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Lee W, Ha J, Choi J, Jung Y, Kim E, An ES, Kim SH, Shin H, Ryu S, Kim SH, Kim HY. Genetic and virulence characteristics of hybrid Shiga toxin-producing and atypical enteropathogenic Escherichia coli strains isolated in South Korea. Front Microbiol 2024; 15:1398262. [PMID: 38812694 PMCID: PMC11133561 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2024.1398262] [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: 03/09/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction The predominant hybrid pathogenic E. coli, enterohemorrhagic E. coli (EHEC), combines characteristics of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) and enteropathogenic E. coli (EPEC), contributing to global outbreaks with severe symptoms including fatal consequences. Since EHEC infection was designated as a notifiable disease in 2000 in South Korea, around 2000 cases have been reported, averaging approximately 90 cases annually. Aim In this work, genome-based characteristic analysis and cell-based assay of hybrid STEC/aEPEC strains isolated from livestock feces, animal source foods, and water in South Korea was performed. Methods To identify the virulence and antimicrobial resistance genes, determining the phylogenetic position of hybrid STEC/aEPEC strains isolated in South Korea, a combination of real-time PCR and whole-genome sequencing (WGS) was used. Additionally, to assess the virulence of the hybrid strains and compare them with genomic characterization, we performed a cell cytotoxicity and invasion assays. Results The hybrid STEC/aEPEC strains harbored stx and eae genes, encoding Shiga toxins and E. coli attachment/effacement related protein of STEC and EPEC, respectively. Furthermore, all hybrid strains harbored plasmid-carried enterohemolysin(ehxCABD), a key virulence factor in prevalent pathogenic E. coli infections, such as diarrheal disease and hemolytic-uremic syndrome (HUS). Genome-wide phylogenetic analysis revealed a close association between all hybrid strains and specific EPEC strains, suggesting the potential acquisition of Stx phages during STEC/aEPEC hybrid formation. Some hybrid strains showed cytotoxic activity against HeLa cells and invasive properties against epithelial cells. Notably, all STEC/aEPEC hybrids with sequence type (ST) 1,034 (n = 11) exhibited higher invasiveness than those with E2348/69. This highlights the importance of investigating potential correlations between STs and virulence characteristics of E. coli hybrid strains. Conclusion Through genome-based characterization, we confirmed that the hybrid STEC/aEPEC strains are likely EPEC strains that have acquired STEC virulence genes via phage. Furthermore, our results emphasize the potential increased danger to humans posed by hybrid STEC/aEPEC strains isolated in South Korea, containing both stx and eaeA, compared to STEC or EPEC alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Woojung Lee
- Division of Food Microbiology, National Institute of Food and Drug Safety Evaluation, Ministry of Food and Drug Safety, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Life Sciences & Resources and Department of Food Science and Biotechnology, Kyung Hee University, Yongin, Republic of Korea
| | - Jina Ha
- Division of Food Microbiology, National Institute of Food and Drug Safety Evaluation, Ministry of Food and Drug Safety, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
| | - Jaehyun Choi
- Division of Food Microbiology, National Institute of Food and Drug Safety Evaluation, Ministry of Food and Drug Safety, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
| | - Yewon Jung
- Department of Food and Animal Biotechnology, Research Institute of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Eiseul Kim
- Institute of Life Sciences & Resources and Department of Food Science and Biotechnology, Kyung Hee University, Yongin, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun Sook An
- Division of Food Microbiology, National Institute of Food and Drug Safety Evaluation, Ministry of Food and Drug Safety, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung Hwan Kim
- Division of Food Microbiology, National Institute of Food and Drug Safety Evaluation, Ministry of Food and Drug Safety, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
| | - Hakdong Shin
- Department of Biotechnology, and Carbohydrate Bioproduct Research Center, Sejong University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Sangryeol Ryu
- Department of Food and Animal Biotechnology, Research Institute of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Center for Food and Bioconvergence, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Soon Han Kim
- Division of Food Microbiology, National Institute of Food and Drug Safety Evaluation, Ministry of Food and Drug Safety, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
| | - Hae-Yeong Kim
- Institute of Life Sciences & Resources and Department of Food Science and Biotechnology, Kyung Hee University, Yongin, Republic of Korea
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Wang X, Yu D, Chui L, Zhou T, Feng Y, Cao Y, Zhi S. A Comprehensive Review on Shiga Toxin Subtypes and Their Niche-Related Distribution Characteristics in Shiga-Toxin-Producing E. coli and Other Bacterial Hosts. Microorganisms 2024; 12:687. [PMID: 38674631 PMCID: PMC11052178 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms12040687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2024] [Revised: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Shiga toxin (Stx), the main virulence factor of Shiga-toxin-producing E. coli (STEC), was first discovered in Shigella dysenteriae strains. While several other bacterial species have since been reported to produce Stx, STEC poses the most significant risk to human health due to its widespread prevalence across various animal hosts that have close contact with human populations. Based on its biochemical and molecular characteristics, Shiga toxin can be grouped into two types, Stx1 and Stx2, among which a variety of variants and subtypes have been identified in various bacteria and host species. Interestingly, the different Stx subtypes appear to vary in their host distribution characteristics and in the severity of diseases that they are associated with. As such, this review provides a comprehensive overview on the bacterial species that have been recorded to possess stx genes to date, with a specific focus on the various Stx subtype variants discovered in STEC, their prevalence in certain host species, and their disease-related characteristics. This review provides a better understanding of the Stx subtypes and highlights the need for rapid and accurate approaches to toxin subtyping for the proper evaluation of the health risks associated with Shiga-toxin-related bacterial food contamination and human infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuan Wang
- School of Public Health, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315000, China; (X.W.); (T.Z.); (Y.F.)
| | - Daniel Yu
- School of Public Health, Univeristy of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R3, Canada;
| | - Linda Chui
- Alberta Precision Laboratories-ProvLab, Edmonton, AB T6G 2J2, Canada;
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2B7, Canada
| | - Tiantian Zhou
- School of Public Health, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315000, China; (X.W.); (T.Z.); (Y.F.)
| | - Yu Feng
- School of Public Health, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315000, China; (X.W.); (T.Z.); (Y.F.)
| | - Yuhao Cao
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315000, China;
| | - Shuai Zhi
- School of Public Health, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315000, China; (X.W.); (T.Z.); (Y.F.)
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Wu S, Cui L, Han Y, Lin F, Huang J, Song M, Lan Z, Sun S. Characteristics, Whole-Genome Sequencing and Pathogenicity Analysis of Escherichia coli from a White Feather Broiler Farm. Microorganisms 2023; 11:2939. [PMID: 38138083 PMCID: PMC10745608 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11122939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2023] [Revised: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Avian colibacillosis, caused by avian Escherichia coli (E. coli), has historically been one of the most prevalent infectious diseases in large-scale poultry production, causing growth delays and mortality in chickens, resulting in huge economic losses. In recent years, the widespread use of antibiotics has led to the emergence of multidrug resistance in E. coli as a significant global problem and long-term challenge. Resistant E. coli can be transmitted to humans through animal products or the environment, which presents significant public health concerns and food safety issues. In this study, we analyzed the features of 135 E. coli strains obtained from a white feather broiler farm in Shandong, China, including antimicrobial susceptibility tests, detection of class 1 integrons, drug resistance genes, virulence genes, and phylogenetic subgroups. It is particularly worrying that all 135 E. coli strains were resistant to at least five antibiotic agents, and 100% of them were multidrug-resistant (MDR). Notably, the resistance genes of blaTEM, blaCTX-M, qnrS, aaC4, tetA, and tetB exhibited a high prevalence of carriage among the tested resistance genes. However, mcr-2~mcr-9 were not detected, while the prevalence of mcr-1 was found to be 2.96%. The most common virulence genes detected were EAST1 (14.07%, encoding enterotoxins) and fyuA (14.81%, encoding biofilm formation). Phylogenetic subgroup analysis revealed that E. coli belonging to groups B2 and D, which are commonly associated with high virulence, constituted 2.22% and 11.11%, respectively. The positive rate of class 1 integrons was 31.1%. Whole-genome sequencing (WGS) and animal experiments were performed on a unique isolated strain called 21EC78 with an extremely strong membrane-forming capacity. The WGS results showed that 21EC78 carried 11 drug resistance genes and 16 virulence genes. Animal experiments showed that intraperitoneal injection with 2 × 105 CFU could cause the death of one-day-old SPF chickens in 3 days. However, the mortality of Luhua chickens was comparatively lower than that of SPF chickens. This study reports the isolation of multidrug-resistant E. coli strains in poultry, which may pose a potential threat to human health via the food chain. Furthermore, the findings of this study enhance our comprehension of the frequency and characteristics of multidrug-resistant E. coli in poultry farms, emphasizing the urgent need for improved and effective continuous surveillance to control its dissemination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaopeng Wu
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology and Disease Control and Prevention, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai’an 271000, China; (S.W.); (L.C.); (Y.H.); (F.L.); (J.H.); (M.S.)
| | - Lulu Cui
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology and Disease Control and Prevention, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai’an 271000, China; (S.W.); (L.C.); (Y.H.); (F.L.); (J.H.); (M.S.)
| | - Yu Han
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology and Disease Control and Prevention, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai’an 271000, China; (S.W.); (L.C.); (Y.H.); (F.L.); (J.H.); (M.S.)
| | - Fang Lin
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology and Disease Control and Prevention, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai’an 271000, China; (S.W.); (L.C.); (Y.H.); (F.L.); (J.H.); (M.S.)
| | - Jiaqi Huang
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology and Disease Control and Prevention, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai’an 271000, China; (S.W.); (L.C.); (Y.H.); (F.L.); (J.H.); (M.S.)
| | - Mengze Song
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology and Disease Control and Prevention, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai’an 271000, China; (S.W.); (L.C.); (Y.H.); (F.L.); (J.H.); (M.S.)
| | - Zouran Lan
- Shandong Provincial Center for Animal Disease Control, Jinan 250000, China
| | - Shuhong Sun
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology and Disease Control and Prevention, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai’an 271000, China; (S.W.); (L.C.); (Y.H.); (F.L.); (J.H.); (M.S.)
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McDougall F, Gordon D, Robins-Browne R, Bennett-Wood V, Boardman WSJ, Graham PL, Power M. Characterisation of typical enteropathogenic Escherichia coli (tEPEC) lineages and novel bfpA variants detected in Australian fruit bats (Pteropus poliocephalus). THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 902:166336. [PMID: 37591385 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.166336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Revised: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/19/2023]
Abstract
Enteropathogenic Escherichia coli (EPEC) is an important cause of diarrhoeal disease in human infants. EPEC strains are defined by the presence of specific virulence factors including intimin (encoded by the eae gene) and bundle forming pili (Bfp). Bfp is encoded by the bfp operon and includes the bfpA gene for the major pilus subunit. By definition, Bfp are only present in typical EPEC (tEPEC), for which, humans are considered to be the only known natural host. This study detected tEPEC in faecal samples from a wild Australian fruit bat species, the grey-headed flying-fox (Pteropus poliocephalus). Whole genome sequencing of 61 E. coli isolates from flying-foxes revealed that 21.3 % (95%CI: 13 %-33 %) were tEPEC. Phylogenetic analyses showed flying-fox tEPEC shared evolutionary lineages with human EPEC, but were predominantly novel sequence types (9 of 13) and typically harboured novel bfpA variants (11 of 13). HEp-2 cell adhesion assays showed adherence to human-derived epithelial cells by all 13 flying-fox tEPEC, indicating that they all carried functional Bfp. Using an EPEC-specific duplex PCR, it was determined that tEPEC comprised 17.4 % (95%CI: 13 %-22 %) of 270 flying-fox E. coli isolates. Furthermore, a tEPEC-specific multiplex PCR detected the eae and bfpA virulence genes in 18.0 % (95%CI: 8.0 %-33.7 %) of 506 flying-fox faecal DNA samples, with occurrences ranging from 1.3 % to 87.0 % across five geographic areas sampled over a four-year period. The identification of six novel tEPEC sequence types and five novel bfpA variants suggests flying-foxes carry bat-specific tEPEC lineages. However, their close relationship with human EPEC and functional Bfp, indicates that flying-fox tEPEC have zoonotic potential and that dissemination of flying-fox tEPEC into urban environments may pose a public health risk. The consistent detection of tEPEC in flying-foxes over extensive geographical and temporal scales indicates that both wild grey-headed flying-foxes and humans should be regarded as natural tEPEC hosts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiona McDougall
- School of Natural Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Macquarie University, NSW 2109, Australia.
| | - David Gordon
- Research School of Biology, Australian National University, ACT 2601, Australia.
| | - Roy Robins-Browne
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, The University of Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia; Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, VIC 3052, Australia.
| | - Vicki Bennett-Wood
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, The University of Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia; Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, VIC 3052, Australia.
| | - Wayne S J Boardman
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, University of Adelaide, SA 5371, Australia.
| | - Petra L Graham
- School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Macquarie University, NSW 2109, Australia.
| | - Michelle Power
- School of Natural Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Macquarie University, NSW 2109, Australia.
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Zelelie TZ, Eguale T, Yitayew B, Abeje D, Alemu A, Seman A, Jass J, Mihret A, Abebe T. Molecular epidemiology and antimicrobial susceptibility of diarrheagenic Escherichia coli isolated from children under age five with and without diarrhea in Central Ethiopia. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0288517. [PMID: 37450423 PMCID: PMC10348587 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0288517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2022] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Diarrhea is a serious health problem in children, with the highest mortality rate in sub-Saharan Africa. Diarrheagenic Escherichia coli (DEC) is among the major bacterial causes of diarrhea in children under age five. The present study aims to determine molecular epidemiology and antimicrobial resistance profiles of DEC and identify contributing factors for acquisition among children under age five in Central Ethiopia. METHODS A health facility-centered cross-sectional study was conducted in Addis Ababa and Debre Berhan, Ethiopia, from December 2020 to August 2021. A total of 476 specimens, 391 from diarrheic and 85 from non-diarrheic children under age five were collected. Bacterial isolation and identification, antimicrobial susceptibility, and pathotype determination using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) were done. RESULTS Of the 476 specimens analyzed, 89.9% (428/476) were positive for E. coli, of which 183 were positive for one or more genes coding DEC pathotypes. The overall prevalence of the DEC pathotype was 38.2% (183/476). The predominant DEC pathotype was enteroaggregative E. coli (EAEC) (41.5%, 76/183), followed by enterotoxigenic E. coli (21.3%, 39/183), enteropathogenic E. coli (15.3%, 28/183), enteroinvasive E. coli (12.6%, 23/183), hybrid strains (7.1%, 13/183), Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (1.6%, 3/183), and diffusely-adherent E. coli (0.6%, 1/183). DEC was detected in 40.7% (159/391) of diarrheic and 28.2% (24/85) in non-diarrheic children (p = 0.020). The majority of the DEC pathotypes were resistant to ampicillin (95.1%, 174/183) and tetracycline (91.3%, 167/183). A higher rate of resistance to trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (58%, 44/76), ciprofloxacin (22%, 17/76), ceftazidime and cefotaxime (20%, 15/76) was seen among EAEC pathotypes. Multidrug resistance (MDR) was detected in 43.2% (79/183) of the pathotypes, whereas extended spectrum ß-lactamase and carbapenemase producers were 16.4% (30/183) and 2.2% (4/183), respectively. CONCLUSION All six common DEC pathotypes that have the potential to cause severe diarrheal outbreaks were found in children in the study area; the dominant one being EAEC with a high rate of MDR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tizazu Zenebe Zelelie
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Debre Berhan University, Debre Birhan, Ethiopia
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
- Armeur Hansen Research Institue (AHRI), Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Tadesse Eguale
- Aklilu Lemma Institute of Pathobiology, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
- Ohio State University Global One Health LLC, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Berhanu Yitayew
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Debre Berhan University, Debre Birhan, Ethiopia
| | - Dessalegn Abeje
- Armeur Hansen Research Institue (AHRI), Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Ashenafi Alemu
- Armeur Hansen Research Institue (AHRI), Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Aminu Seman
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Jana Jass
- The Life Science Centre—Biology, School of Science and Technology, Orebro University, Örebro, Sweden
| | - Adane Mihret
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
- Armeur Hansen Research Institue (AHRI), Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Tamrat Abebe
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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Kartsev NN, Detusheva EV, Kalmantaeva OV, Korobova OV, Gerasimov VN, Kombarova TI, Borzilov AI, Fursova NK, Vereshchagin AN, Svetoch EA. Hetero-Pathogenic O181:H4 EAHEC Strain of Sequence Type ST678 Associated with Hemolytic-Uremic Syndrome in Schoolchildren in Russia. Microorganisms 2023; 11:1771. [PMID: 37512943 PMCID: PMC10383572 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11071771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the last decade, the importance of hetero-pathogenic enteroaggregative Shiga-toxin-producing E. coli for public health has increased. Recently, we described the genetic background of the EAHEC O181:H4 strain of ST678 carrying the stx2 gene in prophage and five plasmids, including the plasmid-carrying aggR and aaiC genes. Here, we present the morphological and enzymatic characteristics of this strain, as well as susceptibility to antimicrobials, biofilm formation, etc. Methods: Bacterial morphology was studied using an electron microscope. Susceptibility to antimicrobials was determined using the microdilution method. Cytotoxicity was estimated in Vero cells. Virulence was studied on mice. RESULTS The morphological and enzymatic properties of the hetero-pathogenic EAHEC strain were typical for E. coli; electron microscopy revealed the specific flagella. The strain was susceptible to most antibiotics and disinfectants but resistant to ampicillin and ciprofloxacin and showed a high degree of biofilm formation. Cytotoxicity towards Vero cells was estimated as 80%. CONCLUSIONS The emergence of a new O181:H4 EAHEC strain poses a potential threat to humans because of the virulence potential that must be taken into account in the epidemiological analysis of outbreaks and sporadic cases of foodborne infections associated with hemolytic-uremic syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikolay N Kartsev
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, State Research Center for Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology, Territory "Kvartal A", 142279 Obolensk, Russia
| | - Elena V Detusheva
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, State Research Center for Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology, Territory "Kvartal A", 142279 Obolensk, Russia
| | - Olga V Kalmantaeva
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, State Research Center for Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology, Territory "Kvartal A", 142279 Obolensk, Russia
| | - Olga V Korobova
- Laboratory of Biological Trials, State Research Center for Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology, Territory "Kvartal A", 142279 Obolensk, Russia
| | - Vladimir N Gerasimov
- Department of Disinfectology, State Research Center for Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology, Territory "Kvartal A", 142279 Obolensk, Russia
| | - Tatiana I Kombarova
- Laboratory of Biological Trials, State Research Center for Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology, Territory "Kvartal A", 142279 Obolensk, Russia
| | - Aleksander I Borzilov
- Laboratory of Biological Trials, State Research Center for Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology, Territory "Kvartal A", 142279 Obolensk, Russia
| | - Nadezhda K Fursova
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, State Research Center for Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology, Territory "Kvartal A", 142279 Obolensk, Russia
| | | | - Edward A Svetoch
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, State Research Center for Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology, Territory "Kvartal A", 142279 Obolensk, Russia
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Li Y, Li D, Liang Y, Cui J, He K, He D, Liu J, Hu G, Yuan L. Characterization of a Tigecycline-Resistant and blaCTX-M-Bearing Klebsiella pneumoniae Strain from a Peacock in a Chinese Zoo. Appl Environ Microbiol 2023; 89:e0176422. [PMID: 36809063 PMCID: PMC10057878 DOI: 10.1128/aem.01764-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2023] Open
Abstract
In Chinese zoos, there are usually specially designed bird parks, similar to petting zoos, that allow children and adults to interact with diverse birds. However, such behaviors present a risk for the transmission of zoonotic pathogens. Recently, we isolated eight strains of Klebsiella pneumoniae and identified two blaCTX-M-positive strains from 110 birds, including parrots, peacocks, and ostriches, using anal or nasal swabs in a bird park of a zoo in China. There, K. pneumoniae LYS105A was obtained from a diseased peacock with chronic respiratory diseases by a nasal swab, which harbored the blaCTX-M-3 gene and exhibited resistance to amoxicillin, cefotaxime, gentamicin, oxytetracycline, doxycycline, tigecycline, florfenicol, and enrofloxacin. According to an analysis by whole-genome sequencing, K. pneumoniae LYS105A belongs to serotype ST859 (sequence type 859)-K19 (capsular serotype 19) and contains two plasmids, of which pLYS105A-2 can be transferred by electrotransformation and harbors numerous resistance genes such as blaCTX-M-3, aac(6')-Ib-cr5, and qnrB91. The above-mentioned genes are located in a novel mobile composite transposon, Tn7131, which makes horizontal transfer more flexible. Although no known genes were identified in the chromosome, a significant increase in SoxS upregulated the expression levels of phoPQ, acrEF-tolC, and oqxAB, which contributed to strain LYS105A acquiring resistance to tigecycline (MIC = 4 mg/L) and intermediate resistance to colistin (MIC = 2 mg/L). Altogether, our findings show that bird parks in zoos may act as important vehicles for the spread of multidrug-resistant bacteria from birds to humans and vice versa. IMPORTANCE A multidrug-resistant ST859-K19 K. pneumoniae strain, LYS105A, was obtained from a diseased peacock in a Chinese zoo. In addition, multiple resistance genes such as blaCTX-M-3, aac(6')-Ib-cr5, and qnrB91 were located in a novel composite transposon, Tn7131, of a mobile plasmid, implying that most of the resistance genes in strain LYS105A can be moved easily via horizontal gene transfer. Meanwhile, an increase in SoxS can further positively regulate the expression of phoPQ, acrEF-tolC, and oqxAB, which is the key factor for strain LYS105A to develop resistance to tigecycline and colistin. Taken together, these findings enrich our understanding of the horizontal cross-species spread of drug resistance genes, which will help us curb the development of bacterial resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yinshu Li
- College of Animal Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, China
| | | | - Yulei Liang
- College of Animal Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Junling Cui
- College of Animal Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Kun He
- College of Animal Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Dandan He
- College of Animal Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, China
- International Joint Research Center of National Animal Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jianhua Liu
- College of Animal Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, China
- International Joint Research Center of National Animal Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Gongzheng Hu
- College of Animal Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, China
- International Joint Research Center of National Animal Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Li Yuan
- College of Animal Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, China
- International Joint Research Center of National Animal Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, China
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8
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de Oliveira MGX, Cunha MPV, Moreno LZ, Saidenberg ABS, Vieira MAM, Gomes TAT, Moreno AM, Knöbl T. Antimicrobial Resistance and Pathogenicity of Aliarcobacter butzleri Isolated from Poultry Meat. Antibiotics (Basel) 2023; 12:antibiotics12020282. [PMID: 36830193 PMCID: PMC9952011 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics12020282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2022] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Aliarcobacter butzleri (A. butzleri) is an emergent zoonotic food-related pathogen that can be transmitted through the consumption of poultry meat. Data regarding the pathogenicity and resistance of A. butzleri are still scarce, and the presence of virulent MDR strains of this zoonotic pathogen in poultry meat is an issue of particular concern to public health. This study aimed to characterize the pathogenicity and antimicrobial resistance profiles of A. butzleri strains isolated from poultry meat sold at retail markets in São Paulo, Brazil. The minimum inhibitory concentrations of 27 strains were determined using the broth microdilution method. The results showed that 77.7% of the isolates were resistant to clindamycin, 62.9% to florfenicol, 59.2% to nalidixic acid, 11.1% to azithromycin, 7.4% to ciprofloxacin and telithromycin, and 3.7% to erythromycin and tetracycline, although all were susceptible to gentamicin. Moreover, 55.5% of the virulent isolates were also multidrug-resistant (MDR). Three strains were selected for pathogenicity tests in vitro and in vivo. The tested strains expressed weak/moderate biofilm production and showed a diffuse adhesion pattern (3 h) in HeLa cells and toxicity in Vero cells (24 h). Experimental inoculation in 11-week-old chicks induced a transitory inflammatory enteritis. Intestinal hemorrhage and destruction of the intestinal crypts were observed in the rabbit ileal loop test. Considering the fact that Brazil is a major exporter of poultry meat, the data from this study point to the need of improvement of the diagnostic tools, as well as of the adoption of surveillance guidelines and more specific control strategies to ensure food safety, reducing the presence of pathogenic MDR strains in broilers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marcos Paulo Vieira Cunha
- Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, USP, Butantã, São Paulo 05508-270, SP, Brazil
| | - Luisa Zanolli Moreno
- Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, USP, Butantã, São Paulo 05508-270, SP, Brazil
| | | | - Mônica Aparecida Midolli Vieira
- Departamento de Microbiologia, Imunologia e Parasitologia, Escola Paulista de Medicina–Universidade Federal Paulista UNIFESP, São Paulo 04023-062, SP, Brazil
| | - Tânia Aparecida Tardelli Gomes
- Departamento de Microbiologia, Imunologia e Parasitologia, Escola Paulista de Medicina–Universidade Federal Paulista UNIFESP, São Paulo 04023-062, SP, Brazil
| | - Andrea Micke Moreno
- Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, USP, Butantã, São Paulo 05508-270, SP, Brazil
| | - Terezinha Knöbl
- Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, USP, Butantã, São Paulo 05508-270, SP, Brazil
- Correspondence:
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9
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Cui L, Zhao X, Li R, Han Y, Hao G, Wang G, Sun S. Companion Animals as Potential Reservoirs of Antibiotic Resistant Diarrheagenic Escherichia coli in Shandong, China. Antibiotics (Basel) 2022; 11:antibiotics11060828. [PMID: 35740235 PMCID: PMC9220070 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics11060828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2022] [Revised: 06/12/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Antibiotic resistance genes of Escherichia coli (E. coli) from companion animals were still poorly understood. Here, we investigated the extended-spectrum β-lactamases (ESBLs) resistance genes of E. coli from companion animals in Shandong, China. A total of 79 isolates (80.6%) were recovered from 98 healthy or diarrheal companion animals in 2021, among which ESBLs-producing isolates accounted for 43.0% (34/79), and more than half of ESBL E. coli (ESBL-EC) strains (n = 19) were isolated from healthy companion animals. Diarrheagenic E. coli isolates (45.6%, n = 36) were represented by enterotoxigenic (ETEC) (32.9%), enteropathogenic (EPEC) (10.1%) and enteroinvasive (EIEC) (2.6%), 20 isolates of which were from healthy pets. Among tested antibiotics, resistance to tetracycline (64.6%) was the most commonly observed, followed by doxycycline (59.5%) and ampicillin (53.2%). Notably, all isolates were susceptible to meropenem. The multidrug-resistant (MDR) rate was 49.4%, 20 isolates of which were ESBLs producers; moreover, 23.4%, 16.4% of ESBL-EC strains were resistant to 5 or more, 7 or more antibiotics, respectively. Among the 5 β-lactamase resistance genes, the most frequent gene was blaCTX-M (60.76%), followed by blaSHV (40.51%). The plasmid-mediated quinolone resistance (PMQR) gene aac(6')-Ib-cr was detected in 35 isolates. Additionally, ESBL-associated genes (i.e., blaCTX-M, blaSHV) were found in 76.5% ESBL-EC strains, with six isolates carrying blaCTX-M and blaSHV. The marker gene of high-pathogenicity island gene irp2 (encoding iron capture systems) was the most frequency virulence gene. Our results showed that ESBL-EC were widespread in healthy or diarrhea companion animals, especially healthy pets, which may be a potential reservoir of antibiotic resistance, therefore, enhancing a risk to public and animal health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lulu Cui
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology and Disease Control and Prevention, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai’an 271018, China; (L.C.); (R.L.); (Y.H.); (G.H.)
| | - Xiaonan Zhao
- Institute of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Jinan 250100, China;
| | - Ruibo Li
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology and Disease Control and Prevention, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai’an 271018, China; (L.C.); (R.L.); (Y.H.); (G.H.)
| | - Yu Han
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology and Disease Control and Prevention, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai’an 271018, China; (L.C.); (R.L.); (Y.H.); (G.H.)
| | - Guijuan Hao
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology and Disease Control and Prevention, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai’an 271018, China; (L.C.); (R.L.); (Y.H.); (G.H.)
| | - Guisheng Wang
- Shandong Animal Disease Prevention and Control Center, Jinan 250100, China
- Correspondence: (G.W.); (S.S.); Tel.: +86-150-9891-3008 (G.W.); +86-137-0538-9710 (S.S.)
| | - Shuhong Sun
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology and Disease Control and Prevention, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai’an 271018, China; (L.C.); (R.L.); (Y.H.); (G.H.)
- Correspondence: (G.W.); (S.S.); Tel.: +86-150-9891-3008 (G.W.); +86-137-0538-9710 (S.S.)
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10
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Foster-Nyarko E, Pallen MJ. OUP accepted manuscript. FEMS Microbiol Rev 2022; 46:6522174. [PMID: 35134909 PMCID: PMC9075585 DOI: 10.1093/femsre/fuac008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2021] [Revised: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Escherichia coli has a rich history as biology's ‘rock star’, driving advances across many fields. In the wild, E. coli resides innocuously in the gut of humans and animals but is also a versatile pathogen commonly associated with intestinal and extraintestinal infections and antimicrobial resistance—including large foodborne outbreaks such as the one that swept across Europe in 2011, killing 54 individuals and causing approximately 4000 infections and 900 cases of haemolytic uraemic syndrome. Given that most E. coli are harmless gut colonizers, an important ecological question plaguing microbiologists is what makes E. coli an occasionally devastating pathogen? To address this question requires an enhanced understanding of the ecology of the organism as a commensal. Here, we review how our knowledge of the ecology and within-host diversity of this organism in the vertebrate gut has progressed in the 137 years since E. coli was first described. We also review current approaches to the study of within-host bacterial diversity. In closing, we discuss some of the outstanding questions yet to be addressed and prospects for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ebenezer Foster-Nyarko
- Corresponding author: Department of Infection Biology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London WC1E 7HT, United Kingdom. E-mail:
| | - Mark J Pallen
- Quadram Institute Bioscience, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, NR4 7UQ, United Kingdom
- School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Surrey, Guildford, Surrey, GU2 7AL, United Kingdom
- School of Biological Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, NR4 7TU, United Kingdom
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11
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Bolukaoto JY, Singh A, Alfinete N, Barnard TG. Occurrence of Hybrid Diarrhoeagenic Escherichia coli Associated with Multidrug Resistance in Environmental Water, Johannesburg, South Africa. Microorganisms 2021; 9:2163. [PMID: 34683484 PMCID: PMC8538365 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms9102163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2021] [Revised: 09/25/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
This study was undertaken to determine the virulence and antibiotic resistance profiles of diarrhoeagenic Escherichia coli (DEC) in environmental waters of Johannesburg, South Africa. Samples were collected and cultured on selective media. An 11-plex PCR assay was used to differentiate five DEC, namely: enteroaggregative (EAEC), enterohaemorrhagic (EHEC), enteroinvasive (EIEC), enteropathogenic (EPEC) and enterotoxigenic (ETEC). The antibiotic resistance profile of isolates was determined using the VITEK®-2 automated system. The virulence profiles of 170 E. coli tested showed that 40% (68/170) were commensals and 60% (102/170) were pathogenic. EPEC had a prevalence of 19.2% (32/170), followed by ETEC 11.4% (19/170), EAEC 6% (10/170) and EHEC 3% (5/170). Hybrid DEC carrying a combination of simultaneously two and three pathogenic types was detected in twenty-eight and nine isolates, respectively. The antibiotic susceptibility testing showed isolates with multidrug resistance, including cefuroxime (100%), ceftazidime (86%), cefotaxime (81%) and cefepime (79%). This study highlighted the widespread occurrence of DEC and antibiotic resistance strains in the aquatic ecosystem of Johannesburg. The presence of hybrid pathotypes detected in this study is alarming and might lead to more severe diseases. There is a necessity to enhance surveillance in reducing the propagation of pathogenic and antibiotic-resistant strains in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Tobias G. Barnard
- Water and Health Research Centre, University of Johannesburg, Doornfontein 2092, South Africa; (J.Y.B.); (A.S.); (N.A.)
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12
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Davies YM, Franco LS, Barbosa FB, Vanin CL, Gomes VTM, Moreno LZ, Barbosa MRF, Sato MIZ, Moreno AM, Knöbl T. Use of MALDI-TOF for identification and surveillance of gram-negative bacteria in captive wild psittacines. BRAZ J BIOL 2021; 82:e233523. [PMID: 33787713 DOI: 10.1590/1519-6984.233523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2020] [Accepted: 08/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Microbiological studies of the sanitary and health status of psittacine birds that will be reintroduced is important in evaluating whether these animals act as carriers of pathogenic agents to other animals and humans. Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) is a faster and more accurate method to identify bacteria than conventional microbiology methods. The aim of this study was to evaluate the health status of psittacines housed in captivity, by assessment of Gram-negative bacteria from fecal microbiota through MALDI- TOF MS identification. The results indicate high frequency of Gram-negative bacteria in feces (96.5%), especially from the Enterobacteriaceae family (88.7%). The most prevalent bacteria were Escherichia coli (39.0%), Proteus vulgaris (12.2%), Klebsiella spp. (12.1%) and Raoultella ornithinolytica (8.7%). Proteus hauseri, Citrobacter spp., Morganella morgannii, Providencia rettgeri, Enterobacter spp. and Escherichia hermannii were isolated with lower frequency. . All these agents are potentially pathogenic for parrots and can cause systemic infections in other animals and humans. These findings reinforce that MALDI- TOF MS proved to be a rapid and accurate method of identification of the microorganism and evaluation of the health status of psittacines, providing relevant data to assist decision-making regarding the sanitary protocols in wildlife centers, and possible future reintroduction of wild birds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y M Davies
- Universidade de São Paulo - USP, Departamento de Patologia da Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - L S Franco
- Universidade de São Paulo - USP, Departamento de Patologia da Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - F B Barbosa
- Universidade de São Paulo - USP, Departamento de Patologia da Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - C L Vanin
- Departamento de Fauna da Secretaria de Infraestrutura e Meio Ambiente do estado de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - V T M Gomes
- Universidade de São Paulo - USP, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva e Saúde Animal da Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - L Z Moreno
- Universidade de São Paulo - USP, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva e Saúde Animal da Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - M R F Barbosa
- Companhia Ambiental do Estado de São Paulo - CETESB, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - M I Z Sato
- Companhia Ambiental do Estado de São Paulo - CETESB, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - A M Moreno
- Universidade de São Paulo - USP, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva e Saúde Animal da Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - T Knöbl
- Universidade de São Paulo - USP, Departamento de Patologia da Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
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13
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García A, Fox JG. A One Health Perspective for Defining and Deciphering Escherichia coli Pathogenic Potential in Multiple Hosts. Comp Med 2021; 71:3-45. [PMID: 33419487 PMCID: PMC7898170 DOI: 10.30802/aalas-cm-20-000054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2020] [Revised: 08/17/2020] [Accepted: 09/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
E. coli is one of the most common species of bacteria colonizing humans and animals. The singularity of E. coli 's genus and species underestimates its multifaceted nature, which is represented by different strains, each with different combinations of distinct virulence factors. In fact, several E. coli pathotypes, or hybrid strains, may be associated with both subclinical infection and a range of clinical conditions, including enteric, urinary, and systemic infections. E. coli may also express DNA-damaging toxins that could impact cancer development. This review summarizes the different E. coli pathotypes in the context of their history, hosts, clinical signs, epidemiology, and control. The pathotypic characterization of E. coli in the context of disease in different animals, including humans, provides comparative and One Health perspectives that will guide future clinical and research investigations of E. coli infections.
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Key Words
- aa, aggregative adherence
- a/e, attaching and effacing
- aepec, atypical epec
- afa, afimbrial adhesin
- aida-i, adhesin involved in diffuse adherence
- aiec, adherent invasive e. coli
- apec, avian pathogenic e. coli
- atcc, american type culture collection
- bfp, bundle-forming pilus
- cd, crohn disease
- cdt, cytolethal distending toxin gene
- clb, colibactin
- cnf, cytotoxic necrotizing factor
- cs, coli surface (antigens)
- daec, diffusely adhering e. coli
- db, dutch belted
- eae, e. coli attaching and effacing gene
- eaec, enteroaggregative e. coli
- eaf, epec adherence factor (plasmid)
- eahec, entero-aggregative-hemorrhagic e. coli
- east-1, enteroaggregative e. coli heat-stable enterotoxin
- e. coli, escherichia coli
- ed, edema disease
- ehec, enterohemorrhagic e. coli
- eiec, enteroinvasive e. coli
- epec, enteropathogenic e. coli
- esbl, extended-spectrum β-lactamase
- esp, e. coli secreted protein
- etec, enterotoxigenic e. coli
- expec, extraintestinal pathogenic e. coli
- fyua, yersiniabactin receptor gene
- gi, gastrointestinal
- hly, hemolysin
- hus, hemolytic uremic syndrome
- ibd, inflammatory bowel disease
- la, localized adherence
- lee, locus of enterocyte effacement
- lpf, long polar fimbriae
- lt, heat-labile (enterotoxin)
- mlst, multilocus sequence typing
- ndm, new delhi metallo-β-lactamase
- nzw, new zealand white
- pap, pyelonephritis-associated pilus
- pks, polyketide synthase
- sfa, s fimbrial adhesin
- slt, shiga-like toxin
- st, heat-stable (enterotoxin)
- stec, stx-producing e. coli
- stx, shiga toxin
- tepec, typical epec
- upec, uropathogenic e. coli
- uti, urinary tract infection
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexis García
- Molecular Sciences Research Center, University of Puerto Rico, San Juan, Puerto Rico; Division of Comparative Medicine, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts; Division of Comparative Medicine, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts;,
| | - James G Fox
- Division of Comparative Medicine, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts
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14
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Braz VS, Melchior K, Moreira CG. Escherichia coli as a Multifaceted Pathogenic and Versatile Bacterium. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2020; 10:548492. [PMID: 33409157 PMCID: PMC7779793 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2020.548492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2020] [Accepted: 11/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Genetic plasticity promotes evolution and a vast diversity in Escherichia coli varying from avirulent to highly pathogenic strains, including the emergence of virulent hybrid microorganism. This ability also contributes to the emergence of antimicrobial resistance. These hybrid pathogenic E. coli (HyPEC) are emergent threats, such as O104:H4 from the European outbreak in 2011, aggregative adherent bacteria with the potent Shiga-toxin. Here, we briefly revisited the details of these E. coli classic and hybrid pathogens, the increase in antimicrobial resistance in the context of a genetically empowered multifaceted and versatile bug and the growing need to advance alternative therapies to fight these infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vânia Santos Braz
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara, Brazil
| | - Karine Melchior
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara, Brazil
| | - Cristiano Gallina Moreira
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara, Brazil
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15
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Saidenberg ABS, van Vliet AH, Brandão PE, de Sá LRM, Cunha MPV, La Ragione RM, Knöbl T. Genomic characterization of enteropathogenic Escherichia coli (EPEC) of avian origin and rabbit ileal loop response; a pet macaw ( Ara chloropterus) as a possible zoonotic reservoir. Vet Q 2020; 40:331-341. [PMID: 33269989 PMCID: PMC7717848 DOI: 10.1080/01652176.2020.1845916] [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: 04/01/2020] [Revised: 10/30/2020] [Accepted: 10/30/2020] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Enteropathogenic Escherichia coli (EPEC) constitutes one of the main causes of mortality in children in low- to medium-income countries. Diverse animal species have been linked as reservoirs, including birds. The aim of this study was to describe the genomic and phylogenetic features of an EPEC recovered from a pet macaw and further characterizing the macro and microscopic lesion in a rabbit ileal loop experimental model. The isolate was whole-genome sequenced (WGS) obtaining its genotypic and phenotypic in silico characteristics and inoculated in a rabbit experimental model with subsequently evaluating the strain's pathogenicity by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and histopathology. The isolate was characterized as O109:H21-B1-ST40 typical EPEC, harboring several virulence factors of diarrheagenic E. coli. The macaw EPEC genome was located in a monophyletic clade of human and animal ST40 EPEC sequences. In vivo inoculation demonstrated severe hemorrhage with SEM and histopathological analysis confirming these lesions to be associated with intra-epithelial lymphocytes. Therefore, the isolate not only shared several genotypic and phylogenetic similarities with EPEC that affects humans and animals, but was able to induce severe tissue injury in a mammal model. These findings highlight the underrated role of pet birds as zoonotic reservoirs and the diversity in virulence factors being unraveled by new WGS studies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Arnoud H.M. van Vliet
- Department of Pathology and Infectious Diseases, School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, Surrey, UK
| | - Paulo Eduardo Brandão
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | | | - Roberto M. La Ragione
- Department of Pathology and Infectious Diseases, School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, Surrey, UK
| | - Terezinha Knöbl
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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16
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Santos ACDM, Santos FF, Silva RM, Gomes TAT. Diversity of Hybrid- and Hetero-Pathogenic Escherichia coli and Their Potential Implication in More Severe Diseases. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2020; 10:339. [PMID: 32766163 PMCID: PMC7381148 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2020.00339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2020] [Accepted: 06/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Although extraintestinal pathogenic Escherichia coli (ExPEC) are designated by their isolation site and grouped based on the type of host and the disease they cause, most diarrheagenic E. coli (DEC) are subdivided into several pathotypes based on the presence of specific virulence traits directly related to disease development. This scenario of a well-categorized E. coli collapsed after the German outbreak of 2011, caused by one strain bearing the virulence factors of two different DEC pathotypes (enteroaggregative E. coli and Shiga toxin-producing E. coli). Since the outbreak, many studies have shown that this phenomenon is more frequent than previously realized. Therefore, the terms hybrid- and hetero-pathogenic E. coli have been coined to describe new combinations of virulence factors among the classic E. coli pathotypes. In this review, we provide an overview of these classifications and highlight the E. coli genomic plasticity that results in some mixed E. coli pathotypes displaying novel pathogenic strategies, which lead to a new symptomatology related to E. coli diseases. In addition, as the capacity for genome interrogation has grown in the last few years, it is clear that genes encoding some virulence factors, such as Shiga toxin, are found among different E. coli pathotypes to which they have not traditionally been associated, perhaps foreshowing their emergence in new and severe outbreaks caused by such hybrid strains. Therefore, further studies regarding hetero-pathogenic and hybrid-pathogenic E. coli isolates are necessary to better understand and control the spread of these pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Carolina de Mello Santos
- Disciplina de Microbiologia, Departamento de Microbiologia, Imunologia e Parasitologia, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Fernanda Fernandes Santos
- Disciplina de Microbiologia, Departamento de Microbiologia, Imunologia e Parasitologia, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Rosa Maria Silva
- Disciplina de Microbiologia, Departamento de Microbiologia, Imunologia e Parasitologia, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Tânia Aparecida Tardelli Gomes
- Disciplina de Microbiologia, Departamento de Microbiologia, Imunologia e Parasitologia, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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17
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Kim JS, Lee MS, Kim JH. Recent Updates on Outbreaks of Shiga Toxin-Producing Escherichia coli and Its Potential Reservoirs. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2020; 10:273. [PMID: 32582571 PMCID: PMC7287036 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2020.00273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2020] [Accepted: 05/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Following infection with certain strains of Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC), particularly enterohemorrhagic ones, patients are at elevated risk for developing life-threatening extraintestinal complications, such as acute renal failure. Hence, these bacteria represent a public health concern in both developed and developing countries. Shiga toxins (Stxs) expressed by STEC are highly cytotoxic class II ribosome-inactivating proteins and primary virulence factors responsible for major clinical signs of Stx-mediated pathogenesis, including bloody diarrhea, hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), and neurological complications. Ruminant animals are thought to serve as critical environmental reservoirs of Stx-producing Escherichia coli (STEC), but other emerging or arising reservoirs of the toxin-producing bacteria have been overlooked. In particular, a number of new animal species from wildlife and aquaculture industries have recently been identified as unexpected reservoir or spillover hosts of STEC. Here, we summarize recent findings about reservoirs of STEC and review outbreaks of these bacteria both within and outside the United States. A better understanding of environmental transmission to humans will facilitate the development of novel strategies for preventing zoonotic STEC infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun-Seob Kim
- Infectious Disease Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Moo-Seung Lee
- Department of Biomolecular Science, KRIBB School of Bioscience, Korea University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon, South Korea.,Environmental Diseases Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Ji Hyung Kim
- Infectious Disease Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Daejeon, South Korea.,Department of Biomolecular Science, KRIBB School of Bioscience, Korea University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon, South Korea
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18
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G M Gonzalez A, M F Cerqueira A. Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli in the animal reservoir and food in Brazil. J Appl Microbiol 2019; 128:1568-1582. [PMID: 31650661 DOI: 10.1111/jam.14500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2019] [Revised: 09/18/2019] [Accepted: 10/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) is a zoonotic pathotype associated with human gastrointestinal disease that may progress to severe complications. Ruminants, especially cattle, are the main reservoirs of STEC contaminating the environment and foods of animal or vegetable origin. Besides Shiga toxin, other virulence factors are involved in STEC virulence. O157:H7 remains the most frequent serotype associated with disease. In Brazil, the prevalence of STEC reaches values as high as 90% in cattle and 20% in meat products which may impact the Brazilian food export trade. However, only few reports are related to human disease. The stx1 gene prevails in cattle, whereas the stx2 gene is more frequent in food. Several STEC serotypes have been isolated from cattle and food in Brazil, including the O157:H7, O111:NT, NT:H19 as well as O26 and O103 serogroups. O113: H21 STEC strains are frequent in ruminants and foods but with no report in human disease. The virulence profile of Brazilian STEC strains from cattle and food suggests a pathogenic potential to humans, although some differences with clinical strains have been detected. Further studies, employing recent and more discriminative techniques are in need to better clarify their virulence potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice G M Gonzalez
- Departamento de Bromatologia, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, Brazil
| | - Aloysio M F Cerqueira
- Departamento de Microbiologia e Parasitologia, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, Brazil
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Complete Genome Sequences of Two Shiga Toxin-Producing Escherichia coli Strains Isolated from Crows. Microbiol Resour Announc 2019; 8:8/45/e01082-19. [PMID: 31699762 PMCID: PMC6838620 DOI: 10.1128/mra.01082-19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Escherichia coli strains RM9088 and RM10410 were isolated from crows near a leafy greens-growing region in California in April and July 2009, respectively. Both strains carry genes encoding Shiga toxins and other virulence factors in enteric pathogens. Here, we report the complete genome sequences of RM9088 and RM10410. Escherichia coli strains RM9088 and RM10410 were isolated from crows near a leafy greens-growing region in California in April and July 2009, respectively. Both strains carry genes encoding Shiga toxins and other virulence factors in enteric pathogens. Here, we report the complete genome sequences of RM9088 and RM10410.
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Development and Validation of Shiga Toxin-Producing Escherichia coli Immunodiagnostic Assay. Microorganisms 2019; 7:microorganisms7090276. [PMID: 31438570 PMCID: PMC6780578 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms7090276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2019] [Revised: 07/31/2019] [Accepted: 08/02/2019] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Shiga toxin (Stx)–producing Escherichia coli (STEC) and its subgroup enterohemorrhagic E. coli are important pathogens involved in diarrhea, which may be complicated by hemorrhagic colitis and hemolytic uremic syndrome, the leading cause of acute renal failure in children. Early diagnosis is essential for clinical management, as an antibiotic treatment in STEC infections is not recommended. Previously obtained antibodies against Stx1 and Stx2 toxins were employed to evaluate the sensitivity and specificity of the latex Agglutination test (LAT), lateral flow assay (LFA), and capture ELISA (cEIA) for STEC detection. The LAT (mAb Stx1 plus mAb stx2) showed 99% sensitivity and 97% specificity. Individually, Stx1 antibodies showed 95.5% and 94% sensitivity and a specificity of 97% and 99% in the cEIA and LFA assay, respectively. Stx2 antibodies showed a sensitivity of 92% in both assays and a specificity of 100% and 98% in the cEIA and LFA assay, respectively. These results allow us to conclude that we have robust tools for the diagnosis of STEC infections.
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Castro VS, Figueiredo EEDS, Stanford K, McAllister T, Conte-Junior CA. Shiga-Toxin Producing Escherichia Coli in Brazil: A Systematic Review. Microorganisms 2019; 7:E137. [PMID: 31100803 PMCID: PMC6560443 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms7050137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2019] [Revised: 05/01/2019] [Accepted: 05/04/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Shiga-toxin producing E. coli (STEC) can cause serious illnesses, including hemorrhagic colitis and hemolytic uremic syndrome. This is the first systematic review of STEC in Brazil, and will report the main serogroups detected in animals, food products and foodborne diseases. Data were obtained from online databases accessed in January 2019. Papers were selected from each database using the Mesh term entries. Although no human disease outbreaks in Brazil related to STEC has been reported, the presence of several serogroups such as O157 and O111 has been verified in animals, food, and humans. Moreover, other serogroups monitored by international federal agencies and involved in outbreak cases worldwide were detected, and other unusual strains were involved in some isolated individual cases of foodborne disease, such as serotype O118:H16 and serogroup O165. The epidemiological data presented herein indicates the presence of several pathogenic serogroups, including O157:H7, O26, O103, and O111, which have been linked to disease outbreaks worldwide. As available data are concentrated in the Sao Paulo state and almost completely lacking in outlying regions, epidemiological monitoring in Brazil for STEC needs to be expanded and food safety standards for this pathogen should be aligned to that of the food safety standards of international bodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vinicius Silva Castro
- Institute of Chemistry, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, 21941-909 Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
- Agronomy and Animal Science College, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso, 78060-900 Cuiabá-Mato Grosso, Brazil.
- Nutrition College, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso, 78060-900 Cuiabá-Mato Grosso, Brazil.
- Department of Food Technology, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Fluminense, 24230-340 Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
| | - Eduardo Eustáquio de Souza Figueiredo
- Agronomy and Animal Science College, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso, 78060-900 Cuiabá-Mato Grosso, Brazil.
- Nutrition College, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso, 78060-900 Cuiabá-Mato Grosso, Brazil.
- Alberta Agriculture and Forestry, #100-5401 1st Ave. S, Lethbridge, AB T1J 4V6, Canada.
| | - Kim Stanford
- Alberta Agriculture and Forestry, #100-5401 1st Ave. S, Lethbridge, AB T1J 4V6, Canada.
| | - Tim McAllister
- Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Lethbridge Research and Development Centre, 5403 1st Avenue South, Lethbridge, AB T1J 4B1, Canada.
| | - Carlos Adam Conte-Junior
- Institute of Chemistry, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, 21941-909 Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
- Department of Food Technology, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Fluminense, 24230-340 Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
- National Institute of Health Quality Control, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, 21040-900 Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
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van Hoek AHAM, van Veldhuizen JNJ, Friesema I, Coipan C, Rossen JWA, Bergval IL, Franz E. Comparative genomics reveals a lack of evidence for pigeons as a main source of stx 2f-carrying Escherichia coli causing disease in humans and the common existence of hybrid Shiga toxin-producing and enteropathogenic E. coli pathotypes. BMC Genomics 2019; 20:271. [PMID: 30953471 PMCID: PMC6451237 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-019-5635-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2018] [Accepted: 03/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Wild birds, in particular pigeons are considered a natural reservoir for stx2f-carrying E. coli. An extensive comparison of isolates from pigeons and humans from the same region is lacking, which hampers justifiable conclusions on the epidemiology of these pathogens. Over two hundred human and pigeon stx2f-carrying E. coli isolates predominantly from the Netherlands were analysed by whole genome sequencing and comparative genomic analysis including in silico MLST, serotyping, virulence genes typing and whole genome MLST (wgMLST). Results Serotypes and sequence types of stx2f-carrying E. coli showed a strong non-random distribution among the human and pigeon isolates with O63:H6/ST583, O113:H6/ST121 and O125:H6/ST583 overrepresented among the human isolates and not found among pigeons. Pigeon isolates were characterized by an overrepresentation of O4:H2/ST20 and O45:H2/ST20. Nearly all isolates harboured the locus of enterocyte effacement (LEE) but different eae and tir subtypes were non-randomly distributed among human and pigeon isolates. Phylogenetic core genome comparison demonstrated that the pigeon isolates and clinical isolates largely occurred in separated clusters. In addition, serotypes/STs exclusively found among humans generally were characterized by high level of clonality, smaller genome sizes and lack of several non-LEE-encoded virulence genes. A bundle-forming pilus operon, including bfpA, indicative for typical enteropathogenic E. coli (tEPEC) was demonstrated in 72.0% of the stx2f-carrying serotypes but with distinct operon types between the main pigeon and human isolate clusters. Conclusions Comparative genomics revealed that isolates from mild human disease are dominated by serotypes not encountered in the pigeon reservoir. It is therefore unlikely that zoonotic transmission from this reservoir plays an important role in the contribution to the majority of human disease associated with stx2f-producing E. coli in the Netherlands. Unexpectedly, this study identified the common occurrence of STEC2f/tEPEC hybrid pathotype in various serotypes and STs. Further research should focus on the possible role of human-to-human transmission of Stx2f-producing E. coli. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12864-019-5635-z) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela H A M van Hoek
- Centre for Infectious Disease Control (CIb), National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven, the Netherlands.
| | - Janieke N J van Veldhuizen
- Centre for Infectious Disease Control (CIb), National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven, the Netherlands
| | - Ingrid Friesema
- Centre for Infectious Disease Control (CIb), National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven, the Netherlands
| | - Claudia Coipan
- Centre for Infectious Disease Control (CIb), National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven, the Netherlands
| | - John W A Rossen
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Prevention, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Indra L Bergval
- Centre for Infectious Disease Control (CIb), National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven, the Netherlands
| | - Eelco Franz
- Centre for Infectious Disease Control (CIb), National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven, the Netherlands
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