Zoonotic potential of Helicobacter spp

Combination of Sodium Butyrate and Immunotherapy in Glioma: regulation of immunologically hot and cold tumors via gut microbiota and metabolites

Background

Recent studies have highlighted the importance of cross-talk along the gut-brain axis in regulating inflammatory nociception, inflammatory responses, and immune homeostasis. The gut microbiota, particularly its bacterial composition, plays a crucial role in the development and function of the immune system. Moreover, metabolites produced by the gut microbiota can significantly impact both systemic immune responses and central nervous system (CNS) immunity. Sodium butyrate is a key metabolite produced by the gut microbiota and, as a histone deacetylase inhibitor, can enhance the anti-tumor immunity of cytotoxic CD8+ T cells. However, it remains unclear whether sodium butyrate treatment can enhance the efficacy of PD-1 blockade in glioma therapy. In this research, the effect and underlying mechanism of combination of gut microbiota metabolites and anti-mouse PD-1 mAb on glioma has been investigated.

Methods

RNA-seq assay in glioma cell and biomedical databases, including ONCOMINE, GEPIA and TCGA were incorporated. Subsequently, the inhibitory effect of sodium butyrate on glioma cells and its related mechanisms were assessed through Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8), Flow Cytometry, Western blot (WB), reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), and other in vitro experiments. In vitro, an orthotopic mouse glioma model was established. MRI imaging, Immunohistochemistry, and Immune cell flow cytometry were used to investigate the therapeutic effects of combined sodium butyrate and PD-1 inhibitor treatment on glioma-bearing mice.

Results

We discovered that deacetylation-associated gene expression is significantly increased in glioma patients and affects patient survival time. Moreover, we found sodium butyrate promoted glioma cell apoptosis, disrupted the cell cycle, and inhibited tumor growth. Additionally, sodium butyrate may upregulate PD-L1 expression in glioma cells by modulating the PI3K/AKT pathway. The experimental results demonstrated that this combination therapy significantly reduced tumor volume and prolonged survival in an orthotopic murine glioma model. Moreover, combination therapy led to an increase in the proportion of probiotic bacteria in the mouse gut microbiota, resulting in elevated levels of antitumor metabolites and a decrease in metabolites that affect immune cell function.

Effect of Probiotic Product Containing Heyndrickxia coagulans TBC169 on Hyperuricemia in Rats

Hyperuricemia (HUA) is a metabolic disease characterized by elevated serum uric acid, which is closely related to the gut microbiota. Probiotics have great potential in improving HUA. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect and mechanism of probiotic product (SQK) containing Heyndrickxia coagulans TBC169 on HUA rats. Forty SD rats (6 weeks old, 200 ± 20 g) were randomly divided into four groups (Ctrl group, HUA group, SQK1 group, and SQK2 group) of 10 rats each. Rats were given potassium oxonate (100 mg potassium oxonate/100 g BW/day) for 12 weeks to establish HUA model and simultaneously administered with sterile saline (HUA group) or different dose of SQK (SQK1 group, 20.48 mg SQK/100 g BW/day; SQK2 group, 40.95 mg SQK/100 g BW/day) throughout the 12 weeks. The results showed that SQK could degrade uric acid precursors and inhibit the xanthine oxidase (XOD) activity in vitro. Oral supplementation of SQK can reverse the increase of serum uric acid, the increase of the liver and serum XOD activity, and the decrease of ABCG2 expression in the ileum induced by HUA. In addition, SQK could restore the changes in α and β diversity of the ileal microbiota and prevent the increase in pathogenic Helicobacter and Staphylococcus caused by HUA. 16S rRNA sequencing and correlation analysis showed that the chondroitin sulfate (CS) degradation pathway of the gut microbiota played a key role in the prevention of HUA in the SQK group. These findings suggest that SQK may improve HUA by reducing uric acid synthesis and increasing uric acid excretion and provide a basis for its development into a probiotic product to improve HUA.

Insights into Functions of Universal Stress Proteins Encoded by Genomes of Gastric Cancer Pathogen Helicobacter pylori and Related Bacteria

The genes that encode the universal stress protein (USP) family domain (pfam00582) aid the survival of bacteria in specific host or habitat-induced stress conditions. Genome sequencing revealed that the genome of Helicobacter pylori, a gastric cancer pathogen, typically contains one USP gene, while related helicobacters have one or two distinct USP genes. However, insights into the functions of Helicobacteraceae (Helicobacter and Wolinella) USP genes are still limited to inferences from large-scale genome sequencing. Thus, we have combined bioinformatics and visual analytics approaches to conduct a more comprehensive data investigation of a set of 1045 universal stress protein sequences encoded in 1014 genomes including 785 Helicobacter pylori genomes. The study generated a representative set of 183 USP sequences consisting of 180 Helicobacter sequences, two Wolinella succinogenes sequences, and a sequence from a related campylobacteria. We used the amino acid residues and positions of the 12 possible functional sites in 1030 sequences to identify 25 functional sites patterns for guiding studies on functional interactions of Helicobacteraceae USPs with ATP and other molecules. Genomic context searches and analysis identified USP genes of gastric and enterohepatic helicobacters that are adjacent or in operons with genes for proteins responsive to DNA-damaging oxidative stress (ATP-dependent proteases: ClpS and ClpA); and DNA uptake proteins (natural competence for transformation proteins: ComB6, ComB7, ComB8, ComB9, ComB10, ComBE, and conjugative transfer signal peptidase TraF). Since transcriptomic evidence indicates that oxidative stress and the presence of virulence-associated genes regulate the transcription of H. pylori USP gene, we recommend further research on Helicobacter USP genes and their neighboring genes in oxidative stress response and virulence of helicobacters. To facilitate the reuse of data and research, we produced interactive analytics resources of a dataset composed of values for variables including phylogeography of H. pylori strains, protein sequence features, and gene neighborhood.

Detection, isolation and virulence characterization of Helicobacter suis from pork products aimed to human consumption

Helicobacter suis is the most common non-Helicobacter pylori gastric Helicobacter species found in humans. Infection is associated with gastritis, peptic ulcer, gastric MALT lymphoma and neurodegenerative disorders, particularly Parkinson's disease. However, the pathogenicity of this species is still a matter of research, and results of virulence studies and antibiotic susceptibility tests tend to vary between strains. Cholesterol α-glucosyltransferase (αCgT), a known H. pylori virulence factor, appears to be present in most clinical H. suis isolates. The ability to form biofilms also plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of H. pylori. However, no reports have been published on this ability in H. suis. H. suis is considered an emerging zoonotic pathogen, with pigs being the main source of human infection. However, there is very little information on its presence in pork, mainly due to the difficulties of its culture. Therefore, our aim was to determine the prevalence of H. suis in pork products from our geographical area by PCR and Fluorescence in situ Hybridization (FISH), as well as to isolate the bacteria and determine the antibiotic susceptibility patterns, the presence of the αCgT gene and the ability of the isolates to form biofilms. Overall, H. suis was detected in 20 of the 70 (28.6 %) samples analyzed. In 3 of them, H. suis was isolated. The αCgT gene was detected in all isolates and two of them showed a multiresistance pattern. The H. suis reference strain and two of the isolates showed "strong" to "moderate" in vitro biofilm formation ability under optimal growth conditions. Our results seem to indicate that H. suis is significantly prevalent in pork products. The combination of culture with FISH and/or mPCR proved to be a rapid and specific method for the detection, identification and direct visualization of cultivable H. suis cells from pork food products.

Molecular, pathological and immunohistochemical investigation of Helicobacteraceae in the abomasum of dairy cattle and sheep in Northern Italy

Although several Helicobacter species have been associated with gastric disease in humans and animals, their role in domestic ruminants is still unclear. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of H. pylori, "Candidatus H. bovis" and other Helicobacteraceae in the abomasum of dairy cattle and sheep reared in Northern Italy, to shed light on their role as potential reservoir of H. pylori for humans and to evaluate the involvement of Helicobacter spp. in the gastric pathology of these animal species. Abomasa from 25 dairy cows and 24 sheep were collected at slaughter. Following macroscopic examination, samples of fundic and pyloric mucosa were analysed by a screening PCR for Helicobacteraceae, followed by specific PCRs (H. pylori, "Candidatus H. bovis", and Wolinella spp.), histological examination, and immunohistochemistry for Helicobacter spp. Overall, 96 % of the bovine and 42 % of the ovine abomasa tested positive for Helicobacteraceae. No samples tested positive for H. pylori, while 68 % of bovine samples tested positive for "Candidatus H. bovis", mostly in the pyloric mucosa. Immunohistochemistry showed colonisation by Helicobacter spp. only in the pyloric glands of 11 bovine abomasa (44 %), while in ovine abomasa colonisation was not detected. Our results confirmed that "Candidatus H. bovis" is the most common Helicobacteraceae in the bovine abomasum and specifically colonises bovine pyloric glands. No association was found between Helicobacter spp. infection status and abomasal inflammation, suggesting a high degree of adaptation to the bovine host. The role of cattle and sheep as potential source of H. pylori for humans appears to be negligible.

Exploring the Gastrointestinal Microbiome of Eurasian Griffon Vultures (Gyps fulvus) Under Rehabilitation in Portugal and Their Potential Role as Reservoirs of Human and Animal Pathogens

The Eurasian griffon vulture (Gyps fulvus), a widely distributed scavenger, plays a crucial role in ecosystem health by consuming decomposing carcasses. Scavengers have adapted to avoid disease from the rotting carrion they feed on, probably through a specialized gut microbiome. This study aimed to characterize the gut microbiome of G. fulvus (n = 8) present in two rehabilitation centers in mainland Portugal and evaluate their potential as reservoirs of pathogens. Samples were studied through high-throughput 16S rDNA amplicon sequencing of the hypervariable V3-V4 regions and further analyzed using the Qiime2 bioinformatics platform. Our results showed that factors such as sex, location, and time of sampling did not significantly affect the gut microbiome of the griffon vulture. Its composition was highly similar to that of phylogenetically closed animals. However, several potential human and veterinary pathogens were identified. In conclusion, the gut microbiome of Gyps fulvus in rehabilitation centers is not significantly altered by stress associated with captivity. Its composition is similar to that of other vultures and scavengers due to their identic diet and needs, suggesting a well-conserved functional gut microbiome, which seems to be influenced by season. The potential risks posed by the identified pathogens to humans and other animals should be further investigated.

Metabarcoding using nanopore sequencing enables identification of diverse and zoonotic vector-borne pathogens from neglected regions: A case study investigating dogs from Bhutan

The diversity and prevalence of canine vector-borne pathogens (VBPs) in Bhutan have to date remained unexplored, whilst recent epidemiological surveys in other South Asian nations have found diseases caused by VBPs to be rife in local dog populations. Importantly, many of such VBPs can infect people as well, with a building body of evidence identifying potentially zoonotic rickettsial organisms infecting humans in Bhutan. Given the lack of data on canine pathogens in Bhutan we employed a suite of deep-sequencing metabarcoding methods using Oxford Nanopore Technologies' MinION™ device to holistically characterise the bacterial, apicomplexan and filarial worm blood-borne pathogens of dogs in the country's south. Of the 95 stray, owned and community dogs sampled 78% (95% CI = 69%-85%) were infected with at least one VBP. Pathogen species detected were highly diverse including the bacteria Mycoplasma haemocanis in 16% (95% CI: 10-24%), Ehrlichia canis in 4% (95% CI: 2-10%), Anaplasma platys in 2% (95% CI: 0.5-7%) of dogs as well as the zoonotic species Bartonella clarridgeiae in 1% (95% CI: 0.1-6%), a potentially novel Bartonella spp. and an Ehrlichia chaffeensis-like bacterium, both in 1% (95% CI: 0.1-6%) of dogs. The apicomplexan haemoparasites Hepatozoon canis in 62% (95% CI: 52-71%), Babesia gibsoni in 45% (95% CI: 36-55%) and Babesia vogeli in 3% (95% CI: 1-9%) of dogs were also detected. Finally, 5% (95% CI: 2-12%) of dogs were found to be infected with the filarioid Acanthocheilonema reconditum and 1% (95% CI: 0.1-6%) with zoonotic Dirofilaria sp. hongkongensis. One canine was found positive to the filarioid Setaria tundra, a species normally found infecting cervids. The elucidated diversity of VBP communities highlights the strength of assumption-free diagnostics, such as metabarcoding, in detecting rare, novel, and unexpected pathogens. This approach to identifying pathogen diversity is of critical importance when investigating regions and populations that have thus far been neglected, with the findings aiding the development of future One Health informed strategies for disease control.

Antimicrobial resistance landscape in a metropolitan city context using open drain wastewater-based metagenomic analysis

One Health concept recognizes the inextricable interactions of diverse ecosystems and their subsequent effect on human, animal and plant health. Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a major One Health concern and is predicted to cause catastrophes if appropriate measures are not implemented. To understand the AMR landscape in a south Indian metropolitan city, metagenomic analysis of open drains was performed. The data suggests that in January 2022, macrolide class of antibiotics contributed the highest resistance of 40.1% in the city, followed by aminoglycoside- 24.4%, tetracycline- 11.3% and lincosamide- 6.7%. The 'mutations in the 23S rRNA gene conferring resistance to macrolide antibiotics' were the major contributor of resistance with a prevalence of 39.7%, followed by '16s rRNA with mutation conferring resistance to aminoglycoside antibiotics'- 22.2%, '16S rRNA with mutation conferring resistance to tetracycline derivatives'- 9.2%, and '23S rRNA with mutation conferring resistance to lincosamide antibiotics'- 6.7%. The most prevalent antimicrobial resistance gene (ARG) 'mutations in the 23S rRNA gene conferring resistance to macrolide antibiotics' was present in multiple pathogens including Escherichia coli, Campylobacter jejuni, Acinetobacter baumannii, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Helicobacter pylori. Most of the geographical locations in the city showed a similar landscape for AMR. Considering human mobility and anthropogenic activities, such an AMR landscape could be common across other regions too. The data indicates that pathogens are evolving and acquiring antibiotic resistance genes to evade antibiotics of multiple major drug classes in diverse hosts. The outcomes of the study are relevant not only in understanding the resistance landscape at a broader level but are also important for identifying the resistant drug classes, the mechanisms of gaining resistance and for developing new drugs that target specific pathways. This kind of surveillance protocol can be extended to regions in other developing countries to assess and combat the problem of antimicrobial resistance.

A Structural Proteome Screen Identifies Protein Mimicry in Host-Microbe Systems

Host-microbe systems are evolutionary niches that produce coevolved biological interactions and are a key component of global health. However, these systems have historically been a difficult field of biological research due to their experimental intractability. Impactful advances in global health will be obtained by leveraging in silico screens to identify genes involved in mediating interspecific interactions. These predictions will progress our understanding of these systems and lay the groundwork for future in vitro and in vivo experiments and bioengineering projects. A driver of host-manipulation and intracellular survival utilized by host-associated microbes is molecular mimicry, a critical mechanism that can occur at any level from DNA to protein structures. We applied protein structure prediction and alignment tools to explore host-associated bacterial structural proteomes for examples of protein structure mimicry. By leveraging the Legionella pneumophila proteome and its many known structural mimics, we developed and validated a screen that can be applied to virtually any host-microbe system to uncover signals of protein mimicry. These mimics represent candidate proteins that mediate host interactions in microbial proteomes. We successfully applied this screen to other microbes with demonstrated effects on global health, Helicobacter pylori and Wolbachia , identifying protein mimic candidates in each proteome. We discuss the roles these candidates may play in important Wolbachia -induced phenotypes and show that Wobachia infection can partially rescue the loss of one of these factors. This work demonstrates how a genome-wide screen for candidates of host-manipulation and intracellular survival offers an opportunity to identify functionally important genes in host-microbe systems.

Helicobacter pullorum and Helicobacter canadensis: Etiology, pathogenicity, epidemiology, identification, and antibiotic resistance implicating food and public health

Nowadays, it is well-established that the consumption of poultry meat, especially chicken meat products has been drastically increasing. Even though more attentions are being paid to the major foodborne pathogens, it seems that scientists in the area of food safety and public health would prefer tackling the minor food borne zoonotic emerging or reemerging pathogens, namely Helicobacter species. Recently, understanding the novel aspects of zoonotic Enterohepatic Helicobacter species, including pathogenesis, isolation, identification, and genomic features is regarded as a serious challenge. In this regard, considerable attention is given to emerging elusive zoonotic Enterohepatic Helicobacter species, comprising Helicobacter pullorum and Helicobacter canadensis. In conclusion, the current review paper would attempt to elaborately summarize and somewhat compare the etiology, pathogenesis, cultivation process, identification, genotyping, and antimicrobial resistance profile of both H. pullorum and H. Canadensis. Further, H. pullorum has been introduced as the most significant food borne pathogen in chicken meat products.

Phylogenetic analysis of pathogenic genes in Helicobacter species

BACKGROUND

Helicobacter bacteria are associated with gastrointestinal diseases, especially Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori). With the isolation of many non-Helicobacter pylori Helicobacters (NHPH) from the liver, intestines, and gallbladder of natural animal reservoirs, NHPH have been potential zoonotic pathogens, but their infection and pathogenic mechanisms are still unclear.

AIM

To explore the phylogenetic relationship of Helicobacter species based on their pathogenic genes.

METHODS

The present study collected the genomic sequences of 50 strains in genus Helicobacter, including 12 strains of H. pylori and 38 strains of NHPH. Based on 16S rRNA gene and several pathogenic genes (flagella, urease, and virulence factors), MAGA software (Version 11.0) was used to align their sequences and construct phylogenetic trees.

RESULTS

The phylogenetic tree of 16S rRNA gene showed that gastric Helicobacter (GH) and enterohepatic Helicobacter species (EHS) were clustered into two large branches, respectively. All of the GH's hosts were mammals, while the hosts of EHS were many wild poultry and mammals. Based on the flagella motility-related genes (flaA, flaB, fliP, fliQ, fliR, fliG, fliM, and fliN), the phylogenetic trees were divided into two major branches (GH and EHS). Similarly, the phylogenetic trees of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) biosynthesis-related genes (lptA, waaC, and waaF) presented two major branches (GH and EHS), too. The urease genes existed in all of the 12 strains of H. pylori, 13 strains of gastric NHPH, and 4 strains of EHS (H. hepaticus, H. muridarum, H. bilis, and H. anseris). However, no significant phylogenetic patterns of GH and EHS were observed in the seven urease genes (ureA, ureB, ureE, ureF, ureG, ureH, and ureI).

CONCLUSION

The phylogenetic relationship of Helicobacter species' pathogenic genes is dominated distinctly by the special colonization areas including gastric and enterohepatic niches.

Profiles of biliary microbiota in biliary obstruction patients with Clonorchis sinensis infection

Background

Clonorchis sinensis (C. sinensis) is a epidemiologically significant food-borne parasite, causing several hepatobiliary diseases. Biliary microbiota community structure might be influenced by infection with pathogens. However, the biliary microbiome of biliary obstruction patients infected with C. sinensis is still an unexplored aspect.

Methods

A total of 50 biliary obstruction patients were enrolled, including 24 infected with C. sinensis and 26 non-infected subjects. The bile samples were collected by Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancretography. Biliary microbiota alteration was analyzed through high-throughput 16S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) gene sequencing.

Results

Our findings revealed that there was significant increase in both richness and diversity, as well as changes in the taxonomic composition of the biliary microbiota of C. sinensis infected patients. At the phylum level, C. sinensis infection induced Proteobacteria increased and Firmicutes reduced. At the genus level, the relative abundance of Pseudomonas and Staphylococcus increased significantly, while Enterococcus decreased prominently in infected groups (P < 0.05). The PICRUSt analysis further showed remarkably different metabolic pathways between the two groups.

Conclusion

C. sinensis infection could modify the biliary microbiota, increasing the abundance and changing the phylogenetic composition of bacterial in biliary obstruction patients. This study may help deepen the understanding of the host-biliary microbiota interplay with C. sinensis infection on the background of biliary obstruction and provide new insights into understanding the pathogenesis of clonorchiasis.

Molecular characterization of Helicobacter pylori isolated from Nile Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) and fish handlers

BACKGROUND

Helicobacter pylori is a worldwide pathogen that affects both animals and humans with a wide environmental distribution, causing serious health problems in humans. This research has timely addressed the topic of new sources of H. pylori infection, which is currently a global issue, especially in developing countries. For this purpose, 115 Tilapia fish, 50 freshwater samples, and 88 fish-handlers' stool samples were investigated for the presence of H. pylori in Qena Governorate, Egypt. The applied techniques were antigen screening tests, culturing, and molecular methods through ureC gene amplification, and 16 S rRNA characterization.

RESULTS

Helicobacter pylori was detected in 7.83%, 14%, 4.35%, and 12% of the investigated fish and water samples by culture and PCR methods, respectively. Out of the total studied participants, 40 tested positive for H. pylori when screened by stool antigen test, of which 35 (39.77%), and 31 (35.23%) were confirmed by conventional and molecular techniques, respectively. The Fisher's exact test has shown a statistically significant correlation between H. pylori infection, sex, and age as risk factors, while the association was insignificant concerning the residence. Males contracted the infection at a higher rate than females (48.08% and 16.67%, respectively). Also, H. pylori infection rate was the highest among fish-handlers aged 36-45 years old (46.67%), followed by the 26-35 years old age group (39.53%). With regard to the residence, a higher occurrence rate was recorded in the rural (36.07%) than the urban population (33.33%). Helicobacter pylori isolates harbored the highest antimicrobial resistance against ampicillin (100%), metronidazole (95.24%), while the least antimicrobial resistance was recorded against levofloxacin (21.43%), and clarithromycin (26.20%). The phylogenetic analysis revealed a high degree of homology between the isolates selected from Tilapia fish, freshwater, and fish-handlers.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data emphasized the role that fish and freshwater play in disseminating H. pylori infection as one of the diseases that has a significant public health issue.

Helicobacter zhangjianzhongii sp. nov., isolated from dog feces

In 2019, two distinct bacterial isolates were independently isolated from the fecal samples of separate dogs in Beijing, China. These cells exhibit microaerobic, are Gram-negative, motile, and possess a characteristic spiral shape with bipolar single flagellum. They display positive results for the oxidase test while being negative for both catalase and urease. These organisms measure approximately 0.2-0.3 μm in width and 4.5-6 μm in length. The colonies are wet, flat, grey, circular, and smooth with sizes ranging from 1 to 2 mm in diameter after 2 days of growth. However, strains may exhibit variations in size and morphology following extended incubation. Phylogenetic analyses based on the 16S rRNA gene and core genome indicated that these two isolates belong to the genus Helicobacter and formed a robust clade that was remains distinctly separate from currently recognized species. These two isolates shared low dDDH relatedness and ANI values with their closest species Helicobacter canis CCUG 32756T, with these values falling below the commonly cutoff values for strains of the same species. The genomic DNA G + C contents of strain XJK30-2 were 44.93 mol%. Comparing the phenotypic and phylogenetic features between these two isolates and their closely related species, XJK30-2 represents a novel species within the genus Helicobacter, for which the name Helicobacter zhangjianzhongii sp. nov. (Type strain XJK30-2T = GDMCC 1.3695T) is proposed.

Assessment of cecal microbiota modulation from piglet dietary supplementation with copper

BACKGROUND

Swine production expanded in the last decades. Efforts have been made to improve meat production and to understand its relationship to pig gut microbiota. Copper (Cu) is a usual supplement to growth performance in animal production. Here, two performance studies were conducted to investigate the effects of three different sources of Cu on the microbiota of piglets. A total of 256 weaned piglets were randomly allocated into 4 treatments (10 replicates per treatment of 4 piglets per pen in Trial 1 and 8 replicates of 3 piglets per pen in Trial 2). Treatments included a control group (fed 10 mg/kg of Cu from CuSO₄), a group fed at 160 mg/kg of Copper (II) sulfate (CuSO₄) or tri-basic copper chloride (TBCC), and a group fed with Cu methionine hydroxy analogue chelated (Cu-MHAC) at 150, 80, and 50 mg/kg in Phases 1 (24-35 d), 2 (36-49 d), and 3 (50-70 d), respectively. At 70 d, the cecum luminal contents from one pig per pen were collected and polled for 16 S rRNA sequencing (V3/V4 regions). Parameters were analyzed in a completely randomized block design, in which each experiment was considered as a block.

RESULTS

A total of 1337 Operational Taxonomic Units (OTUs) were identified. Dominance and Simpson ecological metrics were statistically different between control and treated groups (P < 0.10) showing that different Cu sources altered the gut microbiota composition with the proliferation of some bacteria that improve gut health. A high abundance of Prevotella was observed in all treatments while other genera were enriched and differentially modulated, according to the Cu source and dosage. The supplementation with Cu-MHAC can modify a group of bacteria involved in feed efficiency (FE) and short chain fatty acids (SCFA) production (Clostridium XIVa, Desulfovibrio, and Megasphera). These bacteria are also important players in the activation of ghrelin and growth hormones that were previously reported to correlate with Cu-MHAC supplementation.

CONCLUSIONS

These results indicated that some genera seem to be directly affected by the Cu source offered to the animals. TBCC and Cu-MHAC (even in low doses) can promote healthy modifications in the gut bacterial composition, being a promising source of supplementation for piglets.

Isolation of Multidrug-Resistant Helicobacter pylori from Wild Houseflies Musca domestica with a New Perspective for the Treatment

Background: High frequency of Helicobacter pylori infection and the unknown mode of transmission prompted us to investigate H. pylori-wild housefly relationship. H. pylori causes chronic gastritis, peptic ulcers, and stomach cancer. H. pylori persists in the gut of the experimentally infected houseflies. The existence of H. pylori strains isolated from wild houseflies, on the other hand, has never been documented. Materials and Methods: In this study, 902 wild houseflies from different sites were identified as Musca domestica, then 60 flies were screened by traditional microbiological techniques and H. pylori-specific 16S rRNA gene. The antibiotic resistance (ART) was investigated phenotypically. Wild housefly gut bacterial isolates were further evaluated genotypically to have 23S rRNA gene mutation related to clarithromycin resistance. To find efficient therapeutic alternatives, the potency of three plant extracts (garlic, ginger, and lemon) and the wasp, Vespa orientalis venom was evaluated against H. pylori. The cytotoxic effect of the crude wasp venom, the most potent extract, against Vero and Colon cancer (Caco2) cell lines was investigated using the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay. Results: All isolates from houseflies were positive. The isolated bacteria have variable resistance to frequently used antibiotics in all isolates. Minimum inhibitory concentration values of 15.625 mg/mL for both ginger and lemon extracts, 7.8125 mg/mL for garlic extract, and 0.0313 mg/mL for wasp venom were recorded. Wasp venom has the most potent antibacterial activity compared with the four antibiotics that are currently used in therapies against H. pylori. Conclusion: We conclude that wild houseflies can play a role in disseminating H. pylori. The housefly gut may be a suitable environment for the horizontal transfer of ART genes among its associated microbiome and H. pylori. Wasp venom proved its potential activity as a new and effective anti-H. pylori drug for both therapeutic and preventative usage.

An investigative study on the zoonotic potential of Helicobacter pylori

BACKGROUND

Helicobacter pylori is one of the most common bacterial infections and is widespread globally. It causes a variety of gastrointestinal disorders, though a great proportion of infections are asymptomatic. A total of 143 fresh stool samples were collected from apparently healthy farm and pet animals (43 cattle, 50 buffaloes, 50 sheep, 50 dogs, and 50 cats), in addition to 768 human stool samples. The samples were examined using stool antigen and rapid antibody tests, and further confirmation of glmM "human antigen-positive samples and animal milk samples" was conducted by polymerase chain reaction (PCR).

RESULTS

The prevalence rates of H. pylori infection in animals were 22.2% and 16% in antibody and stool antigen tests, respectively. The detection rates were 28%, 24%, 12%, 10%, and 4.7% in cats, dogs, buffaloes, sheep, and cattle, respectively. On the other hand, the prevalence rate of H. pylori infection in human stool samples was 74.8%, and a statistically significant association was observed between prevalence and several factors, such as sex, age, and locality. PCR was performed to detect the glmM gene of H. pylori, and this gene was found in 21 of 27 human antigen-positive samples and 5 of 13 animal milk samples.

CONCLUSIONS

H. pylori was detected in both human and animal samples. Furthermore, glmM was found in milk and human samples. Our findings suggest that pet and farm animals could transmit H. pylori infection to humans.

Perception and Knowledge of Portuguese Veterinarians about the Zoonotic Transmission of Helicobacter pylori and Helicobacter suis: The Need for One Health Intervention

Helicobacter species can colonize the gastrointestinal tract of both humans and animals, and are associated with gastrointestinal and extra-gastrointestinal diseases. Some studies indicate that animals, health professionals, and people in close contact with animals might be at higher risk for infection with gastric Helicobacter spp. Considering that veterinarians are professionals at risk for infection with zoonotic gastric Helicobacters and are also seen by many as health communicators concerning zoonoses, the aim of this study was to evaluate the Portuguese veterinarians' perception and knowledge of Helicobacter spp. infection and its zoonotic risk/potential. Therefore, a structured questionnaire composed of 34 dichotomic, multiple-choice, rating scale, matrix, drop-down, and open-ended questions was developed and given to Portuguese veterinarians via an online platform from May 2021 to July 2021, and statistical analysis was used to obtain results. There was a total of 149 respondents, most of them (73.8%) being females. Evidently, Portuguese veterinarians have a limited perception regarding Helicobacter spp. infections. Of the respondents that "have heard of Helicobacter", 17.6% do not know which animal species can be affected by it. Most of the companion animal veterinarians (76.2%) do not consider Helicobacter spp. infection a differential diagnosis when evaluating animals with gastritis. A significant percentage (37.2%) of the respondents that have "heard of H. suis" do not consider it a zoonotic bacterium. There is a need for education and sensitization of veterinarians regarding the potential zoonotic risk of Helicobacter spp. in order to elucidate these professionals to this One Health issue, as the number of reports of non-Helicobacter pylori Helicobacter in livestock, companion, and wild animals is increasing.

Molecular detection of Helicobacter spp. and Fusobacterium gastrosuis in pigs and wild boars and its association with gastric histopathological alterations

Besides Helicobacter pylori, a Gram-negative bacterium that may cause gastric disorders in humans, non-Helicobacter pylori helicobacters (NHPH) may also colonize the stomach of humans and animals. In pigs, H. suis can induce gastritis and may play a role in gastric ulcer disease, possibly in association with Fusobacterium gastrosuis. In the present study, gastric samples from 71 slaughtered pigs and 14 hunted free range wild boars were tested for the presence of DNA of F. gastrosuis and gastric Helicobacter species associated with pigs, dogs cats and humans, using species-specific PCR assays, followed by sequencing of the amplicon. These gastric samples were also histopathologically evaluated. Almost all the pigs presented gastritis (95.8%). Helicobacter spp. were detected in 78.9% and F. gastrosuis in 35.2% of the animals. H. suis was the most frequently identified Helicobacter species (57.7% of the animals), followed by a H. pylori-like species (50.7%) and less often H. salomonis and H. felis (each in 2.8% of the animals). H. suis was most often detected in the glandular (distal) part of the stomach (pars oesophagea 9.9%, oxyntic mucosa 35.2%, antral mucosa 40.8%), while the H. pylori-like species was mainly found in the non-glandular (proximal) part of the stomach (pars oesophagea 39.4%, oxyntic mucosa 14.1%, antral mucosa 4.2%). The great majority of wild boars were also affected with gastritis (71.4%) and Helicobacter spp. and F. gastrosuis were detected in 64.3% and 42.9% of the animals, respectively. H. bizzozeronii and H. salomonis were the most frequently detected Helicobacter species, while a H. pylori-like species and H. suis were only occasionally identified. These findings suggest that these microorganisms can colonize the stomach of both porcine species and may be associated with gastric pathology. This should, however, be confirmed through bacterial isolation. This is the first description of the presence of F. gastrosuis DNA in the stomach of wild boars and a H. pylori-like species in the pars oesophagea of the porcine stomach.

Helicobacter bilis Contributes to the Occurrence of Inflammatory Bowel Disease by Inducing Host Immune Disorders

Gut microbiota coevolve with humans to achieve a symbiotic relationship, which ultimately leads to physiological homeostasis. A variety of diseases can occur once this balance is disrupted. Helicobacter bilis (H. bilis) is an opportunistic pathogen in humans, triggering multiple diseases, including inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). IBD is a chronic immunologically mediated inflammation of the human gastrointestinal tract, and its occurrence is closely related to the gut microbiota. Several studies have demonstrated that H. bilis colonization is associated with IBD, and its mechanism is related to host immunity. However, few studies have investigated these mechanisms of action. Therefore, this article is aimed at reviewing these studies and summarizing the mechanisms of H. bilis-induced IBD from two perspectives: adaptive immunity and innate immunity. Furthermore, this study provides a preliminary discussion on treating H. bilis-related IBD. In addition, we also demonstrated that H. bilis played an important role in promoting the carcinogenesis of IBD and discussed its mechanism.

Prevalence, diversity and public health implications of Helicobacter species in pet and stray dogs

Background

It is probable that humans can acquire H. pylori and non—H. pylori Helicobacter infections via domestic animals. The prevalence and risk factors of infections of Helicobacter species in canines of Taipei city were therefore analysed in this study.

Materials and methods

A total of 95 canine faecal samples were collected from different animal shelters and hospitals in Taipei city. Total DNA was extracted for semi-nested PCR detection of Helicobacter species. The PCR products were sequenced for further comparative database and phylogenetic analyses.

Results

The overall prevalence of Helicobacter species in canines of Taipei city was 75.79% (72/95). Two gastric, seven enterohepatic and two unclassified Helicobacter species were identified, all of which have been implicated in the aetiology of human diseases. The predominant species detected included H. canis (27.78%), H. pylori (26.39%), H. canicola (18.06%), and H. bilis (13.89%) in decreasing order, while H. canadensis and H. typhlonius were identified for the first time in canines. The genotypes in H. pylori and H. canicola clusters grouped together, with their respective reference strains, showed a close evolutionary distance in the phylogenetic tree, indicating a common ancestry may have existed in these clusters respectively. The residential region of canines, dog living status (pet or stray) and breed (purebred or mixed-breed) are the risk factors associated with Helicobacter infections in the canines examined.

Conclusion

The high prevalence of Helicobacter infections in canines highlights a potential public health risk of zoonotic transmission among dogs, humans and other animals, and therefore, the need for proper methods in controlling the transmission routes. In addition, the 16S rRNA gene amplification method was found to be useful for bacterial identification and phylogenetic analysis.

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The prevalence of Helicobacter infection in dogs of Taipei city was found to be 75.79%.

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Species detected included H. canis, H. pylori, H. canicola, H. bilis and others, including 2 unclassified species.

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Almost all the species detected are identical with those reported to be found in humans in some other studies, suggesting possible cross-transmission between humans and canines.

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Residential region, living status (pet or stray) and breed type of canines are risk factors associated with Helicobacter infections in the canines.

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Phylogenetic analysis indicated an evolutionary pattern in H. pylori and H. canicola clusters, suggesting a common ancestry may have existed in these clusters respectively.

Public health significance of Helicobacter pullorum, a putative food-associated emerging zoonotic pathogen in Iran

According to the World Health Organization, diseases which are naturally transmissible from vertebrate animals to human beings or from humans to vertebrates are defined as the zoonotic diseases. Among the most common zoonotic pathogens, Helicobacter pullorum has earned public recognition regarding its public health significance. This Enterohepatic Helicobacter species has been shown to be a very dangerous and life-threatening microorganism, accounting for several clinically important infections in the human population. However, despite the several studies indicating the significance of H.pullorum in both humans and animals, there is a lack of documented information and reliable statistics about this pathogen throughout the world. Thus, in this review, we would provide a novel knowledge about the general characteristics, isolation methods, host ranges and transmission routes, and occurrences of H.pullorum in poultry, chicken meat, and human in Iran. We would also clarify the status of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) profile of the H.pullorum isolates from various samples in this country.

Helicobacter spp. in the Stomach of Cats: Successful Colonization and Absence of Relevant Histopathological Alterations Reveals High Adaptation to the Host Gastric Niche

In addition to Helicobacter pylori, many non-Helicobacter pylori Helicobacters (NHPH) are able to cause gastric disease in humans. Cats are a natural reservoir for many of these species. Accordingly, living in close and intimate contact with animals has been identified as a risk factor, and an important zoonotic significance has therefore been attributed to NHPH. To determine the prevalence and associated gastric histopathological changes of Helicobacter species, the gastric mucosa of 71 cats were evaluated. Only four presented normal histopathological mucosa with the absence of spiral-shaped organisms. Normal gastric mucosa and the presence of spiral-shaped bacteria were observed in 13 cats. The remaining animals presented histopathological changes representative of gastritis. Helicobacter species were detected in 53 cats (74.6%) by at least one detection method. None of the animals were positive for H. pylori or for H. ailurogastricus. Helicobacter heilmannii organisms were identified in 20 animals, predominantly in the body gastric region. Helicobacter salomonis was the second most prevalent species (57.1%), although it was mainly found in association with other NHPH. Helicobacter felis and H. bizzozeronii were less frequently detected. The great majority of the Helicobacter spp. PCR-positive animals presented normal features regarding fibrosis/mucosal atrophy, neutrophils, eosinophils, or other inflammatory cells and lymphofollicular hyperplasia. Given the controversy and the strong evidence of absence of significant histopathological alterations associated with the presence of Helicobacter spp. in cats, it is possible to hypothesize that these bacteria may be able to adapt to the feline gastric microenvironment or even to comprise part of the gastric microbiome of this animal species. Thus, prudency must be taken when prescribing an antibiotic therapy based solely on the presence of these bacteria in the feline stomach.

Clinical aspects of Helicobacter heilmannii-associated gastritis in patients with dyspepsia: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The clinical relevance of Helicobacter heilmannii (H. heilmannii) infection in patients with upper gastrointestinal diseases is not yet fully understood. The main purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical, endoscopic, histopathological, and therapeutic features of H. heilmannii.

METHODS

To retrieve the relevant studies, we conducted a comprehensive systematic search of global databases such as the ISI Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and Google Scholar. After confirming the studies based on the inclusion criteria statistical analysis was performed using Comprehensive Meta-Analysis software.

RESULTS

In our study, the prevalence of infection with H. heilmannii was measured at 1.9% (95% CI: 0.8-4.2). The prevalence of H. heilmannii in Asian population was higher than Western countries (3.1% vs. 1.2%, respectively). Interestingly, the frequency of coinfection with both H. pylori and H. heilmannii was 15.4% (95% CI: 5.2-37.6). The most common endoscopic findings were chronic gastritis, hyperplasia, and erosion. In addition, our results showed that in people infected with this bacterium, gastric inflammation is typically chronic, focal, and less active than Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) gastritis. Conventional treatment of H. pylori can lead to the eradication of H. heilmannii.

CONCLUSION

In general, H. heilmannii infection is significantly associated with mild chronic gastritis and can be treated with standard anti-H. pylori treatment.

An exploratory study on the presence of Helicobacter heilmannii and Helicobacter billis in the faces of companion dogs

Background

Companion animals like dogs play an important role in the lives of many people and are often considered to be members of families, but definitely, any contact with them poses an inherent risk of transmitting zoonotic pathogens. One of these pathogens is the genus Helicobacter which is linked to many disorders in human and animal.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to investigate the presence of some zoonotic species of genus Helicobacter in companion dogs.

Results

Through culturing in a special medium, nine samples (9%) were detected as infected (two pure and seven mixed culture). Based on multiplex‐PCR, 13 samples (13%) were infected by Helicobacter spp. although none of them were infected by H. pylori. Species‐specific PCR indicated that 38.5% or 5/13 of the samples were infected with H. heilmannii, while 15.45% or 2/13 of the samples were infected by H. billis. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that the age factor had a significant effect on Helicobacter spp. infection (odds ratio [OR] = 2.42, p = 0.01).

Conclusion

This study revealed the negligible faecal transmission of H. pylori. Moreover, due to the detection of H. Heilmannii and H. billis in feces and their association with human gastric diseases, dog owners should be educated about the risks and transmission modes of zoonotic bacterial infections of dogs.

Effects of dietary glucose oxidase on growth performance and intestinal health of AA broilers challenged by Clostridium perfringens

Arbor Acre (AA) broilers were used as the research object to investigate whether glucose oxidase (GOD) has preventive and relieving effects on necrotic enteritis. The experiment was designed as a factorial arrangement of 2 dietary treatments × 2 infection states. Chickens were fed a basal diet or a diet with 150 U/kg GOD, and were challenged with Clostridium perfringens (Cp) or sterile culture medium. In our study, Cp challenge led to intestinal injury, as evidenced by reducing the average daily gain and the average daily feed intake of AA broilers of 14 to 21 d (P < 0.05), increasing the intestinal jejunal lesion score (P < 0.05), reducing the jejunal villi height and villi height/crypt depth (P < 0.05), upregulating the mRNA expression levels jejunal IFN-γ (P < 0.05). The dietary GOD had no significant effects on the growth performance of each growth period, but significantly decreased the ileal pH, increased the height of villi and the ratio of villi height to crypt depth (P < 0.05) and the expression levels of Occludin and Zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1) at d 21. Moreover, dietary GOD and the Cp challenge significantly altered the composition of 21-d ileal microbiota. The Cp challenge decreased the relative abundance of genus Lactobacillus (P = 0.057), and increased the relative abundance of genus Romboutsia (P < 0.05) and genus Veillonella (P = 0.088). The dietary GOD tended to increase the relative abundance of genus Helicobacter (P = 0.066) and decrease the relative abundance of genus Streptococcus (P = 0.071). This study has shown that the supplementation of GOD could promote the integrity of intestinal barrier and the balance of ileal microbiota, but the effects of GOD on NE broilers and its application in actual production need to be further confirmed.

Biochemical investigation of an N-acetyltransferase from Helicobacter pullorum

N-acetylated sugars are often found, for example, on the lipopolysaccharides of Gram-negative bacteria, on the S-layers of Gram-positive bacteria, and on the capsular polysaccharides. Key enzymes involved in their biosynthesis are the sugar N-acetyltransferases. Here, we describe a structural and functional analysis of one such enzyme from Helicobacter pullorum, an emerging pathogen that may be associated with gastroenteritis and gallbladder and liver diseases. For this analysis, the gene BA919-RS02330 putatively encoding an N-acetyltransferase was cloned, and the corresponding protein was expressed and purified. A kinetic analysis demonstrated that the enzyme utilizes dTDP-3-amino-3,6-dideoxy-d-glucose as a substrate as well as dTDP-3-amino-3,6-dideoxy-d-galactose, albeit at a reduced rate. In addition to this kinetic analysis, a similar enzyme from Helicobacter bilis was cloned and expressed, and its kinetic parameters were determined. Seven X-ray crystallographic structures of various complexes of the H. pullorum wild-type enzyme (or the C80T variant) were determined to resolutions of 1.7 Å or higher. The overall molecular architecture of the H. pullorum N-acetyltransferase places it into the Class II left-handed-β-helix superfamily (LβH). Taken together, the data presented herein suggest that 3-acetamido-3,6-dideoxy-d-glucose (or the galactose derivative) is found on either the H. pullorum O-antigen or in another of its complex glycoconjugates. A BLAST search suggests that more than 50 non-pylori Helicobacter spp. have genes encoding N-acetyltransferases. Given that there is little information concerning the complex glycans in non-pylori Helicobacter spp. and considering their zoonotic potential, our results provide new biochemical insight into these pathogens.

Virulence assessment of enterohepatic Helicobacter species carried by dogs using the wax moth larvae Galleria mellonella as infection model

BACKGROUND

Enterohepatic species of the genus Helicobacter (EHH) are emerging pathogens that have been associated with gastrointestinal and hepatobiliary diseases in humans. However, studies on their pathogenicity are scarce. Galleria mellonella is a recently proposed model for the study of virulence in different pathogens, such as Campylobacter spp. and Helicobacter pylori. Despite this, its usefulness in EHH has not yet been evaluated. Therefore, we determined the pathogenic potential of different EHH species isolated from dogs in this infection model.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Four species of EHH (H. bilis, H. canicola, H. canis, and 'H. winghamensis') isolated from fecal samples from domestic dogs were evaluated. Three strains of each species were inoculated in cohorts of G. mellonella at a concentration of 1 × 10⁷  CFU/mL. Survival curves were determined by the Kaplan-Meier method. In addition, the quantification of melanin, bacterial load in hemolymph, and histopathology were evaluated daily post-infection (pi).

RESULTS

G. mellonella larvae are susceptible to EHH infection, exhibiting intra- and inter-species variability. Melanin production became evident from 4 h pi and increased throughout the assay. All species were recovered from the hemolymph after 20 min pi; however, only H. canis could be recovered up to 48 h pi. Histopathology revealed cellular and humoral immune response, evidencing accumulation of hemocytes, nodulation, and melanin deposition in different tissues.

CONCLUSION

EHH species carried by dogs have considerable pathogenic potential, being H. canicola the species with the highest degree of virulence. Thus, G. mellonella is a useful model to assess virulence in these emerging pathogens.

Enterohepatic Helicobacter species - clinical importance, host range, and zoonotic potential

The genus Helicobacter defined just over 30 years ago, is a highly diverse and fast-growing group of bacteria that are able to persistently colonize a wide range of animals. The members of this genus are subdivided into two groups with different ecological niches, associated pathologies, and phylogenetic relationships: the gastric Helicobacter (GH) and the enterohepatic Helicobacter (EHH) species. Although GH have been mostly studied, EHH species have become increasingly important as emerging human pathogens and potential zoonotic agents in the last years. This group of bacteria has been associated with the development of several diseases in humans from acute pathologies like gastroenteritis to chronic pathologies that include inflammatory bowel disease, and liver and gallbladder diseases. However, their reservoirs, as well as their routes of transmission, have not been well established yet. Therefore, this review summarizes the current knowledge of taxonomy, epidemiology, and clinical role of the EHH group.

Presence of Helicobacter pylori and H. suis DNA in Free-Range Wild Boars

Simple Summary

Helicobacter pylori and H. suis are associated with gastric pathologies in humans. To obtain better insights into the potential role of wild boars as reservoirs of these pathogens, gastric samples of 14 animals were tested for the presence of H. pylori and H. suis DNA. Two wild boars were found PCR-positive for H. pylori and one for H. suis. This indicates that these microorganisms may colonize the stomach of wild boars.

Abstract

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a Gram-negative bacterium that infects half of the human population worldwide, causing gastric disorders, such as chronic gastritis, gastric or duodenal ulcers, and gastric malignancies. Helicobacter suis (H. suis) is mainly associated with pigs, but can also colonize the stomach of humans, resulting in gastric pathologies. In pigs, H. suis can induce gastritis and seems to play a role in gastric ulcer disease, seriously affecting animal production and welfare. Since close interactions between domestic animals, wildlife, and humans can increase bacterial transmission risk between species, samples of gastric tissue of 14 free range wild boars (Sus scrofa) were evaluated for the presence of H. pylori and H. suis using PCR. Samples from the antral gastric mucosa from two animals were PCR-positive for H. pylori and another one for H. suis. These findings indicate that these microorganisms were able to colonize the stomach of wild boars and raise awareness for their putative intervention in Helicobacter spp. transmission cycle.

Helicobacter canis bacteraemia in a rheumatoid arthritis patient treated with tofacitinib: case report and literature review

BACKGROUND

Non-Helicobacter pylori species (NHPS) are newly emerging bacteria that naturally inhabit birds and mammals apart from humans and rarely cause diseases in humans. In recent years, a rise in the number of cases associated with NHPS infections in humans has been observed. Among them, infections with Helicobacter (H.) canis are sporadic and challenging to recognise clinically. To date, ten cases of H. canis infections in mainly immunocompromised humans have been reported in the literature. Transmission pathway is most likely zoonotic via the faecal-oral route during close contacts with dogs and cats or may result from a contaminated sheep milk intake. No clear guidelines for successful antibiotic regimen are known. Important additional risk factor for infection might be biologic agents and Janus kinase inhibitors (JAKi) used in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and other conditions. Herein we present the first case of H. canis bacteraemia in a RA patient treated with novel JAKi tofacitinib.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 65-year-old female patient with RA and rituximab-induced hypogammaglobulinemia treated with tofacitinib, methotrexate, and methylprednisolone came to a planned visit in our outpatient rheumatology clinic. She presented with a history of back pain that significantly worsened 2 days before visit. She had numbness and tingling sensation in both legs and muscle weakness. Neurological examination was within a normal range. The patient was afebrile, had no chills, and was haemodynamically stable. She was in close contact with her pet dogs. Laboratory examination showed increased markers of inflammation. She was found to have H. canis bacteraemia with underlying multilevel degenerative lumbar spinal stenosis. Identification of H. canis was performed by MALDI-TOF MS and 16 S rRNA gene sequence analysis of isolate from subcultured positive aerobic blood culture bottles. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing showed low minimum inhibitory concentrations to amoxicillin-clavulanate, cefotaxime, ceftriaxone, meropenem, and gentamicin. She was treated with combined antibiotic regimen (ceftriaxone, doxycycline) for 14 days, which resulted in total remission of the infection.

CONCLUSIONS

Clinicians should recognise H. canis infection risk in patients with recent pet exposure and predisposing factors such as immunodeficiency disorders or diseases that demand immunosuppressive drug therapy. A minimum of two weeks of antibiotic therapy is suggested.

Evidence of Helicobacter spp. in Saliva and Gastric Mucosa of Domestic Dogs in the Central Region of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil

Helicobacter pylori is a spiral-shaped bacterium, which plays a role in the aetiology of gastric diseases in humans. Non-H. pylori Helicobacter (NHPH) species naturally colonise the stomach of animals and also induce gastric lesions in humans, highlighting their zoonotic importance. We evaluated the gastric bacterial colonisation density and gastric lesions and sought to identify the main phylogenetic groups of the Helicobacter spp. obtained from dogs in the central region of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, with this study aiming to investigate the occurrence of Helicobacter spp. in saliva and gastric samples from these dogs. This study included 35 dogs and used analysis such as cytology, histopathology, PCR, rapid urease testing, and phylogenetic analysis. Of the dogs, 94.3% were positive for Helicobacter spp., and these bacteria were present in the stomach of 32 dogs and saliva of eight. Respectively, eight, 15, and nine dogs had mild, moderate, and severe colonisation. Lymphocytic-plasmacytic infiltrate was the main gastric lesion. However, the presence of Helicobacter and the density appeared to be unrelated to the gastric lesions. The samples possessed a high nucleotide identity with remarkably similar sequences among some of the species of NHPH such as H. heilmannii s.s., H. salomonis, H. felis, and H. bizzozeronii. The saliva of domestic dogs, even of those who appear clinically healthy, can cause Helicobacter infection in humans and other animals, with, in these dogs, increased density, occurrence rate, and predominance of NHPH of zoonotic importance being found in the stomach with a lower occurrence of Helicobacter spp. in the saliva.

Association of Helicobacter bilis Infection with the Development of Colorectal Cancer

The role of Helicobacter_bilis (H.bilis) in the development of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and colitis-associated carcinogenesis (CAC) has seldom been investigated. We examined the abundance of H.bilis in 58 colorectal cancers (CRCs), 20 IBDs, 40 cases of normal colorectal mucosa (NCs), and 20 adenomas (ADs) by 16S rRNA fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). Number of CD4+CD45RB+T cell and expression of IFN-γ and TNF-α in these tissues was determined by immunofluorescence. The abundance of H.bilis was significantly higher in CRCs than that in IBDs (P = 0.006), ADs (P < 0.001) and NCs (P < 0.0001). The abundance of H.bilis in IBDs was significantly higher than that in ADs (P = 0.013). Moreover, the average number of CD4+CD45RB+T cell was significantly higher in CRCs than that in IBDs (P = 0.017) and NCs (P = 0.009). In addition, there was a positive correlation between the H.bilis abundance and density of CD4+CD45RB+T cells in 30 colorectal tissues (P < 0.0001). The frequency of co-staining for CD4+CD45RB+T cells and IFN-γ was significantly higher in H.bilis positive group than that in H.bilis negative group (P = 0.002). H.bilis may play a role in the initiation of IBD and CAC, possibly through promoting the transformation of T cells into CD4+CD45RB+T cells and increasing the expression of proinflammatory cytokines IFN-γ.

The combination of nutraceuticals and functional feeds as additives modulates gut microbiota and blood markers associated with immune response and health in weanling piglets

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of a combination of feed additives with complementary functional properties on the intestinal microbiota, homocysteine, and vitamins E and B status as well as systemic immune response of weanling piglets. At weaning, 32 litters were assigned to one of the following dietary treatments (DT): 1) conventional diet (CTRL); 2) CTRL diet supplemented with antibiotics (ATB); 3) a cocktail of feed additives containing cranberry extract, encapsulated carvacrol, yeast-derived products, and extra vitamins A, D, E, and B complex (CKTL); or 4) CKTL diet with bovine colostrum in replacement of plasma proteins (CKTL + COL). Within each litter, the piglets with lowest and highest birth weights (LBW and HBW, respectively) and two piglets of medium birth weight (MBW) were identified. The MBW piglets were euthanized at 42 d of age in order to characterize the ileal and colonic microbiota. Blood samples were also collected at weaning and at 42 d of age from LBW and HBW piglets to measure insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), cysteine, homocysteine, and vitamins E, B₆, and B₁₂, and to characterize the leukocyte populations. At 42 d of age, cytokine production by stimulated peripheral blood mononuclear cells was also measured. In a second experiment, piglets were reared under commercial conditions to evaluate the effects of the DT on the growth performance. At the indicator species analysis, the highest indicator value (IV) for Succinivibrio dextrinosolvens was found in the CKTL group, whereas the highest IV for Lactobacillus reuteri and Faecalibacterium prausnitzii was evidenced in the CKTL + COL group (P < 0.05). Compared with the other DT, CTRL piglets had higher concentrations of homocysteine, whereas the CKTL and CKTL + COL supplementations increased the concentrations of vitamins E and B₁₂ (P < 0.05). DT had no effect on IGF-1 concentration and on blood leukocytes populations; however, compared with HBW piglets, LBW animals had lower values of IGF-1, whereas the percentages of γδ T lymphocytes and T helper were decreased and increased, respectively (P < 0.05). CKTL + COL also improved the growth performance of piglets reared under commercial conditions (P < 0.05). This study highlights the impact of birth weight on piglet systemic immune defenses and the potential of weaning diet supplemented with feed additives and bovine colostrum to modulate the homocysteine metabolism and the intestinal microbiota.

Evidence supporting the microbiota-gut-brain axis in a songbird

Recent research in mammals supports a link between cognitive ability and the gut microbiome, but little is known about this relationship in other taxa. In a captive population of 38 zebra finch(es) (Taeniopygia guttata), we quantified performance on cognitive tasks measuring learning and memory. We sampled the gut microbiome via cloacal swab and quantified bacterial alpha and beta diversity. Performance on cognitive tasks related to beta diversity but not alpha diversity. We then identified differentially abundant genera influential in the beta diversity differences among cognitive performance categories. Though correlational, this study provides some of the first evidence of an avian microbiota-gut-brain axis, building foundations for future microbiome research in wild populations and during host development.

First report of PCR-based detection of Helicobacter species DNA in Camelus dromedarius in Egypt

Background and Aim:

Helicobacter species infections have epidemiological and zoonotic impacts, and different species of Helicobacter have been implicated in infecting humans and animals. The aim of this study was to investigate Helicobacter species infections in Camelus dromedarius.

Materials and Methods:

Fecal samples were collected from 32 camels from 9 camel farms located at Ismailia Governorate, Egypt. The collected samples were investigated by bacteriological isolation and conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays targeting the 16S ribosomal RNA gene.

Results:

Although Helicobacter species could not be isolated from all the examined samples, Helicobacter DNA was detected in 2 (22.22%) of the 9 camel farms. Of the 32 camel fecal samples examined, 4 (12.5%) were positive for Helicobacter species as analyzed by the PCR assay.

Conclusion:

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of PCR-based detection of Helicobacter species infections in C. dromedarius. Further epidemiological studies are required to clarify Helicobacter species infections in camels.

Helicobacter genus in the intestine and liver of stray cats: the molecular, histopathological, and immunohistochemical study

OBJECTIVES

The study was designed to determine the presence of Helicobacter genus and three species of H. pylori, H. bilis, and H. canis, in the duodenum, ileum, colon, and liver of stray cats. Moreover, the histopathological and immunohistochemical analyses have been performed.

METHODS

Samples were taken from the duodenum, ileum, colon, and liver of 30 cats for molecular and histopathological evaluations. Polymerase chain reaction was carried out for the detection of the Helicobacter genus in the mentioned samples. Then, species-specific primers were used in Helicobacter-positive samples.

RESULTS

Helicobacter genus prevalence rates in the duodenum, ileum, colon, and liver samples were 50%, 60%, 50%, and 43.3%, respectively. Helicobacter pylori, H. canis, and H. bilis were isolated from at least one tissue of 18 (60%), 13 (43.3%), and 8 (26.7%) of the cats, respectively. Immunohistochemical findings confirmed the presence of bacteria in the intestinal crypt or the mucosal layer of duodenum, ileum, colon, and hepatic sinusoids.

CONCLUSION

In the present study, the concurrent infection of duodenum and liver was noticeable. Furthermore, the high prevalence of H. pylori in cats, as a well-known human pathogen, should be considered. High incidence of Helicobacter in gut and liver of Ahvaz stray cats is noticeable. According to the zoonotic importance of Helicobacter, more studies in the field of treatment and prevention are highly recommended.

Prevalence of non Helicobacter pylori gastric Helicobacters in Iranian dyspeptic patients

BACKGROUND

Non Helicobacter pylori gastric Helicobacters (NHPGHs) are associated with a range of upper gastrointestinal symptoms, histologic and endoscopic findings. For the first time in Iran, we performed a cross-sectional study in order to determine the prevalence of five species of NHPGHs in patients presenting with dyspepsia.

METHODS

The participants were divided into H. pylori-infected and NHPGH-infected groups, based on the rapid urease test, histological analysis of biopsies, and PCR assay of ureA, ureB, and ureAB genes. The study included 428 gastric biopsies form dyspeptic patients, who did not receive any treatment for H. pylori. The samples were collected and sent to the laboratory within two years. H. pylori was identified in 368 samples, which were excluded from the study. Finally, a total of 60 non-H. pylori samples were studied for NHPGH species.

RESULTS

The overall frequency of NHPGH species was 10 for H. suis (three duodenal ulcer, three gastritis, and four gastric ulcer samples), 10 for H. felis (one gastritis, three duodenal ulcer, and six gastric ulcer samples), 20 for H. salomonis (four duodenal ulcer, five gastritis, and 11 gastric ulcer samples), 13 for H. heilmannii (three gastritis, five duodenal ulcer, and five gastric ulcer samples), and 7 for H. bizzozeronii (zero gastric ulcer, two duodenal ulcer, and five gastritis samples).

CONCLUSIONS

Given our evidence about the possibility of involvement of NHPGHs in patients suffering from gastritis and nonexistence of mixed H. pylori infection, bacteriological testing of subjects negative for H. pylori becomes clinically relevant and important. Our findings suggest H. salomonis has the highest rate among the NHPGH species in Iranian dyspeptic patients.

Comparison of media and growth conditions for culturing enterohepatic Helicobacter species

This research aims to compare the culturing conditions for enterohepatic Helicobacter, evaluating culture media, incubation atmosphere and susceptibility to antimicrobials used to generate selective conditions. Four common media for the closely related genus Campylobacter (Columbia, Bolton, Brucella and CCDA agar), as well as the need for hydrogen in the microaerobic incubation atmosphere, were evaluated. Serial dilutions of 13 strains belonging to six species (H. apodemus, H. bilis, H. canicola, H. canis, H. equorum and Helicobacter sp.) were inoculated in each media and incubated at 37°C for 48 to 96 h using CampyGen (OXOID) and gaseous exchange (including hydrogen) in parallel. Columbia or Brucella agars were the most appropriate for culturing EHH (P < 0·05). However, there was no significant difference between the atmospheres evaluated (P = 0·13). In addition, minimal inhibitory concentration for six antibiotics showed that all isolates were resistant to trimethoprim, whereas for the rest of the antibiotics (cephalothin, cefoperazone, cefsulodin, teicoplanin and vancomycin) the inhibition range was between 8 and 64 μg ml^{- 1} . Our findings suggest that Columbia or Brucella media, regardless of the use of hydrogen, can be used for the EHH isolation. In addition, the concentration of antibiotics included in commercial campylobacteria supplements is suitable for EHH species recovery. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY: Enterohepatic Helicobacter (EHH) infections have been associated with several diseases in humans such as acute gastroenteritis, inflammatory bowel disease and hepatobiliary diseases. Although they are frequently detected in clinical samples by molecular methods, only occasionally they are isolated using culture conditions described for the taxonomic related pathogen Campylobacter sp. This is because the optimal conditions for the isolation of EHH have not yet been described, which results in an underestimation of the prevalence and clinical importance of these emerging pathogens. Therefore, this study provides insight for culturing EHH species.

Helicobacter pullorum in broiler chickens and the farm environment: A one health approach

Aim: This study aimed to investigate the occurrence of Helicobacter pullorum in broiler chickens and their farm environment. Materials and Methods: The ceca from 100 broiler chickens from ten farms were sampled from processing sites or markets. The cecal contents were aseptically collected from each cecum and cultured. The farms were visited, and environmental samples were collected which included water, house flies, floor swabs and soils in chicken houses. Results: H. pullorum was present in 51% of the broilers; 17.5% of the flies were found to carry H. pullorum and Campylobacter spp., 30% of house floors were positive, while all water samples were negative. Conclusion: Flies could have picked up the organisms from the chickens' feces and/or the environment of the chicken houses or they could be one of the sources in the spread of the organisms. This study also showed that broiler chickens are potential reservoirs for H. pullorum and may serve as a source of infection for humans through the food chain.

Genotyping and antibiotic resistance properties of Helicobacter pylori strains isolated from human and animal gastric biopsies

Purpose

The present study was done to assess the prevalence rate, antibiotic resistance pattern and genotyping status of the Helicobacter pylori strains isolated from human and animal gastric biopsy samples.

Patients and methods

A total of 1,150 gastric biopsy samples were randomly collected from humans (children and adults) and animals (cows, sheep and goats). All samples were subjected to culture, urease test and histopathologic examination. H. pylori isolates were also confirmed using the 16S rRNA gene PCR-amplification. Antibiotic resistance pattern was assessed by the disk diffusion method. Distribution of different genotypes was studied by PCR.

Results

The prevalence of H. pylori in gastric biopsy samples which were studied using urease test, culture and histological examination were 57.04%, 55.40% and 60.80%, respectively. Samples that were collected from adult humans (78%) and sheep (70%) had the highest prevalence of H. pylori strains, while those of goats (0.6%) and cows (4%) had the lowest. Findings of the culture method were confirmed using PCR-based amplification of 16S rRNA. Distribution of H. pylori among the gastric ulcers, duodenal ulcers, chronic gastritis gastric cancer and chronic cancer samples were 10.40%, 15.70%, 96.50%, 0.60% and 3.14%, respectively. H. pylori strains harbored the highest prevalence of resistance against ampicillin (74.4%), clarithromycin (63.4%), trimethoprim (61.5%) and metronidazole (61.5%). The most commonly detected genotypes among the H. pylori strains isolated from different types of biopsy samples were cagA (84.79%), vacA m2 (55.95%), vacA s1a (49.84%), cagE (48.58%), iceA1 (47.02%) and iceA2 (47.02%).

Conclusion

High prevalence of antibiotic resistance and virulent genotypes indicates an important public health issue. Similarities in antibiotic resistance and genotyping pattern of H. pylori strains isolated from humans and animals may show their similar routes of infection.

Helicobacter pylori outer membrane vesicles involvement in the infection development and Helicobacter pylori-related diseases

Helicobacter pylori - (H. pylori) play a role in the pathogenesis of gastritis, gastric and duodenal ulcers as well as gastric cancer. A possible involvement of outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) produced by H. pylori in the distribution of bacterial antigens through the gastric epithelial barrier and their role in the development of local and systemic host inflammatory and immune responses has been suggested. OMVs contain various biologically active compounds, which internalize into host cells affecting signaling pathways and promoting apoptosis of gastric epithelial and immunocompetent cells. OMVs-associated H. pylori virulence factors may strengthen or downregulate the immune responses leading to disease development. This review describes the biological importance of H. pylori OMVs and their role in the course of H. pylori infections, as well as H. pylori related local and systemic effects.

First-time serological and molecular detection of Helicobacter pylori in milk from Algerian local-breed cows

AIM

The present study was conducted to detect and identify Helicobacter pylori within local cow breeds in the central region of Algeria.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Two hundred (n=200) cows from three provinces of the central region of Algeria were studied, between January 2016 and September 2017. Each cow was subject to stool, milk, and blood sampling. Milk and fecal samples were used to detect and identify H. pylori using bacteriology culture method. Blood and milk samples were used to detect H. pylori immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibody using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Polymerase chain reaction was used to confirm the abundance of H. pylori in milk by detecting glmM gene.

RESULTS

Out of 200 sera and 200 milk samples, 12% (24) and 4% (8/200) were positive for the H. pylori IgG antibody. glmM gene was detected in the milk of 13% of cows and was confirmed in all cows presenting IgG in milk.

CONCLUSION

From the present study, we concluded that the glmM gene is an important marker for detecting H. pylori in milk. Moreover, Algerian local-breed cows are a source of H. pylori and could be responsible for serious zoonosis.

Other Helicobacters and the gastric microbiome

The current article is a review of the most important, accessible, and relevant literature published between April 2017 and March 2018 on other Helicobacters and the gastric microbiome. The first part of the review focuses on literature describing non-Helicobacter pylori-Helicobacter (NHPH) infections in humans and animals whilst the subsequent section focuses specifically on the human gastric microbiome. Novel diagnostic methods as well as new NHPHs species have been identified in recent studies. Furthermore, our knowledge about the pathogenesis of NHPH infections has been further enhanced by important fundamental studies in cell lines and animal models. Over the last year, additional insights over the prevalence and potential prevention strategies of NHPHs have also been reported. With regard to understanding the gastric microbiome, new information detailing the structure of the gastric microbiota at different stages of H. pylori infection, within different patient geographical locations, was documented. There was also a study detailing the impact of proton-pump inhibitor usage and the effect on the gastric microbiome. Newer analysis approaches including defining the active microbiome through analysis of RNA rather than DNA-based sequencing were also published allowing the first assessments of the functional capabilities of the gastric microbiome.

Helicobacter pylori: A foodborne pathogen?

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is an organism that is widespread in the human population and is sometimes responsible for some of the most common chronic clinical disorders of the upper gastrointestinal tract in humans, such as chronic-active gastritis, duodenal and gastric ulcer disease, low-grade B-cell mucosa associated lymphoid tissue lymphoma of the stomach, and gastric adenocarcinoma, which is the third leading cause of cancer death worldwide. The routes of infection have not yet been firmly established, and different routes of transmission have been suggested, although the most commonly accepted hypothesis is that infection takes place through the faecal-oral route and that contaminated water and foods might play an important role in transmission of the microorganism to humans. Furthermore, several authors have considered H. pylori to be a foodborne pathogen because of some of its microbiological and epidemiological characteristics. H. pylori has been detected in drinking water, seawater, vegetables and foods of animal origin. H. pylori survives in complex foodstuffs such as milk, vegetables and ready-to-eat foods. This review article presents an overview of the present knowledge on the microbiological aspects in terms of phenotypic characteristics and growth requirements of H. pylori, focusing on the potential role that foodstuffs and water may play in the transmission of the pathogen to humans and the methods successfully used for the detection of this microorganism in foodstuffs and water.

Diagnosis of Helicobacter pylori Using Invasive and Noninvasive Approaches

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) as gram-negative and spiral microorganism is responsible for colonization in the gastric microniche for more than 50% of world population. Recent studies have shown a critical role of H. pylori in the development of peptic ulcers, gastric mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphoma, and gastric cancer. Over the past decade, there has been a sharp interest to use noninvasive tests in diagnosis of the H. pylori infection. During the years after discovery by Marshall and Warren, it has been frequently declared that the rapid urease test (RUT) is one of the cheapest and rapid diagnostic approaches used in detecting the infection. Although the specificity and sensitivity are durable for this test, clinical experiences had shown that the ideal results are only achieved only if we take biopsies from both corpus and antrum at the same time. Given the diagnosis of the H. pylori in clinical samples, gastroenterologists are facing a long list of various molecular and nonmolecular tests. We need more in-depth researches and investigations to correctly generalize rapid and accurate molecular tests determining both bacterial identity and antibiotic resistance profile.