101
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Kauffold J, Henning K, Bachmann R, Hotzel H, Melzer F. The prevalence of chlamydiae of bulls from six bull studs in Germany. Anim Reprod Sci 2006; 102:111-21. [PMID: 17088031 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2006.10.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2006] [Revised: 09/22/2006] [Accepted: 10/17/2006] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Although there are indications for venereal transmission of chlamydiae in cattle, epidemiological data on the presence of these bacteria in bulls and bull semen in particular is still incomplete. We investigated semen (n=120), preputial washing samples (n=121) and faeces (n=122) of bulls from six bull studs located within five Federal States of Germany for the presence of chlamydiae using omp1-PCR and partial omp1 sequencing. Blood serum was examined for chlamydial antibodies using an indirect ELISA (n=122). Chlamydiae were found in 11 (9.2%), 13 (10.7%) and 22 (18.0%) of the semen, preputial washing and faecal samples, respectively. Among individual chlamydial species identified, Chlamydophila (Cp.) psittaci predominated in semen and preputial washing samples, and Cp. pecorum in faeces. Cp. abortus was the third frequently observed species. Chlamydial antibodies were detected in a total of 62 (50.8%) bulls. Bull studs differed in regard to the number of bulls found chlamydia-positive in faeces and serologically positive. No correlation was observed between serological data and PCR of semen, preputial washing samples or faeces. Standard ejaculate parameters did not differ between bulls that were chlamydia-positive and -negative in semen. In conclusion, detection of chlamydiae in semen of bulls suggests a potential for venereal transmission. Chlamydiae appear to be widespread within the bull population in Germany. Serological testing failed to identify bulls shedding chlamydiae in their semen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johannes Kauffold
- Large Animal Clinic for Theriogenology and Ambulatory Services, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Leipzig, An den Tierkliniken 29, 04103 Leipzig, Germany.
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102
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Goellner S, Schubert E, Liebler-Tenorio E, Hotzel H, Saluz HP, Sachse K. Transcriptional response patterns of Chlamydophila psittaci in different in vitro models of persistent infection. Infect Immun 2006; 74:4801-8. [PMID: 16861668 PMCID: PMC1539575 DOI: 10.1128/iai.01487-05] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The obligatory intracellular bacterium Chlamydophila psittaci is the causative agent of psittacosis in birds and humans. The capability of this zoonotic pathogen to develop a persistent phase is likely to play a role in chronicity of infections, as well as in failure of antibiotic therapy and immunoprophylaxis. To elucidate three different in vitro models for transition of C. psittaci to persistence (iron depletion, penicillin G treatment, and gamma interferon [IFN-gamma] exposure), a set of 27 genes was examined by mRNA expression analysis using quantitative real-time PCR. While the phenotypical characteristics were the same as in other chlamydiae, i.e., aberrant morphology of reticulate bodies, loss of cultivability, and rescue of infectivity upon removal of inducers, the transcriptional response of C. psittaci to persistence-inducing factors included several new and distinctive features. Consistent downregulation of membrane proteins, chlamydial sigma factors, cell division protein, and reticulate body-elementary body differentiation proteins from 24 h postinfection onward proved to be a general feature of C. psittaci persistence. However, other genes displayed considerable variations in response patterns from one model to another, which suggests that there is no persistence model per se. In contrast to results for Chlamydia trachomatis, late shutdown of essential genes in C. psittaci was more comprehensive with IFN-gamma-induced persistence, which is probably due to the absence of a functional tryptophan synthesis operon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefanie Goellner
- Institute of Bacterial Infections and Zoonoses, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut (Federal Research Institute for Animal Health), Jena, Germany
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103
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Monecke S, Slickers P, Hotzel H, Richter-Huhn G, Pohle M, Weber S, Witte W, Ehricht R. Microarray-based characterisation of a Panton-Valentine leukocidin-positive community-acquired strain of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. Clin Microbiol Infect 2006; 12:718-28. [PMID: 16842566 DOI: 10.1111/j.1469-0691.2006.01420.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Recent years have witnessed the emergence of novel methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) strains that produce the potent toxin Panton-Valentine leukocidin (PVL). PVL-positive strains can cause complicated skin infections or necrotising pneumonia with high mortality, and these strains have the potential for epidemic spread in the community. In 2004-2005, two case clusters and two isolated cases were observed in eastern Saxony and southern Brandenburg. These were the first known infections with PVL-positive community-acquired MRSA (caMRSA) in this part of Germany. The isolates belonged to agr type III, spa type 44 or spa type 131, and showed a SmaI macrorestriction pattern that corresponded to caMRSA of clonal group ST80. The isolates were susceptible to levofloxacin, macrolides, clindamycin, gentamicin and vancomycin. Most isolates showed resistance to tetracycline and fusidic acid because of the presence of the tetK and far1 genes. A novel plasmid (designated pUB102) harbouring far1, tetK and blaZ was characterised and partially sequenced. Microarray analysis revealed that the caMRSA isolates harboured genes encoding several bi-component toxins (lukF/S-PVL, lukD/E, lukS/F plus hlgA, and another putative leukocidin homologue). Neither tst1 nor genes for enterotoxins A-Y were detected, but the isolates harboured several staphylococcal enterotoxin-like toxin genes (set genes), as well as genes encoding an epidermal cell differentiation inhibitor (edinB) and exfoliative toxin D (etD). Comparative analysis of other isolates from Australia, Germany, Switzerland and the UK showed that these isolates were representative of a widespread clone of caMRSA.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Monecke
- Institute for Medical Microbiology and Hygiene, Faculty of Medicine, Carl Gustav Carus at the Technical University of Dresden, Dresden, Germany.
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104
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Ehricht R, Hotzel H, Sachse K, Slickers P. Residual DNA in thermostable DNA polymerases - a cause of irritation in diagnostic PCR and microarray assays. Biologicals 2006; 35:145-7. [PMID: 16905333 DOI: 10.1016/j.biologicals.2006.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2006] [Revised: 04/13/2006] [Accepted: 04/25/2006] [Indexed: 10/24/2022] Open
Abstract
In a validation trial of a DNA microarray test for chlamydiae we repeatedly observed false-positive PCR amplicons from truly negative samples and non-template controls. Various PCR tests, microarray hybridization and DNA sequencing, revealed that residual Escherichia coli DNA from thermostable DNA polymerases was the cause of this cross-reaction. A subsequent survey showed that only five out of 23 commercial polymerases were free of E. coli DNA. When designing generic oligonucleotide sequences for PCR and PCR microarray-based assays one should be aware of such possible internal contamination, particularly when the target organism is E. coli.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ralf Ehricht
- CLONDIAG chip technologies GmbH, Loebstedter Strasse 103-105, 07749 Jena, Germany.
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105
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Schulze F, Bagon A, Müller W, Hotzel H. Identification of Campylobacter fetus subspecies by phenotypic differentiation and PCR. J Clin Microbiol 2006; 44:2019-24. [PMID: 16757592 PMCID: PMC1489434 DOI: 10.1128/jcm.02566-05] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The species Campylobacter fetus is divided into the subspecies C. fetus subsp. venerealis and C. fetus subsp. fetus, which differ in their epidemiologies and clinical importance. The differences between these subspecies make accurate distinction between the two essential. First, the value of seven key tests for the traditional differentiation of C. fetus was investigated. Afterwards, the results of the phenotypic differentiation and PCR were compared to address the question of the reliability of this PCR assay. Altogether, 103 C. fetus isolates were investigated, including the type strains of C. fetus subsp. fetus and C. fetus subsp. venerealis. Depending on the result of the glycine tolerance test, the isolates could be separated into 81 C. fetus subsp. venerealis isolates (glycine intolerant) and 22 C. fetus subsp. fetus isolates (glycine tolerant). For all C. fetus subsp. venerealis strains tested, the results of the selenite reduction assay and sensitivity to metronidazole and cefoperazone completely agreed with the results of the glycine tolerance test (correspondence, 100%). Seventy-three C. fetus subsp. venerealis isolates did not grow at 42 degrees C (correspondence, 90.1%), but eight isolates showed a faintly discernible, flat, dark gray growth. For 22 C. fetus subsp. fetus isolates, the results of additional phenotypic tests only partly agreed with the results of the glycine tolerance test. For C. fetus subsp. fetus the results of the glycine tolerance test showed a relatively good correspondence with those of the selenite reduction assay (correspondence, 81.8%), assays for cefoperazone resistance (correspondence, 86.4%), and assays for growth at 42 degrees C (correspondence, 81.8%). The results of the glycine tolerance test and PCR completely agreed for the 103 C. fetus isolates tested. We conclude that at present the traditional phenotypic characterization of C. fetus subspecies under strongly defined conditions remains indispensable, but this PCR assay constitutes a valuable adjunctive technique for the confirmation of phenotypic results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank Schulze
- Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Institut für Molekulare Pathogenese, , 07743 Jena, Germany.
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106
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Kauffold J, Melzer F, Berndt A, Hoffmann G, Hotzel H, Sachse K. Chlamydiae in oviducts and uteri of repeat breeder pigs. Theriogenology 2006; 66:1816-23. [PMID: 16837032 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2006.04.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2005] [Revised: 03/27/2006] [Accepted: 04/09/2006] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Chlamydial infections of the genital organs cause reproductive failure in female pigs, and the uterus is recognized a target tissue for an infection. In contrast, information on the effect of chlamydiae on the porcine oviduct is patchily and inconclusive, although the bacteria are known to cause severe tubal defects in humans and laboratory animals. The aim of this study was to examine the segments ampulla (A), isthmus (I) and utero-tubal junction of the left (n=20) or both (n=22) oviducts, and uteri (U) from 42 culled repeat breeder pigs for chlamydiae using ompA-PCR, partial ompA gene sequencing, immunohistochemistry (IHC) and microscopy of tissue specimens for histopathology. As revealed by PCR, among a total of 26 chlamydia-positive females, 19 were tested positive in one or more segments of one or both oviducts, 14 were found positive in the uterus, and concomitant infections of both organs were observed in 7 of them. Sequencing of 33 PCR products revealed the following chlamydial species: Chlamydophila (Cp.) psittaci (n=18), Cp. abortus (n=2), Chlamydia (C.) suis (n=10), and C. trachomatis (n=3). Immunopositive staining was observed within the surface epithelium (in A, I, U), stromal tissue (in I, U) and muscular layer (in A, I, U). A total of 24 females had inflamed oviductal segments (in A and/or I) and 36 inflamed uteri. However, there was no relationship between histopathology and results of PCR or IHC. In conclusion, chlamydiae were found to infect oviducts and uteri of pigs. Further studies are required to clarify whether chlamydial infection causes specific histopathology and alters tubal function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johannes Kauffold
- Large Animal Clinic for Theriogenology and Ambulatory Services, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Leipzig, An den Tierkliniken 29, 04103 Leipzig, Germany.
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107
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Abstract
Spiroplasmas are helical mycoplasmas which are found in plants and arthropods, also in ticks. Some Spiroplasma species are incriminated as potential pathogens for vertebrates. During a study on Q fever in North Rhine-Westphalia, an intracellularly growing microorganism could be isolated from a pool of Ixodes ticks. The agent replicated within cytoplasmic vacuoles similar to those of Coxiella burnetii. PCR using coxiellae-, ehrlichiae- or chlamydiae-specific primers showed that agent Z/16 was distinct from these bacteria. In contrast to coxiellae or chlamydiae, the agent could not be stained according to the method of Giménez. Also electron microscopy provided evidence that the isolate Z/16 is different from coxiellae and chlamydiae. Determination of 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequences provided evidence that the isolate Z/16 can be classified as Spiroplasma sp. To our knowledge, this is the first report of an isolation of a Spiroplasma strain using a mammalian cell line. The pathogenic potential of the organism needs further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Klaus Henning
- Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Seestrasse 55, D-16868 Wusterhausen, Germany.
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108
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Walder G, Hotzel H, Brezinka C, Gritsch W, Tauber R, Würzner R, Ploner F. An unusual cause of sepsis during pregnancy: recognizing infection with chlamydophila abortus. Obstet Gynecol 2006; 106:1215-7. [PMID: 16260577 DOI: 10.1097/01.aog.0000161060.69470.9c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chlamydophila abortus (formerly Chlamydia psittaci serovar 1) is a rare but severe cause of gestational septicemia, with particular problems in diagnosis and clinical management. CASE A 32-year-old woman in her fourth pregnancy (16th week of gestation) presented with progressive septicemia after extensive contact with abortive material from her goat flock. Treatment with levofloxacin could not prevent abortion. Multiorgan failure requiring catecholamines and artificial ventilation developed in the patient. After the agent was identified by polymerase chain reaction from acute-phase serum, macrolides were administered and yielded clinical improvement. The patient fully recovered. There were no sequelae in the subsequent 6 months. CONCLUSION Cp abortus must be considered in gestational septicemia after contact with ruminants. Polymerase chain reaction from acute-phase serum is a quick and easy way to establish the diagnosis. Macrolide antibiotics are still the treatment of choice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gernot Walder
- Department of Hygiene and Social Medicine, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria, and Department of Anesthesiology, Regional Hospital of Sterzing, Sterzing, Italy.
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109
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Sting R, Lerke E, Hotzel H, Jodas S, Popp C, Hafez HM. [Comparative studies on detection of Chlamydophila psittaci and Chlamydophila abortus in meat turkey flocks using cell culture, ELISA, and PCR]. Dtsch Tierarztl Wochenschr 2006; 113:50-4. [PMID: 16555483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
The prevalence of chlamydia in 10 meat turkey flocks was investigated. As samples served of each moment of collection and sex of the animals 10 cloacal swabs which were taken at the age of 1, 4, 8 and 12 (females) or 16 weeks (males) and at the time of slaughter at the age of 16 or 20 weeks. Spleen samples were taken at the time of slaughter, additionally. These were pooled making 1 pool out of 5 individual samples. The cloacal and spleen pools were examined by nested PCR (nPCR), Capture-ELISA and Capture Blocking-ELISA directly as well as after isolation attempts in cell cultures. The most sensitive method to detect chlamydia, with 6 isolates proved to be the isolation by cell culture followed by detection using nPCR. Not corresponding to the results of the nPCR were 4 positive reactions found by the Capture-ELISA which could in no case be affirmed by Capture-Blocking-ELISA. The direct examination of cloacal swab pools by nPCR proved positive in only 2 cases. In contrast to this the examination of these samples by Capture-ELISA showed a high percentage of 71.9% positive results, of which only 2 cases were confirmed by nPCR and none by Capture-Blocking-ELISA. Of the 8 Chlamydia positive results in the nPCR 7 could be classified by DNA sequencing to Cp. abortus and only one to Cp. psittaci.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Sting
- Chemisches und Veterinäruntersuchungsamt Stuttgart, Fellbach
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110
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Sachse K, Hotzel H, Slickers P, Ehricht R. The use of DNA microarray technology for detection and genetic characterisation of chlamydiae. Dev Biol (Basel) 2006; 126:203-10; discussion 326-7. [PMID: 17058496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Due to its highly parallel approach, DNA microarray technology opens up new possibilities that may be particularly beneficial for laboratory diagnosis of infectious diseases. We developed a microarray assay for detection and differentiation of all currently defined chlamydial species belonging to the genera Chlamydia and Chlamydophila using the ArrayTube system, which we found to be particularly user-friendly and economical. The test includes PCR amplification of a 23S rDNA target region with concurrent biotinylation and subsequent hybridisation in the ArrayTube, a micro-reaction tube carrying the microarray chip on the bottom. In addition to high specificity, the assay was shown to allow detection and genetic characterisation of single PCR-amplifiable target DNA copies.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Sachse
- Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut (Federal Research Institute for Animal Health), Institute of Bacterial Infections and Zoonoses, Jena, Germany.
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111
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Ehricht R, Slickers P, Goellner S, Hotzel H, Sachse K. Optimized DNA microarray assay allows detection and genotyping of single PCR-amplifiable target copies. Mol Cell Probes 2005; 20:60-3. [PMID: 16330186 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcp.2005.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 192] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2005] [Accepted: 09/20/2005] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
This study was conducted to determine the detection limit of an optimized DNA microarray assay for detection and species identification of chlamydiae. Examination of dilution series of a plasmid standard carrying the target sequence from Chlamydia trachomatis and genomic DNA of this organism revealed that a single PCR-amplifiable target copy was sufficient to obtain a specific hybridization pattern. This performance renders the test suitable for routine testing of clinical samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ralf Ehricht
- Clondiag Chip Technologies GmbH, Loebstedter Str. 105, 07743 Jena, Germany
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112
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Elschner M, Hotzel H, Reetz J, Diller R, Otto P. Isolation, identification and characterization of group A rotavirus from a chicken: the inner capsid protein sequence shows only a distant phylogenetic relationship to most other avian group A rotaviruses. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2005; 52:211-3. [PMID: 16115093 DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0450.2005.00848.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Rotavirus particles were identified in the intestinal content of a 35-day-old stunted chicken. The virus was isolated, RNA pattern was analysed and the viral genome segment 6 was sequenced. In particular, the sequence data showed a very close similarity to the chicken rotavirus isolate Ch-1 (99.2% amino acid homology), this is distantly related to all known avian rotaviruses and supports the existence of different VP6 types amongst avian group A rotaviruses.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Elschner
- Friedrich Loeffler Institute, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Institute of Bacterial Infections and Zoonoses, Jena, Germany.
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113
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Szeredi L, Hotzel H, Sachse K. High prevalence of chlamydial (Chlamydophila psittaci) infection in fetal membranes of aborted equine fetuses. Vet Res Commun 2005; 29 Suppl 1:37-49. [PMID: 15943064 DOI: 10.1007/s11259-005-0835-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Seventy-seven cases of equine abortion from 49 Hungarian farms that occurred between 1998 and 2000 were investigated for the presence of chlamydiae by immunohistochemistry, PCR and/or MZN staining. Evidence of the presence of these bacteria was obtained in 64 cases (83.1%) from 41 (83.7%) different farms. Partial ompA gene sequencing of PCR products revealed that the agent was Chlamydophila psittaci. Based on the findings of microbial diagnosis, pathology and case history, chlamydial infection was considered to be the most likely cause of abortion in at least 11 (14.3%) cases. In the remaining 53 Chlamydophila-positive cases, either other bacterial and viral agents (n = 22 or 28.6%) as well as non-infectious factors (n = 14 or 18.2%) were identified as more probable primary causes of disease, or the role of chlamydiae remained unclear because lesions in fetuses and fetal membranes were absent (n = 17 or 22.1%). When chlamydial antigen was detected in aborted equine placental tissue using immunohistochemistry it was seen only in the chorionic epithelial cells, but not in other parts of the fetal membranes nor in any of the fetal tissues. In conclusion, chlamydial infection of the genital tract should be considered a possible factor in equine reproductive disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Szeredi
- Central Veterinary Institute, Tábornok u. 2, H-1149 Budapest, Hungary.
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114
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Conraths FJ, Werner O, Methner U, Geue L, Schulze F, Hänel I, Sachse K, Hotzel H, Schubert E, Melzer F, Mettenleiter TC. [Conventional and alternative housing systems for poultry--point of view of infectious disease medicine]. Berl Munch Tierarztl Wochenschr 2005; 118:186-204. [PMID: 15918483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
The use of conventional battery cages for hens will be prohibited in Germany in 2007. Only few studies, however, have considered the differences between battery cages and alternative systems with regard to infectious diseases. The existing gaps in the current knowledge need to be closed by research and measures must be developed that will prevent the spread of viral, bacterial, and parasitic infections in alternative poultry housing systems. With regard to virus infections, avian influenza requires particular attention. Since wild birds, particularly anseriformes, represent a reservoir for avian influenza viruses, free-ranging poultry is much more at risk of infection than birds in closed hen-houses. Appropriate measures must prevent direct contact with wild birds and transmission via contaminated water, feed, or equipment. Several bacterial infections of poultry represent zoonoses. Salmonella and Campylobacter are considered as particularly important. To avoid a potential increase in the risk of infection for consumers due to poultry keeping systems that might favour infections with bacterial zoonotic agents, there is a special need for research in this area. With regard to parasitic infections, coccidioses may cause problems in alternative poultry housing systems, and lead to considerable economic consequences. The epidemiological situation concerning infections with Histomonas meleagridis needs to be analysed. Since all compounds that had been used for prophylactic or therapeutic purposes in the past have been banned, there is a need to develop new drugs which are safe for animals and humans.
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115
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Bashiruddin JB, Frey J, Königsson MH, Johansson KE, Hotzel H, Diller R, de Santis P, Botelho A, Ayling RD, Nicholas RAJ, Thiaucourt F, Sachse K. Evaluation of PCR systems for the identification and differentiation of Mycoplasma agalactiae and Mycoplasma bovis: a collaborative trial. Vet J 2005; 169:268-75. [PMID: 15727920 DOI: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2004.01.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/25/2004] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Diagnostic differentiation between the ruminant pathogens Mycoplasma agalactiae and Mycoplasma bovis is known to be problematic when only conventional serological and biochemical tests are used. The main reason for this is that both agents share a considerable number of related proteins and common epitopes. DNA-based detection methods offer advantages in terms of specificity and sensitivity. However, there is an urgent need to compare currently used PCR assays because they target different genomic regions and, therefore, may perform differently. In the present work, five laboratories, which use PCR routinely, evaluated the specificity of four different PCR systems for M. agalactiae and three systems for M. bovis on a total of 41 strains of the two Mycoplasma species including six previously unidentified strains. As the vast majority of PCR examinations (97.1% of all tests) correctly identified the strains the specificity of all seven detection systems appears to be high. In four cases, incorrect identification by conventional diagnostic methods was rectified by PCR. Isolates from non-typical hosts, i.e. three M. bovis strains from small ruminants and two M. agalactiae strains from cattle, were characterised by sequencing the 16S and part of the 23S ribosomal RNA genes.
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116
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Hotzel H, Blahak S, Diller R, Sachse K. Evidence of infection in tortoises by Chlamydia-like organisms that are genetically distinct from known Chlamydiaceae species. Vet Res Commun 2005; 29 Suppl 1:71-80. [PMID: 15943067 DOI: 10.1007/s11259-005-0838-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Nasal lavage fluid was collected from 155 tortoises, mostly Testudo spp., that were kept as companion animals and suffered from nasal discharge. Examination for chlamydial DNA by PCR assays targeting the ompA, ompB, and groESL genes, as well as the 16S rRNA signature region and the 16S-23S intergenic spacer, respectively, revealed 16 (10.3%) positive animals. Sequence analysis of PCR products indicated high homology to the family Chlamydiaceae. Phylogenetic trees constructed from partial sequences of the ompA and 16S rRNA genes showed that the present samples clustered outside the nine species of Chlamydia and Chlamydophila. Sequences of the nearest relative, Chlamydophila pecorum, were still clearly distinct from those of the positive tortoise samples. This suggests that the tortoises had been infected by Chlamydia-like agents, the taxonomic identity and pathogenic importance of which has yet to be established.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Hotzel
- Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Institute of Bacterial Infections and Zoonoses, Naumburger Str. 96a, 07743 Jena, Germany
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117
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Sachse K, Hotzel H, Slickers P, Ellinger T, Ehricht R. DNA microarray-based detection and identification of Chlamydia and Chlamydophila spp. Mol Cell Probes 2005; 19:41-50. [PMID: 15652219 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcp.2004.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2004] [Accepted: 09/20/2004] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
A microarray hybridization assay for identification of chlamydiae was developed using the ArrayTube platform. The technology is comparatively inexpensive and involves plastic tube-integrated microchips and signal amplification by enzyme-catalyzed silver precipitation. Hybridization probes were designed on the basis of the most variable window approach, which identified species-specific nucleotide polymorphisms in a region of generally high sequence similarity. The selected 26-nt probe sequences were used on two different series of customized microarrays, i.e. combinatorial high-density in situ synthesized arrays and low-density spotted arrays. Target DNA was prepared by consensus PCR amplifying a 1-kbp segment of the ribosomal RNA operon. Unique species-specific hybridization patterns were obtained for all nine species of the family Chlamydiaceae on both microarray types. The present assay proved suitable for unambiguous species identification of chlamydial cell cultures and showed a potential for direct detection of these bacteria from clinical tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konrad Sachse
- Institute of Bacterial Infections and Zoonoses at the Federal Research Institute for Animal Health (Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut), Naumburger Str. 96a, 07743 Jena, Germany.
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Elschner M, Schrader C, Hotzel H, Prudlo J, Sachse K, Eichhorn W, Herbst W, Otto P. Isolation and molecular characterisation of equine rotaviruses from Germany. Vet Microbiol 2005; 105:123-9. [PMID: 15627523 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetmic.2004.10.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2003] [Revised: 10/21/2004] [Accepted: 10/21/2004] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
A total of 26 rotavirus positive faecal samples of diarrhoeal foals, and 8 equine rotavirus isolates were examined. Viral RNA patterns were generated, G typing was performed by PCR, and a P[12]-specific DNA probe was developed for P typing. Furthermore, five equine rotavirus isolates were sequenced in the genomic regions coding for VP7 and part of VP4. Rotaviruses of genotype G3 P[12] were found in 22 faecal samples and G14 P[12] type could be found in 4 faecal samples. These findings confirm that in Germany G3 P[12] is the predominating type of equine rotaviruses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mandy Elschner
- Friedrich Loeffler Institute, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Institute of Bacterial Infections and Zoonoses, Naumburger Strasse 96a, D-07743 Jena, Germany.
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Hotzel H, Berndt A, Melzer F, Sachse K. Occurrence of Chlamydiaceae spp. in a wild boar (Sus scrofa L.) population in Thuringia (Germany). Vet Microbiol 2004; 103:121-6. [PMID: 15381275 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetmic.2004.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2004] [Revised: 05/18/2004] [Accepted: 06/07/2004] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Tissue samples from lungs, pulmonary lymph nodes, large intestine, and uteri of 14 wild boar bagged at a seasonal hunt were examined for the presence of chlamydiae, mycobacteria and mycoplasmas. Nested PCR detected chlamydial DNA in 57.1% of the animals, predominantly in the lung. DNA sequencing identified Chlamydophila psittaci as the predominant species, but Chlamydophila abortus and Chlamydia suis were also encountered. Immunohistochemical staining of tissue sections confirmed the presence of typical chlamydial inclusions in lungs and uteri. While the role of Chlamydiaceae as pathogens in wild boar has yet to be established, the present findings revealed a possible wildlife reservoir of these bacteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helmut Hotzel
- Institute of Bacterial Infections and Zoonoses, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Naumburger Strasse 96a, 07743 Jena, Germany
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120
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Theegarten D, Anhenn O, Hotzel H, Rohde G, Bexten T, Mertens JM, Stamatis G, Mogilevski G, Sachse K. Über die Rolle der Chlamydophila psittaci-Infektion bei der chronisch obstruktiven Lungenerkrankung. Pneumologie 2004. [DOI: 10.1055/s-2004-835944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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121
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Lentzsch P, Rieksneuwöhner B, Wieler LH, Hotzel H, Moser I. High-resolution genotyping of Campylobacter upsaliensis strains originating from three continents. J Clin Microbiol 2004; 42:3441-8. [PMID: 15297481 PMCID: PMC497571 DOI: 10.1128/jcm.42.8.3441-3448.2004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Ninety-six Campylobacter upsaliensis strains that originated from Australia, Canada, and Europe (Germany) and that were isolated from humans, dogs, and cats were serotyped for their heat-stable surface antigens. All of them were genotyped by enterobacterial repetitive intergenic consensus sequence PCR (ERIC-PCR) profiling, and 83 strains were genotyped by macrorestriction analysis with the endonuclease XhoI. Eighty-four percent of the strains belonged to five different serotypes (serotypes OI, OII, OIII, OIV, and OVI), with the proportions of strains in each serotype being comparable among the groups of strains from all three continents. Two serotypes, OIII and OIV, were prevalent at rates of 35 to 40%. Serotypes OI, OII, and OVI were detected at rates of 1.5 to 15%. Between 10 and 17.7% of the strains did not react with the available antisera. Analysis of the ERIC-PCR profiles revealed two distinct genotypic clusters, which represented the German and the non-European strains, respectively. XhoI macrorestriction yielded two genotypic clusters; one of them contained 80.2% of the German strains and 34.6% of the non-European strains, and the second cluster consisted of 65.4% of the non-European strains and 19.8% of the German strains. Fourteen strains from all three continents were analyzed for their 16S rRNA gene sequences. Only two minor variations were detected in four of the strains. In conclusion, C. upsaliensis has undergone diverging processes of genome arrangement on different continents during evolution without segregating into different subspecies.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Lentzsch
- Centre for Agricultural Landscape and Land Use Research, Müncheberg, Germany
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122
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Theegarten D, Anhenn O, Hotzel H, Wagner M, Marra A, Stamatis G, Mogilevski G, Sachse K. A comparative ultrastructural and molecular biological study on Chlamydia psittaci infection in alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency and non-alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency emphysema versus lung tissue of patients with hamartochondroma. BMC Infect Dis 2004; 4:38. [PMID: 15383149 PMCID: PMC521078 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2334-4-38] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2004] [Accepted: 09/21/2004] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chlamydiales are familiar causes of acute and chronic infections in humans and animals. Human pulmonary emphysema is a component of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and a condition in which chronic inflammation manifested as bronchiolitis and intra-alveolar accumulation of macrophages is common. It is generally presumed to be of infectious origin. Previous investigations based on serology and immunohistochemistry indicated Chlamydophila pneumoniae infection in cases of COPD. Furthermore, immunofluorescence with genus-specific antibodies and electron microscopy suggested involvement of chlamydial infection in most cases of pulmonary emphysema, but these findings could not be verified by PCR. Therefore, we examined the possibility of other chlamydial species being present in these patients. METHODS Tissue samples from patients having undergone lung volume reduction surgery for advanced alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (AATD, n = 6) or non-alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency emphysema (n = 34) or wedge resection for hamartochondroma (n = 14) were examined by transmission electron microscopy and PCR. RESULTS In all cases of AATD and 79.4% of non-AATD, persistent chlamydial infection was detected by ultrastructural examination. Intra-alveolar accumulation of macrophages and acute as well as chronic bronchiolitis were seen in all positive cases. The presence of Chlamydia psittaci was demonstrated by PCR in lung tissue of 66.7% AATD vs. 29.0% non-AATD emphysema patients. Partial DNA sequencing of four positive samples confirmed the identity of the agent as Chlamydophila psittaci. In contrast, Chlamydophila pneumoniae was detected only in one AATD patient. Lung tissue of the control group of non-smokers with hamartochondroma was completely negative for chlamydial bodies by TEM or chlamydial DNA by PCR. CONCLUSIONS These data indicate a role of Chlamydophila psittaci in pulmonary emphysema by linking this chronic inflammatory process to a chronic infectious condition. This raises interesting questions on pathogenesis and source of infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dirk Theegarten
- Institute of Pathology, Ruhr University Bochum, BG-Kliniken Bergmannsheil, Bürkle-de-la-Camp-Platz 1, D-44789 Bochum, Germany
| | - Olaf Anhenn
- Institute of Pathology, Ruhr University Bochum, BG-Kliniken Bergmannsheil, Bürkle-de-la-Camp-Platz 1, D-44789 Bochum, Germany
| | - Helmut Hotzel
- Institute of Bacterial Infections and Zoonoses, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institute (FLI), Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Naumburger Strasse 96 a, D-07743 Jena, Germany
| | - Mathias Wagner
- Institute of Pathology, Ruhr University Bochum, BG-Kliniken Bergmannsheil, Bürkle-de-la-Camp-Platz 1, D-44789 Bochum, Germany
| | - Alessandro Marra
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Ruhrlandklinik, Tüschener Weg 40, D-45239 Essen, Germany
| | - Georgios Stamatis
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Ruhrlandklinik, Tüschener Weg 40, D-45239 Essen, Germany
| | - Grigori Mogilevski
- Institute of Pathology, Ruhr University Bochum, BG-Kliniken Bergmannsheil, Bürkle-de-la-Camp-Platz 1, D-44789 Bochum, Germany
| | - Konrad Sachse
- Institute of Bacterial Infections and Zoonoses, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institute (FLI), Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Naumburger Strasse 96 a, D-07743 Jena, Germany
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Abstract
We report the first documented case of an extragestational infection with Chlamydophila abortus in humans. The pathogen was identified in a patient with severe pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) by sequence analysis of the ompA gene. Our findings raise the possibility that Chlamydiaceae other than Chlamydia trachomatis are involved in PID.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gernot Walder
- Institute of Hygiene and Social Medicine, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria.
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124
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Theegarten D, Garnier Y, Ebsen M, Peters M, Hotzel H, Henning K. Q-Fieber Gruppeninfektion im Rahmen von Versuchen zur fetalen Asphyxie im Schafmodell. Pneumologie 2004. [DOI: 10.1055/s-2004-819758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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125
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Sachse K, Grossmann E, Jäger C, Diller R, Hotzel H. Detection of Chlamydia suis from clinical specimens: comparison of PCR, antigen ELISA, and culture. J Microbiol Methods 2003; 54:233-8. [PMID: 12782378 DOI: 10.1016/s0167-7012(03)00040-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Cell culture is still widely regarded as the gold standard in chlamydial diagnosis despite its well-known limitations in terms of sensitivity. On the other hand, the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) has emerged as a promising alternative because of rapidity and high sensitivity. However, validation of methodologies is required before the issue of standardization can be addressed. In the present study, 109 clinical samples (organ tissue, nasal, and faecal swabs) from pigs experimentally infected with Chlamydia suis were examined by cell culture, nested PCR in the ompA gene region, and two different antigen enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) in order to compare the diagnostic performance of these methods. Culture and PCR produced the highest proportion of concordant results (kappa coefficient 0.712). Among 99 samples, 34 were positive in both assays, 51 were negative in both assays, 12 culture-negatives were positive in PCR, and only 2 culture-positives were negative in PCR. Thus, the sensitivity and specificity of PCR vs. culture as standard were 94.4% and 81.0%, respectively, whereas the corresponding values for culture vs. PCR as standard were 73.9% and 96.2%, respectively. Both ELISA tests performed considerably weaker. The data underline the potential of PCR as a powerful detection method for chlamydiae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konrad Sachse
- Federal Research Centre for Virus Diseases of Animals (BFAV), Institute for Molecular Pathogenesis, Naumburger Str. 96a, 07743, Jena, Germany.
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126
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Affiliation(s)
- Helmut Hotzel
- Division 4: Bacterial Animal Diseases and Control of Zoonoses, Federal Institute for Health Protection of Consumers and Veterinary Medicine (BgVV), Jena, Germany
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127
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Affiliation(s)
- Konrad Sachse
- Division 4: Bacterial Animal Diseases and Control of Zoonoses, Federal Institute for Health Protection of Consumers and Veterinary Medicine (BgVV), Jena, Germany
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128
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Kielstein P, Hotzel H, Schmalreck A. [IWhich are the conditions for Cryptococcus neoformans var. neoformans-strains from avian excrements as a cause for human infections?]. Mycoses 2003; 45 Suppl 3:61-4. [PMID: 12690974 DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0507.2002.tb04772.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Detection of antigen factors of Cryptococcus with factor sera in slide agglutination confirms diagnosis of species and varieties of Cryptococcus neoformans (Cr. n). This method is important in investigations of sources of infections. Serotype D strains of Cr. neoformans were detected in pigeon breedings from Thuringia exclusively. Because of that an essential difference exists in comparison to human isolates in Germany and strains from breeding stocks of companion birds in Thuringia where serotype A strains are predominant in pet birds and in human infections. Using different primers in PCR fingerprinting Cr. neoformans isolates can be assigned to serotypes A, B, C and D and to varieties Cr. neoformans neoformans and Cr. neoformans gattii (primer FM 1). On the other hand, genetic heterogeneity of Cr. neoformans strains is detectable within the serotypes A and D (primer 60-26). This genetic heterogeneity can be demonstrated in investigations by Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, too. Isolated Cr. neoformans strains from pigeons (serotype D) could be divided into 3 and from pet birds (serotype A) into 2 different clusters by FTIR spectroscopy. It is important to take into account heterogeneity of strains within serotypes for determination of infection chains of human disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Kielstein
- Bundesinstitut für gesundheitlichen Verbraucherschutz und Veterinärmedizin, Fachbereich Bakterielle Tierseuchen und Bekämpfung von Zoonosen, Jena, Deutschland.
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129
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Walder G, Schönherr H, Hotzel H, Speth C, Oehme A, Dierich MP, Würzner R. Presence of Chlamydophila psittaci DNA in the central nervous system of a patient with status epilepticus. Scand J Infect Dis 2003; 35:71-3. [PMID: 12685890 DOI: 10.1080/0036554021000026984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
This study reports an extraordinarily severe and prolonged course of neuroornithosis with generalized status epilepticus as an initial symptom. Direct invasion of the central nervous system by Chlamydophila psittaci was confirmed by the demonstration of specific DNA in the patient's cerebrospinal fluid. The patient recovered slowly under administration of doxycycline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gernot Walder
- Institute of Hygiene and Social Medicine, University of Innsbruck, Austria.
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130
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Müller W, Hotzel H, Schulze F. [Identification and differentiation of Campylobacter fetus subspecies by PCR]. Dtsch Tierarztl Wochenschr 2003; 110:55-9. [PMID: 12666499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/01/2023]
Abstract
The species Campylobacter (C.) fetus is divided into the subspecies venerealis and fetus, which differ in epidemiology and clinical importance. The differences between these subspecies make an accurate distinction essential. Differentiation of C. fetus by traditional microbiological methods is only based on two reactions (tolerance to glycin, Na selenite reduction), in which C. fetus ssp. venerealis reacts negatively. However, the value of both reactions is limited. We used a specific PCR-based assay for identifying and differentiating the two C. fetus subspecies, which was recently developed by HUM et al. (1997). In this assay, a 764 bp amplicon is produced using primers MG3F and MG4R for both subspecies of C. fetus. In contrast to HUM et al. (1997), this amplicon was approximately 200 bp smaller. This discrepancy can't be explained. Afterwards, the primers VenSF and VenSR are used for differentiation. The identification of the sub-species venerealis is based on the presence of a 142 bp amplicon, which is not formed with subspecies fetus. The type strains of both C. fetus subspecies were used as positive controls. Non-specific reactions were not observed. In this PCR assay, 73 field strains were investigated (among them 24 C. fetus ssp. veneralis, 26 C. fetus ssp. fetus). In these investigations, the method has proved its diagnostic suitability. The results of the traditional microbiological differentiation of the C. fetus field strains could be confirmed by the PCR assay. In future, the traditional phenotypic characterization of C. fetus subspecies remains indispensable, but this PCR assay constitutes a valuable method for the confirmation of these results.
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Affiliation(s)
- W Müller
- Bundesinstitut für gesundheitlichen Verbraucherschutz und Veterinärmedizin Fachbereich 4 Bakterielle Tierseuchen und Bekärnpfung von Zoonosen, Jena
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131
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Schettler E, Fickel J, Hotzel H, Sachse K, Streich WJ, Wittstatt U, Frölich K. Newcastle disease virus and Chlamydia psittaci in free-living raptors from eastern Germany. J Wildl Dis 2003; 39:57-63. [PMID: 12685068 DOI: 10.7589/0090-3558-39.1.57] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Organ samples from free-living raptors from the federal states of Berlin and Brandenburg in eastern Germany were tested for Newcastle disease virus (NDV; n = 331) and Chlamydia psittaci (n = 39) by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). In 18 individuals NDV nucleic acids were detected. These samples originated from barn owls (Tyto alba; n = 15, 28%), tawny owl (Strix aluco; n = 1, 5%), common buzzard (Buteo buteo, n = 1, 1%), and European kestrel (Falco tinnunculus; n = 1, 4%). In 29 (74%) of 39 samples C. psittaci was detected. Chlamydia psittaci is common in free-living birds of prey in the investigated area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elvira Schettler
- Institute for Zoo Biology and Wildlife Research, Alfred Kowalke Strasse 17, 10315 Berlin, Germany
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132
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Nicholas RAJ, Khan LA, Houshaymi B, Miles RJ, Ayling RD, Hotzel H, Sachse K. Close genetic and phenotypic relatedness between mycoplasma ovine/caprine serogroup 11 and Mycoplasma bovigenitalium. Syst Appl Microbiol 2002; 25:396-402. [PMID: 12421077 DOI: 10.1078/0723-2020-00121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Strains of Mycoplasma ovine/caprine serogroup 11, isolated from infertile sheep, were compared to the type strain, 2D, and to strains of the cattle pathogen M. bovigenitalium, including the type strain, PG11. Examination of these strains by growth inhibition and immune fluorescence tests showed strong serological cross reactivity between M. serogroup 11 and M. bovigenitalium but not with other ruminant mycoplasmas. Substrate oxidation and growth studies did not show any consistent differences between M. serogroup 11 and M. bovigenitalium strains; all strains assigned to both groups were adapted to the utilisation of a small range of organic acids as energy sources. DNA:DNA hybridisation, carried out between DIG labelled reference strains of M. serogroup 11 and M. bovigenitalium and field isolates of these two mycoplasmas showed a particularly close relationship with hybridisation rates all greater than 70% and, mostly, closer to 90%. Sequencing of the 16S ribosomal RNA gene region of the M. serogroup 11 and M. bovigenitalium strains as well as the respective type strains revealed very high overall homologies of 99.5%. In summary, the results showed a very close phenotypic and genotypic relatedness between these two ruminant mycoplasmas which justifies their classification into a single species.
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133
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Henning K, Schares G, Granzow H, Polster U, Hartmann M, Hotzel H, Sachse K, Peters M, Rauser M. Neospora caninum and Waddlia chondrophila strain 2032/99 in a septic stillborn calf. Vet Microbiol 2002; 85:285-92. [PMID: 11852195 DOI: 10.1016/s0378-1135(01)00510-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Characteristics of an intracellularly growing micro-organism isolated from an aborted bovine foetus are described. The organism replicated within cytoplasmic vacuoles, was resistant to penicillin and exhibited structural characteristics compatible with Waddlia chondrophila. An ELISA specific for Chlamydia spp., immunofluorescence tests using antibodies directed against Chlamydia spp. or Simkania negevensis, and PCR using Chlamydia-specific primers showed that the agent was distinct from Chlamydiae or S. negevensis. Determination of 16S and partial 23S ribosomal RNA gene sequences in combination with the PCR results and the morphological, antigenic and developmental characteristics provided evidence that the isolate 2032/99 can be classified as W. chondrophila or a closely related organism.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Henning
- Federal Research Centre of Virus Diseases of Animals, Seestrasse 55, D-16868, Wusterhausen, Germany.
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134
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Elschner M, Prudlo J, Hotzel H, Otto P, Sachse K. Nested reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction for the detection of group A rotaviruses. J Vet Med B Infect Dis Vet Public Health 2002; 49:77-81. [PMID: 12002423 DOI: 10.1046/j.1439-0450.2002.00510.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Rotaviruses are important pathogens associated with diarrhoeal diseases in almost all species of mammals. In the present study, a nested reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) for the detection of group A rotaviruses was developed, which is based on a target region in gene segment 6. Rotavirus strains of human, bovine, porcine, canine, feline, equine, and ovine origin were examined. Furthermore several faecal specimens, in which rotavirus had already been detected using other methods than PCR, were included in the study. A nested RT-PCR product was formed with all strains and faecal samples tested. The detection limit for virus-containing cell culture supernatant was 3 x 10(-2) [50% tissue culture infective dose (TCID50)] by RT-PCR and 3 x 10(-3) TCID50) by nested amplification. In order to examine the influence of the sample matrix on sensitivity, a rotavirus-negative faecal specimen was spiked with virus-containing cell culture suspension of the porcine rotavirus OSU. The detection limit of the present PCR procedure was approximately 1.6 x 10(2) TCID50 per g faeces and could be increased by one order of magnitude using nested PCR. The present method for detection and identification of group A rotaviruses represents a powerful diagnostic tool and was shown to be applicable to rotaviruses of different origin, including human sources.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Elschner
- Federal Institute for Health Protection of Consumers and Veterinary Medicine (BgVV), Division 4: Bacterial Epizootics and Control of Zoonoses, Jena, Germany.
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135
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Abstract
Control of mycoplasmal mastitis requires individual cow milk sampling for culture and identification of Mycoplasma bovis. This sampling is time-consuming and expensive. Currently, some herds sample cows monthly with the dairy herd improvement (DHI) program, but a preservative is added to this milk that kills M. bovis. In this paper, a nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) procedure that allows for rapid testing of preservative-treated milk is validated. The specificity of the nested PCR assay was confirmed by testing isolated nucleic acids of other organisms phylogenetically related to M. bovis or common to milk. A comparison against blind-passage culture on 53 field milk samples determined its sensitivity. Exposure of seeded milk samples to the procedure resulted in a sensitivity of 5.1 cfu equivalents per milliliter. Analysis of these results proved that the nested PCR assay was as sensitive as traditional culture and can be used on preservative-treated milk.
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Affiliation(s)
- C C Pinnow
- Microbiology Research and Development, Hospital Products Division, Abbott Laboratories, Abbott Park, IL 60064, USA
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136
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Hotzel H, Grossmann E, Mutschmann F, Sachse K. Genetic characterization of a Chlamydophila pneumoniae isolate from an African frog and comparison to currently accepted biovars. Syst Appl Microbiol 2001; 24:63-6. [PMID: 11403400 DOI: 10.1078/0723-2020-00016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The amphibian isolate DE177 identified as Chlamydophila (C.) pneumoniae was sequenced in five genomic regions: 16S ribosomal RNA gene, 16-23S intergenic spacer, ompA, ompB, and groESL genes. Comparison with corresponding sequences of the currently accepted equine, human and koala biovars of C. pneumoniae revealed that koala strains represented the most closely related taxon, although sequence dissimilarities in the ompA (VD4) and ompB gene regions were noted. In this respect, the present isolate is distinct from a previously described frog isolate (Berger et al., 1999) whose sequence analysis yielded identity to the koala biovar. As three of the nucleotide substitutions in ompA (VD4) of DE177 will be translated into two altered amino acids the possible existence of another biovar is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Hotzel
- Federal Institute for Health Protection of Consumers and Veterinary Medicine, Jena, Germany
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137
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Kielstein P, Bocklisch H, Hotzel H, Schmalreck A, Otto B. [Evidence of Cryptococcus neoformans in domestic and sports pigeons in Thyringia]. Mycoses 2001; 43 Suppl 1:23-8. [PMID: 11098623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/18/2023]
Abstract
19 strains of Cryptococcus neoformans var. neoformans were isolated from 17 (= 40.5%) of 42 investigated pigeon breeder flocks in Thuringia.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Kielstein
- Bundesinstitut für gesundheitlichen Verbraucherschutz und Veterinärmedizin Berlin, Fachbereich Bakterielle Tierseuchen und Bekämpfung von Zoonosen-Fachgebict Mykologie, Jena, Germany.
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138
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Schmalreck AF, Hotzel H. [Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, molecular biologic methods and antimyocotic susceptibility patterns for identification and differentiation of cryptococcus species]. Mycoses 2001; 43 Suppl 1:61-8. [PMID: 11098628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/18/2023]
Abstract
Molecular biological methods as well as the FTIR method allows the rapid, reliable and reproducible determination and identification of Cryptococcus species from human, veterinary and environmental origin and their serovars. The results obtained by FTIR could be verified by the molecular methods. In addition, with the PCR and FTIR fingerprinting methods it is possible to distinctly group the serovars and differentiate the different Cryptococcus strains.
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Affiliation(s)
- A F Schmalreck
- Abteilung Mikrobiologie, H. Mack Nachf. GmbH & Co. (Pfizer), Illertissen, Deutschland
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139
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Abstract
In pooled samples of faeces from 25 pet bird flocks in Thuringia, a high rate of contamination with Cryptococcus neoformans var. neoformans was found. The prevalence of Cr. neoformans in the bird-breeding establishments correlated with the numbers of the different pet bird species in these flocks. The differentiation between varieties of Cr. neoformans by means of proline assimilation and canavanine resistance detection as well as with the aid of Cr. neoformans factor sera, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) fingerprinting, sequencing of PCR products as well as Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy showed uniform results which also corresponded to the serological differentiation between serovars A and D. A predominance of serovar A could be observed among the pet bird breeding flocks. This corresponded to the frequency distribution of serovars A and D in cases of human diseases in Germany. In 50% of the samples of pigeon excreta examined (n = 30) in Innsbruck (Austria), Cryptococcus albidus could be isolated but not Cr. neoformans. However, this Cryptococcus species is of minor pathogenetic importance for man. Cryptococcus albidus may be clearly distinguished from Cr. neoformans by means of microbiological methods, PCR and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Kielstein
- Federal Institute for Health Protection of Consumers and Veterinary Medicine, Division of Bacterial Epizootics, Jena
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140
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Harasawa R, Hotzel H, Sachse K. Comparison of the 16S-23S rRNA intergenic spacer regions among strains of the Mycoplasma mycoides cluster, and reassessment of the taxonomic position of Mycoplasma sp. bovine group 7. Int J Syst Evol Microbiol 2000; 50 Pt 3:1325-1329. [PMID: 10843078 DOI: 10.1099/00207713-50-3-1325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Nucleotide sequence analysis of the 16S-23S rRNA intergenic spacer regions of six type or reference strains belonging to the Mycoplasma mycoides cluster and of Mycoplasma putrefaciens suggested the presence of two subclusters. One subcluster comprised M. mycoides subsp. mycoides small colony (SC) type, M. mycoides subsp. mycoides large colony (LC) type and M. mycoides subsp. capri, whereas the second subcluster comprised Mycoplasma capricolum subsp. capricolum, M. capricolum subsp. capripneumoniae and Mycoplasma sp. bovine group 7. The type strains from M. mycoides subsp. mycoides SC and M. mycoides subsp. capri had identical spacer sequences. The existence of two subclusters was supported by predicted secondary structures of the analysed region. The nucleotide variations in the loop domains of the secondary structures might be a useful genetic marker to distinguish between the two subclusters. The secondary structure differences delineated the differences between the two subclusters more clearly than the nucleotide sequence alignments, which only showed a small number of differences, and some of these were common to both clusters. The data also provided evidence in favour of a reclassification of Mycoplasma sp. bovine group 7 as another subspecies of M. capricolum.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Base Sequence
- Cattle
- DNA, Bacterial/chemistry
- DNA, Bacterial/genetics
- DNA, Ribosomal/chemistry
- DNA, Ribosomal/genetics
- Goats
- Molecular Sequence Data
- Mycoplasma/classification
- Mycoplasma/genetics
- Mycoplasma mycoides/chemistry
- Mycoplasma mycoides/classification
- Mycoplasma mycoides/genetics
- Nucleic Acid Conformation
- Phylogeny
- Pleuropneumonia, Contagious/microbiology
- RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics
- RNA, Ribosomal, 23S/genetics
- Sequence Analysis, DNA
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141
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Hupfer C, Mayer J, Hotzel H, Sachse K, Engel KH. The effect of ensiling on PCR-based detection of genetically modified Bt maize. Eur Food Res Technol 1999. [DOI: 10.1007/s002170050498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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142
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Hotzel H, Müller W, Sachse K. Recovery and characterization of residual DNA from beer as a prerequisite for the detection of genetically modified ingredients. Eur Food Res Technol 1999. [DOI: 10.1007/s002170050478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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143
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Abstract
A rapid and sensitive procedure to detect Mycoplasma bovis from milk samples was developed. Mycoplasma cells were collected by selective binding to a monoclonal antibody, thus separating them from milk proteins and facilitating DNA extraction. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) using species-specific primers allowed detection of 20 cfu ml-1 in agarose gels and 2 cfu ml-1 on Southern blots. The method is especially suitable for specimens from subclinical cases and intermittent shedders.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Hotzel
- Division 4, Federal Institute for Health Protection of Consumers and Veterinary Medicine, Naumburger Str. 96a, D-07743 Jena, Germany
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144
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Hotzel H, Kielstein P, Blaschke-Hellmessen R, Wendisch J, Bär W. Phenotypic and genotypic differentiation of several human and avian isolates of Cryptococcus neoformans. Mycoses 1998; 41:389-96. [PMID: 9916462 DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0507.1998.tb00359.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The Cryptococcus neoformans strains isolated from two human cases could be diagnosed as Cr. neoformans var. neoformans by differentiation on the basis of their characteristics determined by proline, canavanine and EDTA urease tests. The results of the serovar assignment were: for the isolate from the meningoencephalitis patient with lethal outcome, serovar A; for the strain isolated from the osteomyelitis patient with benign course, serovar D. Also, the PCR fingerprinting using primers (GACA)4, (CAC)5 and FM 1 resulted in a clear and reproducible assignment of the Cr. neoformans strains to the varieties neoformans and gattii, respectively, and, in addition, it confirmed the serovar assignment. No statistically confirmed differences in virulence between the osteomyelitis and the meningoencephalitis strain could be established by i.v. testing in mice, nor did the PCR with several primers provide any clues to a genetically determined higher virulence of the meningoencephalitis strain. The different classification as serovars A and D does not allow any conclusions concerning different virulence. It was not possible to retrospectively establish the sources of infection of the two Cr. neoformans infections, but pigeon faeces may well have played a role as a reservoir for one of the illnesses.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Hotzel
- Federal Institute for Health Protection of Consumers and Veterinary Medicine, Jena, Germany
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145
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Beier T, Hotzel H, Lysnyansky I, Grajetzki C, Heller M, Rabeling B, Yogev D, Sachse K. Intraspecies polymorphism of vsp genes and expression profiles of variable surface protein antigens (Vsps) in field isolates of Mycoplasma bovis. Vet Microbiol 1998; 63:189-203. [PMID: 9850998 DOI: 10.1016/s0378-1135(98)00238-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
To assess the extent of interstrain variation, 50 isolates of Mycoplasma (M.) bovis including the type strain PG45 were examined for the presence of a family of variable membrane surface lipoproteins (Vsps) and their genes. Southern hybridization using a genomic fragment carrying three distinct vsp genes (vspAEF) revealed a striking heterogeneity, with only 2/50 strains having identical banding patterns. Cluster analysis of the data showed that most isolates from interrelated herds (groups 1, 2 and 3) were combined in a cluster of 50% homology, while isolates from distinct geographical regions (groups 4, 5 and 6) were linked only at 18% homology. Vsp antigen expression was monitored by Western immunoblotting using four specific monoclonal antibodies (MAbs). Resembling the findings at the DNA level, interstrain variation of Vsp expression among groups 1-3 was less pronounced than among non-interrelated isolates from groups 4-6. Ten out of 50 strains did not hybridize with the vspAEF gene probe at high-stringency conditions, 8/50 failed to react with any of the Vsp-related MAbs, and 6/50 proved negative in both assays. Interestingly, most of these isolates produced hybridization signals at low stringency suggesting major distinctions in their vsp gene structure. The extensive evidence obtained on interstrain vsp gene polymorphism and variation in Vsp expression could provide a basis for a future understanding of the pathogenic potential of individual M. bovis strains.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Beier
- Federal Institute for Health Protection of Consumers and Veterinary Medicine, Jena, Germany
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146
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Kielstein P, Hotzel H. [Distribution, serovar affiliation and epidemiologic behavior of Cryptococcus neoformans isolates from ornamental bird breeds]. Dtsch Tierarztl Wochenschr 1998; 105:349-53. [PMID: 9793237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/11/2023]
Abstract
Investigations of faeces samples from breeding stocks of companion birds in the federal state of Thuringia revealed a high contamination rate of companion birds with Cryptococcus (Cr.) neoformans var. neoformans. The prevalence of Cr. neoformans var. neoformans correlated with the spectrum of bird species present in the respective breeding units. The causes for that are not clear at the moment. Sensitivity of Cr. neoformans var. neoformans towards alkaline agents was not confirmed and was ruled out as a reason for different tenacity of the yeast in various bird breedings. Differentiation of varieties within Cr. neoformans was possible on the basis of proline assimilation, determination of canavanine resistance, EDTA urease test, as well as Cr. neoformans var. neoformans factor sera and PCR fingerprinting. Serological differentiation of serovars and PCR fingerprinting resulted in subdivision of Cr. neoformans var. neoformans isolates into two groups, which corresponded to serovars A and D. A prevalence of serovar A isolates was found in investigated bird breeding stocks. This also corresponded to the distribution of Cr. neoformans var. neoformans described in literature in humans with cryptococcosis in Germany. Consequently, serovar A or D infections of patients may be connected with their contacts to Cr. neoformans-excreting companion birds.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Kielstein
- Bundesinstitut für gesundheitlichen Verbraucherschutz und Veterinärmedizin, Fachbereich Bakterielle Tierseuchen und Bekämpfung von Zoonosen, Jena
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147
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Affiliation(s)
- K Sachse
- BGVV, Federal Institute, Jena, Germany
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148
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Hänel I, Schulze F, Hotzel H, Schubert E. Detection and characterization of two cytotoxins produced by Campylobacter jejuni strains. Zentralbl Bakteriol 1998; 288:131-43. [PMID: 9728413 DOI: 10.1016/s0934-8840(98)80111-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Campylobacter jejuni strains are able to produce at least two different cytotoxins called "cytolethal distending toxin" (CLDT) and "cytolethal rounding toxin" (CLRT). In this study, we investigated the corresponding changes in CHO-K1 cells using the cell counter and analyzer system CASY 1. Determination of the cell volume after toxin treatment of the cells is a useful criterion for differentiation between the cytotoxic activities produced by Campylobacter strains. Incubation of the cells with crude CLDT resulted in a decrease in the cell count combined with a dramatic increase of the mean cell volume in comparison to the control culture. A decrease in the cell count was also seen as a response to CLRT preparations, while this toxin had no effect on the mean cell volume determined. It was shown that only CLDT caused histone-associated DNA fragments in the cytoplasm of CHO-K1 cells indicating an apoptotic pathway of cell death. In addition, the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was employed to screen Campylobacter strains for the presence of the cdtB gene sequence, which was detectable in all strains investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Hänel
- Federal Institute for Health Protection of Consumers and Veterinary Medicine, Division 4: Bacterial Animal Diseases and Zoonoses Control, Jena, Germany
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149
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Hotzel H, Sachse K. [Improvement and acceleration of the diagnosis of contagious bovine pleuropneumonia by direct detection of the microbe using polymerase chain reaction (PCR)]. Berl Munch Tierarztl Wochenschr 1998; 111:268-72. [PMID: 9741182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
A diagnostic procedure is described for the detection of Mycoplasma mycoides subsp. mycoides SC, the causative agent of contagious bovine pleuropneumonia. DNA extracted from clinical samples was investigated by the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) using at least 2 different primer pairs, one species-specific and another one specific for the class of Mollicutes. Using this method, the time required for detection of the pathogen was reduced to 2 days, whereas with traditional diagnostic methods (cultivation in broth, biochemical tests or immunofluorescence) the same finding would be available only within approximately 20 days. Although contagious bovine pleuropneumonia does not occur in Central Europe, there are occasional identifications of cattle having positive titres in the complement fixation test (CFT). Immunoblotting analysis of such sera confirmed that the reason for this phenomenon were cross-reactions with taxonomically related mycoplasma species. The present PCR assay proved to be suitable because of its rapidity, as well as high specificity and sensitivity. In the case of positive serological findings it enables diagnosticians to provide evidence on the presence or absence of the agent at short notice.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Hotzel
- Institut für gesundheitlichen Verbraucherschutz und Veterinärmedizin, Bakterielle Tierseuchen und Bekämpfung von Zoonosen, Jena
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150
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Hotzel H, Erler W, Schimmel D. [Detection of dermonecrotic toxin genes in Pasteurella multocida strains using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR)]. Berl Munch Tierarztl Wochenschr 1997; 110:139-42. [PMID: 9182513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
A PCR method was developed which allows to distinguish between Pasteurella multocida strains carrying or lacking the dermonecrotic toxin gene. Specific primers were used to amplify a 1501-bp DNA fragment from the genomic dermonecrotic toxin gene region. Isolated DNA, broth cultures and swabs were used as samples. Detection of the toxin gene directly from swab samples accelerates considerably the diagnosis since cultivation steps can be omitted. The results of PCR corresponded to findings obtained by ELISA.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Hotzel
- Institut für gesundheitlichen Verbraucherschutz und Veterinärmedizin, Jena
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