1
|
Stewart EL, Counoupas C, Steain M, Ashley C, Alca S, Hartley-Tassell L, von Itzstein M, Britton WJ, Petrovsky N, Triccas JA. Dendritic cell-specific intercellular adhesion molecule-3-grabbing nonintegrin (DC-SIGN) is a cellular receptor for delta inulin adjuvant. Immunol Cell Biol 2024; 102:593-604. [PMID: 38757764 PMCID: PMC11296934 DOI: 10.1111/imcb.12774] [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: 04/21/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
Delta inulin, or Advax, is a polysaccharide vaccine adjuvant that significantly enhances vaccine-mediated immune responses against multiple pathogens and was recently licensed for use in the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccine SpikoGen. Although Advax has proven effective as an immune adjuvant, its specific binding targets have not been characterized. In this report, we identify a cellular receptor for Advax recognition. In vitro uptake of Advax particles by macrophage cell lines was substantially greater than that of latex beads of comparable size, suggesting an active uptake mechanism by phagocytic cells. Using a lectin array, Advax particles were recognized by lectins specific for various carbohydrate structures including mannosyl, N-acetylgalactosamine and galactose moieties. Expression in nonphagocytic cells of dendritic cell-specific intercellular adhesion molecule-3-grabbing nonintegrin (DC-SIGN), a C-type lectin receptor, resulted in enhanced uptake of fluorescent Advax particles compared with mock-transfected cells. Advax uptake was reduced with the addition of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid and mannan to cells, which are known inhibitors of DC-SIGN function. Finally, a specific blockade of DC-SIGN using a neutralizing antibody abrogated Advax uptake in DC-SIGN-expressing cells. Together, these results identify DC-SIGN as a putative receptor for Advax. Given the known immunomodulatory role of DC-SIGN, the findings described here have implications for the use of Advax adjuvants in humans and inform future mechanistic studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Erica L Stewart
- Sydney Infectious Diseases Institute (Sydney ID), Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2006, Australia
- Centre for Infection and Immunity, Centenary Institute, The University of Sydney, Camperdown NSW 2006, Australia
- School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Camperdown NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Claudio Counoupas
- Sydney Infectious Diseases Institute (Sydney ID), Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2006, Australia
- Centre for Infection and Immunity, Centenary Institute, The University of Sydney, Camperdown NSW 2006, Australia
- School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Camperdown NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Megan Steain
- Sydney Infectious Diseases Institute (Sydney ID), Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2006, Australia
- School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Camperdown NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Caroline Ashley
- Sydney Infectious Diseases Institute (Sydney ID), Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2006, Australia
- School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Camperdown NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Sibel Alca
- Sydney Infectious Diseases Institute (Sydney ID), Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2006, Australia
- School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Camperdown NSW 2006, Australia
| | | | - Mark von Itzstein
- Institute for Glycomics, Griffith University, Southport, QLD 4222, Australia
| | - Warwick J Britton
- Centre for Infection and Immunity, Centenary Institute, The University of Sydney, Camperdown NSW 2006, Australia
| | | | - James A Triccas
- Sydney Infectious Diseases Institute (Sydney ID), Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2006, Australia
- Centre for Infection and Immunity, Centenary Institute, The University of Sydney, Camperdown NSW 2006, Australia
- School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Camperdown NSW 2006, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Szymanski CM. Bacteriophages and their unique components provide limitless resources for exploitation. Front Microbiol 2024; 15:1342544. [PMID: 38380101 PMCID: PMC10877033 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2024.1342544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Christine M. Szymanski
- Department of Microbiology, Complex Carbohydrate Research Center, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Eshun GB, Crapo HA, Yazgan I, Cronmiller L, Sadik OA. Sugar-Lectin Interactions for Direct and Selective Detection of Escherichia coli Bacteria Using QCM Biosensor. BIOSENSORS 2023; 13:337. [PMID: 36979549 PMCID: PMC10046022 DOI: 10.3390/bios13030337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2022] [Revised: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Pathogenic Escherichia coli (E. coli) remains a safety concern in the preservation and quality of green leafy vegetables. Sugar-lectin interactions provide a reliable, specific, and effective sensing platform for the detection of bacteria as compared to the tedious conventional plate counting technique. Herein, we present the synthesis of 4-(N-mannosyl) benzoic acid (4-NMBA) and 4-thiophenyl-N-mannose (4-TNM) via a two-step reductive amination for the detection of E. coli using a quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) biosensor. The 4-NMBA was synthesized with mannose and para-aminobenzoic (4-PBA), while the 4-TNM was synthesized with mannose and 4-aminophenyl disulfide (4-AHP) using water and acetic acid in a 1:1 ratio. The resultant structure of mannose derivatives (4-NMBA and 4-TNM) was characterized and confirmed using analytical tools, such as Mass Spectrometer, SEM, and FTIR. The choice of ligands (mannose derivatives) is ascribed to the specific recognition of mannose to the FimH lectin of the type 1 pilus of E. coli. Furthermore, the 4-PBA and 4-AHP conjugated to mannose increase the ligand affinity to FimH lectins. The setup of the QCM biosensor was composed of modification of the crystal surface and the covalent attachment of ligands for the detection of E. coli. The piezoelectric effect (frequency shift of the quartz) was proportional to the change in mass added to the gold crystal surface. Both the 4-NMBA- and 4-TNM-coated QCM sensors had a limit of detection of 3.7 CFU/mL and 6.6 CFU/mL with a sensitivity of 2.56 × 103 ng/mL and 8.99 × 10-5 ng/mL, respectively, within the dynamic range of 103 to 106 CFU/mL. This study demonstrates the application of ligand-coated QCM biosensors as a cost-effective, simple, and label-free technology for monitoring pathogenic bacteria via molecular interactions on crystal surfaces.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gaddi B. Eshun
- Chemistry and Environmental Science, New Jersey Institute of Technology, University Heights, Newark, NJ 07102, USA
| | - Heather A. Crapo
- Department of Chemistry, Center for Research in Advanced Sensing Technologies & Environmental Sustainability (CREATES), State University of New York at Binghamton, Binghamton, NY 13902, USA
| | - Idris Yazgan
- Department of Chemistry, Center for Research in Advanced Sensing Technologies & Environmental Sustainability (CREATES), State University of New York at Binghamton, Binghamton, NY 13902, USA
| | - Lauren Cronmiller
- Department of Chemistry, Center for Research in Advanced Sensing Technologies & Environmental Sustainability (CREATES), State University of New York at Binghamton, Binghamton, NY 13902, USA
| | - Omowunmi A. Sadik
- Chemistry and Environmental Science, New Jersey Institute of Technology, University Heights, Newark, NJ 07102, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Wang Y, Dong Q, Hu S, Zou H, Wu T, Shi J, Zhang H, Sheng Y, Sun W, Kong X, Chen L. Decoding microbial genomes to understand their functional roles in human complex diseases. IMETA 2022; 1:e14. [PMID: 38868571 PMCID: PMC10989872 DOI: 10.1002/imt2.14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2021] [Revised: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2024]
Abstract
Complex diseases such as cardiovascular disease (CVD), obesity, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), kidney disease, type 2 diabetes (T2D), and cancer have become a major burden to public health and affect more than 20% of the population worldwide. The etiology of complex diseases is not yet clear, but they are traditionally thought to be caused by genetics and environmental factors (e.g., dietary habits), and by their interactions. Besides this, increasing pieces of evidence now highlight that the intestinal microbiota may contribute substantially to the health and disease of the human host via their metabolic molecules. Therefore, decoding the microbial genomes has been an important strategy to shed light on their functional potential. In this review, we summarize the roles of the gut microbiome in complex diseases from its functional perspective. We further introduce artificial tools in decoding microbial genomes to profile their functionalities. Finally, state-of-the-art techniques have been highlighted which may contribute to a mechanistic understanding of the gut microbiome in human complex diseases and promote the development of the gut microbiome-based personalized medicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yifeng Wang
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical UniversityNanjing Medical UniversityNanjingJiangsuChina
- Cardiovascular Research Center, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Gusu SchoolNanjing Medical UniversitySuzhouJiangsuChina
| | - Quanbin Dong
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical UniversityNanjing Medical UniversityNanjingJiangsuChina
- Cardiovascular Research Center, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Gusu SchoolNanjing Medical UniversitySuzhouJiangsuChina
| | - Shixian Hu
- Institute of Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat‐Sen UniversitySun Yat‐Sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdongChina
| | - Huayiyang Zou
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical UniversityNanjing Medical UniversityNanjingJiangsuChina
| | - Tingting Wu
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical UniversityNanjing Medical UniversityNanjingJiangsuChina
| | - Jing Shi
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical UniversityNanjing Medical UniversityNanjingJiangsuChina
| | - Haifeng Zhang
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical UniversityNanjing Medical UniversityNanjingJiangsuChina
- Cardiovascular Research Center, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Gusu SchoolNanjing Medical UniversitySuzhouJiangsuChina
| | - Yanhui Sheng
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical UniversityNanjing Medical UniversityNanjingJiangsuChina
- Cardiovascular Research Center, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Gusu SchoolNanjing Medical UniversitySuzhouJiangsuChina
| | - Wei Sun
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical UniversityNanjing Medical UniversityNanjingJiangsuChina
- Cardiovascular Research Center, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Gusu SchoolNanjing Medical UniversitySuzhouJiangsuChina
| | - Xiangqing Kong
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical UniversityNanjing Medical UniversityNanjingJiangsuChina
- Cardiovascular Research Center, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Gusu SchoolNanjing Medical UniversitySuzhouJiangsuChina
| | - Lianmin Chen
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical UniversityNanjing Medical UniversityNanjingJiangsuChina
- Cardiovascular Research Center, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Gusu SchoolNanjing Medical UniversitySuzhouJiangsuChina
- Department of Genetics, University Medical Center GroningenUniversity of GroningenGroningenThe Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Glycan-mediated molecular interactions in bacterial pathogenesis. Trends Microbiol 2022; 30:254-267. [PMID: 34274195 PMCID: PMC8758796 DOI: 10.1016/j.tim.2021.06.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2021] [Revised: 06/10/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Glycans are expressed on the surface of nearly all host and bacterial cells. Not surprisingly, glycan-mediated molecular interactions play a vital role in bacterial pathogenesis and host responses against pathogens. Glycan-mediated host-pathogen interactions can benefit the pathogen, host, or both. Here, we discuss (i) bacterial glycans that play a critical role in bacterial colonization and/or immune evasion, (ii) host glycans that are utilized by bacteria for pathogenesis, and (iii) bacterial and host glycans involved in immune responses against pathogens. We further discuss (iv) opportunities and challenges for transforming these research findings into more effective antibacterial strategies, and (v) technological advances in glycoscience that have helped to accelerate progress in research. These studies collectively offer valuable insights into new perspectives on antibacterial strategies that may effectively tackle the drug-resistant pathogens that are rapidly spreading globally.
Collapse
|
6
|
Heydarian M, Rühl E, Rawal R, Kozjak-Pavlovic V. Tissue Models for Neisseria gonorrhoeae Research—From 2D to 3D. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:840122. [PMID: 35223556 PMCID: PMC8873371 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.840122] [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: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Neisseria gonorrhoeae is a human-specific pathogen that causes gonorrhea, the second most common sexually transmitted infection worldwide. Disease progression, drug discovery, and basic host-pathogen interactions are studied using different approaches, which rely on models ranging from 2D cell culture to complex 3D tissues and animals. In this review, we discuss the models used in N. gonorrhoeae research. We address both in vivo (animal) and in vitro cell culture models, discussing the pros and cons of each and outlining the recent advancements in the field of three-dimensional tissue models. From simple 2D monoculture to complex advanced 3D tissue models, we provide an overview of the relevant methodology and its application. Finally, we discuss future directions in the exciting field of 3D tissue models and how they can be applied for studying the interaction of N. gonorrhoeae with host cells under conditions closely resembling those found at the native sites of infection.
Collapse
|
7
|
Indraratna AD, Everest-Dass A, Skropeta D, Sanderson-Smith M. OUP accepted manuscript. FEMS Microbiol Rev 2022; 46:6519265. [PMID: 35104861 PMCID: PMC9075583 DOI: 10.1093/femsre/fuac001] [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: 07/26/2021] [Revised: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Host carbohydrates, or glycans, have been implicated in the pathogenesis of many bacterial infections. Group A Streptococcus (GAS) is a Gram-positive bacterium that readily colonises the skin and oropharynx, and is a significant cause of mortality in humans. While the glycointeractions orchestrated by many other pathogens are increasingly well-described, the understanding of the role of human glycans in GAS disease remains incomplete. Although basic investigation into the mechanisms of GAS disease is ongoing, several glycointeractions have been identified and are examined herein. The majority of research in this context has focussed on bacterial adherence, however, glycointeractions have also been implicated in carbohydrate metabolism; evasion of host immunity; biofilm adaptations; and toxin-mediated haemolysis. The involvement of human glycans in these diverse avenues of pathogenesis highlights the clinical value of understanding glycointeractions in combatting GAS disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anuk D Indraratna
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Northfields Ave, Keiraville New South Wales 2522, Australia
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, Molecular Horizons, University of Wollongong, Northfields Avenue, Keiraville, New South Wales, 2522, Australia
| | - Arun Everest-Dass
- Institute for Glycomics, Griffith University, Gold Coast Campus, Parklands Drive, Southport, Queensland, 4215, Australia
| | - Danielle Skropeta
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Northfields Ave, Keiraville New South Wales 2522, Australia
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, Molecular Horizons, University of Wollongong, Northfields Avenue, Keiraville, New South Wales, 2522, Australia
| | - Martina Sanderson-Smith
- Corresponding author: Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Bld 32, University of Wollongong, Northfields Avenue, Keiraville, New South Wales, 2522, Australia. Tel: +61 2 42981935; E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Tram G, Poole J, Adams FG, Jennings MP, Eijkelkamp BA, Atack JM. The Acinetobacter baumannii Autotransporter Adhesin Ata Recognizes Host Glycans as High-Affinity Receptors. ACS Infect Dis 2021; 7:2352-2361. [PMID: 34339169 DOI: 10.1021/acsinfecdis.1c00021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Acinetobacter baumannii is a significant opportunistic pathogen responsible for infections of the lung, blood, skin, urinary tract, and soft tissues, with some strains exhibiting almost complete resistance to commonly used antibiotics. This multidrug resistance, together with a dearth of new antibiotic development, mean novel methods of treatment and prevention are urgently needed. Although many A. baumannii factors required to colonize the host have been identified, little is known about the specific host molecules recognized by these factors. A. baumannii produces a trimeric autotransporter adhesin known as Ata that has been previously demonstrated to bind components of the host cell's extracellular matrix, which are often heavily glycosylated. We hypothesized that Ata would exhibit lectin activity which would play a role in adherence to the host cell surface. Our biophysical analysis using glycan arrays and surface plasmon resonance demonstrated that Ata binds galactose, N-acetylglucosamine, and galactose (β1-3/4) N-acetylglucosamine with high-affinity. These structures are present on many of the proteins which were previously reported to be bound by Ata. We also demonstrated that the recognition of human plasma fibronectin by Ata requires this ability to bind glycans, as the interaction between Ata and fibronectin does not occur when fibronectin is deglycosylated. This strongly suggests a key role for Ata lectin activity during host adherence. This information will assist in directing the development of new and effective treatments to block host interactions using glycans and/or novel compounds in multidrug resistant A. baumannii infections.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Greg Tram
- Institute for Glycomics, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Queensland 4215, Australia
| | - Jessica Poole
- Institute for Glycomics, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Queensland 4215, Australia
| | - Felise G. Adams
- Molecular Sciences & Technology, College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Sturt Road, Bedford Park, South Australia 5042, Australia
| | - Michael P. Jennings
- Institute for Glycomics, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Queensland 4215, Australia
| | - Bart A. Eijkelkamp
- Molecular Sciences & Technology, College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Sturt Road, Bedford Park, South Australia 5042, Australia
| | - John M. Atack
- Institute for Glycomics, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Queensland 4215, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Lin EY, Adamson PC, Klausner JD. Epidemiology, Treatments, and Vaccine Development for Antimicrobial-Resistant Neisseria gonorrhoeae: Current Strategies and Future Directions. Drugs 2021; 81:1153-1169. [PMID: 34097283 PMCID: PMC8182353 DOI: 10.1007/s40265-021-01530-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Neisseria gonorrhoeae is the second most common bacterial sexually transmitted infection in the world after Chlamydia trachomatis. The pathogen has developed resistance to every antibiotic currently approved for treatment, and multidrug-resistant strains have been identified globally. The current treatment recommended by the World Health Organization is ceftriaxone and azithromycin dual therapy. However, resistance to azithromycin and ceftriaxone are increasing and treatment failures have been reported. As a result, there is a critical need to develop novel strategies for mitigating the spread of antimicrobial-resistant N. gonorrhoeae through improved diagnosis and treatment of resistant infections. Strategies that are currently being pursued include developing molecular assays to predict resistance, utilizing higher doses of ceftriaxone, repurposing older antibiotics, and developing newer agents. In addition, efforts to discover a vaccine for N. gonorrhoeae have been reignited in recent years with the cross-protectivity provided by the N. meningitidis vaccine, with several new strategies and targets. Despite the significant progress that has been made, there is still much work ahead to combat antimicrobial-resistant N. gonorrhoeae globally.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eric Y Lin
- David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Paul C Adamson
- Division of Infectious Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, 10833 Le Conte Ave. CHS 52-215, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Jeffrey D Klausner
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Keck School of Medicine of USC, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Day CJ, Röltgen K, Pluschke G, Jennings MP. The cell surface protein MUL_3720 confers binding of the skin pathogen Mycobacterium ulcerans to sulfated glycans and keratin. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2021; 15:e0009136. [PMID: 33630844 PMCID: PMC7906334 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0009136] [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: 09/04/2019] [Accepted: 01/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Mycobacterium ulcerans is the causative agent of the chronic, necrotizing skin disease Buruli ulcer. Modes of transmission and molecular mechanisms involved in the establishment of M. ulcerans infections are poorly understood. Interactions with host glycans are often crucial in bacterial pathogenesis and the 22 kDa M. ulcerans protein MUL_3720 has a putative role in host cell attachment. It has a predicted N-terminal lectin domain and a C-terminal peptidoglycan-binding domain and is highly expressed on the surface of the bacilli. Here we report the glycan-binding repertoire of whole, fixed M. ulcerans bacteria and of purified, recombinant MUL_3720. On an array comprising 368 diverse biologically relevant glycan structures, M. ulcerans cells showed binding to 64 glycan structures, representing several distinct classes of glycans, including sulfated structures. MUL_3720 bound only to glycans containing sulfated galactose and GalNAc, such as glycans known to be associated with keratins isolated from human skin. Surface plasmon resonance studies demonstrated that both whole, fixed M. ulcerans cells and MUL_3720 show high affinity interactions with both glycans and human skin keratin extracts. This MUL_3720-mediated interaction with glycans associated with human skin keratin may contribute to the pathobiology of Buruli ulcer. Mycobacterium ulcerans causes a skin-based disease known as Buruli ulcer. How the bacteria are transmitted and what mechanisms they use to establish the infection of the skin is poorly understood. The only well characterized bacterial factor in Buruli ulcer pathogenesis is mycolactone, a toxin produced by the bacteria. Mycolactone causes apoptosis in human cells, leading to destruction of the skin around extracellular clusters of the mycobacteria. Human cells, like cells of all orders of life, are coated in complex sugar structures and these glycans are one of the major targets of bacteria and viruses for the interaction with host cells. Here we describe the glycan binding of whole Mycobacterium ulcerans cells and a mycobacterial protein, MUL_3720, thought to be involved in glycan binding. We show that both the bacterial cells and MUL_3720 bind to glycans known to be associated with human skin keratin and to skin keratin extracts. This binding of keratin extracts may explain initial bacterial attachment and clustering of the bacteria in the skin, ultimately leading to tissue destruction and ulceration caused by a cloud of secreted mycolactone at the site of infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christopher J. Day
- Institute for Glycomics, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
| | - Katharina Röltgen
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Gerd Pluschke
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- * E-mail: (GP); (MPJ)
| | - Michael P. Jennings
- Institute for Glycomics, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
- * E-mail: (GP); (MPJ)
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Semchenko EA, Mubaiwa TD, Day CJ, Seib KL. Role of the Gonococcal Neisserial Heparin Binding Antigen in Microcolony Formation, and Serum Resistance and Adherence to Epithelial Cells. J Infect Dis 2021; 221:1612-1622. [PMID: 31781772 PMCID: PMC7184908 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiz628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2019] [Accepted: 11/26/2019] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
The sexually transmitted infection gonorrhoea is on the rise worldwide and an increased understanding of the mechanisms of colonization and pathogenesis of Neisseria gonorrhoeae is required to aid development of new treatment and prevention strategies. In the current study, we investigate the neisserial heparin-binding antigen (NHBA) of N. gonorrhoeae and confirm its role in binding to several glycans, including heparin, and identify interactions of NHBA with both gonococcal and host cells. Furthermore, we report that a gonococcal nhba mutant displays decreased cell aggregation and microcolony formation, as well as reduced survival in human serum and reduced adherence to human cervical and urethral epithelial cells, relative to the wild-type strain. These data indicate that the gonococcal NHBA contributes to several aspects of the colonization and survival of N. gonorrhoeae and may be a target for new antimicrobial or vaccines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Evgeny A Semchenko
- Institute for Glycomics, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
| | - Tsitsi D Mubaiwa
- Institute for Glycomics, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
| | - Christopher J Day
- Institute for Glycomics, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
| | - Kate L Seib
- Institute for Glycomics, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Nahar N, Turni C, Tram G, Blackall PJ, Atack JM. Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae: The molecular determinants of virulence and pathogenesis. Adv Microb Physiol 2021; 78:179-216. [PMID: 34147185 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ampbs.2020.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae, the causative agent of porcine pleuropneumonia, is responsible for high economic losses in swine herds across the globe. Pleuropneumonia is characterized by severe respiratory distress and high mortality. The knowledge about the interaction between bacterium and host within the porcine respiratory tract has improved significantly in recent years. A. pleuropneumoniae expresses multiple virulence factors, which are required for colonization, immune clearance, and tissue damage. Although vaccines are used to protect swine herds against A. pleuropneumoniae infection, they do not offer complete coverage, and often only protect against the serovar, or serovars, used to prepare the vaccine. This review will summarize the role of individual A. pleuropneumoniae virulence factors that are required during key stages of pathogenesis and disease progression, and highlight progress made toward developing effective and broadly protective vaccines against an organism of great importance to global agriculture and food production.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nusrat Nahar
- Institute for Glycomics, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
| | - Conny Turni
- Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | - Greg Tram
- Institute for Glycomics, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
| | - Patrick J Blackall
- Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD, Australia.
| | - John M Atack
- Institute for Glycomics, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Lim KYL, Mullally CA, Haese EC, Kibble EA, McCluskey NR, Mikucki EC, Thai VC, Stubbs KA, Sarkar-Tyson M, Kahler CM. Anti-Virulence Therapeutic Approaches for Neisseria gonorrhoeae. Antibiotics (Basel) 2021; 10:antibiotics10020103. [PMID: 33494538 PMCID: PMC7911339 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics10020103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2020] [Revised: 01/18/2021] [Accepted: 01/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
While antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is seen in both Neisseria gonorrhoeae and Neisseria meningitidis, the former has become resistant to commonly available over-the-counter antibiotic treatments. It is imperative then to develop new therapies that combat current AMR isolates whilst also circumventing the pathways leading to the development of AMR. This review highlights the growing research interest in developing anti-virulence therapies (AVTs) which are directed towards inhibiting virulence factors to prevent infection. By targeting virulence factors that are not essential for gonococcal survival, it is hypothesized that this will impart a smaller selective pressure for the emergence of resistance in the pathogen and in the microbiome, thus avoiding AMR development to the anti-infective. This review summates the current basis of numerous anti-virulence strategies being explored for N. gonorrhoeae.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katherine Y. L. Lim
- Marshall Centre for Infectious Disease Research and Training, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia; (K.Y.L.L.); (C.A.M.); (E.C.H.); (E.A.K.); (N.R.M.); (E.C.M.); (V.C.T.); (M.S.-T.)
| | - Christopher A. Mullally
- Marshall Centre for Infectious Disease Research and Training, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia; (K.Y.L.L.); (C.A.M.); (E.C.H.); (E.A.K.); (N.R.M.); (E.C.M.); (V.C.T.); (M.S.-T.)
| | - Ethan C. Haese
- Marshall Centre for Infectious Disease Research and Training, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia; (K.Y.L.L.); (C.A.M.); (E.C.H.); (E.A.K.); (N.R.M.); (E.C.M.); (V.C.T.); (M.S.-T.)
| | - Emily A. Kibble
- Marshall Centre for Infectious Disease Research and Training, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia; (K.Y.L.L.); (C.A.M.); (E.C.H.); (E.A.K.); (N.R.M.); (E.C.M.); (V.C.T.); (M.S.-T.)
- School of Veterinary and Life Sciences, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA 6150, Australia
| | - Nicolie R. McCluskey
- Marshall Centre for Infectious Disease Research and Training, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia; (K.Y.L.L.); (C.A.M.); (E.C.H.); (E.A.K.); (N.R.M.); (E.C.M.); (V.C.T.); (M.S.-T.)
- School of Veterinary and Life Sciences, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA 6150, Australia
| | - Edward C. Mikucki
- Marshall Centre for Infectious Disease Research and Training, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia; (K.Y.L.L.); (C.A.M.); (E.C.H.); (E.A.K.); (N.R.M.); (E.C.M.); (V.C.T.); (M.S.-T.)
| | - Van C. Thai
- Marshall Centre for Infectious Disease Research and Training, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia; (K.Y.L.L.); (C.A.M.); (E.C.H.); (E.A.K.); (N.R.M.); (E.C.M.); (V.C.T.); (M.S.-T.)
| | - Keith A. Stubbs
- School of Molecular Sciences, University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia;
| | - Mitali Sarkar-Tyson
- Marshall Centre for Infectious Disease Research and Training, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia; (K.Y.L.L.); (C.A.M.); (E.C.H.); (E.A.K.); (N.R.M.); (E.C.M.); (V.C.T.); (M.S.-T.)
| | - Charlene M. Kahler
- Marshall Centre for Infectious Disease Research and Training, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia; (K.Y.L.L.); (C.A.M.); (E.C.H.); (E.A.K.); (N.R.M.); (E.C.M.); (V.C.T.); (M.S.-T.)
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
The serogroup B meningococcal outer membrane vesicle-based vaccine 4CMenB induces cross-species protection against Neisseria gonorrhoeae. PLoS Pathog 2020; 16:e1008602. [PMID: 33290434 PMCID: PMC7748408 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1008602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2020] [Revised: 12/18/2020] [Accepted: 10/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
There is a pressing need for a gonorrhea vaccine due to the high disease burden associated with gonococcal infections globally and the rapid evolution of antibiotic resistance in Neisseria gonorrhoeae (Ng). Current gonorrhea vaccine research is in the stages of antigen discovery and the identification of protective immune responses, and no vaccine has been tested in clinical trials in over 30 years. Recently, however, it was reported in a retrospective case-control study that vaccination of humans with a serogroup B Neisseria meningitidis (Nm) outer membrane vesicle (OMV) vaccine (MeNZB) was associated with reduced rates of gonorrhea. Here we directly tested the hypothesis that Nm OMVs induce cross-protection against gonorrhea in a well-characterized female mouse model of Ng genital tract infection. We found that immunization with the licensed Nm OMV-based vaccine 4CMenB (Bexsero) significantly accelerated clearance and reduced the Ng bacterial burden compared to administration of alum or PBS. Serum IgG and vaginal IgA and IgG that cross-reacted with Ng OMVs were induced by 4CMenB vaccination by either the subcutaneous or intraperitoneal routes. Antibodies from vaccinated mice recognized several Ng surface proteins, including PilQ, BamA, MtrE, NHBA (known to be recognized by humans), PorB, and Opa. Immune sera from both mice and humans recognized Ng PilQ and several proteins of similar apparent molecular weight, but MtrE was only recognized by mouse serum. Pooled sera from 4CMenB-immunized mice showed a 4-fold increase in serum bactericidal50 titers against the challenge strain; in contrast, no significant difference in bactericidal activity was detected when sera from 4CMenB-immunized and unimmunized subjects were compared. Our findings directly support epidemiological evidence that Nm OMVs confer cross-species protection against gonorrhea, and implicate several Ng surface antigens as potentially protective targets. Additionally, this study further defines the usefulness of murine infection model as a relevant experimental system for gonorrhea vaccine development.
Collapse
|
15
|
Semchenko EA, Chen X, Thng C, O'Sullivan M, Seib KL. Gonorrhoea: past, present and future. MICROBIOLOGY AUSTRALIA 2020. [DOI: 10.1071/ma20055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The sexually transmitted infection (STI) gonorrhoea is an ancient human disease caused by the Gram-negative bacterial pathogen Neisseria gonorrhoeae. Despite decades of research focused on preventing, diagnosing, and treating gonorrhoea, it remains a major global health concern due to its high prevalence, high rates of asymptomatic cases, the severe sequelae that can result from untreated infections, and the increasing difficulty in treating infections caused by multi-drug resistant strains of N. gonorrhoeae. It is estimated that there are more than 87 million cases of gonorrhoea worldwide each year, and the WHO, CDC and Australian National Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) Strategy have prioritised N. gonorrhoeae as an urgent public health threat for which new therapeutics and a vaccine are needed.
Collapse
|