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Camilotti E, Furian TQ, Borges KA, Ortiz Granados OF, Zottis Chitolina G, de Brites Weber T, Tonini da Rocha D, Nascimento VPD, Souza Moraes HLD, Salle CTP. Galleria mellonella larvae as an alternative model to determine the pathogenicity of avian pathogenic Escherichia coli. Avian Pathol 2024:1-13. [PMID: 38845537 DOI: 10.1080/03079457.2024.2365932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS Galleria mellonella larvae are a viable model for determining APEC pathogenicity.Larval disease score is the main variable for determining APEC pathogenicity.Response variables should be evaluated up to 24 h post-inoculation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisar Camilotti
- Centro de Diagnóstico e Pesquisa em Patologia Aviária, Departamento de Medicina Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Thales Quedi Furian
- Centro de Diagnóstico e Pesquisa em Patologia Aviária, Departamento de Medicina Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Karen Apellanis Borges
- Centro de Diagnóstico e Pesquisa em Patologia Aviária, Departamento de Medicina Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Oscar Fernando Ortiz Granados
- Centro de Diagnóstico e Pesquisa em Patologia Aviária, Departamento de Medicina Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Gabriela Zottis Chitolina
- Centro de Diagnóstico e Pesquisa em Patologia Aviária, Departamento de Medicina Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Thaína de Brites Weber
- Centro de Diagnóstico e Pesquisa em Patologia Aviária, Departamento de Medicina Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Daniela Tonini da Rocha
- Centro de Diagnóstico e Pesquisa em Patologia Aviária, Departamento de Medicina Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Vladimir Pinheiro do Nascimento
- Centro de Diagnóstico e Pesquisa em Patologia Aviária, Departamento de Medicina Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Hamilton Luiz de Souza Moraes
- Centro de Diagnóstico e Pesquisa em Patologia Aviária, Departamento de Medicina Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Carlos Tadeu Pippi Salle
- Centro de Diagnóstico e Pesquisa em Patologia Aviária, Departamento de Medicina Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
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Khan A, Saraf VS, Siddiqui F, Batool T, Noreen Z, Javed S, Ahmad A, Alonazi WB, Ibrahim M, Pucciarelli S, Bokhari H. Multidrug resistance among uropathogenic clonal group A E. Coli isolates from Pakistani women with uncomplicated urinary tract infections. BMC Microbiol 2024; 24:74. [PMID: 38454332 PMCID: PMC10919050 DOI: 10.1186/s12866-024-03221-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Multi-drug resistance (MDR) has notably increased in community acquired uropathogens causing urinary tract infections (UTIs), predominantly Escherichia coli. Uropathogenic E. coli causes 80% of uncomplicated community acquired UTIs, particularly in pre-menopausal women. Considering this high prevalence and the potential to spread antimicrobial resistant genes, the current study was conducted to investigate the presence of clinically important strains of E. coli in Pakistani women having uncomplicated cystitis and pyelonephritis. Women belonging to low-income groups were exclusively included in the study. Seventy-four isolates from urine samples were processed, phylotyped, and screened for the presence of two Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) particularly associated with a clinically important clonal group A of E. coli (CgA) followed by antibiotic susceptibility testing and genome sequence analysis. RESULTS Phylogroup B2 was most prevalent in patients and 44% of isolates were positive for the presence of CgA specific SNPs in Fumarate hydratase and DNA gyrase subunit B genes. Antibiotic susceptibility testing showed widespread resistance to trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole and extended-spectrum beta-lactamase production. The infection analysis revealed the phylogroup B2 to be more pathogenic as compared to the other groups. The genome sequence of E. coli strain U17 revealed genes encoding virulence, multidrug resistance, and host colonization mechanisms. CONCLUSIONS Our research findings not only validate the significant occurrence of multidrug-resistant clonal group A E. coli (CgA) in premenopausal Pakistani women suffering from cystitis and pyelonephritis but also reveal the presence of genes associated withvirulence, and drug efflux pumps. The detection of highly pathogenic, antimicrobial-resistant phylogroup B2 and CgA E. coli strains is likely to help in understanding the epidemiology of the pathogen and may ultimately help to reduce the impact of these strains on human health. Furthermore, the findings of this study will particularly help to reduce the prevalence of uncomplicated UTIs and the cost associated with their treatment in women belonging to low-income groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayesha Khan
- Microbiology and Public Health Laboratory, Department of Biosciences, COMSATS University Islamabad, Islamabad, Pakistan
- Health Services Academy, Opposite NIH, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Viqar Sayeed Saraf
- Microbiology and Public Health Laboratory, Department of Biosciences, COMSATS University Islamabad, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Fariha Siddiqui
- Department of Biosciences, Shifa Tameer e Millat University, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Tahira Batool
- Microbiology and Public Health Laboratory, Department of Biosciences, COMSATS University Islamabad, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Zobia Noreen
- Microbiology and Public Health Laboratory, Department of Biosciences, COMSATS University Islamabad, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Sundus Javed
- Microbiology and Public Health Laboratory, Department of Biosciences, COMSATS University Islamabad, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Aftab Ahmad
- Department of Microbiology, Kohsar University Murree, Rawalpindi, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Wadi B Alonazi
- Health Administration Department, College of Business Administration, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Muhammad Ibrahim
- Department of Microbiology, Kohsar University Murree, Rawalpindi, Punjab, Pakistan.
- Department of Biosciences, COMSATS University Islamabad, Sahiwal Campus, Sahiwal, Pakistan.
| | - Sandra Pucciarelli
- School of Biosciences and Veterinary Medicine, University of Camerino, via Gentile III da Varano, Camerino, 62032, Italy
| | - Habib Bokhari
- Department of Microbiology, Kohsar University Murree, Rawalpindi, Punjab, Pakistan.
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Abdullah S, Almusallam A, Li M, Mahmood MS, Mushtaq MA, Eltai NO, Toleman MA, Mohsin M. Whole genome-based genetic insights of blaNDM producing clinical E. coli isolates in hospital settings of Pakistan. Microbiol Spectr 2023; 11:e0058423. [PMID: 37668386 PMCID: PMC10581159 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.00584-23] [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: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 07/02/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Carbapenem resistance among Enterobacterales has become a global health concern. Clinical Escherichia coli isolates producing the metallo β-lactamase NDM have been isolated from two hospitals in Faisalabad, Pakistan. These E. coli strains were characterized by MALDI-TOF, PCR, antimicrobial susceptibility testing, XbaI and S1 nuclease pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE), conjugation assay, DNA hybridization, whole genome sequencing, bioinformatic analysis, and Galleria mellonella experiments. Thirty-four blaNDM producing E. coli strains were identified among 52 nonduplicate carbapenem-resistant strains. More than 90% of the isolates were found to be multidrug resistant by antimicrobial susceptibility testing. S1 PFGE confirmed the presence of blaNDM gene on plasmids ranging from 40 kbps to 250 kbps, and conjugation assays demonstrated transfer frequencies of blaNDM harboring plasmids ranging from 1.59 × 10-1 to 6.46 × 10-8 per donor. Whole genome sequencing analysis revealed blaNDM-5 as the prominent NDM subtype with the highest prevalence of blaOXA-1, blaCTX-M-15, aadA2, aac(6')-Ib-cr, and tet(A) associated resistant determinants. E. coli sequence types: ST405, ST361, and ST167 were prominent, and plasmid Inc types: FII, FIA, FIB, FIC, X3, R, and Y, were observed among all isolates. The genetic environment of blaNDM region on IncF plasmids included partial ISAba125, the bleomycin ble gene, and a class I integron. The virulence genes terC, traT, gad, fyuA, irp2, capU, and sitA were frequently observed, and G. mellonella experiments showed that virulence correlated with the number of virulence determinants. A strong infection control management in the hospital is necessary to check the emergence of carbapenem resistance in Gram-negative bacteria.IMPORTANCEWe describe a detailed analysis of highly resistant clinical E. coli isolates from two tertiary care centers in Pakistan including carbapenem resistance as well as common co-resistance mechanisms. South Asia has a huge problem with highly resistant E. coli. However, we find that though these isolates are very difficult to treat they are of low virulence. Thus the Western world has an increasing problem with virulent E. coli that are mostly of low antibiotic resistance, whereas, South Asia has an increasing problem with highly resistant E. coli that are of low virulence potential. These observations allow us to start to devise methodologies to limit both virulence and resistance and combat problems in developing nations as well as the Western world.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabahat Abdullah
- Institute of Microbiology, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Abdulrahman Almusallam
- Department of Medical Microbiology, School of Medicine, Institute of Infection and Immunity, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Mei Li
- Department of Medical Microbiology, School of Medicine, Institute of Infection and Immunity, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Nahla O. Eltai
- Biomedical Research Center, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Mark A. Toleman
- Department of Medical Microbiology, School of Medicine, Institute of Infection and Immunity, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Mashkoor Mohsin
- Institute of Microbiology, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan
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Bugyna L, Kendra S, Bujdáková H. Galleria mellonella-A Model for the Study of aPDT-Prospects and Drawbacks. Microorganisms 2023; 11:1455. [PMID: 37374956 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11061455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2023] [Revised: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Galleria mellonella is a promising in vivo model insect used for microbiological, medical, and pharmacological research. It provides a platform for testing the biocompatibility of various compounds and the kinetics of survival after an infection followed by subsequent treatment, and for the evaluation of various parameters during treatment, including the host-pathogen interaction. There are some similarities in the development of pathologies with mammals. However, a limitation is the lack of adaptive immune response. Antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) is an alternative approach for combating microbial infections, including biofilm-associated ones. aPDT is effective against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites, regardless of whether they are resistant to conventional treatment. The main idea of this comprehensive review was to collect information on the use of G. mellonella in aPDT. It provides a collection of references published in the last 10 years from this area of research, complemented by some practical experiences of the authors of this review. Additionally, the review summarizes in brief information on the G. mellonella model, its advantages and methods used in the processing of material from these larvae, as well as basic knowledge of the principles of aPDT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larysa Bugyna
- Faculty of Natural Sciences, Department of Microbiology and Virology, Comenius University in Bratislava, Ilkovicova 6, 84215 Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Samuel Kendra
- Faculty of Natural Sciences, Department of Microbiology and Virology, Comenius University in Bratislava, Ilkovicova 6, 84215 Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Helena Bujdáková
- Faculty of Natural Sciences, Department of Microbiology and Virology, Comenius University in Bratislava, Ilkovicova 6, 84215 Bratislava, Slovakia
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Santos ACM, Santos-Neto JF, Trovão LO, Romano RFT, Silva RM, Gomes TAT. Characterization of unconventional pathogenic Escherichia coli isolated from bloodstream infection: virulence beyond the opportunism. Braz J Microbiol 2023; 54:15-28. [PMID: 36480121 PMCID: PMC9943985 DOI: 10.1007/s42770-022-00884-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Extraintestinal pathogenic Escherichia coli (ExPEC) is the leading cause of urinary tract infection worldwide and a critical bloodstream infection agent. There are more than 50 virulence factors (VFs) related to ExPEC pathogenesis; however, many strains isolated from extraintestinal infections are devoid of these factors. Since opportunistic infections may occur in immunocompromised patients, E. coli strains that lack recognized VFs are considered opportunist, and their virulence potential is neglected. We assessed eleven E. coli strains isolated from bloodstream infections and devoid of the most common ExPEC VFs to understand their pathogenic potential. The strains were evaluated according to their capacity to interact in vitro with human eukaryotic cell lineages (Caco-2, T24, HEK293T, and A549 cells), produce type 1 fimbriae and biofilm in diverse media, resist to human sera, and be lethal to Galleria mellonella. One strain displaying all phenotypic traits was sequenced and evaluated. Ten strains adhered to Caco-2 (colon), eight to T24 (bladder), five to HEK-293 T (kidney), and four to A549 (lung) cells. Eight strains produced type 1 fimbriae, ten adhered to abiotic surfaces, nine were serum resistant, and seven were virulent in the G. mellonella model. Six of the eleven E. coli strains displayed traits compatible with pathogens, five of which were isolated from an immune-competent host. The genome of the EC175 strain, isolated from a patient with urosepsis, reveals that the strain belonged to ST504-A, and serotype O11:H11; harbors thirteen VFs genes, including genes encoding UpaG and yersiniabactin as the only ExPEC VFs identified. Together, our results suggest that the ExPEC pathotype includes pathogens from phylogroups A and B1, which harbor VFs that remain to be uncovered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Carolina M Santos
- Laboratório Experimental de Patogenicidade de Enterobactérias, Disciplina de Microbiologia, Departamento de Microbiologia, Imunologia e Parasitologia, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Rua Botucatu 862, Edifício Prof. Dr. Antônio C. Mattos Paiva, 3º Andar. Vila Clementino, São Paulo, SP, 04023-062, Brazil.
| | - José F Santos-Neto
- Laboratório Experimental de Patogenicidade de Enterobactérias, Disciplina de Microbiologia, Departamento de Microbiologia, Imunologia e Parasitologia, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Rua Botucatu 862, Edifício Prof. Dr. Antônio C. Mattos Paiva, 3º Andar. Vila Clementino, São Paulo, SP, 04023-062, Brazil
| | - Liana O Trovão
- Laboratório Experimental de Patogenicidade de Enterobactérias, Disciplina de Microbiologia, Departamento de Microbiologia, Imunologia e Parasitologia, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Rua Botucatu 862, Edifício Prof. Dr. Antônio C. Mattos Paiva, 3º Andar. Vila Clementino, São Paulo, SP, 04023-062, Brazil
| | - Ricardo F T Romano
- Laboratório de Patogênese de Enterobacterales, Disciplina de Microbiologia, Departamento de Microbiologia, Imunologia e Parasitologia, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Departamento de Diagnóstico Por Imagem, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Rosa Maria Silva
- Laboratório de Patogênese de Enterobacterales, Disciplina de Microbiologia, Departamento de Microbiologia, Imunologia e Parasitologia, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Tânia A T Gomes
- Laboratório Experimental de Patogenicidade de Enterobactérias, Disciplina de Microbiologia, Departamento de Microbiologia, Imunologia e Parasitologia, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Rua Botucatu 862, Edifício Prof. Dr. Antônio C. Mattos Paiva, 3º Andar. Vila Clementino, São Paulo, SP, 04023-062, Brazil.
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Pereira MF, Rossi CC, da Silva GC, Rosa JN, Bazzolli DMS. Galleria mellonella as an infection model: an in-depth look at why it works and practical considerations for successful application. Pathog Dis 2021; 78:5909969. [PMID: 32960263 DOI: 10.1093/femspd/ftaa056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2020] [Accepted: 09/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The larva of the greater wax moth Galleria mellonella is an increasingly popular model for assessing the virulence of bacterial pathogens and the effectiveness of antimicrobial agents. In this review, we discuss details of the components of the G. mellonella larval immune system that underpin its use as an alternative infection model, and provide an updated overview of the state of the art of research with G. mellonella infection models to study bacterial virulence, and in the evaluation of antimicrobial efficacy. Emphasis is given to virulence studies with relevant human and veterinary pathogens, especially Escherichia coli and bacteria of the ESKAPE group. In addition, we make practical recommendations for larval rearing and testing, and overcoming potential limitations of the use of the model, which facilitate intra- and interlaboratory reproducibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monalessa Fábia Pereira
- Laboratório de Bioquímica e Microbiologia, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade do Estado de Minas Gerais, 36800-000, Carangola, MG, Brazil
| | - Ciro César Rossi
- Laboratório de Microbiologia Molecular, Departamento de Microbiologia Médica, Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, 21941-901, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Giarlã Cunha da Silva
- Laboratório de Genética Molecular de Bactérias, Instituto de Biotecnologia Aplicada à Agropecuária-BIOAGRO, Departamento de Microbiologia, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, 36570-900, Viçosa, MG, Brazil
| | - Jéssica Nogueira Rosa
- Laboratório de Genética Molecular de Bactérias, Instituto de Biotecnologia Aplicada à Agropecuária-BIOAGRO, Departamento de Microbiologia, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, 36570-900, Viçosa, MG, Brazil
| | - Denise Mara Soares Bazzolli
- Laboratório de Genética Molecular de Bactérias, Instituto de Biotecnologia Aplicada à Agropecuária-BIOAGRO, Departamento de Microbiologia, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, 36570-900, Viçosa, MG, Brazil
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Luiz de Freitas L, Pereira da Silva F, Fernandes KM, Carneiro DG, Licursi de Oliveira L, Martins GF, Dantas Vanetti MC. The virulence of Salmonella Enteritidis in Galleria mellonella is improved by N-dodecanoyl-homoserine lactone. Microb Pathog 2021; 152:104730. [PMID: 33444697 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2021.104730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2020] [Revised: 01/01/2021] [Accepted: 01/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Salmonella is a food and waterborne pathogen responsible for outbreaks worldwide, and it can survive during passage through the stomach and inside host phagocytic cells. Virulence genes are required for infection and survival in macrophages, and some are under the regulation of the quorum sensing (QS) system. This study investigated the influence of the autoinducer 1 (AI-1), N-dodecanoyl-homoserine lactone (C12-HSL), on the virulence of Salmonella PT4 using Galleria mellonella as an infection model. Salmonella PT4 was grown in the presence and absence of C12-HSL under anaerobic conditions for 7 h, and the expression of rpoS, arcA, arcB, and invA genes was evaluated. After the inoculation of G. mellonella with the median lethal dose (LD50) of Salmonella PT4, the survival of bacteria inside the larvae and their health status (health index scoring) were monitored, as well as the pigment, nitric oxide (NO), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT) production. Also, the hemocyte viability, the induction of caspase-3, and microtubule-associated light chain 3 (LC3) protein in hemocytes were evaluated. Salmonella PT4 growing in the presence of C12-HSL showed increased rpoS, arcA, arcB, and invA expression and promoted higher larvae mortality and worse state of health after 24 h of infection. The C12-HSL also increased the persistence of Salmonella PT4 in the hemolymph and in the hemocytes. The highest pigmentation, NO production, and antioxidant enzymes were verified in the larva hemolymph infected with Salmonella PT4 grown with C12-HSL. Hemocytes from larvae infected with Salmonella PT4 grown with C12-HSL showed lower viability and higher production of caspase-3 and LC3. Taken together, these findings suggest that C12-HSL could be involved in the virulence of Salmonella PT4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonardo Luiz de Freitas
- Departmento de Microbiologia, Universidade Federal de Viçosa (UFV), Viçosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | | | - Kenner Morais Fernandes
- Departamento de Biologia Geral, Universidade Federal de Viçosa (UFV), Viçosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Deisy Guimarães Carneiro
- Departmento de Microbiologia, Universidade Federal de Viçosa (UFV), Viçosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | | | - Gustavo Ferreira Martins
- Departamento de Biologia Geral, Universidade Federal de Viçosa (UFV), Viçosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil
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Wojda I, Staniec B, Sułek M, Kordaczuk J. The greater wax moth Galleria mellonella: biology and use in immune studies. Pathog Dis 2020; 78:ftaa057. [PMID: 32970818 PMCID: PMC7683414 DOI: 10.1093/femspd/ftaa057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2020] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The greater wax moth Galleria mellonella is an invertebrate that is increasingly being used in scientific research. Its ease of reproduction, numerous offspring, short development cycle, and finally, its known genome and immune-related transcriptome provide a convenient research model for investigation of insect immunity at biochemical and molecular levels. Galleria immunity, consisting of only innate mechanisms, shows adaptive plasticity, which has recently become the subject of intensive scientific research. This insect serves as a mini host in studies of the pathogenicity of microorganisms and in vivo tests of the effectiveness of single virulence factors as well as new antimicrobial compounds. Certainly, the Galleria mellonella species deserves our attention and appreciation for its contribution to the development of research on innate immune mechanisms. In this review article, we describe the biology of the greater wax moth, summarise the main advantages of using it as a model organism and present some of the main techniques facilitating work with this insect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iwona Wojda
- Maria Curie Sklodowska University, Institute of Biological Sciences, Department of Immunobiology, Akademicka 19, 20-033 Lublin, Poland
| | - Bernard Staniec
- Maria Curie Sklodowska University, Institute of Biological Sciences, Department of Zoology and Nature Protection, Akademicka 19, 20-033 Lublin, Poland
| | - Michał Sułek
- Maria Curie Sklodowska University, Institute of Biological Sciences, Department of Immunobiology, Akademicka 19, 20-033 Lublin, Poland
| | - Jakub Kordaczuk
- Maria Curie Sklodowska University, Institute of Biological Sciences, Department of Immunobiology, Akademicka 19, 20-033 Lublin, Poland
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Virulence Potential of a Multidrug-Resistant Escherichia coli Strain Belonging to the Emerging Clonal Group ST101-B1 Isolated from Bloodstream Infection. Microorganisms 2020; 8:microorganisms8060827. [PMID: 32486334 PMCID: PMC7355805 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms8060827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2020] [Revised: 05/20/2020] [Accepted: 05/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Escherichia coli EC121 is a multidrug-resistant (MDR) strain isolated from a bloodstream infection of an inpatient with persistent gastroenteritis and T-zone lymphoma that died due to septic shock. Despite causing an extraintestinal infection, previous studies showed that it did not have the usual characteristics of an extraintestinal pathogenic E. coli. Instead, it belonged to phylogenetic group B1 and harbored few known virulence genes. To evaluate the pathogenic potential of strain EC121, an extensive genome sequencing and in vitro characterization of various pathogenicity-associated properties were performed. The genomic analysis showed that strain EC121 harbors more than 50 complete virulence genetic clusters. It also displays the capacity to adhere to a variety of epithelial cell lineages and invade T24 bladder cells, as well as the ability to form biofilms on abiotic surfaces, and survive the bactericidal serum complement activity. Additionally, EC121 was shown to be virulent in the Galleria mellonella model. Furthermore, EC121 is an MDR strain harboring 14 antimicrobial resistance genes, including blaCTX-M-2. Completing the scenario, it belongs to serotype O154:H25 and to sequence type 101-B1, which has been epidemiologically linked to extraintestinal infections as well as to antimicrobial resistance spread. This study with E. coli strain EC121 shows that clinical isolates considered opportunistic might be true pathogens that go underestimated.
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MicroRNAs regulate innate immunity against uropathogenic and commensal-like Escherichia coli infections in the surrogate insect model Galleria mellonella. Sci Rep 2020; 10:2570. [PMID: 32054914 PMCID: PMC7018962 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-59407-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2019] [Accepted: 01/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) strains cause symptomatic urinary tract infections in humans whereas commensal-like E. coli strains in the urinary bladder cause long-term asymptomatic bacteriuria (ABU). We previously reported that UPEC and ABU strains differentially regulate key DNA methylation and histone acetylation components in the surrogate insect host Galleria mellonella to epigenetically modulate innate immunity-related gene expression, which in turn controls bacterial growth. In this follow-up study, we infected G. mellonella larvae with UPEC strain CFT073 or ABU strain 83972 to identify differences in the expression of microRNAs (miRNAs), a class of non-coding RNAs that regulate gene expression at the post-transcriptional level. Our small RNA sequencing analysis showed that UPEC and ABU infections caused significant changes in the abundance of miRNAs in the larvae, and highlighted the differential expression of 147 conserved miRNAs and 95 novel miRNA candidates. We annotated the G. mellonella genome sequence to investigate the miRNA-regulated expression of genes encoding antimicrobial peptides, signaling proteins, and enzymatic regulators of DNA methylation and histone acetylation in infected larvae. Our results indicate that miRNAs play a role in the epigenetic reprograming of innate immunity in G. mellonella larvae to distinguish between pathogenic and commensal strains of E. coli.
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Hotinger JA, May AE. Animal Models of Type III Secretion System-Mediated Pathogenesis. Pathogens 2019; 8:pathogens8040257. [PMID: 31766664 PMCID: PMC6963218 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens8040257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2019] [Revised: 11/18/2019] [Accepted: 11/20/2019] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The type III secretion system (T3SS) is a conserved virulence factor used by many Gram-negative pathogenic bacteria and has become an important target for anti-virulence drugs. Most T3SS inhibitors to date have been discovered using in vitro screening assays. Pharmacokinetics and other important characteristics of pharmaceuticals cannot be determined with in vitro assays alone. In vivo assays are required to study pathogens in their natural environment and are an important step in the development of new drugs and vaccines. Animal models are also required to understand whether T3SS inhibition will enable the host to clear the infection. This review covers selected animal models (mouse, rat, guinea pig, rabbit, cat, dog, pig, cattle, primates, chicken, zebrafish, nematode, wax moth, flea, fly, and amoeba), where T3SS activity and infectivity have been studied in relation to specific pathogens (Escherichia coli, Salmonella spp., Pseudomonas spp., Shigella spp., Bordetella spp., Vibrio spp., Chlamydia spp., and Yersinia spp.). These assays may be appropriate for those researching T3SS inhibition.
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12
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Guerrieri CG, Pereira MF, Galdino ACM, Dos Santos ALS, Elias WP, Schuenck RP, Spano LC. Typical and Atypical Enteroaggregative Escherichia coli Are Both Virulent in the Galleria mellonella Model. Front Microbiol 2019; 10:1791. [PMID: 31456762 PMCID: PMC6700222 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2019.01791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2019] [Accepted: 07/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Enteroaggregative Escherichia coli (EAEC) is an emerging pathotype responsible for acute and persistent diarrhea. It can be classified as typical and atypical strains, respectively, based on the presence or absence of the AggR regulon, suggesting a higher virulence for typical EAEC. This study aims to evaluate in the Galleria mellonella model if there are differences in the virulence profiles among clinical strains of typical and atypical EAEC, prototype strains EAEC C1096, 042 and its aggR mutant. The clinical EAEC strains (n = 20) were analyzed for the presence of 22 putative virulence factors of EAEC or extraintestinal E. coli by PCR, as well as phenotypic characteristics of virulence (enzymes, siderophore, and biofilm). The survival of the larvae was analyzed after inoculation of 104-107 CFU/larva; the monitoring of bacterial growth in vivo and hemocyte quantification was determined after inoculation of the prototype strains (105 CFU/larva) at different periods after infection. The strains of typical and atypical EAEC presented the same virulence profile for the larva, regardless of the amount or type of genes and phenotypic aspects of virulence analyzed. In addition, the EAEC 042 aggR mutant strain showed a significant reduction in the mortality of the inoculated larvae compared to the wild-type strain. In conclusion, the results obtained herein demonstrate that the virulence of EAEC seems to be related to the AggR regulon, but not exclusively, and atypical EAEC strains may be as virulent as typical ones in vivo in the G. mellonella model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Gastaldi Guerrieri
- Laboratory of Virology and Infectious Gastroenteritis, Department of Pathology, Health Sciences Center, Federal University of Espírito Santo, Vitória, Brazil
| | - Monalessa Fábia Pereira
- Laboratory of Virology and Infectious Gastroenteritis, Department of Pathology, Health Sciences Center, Federal University of Espírito Santo, Vitória, Brazil
| | - Anna Clara Milesi Galdino
- Laboratory of Advanced Studies of Emerging and Resistant Microorganisms, Department of General Microbiology, Institute of Microbiology Paulo de Góes, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - André Luis Souza Dos Santos
- Laboratory of Advanced Studies of Emerging and Resistant Microorganisms, Department of General Microbiology, Institute of Microbiology Paulo de Góes, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | | | - Ricardo Pinto Schuenck
- Laboratory of Virology and Infectious Gastroenteritis, Department of Pathology, Health Sciences Center, Federal University of Espírito Santo, Vitória, Brazil
| | - Liliana Cruz Spano
- Laboratory of Virology and Infectious Gastroenteritis, Department of Pathology, Health Sciences Center, Federal University of Espírito Santo, Vitória, Brazil
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13
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Ambrosi C, Sarshar M, Aprea MR, Pompilio A, Di Bonaventura G, Strati F, Pronio A, Nicoletti M, Zagaglia C, Palamara AT, Scribano D. Colonic adenoma-associated Escherichia coli express specific phenotypes. Microbes Infect 2019; 21:305-312. [PMID: 30763764 DOI: 10.1016/j.micinf.2019.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2018] [Revised: 01/18/2019] [Accepted: 02/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Specific Escherichia coli strains have been associated to colorectal cancer, while no data are available on genotypic and phenotypic features of E. coli colonizing premalignant adenomatous polyps and their pathogenic potential. This study was aimed at characterizing isolates collected from polyps and adjacent tissue in comparison with those from normal mucosa. From colonoscopy biopsies, 1500 E. coli isolates were retrieved and genotyped; 272 were characterized for phylogroup and major phenotypic traits (i.e., biofilm formation, motility, hemolysins, and proteases). Selected isolates were analyzed for extraintestinal pathogenic E. coli (ExPEC)-associated virulence genes and in vivo pathogenicity using Galleria mellonella. The majority of isolates collected from polyps were strong biofilm and poor protease producers, whereas those isolates from normal mucosa were highly motile, proteolytic and weak biofilm formers. Isolates from adjacent tissues shared features with those from both polyps and normal mucosa. Among selected E. coli isolates, ExPEC gene content/profile was variable and uncorrelated with the tissue of collection and larval mortality. Despite the heterogeneous virulence-gene carriage of the E. coli intestinal population, E. coli colonizing colonic adenomatous polyps express specific phenotypic traits that could represent an initial pathoadaptation to local environmental changes characterizing these lesions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cecilia Ambrosi
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le A. Moro 5, 00185, Rome, Italy; Dani Di Giò Foundation-Onlus, Rome, Italy
| | - Meysam Sarshar
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Laboratory Affiliated to Institute Pasteur Italia-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, P.le A. Moro 5, 00185, Rome, Italy; Microbiology Research Center (MRC), Pasteur Institute of Iran, Pasteur Ave 69, 1316943551, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maria Rita Aprea
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le A. Moro 5, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Arianna Pompilio
- Department of Medical, Oral and Biotechnological Sciences, University "G. d'Annunzio" of Chieti-Pescara, Via dei Vestini 31, 66100, Chieti, Italy; Center of Excellence on Aging and Translational Medicine (CeSI-MeT), "G. d'Annunzio" University of Chieti-Pescara, Via dei Vestini 31, 66100, Chieti, Italy
| | - Giovanni Di Bonaventura
- Department of Medical, Oral and Biotechnological Sciences, University "G. d'Annunzio" of Chieti-Pescara, Via dei Vestini 31, 66100, Chieti, Italy; Center of Excellence on Aging and Translational Medicine (CeSI-MeT), "G. d'Annunzio" University of Chieti-Pescara, Via dei Vestini 31, 66100, Chieti, Italy
| | - Francesco Strati
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine, Università della Svizzera italiana (USI), Via Vincenzo Vela 6, CH-6500, Bellinzona, Switzerland
| | - Annamaria Pronio
- Department of General Surgery, "P. Stefanini", Sapienza University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico, 155, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Mauro Nicoletti
- Department of Medical, Oral and Biotechnological Sciences, University "G. d'Annunzio" of Chieti-Pescara, Via dei Vestini 31, 66100, Chieti, Italy
| | - Carlo Zagaglia
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le A. Moro 5, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Anna Teresa Palamara
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, Laboratory Affiliated to Institute Pasteur Italia-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, P.le A. Moro 5, 00185, Rome, Italy; San Raffaele Pisana, IRCCS, Via della Pisana, 235, 00163, Rome, Italy
| | - Daniela Scribano
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le A. Moro 5, 00185, Rome, Italy; Dani Di Giò Foundation-Onlus, Rome, Italy.
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14
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Pereira TC, de Barros PP, Fugisaki LRDO, Rossoni RD, Ribeiro FDC, de Menezes RT, Junqueira JC, Scorzoni L. Recent Advances in the Use of Galleria mellonella Model to Study Immune Responses against Human Pathogens. J Fungi (Basel) 2018; 4:jof4040128. [PMID: 30486393 PMCID: PMC6308929 DOI: 10.3390/jof4040128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2018] [Revised: 11/21/2018] [Accepted: 11/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The use of invertebrates for in vivo studies in microbiology is well established in the scientific community. Larvae of Galleria mellonella are a widely used model for studying pathogenesis, the efficacy of new antimicrobial compounds, and immune responses. The immune system of G. mellonella larvae is structurally and functionally similar to the innate immune response of mammals, which makes this model suitable for such studies. In this review, cellular responses (hemocytes activity: phagocytosis, nodulation, and encapsulation) and humoral responses (reactions or soluble molecules released in the hemolymph as antimicrobial peptides, melanization, clotting, free radical production, and primary immunization) are discussed, highlighting the use of G. mellonella as a model of immune response to different human pathogenic microorganisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thais Cristine Pereira
- Department of Biosciences and Oral Diagnosis, Institute of Science and Technology, São Paulo State University (UNESP), São José dos Campos, São Paulo 12245-000, Brazil.
| | - Patrícia Pimentel de Barros
- Department of Biosciences and Oral Diagnosis, Institute of Science and Technology, São Paulo State University (UNESP), São José dos Campos, São Paulo 12245-000, Brazil.
| | - Luciana Ruano de Oliveira Fugisaki
- Department of Biosciences and Oral Diagnosis, Institute of Science and Technology, São Paulo State University (UNESP), São José dos Campos, São Paulo 12245-000, Brazil.
| | - Rodnei Dennis Rossoni
- Department of Biosciences and Oral Diagnosis, Institute of Science and Technology, São Paulo State University (UNESP), São José dos Campos, São Paulo 12245-000, Brazil.
| | - Felipe de Camargo Ribeiro
- Department of Biosciences and Oral Diagnosis, Institute of Science and Technology, São Paulo State University (UNESP), São José dos Campos, São Paulo 12245-000, Brazil.
| | - Raquel Teles de Menezes
- Department of Biosciences and Oral Diagnosis, Institute of Science and Technology, São Paulo State University (UNESP), São José dos Campos, São Paulo 12245-000, Brazil.
| | - Juliana Campos Junqueira
- Department of Biosciences and Oral Diagnosis, Institute of Science and Technology, São Paulo State University (UNESP), São José dos Campos, São Paulo 12245-000, Brazil.
| | - Liliana Scorzoni
- Department of Biosciences and Oral Diagnosis, Institute of Science and Technology, São Paulo State University (UNESP), São José dos Campos, São Paulo 12245-000, Brazil.
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15
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Kathayat D, Helmy YA, Deblais L, Rajashekara G. Novel small molecules affecting cell membrane as potential therapeutics for avian pathogenic Escherichia coli. Sci Rep 2018; 8:15329. [PMID: 30333507 PMCID: PMC6193035 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-33587-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2018] [Accepted: 09/26/2018] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Avian pathogenic Escherichia coli (APEC), a most common bacterial pathogen of poultry, causes multiple extra-intestinal diseases in poultry which results in significant economic losses to the poultry industry worldwide. In addition, APEC are a subgroup of extra-intestinal pathogenic E. coli (ExPEC), and APEC contaminated poultry products are a potential source of foodborne ExPEC infections to humans and transfer of antimicrobial resistant genes. The emergence of multi-drug resistant APEC strains and the limited efficacy of vaccines necessitate novel APEC control approaches. Here, we screened a small molecule (SM) library and identified 11 SMs bactericidal to APEC. The identified SMs were effective against multiple APEC serotypes, biofilm embedded APEC, antimicrobials resistant APECs, and other pathogenic E. coli strains. Microscopy revealed that these SMs affect the APEC cell membrane. Exposure of SMs to APEC revealed no resistance. Most SMs showed low toxicity towards chicken and human cells and reduced the intracellular APEC load. Treatment with most SMs extended the wax moth larval survival and reduced the intra-larval APEC load. Our studies could facilitate the development of antimicrobial therapeutics for the effective management of APEC infections in poultry as well as other E. coli related foodborne zoonosis, including APEC related ExPEC infections in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dipak Kathayat
- Food Animal Health Research Program, Department of Veterinary Preventive Medicine, The Ohio State University, Wooster, OH, 44691, USA
| | - Yosra A Helmy
- Food Animal Health Research Program, Department of Veterinary Preventive Medicine, The Ohio State University, Wooster, OH, 44691, USA
| | - Loic Deblais
- Food Animal Health Research Program, Department of Veterinary Preventive Medicine, The Ohio State University, Wooster, OH, 44691, USA
| | - Gireesh Rajashekara
- Food Animal Health Research Program, Department of Veterinary Preventive Medicine, The Ohio State University, Wooster, OH, 44691, USA.
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16
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Yang Q, Li M, Spiller OB, Andrey DO, Hinchliffe P, Li H, MacLean C, Niumsup P, Powell L, Pritchard M, Papkou A, Shen Y, Portal E, Sands K, Spencer J, Tansawai U, Thomas D, Wang S, Wang Y, Shen J, Walsh T. Balancing mcr-1 expression and bacterial survival is a delicate equilibrium between essential cellular defence mechanisms. Nat Commun 2017; 8:2054. [PMID: 29233990 PMCID: PMC5727292 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-017-02149-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 121] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2017] [Accepted: 11/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
MCR-1 is a lipid A modifying enzyme that confers resistance to the antibiotic colistin. Here, we analyse the impact of MCR-1 expression on E. coli morphology, fitness, competitiveness, immune stimulation and virulence. Increased expression of mcr-1 results in decreased growth rate, cell viability, competitive ability and significant degradation in cell membrane and cytoplasmic structures, compared to expression of catalytically inactive MCR-1 (E246A) or MCR-1 soluble component. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) extracted from mcr-1 strains induces lower production of IL-6 and TNF, when compared to control LPS. Compared to their parent strains, high-level colistin resistance mutants (HLCRMs) show reduced fitness (relative fitness is 0.41-0.78) and highly attenuated virulence in a Galleria mellonella infection model. Furthermore, HLCRMs are more susceptible to most antibiotics than their respective parent strains. Our results show that the bacterium is challenged to find a delicate equilibrium between expression of MCR-1-mediated colistin resistance and minimalizing toxicity and thus ensuring cell survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiue Yang
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Disease, Division of Infection and Immunity, Cardiff University, Cardiff, CF14 4XN, UK.
| | - Mei Li
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Disease, Division of Infection and Immunity, Cardiff University, Cardiff, CF14 4XN, UK
| | - Owen B Spiller
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Disease, Division of Infection and Immunity, Cardiff University, Cardiff, CF14 4XN, UK
| | - Diego O Andrey
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Disease, Division of Infection and Immunity, Cardiff University, Cardiff, CF14 4XN, UK
- Service of Infectious Diseases, Geneva University Hospitals and Faculty of Medicine, 1211, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Philip Hinchliffe
- School of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Bristol, Bristol, BS8 1TD, UK
| | - Hui Li
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Diagnostic and Traceability Technologies for Food Poisoning, Beijing Center for Disease Prevention and Control, Beijing, 100013, China
| | - Craig MacLean
- Department of Zoology, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3PS, UK
| | - Pannika Niumsup
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Medical Science, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok, 65000, Thailand
| | - Lydia Powell
- Advanced Therapies Group, Oral and Biomedical Sciences, School of Dentistry, College of Biomedical and Life Sciences, Cardiff University, Heath Park, Cardiff, CF14 4XN, UK
| | - Manon Pritchard
- Advanced Therapies Group, Oral and Biomedical Sciences, School of Dentistry, College of Biomedical and Life Sciences, Cardiff University, Heath Park, Cardiff, CF14 4XN, UK
| | - Andrei Papkou
- Department of Zoology, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3PS, UK
| | - Yingbo Shen
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Centre for Food Nutrition and Human Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Edward Portal
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Disease, Division of Infection and Immunity, Cardiff University, Cardiff, CF14 4XN, UK
| | - Kirsty Sands
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Disease, Division of Infection and Immunity, Cardiff University, Cardiff, CF14 4XN, UK
| | - James Spencer
- School of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Bristol, Bristol, BS8 1TD, UK
| | - Uttapoln Tansawai
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Medical Science, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok, 65000, Thailand
| | - David Thomas
- Advanced Therapies Group, Oral and Biomedical Sciences, School of Dentistry, College of Biomedical and Life Sciences, Cardiff University, Heath Park, Cardiff, CF14 4XN, UK
| | - Shaolin Wang
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Centre for Food Nutrition and Human Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Yang Wang
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Centre for Food Nutrition and Human Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Jianzhong Shen
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Centre for Food Nutrition and Human Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Timothy Walsh
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Disease, Division of Infection and Immunity, Cardiff University, Cardiff, CF14 4XN, UK.
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17
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Jønsson R, Struve C, Jenssen H, Krogfelt KA. The wax moth Galleria mellonella as a novel model system to study Enteroaggregative Escherichia coli pathogenesis. Virulence 2017; 8:1894-1899. [PMID: 27824518 PMCID: PMC5810504 DOI: 10.1080/21505594.2016.1256537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Rie Jønsson
- a Department of Science and Environment , Roskilde University , Roskilde , Denmark.,b Department of Microbiology and Infection Control , Statens Serum Institut , Copenhagen , Denmark
| | - Carsten Struve
- b Department of Microbiology and Infection Control , Statens Serum Institut , Copenhagen , Denmark
| | - Håvard Jenssen
- a Department of Science and Environment , Roskilde University , Roskilde , Denmark
| | - Karen A Krogfelt
- b Department of Microbiology and Infection Control , Statens Serum Institut , Copenhagen , Denmark
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18
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Epigenetic Mechanisms Regulate Innate Immunity against Uropathogenic and Commensal-Like Escherichia coli in the Surrogate Insect Model Galleria mellonella. Infect Immun 2017; 85:IAI.00336-17. [PMID: 28739824 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00336-17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2017] [Accepted: 07/12/2017] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Innate-immunity-related genes in humans are activated during urinary tract infections (UTIs) caused by pathogenic strains of Escherichia coli but are suppressed by commensals. Epigenetic mechanisms play a pivotal role in the regulation of gene expression in response to environmental stimuli. To determine whether epigenetic mechanisms can explain the different behaviors of pathogenic and commensal bacteria, we infected larvae of the greater wax moth, Galleria mellonella, a widely used model insect host, with a uropathogenic E. coli (UPEC) strain that causes symptomatic UTIs in humans or a commensal-like strain that causes asymptomatic bacteriuria (ABU). Infection with the UPEC strain (CFT073) was more lethal to larvae than infection with the attenuated ABU strain (83972) due to the recognition of each strain by different Toll-like receptors, ultimately leading to differential DNA/RNA methylation and histone acetylation. We used next-generation sequencing and reverse transcription (RT)-PCR to correlate epigenetic changes with the induction of innate-immunity-related genes. Transcriptomic analysis of G. mellonella larvae infected with E. coli strains CFT073 and 83972 revealed strain-specific variations in the class and expression levels of genes encoding antimicrobial peptides, cytokines, and enzymes controlling DNA methylation and histone acetylation. Our results provide evidence for the differential epigenetic regulation of transcriptional reprogramming by UPEC and ABU strains of E. coli in G. mellonella larvae, which may be relevant to understanding the different behaviors of these bacterial strains in the human urinary tract.
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19
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Dalton JP, Uy B, Swift S, Wiles S. A Novel Restraint Device for Injection of Galleria mellonella Larvae that Minimizes the Risk of Accidental Operator Needle Stick Injury. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2017; 7:99. [PMID: 28401069 PMCID: PMC5368263 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2017.00099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2016] [Accepted: 03/13/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Larvae of the insect Galleria mellonella are increasingly being used for studying pathogenic microbes and their virulence mechanisms, and as a rapid model for screening novel antimicrobial agents. The larvae (waxworms) are most frequently infected by injection of pathogenic organisms into the haemocoel through the insect's prolegs. The mostly widely used method for restraining the waxworms for injection is by grasping them between the operator's fingers, which puts the operator at risk of needle stick injury, an important consideration when working with highly pathogenic and/or drug-resistant microorganisms. While use of a stab proof glove can reduce this risk of injury, it does so at the loss of manual dexterity and speed, resulting in a more labor-intensive, and cumbersome assay. We describe a simple cost effective device (the so-called “Galleria Grabber”) for restraining waxworms for injection that keeps the operator's fingers clear of the needle thus reducing the risk of injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- James P Dalton
- Bioluminescent Superbugs Lab, University of AucklandAuckland, New Zealand; Department of Molecular Medicine and Pathology, University of AucklandAuckland, New Zealand; Maurice Wilkins Centre for Molecular BiodiscoveryAuckland, New Zealand
| | - Benedict Uy
- Bioluminescent Superbugs Lab, University of AucklandAuckland, New Zealand; Department of Molecular Medicine and Pathology, University of AucklandAuckland, New Zealand
| | - Simon Swift
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Pathology, University of Auckland Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Siouxsie Wiles
- Bioluminescent Superbugs Lab, University of AucklandAuckland, New Zealand; Department of Molecular Medicine and Pathology, University of AucklandAuckland, New Zealand; Maurice Wilkins Centre for Molecular BiodiscoveryAuckland, New Zealand
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20
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Strengths and Limitations of Model Systems for the Study of Urinary Tract Infections and Related Pathologies. Microbiol Mol Biol Rev 2016; 80:351-67. [PMID: 26935136 DOI: 10.1128/mmbr.00067-15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are some of the most common bacterial infections worldwide and are a source of substantial morbidity among otherwise healthy women. UTIs can be caused by a variety of microbes, but the predominant etiologic agent of these infections is uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC). An especially troubling feature of UPEC-associated UTIs is their high rate of recurrence. This problem is compounded by the drastic increase in the global incidence of antibiotic-resistant UPEC strains over the past 15 years. The need for more-effective treatments for UTIs is driving research aimed at bettering our understanding of the virulence mechanisms and host-pathogen interactions that occur during the course of these infections. Surrogate models of human infection, including cell culture systems and the use of murine, porcine, avian, teleost (zebrafish), and nematode hosts, are being employed to define host and bacterial factors that modulate the pathogenesis of UTIs. These model systems are revealing how UPEC strains can avoid or overcome host defenses and acquire scarce nutrients while also providing insight into the virulence mechanisms used by UPEC within compromised individuals, such as catheterized patients. Here, we summarize our current understanding of UTI pathogenesis while also giving an overview of the model systems used to study the initiation, persistence, and recurrence of UTIs and life-threatening sequelae like urosepsis. Although we focus on UPEC, the experimental systems described here can also provide valuable insight into the disease processes associated with other bacterial pathogens both within the urinary tract and elsewhere within the host.
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21
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Effective immunosuppression with dexamethasone phosphate in the Galleria mellonella larva infection model resulting in enhanced virulence of Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae. Med Microbiol Immunol 2016; 205:333-43. [PMID: 26920133 PMCID: PMC4939170 DOI: 10.1007/s00430-016-0450-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2015] [Accepted: 02/11/2016] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
The aim was to evaluate whether immunosuppression with dexamethasone 21-phosphate could be applied to the Galleria mellonella in vivo infection model. Characterised clinical isolates of Escherichia coli or Klebsiella pneumoniae were employed, and G. mellonella larvae were infected with increasing doses of each strain to investigate virulence in vivo. Virulence was then compared with larvae exposed to increasing doses of dexamethasone 21-phosphate. The effect of dexamethasone 21-phosphate on larval haemocyte phagocytosis in vitro was determined via fluorescence microscopy and a burden assay measured the growth of infecting bacteria inside the larvae. Finally, the effect of dexamethasone 21-phosphate treatment on the efficacy of ceftazidime after infection was also noted. The pathogenicity of K. pneumoniae or E. coli in G. mellonella larvae was dependent on high inoculum numbers such that virulence could not be attributed specifically to infection by live bacteria but also to factors associated with dead cells. Thus, for these strains, G. mellonella larvae do not constitute an ideal infection model. Treatment of larvae with dexamethasone 21-phosphate enhanced the lethality induced by infection with E. coli or K. pneumoniae in a dose- and inoculum size-dependent manner. This correlated with proliferation of bacteria in the larvae that could be attributed to dexamethasone inhibiting haemocyte phagocytosis and acting as an immunosuppressant. Notably, prior exposure to dexamethasone 21-phosphate reduced the efficacy of ceftazidime in vivo. In conclusion, demonstration of an effective immunosuppressant regimen can improve the specificity and broaden the applications of the G. mellonella model to address key questions regarding infection.
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22
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Ciesielczuk H, Betts J, Phee L, Doumith M, Hope R, Woodford N, Wareham DW. Comparative virulence of urinary and bloodstream isolates of extra-intestinal pathogenic Escherichia coli in a Galleria mellonella model. Virulence 2016; 6:145-51. [PMID: 25853733 DOI: 10.4161/21505594.2014.988095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Extra-intestinal pathogenic Escherichia coli (ExPEC) are a significant cause of urinary tract infections and bacteraemia worldwide. Currently no single virulence factor or ExPEC lineage has been identified as the sole contributor to severe extra-intestinal infection and/or urosepsis. Galleria mellonella has recently been established as a simple model for studying the comparative virulence of ExPEC. In this study we investigated the virulence of 40 well-characterized ExPEC strains, in G. mellonella, by measuring mortality (larvae survival), immune recognition/response (melanin production) and cell damage (lactate dehydrogenase production). Although mortality was similar between urinary and bloodstream isolates, it was heightened for community-associated infections, complicated UTIs and urinary-source bacteraemia. Isolates of ST131 and those possessing afa/dra, ompT and serogroup O6 were also associated with heightened virulence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Holly Ciesielczuk
- a Antimicrobial Research Group; Center for Immunology and Infectious Disease; Blizard Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry; Queen Mary; University of London ; London , UK
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Tsai CJY, Loh JMS, Proft T. Galleria mellonella infection models for the study of bacterial diseases and for antimicrobial drug testing. Virulence 2016; 7:214-29. [PMID: 26730990 PMCID: PMC4871635 DOI: 10.1080/21505594.2015.1135289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 445] [Impact Index Per Article: 55.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Galleria mellonella (greater wax moth or honeycomb moth) has been introduced as an alternative model to study microbial infections. G. mellonella larvae can be easily and inexpensively obtained in large numbers and are simple to use as they don't require special lab equipment. There are no ethical constraints and their short life cycle makes them ideal for large-scale studies. Although insects lack an adaptive immune response, their innate immune response shows remarkable similarities with the immune response in vertebrates. This review gives a current update of what is known about the immune system of G. mellonella and provides an extensive overview of how G. mellonella is used to study the virulence of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. In addition, the use of G. mellonella to evaluate the efficacy of antimicrobial agents and experimental phage therapy are also discussed. The review concludes with a critical assessment of the current limitatons of G. mellonella infection models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Jia-Yun Tsai
- a Department of Molecular Medicine & Pathology , School of Medical Sciences, University of Auckland , Auckland , New Zealand.,b Maurice Wilkins Center, University of Auckland , Auckland , New Zealand
| | - Jacelyn Mei San Loh
- a Department of Molecular Medicine & Pathology , School of Medical Sciences, University of Auckland , Auckland , New Zealand.,b Maurice Wilkins Center, University of Auckland , Auckland , New Zealand
| | - Thomas Proft
- a Department of Molecular Medicine & Pathology , School of Medical Sciences, University of Auckland , Auckland , New Zealand.,b Maurice Wilkins Center, University of Auckland , Auckland , New Zealand
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24
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Dale AP, Woodford N. Extra-intestinal pathogenic Escherichia coli (ExPEC): Disease, carriage and clones. J Infect 2015; 71:615-26. [PMID: 26409905 DOI: 10.1016/j.jinf.2015.09.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2015] [Accepted: 09/16/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Extra-intestinal pathogenic Escherichia coli (ExPEC) have a complex phylogeny, broad virulence factor (VF) armament and significant genomic plasticity, and are associated with a spectrum of host infective syndromes ranging from simple urinary tract infection to life-threatening bacteraemia. Their importance as pathogens has come to the fore in recent years, particularly in the context of the global emergence of hyper-virulent and antibiotic resistant strains. Despite this, the mechanisms underlying ExPEC transmission dynamics and clonal selection remain poorly understood. Large-scale epidemiological and clinical studies are urgently required to ascertain the mechanisms underlying these processes to enable the development of novel evidence-based preventative and therapeutic strategies. In the current review, we provide a concise summary of the methods utilised for ExPEC phylogenetic delineation before exploring in detail the associations between ExPEC VFs and site-specific disease. We then consider the role of ExPEC as an intestinal colonist and outline known associations between ExPEC clonal variation, specific disease syndromes and antibiotic resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam P Dale
- Academic Unit of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton General Hospital, South Academic Block, Tremona Road, Southampton SO16 6YD, UK.
| | - Neil Woodford
- Antimicrobial Resistance and Healthcare Associated Infections (AMRHAI) Reference Unit, Reference Microbiology Services, Public Health England, London NW9 5EQ, UK; The NIHR Health Protection Research Unit in Healthcare Associated Infections and Antimicrobial Resistance at Imperial College London, Hammersmith Campus, Du Cane Road, London W12 0HS, UK
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25
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Wiles S. All models are wrong, but some are useful: Averting the 'microbial apocalypse'. Virulence 2015; 6:730-2. [PMID: 26315720 DOI: 10.1080/21505594.2014.1001238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Siouxsie Wiles
- a Bioluminescent Superbugs Group ; Molecular Medicine and Pathology; University of Auckland ; Auckland , New Zealand
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26
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Johnson JR, Porter S, Johnston B, Kuskowski MA, Spurbeck RR, Mobley HLT, Williamson DA. Host Characteristics and Bacterial Traits Predict Experimental Virulence for Escherichia coli Bloodstream Isolates From Patients With Urosepsis. Open Forum Infect Dis 2015. [PMID: 26199950 DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofv083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background. Extraintestinal Escherichia coli infections are common, costly, and potentially serious. A better understanding of their pathogenesis is needed. Methods. Sixty-seven E coli bloodstream isolates from adults with urosepsis (Seattle, WA; 1980s) underwent extensive molecular characterization and virulence assessment in 2 infection models (murine subcutaneous sepsis and moth larval lethality). Statistical comparisons were made among host characteristics, bacterial traits, and experimental virulence. Results. The 67 source patients were diverse for age, sex, and underlying medical and urological conditions. The corresponding E coli isolates exhibited diverse phylogenetic backgrounds and virulence profiles. Despite the E coli isolates' common bloodstream origin, they exhibited a broad range of experimental virulence in mice and moth larvae, in patterns that (for the murine model only) corresponded significantly with host characteristics and bacterial traits. The most highly mouse-lethal strains were enriched with classic "urovirulence" traits and typically were from younger women with anatomically and functionally normal urinary tracts. The 2 animal models corresponded poorly with one another. Conclusions. Host compromise, including older age and urinary tract abnormalities, allows comparatively low-virulence E coli strains to cause urosepsis. Multiple E coli traits predict both experimental and epidemiological virulence. The larval lethality model cannot be a substitute for the murine sepsis model.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Stephen Porter
- Veterans Affairs Medical Center ; Departments of Medicine
| | - Brian Johnston
- Veterans Affairs Medical Center ; Departments of Medicine
| | - Michael A Kuskowski
- Veterans Affairs Medical Center ; Psychiatry , University of Minnesota , Minneapolis
| | | | | | - Deborah A Williamson
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Pathology , University of Auckland , New Zealand
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Affiliation(s)
- Helene C Eisenman
- a Department of Natural Sciences ; Baruch College and Graduate Center ; The City University of New York ; New York , NY USA
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Morgan JK, Ortiz JA, Riordan JT. The role for TolA in enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli pathogenesis and virulence gene transcription. Microb Pathog 2014; 77:42-52. [DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2014.10.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2014] [Revised: 10/14/2014] [Accepted: 10/21/2014] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
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29
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheila Nathan
- School of Biosciences & Biotechnology; Faculty of Science & Technology; Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia; Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia
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