to ineffective usage of the input sample. We defined a novel concept of amplification efficacy (f) which quantifies the effectiveness of input sample amplification by primers. We have modified the conventional qPCR kinetic formula to include f, which corrects the effects of primer mismatches. We demonstrated that reactions containing mismatched telomere primer pairs had similar efficiency (E), but varying degrees of reduced efficacy (f) in comparison to those with the perfect-match gene primer pairs. Using the quantitative parameter f, underestimation of initial target by telomere primers can be adjusted to provide a more accurate measurement. Additionally, we found that the tel1b/tel2b primer set at concentration of 500 nM and 900 nM exhibited the best amplification efficacy f. This study provides a novel way to incorporate an evaluation of amplification efficacy into qPCR analysis. In turn, it improves mismatched primer selection and quantification accuracy in amplifying DNA repeats using qPCR methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eugenia Y. Xu
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, United States of America
| | - Lisa M. Schneper
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, United States of America
| | - Daniel A. Notterman
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, United States of America
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22
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Foster L, Boothman C, Harrison S, Jenkinson P, Pittman JK, Lloyd JR. Identification of algal rich microbial blooms in the Sellafield Pile Fuel Storage Pond and the application of ultrasonic treatment to control the formation of blooms. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1261801. [PMID: 37860139 PMCID: PMC10582928 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1261801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023] Open
Abstract
The presence of microorganisms in a range of nuclear facilities has been known for many years. In this study the microbial community inhabiting the Pile Fuel Storage Pond (PFSP), which is a legacy open-aired facility on the Sellafield nuclear site, Cumbria, UK, was determined to help target microbial bloom management strategies in this facility. The PFSP is currently undergoing decommissioning and the development of prolonged dense microbial blooms reduces the visibility within the water. Such impairment in the pond water visibility can lead to delays in pond operations, which also has financial implications. Efforts to control the microbial population within the PFSP are ongoing, with the installation of ultrasonic treatment units. Here next generation sequencing techniques focussing on broad targets for both eukaryotic and prokaryotic organisms were used to identify the microbial community. On-site monitoring of photosynthetic pigments indicated when microbial blooms formed and that eukaryotic algae were most likely to be responsible for these events. The sequencing data suggested that the blooms were dominated by members of the class Chrysophyceae, a group of golden algae, while evidence of cyanobacteria and other photosynthetic bacteria was limited, further supporting eukaryotic organisms causing the blooms. The results of sequencing data from 2018 was used to inform a change in the operational settings of the ultrasonic units, while monitoring of the microbial community and photosynthetic pigments trends was extended. Since the changes were made to the ultrasonic treatment, the visibility in the pond was significantly improved, with an absence of a spring bloom in 2020 and an overall reduction in the number of days lost due to microbial blooms annually. This work extends our knowledge of the diversity of microbes able to colonise nuclear fuel storage ponds, and also suggests that sequencing data can help to optimise the performance of ultrasonic treatments, to control algal proliferation in the PFSP facility and other inhospitable engineered systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lynn Foster
- Research Centre for Radwaste Disposal and Williamson Research Centre for Molecular Environmental Science, Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, The University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Christopher Boothman
- Research Centre for Radwaste Disposal and Williamson Research Centre for Molecular Environmental Science, Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, The University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Scott Harrison
- National Nuclear Laboratory, Central Laboratory, Sellafield, Seascale, United Kingdom
| | | | - Jon K. Pittman
- Research Centre for Radwaste Disposal and Williamson Research Centre for Molecular Environmental Science, Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, The University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Jonathan R. Lloyd
- Research Centre for Radwaste Disposal and Williamson Research Centre for Molecular Environmental Science, Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, The University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
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23
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Alipanah M, Manzanas C, Hai X, Lednicky JA, Paniz-Mondolfi A, Morris JG, Fan ZH. Mayaro virus detection by integrating sample preparation with isothermal amplification in portable devices. Anal Bioanal Chem 2023; 415:5605-5617. [PMID: 37470813 PMCID: PMC10528734 DOI: 10.1007/s00216-023-04856-8] [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: 05/14/2023] [Revised: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023]
Abstract
Mayaro virus (MAYV) is an emerging mosquito-borne alphavirus that causes clinical symptoms similar to those caused by Chikungunya virus (CHIKV), Dengue virus (DENV), and Zika virus (ZIKV). To differentiate MAYV from these viruses diagnostically, we have developed a portable device that integrates sample preparation with real-time, reverse-transcription, loop-mediated isothermal amplification (rRT-LAMP). First, we designed a rRT-LAMP assay targeting MAYV's non-structural protein (NS1) gene and determined the limit of detection of at least 10 viral genome equivalents per reaction. The assay was specific for MAYV, without cross-reactions with CHIKV, DENV, or ZIKV. The rRT-LAMP assay was integrated with a sample preparation device (SPD) wherein virus lysis and RNA enrichment/purification were carried out on the spot, without requiring pipetting, while subsequent real-time amplification device (RAD) enables virus detection at the point of care (POC). The functions of our platform were demonstrated using purified MAYV RNA or blood samples containing viable viruses. We have used the devices for detection of MAYV in as short as 13 min, with limit of detection to as low as 10 GEs/reaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Morteza Alipanah
- Interdisciplinary Microsystems Group, Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of Florida, P.O. Box 116250, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
| | - Carlos Manzanas
- Interdisciplinary Microsystems Group, Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of Florida, P.O. Box 116250, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
| | - Xin Hai
- Interdisciplinary Microsystems Group, Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of Florida, P.O. Box 116250, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
| | - John A Lednicky
- Emerging Pathogens Institute, University of Florida, P.O. Box 100009, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA.
- Department of Environmental and Global Health, University of Florida, PO Box 100188, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA.
| | - Alberto Paniz-Mondolfi
- Department of Pathology, Molecular and Cell-Based Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1425 Madison Ave, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - J Glenn Morris
- Emerging Pathogens Institute, University of Florida, P.O. Box 100009, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA
| | - Z Hugh Fan
- Interdisciplinary Microsystems Group, Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of Florida, P.O. Box 116250, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA.
- Emerging Pathogens Institute, University of Florida, P.O. Box 100009, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA.
- J. Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Florida, P.O. Box 116131, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA.
- Department of Chemistry, University of Florida, P.O. Box 117200, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA.
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24
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Yuan B, Wang S. RSim: A reference-based normalization method via rank similarity. PLoS Comput Biol 2023; 19:e1011447. [PMID: 37656740 PMCID: PMC10501661 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pcbi.1011447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Revised: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Microbiome sequencing data normalization is crucial for eliminating technical bias and ensuring accurate downstream analysis. However, this process can be challenging due to the high frequency of zero counts in microbiome data. We propose a novel reference-based normalization method called normalization via rank similarity (RSim) that corrects sample-specific biases, even in the presence of many zero counts. Unlike other normalization methods, RSim does not require additional assumptions or treatments for the high prevalence of zero counts. This makes it robust and minimizes potential bias resulting from procedures that address zero counts, such as pseudo-counts. Our numerical experiments demonstrate that RSim reduces false discoveries, improves detection power, and reveals true biological signals in downstream tasks such as PCoA plotting, association analysis, and differential abundance analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Yuan
- Department of Statistics, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Shulei Wang
- Department of Statistics, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, Illinois, United States of America
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25
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Suwankitwat N, Bhakha K, Molee L, Songkasupa T, Puangjinda K, Chamchoy T, Arjkumpa O, Nuansrichay B, Srisomrun S, Pongphitcha P, Lekcharoensuk P, Arunvipas P. Long-term monitoring of immune response to recombinant lumpy skin disease virus in dairy cattle from small-household farms in western Thailand. Comp Immunol Microbiol Infect Dis 2023; 99:102008. [PMID: 37467568 DOI: 10.1016/j.cimid.2023.102008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Revised: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023]
Abstract
Lumpy skin disease (LSD) was firstly reported in Thailand in 2021 which affected the cattle industry. However, there is limited information on the immune response of LSDV infection in Thailand where recombinant vaccine strain circulated. The aim of this research was to study the duration of LSD immune response of subclinical and clinical animals after natural infection in dairy cattle. Sixty-six dairy cattle from ten farms in central and western regions of Thailand were investigated. Antibody was detected by virus neutralization test and ELISA. Cell mediated immunity (CMI)-related cytokine gene expressions were evaluated. Antibody was detected until at least 15 months after the noticeable symptom. Cattle with subclinical disease had lower antibody levels compared to animals which had clinical disease. IFN-γ and TNF-α levels were increased, while IL-10 level was decreased in the infected animals compared to the controls. This study elucidated immune responses in dairy cattle herd affected by recombinant LSDV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nutthakarn Suwankitwat
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Bangkhen campus, Kasetsart University, Bangkok 10900, Thailand; Virology section, National Institute of Animal Health, Department of Livestock Development, Bangkok 10900, Thailand.
| | - Kultyarat Bhakha
- Virology section, National Institute of Animal Health, Department of Livestock Development, Bangkok 10900, Thailand.
| | - Lamul Molee
- Virology section, National Institute of Animal Health, Department of Livestock Development, Bangkok 10900, Thailand.
| | - Tapanut Songkasupa
- Virology section, National Institute of Animal Health, Department of Livestock Development, Bangkok 10900, Thailand.
| | - Kanokwan Puangjinda
- Virology section, National Institute of Animal Health, Department of Livestock Development, Bangkok 10900, Thailand.
| | - Tapakorn Chamchoy
- Epidemiology section, National Institute of Animal Health, Department of Livestock Development, Bangkok 10900, Thailand.
| | - Orapun Arjkumpa
- The 4th Regional Livestock Office, Department of Livestock Development, Khon Kaen 40260, Thailand.
| | - Bandit Nuansrichay
- Virology section, National Institute of Animal Health, Department of Livestock Development, Bangkok 10900, Thailand.
| | - Smit Srisomrun
- Bovine Unit, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Kamphaeng Saen Campus, Nakhon Pathom 73140, Thailand.
| | - Phitcha Pongphitcha
- Bovine Unit, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Kamphaeng Saen Campus, Nakhon Pathom 73140, Thailand.
| | - Porntippa Lekcharoensuk
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Bangkhen campus, Kasetsart University, Bangkok 10900, Thailand.
| | - Pipat Arunvipas
- Department of Large Animal and Wildlife Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Kamphaeng Saen Campus, Nakhon Pathom 73140, Thailand.
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Félix B, Capitaine K, Te S, Felten A, Gillot G, Feurer C, van den Bosch T, Torresi M, Sréterné Lancz Z, Delannoy S, Brauge T, Midelet G, Leblanc JC, Roussel S. Identification by High-Throughput Real-Time PCR of 30 Major Circulating Listeria monocytogenes Clonal Complexes in Europe. Microbiol Spectr 2023; 11:e0395422. [PMID: 37158749 PMCID: PMC10269651 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.03954-22] [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: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Listeria monocytogenes is a ubiquitous bacterium that causes a foodborne illness, listeriosis. Most strains can be classified into major clonal complexes (CCs) that account for the majority of outbreaks and sporadic cases in Europe. In addition to the 20 CCs known to account for the majority of human and animal clinical cases, 10 CCs are frequently reported in food production, thereby posing a serious challenge for the agrifood industry. Therefore, there is a need for a rapid and reliable method to identify these 30 major CCs. The high-throughput real-time PCR assay presented here provides accurate identification of these 30 CCs and eight genetic subdivisions within four CCs, splitting each CC into two distinct subpopulations, along with the molecular serogroup of a strain. Based on the BioMark high-throughput real-time PCR system, our assay analyzes 46 strains against 40 real-time PCR arrays in a single experiment. This European study (i) designed the assay from a broad panel of 3,342 L. monocytogenes genomes, (ii) tested its sensitivity and specificity on 597 sequenced strains collected from 24 European countries, and (iii) evaluated its performance in the typing of 526 strains collected during surveillance activities. The assay was then optimized for conventional multiplex real-time PCR for easy implementation in food laboratories. It has already been used for outbreak investigations. It represents a key tool for assisting food laboratories to establish strain relatedness with human clinical strains during outbreak investigations and for helping food business operators by improving their microbiological management plans. IMPORTANCE Multilocus sequence typing (MLST) is the reference method for Listeria monocytogenes typing but is expensive and takes time to perform, from 3 to 5 days for laboratories that outsource sequencing. Thirty major MLST clonal complexes (CCs) are circulating in the food chain and are currently identifiable only by sequencing. Therefore, there is a need for a rapid and reliable method to identify these CCs. The method presented here enables the rapid identification, by real-time PCR, of 30 CCs and eight genetic subdivisions within four CCs, splitting each CC into two distinct subpopulations. The assay was then optimized on different conventional multiplex real-time PCR systems for easy implementation in food laboratories. The two assays will be used for frontline identification of L. monocytogenes isolates prior to whole-genome sequencing. Such assays are of great interest for all food industry stakeholders and public agencies for tracking L. monocytogenes food contamination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Félix
- ANSES, European Union Reference Laboratory for Listeria monocytogenes, Laboratory for Food Safety, Salmonella and Listeria Unit, University of Paris-Est, Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - Karine Capitaine
- ANSES, European Union Reference Laboratory for Listeria monocytogenes, Laboratory for Food Safety, Salmonella and Listeria Unit, University of Paris-Est, Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - Sandrine Te
- ANSES, European Union Reference Laboratory for Listeria monocytogenes, Laboratory for Food Safety, Salmonella and Listeria Unit, University of Paris-Est, Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - Arnaud Felten
- ANSES, Ploufragan/Plouzané/Niort Laboratory, Viral Genetics and Bio-Security Unit, Université Européenne de Bretagne, Ploufragan, France
| | | | - Carole Feurer
- IFIP–The French Pig and Pork Institute, Department of Fresh and Processed Meat, Le Rheu, France
| | - Tijs van den Bosch
- Wageningen Food Safety Research, Department of Bacteriology, Molecular Technology and Antimicrobial Resistance, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Marina Torresi
- National Reference Laboratory for Listeria monocytogenes, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell'Abruzzo e Molise “G. Caporale” Via Campo Boario, Teramo, Italy
| | - Zsuzsanna Sréterné Lancz
- Microbiological National Reference Laboratory, National Food Chain Safety Office, Food Chain Safety Laboratory Directorate, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Sabine Delannoy
- ANSES, Laboratory for Food Safety, IdentyPath Platform, Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - Thomas Brauge
- ANSES, Laboratory for Food Safety, Bacteriology and Parasitology of Fishery and Aquaculture Products Unit, Boulogne-sur-Mer, France
| | - Graziella Midelet
- ANSES, Laboratory for Food Safety, Bacteriology and Parasitology of Fishery and Aquaculture Products Unit, Boulogne-sur-Mer, France
| | - Jean-Charles Leblanc
- ANSES, European Union Reference Laboratory for Listeria monocytogenes, Laboratory for Food Safety, Salmonella and Listeria Unit, University of Paris-Est, Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - Sophie Roussel
- ANSES, European Union Reference Laboratory for Listeria monocytogenes, Laboratory for Food Safety, Salmonella and Listeria Unit, University of Paris-Est, Maisons-Alfort, France
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Barranco-Gómez O, De Paula JC, Parada JS, Gómez-Moracho T, Marfil AV, Zafra M, Orantes Bermejo FJ, Osuna A, De Pablos LM. Development of a TaqMan qPCR assay for trypanosomatid multi-species detection and quantification in insects. Parasit Vectors 2023; 16:69. [PMID: 36788540 PMCID: PMC9930332 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-023-05687-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Trypanosomatid parasites are widely distributed in nature and can have a monoxenous or dixenous life-cycle. These parasites thrive in a wide number of insect orders, some of which have an important economic and environmental value, such as bees. The objective of this study was to develop a robust and sensitive real-time quantitative PCR (qPCR) assay for detecting trypanosomatid parasites in any type of parasitized insect sample. METHODS A TaqMan qPCR assay based on a trypanosomatid-conserved region of the α-tubulin gene was standardized and evaluated. The limits of detection, sensitivity and versatility of the α-tubulin TaqMan assay were tested and validated using field samples of honeybee workers, wild bees, bumblebees and grasshoppers, as well as in the human infective trypanosomatid Leishmania major. RESULTS The assay showed a detection limit of 1 parasite equivalent/µl and successfully detected trypanosomatids in 10 different hosts belonging to the insect orders Hymenoptera and Orthoptera. The methodology was also tested using honeybee samples from four apiaries (n = 224 worker honeybees) located in the Alpujarra region (Granada, Spain). Trypanosomatids were detected in 2.7% of the honeybees, with an intra-colony prevalence of 0% to 13%. Parasite loads in the four different classes of insects ranged from 40.6 up to 1.1 × 108 cell equivalents per host. CONCLUSIONS These results show that the α-tubulin TaqMan qPCR assay described here is a versatile diagnostic tool for the accurate detection and quantification of trypanosomatids in a wide range of environmental settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga Barranco-Gómez
- Departamento de Parasitología, Grupo de Bioquímica y Parasitología Molecular CTS-183, Universidad de Granada, Granada, Spain.,Institute of Biotechnology, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Jessica Carreira De Paula
- Departamento de Parasitología, Grupo de Bioquímica y Parasitología Molecular CTS-183, Universidad de Granada, Granada, Spain.,Institute of Biotechnology, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Jennifer Solano Parada
- Departamento de Parasitología, Grupo de Bioquímica y Parasitología Molecular CTS-183, Universidad de Granada, Granada, Spain.,Institute of Biotechnology, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Tamara Gómez-Moracho
- Departamento de Parasitología, Grupo de Bioquímica y Parasitología Molecular CTS-183, Universidad de Granada, Granada, Spain.,Institute of Biotechnology, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Ana Vic Marfil
- Departamento de Parasitología, Grupo de Bioquímica y Parasitología Molecular CTS-183, Universidad de Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - María Zafra
- Departamento de Parasitología, Grupo de Bioquímica y Parasitología Molecular CTS-183, Universidad de Granada, Granada, Spain
| | | | - Antonio Osuna
- Departamento de Parasitología, Grupo de Bioquímica y Parasitología Molecular CTS-183, Universidad de Granada, Granada, Spain.,Institute of Biotechnology, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Luis Miguel De Pablos
- Departamento de Parasitología, Grupo de Bioquímica y Parasitología Molecular CTS-183, Universidad de Granada, Granada, Spain. .,Institute of Biotechnology, University of Granada, Granada, Spain.
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Midani FS, David LA. Tracking defined microbial communities by multicolor flow cytometry reveals tradeoffs between productivity and diversity. Front Microbiol 2023; 13:910390. [PMID: 36687598 PMCID: PMC9849913 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.910390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Cross feeding between microbes is ubiquitous, but its impact on the diversity and productivity of microbial communities is incompletely understood. A reductionist approach using simple microbial communities has the potential to detect cross feeding interactions and their impact on ecosystem properties. However, quantifying abundance of more than two microbes in a community in a high throughput fashion requires rapid, inexpensive assays. Here, we show that multicolor flow cytometry combined with a machine learning-based classifier can rapidly quantify species abundances in simple, synthetic microbial communities. Our approach measures community structure over time and detects the exchange of metabolites in a four-member community of fluorescent Bacteroides species. Notably, we quantified species abundances in co-cultures and detected evidence of cooperation in polysaccharide processing and competition for monosaccharide utilization. We also observed that co-culturing on simple sugars, but not complex sugars, reduced microbial productivity, although less productive communities maintained higher community diversity. In summary, our multicolor flow cytometric approach presents an economical, tractable model system for microbial ecology using well-studied human bacteria. It can be extended to include additional species, evaluate more complex environments, and assay response of communities to a variety of disturbances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Firas S. Midani
- Center for Genomic and Computational Biology, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States
- Department of Molecular Virology and Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Lawrence A. David
- Center for Genomic and Computational Biology, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States
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29
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Gautam P, Cusick KD. Development of a real-time quantitative PCR assay for detection and quantification of the marine bacterium Alteromonas macleodii from coastal environments. J Microbiol Methods 2023; 204:106629. [PMID: 36460091 DOI: 10.1016/j.mimet.2022.106629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2022] [Revised: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Alteromonas macleodii is a ubiquitous marine bacterial species found in a variety of habitats that displays both planktonic and particle-associated lifestyles. Transcriptomic studies demonstrate that, even when present at low abundance, it can make significant contributions to biogeochemical cycles, and its specific association with key marine phytoplankton species indicates other ecological roles as well. It has also been shown to be one of the early colonizers of copper-treated marine vessels. There currently exist no rapid, reliable molecular assays for the detection and quantification of A. macleodii from its different environments. We developed a real-time PCR assay, specific to A. macleodii. This assay targets the DNA gyrase B subunit (gyrB) gene, which occurs as a single copy in the genome. The assay possesses an amplification efficiency of 94.3%, with a limit of detection of 2.5 gyrB copies per μL. Assay specificity was validated by melt curve analysis, followed by sequencing of the amplified product. The assay was specific to thirteen A. macleodii strains and did not amplify other marine bacteria, including Roseobacter denitrificans, Silicibacter sp. TM1040, Vibrio coralliilyticus, Vibrio harveyi, and Vibrio alginolyticus. It also did not amplify Alteromonas mediterranea, a close relative that can occur in the same environment as A. macleodii. This assay was used to determine the presence and abundance of A. macleodii from a range of coastal habitats. The assay was also used to monitor the A. macleodii growth in biofilm and planktonic cultures over time in the presence of elevated copper. This assay provides a rapid and reliable means to assess the presence and abundance of a ubiquitous marine bacterium that, even at low abundance, has been shown to make significant contributions to key marine processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pratima Gautam
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Maryland Baltimore County, Baltimore, MD 21225, USA
| | - Kathleen D Cusick
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Maryland Baltimore County, Baltimore, MD 21225, USA.
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30
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Mukherjee S, Hanak P, Jilkova D, Musilova Z, Horka P, Lerch Z, Zdenkova K, Cermakova E. Simultaneous detection and quantification of two European anglerfishes by novel genomic primer. J Food Compost Anal 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jfca.2022.104992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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31
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Joshi C, Mezincescu A, Gunasekara M, Rudd A, Botchorichvili H, Sabir S, Dospinescu C, Noman A, Hogg D, Cherukara G, McLernon D, Hijazi K, Dawson D. Myocardial infarction risk is increased by periodontal pathobionts: a cross-sectional study. Sci Rep 2022; 12:18608. [PMID: 36329042 PMCID: PMC9633823 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-19154-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
To establish the role of periodontal pathobionts as a risk factor for myocardial infarction, we examined the contribution of five periodontal pathobionts and their virulence genes' expressions to myocardial injury (Troponin-I) and coronary artery disease burden (SYNTAX-I scores) using hierarchical linear regression. Pathobiont loads in subgingival-plaques and intra-coronary-thrombi were compared. Troponin-I release increased with one 16S rRNA gene copy/ng DNA of Porphyromonas gingivalis (β = 6.8 × 10-6, 95% CI = 1.1 × 10-7-2.1 × 10-5), one-fold increased expressions of fimA (β = 14.3, 95% CI = 1.5-27.1), bioF-3 (β = 7.8, 95% CI = 1.1-12.3), prtH (β = 1107.8, 95% CI = 235.6-2451.3), prtP (β = 6772.8, 95% CI = 2418.7-11,126.9), ltxA (β = 1811.8, 95% CI = 217.1-3840.8), cdtB (β = 568.3, 95% CI = 113.4-1250.1), all p < 0.05. SYNTAX-I score increased with one 16S rRNA gene copy/ng DNA of Porphyromonas gingivalis (β = 3.8 × 10-9, 95% CI = 3.6 × 10-10-1.8 × 10-8), one-fold increased expressions of fimA (β = 1.2, 95% CI = 1.1-2.1), bioF-3 (β = 1.1, 95% CI = 1-5.2), prtP (β = 3, 95% CI = 1.3-4.6), ltxA (β = 1.5, 95% CI = 1.2-2.5), all p < 0.05. Within-subject Porphyromonas gingivalis and Tannerella forsythia from intra-coronary-thrombi and subgingival-plaques correlated (rho = 0.6, p < 0.05). Higher pathobiont load and/or upregulated virulence are risk factors for myocardial infarction.Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04719026.
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Affiliation(s)
- C. Joshi
- grid.7107.10000 0004 1936 7291Institute of Dentistry, School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Foresterhill, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZR UK
| | - A. Mezincescu
- grid.7107.10000 0004 1936 7291Department of Cardiology and Institute of Dentistry, School of Medicine, University of Aberdeen, Level 1, Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, Foresterhill, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD UK
| | - M. Gunasekara
- grid.7107.10000 0004 1936 7291Department of Cardiology and Institute of Dentistry, School of Medicine, University of Aberdeen, Level 1, Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, Foresterhill, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD UK
| | - A. Rudd
- grid.7107.10000 0004 1936 7291Department of Cardiology and Institute of Dentistry, School of Medicine, University of Aberdeen, Level 1, Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, Foresterhill, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD UK
| | - H. Botchorichvili
- grid.7107.10000 0004 1936 7291Institute of Dentistry, School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Foresterhill, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZR UK
| | - S. Sabir
- grid.7107.10000 0004 1936 7291Institute of Dentistry, School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Foresterhill, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZR UK
| | - C. Dospinescu
- grid.7107.10000 0004 1936 7291Department of Cardiology and Institute of Dentistry, School of Medicine, University of Aberdeen, Level 1, Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, Foresterhill, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD UK
| | - A. Noman
- grid.7107.10000 0004 1936 7291Department of Cardiology and Institute of Dentistry, School of Medicine, University of Aberdeen, Level 1, Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, Foresterhill, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD UK
| | - D. Hogg
- grid.7107.10000 0004 1936 7291Department of Cardiology and Institute of Dentistry, School of Medicine, University of Aberdeen, Level 1, Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, Foresterhill, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD UK
| | - G. Cherukara
- grid.7107.10000 0004 1936 7291Institute of Dentistry, School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Foresterhill, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZR UK
| | - D. McLernon
- grid.7107.10000 0004 1936 7291Medical Statistics Team, Institute of Applied Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
| | - K. Hijazi
- grid.7107.10000 0004 1936 7291Institute of Dentistry, School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Foresterhill, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZR UK
| | - D. Dawson
- grid.7107.10000 0004 1936 7291Department of Cardiology and Institute of Dentistry, School of Medicine, University of Aberdeen, Level 1, Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, Foresterhill, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD UK
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32
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Almendras K, Iannuzzi S, Carú M, Orlando J. Diversity of Microbial Functional Genes Should Be Considered During the Interpretation of the qPCR Melting Curves. MICROBIAL ECOLOGY 2022; 84:935-940. [PMID: 34599356 DOI: 10.1007/s00248-021-01883-9] [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: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/23/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Soil microorganisms play an essential role in biogeochemical cycles. One approach to study these microbial communities is quantifying functional genes by quantitative PCR (qPCR), in which a melting curve analysis is usually assessed to confirm that a single PCR product is being quantified. However, the high diversity of functional genes in environmental samples could generate more than one peak in those curves, so the presence of two or multiple peaks does not always indicate nonspecific amplification. Here, we analyzed the taxonomic diversity of soil microorganisms harboring functional genes involved in nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) cycles, based on a database of genomes and metagenomes, and predicted the melting curve profiles of these genes. These functional genes were spread across many bacterial phyla, but mainly Proteobacteria and Actinobacteria. In general, the melting curves exhibited more than one peak or peaks with shoulders, mainly related to the variation of the nucleotide composition of the genes and the expected size of the amplicons. These results indicate that the melting curves of functional genes from environmental samples should be carefully evaluated, being in silico analyses a cost-effective way to identify inherent sequence diversity and avoid interpreting multiple peaks always as unspecific amplifications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katerin Almendras
- Laboratorio de Ecología Microbiana, Departamento de Ciencias Ecológicas, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Chile, 7800003, Santiago, Chile
| | - Stefania Iannuzzi
- Laboratorio de Ecología Microbiana, Departamento de Ciencias Ecológicas, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Chile, 7800003, Santiago, Chile
| | - Margarita Carú
- Laboratorio de Ecología Microbiana, Departamento de Ciencias Ecológicas, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Chile, 7800003, Santiago, Chile
| | - Julieta Orlando
- Laboratorio de Ecología Microbiana, Departamento de Ciencias Ecológicas, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Chile, 7800003, Santiago, Chile.
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33
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Changes in the oral status and periodontal pathogens in a Sardinian rural community from pre-industrial to modern time. Sci Rep 2022; 12:15895. [PMID: 36151274 PMCID: PMC9508227 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-20193-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2022] [Accepted: 09/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The oral microbial profile in humans has evolved in response to lifestyle changes over the course of different eras. Here, we investigated tooth lesions and the microbial profile of periodontal bacteria (PB) in dental calculus of a Sardinian pre-industrial rural community. In total, 51 teeth belonging to 12 historical individuals buried in an ossuary in the early 1800s and 26 modern teeth extracted from 26 individuals from the same geographical area were compared to determine the oral health status, bacterial load and amount of most relevant PB. Total caries and bacterial genomes count appeared to be sex-related in historical samples. Historical females presented a higher incidence of caries, PB pathogens and a higher bacterial load than historical males. Furthermore, we compared the PB profile of the historical individuals with the modern ones, revealing a notable increase in modern individuals of PB belonging to “Red complex bacteria” often associated with periodontitis and other chronic diseases of modern life. Our findings could be explained through an analysis of environmental factors such as socioeconomic, hygienic and healthy conditions that can have a great impact on oral health and bacterial composition among individuals of the same and different eras.
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34
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Ferreira C, Abreu-Silva J, Manaia CM. The balance between treatment efficiency and receptor quality determines wastewater impacts on the dissemination of antibiotic resistance. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2022; 434:128933. [PMID: 35460999 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2022.128933] [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: 10/28/2021] [Revised: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
This study investigated the balance between treatment efficiency and impact caused by urban wastewater treatment plants (UWTPs) on the dissemination of antibiotic resistance. Four full-scale UWTPs (PT1-PT4) and the receiving river were sampled over four campaigns. The 16 S rRNA gene, two mobile genetic elements (MGEs), eight antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs), and culturable bacteria were monitored over different treatment stages and in hospital effluent. The bacterial and antibiotic resistance load was not significantly different in the inflow of the four UWTPs (p > 0.01). Biological treatment promoted ARGs reduction values up to 2.5 log-units/mL, while UV (PT1, PT2) or sand filtration/ozonation (PT3) led to removal values < 0.6 log-units/mL. The final effluent of PT3, with the highest removal rates and significantly lower ARGs abundance, was not significantly different from the receiving water body. Emerging ARGs (e.g., blaVIM, blaOXA-48, and blaKPC) were sporadically detected in the river, although more frequent downstream. Hospital effluent might contribute for the occurrence of some, but not all these ARGs in the river. A major conclusion was that the impact of the UWTPs on the river was not only determined by treatment efficiency and final effluent quality, but also by the background contamination of the river and/or dilution rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catarina Ferreira
- Universidade Católica Portuguesa, CBQF - Centro de Biotecnologia e Química Fina - Laboratório Associado, Escola Superior de Biotecnologia, Rua Diogo Botelho 1327, 4169-005 Porto, Portugal
| | - Joana Abreu-Silva
- Universidade Católica Portuguesa, CBQF - Centro de Biotecnologia e Química Fina - Laboratório Associado, Escola Superior de Biotecnologia, Rua Diogo Botelho 1327, 4169-005 Porto, Portugal
| | - Célia M Manaia
- Universidade Católica Portuguesa, CBQF - Centro de Biotecnologia e Química Fina - Laboratório Associado, Escola Superior de Biotecnologia, Rua Diogo Botelho 1327, 4169-005 Porto, Portugal.
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35
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Salmon M, White HE, Zizkova H, Gottschalk A, Motlova E, Cerveira N, Colomer D, Coriu D, Franke GN, Gottardi E, Izzo B, Jurcek T, Lion T, Schäfer V, Venturi C, Vigneri P, Zawada M, Zuna J, Hovorkova L, Koblihova J, Klamova H, Markova MS, Srbova D, Benesova A, Polivkova V, Zackova D, Mayer J, Roeder I, Glauche I, Ernst T, Hochhaus A, Polakova KM, Cross NCP. Impact of BCR::ABL1 transcript type on RT-qPCR amplification performance and molecular response to therapy. Leukemia 2022; 36:1879-1886. [PMID: 35676453 PMCID: PMC9252903 DOI: 10.1038/s41375-022-01612-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Revised: 05/16/2022] [Accepted: 05/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Several studies have reported that chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML) patients expressing e14a2 BCR::ABL1 have a faster molecular response to therapy compared to patients expressing e13a2. To explore the reason for this difference we undertook a detailed technical comparison of the commonly used Europe Against Cancer (EAC) BCR::ABL1 reverse transcriptase quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) assay in European Treatment and Outcome Study (EUTOS) reference laboratories (n = 10). We found the amplification ratio of the e13a2 amplicon was 38% greater than e14a2 (p = 0.015), and the amplification efficiency was 2% greater (P = 0.17). This subtle difference led to measurable transcript-type dependent variation in estimates of residual disease which could be corrected by (i) taking the qPCR amplification efficiency into account, (ii) using alternative RT-qPCR approaches or (iii) droplet digital PCR (ddPCR), a technique which is relatively insensitive to differences in amplification kinetics. In CML patients, higher levels of BCR::ABL1/GUSB were identified at diagnosis for patients expressing e13a2 (n = 67) compared to e14a2 (n = 78) when analysed by RT-qPCR (P = 0.0005) but not ddPCR (P = 0.5). These data indicate that widely used RT-qPCR assays result in subtly different estimates of disease depending on BCR::ABL1 transcript type; these differences are small but may need to be considered for optimal patient management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Salmon
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK.,Wessex Regional Genetics Laboratory, Salisbury NHS Foundation Trust, Salisbury, UK
| | - Helen E White
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK.,Wessex Regional Genetics Laboratory, Salisbury NHS Foundation Trust, Salisbury, UK
| | - Hana Zizkova
- Institute of Hematology and Blood Transfusion, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Andrea Gottschalk
- Institute for Medical Informatics and Biometry (IMB), Carl Gustav Carus Faculty of Medicine, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Eliska Motlova
- Institute of Hematology and Blood Transfusion, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Nuno Cerveira
- Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Dolors Colomer
- Pathology Department, Hospital Clinic, Institut d' Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), CIBERONC, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Daniel Coriu
- Fundeni Clinical Institute, Hematology Department, Bucharest, Romania.,Hematology Department, Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy "Carol Davila", Bucharest, Romania
| | - Georg N Franke
- University of Leipzig Medical Center, Department for Hematology, Cellular Therapies and Hemostaseology, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Enrico Gottardi
- Laboratory of Chemical and Clinical Analysis "Area 3" A.O.U San Luigi Gonzaga-Orbassano, Turin, Italy
| | - Barbara Izzo
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology University 'Federico II' and CEINGE - Advanced Biotechnologies, Naples, Italy
| | - Tomas Jurcek
- Center of Molecular Biology and Gene Therapy, Internal Hematology and Oncology Clinic, Faculty Hospital Brno and Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Thomas Lion
- Labdia Labordiagnostik / St. Anna Children´s Cancer Research Institute (CCRI), Vienna, Austria
| | - Vivien Schäfer
- Abteilung Hämatologie/Onkologie, Klinik für Innere Medizin II, University of Jena, Jena, Germany
| | - Claudia Venturi
- IRCSS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Istituto di Ematologia "Seràgnoli", Bologna, Italy
| | - Paolo Vigneri
- University of Catania, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Center of Experimental Oncology and Hematology, Catania, Italy
| | | | - Jan Zuna
- CLIP, Dept. of Paediatric Haematology and Oncology, Second Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and University Hospital Motol, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Lenka Hovorkova
- CLIP, Dept. of Paediatric Haematology and Oncology, Second Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and University Hospital Motol, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Jitka Koblihova
- Institute of Hematology and Blood Transfusion, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Hana Klamova
- Institute of Hematology and Blood Transfusion, Prague, Czech Republic
| | | | - Dana Srbova
- Institute of Hematology and Blood Transfusion, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Adela Benesova
- Institute of Hematology and Blood Transfusion, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Vaclava Polivkova
- Institute of Hematology and Blood Transfusion, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Daniela Zackova
- Internal Hematology and Oncology Clinic, Faculty Hospital Brno and Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Jiri Mayer
- Internal Hematology and Oncology Clinic, Faculty Hospital Brno and Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Ingo Roeder
- Institute for Medical Informatics and Biometry (IMB), Carl Gustav Carus Faculty of Medicine, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany.,National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), Dresden, Germany: German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany; Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany. Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR), Dresden, Germany
| | - Ingmar Glauche
- Institute for Medical Informatics and Biometry (IMB), Carl Gustav Carus Faculty of Medicine, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Thomas Ernst
- Abteilung Hämatologie/Onkologie, Klinik für Innere Medizin II, University of Jena, Jena, Germany
| | - Andreas Hochhaus
- Abteilung Hämatologie/Onkologie, Klinik für Innere Medizin II, University of Jena, Jena, Germany
| | | | - Nicholas C P Cross
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK. .,Wessex Regional Genetics Laboratory, Salisbury NHS Foundation Trust, Salisbury, UK.
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36
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Mitiku G, Rybka D, Klein‐Gunnewiek P, Tessema T, Raaijmakers JM, Etalo DW. Molecular detection and quantification of the Striga seedbank in agricultural soils. WEED RESEARCH 2022; 62:181-191. [PMID: 35915645 PMCID: PMC9322021 DOI: 10.1111/wre.12535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2021] [Revised: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Striga hermonthica (Del.) Benth is a devastating parasitic weed in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) and its soil seedbank is the major factor contributing to its prevalence and persistence. To date, there is a little information on the Striga seedbank density in agricultural fields in SSA due to the lack of reliable detection and quantification methods. We developed a high-throughput method that combines density- and size-based separation techniques with quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR)-based detection of Striga seeds in soil. The method was optimised and validated by introducing increasing numbers of Striga seeds in two physicochemically different Striga-free agricultural soils. The results showed that as little as one seed of S. hermonthica per 150 g of soil could be detected. This technique was subsequently tested on soil samples of 48 sorghum fields from different agro-ecological zones in Ethiopia to map the geospatial distribution of the Striga seedbank along a trajectory of more than 1500 km. Considerable variation in Striga seed densities was observed. Striga seeds were detectable in 75% of the field soils with densities up to 86 seeds per 150 g of soil. The Striga seed density in soil and the number of emerged Striga plants in the field showed a non-linear relationship. In conclusion, the method developed allows for accurate mapping of the Striga seedbank in physicochemically diverse SSA field soils and can be used to assess the impact of management strategies on Striga seedbank dynamics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Getahun Mitiku
- Department of Microbial EcologyNetherlands Institute of Ecology, NIOO‐KNAWWageningenThe Netherlands
- Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural ResearchAddis AbabaEthiopia
- Institute of BiologyLeiden UniversityLeidenThe Netherlands
| | - Dominika Rybka
- Department of Microbial EcologyNetherlands Institute of Ecology, NIOO‐KNAWWageningenThe Netherlands
| | - Paulien Klein‐Gunnewiek
- Department of Microbial EcologyNetherlands Institute of Ecology, NIOO‐KNAWWageningenThe Netherlands
| | - Taye Tessema
- Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural ResearchAddis AbabaEthiopia
| | - Jos M. Raaijmakers
- Department of Microbial EcologyNetherlands Institute of Ecology, NIOO‐KNAWWageningenThe Netherlands
- Institute of BiologyLeiden UniversityLeidenThe Netherlands
| | - Desalegn W. Etalo
- Department of Microbial EcologyNetherlands Institute of Ecology, NIOO‐KNAWWageningenThe Netherlands
- Laboratory of PhytopathologyWageningen University and ResearchWageningenThe Netherlands
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Silva I, Alves M, Malheiro C, Silva ARR, Loureiro S, Henriques I, González-Alcaraz MN. Short-Term Responses of Soil Microbial Communities to Changes in Air Temperature, Soil Moisture and UV Radiation. Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:genes13050850. [PMID: 35627235 PMCID: PMC9142034 DOI: 10.3390/genes13050850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2022] [Revised: 05/04/2022] [Accepted: 05/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
We analyzed the effects on a soil microbial community of short-term alterations in air temperature, soil moisture and ultraviolet radiation and assessed the role of invertebrates (species Enchytraeus crypticus) in modulating the community’s response to these factors. The reference soil, Lufa 2.2, was incubated for 48 h, with and without invertebrates, under the following conditions: standard (20 °C + 50% water holding capacity (WHC)); increased air temperature (15–25 °C or 20–30 °C + 50% WHC); flood (20 °C + 75% WHC); drought (20 °C + 25% WHC); and ultraviolet radiation (UV) (20 °C + 50% WHC + UV). BIOLOG EcoPlates and 16S rDNA sequencing (Illumina) were used to assess the microbial community’s physiological profile and the bacterial community’s structure, respectively. The bacterial abundance (estimated by 16S rDNA qPCR) did not change. Most of the conditions led to an increase in microbial activity and a decrease in diversity. The structure of the bacterial community was particularly affected by higher air temperatures (20–30 °C, without E. crypticus) and floods (with E. crypticus). Effects were observed at the class, genera and OTU levels. The presence of invertebrates mostly resulted in the attenuation of the observed effects, highlighting the importance of considering microbiome–invertebrate interactions. Considering future climate changes, the effects described here raise concern. This study provides fundamental knowledge to develop effective strategies to mitigate these negative outcomes. However, long-term studies integrating biotic and abiotic factors are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel Silva
- CEF (Center for Functional Ecology), Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of Coimbra, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal;
- CESAM (Centre for Marine and Environmental Studies), Department of Biology, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal; (C.M.); (A.R.R.S.); (S.L.)
| | - Marta Alves
- CBQF—Center for Biotechnology and Fine Chemistry, School of Biotechnology, Portuguese Catholic University, 4169-005 Porto, Portugal;
| | - Catarina Malheiro
- CESAM (Centre for Marine and Environmental Studies), Department of Biology, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal; (C.M.); (A.R.R.S.); (S.L.)
| | - Ana Rita R. Silva
- CESAM (Centre for Marine and Environmental Studies), Department of Biology, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal; (C.M.); (A.R.R.S.); (S.L.)
| | - Susana Loureiro
- CESAM (Centre for Marine and Environmental Studies), Department of Biology, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal; (C.M.); (A.R.R.S.); (S.L.)
| | - Isabel Henriques
- CEF (Center for Functional Ecology), Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of Coimbra, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal;
- Correspondence: (I.H.); (M.N.G.-A.)
| | - M. Nazaret González-Alcaraz
- Department of Agricultural Engineering of the E.T.S.I.A. & Soil Ecology and Biotechnology Unit of the Institute of Plant Biotechnology, Technical University of Cartagena, 30203 Cartagena, Spain
- Correspondence: (I.H.); (M.N.G.-A.)
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Harnessing Paenarthrobacter ureafaciens YL1 and Pseudomonas koreensis YL2 Interactions to Improve Degradation of Sulfamethoxazole. Microorganisms 2022; 10:microorganisms10030648. [PMID: 35336223 PMCID: PMC8953276 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10030648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Revised: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Sulfamethoxazole (SMX) is a widespread and persistent pollutant in the environment. Although the screening and analysis of SMX-degrading bacteria have been documented, the interaction mechanisms of functional microorganisms are still poorly understood. This study constructed a consortium with strain YL1 and YL2 supplied with SMX as the sole carbon and energy source. The coexisting mechanism and the removal of SMX of the consortium were investigated. The total oxidizable carbon (TOC) removal rate of the combined bacterial system was 38.94% compared to 29.45% for the single bacterial system at the same biomass. The mixed bacterial consortium was able to resist SMX at concentrations up to 400 mg/L and maintained a stable microbial structure at different culture conditions. The optimum conditions found for SMX degradation were 30 °C, pH 7.0, a shaking speed of 160 r·min−1, and an initial SMX concentration of 200 mg·L−1. The degradation of SMX was accelerated by the addition of YL2 for its ability to metabolize the key intermediate, 4-aminophenol. The removal rate of 4-aminophenol by strain YL2 reached 19.54% after 5 days. Genome analysis revealed that adding riboflavin and enhancing the reducing capacity might contribute to the degradation of SMX. These results indicated that it is important for the bioremediation of antibiotic-contaminated aquatic systems to understand the metabolism of bacterial communities.
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Yang Y, Che Y, Liu L, Wang C, Yin X, Deng Y, Yang C, Zhang T. Rapid absolute quantification of pathogens and ARGs by nanopore sequencing. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 809:152190. [PMID: 34890655 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.152190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Revised: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 12/01/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Compositional nature of relative abundance data in the current standard microbiome studies limits microbial dynamics interpretations and cross-sample comparisons. Here, we demonstrate the first rapid (1-h sequencing) method coupling Nanopore metagenomic sequencing with cellular spike-in to facilitate the absolute quantification and removal assessment of pathogens and antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) in wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs). Nanopore sequencing-based quantification results for both simple mock community and complex real environmental samples showed a high consistency with those from the widely-used Illumina and culture-based approaches. Implementing such method, we quantified 46 predominant putative pathogenic species, and 361 ARGs in three WWTP sample sets. Though high log removals of dominant pathogens (2.23 logs) and ARGs (1.98 logs) were achieved, complete removal of all pathogens and ARGs were not achieved. Noticeably, Mycobacterium spp., Clostridium_P perfringens, and Borrelia hermsii exhibited low removal, and 13 ARGs even increased in absolute abundance after the treatment. Our proposed approach manifested its profound ability in providing absolute quantitation information guiding wastewater-based epidemiological surveillance and quantitative risk assessment facilitating microbial hazards management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Yang
- Environmental Microbiome Engineering and Biotechnology Laboratory, Centre for Environmental Engineering Research, Department of Civil Engineering, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - You Che
- Environmental Microbiome Engineering and Biotechnology Laboratory, Centre for Environmental Engineering Research, Department of Civil Engineering, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Lei Liu
- Environmental Microbiome Engineering and Biotechnology Laboratory, Centre for Environmental Engineering Research, Department of Civil Engineering, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Chunxiao Wang
- Environmental Microbiome Engineering and Biotechnology Laboratory, Centre for Environmental Engineering Research, Department of Civil Engineering, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Xiaole Yin
- Environmental Microbiome Engineering and Biotechnology Laboratory, Centre for Environmental Engineering Research, Department of Civil Engineering, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Yu Deng
- Environmental Microbiome Engineering and Biotechnology Laboratory, Centre for Environmental Engineering Research, Department of Civil Engineering, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Chao Yang
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Microbiology and Technology for Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Tong Zhang
- Environmental Microbiome Engineering and Biotechnology Laboratory, Centre for Environmental Engineering Research, Department of Civil Engineering, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.
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Ribeirinho-Soares S, Moreira NFF, Graça C, Pereira MFR, Silva AMT, Nunes OC. Overgrowth control of potentially hazardous bacteria during storage of ozone treated wastewater through natural competition. WATER RESEARCH 2022; 209:117932. [PMID: 34902759 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2021.117932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2021] [Revised: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 12/01/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Improving the chemical and biological quality of treated wastewater is particularly important in world regions under water stress. In these regions, reutilization of wastewater is seen as an alternative to reduce water demand, particularly for agriculture irrigation. In a reuse scenario, the treated wastewater must have enough quality to avoid chemical and biological contamination of the receiving environment. Ozonation is among the technologies available to efficiently remove organic micropollutants and disinfect secondary effluents, being implemented in full-scale urban wastewater treatment plants worldwide. However, previous studies demonstrated that storage of ozone treated wastewater promoted the overgrowth of potentially harmful bacteria, putting at risk its reutilization, given for instance the possibility of contaminating the food-chain. Therefore, this study was designed to assess the potential beneficial role of inoculation of ozone treated wastewater with a diverse bacterial community during storage, for the control of the overgrowth of potentially hazardous bacteria, through bacterial competition. To achieve this goal, ozone treated wastewater (TWW) was diluted with river water (RW) in the same proportion, and the resulting bacterial community (RW+TWW) was compared to that of undiluted TWW over 7 days storage. As hypothesized, in contrast to TWW, where dominance of Beta- and Gammaproteobacteria, namely Pseudomonas spp. and Acinetobacter spp., was observed upon storage for 7 days, the bacterial communities of the diluted samples (RW+TWW) were diverse, resembling those of RW. Moreover, given the high abundance of antibiotic resistance genes in RW, the concentration of these genes in RW+TWW did not differ from that of the non-ozonated controls (WW, RW and RW+WW) over the storage period. These results highlight the necessity of finding a suitable pristine diverse bacterial community to be used in the future to compete with bacteria surviving ozonation, to prevent reactivation of undesirable bacteria during storage of treated wastewater.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Ribeirinho-Soares
- LEPABE - Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, Porto 4200-465, Portugal
| | - Nuno F F Moreira
- LEPABE - Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, Porto 4200-465, Portugal; Laboratory of Separation and Reaction Engineering - Laboratory of Catalysis and Materials (LSRE-LCM), Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, Porto 4200-465, Portugal
| | - Cátia Graça
- Laboratory of Separation and Reaction Engineering - Laboratory of Catalysis and Materials (LSRE-LCM), Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, Porto 4200-465, Portugal
| | - M Fernando R Pereira
- Laboratory of Separation and Reaction Engineering - Laboratory of Catalysis and Materials (LSRE-LCM), Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, Porto 4200-465, Portugal
| | - Adrián M T Silva
- Laboratory of Separation and Reaction Engineering - Laboratory of Catalysis and Materials (LSRE-LCM), Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, Porto 4200-465, Portugal
| | - Olga C Nunes
- LEPABE - Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, Porto 4200-465, Portugal.
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Rush RE, Dannemiller KC, Cochran SJ, Haines SR, Acosta L, Divjan A, Rundle AG, Miller RL, Perzanowski MS, Croston TL, Green BJ. Vishniacozyma victoriae (syn. Cryptococcus victoriae) in the homes of asthmatic and non-asthmatic children in New York City. JOURNAL OF EXPOSURE SCIENCE & ENVIRONMENTAL EPIDEMIOLOGY 2022; 32:48-59. [PMID: 34091598 PMCID: PMC10032026 DOI: 10.1038/s41370-021-00342-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2021] [Revised: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/29/2021] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Indoor environments contain a broad diversity of non-pathogenic Basidiomycota yeasts, but their role in exacerbating adverse health effects has remained unclear. OBJECTIVE To understand the role of Vishniacozyma victoriae exposure and its impact on human health. METHODS A qPCR assay was developed to detect and quantify an abundant indoor yeast species, Vishniacozyma victoriae (syn. Cryptococcus victoriae), from homes participating in the New York City Neighborhood Asthma and Allergy Study (NAAS). We evaluated the associations between V. victoriae, housing characteristics, and asthma relevant health endpoints. RESULTS V. victoriae was quantified in 236 of the 256 bedroom floor dust samples ranging from less than 300-45,918 cell equivalents/mg of dust. Higher concentrations of V. victoriae were significantly associated with carpeted bedroom floors (P = 0.044), mean specific humidity (P = 0.004), winter (P < 0.0001) and spring (P = 0.001) seasons, and the presence of dog (P = 0.010) and dog allergen Can f 1 (P = 0.027). V. victoriae concentrations were lower in homes of children with asthma vs. without asthma (P = 0.027), an association observed only among the non-seroatopic children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachael E Rush
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Cell Biology, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
- Allergy and Clinical Immunology Branch, Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Karen C Dannemiller
- Department of Civil, Environmental & Geodetic Engineering, College of Engineering, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
- Division of Environmental Health Sciences, College of Public Health, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Samuel J Cochran
- Department of Civil, Environmental & Geodetic Engineering, College of Engineering, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
- Division of Environmental Health Sciences, College of Public Health, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
- Environmental Sciences Graduate Program, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Sarah R Haines
- Department of Civil, Environmental & Geodetic Engineering, College of Engineering, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
- Division of Environmental Health Sciences, College of Public Health, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
- Environmental Sciences Graduate Program, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Luis Acosta
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Adnan Divjan
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Andrew G Rundle
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Rachel L Miller
- Division of Clinical Immunology, Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine, Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Matthew S Perzanowski
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Tara L Croston
- Allergy and Clinical Immunology Branch, Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Brett J Green
- Office of the Director, Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Morgantown, WV, USA.
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Ruijter JM, Ruiz-Villalba A, van den Hoff MJB. Cq Values Do Not Reflect Nucleic Acid Quantity in Biological Samples. Clin Chem 2021; 68:7-9. [PMID: 34677605 DOI: 10.1093/clinchem/hvab236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2021] [Accepted: 10/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- J M Ruijter
- Department of Medical Biology, Amsterdam University Medical Centres, Location AMC, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - A Ruiz-Villalba
- Department of Animal Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Instituto Malagueño de Biomedicina (IBIMA), University of Málaga, Málaga, Spain
| | - M J B van den Hoff
- Department of Medical Biology, Amsterdam University Medical Centres, Location AMC, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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Schnippenkoetter W, Hoque M, Maher R, Van de Wouw A, Hands P, Rolland V, Barrett L, Sprague S. Comparison of non-subjective relative fungal biomass measurements to quantify the Leptosphaeria maculans-Brassica napus interaction. PLANT METHODS 2021; 17:122. [PMID: 34852830 PMCID: PMC8638343 DOI: 10.1186/s13007-021-00822-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 11/17/2021] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Blackleg disease, caused by the fungal pathogen Leptosphaeria maculans, is a serious threat to canola (Brassica napus) production worldwide. Quantitative resistance to this disease is a highly desirable trait but is difficult to precisely phenotype. Visual scores can be subjective and are prone to assessor bias. Methods to assess variation in quantitative resistance more accurately were developed based on quantifying in planta fungal biomass, including the Wheat Germ Agglutinin Chitin Assay (WAC), qPCR and ddPCR assays. RESULTS Disease assays were conducted by inoculating a range of canola cultivars with L. maculans isolates in glasshouse experiments and assessing fungal biomass in cotyledons, petioles and stem tissue harvested at different timepoints post-inoculation. PCR and WAC assay results were well correlated, repeatable across experiments and host tissues, and able to differentiate fungal biomass in different host-isolate treatments. In addition, the ddPCR assay was shown to differentiate between L. maculans isolates. CONCLUSIONS The ddPCR assay is more sensitive in detecting pathogens and more adaptable to high-throughput methods by using robotic systems than the WAC assay. Overall, these methods proved accurate and non-subjective, providing alternatives to visual assessments to quantify the L. maculans-B. napus interaction in all plant tissues throughout the progression of the disease in seedlings and mature plants and have potential for fine-scale blackleg resistance phenotyping in canola.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mohammad Hoque
- CSIRO Agriculture and Food, 1 Clunies Ross Street, Canberra, ACT 2601 Australia
| | - Rebecca Maher
- CSIRO Agriculture and Food, 1 Clunies Ross Street, Canberra, ACT 2601 Australia
| | - Angela Van de Wouw
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010 Australia
| | - Phillip Hands
- CSIRO Agriculture and Food, 1 Clunies Ross Street, Canberra, ACT 2601 Australia
| | - Vivien Rolland
- CSIRO Agriculture and Food, 1 Clunies Ross Street, Canberra, ACT 2601 Australia
| | - Luke Barrett
- CSIRO Agriculture and Food, 1 Clunies Ross Street, Canberra, ACT 2601 Australia
| | - Susan Sprague
- CSIRO Agriculture and Food, 1 Clunies Ross Street, Canberra, ACT 2601 Australia
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Hoorzook KB, Barnard TG. Absolute quantification of E. coli virulence and housekeeping genes to determine pathogen loads in enumerated environmental samples. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0260082. [PMID: 34843501 PMCID: PMC8629182 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0260082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Accepted: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Quantifying pathogenic genes with q-PCR in complex samples to determine the pathogen loads is influenced by a wide range of factors, including choice of extraction method, standard curve, and the decision to use relative versus absolute quantification of the genes. The aim was to investigate the standardisation of q-PCR methods to determine enumerated E. coli gene ratios grown with the IDEXX Colilert® Quanti-Trays® using enteropathogenic E. coli as the model pathogen. q-PCR targeting the eaeA and gadAB genes was used to calculate the eaeA: gadAB ratios for clinical strains collected between [2005–2006 (n = 55)] and [2008–2009 (n = 19)] using the LinRegPCR software and Corbett Research Thermal cycler software. Both programs grouped the isolates into two distinct groups based on the gene ratios although the Corbett Research Thermal cycler software gave results one log higher than the LinRegPCR program. Although the eaeA: gadAB ratio range was determined using extracted E. coli DNA, the impact of free DNA and other bacteria present in the sample needed to be understood. Standard curve variations using serially diluted extracted E. coli DNA, serially diluted pure E. coli culture followed by DNA extraction from each dilution with or without other bacteria was tested using the eaeA q-PCR to quantify the genes. Comparison of the standard curves showed no significant difference between standard curves prepared with diluted DNA or with cells diluted before the DNA is extracted (P = 0.435). Significant differences were observed when background DNA was included in the diluent or Coliform cells added to the diluent to dilute cells before the DNA is extracted (P < 0.001). The “carrier” DNA and Coliform cells enhanced the DNA extraction results resulting in better PCR efficiency. This will have an influence on the quantification of gene ratios and pathogen load in samples containing lower numbers of E. coli.
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Affiliation(s)
- K. B. Hoorzook
- Water and Health Research Centre, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa
- * E-mail:
| | - T. G. Barnard
- Water and Health Research Centre, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Auto-qPCR; a python-based web app for automated and reproducible analysis of qPCR data. Sci Rep 2021; 11:21293. [PMID: 34716395 PMCID: PMC8556264 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-99727-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Quantifying changes in DNA and RNA levels is essential in numerous molecular biology protocols. Quantitative real time PCR (qPCR) techniques have evolved to become commonplace, however, data analysis includes many time-consuming and cumbersome steps, which can lead to mistakes and misinterpretation of data. To address these bottlenecks, we have developed an open-source Python software to automate processing of result spreadsheets from qPCR machines, employing calculations usually performed manually. Auto-qPCR is a tool that saves time when computing qPCR data, helping to ensure reproducibility of qPCR experiment analyses. Our web-based app (https://auto-q-pcr.com/) is easy to use and does not require programming knowledge or software installation. Using Auto-qPCR, we provide examples of data treatment, display and statistical analyses for four different data processing modes within one program: (1) DNA quantification to identify genomic deletion or duplication events; (2) assessment of gene expression levels using an absolute model, and relative quantification (3) with or (4) without a reference sample. Our open access Auto-qPCR software saves the time of manual data analysis and provides a more systematic workflow, minimizing the risk of errors. Our program constitutes a new tool that can be incorporated into bioinformatic and molecular biology pipelines in clinical and research labs.
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Lahlali R, Ibrahim DS, Belabess Z, Kadir Roni MZ, Radouane N, Vicente CS, Menéndez E, Mokrini F, Barka EA, Galvão de Melo e Mota M, Peng G. High-throughput molecular technologies for unraveling the mystery of soil microbial community: challenges and future prospects. Heliyon 2021; 7:e08142. [PMID: 34693062 PMCID: PMC8515249 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2021.e08142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Revised: 08/08/2021] [Accepted: 10/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Soil microbial communities play a crucial role in soil fertility, sustainability, and plant health. However, intensive agriculture with increasing chemical inputs and changing environments have influenced native soil microbial communities. Approaches have been developed to study the structure, diversity, and activity of soil microbes to better understand the biology and plant-microbe interactions in soils. Unfortunately, a good understanding of soil microbial community remains a challenge due to the complexity of community composition, interactions of the soil environment, and limitations of technologies, especially related to the functionality of some taxa rarely detected using conventional techniques. Culture-based methods have been shown unable and sometimes are biased for assessing soil microbial communities. To gain further knowledge, culture-independent methods relying on direct analysis of nucleic acids, proteins, and lipids are worth exploring. In recent years, metagenomics, metaproteomics, metatranscriptomics, and proteogenomics have been increasingly used in studying microbial ecology. In this review, we examined the importance of microbial community to soil quality, the mystery of rhizosphere and plant-microbe interactions, and the biodiversity and multi-trophic interactions that influence the soil structure and functionality. The impact of the cropping system and climate change on the soil microbial community was also explored. Importantly, progresses in molecular biology, especially in the development of high-throughput biotechnological tools, were extensively assessed for potential uses to decipher the diversity and dynamics of soil microbial communities, with the highlighted advantages/limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachid Lahlali
- Plant Pathology Unit, Department of Plant Protection, Ecole Nationale d’Agriculture de Meknes, BP S/40, 50001, Meknes, Morocco
| | - Dina S.S. Ibrahim
- Department of Nematodes Diseases and Central Lab of Biotechnology, Plant Pathology Research Institute, Agricultural Research Center (ARC), 12619, Egypt
| | - Zineb Belabess
- Plant Protection Laboratory. Regional Center of Agricultural Research of Oujda, National Institute of Agricultural Research, Avenue Mohamed VI, BP428 60000 Oujda, Morocco
| | - Md Zohurul Kadir Roni
- Tropical Agriculture Research Front, Japan International Research Center for Agricultural Sciences (JIRCAS), 1091-1 Maezato-Kawarabaru, Ishigaki, Okinawa, 907-0002, Japan
| | - Nabil Radouane
- Plant Pathology Unit, Department of Plant Protection, Ecole Nationale d’Agriculture de Meknes, BP S/40, 50001, Meknes, Morocco
- Department of Biology, Laboratory of Functional Ecology and Environmental Engineering, FST-Fez, Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University, Fez, Morocco
| | - Cláudia S.L. Vicente
- MED – Mediterranean Institute for Agriculture, Environment and Development, Institute for Advanced Studies and Research (IIFA), Universidade de Évora, Pólo da Mitra, Ap. 94, 7006-554 Évora, Portugal
- INIAV, I.P. - Instituto Nacional de Investigação Agrária e Veterinária, Quinta do Marquês, 2780-159 Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Esther Menéndez
- INIAV, I.P. - Instituto Nacional de Investigação Agrária e Veterinária, Quinta do Marquês, 2780-159 Oeiras, Portugal
- Department of Microbiology and Genetics / Spanish-Portuguese Institute for Agricultural Research (CIALE). University of Salamanca, 37007, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Fouad Mokrini
- Plant Protection Laboratory, INRA, Centre Régional de la Recherche Agronomique (CRRA), Rabat, Morocco
| | - Essaid Ait Barka
- Unité de Recherche Résistance Induite et Bio-protection des Plantes, EA 4707, USC, INRAe1488, Université de Reims Champagne-Ardenne, France
| | - Manuel Galvão de Melo e Mota
- NemaLab, MED – Mediterranean Institute for Agriculture, Environment and Development & Department of Biology, Escola de Ciências e Tecnologia, Universidade de Évora, Pólo da Mitra, Ap. 94, 7006-554 Évora, Portugal
| | - Gary Peng
- Saskatoon Research Development Centre, Agriculture and Agri-Food, Saskatchewan, Canada
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Liu P, Amin N, Miah R, Foster T, Raj S, Corpuz MJB, Rahman M, Willetts J, Moe CL. A method for correcting underestimation of enteric pathogen genome quantities in environmental samples. J Microbiol Methods 2021; 189:106320. [PMID: 34478762 DOI: 10.1016/j.mimet.2021.106320] [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: 07/08/2021] [Revised: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Exposure to enteric pathogens in the environment poses a serious risk for infection and disease. The accurate detection and quantification of enteric pathogens in environmental samples is critical for understanding pathogen transport and fate and developing risk assessment models. In this study, we successfully applied TaqMan real-time PCR assays to quantitatively detect five human-specific pathogens (Shigella/EIEC, Salmonella Typhi, Vibrio cholera, Norovirus, and Giardia) in samples from open drains, canals, floodwater, septic tanks, and anaerobic baffled reactors (ABR) collected in Mirpur, Dhaka, Bangladesh from April to October 2019. Overall, the grab and sediment samples showed low inhibition but the ultrafiltration samples collected from open drain had significantly higher (P = 0.0049) degree of PCR inhibition (median Ct = 31.06) compared to the extraction controls (Ct = 28.54). We developed a two-step method to adjust underestimation of pathogen quantities due to PCR inhibition and non-optimum PCR efficiency. Compared to other sample types, ultrafiltration samples demonstrated a wide range of concentration increase (1.0%-182.5%) by pathogens after adjusting for PCR inhibition and non-optimum efficiencies. These quantitative qPCR assays are successful in quantifying multiple enteric pathogens in environmental samples, and the adjustment method would be useful for correcting underestimates of pathogen quantities due to partial PCR inhibition and non-optimum efficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pengbo Liu
- Center for Global Safe Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA..
| | - Nuhu Amin
- Infectious Disease Division, International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh (icddr,b), Dhaka, Bangladesh..
| | - Rana Miah
- Infectious Disease Division, International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh (icddr,b), Dhaka, Bangladesh..
| | - Tim Foster
- Institute for Sustainable Futures, University of Technology Sydney, Australia..
| | - Suraja Raj
- Center for Global Safe Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA..
| | - Maria Julia Bianca Corpuz
- Center for Global Safe Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA..
| | - Mahbubur Rahman
- Infectious Disease Division, International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh (icddr,b), Dhaka, Bangladesh..
| | - Juliet Willetts
- Institute for Sustainable Futures, University of Technology Sydney, Australia..
| | - Christine L Moe
- Center for Global Safe Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA..
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Wang X, Howe S, Deng F, Zhao J. Current Applications of Absolute Bacterial Quantification in Microbiome Studies and Decision-Making Regarding Different Biological Questions. Microorganisms 2021; 9:1797. [PMID: 34576694 PMCID: PMC8467167 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms9091797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Revised: 08/16/2021] [Accepted: 08/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
High throughput sequencing has emerged as one of the most important techniques for characterizing microbial dynamics and revealing bacteria and host interactions. However, data interpretation using this technique is mainly based on relative abundance and ignores total bacteria load. In certain cases, absolute abundance is more important than compositional relative data, and interpretation of microbiota data based solely on relative abundance can be misleading. The available approaches for absolute quantification are highly diverse and challenging, especially for quantification in differing biological situations, such as distinguishing between live and dead cells, quantification of specific taxa, enumeration of low biomass samples, large sample size feasibility, and the detection of various other cellular features. In this review, we first illustrate the importance of integrating absolute abundance into microbiome data interpretation. Second, we briefly discuss the most widely used cell-based and molecular-based bacterial load quantification methods, including fluorescence spectroscopy, flow cytometry, 16S qPCR, 16S qRT-PCR, ddPCR, and reference spike-in. Last, we present a specific decision-making scheme for absolute quantification methods based on different biological questions and some of the latest quantitative methods and procedure modifications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaofan Wang
- Department of Animal Science, Division of Agriculture, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72701, USA
| | - Samantha Howe
- Department of Animal Science, Division of Agriculture, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72701, USA
| | - Feilong Deng
- Department of Animal Science, Division of Agriculture, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72701, USA
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Molecular Design and Precise Breeding, College of Life Science and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan 528225, China
| | - Jiangchao Zhao
- Department of Animal Science, Division of Agriculture, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72701, USA
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Long-Term Biocide Efficacy and Its Effect on a Souring Microbial Community. Appl Environ Microbiol 2021; 87:e0084221. [PMID: 34160245 PMCID: PMC8357289 DOI: 10.1128/aem.00842-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Reservoir souring, which is the production of H2S mainly by sulfate-reducing microorganisms (SRM) in oil reservoirs, has been a long-standing issue for the oil industry. While biocides have been frequently applied to control biogenic souring, the effects of biocide treatment are usually temporary, and biocides eventually fail. The reasons for biocide failure and the long-term response of the microbial community remain poorly understood. In this study, one-time biocide treatments with glutaraldehyde (GA) and an aldehyde-releasing biocide (ARB) at low (100 ppm) and high (750 ppm) doses were individually applied to a complex SRM community, followed by 1 year of monitoring of the chemical responses and the microbial community succession. The chemical results showed that souring control failed after 7 days at a dose of 100 ppm regardless of the biocide type and lasting souring control for the entire 1-year period was achieved only with ARB at 750 ppm. Microbial community analyses suggested that the high-dose biocide treatments resulted in 1 order of magnitude lower average total microbial abundance and average SRM abundance, compared to the low-dose treatments. The recurrence of souring was associated with reduction of alpha diversity and with long-term microbial community structure changes; therefore, monitoring changes in microbial community metrics may provide early warnings of the failure of a biocide-based souring control program in the field. Furthermore, spore-forming sulfate reducers (Desulfotomaculum and Desulfurispora) were enriched and became dominant in both GA-treated groups, which could cause challenges for the design of long-lasting remedial souring control strategies. IMPORTANCE Reservoir souring is a problem for the oil and gas industry, because H2S corrodes the steel infrastructure, downgrades oil quality, and poses substantial risks to field personnel and the environment. Biocides have been widely applied to remedy souring, but the long-term performance of biocide treatments is hard to predict or to optimize due to limited understanding of the microbial ecology affected by biocide treatment. This study investigates the long-term biocide performance and associated changes in the abundance, diversity, and structure of the souring microbial community, thus advancing the knowledge toward a deeper understanding of the microbial ecology of biocide-treated systems and contributing to the improvement of current biocide-based souring control practices. The study showcases the potential application of incorporating microbial community analyses to forecast souring, and it highlights the long-term consequences of biocide treatment in the microbial communities, with relevance to both operators and regulators.
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50
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Fortunato G, Vaz-Moreira I, Nunes OC, Manaia CM. Effect of copper and zinc as sulfate or nitrate salts on soil microbiome dynamics and bla VIM-positive Pseudomonas aeruginosa survival. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2021; 415:125631. [PMID: 33773246 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2021.125631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2020] [Revised: 02/10/2021] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The exposure of soil to metals and to antibiotic resistant bacteria may lead to the progressive deterioration of soil quality. The persistence of antibiotic resistant bacteria or antibiotic resistance genes in soil can be influenced by the microbial community or by soil amendments with metal salts. This work assessed the effect of soil amendment with copper and zinc, as sulfate or nitrate salts, on the fate of a carbapenem-resistant (blaVIM+) hospital effluent isolate of Pseudomonas aeruginosa (strain H1FC49) and on the variations of the microbial community composition. Microcosms with soil aged or not with copper and zinc salts (20 mM), and inoculated with P. aeruginosa H1FC49 were monitored at 0, 7, 14 and/or 30 days, for community composition (16S rRNA gene amplicon) and strain H1FC49 persistence. Data on culturable P. aeruginosa, quantitative PCR of the housekeeping gene ecf, and the presumably acquired genes blaVIM+ and integrase (intI1), and community composition were interpreted based on descriptive statistics and multivariate analysis. P. aeruginosa and the presumably acquired genes, were quantifiable in soil for up to one month, in both metal-amended and non-amended soil. Metal amendments were associated with a significant decrease of bacterial community diversity and richness. The persistence of P. aeruginosa and acquired genes in soils, combined with the adverse effect of metals on the bacterial community, highlight the vulnerability of soil to both types of exogenous contamination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gianuario Fortunato
- Universidade Católica Portuguesa, CBQF - Centro de Biotecnologia e Química Fina - Laboratório Associado, Escola Superior de Biotecnologia, Rua Diogo Botelho 1327, 4169-005 Porto, Portugal
| | - Ivone Vaz-Moreira
- Universidade Católica Portuguesa, CBQF - Centro de Biotecnologia e Química Fina - Laboratório Associado, Escola Superior de Biotecnologia, Rua Diogo Botelho 1327, 4169-005 Porto, Portugal
| | - Olga C Nunes
- LEPABE, Laboratório de Engenharia de Processos, Ambiente, Biotecnologia e Energia, Faculdade de Engenharia, Universidade do Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
| | - Célia M Manaia
- Universidade Católica Portuguesa, CBQF - Centro de Biotecnologia e Química Fina - Laboratório Associado, Escola Superior de Biotecnologia, Rua Diogo Botelho 1327, 4169-005 Porto, Portugal.
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