Helicobacter marmotae sp. nov. isolated from livers of woodchucks and intestines of cats

Phylogenetic analysis of pathogenic genes in Helicobacter species

BACKGROUND

Helicobacter bacteria are associated with gastrointestinal diseases, especially Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori). With the isolation of many non-Helicobacter pylori Helicobacters (NHPH) from the liver, intestines, and gallbladder of natural animal reservoirs, NHPH have been potential zoonotic pathogens, but their infection and pathogenic mechanisms are still unclear.

AIM

To explore the phylogenetic relationship of Helicobacter species based on their pathogenic genes.

METHODS

The present study collected the genomic sequences of 50 strains in genus Helicobacter, including 12 strains of H. pylori and 38 strains of NHPH. Based on 16S rRNA gene and several pathogenic genes (flagella, urease, and virulence factors), MAGA software (Version 11.0) was used to align their sequences and construct phylogenetic trees.

RESULTS

The phylogenetic tree of 16S rRNA gene showed that gastric Helicobacter (GH) and enterohepatic Helicobacter species (EHS) were clustered into two large branches, respectively. All of the GH's hosts were mammals, while the hosts of EHS were many wild poultry and mammals. Based on the flagella motility-related genes (flaA, flaB, fliP, fliQ, fliR, fliG, fliM, and fliN), the phylogenetic trees were divided into two major branches (GH and EHS). Similarly, the phylogenetic trees of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) biosynthesis-related genes (lptA, waaC, and waaF) presented two major branches (GH and EHS), too. The urease genes existed in all of the 12 strains of H. pylori, 13 strains of gastric NHPH, and 4 strains of EHS (H. hepaticus, H. muridarum, H. bilis, and H. anseris). However, no significant phylogenetic patterns of GH and EHS were observed in the seven urease genes (ureA, ureB, ureE, ureF, ureG, ureH, and ureI).

CONCLUSION

The phylogenetic relationship of Helicobacter species' pathogenic genes is dominated distinctly by the special colonization areas including gastric and enterohepatic niches.

A Tripartite Efflux System Affects Flagellum Stability in Helicobacter pylori

Helicobacter pylori uses a cluster of polar, sheathed flagella for swimming motility. A search for homologs of H. pylori proteins that were conserved in Helicobacter species that possess flagellar sheaths but were underrepresented in Helicobacter species with unsheathed flagella identified several candidate proteins. Four of the identified proteins are predicted to form part of a tripartite efflux system that includes two transmembrane domains of an ABC transporter (HP1487 and HP1486), a periplasmic membrane fusion protein (HP1488), and a TolC-like outer membrane efflux protein (HP1489). Deleting hp1486/hp1487 and hp1489 homologs in H. pylori B128 resulted in reductions in motility and the number of flagella per cell. Cryo-electron tomography studies of intact motors of the Δhp1489 and Δhp1486/hp1487 mutants revealed many of the cells contained a potential flagellum disassembly product consisting of decorated L and P rings, which has been reported in other bacteria. Aberrant motors lacking specific components, including a cage-like structure that surrounds the motor, were also observed in the Δhp1489 mutant. These findings suggest a role for the H. pylori HP1486-HP1489 tripartite efflux system in flagellum stability. Three independent variants of the Δhp1486/hp1487 mutant with enhanced motility were isolated. All three motile variants had the same frameshift mutation in fliL, suggesting a role for FliL in flagellum disassembly.

A report of nonexistence of the non-Helicobacter pylori Helicobacter species in Iranian patients suffering from inflammatory bowel disease

Inflammatory bowel disease is a chronic, relapsing-remitting gastrointestinal disorder which has become a serious global concern, and it imposes a great degree of health and economic burdens on communities worldwide. Although the presence of non-Helicobacter pylori Helicobacter (NHPH) microorganisms has been reported in various gastrointestinal disorders, their putative role in the pathogenesis of IBD has been a matter of controversy. The present study aimed to investigate the existence of gastric and enterohepatic NHPHs and their probable coinfection with H. pylori in IBD. Totally, 168 clinical specimens including 70 colonic biopsies and 98 fecal specimens were obtained from IBD patients. Genomic DNA was extracted from all samples, and its quality and concentration were assessed by β-globin PCR and spectrophotometry. The Helicobacter genus-specific PCR was performed using 16S rRNA gene. All samples were also tested for H. pylori infection by PCR of ureC gene fragment (glmM). The presence of NHPH was examined by using species-specific PCR assays. Based on PCR results, H. pylori was detected in 12.9% and 3.1% of colonic biopsies and fecal specimens, respectively. However, no statistically significant correlation was observed (P value > 0.05). We failed to find NHPH in both colonic biopsies and fecal specimens from IBD patients. Despite the fact that none of the IBD patients harbored the NHPH in the current work, further cohorts with larger sample size are required to determine the possible relationship between NHPH infection and IBD pathogenesis.

Helicobacters and cancer, not only gastric cancer?

The Helicobacter genus actually comprises 46 validly published species divided into two main clades: gastric and enterohepatic Helicobacters. These bacteria colonize alternative sites of the digestive system in animals and humans, and contribute to inflammation and cancers. In humans, Helicobacter infection is mainly related to H. pylori, a gastric pathogen infecting more than half of the world's population, leading to chronic inflammation of the gastric mucosa that can evolve into two types of gastric cancers: gastric adenocarcinomas and gastric MALT lymphoma. In addition, H. pylori but also non-H. pylori Helicobacter infection has been associated with many extra-gastric malignancies. This review focuses on H. pylori and its role in gastric cancers and extra-gastric diseases, as well as malignancies induced by non-H. pylori Helicobacters. Their different virulence factors and their involvement in carcinogenesis is discussed. This review highlights the importance of both gastric and enterohepatic Helicobacters in gastrointestinal and liver cancers.

Enterohepatic Helicobacter species - clinical importance, host range, and zoonotic potential

The genus Helicobacter defined just over 30 years ago, is a highly diverse and fast-growing group of bacteria that are able to persistently colonize a wide range of animals. The members of this genus are subdivided into two groups with different ecological niches, associated pathologies, and phylogenetic relationships: the gastric Helicobacter (GH) and the enterohepatic Helicobacter (EHH) species. Although GH have been mostly studied, EHH species have become increasingly important as emerging human pathogens and potential zoonotic agents in the last years. This group of bacteria has been associated with the development of several diseases in humans from acute pathologies like gastroenteritis to chronic pathologies that include inflammatory bowel disease, and liver and gallbladder diseases. However, their reservoirs, as well as their routes of transmission, have not been well established yet. Therefore, this review summarizes the current knowledge of taxonomy, epidemiology, and clinical role of the EHH group.

Minimal standards for describing new species belonging to the families Campylobacteraceae and Helicobacteraceae: Campylobacter, Arcobacter, Helicobacter and Wolinella spp

Ongoing changes in taxonomic methods, and in the rapid development of the taxonomic structure of species assigned to the Epsilonproteobacteria have lead the International Committee of Systematic Bacteriology Subcommittee on the Taxonomy of Campylobacter and Related Bacteria to discuss significant updates to previous minimal standards for describing new species of Campylobacteraceae and Helicobacteraceae. This paper is the result of these discussions and proposes minimum requirements for the description of new species belonging to the families Campylobacteraceae and Helicobacteraceae, thus including species in Campylobacter, Arcobacter, Helicobacter, and Wolinella. The core underlying principle remains the use of appropriate phenotypic and genotypic methods to characterise strains sufficiently so as to effectively and unambiguously determine their taxonomic position in these families, and provide adequate means by which the new taxon can be distinguished from extant species and subspecies. This polyphasic taxonomic approach demands the use of appropriate reference data for comparison to ensure the novelty of proposed new taxa, and the recommended study of at least five strains to enable species diversity to be assessed. Methodological approaches for phenotypic and genotypic (including whole-genome sequence comparisons) characterisation are recommended.

Microbiota in the coelomic fluid of two common coastal starfish species and characterization of an abundant Helicobacter-related taxon

Marine invertebrates associate with diverse microorganisms. Microorganisms even inhabit coelomic fluid (CF), namely, the fluid filling the main body cavity of echinoderms. The CF microbiota potentially impacts host health and disease. Here, we analysed the CF microbiota in two common coastal starfish species, Patiria pectinifera and Asterias amurensis. Although microbial community structures were highly variable among individual starfish, those of P. pectinifera were compositionally similar to those in the surrounding seawater. By contrast, many A. amurensis individuals harboured unique microbes in the CF, which was dominated by the unclassified Thiotrichales or previously unknown Helicobacter-related taxon. In some individuals, the Helicobacter-related taxon was the most abundant genus-level taxon, accounting for up to 97.3% of reads obtained from the CF microbial community. Fluorescence in situ hybridization using a Helicobacter-related-taxon-specific probe suggested that probe-reactive cells in A. amurensis were spiral-shaped, morphologically similar to known Helicobacter species. Electron microscopy revealed that the spiral cells had a prosthecate-like polar appendage that has never been reported in Helicobacter species. Although culture of Helicobacter-related taxon was unsuccessful, this is the first report of the dominance of a Helicobacter-related taxon in invertebrates and non-digestive organs, reshaping our knowledge of the phylogeography of Helicobacter-related taxa.

Helicobacter bilis and Helicobacter trogontum: infectious causes of abortion in sheep

The aim of our study was to determine the association of Helicobacter spp. that had flexispira morphology with ovine abortion, and to understand the importance of these organisms as a cause of ovine abortion in New Zealand. A retrospective diagnostic survey was carried out on laboratory submissions from ovine abortion outbreaks. A comparison was made of the proportion of laboratory submissions where Helicobacter spp. were detected from flocks that had no other agent identified (group A) with a group that had a known cause of abortion identified (group B). This latter group was considered to be a negative control, given the premise that Helicobacter spp. were not causing abortions and that Helicobacter spp. should be present at a lower rate in the group. Where no diagnosis had been made, aborted material was positive for Helicobacter spp. with flexispira morphology in 8 submissions (20%, 8/40) from 5 of the 31 survey farms (16%, 5/31). Helicobacter spp. were not detected in any of the 18 submissions from the 17 control farms (group B). Helicobacter spp. were confirmed by 16S ribosomal RNA sequencing of 3 of the Helicobacter spp. isolated by culture from the livers of aborted sheep fetuses, and 7 of the 8 where samples were positive in a Helicobacter PCR assay. The Helicobacter spp. were identified as Helicobacter trogontum (Flexispira taxon 5 genotype) and Helicobacter bilis (Flexispira taxon 8 genotype). The findings support Helicobacter spp. being a probable causative agent of ovine abortions in New Zealand.

Helicobacter himalayensis sp. nov. isolated from gastric mucosa of Marmota himalayana

A Gram-stain-negative, microaerophilic strain, 80(YS1)T, with a spiral-shaped morphology and 1-2 sheathed flagella at each end of the cells was isolated from the gastric mucosa of Marmota himalayana, the animal reservoir of Yersinia pestis in China, on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. The strain grew at 30, 35 and 42 °C, but not at 25 °C. Growth was in the form of a thinly spreading film on brain heart infusion agar containing 8 % sheep blood under microaerobic conditions. The strain did not hydrolyse urea or hippurate, and did not grow on media containing 1 % glycine. It reduced nitrate to nitrite, and was catalase- and alkaline-phosphatase-positive, susceptible to nalidixic acid and resistant to cefalotin. It was positive for genus-specific PCR for the genus Helicobacter, but could not be classified to any recognized species according biochemical tests results. Therefore, a phylogenetic study based on 16S rRNA, 23S rRNA, 60 kDa heat-shock protein (hsp60) and gyrase subunit B (gyrB) genes was conducted. The 16S rRNA gene sequence (1468 bp) analysis showed that strain 80(YS1)T was most closely related to Helicobacter marmotae (96.7 % similarity). The 23S rRNA gene sequence (2879 bp) analysis showed that the strain was most closely related to Helicobacter canis (96 % similarity). The complete gyrB gene sequence (2325 bp) analysis showed that it was related phylogenetically to Helicobacter cinaedi (79.4 % similarity) and H. marmotae (79.1 % similarity). Analysis of the partial sequence of the hsp60 gene of strain 80(YS1)T showed closest similarity to the sequences of Helicobacter equorum (82 %) and H. cinaedi (81 %), respectively. However, there was no hsp60 sequence of H. marmotae available for analysis. The data of morphological, biochemical and phylogenetic characteristics all supported that this strain represents a novel species. The name Helicobacter himalayensis sp. nov. is proposed for this novel species with the type strain 80(YS1)T ( = CGMCC 1.12864T = DSM 28742T).

Description of Helicobacter valdiviensis sp. nov., an Epsilonproteobacteria isolated from wild bird faecal samples

Two Gram-stain-negative, gently curved rod-shaped isolates (WBE14T and WBE19), recovered from wild bird faecal samples in the city of Valdivia (Southern Chile) were subjected to a polyphasic taxonomic study. Results of a genus-specific PCR indicated that these isolates belonged to the genus Helicobacter . This was further confirmed by a phylogenetic analyses based on the 16S rRNA, 60 kDa heat-shock protein (cpn60) and gyrase subunit B (gyrB) genes, where both strains formed a novel phylogenetic line within this genus. The 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity of strain WBE14T to the type strains of all other species of the genus Helicobacter examined ranged from 89.4 to 97.0 %; Helicobacter brantae and Helicobacter pametensis were the most closely related species. However, on the basis of the protein-coding genes Helicobacter pullorum and Helicobacter canadensis are the most closely related species. These data, together with their different morphological and biochemical characteristics, revealed that these strains represent a novel species, for which the name Helicobacter valdiviensis sp. nov. is proposed, with the type strain WBE14T ( = CECT 8410T = LMG 27920T).

Pathogenic properties of enterohepatic Helicobacter spp. isolated from rhesus macaques with intestinal adenocarcinoma

Considerable progress has been made in understanding the roles of Helicobacter pylori in inflammation and gastric cancer; however, far less is known about the roles of enterohepatic Helicobacter species (EHS) in carcinogenesis and their zoonotic or pathogenic potential. We determined the prevalence of EHS infection in a cohort of geriatric rhesus monkeys in which intestinal adenocarcinoma (IAC) is common and investigated the association between EHS infection and IAC. The cohort consisted of 36 animals, 14 of which (age 26-35 years) had IAC. Of the 36 rhesus, 35 (97%) were positive for EHS using PCR or bacterial isolation from faeces, colonic or tumour tissues. Only a single rhesus, which had IAC, was negative for EHS by all detection methods. The EHS identified by 16S rRNA sequencing in this study were from three Helicobacter taxa: Helicobacter macacae (previously rhesus monkey taxon 1), Helicobacter sp. rhesus monkey taxon 2, previously described from strain MIT 99-5507, and Helicobacter sp. rhesus monkey taxon 4, related to Helicobacter fennelliae. Thirteen of 14 monkeys with IAC were positive for either H. macacae (7/13, 54%), EHS rhesus monkey taxon 4 (4/13, 31%) or a mixture of the two EHS (2/13, 15%). These results indicate that EHS are prevalent among aged rhesus macaques with IAC. Using Helicobacter genus-specific florescent in situ hybridization, EHS were detected on the surface of colonic epithelia of infected monkeys. All Helicobacter isolates, including H. macacae, effectively adhered to, invaded, and significantly induced proinflammatory genes, including IL-8, IL-6, TNF-α and iNOS, while downregulating genes involved in the function of inflammasomes, particularly IL-1β, CASPASE-1, NRLP3, NLRP6 and NLRC4 in the human colonic T84 cell line (P<0.0001). These results suggest that EHS may represent an aetiological agent mediating diarrhoea, chronic inflammation, and possibly intestinal cancer in non-human primates, and may play a role in similar disease syndromes in humans. Downregulation of inflammasome function may represent an EHS strategy for long-term persistence in the host and play a role in inducing pathological changes in the host's lower bowel.

Detection, isolation, and characterization of helicobacter species from the gastrointestinal tract of the brushtail possum

The presence of Helicobacter species in Australian marsupials was examined systematically using microscopy, culture, and PCR in different regions of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) and in the liver of brushtail possums (BTPs) (Trichosurus vulpecula), a common Australian marsupial that feeds on eucalyptus leaves. The spatial distribution of Helicobacter species in the GIT sections also was examined microscopically in silver-stained sections and by fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) using a Helicobacter genus-specific probe. Helicobacter species were found colonizing the lower bowel of all BTPs studied. Good agreement was observed between the detection of Helicobacter species using culture and PCR, which was supported by the microscopic examination of silver-stained sections and FISH. The lower bowel of BTPs were colonized by one to three morphologically different (a comma-shaped species with no apparent flagella, a fusiform-shaped species entwined with periplasmic fibers and a bipolar sheathed flagella, and an S-shaped species with bipolar sheathed flagella) and potentially novel Helicobacter species, as well as in one case with a potentially novel Campylobacter species, which was a tightly coiled rod with bipolar unsheathed flagella. The isolation and characterization of these Helicobacter species in BTPs provides important information regarding the specific natural niche of these bacteria and their corelationship within their host, and it increases our understanding of the ecology of Helicobacter species.

Experimental Helicobacter marmotae infection in A/J mice causes enterohepatic disease

Helicobacter marmotae has been identified in the inflamed livers of Eastern woodchucks (Marmota monax) infected with woodchuck hepatitis virus (WHV), as well as from the livers of WHV-negative woodchucks. Because the majority of WHV-positive woodchucks with hepatic tumours were culture or PCR positive for this helicobacter, and WHV-negative woodchucks with H. marmotae had hepatitis, the bacterium may have a role in tumour promotion related to chronic inflammation. In this study, the type strain of H. marmotae was inoculated intraperitoneally into 48 male and female A/J mice, a strain noted to be susceptible to Helicobacter hepaticus-induced liver tumours. Sixteen mice served as mock-dosed controls. At 6, 12 and 18 months post-inoculation (p.i.), there were statistically significant (P<0.05) differences in mean inflammation scores for the caecum and proximal colon between experimentally infected and control mice. Differences in hepatic inflammation were significant (P<0.05) at 6 and 12 months p.i. between the two groups but not at the 18 month time point. Two infected male mice had livers with severe hepatitis, and the liver samples were culture positive for H. marmotae. Serum IgG levels in the mice dosed with H. marmotae were elevated for the duration of the study. These results demonstrate that the woodchuck helicobacter can successfully colonize mice and cause enterohepatic disease. In the future, a mouse-adapted strain of H. marmotae could be selected to maximize colonization and lesion development. Such a woodchuck helicobacter-infected mouse model could be used to dissect potential mechanisms of microbial co-carcinogenesis involved in tumour development in woodchucks with WHV and in humans with hepatitis B virus.

Genetic characterization and epidemiology of Helicobacters in non-domestic animals

BACKGROUND

Novel helicobacter infections and associated disease are being recognized with increasing frequency in animals and people. Yet, the pervasiveness of infection in distantly related animal taxa, genetic diversity of helicobacters, and their transmissability are not known.

AIM

To better understand the ecology of helicobacters, we did a PCR survey and epidemiologic analysis of 154 captive or wild vertebrate taxa originating from 6 continents.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

One hundred twenty nine helicobacter 16s rRNA gene segments were amplified by PCR and sequenced from ninety-three mammalian, reptilian, avian, or amphibian host species. Prevalence estimates were generated, and univariate logistic regression analyses were used to explore relationships between infection status and the health and characteristics of the 220 individual animals.

RESULTS

One hundred and nineteen novel helicobacter DNA sequences were found. No significant relationship between infection and host health was found; however, multi-infection or infections with particular genotypes were associated with mild clinical signs. Phylogenetic and genetic comparisons of helicobacters suggested prolonged co-adaptation and niche-associated divergence as well as periodic inter-species transmission.

CONCLUSION

The genus Helicobacter should accordingly be viewed as a collection of hundreds of organisms that have colonized most tetrapod taxa and have the potential to expand into new hosts as contact among animals and between animals and people increases.

Hepatocellular carcinoma: prevalence and molecular pathogenesis of Helicobacter spp

Helicobacter pylori infection is one of the most common chronic bacterial infections in humans. The association of other Helicobacter spp. with extragastric diseases in animals is well established, and a role of these bacteria in human liver disease is becoming clearer. Several case-control studies have reported possible associations of Helicobacter spp. with various liver diseases, including hepatocellular carcinoma, which is the fifth most common type of carcinoma among men worldwide, and the eighth most common among women. Thus, it is important to understand molecular mechanisms that may lead to hepatotoxicity or hepatocellular dysfunction in which Helicobacter spp. may play a role in inducing malignant transformation of liver cells.

Effects of Helicobacter infection on research: the case for eradication of Helicobacter from rodent research colonies

Infection of mouse colonies with Helicobacter spp. has become an increasing concern for the research community. Although Helicobacter infection may cause clinical disease, investigators may be unaware that their laboratory mice are infected because the pathology of Helicobacter species is host-dependent and may not be recognized clinically. The effects of Helicobacter infections are not limited to the gastrointestinal system and can affect reproduction, the development of cancers in gastrointestinal organs and remote organs such as the breast, responses to vaccines, and other areas of research. The data we present in this review show clearly that unintentional Helicobacter infection has the potential to significantly interfere with the reliability of research studies based on murine models. Therefore, frequent screening of rodent research colonies for Helicobacter spp. and the eradication of these pathogens should be key goals of the research community.

In vivo virulence properties of bacterial cytolethal-distending toxin

Multiple pathogenic Gram-negative bacteria produce cytolethal-distending toxins (CDTs). CDT is typically composed of three subunits: the catalytic subunit CdtB has DNase I-like activity, whereas CdtA and CdtC are binding proteins for delivering CdtB into target cells. Translocation of CdtB to the nucleus induces genotoxic effects on host DNA, triggering DNA repair cascades that lead to cell cycle arrest and eventual cell death. Several lines of evidence indicate that this toxin contributes to the pathogenicity of CDT-producing bacteria in vivo. Helicobacter hepaticus and Campylobacter jejuni CDTs are essential for persistent infection of the gastrointestinal tract and increase the severity of mucosal inflammation or liver disease in susceptible mouse strains. Haemophilus ducreyi CDT may contribute to the pathogenesis of chancroid in rabbits. Recently, H. hepaticus CDT has been shown to play a crucial role in promoting the progression of infectious hepatitis to pre-malignant, dysplastic lesions via activation of a pro-inflammatory NF-kappaB pathway and increased proliferation of hepatocytes, providing the first evidence that CDT has carcinogenic potential in vivo. Thus, both in vitro and in vivo data indicate that CDT is a bacterial virulence factor.

Immunogenicity and pathogenicity of Helicobacter infections of veterinary animals

The initial discovery that the human stomach is commonly infected by the bacterium Helicobacter pylori subsequently resulted in the identification of a whole new family of pathogenic bacteria. In less than 25 years, the Helicobacter genus has grown from obscurity to number at least 38 different species with many more awaiting classifications. These bacteria, many of which are either direct or opportunistic pathogens, are present in virtually every mammalian species examined, and have also now been identified in a number of birds. The pathogenesis associated with these infections is predominantly the result of a chronic inflammatory response mounted by the host against the infection. This is typically a Th1-driven response which can result in a range of conditions from hepatitis, through gallstones to cancer. In some cases the inflammatory response to these infections is normally well managed by the host and disease only results when there is a breakdown or misbalance in the immunoregulatory process, which for example can result in inflammatory bowel disease in experimental models. Understanding the disease association and pathogenic mechanisms of the different Helicobacter infections is clearly of potential significance not only from an animal welfare point of view but also from the growing realisation of how commonly transmission of Helicobacter occurs between different mammals, including pathogenic zoonotic infections of humans.

List of new names and new combinations previously effectively, but not validly, published

The purpose of this announcement is to effect the valid publication of the following new names and new combinations under the procedure described in the Bacteriological Code (1990 Revision). Authors and other individuals wishing to have new names and/or combinations included in future lists should send three copies of the pertinent reprint or photocopies thereof to the IJSEM Editorial Office for confirmation that all of the other requirements for valid publication have been met. It is also a requirement of IJSEM and the ICSP that authors of new species, new subspecies and new combinations provide evidence that types are deposited in two recognized culture collections in two different countries (i.e. documents certifying deposition and availability of type strains). It should be noted that the date of valid publication of these new names and combinations is the date of publication of this list, not the date of the original publication of the names and combinations. The authors of the new names and combinations are as given below, and these authors' names will be included in the author index of the present issue and in the volume author index. Inclusion of a name on these lists validates the publication of the name and thereby makes it available in bacteriological nomenclature. The inclusion of a name on this list is not to be construed as taxonomic acceptance of the taxon to which the name is applied. Indeed, some of these names may, in time, be shown to be synonyms, or the organisms may be transferred to another genus, thus necessitating the creation of a new combination.

Detection of Helicobacter species in the gastrointestinal tract of wild rodents from Brazil

Since we have limited knowledge about the occurrence of Helicobacter in wild animals, we searched for Helicobacter species in the gastrointestinal tract of 75 rodents captured in forest remnants of Minas Gerais, Brazil. Fragments from the antrum and corpus of the stomach and from the colon were taken for PCR assays for Helicobacter detection. Although gastric mucosa was Helicobacter-positive in only one animal, the bacterium was detected in the colonic mucosa of 23 rodents (30.7%). Helicobacter detection was more frequent in the colon of terraced rice rat (56%) and house rat (30%) in contrast to punare and Spix's yellow-toothed cavy, in which the presence of the bacterium was not detected. Helicobacter rodentium, H. marmotae, H. cinaedi, and other species closely related to the murine helicobacters were presumptively identified by DNA sequencing. Wild rodents may serve as a reservoir of these Helicobacter species in nature.

Detection, eradication, and research implications of Helicobacter infections in laboratory rodents

Researchers first isolated and characterized Helicobacter hepaticus in 1994 as a cause of hepatitis that progressed to hepatocellular carcinoma in A/JCr mice. During the past decade, isolation and characterization of additional novel helicobacters from rodents has continued. In addition to causing overt disease, rodent helicobacter infections are important because intercurrent disease in select models will confound research data. Emerging evidence suggests that inflammatory responses to enterohepatic helicobacter infections may alter host responses to other experimental stimuli in unanticipated ways. Additionally, scientists have experimentally infected a variety of inbred mouse strains and genetically engineered mice with a variety of Helicobacter spp. isolated from rodents, birds, and higher mammals (including humans) to develop animal models of gastrointestinal diseases as well as idiopathic human disease syndromes. This review highlights current information about helicobacter infections in laboratory rodents and provides recommendations for the detection and eradication of these infections. The authors discuss the impact of subclinical and clinical disease and offer recommendations for managing helicobacter-free rodent colonies.

Helicobacter pylori and cholesterol gallstone formation in C57L/J mice: a prospective study

Recently, we demonstrated that cholesterol gallstone-prone C57L/J mice rarely develop gallstones unless they are infected with certain cholelithogenic enterohepatic Helicobacter species. Because the common gastric pathogen H. pylori has been identified in the hepatobiliary tree of cholesterol gallstone patients, we wanted to ascertain if H. pylori is cholelithogenic, by prospectively studying C57L infected mice fed a lithogenic diet. Weanling, Helicobacter spp.-free male C57L mice were either infected with H. pylori SS1 or sham dosed. Mice were then fed a lithogenic diet (1.0% cholesterol, 0.5% cholic acid, and 15% dairy triglycerides) for 8 wk. At 16 wk of age, mice were euthanatized, the biliary phenotype was analyzed microscopically, and tissues were analyzed histopathologically. H. pylori infection did not promote cholesterol monohydrate crystal formation (20% vs. 10%), sandy stone formation (0% for both), or true gallstone formation (20%) compared with uninfected mice fed the lithogenic diet (10%). Additionally, H. pylori failed to stimulate mucin gel accumulation in the gallbladder or alter gallbladder size compared with uninfected animals. H. pylori-infected C57L mice developed moderate to severe gastritis by 12 wk, and the lithogenic diet itself produced lesions in the forestomach, which were exacerbated by the infection. We conclude that H. pylori infection does not play any role in murine cholesterol gallstone formation. Nonetheless, the C57L mouse develops severe lesions of both the glandular and nonglandular stomach in response to H. pylori infection and the lithogenic diet, respectively.

The role of Helicobacter spp. in the pathogenesis of primary biliary cirrhosis and primary sclerosing cholangitis

Helicobacter species DNA has been detected in liver tissue of patients affected by primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) and primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC). To investigate a potential causative relation between Helicobacter species and PBC/PSC, we compared the presence of Helicobacter species-specific DNA in liver tissue of patients with PBC/PSC (n=18/n=13) with those of a control group of patients with various liver diseases with known cause (n=29). A PCR with Helicobacter genus-specific 16S rRNA primers was performed on DNA isolated from paraffin embedded liver tissue. Control patients had hepatitis-B (n=9), alcoholic cirrhosis (n=14), or non-cirrhotic metabolic liver disease (n=6). There was no significant difference between the incidence of Helicobacter spp.-specific DNA in PBC/PSC (9/31; 29%) and the control group (10/29; 34%). Sequence analysis confirmed Helicobacter spp. DNA. Because Helicobacter spp. DNA can be found in approximately one-third of all samples tested, it is unlikely that PSC and PBC are caused by Helicobacter infection.

Extension of the species Helicobacter bilis to include the reference strains of Helicobacter sp. flexispira taxa 2, 3 and 8 and Finnish canine and feline flexispira strains

The evolution and taxonomy of enterohepatic Helicobacter species with flexispira morphology were studied by a polyphasic approach including phenotypic characterization, analysis of 16S rRNA and ureB gene sequences and dot-blot DNA-DNA hybridization of whole genomic DNA. In addition, available phylogenetic data on the HSP60 gene were used in the analysis. The study included 14 Finnish canine and feline flexispira strains, the reference strains of Helicobacter sp. flexispira taxa 2, 3 and 8 and Helicobacter bilis ATCC 51630(T). Phenotypically, all canine and feline strains were similar to H. bilis. Analysis of 16S rRNA gene sequences of these strains revealed a similarity of 97-99.5 %. Similarity of ureB nucleotide and amino acid sequences within the studied flexispira group was 97-100 % and 99-100 %, respectively, revealing close relatedness. ureB sequences of Helicobacter hepaticus had only 64-66 % similarity to the flexispira group. The similarity to Helicobacter trogontum was 81.5-82.1 %. High levels of DNA-DNA hybridization between the strains were found in dot-blot tests. Polyphasic analysis of the phenotypic and genotypic characteristics of the Finnish flexispira strains and the reference strains of taxa 2, 3 and 8 showed that they differed from other Helicobacter species and are members of the previously described species H. bilis. In addition, canine strain F56 differed in all phylogenetic analyses from the H. bilis group and probably represents a novel Helicobacter species.

PCR screening for candidate etiological agents of canine hepatitis

PROBLEM ASSESSED

Hepatitis, either acute or chronic, is a relatively common hepatic disease in dogs. Several forms of canine hepatitis can occur, some with a defined cause, most cases have an unknown etiology. The similarities between canine hepatitis and human viral hepatitis suggest that canine hepatitis may have a viral etiology too.

OBJECTIVE

To test liver tissue of dogs with hepatitis for the presence of candidate agents based on their known association with hepatitis in other mammals.

METHODS AND APPROACH

The following infectious agents were tested by PCR: Hepadnaviridae, Helicobacter spp., Leptospira spp., Borrelia spp., hepatitis A virus, hepatitis C virus and hepatitis E virus. Also canine adenovirus and parvovirus were included. Ninety-eight liver tissue samples of dogs with various histologically diagnoses forms of hepatitis were tested. Primers were designed on conserved regions in the genome of each of these agents, to increase the likelihood of detection by PCR. To further increase sensitivity, nested PCRs for all agents were designed. Finally, for each agent a nested short primer PCR (SPP) was performed.

RESULTS

None of these agents were detected by nested PCR and nested SPP. However, in two acute hepatitis liver samples parvovirus was detected by nested PCR, and one of these was also detected by nested SPP.

CONCLUSIONS

Hepatitis in dogs is not caused by agents with high homology to known infectious agents that cause hepatitis in other species.

Identification of cholelithogenic enterohepatic helicobacter species and their role in murine cholesterol gallstone formation

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Helicobacter spp are common inhabitants of the hepatobiliary and gastrointestinal tracts of humans and animals and cause a variety of well-described diseases. Recent epidemiologic results suggest a possible association between enterohepatic Helicobacter spp and cholesterol cholelithiasis, chronic cholecystitis, and gallbladder cancer. To test this, we prospectively investigated the effects of Helicobacter spp infection in cholesterol gallstone pathogenesis in the highly susceptible C57L/J mouse model.

METHODS

Helicobacter spp-free adult male C57L mice were infected with several different enterohepatic Helicobacter spp or left uninfected and fed either a lithogenic diet or standard mouse chow for 8 and 18 weeks. At the conclusion of the study, bile was examined microscopically and diagnostic culture and polymerase chain reaction were performed.

RESULTS

Mice infected with Helicobacter bilis or coinfected with Helicobacter hepaticus and Helicobacter rodentium and fed a lithogenic diet developed cholesterol gallstones at 80% prevalence by 8 weeks compared with approximately 10% in uninfected controls. Monoinfections with H hepaticus , Helicobacter cinaedi , and H rodentium gave a cholesterol gallstone prevalence of 40%, 30%, and 20%, respectively; the latter 2 groups did not differ significantly from uninfected animals. Neither infected nor uninfected mice fed a chow diet developed cholesterol gallstones.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings, along with prior epidemiologic studies, suggest that Helicobacter spp play a major role in the pathophysiology of cholesterol gallstone formation in mice and perhaps humans.

Detection of Helicobacter pylori in bile of cats

Lymphocytic cholangitis (LC) in cats is a biliary disease of unknown etiology. Helicobacter spp. were recently implicated in human primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) and primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC). Because of the similarities between PSC/PBC with LC, we hypothesized that Helicobacter spp. are involved in feline LC. A PCR with Helicobacter genus-specific 16S rRNA primers was performed on DNA isolated from feline bile samples. Four of the 15 (26%) LC samples were positive, whereas only 8/51 (16%) of non-LC samples were PCR positive (p=0.44). Sequence analysis of the amplicons revealed a 100% identity with the Helicobacter pylori specific DNA fragments. Our data suggest an etiological role of H. pylori in feline LC and that cats are a potential zoonotic reservoir.

A novel enterohepatic Helicobacter species 'Helicobacter mastomyrinus' isolated from the liver and intestine of rodents

BACKGROUND

A number of novel Helicobacter species have been isolated from both animals and humans. Many of these helicobacters colonize the lower gastrointestinal tract and hepatobiliary tract and are associated with diseases.

METHODS

A spiral-shaped bacterium, with bipolar single-sheathed flagella, was isolated from the liver and cecum of mastomys (the African rodent, Mastomys natalenis), from the feces and ceca of normal mice, and also from the cecum of a mouse with proctitis. 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequence analysis, restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) and fluorophore-enhanced repetitive element polymerase chain reaction (FERP or rep-PCR) analysis were used to classify the organism.

RESULTS

The bacterium grew at 37 and 42 degrees C under microaerobic conditions, rapidly hydrolyzed urea, and was catalase and oxidase positive. It did not reduce nitrate to nitrite, and was resistant to cephalothin and nalidixic acid. Like many other enterohepatic Helicobacter species, this organism expressed cytolethal distending toxin and causes cell distention.

CONCLUSIONS

The organism was classified as a novel Helicobacter species for which we propose the name 'Helicobacter mastomyrinus'. Although 'H. mastomyrinus', like Helicobacter hepaticus and Helicobacter bilis, colonizes the liver of rodents, the pathogenic potential of this novel helicobacter is unknown.

Avian reservoirs and zoonotic potential of the emerging human pathogen Helicobacter canadensis

A polyphasic identification approach was used to investigate the taxonomic position of Campylobacter-like isolates recovered from barnacle geese (Branta leucopsis) and Canada geese (Branta candensis). Seven strains were selected from a collection of 21 isolates and analyzed by extensive phenotypic testing; four strains were characterized by 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis. The results clearly identified the bird isolates as Helicobacter canadensis, recently described as an emerging human pathogen. This is the first report of an animal reservoir for this organism and of its presence in Europe and confirms the zoonotic potential of H. canadensis.

Helicobacter pylori and extragastric diseases -- other helicobacters

The role of Helicobacter pylori infection is explored in more and more extragastric diseases without definite proof in most of the studies, except possibly some hematologic diseases. In cardiovascular diseases, including stroke, the presence of CagA positive strains may be involved. The possible role of helicobacters in hepatobiliary diseases goes beyond that of H. pylori to involve enterohepatic helicobacters. New Helicobacter species are regularly described and molecular methods are developed to improve their detection. Helicobacter felis remains the major species to be used in animal models of Helicobacter infection.

Hydrogen-oxidizing capabilities of Helicobacter hepaticus and in vivo availability of the substrate

Hydrogen-oxidizing hydrogenase activity was detected in Helicobacter hepaticus and compared to the activity in Helicobacter pylori for characteristics associated with hydrogen uptake respiratory hydrogenases. Intact whole cells could couple H(2) oxidation to oxygen uptake, and no H(2) uptake was observed without oxygen available to complete the respiratory pathway. The H. hepaticus enzyme coupled H(2) oxidation to reduction of many positive potential acceptors, and it underwent anaerobic or reductive activation. H. hepaticus had a strong affinity for molecular H(2) (apparent K(m) of 2.5 micro M), and microelectrode measurements on the livers of live mice demonstrated that H(2) is available in the host tissue at levels 20-fold greater than the apparent whole-cell K(m) value.

Helicobacter bilis sp. nov., a novel Helicobacter species isolated from bile, livers, and intestines of aged, inbred mice

A fusiform bacterium with 3 to 14 multiple bipolar sheathed flagella and periplasmic fibers wrapped around the cell was isolated from the liver, bile, and lower intestine of aged, inbred mice. The bacteria grew at 37 and 42 degrees C under microaerophilic conditions, rapidly hydrolyzed urea, were catalase and oxidase positive, reduced nitrate to nitrite, did not hydrolyze indoxyl acetate or hippurate, and were resistant to both cephalothin and nalidixic acid but sensitive to metronidazole. On the basis of 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis, the organism was classified as a novel helicobacter, Helicobacter bilis. This new helicobacter, like Helicobacter hepaticus, colonizes the bile, liver, and intestine of mice. Although the organism is associated with multifocal chronic hepatitis, further studies are required to ascertain whether H. bilis is responsible for causing chronic hepatitis and/or hepatocellular tumors in mice.