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Donnelly SC, Varela-Mattatall GE, Hassan S, Sun Q, Gelman N, Thiessen JD, Thompson RT, Prato FS, Burton JP, Goldhawk DE. Bacterial association with metals enables in vivo monitoring of urogenital microbiota using magnetic resonance imaging. Commun Biol 2024; 7:1079. [PMID: 39227641 PMCID: PMC11371927 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-024-06783-5] [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: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 08/26/2024] [Indexed: 09/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Bacteria constitute a significant part of the biomass of the human microbiota, but their interactions are complex and difficult to replicate outside the host. Exploiting the superior resolution of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to examine signal parameters of selected human isolates may allow tracking of their dispersion throughout the body. Here we investigate longitudinal and transverse MRI relaxation rates and found significant differences between several bacterial strains. Common commensal strains of lactobacilli display notably high MRI relaxation rates, partially explained by elevated cellular manganese content, while other species contain more iron than manganese. Lactobacillus crispatus show particularly high values, 4-fold greater than any other species; up to 60-fold greater signal than relevant tissue background; and a linear relationship between relaxation rate and fraction of live cells. Different bacterial strains have detectable, repeatable MRI relaxation rates that in the future may enable monitoring of their persistence in the human body for enhanced molecular imaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah C Donnelly
- Imaging, Lawson Research Institute, London, Canada
- Collaborative Graduate Program in Molecular Imaging, Western University, London, Canada
- Microbiology & Immunology, Western University, London, Canada
| | - Gabriel E Varela-Mattatall
- Imaging, Lawson Research Institute, London, Canada
- Medical Biophysics, Western University, London, Canada
| | | | - Qin Sun
- Imaging, Lawson Research Institute, London, Canada
- Medical Biophysics, Western University, London, Canada
| | - Neil Gelman
- Imaging, Lawson Research Institute, London, Canada
- Medical Biophysics, Western University, London, Canada
- Medical Imaging, Western University, London, Canada
| | - Jonathan D Thiessen
- Imaging, Lawson Research Institute, London, Canada
- Collaborative Graduate Program in Molecular Imaging, Western University, London, Canada
- Medical Biophysics, Western University, London, Canada
| | - R Terry Thompson
- Imaging, Lawson Research Institute, London, Canada
- Medical Biophysics, Western University, London, Canada
- Physics & Astronomy, Western University, London, Canada
| | - Frank S Prato
- Imaging, Lawson Research Institute, London, Canada
- Collaborative Graduate Program in Molecular Imaging, Western University, London, Canada
- Medical Biophysics, Western University, London, Canada
- Medical Imaging, Western University, London, Canada
| | - Jeremy P Burton
- Microbiology & Immunology, Western University, London, Canada
- Division of Urology and Surgery, Western University, London, Canada
- Centre for Human Microbiome Research, Lawson Research Institute, London, Canada
| | - Donna E Goldhawk
- Imaging, Lawson Research Institute, London, Canada.
- Collaborative Graduate Program in Molecular Imaging, Western University, London, Canada.
- Medical Biophysics, Western University, London, Canada.
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Huang WC, Dwija IBNP, Hashimoto M, Wu JJ, Wang MC, Kao CY, Lin WH, Wang S, Teng CH. Peptidoglycan endopeptidase MepM of uropathogenic Escherichia coli contributes to competitive fitness during urinary tract infections. BMC Microbiol 2024; 24:190. [PMID: 38816687 PMCID: PMC11137974 DOI: 10.1186/s12866-024-03290-9] [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: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common bacterial infections, primarily caused by uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC), leading to significant health issues and economic burden. Although antibiotics have been effective in treating UPEC infections, the rise of antibiotic-resistant strains hinders their efficacy. Hence, identifying novel bacterial targets for new antimicrobial approaches is crucial. Bacterial factors required for maintaining the full virulence of UPEC are the potential target. MepM, an endopeptidase in E. coli, is involved in the biogenesis of peptidoglycan, a major structure of bacterial envelope. Given that the bacterial envelope confronts the hostile host environment during infections, MepM's function could be crucial for UPEC's virulence. This study aims to explore the role of MepM in UPEC pathogenesis. RESULTS MepM deficiency significantly impacted UPEC's survival in urine and within macrophages. Moreover, the deficiency hindered the bacillary-to-filamentous shape switch which is known for aiding UPEC in evading phagocytosis during infections. Additionally, UPEC motility was downregulated due to MepM deficiency. As a result, the mepM mutant displayed notably reduced fitness in causing UTIs in the mouse model compared to wild-type UPEC. CONCLUSIONS This study provides the first evidence of the vital role of peptidoglycan endopeptidase MepM in UPEC's full virulence for causing UTIs. MepM's contribution to UPEC pathogenesis may stem from its critical role in maintaining the ability to resist urine- and immune cell-mediated killing, facilitating the morphological switch, and sustaining motility. Thus, MepM is a promising candidate target for novel antimicrobial strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Chun Huang
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Ida Bagus Nyoman Putra Dwija
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Udayana University, Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Masayuki Hashimoto
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Jiunn-Jong Wu
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science and Biotechnology, Asia University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Cheng Wang
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Yen Kao
- Institute of Microbiology and Immunology, College of Life Sciences, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Hung Lin
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Shuying Wang
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan.
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan.
| | - Ching-Hao Teng
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan.
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan.
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Shea AE, Forsyth VS, Stocki JA, Mitchell TJ, Frick-Cheng AE, Smith SN, Hardy SL, Mobley HLT. Emerging roles for ABC transporters as virulence factors in uropathogenic Escherichia coli. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2310693121. [PMID: 38607934 PMCID: PMC11032443 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2310693121] [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: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Urinary tract infections (UTI) account for a substantial financial burden globally. Over 75% of UTIs are caused by uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC), which have demonstrated an extraordinarily rapid growth rate in vivo. This rapid growth rate appears paradoxical given that urine and the human urinary tract are relatively nutrient-restricted. Thus, we lack a fundamental understanding of how uropathogens propel growth in the host to fuel pathogenesis. Here, we used large in silico, in vivo, and in vitro screens to better understand the role of UPEC transport mechanisms and their contributions to uropathogenesis. In silico analysis of annotated transport systems indicated that the ATP-binding cassette (ABC) family of transporters was most conserved among uropathogenic bacterial species, suggesting their importance. Consistent with in silico predictions, we determined that the ABC family contributed significantly to fitness and virulence in the urinary tract: these were overrepresented as fitness factors in vivo (37.2%), liquid media (52.3%), and organ agar (66.2%). We characterized 12 transport systems that were most frequently defective in screening experiments by generating in-frame deletions. These mutant constructs were tested in urovirulence phenotypic assays and produced differences in motility and growth rate. However, deletion of multiple transport systems was required to achieve substantial fitness defects in the cochallenge murine model. This is likely due to genetic compensation among transport systems, highlighting the centrality of ABC transporters in these organisms. Therefore, these nutrient uptake systems play a concerted, critical role in pathogenesis and are broadly applicable candidate targets for therapeutic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allyson E. Shea
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI48109
| | - Valerie S. Forsyth
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI48109
| | - Jolie A. Stocki
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI48109
| | - Taylor J. Mitchell
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI48109
| | - Arwen E. Frick-Cheng
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI48109
| | - Sara N. Smith
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI48109
| | - Sicily L. Hardy
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, College of Medicine, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL36688
| | - Harry L. T. Mobley
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI48109
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Saenkham-Huntsinger P, Ritter M, Donati GL, Mitchell AM, Subashchandrabose S. The inner membrane protein YhiM links copper and CpxAR envelope stress responses in uropathogenic E. coli. mBio 2024; 15:e0352223. [PMID: 38470052 PMCID: PMC11005409 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.03522-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Urinary tract infection (UTI) is a ubiquitous infectious condition, and uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) is the predominant causative agent of UTI. Copper (Cu) is implicated in innate immunity, including against UPEC. Cu is a trace element utilized as a co-factor, but excess Cu is toxic due to mismetalation of non-cognate proteins. E. coli precisely regulates Cu homeostasis via efflux systems. However, Cu import mechanisms into the bacterial cell are not clear. We hypothesized that Cu import defective mutants would exhibit increased resistance to Cu. This hypothesis was tested in a forward genetic screen with transposon (Tn5) insertion mutants in UPEC strain CFT073, and we identified 32 unique Cu-resistant mutants. Transposon and defined mutants lacking yhiM, which encodes a hypothetical inner membrane protein, were more resistant to Cu than parental strain. Loss of YhiM led to decreased cellular Cu content and increased expression of copA, encoding a Cu efflux pump. The CpxAR envelope stress response system was activated in the ΔyhiM mutant as indicated by increased expression of cpxP. Transcription of yhiM was regulated by CueR and CpxR, and the CpxAR system was essential for increased Cu resistance in the ΔyhiM mutant. Importantly, activation of CpxAR system in the ΔyhiM mutant was independent of NlpE, a known activator of this system. YhiM was required for optimal fitness of UPEC in a mouse model of UTI. Our findings demonstrate that YhiM is a critical mediator of Cu homeostasis and links bacterial adaptation to Cu stress with the CpxAR-dependent envelope stress response in UPEC.IMPORTANCEUPEC is a common bacterial infection. Bacterial pathogens are exposed to host-derived Cu during infection, including UTI. Here, we describe detection of genes involved in Cu homeostasis in UPEC. A UPEC mutant lacking YhiM, a membrane protein, exhibited dramatic increase in resistance to Cu. Our study demonstrates YhiM as a nexus between Cu stress and the CpxAR-dependent envelope stress response system. Importantly, our findings establish NlpE-independent activation of CpxAR system during Cu stress in UPEC. Collectively, YhiM emerges as a critical mediator of Cu homeostasis in UPEC and highlights the interlinked nature of bacterial adaptation to survival during Cu and envelope stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Panatda Saenkham-Huntsinger
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
| | - Matthew Ritter
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
| | - George L. Donati
- Department of Chemistry, Wake Forest University, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Angela M. Mitchell
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
| | - Sargurunathan Subashchandrabose
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
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Nasrollahian S, Moradi F, Hadi N, Ranjbar S, Ranjbar R. An update on alternative therapy for Escherichia coli causing urinary tract infections; a narrative review. Photodiagnosis Photodyn Ther 2024; 46:104075. [PMID: 38574879 DOI: 10.1016/j.pdpdt.2024.104075] [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: 10/27/2023] [Revised: 03/30/2024] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are the most common type of nosocomial infection and severe health issues because of the difficulties and frequent recurrence. Today, alternative methods such as sonodynamic therapy (SDT), photodynamic therapy (PDT) and herbal materials use for treating infections like UTI in many countries. METHOD We conducted searches of the biomedical databases (Google Scholar, Scopus, PubMed, and Web of sciences) to identify related studies from 2008 to 2023. RESULT SDT aims to use ultrasound to activate a sonosensitizer, which causes a biological effect by raising reactive oxygen species (ROS). When bacteria are exposed to ROS, several important effects occur: oxidative damage, DNA damage, protein dysfunction etc. SDT with herbal medicine significantly reduced the number of colony-forming units and bactericidal activity for Klebsiella pneumonia and E. coli. PDT is a promising treatment for cancer and microbial infections, combining a photosensitiser, light and tissue molecular oxygen. It involves a photosensitizer, light source, and oxygen, with variations affecting microbial binding and bactericidal activity. Factors affecting antibacterial properties include plant type, growing conditions, harvesting, and processing. This review highlights the recent advancements in sonodynamic, photodynamic, herbal, and bio-material-based approaches in the treatment of E. coli infections. CONCLUSIONS These alternative therapies offer exciting prospects for addressing UTIs, especially in cases where traditional antibiotic treatments may be less effective. Further research and clinical studies are warranted to fully explore the potential of these innovative treatment modalities in combating UTIs and improving patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sina Nasrollahian
- Department of Bacteriology and Virology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Farhad Moradi
- Department of Bacteriology and Virology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Nahal Hadi
- Department of Bacteriology and Virology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Sina Ranjbar
- Department of Microbiology, Shahr-e-Qods Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Reza Ranjbar
- Molecular Biology Research Center, Systems Biology and Poisonings Institute, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Kwon RS, Lee GY, Lee S, Song J. Antimicrobial properties of tomato juice and peptides against typhoidal Salmonella. Microbiol Spectr 2024; 12:e0310223. [PMID: 38289090 PMCID: PMC10913428 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.03102-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Tomatoes are readily available and affordable vegetables that offer a range of health benefits due to their bioactive molecules, such as antioxidants and antimicrobials. In contrast to the widely recognized antioxidant properties of tomatoes, their antimicrobial properties remain largely unexplored. Here, we present our findings on the antimicrobial properties of tomato juice and peptides, namely, tomato-derived antimicrobial peptides (tdAMPs), in relation to their effectiveness against typhoidal Salmonella. Our research has revealed that tomato juice demonstrates significant antimicrobial properties against Salmonella Typhi, a pathogen that specifically affects humans and is responsible for causing typhoid fever. By employing computational analysis of the tomato genome sequence, conducting molecular dynamics simulation, and performing functional analyses, we have successfully identified two tdAMPs, namely, tdAMP-1 and tdAMP-2. These tdAMPs have demonstrated potent antimicrobial properties by effectively disrupting bacterial membranes. The efficacy of tdAMP-2 is shown to be more effective than tdAMP-1. The efficacy of tdAMP-1 and tdAMP-2 has been demonstrated against drug-resistant S. Typhi, as well as hyper-capsular S. Typhi variants that possess hypervirulent characteristics, which are presently circulating in countries with endemicity. Tomato juice, along with the two tdAMPs, has demonstrated effectiveness against uropathogenic Escherichia coli as well. This underscores their potential as viable agents in combating certain Gram-negative pathogens. This study provides valuable insights into the development of effective and sustainable public health strategies that utilize tomato and its derivatives as lifestyle interventions.IMPORTANCEIn this study, we investigate the antimicrobial properties of tomato juice, the most widely consumed affordable vegetables, as well as tomato-derived antimicrobial peptides, in relation to their effectiveness against foodborne pathogens with an emphasis on Salmonella Typhi, a deadly human-specific pathogen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan S. Kwon
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
| | - Gi Young Lee
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
| | - Sohyoung Lee
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
| | - Jeongmin Song
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
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7
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Westcott MM, Morse AE, Troy G, Blevins M, Wierzba T, Sanders JW. Photochemical inactivation as an alternative method to produce a whole-cell vaccine for uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC). Microbiol Spectr 2024; 12:e0366123. [PMID: 38315025 PMCID: PMC10913755 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.03661-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) is the primary causative agent of lower urinary tract infection (UTI). UTI presents a serious health risk and has considerable secondary implications including economic burden, recurring episodes, and overuse of antibiotics. A safe and effective vaccine would address this widespread health problem and emerging antibiotic resistance. Killed, whole-cell vaccines have shown limited efficacy to prevent recurrent UTI in human trials. We explored photochemical inactivation with psoralen drugs and UVA light (PUVA), which crosslinks nucleic acid, as an alternative to protein-damaging methods of inactivation to improve whole-cell UTI vaccines. Exposure of UPEC to the psoralen drug AMT and UVA light resulted in a killed but metabolically active (KBMA) state, as reported previously for other PUVA-inactivated bacteria. The immunogenicity of PUVA-UPEC as compared to formalin-inactivated UPEC was compared in mice. Both generated high UPEC-specific serum IgG titers after intramuscular delivery. However, using functional adherence as a measure of surface protein integrity, we found differences in the properties of PUVA- and formalin-inactivated UPEC. Adhesion mediated by Type-1 and P-fimbriae was severely compromised by formalin but was unaffected by PUVA, indicating that PUVA preserved the functional conformation of fimbrial proteins, which are targets of protective immune responses. In vitro assays indicated that although they retained metabolic activity, PUVA-UPEC lost virulence properties that could negatively impact vaccine safety. Our results imply the potential for PUVA to improve killed, whole-cell UTI vaccines by generating bacteria that more closely resemble their live, infectious counterparts relative to vaccines generated with protein-damaging methods. IMPORTANCE Lower urinary tract infection (UTI), caused primarily by uropathogenic Escherichia coli, represents a significant health burden, accounting for 7 million primary care and 1 million emergency room visits annually in the United States. Women and the elderly are especially susceptible and recurrent infection (rUTI) is common in those populations. Lower UTI can lead to life-threatening systemic infection. UTI burden is manifested by healthcare dollars spent (1.5 billion annually), quality of life impact, and resistant strains emerging from antibiotic overuse. A safe and effective vaccine to prevent rUTI would address a substantial healthcare issue. Vaccines comprised of inactivated uropathogenic bacteria have yielded encouraging results in clinical trials but improvements that enhance vaccine performance are needed. To that end, we focused on inactivation methodology and provided data to support photochemical inactivation, which targets nucleic acid, as a promising alternative to conventional protein-damaging inactivation methods to improve whole-cell UTI vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marlena M. Westcott
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Alexis E. Morse
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Gavin Troy
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Maria Blevins
- Department of Internal Medicine, Infectious Diseases Section, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Thomas Wierzba
- Department of Internal Medicine, Infectious Diseases Section, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - John W. Sanders
- Department of Internal Medicine, Infectious Diseases Section, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston Salem, North Carolina, USA
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Alshaikh SA, El-Banna T, Sonbol F, Farghali MH. Correlation between antimicrobial resistance, biofilm formation, and virulence determinants in uropathogenic Escherichia coli from Egyptian hospital. Ann Clin Microbiol Antimicrob 2024; 23:20. [PMID: 38402146 PMCID: PMC10894499 DOI: 10.1186/s12941-024-00679-2] [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: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 02/11/2024] [Indexed: 02/26/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) is the main etiological agent behind community-acquired and hospital-acquired urinary tract infections (UTIs), which are among the most prevalent human infections. The management of UPEC infections is becoming increasingly difficult owing to multi-drug resistance, biofilm formation, and the possession of an extensive virulence arsenal. This study aims to characterize UPEC isolates in Tanta, Egypt, with regard to their antimicrobial resistance, phylogenetic profile, biofilm formation, and virulence, as well as the potential associations among these factors. METHODS One hundred UPEC isolates were obtained from UTI patients in Tanta, Egypt. Antimicrobial susceptibility was assessed using the Kirby-Bauer method. Extended-spectrum β-lactamases (ESBLs) production was screened using the double disk synergy test and confirmed with PCR. Biofilm formation was evaluated using the microtiter-plate assay and microscopy-based techniques. The phylogenetic groups of the isolates were determined. The hemolytic activity, motility, siderophore production, and serum resistance of the isolates were also evaluated. The clonal relatedness of the isolates was assessed using ERIC-PCR. RESULTS Isolates displayed elevated resistance to cephalosporins (90-43%), sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim (63%), and ciprofloxacin (53%). Ninety percent of the isolates were multidrug-resistant (MDR)/ extensively drug-resistant (XDR) and 67% produced ESBLs. Notably, there was an inverse correlation between biofilm formation and antimicrobial resistance, and 31%, 29%, 32%, and 8% of the isolates were strong, moderate, weak, and non-biofilm producers, respectively. Beta-hemolysis, motility, siderophore production, and serum resistance were detected in 64%, 84%, 65%, and 11% of the isolates, respectively. Siderophore production was correlated to resistance to multiple antibiotics, while hemolysis was more prevalent in susceptible isolates and associated with stronger biofilms. Phylogroups B2 and D predominated, with lower resistance and stronger biofilms in group B2. ERIC-PCR revealed considerable diversity among the isolates. CONCLUSION This research highlights the dissemination of resistance in UPEC in Tanta, Egypt. The evident correlation between biofilm and resistance suggests a resistance cost on bacterial cells; and that isolates with lower resistance may rely on biofilms to enhance their survival. This emphasizes the importance of considering biofilm formation ability during the treatment of UPEC infections to avoid therapeutic failure and/or infection recurrence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara A Alshaikh
- Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tanta University, Tanta, 31511, Egypt.
| | - Tarek El-Banna
- Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tanta University, Tanta, 31511, Egypt
| | - Fatma Sonbol
- Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tanta University, Tanta, 31511, Egypt
| | - Mahmoud H Farghali
- Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tanta University, Tanta, 31511, Egypt
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9
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Kubiak-Szeligowska AB, Majchrzak M, Parniewski P. TRS-PCR profiles correlate with polymorphisms of the genomic o454-nlpD region, virulence factors repertoire, and phylogenetic groups among uropathogenic Escherichia coli strains isolated from patients from Lodz region, Poland. Gut Pathog 2024; 16:11. [PMID: 38395935 PMCID: PMC10885528 DOI: 10.1186/s13099-024-00603-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Extraintestinal urinary tract infections are mainly caused by uropathogenic strains of E. coli. UPECs are a heterogeneous group of strains possessing various genes associated with virulence traits. It was demonstrated that changes in the composition of the o454-nlpD region and genetic variation in the mutS-rpoS chromosomal region in ExPEC strains are correlated with their virulence, particularly in those with the pattern III o454-nlpD region and belonging to phylogenetic group B2. In this study, we investigated the presence and distribution of the o454-nlpD genomic polymorphism in our collection of 124 uropathogenic E. coli strains, examining the correlation of o454-nlpD region types with the virulence factors studied. Our findings revealed a positive association between certain virulence factors in UPEC strains and the presence of pattern III in the o454-nlpD region. Additionally, all these strains were classified under phylogenetic group B2. We also showed that the highly pathogenic group of E. coli identified by examining the polymorphism of the o454-nlpD region coincides with the highly pathogenic group of uropathogens we identified in the averaged TRS-PCR analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marta Majchrzak
- Institute of Medical Biology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 106 Lodowa Str., 93-232, Lodz, Poland.
| | - Pawel Parniewski
- Institute of Medical Biology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 106 Lodowa Str., 93-232, Lodz, Poland.
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10
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Guo Y, Kitamoto S, Caballero-Flores G, Kim Y, Watanabe D, Sugihara K, Núñez G, Alteri CJ, Inohara N, Kamada N. Oral pathobiont Klebsiella chaperon usher pili provide site-specific adaptation for the inflamed gut mucosa. Gut Microbes 2024; 16:2333463. [PMID: 38545880 PMCID: PMC10984132 DOI: 10.1080/19490976.2024.2333463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
The ectopic gut colonization by orally derived pathobionts has been implicated in the pathogenesis of various gastrointestinal diseases, including inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). For example, gut colonization by orally derived Klebsiella spp. has been linked to IBD in mice and humans. However, the mechanisms whereby oral pathobionts colonize extra-oral niches, such as the gut mucosa, remain largely unknown. Here, we performed a high-density transposon (Tn) screening to identify genes required for the adaptation of an oral Klebsiella strain to different mucosal sites - the oral and gut mucosae - at the steady state and during inflammation. We find that K. aerogenes, an oral pathobiont associated with both oral and gut inflammation in mice, harbors a newly identified genomic locus named "locus of colonization in the inflamed gut (LIG)" that encodes genes related to iron acquisition (Sit and Chu) and host adhesion (chaperon usher pili [CUP] system). The LIG locus is highly conserved among K. aerogenes strains, and these genes are also present in several other Klebsiella species. The Tn screening revealed that the LIG locus is required for the adaptation of K. aerogenes in its ectopic niche. In particular, we determined K. aerogenes employs a CUP system (CUP1) present in the LIG locus for colonization in the inflamed gut, but not in the oral mucosa. Thus, oral pathobionts likely exploit distinct adaptation mechanisms in their ectopically colonized intestinal niche compared to their native niche.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yijie Guo
- Department of Psychiatry and Center for Brain Science, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Sho Kitamoto
- WPI Immunology Frontier Research Center, Osaka University, Suita, Japan
| | - Gustavo Caballero-Flores
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Yeji Kim
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Daisuke Watanabe
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Kohei Sugihara
- WPI Immunology Frontier Research Center, Osaka University, Suita, Japan
| | - Gabriel Núñez
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | | | - Naohiro Inohara
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Nobuhiko Kamada
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- WPI Immunology Frontier Research Center, Osaka University, Suita, Japan
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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11
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Pearson MM, Shea AE, Pahil S, Smith SN, Forsyth VS, Mobley HLT. Organ agar serves as physiologically relevant alternative for in vivo bacterial colonization. Infect Immun 2023; 91:e0035523. [PMID: 37850748 PMCID: PMC10652904 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00355-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Animal models for host-microbial interactions have proven valuable, yielding physiologically relevant data that may be otherwise difficult to obtain. Unfortunately, such models are lacking or nonexistent for many microbes. Here, we introduce organ agar, a straightforward method to enable the screening of large mutant libraries while avoiding physiological bottlenecks. We demonstrate that growth defects on organ agar were translatable to bacterial colonization deficiencies in a murine model. Specifically, we present a urinary tract infection agar model to interrogate an ordered library of Proteus mirabilis transposon mutants, with accurate prediction of bacterial genes critical for host colonization. Thus, we demonstrate the ability of ex vivo organ agar to reproduce in vivo deficiencies. Organ agar was also useful for identifying previously unknown links between biosynthetic genes and swarming motility. This work provides a readily adoptable technique that is economical and uses substantially fewer animals. We anticipate this method will be useful for a wide variety of microorganisms, both pathogenic and commensal, in a diverse range of model host species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie M. Pearson
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Allyson E. Shea
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Sapna Pahil
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Sara N. Smith
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Valerie S. Forsyth
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Harry L. T. Mobley
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
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12
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Chagneau CV, Payros D, Goman A, Goursat C, David L, Okuno M, Bordignon PJ, Séguy C, Massip C, Branchu P, Ogura Y, Nougayrède JP, Marenda M, Oswald E. HlyF, an underestimated virulence factor of uropathogenic Escherichia coli. Clin Microbiol Infect 2023; 29:1449.e1-1449.e9. [PMID: 37532127 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmi.2023.07.024] [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: 04/27/2023] [Revised: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are primarily caused by uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC). This study aims to elucidate the role of the virulence factor HlyF in the epidemiology and pathophysiology of UTIs and investigate the dissemination of plasmids carrying the hlyF gene. METHODS An epidemiological analysis was conducted on a representative collection of 225 UPEC strains isolated from community-acquired infections. Selected hlyF+ strains were fully sequenced using a combination of Illumina and Nanopore technologies. To investigate the impact of HlyF, a murine model of UTI was utilized to compare clinical signs, bacterial loads in the bladder, kidney, and spleen, onset of bacteraemia, and inflammation through cytokine quantification among wild-type hlyF+ strains, isogenic mutants, and complemented mutants. RESULTS Our findings demonstrate that 20% of UPEC encode the HlyF protein. These hlyF+ UPEC strains exhibited enhanced virulence, frequently leading to pyelonephritis accompanied by bloodstream infections. Unlike typical UPEC strains, hlyF+ UPEC strains demonstrate a broader phylogroup distribution and possess a unique array of virulence factors and antimicrobial resistance genes, primarily carried by ColV-like plasmids. In the murine UTI model, expression of HlyF was linked to the UPECs' capacity to induce urosepsis and elicit an exacerbated inflammatory response, setting them apart from typical UPEC strains. DISCUSSION Overall, our results strongly support the notion that HlyF serves as a significant virulence factor for UPECs, and the dissemination of ColV-like plasmids encoding HlyF warrants further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camille V Chagneau
- Digestive Health Research Institute (IRSD), National Institute of Health and Medical Research (INSERM), Université de Toulouse Paul Sabatier, National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food and the Environment (INRAE), National Veterinary School of Toulouse (ENVT), Toulouse, France; Service de Bactériologie-Hygiène, Univerity Hospital of Toulouse, Hôpital Purpan, Toulouse, France
| | - Delphine Payros
- Digestive Health Research Institute (IRSD), National Institute of Health and Medical Research (INSERM), Université de Toulouse Paul Sabatier, National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food and the Environment (INRAE), National Veterinary School of Toulouse (ENVT), Toulouse, France
| | - Audrey Goman
- Digestive Health Research Institute (IRSD), National Institute of Health and Medical Research (INSERM), Université de Toulouse Paul Sabatier, National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food and the Environment (INRAE), National Veterinary School of Toulouse (ENVT), Toulouse, France
| | - Cécile Goursat
- Digestive Health Research Institute (IRSD), National Institute of Health and Medical Research (INSERM), Université de Toulouse Paul Sabatier, National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food and the Environment (INRAE), National Veterinary School of Toulouse (ENVT), Toulouse, France
| | - Laure David
- Digestive Health Research Institute (IRSD), National Institute of Health and Medical Research (INSERM), Université de Toulouse Paul Sabatier, National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food and the Environment (INRAE), National Veterinary School of Toulouse (ENVT), Toulouse, France
| | - Miki Okuno
- Division of Microbiology, Department of Infectious Medicine, Kurume University School of Medicine, Kurume, Japan
| | - Pierre-Jean Bordignon
- Digestive Health Research Institute (IRSD), National Institute of Health and Medical Research (INSERM), Université de Toulouse Paul Sabatier, National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food and the Environment (INRAE), National Veterinary School of Toulouse (ENVT), Toulouse, France
| | - Carine Séguy
- Digestive Health Research Institute (IRSD), National Institute of Health and Medical Research (INSERM), Université de Toulouse Paul Sabatier, National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food and the Environment (INRAE), National Veterinary School of Toulouse (ENVT), Toulouse, France
| | - Clémence Massip
- Digestive Health Research Institute (IRSD), National Institute of Health and Medical Research (INSERM), Université de Toulouse Paul Sabatier, National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food and the Environment (INRAE), National Veterinary School of Toulouse (ENVT), Toulouse, France; Service de Bactériologie-Hygiène, Univerity Hospital of Toulouse, Hôpital Purpan, Toulouse, France
| | - Priscilla Branchu
- Digestive Health Research Institute (IRSD), National Institute of Health and Medical Research (INSERM), Université de Toulouse Paul Sabatier, National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food and the Environment (INRAE), National Veterinary School of Toulouse (ENVT), Toulouse, France
| | - Yoshitoshi Ogura
- Division of Microbiology, Department of Infectious Medicine, Kurume University School of Medicine, Kurume, Japan
| | - Jean-Philippe Nougayrède
- Digestive Health Research Institute (IRSD), National Institute of Health and Medical Research (INSERM), Université de Toulouse Paul Sabatier, National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food and the Environment (INRAE), National Veterinary School of Toulouse (ENVT), Toulouse, France
| | - Marc Marenda
- Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Science, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Eric Oswald
- Digestive Health Research Institute (IRSD), National Institute of Health and Medical Research (INSERM), Université de Toulouse Paul Sabatier, National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food and the Environment (INRAE), National Veterinary School of Toulouse (ENVT), Toulouse, France; Service de Bactériologie-Hygiène, Univerity Hospital of Toulouse, Hôpital Purpan, Toulouse, France.
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13
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Paniagua-Contreras GL, Bautista-Cerón A, Morales-Espinosa R, Delgado G, Vaca-Paniagua F, Díaz-Velásquez CE, de la Cruz-Montoya AH, García-Cortés LR, Sánchez-Yáñez MP, Monroy-Pérez E. Extensive Expression of the Virulome Related to Antibiotic Genotyping in Nosocomial Strains of Klebsiella pneumoniae. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:14754. [PMID: 37834205 PMCID: PMC10573248 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241914754] [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: 07/26/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The emergence of hyper-virulent and multidrug-resistant (MDR) strains of Klebsiella pneumoniae isolated from patients with hospital- and community-acquired infections is a serious health problem that increases mortality. The molecular analysis of virulome expression related to antimicrobial-resistant genotype and infection type in K. pneumoniae strains isolated from patients with hospital- and community-acquired infections has been poorly studied. In this study, we analyzed the overall expression of the virulence genotype associated with the antimicrobial resistance genotype and pulse field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) type (PFtype) in K. pneumoniae. We studied 25 strains of K. pneumoniae isolated from patients who developed bacteremia and pneumonia during their hospital stay and 125 strains from outpatients who acquired community-acquired infections. Susceptibility to 12 antimicrobials was determined by Kirby-Bauer. The identification of K. pneumoniae and antibiotic-resistance genes was performed using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). To promote the expression of the virulence genes of K. pneumoniae, an in vitro infection model was used in human epithelial cell lines A549 and A431. Bacterial RNA was extracted with the QIAcube robotic workstation, and reverse transcription to cDNA was performed with the Reverse Transcription QuantiTect kit (Qiagen). The determination of the expression of the virulence genes was performed by real-time PCR. In addition, 57.3% (n = 86) of the strains isolated from patients with hospital- and community-acquired infections were multidrug-resistant (MDR), mainly to beta-lactam antibiotics (CB, AM, CFX, and CF), aminoglycosides (GE), quinolones (CPF and NOF), nitrofurantoin (NF), and sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim (SXT). The most frequently expressed genes among strains isolated from hospital- and community-acquired infections were adhesion-type, ycfm (80%), mrkD (51.3%), and fimH (30.7%); iron uptake, irp2 (84%), fyuA (68.7%), entB (64.7%), and irp1 (56.7%); and protectins, rpmA (26%), which were related to antibiotic-resistance genes, blaTEM (96%), blaSHV (64%), blaCITM (52.6%), blaCTXM-1 (44.7%), tetA (74%), sul1 (57.3%), aac(3)-IV (40.7%), and aadA1 (36%). The results showed the existence of different patterns of expression of virulome related to the genotype of resistance to antimicrobials and to the PFtypes in the strains of K. pneumoniae that cause hospital- and community-acquired infections. These findings are important and may contribute to improving medical treatment strategies against infections caused by K. pneumoniae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gloria Luz Paniagua-Contreras
- Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Tlalnepantla 54090, Mexico; (A.B.-C.); (M.P.S.-Y.)
| | - Areli Bautista-Cerón
- Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Tlalnepantla 54090, Mexico; (A.B.-C.); (M.P.S.-Y.)
| | - Rosario Morales-Espinosa
- Departamento de Microbiología y Parasitología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, 04510, Mexico; (R.M.-E.); (G.D.)
| | - Gabriela Delgado
- Departamento de Microbiología y Parasitología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, 04510, Mexico; (R.M.-E.); (G.D.)
| | - Felipe Vaca-Paniagua
- Unidad de Biomedicina, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Tlalnepantla 54090, Mexico; (F.V.-P.); (C.E.D.-V.); (A.H.d.l.C.-M.)
- Laboratorio Nacional en Salud, Diagnóstico Molecular y Efecto Ambiental en Enfermedades Crónico-Degenerativas, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Tlalnepantla 54090, Mexico
- Subdirección de Investigación Básica, Instituto Nacional de Cancerología, Ciudad de México 14160, Mexico
| | - Clara Estela Díaz-Velásquez
- Unidad de Biomedicina, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Tlalnepantla 54090, Mexico; (F.V.-P.); (C.E.D.-V.); (A.H.d.l.C.-M.)
- Laboratorio Nacional en Salud, Diagnóstico Molecular y Efecto Ambiental en Enfermedades Crónico-Degenerativas, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Tlalnepantla 54090, Mexico
| | - Aldo Hugo de la Cruz-Montoya
- Unidad de Biomedicina, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Tlalnepantla 54090, Mexico; (F.V.-P.); (C.E.D.-V.); (A.H.d.l.C.-M.)
- Laboratorio Nacional en Salud, Diagnóstico Molecular y Efecto Ambiental en Enfermedades Crónico-Degenerativas, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Tlalnepantla 54090, Mexico
| | | | - María Patricia Sánchez-Yáñez
- Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Tlalnepantla 54090, Mexico; (A.B.-C.); (M.P.S.-Y.)
| | - Eric Monroy-Pérez
- Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Tlalnepantla 54090, Mexico; (A.B.-C.); (M.P.S.-Y.)
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14
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Zhou Y, Zhou Z, Zheng L, Gong Z, Li Y, Jin Y, Huang Y, Chi M. Urinary Tract Infections Caused by Uropathogenic Escherichia coli: Mechanisms of Infection and Treatment Options. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:10537. [PMID: 37445714 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241310537] [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: 05/24/2023] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common bacterial infections that represent a severe public health problem. They are often caused by Escherichia coli (E. coli), Klebsiella pneumoniae (K. pneumonia), Proteus mirabilis (P. mirabilis), Enterococcus faecalis (E. faecalis), and Staphylococcus saprophyticus (S. saprophyticus). Among these, uropathogenic E. coli (UPEC) are the most common causative agent in both uncomplicated and complicated UTIs. The adaptive evolution of UPEC has been observed in several ways, including changes in colonization, attachment, invasion, and intracellular replication to invade the urothelium and survive intracellularly. While antibiotic therapy has historically been very successful in controlling UTIs, high recurrence rates and increasing antimicrobial resistance among uropathogens threaten to greatly reduce the efficacy of these treatments. Furthermore, the gradual global emergence of multidrug-resistant UPEC has highlighted the need to further explore its pathogenesis and seek alternative therapeutic and preventative strategies. Therefore, a thorough understanding of the clinical status and pathogenesis of UTIs and the advantages and disadvantages of antibiotics as a conventional treatment option could spark a surge in the search for alternative treatment options, especially vaccines and medicinal plants. Such options targeting multiple pathogenic mechanisms of UPEC are expected to be a focus of UTI management in the future to help combat antibiotic resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants, Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutics, Guizhou Medical University, 4 Beijing Road, Guiyang 550004, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guizhou Medical University, 4 Beijing Road, Guiyang 550004, China
| | - Zuying Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants, Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutics, Guizhou Medical University, 4 Beijing Road, Guiyang 550004, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guizhou Medical University, 4 Beijing Road, Guiyang 550004, China
| | - Lin Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants, Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutics, Guizhou Medical University, 4 Beijing Road, Guiyang 550004, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guizhou Medical University, 4 Beijing Road, Guiyang 550004, China
| | - Zipeng Gong
- State Key Laboratory of Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants, Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutics, Guizhou Medical University, 4 Beijing Road, Guiyang 550004, China
| | - Yueting Li
- State Key Laboratory of Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants, Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutics, Guizhou Medical University, 4 Beijing Road, Guiyang 550004, China
| | - Yang Jin
- State Key Laboratory of Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants, Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutics, Guizhou Medical University, 4 Beijing Road, Guiyang 550004, China
| | - Yong Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants, Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutics, Guizhou Medical University, 4 Beijing Road, Guiyang 550004, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guizhou Medical University, 4 Beijing Road, Guiyang 550004, China
| | - Mingyan Chi
- State Key Laboratory of Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants, Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutics, Guizhou Medical University, 4 Beijing Road, Guiyang 550004, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guizhou Medical University, 4 Beijing Road, Guiyang 550004, China
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15
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Maniam L, Vellasamy KM, Ong TA, Teh CSJ, Jabar KA, Mariappan V, Narayanan V, Vadivelu J, Pallath V. Genotypic characteristics of Uropathogenic Escherichia coli isolated from complicated urinary tract infection (cUTI) and asymptomatic bacteriuria-a relational analysis. PeerJ 2023; 11:e15305. [PMID: 37361034 PMCID: PMC10289082 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.15305] [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: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) is the predominant agent causing various categories of complicated urinary tract infections (cUTI). Although existing data reveals that UPEC harboured numerous virulence determinants to aid its survival in the urinary tract, the reason behind the occurrence of differences in the clinical severity of uninary tract infections (UTI) demonstrated by the UPEC infection is poorly understood. Therefore, the present study aims to determine the distribution of virulence determinants and antimicrobial resistance among different phylogroups of UPEC isolated from various clinical categories of cUTI and asymptomatic bacteriuria (ASB) E. coli isolates. The study will also attempt a relational analysis of the genotypic characteristics of cUTI UPEC and ASB E. coli isolates. Methods A total of 141 UPEC isolates from cUTI and 160 ASB E. coli isolates were obtained from Universiti Malaya Medical Centre (UMMC). Phylogrouping and the occurrence of virulence genes were investigated using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Antimicrobial susceptibility of the isolates to different classes of antibiotics was determined using the Kirby Bauer Disc Diffusion method. Results The cUTI isolates were distributed differentially among both Extraintestinal Pathogenic E. coli (ExPEC) and non-ExPEC phylogroups. Phylogroup B2 isolates were observed to possess the highest average aggregative virulence score (7.17), a probable representation of the capability to cause severe disease. Approximately 50% of the cUTI isolates tested in this study were multidrug resistant against common antibiotics used to treat UTI. Analysis of the occurrence of virulence genes among different cUTI categories demonstrated that UPEC isolates of pyelonephritis and urosepsis were highly virulent and had the highest average aggregative virulence scores of 7.80 and 6.89 respectively, compared to other clinical categories. Relational analysis of the occurrence of phylogroups and virulence determinants of UPEC and ASB E. coli isolates showed that 46.1% of UPEC and 34.3% of ASB E. coli from both categories were distributed in phylogroup B2 and had the highest average aggregative virulence score of 7.17 and 5.37, respectively. The data suggest that UPEC isolates which carry virulence genes from all four virulence genes groups studied (adhesions, iron uptake systems, toxins and capsule synthesis) and isolates from phylogroup B2 specifically could predispose to severe UTI involving the upper urinary tract. Therefore, specific analysis of the genotypic characteristics of UPEC could be further explored by incorporating the combination of virulence genes as a prognostic marker for predicting disease severity, in an attempt to propose a more evidence driven treatment decision-making for all UTI patients. This will go a long way in enhancing favourable therapeutic outcomes and reducing the antimicrobial resistance burden among UTI patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lalitha Maniam
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Kumutha Malar Vellasamy
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Teng Aik Ong
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Cindy Shuan Ju Teh
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Kartini Abdul Jabar
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Vanitha Mariappan
- Centre of Toxicology and Health Risk Studies (CORE), Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Vallikkannu Narayanan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Jamuna Vadivelu
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Vinod Pallath
- Medical Education Research and Development Unit (MERDU), Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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16
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Morales G, Abelson B, Reasoner S, Miller J, Earl AM, Hadjifrangiskou M, Schmitz J. The Role of Mobile Genetic Elements in Virulence Factor Carriage from Symptomatic and Asymptomatic Cases of Escherichia coli Bacteriuria. Microbiol Spectr 2023; 11:e0471022. [PMID: 37195213 PMCID: PMC10269530 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.04710-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 05/01/2023] [Indexed: 05/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) is extremely diverse genotypically and phenotypically. Individual strains can variably carry diverse virulence factors, making it challenging to define a molecular signature for this pathotype. For many bacterial pathogens, mobile genetic elements (MGEs) constitute a major mechanism of virulence factor acquisition. For urinary E. coli, the total distribution of MGEs and their role in the acquisition of virulence factors is not well defined, including in the context of symptomatic infection versus asymptomatic bacteriuria (ASB). In this work, we characterized 151 isolates of E. coli, derived from patients with either urinary tract infection (UTI) or ASB. For both sets of E. coli, we catalogued the presence of plasmids, prophage, and transposons. We analyzed MGE sequences for the presence of virulence factors and antimicrobial resistance genes. These MGEs were associated with only ~4% of total virulence associated genes, while plasmids contributed to ~15% of antimicrobial resistance genes under consideration. Our analyses suggests that, across strains of E. coli, MGEs are not a prominent driver of urinary tract pathogenesis and symptomatic infection. IMPORTANCE Escherichia coli is the most common etiological agent of urinary tract infections (UTIs), with UTI-associated strains designated "uropathogenic" E. coli or UPEC. Across urinary strains of E. coli, the global landscape of MGEs and its relationship to virulence factor carriage and clinical symptomatology require greater clarity. Here, we demonstrate that many of the putative virulence factors of UPEC are not associated with acquisition due to MGEs. The current work enhances our understanding of the strain-to-strain variability and pathogenic potential of urine-associated E. coli and points toward more subtle genomic differences distinguishing ASB from UTI isolates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace Morales
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Benjamin Abelson
- Department of Urology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Seth Reasoner
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Jordan Miller
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Ashlee M. Earl
- Infectious Disease and Microbiome Program, Broad Institute, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Maria Hadjifrangiskou
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
- Department of Urology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
- Vanderbilt Institute for Infection, Immunology, and Inflammation, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Jonathan Schmitz
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
- Department of Urology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
- Vanderbilt Institute for Infection, Immunology, and Inflammation, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
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García V, Lestón L, Parga A, García-Meniño I, Fernández J, Otero A, Olsen JE, Herrero-Fresno A, Mora A. Genomics, biofilm formation and infection of bladder epithelial cells in potentially uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) from animal sources and human urinary tract infections (UTIs) further support food-borne transmission. One Health 2023; 16:100558. [PMID: 37363240 PMCID: PMC10288081 DOI: 10.1016/j.onehlt.2023.100558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2022] [Revised: 04/29/2023] [Accepted: 05/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Escherichia coli is the main cause of urinary tract infections (UTI). While genomic comparison of specific clones recovered from animals, and human extraintestinal infections show high identity, studies demonstrating the uropathogenicity are lacking. In this study, comparative genomics combined with bladder-cell and biofilm formation assays, were performed for 31 E. coli of different origins: 7 from meat (poultry, beef, and pork); 2 from avian-farm environment; 12 from human uncomplicated UTI, uUTI; and 10 from human complicated UTI, cUTI. These isolates were selected based on their genetic uropathogenic (UPEC) status and phylogenetic background. In silico analysis revealed similar virulence-gene profiles, with flagella, type 1 and curli fimbriae, outer-membrane proteins (agn43, ompT, iha), and iron-uptake (iutA, entA, and fyuA) associated-traits as the most prevalent (>65%). In bladder-cell assays, moderate to strong values of association (83%, 60%, 77.8%) and invasion (0%, 70%, 55.5%) were exhibited by uUTI, cUTI, and animal-derived isolates, respectively. Of interest, uUTI isolates exhibited a significantly lower invasive capacity than cUTI isolates (p < 0.05). All isolates but one produced measurable biofilm. Notably, 1 turkey meat isolate O11:H6-F-ST457, and 2 cUTI isolates of the pandemic lineages O83:H42-F-ST1485-CC648 and O25b:H4-B2-ST131, showed strong association, invasion and biofilm formation. These isolates showed common carriage of type 1 fimbriae and csg operons, toxins (hlyF, tsh), iron uptake systems (iutA, entA, iroN), colicins, protectins (cvaC, iss, kpsM, traT), ompT, and malX. In summary, the similar in vitro behaviour found here for certain E. coli clones of animal origin would further reinforce the role of food-producing animals as a potential source of UPEC. Bladder-cell infection assays, combined with genomics, might be an alternative to in vivo virulence models to assess uropathogenicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanesa García
- Laboratorio de Referencia de Escherichia coli (LREC), Dpto. de Microbioloxía e Parasitoloxía, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela (USC), Lugo 27002, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Santiago 15706, Spain
| | - Luz Lestón
- Laboratorio de Referencia de Escherichia coli (LREC), Dpto. de Microbioloxía e Parasitoloxía, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela (USC), Lugo 27002, Spain
| | - Ana Parga
- Departamento de Microbioloxía e Parasitoloxía, Facultade de Bioloxía, Edificio CIBUS, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela 15782, Spain
| | - Isidro García-Meniño
- Laboratorio de Referencia de Escherichia coli (LREC), Dpto. de Microbioloxía e Parasitoloxía, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela (USC), Lugo 27002, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Santiago 15706, Spain
- Department for Biological Safety, German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment, Berlin 10589, Germany
| | - Javier Fernández
- Servicio de Microbiología, Hospital Universitario Central de Asturias (HUCA), Oviedo 33011, Spain
- Grupo de Microbiología Traslacional, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Principado de Asturias (ISPA), Oviedo 33011, Spain
- Research & Innovation, Artificial Intelligence and Statistical Department, Pragmatech AI Solutions, Oviedo 33011, Spain
- CIBER de Enfermedades Respiratorias (CIBERES), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana Otero
- Departamento de Microbioloxía e Parasitoloxía, Facultade de Bioloxía, Edificio CIBUS, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela 15782, Spain
| | - John E. Olsen
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg 1870, Denmark
| | - Ana Herrero-Fresno
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg 1870, Denmark
| | - Azucena Mora
- Laboratorio de Referencia de Escherichia coli (LREC), Dpto. de Microbioloxía e Parasitoloxía, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela (USC), Lugo 27002, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Santiago 15706, Spain
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18
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Van Eyssen SR, Samarkina A, Isbilen O, Zeden MS, Volkan E. FimH and Type 1 Pili Mediated Tumor Cell Cytotoxicity by Uropathogenic Escherichia coli In Vitro. Pathogens 2023; 12:751. [PMID: 37375441 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12060751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Revised: 05/20/2023] [Accepted: 05/21/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Uropathogenic Escherichia coli express hairlike proteinaceous surface projections, known as chaperone-usher pathway (CUP) pili. Type 1 pili are CUP pili with well-established pathogenic properties. The FimH adhesin subunit of type 1 pili plays a key role in the pathogenesis of urinary tract infections (UTIs) as it mediates the adhesion of the bacteria to urothelial cells of the bladder. In this study, two breast cancer cell lines, MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7, were used to demonstrate the cytotoxic activities of type 1 piliated uropathogenic E. coli UTI89 on breast cancer cells in a type 1 pili and FimH-mediated manner. E. coli were grown in static and shaking conditions to induce or inhibit optimal type 1 pili biogenesis, respectively. Deletion constructs of UTI89 ΔfimH and a complemented strain (UTI89 ΔfimH/pfimH) were further utilized to genetically assess the effect of type 1 pili and FimH on cancer cell viability. After incubation with the different strains, cytotoxicity was measured using trypan blue exclusion assays. UTI89 grown statically caused significant cytotoxicity in both breast cancer cell lines whereas cytotoxicity was reduced when the cells were incubated with bacteria grown under shaking conditions. The incubation of both MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 with UTI89 Δfim operon or ΔfimH showed a significant reduction in cytotoxicity exerted by the bacterial strains, revealing that type 1 pili expression was necessary for cytotoxicity. Complementing the ΔfimH strain with pfimH reversed the phenotype, leading to a significant increase in cytotoxicity. Incubating type 1 pili expressing bacteria with the competitive FimH inhibitor D-mannose before cancer cell treatment also led to a significant reduction in cytotoxicity on both MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 cancer cells, compared to vehicle control or D-mannose alone, indicating the requirement for functional FimH for cytotoxicity. Overall, our results reveal that, as opposed to UTI89 lacking type 1 pili, type 1 piliated UTI89 causes significant cancer cell mortality in a FimH-mediated manner, that is decreased with D-mannose.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shelly Roselyn Van Eyssen
- Biotechnology Research Center, Cyprus International University, Northern Cyprus, Mersin 10, 99258 Nicosia, Turkey
| | - Anastasia Samarkina
- Biotechnology Research Center, Cyprus International University, Northern Cyprus, Mersin 10, 99258 Nicosia, Turkey
| | - Ovgu Isbilen
- Biotechnology Research Center, Cyprus International University, Northern Cyprus, Mersin 10, 99258 Nicosia, Turkey
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cyprus International University, Northern Cyprus, Mersin 10, 99258 Nicosia, Turkey
| | - Merve Suzan Zeden
- Biotechnology Research Center, Cyprus International University, Northern Cyprus, Mersin 10, 99258 Nicosia, Turkey
- Department of Microbiology, School of Biological and Chemical Sciences, University of Galway, H91TK33 Galway, Ireland
| | - Ender Volkan
- Biotechnology Research Center, Cyprus International University, Northern Cyprus, Mersin 10, 99258 Nicosia, Turkey
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cyprus International University, Northern Cyprus, Mersin 10, 99258 Nicosia, Turkey
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19
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Pearson MM, Shea AE, Pahil S, Smith SN, Forsyth VS, Mobley HLT. Organ agar serves as physiologically relevant alternative for in vivo colonization. RESEARCH SQUARE 2023:rs.3.rs-2777869. [PMID: 37293055 PMCID: PMC10246091 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-2777869/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Animal models for host-microbial interactions have proven valuable, yielding physiologically relevant data that may be otherwise difficult to obtain. Unfortunately, such models are lacking or nonexistent for many microbes. Here, we introduce organ agar, a straightforward method to enable the screening of large mutant libraries while avoiding physiological bottlenecks. We demonstrate that growth defects on organ agar were translatable to colonization deficiencies in a murine model. Specifically, we present a urinary tract infection agar model to interrogate an ordered library of Proteus mirabilis transposon mutants, with accurate prediction of bacterial genes critical for host colonization. Thus, we demonstrate the ability of ex vivo organ agar to reproduce in vivo deficiencies. This work provides a readily adoptable technique that is economical and uses substantially fewer animals. We anticipate this method will be useful for a wide variety of microorganisms, both pathogenic and commensal, in a diverse range of model host species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie M. Pearson
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | | | | | - Sara N. Smith
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Valerie S. Forsyth
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Harry L. T. Mobley
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
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20
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Arafi V, Hasani A, Sadeghi J, Varshochi M, Poortahmasebi V, Hasani A, Hasani R. Uropathogenic Escherichia coli endeavors: an insight into the characteristic features, resistance mechanism, and treatment choice. Arch Microbiol 2023; 205:226. [PMID: 37156886 DOI: 10.1007/s00203-023-03553-5] [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: 01/28/2023] [Revised: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) are the strains diverted from the intestinal status and account mainly for uropathogenicity. This pathotype has gained specifications in structure and virulence to turn into a competent uropathogenic organism. Biofilm formation and antibiotic resistance play an important role in the organism's persistence in the urinary tract. Increased consumption of carbapenem prescribed for multidrug-resistant (MDR) and Extended-spectrum-beta lactamase (ESBL)-producing UPECs, has added to the expansion of resistance. The World Health Organization (WHO) and Centre for Disease Control (CDC) placed the Carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) on their treatment priority lists. Understanding both patterns of pathogenicity, and multiple drug resistance may provide guidance for the rational use of anti-bacterial agents in the clinic. Developing an effective vaccine, adherence-inhibiting compounds, cranberry juice, and probiotics are non-antibiotical approaches proposed for the treatment of drug-resistant UTIs. We aimed to review the distinguishing characteristics, current therapeutic options and promising non-antibiotical approaches against ESBL-producing and CRE UPECs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vahid Arafi
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Department of Bacteriology and Virology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Alka Hasani
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
- Department of Bacteriology and Virology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
- Clinical Research Development Unit, Sina Educational, Research and Treatment Centre, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
| | - Javid Sadeghi
- Department of Bacteriology and Virology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mojtaba Varshochi
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Vahdat Poortahmasebi
- Department of Bacteriology and Virology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Akbar Hasani
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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21
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Reid G. Perspective: microbial interventions in the urinary tract. MICROBIOME RESEARCH REPORTS 2023; 2:3. [PMID: 38045610 PMCID: PMC10688806 DOI: 10.20517/mrr.2022.17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Revised: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Abstract
Despite multiple advances in medicine, the management of urinary tract infections (UTIs) in women has remained stalled for decades. To prevent the development of symptomatic recurrences, low-dose antibiotics are the mainstay, while alternative approaches have been attempted with limited success. The use of probiotics was first considered forty years ago, and while some promising studies have been published, additional evidence in larger patient groups is needed to recommend specific strains as a primary preventive regimen. Overall, the role of beneficial microbes in reducing the risk of UTI and other urological diseases, such as urolithiasis, remains a target for researchers. The aim of this perspective is to offer a viewpoint on the status of this approach and recommendations for how to develop novel probiotic therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregor Reid
- Canadian R&D Centre for Human Microbiome and Probiotics, Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario N6A 4V2, Canada
- Departments of Microbiology and Immunology, and Surgery, Western University, London, Ontario N6A 3K7, Canada
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22
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Increased Levels of (p)ppGpp Correlate with Virulence and Biofilm Formation, but Not with Growth, in Strains of Uropathogenic Escherichia coli. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24043315. [PMID: 36834725 PMCID: PMC9962837 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24043315] [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: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 01/26/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Urinary tract infections are one of the most frequent bacterial diseases worldwide. UPECs are the most prominent group of bacterial strains among pathogens responsible for prompting such infections. As a group, these extra-intestinal infection-causing bacteria have developed specific features that allow them to sustain and develop in their inhabited niche of the urinary tract. In this study, we examined 118 UPEC isolates to determine their genetic background and antibiotic resistance. Moreover, we investigated correlations of these characteristics with the ability to form biofilm and to induce a general stress response. We showed that this strain collection expressed unique UPEC attributes, with the highest representation of FimH, SitA, Aer, and Sfa factors (100%, 92.5%, 75%, and 70%, respectively). According to CRA (Congo red agar) analysis, the strains particularly predisposed to biofilm formation represented 32.5% of the isolates. Those biofilm forming strains presented a significant ability to accumulate multi-resistance traits. Most notably, these strains presented a puzzling metabolic phenotype-they showed elevated basal levels of (p)ppGpp in the planktonic phase and simultaneously exhibited a shorter generation time when compared to non-biofilm-forming strains. Moreover, our virulence analysis showed these phenotypes to be crucial for the development of severe infections in the Galleria mellonella model.
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23
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In Vivo Role of Two-Component Regulatory Systems in Models of Urinary Tract Infections. Pathogens 2023; 12:pathogens12010119. [PMID: 36678467 PMCID: PMC9861413 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12010119] [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] [Revised: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 01/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Two-component signaling systems (TCSs) are finely regulated mechanisms by which bacteria adapt to environmental conditions by modifying the expression of target genes. In bacterial pathogenesis, TCSs play important roles in modulating adhesion to mucosal surfaces, resistance to antibiotics, and metabolic adaptation. In the context of urinary tract infections (UTI), one of the most common types infections causing significant health problems worldwide, uropathogens use TCSs for adaptation, survival, and establishment of pathogenicity. For example, uropathogens can exploit TCSs to survive inside bladder epithelial cells, sense osmolar variations in urine, promote their ascension along the urinary tract or even produce lytic enzymes resulting in exfoliation of the urothelium. Despite the usefulness of studying the function of TCSs in in vitro experimental models, it is of primary necessity to study bacterial gene regulation also in the context of host niches, each displaying its own biological, chemical, and physical features. In light of this, the aim of this review is to provide a concise description of several bacterial TCSs, whose activity has been described in mouse models of UTI.
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24
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Lila ASA, Rajab AAH, Abdallah MH, Rizvi SMD, Moin A, Khafagy ES, Tabrez S, Hegazy WAH. Biofilm Lifestyle in Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections. LIFE (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 13:life13010148. [PMID: 36676100 PMCID: PMC9865985 DOI: 10.3390/life13010148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Revised: 12/27/2022] [Accepted: 12/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) represent one of the most common infections that are frequently encountered in health care facilities. One of the main mechanisms used by bacteria that allows them to survive hostile environments is biofilm formation. Biofilms are closed bacterial communities that offer protection and safe hiding, allowing bacteria to evade host defenses and hide from the reach of antibiotics. Inside biofilm communities, bacteria show an increased rate of horizontal gene transfer and exchange of resistance and virulence genes. Additionally, bacterial communication within the biofilm allows them to orchestrate the expression of virulence genes, which further cements the infestation and increases the invasiveness of the infection. These facts stress the necessity of continuously updating our information and understanding of the etiology, pathogenesis, and eradication methods of this growing public health concern. This review seeks to understand the role of biofilm formation in recurrent urinary tact infections by outlining the mechanisms underlying biofilm formation in different uropathogens, in addition to shedding light on some biofilm eradication strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amr S. Abu Lila
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Ha’il, Ha’il 81442, Saudi Arabia
- Molecular Diagnostics and Personalized Therapeutics Unit, University of Ha’il, Ha’il 81442, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Industrial Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44519, Egypt
- Correspondence: (A.S.A.L.); (W.A.H.H.)
| | - Azza A. H. Rajab
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44519, Egypt
| | - Marwa H. Abdallah
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Ha’il, Ha’il 81442, Saudi Arabia
- Molecular Diagnostics and Personalized Therapeutics Unit, University of Ha’il, Ha’il 81442, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Industrial Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44519, Egypt
| | - Syed Mohd Danish Rizvi
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Ha’il, Ha’il 81442, Saudi Arabia
- Molecular Diagnostics and Personalized Therapeutics Unit, University of Ha’il, Ha’il 81442, Saudi Arabia
| | - Afrasim Moin
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Ha’il, Ha’il 81442, Saudi Arabia
- Molecular Diagnostics and Personalized Therapeutics Unit, University of Ha’il, Ha’il 81442, Saudi Arabia
| | - El-Sayed Khafagy
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University, Al-Kharj 11942, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Industrial Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Suez Canal University, Ismailia 41522, Egypt
| | - Shams Tabrez
- King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
| | - Wael A. H. Hegazy
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44519, Egypt
- Pharmacy Program, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Oman College of Health Sciences, Muscat 113, Oman
- Correspondence: (A.S.A.L.); (W.A.H.H.)
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25
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Phenotypic Assessment of Clinical Escherichia coli Isolates as an Indicator for Uropathogenic Potential. mSystems 2022; 7:e0082722. [PMID: 36445110 PMCID: PMC9765037 DOI: 10.1128/msystems.00827-22] [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] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
For women in the United States, urinary tract infections (UTIs) are the most frequent diagnosis in emergency departments, comprising 21.3% of total visits. Uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) causes ~80% of uncomplicated UTIs. To combat this public health issue, it is vital to characterize UPEC strains as well as to differentiate them from commensal strains to reduce the overuse of antibiotics. It has been challenging to determine a consistent genetic signature that clearly distinguishes UPEC from other E. coli strains. Therefore, we examined whether phenotypic data could be predictive of uropathogenic potential. We screened 13 clinical strains of UPEC, isolated from cases of uncomplicated UTI in young otherwise healthy women, in a series of microbiological phenotypic assays using UPEC prototype strain CFT073 and nonpathogenic E. coli strain MG1655 K-12 as controls. Phenotypes included adherence, iron acquisition, biofilm formation, human serum resistance, motility, and stress resistance. By use of a well-established experimental mouse model of UTI, these data were able to predict the severity of the bacterial burden in both the urine and bladders. Multiple linear regression using three different phenotypic assays, i.e., growth in minimal medium, siderophore production, and type 1 fimbrial expression, was predictive of bladder colonization (adjusted R2 = 0.6411). Growth in ex vivo human urine, hemagglutination of red blood cells, and motility modeled urine colonization (adjusted R2 = 0.4821). These results showcase the utility of phenotypic characterization to predict the severity of infection that these strains may cause. We predict that these methods will also be applicable to other complex, genetically redundant, pathogens. IMPORTANCE Urinary tract infections are the second leading infectious disease worldwide, occurring in over half of the female population during their lifetime. Most infections are caused by uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) strains. These strains can establish a reservoir in the gut, in which they do not cause disease but, upon introduction to the urinary tract, can infect the host and elicit pathogenesis. Clinically, it would be beneficial to screen patient E. coli strains to understand their pathogenic potential, which may lead to the administration of prophylactic antibiotic treatment for those with increased risk. Others have proposed the use of PCR-based genetic screening methods to detect UPEC strains and differentiate them from other E. coli pathotypes; however, this method has not yielded a consistent uropathogenic genetic signature. Here, we used phenotypic characteristics such as growth rate, siderophore production, and expression of fimbriae to better predict uropathogenic potential.
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26
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Chan CCY, Lewis IA. Role of metabolism in uropathogenic Escherichia coli. Trends Microbiol 2022; 30:1174-1204. [PMID: 35941063 DOI: 10.1016/j.tim.2022.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Revised: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) is responsible for more than 75% of urinary tract infections (UTIs) and has been studied extensively to better understand the molecular underpinnings of infection and pathogenesis. Although the macromolecular adaptations UPEC employs - including the expression of virulence factors, adhesion molecules, and iron-acquisition systems - are well described, the role that metabolism plays in enabling infection is still unclear. However, a growing body of literature shows that metabolic function can have a profound impact on which strains can colonize the urinary tract. The goal of this review is to critically appraise this emerging body of literature to better understand the role that nutritional selection plays in enabling urinary tract colonization and the progression of UTIs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carly C Y Chan
- Department of Biological Science, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - Ian A Lewis
- Department of Biological Science, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, T2N 1N4, Canada.
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27
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Mäklin T, Thorpe HA, Pöntinen AK, Gladstone RA, Shao Y, Pesonen M, McNally A, Johnsen PJ, Samuelsen Ø, Lawley TD, Honkela A, Corander J. Strong pathogen competition in neonatal gut colonisation. Nat Commun 2022; 13:7417. [PMID: 36456554 PMCID: PMC9715557 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-35178-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Opportunistic bacterial pathogen species and their strains that colonise the human gut are generally understood to compete against both each other and the commensal species colonising this ecosystem. Currently we are lacking a population-wide quantification of strain-level colonisation dynamics and the relationship of colonisation potential to prevalence in disease, and how ecological factors might be modulating these. Here, using a combination of latest high-resolution metagenomics and strain-level genomic epidemiology methods we performed a characterisation of the competition and colonisation dynamics for a longitudinal cohort of neonatal gut microbiomes. We found strong inter- and intra-species competition dynamics in the gut colonisation process, but also a number of synergistic relationships among several species belonging to genus Klebsiella, which includes the prominent human pathogen Klebsiella pneumoniae. No evidence of preferential colonisation by hospital-adapted pathogen lineages in either vaginal or caesarean section birth groups was detected. Our analysis further enabled unbiased assessment of strain-level colonisation potential of extra-intestinal pathogenic Escherichia coli (ExPEC) in comparison with their propensity to cause bloodstream infections. Our study highlights the importance of systematic surveillance of bacterial gut pathogens, not only from disease but also from carriage state, to better inform therapies and preventive medicine in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tommi Mäklin
- grid.7737.40000 0004 0410 2071Helsinki Institute for Information Technology HIIT, Department of Computer Science, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Harry A. Thorpe
- grid.5510.10000 0004 1936 8921Department of Biostatistics, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Anna K. Pöntinen
- grid.5510.10000 0004 1936 8921Department of Biostatistics, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway ,grid.412244.50000 0004 4689 5540Norwegian National Advisory Unit on Detection of Antimicrobial Resistance, Department of Microbiology and Infection Control, University Hospital of North Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Rebecca A. Gladstone
- grid.5510.10000 0004 1936 8921Department of Biostatistics, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Yan Shao
- grid.10306.340000 0004 0606 5382Parasites and Microbes, Wellcome Sanger Institute, Hinxton, Cambridgeshire UK
| | - Maiju Pesonen
- grid.5510.10000 0004 1936 8921Department of Biostatistics, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Alan McNally
- grid.6572.60000 0004 1936 7486Institute of Microbiology and Infection, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Pål J. Johnsen
- grid.10919.300000000122595234Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Ørjan Samuelsen
- grid.412244.50000 0004 4689 5540Norwegian National Advisory Unit on Detection of Antimicrobial Resistance, Department of Microbiology and Infection Control, University Hospital of North Norway, Tromsø, Norway ,grid.10919.300000000122595234Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Trevor D. Lawley
- grid.10306.340000 0004 0606 5382Parasites and Microbes, Wellcome Sanger Institute, Hinxton, Cambridgeshire UK
| | - Antti Honkela
- grid.7737.40000 0004 0410 2071Helsinki Institute for Information Technology HIIT, Department of Computer Science, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Jukka Corander
- grid.5510.10000 0004 1936 8921Department of Biostatistics, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway ,grid.10306.340000 0004 0606 5382Parasites and Microbes, Wellcome Sanger Institute, Hinxton, Cambridgeshire UK ,grid.7737.40000 0004 0410 2071Helsinki Institute for Information Technology HIIT, Department of Mathematics and Statistics, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
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Norepinephrine Effects on Uropathogenic Strains Virulence. Microorganisms 2022; 10:microorganisms10112248. [DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10112248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2022] [Revised: 11/10/2022] [Accepted: 11/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The degree of virulence correlates with adhesion, biofilm formation, motility and the capacity to quickly colonize biological surfaces. The virulence of the bacteria that have colonized the urinary tract may be modified by substances dissolved in urine. One such substance is the norepinephrine (NE) hormone, which may be present in human urine, especially in times of stress and under changes in the activity of the renin-angiotensin-aldesterone system. In this work, we study the influence of NE on the biomass, biofilm formation, matrix production, adhesion, motility and metabolism of uropathogenic strains of E. coli and S. aureus. We used Congo red and gentian violet staining for detection of matrix and biomass formation, respectively. The optical density was measured by a multichannel spectrophotometer. The motility of bacterial cells was measured on semi-solid agar at 24 h and 48 h. The metabolic activity was analyzed by MTT assay. It was shown that the metabolic activity of E. coli was stimulated by NE, which led to the increasing synthesis of virulence factors such as biofilm production, adhesion, and motility. At the same time, NE did not activate the S. aureus strain’s metabolism and did not change its adhesion and motility. Thus, the virulence activity of uropathogenic E. coli may be modified by NE in urine.
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29
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Geurtsen J, de Been M, Weerdenburg E, Zomer A, McNally A, Poolman J. Genomics and pathotypes of the many faces of Escherichia coli. FEMS Microbiol Rev 2022; 46:fuac031. [PMID: 35749579 PMCID: PMC9629502 DOI: 10.1093/femsre/fuac031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Escherichia coli is the most researched microbial organism in the world. Its varied impact on human health, consisting of commensalism, gastrointestinal disease, or extraintestinal pathologies, has generated a separation of the species into at least eleven pathotypes (also known as pathovars). These are broadly split into two groups, intestinal pathogenic E. coli (InPEC) and extraintestinal pathogenic E. coli (ExPEC). However, components of E. coli's infinite open accessory genome are horizontally transferred with substantial frequency, creating pathogenic hybrid strains that defy a clear pathotype designation. Here, we take a birds-eye view of the E. coli species, characterizing it from historical, clinical, and genetic perspectives. We examine the wide spectrum of human disease caused by E. coli, the genome content of the bacterium, and its propensity to acquire, exchange, and maintain antibiotic resistance genes and virulence traits. Our portrayal of the species also discusses elements that have shaped its overall population structure and summarizes the current state of vaccine development targeted at the most frequent E. coli pathovars. In our conclusions, we advocate streamlining efforts for clinical reporting of ExPEC, and emphasize the pathogenic potential that exists throughout the entire species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeroen Geurtsen
- Janssen Vaccines and Prevention B.V., 2333 Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Mark de Been
- Janssen Vaccines and Prevention B.V., 2333 Leiden, the Netherlands
| | | | - Aldert Zomer
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, 3584 Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Alan McNally
- Institute of Microbiology and Infection, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, B15 2TT Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Jan Poolman
- Janssen Vaccines and Prevention B.V., 2333 Leiden, the Netherlands
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30
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Hypervirulence and Multiresistance to Antibiotics in Klebsiella pneumoniae Strains Isolated from Patients with Hospital- and Community-Acquired Infections in a Mexican Medical Center. Microorganisms 2022; 10:microorganisms10102043. [PMID: 36296319 PMCID: PMC9609718 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10102043] [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: 09/23/2022] [Revised: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Klebsiella pneumoniae is a pathogenic bacterium associated with different infectious diseases. This study aimed to establish the different association profiles of virulence genes related to the hypermucoviscous phenotype (HM), capsular serotypes, biofilm formation, and multidrug resistance in K. pneumoniae strains from patients with hospital- and community-acquired infections. K. pneumoniae virulence genes and capsular serotypes were identified by PCR, antibiotic susceptibility by the Kirby-Bauer method, HM by the string test, and biofilm formation by measurement in polystyrene microtiter plates. Of a total of 150 strains from patients with hospital- (n = 25) and community-acquired infections (n = 125), 53.3% (80/150) were HM-positive and 46.7% (70/150) were HM-negative. HM-positive (68/80) and HM-negative (67/70) strains were biofilm-forming. Moreover, 58.7% (47/80) HM-positive and 57.1% (40/70) HM-negative strains were multidrug-resistant. Among HM-positive, HM-negative, and serotypes K1 (25/150), K2 (48/150), and non-K1/K2 strains, (77/150) the frequently detected adhesion genes were fimH, mrkD, ycfM, and kpn; entB, irp2, irp1, and ybtS, for iron acquisition; and rmpA for protectins. The gene association pattern fimH/kpn/mrkD/ycfM/entB/irp1/irp2/ybtS/fyuA (18/150) was frequent among the strains. K. pneumoniae strains from patients with hospital- and community-acquired infections demonstrated a wide diversity of virulence gene profiles related to phenotype (hypermucoviscosity, multidrug resistance, and biofilm formation) and serotypes.
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31
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Maalouf N, Gur C, Yutkin V, Scaiewicz V, Mandelboim O, Bachrach G. High mannose level in bladder cancer enhances type 1 fimbria–mediated attachment of uropathogenic E. coli. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:968739. [PMID: 36118038 PMCID: PMC9470858 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.968739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Bladder cancer is the 4th leading cancer in men. Tumor resection followed by bladder instillation of Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) is the primary treatment for high-risk patients with Non-Muscle Invasive Bladder Cancer (NMIBC) to prevent recurrence and progression to muscle-invasive disease. This treatment, however, lacks efficiency and causes severe adverse effects. Mannose residues are expressed on bladder surfaces and their levels were indicated to be higher in bladder cancer. Intravesical instillations of a recombinant Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA) overexpressing the mannose-sensitive hemagglutination fimbriae (PA-MSHA), and of a mannose-specific lectin-drug conjugate showed efficiency against NMIBC in murine models of bladder cancer. Urothelial mannosylation facilitates bladder colonization by Uropathogenic E. coli (UPEC) via the interaction with the FimH mannose lectin, positioned at the tip of type 1 fimbria. A recombinant BCG strain overexpressing FimH on its outer surface, exhibited higher attachment and internalization to bladder cancer cells and increased effectivity in treating bladder cancer in mice. Investigating the pattern of mannose expression in NMIBC is important for improving treatment. Here, using tissue microarrays containing multiple normal and cancerous bladder samples, and lectins, we confirm that human bladder cancer cells express high mannose levels. Using UPEC mutants lacking or overexpressing type 1 fimbria, we also demonstrate that tumor-induced hypermannosylation increases type 1 fimbria mediated UPEC attachment to human and mouse bladder cancer. Our results provide an explanation for the effectiveness of PA-MSHA and the FimH-overexpressing BCG and support the hypothesis that mannose-targeted therapy holds potential for improving bladder cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naseem Maalouf
- The Institute of Dental Sciences, The Hebrew University-Hadassah School of Dental Medicine, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Chamutal Gur
- Department of Rheumatology, Hadassah Hebrew University Hospital, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Vladimir Yutkin
- Department of Urology, Hadassah Hebrew University Hospital, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Viviana Scaiewicz
- The Institute of Dental Sciences, The Hebrew University-Hadassah School of Dental Medicine, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Ofer Mandelboim
- The Lautenberg Center of General and Tumor Immunology, The Hebrew University Hadassah Medical School, Institute for Medical Research Israel Canada (IMRIC), Jerusalem, Israel
- *Correspondence: Ofer Mandelboim, ; Gilad Bachrach,
| | - Gilad Bachrach
- The Institute of Dental Sciences, The Hebrew University-Hadassah School of Dental Medicine, Jerusalem, Israel
- *Correspondence: Ofer Mandelboim, ; Gilad Bachrach,
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32
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Li L, Li Y, Yang J, Xie X, Chen H. The immune responses to different Uropathogens call individual interventions for bladder infection. Front Immunol 2022; 13:953354. [PMID: 36081496 PMCID: PMC9445553 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.953354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Urinary tract infection (UTI) caused by uropathogens is the most common infectious disease and significantly affects all aspects of the quality of life of the patients. However, uropathogens are increasingly becoming antibiotic-resistant, which threatens the only effective treatment option available-antibiotic, resulting in higher medical costs, prolonged hospital stays, and increased mortality. Currently, people are turning their attention to the immune responses, hoping to find effective immunotherapeutic interventions which can be alternatives to the overuse of antibiotic drugs. Bladder infections are caused by the main nine uropathogens and the bladder executes different immune responses depending on the type of uropathogens. It is essential to understand the immune responses to diverse uropathogens in bladder infection for guiding the design and development of immunotherapeutic interventions. This review firstly sorts out and comparatively analyzes the immune responses to the main nine uropathogens in bladder infection, and summarizes their similarities and differences. Based on these immune responses, we innovatively propose that different microbial bladder infections should adopt corresponding immunomodulatory interventions, and the same immunomodulatory intervention can also be applied to diverse microbial infections if they share the same effective therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linlong Li
- The School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Yangyang Li
- The School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Jiali Yang
- The School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Xiang Xie
- The School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Public Center of Experimental Technology, Model Animal and Human Disease Research of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Xiang Xie, ; Huan Chen,
| | - Huan Chen
- The School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Nucleic Acid Medicine of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Xiang Xie, ; Huan Chen,
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33
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Zhang S, Wang J, Fan Y, Meng W, Qian C, Liu P, Wei Y, Yuan C, Du Y, Yin Z. YciR, a Specific 3′-Phosphodiesterase, Plays a Role in the Pathogenesis of Uropathogenic Escherichia coli CFT073. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:910906. [PMID: 35923408 PMCID: PMC9339999 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.910906] [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: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Urinary tract infections (UTIs), with the characteristics of recurrence and resistance to antibiotics due to misuse, remain a common health and economic issue for patients. Uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC), which is capable of evading the immune response by forming intracellular bacterial communities (IBCs) in the cytoplasm of bladder epithelial cells (BECs) after invasion, has been shown to be the prevailing cause of UTIs. Cyclic dimeric guanosine monophosphate (c-di-GMP) is a small molecule responsible for eliciting the innate immune response of the host only if it has not been degraded by some phosphodiesterases (PDEs), such as YciR. The relationship between YciR and c-di-GMP levels in UPEC is inconclusive. In this study, we investigated the gene expression profile of UPEC in BECs and identified yciR as an upregulated gene. Western blot revealed that YciR enhanced the virulence of UPEC by inhibiting the phosphorylation of NF-κB. The expression of yciR could be repressed by HupB in a directly binding manner. We identified YciR, a novel PDE, and defined its possible function in innate immune evasion. We also demonstrated that YciR is an HupB-dependent PDE that degrades c-di-GMP and that a low concentration of c-di-GMP might make NF-κB less phosphorylated, thereby reducing the host’s pro-inflammatory response. This is the first time that YciR has been identified as a virulence factor in the pathogenesis of UPEC. These findings further increase our understanding of the pathogenesis of UPEC and provide a theoretical basis for further studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Si Zhang
- Ministry of Education (MOE) International Joint Research Laboratory on Synthetic Biology and Medicines, School of Biology and Biological Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
- College of Life Science, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Jingting Wang
- College of Life Science, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Yu Fan
- College of Life Science, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Wang Meng
- Tianjin First Central Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Chengqian Qian
- College of Life Science, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Peng Liu
- College of Life Science, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Yi Wei
- College of Life Science, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Chao Yuan
- Department of Sanitary Toxicology and Chemistry, School of Public Health, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Yuhui Du
- Ministry of Education (MOE) International Joint Research Laboratory on Synthetic Biology and Medicines, School of Biology and Biological Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Yuhui Du,
| | - Zhiqiu Yin
- National Engineering Research Center for Efficient Utilization of Soil and Fertilizer Resources, College of Resources and Environment, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai’an, China
- Zhiqiu Yin,
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34
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Urinary Tract Infections Caused by Uropathogenic Escherichia coli Strains—New Strategies for an Old Pathogen. Microorganisms 2022; 10:microorganisms10071425. [PMID: 35889146 PMCID: PMC9321218 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10071425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Revised: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are among the most common infections worldwide. Uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPECs) are the main causative agent of UTIs. UPECs initially colonize the human host adhering to the bladder epithelium. Adhesion is followed by the bacterial invasion of urothelial epithelial cells where they can replicate to form compact aggregates of intracellular bacteria with biofilm-like properties. UPEC strains may persist within epithelial urothelial cells, thus acting as quiescent intracellular bacterial reservoirs (QIRs). It has been proposed that host cell invasion may facilitate both the establishment and persistence of UPECs within the human urinary tract. UPEC strains express a variety of virulence factors including fimbrial and afimbrial adhesins, invasins, iron-acquisition systems, and toxins, which cooperate to the establishment of long lasting infections. An increasing resistance rate relative to the antibiotics recommended by current guidelines for the treatment of UTIs and an increasing number of multidrug resistant UPEC isolates were observed. In order to ameliorate the cure rate and improve the outcomes of patients, appropriate therapy founded on new strategies, as alternative to antibiotics, needs to be explored. Here, we take a snapshot of the current knowledge of coordinated efforts to develop innovative anti-infective strategies to control the diffusion of UPECs.
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35
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Clarke KR, Hor L, Pilapitiya A, Luirink J, Paxman JJ, Heras B. Phylogenetic Classification and Functional Review of Autotransporters. Front Immunol 2022; 13:921272. [PMID: 35860281 PMCID: PMC9289746 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.921272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Autotransporters are the core component of a molecular nano-machine that delivers cargo proteins across the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria. Part of the type V secretion system, this large family of proteins play a central role in controlling bacterial interactions with their environment by promoting adhesion to surfaces, biofilm formation, host colonization and invasion as well as cytotoxicity and immunomodulation. As such, autotransporters are key facilitators of fitness and pathogenesis and enable co-operation or competition with other bacteria. Recent years have witnessed a dramatic increase in the number of autotransporter sequences reported and a steady rise in functional studies, which further link these proteins to multiple virulence phenotypes. In this review we provide an overview of our current knowledge on classical autotransporter proteins, the archetype of this protein superfamily. We also carry out a phylogenetic analysis of their functional domains and present a new classification system for this exquisitely diverse group of bacterial proteins. The sixteen phylogenetic divisions identified establish sensible relationships between well characterized autotransporters and inform structural and functional predictions of uncharacterized proteins, which may guide future research aimed at addressing multiple unanswered aspects in this group of therapeutically important bacterial factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaitlin R. Clarke
- Department of Biochemistry and Chemistry, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Lilian Hor
- Department of Biochemistry and Chemistry, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Akila Pilapitiya
- Department of Biochemistry and Chemistry, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Joen Luirink
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, Amsterdam Institute of Molecular and Life Sciences (AIMMS), Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Jason J. Paxman
- Department of Biochemistry and Chemistry, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- *Correspondence: Begoña Heras, ; Jason J. Paxman,
| | - Begoña Heras
- Department of Biochemistry and Chemistry, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- *Correspondence: Begoña Heras, ; Jason J. Paxman,
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36
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Butler D, Ambite I, Wan MLY, Tran TH, Wullt B, Svanborg C. Immunomodulation therapy offers new molecular strategies to treat UTI. Nat Rev Urol 2022; 19:419-437. [PMID: 35732832 PMCID: PMC9214477 DOI: 10.1038/s41585-022-00602-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Innovative solutions are needed for the treatment of bacterial infections, and a range of antibacterial molecules have been explored as alternatives to antibiotics. A different approach is to investigate the immune system of the host for new ways of making the antibacterial defence more efficient. However, the immune system has a dual role as protector and cause of disease: in addition to being protective, increasing evidence shows that innate immune responses can become excessive and cause acute symptoms and tissue pathology during infection. This role of innate immunity in disease suggests that the immune system should be targeted therapeutically, to inhibit over-reactivity. The ultimate goal is to develop therapies that selectively attenuate destructive immune response cascades, while augmenting the protective antimicrobial defence but such treatment options have remained underexplored, owing to the molecular proximity of the protective and destructive effects of the immune response. The concept of innate immunomodulation therapy has been developed successfully in urinary tract infections, based on detailed studies of innate immune activation and disease pathogenesis. Effective, disease-specific, immunomodulatory strategies have been developed by targeting specific immune response regulators including key transcription factors. In acute pyelonephritis, targeting interferon regulatory factor 7 using small interfering RNA or treatment with antimicrobial peptide cathelicidin was protective and, in acute cystitis, targeting overactive effector molecules such as IL-1β, MMP7, COX2, cAMP and the pain-sensing receptor NK1R has been successful in vivo. Furthermore, other UTI treatment strategies, such as inhibiting bacterial adhesion and vaccination, have also shown promise. Hyperactivation of innate immunity is a disease determinant in urinary tract infections (UTIs). Modulation of innate immunity has promise as a therapy for UTIs. In this Review, the authors discuss potential mechanisms and immunomodulatory therapeutic strategies in UTIs. Excessive innate immune responses to infection cause symptoms and pathology in acute pyelonephritis and acute cystitis. Innate immunomodulation therapy is, therefore, a realistic option for treating these conditions. Targeting excessive innate immune responses at the level of transcription has been successful in animal models. Innate immunomodulation therapy reduces excessive inflammation and tissue pathology and accelerates bacterial clearance from infected kidneys and bladders in mice. Innate immunomodulation therapy also accelerates the clearance of antibiotic-resistant bacterial strains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Butler
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Glycobiology, Institute of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Ines Ambite
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Glycobiology, Institute of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Murphy Lam Yim Wan
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Glycobiology, Institute of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Thi Hien Tran
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Glycobiology, Institute of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Björn Wullt
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Glycobiology, Institute of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Catharina Svanborg
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Glycobiology, Institute of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden.
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37
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Wang AS, Steers NJ, Parab AR, Gachon F, Sweet MJ, Mysorekar IU. Timing is everything: impact of development, ageing and circadian rhythm on macrophage functions in urinary tract infections. Mucosal Immunol 2022; 15:1114-1126. [PMID: 36038769 DOI: 10.1038/s41385-022-00558-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Revised: 07/31/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
The bladder supports a diversity of macrophage populations with functional roles related to homeostasis and host defense, including clearance of cell debris from tissue, immune surveillance, and inflammatory responses. This review examines these roles with particular attention given to macrophage origins, differentiation, recruitment, and engagement in host defense against urinary tract infections (UTIs), where these cells recognize uropathogens through a combination of receptor-mediated responses. Time is an important variable that is often overlooked in many clinical and biological studies, including in relation to macrophages and UTIs. Given that ageing is a significant factor in urinary tract infection pathogenesis and macrophages have been shown to harbor their own circadian system, this review also explores the influence of age on macrophage functions and the role of diurnal variations in macrophage functions in host defense and inflammation during UTIs. We provide a conceptual framework for future studies that address these key knowledge gaps.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison S Wang
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience (IMB) and IMB Centre for Inflammation and Disease Research, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD, Australia.,Australian Infectious Diseases Research Centre, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | - Nicholas J Steers
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Adwaita R Parab
- Department of Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Frédéric Gachon
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience (IMB) and IMB Centre for Inflammation and Disease Research, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | - Matthew J Sweet
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience (IMB) and IMB Centre for Inflammation and Disease Research, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD, Australia. .,Australian Infectious Diseases Research Centre, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD, Australia.
| | - Indira U Mysorekar
- Department of Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA. .,Department of Molecular Virology and Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.
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38
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Abstract
More than half of women will experience a urinary tract infection (UTI), with uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) causing ~80% of uncomplicated cases. Iron acquisition systems are essential for uropathogenesis, and UPEC strains encode highly diverse iron acquisition systems, underlining their importance. However, a recent UPEC clinical isolate, HM7, lacks this diversity and instead encodes the synthesis pathway for a sole siderophore, enterobactin. To determine if HM7 possesses unidentified iron acquisition systems, we performed RNA sequencing under iron-limiting conditions and demonstrated that the ferric citrate uptake system (fecABCDE and fecIR) was highly upregulated. Importantly, there are high levels of citrate within urine, some of which is bound to iron, and the fec system is enriched in UPEC isolates compared to fecal strains. Therefore, we hypothesized that HM7 and other similar strains use the fec system to acquire iron in the host. Deletion of both enterobactin biosynthesis and ferric citrate uptake (ΔfecA/ΔentB) abrogates use of ferric citrate as an iron source, and fecA provides an advantage in human urine in the absence of enterobactin. However, in a UTI mouse model, fecA is a fitness factor independent of enterobactin production, likely due to the action of host lipocalin-2 chelating ferrienterobactin. These findings indicate that ferric citrate uptake is used as an iron source when siderophore efficacy is limited, such as in the host during UTI. Defining these novel compensatory mechanisms and understanding the nutritional hierarchy of preferred iron sources within the urinary tract are important in the search for new approaches to combat UTI.
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39
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Stærk K, Andersen MØ, Andersen TE. Uropathogenic Escherichia coli can cause cystitis at extremely low inocula in a pig model. J Med Microbiol 2022; 71. [PMID: 35475768 DOI: 10.1099/jmm.0.001537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Urinary tract infection (UTI) is one of the most common bacterial infections worldwide. Experimental models that accurately reflect the high susceptibility to UTI in humans have, however, been lacking. This situation has limited detailed research into the early bladder colonization by uropathogens and the early innate defence mechanisms elicited to prevent this. We recently presented a model of urinary tract infection in pigs, animals that are naturally susceptible to UTI and have greater similarity to the physiology and anatomy of the human urinary tract than traditional rodent UTI models. In the current study, we used the pig model to investigate the minimal infectious inoculum of uropathogenic Escherichia coli, the most common cause of urinary tract infection. We show that in this animal a few individual bacteria that come into contact with the urothelium can give rise to fulminant cystitis, indicating the high infectious potential of uropathogenic E. coli.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristian Stærk
- Research unit of Clinical Microbiology, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | | | - Thomas Emil Andersen
- Research unit of Clinical Microbiology, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Microbiology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
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40
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Fortney KR, Smith SN, van Rensburg JJ, Brothwell JA, Gardner JJ, Katz BP, Ahsan N, Duerfeldt AS, Mobley HLT, Spinola SM. CpxA Phosphatase Inhibitor Activates CpxRA and Is a Potential Treatment for Uropathogenic Escherichia coli in a Murine Model of Infection. Microbiol Spectr 2022; 10:e0243021. [PMID: 35297652 PMCID: PMC9045377 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.02430-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 02/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
CpxRA is an envelope stress response system that is highly conserved in the Enterobacteriaceae. CpxA has kinase activity for CpxR and phosphatase activity for phospho-CpxR (CpxR-P), a transcription factor. In response to membrane stress, CpxR-P is produced and upregulates genes involved in membrane repair and downregulates genes that encode virulence factors that are trafficked across the cell membrane. Mutants that constitutively activate CpxRA in Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium and in uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) are attenuated in murine models. We hypothesized that pharmacologic activation of CpxR could serve as an antimicrobial/antivirulence strategy and recently showed that 2,3,4,9-tetrahydro-1H-carbazol-1-amines activate the CpxRA system by inhibiting CpxA phosphatase activity. Here, we tested the ability of a series of three CpxRA-activating compounds with increasing potency to clear UPEC stain CFT073 in a murine urinary tract infection model. We show that these compounds are well tolerated and achieve sufficient levels to activate CpxR in the kidneys, bladder, and urine. Although the first two compounds were ineffective in promoting clearance of CFT073 in the murine model, the most potent derivative, compound 26, significantly reduced bacterial recovery in the urine and trended toward reducing bacterial recovery in the bladder and kidneys, with efficacy similar to ciprofloxacin. Treatment of CFT073 cultured in human urine with compound 26 fostered accumulation of CpxR-P and decreased the expression of proteins involved in siderophore biosynthesis and binding, heme degradation, and flagellar movement. These studies suggest that chemical activation of CpxRA may present a viable strategy for treating infections due to UPEC. IMPORTANCE The increasing prevalence of urinary tract infections (UTIs) due to antibiotic-resistant uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) is a major public health concern. Bacteria contain proteins that sense their environment and have no human homologs and, thus, are attractive drug targets. CpxRA is a conserved sensing system whose function is to reduce stress in the bacterial cell membrane; activation of CpxRA reduces the expression of virulence determinants, which must cross the cell membrane to reach the bacterial surface. We previously identified a class of compounds that activate CpxRA. We show in a mouse UTI model that our most potent compound significantly reduced recovery of UPEC in the urine, trended toward reducing bacterial recovery in the bladder and kidneys, did not kill UPEC, and downregulated multiple proteins involved in UPEC virulence. Since these compounds do not act by a killing mechanism, they have potential to treat UTIs caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate R. Fortney
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Sara N. Smith
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Julia J. van Rensburg
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Julie A. Brothwell
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Jessi J. Gardner
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Oklahoma, Norman, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Barry P. Katz
- Department of Biostatistics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
- Department of Biostatistics, Richard M. Fairbanks School of Public Health, Indiana University, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Nagib Ahsan
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Oklahoma, Norman, Oklahoma, USA
- Mass Spectrometry, Proteomics and Metabolomics Core Facility, Stephenson Life Sciences Research Center, University of Oklahoma, Norman, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Adam S. Duerfeldt
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Harry L. T. Mobley
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Stanley M. Spinola
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
- Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
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Robinson CK, Saenkham-Huntsinger P, Hanson BS, Adams LG, Subashchandrabose S. Vaginal Inoculation of Uropathogenic Escherichia coli during Estrus Leads to Genital and Renal Colonization. Infect Immun 2022; 90:e0053221. [PMID: 35357220 PMCID: PMC9022555 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00532-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2021] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Urinary tract infection (UTI) is one of the most prevalent bacterial infections, particularly in women, children, and the elderly. Uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) is the predominant etiological agent of UTI. Uropathogens are directly instilled in the urinary bladder, bypassing the lower urogenital tract, in the widely used murine model of UTI. We assessed whether vaginal inoculation of UPEC led to UTI and how stages of the estrous cycle would impact bacterial colonization in mice. Mice in proestrus, estrus, metestrus, and diestrus were identified by vaginal cytology and inoculated with UPEC in the vaginal tract. Mice were euthanized 1 day after infection, and bacterial loads in the urogenital tract, liver, and spleen were enumerated. Mice in estrus exhibited the highest and most consistent UPEC burdens in all organs, except the bladder. Vaginal inoculation resulted in bladder colonization in a UPEC strain-specific manner. In contrast, transurethral inoculation of UPEC led to bladder colonization. Importantly, inoculation by both routes led to vaginal and uterine colonization and concomitant systemic dissemination to the spleen and liver. The kinetics of bacterial colonization over 2 weeks following vaginal inoculation was comparable in the urogenital tract. Tissue sections revealed the induction of vaginitis and cystitis upon the vaginal instillation of UPEC. In summary, vaginal inoculation of UPEC in mice during estrus represents a novel approach to investigate infection of the kidneys and genital tract and systemic dissemination from the urogenital tract. Our findings suggest that estrogen primes the urogenital tract to create a conducive milieu for UPEC colonization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christen K. Robinson
- Comparative Medicine Program, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
| | - Panatda Saenkham-Huntsinger
- Comparative Medicine Program, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
| | - Braden S. Hanson
- Comparative Medicine Program, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
| | - L. Garry Adams
- Comparative Medicine Program, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
| | - Sargurunathan Subashchandrabose
- Comparative Medicine Program, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
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A Biomimetic Porcine Urothelial Model for Assessing Escherichia coli Pathogenicity. Microorganisms 2022; 10:microorganisms10040783. [PMID: 35456833 PMCID: PMC9029248 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10040783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 03/20/2022] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Urinary tract infections can be severe, sometimes fatal, diseases whose etiological pathogens are predominantly uropathogenic strains of E. coli (UPEC). To investigate the UPEC pathogenesis, several models have already been established with minor or major disadvantages. The aim was to develop a simple, fast, and inexpensive biomimetic in vitro model based on normal porcine urothelial (NPU) cells that are genetically and physiologically similar to human bladder urothelium and to perform basic studies of E. coli pathogenicity. Initially, the model was tested using a set of control E. coli strains and, subsequently, with human E. coli strains isolated either from patients with urinary infections or from the feces of healthy individuals. A drop in viability of NPU cells was used as a measure of the pathogenicity of the individual strain tested. To visualize the subcellular events, transmission and scanning electron microscopy was performed. The strains were tested for the presence of different virulence-associated genes, phylogroup, type of core lipid, O-serotype, and type of lipopolysaccharide and a statistical analysis of possible correlations between strains’ characteristics and the effect on the model was performed. Results showed that our model has the discriminatory power to distinguish pathogenic from non-pathogenic E. coli strains, and to identify new, potentially pathogenic strains.
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Tanabe RHS, Dias RCB, Orsi H, de Lira DRP, Vieira MA, dos Santos LF, Ferreira AM, Rall VLM, Mondelli AL, Gomes TAT, Camargo CH, Hernandes RT. Characterization of Uropathogenic Escherichia coli Reveals Hybrid Isolates of Uropathogenic and Diarrheagenic (UPEC/DEC) E. coli. Microorganisms 2022; 10:microorganisms10030645. [PMID: 35336220 PMCID: PMC8950336 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10030645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2022] [Revised: 03/08/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Pathogenic Escherichia coli are divided into two groups: diarrheagenic (DEC) and extraintestinal pathogenic (ExPEC) E. coli. ExPEC causing urinary tract infections (UTIs) are termed uropathogenic E. coli (UPEC) and are the most common cause of UTIs worldwide. (2) Methods: Here, we characterized 112 UPEC in terms of phylogroup, serotype, the presence of virulence factor-encoding genes, and antimicrobial resistance. (3) Results: The majority of the isolates were assigned into the phylogroup B2 (41.07%), and the serogroups O6 (12.5%) and O25 (8.9%) were the most frequent. Five hybrid UPEC (4.5%), with markers from two DEC pathotypes, i.e., atypical enteropathogenic (aEPEC) and enteroaggregative (EAEC) E. coli, were identified, and designated UPEC/aEPEC (one isolate) and UPEC/EAEC (four isolates), respectively. Three UPEC/EAEC harbored genes from the pap operon, and the UPEC/aEPEC carried ibeA. The highest resistance rates were observed for ampicillin (46.4%) and trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (34.8%), while 99.1% of the isolates were susceptible to nitrofurantoin and/or fosfomycin. Moreover, 9.8% of the isolates were identified as Extended Spectrum β-Lactamase producers, including one hybrid UPEC/EAEC. (4) Conclusion: Our data reinforce that hybrid UPEC/DEC are circulating in the city of Botucatu, Brazil, as uropathogens. However, how and whether these combinations of genes influence their pathogenicity is a question that remains to be elucidated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodrigo H. S. Tanabe
- Departamento de Ciências Químicas e Biológicas (Setor de Microbiologia e Imunologia), Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Botucatu 18618-689, SP, Brazil; (R.H.S.T.); (R.C.B.D.); (H.O.); (D.R.P.d.L.); (M.A.V.); (V.L.M.R.)
| | - Regiane C. B. Dias
- Departamento de Ciências Químicas e Biológicas (Setor de Microbiologia e Imunologia), Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Botucatu 18618-689, SP, Brazil; (R.H.S.T.); (R.C.B.D.); (H.O.); (D.R.P.d.L.); (M.A.V.); (V.L.M.R.)
| | - Henrique Orsi
- Departamento de Ciências Químicas e Biológicas (Setor de Microbiologia e Imunologia), Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Botucatu 18618-689, SP, Brazil; (R.H.S.T.); (R.C.B.D.); (H.O.); (D.R.P.d.L.); (M.A.V.); (V.L.M.R.)
| | - Daiany R. P. de Lira
- Departamento de Ciências Químicas e Biológicas (Setor de Microbiologia e Imunologia), Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Botucatu 18618-689, SP, Brazil; (R.H.S.T.); (R.C.B.D.); (H.O.); (D.R.P.d.L.); (M.A.V.); (V.L.M.R.)
| | - Melissa A. Vieira
- Departamento de Ciências Químicas e Biológicas (Setor de Microbiologia e Imunologia), Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Botucatu 18618-689, SP, Brazil; (R.H.S.T.); (R.C.B.D.); (H.O.); (D.R.P.d.L.); (M.A.V.); (V.L.M.R.)
| | - Luís F. dos Santos
- Centro de Bacteriologia, Instituto Adolfo Lutz, São Paulo 01246-902, SP, Brazil; (L.F.d.S.); (C.H.C.)
| | - Adriano M. Ferreira
- Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina de Botucatu, Botucatu 18607-741, SP, Brazil;
| | - Vera L. M. Rall
- Departamento de Ciências Químicas e Biológicas (Setor de Microbiologia e Imunologia), Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Botucatu 18618-689, SP, Brazil; (R.H.S.T.); (R.C.B.D.); (H.O.); (D.R.P.d.L.); (M.A.V.); (V.L.M.R.)
| | - Alessandro L. Mondelli
- Departamento de Clínica Médica, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Botucatu 18618-970, SP, Brazil;
| | - Tânia A. T. Gomes
- Departamento de Microbiologia, Imunologia e Parasitologia, Universidade Federal de São Paulo-Escola Paulista de Medicina (UNIFESP-EPM), São Paulo 04023-062, SP, Brazil;
| | - Carlos H. Camargo
- Centro de Bacteriologia, Instituto Adolfo Lutz, São Paulo 01246-902, SP, Brazil; (L.F.d.S.); (C.H.C.)
| | - Rodrigo T. Hernandes
- Departamento de Ciências Químicas e Biológicas (Setor de Microbiologia e Imunologia), Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Botucatu 18618-689, SP, Brazil; (R.H.S.T.); (R.C.B.D.); (H.O.); (D.R.P.d.L.); (M.A.V.); (V.L.M.R.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +55-14-3880-0446
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The Yersinia High-Pathogenicity Island Encodes a Siderophore-Dependent Copper Response System in Uropathogenic Escherichia coli. mBio 2022; 13:e0239121. [PMID: 35089085 PMCID: PMC8725597 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.02391-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Siderophores are iron chelators used by microbes to bind and acquire iron, which, once in the cell, inhibits siderophore production through feedback repression mediated by the ferric uptake repressor (Fur). Yersiniabactin (Ybt), a siderophore associated with enhanced pathogenic potential among Enterobacteriaceae, also binds copper ions during human and experimental murine infections. In contrast to iron, we found that extracellular copper ions rapidly and selectively stimulate Ybt production in extraintestinal pathogenic Escherichia coli. The stimulatory pathway requires formation of an extracellular copper-Ybt (Cu(II)-Ybt) complex, internalization of Cu(II)-Ybt entry through the canonical TonB-dependent outer membrane transporter, and Fur-independent transcriptional regulation by the specialized transcription factor YbtA. Dual regulation by iron and copper is consistent with a multifunctional metallophore role for Ybt. Feed-forward regulation is typical of stress responses, implicating Ybt in prevention of, or response to, copper stress during infection pathogenesis. IMPORTANCE Interactions between bacteria and transition metal ions play an important role in encounters between humans and bacteria. Siderophore systems have long been prominent mediators of these interactions. These systems secrete small-molecule chelators that bind oxidized iron(III) and express proteins that specifically recognize and import these complexes as a nutritional iron source. While E. coli and other Enterobacteriaceae secrete enterobactin, clinical isolates often secrete an additional siderophore, yersiniabactin (Ybt), which has been found to also bind copper and other non-iron metal ions. The observation here that an extraintestinal E. coli isolate secretes Ybt in a copper-inducible manner suggests an important gain of function over the enterobactin system. Copper recognition involves using Ybt to bind Cu(II) ions, consistent with a distinctively extracellular mode of copper detection. The resulting Cu(II)-Ybt complex signals upregulation of Ybt biosynthesis genes as a rapid response against potentially toxic extracellular copper ions. The Ybt system is distinguishable from other copper response systems that sense cytosolic and periplasmic copper ions. The Ybt dependence of the copper response presents an implicit feed-forward regulatory scheme that is typical of bacterial stress responses. The distinctive extracellular copper recognition-response functionality of the Ybt system may enhance the pathogenic potential of infection-associated Enterobacteriaceae.
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Singh A, Padmesh S, Dwivedi M, Kostova I. How Good are Bacteriophages as an Alternative Therapy to Mitigate Biofilms of Nosocomial Infections. Infect Drug Resist 2022; 15:503-532. [PMID: 35210792 PMCID: PMC8860455 DOI: 10.2147/idr.s348700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Bacteria survive on any surface through the generation of biofilms that provide a protective environment to grow as well as making them drug resistant. Extracellular polymeric matrix is a crucial component in biofilm formation. The presence of biofilms consisting of common opportunistic and nosocomial, drug-resistant pathogens has been reported on medical devices like catheters and prosthetics, leading to many complications. Several approaches are under investigation to combat drug-resistant bacteria. Deployment of bacteriophages is one of the promising approaches to invade biofilm that may expose bacteria to the conditions adverse for their growth. Penetration into these biofilms and their destruction by bacteriophages is brought about due to their small size and ability of their progeny to diffuse through the bacterial cell wall. The other mechanisms employed by phages to infect biofilms may include their relocation through water channels to embedded host cells, replication at local sites followed by infection to the neighboring cells and production of depolymerizing enzymes to decompose viscous biofilm matrix, etc. Various research groups are investigating intricacies involved in phage therapy to mitigate the bacterial infection and biofilm formation. Thus, bacteriophages represent a good control over different biofilms and further understanding of phage-biofilm interaction at molecular level may overcome the clinical challenges in phage therapy. The present review summarizes the comprehensive details on dynamic interaction of phages with bacterial biofilms and the role of phage-derived enzymes - endolysin and depolymerases in extenuating biofilms of clinical and medical concern. The methodology employed was an extensive literature search, using several keywords in important scientific databases, such as Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed, ScienceDirect, etc. The keywords were also used with Boolean operator "And". More than 250 relevant and recent articles were selected and reviewed to discuss the evidence-based data on the application of phage therapy with recent updates, and related potential challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aditi Singh
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Lucknow Campus, Lucknow, 226028, India
| | - Sudhakar Padmesh
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Lucknow Campus, Lucknow, 226028, India
| | - Manish Dwivedi
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Lucknow Campus, Lucknow, 226028, India
| | - Irena Kostova
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University, Sofia, 1000, Bulgaria
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Investigation of Antibiotic Susceptibility and Virulence Genes in Escherichia coli Strains Isolated from Blood and Urine Samples. J PEDIAT INF DIS-GER 2022. [DOI: 10.1055/s-0041-1741525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Objective Extraintestinal Escherichia coli isolates are the most common gram-negative pathogens in humans and cause urinary tract infections, sepsis, neonatal meningitis, and others. The aim of this study was to investigate the rates of antibiotic resistance and virulence factors (kpsM II, neuc K1, hlyF, fyuA, afa/draBC, sat, chuA, fimH, tsh, yfcv, ibeA, traT, iucD, usp, iutA, cnf1, hlyA, papC, sfa/focDE, and ompT) of E. coli strains isolated from blood and urine samples.
Methods A total of 150 E. coli strains isolated from blood and urine samples sent to the Microbiology Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine Hospital, Selcuk University were included in the study. The identification and antibiotic susceptibility tests were performed with the VITEK 2 automated system. Multiplex polymerase chain reaction was used to detect the virulence genes.
Results Although the highest antibiotic resistance rate found was against ampicillin (73.3%), the lowest rates were against ertapenem and meropenem (0.7%). Extended-spectrum β-lactamase positivity was 38% in E. coli blood isolates and 29% in urine. The highest rates of virulence genes were detected in fimH gene (92%). iutA gene was 91.3%, traT 76%, fyuA 50%, chuA 54.7%, iucD 46.7%, ompT 32.7%, yfcv 31.3%, hlyF 28.7%, sat 22%, papC and sfa/focDE 20%, kpsM II 19.3%, neuc K1 14.7%, tsh 13.3%, cnf1 6.7%, afa/draBC 6%, ibeA 5.3%, usp 4.7%, and hlyA 3.3%. kpsM II, tsh, hlyA, papC, sfa/focDE, and ompT genes were higher in blood isolates.
Conclusion High antibiotic resistance rates and virulence genes were detected in E. coli strains in Konya, Turkey. This is the first study in Turkey where both a large number and a variety of virulence factors were investigated and compared. Multicenter studies are needed to better understand E. coli virulence.
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Torres-Puig S, García V, Stærk K, Andersen TE, Møller-Jensen J, Olsen JE, Herrero-Fresno A. “Omics” Technologies - What Have They Told Us About Uropathogenic Escherichia coli Fitness and Virulence During Urinary Tract Infection? Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:824039. [PMID: 35237532 PMCID: PMC8882828 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.824039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) is the main etiological agent of urinary tract infection (UTI), a widespread infectious disease of great impact on human health. This is further emphasized by the rapidly increase in antimicrobial resistance in UPEC, which compromises UTI treatment. UPEC biology is highly complex since uropathogens must adopt extracellular and intracellular lifestyles and adapt to different niches in the host. In this context, the implementation of forefront ‘omics’ technologies has provided substantial insight into the understanding of UPEC pathogenesis, which has opened the doors for new therapeutics and prophylactics discovery programs. Thus, ‘omics’ technologies applied to studies of UPEC during UTI, or in models of UTI, have revealed extensive lists of factors that are important for the ability of UPEC to cause disease. The multitude of large ‘omics’ datasets that have been generated calls for scrutinized analysis of specific factors that may be of interest for further development of novel treatment strategies. In this review, we describe main UPEC determinants involved in UTI as estimated by ‘omics’ studies, and we compare prediction of factors across the different ‘omics’ technologies, with a focus on those that have been confirmed to be relevant under UTI-related conditions. We also discuss current challenges and future perspectives regarding analysis of data to provide an overview and better understanding of UPEC mechanisms involved in pathogenesis which should assist in the selection of target sites for future prophylaxis and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergi Torres-Puig
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Vanesa García
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg, Denmark
- Laboratorio de Referencia de Escherichia coli (LREC), Departamento de Microbioloxía e Parasitoloxía, Facultade de Veterinaria, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela (USC), Lugo, Spain
| | - Kristian Stærk
- Research Unit of Clinical Microbiology, University of Southern Denmark and Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | - Thomas E. Andersen
- Research Unit of Clinical Microbiology, University of Southern Denmark and Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | - Jakob Møller-Jensen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - John E. Olsen
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Ana Herrero-Fresno
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg, Denmark
- *Correspondence: Ana Herrero-Fresno,
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48
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Nascimento JAS, Santos FF, Santos-Neto JF, Trovão LO, Valiatti TB, Pinaffi IC, Vieira MAM, Silva RM, Falsetti IN, Santos ACM, Gomes TAT. Molecular Epidemiology and Presence of Hybrid Pathogenic Escherichia coli among Isolates from Community-Acquired Urinary Tract Infection. Microorganisms 2022; 10:microorganisms10020302. [PMID: 35208757 PMCID: PMC8874565 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10020302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Revised: 01/19/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Urinary tract infections (UTI) affect community and healthcare patients worldwide and may have different clinical outcomes. We assessed the phylogenetic origin, the presence of 43 virulence factors (VFs) of diarrheagenic and extraintestinal pathogenic Escherichia coli, and the occurrence of hybrid strains among E. coli isolates from 172 outpatients with different types of UTI. Isolates from phylogroup B2 (46%) prevailed, followed by phylogroups A (15.7%) and B1 (12.2%), with similar phylogenetic distribution in symptomatic and asymptomatic patients. The most frequent VFs according to their functional category were fimA (94.8%), ompA (83.1%), ompT (63.3%), chuA (57.6%), and vat (22%). Using published molecular criteria, 34.3% and 18.0% of the isolates showed intrinsic virulence and uropathogenic potential, respectively. Two strains carried the eae and escV genes and one the aggR gene, which classified them as hybrid strains. These hybrid strains interacted with renal and bladder cells, reinforcing their uropathogenic potential. The frequency of UPEC strains bearing a more pathogenic potential in the outpatients studied was smaller than reported in other regions. Our data contribute to deepening current knowledge about the mechanisms involved in UTI pathogenesis, especially among hybrid UPEC strains, as these could colonize the host’s intestine, leading to intestinal infections followed by UTI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Júllia A. S. Nascimento
- Laboratório Experimental de Patogenicidade de Enterobactérias (LEPE), Disciplina de Microbiologia, Departamento de Microbiologia, Imunologia e Parasitologia (DMIP), Escola Paulista de Medicina (EPM), Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo 04023-062, Brazil; (J.A.S.N.); (J.F.S.-N.); (L.O.T.); (M.A.M.V.); (A.C.M.S.)
| | - Fernanda F. Santos
- Laboratório Alerta, Disciplina de Infectologia, Departamento de Medicina, Escola Paulista de Medicina (EPM), Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo 04039-032, Brazil; (F.F.S.); (T.B.V.)
| | - José F. Santos-Neto
- Laboratório Experimental de Patogenicidade de Enterobactérias (LEPE), Disciplina de Microbiologia, Departamento de Microbiologia, Imunologia e Parasitologia (DMIP), Escola Paulista de Medicina (EPM), Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo 04023-062, Brazil; (J.A.S.N.); (J.F.S.-N.); (L.O.T.); (M.A.M.V.); (A.C.M.S.)
| | - Liana O. Trovão
- Laboratório Experimental de Patogenicidade de Enterobactérias (LEPE), Disciplina de Microbiologia, Departamento de Microbiologia, Imunologia e Parasitologia (DMIP), Escola Paulista de Medicina (EPM), Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo 04023-062, Brazil; (J.A.S.N.); (J.F.S.-N.); (L.O.T.); (M.A.M.V.); (A.C.M.S.)
| | - Tiago B. Valiatti
- Laboratório Alerta, Disciplina de Infectologia, Departamento de Medicina, Escola Paulista de Medicina (EPM), Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo 04039-032, Brazil; (F.F.S.); (T.B.V.)
| | - Isabel C. Pinaffi
- Laboratório Santa Cruz Medicina Diagnóstica, Mogi Guaçu 13840-052, Brazil; (I.C.P.); (I.N.F.)
| | - Mônica A. M. Vieira
- Laboratório Experimental de Patogenicidade de Enterobactérias (LEPE), Disciplina de Microbiologia, Departamento de Microbiologia, Imunologia e Parasitologia (DMIP), Escola Paulista de Medicina (EPM), Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo 04023-062, Brazil; (J.A.S.N.); (J.F.S.-N.); (L.O.T.); (M.A.M.V.); (A.C.M.S.)
| | - Rosa M. Silva
- Laboratório de Enterobactérias, Disciplina de Microbiologia, Departamento de Microbiologia, Imunologia e Parasitologia (DMIP), Escola Paulista de Medicina (EPM), Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo 04023-062, Brazil;
| | - Ivan N. Falsetti
- Laboratório Santa Cruz Medicina Diagnóstica, Mogi Guaçu 13840-052, Brazil; (I.C.P.); (I.N.F.)
| | - Ana C. M. Santos
- Laboratório Experimental de Patogenicidade de Enterobactérias (LEPE), Disciplina de Microbiologia, Departamento de Microbiologia, Imunologia e Parasitologia (DMIP), Escola Paulista de Medicina (EPM), Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo 04023-062, Brazil; (J.A.S.N.); (J.F.S.-N.); (L.O.T.); (M.A.M.V.); (A.C.M.S.)
| | - Tânia A. T. Gomes
- Laboratório Experimental de Patogenicidade de Enterobactérias (LEPE), Disciplina de Microbiologia, Departamento de Microbiologia, Imunologia e Parasitologia (DMIP), Escola Paulista de Medicina (EPM), Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo 04023-062, Brazil; (J.A.S.N.); (J.F.S.-N.); (L.O.T.); (M.A.M.V.); (A.C.M.S.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +55-11-5576-4848
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Transcriptional alterations in bladder epithelial cells in response to infection with different morphological states of uropathogenic Escherichia coli. Sci Rep 2022; 12:486. [PMID: 35017565 PMCID: PMC8752619 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-04396-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) may undergo a cyclic cascade of morphological alterations that are believed to enhance the potential of UPEC to evade host responses and re-infect host cell. However, knowledge on the pathogenic potential and host activation properties of UPEC during the morphological switch is limited. Microarray analysis was performed on mRNA isolated from human bladder epithelial cells (HBEP) after exposure to three different morphological states of UPEC (normal coliform, filamentous form and reverted form). Cells stimulated with filamentous bacteria showed the lowest number of significant gene alterations, although the number of enriched gene ontology classes was high suggesting diverse effects on many different classes of host genes. The normal coliform was in general superior in stimulating transcriptional activity in HBEP cells compared to the filamentous and reverted form. Top-scored gene entities activated by all three morphological states included IL17C, TNFAIP6, TNF, IL20, CXCL2, CXCL3, IL6 and CXCL8. The number of significantly changed canonical pathways was lower in HBEP cells stimulated with the reverted form (32 pathways), than in cells stimulated with the coliform (83 pathways) or filamentous bacteria (138 pathways). A host cell invasion assay showed that filamentous bacteria were unable to invade bladder cells, and that the number of intracellular bacteria was markedly lower in cells infected with the reverted form compared to the coliform. In conclusion, the morphological state of UPEC has major impact on the host bladder response both when evaluating the number and the identity of altered host genes and pathways.
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García V, Grønnemose RB, Torres-Puig S, Kudirkiene E, Piantelli M, Ahmed S, Andersen TE, Møller-Jensen J, Olsen JE, Herrero-Fresno A. Genome-wide analysis of fitness-factors in uropathogenic Escherichia coli during growth in laboratory media and during urinary tract infections. Microb Genom 2021; 7. [PMID: 34928200 PMCID: PMC8767336 DOI: 10.1099/mgen.0.000719] [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] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) UTI89 is a well-characterized strain, which has mainly been used to study UPEC virulence during urinary tract infection (UTI). However, little is known on UTI89 key fitness-factors during growth in lab media and during UTI. Here, we used a transposon-insertion-sequencing approach (TraDIS) to reveal the UTI89 essential-genes for in vitro growth and fitness-gene-sets for growth in Luria broth (LB) and EZ-MOPS medium without glucose, as well as for human bacteriuria and mouse cystitis. A total of 293 essential genes for growth were identified and the set of fitness-genes was shown to differ depending on the growth media. A modified, previously validated UTI murine model, with administration of glucose prior to infection was applied. Selected fitness-genes for growth in urine and mouse-bladder colonization were validated using deletion-mutants. Novel fitness-genes, such as tusA, corA and rfaG; involved in sulphur-acquisition, magnesium-uptake, and LPS-biosynthesis, were proved to be important during UTI. Moreover, rfaG was confirmed as relevant in both niches, and therefore it may represent a target for novel UTI-treatment/prevention strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanesa García
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg, Denmark.,Laboratorio de Referencia de Escherichia coli (LREC), Departamento de Microbioloxía e Parasitoloxía, Facultade de Veterinaria, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela (USC), Lugo, Spain
| | - Rasmus B Grønnemose
- Research Unit of Clinical Microbiology, University of Southern Denmark and Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | - Sergi Torres-Puig
- Institute for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Egle Kudirkiene
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Mateo Piantelli
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Shahana Ahmed
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg, Denmark.,Department of Developmental, Molecular & Chemical Biology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Thomas E Andersen
- Research Unit of Clinical Microbiology, University of Southern Denmark and Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | - Jakob Møller-Jensen
- Institute for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - John E Olsen
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Ana Herrero-Fresno
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg, Denmark
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