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Curwen AE, Still RL, Angell JW, Eady PE, Millson SH, Staton GJ, Evans NJ, Duncan JS, Cotter SC, Clegg SR. A reduced potential for lameness bacterial transmission by Lucilia sericata larvae and flies through metamorphosis. Res Vet Sci 2023; 163:104967. [PMID: 37572417 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2023.104967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2023] [Revised: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/14/2023]
Abstract
Lameness in sheep is one of the most serious issues on farms in the UK and worldwide, affecting over 90% of all UK sheep flocks. Despite its severity and prevalence, there are knowledge gaps regarding transmission routes of bacterial pathogens associated with infectious lameness in sheep. As larvae of Lucilia sericata are commonly found on foot lesions on lame sheep, it was hypothesised that the flies or their larvae could harbour lameness associated bacteria. This study examined the gut contents of larvae obtained from the foot lesions of lame sheep and compared them to control larvae collected from infested cat food on the same farm. Of particular interest, were the presence of three different bacterial genera associated with lameness; Fusobacterium necrophorum, Dichelobacter nodosus and Treponema spp., for which viability was also investigated. Larvae were cultured In vitro and some allowed to metamorphose into flies before specific PCR assays were carried out on the gut contents. Results showed a significant association between the bacteria on the feet of the sheep and those within the larvae. Although the gut contents of all larvae found on sheep feet contained one or more of the lameness bacteria, none of the bacteria were recovered from the adult flies, suggesting a level of gut remodelling during metamorphosis. Interestingly, Treponema spp. and Fusobacterium spp. were viable when isolated from gut contents of larvae. Maintenance of infection from larvae to fly did not occur. However, it still remains important to control both disease and insect populations of farms to maintain animal welfare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice E Curwen
- School of Life Sciences, University of Lincoln, Brayford Pool, Lincoln LN6 8DB, UK; School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Leicestershire, UK
| | - Rebecca L Still
- School of Life Sciences, University of Lincoln, Brayford Pool, Lincoln LN6 8DB, UK
| | - Joseph W Angell
- Wern Vets CYF, Department of Research and Innovation, Unit 11, Lon Parcwr Industrial Estate, Ruthin, Denbighshire LL15 1NJ, UK; Department of Livestock and One Health, Institute of Infection, Veterinary & Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Neston CH64 7TE, UK
| | - Paul E Eady
- School of Life Sciences, University of Lincoln, Brayford Pool, Lincoln LN6 8DB, UK
| | - Stefan H Millson
- School of Life Sciences, University of Lincoln, Brayford Pool, Lincoln LN6 8DB, UK
| | - Gareth J Staton
- Department of Infection Biology and Microbiomes, Institute of Infection, Veterinary & Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Neston CH64 7TE, UK
| | - Nicholas J Evans
- Department of Infection Biology and Microbiomes, Institute of Infection, Veterinary & Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Neston CH64 7TE, UK
| | - Jennifer S Duncan
- Department of Livestock and One Health, Institute of Infection, Veterinary & Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Neston CH64 7TE, UK
| | - Sheena C Cotter
- School of Life Sciences, University of Lincoln, Brayford Pool, Lincoln LN6 8DB, UK
| | - Simon R Clegg
- School of Life Sciences, University of Lincoln, Brayford Pool, Lincoln LN6 8DB, UK; Department of Infection Biology and Microbiomes, Institute of Infection, Veterinary & Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Neston CH64 7TE, UK.
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Szentivanyi T, McKee C, Jones G, Foster JT. Trends in Bacterial Pathogens of Bats: Global Distribution and Knowledge Gaps. Transbound Emerg Dis 2023. [DOI: 10.1155/2023/9285855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
Abstract
Bats have received considerable recent attention for infectious disease research because of their potential to host and transmit viruses, including Ebola, Hendra, Nipah, and multiple coronaviruses. These pathogens are occasionally transmitted from bats to wildlife, livestock, and to humans, directly or through other bridging (intermediate) hosts. Due to their public health relevance, zoonotic viruses are a primary focus of research attention. In contrast, other emerging pathogens of bats, such as bacteria, are vastly understudied despite their ubiquity and diversity. Here, we describe the currently known host ranges and geographic distributional patterns of potentially zoonotic bacterial genera in bats, using published presence-absence data of pathogen occurrence. We identify apparent gaps in our understanding of the distribution of these pathogens on a global scale. The most frequently detected bacterial genera in bats are Bartonella, Leptospira, and Mycoplasma. However, a wide variety of other potentially zoonotic bacterial genera are also occasionally found in bats, such as Anaplasma, Brucella, Borrelia, Coxiella, Ehrlichia, Francisella, Neorickettsia, and Rickettsia. The bat families Phyllostomidae, Vespertilionidae, and Pteropodidae are most frequently reported as hosts of bacterial pathogens; however, the presence of at least one bacterial genus was confirmed in all 15 bat families tested. On a spatial scale, molecular diagnostics of samples from 58 countries and four overseas departments and island states (French Guiana, Mayotte, New Caledonia, and Réunion Island) reported testing for at least one bacterial pathogen in bats. We also identified geographical areas that have been mostly neglected during bacterial pathogen research in bats, such as the Afrotropical region and Southern Asia. Current knowledge on the distribution of potentially zoonotic bacterial genera in bats is strongly biased by research effort towards certain taxonomic groups and geographic regions. Identifying these biases can guide future surveillance efforts, contributing to a better understanding of the ecoepidemiology of zoonotic pathogens in bats.
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Thiévent K, Szentiványi T, Aeby S, Glaizot O, Christe P, Greub G. Presence and diversity of Chlamydiae bacteria in Spinturnix myoti, an ectoparasite of bats. Parasite 2020; 27:54. [PMID: 33135998 PMCID: PMC7605392 DOI: 10.1051/parasite/2020052] [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: 03/31/2020] [Accepted: 10/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Chlamydia spp. and Chlamydia-like organisms are able to infect vertebrates such as mammals, reptiles and birds, but also arthropods and protozoans. Since they have been detected in bats and bat feces, we expected Chlamydiae bacteria to also be present in the mite Spinturnix myoti, an ectoparasite of mouse-eared bats (Myotis spp.). The prevalence of Chlamydiales in 88 S. myoti was 57.95% and significantly depended on bat host species. In addition, the prevalence was significantly different between bat species living in sympatry or in allopatry. While there was uninterpretable sequencing for 16 samples, eight showed best BLAST hit identities lower than 92.5% and thus corresponded to new family-level lineages according to the established taxonomy cut-off. The four remaining sequences exhibited best BLAST hit identities ranging from 94.2 to 97.4% and were taxonomically assigned to three different family-level lineages, with two of them belonging to the Parachlamydiaceae, one to the Simkaniaceae, and one to the Chlamydiaceae. These results highlighted for the first time the presence of Chlamydia-like organisms and the possible zoonotic origin of Chlamydia sp. in S. myoti ectoparasites of bats, and therefore suggest that these ectoparasites may play a role in maintaining and/or transmitting members of the Chlamydiae phylum within Myotis spp. bat populations. Our results further highlight that the wide diversity of bacteria belonging to the Chlamydiae phylum is largely underestimated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Thiévent
- Center for Research on Intracellular Bacteria (CRIB), Institute of Microbiology, University Hospital Center and University of Lausanne 1011 Lausanne Switzerland
| | - Tamara Szentiványi
- Museum of Zoology 1005 Lausanne Switzerland
- Department of Ecology and Evolution, University of Lausanne 1015 Lausanne Switzerland
| | - Sébastien Aeby
- Center for Research on Intracellular Bacteria (CRIB), Institute of Microbiology, University Hospital Center and University of Lausanne 1011 Lausanne Switzerland
| | - Olivier Glaizot
- Museum of Zoology 1005 Lausanne Switzerland
- Department of Ecology and Evolution, University of Lausanne 1015 Lausanne Switzerland
| | - Philippe Christe
- Department of Ecology and Evolution, University of Lausanne 1015 Lausanne Switzerland
| | - Gilbert Greub
- Center for Research on Intracellular Bacteria (CRIB), Institute of Microbiology, University Hospital Center and University of Lausanne 1011 Lausanne Switzerland
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Gillespie AV, Carter SD, Blowey RW, Staton GJ, Evans NJ. Removal of bovine digital dermatitis-associated treponemes from hoof knives after foot-trimming: a disinfection field study. BMC Vet Res 2020; 16:330. [PMID: 32917195 PMCID: PMC7488572 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-020-02552-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2020] [Accepted: 08/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Bovine digital dermatitis (BDD) is an infectious foot disease found commonly in dairy herds. Foot-trimming is an important husbandry procedure for reducing the ensuing lameness; however, epidemiological, and microbiological studies have identified this as a risk activity for transmitting BDD. Three disinfectants have previously been identified in laboratory work as effective for removing viable BDD-associated Treponema spp., from hoof knife blades. The present study enrolled 133 dairy cattle with BDD lesions, and swabbed hoof knife blades before and after foot-trimming, and after knife disinfection with one of three disinfectants (1:100 FAM30®, 2% Virkon® and 2% sodium hypochlorite) to assess their efficacy under field conditions. Results Detection of BDD treponeme phylogroup DNA was undertaken by direct PCR of swabs, and viable treponemes were detected by PCR of swab cultures after 6 weeks’ incubation. Where hoof knives did not contact the lesion, BDD-associated treponemes were detected after foot-trimming in 12/22 (54.5%) cases by direct PCR and 1/22 (4.5%) cases by PCR of cultured organisms. Where contact was made with the lesion, 111/111 (100%) samples taken after trimming were positive by direct PCR and 47/118 (39.8%) were positive by culture PCR. Viable organisms were identified in cultures from lesion stages M2, M3, M4 and M4.1. No viable organisms were detected after disinfection of hoof knives. Conclusions Hoof knives post-trimming were frequently contaminated with BDD-associated treponeme DNA. Viable organisms were identified in cultures whether contact had been made between hoof knife and lesion or not, although contact clearly increased the frequency of detection of viable organisms. The three disinfectants tested were effective for removing viable organisms. The disinfection protocol used in this study should therefore be considered reliable for adoption as standard industry practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- A V Gillespie
- Department of Infection Biology, Institute of Infection and Global Health, University of Liverpool, Merseyside, UK.
| | - S D Carter
- Department of Infection Biology, Institute of Infection and Global Health, University of Liverpool, Merseyside, UK
| | - R W Blowey
- Wood Veterinary Group, 125 Bristol Road, Gloucester, GL2 4NB, UK
| | - G J Staton
- Department of Infection Biology, Institute of Infection and Global Health, University of Liverpool, Merseyside, UK
| | - N J Evans
- Department of Infection Biology, Institute of Infection and Global Health, University of Liverpool, Merseyside, UK
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Staton GJ, Crosby-Durrani H, Roberts G, Duncan JS, Seechurn N, Blowey R, Evans NJ. Novel ulcerative leg lesions in yearling lambs: Clinical features, microbiology and histopathology. Vet Microbiol 2020; 247:108790. [PMID: 32768234 PMCID: PMC7429982 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetmic.2020.108790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2020] [Revised: 07/02/2020] [Accepted: 07/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
An outbreak of an infectious dermatological disorder of unknown aetiology in a flock of yearling lambs was investigated. Lesions occurred on the distal limb between the coronary band and carpel joint as a circular ulcerative dermatitis. Treponema spp., Dichelobacter nodosus, Staphylococcus aureus, Dermatophilus congolensis and poxvirus screens were negative. Fusobacterium necrophorum and Streptococcus dysgalactiae were detected in the majority of lesions examined. An aetiology involving bacterial infection with F. necrophorum and S. dysgalactiae was implicated.
Here we report an outbreak of an atypical, ulcerative dermatitis in North Country mule lambs, located in South Gloucestershire, UK. The lesions, which appeared to be contagious, occured between the coronary band and the carpal joint as a focal, well demarcated, circular, ulcerative dermatitis. Histopathological examination of the lesion biopsies revealed areas of ulceration, epidermal hyperplasia, suppurative dermatitis and granulation tissue. Clumped keratohyalin granules and intracellular keratinocyte oedema (ballooning degeneration) were evident within lesion biopsies, consistent with an underlying viral aetiology. A PCR-based microbiological investigation failed to detect bovine digital dermatitis-associated treponeme phylogroups, Dichelobacter nodosus, Staphylococcus aureus, Dermatophilus congolensis or Chordopoxvirinae virus DNA. However, 3 of the 10 (30 %) and 6 of 10 (60 %) lesion samples were positive for Fusobacterium necrophorum and Streptococcus dysgalactiae DNA, respectively. Contralateral limb swabs were negative by all standard PCR assays. To better define the involvement of F. necrophorum in the aetiology of these lesions, a qPCR targeting the rpoB gene was employed and confirmed the presence of F. necrophorum DNA in both the control and lesions swab samples, although the mean F. necrophorum genome copy number detected in the lesion swab samples was ∼19-fold higher than detected in the contralateral control swab samples (245 versus 4752 genome copies/μl, respectively; P < 0.001). Although we have not been able to conclusively define an aetiological agent, the presence of both F. necrophorum and S. dysgalactiae in the majority of lesions assayed supports their role in the aetiopathogenesis of these lesions.
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Affiliation(s)
- G J Staton
- Department of Infection Biology & Microbiomes, Institute of Infection, Veterinary & Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Leahurst Campus, Chester High Road, Neston, CH64 7TE, United Kingdom.
| | - H Crosby-Durrani
- Department of Infection Biology & Microbiomes, Institute of Infection, Veterinary & Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Leahurst Campus, Chester High Road, Neston, CH64 7TE, United Kingdom
| | - G Roberts
- George Farm Vets, High Street, Malmesbury, Wiltshire, SN16 9AU, United Kingdom
| | - J S Duncan
- Department of Livestock & One Health, Institute of Infection, Veterinary & Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Leahurst Campus, Chester High Road, Neston, CH64 7TE, United Kingdom
| | - N Seechurn
- School of Veterinary Science, Institute of Infection, Veterinary & Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Leahurst Campus, Chester High Road, Neston, CH64 7TE, United Kingdom
| | - R Blowey
- Minsterworth, Gloucester, GL2 8JG, United Kingdom
| | - N J Evans
- Department of Infection Biology & Microbiomes, Institute of Infection, Veterinary & Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Leahurst Campus, Chester High Road, Neston, CH64 7TE, United Kingdom
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Fritschi J, Marti H, Seth-Smith HMB, Aeby S, Greub G, Meli ML, Hofmann-Lehmann R, Mühldorfer K, Stokar-Regenscheit N, Wiederkehr D, Pilo P, Van Den Broek PR, Borel N. Prevalence and phylogeny of Chlamydiae and hemotropic mycoplasma species in captive and free-living bats. BMC Microbiol 2020; 20:182. [PMID: 32590949 PMCID: PMC7318495 DOI: 10.1186/s12866-020-01872-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2020] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bats are hosts for a variety of microorganisms, however, little is known about the presence of Chlamydiales and hemotropic mycoplasmas. This study investigated 475 captive and free-living bats from Switzerland, Germany, and Costa Rica for Chlamydiales and hemotropic mycoplasmas by PCR to determine the prevalence and phylogeny of these organisms. RESULTS Screening for Chlamydiales resulted in a total prevalence of 31.4%. Positive samples originated from captive and free-living bats from all three countries. Sequencing of 15 samples allowed the detection of two phylogenetically distinct groups. These groups share sequence identities to Chlamydiaceae, and to Chlamydia-like organisms including Rhabdochlamydiaceae and unclassified Chlamydiales from environmental samples, respectively. PCR analysis for the presence of hemotropic mycoplasmas resulted in a total prevalence of 0.7%, comprising free-living bats from Germany and Costa Rica. Phylogenetic analysis revealed three sequences related to other unidentified mycoplasmas found in vampire bats and Chilean bats. CONCLUSIONS Bats can harbor Chlamydiales and hemotropic mycoplasmas and the newly described sequences in this study indicate that the diversity of these bacteria in bats is much larger than previously thought. Both, Chlamydiales and hemotropic mycoplasmas are not restricted to certain bat species or countries and captive and free-living bats can be colonized. In conclusion, bats represent another potential host or vector for novel, previously unidentified, Chlamydiales and hemotropic mycoplasmas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janine Fritschi
- Institute of Veterinary Pathology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Hanna Marti
- Institute of Veterinary Pathology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Helena M B Seth-Smith
- Institute of Veterinary Pathology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Sébastien Aeby
- Institute of Microbiology, University of Lausanne, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Gilbert Greub
- Institute of Microbiology, University of Lausanne, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Marina L Meli
- Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Clinical Laboratory, Department for Clinical Diagnostics and Services, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Regina Hofmann-Lehmann
- Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Clinical Laboratory, Department for Clinical Diagnostics and Services, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Kristin Mühldorfer
- Department of Wildlife Diseases, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Danja Wiederkehr
- Bern University of Applied Sciences, School of Agricultural, Forest and Food Sciences, Zollikofen, Switzerland
| | - Paola Pilo
- Institute of Veterinary Bacteriology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | | | - Nicole Borel
- Institute of Veterinary Pathology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
- Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
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Putative β-Barrel Outer Membrane Proteins of the Bovine Digital Dermatitis-Associated Treponemes: Identification, Functional Characterization, and Immunogenicity. Infect Immun 2020; 88:IAI.00050-20. [PMID: 32122940 PMCID: PMC7171239 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00050-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2020] [Accepted: 02/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Bovine digital dermatitis (BDD), an infectious disease of the bovine foot with a predominant treponemal etiology, is a leading cause of lameness in dairy and beef herds worldwide. BDD is poorly responsive to antimicrobial therapy and exhibits a relapsing clinical course; an effective vaccine is therefore urgently sought. Using a reverse vaccinology approach, the present study surveyed the genomes of the three BDD-associated Treponema phylogroups for putative β-barrel outer membrane proteins and considered their potential as vaccine candidates. Selection criteria included the presence of a signal peptidase I cleavage site, a predicted β-barrel fold, and cross-phylogroup homology. Four candidate genes were overexpressed in Escherichia coli BL21(DE3), refolded, and purified. Consistent with their classification as β-barrel OMPs, circular-dichroism spectroscopy revealed the adoption of a predominantly β-sheet secondary structure. These recombinant proteins, when screened for their ability to adhere to immobilized extracellular matrix (ECM) components, exhibited a diverse range of ligand specificities. All four proteins specifically and dose dependently adhered to bovine fibrinogen. One recombinant protein was identified as a candidate diagnostic antigen (disease specificity, 75%). Finally, when adjuvanted with aluminum hydroxide and administered to BDD-naive calves using a prime-boost vaccination protocol, these proteins were immunogenic, eliciting specific IgG antibodies. In summary, we present the description of four putative treponemal β-barrel OMPs that exhibit the characteristics of multispecific adhesins. The observed interactions with fibrinogen may be critical to host colonization and it is hypothesized that vaccination-induced antibody blockade of these interactions will impede treponemal virulence and thus be of therapeutic value.
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Gillespie A, Carter SD, Blowey RW, Evans N. Survival of bovine digital dermatitis treponemes on hoof knife blades and the effects of various disinfectants. Vet Rec 2019; 186:67. [PMID: 31744926 PMCID: PMC7029245 DOI: 10.1136/vr.105406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2019] [Revised: 08/19/2019] [Accepted: 10/17/2019] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Background Bovine digital dermatitis (BDD) is a painful infectious foot disease of cattle, and much evidence implicates a pathogenic role for treponemes. This study measured the survival of BDD treponemes on hoof knife blades and tested the efficacy of relevant disinfectants under laboratory conditions. Methods Two strains of BDD treponemes were applied to hoof knife blades under aerobic conditions. Swabs were taken at different time points (10 minutes, one hour, two hours, four hours and 18 hours) and again after 20-second disinfection time with one of five disinfectants. Swabs were used directly for nested PCR to detect treponemes or inoculated for anaerobic growth, and subsequently examined using phase contrast microscopy and PCR. Results BDD treponeme DNA was detectable by nested PCR at all survival time points, and these organisms were culturable from hoof knives for two hours after exposure under aerobic conditions in the laboratory. Three of the five disinfectants—1 per cent volume per volume (v/v) FAM30®, 2 per cent weight per volume (w/v) Virkon® or 2 per cent (v/v) sodium hypochlorite—were effective at preventing visible growth of treponemes following 20-seconds contact, and 1 per cent (v/v) FAM30® also prevented detection of treponemes by PCR. Conclusion Treponeme viability of two hours under aerobic conditions suggests BDD treponemes could be transmitted between cows on hoof knives. It is therefore important to apply a disinfection protocol during foot-trimming; the authors have identified three common disinfectants that may be suitable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Gillespie
- Infection Biology, Institute of Infection and Global Health, University of Liverpool Leahurst Campus, University of Liverpool, Neston, UK
| | - Stuart D Carter
- Infection Biology, Institute of Infection and Global Health, University of Liverpool Leahurst Campus, University of Liverpool, Neston, UK
| | | | - Nicholas Evans
- Infection Biology, Institute of Infection and Global Health, University of Liverpool Leahurst Campus, University of Liverpool, Neston, UK
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Dhivahar J, Khusro A, Agastian P, Isaac SS. Isolation and Characterization of Hyper-Xylanase Producing Bacillus spp. from Faeces of the Indian Flying Fox (Pteropus giganteus). ACTA CHIROPTEROLOGICA 2019. [DOI: 10.3161/15081109acc2019.21.1.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- J. Dhivahar
- Research Department of Zoology, St. John's College, Palayamkottai - 627002, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Ameer Khusro
- Research Department of Plant Biology and Biotechnology, Loyola College, Chennai - 600034, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Paul Agastian
- Research Department of Plant Biology and Biotechnology, Loyola College, Chennai - 600034, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - S. Suthakar Isaac
- Research Department of Zoology, St. John's College, Palayamkottai - 627002, Tamil Nadu, India
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10
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Bayramova F, Jacquier N, Greub G. Insight in the biology of Chlamydia-related bacteria. Microbes Infect 2017; 20:432-440. [PMID: 29269129 DOI: 10.1016/j.micinf.2017.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2017] [Revised: 11/14/2017] [Accepted: 11/21/2017] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
The Chlamydiales order is composed of obligate intracellular bacteria and includes the Chlamydiaceae family and several family-level lineages called Chlamydia-related bacteria. In this review we will highlight the conserved and distinct biological features between these two groups. We will show how a better characterization of Chlamydia-related bacteria may increase our understanding on the Chlamydiales order evolution, and may help identifying new therapeutic targets to treat chlamydial infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Firuza Bayramova
- Centre for Research on Intracellular Bacteria, Institute of Microbiology, University Hospital Centre and University of Lausanne, Bugnon 48, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Nicolas Jacquier
- Centre for Research on Intracellular Bacteria, Institute of Microbiology, University Hospital Centre and University of Lausanne, Bugnon 48, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Gilbert Greub
- Centre for Research on Intracellular Bacteria, Institute of Microbiology, University Hospital Centre and University of Lausanne, Bugnon 48, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland.
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11
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Angell JW, Clegg SR, Grove-White DH, Blowey RW, Carter SD, Duncan JS, Evans NJ. Survival of contagious ovine digital dermatitis (CODD)-associated treponemes on disposable gloves after handling CODD-affected feet. Vet Rec 2017. [PMID: 28642342 PMCID: PMC5531218 DOI: 10.1136/vr.104228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- J W Angell
- University of Liverpool, Brownlow Hill,, Liverpool, UK
| | - S R Clegg
- University of Liverpool, Brownlow Hill,, Liverpool, UK
| | | | | | - S D Carter
- University of Liverpool, Brownlow Hill,, Liverpool, UK
| | - J S Duncan
- University of Liverpool, Brownlow Hill,, Liverpool, UK
| | - N J Evans
- University of Liverpool, Brownlow Hill,, Liverpool, UK
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12
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Taylor-Brown A, Polkinghorne A. New and emerging chlamydial infections of creatures great and small. New Microbes New Infect 2017; 18:28-33. [PMID: 28560043 PMCID: PMC5436083 DOI: 10.1016/j.nmni.2017.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2017] [Accepted: 04/10/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Until recently, our knowledge of the host range and diversity of members of the Chlamydiaceae, obligate intracellular bacterial pathogens of humans and animals, was thought to be nearly complete. Aided by advances in molecular diagnostics, a new picture is emerging, however, that the host barriers may be looser than previously thought for many chlamydial species. While cross-host transmission of chlamydial species is a concern for animal health, new reports highlight an emerging zoonotic risk for several species associated with intensification of farming and the widespread popularity of companion animals. The description of an expanded cohort of new species within this family from avian and reptilian hosts has also highlighted how much we still have to learn about the biology and pathogenicity of the Chlamydiaceae as a whole. Reports emerging about these relatives of the traditional chlamydial pathogens are matched by the continued identification of novel Chlamydia-related bacteria in the phylum Chlamydiae, providing evidence that many may be pathogenic to humans or animals and pose a zoonotic or vector-borne risk. The review examines the new hosts described for well-characterized chlamydial veterinary pathogens, emerging novel chlamydial species and the potential for these to cause disease in their respective hosts.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Taylor-Brown
- Centre for Animal Health Innovation, Faculty of Science, Health, Education and Engineering, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, Australia
| | - A Polkinghorne
- Centre for Animal Health Innovation, Faculty of Science, Health, Education and Engineering, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, Australia
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13
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Hokynar K, Vesterinen EJ, Lilley TM, Pulliainen AT, Korhonen SJ, Paavonen J, Puolakkainen M. Molecular Evidence of Chlamydia-Like Organisms in the Feces of Myotis daubentonii Bats. Appl Environ Microbiol 2017; 83:e02951-16. [PMID: 27815278 PMCID: PMC5203614 DOI: 10.1128/aem.02951-16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2016] [Accepted: 10/31/2016] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Chlamydia-like organisms (CLOs) are recently identified members of the Chlamydiales order. CLOs share intracellular lifestyles and biphasic developmental cycles, and they have been detected in environmental samples as well as in various hosts such as amoebae and arthropods. In this study, we screened bat feces for the presence of CLOs by molecular analysis. Using pan-Chlamydiales PCR targeting the 16S rRNA gene, Chlamydiales DNA was detected in 54% of the specimens. PCR amplification, sequencing, and phylogenetic analysis of the 16S rRNA and 23S rRNA genes were used to classify positive specimens and infer their phylogenetic relationships. Most sequences matched best with Rhabdochlamydia species or uncultured Chlamydia sequences identified in ticks. Another set of sequences matched best with sequences of the Chlamydia genus or uncultured Chlamydiales from snakes. To gain evidence of whether CLOs in bat feces are merely diet borne, we analyzed insects trapped from the same location where the bats foraged. Interestingly, the CLO sequences resembling Rhabdochlamydia spp. were detected in insect material as well, but the other set of CLO sequences was not, suggesting that this set might not originate from prey. Thus, bats represent another potential host for Chlamydiales and could harbor novel, previously unidentified members of this order. IMPORTANCE Several pathogenic viruses are known to colonize bats, and recent analyses indicate that bats are also reservoir hosts for bacterial genera. Chlamydia-like organisms (CLOs) have been detected in several animal species. CLOs have high 16S rRNA sequence similarity to Chlamydiaceae and exhibit similar intracellular lifestyles and biphasic developmental cycles. Our study describes the frequent occurrence of CLO DNA in bat feces, suggesting an expanding host species spectrum for the Chlamydiales As bats can acquire various infectious agents through their diet, prey insects were also studied. We identified CLO sequences in bats that matched best with sequences in prey insects but also CLO sequences not detected in prey insects. This suggests that a portion of CLO DNA present in bat feces is not prey borne. Furthermore, some sequences from bat droppings not originating from their diet might well represent novel, previously unidentified members of the Chlamydiales order.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Hokynar
- Virology, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - E J Vesterinen
- Archipelago Research Institute, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - T M Lilley
- Biology Department, Bucknell University, Lewisburg, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - A T Pulliainen
- Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - S J Korhonen
- Virology, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - J Paavonen
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - M Puolakkainen
- Virology, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
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14
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Burnard D, Polkinghorne A. Chlamydial infections in wildlife-conservation threats and/or reservoirs of 'spill-over' infections? Vet Microbiol 2016; 196:78-84. [PMID: 27939160 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetmic.2016.10.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2016] [Revised: 10/12/2016] [Accepted: 10/14/2016] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Members of the order Chlamydiales are biphasic intracellular pathogens known to cause disease in both humans and animals. As we learn more about the genetic diversity of this group of pathogens, evidence is growing that these bacteria infect a broader range of animal hosts than previously thought. Over 400 host species are now documented globally with the majority of these being wild animals. Given the impact of chlamydial infections on humans and domesticated animals, the identification of members of the order Chlamydiales in wildlife raises significant questions over a) their impact on animal health and b) the relationships to those strains also found in humans and domestic animals. In some species such as the iconic marsupial, the koala, the conservation impact is known with chlamydial infections associated with debilitating disease, however, in general, little is known about the pathogenic potential of Chlamydiae infecting most wildlife hosts. Accumulating evidence suggests contact with wild animals is a risk factor for infections in domestic animals and/or humans. Beyond the well-recognised zoonotic pathogen, Chlamydia psittaci, a range of studies have now reported traditional pathogens in the family Chlamydiaceae such as Chlamydia pecorum, Chlamydia suis, Chlamydia pneumoniae and Chlamydia abortus in wild animals. The spectre of cross-host transmission 'spill-over' and 'spill-back' in the epidemiology of infections is of potential concern, however, comprehensive epidemiological studies are lacking for most of these. Accurate evaluation of the significance of chlamydial infections in wildlife is otherwise hampered by i) the cross-sectional nature of most impact studies, ii) a lack of standardised diagnostic approaches, iii) limited study sizes, and iv) biases associated with opportunistic sampling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Delaney Burnard
- Centre for Animal Health Innovation, Faculty of Science, Health, Education and Engineering, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, Queensland 4556, Australia
| | - Adam Polkinghorne
- Centre for Animal Health Innovation, Faculty of Science, Health, Education and Engineering, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, Queensland 4556, Australia.
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15
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Hokynar K, Sormunen JJ, Vesterinen EJ, Partio EK, Lilley T, Timonen V, Panelius J, Ranki A, Puolakkainen M. Chlamydia-Like Organisms (CLOs) in Finnish Ixodes ricinus Ticks and Human Skin. Microorganisms 2016; 4:E28. [PMID: 27681922 PMCID: PMC5039588 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms4030028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2016] [Revised: 08/11/2016] [Accepted: 08/12/2016] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Ticks carry several human pathogenic microbes including Borreliae and Flavivirus causing tick-born encephalitis. Ticks can also carry DNA of Chlamydia-like organisms (CLOs). The purpose of this study was to investigate the occurrence of CLOs in ticks and skin biopsies taken from individuals with suspected tick bite. DNA from CLOs was detected by pan-Chlamydiales-PCR in 40% of adult ticks from southwestern Finland. The estimated minimal infection rate for nymphs and larvae (studied in pools) was 6% and 2%, respectively. For the first time, we show CLO DNA also in human skin as 68% of all skin biopsies studied contained CLO DNA as determined through pan-Chlamydiales-PCR. Sequence analyses based on the 16S rRNA gene fragment indicated that the sequences detected in ticks were heterogeneous, representing various CLO families; whereas the majority of the sequences from human skin remained "unclassified Chlamydiales" and might represent a new family-level lineage. CLO sequences detected in four skin biopsies were most closely related to "uncultured Chlamydial bacterium clones from Ixodes ricinus ticks" and two of them were very similar to CLO sequences from Finnish ticks. These results suggest that CLO DNA is present in human skin; ticks carry CLOs and could potentially transmit CLOs to humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kati Hokynar
- Department of Virology, Hartman institute, University of Helsinki, Helsinki 00014, Finland.
| | - Jani J Sormunen
- Department of Biology, University of Turku, Turku 20014, Finland.
| | - Eero J Vesterinen
- Department of Biology, University of Turku, Turku 20014, Finland.
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Helsinki, Helsinki 00014, Finland.
| | - Esa K Partio
- Medical Center Söder, Söderkulla 01150, Finland.
| | - Thomas Lilley
- Biology Department, Bucknell University, Lewisburg, PA 17837, USA.
| | - Veera Timonen
- Department of Virology, Hartman institute, University of Helsinki, Helsinki 00014, Finland.
| | - Jaana Panelius
- Department of Dermatology and Allergology, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Central Hospital, Helsinki 00250, Finland.
| | - Annamari Ranki
- Department of Dermatology and Allergology, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Central Hospital, Helsinki 00250, Finland.
| | - Mirja Puolakkainen
- Department of Virology, Hartman institute, University of Helsinki, Helsinki 00014, Finland.
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16
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Clegg SR, Carter SD, Birtles RJ, Brown JM, Hart CA, Evans NJ. Multilocus Sequence Typing of Pathogenic Treponemes Isolated from Cloven-Hoofed Animals and Comparison to Treponemes Isolated from Humans. Appl Environ Microbiol 2016; 82:4523-4536. [PMID: 27208135 PMCID: PMC4984274 DOI: 10.1128/aem.00025-16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2016] [Accepted: 05/11/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
UNLABELLED Treponema species are implicated in many diseases of humans and animals. Digital dermatitis (DD) treponemes are reported to cause severe lesions in cattle, sheep, pigs, goats, and wild elk, causing substantial global animal welfare issues and economic losses. The fastidiousness of these spirochetes has previously precluded studies investigating within-phylogroup genetic diversity. An archive of treponemes that we isolated enabled multilocus sequence typing to quantify the diversity and population structure of DD treponemes. Isolates (n = 121) were obtained from different animal hosts in nine countries on three continents. The analyses herein of currently isolated DD treponemes at seven housekeeping gene loci confirm the classification of the three previously designated phylogroups: the Treponema medium, Treponema phagedenis, and Treponema pedis phylogroups. Sequence analysis of seven DD treponeme housekeeping genes revealed a generally low level of diversity among the strains within each phylogroup, removing the need for the previously used "-like" suffix. Surprisingly, all isolates within each phylogroup clustered together, regardless of host or geographic origin, suggesting that the same sequence types (STs) can infect different animals. Some STs were derived from multiple animals from the same farm, highlighting probable within-farm transmissions. Several STs infected multiple hosts from similar geographic regions, identifying probable frequent between-host transmissions. Interestingly, T. pedis appears to be evolving more quickly than the T. medium or T. phagedenis DD treponeme phylogroup, by forming two unique ST complexes. The lack of phylogenetic discrimination between treponemes isolated from different hosts or geographic regions substantially contrasts with the data for other clinically relevant spirochetes. IMPORTANCE The recent expansion of the host range of digital dermatitis (DD) treponemes from cattle to sheep, goats, pigs, and wild elk, coupled with the high level of 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity across hosts and with human treponemes, suggests that the same bacterial species can cause disease in multiple different hosts. This multilocus sequence typing (MLST) study further demonstrates that these bacteria isolated from different hosts are indeed very similar, raising the potential for cross-species transmission. The study also shows that infection spread occurs frequently, both locally and globally, suggesting transmission by routes other than animal-animal transmission alone. These results indicate that on-farm biosecurity is important for controlling disease spread in domesticated species. Continued surveillance and vigilance are important for ascertaining the evolution and tracking any further host range expansion of these important pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon R Clegg
- Department of Infection Biology, Institute of Infection and Global Health, School of Veterinary Science, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Stuart D Carter
- Department of Infection Biology, Institute of Infection and Global Health, School of Veterinary Science, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Richard J Birtles
- School of Environment and Life Sciences, University of Salford, Salford, United Kingdom
| | - Jennifer M Brown
- Department of Infection Biology, Institute of Infection and Global Health, School of Veterinary Science, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - C Anthony Hart
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Nicholas J Evans
- Department of Infection Biology, Institute of Infection and Global Health, School of Veterinary Science, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
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17
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Pierlé SA, Morales CO, Martínez LP, Ceballos NA, Rivero JJP, Díaz OL, Brayton KA, Setién AA. Novel Waddlia Intracellular Bacterium in Artibeus intermedius Fruit Bats, Mexico. Emerg Infect Dis 2016; 21:2161-3. [PMID: 26583968 PMCID: PMC4672442 DOI: 10.3201/eid2112.150002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
An intracellular bacterium was isolated from fruit bats (Artibeus intermedius) in Cocoyoc, Mexico. The bacterium caused severe lesions in the lungs and spleens of bats and intracytoplasmic vacuoles in cell cultures. Sequence analyses showed it is related to Waddlia spp. (order Chlamydiales). We propose to call this bacterium Waddlia cocoyoc.
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18
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Severe Foot Lesions in Dairy Goats Associated with Digital Dermatitis Treponemes. J Comp Pathol 2016; 154:283-96. [PMID: 27162082 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcpa.2016.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2016] [Revised: 03/29/2016] [Accepted: 04/01/2016] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Treponeme-associated foot disease has been described in cattle with digital dermatitis and sheep with contagious ovine digital dermatitis. In this study, severe foot lesions in dairy goats associated with digital dermatitis treponemes (i.e. Treponema medium, Treponema phagedenis and Treponema pedis) were characterized macroscopically, radiographically and histologically. The main macroscopic foot lesion was of extensive solar ulceration with or without exophytic papilliform hyperkeratosis. Radiographically, the distal phalanx and distal sesamoid bones were severely damaged and remodelled. Histologically, the lesion was categorized as a chronic lymphoplasmacytic, suppurative and ulcerative pododermatitis. Immunohistochemistry identified the spirochaetal microorganisms located extracellularly in the superficial horn. Study limitations mean that the treponeme bacteria could not be considered the sole or causal agents in the cases described.
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19
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Detection and Isolation of Digital Dermatitis Treponemes from Bovine Pressure Sores. J Comp Pathol 2016; 154:273-82. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jcpa.2016.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2015] [Revised: 02/12/2016] [Accepted: 02/18/2016] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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20
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Clegg SR, Sullivan LE, Bell J, Blowey RW, Carter SD, Evans NJ. Detection and isolation of digital dermatitis treponemes from skin and tail lesions in pigs. Res Vet Sci 2016; 104:64-70. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2015.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2015] [Revised: 11/17/2015] [Accepted: 12/04/2015] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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21
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Clegg SR, Bell J, Ainsworth S, Blowey RW, Bell NJ, Carter SD, Evans NJ. Isolation of digital dermatitis treponemes from cattle hock skin lesions. Vet Dermatol 2016; 27:106-12e29. [PMID: 26792149 DOI: 10.1111/vde.12286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/16/2015] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bovine hock lesions present a serious welfare and production issue on dairy farms worldwide. Current theories suggest that trauma is an important factor in the formation of hock lesions, although infection may also play a role in increasing their severity and duration. HYPOTHESIS Digital dermatitis (DD) lesions in dairy cows are strongly associated with specific treponeme bacteria which are opportunistic invaders of other skin regions. Hock lesions were tested to ascertain if they too contained treponemes. ANIMALS Swab and tissue samples were taken from hock lesions from two farms in South West England. METHODS Hock lesions were classified into two categories: open lesions, which were often bleeding and ulcerated, or were encrusted; and closed lesions, which were classified as hair loss with no skin breakage. PCR assays and bacterial isolation were used to detect treponemes in hock lesions. RESULTS All three phylogroups of digital dermatitis treponemes were detectable and isolated from open hock lesions only, with closed lesions showing no evidence of treponeme infection, either by PCR or bacterial culture. When analysed by 16S rRNA gene sequencing, the cultured treponeme DNA showed complete homology or was very similar to that found in foot lesions. Additionally, skin swabs from near the open hock wounds were also positive by PCR assay and isolation for the DD treponemes. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE Identification of the contribution of these infectious agents will allow for more optimal treatments to be developed that reduce the prevalence and healing times of both hock and DD lesions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon R Clegg
- Department of Infection Biology, Institute of Infection and Global Health, School of Veterinary Science, University of Liverpool, Liverpool Science Park IC2, 146 Brownlow Hill, Liverpool, L3 5RF, UK
| | - Jennifer Bell
- Department of Infection Biology, Institute of Infection and Global Health, School of Veterinary Science, University of Liverpool, Liverpool Science Park IC2, 146 Brownlow Hill, Liverpool, L3 5RF, UK
| | - Stuart Ainsworth
- Department of Infection Biology, Institute of Infection and Global Health, School of Veterinary Science, University of Liverpool, Liverpool Science Park IC2, 146 Brownlow Hill, Liverpool, L3 5RF, UK
| | - Roger W Blowey
- Department of Infection Biology, Institute of Infection and Global Health, School of Veterinary Science, University of Liverpool, Liverpool Science Park IC2, 146 Brownlow Hill, Liverpool, L3 5RF, UK.,Wood Veterinary Group, 125 Bristol Road, Quedgeley, Gloucester, Gloucestershire, GL2 4NB, UK
| | - Nick J Bell
- Farm Animal Health and Production Group, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, AL9 7TA, UK
| | - Stuart D Carter
- Department of Infection Biology, Institute of Infection and Global Health, School of Veterinary Science, University of Liverpool, Liverpool Science Park IC2, 146 Brownlow Hill, Liverpool, L3 5RF, UK
| | - Nicholas J Evans
- Department of Infection Biology, Institute of Infection and Global Health, School of Veterinary Science, University of Liverpool, Liverpool Science Park IC2, 146 Brownlow Hill, Liverpool, L3 5RF, UK
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22
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Clegg SR, Carter SD, Stewart JP, Amin DM, Blowey RW, Evans NJ. Bovine ischaemic teat necrosis: a further potential role for digital dermatitis treponemes. Vet Rec 2016; 178:71. [PMID: 26743503 DOI: 10.1136/vr.103167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/01/2015] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
A recent outbreak of ischaemic teat necrosis (ITN) on mainland UK has resulted in large economic losses for dairy farmers. Typical cases start as an area of dry, thickened and encrusted skin on the medial aspect of the base of the teat, where the teat joins the udder, often with a fetid odour. The erosion spreads down the teat, often causing intense irritation, which in turn leads to more severely affected animals removing the entire teat. Due to the severity of ITN and the substantial economic costs to the industry, analyses were undertaken to ascertain if an infectious agent might be involved in the pathology. The study has considered a role for digital dermatitis (DD) treponemes in the aetiopathogenesis of ITN because, as well as being the prime bacteria associated with infectious lameness, they have been associated with a number of emerging skin diseases of cattle, including udder lesions. A high association between presence of DD-associated treponemes and incidence of ITN (19/22), compared with absence in the control population is reported. Furthermore, sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene of treponeme isolates supports the hypothesis that the identified treponemes are similar or identical to those isolated from classical foot DD lesions in cattle (and sheep). Further studies are required to allow effective targeted prevention measures and/or treatments to be developed.
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Affiliation(s)
- S R Clegg
- Department of Infection Biology, Institute of Infection and Global Health, School of Veterinary Science, University of Liverpool, Liverpool Science Park ic2, 146 Brownlow Hill, Liverpool L3 5RF, UK
| | - S D Carter
- Department of Infection Biology, Institute of Infection and Global Health, School of Veterinary Science, University of Liverpool, Liverpool Science Park ic2, 146 Brownlow Hill, Liverpool L3 5RF, UK
| | - J P Stewart
- Department of Infection Biology, Institute of Infection and Global Health, School of Veterinary Science, University of Liverpool, Liverpool Science Park ic2, 146 Brownlow Hill, Liverpool L3 5RF, UK
| | - D M Amin
- Department of Infection Biology, Institute of Infection and Global Health, School of Veterinary Science, University of Liverpool, Liverpool Science Park ic2, 146 Brownlow Hill, Liverpool L3 5RF, UK
| | - R W Blowey
- University of Liverpool & Wood Veterinary Group, Gloucester, Gloucestershire GL2 4NB, UK
| | - N J Evans
- Department of Infection Biology, Institute of Infection and Global Health, School of Veterinary Science, University of Liverpool, Liverpool Science Park ic2, 146 Brownlow Hill, Liverpool L3 5RF, UK
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23
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Banskar S, Mourya DT, Shouche YS. Bacterial diversity indicates dietary overlap among bats of different feeding habits. Microbiol Res 2015; 182:99-108. [PMID: 26686618 DOI: 10.1016/j.micres.2015.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2015] [Revised: 10/14/2015] [Accepted: 10/18/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Bats are among the most conspicuous mammals with extraordinary adaptations. They play a key role in the ecosystem. Frugivorous bats are important seed dispersing agents that help in maintaining forest tree diversity, while insectivorous bats are natural insect pest control agents. Several previous reports suggest that bats are reservoir of viruses; nonetheless their bacterial counterparts are relatively less explored. The present study describes the microbial diversity associated with the intestine of bats from different regions of India. Our observations stipulate that there is substantial sharing of bacterial communities between the insectivorous and frugivorous bats, which signifies fairly large dietary overlap. We also observed the presence of higher abundance of Mycoplasma in Cynopterus species of bats, indicating possible Mycoplasma infection. Considering the scarcity of literature related to microbial communities of bat intestinal tract, this study can direct future microbial diversity studies in bats with reference to their dietary habits, host-bacteria interaction and zoonosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunil Banskar
- Microbial Culture Collection, National Centre for Cell Science, Savitribai Phule Pune University Campus, Pune 411007, India
| | - Devendra T Mourya
- National Institute of Virology, Microbial Containment Complex, Pashan, Pune 411021, India
| | - Yogesh S Shouche
- Microbial Culture Collection, National Centre for Cell Science, Savitribai Phule Pune University Campus, Pune 411007, India.
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24
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Lamoth F, Pillonel T, Greub G. Waddlia: An emerging pathogen and a model organism to study the biology of chlamydiae. Microbes Infect 2015; 17:732-7. [PMID: 26432516 DOI: 10.1016/j.micinf.2015.09.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2015] [Revised: 09/16/2015] [Accepted: 09/18/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Waddlia chondrophila is an emerging pathogen associated with abortion in cattle. In humans, a growing body of evidence supports its pathogenic role in miscarriage and in respiratory tract infection. The human pathogenicity of W. chondrophila is further supported by the presence of several virulence factors including a catalase, a functional T3SS and several adhesins. Despite this medical importance, no commercial tests are available and diagnostic of this strict intracellular bacterium mainly relies on serology, PCR and immunohistochemistry. So far, the epidemiology of W. chondrophila remains largely unexplored and zoonotic, waterborne or interhuman transmission has been considered. Apart from its pathogenic role, chlamydiologists are also interested in W. chondrophila in order to better understand biological mechanisms conserved and shared with Chlamydia spp. Indeed, W. chondrophila proved to be a useful model organism to study the pathobiology of chlamydiae thanks to its rapid replication, its large size allowing precise subcellular protein localization, as well as its growth in Dictyostelium amoebae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fréderic Lamoth
- Institute of Microbiology, University of Lausanne and University Hospital Center, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Trestan Pillonel
- Institute of Microbiology, University of Lausanne and University Hospital Center, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Gilbert Greub
- Institute of Microbiology, University of Lausanne and University Hospital Center, Lausanne, Switzerland.
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25
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Taylor-Brown A, Vaughan L, Greub G, Timms P, Polkinghorne A. Twenty years of research into Chlamydia-like organisms: a revolution in our understanding of the biology and pathogenicity of members of the phylum Chlamydiae. Pathog Dis 2014; 73:1-15. [PMID: 25854000 DOI: 10.1093/femspd/ftu009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/29/2014] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Chlamydiae are obligate intracellular bacteria that share a unique but remarkably conserved biphasic developmental cycle that relies on a eukaryotic host cell for survival. Although the phylum was originally thought to only contain one family, the Chlamydiaceae, a total of nine families are now recognized. These so-called Chlamydia-like organisms (CLOs) are also referred to as 'environmental chlamydiae', as many were initially isolated from environmental sources. However, these organisms are also emerging pathogens, as many, such as Parachlamydia sp., Simkania sp. and Waddlia sp., have been associated with human disease, and others, such as Piscichlamydia sp. and Parilichlamydia sp., have been documented in association with diseases in animals. Their strict intracellular nature and the requirement for cell culture have been a confounding factor in characterizing the biology and pathogenicity of CLOs. Nevertheless, the genomes of seven CLO species have now been sequenced, providing new information on their potential ability to adapt to a wide range of hosts. As new isolation and diagnostic methods advance, we are able to further explore the richness of this phylum with further research likely to help define the true pathogenic potential of the CLOs while also providing insight into the origins of the 'traditional' chlamydiae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alyce Taylor-Brown
- Faculty of Science, Health, Education and Engineering, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, Queensland 4556, Australia
| | - Lloyd Vaughan
- Institute of Veterinary Pathology, University of Zurich, CH-8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Gilbert Greub
- Institute of Microbiology, University of Lausanne, CH-1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Peter Timms
- Faculty of Science, Health, Education and Engineering, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, Queensland 4556, Australia
| | - Adam Polkinghorne
- Faculty of Science, Health, Education and Engineering, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, Queensland 4556, Australia
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26
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Isolation of digital dermatitis treponemes from hoof lesions in Wild North American Elk (Cervus elaphus) in Washington State, USA. J Clin Microbiol 2014; 53:88-94. [PMID: 25355757 DOI: 10.1128/jcm.02276-14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Since 2008, a large increase in the numbers of cases of lameness have been seen in wild North American elk (Cervus elaphus) from Washington State, USA. The most recent cases manifested as foot lesions similar both clinically and pathologically to those seen in digital dermatitis (DD) in cattle and sheep, a disease with a bacterial etiopathogenesis. To determine whether the same bacteria considered responsible for DD are associated with elk lameness, lesion samples were subjected to bacterial isolation studies and PCR assays for three phylogroups of relevant DD treponemes. The DD treponemes were isolated from lesional tissues but not from control feet or other areas of the diseased foot (including the coronary band or interdigital space), suggesting that the bacteria are strongly associated with DD lesions and may therefore be causal. In addition, PCR analysis revealed that all three unique DD treponeme phylotypes were found in elk hoof disease, and in 23% of samples, all 3 DD-associated treponemes were present in lesions. Sequence analysis of the 16S rRNA gene showed that the elk lesion treponemes were phylogenetically almost identical to those isolated from cattle and sheep DD lesions. The isolates were particularly similar to two of the three culturable DD treponeme phylotypes: specifically, the Treponema medium/Treponema vincentii-like and Treponema phagedenis-like DD spirochetes. The third treponeme culturable phylogroup (Treponema pedis), although detected by PCR, was not isolated. This is the first report describing isolation of DD treponemes from a wildlife host, suggesting that the disease may be evolving to include a wider spectrum of cloven-hoofed animals.
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CHLAMYDIACEAE AND CHLAMYDIA-LIKE ORGANISMS IN FREE-LIVING SMALL MAMMALS IN EUROPE AND AFGHANISTAN. J Wildl Dis 2014; 50:195-204. [DOI: 10.7589/2013-08-194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Croxatto A, Rieille N, Kernif T, Bitam I, Aeby S, Péter O, Greub G. Presence of Chlamydiales DNA in ticks and fleas suggests that ticks are carriers of Chlamydiae. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2014; 5:359-65. [PMID: 24698831 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2013.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2012] [Revised: 11/01/2013] [Accepted: 11/02/2013] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
The Chlamydiales order includes the Chlamydiaceae, Parachlamydiaceae, Waddliaceae, Simkaniaceae, Criblamydiaceae, Rhabdochlamydiaceae, Clavichlamydiaceae, and Piscichlamydiaceae families. Members of the Chlamydiales order are obligate intracellular bacteria that replicate within eukaryotic cells of different origins including humans, animals, and amoebae. Many of these bacteria are pathogens or emerging pathogens of both humans and animals, but their true diversity is largely underestimated, and their ecology remains to be investigated. Considering their potential threat on human health, it is important to expand our knowledge on the diversity of Chlamydiae, but also to define the host range colonized by these bacteria. Thus, using a new pan-Chlamydiales PCR, we analyzed the prevalence of Chlamydiales DNA in ticks and fleas, which are important vectors of several viral and bacterial infectious diseases. To conduct this study, 1340 Ixodes ricinus ticks prepared in 192 pools were collected in Switzerland and 55 other ticks belonging to different tick species and 97 fleas belonging to different flea species were harvested in Algeria. In Switzerland, the prevalence of Chlamydiales DNA in the 192 pools was equal to 28.1% (54/192) which represents an estimated prevalence in the 1340 individual ticks of between 4.0% and 28.4%. The pan-Chlamydiales qPCR was positive for 45% (25/55) of tick samples collected in Algeria. The sequencing of the positive qPCR amplicons revealed a high diversity of Chlamydiales species. Most of them belonged to the Rhabdochlamydiaceae and Parachlamydiaceae families. Thus, ticks may carry Chlamydiales and should thus be considered as possible vectors for Chlamydiales propagation to both humans and animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antony Croxatto
- Institute of Microbiology, University Hospital Center and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Nadia Rieille
- Institut Central des Hôpitaux Valaisans, Infectious Diseases, Sion, Switzerland
| | | | | | - Sébastien Aeby
- Institute of Microbiology, University Hospital Center and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Olivier Péter
- Institut Central des Hôpitaux Valaisans, Infectious Diseases, Sion, Switzerland
| | - Gilbert Greub
- Institute of Microbiology, University Hospital Center and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland.
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de Barsy M, Greub G. Waddlia chondrophila: from biology to pathogenicity. Microbes Infect 2013; 15:1033-41. [DOI: 10.1016/j.micinf.2013.09.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2013] [Revised: 09/02/2013] [Accepted: 09/02/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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Shao WW, Hua PY, Zhou SY, Zhang SY, Chen JP. Characterization of microsatellite loci in the lesser dawn bat (Eonycteris spelaea). Mol Ecol Resour 2013; 8:695-7. [PMID: 21585874 DOI: 10.1111/j.1471-8286.2007.02051.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
We constructed a genomic DNA library enriched for CA repeat motifs in Eonycteris spelaea. Nine microsatellite loci were isolated and tested on a population of 39 samples from Yunnan Province, China. These nine loci had three to 22 alleles per locus. Observed and expected heterozygosity values ranged from 0.079 to 0.963 and from 0.078 to 0.959. Two loci revealed significant departure from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium and no linkage disequilibrium was found between loci pairs. These microsatellites can be a powerful molecular tool for population-level studies of E. spelaea.
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Affiliation(s)
- W W Shao
- Guangdong Entomological Institute, Guangzhou 510260, China, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100080, China, School of Life Science, Guangxi Normal University, Guilin 541004, China, School of Life Science, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200062, China
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Permissivity of Vero cells, human pneumocytes and human endometrial cells to Waddlia chondrophila. Microbes Infect 2011; 13:566-74. [PMID: 21315828 DOI: 10.1016/j.micinf.2011.01.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2010] [Revised: 01/23/2011] [Accepted: 01/28/2011] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Growing evidence suggests that the bacterium Waddlia chondrophila, a novel member of the Chlamydiales order, is an agent of miscarriage in humans and abortion in ruminants. We thus investigated the permissivity of three epithelial cell lines, primate Vero kidney cells, human A549 pneumocytes and human Ishikawa endometrial cells to this strict intracellular bacteria. Bacterial growth kinetics in these cell lines was assessed by quantitative PCR and immunofluorescence and our results demonstrated that W. chondrophila enters and efficiently multiplies in these epithelial cell lines. Additionally, confocal and electron microscopy indicated that the bacteria co-localize with host cell mitochondria. Within Vero and A549 cells, intracellular growth of W. chondrophila was associated with a significant decrease in host cell viability while no such cytophatic effect was detected in Ishikawa cells. Bacterial cell growth in this endometrial cell line stopped 48 h after infection. This stop in the replication of W. chondrophila coincided with the appearance of large aberrant bodies, a form of the bacteria also observed in Chlamydiaceae and associated with persistence. This persistent state of W. chondrophila may explain recurrent episodes of miscarriage in vivo, since the bacteria might reactivate within endometrial cells following hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy.
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Abstract
Parachlamydia acanthamoebae is a Chlamydia-like organism that easily grows within Acanthamoeba spp. Thus, it probably uses these widespread free-living amoebae as a replicative niche, a cosmopolite aquatic reservoir and a vector. A potential role of P. acanthamoebae as an agent of lower respiratory tract infection was initially suggested by its isolation within an Acanthamoeba sp. recovered from the water of a humidifier during the investigation of an outbreak of fever. Additional serological and molecular-based investigations further supported its pathogenic role, mainly in bronchiolitis, bronchitis, aspiration pneumonia and community-acquired pneumonia. P. acanthamoebae was shown to survive and replicate within human macrophages, lung fibroblasts and pneumocytes. Moreover, this strict intracellular bacterium also causes severe pneumonia in experimentally infected mice, thus fulfilling the third and fourth Koch criteria for a pathogenic role. Consequently, new tools have been developed for the diagnosis of parachlamydial infections. It will be important to routinely search for this emerging agent of pneumonia, as P. acanthamoebae is apparently resistant to quinolones, which are antibiotics often used for the empirical treatment of atypical pneumonia. Other Chlamydia-related bacteria, including Protochlamydia naegleriophila, Simkania negevensis and Waddlia chondrophila, might also cause lung infections. Moreover, several additional novel chlamydiae, e.g. Criblamydia sequanensis and Rhabdochlamydia crassificans, have been discovered and are now being investigated for their human pathogenicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Greub
- Centre for Research on Intracellular Bacteria (CRIB), Institute of Microbiology, University Hospital Centre and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland.
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Antibiotic susceptibility of Waddlia chondrophila in Acanthamoeba castellanii amoebae. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2009; 53:2663-6. [PMID: 19332673 DOI: 10.1128/aac.00046-09] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Waddlia chondrophila is an emerging cause of miscarriage in bovines and humans. Given the strict intracellular growth of this Chlamydia-like organism, its antibiotic susceptibility was tested by amoebal coculture, cell culture, and real-time PCR. W. chondrophila was susceptible to doxycycline and azithromycin but resistant to beta-lactams and fluoroquinolones.
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Abstract
Members of the phylum Chlamydiae are obligate intracellular bacteria that were discovered about a century ago. Although Chlamydiae are major pathogens of humans and animals, they were long recognized only as a phylogenetically well-separated, small group of closely related microorganisms. The diversity of chlamydiae, their host range, and their occurrence in the environment had been largely underestimated. Today, several chlamydia-like bacteria have been described as symbionts of free-living amoebae and other eukaryotic hosts. Some of these environmental chlamydiae might also be of medical relevance for humans. Their analysis has contributed to a broader understanding of chlamydial biology and to novel insights into the evolution of these unique microorganisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthias Horn
- Department of Microbial Ecology, University of Vienna, A-1090 Vienna, Austria.
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Emerging role of Chlamydia and Chlamydia-like organisms in adverse pregnancy outcomes. Curr Opin Infect Dis 2008; 21:70-6. [PMID: 18192789 DOI: 10.1097/qco.0b013e3282f3e6a5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 162] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF THE REVIEW This review considers the roles of Chlamydia spp. and newly identified Chlamydia-like organisms in miscarriage, stillbirths and preterm labour in both animals and humans. RECENT FINDINGS The cause of miscarriage, stillbirth and preterm labour often remains unexplained. Intracellular bacteria that grow either poorly or not at all on media used routinely to detect human pathogens could be the aetiological agents of these obstetrical conditions. There is growing evidence that Chlamydia trachomatis, Chlamydophila abortus, Chlamydophila psittaci and Chlamydophila pneumoniae infections may result in adverse pregnancy outcomes in humans and/or animals. Waddlia, a Chlamydia-like organism first isolated from an aborted bovine, has emerged as an agent of abortion in cattle. Recently, Waddlia was also implicated in human foetal death. Moreover, Parachlamydia acanthamoebae is also abortigenic in ruminants. Whether additional novel Chlamydia-like organisms, such as Protochlamydia amoebophila, Neochlamydia hartmanellae, Criblamydia sequanensis, Rhabdochlamydia crassificans and Simkania negevensis, are involved in foetal loss or premature delivery remains to be determined. SUMMARY This review provides an update on the consequences of chlamydial infection during pregnancy and summarizes current evidence suggesting that some Chlamydia-related organisms are probably emerging obstetrical pathogens.
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Haider S, Collingro A, Walochnik J, Wagner M, Horn M. Chlamydia-like bacteria in respiratory samples of community-acquired pneumonia patients. FEMS Microbiol Lett 2008; 281:198-202. [PMID: 18312573 DOI: 10.1111/j.1574-6968.2008.01099.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Chlamydia-like bacteria, obligate intracellular relatives of Chlamydia trachomatis and Chlamydophila pneumoniae, are widely distributed in nature. Using a two-step nested and semi-nested PCR approach targeting the 16S rRNA gene, we found DNA of Chlamydia-like bacteria in respiratory samples from patients with community-acquired pneumonia. Of 387 cases tested, four (1.03%) tested positive if only sequences showing less than 99.9% 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity to known Chlamydiae were considered. These included for the first time Protochlamydia amoebophila, Waddlia chondrophila, and 'Candidatus Rhabdochlamydia porcellionis'-related sequences. This study extends previous findings suggesting an association of Chlamydia-like bacteria with respiratory disease, but a causal link between these microorganisms and respiratory tract infections has yet to be established.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanne Haider
- Department of Microbial Ecology, University of Vienna, Althanstrasse, Vienna, Austria
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Goy G, Croxatto A, Greub G. Waddlia chondrophila enters and multiplies within human macrophages. Microbes Infect 2008; 10:556-62. [PMID: 18424154 DOI: 10.1016/j.micinf.2008.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2008] [Revised: 02/07/2008] [Accepted: 02/10/2008] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Waddlia chondrophila is an obligate intracellular bacterium of the Chlamydiales order. W. chondrophila has been isolated twice from aborted bovine foetuses and a serological study supported the abortigenic role of W. chondrophila in bovine species. Recently, we observed a strong association between the presence of anti-Waddlia antibodies and human miscarriage. To further investigate the pathogenic potential of W. chondrophila in humans, we studied the entry and the multiplication of this Chlamydia-like organism in human macrophages. Confocal and electron microscopy confirmed that W. chondrophila is able to enter human monocyte-derived macrophages. Moreover, W. chondrophila multiplied readily within macrophages. The proportion of infected macrophages increased from 13% at day 0 to 96% at day 4, and the mean number of bacteria per macrophage increased by 3logs in 24h. Intracellular growth of W. chondrophila was associated with a significant cytopathic effect. Thus, W. chondrophila may enter and grow rapidly within human macrophages, inducing lysis of infected cells. Since macrophages are one of the major components of the innate immune response, these findings indirectly suggest the possible human pathogenicity of W. chondrophila.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geneviève Goy
- Center for Research on Intracellular Bacteria, Institute of Microbiology, University Hospital Center and University of Lausanne, Lausanne 1011, Switzerland
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Evans NJ, Brown JM, Demirkan I, Murray RD, Vink WD, Blowey RW, Hart CA, Carter SD. Three unique groups of spirochetes isolated from digital dermatitis lesions in UK cattle. Vet Microbiol 2008; 130:141-50. [PMID: 18243592 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetmic.2007.12.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 117] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2007] [Revised: 12/20/2007] [Accepted: 12/28/2007] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Bovine digital dermatitis (BDD) is a severe infectious cause of lameness which has spread through dairy cattle populations worldwide, causing serious welfare and agricultural problems. Spirochetes are the main organisms implicated and have previously proven difficult to isolate. This study aimed to isolate and characterise the range of spirochetes associated with BDD in the UK. Twenty-three spirochete isolates were obtained from 30 BDD lesions, which by 16S rRNA gene and flaB2 gene analysis clustered within the genus Treponema as three phylogroups; groups 1 (Treponema medium/Treponema vincentii-like), 2 (Treponema phagedenis-like) and 3 (Treponema denticola/Treponema putidum-like). The treponemes displayed large genotypic and phenotypic diversity between phylogroups and differed from named treponeme species. A previously isolated contagious ovine digital dermatitis spirochete was located within one of the three phylogroups, group 3, and could also be identified within this group on the basis of phenotype testing, suggesting BDD and contagious ovine digital dermatitis may share the same aetiological agent. A strain isolated from a bovine interdigital dermatitis lesion, could be identified as part of BDD isolate group 2, suggesting bovine interdigital dermatitis and BDD may have the same causative agent. Two common enzyme activities, C4 esterase and C8 esterase lipase, were identified in all BDD associated treponemes suggesting common metabolic pathways for sharing this novel niche or even common virulence traits. Further studies are required to determine whether the three groups of novel treponemes are representative of new treponeme taxa and to delineate how they interact with bovine tissues to cause disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas J Evans
- Department of Veterinary Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 3BX, UK.
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Corsaro D, Thomas V, Goy G, Venditti D, Radek R, Greub G. 'Candidatus Rhabdochlamydia crassificans', an intracellular bacterial pathogen of the cockroach Blatta orientalis (Insecta: Blattodea). Syst Appl Microbiol 2006; 30:221-8. [PMID: 16934426 DOI: 10.1016/j.syapm.2006.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2005] [Revised: 06/16/2006] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The genus Rickettsiella comprises various intracellular bacterial pathogens of arthropods, exhibiting a chlamydia-like developmental cycle. Species may be divided into two main groups, the R. popilliae-R. grylli group and the R. chironomi group. Previous phylogenetic studies based on the 16S ribosomal RNA encoding gene showed that two Rickettsiella species, one from each group, belong in reality to two distantly related lineages, the gamma-Proteobacteria (R. grylli) and the Chlamydiales ('Candidatus Rhabdochlamydia porcellionis', a pathogen of terrestrial isopods). In the present work, the 16S rDNA sequence of another Rickettsiella-like species, causing abdominal swelling to its cockroach host Blatta orientalis, was determined and phylogenetic analysis performed. Identical 16S rDNA sequences of 1495 nucleotides were obtained from fat body and ovary tissues of both healthy and diseased cockroach individuals. The sequence shared only 73% of similarity with R. grylli, but 82-87% with most Chlamydiales, and even 96.3% with 'Candidatus Rhabdochlamydia porcellionis'. Phylogenetic analyses confirmed the affiliation of the cockroach pathogen within the order Chlamydiales, and based on ultrastructural characteristics and genetic analyses, we propose its inclusion in the 'Candidatus Rhabdochlamydia' as a distinct taxon, 'Candidatus Rhabdochlamydia crassificans'. These results extend our knowledge of the phylogenetic diversity of the Chlamydiales.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniele Corsaro
- CHLAREAS Chlamydia Research Association, 12 rue du Maconnais, 54500 Vandoeuvre-les-Nancy, France
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Corsaro D, Greub G. Pathogenic potential of novel Chlamydiae and diagnostic approaches to infections due to these obligate intracellular bacteria. Clin Microbiol Rev 2006; 19:283-97. [PMID: 16614250 PMCID: PMC1471994 DOI: 10.1128/cmr.19.2.283-297.2006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 139] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Novel chlamydiae are newly recognized members of the phylum Chlamydiales that are only distantly related to the classic Chlamydiaceae, i.e., Chlamydia and Chlamydophila species. They also exhibit an obligate biphasic intracellular life cycle within eukaryote host cells. Some of these new chlamydiae are currently considered potential emerging human and/or animal pathogens. Parachlamydia acanthamoebae and Simkania negevensis are both emerging respiratory human pathogens, Waddlia chondrophila could be a novel abortigenic bovine agent, and Piscichlamydia salmonis has recently been identified as an agent of the gill epitheliocystis in the Atlantic salmon. Fritschea spp. and Rhabdochlamydia spp. seem to be confined to arthropods, but some evidence for human exposure exists. In this review, we first summarize the data supporting a pathogenic potential of the novel chlamydiae for humans and other vertebrates and the interactions that most of these chlamydiae have with free-living amoebae. We then review the diagnostic approaches to infections potentially due to the novel chlamydiae, especially focusing on the currently available PCR-based protocols, mammalian cell culture, the amoebal coculture system, and serology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniele Corsaro
- Chlamydia Research Association, 12, rue du Maconnais, 54500 Vandoeuvres-les-Nancy, France
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Everett KDE, Thao M, Horn M, Dyszynski GE, Baumann P. Novel chlamydiae in whiteflies and scale insects: endosymbionts 'Candidatus Fritschea bemisiae' strain Falk and 'Candidatus Fritschea eriococci' strain Elm. Int J Syst Evol Microbiol 2005; 55:1581-1587. [PMID: 16014485 DOI: 10.1099/ijs.0.63454-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 131] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Bacteria called 'Fritschea' are endosymbionts of the plant-feeding whitefly Bemisia tabaci and scale insect Eriococcus spurius. In the gut of B. tabaci, these bacteria live within bacteriocyte cells that are transmitted directly from the parent to oocytes. Whiteflies cause serious economic damage to many agricultural crops; B. tabaci fecundity and host range are less than those of Bemisia argentifolii, possibly due to the presence of this endosymbiont. The B. tabaci endosymbiont has been characterized using electron microscopy and DNA analysis but has not been isolated or propagated outside of insects. The present study compared sequences for 11 endosymbiont genes to genomic data for chlamydial families Parachlamydiaceae, Chlamydiaceae and Simkaniaceae and to 16S rRNA gene signature sequences from 330 chlamydiae. We concluded that it was appropriate to propose 'Candidatus Fritschea bemisiae' strain Falk and 'Candidatus Fritschea eriococci' strain Elm as members of the family Simkaniaceae in the Chlamydiales.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karin D E Everett
- Department of Biology, Box 355325, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195-5325, USA
| | - MyLo Thao
- Microbiology Section, University of California, Davis, CA 95616-8665, USA
| | - Matthias Horn
- Division of Microbial Ecology, Institute of Ecology and Conservation Biology, University of Vienna, Althanstrasse 14, A-1090 Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Paul Baumann
- Microbiology Section, University of California, Davis, CA 95616-8665, USA
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