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Haeberle AL, Greenwood-Quaintance KE, Zar S, Johnson S, Patel R, Willett JLE. Genotypic and phenotypic characterization of Enterococcus faecalis isolates from periprosthetic joint infections. Microbiol Spectr 2024:e0056524. [PMID: 38912797 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.00565-24] [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: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Over 2.5 million prosthetic joint implantation surgeries occur annually in the United States. Periprosthetic joint infections (PJIs), though occurring in only 1-2% of patients receiving replacement joints, are challenging to diagnose and treat and are associated with significant morbidity. The Gram-positive bacterium Enterococcus faecalis, which can be highly antibiotic-resistant and is a robust biofilm producer on indwelling medical devices, accounts for 2-11% of PJIs. E. faecalis PJIs are understudied compared to those caused by other pathogens, such as Staphylococcus aureus. This motivates the need to generate a comprehensive understanding of E. faecalis PJIs to guide future treatments for these infections. To address this, we describe a panel of E. faecalis strains isolated from the surface of prosthetic joints in a cohort of individuals treated at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN. Here, we present the first complete genome assemblage of E. faecalis PJI isolates. Comparative genomics shows differences in genome size, virulence factors, antimicrobial resistance genes, plasmids, and prophages, underscoring the genetic diversity of these strains. These isolates have strain-specific differences in in vitro biofilm biomass, biofilm burden, and biofilm morphology. We measured robust changes in biofilm architecture and aggregation for all isolates when grown in simulated synovial fluid (SSF). Finally, we evaluated the antibiotic efficacy of these isolates and found strain-specific changes across all strains when grown in SSF. Results of this study highlight the existence of genetic and phenotypic heterogeneity among E. faecalis PJI isolates which will provide valuable insight and resources for future E. faecalis PJI research. IMPORTANCE Periprosthetic joint infections (PJIs) affect ~1-2% of those who undergo joint replacement surgery. Enterococcus faecalis is a Gram-positive opportunistic pathogen that causes ~10% of PJIs in the United States each year, but our understanding of how and why E. faecalis causes PJIs is limited. E. faecalis infections are typically biofilm-associated and can be difficult to clear with antibiotic therapy. Here, we provide complete genomes for four E. faecalis PJI isolates from the Mayo Clinic. These isolates have strain-specific differences in biofilm formation, aggregation, and antibiotic susceptibility in simulated synovial fluid. These results provide important insight into the genomic and phenotypic features of E. faecalis isolates from PJI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda L Haeberle
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Kerryl E Greenwood-Quaintance
- Division of Clinical Microbiology, Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Sarah Zar
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Stephen Johnson
- Department of Health Sciences Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Robin Patel
- Division of Clinical Microbiology, Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
- Division of Public Health, Infectious Diseases, and Occupational Medicine, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Julia L E Willett
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
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Mullally CA, Fahriani M, Mowlaboccus S, Coombs GW. Non- faecium non- faecalis enterococci: a review of clinical manifestations, virulence factors, and antimicrobial resistance. Clin Microbiol Rev 2024; 37:e0012123. [PMID: 38466110 DOI: 10.1128/cmr.00121-23] [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] [Indexed: 03/12/2024] Open
Abstract
SUMMARYEnterococci are a diverse group of Gram-positive bacteria that are typically found as commensals in humans, animals, and the environment. Occasionally, they may cause clinically relevant diseases such as endocarditis, septicemia, urinary tract infections, and wound infections. The majority of clinical infections in humans are caused by two species: Enterococcus faecium and Enterococcus faecalis. However, there is an increasing number of clinical infections caused by non-faecium non-faecalis (NFF) enterococci. Although NFF enterococcal species are often overlooked, studies have shown that they may harbor antimicrobial resistance (AMR) genes and virulence factors that are found in E. faecium and E. faecalis. In this review, we present an overview of the NFF enterococci with a particular focus on human clinical manifestations, epidemiology, virulence genes, and AMR genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher A Mullally
- Antimicrobial Resistance and Infectious Diseases (AMRID) Research Laboratory, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Western Australia, Australia
- The Marshall Centre for Infectious Diseases Research and Training, School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Marhami Fahriani
- Antimicrobial Resistance and Infectious Diseases (AMRID) Research Laboratory, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Shakeel Mowlaboccus
- Antimicrobial Resistance and Infectious Diseases (AMRID) Research Laboratory, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Western Australia, Australia
- The Marshall Centre for Infectious Diseases Research and Training, School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
- PathWest Laboratory Medicine-WA, Department of Microbiology, Fiona Stanley Hospital, Murdoch, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Geoffrey W Coombs
- Antimicrobial Resistance and Infectious Diseases (AMRID) Research Laboratory, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Western Australia, Australia
- The Marshall Centre for Infectious Diseases Research and Training, School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
- PathWest Laboratory Medicine-WA, Department of Microbiology, Fiona Stanley Hospital, Murdoch, Western Australia, Australia
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Singh KV, Galloway-Peña J, Montealegre MC, Dong X, Murray BE. Genomic context as well as sequence of both psr and penicillin-binding protein 5 contributes to β-lactam resistance in Enterococcus faecium. mBio 2024; 15:e0017024. [PMID: 38564699 PMCID: PMC11077988 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.00170-24] [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: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Penicillin-binding protein 5 (PBP5) of Enterococcus faecium (Efm) is vital for ampicillin resistance (AMP-R). We previously designated three forms of PBP5, namely, PBP5-S in Efm clade B strains [ampicillin susceptible (AMP-S)], PBP5-S/R (AMP-S or R), and PBP5-R (AMP-R) in clade A strains. Here, pbp5 deletion resulted in a marked reduction in AMP minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) to 0.01-0.09 µg/mL for clade B and 0.12-0.19 µg/mL for clade A strains; in situ complementation restored parental AMP MICs. Using D344SRF (lacking ftsW/psr/pbp5), constructs with ftsWA/psrA (from a clade A1 strain) cloned upstream of pbp5-S and pbp5-S/R alleles resulted in modest increases in MICs to 3-8 µg/mL, while high MICs (>64 µg/mL) were seen using pbp5 from A1 strains. Next, using ftsW ± psr from clade B and clade A/B and B/A hybrid constructs, the presence of psrB, even alone or in trans, resulted in much lower AMP MICs (3-8 µg/mL) than when psrA was present (MICs >64 µg/mL). qRT PCR showed relatively greater pbp5 expression (P = 0.007) with pbp5 cloned downstream of clade A1 ftsW/psr (MIC >128 µg/mL) vs when cloned downstream of clade B ftsW/psr (MIC 4-16 µg/mL), consistent with results in western blots. In conclusion, we report the effect of clade A vs B psr on AMP MICs as well as the impact of pbp5 alleles from different clades. While previously, Psr was not thought to contribute to AMP MICs in Efm, our results showed that the presence of psrB resulted in a major decrease in Efm AMP MICs. IMPORTANCE The findings of this study shed light on ampicillin resistance in Enterococcus faecium clade A strains. They underscore the significance of alterations in the amino acid sequence of penicillin-binding protein 5 (PBP5) and the pivotal role of the psr region in PBP5 expression and ampicillin resistance. Notably, the presence of a full-length psrB leads to reduced PBP5 expression and lower minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of ampicillin compared to the presence of a shorter psrA, regardless of the pbp5 allele involved. Additionally, clade B E. faecium strains exhibit lower AMP MICs when both psr alleles from clades A and B are present, although it is important to consider other distinctions between clade A and B strains that may contribute to this effect. It is intriguing to note that the divergence between clade A and clade B E. faecium and the subsequent evolution of heightened AMP MICs in hospital-associated strains appear to coincide with changes in Pbp5 and psr. These changes in psr may have resulted in an inactive Psr, facilitating increased PBP5 expression and greater ampicillin resistance. These results raise the possibility that a mimicker of PsrB, if one could be designed, might be able to lower MICs of ampicillin-resistant E. faecium, thus potentially resorting ampicillin to our therapeutic armamentarium for this species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kavindra V. Singh
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Jessica Galloway-Peña
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Maria Camila Montealegre
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, Texas, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Xingxing Dong
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Barbara E. Murray
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, Texas, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, Texas, USA
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Gao S, Wang Y, Yuan S, Zuo J, Jin W, Shen Y, Grenier D, Yi L, Wang Y. Cooperation of quorum sensing and central carbon metabolism in the pathogenesis of Gram-positive bacteria. Microbiol Res 2024; 282:127655. [PMID: 38402726 DOI: 10.1016/j.micres.2024.127655] [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: 09/05/2023] [Revised: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 02/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
Quorum sensing (QS), an integral component of bacterial communication, is essential in coordinating the collective response of diverse bacterial pathogens. Central carbon metabolism (CCM), serving as the primary metabolic hub for substances such as sugars, lipids, and amino acids, plays a crucial role in the life cycle of bacteria. Pathogenic bacteria often utilize CCM to regulate population metabolism and enhance the synthesis of specific cellular structures, thereby facilitating in adaptation to the host microecological environment and expediting infection. Research has demonstrated that QS can both directly or indirectly affect the CCM of numerous pathogenic bacteria, thus altering their virulence and pathogenicity. This article reviews the interplay between QS and CCM in Gram-positive pathogenic bacteria, details the molecular mechanisms by which QS modulates CCM, and lays the groundwork for investigating bacterial pathogenicity and developing innovative infection treatment drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuji Gao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471000, China; Henan Provincial Engineering Research Center for Detection and Prevention and Control of Emerging Infectious Diseases in Livestock and Poultry, Luoyang 471003, China
| | - Yuxin Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471000, China; Henan Provincial Engineering Research Center for Detection and Prevention and Control of Emerging Infectious Diseases in Livestock and Poultry, Luoyang 471003, China
| | - Shuo Yuan
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471000, China; Henan Provincial Engineering Research Center for Detection and Prevention and Control of Emerging Infectious Diseases in Livestock and Poultry, Luoyang 471003, China
| | - Jing Zuo
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471000, China; Henan Provincial Engineering Research Center for Detection and Prevention and Control of Emerging Infectious Diseases in Livestock and Poultry, Luoyang 471003, China
| | - Wenjie Jin
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471000, China; Henan Provincial Engineering Research Center for Detection and Prevention and Control of Emerging Infectious Diseases in Livestock and Poultry, Luoyang 471003, China
| | - Yamin Shen
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471000, China; Henan Provincial Engineering Research Center for Detection and Prevention and Control of Emerging Infectious Diseases in Livestock and Poultry, Luoyang 471003, China
| | - Daniel Grenier
- Groupe de Recherche en Écologie Buccale, Faculté de Médecine Dentaire, Université Laval, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
| | - Li Yi
- Henan Provincial Engineering Research Center for Detection and Prevention and Control of Emerging Infectious Diseases in Livestock and Poultry, Luoyang 471003, China; College of Life Science, Luoyang Normal University, Luoyang 471934, China.
| | - Yang Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471000, China; Henan Provincial Engineering Research Center for Detection and Prevention and Control of Emerging Infectious Diseases in Livestock and Poultry, Luoyang 471003, China.
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Chang C, Ton-That H, Osipiuk J, Joachimiak A, Das A, Ton-That H. Molecular basis for dual functions in pilus assembly modulated by the lid of a pilus-specific sortase. J Biol Chem 2024; 300:107329. [PMID: 38679328 PMCID: PMC11131087 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2024.107329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2023] [Revised: 04/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/21/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024] Open
Abstract
The biphasic assembly of Gram-positive pili begins with the covalent polymerization of distinct pilins catalyzed by a pilus-specific sortase, followed by the cell wall anchoring of the resulting polymers mediated by the housekeeping sortase. In Actinomyces oris, the pilus-specific sortase SrtC2 not only polymerizes FimA pilins to assemble type 2 fimbriae with CafA at the tip, but it can also act as the anchoring sortase, linking both FimA polymers and SrtC1-catalyzed FimP polymers (type 1 fimbriae) to peptidoglycan when the housekeeping sortase SrtA is inactive. To date, the structure-function determinants governing the unique substrate specificity and dual enzymatic activity of SrtC2 have not been illuminated. Here, we present the crystal structure of SrtC2 solved to 2.10-Å resolution. SrtC2 harbors a canonical sortase fold and a lid typical for class C sortases and additional features specific to SrtC2. Structural, biochemical, and mutational analyses of SrtC2 reveal that the extended lid of SrtC2 modulates its dual activity. Specifically, we demonstrate that the polymerizing activity of SrtC2 is still maintained by alanine-substitution, partial deletion, and replacement of the SrtC2 lid with the SrtC1 lid. Strikingly, pilus incorporation of CafA is significantly reduced by these mutations, leading to compromised polymicrobial interactions mediated by CafA. In a srtA mutant, the partial deletion of the SrtC2 lid reduces surface anchoring of FimP polymers, and the lid-swapping mutation enhances this process, while both mutations diminish surface anchoring of FimA pili. Evidently, the extended lid of SrtC2 enables the enzyme the cell wall-anchoring activity in a substrate-selective fashion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chungyu Chang
- Division of Oral & Systemic Health Sciences, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - HyLam Ton-That
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, California, USA
| | - Jerzy Osipiuk
- Center for Structural Biology of Infectious Diseases (CSBID), Consortium for Advanced Science and Engineering, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA; Structural Biology Center, Argonne National Laboratory, Lemont, Illinois, USA
| | - Andrzej Joachimiak
- Center for Structural Biology of Infectious Diseases (CSBID), Consortium for Advanced Science and Engineering, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA; Structural Biology Center, Argonne National Laboratory, Lemont, Illinois, USA; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Asis Das
- Department of Medicine, Neag Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
| | - Hung Ton-That
- Division of Oral & Systemic Health Sciences, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA; Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA; Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA.
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Chang C, Ton-That H, Osipiuk J, Joachimiak A, Das A, Ton-That H. Molecular basis for dual functions in pilus assembly modulated by the lid of a pilus-specific sortase. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2023.11.05.565703. [PMID: 37961287 PMCID: PMC10635155 DOI: 10.1101/2023.11.05.565703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
The biphasic assembly of Gram-positive pili begins with the covalent polymerization of distinct pilins catalyzed by a pilus-specific sortase, followed by the cell wall anchoring of the resulting polymers mediated by the housekeeping sortase. In Actinomyces oris , the pilus-specific sortase SrtC2 not only polymerizes FimA pilins to assemble type 2 fimbriae with CafA at the tip, but it can also act as the anchoring sortase, linking both FimA polymers and SrtC1-catalyzed FimP polymers (type 1 fimbriae) to peptidoglycan when the housekeeping sortase SrtA is inactive. To date, the structure-function determinants governing the unique substrate specificity and dual enzymatic activity of SrtC2 have not been illuminated. Here, we present the crystal structure of SrtC2 solved to 2.10-Å resolution. SrtC2 harbors a canonical sortase fold and a lid typical for class C sortases and additional features specific to SrtC2. Structural, biochemical, and mutational analyses of SrtC2 reveal that the extended lid of SrtC2 modulates its dual activity. Specifically, we demonstrate that the polymerizing activity of SrtC2 is still maintained by alanine-substitution, partial deletion, and replacement of the SrtC2 lid with the SrtC1 lid. Strikingly, pilus incorporation of CafA is significantly reduced by these mutations, leading to compromised polymicrobial interactions mediated by CafA. In a srtA mutant, the partial deletion of the SrtC2 lid reduces surface anchoring of FimP polymers, and the lid-swapping mutation enhances this process, while both mutations diminish surface anchoring of FimA pili. Evidently, the extended lid of SrtC2 enables the enzyme the cell wall-anchoring activity in a substrate-selective fashion.
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Son Y, Jin YB, Cho EJ, Park AR, Flores RA, Nguyen BT, Lee SY, Altanzul B, Park KI, Min W, Kim WH. Comparative Analysis of Antibiotic Resistance and Biofilm Characteristics of Two Major Enterococcus Species from Poultry Slaughterhouses in South Korea. Vet Sci 2024; 11:180. [PMID: 38668447 PMCID: PMC11054628 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci11040180] [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: 01/18/2024] [Revised: 04/11/2024] [Accepted: 04/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024] Open
Abstract
The spread of antibiotic-resistant Enterococcus in the poultry industry poses significant public health challenges due to multidrug resistance and biofilm formation. We investigated the antibiotic resistance profiles and biofilm characteristics of E. faecalis and E. faecium isolates from chicken meat in poultry slaughterhouses in South Korea. Ninety-six isolates (forty-eight each of E. faecalis and E. faecium) were collected between March and September 2022. Both species were analyzed using MALDI-TOF, PCR, antibiotic susceptibility testing, and biofilm assays. A high level of multidrug resistance was observed in E. faecalis (95.8%) and E. faecium (93.8%), with E. faecium exhibiting a broader range of resistance, particularly to linezolid (52.1%) and rifampicin (47.9%). All E. faecalis isolates formed biofilm in vitro, showing stronger biofilm formation than E. faecium with a significant difference (p < 0.001) in biofilm strength. Specific genes (cob, ccf, and sprE) were found to be correlated with biofilm strength. In E. faecium isolates, biofilm strength was correlated with resistance to linezolid and rifampicin, while a general correlation between antibiotic resistance and biofilm strength was not established. Through analysis, correlations were noted between antibiotics within the same class, while no general trends were evident in other analyzed factors. This study highlights the public health risks posed by multidrug-resistant enterococci collected from poultry slaughterhouses, emphasizing the complexity of the biofilm-resistance relationship and the need for enhanced control measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongwoo Son
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52828, Republic of Korea; (Y.S.); (Y.B.J.); (R.A.F.); (B.T.N.); (S.Y.L.); (B.A.); (K.I.P.); (W.M.)
| | - Yeung Bae Jin
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52828, Republic of Korea; (Y.S.); (Y.B.J.); (R.A.F.); (B.T.N.); (S.Y.L.); (B.A.); (K.I.P.); (W.M.)
| | - Eun-Jeong Cho
- Gyeongnam Veterinary Service Laboratory, Jinju 52733, Republic of Korea; (E.-J.C.); (A.R.P.)
| | - Ae Ra Park
- Gyeongnam Veterinary Service Laboratory, Jinju 52733, Republic of Korea; (E.-J.C.); (A.R.P.)
| | - Rochelle A. Flores
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52828, Republic of Korea; (Y.S.); (Y.B.J.); (R.A.F.); (B.T.N.); (S.Y.L.); (B.A.); (K.I.P.); (W.M.)
| | - Binh T. Nguyen
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52828, Republic of Korea; (Y.S.); (Y.B.J.); (R.A.F.); (B.T.N.); (S.Y.L.); (B.A.); (K.I.P.); (W.M.)
| | - Seung Yun Lee
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52828, Republic of Korea; (Y.S.); (Y.B.J.); (R.A.F.); (B.T.N.); (S.Y.L.); (B.A.); (K.I.P.); (W.M.)
| | - Bujinlkham Altanzul
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52828, Republic of Korea; (Y.S.); (Y.B.J.); (R.A.F.); (B.T.N.); (S.Y.L.); (B.A.); (K.I.P.); (W.M.)
| | - Kwang Il Park
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52828, Republic of Korea; (Y.S.); (Y.B.J.); (R.A.F.); (B.T.N.); (S.Y.L.); (B.A.); (K.I.P.); (W.M.)
| | - Wongi Min
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52828, Republic of Korea; (Y.S.); (Y.B.J.); (R.A.F.); (B.T.N.); (S.Y.L.); (B.A.); (K.I.P.); (W.M.)
| | - Woo H. Kim
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52828, Republic of Korea; (Y.S.); (Y.B.J.); (R.A.F.); (B.T.N.); (S.Y.L.); (B.A.); (K.I.P.); (W.M.)
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Jackson JJ, Heyer S, Bell G. Sortase-encoding genes, srtA and srtC, mediate Enterococcus faecalis OG1RF persistence in the Helicoverpa zea gastrointestinal tract. Front Microbiol 2024; 15:1322303. [PMID: 38562482 PMCID: PMC10982312 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2024.1322303] [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: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Enterococcus faecalis is a commensal and opportunistic pathogen in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract of mammals and insects. To investigate mechanisms of bacterial persistence in the gastrointestinal tract (GIT), we developed a non-destructive sampling model using Helicoverpa zea, a destructive agricultural pest, as host to study the role of bacterial sortase enzymes in mitigating persistence in the gastrointestinal tract. E. faecalis OG1RF ΔsrtA and E. faecalis OG1RF ΔsrtC, isogenic E. faecalis OG1RF sortase mutants grew similarly under planktonic growth conditions relative to a streptomycin-resistant E. faecalis OG1RFS WT in vitro but displayed impaired biofilm formation under, both, physiological and alkaline conditions. In the H. zea GI model, both mutants displayed impaired persistence relative to the WT. This represents one of the initial reports in which a non-destructive insect model has been used to characterize mechanisms of bacterial persistence in the Lepidopteran midgut and, furthermore, sheds light on new molecular mechanisms employed by diverse microorganisms to associate with invertebrate hosts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jerreme J. Jackson
- Department of Biology, University of Northern Iowa, Cedar Falls, IA, United States
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Daca A, Jarzembowski T. From the Friend to the Foe- Enterococcus faecalis Diverse Impact on the Human Immune System. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2422. [PMID: 38397099 PMCID: PMC10888668 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25042422] [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: 01/30/2024] [Revised: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Enterococcus faecalis is a bacterium which accompanies us from the first days of our life. As a commensal it produces vitamins, metabolizes nutrients, and maintains intestinal pH. All of that happens in exchange for a niche to inhabit. It is not surprising then, that the bacterium was and is used as an element of many probiotics and its positive impact on the human immune system and the body in general is hard to ignore. This bacterium has also a dark side though. The plasticity and relative ease with which one acquires virulence traits, and the ability to hide from or even deceive and use the immune system to spread throughout the body make E. faecalis a more and more dangerous opponent. The statistics clearly show its increasing role, especially in the case of nosocomial infections. Here we present the summarization of current knowledge about E. faecalis, especially in the context of its relations with the human immune system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnieszka Daca
- Department of Physiopathology, Medical University of Gdańsk, 80-210 Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Tomasz Jarzembowski
- Department of Microbiology, Medical University of Gdańsk, 80-210 Gdańsk, Poland
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10
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Haeberle A, Greenwood-Quaintance K, Zar S, Johnson S, Patel R, Willett JLE. Genotypic and phenotypic characterization of Enterococcus faecalis isolates from periprosthetic joint infections. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.02.06.579140. [PMID: 38370742 PMCID: PMC10871183 DOI: 10.1101/2024.02.06.579140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
Over 2.5 million prosthetic joint implantation surgeries occur annually in the United States. Periprosthetic joint infections (PJIs), though occurring in only 1-2% of patients receiving replacement joints, are challenging to diagnose and treat and are associated with significant morbidity. The Gram-positive bacterium Enterococcus faecalis, which can be highly antibiotic resistant and is a robust biofilm producer on indwelling medical devices, accounts for 2-11% of PJIs. E. faecalis PJIs are understudied compared to those caused by other pathogens, such as Staphylococcus aureus. This motivates the need to generate a comprehensive understanding of E. faecalis PJIs to guide future treatments for these infections. To address this, we describe a panel of E. faecalis strains isolated from the surface of prosthetic joints in a cohort of individuals treated at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN. Here, we present the first complete genome assemblage of E. faecalis PJI isolates. Comparative genomics shows differences in genome size, virulence factors, antimicrobial resistance genes, plasmids, and prophages, underscoring the genetic diversity of these strains. These isolates have strain-specific differences in in vitro biofilm biomass, biofilm burden, and biofilm morphology. We measured robust changes in biofilm architecture and aggregation for all isolates when grown in simulated synovial fluid (SSF). Lastly, we evaluated antibiotic efficacy of these isolates and found strain specific changes across all strains when grown in SSF. Results of this study highlight the existence of genetic and phenotypic heterogeneity among E. faecalis PJI isolates which will provide valuable insight and resources for future E. faecalis PJI research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Haeberle
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota USA
| | - Kerryl Greenwood-Quaintance
- Division of Clinical Microbiology, Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Sarah Zar
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota USA
| | - Stephen Johnson
- Department of Health Sciences Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Robin Patel
- Division of Clinical Microbiology, Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
- Division of Public Health, Infectious Diseases, and Occupational Medicine, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Julia L. E. Willett
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota USA
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11
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Chang C, Ton-That H. Detection of Cell Wall-Anchoring Machinery by Immunogold-Labeling Thin-Section Electron Microscopy. Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2727:145-152. [PMID: 37815715 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3491-2_12] [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] [Indexed: 10/11/2023]
Abstract
Cell wall anchoring of surface proteins and pili in Gram-positive bacteria is mediated by sortase - a highly conserved transpeptidase enzyme. Early studies have demonstrated the membrane-associated nature of this enzyme in close proximity with its cognate substrates, using immunogold-labeling thin-section electron microscopy. Here, we provide a detail protocol of this methodology, including specimen preparation, ultrathin sectioning, and immunogold-labeling electron microscopic procedures, with an experimental model of sortase enzymes from Actinomyces oris. In principle, this protocol can be employed for any bacterial ultrathin-section samples to detect subcellular localization of proteins and organelles by immuno-electron microscopy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chungyu Chang
- Division of Oral & Systemic Health Sciences, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
| | - Hung Ton-That
- Division of Oral & Systemic Health Sciences, School of Dentistry, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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12
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Chi J, Li Y, Zhang N, Liu H, Chen Z, Li J, Huang X. Fosfomycin Enhances the Inhibition Ability of Linezolid Against Biofilms of Vancomycin-Resistant Enterococcus faecium in vitro. Infect Drug Resist 2023; 16:7707-7719. [PMID: 38144225 PMCID: PMC10748582 DOI: 10.2147/idr.s428485] [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: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose We explored the inhibition ability of linezolid/fosfomycin combination against biofilms of vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecium (VREfm) and tried to provide a theoretical basis for the treatment of VREfm biofilm-associated infections. Methods Four clinical isolates of VREfm (No.2, No.4, No.5, and No.6) were used for this study, which were collected from the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University. The checkerboard method was used to assess the synergistic effect of linezolid and fosfomycin. The inhibition ability of biofilm biomass was evaluated by crystal violet staining, and the metabolic activity was tested by an Alamar blue cell viability assay. Changes in biofilm formation-related genes of the strains after incubating with drugs were investigated via the quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). Results The fractional inhibitory concentration index (FICI) showed that linezolid combined with fosfomycin had a synergistic effect on all four VREfm isolates. Compared with linezolid monotherapy, linezolid combined with fosfomycin led to a significant decrease in biofilm biomass and metabolic activity, especially in the mature biofilm. The results of RT-qPCR showed linezolid combined with fosfomycin inhibition biofilm formation through the inhibition of cylA, ebpA, and gelE transcription in VREfm in the initial and mature stages. To the mature biofilm, the combination also reduced the expression of asa1, atlA, and esp. Conclusion The combination of linezolid and fosfomycin represented stronger inhibitory effect on the biofilm formation of VREfm than linezolid alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Chi
- Department of Pharmacy, Tongling Municipal Hospital, Tongling, Anhui, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yaowen Li
- Department of Basic and Clinical Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, People’s Republic of China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Major Autoimmune Diseases, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, People’s Republic of China
| | - Na Zhang
- Department of Basic and Clinical Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, People’s Republic of China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Major Autoimmune Diseases, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, People’s Republic of China
| | - Huiping Liu
- Department of Basic and Clinical Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, People’s Republic of China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Major Autoimmune Diseases, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhifeng Chen
- Department of Pharmacy, Tongling Municipal Hospital, Tongling, Anhui, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jiabin Li
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaohui Huang
- Department of Basic and Clinical Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, People’s Republic of China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Major Autoimmune Diseases, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, People’s Republic of China
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13
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Xiong Y, Chen Z, Bai B, Peng Y, Liu S, Fang D, Wen Z, Shang Y, Lin Z, Han S, Yu Z. Thiazolopyrimidinone Derivative H5-23 Enhances Daptomycin Activity against Linezolid-Resistant Enterococcus faecalis by Disrupting the Cell Membrane. ACS Infect Dis 2023; 9:2523-2537. [PMID: 38014911 DOI: 10.1021/acsinfecdis.3c00387] [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] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
The increasing emergence and dissemination of multidrug-resistant (MDR) Gram-positive pathogens pose a serious threat to global public health. Previous reports have demonstrated that the compound H5-23, which has a thiazolopyrimidinone core structure, exhibited antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus epidermidis in vitro. However, the antibacterial activity in vivo and mechanism of action of H5-23 against MDR bacteria have not been fully studied. In this study, we report that H5-23 has wide-spectrum antibacterial activity against Gram-positive bacteria. When combined with daptomycin (DAP), H5-23 demonstrates enhanced antimicrobial activity, effectively killing both planktonic and persister cells, as well as eradicating biofilm formation by linezolid-resistant Enterococcus faecalis. The development of resistance shows that H5-23 has a low propensity to induce antibiotic resistance compared to that of linezolid in vitro. Mechanistic studies reveal that H5-23 increases membrane permeability and disrupts membrane integrity, resulting in increased production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), metabolic perturbations, and ultimately cell death. Additionally, we demonstrate the synergistic antibacterial effect of H5-23 combined with DAP in a murine model. These findings suggest that H5-23 is a promising antimicrobial agent and provides a potential strategy for enhancing the efficacy of DAP in combating multidrug-resistant E. faecalis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanpeng Xiong
- College of Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing 211816, China
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Shenzhen Key Laboratory for Endogenous Infections, Huazhong University of Science and Technology Union Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen Nanshan People's Hospital and the Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen 518052, China
| | - Zhong Chen
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Shenzhen Key Laboratory for Endogenous Infections, Huazhong University of Science and Technology Union Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen Nanshan People's Hospital and the Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen 518052, China
| | - Bing Bai
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Shenzhen Key Laboratory for Endogenous Infections, Huazhong University of Science and Technology Union Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen Nanshan People's Hospital and the Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen 518052, China
| | - Yalan Peng
- College of Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing 211816, China
| | - Shanghong Liu
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Shenzhen Key Laboratory for Endogenous Infections, Huazhong University of Science and Technology Union Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen Nanshan People's Hospital and the Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen 518052, China
| | - Di Fang
- College of Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing 211816, China
| | - Zewen Wen
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Shenzhen Key Laboratory for Endogenous Infections, Huazhong University of Science and Technology Union Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen Nanshan People's Hospital and the Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen 518052, China
| | - Yongpeng Shang
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Shenzhen Key Laboratory for Endogenous Infections, Huazhong University of Science and Technology Union Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen Nanshan People's Hospital and the Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen 518052, China
| | - Zhiwei Lin
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Shenzhen Key Laboratory for Endogenous Infections, Huazhong University of Science and Technology Union Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen Nanshan People's Hospital and the Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen 518052, China
- Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, People's Hospital of Yangjiang, Yangjiang 529500, China
| | - Shiqing Han
- College of Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing 211816, China
| | - Zhijian Yu
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Shenzhen Key Laboratory for Endogenous Infections, Huazhong University of Science and Technology Union Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen Nanshan People's Hospital and the Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen 518052, China
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14
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Rekadwad BN, Pramod N, Rao MPN, Hashem A, Avila-Quezada GD, Abd_Allah EF. Identification and specificity validation of unique and antimicrobial resistance genes to trace suspected pathogenic AMR bacteria and to monitor the development of AMR in non-AMR strains in the environment and clinical settings. Saudi J Biol Sci 2023; 30:103869. [PMID: 38058762 PMCID: PMC10696110 DOI: 10.1016/j.sjbs.2023.103869] [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: 10/05/2023] [Revised: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The detection of developing antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has become a global issue. The detection of developing antimicrobial resistance has become a global issue. The growing number of AMR bacteria poses a new threat to public health. Therefore, a less laborious and quick confirmatory test becomes important for further investigations into developing AMR in the environment and in clinical settings. This study aims to present a comprehensive analysis and validation of unique and antimicrobial-resistant strains from the WHO priority list of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria and previously reported AMR strains such as Acinetobacter baumannii, Aeromonas spp., Anaeromonas frigoriresistens, Anaeromonas gelatinfytica, Bacillus spp., Campylobacter jejuni subsp. jejuni, Enterococcus faecalis, Escherichia coli, Haemophilus influenzae, Helicobacter pylori, Klebsiella pneumonia subsp. pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica serovar Typhimurium, Thermanaeromonas toyohensis, and Vibrio proteolyticus. Using in-house designed gene-specific primers, 18 different antibiotic resistance genes (algJ, alpB, AQU-1, CEPH-A3, ciaB, CMY-1-MOX-7, CMY-1-MOX-9, CMY-1/MOX, cphA2, cphA5, cphA7, ebpA, ECP_4655, fliC, OXA-51, RfbU, ThiU2, and tolB) from 46 strains were selected and validated. Hence, this study provides insight into the identification of strain-specific, unique antimicrobial resistance genes. Targeted amplification and verification using selected unique marker genes have been reported. Thus, the present detection and validation use a robust method for the entire experiment. Results also highlight the presence of another set of 18 antibiotic-resistant and unique genes (Aqu1, cphA2, cphA3, cphA5, cphA7, cmy1/mox7, cmy1/mox9, asaI, ascV, asoB, oxa-12, acr-2, pepA, uo65, pliI, dr0274, tapY2, and cpeT). Of these sets of genes, 15 were found to be suitable for the detection of pathogenic strains belonging to the genera Aeromonas, Pseudomonas, Helicobacter, Campylobacter, Enterococcus, Klebsiella, Acinetobacter, Salmonella, Haemophilus, and Bacillus. Thus, we have detected and verified sets of unique and antimicrobial resistance genes in bacteria on the WHO Priority List and from published reports on AMR bacteria. This study offers advantages for confirming antimicrobial resistance in all suspected AMR bacteria and monitoring the development of AMR in non-AMR bacteria, in the environment, and in clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bhagwan Narayan Rekadwad
- Microbe AI Lab, Department of Microbiology and Biotechnology, Yenepoya Research Centre, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), Mangalore 575018, Karnataka, India
| | - Nanditha Pramod
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Pondicherry University, Pondicherry 605014, India
| | - Manik Prabhu Narsing Rao
- Instituto de Ciencias Químicas Aplicadas, Facultad de Ingeniería, Universidad Autónoma de Chile, Sede Talca, Talca 3460000, Chile
| | - Abeer Hashem
- Botany and Microbiology Department, College of Science, King Saud University, P.O. Box. 2460, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Elsayed Fathi Abd_Allah
- Plant Production Department, College of Food and Agricultural Sciences, King Saud University, P.O. Box. 2460, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
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15
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Nappi F, Avtaar Singh SS, Jitendra V, Fiore A. Bridging Molecular and Clinical Sciences to Achieve the Best Treatment of Enterococcus faecalis Endocarditis. Microorganisms 2023; 11:2604. [PMID: 37894262 PMCID: PMC10609379 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11102604] [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: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Enterococcus faecalis (E. faecalis) is a commensal bacterium that causes various infections in surgical sites, the urinary tract, and blood. The bacterium is becoming a significant concern because it tends to affect the elderly population, which has a high prevalence of undiagnosed degenerative valvular disease and is often subjected to invasive procedures and implanted medical devices. The bacterium's actions are influenced by specific characteristics like pili activity and biofilm formation. This resistance significantly impedes the effectiveness of numerous antibiotic therapies, particularly in cases of endocarditis. While current guidelines recommend antimicrobial therapy, the emergence of resistant strains has introduced complexity in managing these patients, especially with the increasing use of transcatheter therapies for those who are not suitable for surgery. Presentations of the condition are often varied and associated with generalised symptoms, which may pose a diagnostic challenge. We share our encounter with a case study that concerns an octogenarian who had a TAVI valve and developed endocarditis. We also conducted a literature review to identify the essential treatment algorithms for such cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Nappi
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Centre Cardiologique du Nord, 93200 Saint-Denis, France
| | | | - Vikram Jitendra
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, Aberdeen AB25 2ZN, UK;
| | - Antonio Fiore
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Hôpitaux Universitaires Henri Mondor, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, 94000 Creteil, France;
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16
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Elashiry MM, Bergeron BE, Tay FR. Enterococcus faecalis in secondary apical periodontitis: Mechanisms of bacterial survival and disease persistence. Microb Pathog 2023; 183:106337. [PMID: 37683835 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2023.106337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Revised: 09/03/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023]
Abstract
Enterococcus faecalis is a commensal bacterium commonly found in the human gastrointestinal tract. However, in individuals with compromised immune systems, the pathogen can lead to severe illness. This opportunistic pathogen is associated with secondary apical diseases and is adept at resisting antibiotics and other forms of treatment because of its numerous virulence factors. Enterococcus faecalis is capable of disrupting the normal functions of immune cells, thereby hindering the body's ability to eradicate the infection. However, intensive research is needed in further understanding the adverse immunomodulatory effects of E. faecalis. Potential strategies specific for eradicating E. faecalis have proven beneficial in the treatment of persistent secondary apical periodontitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed M Elashiry
- Department of Endodontics, Dental College of Georgia, Augusta University, Georgia, USA; Department of Endodontics, Faculty of Dentistry, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt.
| | - Brian E Bergeron
- Department of Endodontics, Dental College of Georgia, Augusta University, Georgia, USA
| | - Franklin R Tay
- Department of Endodontics, Dental College of Georgia, Augusta University, Georgia, USA
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17
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Im EJ, Lee HHY, Kim M, Kim MK. Evaluation of Enterococcal Probiotic Usage and Review of Potential Health Benefits, Safety, and Risk of Antibiotic-Resistant Strain Emergence. Antibiotics (Basel) 2023; 12:1327. [PMID: 37627747 PMCID: PMC10451534 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics12081327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Enterococci are often used in probiotics but can also cause nosocomial infections. As such, enterococcal consumption may have beneficial health effects, but a thorough evaluation of virulence absence and risk of antibiotic resistance spread is needed at the strain level. This article reviewed ten online health product shopping websites in the US. On these websites, 23 probiotic products using enterococci were found across 12 companies. In addition, this article reviewed studies that demonstrated the probiotic potential of enterococcal consumption (e.g., gastrointestinal and respiratory disease, hyperlipidemia alleviation, as well as infection prevention). To investigate the safety aspects of enterococci, the present work examined studies evaluating virulence factors and antibiotic resistance. Furthermore, this article assessed research that explored these virulent factors, specifically in probiotics containing enterococci, as well as the potential transfer mechanism of their antibiotic resistance. Based on reviewed data, enterococcal probiotic consumption has been proven beneficial for conditions or symptoms of multiple diseases without any apparent adverse effects. However, due to the plasmid- or transposon-mediated gene transfer ability of enterococci, surveillance monitoring and further studies regarding enterococcal consumption are warranted. Future studies that identify enterococcal strains safe to use in probiotics without virulence factors and antibiotic resistance are imperative for evidence-based decisions by health organizations and government agencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Jeeho Im
- College of Arts and Sciences, Washington University, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA;
| | - Harry Hyun-Yup Lee
- School of Osteopathic Medicine, Campbell University, Lillington, NC 27546, USA
| | - Minzae Kim
- College of Arts and Sciences, Boston University, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Myo-Kyoung Kim
- Thomas J. Long School of Pharmacy, University of the Pacific, Stockton, CA 95211, USA
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18
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Șchiopu P, Toc DA, Colosi IA, Costache C, Ruospo G, Berar G, Gălbău ȘG, Ghilea AC, Botan A, Pană AG, Neculicioiu VS, Todea DA. An Overview of the Factors Involved in Biofilm Production by the Enterococcus Genus. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11577. [PMID: 37511337 PMCID: PMC10380289 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241411577] [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: 06/14/2023] [Revised: 07/08/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Enterococcus species are known for their ability to form biofilms, which contributes to their survival in extreme environments and involvement in persistent bacterial infections, especially in the case of multi-drug-resistant strains. This review aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms underlying biofilm formation in clinically important species such as Enterococcus faecalis and the less studied but increasingly multi-drug-resistant Enterococcus faecium, and explores potential strategies for their eradication. Biofilm formation in Enterococcus involves a complex interplay of genes and virulence factors, including gelatinase, cytolysin, Secreted antigen A, pili, microbial surface components that recognize adhesive matrix molecules (MSCRAMMs), and DNA release. Quorum sensing, a process of intercellular communication, mediated by peptide pheromones such as Cob, Ccf, and Cpd, plays a crucial role in coordinating biofilm development by targeting gene expression and regulation. Additionally, the regulation of extracellular DNA (eDNA) release has emerged as a fundamental component in biofilm formation. In E. faecalis, the autolysin N-acetylglucosaminidase and proteases such as gelatinase and serin protease are key players in this process, influencing biofilm development and virulence. Targeting eDNA may offer a promising avenue for intervention in biofilm-producing E. faecalis infections. Overall, gaining insights into the intricate mechanisms of biofilm formation in Enterococcus may provide directions for anti-biofilm therapeutic research, with the purpose of reducing the burden of Enterococcus-associated infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pavel Șchiopu
- Department of Microbiology, "Iuliu Hațieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- Department of Pneumology, "Iuliu Hațieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400332 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Dan Alexandru Toc
- Department of Microbiology, "Iuliu Hațieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Ioana Alina Colosi
- Department of Microbiology, "Iuliu Hațieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Carmen Costache
- Department of Microbiology, "Iuliu Hațieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Giuseppe Ruospo
- Faculty of Medicine, "Iuliu Hațieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - George Berar
- Faculty of Medicine, "Iuliu Hațieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Ștefan-Gabriel Gălbău
- Faculty of Medicine, "Iuliu Hațieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Alexandra Cristina Ghilea
- Faculty of Medicine, "Iuliu Hațieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Alexandru Botan
- Faculty of Medicine, "Iuliu Hațieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Adrian-Gabriel Pană
- Department of Microbiology, "Iuliu Hațieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Vlad Sever Neculicioiu
- Department of Microbiology, "Iuliu Hațieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Doina Adina Todea
- Department of Pneumology, "Iuliu Hațieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400332 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
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Carrasco Calzada F, Jairo Aguilera J, Moreno JE, Cuadros González J, Roca Biosca D, Prieto-Pérez L, Pérez-Tanoira R. Differences in Virulence Factors and Antimicrobial Susceptibility of Uropathogenic Enterococcus spp. Strains in a Rural Area of Uganda and a Spanish Secondary Hospital. Trop Med Infect Dis 2023; 8:tropicalmed8050282. [PMID: 37235330 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed8050282] [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: 04/11/2023] [Revised: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Enterococcus faecalis and Enterococcus faecium have become two of the most important agents of nosocomial diseases due to their constantly growing resistance. Enterococcal infections are associated with biofilms, which are intrinsically sensitive to antimicrobials. The main goal of this study was to compare and relate their capacity to form biofilm and their antimicrobial sensitivity, as well as their virulence factors and their implicated genes, of strains isolated from patients with urinary tract infection (UTI) in a rural hospital in Uganda and a secondary hospital in Spain. A prospective study was conducted with 104 strains of E. faecalis and E. faecium isolated from patients with suspected UTI and who presented leukocyturia at the Saint Joseph Kitgum hospital (Uganda) and at the Hospital Universitario Principe de Asturias (Spain). All microorganisms were identified in Spain by MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry. Antimicrobial susceptibility studies were carried out using the Vitek® 2 system (Biomériux, France). The biofilm formation capacity was studied by photospectrometry. Phenotypic and genotypic virulence factors were studied in all cases by PCR or expression techniques. In Uganda, we found a higher incidence of E. faecium (65.3%, n = 32), contrary to the situation found in Spain where most of the bacteria found belonged to E. faecalis (92.7%, n = 51). All E. faecalis strains were found to have very low levels of resistance to ampicillin, imipenem, and nitrofurantoin. However, E. faecium exhibited more than 25% resistance to these antibiotics. Although the esp gene has been shown in the results obtained to be an important initial agent in biofilm formation, we have also demonstrated in this study the intervention of other genes when esp is not present, such as the ace1 gene. No statistically significant relationships were found between the presence of agg and gelE genes and increased biofilm formation. The significant difference between the incidence of E. faecalis and E. faecium and biofilm formation, between samples from Spain and Uganda, shows us very different profiles between countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Félix Carrasco Calzada
- Clinical Microbiology Department, Hospital Universitario Príncipe de Asturias, 28805 Alcalá de Henares, Spain
- Health Sciences Department, Faculty of Med, Universidad de Alcalá, 28805 Alcalá de Henares, Spain
| | - John Jairo Aguilera
- IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz, 28007 Madrid, Spain
- CIBERINFEC-CIBER de Enfermedades Infecciosas, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28222 Madrid, Spain
| | - Jaime Esteban Moreno
- IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz, 28007 Madrid, Spain
- CIBERINFEC-CIBER de Enfermedades Infecciosas, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28222 Madrid, Spain
| | - Juan Cuadros González
- Clinical Microbiology Department, Hospital Universitario Príncipe de Asturias, 28805 Alcalá de Henares, Spain
- Health Sciences Department, Faculty of Med, Universidad de Alcalá, 28805 Alcalá de Henares, Spain
- Máster Medicina Tropical y Salud Internacional, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28049 Madrid, Spain
| | - David Roca Biosca
- Máster Medicina Tropical y Salud Internacional, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28049 Madrid, Spain
- Fundación El Alto, 12500 Vinaroz, Spain
| | - Laura Prieto-Pérez
- IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz, 28007 Madrid, Spain
- Máster Medicina Tropical y Salud Internacional, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28049 Madrid, Spain
| | - Ramón Pérez-Tanoira
- Clinical Microbiology Department, Hospital Universitario Príncipe de Asturias, 28805 Alcalá de Henares, Spain
- Health Sciences Department, Faculty of Med, Universidad de Alcalá, 28805 Alcalá de Henares, Spain
- Máster Medicina Tropical y Salud Internacional, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28049 Madrid, Spain
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20
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Giuliano S, Angelini J, D'Elia D, Geminiani M, Barison RD, Giacinta A, Sartor A, Campanile F, Curcio F, Cotta MO, Roberts JA, Baraldo M, Tascini C. Ampicillin and Ceftobiprole Combination for the Treatment of Enterococcus faecalis Invasive Infections: "The Times They Are A-Changin". Antibiotics (Basel) 2023; 12:antibiotics12050879. [PMID: 37237782 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics12050879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 04/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Enterococcus faecalis is responsible for a large variety of severe infections. This study is a case series reporting our experience in the treatment of E. faecalis invasive infections with ampicillin in combination with ceftobiprole (ABPR). METHODS We retrospectively analyzed all the medical records of patients admitted to the University Hospital of Udine from January to December 2020 with a diagnosis of infective endocarditis or primary or non-primary complicated or uncomplicated bacteremia caused by E. faecalis. RESULTS Twenty-one patients were included in the final analysis. The clinical success rate was very high, accounting for 81% of patients, and microbiological cure was obtained in 86% of patients. One relapse was recorded in one patient who did not adhere to the partial oral treatment prescribed. Therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) was always performed for ampicillin and ceftobiprole, and serum concentrations of both drugs were compared to the MICs of the different enterococcal isolates. CONCLUSIONS ABPR is a well-tolerated antimicrobial regimen with anti-E. faecalis activity. TDM can help clinicians optimize medical treatments to achieve the best possible efficacy with fewer side effects. ABPR might be a reasonable option for the treatment of severe invasive infections caused by E. faecalis due to the high level of enterococcal penicillin-binding protein (PBP) saturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone Giuliano
- Infectious Diseases Division, Department of Medicine, University of Udine and Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Friuli Centrale, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Jacopo Angelini
- Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology Institute, University Hospital Friuli Centrale ASUFC, 33100 Udine, Italy
- Department of Medicine, University of Udine (UNIUD), 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Denise D'Elia
- Infectious Diseases Division, Department of Medicine, University of Udine and Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Friuli Centrale, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Monica Geminiani
- Infectious Diseases Division, Department of Medicine, University of Udine and Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Friuli Centrale, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Roberto Daniele Barison
- Infectious Diseases Division, Department of Medicine, University of Udine and Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Friuli Centrale, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Alessandro Giacinta
- Infectious Diseases Division, Department of Medicine, University of Udine and Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Friuli Centrale, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Assunta Sartor
- Microbiology Unit, Udine University Hospital, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Floriana Campanile
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Microbiology, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Francesco Curcio
- Department of Medicine, University of Udine (UNIUD), 33100 Udine, Italy
- Institute of Clinical Pathology, Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Friuli Centrale (ASUFC), 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Menino Osbert Cotta
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Queensland, Centre for Clinical Research (UQCCR), Brisbane, QLD 4029, Australia
- Herston Infectious Diseases Institute, Herston, QLD 4029, Australia
| | - Jason A Roberts
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Queensland, Centre for Clinical Research (UQCCR), Brisbane, QLD 4029, Australia
- Herston Infectious Diseases Institute, Herston, QLD 4029, Australia
- Departments of Intensive Care Medicine and Pharmacy, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Brisbane, QLD 4029, Australia
- Division of Anaesthesiology Critical Care Emergency and Pain Medicine, Nîmes University Hospital, University of Montpellier, 34095 Nîmes, France
| | - Massimo Baraldo
- Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology Institute, University Hospital Friuli Centrale ASUFC, 33100 Udine, Italy
- Department of Medicine, University of Udine (UNIUD), 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Carlo Tascini
- Infectious Diseases Division, Department of Medicine, University of Udine and Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Friuli Centrale, 33100 Udine, Italy
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21
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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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22
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Choo PY, Wang CY, VanNieuwenhze MS, Kline KA. Spatial and temporal localization of cell wall associated pili in Enterococcus faecalis. Mol Microbiol 2023; 119:1-18. [PMID: 36420961 PMCID: PMC10107303 DOI: 10.1111/mmi.15008] [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: 05/16/2022] [Revised: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Enterococcus faecalis virulence requires cell wall-associated proteins, including the sortase-assembled endocarditis and biofilm associated pilus (Ebp), important for biofilm formation in vitro and in vivo. The current paradigm for sortase-assembled pilus biogenesis in Gram-positive bacteria is that sortases attach substrates to lipid II peptidoglycan (PG) precursors, prior to their incorporation into the growing cell wall. Contrary to prevailing dogma, by following the distribution of Ebp and PG throughout the E. faecalis cell cycle, we found that cell surface Ebp do not co-localize with newly synthesized PG. Instead, surface-exposed Ebp are localized to the older cell hemisphere and excluded from sites of new PG synthesis at the septum. Moreover, Ebp deposition on the younger hemisphere of the E. faecalis diplococcus appear as foci adjacent to the nascent septum. We propose a new model whereby sortase substrate deposition can occur on older PG rather than at sites of new cell wall synthesis. Consistent with this model, we demonstrate that sequestering lipid II to block PG synthesis via ramoplanin, does not impact new Ebp deposition at the cell surface. These data support an alternative paradigm for sortase substrate deposition in E. faecalis, in which Ebp are anchored directly onto uncrosslinked cell wall, independent of new PG synthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pei Yi Choo
- Singapore Centre for Environmental Life Sciences Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore.,School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Charles Y Wang
- Singapore Centre for Environmental Life Sciences Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | | | - Kimberly A Kline
- Singapore Centre for Environmental Life Sciences Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore.,School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore.,Department of Microbiology and Molecular Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
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23
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Schaffer SD, Hutchison CA, Rouchon CN, Mdluli NV, Weinstein AJ, McDaniel D, Frank KL. Diverse Enterococcus faecalis strains show heterogeneity in biofilm properties. Res Microbiol 2023; 174:103986. [PMID: 35995340 PMCID: PMC9825631 DOI: 10.1016/j.resmic.2022.103986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2021] [Revised: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Biofilm formation is important for Enterococcus faecalis to cause healthcare-associated infections. It is unclear how E. faecalis biofilms vary in parameters such as development and composition. To test the hypothesis that differences in biofilms exist among E. faecalis strains, we evaluated in vitro biofilm formation and matrix characteristics of five genetically diverse E. faecalis lab-adapted strains and clinical isolates (OG1RF, V583, DS16, MMH594, and VA1128). Biofilm formation of all strains was repressed in TSB+10% FBS. However, DMEM+10% FBS enhanced biofilm formation of clinical isolate VA1128. Crystal violet staining and fluorescence microscopy of biofilms grown on Aclar membranes demonstrated differences between OG1RF and VA1128 in biofilm development over a 48-h time course. None of the biofilms were dispersed by single treatments of sodium (meta)periodate, DNase, or Proteinase K alone, but the biofilm biomass of both OG1RF and DS16 was partially removed by a sequential treatment of sodium (meta)periodate and DNase. Reversing the treatment order was not effective, suggesting that the extracellular DNA targeted by DNase was obscured by carbohydrates that are susceptible to sodium (meta)periodate degradation. Fluorescent staining of biofilm matrix components further demonstrated that more carbohydrates bound by wheat germ agglutinin comprise OG1RF biofilms compared to VA1128 biofilms. This study highlights the existence of heterogeneity in biofilm properties among diverse E. faecalis strains, which may have implications for the design of novel anti-biofilm treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott D Schaffer
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA; Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Rockville, MD, USA
| | - Carissa A Hutchison
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA; Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Rockville, MD, USA
| | - Candace N Rouchon
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA; Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Rockville, MD, USA
| | - Nontokozo V Mdluli
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA; Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Rockville, MD, USA
| | - Arielle J Weinstein
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA; Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Rockville, MD, USA
| | - Dennis McDaniel
- Biomedical Instrumentation Center, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Kristi L Frank
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA.
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24
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Govindarajan DK, Kandaswamy K. Virulence factors of uropathogens and their role in host pathogen interactions. Cell Surf 2022; 8:100075. [PMID: 35198842 PMCID: PMC8841375 DOI: 10.1016/j.tcsw.2022.100075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Revised: 02/01/2022] [Accepted: 02/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial pathogens are commonly found in Urinary Tract Infection (UTI), particularly infected in females like pregnant women, elder people, sexually active, or individuals prone to other risk factors for UTI. In this article, we review the expression of virulence surface proteins and their interaction with host cells for the most frequently isolated uropathogens: Escherichia coli, Enterococcus faecalis, Proteus mirabilis, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Staphylococcus saprophyticus. In addition to the host cell interaction, surface protein regulation was also discussed in this article. The surface protein regulation serves as a key tool in differentiating the pathogen isotypes. Furthermore, it might provide insights on novel diagnostic methods to detect uropathogen that are otherwise easily overlooked due to limited culture-based assays. In essence, this review shall provide an in-depth understanding on secretion of virulence factors of various uropathogens and their role in host-pathogen interaction, this knowledge might be useful in the development of therapeutics against uropathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kumaravel Kandaswamy
- Corresponding author at: Department of Biotechnology, Kumaraguru College of Technology (KCT), Chinnavedampatti, Coimbatore 641049, Tamil Nadu, India.
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25
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Shanmugasundarasamy T, Karaiyagowder Govindarajan D, Kandaswamy K. A review on pilus assembly mechanisms in Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Cell Surf 2022; 8:100077. [PMID: 35493982 PMCID: PMC9046445 DOI: 10.1016/j.tcsw.2022.100077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2022] [Revised: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The surface of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria contains long hair-like proteinaceous protrusion known as pili or fimbriae. Historically, pilin proteins were considered to play a major role in the transfer of genetic material during bacterial conjugation. Recent findings however elucidate their importance in virulence, biofilm formation, phage transduction, and motility. Therefore, it is crucial to gain mechanistic insights on the subcellular assembly of pili and the localization patterns of their subunit proteins (major and minor pilins) that aid the macromolecular pilus assembly at the bacterial surface. In this article, we review the current knowledge of pilus assembly mechanisms in a wide range of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, including subcellular localization patterns of a few pilin subunit proteins and their role in virulence and pathogenesis.
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26
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Leigh RJ, McKenna C, McWade R, Lynch B, Walsh F. Comparative genomics and pangenomics of vancomycin-resistant and susceptible Enterococcus faecium from Irish hospitals. J Med Microbiol 2022; 71. [DOI: 10.1099/jmm.0.001590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction.
Enterococcus faecium
has emerged as an important nosocomial pathogen, which is increasingly difficult to treat due to the genetic acquisition of vancomycin resistance. Ireland has a recalcitrant vancomycin-resistant bloodstream infection rate compared to other developed countries.
Hypothesis/Gap statement. Vancomycin resistance rates persist amongst
E. faecium
isolates from Irish hospitals. The evolutionary genomics governing these trends have not been fully elucidated.
Methodology. A set of 28 vancomycin-resistant isolates was sequenced to construct a dataset alongside 61 other publicly available Irish genomes. This dataset was extensively analysed using in silico methodologies (comparative genomics, pangenomics, phylogenetics, genotypics and comparative functional analyses) to uncover distinct evolutionary, coevolutionary and clinically relevant population trends.
Results. These results suggest that a stable (in terms of genome size, GC% and number of genes), yet genetically diverse population (in terms of gene content) of
E. faecium
persists in Ireland with acquired resistance arising via plasmid acquisition (vanA) or, to a lesser extent, chromosomal recombination (vanB). Population analysis revealed five clusters with one cluster partitioned into four clades which transcend isolation dates. Pangenomic and recombination analyses revealed an open (whole genome and chromosomal specific) pangenome illustrating a rampant evolutionary pattern. Comparative resistomics and virulomics uncovered distinct chromosomal and mobilomal propensity for multidrug resistance, widespread chromosomal point-mutation-mediated resistance and chromosomally harboured arsenals of virulence factors. Interestingly, a potential difference in biofilm formation strategies was highlighted by coevolutionary analysis, suggesting differential biofilm genotypes between vanA and vanB isolates.
Conclusions. These results highlight the evolutionary history of Irish
E. faecium
isolates and may provide insight into underlying infection dynamics in a clinical setting. Due to the apparent ease of vancomycin resistance acquisition over time, susceptible
E. faecium
should be concurrently reduced in Irish hospitals to mitigate potential resistant infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert J. Leigh
- Department of Biology, Maynooth University, Mariavilla, Maynooth, Co. Kildare, Ireland
| | - Chloe McKenna
- Department of Biology, Maynooth University, Mariavilla, Maynooth, Co. Kildare, Ireland
| | - Robert McWade
- Department of Microbiology, Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, Eccles St., Dublin 7, D07 R2WY, Ireland
| | - Breda Lynch
- Department of Microbiology, Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, Eccles St., Dublin 7, D07 R2WY, Ireland
| | - Fiona Walsh
- Department of Biology, Maynooth University, Mariavilla, Maynooth, Co. Kildare, Ireland
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27
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Liu X, Xiong Y, Shi Y, Deng X, Deng Q, Liu Y, Yu Z, Li D, Zheng J, Li P. In vitro activities of licochalcone A against planktonic cells and biofilm of Enterococcus faecalis. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:970901. [PMID: 36338074 PMCID: PMC9634178 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.970901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aims to evaluate the in vitro antibacterial and anti-biofilm activities of licochalcone A on Enterococcus faecalis and to investigate the possible target genes of licochalcone A in E. faecalis. This study found that licochalcone A had antibacterial activities against E. faecalis, with the MIC50 and MIC90 were 25 μM. Licochalcone A (at 4 × MIC) indicated a rapid bactericidal effect on E. faecalis planktonic cells, and killed more E. faecalis planktonic cells (at least 3-log10 cfu/ml) than vancomycin, linezolid, or ampicillin at the 2, 4, and 6 h of the time-killing test. Licochalcone A (at 10 × MIC) significantly reduced the production of E. faecalis persister cells (at least 2-log10 cfu/ml) than vancomycin, linezolid, or ampicillin at the 24, 48, 72, and 96 h of the time-killing test. Licochalcone A (at 1/4 × MIC) significantly inhibited the biofilm formation of E. faecalis. The RNA levels of biofilm formation-related genes, agg, esp, and srtA, markedly decreased when the E. faecalis isolates were treated with licochalcone A at 1/4 × MIC for 6 h. To explore the possible target genes of licochalcone A in E. faecalis, the licochalcone A non-sensitive E. faecalis clones were selected in vitro by induction of wildtype strains for about 140 days under the pressure of licochalcone A, and mutations in the possible target genes were detected by whole-genome sequencing. This study found that there were 11 nucleotide mutations leading to nonsynonymous mutations of 8 amino acids, and among these amino acid mutations, there were 3 mutations located in transcriptional regulator genes (MarR family transcriptional regulator, TetR family transcriptional regulator, and MerR family transcriptional regulator). In conclusion, this study found that licochalcone A had an antibacterial effect on E. faecalis, and significantly inhibited the biofilm formation of E. faecalis at subinhibitory concentrations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoju Liu
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Shenzhen Key Lab of Endogenous Infection, Huazhong University of Science and Technology Union Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Shenzhen Key Lab of Endogenous Infection, Shenzhen Nanshan People's Hospital and the 6th Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University Health Science Center, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yanpeng Xiong
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Shenzhen Key Lab of Endogenous Infection, Huazhong University of Science and Technology Union Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Shenzhen Key Lab of Endogenous Infection, Shenzhen Nanshan People's Hospital and the 6th Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University Health Science Center, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yiyi Shi
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Shenzhen Key Lab of Endogenous Infection, Huazhong University of Science and Technology Union Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Shenzhen Key Lab of Endogenous Infection, Shenzhen Nanshan People's Hospital and the 6th Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University Health Science Center, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xiangbin Deng
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Shenzhen Key Lab of Endogenous Infection, Huazhong University of Science and Technology Union Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Shenzhen Key Lab of Endogenous Infection, Shenzhen Nanshan People's Hospital and the 6th Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University Health Science Center, Shenzhen, China
| | - Qiwen Deng
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Shenzhen Key Lab of Endogenous Infection, Huazhong University of Science and Technology Union Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Shenzhen Key Lab of Endogenous Infection, Shenzhen Nanshan People's Hospital and the 6th Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University Health Science Center, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yansong Liu
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Shenzhen Key Lab of Endogenous Infection, Huazhong University of Science and Technology Union Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Shenzhen Key Lab of Endogenous Infection, Shenzhen Nanshan People's Hospital and the 6th Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University Health Science Center, Shenzhen, China
| | - Zhijian Yu
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Shenzhen Key Lab of Endogenous Infection, Huazhong University of Science and Technology Union Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Shenzhen Key Lab of Endogenous Infection, Shenzhen Nanshan People's Hospital and the 6th Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University Health Science Center, Shenzhen, China
| | - Duoyun Li
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Shenzhen Key Lab of Endogenous Infection, Huazhong University of Science and Technology Union Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Shenzhen Key Lab of Endogenous Infection, Shenzhen Nanshan People's Hospital and the 6th Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University Health Science Center, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jinxin Zheng
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Shenzhen Key Lab of Endogenous Infection, Huazhong University of Science and Technology Union Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Shenzhen Key Lab of Endogenous Infection, Shenzhen Nanshan People's Hospital and the 6th Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University Health Science Center, Shenzhen, China
| | - Peiyu Li
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Shenzhen Key Lab of Endogenous Infection, Huazhong University of Science and Technology Union Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Shenzhen Key Lab of Endogenous Infection, Shenzhen Nanshan People's Hospital and the 6th Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University Health Science Center, Shenzhen, China
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28
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Ali IAA, Cheung GS, Neelakantan P. Transition Metals and
Enterococcus faecalis
: Homeostasis, Virulence and Perspectives. Mol Oral Microbiol 2022; 37:276-291. [DOI: 10.1111/omi.12391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Islam A. A. Ali
- Department of Endodontics Faculty of Dentistry Mansoura University Mansoura Egypt
| | - Gary S.P. Cheung
- Discipline of Endodontology Division of Restorative Dental Sciences Faculty of Dentistry The University of Hong Kong Hong Kong SAR
| | - Prasanna Neelakantan
- Discipline of Endodontology Division of Restorative Dental Sciences Faculty of Dentistry The University of Hong Kong Hong Kong SAR
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29
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Krause AL, Stinear TP, Monk IR. Barriers to genetic manipulation of Enterococci: Current Approaches and Future Directions. FEMS Microbiol Rev 2022; 46:6650352. [PMID: 35883217 PMCID: PMC9779914 DOI: 10.1093/femsre/fuac036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2022] [Revised: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 07/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Enterococcus faecalis and Enterococcus faecium are Gram-positive commensal gut bacteria that can also cause fatal infections. To study clinically relevant multi-drug resistant E. faecalis and E. faecium strains, methods are needed to overcome physical (thick cell wall) and enzymatic barriers that limit the transfer of foreign DNA and thus prevent facile genetic manipulation. Enzymatic barriers to DNA uptake identified in E. faecalis and E. faecium include type I, II and IV restriction modification systems and CRISPR-Cas. This review examines E. faecalis and E. faecium DNA defence systems and the methods with potential to overcome these barriers. DNA defence system bypass will allow the application of innovative genetic techniques to expedite molecular-level understanding of these important, but somewhat neglected, pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra L Krause
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The University of Melbourne at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection & Immunity, Melbourne, VIC 3000 Australia
| | - Timothy P Stinear
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The University of Melbourne at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection & Immunity, Melbourne, VIC 3000 Australia
| | - Ian R Monk
- Corresponding author: Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The University of Melbourne at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection & Immunity, Melbourne, VIC 3000 Australia. E-mail:
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30
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Enterococcus Virulence and Resistant Traits Associated with Its Permanence in the Hospital Environment. Antibiotics (Basel) 2022; 11:antibiotics11070857. [PMID: 35884110 PMCID: PMC9311936 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics11070857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Revised: 06/23/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Enterococcus are opportunistic pathogens that have been gaining importance in the clinical setting, especially in terms of hospital-acquired infections. This problem has mainly been associated with the fact that these bacteria are able to present intrinsic and extrinsic resistance to different classes of antibiotics, with a great deal of importance being attributed to vancomycin-resistant enterococci. However, other aspects, such as the expression of different virulence factors including biofilm-forming ability, and its capacity of trading genetic information, makes this bacterial genus more capable of surviving harsh environmental conditions. All these characteristics, associated with some reports of decreased susceptibility to some biocides, all described in this literary review, allow enterococci to present a longer survival ability in the hospital environment, consequently giving them more opportunities to disseminate in these settings and be responsible for difficult-to-treat infections.
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31
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Zhang X, Feng H, He J, Muhammad A, Zhang F, Lu X. Features and Colonization Strategies of Enterococcus faecalis in the Gut of Bombyx mori. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:921330. [PMID: 35814682 PMCID: PMC9263704 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.921330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The complex gut microbiome is a malleable microbial community that can undergo remodeling in response to many factors, including the gut environment and microbial properties. Enterococcus has emerged as one of the predominant gut commensal bacterial and plays a fundamental role in the host physiology and health of the major economic agricultural insect, Bombyx mori. Although extensive research on gut structure and microbiome diversity has been carried out, how these microbial consortia are established in multifarious niches within the gut has not been well characterized to date. Here, an Enterococcus species that was stably associated with its host, the model organism B. mori, was identified in the larval gut. GFP–tagged E. faecalis LX10 was constructed as a model bacterium to track the colonization mechanism in the intestine of B. mori. The results revealed that the minimum and optimum colonization results were obtained by feeding at doses of 105 CFU/silkworm and 107 CFU/silkworm, respectively, as confirmed by bioassays and fluorescence-activated cell sorting analyses (FACS). Furthermore, a comprehensive genome-wide exploration of signal sequences provided insight into the relevant colonization properties of E. faecalis LX10. E. faecalis LX10 grew well under alkaline conditions and stably reduced the intestinal pH through lactic acid production. Additionally, the genomic features responsible for lactic acid fermentation were characterized. We further expressed and purified E. faecalis bacteriocin and found that it was particularly effective against other gut bacteria, including Enterococcus casselifavus, Enterococcus mundtii, Serratia marcescens, Bacillus amyloliquefaciens, and Escherichia coli. In addition, the successful colonization of E. faecalis LX10 led to drastically increased expression of all adhesion genes (znuA, lepB, hssA, adhE, EbpA, and Lap), defense genes (cspp, tagF, and esp), regulation gene (BfmRS), secretion gene (prkC) and immune evasion genes (patA and patB), while the expression of iron acquisition genes (ddpD and metN) was largely unchanged or decreased. This work establishes an unprecedented conceptual model for understanding B. mori–gut microbiota interactions in an ecological context. Moreover, these results shed light on the molecular mechanisms of gut microbiota proliferation and colonization in the intestinal tract of this insect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiancui Zhang
- College of Animal Sciences, Institute of Sericulture and Apiculture, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Huihui Feng
- College of Animal Sciences, Institute of Sericulture and Apiculture, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jintao He
- College of Animal Sciences, Institute of Sericulture and Apiculture, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Abrar Muhammad
- College of Animal Sciences, Institute of Sericulture and Apiculture, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Fan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Resistance Biology of Shandong Province, College of Life Science, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, China
- *Correspondence: Fan Zhang,
| | - Xingmeng Lu
- College of Animal Sciences, Institute of Sericulture and Apiculture, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Xingmeng Lu,
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32
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Kim D, Kim KY. Pectolinarin Inhibits the Bacterial Biofilm Formation and Thereby Reduces Bacterial Pathogenicity. Antibiotics (Basel) 2022; 11:antibiotics11050598. [PMID: 35625242 PMCID: PMC9137516 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics11050598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Revised: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Bacterial biofilms are a growing problem as it is a major cause of nosocomial infection from urinary catheters to chronic tissue infections and provide resistance to a variety of antibiotics and the host’s immune system. The effect of pectolinarin on the biofilm formation in Enterococcus faecalis, Enterococcus faecium, Escherichia coli, Streptococcus mutans, Streptococcus sobrinus, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Cutibacterium acnes, and Porphyromonas gingivalis was studied in TSBg (tryptic soy broth supplemented with 1% glucose). Pectolinarin inhibited biofilm formation of E. faecalis (IC50 = 0.39 μg/mL), E. faecium (IC50 = 0.19 μg/mL), E. coli (IC50 = 0.25 μg/mL), S. mutans (IC50 = 1.2 μg/mL), S. sobrinus (IC50 = 1.4 μg/mL), S. aureus (IC50 = 0.39 μg/mL), P. aeruginosa (IC50 = 0.9 μg/mL), P. acnes (IC50 = 12.5 μg/mL), and P. gingivalis (IC50 = 9.0 μg/mL) without inhibiting the bacterial growth. Pectolinarin also showed increased susceptibility of antibacterial activity with commercially available antibiotics including ampicillin, vancomycin, streptomycin, and oxytetracyclin against E. faecalis and E. faecium. Finally, pectolinarin dose-dependently reduced the expression of genes including cytolysin genes (cylLS, cylR2 and cylM), quorum sensing (QS) genes (fsrB, fsrC, gelE, ebpA, ebpB, acm, scm and bps), and biofilm virulence genes (esp) of E. faecalis and E. faecium. Pectolinarin reduced the bacterial biofilm formation, activated the antibacterial susceptibility, and reduced the bacterial adherence. These results suggest that bacterial biofilm formation is a good target to develop the antibacterial agents against biofilm-related infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daseul Kim
- Graduate School of Biotechnology, Kyung Hee University, Seocheon, Giheung, Yongin 17104, Korea;
| | - Ki-Young Kim
- Graduate School of Biotechnology, Kyung Hee University, Seocheon, Giheung, Yongin 17104, Korea;
- College of Life Science, Kyung Hee University, Seocheon, Giheung, Yongin 17104, Korea
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +82-312012633
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33
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Kaushik S, Yadav J, Das S, Karthikeyan D, Chug R, Jyoti A, Srivastava VK, Jain A, Kumar S, Sharma V. Identification of Protein Drug Targets of Biofilm Formation and Quorum
Sensing in Multidrug Resistant Enterococcus faecalis. Curr Protein Pept Sci 2022; 23:248-263. [DOI: 10.2174/1389203723666220526155644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2022] [Revised: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Abstract:
Enterococcus faecalis (E. faecalis) is an opportunistic multidrug-resistant (MDR) pathogen
found in the guts of humans and farmed animals. Due to the occurrence of (MDR) strain there is an
urgent need to look for an alternative treatment approach. E. faecalis is a Gram-positive bacterium,
which is among the most prevalent multidrug resistant hospital pathogens. Its ability to develop quorum
sensing (QS) mediated biofilm formation further exacerbates the pathogenicity and triggers lifethreatening
infections. Therefore, developing a suitable remedy for curing E. faecalis mediated enterococcal
infections is an arduous task. Several putative virulence factors and proteins are involved in the
development of biofilms in E. faecalis. Such proteins often play important roles in virulence, disease,
and colonization by pathogens. The elucidation of the structure-function relationship of such protein
drug targets and the interacting compounds could provide an attractive paradigm towards developing
structure-based drugs against E. faecalis. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the current
status, enigmas that warrant further studies, and the prospects toward alleviating the antibiotic resistance
in E. faecalis. Specifically, the role of biofilm and quorum sensing (QS) in the emergence of
MDR strains had been elaborated along with the importance of the protein drug targets involved in both
the processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanket Kaushik
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Rajasthan, Jaipur, India
| | - Jyoti Yadav
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Rajasthan, Jaipur, India
| | - Satyajeet Das
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Rajasthan, Jaipur, India
- Structural Biology Lab, CSIR-Institute of Microbial Technology, Chandigarh, India
| | | | - Ravneet Chug
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Rajasthan, Jaipur, India
| | - Anupam Jyoti
- Department of Biotechnology, University Institute of Biotechnology,
Chandigarh University, Chandigarh, India
| | | | - Ajay Jain
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Rajasthan, Jaipur, India
| | - Sanjit Kumar
- Centre for Bioseparation Technology, VIT
University, Vellore-632014, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Vinay Sharma
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Rajasthan, Jaipur, India
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34
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Suvorov A, Gupalova T, Desheva Y, Kramskaya T, Bormotova E, Koroleva I, Kopteva O, Leontieva G. Construction of the Enterococcal Strain Expressing Immunogenic Fragment of SARS-Cov-2 Virus. Front Pharmacol 2022; 12:807256. [PMID: 35145407 PMCID: PMC8823703 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.807256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Contemporary SARS-Cov-2 pandemic, besides its dramatic global influence on the human race including health care systems, economies, and political decisions, opened a window for the global experiment with human vaccination employing novel injectable vaccines providing predominantly specific IgG response with little knowledge of their impact on the mucosal immunity. However, it is widely accepted that protection against the pathogens at the gates of the infection - on mucosal surfaces—predominantly rely on an IgA response. Some genetically modified bacteria, including probiotics, represent attractive vehicles for oral or nasal mucosal delivery of therapeutic molecules. Probiotic-based vaccines for mucous membranes are easy to produce in large quantities; they have low cost, provide quite a long T-cell memory, and gut IgA response to oral vaccines is highly synchronized and strongly oligoclonal. Here we present a study demonstrating construction of the novel SARS-Cov-2 vaccine candidate employing the gene fragment of S1 SARS-Cov-2 gene. This DNA fragment was inserted in frame into major pili protein gene with d2 domain of enterococcal operon encoding for pili. The DNA sequencing proved the presence of the insert in enterococcal genome. RNA transcription, immunoprecipitation, and immune electron microscopy with human sera obtained from the SARS-Cov-2 patients demonstrated expression of SARS-Cov-2 antigens in bacteria. Taken together the data obtained allowed considering this genetically modified probiotic strain as an interesting candidate for vaccine against SARS-Cov-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Suvorov
- Scientific and Educational Center, Molecular Bases of Interaction of Microorganisms and Human of the World-Class Research Center, Center for Personalized Medicine, FSBSI, IEM, Saint-Petersburg, Russia
| | - Tatiana Gupalova
- Scientific and Educational Center, Molecular Bases of Interaction of Microorganisms and Human of the World-Class Research Center, Center for Personalized Medicine, FSBSI, IEM, Saint-Petersburg, Russia
| | - Yulia Desheva
- Scientific and Educational Center, Molecular Bases of Interaction of Microorganisms and Human of the World-Class Research Center, Center for Personalized Medicine, FSBSI, IEM, Saint-Petersburg, Russia
| | - Tatiana Kramskaya
- Scientific and Educational Center, Molecular Bases of Interaction of Microorganisms and Human of the World-Class Research Center, Center for Personalized Medicine, FSBSI, IEM, Saint-Petersburg, Russia
| | - Elena Bormotova
- Scientific and Educational Center, Molecular Bases of Interaction of Microorganisms and Human of the World-Class Research Center, Center for Personalized Medicine, FSBSI, IEM, Saint-Petersburg, Russia
| | - Irina Koroleva
- Scientific and Educational Center, Molecular Bases of Interaction of Microorganisms and Human of the World-Class Research Center, Center for Personalized Medicine, FSBSI, IEM, Saint-Petersburg, Russia
| | - Olga Kopteva
- Scientific and Educational Center, Molecular Bases of Interaction of Microorganisms and Human of the World-Class Research Center, Center for Personalized Medicine, FSBSI, IEM, Saint-Petersburg, Russia
| | - Galina Leontieva
- Scientific and Educational Center, Molecular Bases of Interaction of Microorganisms and Human of the World-Class Research Center, Center for Personalized Medicine, FSBSI, IEM, Saint-Petersburg, Russia
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35
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Akpınar Kankaya D, Tuncer Y. Detection of Virulence Factors, Biofilm Formation and Biogenic Amine Production in
Vancomycin‐Resistant
Lactic Acid Bacteria (
VRLAB
) Isolated From Foods of Animal Origin. J FOOD PROCESS PRES 2022. [DOI: 10.1111/jfpp.16423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Didem Akpınar Kankaya
- Department of Food Technology, Gelendost Vocational School Isparta University of Applied Sciences Isparta Turkey
| | - Yasin Tuncer
- Department of Food Engineering, Faculty of Engineering Süleyman Demirel University Isparta Turkey
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36
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Conwell M, Dooley J, Naughton PJ. Enterococcal biofilm - a nidus for antibiotic resistance transfer? J Appl Microbiol 2022; 132:3444-3460. [PMID: 34990042 PMCID: PMC9306868 DOI: 10.1111/jam.15441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2020] [Revised: 08/03/2021] [Accepted: 01/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Enterococci, important agents of hospital acquired infection, are listed on the WHO list of multi-drug resistant pathogens commonly encountered in hospital acquired infections are now of increasing importance, due to the development of strains resistant to multiple antibiotics. Enterococci are also important microorganisms in the environment and their presence is frequently used as an indicator of faecal pollution. Their success is related to their ability to survive within a broad range of habitats and the ease by which they acquire mobile genetic elements, including plasmids, from other bacteria. The enterococci are frequently present within a bacterial biofilm which provides stability and protection to the bacterial population along with an opportunity for a variety of bacterial interactions. Enterococci can accept extrachromosomal DNA both from within its own species and from other bacterial species and this is enhanced by the proximity of the donor and recipient strains. It is this exchange of genetic material that makes the role of biofilm such an important aspect of the success of enterococci. There remain many questions regarding the most suitable model systems to study enterococci in biofilm and regarding the transfer of genetic material including antibiotic resistance in these biofilms. This review focuses on some important aspects of biofilm in the context of horizontal gene transfer (HGT) in enterococci.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Conwell
- The Nutrition Innovation Centre for Food and Health (NICHE), School of Biomedical Sciences, Ulster University, Cromore Road, Coleraine, Co. Londonderry, BT52 1SA
| | - Jsg Dooley
- The Nutrition Innovation Centre for Food and Health (NICHE), School of Biomedical Sciences, Ulster University, Cromore Road, Coleraine, Co. Londonderry, BT52 1SA
| | - P J Naughton
- The Nutrition Innovation Centre for Food and Health (NICHE), School of Biomedical Sciences, Ulster University, Cromore Road, Coleraine, Co. Londonderry, BT52 1SA
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37
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Suvorov A, Gupalova T, Desheva Y, Kramskaya T, Bormotova E, Koroleva I, Kopteva O, Leontieva G. Construction of the Enterococcal Strain Expressing Immunogenic Fragment of SARS-Cov-2 Virus. Front Pharmacol 2022. [DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.807256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Contemporary SARS-Cov-2 pandemic, besides its dramatic global influence on the human race including health care systems, economies, and political decisions, opened a window for the global experiment with human vaccination employing novel injectable vaccines providing predominantly specific IgG response with little knowledge of their impact on the mucosal immunity. However, it is widely accepted that protection against the pathogens at the gates of the infection - on mucosal surfaces—predominantly rely on an IgA response. Some genetically modified bacteria, including probiotics, represent attractive vehicles for oral or nasal mucosal delivery of therapeutic molecules. Probiotic-based vaccines for mucous membranes are easy to produce in large quantities; they have low cost, provide quite a long T-cell memory, and gut IgA response to oral vaccines is highly synchronized and strongly oligoclonal. Here we present a study demonstrating construction of the novel SARS-Cov-2 vaccine candidate employing the gene fragment of S1 SARS-Cov-2 gene. This DNA fragment was inserted in frame into major pili protein gene with d2 domain of enterococcal operon encoding for pili. The DNA sequencing proved the presence of the insert in enterococcal genome. RNA transcription, immunoprecipitation, and immune electron microscopy with human sera obtained from the SARS-Cov-2 patients demonstrated expression of SARS-Cov-2 antigens in bacteria. Taken together the data obtained allowed considering this genetically modified probiotic strain as an interesting candidate for vaccine against SARS-Cov-2.
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38
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McEllistrem MC, Nordstrom HR, Lucas A, Decker BK, Van Tyne D. Detection of Vancomycin-Resistant Enterococcus faecium Endocarditis After Clearance of Vancomycin-Sensitive Enterococcus faecium Bacteremia. Microb Drug Resist 2021; 28:382-385. [PMID: 34918959 DOI: 10.1089/mdr.2021.0233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Vancomycin-resistant enterococcal (VRE) bacteremia is associated with higher mortality rates and longer hospitalizations than vancomycin-sensitive enterococcal (VSE) bacteremia. A 67-year-old man with a right psoas abscess and pacemaker-associated tricuspid valve endocarditis in September 2020 grew VSE Enterococcus faecium from blood cultures that cleared after administration of intravenous vancomycin and gentamicin. Subsequently, he underwent tricuspid valve repair, pacemaker removal, and partial lead extraction. Valve and postoperative blood cultures grew VRE E. faecium, which cleared after administration of intravenous daptomycin. One VSE and two VRE isolates were collected and sequenced. All isolates belonged to E. faecium multilocus sequence type ST17 and were closely related, having <20 mutations in pairwise genome comparisons. Vancomycin resistance was due to the acquisition of a plasmid-encoded VanA operon. None of the isolates encoded the virulence factors asa1, gelE, cylA, or hyl; all encoded a homologue of efaAfm. VSE E. faecium, but not VRE E. faecium isolates, encoded a glucose transporter gene mutation. Two VRE E. faecium isolates formed more robust biofilms than the VSE E. faecium isolate (p < 0.001). The VRE E. faecium isolates, which generated larger biofilms than the VSE E. faecium isolate, could have remained protected in the heart valve and only caused bacteremia when disrupted during cardiac surgery. This study demonstrates that bacteria detected in the bloodstream of patients with endocarditis may not fully represent the organisms adherent to the cardiac valves or indwelling devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary Catherine McEllistrem
- VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System, Infectious Diseases Section, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA.,Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Hayley R Nordstrom
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Aaron Lucas
- VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System, Infectious Diseases Section, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA.,Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Brooke K Decker
- VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System, Infectious Diseases Section, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA.,Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Daria Van Tyne
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
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39
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Dong J, Zhang L, He H, Jin Y, Wang Y, Chen L. Prevalence and conservation of ebp genes in Enterococcus faecalis originated from animals. J Appl Microbiol 2021; 132:3293-3301. [PMID: 34897902 DOI: 10.1111/jam.15409] [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: 08/09/2021] [Revised: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
AIMS The study aimed to investigate the prevalence and conservation of endocarditis and biofilm-associated pili (ebp) genes in Enterococcus faecalis originated from animals and the potential of developing Ebp into serological diagnostic and vaccine targets. METHODS AND RESULTS In this work, we investigated the prevalence and conservation of ebp genes in 116 strains of E. faecalis originated from animals by using PCR and sequencing methods. The results demonstrated the presence of ebp genes (ebpA, ebpB and ebpC) in all 116 strains of E. faecalis, and their amino acid homology ranges from 96.6% to 100.0%. Moreover, the phylogenetic analysis of ebp genes in all 164 E. faecalis strains (including 48 reference strains) revealed that ebp genes show no significant correlation with species origins and regions of E. faecalis, indicating that ebp genes are conserved features in E. faecalis, even though it evolved under environmental pressures from various regions and origins. Given that EbpA1 as a part of the adhesion protein EbpA has immunogenicity, we further determined whether amino acid mutations have effects on the function and 3D structure of EbpA1. The results showed that two of the 26 mutations, at amino acids positions 178 and 387, had deleterious effects on the biological function of EbpA1 protein, while all mutations had no effect on the 3D structure or binding pockets of EbpA1 protein. CONCLUSIONS This study suggests that ebp genes are prevalent and conserved in E. faecalis originated from diverse animal origins and regions. EbpA1 could be a potential target for serological diagnosis and vaccine development to prevent E. faecalis infection. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF STUDY The current study provides data to support further research on Ebp as a serological diagnostic and vaccine target against E. faecalis infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiajun Dong
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450002, Henan, China.,Key Laboratory for Animal-derived Food Safety of Henan Province, Zhengzhou, 450002, Henan, China
| | - Liujun Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450002, Henan, China
| | - Hengxu He
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450002, Henan, China.,Key Laboratory for Animal-derived Food Safety of Henan Province, Zhengzhou, 450002, Henan, China
| | - Yue Jin
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450002, Henan, China.,Key Laboratory for Animal-derived Food Safety of Henan Province, Zhengzhou, 450002, Henan, China
| | - Yabin Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450002, Henan, China.,Key Laboratory for Animal-derived Food Safety of Henan Province, Zhengzhou, 450002, Henan, China
| | - Liying Chen
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450002, Henan, China.,Key Laboratory for Animal-derived Food Safety of Henan Province, Zhengzhou, 450002, Henan, China
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40
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Chen Z, Song K, Shang Y, Xiong Y, Lyu Z, Chen J, Zheng J, Li P, Wu Y, Gu C, Xie Y, Deng Q, Yu Z, Zhang J, Qu D. Selection and Identification of Novel Antibacterial Agents against Planktonic Growth and Biofilm Formation of Enterococcus faecalis. J Med Chem 2021; 64:15037-15052. [PMID: 34657423 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.1c00939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
YycFG, one of the two-component systems involved in the regulation of biofilm formation, has attracted increasing interest as a potential target of antibacterial and antibiofilm agents. YycG inhibitors for Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis have been developed, but Enterococcus faecalis remains underexplored. Herein, we selected and identified novel candidate molecules against E. faecalis targeting histidine kinase YycG using high-throughput virtual screening; six molecules (compound-16, -30, -42, -46, -59, and -62) with low cytotoxicity toward mammalian cells were verified as potential YycG inhibitors through an autophosphorylation test and binding kinetics. Compound-16 inhibited planktonic cells of E. faecalis, including the vancomycin- or linezolid-resistant strains. In contrast, compound-62 did not affect planktonic growth but significantly inhibited biofilm formation in static and dynamic conditions. Compound-62 combined with ampicillin could synergistically eradicate the biofilm-embedded viable bacteria. The study demonstrates that YycG inhibitors may be valuable approaches for the development of novel antimicrobial agents for difficult-to-treat bacterial infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhong Chen
- Department of Infectious Diseases and the Key Lab of Endogenous Infection, Shenzhen Nanshan People's Hospital and The 6th Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University Health Science Center, Shenzhen 518052, China.,Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology of Ministries of Education and Health, Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Science and Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College of Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Kun Song
- Medicinal Bioinformatics Center, Shanghai Jiao-Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Yongpeng Shang
- Department of Infectious Diseases and the Key Lab of Endogenous Infection, Shenzhen Nanshan People's Hospital and The 6th Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University Health Science Center, Shenzhen 518052, China
| | - Yanpeng Xiong
- Department of Infectious Diseases and the Key Lab of Endogenous Infection, Shenzhen Nanshan People's Hospital and The 6th Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University Health Science Center, Shenzhen 518052, China
| | - Zhihui Lyu
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology of Ministries of Education and Health, Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Science and Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College of Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Junwen Chen
- Department of Infectious Diseases and the Key Lab of Endogenous Infection, Shenzhen Nanshan People's Hospital and The 6th Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University Health Science Center, Shenzhen 518052, China
| | - Jinxin Zheng
- Department of Infectious Diseases and the Key Lab of Endogenous Infection, Shenzhen Nanshan People's Hospital and The 6th Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University Health Science Center, Shenzhen 518052, China
| | - Peiyu Li
- Department of Infectious Diseases and the Key Lab of Endogenous Infection, Shenzhen Nanshan People's Hospital and The 6th Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University Health Science Center, Shenzhen 518052, China
| | - Yang Wu
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology of Ministries of Education and Health, Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Science and Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College of Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Chenjian Gu
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology of Ministries of Education and Health, Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Science and Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College of Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Youhua Xie
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology of Ministries of Education and Health, Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Science and Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College of Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Qiwen Deng
- Department of Infectious Diseases and the Key Lab of Endogenous Infection, Shenzhen Nanshan People's Hospital and The 6th Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University Health Science Center, Shenzhen 518052, China
| | - Zhijian Yu
- Department of Infectious Diseases and the Key Lab of Endogenous Infection, Shenzhen Nanshan People's Hospital and The 6th Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University Health Science Center, Shenzhen 518052, China
| | - Jian Zhang
- Medicinal Bioinformatics Center, Shanghai Jiao-Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Di Qu
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology of Ministries of Education and Health, Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Science and Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College of Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
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Abstract
Second messenger nucleotides are produced by bacteria in response to environmental stimuli and play a major role in the regulation of processes associated with bacterial fitness, including but not limited to osmoregulation, envelope homeostasis, central metabolism, and biofilm formation. In this study, we uncovered the biological significance of c-di-AMP in the opportunistic pathogen Enterococcus faecalis by isolating and characterizing strains lacking genes responsible for c-di-AMP synthesis (cdaA) and degradation (dhhP and gdpP). Using complementary approaches, we demonstrated that either complete loss of c-di-AMP (ΔcdaA strain) or c-di-AMP accumulation (ΔdhhP, ΔgdpP, and ΔdhhP ΔgdpP strains) drastically impaired general cell fitness and virulence of E. faecalis. In particular, the ΔcdaA strain was highly sensitive to envelope-targeting antibiotics, was unable to multiply and quickly lost viability in human serum or urine ex vivo, and was virtually avirulent in an invertebrate (Galleria mellonella) and in two catheter-associated mouse infection models that recapitulate key aspects of enterococcal infections in humans. In addition to evidence linking these phenotypes to altered activity of metabolite and peptide transporters and inability to maintain osmobalance, we found that the attenuated virulence of the ΔcdaA strain also could be attributed to a defect in Ebp pilus production and activity that severely impaired biofilm formation under both in vitro and in vivo conditions. Collectively, these results demonstrate that c-di-AMP signaling is essential for E. faecalis pathogenesis and a desirable target for drug development.
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Abstract
Mediators of the initiation, development, and recurrence of periodontitis include the oral microbiome embedded in subgingival plaque and the host immune response to a dysbiosis within this dynamic and complex microbial community. Although mediators have been studied extensively, researchers in the field have been unable to fully ascribe certain clinical presentations of periodontitis to their nature. Emergence of high-throughput sequencing technologies has resulted in better characterization of the microbial oral dysbiosis that extends beyond the extensively studied putative bacterial periodontopathogens to a shift in the oral virome composition during disease conditions. Although the biological dark matter inserted by retroviruses was once believed to be nonfunctional, research has revealed that it encodes historical viral-eukaryotic interactions and influences host development. The objective of this review is to evaluate the proposed association of herpesviruses to the etiology and pathogenesis of periodontal disease and survey the highly abundant prokaryotic viruses to delineate their potential roles in biofilm dynamics, as well as their interactions with putative bacterial periodontopathogens and eukaryotic cells. The findings suggest that potential novel periodontal therapies targeting or utilizing the oral virome can alleviate certain clinical presentations of periodontitis. Perhaps it is time to embrace the viral dark matter within the periodontal environment to fully comprehend the pathogenesis and systemic implications of periodontitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- April Martínez
- Orofacial Sciences DepartmentSchool of DentistryUniversity of California, San FranciscoSan FranciscoCaliforniaUSA
| | - Ryutaro Kuraji
- Orofacial Sciences DepartmentSchool of DentistryUniversity of California, San FranciscoSan FranciscoCaliforniaUSA
- Department of Life Science DentistryThe Nippon Dental UniversityTokyoJapan
- Department of PeriodontologyThe Nippon Dental University School of Life Dentistry at TokyoTokyoJapan
| | - Yvonne L. Kapila
- Orofacial Sciences DepartmentSchool of DentistryUniversity of California, San FranciscoSan FranciscoCaliforniaUSA
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Ramos Y, Sansone S, Morales DK. Sugarcoating it: Enterococcal polysaccharides as key modulators of host-pathogen interactions. PLoS Pathog 2021; 17:e1009822. [PMID: 34499702 PMCID: PMC8428557 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1009822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Yusibeska Ramos
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Stephanie Sansone
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, United States of America
- Department of Urology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Diana K. Morales
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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The Many Faces of Enterococcus spp.-Commensal, Probiotic and Opportunistic Pathogen. Microorganisms 2021; 9:microorganisms9091900. [PMID: 34576796 PMCID: PMC8470767 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms9091900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Revised: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Enterococcus spp. are Gram-positive, facultative, anaerobic cocci, which are found in the intestinal flora and, less frequently, in the vagina or mouth. Enterococcus faecalis and Enterococcus faecium are the most common species found in humans. As commensals, enterococci colonize the digestive system and participate in the modulation of the immune system in humans and animals. For many years reference enterococcal strains have been used as probiotic food additives or have been recommended as supplements for the treatment of intestinal dysbiosis and other conditions. The use of Enterococcus strains as probiotics has recently become controversial due to the ease of acquiring different virulence factors and resistance to various classes of antibiotics. Enterococci are also seen as opportunistic pathogens. This problem is especially relevant in hospital environments, where enterococcal outbreaks often occur. Their ability to translocate from the gastro-intestinal tract to various tissues and organs as well as their virulence and antibiotic resistance are risk factors that hinder eradication. Due to numerous reports on the plasticity of the enterococcal genome and the acquisition of pathogenic microbial features, we ask ourselves, how far is this commensal genus from acquiring pathogenicity? This paper discusses both the beneficial properties of these microorganisms and the risk factors related to their evolution towards pathogenicity.
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Barnes AMT, Frank KL, Dunny GM. Enterococcal Endocarditis: Hiding in Plain Sight. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2021; 11:722482. [PMID: 34527603 PMCID: PMC8435889 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2021.722482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Enterococcus faecalis is a major opportunistic bacterial pathogen of increasing clinical relevance. A substantial body of experimental evidence suggests that early biofilm formation plays a critical role in these infections, as well as in colonization and persistence in the GI tract as a commensal member of the microbiome in most terrestrial animals. Animal models of experimental endocarditis generally involve inducing mechanical valve damage by cardiac catheterization prior to infection, and it has long been presumed that endocarditis vegetation formation resulting from bacterial attachment to the endocardial endothelium requires some pre-existing tissue damage. Here we review both historical and contemporary animal model studies demonstrating the robust ability of E. faecalis to directly attach and form stable microcolony biofilms encased within a bacterially-derived extracellular matrix on the undamaged endovascular endothelial surface. We also discuss the morphological similarities when these biofilms form on other host tissues, including when E. faecalis colonizes the GI epithelium as a commensal member of the normal vertebrate microbiome - hiding in plain sight where it can serve as a source for systemic infection via translocation. We propose that these phenotypes may allow the organism to persist as an undetected infection in asymptomatic individuals and thus provide an infectious reservoir for later clinical endocarditis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron M. T. Barnes
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Minnesota School of Medicine, Minneapolis, MN, United States
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Minnesota School of Medicine, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Kristi L. Frank
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Minnesota School of Medicine, Minneapolis, MN, United States
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Gary M. Dunny
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Minnesota School of Medicine, Minneapolis, MN, United States
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46
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Samrot AV, Abubakar Mohamed A, Faradjeva E, Si Jie L, Hooi Sze C, Arif A, Chuan Sean T, Norbert Michael E, Yeok Mun C, Xiao Qi N, Ling Mok P, Kumar SS. Mechanisms and Impact of Biofilms and Targeting of Biofilms Using Bioactive Compounds-A Review. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2021; 57:839. [PMID: 34441045 PMCID: PMC8401077 DOI: 10.3390/medicina57080839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Biofilms comprising aggregates of microorganisms or multicellular communities have been a major issue as they cause resistance against antimicrobial agents and biofouling. To date, numerous biofilm-forming microorganisms have been identified, which have been shown to result in major effects including biofouling and biofilm-related infections. Quorum sensing (which describes the cell communication within biofilms) plays a vital role in the regulation of biofilm formation and its virulence. As such, elucidating the various mechanisms responsible for biofilm resistance (including quorum sensing) will assist in developing strategies to inhibit and control the formation of biofilms in nature. Employing biological control measures (such as the use of bioactive compounds) in targeting biofilms is of great interest since they naturally possess antimicrobial activity among other favorable attributes and can also possibly act as potent antibiofilm agents. As an effort to re-establish the current notion and understanding of biofilms, the present review discuss the stages involved in biofilm formation, the factors contributing to its development, the effects of biofilms in various industries, and the use of various bioactive compounds and their strategies in biofilm inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antony V. Samrot
- School of Bioscience, Faculty of Medicine, Bioscience and Nursing, MAHSA University, Jenjarom 42610, Selangor, Malaysia; (A.A.M.); (E.F.); (L.S.J.); (C.H.S.); (A.A.); (T.C.S.); (E.N.M.); (C.Y.M.); (N.X.Q.)
| | - Amira Abubakar Mohamed
- School of Bioscience, Faculty of Medicine, Bioscience and Nursing, MAHSA University, Jenjarom 42610, Selangor, Malaysia; (A.A.M.); (E.F.); (L.S.J.); (C.H.S.); (A.A.); (T.C.S.); (E.N.M.); (C.Y.M.); (N.X.Q.)
| | - Etel Faradjeva
- School of Bioscience, Faculty of Medicine, Bioscience and Nursing, MAHSA University, Jenjarom 42610, Selangor, Malaysia; (A.A.M.); (E.F.); (L.S.J.); (C.H.S.); (A.A.); (T.C.S.); (E.N.M.); (C.Y.M.); (N.X.Q.)
| | - Lee Si Jie
- School of Bioscience, Faculty of Medicine, Bioscience and Nursing, MAHSA University, Jenjarom 42610, Selangor, Malaysia; (A.A.M.); (E.F.); (L.S.J.); (C.H.S.); (A.A.); (T.C.S.); (E.N.M.); (C.Y.M.); (N.X.Q.)
| | - Chin Hooi Sze
- School of Bioscience, Faculty of Medicine, Bioscience and Nursing, MAHSA University, Jenjarom 42610, Selangor, Malaysia; (A.A.M.); (E.F.); (L.S.J.); (C.H.S.); (A.A.); (T.C.S.); (E.N.M.); (C.Y.M.); (N.X.Q.)
| | - Akasha Arif
- School of Bioscience, Faculty of Medicine, Bioscience and Nursing, MAHSA University, Jenjarom 42610, Selangor, Malaysia; (A.A.M.); (E.F.); (L.S.J.); (C.H.S.); (A.A.); (T.C.S.); (E.N.M.); (C.Y.M.); (N.X.Q.)
| | - Tan Chuan Sean
- School of Bioscience, Faculty of Medicine, Bioscience and Nursing, MAHSA University, Jenjarom 42610, Selangor, Malaysia; (A.A.M.); (E.F.); (L.S.J.); (C.H.S.); (A.A.); (T.C.S.); (E.N.M.); (C.Y.M.); (N.X.Q.)
| | - Emmanuel Norbert Michael
- School of Bioscience, Faculty of Medicine, Bioscience and Nursing, MAHSA University, Jenjarom 42610, Selangor, Malaysia; (A.A.M.); (E.F.); (L.S.J.); (C.H.S.); (A.A.); (T.C.S.); (E.N.M.); (C.Y.M.); (N.X.Q.)
| | - Chua Yeok Mun
- School of Bioscience, Faculty of Medicine, Bioscience and Nursing, MAHSA University, Jenjarom 42610, Selangor, Malaysia; (A.A.M.); (E.F.); (L.S.J.); (C.H.S.); (A.A.); (T.C.S.); (E.N.M.); (C.Y.M.); (N.X.Q.)
| | - Ng Xiao Qi
- School of Bioscience, Faculty of Medicine, Bioscience and Nursing, MAHSA University, Jenjarom 42610, Selangor, Malaysia; (A.A.M.); (E.F.); (L.S.J.); (C.H.S.); (A.A.); (T.C.S.); (E.N.M.); (C.Y.M.); (N.X.Q.)
| | - Pooi Ling Mok
- Department of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), Serdang 43400, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Suresh S. Kumar
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), Serdang 43400, Selangor, Malaysia
- Department of Biotechnology, Bharath Institute of Higher Education and Research, Agharam Road Selaiyur, Chennai 600 073, Tamil Nadu, India
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47
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Comparative Biofilm Assays Using Enterococcus faecalis OG1RF Identify New Determinants of Biofilm Formation. mBio 2021; 12:e0101121. [PMID: 34126766 PMCID: PMC8262879 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.01011-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Enterococcus faecalis is a common commensal organism and a prolific nosocomial pathogen that causes biofilm-associated infections. Numerous E. faecalis OG1RF genes required for biofilm formation have been identified, but few studies have compared genetic determinants of biofilm formation and biofilm morphology across multiple conditions. Here, we cultured transposon (Tn) libraries in CDC biofilm reactors in two different media and used Tn sequencing (TnSeq) to identify core and accessory biofilm determinants, including many genes that are poorly characterized or annotated as hypothetical. Multiple secondary assays (96-well plates, submerged Aclar discs, and MultiRep biofilm reactors) were used to validate phenotypes of new biofilm determinants. We quantified biofilm cells and used fluorescence microscopy to visualize biofilms formed by six Tn mutants identified using TnSeq and found that disrupting these genes (OG1RF_10350, prsA, tig, OG1RF_10576, OG1RF_11288, and OG1RF_11456) leads to significant time- and medium-dependent changes in biofilm architecture. Structural predictions revealed potential roles in cell wall homeostasis for OG1RF_10350 and OG1RF_11288 and signaling for OG1RF_11456. Additionally, we identified growth medium-specific hallmarks of OG1RF biofilm morphology. This study demonstrates how E. faecalis biofilm architecture is modulated by growth medium and experimental conditions and identifies multiple new genetic determinants of biofilm formation.
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Susmitha A, Bajaj H, Madhavan Nampoothiri K. The divergent roles of sortase in the biology of Gram-positive bacteria. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 7:100055. [PMID: 34195501 PMCID: PMC8225981 DOI: 10.1016/j.tcsw.2021.100055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2021] [Revised: 06/11/2021] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The bacterial cell wall contains numerous surface-exposed proteins, which are covalently anchored and assembled by a sortase family of transpeptidase enzymes. The sortase are cysteine transpeptidases that catalyzes the covalent attachment of surface protein to the cell wall peptidoglycan. Among the reported six classes of sortases, each distinct class of sortase plays a unique biological role in anchoring a variety of surface proteins to the peptidoglycan of both pathogenic and non-pathogenic Gram-positive bacteria. Sortases not only exhibit virulence and pathogenesis properties to host cells, but also possess a significant role in gut retention and immunomodulation in probiotic microbes. The two main distinct functions are to attach proteins directly to the cell wall or assemble pili on the microbial surface. This review provides a compendium of the distribution of different classes of sortases present in both pathogenic and non-pathogenic Gram-positive bacteria and also the noteworthy role played by them in bacterial cell wall assembly which enables each microbe to effectively interact with its environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aliyath Susmitha
- Microbial Processes and Technology Division, CSIR - National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology (NIIST), Trivandrum 695019, Kerala, India.,Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, India
| | - Harsha Bajaj
- Microbial Processes and Technology Division, CSIR - National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology (NIIST), Trivandrum 695019, Kerala, India
| | - Kesavan Madhavan Nampoothiri
- Microbial Processes and Technology Division, CSIR - National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology (NIIST), Trivandrum 695019, Kerala, India.,Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, India
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49
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Del Giudice C, Vaia E, Liccardo D, Marzano F, Valletta A, Spagnuolo G, Ferrara N, Rengo C, Cannavo A, Rengo G. Infective Endocarditis: A Focus on Oral Microbiota. Microorganisms 2021; 9:1218. [PMID: 34199916 PMCID: PMC8227130 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms9061218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2021] [Revised: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 06/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Infective endocarditis (IE) is an inflammatory disease usually caused by bacteria entering the bloodstream and settling in the heart lining valves or blood vessels. Despite modern antimicrobial and surgical treatments, IE continues to cause substantial morbidity and mortality. Thus, primary prevention and enhanced diagnosis remain the most important strategies to fight this disease. In this regard, it is worth noting that for over 50 years, oral microbiota has been considered one of the significant risk factors for IE. Indeed, among the disparate recommendations from the American heart association and the European Society of Cardiology, there are good oral hygiene and prophylaxis for high-risk patients undergoing dental procedures. Thus, significant interest has grown in the role of oral microbiota and it continues to be a subject of research interest, especially if we consider that antimicrobial treatments can generate drug-resistant mutant bacteria, becoming a severe social problem. This review will describe the current knowledge about the relationship between oral microbiota, dental procedures, and IE. Further, it will discuss current methods used to prevent IE cases that originate from oral pathogens and how these should be focused on improving oral hygiene, which remains the significant persuasible way to prevent bacteremia and systemic disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmela Del Giudice
- Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive and Odontostomatological Sciences, Federico II University of Naples, 80131 Naples, Italy; (C.D.G.); (E.V.); (A.V.); (G.S.)
| | - Emanuele Vaia
- Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive and Odontostomatological Sciences, Federico II University of Naples, 80131 Naples, Italy; (C.D.G.); (E.V.); (A.V.); (G.S.)
| | - Daniela Liccardo
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Medicine Federico II University of Naples, 80131 Naples, Italy; (D.L.); (N.F.); (G.R.)
| | - Federica Marzano
- Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy;
| | - Alessandra Valletta
- Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive and Odontostomatological Sciences, Federico II University of Naples, 80131 Naples, Italy; (C.D.G.); (E.V.); (A.V.); (G.S.)
| | - Gianrico Spagnuolo
- Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive and Odontostomatological Sciences, Federico II University of Naples, 80131 Naples, Italy; (C.D.G.); (E.V.); (A.V.); (G.S.)
- Institute of Dentistry, I. M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, 119435 Moscow, Russia
| | - Nicola Ferrara
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Medicine Federico II University of Naples, 80131 Naples, Italy; (D.L.); (N.F.); (G.R.)
- Istituti Clinici Scientifici ICS-Maugeri, 82037 Telese Terme, Italy
| | - Carlo Rengo
- Department of Prosthodontics and Dental Materials, School of Dental Medicine, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy;
| | - Alessandro Cannavo
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Medicine Federico II University of Naples, 80131 Naples, Italy; (D.L.); (N.F.); (G.R.)
| | - Giuseppe Rengo
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Medicine Federico II University of Naples, 80131 Naples, Italy; (D.L.); (N.F.); (G.R.)
- Istituti Clinici Scientifici ICS-Maugeri, 82037 Telese Terme, Italy
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50
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Ozma MA, Khodadadi E, Rezaee MA, Kamounah FS, Asgharzadeh M, Ganbarov K, Aghazadeh M, Yousefi M, Pirzadeh T, Kafil HS. Induction of proteome changes involved in biofilm formation of Enterococcus faecalis in response to gentamicin. Microb Pathog 2021; 157:105003. [PMID: 34087388 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2021.105003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2021] [Revised: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Enterococcus faecalis is a significant cause of nosocomial infections and other diseases, including endocarditis, bacteremia, and urinary tract infections. This microorganism forms biofilms to overcome difficult environmental conditions, such as lack of oxygen, lack of water, and the presence of antimicrobials. These biofilms make diseases difficult by changing their proteome contents, protecting the bacterium, and increasing their pathogenicity. This study aimed to evaluate gentamicin's effect on proteome changes and biofilm formation in E. faecalis. METHOD Twenty-five clinical isolates and one standard isolate were selected for the experiments. A label-free/gel-free proteomic and microtiter plate techniques were used to study proteome changes and biofilm formation, respectively. RESULTS Gentamicin significantly increased the biofilm formation in 62% of isolates and the rest of the isolates; no significant change was observed. The abundance of lactate utilization protein C, ribosomal RNA small subunit methyltransferase H, and protein translocase subunit SecA were increased. However, the abundances of proteins effective in cell division and metabolism, such as replication initiation protein and segregation and condensation protein A, were decreased. CONCLUSION The present study's findings exhibited that antibiotics might have adverse effects on treatment and increase microorganisms' pathogenicity. It was observed in gentamicin as induction of biofilm formation through different mechanisms, particularly changes in the expression of specific proteins in E. faecalis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahdi Asghari Ozma
- Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Ehsaneh Khodadadi
- Drug Applied Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | | | - Fadhil S Kamounah
- Department of Chemistry, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 5, DK- 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Mohammad Asgharzadeh
- Biotechnology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | | | - Mohammad Aghazadeh
- Research Center for Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mehdi Yousefi
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Tahereh Pirzadeh
- Drug Applied Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Hossein Samadi Kafil
- Drug Applied Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
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