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Carasso S, Zaatry R, Hajjo H, Kadosh-Kariti D, Ben-Assa N, Naddaf R, Mandelbaum N, Pressman S, Chowers Y, Gefen T, Jeffrey KL, Jofre J, Coyne MJ, Comstock LE, Sharon I, Geva-Zatorsky N. Inflammation and bacteriophages affect DNA inversion states and functionality of the gut microbiota. Cell Host Microbe 2024; 32:322-334.e9. [PMID: 38423015 PMCID: PMC10939037 DOI: 10.1016/j.chom.2024.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2023] [Revised: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Reversible genomic DNA inversions control the expression of numerous gut bacterial molecules, but how this impacts disease remains uncertain. By analyzing metagenomic samples from inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) cohorts, we identified multiple invertible regions where a particular orientation correlated with disease. These include the promoter of polysaccharide A (PSA) of Bacteroides fragilis, which induces regulatory T cells (Tregs) and ameliorates experimental colitis. The PSA promoter was mostly oriented "OFF" in IBD patients, which correlated with increased B. fragilis-associated bacteriophages. Similarly, in mice colonized with a healthy human microbiota and B. fragilis, induction of colitis caused a decline of PSA in the "ON" orientation that reversed as inflammation resolved. Monocolonization of mice with B. fragilis revealed that bacteriophage infection increased the frequency of PSA in the "OFF" orientation, causing reduced PSA expression and decreased Treg cells. Altogether, we reveal dynamic bacterial phase variations driven by bacteriophages and host inflammation, signifying bacterial functional plasticity during disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaqed Carasso
- Department of Cell Biology and Cancer Science, Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Rappaport Technion Integrated Cancer Center (RTICC), Haifa 32000, Israel
| | - Rawan Zaatry
- Department of Cell Biology and Cancer Science, Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Rappaport Technion Integrated Cancer Center (RTICC), Haifa 32000, Israel
| | - Haitham Hajjo
- Department of Cell Biology and Cancer Science, Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Rappaport Technion Integrated Cancer Center (RTICC), Haifa 32000, Israel
| | - Dana Kadosh-Kariti
- Department of Cell Biology and Cancer Science, Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Rappaport Technion Integrated Cancer Center (RTICC), Haifa 32000, Israel
| | - Nadav Ben-Assa
- Department of Cell Biology and Cancer Science, Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Rappaport Technion Integrated Cancer Center (RTICC), Haifa 32000, Israel
| | - Rawi Naddaf
- Department of Cell Biology and Cancer Science, Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Rappaport Technion Integrated Cancer Center (RTICC), Haifa 32000, Israel
| | - Noa Mandelbaum
- Department of Cell Biology and Cancer Science, Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Rappaport Technion Integrated Cancer Center (RTICC), Haifa 32000, Israel
| | - Sigal Pressman
- Department of Gastroenterology, Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa 3109601, Israel; Clinical Research Institute, Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa 3109601, Israel
| | - Yehuda Chowers
- Department of Gastroenterology, Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa 3109601, Israel; Clinical Research Institute, Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa 3109601, Israel; Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa 32000, Israel
| | - Tal Gefen
- Department of Cell Biology and Cancer Science, Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Rappaport Technion Integrated Cancer Center (RTICC), Haifa 32000, Israel
| | - Kate L Jeffrey
- Moderna, Inc., Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Center for the Study of Inflammatory Bowel Disease, Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital Research Institute, Boston, MA 02114, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Program in Immunology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Juan Jofre
- Department of Genetics, Microbiology and Statistics, School of Biology, University of Barcelona, Avda. Diagonal 643 08028, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Michael J Coyne
- Duchossois Family Institute and Department of Microbiology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Laurie E Comstock
- Duchossois Family Institute and Department of Microbiology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Itai Sharon
- Migal-Galilee Research Institute, P.O. Box 831, Kiryat Shmona 11016, Israel; Faculty of Sciences and Technology, Tel-Hai Academic College, Upper Galilee 1220800, Israel
| | - Naama Geva-Zatorsky
- Department of Cell Biology and Cancer Science, Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Rappaport Technion Integrated Cancer Center (RTICC), Haifa 32000, Israel; CIFAR, MaRS Centre, West Tower 661, Suite 505, Toronto, ON M5G 1M1, Canada.
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Jacky D, Bibi C, Meng LMC, Jason F, Gwendoline T, Jeremy L, Wie CC. Effects of OsomeFood Clean Label plant-based meals on the gut microbiome. BMC Microbiol 2023; 23:88. [PMID: 36997838 PMCID: PMC10061721 DOI: 10.1186/s12866-023-02822-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 04/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Plant-based diets offer more beneficial microbes and can modulate gut microbiomes to improve human health. We evaluated the effects of the plant-based OsomeFood Clean Label meal range ('AWE' diet), on the human gut microbiome. METHODS Over 21 days, ten healthy participants consumed OsomeFood meals for five consecutive weekday lunches and dinners and resumed their regular diets for other days/meals. On follow-up days, participants completed questionnaires to record satiety, energy and health, and provided stool samples. To document microbiome variations and identify associations, species and functional pathway annotations were analyzed by shotgun sequencing. Shannon diversity and regular diet calorie intake subsets were also assessed. RESULTS Overweight participants gained more species and functional pathway diversity than normal BMI participants. Nineteen disease-associated species were suppressed in moderate-responders without gaining diversity, and in strong-responders with diversity gains along with health-associated species. All participants reported improved short-chain fatty acids production, insulin and γ-aminobutyric acid signaling. Moreover, fullness correlated positively with Bacteroides eggerthii; energetic status with B. uniformis, B. longum, Phascolarctobacterium succinatutens, and Eubacterium eligens; healthy status with Faecalibacterium prausnitzii, Prevotella CAG 5226, Roseburia hominis, and Roseburia sp. CAG 182; and overall response with E. eligens and Corprococcus eutactus. Fiber consumption was negatively associated with pathogenic species. CONCLUSION Although the AWE diet was consumed for only five days a week, all participants, especially overweight ones, experienced improved fullness, health status, energy and overall responses. The AWE diet benefits all individuals, especially those of higher BMI or low-fiber consumption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dwiyanto Jacky
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Chong Chun Wie
- School of Pharmacy, Monash University Malaysia, 47500, Subang Jaya, Malaysia
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El Mouzan MI, Assiri AA, Al Sarkhy AA, Alasmi MM. Gut virome profile in healthy Saudi children. Saudi J Gastroenterol 2023:370179. [PMID: 36814173 DOI: 10.4103/sjg.sjg_444_22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The role of viruses is well known in health and disease. The aim of this report was to describe the profile of viruses in the gut of healthy Saudi children. Methods In 20 randomly selected school age children from Riyadh, stool samples were collected in cryovials and stored at -80° C. At the time of analysis, the samples were sent by express mail in a temperature-controlled container to the laboratory in the USA, Viral DNA was isolated and shotgun metagenomic sequencing was performed. The abundance of each organism was expressed as an average relative percentage across the viral phylogenetic tree from phyla to species. Results The median age of the children was 11.3 (range 6.8-15.4) years, and 35% were males. Caudovirales were the most abundant bacteriophage order (77%) and Siphoviridae, Myoviridae, and Podoviridae families predominated, accounting for 41%, 25%, and 11%, respectively. Among the viral bacteriophage species, the most abundant were the Enterobacteria phages. Conclusion The profile and abundance of the gut virome in healthy Saudi children reveal important differences from the literature. Further studies from different populations with larger sample sizes are needed to understand the role of gut viruses in the pathogenesis of disease in general and in the response to fecal microbiota therapy in particular.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad I El Mouzan
- Department of Pediatrics, Gastroenterology Unit, College of Medicine and King Saud University Medical City, King Khaled University Hospital, King Saud University, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Asaad A Assiri
- Department of Pediatrics, Gastroenterology Unit, College of Medicine and King Khaled University Hospital, Prince Abdullah Bin Khalid Celiac Disease Research Chair, King Saud University, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmed A Al Sarkhy
- Department of Pediatrics, Gastroenterology Unit, College of Medicine, King Khaled University Hospital, King Saud University, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Mona M Alasmi
- Department of Pediatrics, Gastroenterology Unit, King Saud University Medical City, King Khaled University Hospital, King Saud University, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
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Hedžet S, Rupnik M, Accetto T. Broad host range may be a key to long-term persistence of bacteriophages infecting intestinal Bacteroidaceae species. Sci Rep 2022; 12:21098. [PMID: 36473906 PMCID: PMC9727126 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-25636-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The longitudinal studies have found that the human gut microbiota is stable over time with some major bacterial lineages or even strains persisting for years. This was recently extended to gut bacteriophages using the metagenomic data. Here, we focused on cultivation of the major Bacteroidetes of human gut, the Bacteroides and Phocaeicola strains, and their bacteriophages from two healthy donors. The persistence of Bacteroides and Phocaeicola species and strains was confirmed. We isolated 28 genetically different phages grouped into seven distinct clusters, two of these were new. Moreover, the bacteriophages from several groups, although being genetically quite homogeneous, had the ability to infect the strains belonging to different species isolated from several sampling time-points and different donors. We propose that the ability to infect several host species, which differ in their nutritional niches, may promote long-term persistence of dominant gut bacteriophage groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stina Hedžet
- grid.439263.9Department for Microbiological Research, Centre for Medical Microbiology, National Laboratory for Health, Environment and Food, NLZOH, Prvomajska Ulica 1, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia
| | - Maja Rupnik
- grid.439263.9Department for Microbiological Research, Centre for Medical Microbiology, National Laboratory for Health, Environment and Food, NLZOH, Prvomajska Ulica 1, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia ,grid.8647.d0000 0004 0637 0731Faculty of Medicine, University of Maribor, Taborska Ulica 8, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia
| | - Tomaž Accetto
- grid.8954.00000 0001 0721 6013Department of Microbiology, Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Groblje 3, 1230 Domžale, Slovenia
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Pekkle Lam HY, Peng SY, Paramita P, Wu WJ, Chen LK, Chao HJ, Lai MJ, Chang KC. Biological and genomic characterization of two newly isolated Elizabethkingia anophelis bacteriophages. JOURNAL OF MICROBIOLOGY, IMMUNOLOGY, AND INFECTION = WEI MIAN YU GAN RAN ZA ZHI 2022; 55:634-642. [PMID: 35717525 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmii.2022.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Revised: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/29/2022] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Elizabethkingia anophelis is an opportunistic pathogen that infects newborns and immunocompromised patients. Because the infection is associated with high mortality as a result of its intrinsic resistance to antibiotics, alternative treatment methods are needed. Our previous study successfully isolated the world's first E. anophelis phage, TCUEAP1, which showed beneficial protection to E. anophelis-infected mice. More new bacteriophages are needed in order to provide sufficient choices to combat E. anophelis infections. METHODS In the current study, two new phages infecting E. anophelis were isolated from wastewater and were designated as TCUEAP2 and TCUEAP3. Further experiments, namely, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), infection assay, host-range analysis, and sequencing were performed to determine their biological and genomic characteristics. RESULTS TEM analysis revealed that both TCUEAP2 and TCUEAP3 possess an icosahedral head with a non-contractile tail, and belong to the Siphoviridae family. Further experiments revealed that TCUEAP3 has a longer latent period and higher burst size compared to TCUEAP2. Host range analysis showed that both TCUEAP2 and TCUEAP3 have a narrow host range, infecting only their respective hosts. The genomic size of phage TCUEAP2 was 42,403 bps containing 61 predicted open reading frames (ORFs), whereas the genome size of TCUEAP3 was 37,073 bps containing 40 predicted ORFs. CONCLUSION Due to the distinct biological characteristics of TCUEAP2 and TCUEAP3, they may be satisfactory for clinical uses such as preparation of phage cocktails or decontamination in clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ho Yin Pekkle Lam
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Tzu Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan; Institute of Medical Sciences, Tzu Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - Shih-Yi Peng
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Tzu Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan; Institute of Medical Sciences, Tzu Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - Prajna Paramita
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Biotechnology, Tzu Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Jui Wu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Biotechnology, Tzu Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - Li-Kuang Chen
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - Huei-Jen Chao
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - Meng-Jiun Lai
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Biotechnology, Tzu Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan.
| | - Kai-Chih Chang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Biotechnology, Tzu Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan; Department of Laboratory Medicine, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, Hualien, Taiwan.
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Ballesté E, Blanch AR, Muniesa M, García-Aljaro C, Rodríguez-Rubio L, Martín-Díaz J, Pascual-Benito M, Jofre J. Bacteriophages in sewage: abundance, roles, and applications. FEMS MICROBES 2022; 3:xtac009. [PMID: 37332509 PMCID: PMC10117732 DOI: 10.1093/femsmc/xtac009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2021] [Revised: 03/03/2022] [Accepted: 03/12/2022] [Indexed: 08/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The raw sewage that flows through sewage systems contains a complex microbial community whose main source is the human gut microbiome, with bacteriophages being as abundant as bacteria or even more so. Phages that infect common strains of the human gut bacteriome and transient bacterial pathogens have been isolated in raw sewage, as have other phages corresponding to non-sewage inputs. Although human gut phages do not seem to replicate during their transit through the sewers, they predominate at the entrance of wastewater treatment plants, inside which the dominant populations of bacteria and phages undergo a swift change. The sheer abundance of phages in the sewage virome prompts several questions, some of which are addressed in this review. There is growing concern about their potential role in the horizontal transfer of genes, including those related with bacterial pathogenicity and antibiotic resistance. On the other hand, some phages that infect human gut bacteria are being used as indicators of fecal/viral water pollution and as source tracking markers and have been introduced in water quality legislation. Other potential applications of enteric phages to control bacterial pathogens in sewage or undesirable bacteria that impede the efficacy of wastewater treatments, including biofilm formation on membranes, are still being researched.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisenda Ballesté
- Departament de Genètica, Microbiologia i Estadística, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Anicet R Blanch
- Departament de Genètica, Microbiologia i Estadística, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Maite Muniesa
- Departament de Genètica, Microbiologia i Estadística, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Cristina García-Aljaro
- Departament de Genètica, Microbiologia i Estadística, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Lorena Rodríguez-Rubio
- Departament de Genètica, Microbiologia i Estadística, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Julia Martín-Díaz
- Departament de Genètica, Microbiologia i Estadística, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Miriam Pascual-Benito
- Departament de Genètica, Microbiologia i Estadística, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - J Jofre
- Reial Academia de Ciències i Arts de Barcelona, La Rambla, 115, 08002 Barcelona, Spain
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Hsieh SY, Tariq MA, Telatin A, Ansorge R, Adriaenssens EM, Savva GM, Booth C, Wileman T, Hoyles L, Carding SR. Comparison of PCR versus PCR-Free DNA Library Preparation for Characterising the Human Faecal Virome. Viruses 2021; 13:2093. [PMID: 34696523 PMCID: PMC8537689 DOI: 10.3390/v13102093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2021] [Revised: 10/13/2021] [Accepted: 10/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The human intestinal microbiota is abundant in viruses, comprising mainly bacteriophages, occasionally outnumbering bacteria 10:1 and is termed the virome. Due to their high genetic diversity and the lack of suitable tools and reference databases, the virome remains poorly characterised and is often referred to as "viral dark matter". However, the choice of sequencing platforms, read lengths and library preparation make study design challenging with respect to the virome. Here we have compared the use of PCR and PCR-free methods for sequence-library construction on the Illumina sequencing platform for characterising the human faecal virome. Viral DNA was extracted from faecal samples of three healthy donors and sequenced. Our analysis shows that most variation was reflecting the individually specific faecal virome. However, we observed differences between PCR and PCR-free library preparation that affected the recovery of low-abundance viral genomes. Using three faecal samples in this study, the PCR library preparation samples led to a loss of lower-abundance vOTUs evident in their PCR-free pairs (vOTUs 128, 6202 and 8364) and decreased the alpha-diversity indices (Chao1 p-value = 0.045 and Simpson p-value = 0.044). Thus, differences between PCR and PCR-free methods are important to consider when investigating "rare" members of the gut virome, with these biases likely negligible when investigating moderately and highly abundant viruses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shen-Yuan Hsieh
- Gut Microbes and Health Research Programme, Quadram Institute Bioscience, Norwich Research Park, Norwich NR4 7UQ, UK; (S.-Y.H.); (A.T.); (R.A.); (E.M.A.); (G.M.S.); (C.B.); (T.W.); (S.R.C.)
| | - Mohammad A. Tariq
- Gut Microbes and Health Research Programme, Quadram Institute Bioscience, Norwich Research Park, Norwich NR4 7UQ, UK; (S.-Y.H.); (A.T.); (R.A.); (E.M.A.); (G.M.S.); (C.B.); (T.W.); (S.R.C.)
| | - Andrea Telatin
- Gut Microbes and Health Research Programme, Quadram Institute Bioscience, Norwich Research Park, Norwich NR4 7UQ, UK; (S.-Y.H.); (A.T.); (R.A.); (E.M.A.); (G.M.S.); (C.B.); (T.W.); (S.R.C.)
| | - Rebecca Ansorge
- Gut Microbes and Health Research Programme, Quadram Institute Bioscience, Norwich Research Park, Norwich NR4 7UQ, UK; (S.-Y.H.); (A.T.); (R.A.); (E.M.A.); (G.M.S.); (C.B.); (T.W.); (S.R.C.)
| | - Evelien M. Adriaenssens
- Gut Microbes and Health Research Programme, Quadram Institute Bioscience, Norwich Research Park, Norwich NR4 7UQ, UK; (S.-Y.H.); (A.T.); (R.A.); (E.M.A.); (G.M.S.); (C.B.); (T.W.); (S.R.C.)
| | - George M. Savva
- Gut Microbes and Health Research Programme, Quadram Institute Bioscience, Norwich Research Park, Norwich NR4 7UQ, UK; (S.-Y.H.); (A.T.); (R.A.); (E.M.A.); (G.M.S.); (C.B.); (T.W.); (S.R.C.)
| | - Catherine Booth
- Gut Microbes and Health Research Programme, Quadram Institute Bioscience, Norwich Research Park, Norwich NR4 7UQ, UK; (S.-Y.H.); (A.T.); (R.A.); (E.M.A.); (G.M.S.); (C.B.); (T.W.); (S.R.C.)
| | - Tom Wileman
- Gut Microbes and Health Research Programme, Quadram Institute Bioscience, Norwich Research Park, Norwich NR4 7UQ, UK; (S.-Y.H.); (A.T.); (R.A.); (E.M.A.); (G.M.S.); (C.B.); (T.W.); (S.R.C.)
- Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich NR4 7TJ, UK
| | - Lesley Hoyles
- Department of Biosciences, School of Science & Technology, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham NG11 8NS, UK;
| | - Simon R. Carding
- Gut Microbes and Health Research Programme, Quadram Institute Bioscience, Norwich Research Park, Norwich NR4 7UQ, UK; (S.-Y.H.); (A.T.); (R.A.); (E.M.A.); (G.M.S.); (C.B.); (T.W.); (S.R.C.)
- Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich NR4 7TJ, UK
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Bakuradze N, Merabishvili M, Makalatia K, Kakabadze E, Grdzelishvili N, Wagemans J, Lood C, Chachua I, Vaneechoutte M, Lavigne R, Pirnay JP, Abiatari I, Chanishvili N. In Vitro Evaluation of the Therapeutic Potential of Phage VA7 against Enterotoxigenic Bacteroides fragilis Infection. Viruses 2021; 13:v13102044. [PMID: 34696475 PMCID: PMC8538522 DOI: 10.3390/v13102044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2021] [Revised: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Since the beginning of the 20th century, bacteriophages (phages), i.e., viruses that infect bacteria, have been used as antimicrobial agents for treating various infections. Phage preparations targeting a number of bacterial pathogens are still in use in the post-Soviet states and are experiencing a revival in the Western world. However, phages have never been used to treat diseases caused by Bacteroides fragilis, the leading agent cultured in anaerobic abscesses and postoperative peritonitis. Enterotoxin-producing strains of B. fragilis have been associated with the development of inflammatory diarrhea and colorectal carcinoma. In this study, we evaluated the molecular biosafety and antimicrobial properties of novel phage species vB_BfrS_VA7 (VA7) lysate, as well as its impact on cytokine IL-8 production in an enterotoxigenic B. fragilis (ETBF)-infected colonic epithelial cell (CEC) culture model. Compared to untreated infected cells, the addition of phage VA7 to ETBF-infected CECs led to significantly reduced bacterial counts and IL-8 levels. This in vitro study confirms the potential of phage VA7 as an antibacterial agent for use in prophylaxis or in the treatment of B. fragilis infections and associated colorectal carcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nata Bakuradze
- Research & Development Department, George Eliava Institute of Bacteriophage, Microbiology and Virology, Tbilisi 0160, Georgia; (M.M.); (K.M.); (E.K.); (N.G.); (N.C.)
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Exact and Natural Sciences, Javakhishvili Tbilisi State University, Tbilisi 0179, Georgia
- Correspondence:
| | - Maya Merabishvili
- Research & Development Department, George Eliava Institute of Bacteriophage, Microbiology and Virology, Tbilisi 0160, Georgia; (M.M.); (K.M.); (E.K.); (N.G.); (N.C.)
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Technology, Queen Astrid Military Hospital, 1120 Brussels, Belgium;
- Laboratory Bacteriology Research, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium;
| | - Khatuna Makalatia
- Research & Development Department, George Eliava Institute of Bacteriophage, Microbiology and Virology, Tbilisi 0160, Georgia; (M.M.); (K.M.); (E.K.); (N.G.); (N.C.)
- Faculty of Medicine, Teaching University Geomedi, Tbilisi 0114, Georgia
| | - Elene Kakabadze
- Research & Development Department, George Eliava Institute of Bacteriophage, Microbiology and Virology, Tbilisi 0160, Georgia; (M.M.); (K.M.); (E.K.); (N.G.); (N.C.)
| | - Nino Grdzelishvili
- Research & Development Department, George Eliava Institute of Bacteriophage, Microbiology and Virology, Tbilisi 0160, Georgia; (M.M.); (K.M.); (E.K.); (N.G.); (N.C.)
- Institute of Medical and Public Health Research, IIia State University, Tbilisi 0162, Georgia; (I.C.); (I.A.)
| | - Jeroen Wagemans
- Laboratory of Gene Technology, Department of Biosystems, KU Leuven, 3001 Leuven, Belgium; (J.W.); (C.L.); (R.L.)
| | - Cedric Lood
- Laboratory of Gene Technology, Department of Biosystems, KU Leuven, 3001 Leuven, Belgium; (J.W.); (C.L.); (R.L.)
- Centre of Microbial and Plant Genetics, Department of Microbial and Molecular Systems, KU Leuven, 3001 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Irakli Chachua
- Institute of Medical and Public Health Research, IIia State University, Tbilisi 0162, Georgia; (I.C.); (I.A.)
- School of Medicine, New Vision University, Tbilisi 0159, Georgia
| | - Mario Vaneechoutte
- Laboratory Bacteriology Research, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium;
| | - Rob Lavigne
- Laboratory of Gene Technology, Department of Biosystems, KU Leuven, 3001 Leuven, Belgium; (J.W.); (C.L.); (R.L.)
| | - Jean-Paul Pirnay
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Technology, Queen Astrid Military Hospital, 1120 Brussels, Belgium;
| | - Ivane Abiatari
- Institute of Medical and Public Health Research, IIia State University, Tbilisi 0162, Georgia; (I.C.); (I.A.)
| | - Nina Chanishvili
- Research & Development Department, George Eliava Institute of Bacteriophage, Microbiology and Virology, Tbilisi 0160, Georgia; (M.M.); (K.M.); (E.K.); (N.G.); (N.C.)
- School of Medicine, New Vision University, Tbilisi 0159, Georgia
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Bacteriophages as Fecal Pollution Indicators. Viruses 2021; 13:v13061089. [PMID: 34200458 PMCID: PMC8229503 DOI: 10.3390/v13061089] [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: 05/13/2021] [Revised: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 06/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Bacteriophages are promising tools for the detection of fecal pollution in different environments, and particularly for viral pathogen risk assessment. Having similar morphological and biological characteristics, bacteriophages mimic the fate and transport of enteric viruses. Enteric bacteriophages, especially phages infecting Escherichia coli (coliphages), have been proposed as alternatives or complements to fecal indicator bacteria. Here, we provide a general overview of the potential use of enteric bacteriophages as fecal and viral indicators in different environments, as well as the available methods for their detection and enumeration, and the regulations for their application.
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10
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Kapoor R, Ebdon J, Wadhwa A, Chowdhury G, Wang Y, Raj SJ, Siesel C, Durry SE, Mairinger W, Mukhopadhyay AK, Kanungo S, Dutta S, Moe CL. Evaluation of Low-Cost Phage-Based Microbial Source Tracking Tools for Elucidating Human Fecal Contamination Pathways in Kolkata, India. Front Microbiol 2021; 12:673604. [PMID: 34093494 PMCID: PMC8173070 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.673604] [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: 02/27/2021] [Accepted: 04/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Phages, such as those infecting Bacteroides spp., have been proven to be reliable indicators of human fecal contamination in microbial source tracking (MST) studies, and the efficacy of these MST markers found to vary geographically. This study reports the application and evaluation of candidate MST methods (phages infecting previously isolated B. fragilis strain GB-124, newly isolated Bacteroides strains (K10, K29, and K33) and recently isolated Kluyvera intermedia strain ASH-08), along with non-source specific somatic coliphages (SOMCPH infecting strain WG-5) and indicator bacteria (Escherichia coli) for identifying fecal contamination pathways in Kolkata, India. Source specificity of the phage-based methods was first tested using 60 known non-human fecal samples from common animals, before being evaluated with 56 known human samples (municipal sewage) collected during both the rainy and dry season. SOMCPH were present in 40-90% of samples from different animal species and in 100% of sewage samples. Phages infecting Bacteroides strain GB-124 were not detected from the majority (95%) of animal samples (except in three porcine samples) and were present in 93 and 71% of the sewage samples in the rainy and dry season (Mean = 1.42 and 1.83 log10PFU/100mL, respectively), though at lower levels than SOMCPH (Mean = 3.27 and 3.02 log10PFU/100mL, respectively). Phages infecting strain ASH-08 were detected in 89 and 96% of the sewage samples in the rainy and dry season, respectively, but were also present in all animal samples tested (except goats). Strains K10, K29, and K30 were not found to be useful MST markers due to low levels of phages and/or co-presence in non-human sources. GB-124 and SOMCPH were subsequently deployed within two low-income neighborhoods to determine the levels and origin of fecal contamination in 110 environmental samples. E. coli, SOMCPH, and phages of GB-124 were detected in 68, 42, and 28% of the samples, respectively. Analyses of 166 wastewater samples from shared community toilets and 21 samples from sewage pumping stations from the same districts showed that SOMCPH were present in 100% and GB-124 phages in 31% of shared toilet samples (Median = 5.59 and <1 log10 PFU/100 mL, respectively), and both SOMCPH and GB-124 phages were detected in 95% of pumping station samples (Median = 5.82 and 4.04 log10 PFU/100 mL, respectively). Our findings suggest that GB-124 and SOMCPH have utility as low-cost fecal indicator tools which can facilitate environmental surveillance of enteric organisms, elucidate human and non-human fecal exposure pathways, and inform interventions to mitigate exposure to fecal contamination in the residential environment of Kolkata, India.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renuka Kapoor
- Center for Global Safe Water, Sanitation and Hygiene, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - James Ebdon
- Environment and Public Health Research and Enterprise Group (EPHREG), University of Brighton, Brighton, United Kingdom
| | - Ashutosh Wadhwa
- Center for Global Safe Water, Sanitation and Hygiene, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Goutam Chowdhury
- ICMR – National Institute of Cholera and Enteric Diseases (NICED), Kolkata, India
| | - Yuke Wang
- Center for Global Safe Water, Sanitation and Hygiene, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Suraja J. Raj
- Center for Global Safe Water, Sanitation and Hygiene, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Casey Siesel
- Center for Global Safe Water, Sanitation and Hygiene, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Sarah E. Durry
- Center for Global Safe Water, Sanitation and Hygiene, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Wolfgang Mairinger
- Center for Global Safe Water, Sanitation and Hygiene, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | | | - Suman Kanungo
- ICMR – National Institute of Cholera and Enteric Diseases (NICED), Kolkata, India
| | - Shanta Dutta
- ICMR – National Institute of Cholera and Enteric Diseases (NICED), Kolkata, India
| | - Christine L. Moe
- Center for Global Safe Water, Sanitation and Hygiene, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
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Hedžet S, Rupnik M, Accetto T. Novel Siphoviridae Bacteriophages Infecting Bacteroides uniformis Contain Diversity Generating Retroelement. Microorganisms 2021; 9:microorganisms9050892. [PMID: 33919474 PMCID: PMC8143477 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms9050892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2021] [Revised: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Intestinal phages are abundant and important components of gut microbiota, yet the isolated and characterized representatives that infect abundant gut bacteria are sparse. Here we describe the isolation of human intestinal phages infecting Bacteroidesuniformis. Bacteroides is one of the most common bacterial groups in the global human gut microbiota; however, to date not many Bacteroides specific phages are known. Phages isolated in this study belong to a novel viral genus, Bacuni, within the Siphoviridae family. Their genomes encode diversity-generating retroelements (DGR), which were shown in other bacteriophages to promote phage adaptation to rapidly changing environmental conditions and to broaden their host range. Three isolated phages showed 99.83% genome identity but one of them infected a distinct B. uniformis strain. The tropism of Bacuni phages appeared to be dependent on the interplay of DGR mediated sequence variations of gene encoding putative phage fimbrial tip proteins and mutations in host genes coding for outer-membrane proteins. We found prophages with up to 85% amino acid similarity over two-thirds of the Bacuni phage genome in the B. acidifaciens and Prevotella sp. genomes. Despite the abundance of Bacteroides within the human microbiome, we found Bacuni phages only in a limited subset of published gut metagenomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stina Hedžet
- Centre for Medical Microbiology, Department for Microbiological Research, National Laboratory for Health, Environment and Food (NLZOH), 2000 Maribor, Slovenia; (S.H.); (M.R.)
| | - Maja Rupnik
- Centre for Medical Microbiology, Department for Microbiological Research, National Laboratory for Health, Environment and Food (NLZOH), 2000 Maribor, Slovenia; (S.H.); (M.R.)
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Maribor, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia
| | - Tomaž Accetto
- Animal Science Department, Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Correspondence:
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12
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Brumfield KD, Cotruvo JA, Shanks OC, Sivaganesan M, Hey J, Hasan NA, Huq A, Colwell RR, Leddy MB. Metagenomic Sequencing and Quantitative Real-Time PCR for Fecal Pollution Assessment in an Urban Watershed. FRONTIERS IN WATER 2021; 3:626849. [PMID: 34263162 PMCID: PMC8274573 DOI: 10.3389/frwa.2021.626849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Microbial contamination of recreation waters is a major concern globally, with pollutants originating from many sources, including human and other animal wastes often introduced during storm events. Fecal contamination is traditionally monitored by employing culture methods targeting fecal indicator bacteria (FIB), namely E. coli and enterococci, which provides only limited information of a few microbial taxa and no information on their sources. Host-associated qPCR and metagenomic DNA sequencing are complementary methods for FIB monitoring that can provide enhanced understanding of microbial communities and sources of fecal pollution. Whole metagenome sequencing (WMS), quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR), and culture-based FIB tests were performed in an urban watershed before and after a rainfall event to determine the feasibility and application of employing a multi-assay approach for examining microbial content of ambient source waters. Cultivated E. coli and enterococci enumeration confirmed presence of fecal contamination in all samples exceeding local single sample recreational water quality thresholds (E. coli, 410 MPN/100 mL; enterococci, 107 MPN/100 mL) following a rainfall. Test results obtained with qPCR showed concentrations of E. coli, enterococci, and human-associated genetic markers increased after rainfall by 1.52-, 1.26-, and 1.11-fold log10 copies per 100 mL, respectively. Taxonomic analysis of the surface water microbiome and detection of antibiotic resistance genes, general FIB, and human-associated microorganisms were also employed. Results showed that fecal contamination from multiple sources (human, avian, dog, and ruminant), as well as FIB, enteric microorganisms, and antibiotic resistance genes increased demonstrably after a storm event. In summary, the addition of qPCR and WMS to traditional surrogate techniques may provide enhanced characterization and improved understanding of microbial pollution sources in ambient waters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyle D. Brumfield
- Maryland Pathogen Research Institute, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, United States
- University of Maryland Institute for Advanced Computer Studies, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, United States
| | | | - Orin C. Shanks
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, Cincin nati, OH, United States
| | - Mano Sivaganesan
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, Cincin nati, OH, United States
| | - Jessica Hey
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, Cincin nati, OH, United States
| | - Nur A. Hasan
- University of Maryland Institute for Advanced Computer Studies, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, United States
| | - Anwar Huq
- Maryland Pathogen Research Institute, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, United States
| | - Rita R. Colwell
- Maryland Pathogen Research Institute, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, United States
- University of Maryland Institute for Advanced Computer Studies, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, United States
- CosmosID Inc., Rockville, MD, United States
- Correspondence: Rita R. Colwell , Menu B. Leddy
| | - Menu B. Leddy
- Essential Environmental and Engineering Systems, Huntington Beach, CA, United States
- Correspondence: Rita R. Colwell , Menu B. Leddy
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13
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Does over a century of aerobic phage work provide a solid framework for the study of phages in the gut? Anaerobe 2021; 68:102319. [PMID: 33465423 DOI: 10.1016/j.anaerobe.2021.102319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2020] [Revised: 01/09/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Bacterial viruses (bacteriophages, phages) of the gut have increasingly become a focus in microbiome studies, with an understanding that they are likely key players in health and disease. However, characterization of the virome remains largely based on bioinformatic approaches, with the impact of these viromes inferred based on a century of knowledge from aerobic phage work. Studying the phages infecting anaerobes is difficult, as they are often technically demanding to isolate and propagate. In this review, we primarily discuss the phages infecting three well-studied anaerobes in the gut: Bifidobacterium, Clostridia and Bacteroides, with a particular focus on the challenges in isolating and characterizing these phages. We contrast the lessons learned from these to other anaerobic work on phages infecting facultative anaerobes of the gut: Enterococcus and Lactobacillus. Phages from the gut do appear to adhere to the lessons learned from aerobic work, but the additional challenges of working on them has required ingenious new approaches to enable their study. This, in turn, has uncovered remarkable biology likely underpinning phage-host relationships in many stable environments.
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14
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Tariq MA, Newberry F, Haagmans R, Booth C, Wileman T, Hoyles L, Clokie MRJ, Ebdon J, Carding SR. Genome Characterization of a Novel Wastewater Bacteroides fragilis Bacteriophage (vB_BfrS_23) and its Host GB124. Front Microbiol 2020; 11:583378. [PMID: 33193224 PMCID: PMC7644841 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2020.583378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2020] [Accepted: 10/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Bacteroides spp. are part of the human intestinal microbiota but can under some circumstances become clinical pathogens. Phages are a potentially valuable therapeutic treatment option for many pathogens, but phage therapy for pathogenic Bacteroides spp. including Bacteroides fragilis is currently limited to three genome-sequenced phages. Here we describe the isolation from sewage wastewater and genome of a lytic phage, vB_BfrS_23, that infects and kills B. fragilis strain GB124. Transmission electron microscopy identified this phage as a member of the Siphoviridae family. The phage is stable when held at temperatures of 4 and 60°C for 1 h. It has a very narrow host range, only infecting one host from a panel of B. fragilis strains (n = 8). Whole-genome sequence analyses of vB_BfrS_23 determined it is double-stranded DNA phage and is circularly permuted, with a genome of 48,011 bp. The genome encodes 73 putative open reading frames. We also sequenced the host bacterium, B. fragilis GB124 (5.1 Mb), which has two plasmids of 43,923 and 4,138 bp. Although this phage is host specific, its isolation together with the detailed characterization of the host B. fragilis GB124 featured in this study represent a useful starting point from which to facilitate the future development of highly specific therapeutic agents. Furthermore, the phage could be a novel tool in determining water (and water reuse) treatment efficacy, and for identifying human fecal transmission pathways within contaminated environmental waters and foodstuffs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad A. Tariq
- Gut Microbes and Health Research Programme, Quadram Institute Biosciences, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, United Kingdom
| | - Fiona Newberry
- Gut Microbes and Health Research Programme, Quadram Institute Biosciences, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, United Kingdom
- Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich, United Kingdom
| | - Rik Haagmans
- Gut Microbes and Health Research Programme, Quadram Institute Biosciences, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, United Kingdom
- Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich, United Kingdom
| | - Catherine Booth
- Gut Microbes and Health Research Programme, Quadram Institute Biosciences, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, United Kingdom
| | - Tom Wileman
- Gut Microbes and Health Research Programme, Quadram Institute Biosciences, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, United Kingdom
- Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich, United Kingdom
| | - Lesley Hoyles
- Department of Biosciences, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Martha R. J. Clokie
- Department of Genetics and Genome Biology, Leicester University, Leicester, United Kingdom
| | - James Ebdon
- Environment and Public Health Research Group, School of Environment and Technology, University of Brighton, Brighton, United Kingdom
| | - Simon R. Carding
- Gut Microbes and Health Research Programme, Quadram Institute Biosciences, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, United Kingdom
- Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich, United Kingdom
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15
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Hryckowian AJ, Merrill BD, Porter NT, Van Treuren W, Nelson EJ, Garlena RA, Russell DA, Martens EC, Sonnenburg JL. Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron-Infecting Bacteriophage Isolates Inform Sequence-Based Host Range Predictions. Cell Host Microbe 2020; 28:371-379.e5. [PMID: 32652063 PMCID: PMC8045012 DOI: 10.1016/j.chom.2020.06.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2020] [Revised: 04/22/2020] [Accepted: 06/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Our emerging view of the gut microbiome largely focuses on bacteria, while less is known about other microbial components, such as bacteriophages (phages). Though phages are abundant in the gut, very few phages have been isolated from this ecosystem. Here, we report the genomes of 27 phages from the United States and Bangladesh that infect the prevalent human gut bacterium Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron. These phages are mostly distinct from previously sequenced phages with the exception of two, which are crAss-like phages. We compare these isolates to existing human gut metagenomes, revealing similarities to previously inferred phages and additional unexplored phage diversity. Finally, we use host tropisms of these phages to identify alleles of phage structural genes associated with infectivity. This work provides a detailed view of the gut's "viral dark matter" and a framework for future efforts to further integrate isolation- and sequencing-focused efforts to understand gut-resident phages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew J Hryckowian
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA.
| | - Bryan D Merrill
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Nathan T Porter
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - William Van Treuren
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Eric J Nelson
- Emerging Pathogens Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Rebecca A Garlena
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Daniel A Russell
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Eric C Martens
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Justin L Sonnenburg
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA.
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16
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Shkoporov AN, Hill C. Bacteriophages of the Human Gut: The "Known Unknown" of the Microbiome. Cell Host Microbe 2019; 25:195-209. [PMID: 30763534 DOI: 10.1016/j.chom.2019.01.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 337] [Impact Index Per Article: 67.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The human gut microbiome is a dense and taxonomically diverse consortium of microorganisms. While the bacterial components of the microbiome have received considerable attention, comparatively little is known about the composition and physiological significance of human gut-associated bacteriophage populations (phageome). By extrapolating our knowledge of phage-host interactions from other environments, one could expect that >1012 viruses reside in the human gut, and we can predict that they play important roles in regulating the complex microbial networks operating in this habitat. Before delving into their function, we need to first overcome the challenges associated with studying and characterizing the phageome. In this Review, we summarize the available methods and main findings regarding taxonomic composition, community structure, and population dynamics in the human gut phageome. We also discuss the main challenges in the field and identify promising avenues for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrey N Shkoporov
- APC Microbiome Ireland & School of Microbiology, University College Cork, Co. Cork, Ireland.
| | - Colin Hill
- APC Microbiome Ireland & School of Microbiology, University College Cork, Co. Cork, Ireland
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17
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Alves DR, Nzakizwanayo J, Dedi C, Olympiou C, Hanin A, Kot W, Hansen L, Lametsch R, Gahan CGM, Schellenberger P, Ogilvie LA, Jones BV. Genomic and Ecogenomic Characterization of Proteus mirabilis Bacteriophages. Front Microbiol 2019; 10:1783. [PMID: 31447809 PMCID: PMC6691071 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2019.01783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2019] [Accepted: 07/18/2019] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Proteus mirabilis often complicates the care of catheterized patients through the formation of crystalline biofilms which block urine flow. Bacteriophage therapy has been highlighted as a promising approach to control this problem, but relatively few phages infecting P. mirabilis have been characterized. Here we characterize five phages capable of infecting P. mirabilis, including those shown to reduce biofilm formation, and provide insights regarding the wider ecological and evolutionary relationships of these phages. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) imaging of phages vB_PmiP_RS1pmA, vB_PmiP_RS1pmB, vB_PmiP_RS3pmA, and vB_PmiP_RS8pmA showed that all share morphologies characteristic of the Podoviridae family. The genome sequences of vB_PmiP_RS1pmA, vB_PmiP_RS1pmB, and vB_PmiP_RS3pmA showed these are species of the same phage differing only by point mutations, and are closely related to vB_PmiP_RS8pmA. Podophages characterized in this study were also found to share similarity in genome architecture and composition to other previously described P. mirabilis podophages (PM16 and PM75). In contrast, vB_PimP_RS51pmB showed morphology characteristic of the Myoviridae family, with no notable similarity to other phage genomes examined. Ecogenomic profiling of all phages revealed no association with human urinary tract viromes, but sequences similar to vB_PimP_RS51pmB were found within human gut, and human oral microbiomes. Investigation of wider host-phage evolutionary relationships through tetranucleotide profiling of phage genomes and bacterial chromosomes, indicated vB_PimP_RS51pmB has a relatively recent association with Morganella morganii and other non-Proteus members of the Morganellaceae family. Subsequent host range assays confirmed vB_PimP_RS51pmB can infect M. morganii.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana R. Alves
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Brighton, Brighton, United Kingdom
- Blond McIndoe Research Foundation, Queen Victoria Hospital, East Grinstead, United Kingdom
- Queen Victoria Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, East Grinstead, United Kingdom
| | - Jonathan Nzakizwanayo
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Brighton, Brighton, United Kingdom
- Department of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Bath, Bath, United Kingdom
| | - Cinzia Dedi
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Brighton, Brighton, United Kingdom
| | - Chara Olympiou
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Brighton, Brighton, United Kingdom
- School of Pharmacy, Queen’s University, Belfast, United Kingdom
| | - Aurélie Hanin
- APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Witold Kot
- Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Lars Hansen
- Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Rene Lametsch
- Department of Food Science, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Cormac G. M. Gahan
- APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- School of Pharmacy, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | | | - Lesley A. Ogilvie
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Brighton, Brighton, United Kingdom
| | - Brian V. Jones
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Brighton, Brighton, United Kingdom
- Queen Victoria Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, East Grinstead, United Kingdom
- Department of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Bath, Bath, United Kingdom
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18
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Fu S, Zhuang F, Guo L, Qiu Y, Xiong J, Ye C, Liu Y, Wu Z, Hou Y, Hu CAA. Effect of Baicalin-Aluminum Complexes on Fecal Microbiome in Piglets. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20102390. [PMID: 31091773 PMCID: PMC6566245 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20102390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2019] [Revised: 05/09/2019] [Accepted: 05/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The gut microbiome has important effects on gastrointestinal diseases. Diarrhea attenuation functions of baicalin (BA) is not clear. Baicalin-aluminum complexes (BBA) were synthesized from BA, but the BBA's efficacy on the diarrhea of piglets and the gut microbiomes have not been explored and the mechanism remains unclear. This study has explored whether BBA could modulate the composition of the gut microbiomes of piglets during diarrhea. The results showed that the diarrhea rate reduced significantly after treatment with BBA. BBA altered the overall structure of the gut microbiomes. In addition, the Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analysis indicated that the functional differentially expressed genes, which were involved in the top 30 GO enrichments, were associated with hydrogenase (acceptor) activity, nicotinamide-nucleotide adenylyltransferase activity, and isocitrate lyase activity, belong to the molecular function. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis showed that flagellar assembly, bacterial chemotaxis, lipopolysaccharide biosynthesis, ATP-binding cassette transporters (ABC) transporters, biosynthesis of amino acids, and phosphotransferase system (PTS) were the most enriched during BBA treatment process. Taken together, our results first demonstrated that BBA treatment could modulate the gut microbiomes composition of piglets with diarrhea, which may provide new potential insights on the mechanisms of gut microbiomes associated underlying the antimicrobial efficacy of BBA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shulin Fu
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Feed Science, Wuhan Polytechnic University, Wuhan 430023, China.
- Hubei Collaborative Innovation Center for Animal Nutrition and Feed Safety, Wuhan 430023, China.
| | - Feng Zhuang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Feed Science, Wuhan Polytechnic University, Wuhan 430023, China.
- Hubei Collaborative Innovation Center for Animal Nutrition and Feed Safety, Wuhan 430023, China.
| | - Ling Guo
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Feed Science, Wuhan Polytechnic University, Wuhan 430023, China.
- Hubei Collaborative Innovation Center for Animal Nutrition and Feed Safety, Wuhan 430023, China.
| | - Yinsheng Qiu
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Feed Science, Wuhan Polytechnic University, Wuhan 430023, China.
- Hubei Collaborative Innovation Center for Animal Nutrition and Feed Safety, Wuhan 430023, China.
| | - Jianglin Xiong
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Feed Science, Wuhan Polytechnic University, Wuhan 430023, China.
- Hubei Collaborative Innovation Center for Animal Nutrition and Feed Safety, Wuhan 430023, China.
| | - Chun Ye
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Feed Science, Wuhan Polytechnic University, Wuhan 430023, China.
- Hubei Collaborative Innovation Center for Animal Nutrition and Feed Safety, Wuhan 430023, China.
| | - Yu Liu
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Feed Science, Wuhan Polytechnic University, Wuhan 430023, China.
- Hubei Collaborative Innovation Center for Animal Nutrition and Feed Safety, Wuhan 430023, China.
| | - Zhongyuan Wu
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Feed Science, Wuhan Polytechnic University, Wuhan 430023, China.
- Hubei Collaborative Innovation Center for Animal Nutrition and Feed Safety, Wuhan 430023, China.
| | - Yongqing Hou
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Feed Science, Wuhan Polytechnic University, Wuhan 430023, China.
- Hubei Collaborative Innovation Center for Animal Nutrition and Feed Safety, Wuhan 430023, China.
| | - Chien-An Andy Hu
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Feed Science, Wuhan Polytechnic University, Wuhan 430023, China.
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA.
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19
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Milani C, Casey E, Lugli GA, Moore R, Kaczorowska J, Feehily C, Mangifesta M, Mancabelli L, Duranti S, Turroni F, Bottacini F, Mahony J, Cotter PD, McAuliffe FM, van Sinderen D, Ventura M. Tracing mother-infant transmission of bacteriophages by means of a novel analytical tool for shotgun metagenomic datasets: METAnnotatorX. MICROBIOME 2018; 6:145. [PMID: 30126456 PMCID: PMC6102903 DOI: 10.1186/s40168-018-0527-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2018] [Accepted: 08/09/2018] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite the relevance of viral populations, our knowledge of (bacterio) phage populations, i.e., the phageome, suffers from the absence of a "gold standard" protocol for viral DNA extraction with associated in silico sequence processing analyses. To overcome this apparent hiatus, we present here a comprehensive performance evaluation of various protocols and propose an optimized pipeline that covers DNA extraction, sequencing, and bioinformatic analysis of phageome data. RESULTS Five widely used protocols for viral DNA extraction from fecal samples were tested for their performance in removal of non-viral DNA. Moreover, we developed a novel bioinformatic platform, METAnnotatorX, for metagenomic dataset analysis. This in silico tool facilitates a range of read- and assembly-based analyses, including taxonomic profiling using an iterative multi-database pipeline, classification of contigs at genus and species level, as well as functional characterizations of reads and assembled data. Performances of METAnnotatorX were assessed through investigation of seven mother-newborn pairs, leading to the identification of shared phage genotypes, of which two were genomically decoded and characterized. METAnnotatorX was furthermore employed to evaluate a protocol for the identification of contaminant non-viral DNA in sequenced datasets and was exploited to determine the amount of metagenomic data needed for robust evaluation of human adult-derived (fecal) phageomes. CONCLUSIONS Results obtained in this study demonstrate that a comprehensive pipeline for analysis of phageomes will be pivotal for future explorations of the ecology of phages in the gut environment as well as for understanding their impact on the physiology and bacterial community kinetics as players of dysbiosis and homeostasis in the gut microbiota.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Milani
- Laboratory of Probiogenomics, Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 11a, 43124, Parma, Italy
| | - Eoghan Casey
- APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- School of Microbiology, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Gabriele Andrea Lugli
- Laboratory of Probiogenomics, Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 11a, 43124, Parma, Italy
| | - Rebecca Moore
- APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- UCD Perinatal Research Centre, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, National Maternity Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Joanna Kaczorowska
- APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- School of Microbiology, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Conor Feehily
- APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- Teagasc, Moorepark Food Research Centre, Fermoy, Co., Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Marta Mangifesta
- Laboratory of Probiogenomics, Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 11a, 43124, Parma, Italy
- GenProbio srl, Parma, Italy
| | - Leonardo Mancabelli
- Laboratory of Probiogenomics, Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 11a, 43124, Parma, Italy
| | - Sabrina Duranti
- Laboratory of Probiogenomics, Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 11a, 43124, Parma, Italy
| | - Francesca Turroni
- Laboratory of Probiogenomics, Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 11a, 43124, Parma, Italy
- Microbiome Research Hub, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Francesca Bottacini
- APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- School of Microbiology, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Jennifer Mahony
- APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- School of Microbiology, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Paul D Cotter
- APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- Teagasc, Moorepark Food Research Centre, Fermoy, Co., Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Fionnuala M McAuliffe
- APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- UCD Perinatal Research Centre, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, National Maternity Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Douwe van Sinderen
- Laboratory of Probiogenomics, Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 11a, 43124, Parma, Italy
- APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- School of Microbiology, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Marco Ventura
- Laboratory of Probiogenomics, Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 11a, 43124, Parma, Italy.
- Microbiome Research Hub, University of Parma, Parma, Italy.
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20
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Theuns S, Vanmechelen B, Bernaert Q, Deboutte W, Vandenhole M, Beller L, Matthijnssens J, Maes P, Nauwynck HJ. Nanopore sequencing as a revolutionary diagnostic tool for porcine viral enteric disease complexes identifies porcine kobuvirus as an important enteric virus. Sci Rep 2018; 8:9830. [PMID: 29959349 PMCID: PMC6026206 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-28180-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2018] [Accepted: 06/18/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Enteric diseases in swine are often caused by different pathogens and thus metagenomics are a useful tool for diagnostics. The capacities of nanopore sequencing for viral diagnostics were investigated here. First, cell culture-grown porcine epidemic diarrhea virus and rotavirus A were pooled and sequenced on a MinION. Reads were already detected at 7 seconds after start of sequencing, resulting in high sequencing depths (19.2 to 103.5X) after 3 h. Next, diarrheic feces of a one-week-old piglet was analyzed. Almost all reads (99%) belonged to bacteriophages, which may have reshaped the piglet's microbiome. Contigs matched Bacteroides, Escherichia and Enterococcus phages. Moreover, porcine kobuvirus was discovered in the feces for the first time in Belgium. Suckling piglets shed kobuvirus from one week of age, but an association between peak of viral shedding (106.42-107.01 copies/swab) and diarrheic signs was not observed during a follow-up study. Retrospective analysis showed the widespread (n = 25, 56.8% positive) of genetically moderately related kobuviruses among Belgian diarrheic piglets. MinION enables rapid detection of enteric viruses. Such new methodologies will change diagnostics, but more extensive validations should be conducted. The true enteric pathogenicity of porcine kobuvirus should be questioned, while its subclinical importance cannot be excluded.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastiaan Theuns
- Ghent University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Virology, Parasitology and Immunology, Laboratory of Virology, Merelbeke, Belgium.
| | - Bert Vanmechelen
- KU Leuven - University of Leuven, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Laboratory of Clinical Virology, Rega Institute for Medical Research, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Quinten Bernaert
- Ghent University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Virology, Parasitology and Immunology, Laboratory of Virology, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Ward Deboutte
- KU Leuven - University of Leuven, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Laboratory of Viral Metagenomics, Rega Institute for Medical Research, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Marilou Vandenhole
- Ghent University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Virology, Parasitology and Immunology, Laboratory of Virology, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Leen Beller
- KU Leuven - University of Leuven, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Laboratory of Viral Metagenomics, Rega Institute for Medical Research, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Jelle Matthijnssens
- KU Leuven - University of Leuven, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Laboratory of Viral Metagenomics, Rega Institute for Medical Research, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Piet Maes
- KU Leuven - University of Leuven, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Laboratory of Clinical Virology, Rega Institute for Medical Research, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Hans J Nauwynck
- Ghent University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Virology, Parasitology and Immunology, Laboratory of Virology, Merelbeke, Belgium
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21
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Ogilvie LA, Nzakizwanayo J, Guppy FM, Dedi C, Diston D, Taylor H, Ebdon J, Jones BV. Resolution of habitat-associated ecogenomic signatures in bacteriophage genomes and application to microbial source tracking. ISME JOURNAL 2017; 12:942-958. [PMID: 29259289 PMCID: PMC5864186 DOI: 10.1038/s41396-017-0015-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2017] [Revised: 10/06/2017] [Accepted: 11/11/2017] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Just as the expansion in genome sequencing has revealed and permitted the exploitation of phylogenetic signals embedded in bacterial genomes, the application of metagenomics has begun to provide similar insights at the ecosystem level for microbial communities. However, little is known regarding this aspect of bacteriophage associated with microbial ecosystems, and if phage encode discernible habitat-associated signals diagnostic of underlying microbiomes. Here we demonstrate that individual phage can encode clear habitat-related 'ecogenomic signatures', based on relative representation of phage-encoded gene homologues in metagenomic data sets. Furthermore, we show the ecogenomic signature encoded by the gut-associated ɸB124-14 can be used to segregate metagenomes according to environmental origin, and distinguish 'contaminated' environmental metagenomes (subject to simulated in silico human faecal pollution) from uncontaminated data sets. This indicates phage-encoded ecological signals likely possess sufficient discriminatory power for use in biotechnological applications, such as development of microbial source tracking tools for monitoring water quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lesley A Ogilvie
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Brighton, Brighton, UK.
| | | | - Fergus M Guppy
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Brighton, Brighton, UK
| | - Cinzia Dedi
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Brighton, Brighton, UK
| | - David Diston
- Mikrobiologische & Biotechnologische Risiken Bundesamt für Gesundheit BAG, 3003, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Huw Taylor
- School of Environment and Technology, University of Brighton, Brighton, UK
| | - James Ebdon
- School of Environment and Technology, University of Brighton, Brighton, UK
| | - Brian V Jones
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Brighton, Brighton, UK.
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22
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Gilbert RA, Kelly WJ, Altermann E, Leahy SC, Minchin C, Ouwerkerk D, Klieve AV. Toward Understanding Phage:Host Interactions in the Rumen; Complete Genome Sequences of Lytic Phages Infecting Rumen Bacteria. Front Microbiol 2017; 8:2340. [PMID: 29259581 PMCID: PMC5723332 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2017.02340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2017] [Accepted: 11/13/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The rumen is known to harbor dense populations of bacteriophages (phages) predicted to be capable of infecting a diverse range of rumen bacteria. While bacterial genome sequencing projects are revealing the presence of phages which can integrate their DNA into the genome of their host to form stable, lysogenic associations, little is known of the genetics of phages which utilize lytic replication. These phages infect and replicate within the host, culminating in host lysis, and the release of progeny phage particles. While lytic phages for rumen bacteria have been previously isolated, their genomes have remained largely uncharacterized. Here we report the first complete genome sequences of lytic phage isolates specifically infecting three genera of rumen bacteria: Bacteroides, Ruminococcus, and Streptococcus. All phages were classified within the viral order Caudovirales and include two phage morphotypes, representative of the Siphoviridae and Podoviridae families. The phage genomes displayed modular organization and conserved viral genes were identified which enabled further classification and determination of closest phage relatives. Co-examination of bacterial host genomes led to the identification of several genes responsible for modulating phage:host interactions, including CRISPR/Cas elements and restriction-modification phage defense systems. These findings provide new genetic information and insights into how lytic phages may interact with bacteria of the rumen microbiome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosalind A Gilbert
- Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, EcoSciences Precinct, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.,Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation, University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | | | - Eric Altermann
- AgResearch Limited, Grasslands Research Centre, Palmerston North, New Zealand.,Riddet Institute, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| | - Sinead C Leahy
- AgResearch Limited, Grasslands Research Centre, Palmerston North, New Zealand.,New Zealand Agricultural Greenhouse Gas Research Centre, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| | - Catherine Minchin
- Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, EcoSciences Precinct, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Diane Ouwerkerk
- Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, EcoSciences Precinct, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.,Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation, University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | - Athol V Klieve
- Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation, University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, Australia.,School of Agriculture and Food Sciences, University of Queensland, Gatton Campus, Gatton, QLD, Australia
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23
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The human gut virome: form and function. Emerg Top Life Sci 2017; 1:351-362. [PMID: 33525769 DOI: 10.1042/etls20170039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2017] [Revised: 10/18/2017] [Accepted: 10/20/2017] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Advances in next-generation sequencing technologies and the application of metagenomic approaches have fuelled an exponential increase in our understanding of the human gut microbiome. These approaches are now also illuminating features of the diverse and abundant collection of viruses (termed the virome) subsisting with the microbial ecosystems residing within the human holobiont. Here, we focus on the current and emerging knowledge of the human gut virome, in particular on viruses infecting bacteria (bacteriophage or phage), which are a dominant component of this viral community. We summarise current insights regarding the form and function of this 'human gut phageome' and highlight promising avenues for future research. In doing so, we discuss the potential for phage to drive ecological functioning and evolutionary change within this important microbial ecosystem, their contribution to modulation of host-microbiome interactions and stability of the community as a whole, as well as the potential role of the phageome in human health and disease. We also consider the emerging concepts of a 'core healthy gut phageome' and the putative existence of 'viral enterotypes' and 'viral dysbiosis'.
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24
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Carding SR, Davis N, Hoyles L. Review article: the human intestinal virome in health and disease. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2017; 46:800-815. [PMID: 28869283 PMCID: PMC5656937 DOI: 10.1111/apt.14280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 145] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2017] [Revised: 04/07/2017] [Accepted: 08/07/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The human virome consists of animal-cell viruses causing transient infections, bacteriophage (phage) predators of bacteria and archaea, endogenous retroviruses and viruses causing persistent and latent infections. High-throughput, inexpensive, sensitive sequencing methods and metagenomics now make it possible to study the contribution dsDNA, ssDNA and RNA virus-like particles make to the human virome, and in particular the intestinal virome. AIM To review and evaluate the pioneering studies that have attempted to characterise the human virome and generated an increased interest in understanding how the intestinal virome might contribute to maintaining health, and the pathogenesis of chronic diseases. METHODS Relevant virome-related articles were selected for review following extensive language- and date-unrestricted, electronic searches of the literature. RESULTS The human intestinal virome is personalised and stable, and dominated by phages. It develops soon after birth in parallel with prokaryotic communities of the microbiota, becoming established during the first few years of life. By infecting specific populations of bacteria, phages can alter microbiota structure by killing host cells or altering their phenotype, enabling phages to contribute to maintaining intestinal homeostasis or microbial imbalance (dysbiosis), and the development of chronic infectious and autoimmune diseases including HIV infection and Crohn's disease, respectively. CONCLUSIONS Our understanding of the intestinal virome is fragmented and requires standardised methods for virus isolation and sequencing to provide a more complete picture of the virome, which is key to explaining the basis of virome-disease associations, and how enteric viruses can contribute to disease aetiologies and be rationalised as targets for interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- S. R. Carding
- Norwich Medical SchoolUniversity of East AngliaNorwichUK,The Gut Health and Food Safety Research ProgrammeThe Quadram InstituteNorwich Research ParkNorwichUK
| | - N. Davis
- Norwich Medical SchoolUniversity of East AngliaNorwichUK
| | - L. Hoyles
- Department of Surgery and CancerImperial College LondonLondonUK
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25
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García-Aljaro C, Ballesté E, Muniesa M, Jofre J. Determination of crAssphage in water samples and applicability for tracking human faecal pollution. Microb Biotechnol 2017; 10:1775-1780. [PMID: 28925595 PMCID: PMC5658656 DOI: 10.1111/1751-7915.12841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2017] [Revised: 07/21/2017] [Accepted: 07/24/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent decades, considerable effort has been devoted to finding microbial source-tracking (MST) markers that are suitable to assess the health risks of faecally polluted waters, with no universal marker reported so far. In this study, the abundance and prevalence of a crAssphage-derived DNA marker in wastewaters of human and animal origins were studied by a new qPCR assay with the ultimate aim of assessing its potential as an MST marker. crAssphage showed up to 106 GC/ml in the sewage samples of human origin, in both the total DNA and the viral DNA fraction. In wastewaters containing animal faecal remains, 39% of the samples were negative for the presence of the crAssphage sequence, while those showing positive results (41% of the samples) were at least 1 log10 unit lower than the samples of human origin. Noteworthy, the log10 values of the ratio (R) crAssphage (GC/ml)/Escherichia coli (CFU/ml) varied significantly depending on the human or animal origin (R > 1.5 for human samples and R < -1.5 for animal wastewater samples. This study opens the way for further research to explore if different specific animal variants of crAssphage exist and whether other zones of the crAssphage genome are better suited to source discrimination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina García-Aljaro
- Department of Genetics, Microbiology and Statistics, University of Barcelona, Diagonal 643, 08028, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Elisenda Ballesté
- Department of Genetics, Microbiology and Statistics, University of Barcelona, Diagonal 643, 08028, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Maite Muniesa
- Department of Genetics, Microbiology and Statistics, University of Barcelona, Diagonal 643, 08028, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Juan Jofre
- Department of Genetics, Microbiology and Statistics, University of Barcelona, Diagonal 643, 08028, Barcelona, Spain
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26
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Whitaker WR, Shepherd ES, Sonnenburg JL. Tunable Expression Tools Enable Single-Cell Strain Distinction in the Gut Microbiome. Cell 2017; 169:538-546.e12. [PMID: 28431251 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2017.03.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 139] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2016] [Revised: 01/28/2017] [Accepted: 03/27/2017] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Applying synthetic biology to engineer gut-resident microbes provides new avenues to investigate microbe-host interactions, perform diagnostics, and deliver therapeutics. Here, we describe a platform for engineering Bacteroides, the most abundant genus in the Western microbiota, which includes a process for high-throughput strain modification. We have identified a novel phage promoter and translational tuning strategy and achieved an unprecedented level of expression that enables imaging of fluorescent-protein-expressing Bacteroides stably colonizing the mouse gut. A detailed characterization of the phage promoter has provided a set of constitutive promoters that span over four logs of strength without detectable fitness burden within the gut over 14 days. These promoters function predictably over a 1,000,000-fold expression range in phylogenetically diverse Bacteroides species. With these promoters, unique fluorescent signatures were encoded to allow differentiation of six species within the gut. Fluorescent protein-based differentiation of isogenic strains revealed that priority of gut colonization determines colonic crypt occupancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weston R Whitaker
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; Novome Biotechnologies, 100 Kimball Way, South San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Elizabeth Stanley Shepherd
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Justin L Sonnenburg
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA.
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27
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Abstract
We recently described the 4.5-year time course of the enteric bacterial microbiota and virome of a patient cured from recurrent Clostridium difficile infection (rCDI) by fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT). Here, we extended the virome analyses and found the patient's phage population to exhibit highly donor-similar characteristics following FMT, which remained stable for the whole period tested (up to 7 months). Moreover, the detected viral populations of donor and patient exhibited comparable diversity and richness. These findings were unexpected since enteric viromes are normally highly variable, assumed to influence the bacterial host community and change with environmental conditions. In contrast to the virome, the bacterial microbiota varied indeed for more than 7 months with ongoing dysbiosis before it reached donor similarity. Our findings that are based on sequence information and protein domain analysis seem to suggest that stable phage properties correlate with successful FMT better than the changing bacterial communities. We speculate that we here preferentially detected a stable core virome, which dominated over a variable flexible virome that may have been too heterogeneous for experimental detection or was underrepresented in the databases. It will be interesting to analyze whether the enteric virome allows predictions for the clinical outcome of FMT for rCDI and other diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease or obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felix Broecker
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland,Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, Berlin, Germany,Present address: Department of Microbiology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA,CONTACT Felix Broecker ; Karin Moelling
| | - Giancarlo Russo
- Functional Genomics Center Zurich, University of Zurich and ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Jochen Klumpp
- Institute of Food, Nutrition and Health, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Karin Moelling
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland,Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, Berlin, Germany,CONTACT Felix Broecker ; Karin Moelling
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28
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Complete genome sequence of bacteriophage P2559Y, a marine phage that infects Croceibacter atlanticus HTCC2559. Mar Genomics 2016; 29:35-38. [DOI: 10.1016/j.margen.2016.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2016] [Revised: 07/03/2016] [Accepted: 07/04/2016] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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29
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Abstract
The role of bacteriophages in influencing the structure and function of the healthy human gut microbiome is unknown. With few exceptions, previous studies have found a high level of heterogeneity in bacteriophages from healthy individuals. To better estimate and identify the shared phageome of humans, we analyzed a deep DNA sequence dataset of active bacteriophages and available metagenomic datasets of the gut bacteriophage community from healthy individuals. We found 23 shared bacteriophages in more than one-half of 64 healthy individuals from around the world. These shared bacteriophages were found in a significantly smaller percentage of individuals with gastrointestinal/irritable bowel disease. A network analysis identified 44 bacteriophage groups of which 9 (20%) were shared in more than one-half of all 64 individuals. These results provide strong evidence of a healthy gut phageome (HGP) in humans. The bacteriophage community in the human gut is a mixture of three classes: a set of core bacteriophages shared among more than one-half of all people, a common set of bacteriophages found in 20-50% of individuals, and a set of bacteriophages that are either rarely shared or unique to a person. We propose that the core and common bacteriophage communities are globally distributed and comprise the HGP, which plays an important role in maintaining gut microbiome structure/function and thereby contributes significantly to human health.
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30
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Broecker F, Klumpp J, Moelling K. Long-term microbiota and virome in a Zürich patient after fecal transplantation against Clostridium difficile infection. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2016; 1372:29-41. [PMID: 27286042 DOI: 10.1111/nyas.13100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2016] [Revised: 04/18/2016] [Accepted: 04/19/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) is an emerging therapeutic option for Clostridium difficile infections that are refractory to conventional treatment. FMT introduces fecal microbes into the patient's intestine that prevent the recurrence of C. difficile, leading to rapid expansion of bacteria characteristic of healthy microbiota. However, the long-term effects of FMT remain largely unknown. The C. difficile patient described in this paper revealed protracted microbiota adaptation processes from 6 to 42 months post-FMT. Ultimately, bacterial communities were donor similar, suggesting sustainable stool engraftment. Since little is known about the consequences of transmitted viruses during C. difficile infection, we also interrogated virome changes. Our approach allowed identification of about 10 phage types per sample that represented larger viral communities, and phages were found to be equally abundant in the cured patient and donor. The healthy microbiota appears to be characterized by low phage abundance. Although viruses were likely transferred, the patient established a virome distinct from the donor. Surprisingly, the patient had sequences of algal giant viruses (chloroviruses) that have not previously been reported for the human gut. Chloroviruses have not been associated with intestinal disease, but their presence in the oropharynx may influence cognitive abilities. The findings suggest that the virome is an important indicator of health or disease. A better understanding of the role of viruses in the gut ecosystem may uncover novel microbiota-modulating therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felix Broecker
- Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, Berlin, Germany.,Institute for Medical Microbiology, University of Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland.,Max Planck Institute of Colloids and Interfaces, Potsdam, Germany
| | - Jochen Klumpp
- Institute of Food, Nutrition, and Health, ETH Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Karin Moelling
- Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, Berlin, Germany.,Institute for Medical Microbiology, University of Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
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31
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Navaneetharaja N, Griffiths V, Wileman T, Carding SR. A Role for the Intestinal Microbiota and Virome in Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS)? J Clin Med 2016; 5:E55. [PMID: 27275835 PMCID: PMC4929410 DOI: 10.3390/jcm5060055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2016] [Revised: 05/23/2016] [Accepted: 05/31/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) is a heterogeneous disorder of significant societal impact that is proposed to involve both host and environmentally derived aetiologies that may be autoimmune in nature. Immune-related symptoms of at least moderate severity persisting for prolonged periods of time are common in ME/CFS patients and B cell depletion therapy is of significant therapeutic benefit. The origin of these symptoms and whether it is infectious or inflammatory in nature is not clear, with seeking evidence of acute or chronic virus infections contributing to the induction of autoimmune processes in ME/CFS being an area of recent interest. This article provides a comprehensive review of the current evidence supporting an infectious aetiology for ME/CFS leading us to propose the novel concept that the intestinal microbiota and in particular members of the virome are a source of the "infectious" trigger of the disease. Such an approach has the potential to identify disease biomarkers and influence therapeutics, providing much-needed approaches in preventing and managing a disease desperately in need of confronting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Navena Navaneetharaja
- The Gut Health and Food Safety Research Programme, The Institute of Food Research, University of East Anglia, Norwich NR4 7UA, UK.
- Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich NR4 7TJ, UK.
| | - Verity Griffiths
- Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich NR4 7TJ, UK.
| | - Tom Wileman
- The Gut Health and Food Safety Research Programme, The Institute of Food Research, University of East Anglia, Norwich NR4 7UA, UK.
- Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich NR4 7TJ, UK.
| | - Simon R Carding
- The Gut Health and Food Safety Research Programme, The Institute of Food Research, University of East Anglia, Norwich NR4 7UA, UK.
- Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich NR4 7TJ, UK.
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Broecker F, Klumpp J, Schuppler M, Russo G, Biedermann L, Hombach M, Rogler G, Moelling K. Long-term changes of bacterial and viral compositions in the intestine of a recovered Clostridium difficile patient after fecal microbiota transplantation. Cold Spring Harb Mol Case Stud 2016; 2:a000448. [PMID: 27148577 PMCID: PMC4849847 DOI: 10.1101/mcs.a000448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2015] [Accepted: 08/27/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) is an effective treatment for recurrent Clostridium difficile infections (RCDIs). However, long-term effects on the patients' gut microbiota and the role of viruses remain to be elucidated. Here, we characterized bacterial and viral microbiota in the feces of a cured RCDI patient at various time points until 4.5 yr post-FMT compared with the stool donor. Feces were subjected to DNA sequencing to characterize bacteria and double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) viruses including phages. The patient's microbial communities varied over time and showed little overall similarity to the donor until 7 mo post-FMT, indicating ongoing gut microbiota adaption in this time period. After 4.5 yr, the patient's bacteria attained donor-like compositions at phylum, class, and order levels with similar bacterial diversity. Differences in the bacterial communities between donor and patient after 4.5 yr were seen at lower taxonomic levels. C. difficile remained undetectable throughout the entire timespan. This demonstrated sustainable donor feces engraftment and verified long-term therapeutic success of FMT on the molecular level. Full engraftment apparently required longer than previously acknowledged, suggesting the implementation of year-long patient follow-up periods into clinical practice. The identified dsDNA viruses were mainly Caudovirales phages. Unexpectedly, sequences related to giant algae-infecting Chlorella viruses were also detected. Our findings indicate that intestinal viruses may be implicated in the establishment of gut microbiota. Therefore, virome analyses should be included in gut microbiota studies to determine the roles of phages and other viruses-such as Chlorella viruses-in human health and disease, particularly during RCDI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felix Broecker
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, University of Zurich, 8006 Zurich, Switzerland;; Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, 14195 Berlin, Germany
| | - Jochen Klumpp
- Institute of Food, Nutrition and Health, ETH Zurich, 8096 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Markus Schuppler
- Institute of Food, Nutrition and Health, ETH Zurich, 8096 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Giancarlo Russo
- Functional Genomics Center Zurich, University of Zurich and ETH Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Luc Biedermann
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital Zurich, 8006 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Michael Hombach
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, University of Zurich, 8006 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Gerhard Rogler
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital Zurich, 8006 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Karin Moelling
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, University of Zurich, 8006 Zurich, Switzerland;; Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, 14195 Berlin, Germany
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Ogilvie LA, Jones BV. The human gut virome: a multifaceted majority. Front Microbiol 2015; 6:918. [PMID: 26441861 PMCID: PMC4566309 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2015.00918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 133] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2015] [Accepted: 08/21/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Here, we outline our current understanding of the human gut virome, in particular the phage component of this ecosystem, highlighting progress, and challenges in viral discovery in this arena. We reveal how developments in high-throughput sequencing technologies and associated data analysis methodologies are helping to illuminate this abundant 'biological dark matter.' Current evidence suggests that the human gut virome is a highly individual but temporally stable collective, dominated by phages exhibiting a temperate lifestyle. This viral community also appears to encode a surprisingly rich functional repertoire that confers a range of attributes to their bacterial hosts, ranging from bacterial virulence and pathogenesis to maintaining host-microbiome stability and community resilience. Despite the significant advances in our understanding of the gut virome in recent years, it is clear that we remain in a period of discovery and revelation, as new methods and technologies begin to provide deeper understanding of the inherent ecological characteristics of this viral ecosystem. As our understanding increases, the nature of the multi-partite interactions occurring between host and microbiome will become clearer, helping us to more rationally define the concepts and principles that will underpin approaches to using human gut virome components for medical or biotechnological applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lesley A. Ogilvie
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, University of BrightonBrighton, UK
- Alacris Theranostics GmbHBerlin, Germany
| | - Brian V. Jones
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, University of BrightonBrighton, UK
- Queen Victoria Hospital NHS Foundation TrustEast Grinstead, UK
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Trends and determinants of gastric bacterial colonization of preterm neonates in a NICU setting. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0114664. [PMID: 26132213 PMCID: PMC4488554 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0114664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2014] [Accepted: 10/20/2014] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Newborn gastrointestinal (GI) tract is considered sterile but rapidly acquires a diverse microbiota from its intimate environment. Early acquisition of a bacterial species in the upper GI tract may play a role in establishing the colonic microbiota. There is paucity of molecular data on the upper GI tract microbiota in preterm neonates. METHODS Gastric aspirates from 22 neonates with an average gestational age 27.7 weeks (±2.8), weighing 973.2 grams (±297.9) admitted to a neonatal intensive care unit were collected prospectively from weeks 1-4 of life. All samples were evaluated for microbiota using 16S rRNA-based Denaturing Gradient Gel Electrophoresis. Bacterial species colonization and its association with maternal and neonatal demographics, and neonatal clinical characteristics were analyzed. RESULTS Bacteroides spp. was the predominant species in all four weeks. Bifidobacterium spp. colonization was significantly higher in exclusively breast milk fed compared to partially breast milk (PBM) fed neonates in first (p = 0.03) and third (p = 0.03) week of life. Anaerobic bacteria colonization decreased from first through fourth week of life (p = 0.03). Aerobic bacteria colonization was highly dynamic throughout the four week period. Premature rupture of membrane (p = 0.05) and birth outside of study hospital (p = 0.006) influenced the acquisition of bacteria in the first week of life. Birth weight was positively correlated with total number of bacterial species (p = 0.002) and anaerobes (p = 0.004) in PBM-fed neonates during the fourth week of life. H. pylori and Ureaplasma were not detected in any of our samples. CONCLUSION Gastric bacterial colonization in preterm neonates is unstable during early weeks of life. Delayed oral feeding and use of antibiotics may be responsible for paucity of bacterial species. Monitoring of the gastric microbiota and concurrent examination of stool microbiota may yield important information on the utility of gastric signature patterns for predicting colon microbiota that may drive GI and immune dysfunctions.
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Wangkahad B, Bosup S, Mongkolsuk S, Sirikanchana K. Occurrence of bacteriophages infecting Aeromonas, Enterobacter, and Klebsiella in water and association with contamination sources in Thailand. JOURNAL OF WATER AND HEALTH 2015; 13:613-624. [PMID: 26042992 DOI: 10.2166/wh.2014.204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
The co-residence of bacteriophages and their bacterial hosts in humans, animals, and environmental sources directed the use of bacteriophages to track the origins of the pathogenic bacteria that can be found in contaminated water. The objective of this study was to enumerate bacteriophages of Aeromonas caviae (AecaKS148), Enterobacter sp. (EnspKS513), and Klebsiella pneumoniae (KlpnKS648) in water and evaluate their association with contamination sources (human vs. animals). Bacterial host strains were isolated from untreated wastewater in Bangkok, Thailand. A double-layer agar technique was used to detect bacteriophages. All three bacteriophages were detected in polluted canal samples, with likely contamination from human wastewater, whereas none was found in non-polluted river samples. AecaKS148 was found to be associated with human fecal sources, while EnspKS513 and KlpnKS648 seemed to be equally prevalent in both human and animal fecal sources. Both bacteriophages were also present in polluted canals that could receive contamination from other fecal sources or the environment. In conclusion, all three bacteriophages were successfully monitored in Bangkok, Thailand. This study provided an example of bacteriophages for potential use as source identifiers of pathogen contamination. The results from this study will assist in controlling sources of pathogen contamination, especially in developing countries.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Suchada Bosup
- Inter-University Program on Environmental Toxicology, Technology and Management, Asian Institute of Technology, Chulabhorn Research Institute, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10210, Thailand
| | - Skorn Mongkolsuk
- Department of Biotechnology and Center for Emerging Bacterial Infections, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand and Laboratory of Biotechnology, Chulabhorn Research Institute, Bangkok 10210, Thailand; Center of Excellence on Environmental Health and Toxicology, Ministry of Education, Bangkok 10400, Thailand E-mail:
| | - Kwanrawee Sirikanchana
- Center of Excellence on Environmental Health and Toxicology, Ministry of Education, Bangkok 10400, Thailand E-mail: ; Translational Research Unit, Chulabhorn Research Institute, Bangkok 10210, Thailand
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Sirikanchana K, Wangkahad B, Mongkolsuk S. The capability of non-native strains of Bacteroides bacteria to detect bacteriophages as faecal indicators in a tropical area. J Appl Microbiol 2014; 117:1820-9. [PMID: 25207866 DOI: 10.1111/jam.12646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2014] [Revised: 09/04/2014] [Accepted: 09/06/2014] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
AIMS To evaluate the use of nonlocal, already-available strains of phages to indicate faecal contamination in Thailand waters. METHODS AND RESULTS Phages of Bacteroides fragilis strains ATCC 700786 (RYC2056PH) and ATCC 51477 (HSP40PH) were measured in 71 human and animal wastewater samples in Thailand using a double-layer agar assay. Bacteriophage RYC2056PH was detected at concentrations comparable to representative human and animal wastewater samples from European and Mediterranean countries, with 61·7 and 33·3% above the threshold value of 100 PFU 100 ml(-1) in wastewater samples of human and animal origins, respectively. On the other hand, HSP40PH was detected at low concentrations in both human- and animal-polluted wastewaters. Moreover, RYC2056PH was found in 12 canal waters with human-influenced pollution and was not detected in 6 nonpolluted river waters being tested in this study. CONCLUSIONS The presence of RYC2056PH could indicate nonsource-specific faecal contamination in Thailand. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY This study provided the first evidence that bacteriophages of the European-isolated B. fragilis strain RYC2056 could be used as nonsource-specific faecal indicators in the Southeast Asian region. The results of this study support the worldwide use of Bacteroides phages as faecal indicators.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Sirikanchana
- Translational Research Unit, Chulabhorn Research Institute, Bangkok, Thailand; Center of Excellence on Environmental Health and Toxicology, CHE, Ministry of Education, Bangkok, Thailand
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Dutilh BE, Cassman N, McNair K, Sanchez SE, Silva GGZ, Boling L, Barr JJ, Speth DR, Seguritan V, Aziz RK, Felts B, Dinsdale EA, Mokili JL, Edwards RA. A highly abundant bacteriophage discovered in the unknown sequences of human faecal metagenomes. Nat Commun 2014; 5:4498. [PMID: 25058116 PMCID: PMC4111155 DOI: 10.1038/ncomms5498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 491] [Impact Index Per Article: 49.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2014] [Accepted: 06/25/2014] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Metagenomics, or sequencing of the genetic material from a complete microbial community, is a
promising tool to discover novel microbes and viruses. Viral metagenomes typically contain many
unknown sequences. Here we describe the discovery of a previously unidentified bacteriophage present
in the majority of published human faecal metagenomes, which we refer to as crAssphage. Its
~97 kbp genome is six times more abundant in publicly available metagenomes than all other
known phages together; it comprises up to 90% and 22% of all reads in virus-like particle
(VLP)-derived metagenomes and total community metagenomes, respectively; and it totals 1.68% of all
human faecal metagenomic sequencing reads in the public databases. The majority of
crAssphage-encoded proteins match no known sequences in the database, which is why it was not
detected before. Using a new co-occurrence profiling approach, we predict a Bacteroides host
for this phage, consistent with Bacteroides-related protein homologues and a unique
carbohydrate-binding domain encoded in the phage genome. Metagenomic studies of microbial communities often report DNA sequences from
unidentified viruses. Here, Dutilh et al. analyse metagenomic data to reveal the complete
genome of an abundant, ubiquitous virus from human faeces, and predict that the virus infects
bacteria of the Bacteroides group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bas E Dutilh
- 1] Centre for Molecular and Biomolecular Informatics, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud university medical centre, Geert Grooteplein 28, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands [2] Department of Computer Science, San Diego State University, 5500 Campanile Drive, San Diego, California 92182, USA [3] Department of Biology, San Diego State University, 5500 Campanile Drive, San Diego, California 92182, USA [4] Department of Marine Biology, Institute of Biology, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Av. Carlos Chagas Fo. 373, Prédio Anexo ao Bloco A do Centro de Ciências da Saúde, Ilha do Fundão, CEP 21941-902 Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Noriko Cassman
- 1] Department of Biology, San Diego State University, 5500 Campanile Drive, San Diego, California 92182, USA [2]
| | - Katelyn McNair
- Department of Computer Science, San Diego State University, 5500 Campanile Drive, San Diego, California 92182, USA
| | - Savannah E Sanchez
- Department of Biology, San Diego State University, 5500 Campanile Drive, San Diego, California 92182, USA
| | - Genivaldo G Z Silva
- Computational Science Research Center, San Diego State University, 5500 Campanile Drive, San Diego, California 92182, USA
| | - Lance Boling
- Department of Biology, San Diego State University, 5500 Campanile Drive, San Diego, California 92182, USA
| | - Jeremy J Barr
- Department of Biology, San Diego State University, 5500 Campanile Drive, San Diego, California 92182, USA
| | - Daan R Speth
- Department of Microbiology, Institute for Water and Wetland Research, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Victor Seguritan
- Department of Biology, San Diego State University, 5500 Campanile Drive, San Diego, California 92182, USA
| | - Ramy K Aziz
- 1] Department of Computer Science, San Diego State University, 5500 Campanile Drive, San Diego, California 92182, USA [2] Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Kasr El-Aini Street, Cairo 11562, Egypt
| | - Ben Felts
- Department of Mathematics, San Diego State University, 5500 Campanile Drive, San Diego, California 92182, USA
| | - Elizabeth A Dinsdale
- 1] Department of Biology, San Diego State University, 5500 Campanile Drive, San Diego, California 92182, USA [2] Computational Science Research Center, San Diego State University, 5500 Campanile Drive, San Diego, California 92182, USA
| | - John L Mokili
- Department of Biology, San Diego State University, 5500 Campanile Drive, San Diego, California 92182, USA
| | - Robert A Edwards
- 1] Department of Computer Science, San Diego State University, 5500 Campanile Drive, San Diego, California 92182, USA [2] Department of Marine Biology, Institute of Biology, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Av. Carlos Chagas Fo. 373, Prédio Anexo ao Bloco A do Centro de Ciências da Saúde, Ilha do Fundão, CEP 21941-902 Rio de Janeiro, Brazil [3] Computational Science Research Center, San Diego State University, 5500 Campanile Drive, San Diego, California 92182, USA [4] Division of Mathematics and Computer Science, Argonne National Laboratory, 9700 S Cass Ave B109, Argonne, Illinois 60439, USA
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Zimmerman BD, Ashbolt NJ, Garland JL, Keely S, Wendell D. Human mitochondrial DNA and endogenous bacterial surrogates for risk assessment of graywater reuse. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2014; 48:7993-8002. [PMID: 24932937 DOI: 10.1021/es501659r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Previous graywater risk assessment studies have focused on fecal contamination, yet the low density of fecal indicators may not provide the most useful approach to assess pathogen removal during graywater treatment. In this study, we employed high throughput bacterial sequencing and qPCR to elucidate potential microbial surrogates in wastewater sourced from an industrial laundry. In addition, we explored human mitochondrial DNA (HmtDNA) as a new, potentially more reliable molecular marker, because it can be unambiguously sourced, has a high copy number per cell, and is persistent when released from cells with no self-replication in graywater. Pyrosequencing and qPCR revealed that laundry water microbiota was dominated by the skin-associated bacteria Staphylococcus, Corynebacterium, and Propionibacterium (6.5, 5.7, 5.4 log10 copies/100 mL, respectively). While HmtDNA was less abundant (2.8 log10 copies/100 mL), it showed a strong positive correlation with the opportunistic pathogen Staphylococcus aureus (r=0.54, P=3.2×10(-4)) and closely followed a first-order exponential decay model (R2=0.98), remaining detectable in stored laundry graywater for up to 6 days at 20 °C. Based on abundance and persistence, we propose HmtDNA and total Staphylococcus as future laundry graywater treatment surrogates to potentially assess a wide dynamic range of pathogen removal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian D Zimmerman
- Department of Biomedical, Chemical and Environmental Engineering, University of Cincinnati , Cincinnati, Ohio 45221, United States
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Abstract
UNLABELLED The genome sequences of intestinal Bacteroidales strains reveal evidence of extensive horizontal gene transfer. In vitro studies of Bacteroides and other bacteria have addressed mechanisms of conjugative transfer and some phenotypic outcomes of these DNA acquisitions in the recipient, such as the acquisition of antibiotic resistance. However, few studies have addressed the horizontal transfer of genetic elements between bacterial species coresident in natural microbial communities, especially microbial ecosystems of humans. Here, we examine the genomes of Bacteroidales species from two human adults to identify genetic elements that were likely transferred among these Bacteroidales while they were coresident in the intestine. Using seven coresident Bacteroidales species from one individual and eight from another, we identified five large chromosomal regions, each present in a minimum of three of the coresident strains at near 100% DNA identity. These five regions are not found in any other sequenced Bacteroidetes genome at this level of identity and are likely all integrative conjugative elements (ICEs). Such highly similar and unique regions occur in only 0.4% of phylogenetically representative mock communities, providing strong evidence that these five regions were transferred between coresident strains in these subjects. In addition to the requisite proteins necessary for transfer, these elements encode proteins predicted to increase fitness, including orphan DNA methylases that may alter gene expression, fimbriae synthesis proteins that may facilitate attachment and the utilization of new substrates, putative secreted antimicrobial molecules, and a predicted type VI secretion system (T6SS), which may confer a competitive ecological advantage to these strains in their complex microbial ecosystem. IMPORTANCE By analyzing Bacteroidales strains coresident in the gut microbiota of two human adults, we provide strong evidence for extensive interspecies and interfamily transfer of integrative conjugative elements within the intestinal microbiota of individual humans. In the recipient strain, we show that the conjugative elements themselves can be modified by the transposition of insertion sequences and retroelements from the recipient's genome, with subsequent transfer of these modified elements to other members of the microbiota. These data suggest that the genomes of our gut bacteria are substantially modified by other, coresident members of the ecosystem, resulting in highly personalized Bacteroidales strains likely unique to that individual. The genetic content of these ICEs suggests that their transfer from successful adapted members of an ecosystem confers beneficial properties to the recipient, increasing its fitness and allowing it to better compete within its particular personalized gut microbial ecosystem.
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Jofre J, Blanch AR, Lucena F, Muniesa M. Bacteriophages infecting Bacteroides as a marker for microbial source tracking. WATER RESEARCH 2014; 55:1-11. [PMID: 24583570 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2014.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2013] [Revised: 01/30/2014] [Accepted: 02/01/2014] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Bacteriophages infecting certain strains of Bacteroides are amid the numerous procedures proposed for tracking the source of faecal pollution. These bacteriophages fulfil reasonably well most of the requirements identified as appropriate for a suitable marker of faecal sources. Thus, different host strains are available that detect bacteriophages preferably in water contaminated with faecal wastes corresponding to different animal species. For phages found preferably in human faecal wastes, which are the ones that have been more extensively studied, the amounts of phages found in waters contaminated with human fecal samples is reasonably high; these amounts are invariable through the time; their resistance to natural and anthropogenic stressors is comparable to that of other relatively resistant indicator of faecal pollution such us coliphages; the abundance ratios of somatic coliphages and bacteriophages infecting Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron GA17 are unvarying in recent and aged contamination; and standardised detection methods exist. These methods are easy, cost effective and provide data susceptible of numerical analysis. In contrast, there are some uncertainties regarding their geographical stability, and consequently suitable hosts need to be isolated for different geographical areas. However, a feasible method has been described to isolate suitable hosts in a given geographical area. In summary, phages infecting Bacteroides are a marker of faecal sources that in our opinion merits being included in the "toolbox" for microbial source tracking. However, further research is still needed in order to make clear some uncertainties regarding some of their characteristics and behaviour, to compare their suitability to the one of emerging methods such us targeting Bacteroidetes by qPCR assays; or settling molecular methods for their determination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joan Jofre
- Department of Microbiology, University of Barcelona, Diagonal 643, Annex, Floor 0, 08028 Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Anicet R Blanch
- Department of Microbiology, University of Barcelona, Diagonal 643, Annex, Floor 0, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Francisco Lucena
- Department of Microbiology, University of Barcelona, Diagonal 643, Annex, Floor 0, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Maite Muniesa
- Department of Microbiology, University of Barcelona, Diagonal 643, Annex, Floor 0, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
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McMinn BR, Korajkic A, Ashbolt NJ. Evaluation of Bacteroides fragilis GB-124 bacteriophages as novel human-associated faecal indicators in the United States. Lett Appl Microbiol 2014; 59:115-21. [PMID: 24725119 DOI: 10.1111/lam.12252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2014] [Revised: 03/05/2014] [Accepted: 03/14/2014] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Phages infecting human-associated Bacteroides fragilis (GB-124 phages) have been employed in the European Union (EU) to identify human faecal pollution, but their utility for the United States was unclear. Primary sewage samples were collected seasonally from seven wastewater treatment plants (WWTP) across the continental United States, and more time-intensive sampling was conducted at local WWTPs. All samples were assayed for plaque-forming units (PFU) of GB-124 phages, somatic and FRNA-specific coliphages, as well as adenoviruses (by quantitative PCR [qPCR]). Animal faecal samples (>250) from 14 different species were tested for the presence of the three phage groups. GB-124 phages were consistently detected in sewage (10-10(2) PFU ml(-1) ), but not in animal faeces. While density estimates of both coliphages in sewage were approximately one order of magnitude higher than GB-124 phages, they were both randomly detected in animal faecal samples (10(2) -10(5) g(-1) dry weight). Stability of all three phages was inversely proportional to temperature; persistence was greatest at 5°C compared to 20 and 35°C, where no phages were detectable after a week. In summary, GB-124 phages appear to be a feasible alternative indicator organism and benefit from being sewage associated, while providing an inexpensive detection technique for infectious virions. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY Bacteroides fragilis GB-124 phages appear to be restricted to human sewage sources in the United States, being absent from 264 animal faecal samples from 14 different species and present in approx. 90% (34/38) of primary sewage effluent samples collected across the country. Although somatic and F-specific coliphages were present in sewage samples at higher densities, unlike GB-124 phages, both coliphage types were also detected in animal faecal samples. Hence, GB-124 phages may prove to be a useful novel indicator group for human faecal pollution in the continental United States.
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Affiliation(s)
- B R McMinn
- National Exposure Research Laboratory, Office of Research and Development, United States Environmental Protection Laboratory, Cincinnati, OH, USA
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Ogilvie LA, Bowler LD, Caplin J, Dedi C, Diston D, Cheek E, Taylor H, Ebdon JE, Jones BV. Genome signature-based dissection of human gut metagenomes to extract subliminal viral sequences. Nat Commun 2014; 4:2420. [PMID: 24036533 PMCID: PMC3778543 DOI: 10.1038/ncomms3420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2013] [Accepted: 08/08/2013] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Bacterial viruses (bacteriophages) have a key role in shaping the development and functional outputs of host microbiomes. Although metagenomic approaches have greatly expanded our understanding of the prokaryotic virosphere, additional tools are required for the phage-oriented dissection of metagenomic data sets, and host-range affiliation of recovered sequences. Here we demonstrate the application of a genome signature-based approach to interrogate conventional whole-community metagenomes and access subliminal, phylogenetically targeted, phage sequences present within. We describe a portion of the biological dark matter extant in the human gut virome, and bring to light a population of potentially gut-specific Bacteroidales-like phage, poorly represented in existing virus like particle-derived viral metagenomes. These predominantly temperate phage were shown to encode functions of direct relevance to human health in the form of antibiotic resistance genes, and provided evidence for the existence of putative ‘viral-enterotypes’ among this fraction of the human gut virome. Bacteriophages have a significant impact on microbial ecosystems, but additional tools are needed to assess viral communities. Ogilvie et al. present a new strategy to extract viral sequences from metagenomic data sets, and present new insights on their function in the gut ecosystem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lesley A Ogilvie
- Centre for Biomedical and Health Science Research, School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Brighton, Brighton BN2 4GJ, UK
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Broaders E, Gahan CG, Marchesi JR. Mobile genetic elements of the human gastrointestinal tract: potential for spread of antibiotic resistance genes. Gut Microbes 2013; 4:271-80. [PMID: 23651955 PMCID: PMC3744512 DOI: 10.4161/gmic.24627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The human intestine is an important location for horizontal gene transfer (HGT) due to the presence of a densely populated community of microorganisms which are essential to the health of the human superorganism. HGT in this niche has the potential to influence the evolution of members of this microbial community and to mediate the spread of antibiotic resistance genes from commensal organisms to potential pathogens. Recent culture-independent techniques and metagenomic studies have provided an insight into the distribution of mobile genetic elements (MGEs) and the extent of HGT in the human gastrointestinal tract. In this mini-review, we explore the current knowledge of mobile genetic elements in the gastrointestinal tract, the progress of research into the distribution of antibiotic resistance genes in the gut and the potential role of MGEs in the spread of antibiotic resistance. In the face of reduced treatment options for many clinical infections, understanding environmental and commensal antibiotic resistance and spread is critical to the future development of meaningful and long lasting anti-microbial therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eileen Broaders
- Alimentary Pharmabiotic Centre; University College Cork; Cork, Ireland,Department of Microbiology; University College Cork; Cork, Ireland
| | - Cormac G.M. Gahan
- Alimentary Pharmabiotic Centre; University College Cork; Cork, Ireland,Department of Microbiology; University College Cork; Cork, Ireland,School of Pharmacy; University College Cork; Cork, Ireland
| | - Julian R. Marchesi
- School of Biosciences; Cardiff University; Cardiff, United Kingdom,Correspondence to: Julian R. Marchesi,
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Abstract
Croceibacter atlanticus HTCC2559(T), a marine bacterium isolated from the Sargasso Sea, is a phylogenetically unique member of the family Flavobacteriaceae. Strain HTCC2559(T) possesses genes related to interaction with primary producers, which makes studies on bacteriophages infecting the strain interesting. Here we report the genome sequence of bacteriophage P2559S, which was isolated off the coast of the Republic of Korea and lytically infects HTCC2559(T). Many genes predicted in the P2559S genome had their homologs in Bacteroides phages.
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