1
|
Chowdhury S, Sadhukhan P, Mahata N. Immunoinformatics investigation on pathogenic Escherichia coli proteome to develop an epitope-based peptide vaccine candidate. Mol Divers 2024:10.1007/s11030-024-11034-0. [PMID: 39516450 DOI: 10.1007/s11030-024-11034-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2024] [Accepted: 10/26/2024] [Indexed: 11/16/2024]
Abstract
Escherichia coli (E. coli), a gram-negative bacterium, quickly colonizes in the human gastrointestinal tract after birth and typically sustains a long-term, symbiotic relationship with the host. However, certain virulent strains of E. coli can cause diseases such as urinary tract infections, meningitis, and enteric disorders. The rising antibiotic resistance among these strains has heightened the urgency for an effective vaccine. This study employs immunoinformatics and a reverse vaccinology technique to identify prospective antigens and create an efficient vaccine construct. In this study, we reported the "Attaching and Effacing Protein" a novel outer-membrane protein conserved in all pathogenic E. coli strains, based on proteome screening. We developed an in silico multi-epitope vaccine that includes helper T lymphocyte (HTL), cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL), B cell lymphocyte (BCL), and pan HLA DR-binding reactive epitope (PADRE) sequences, along with appropriate linkers and adjuvants. Machine Learning algorithms were used to evaluate antigenicity, solubility, stability, and non-allergenicity of the vaccine construct. Additionally, molecular docking analysis revealed that vaccine construct has a strong predicted binding affinity for human toll-like receptors on the cell surface. In this context, laboratory validations are necessary to demonstrate the effectiveness of the possible vaccine design that showed encouraging findings through computational validation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Soham Chowdhury
- Department of Life Science and Biotechnology, Jadavpur University, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Pinkan Sadhukhan
- Department of Biotechnology, National Institute of Technology Durgapur, Durgapur, 713209, India
| | - Nibedita Mahata
- Department of Biotechnology, National Institute of Technology Durgapur, Durgapur, 713209, India.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Xing Y, Clark JR, Chang JD, Zulk JJ, Chirman DM, Piedra FA, Vaughan EE, Hernandez Santos HJ, Patras KA, Maresso AW. Progress toward a vaccine for extraintestinal pathogenic E. coli (ExPEC) II: efficacy of a toxin-autotransporter dual antigen approach. Infect Immun 2024; 92:e0044023. [PMID: 38591882 PMCID: PMC11075464 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00440-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Extraintestinal pathogenic Escherichia coli (ExPEC) is a leading cause of worldwide morbidity and mortality, the top cause of antimicrobial-resistant (AMR) infections, and the most frequent cause of life-threatening sepsis and urinary tract infections (UTI) in adults. The development of an effective and universal vaccine is complicated by this pathogen's pan-genome, its ability to mix and match virulence factors and AMR genes via horizontal gene transfer, an inability to decipher commensal from pathogens, and its intimate association and co-evolution with mammals. Using a pan virulome analysis of >20,000 sequenced E. coli strains, we identified the secreted cytolysin α-hemolysin (HlyA) as a high priority target for vaccine exploration studies. We demonstrate that a catalytically inactive pure form of HlyA, expressed in an autologous host using its own secretion system, is highly immunogenic in a murine host, protects against several forms of ExPEC infection (including lethal bacteremia), and significantly lowers bacterial burdens in multiple organ systems. Interestingly, the combination of a previously reported autotransporter (SinH) with HlyA was notably effective, inducing near complete protection against lethal challenge, including commonly used infection strains ST73 (CFT073) and ST95 (UTI89), as well as a mixture of 10 of the most highly virulent sequence types and strains from our clinical collection. Both HlyA and HlyA-SinH combinations also afforded some protection against UTI89 colonization in a murine UTI model. These findings suggest recombinant, inactive hemolysin and/or its combination with SinH warrant investigation in the development of an E. coli vaccine against invasive disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yikun Xing
- Department of Molecular Virology and Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
- TAILOR Labs, Vaccine Development Group, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Justin R. Clark
- Department of Molecular Virology and Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
- TAILOR Labs, Vaccine Development Group, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - James D. Chang
- Department of Molecular Virology and Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
- TAILOR Labs, Vaccine Development Group, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Jacob J. Zulk
- Department of Molecular Virology and Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
- TAILOR Labs, Vaccine Development Group, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Dylan M. Chirman
- Department of Molecular Virology and Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
- TAILOR Labs, Vaccine Development Group, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Felipe-Andres Piedra
- Department of Molecular Virology and Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Ellen E. Vaughan
- Department of Molecular Virology and Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Haroldo J. Hernandez Santos
- Department of Molecular Virology and Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
- TAILOR Labs, Vaccine Development Group, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Kathryn A. Patras
- Department of Molecular Virology and Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
- Alkek Center for Metagenomics and Microbiome Research, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Anthony W. Maresso
- Department of Molecular Virology and Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
- TAILOR Labs, Vaccine Development Group, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Qiu L, Chirman D, Clark JR, Xing Y, Hernandez Santos H, Vaughan EE, Maresso AW. Vaccines against extraintestinal pathogenic Escherichia coli (ExPEC): progress and challenges. Gut Microbes 2024; 16:2359691. [PMID: 38825856 PMCID: PMC11152113 DOI: 10.1080/19490976.2024.2359691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/04/2024] Open
Abstract
The emergence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a principal global health crisis projected to cause 10 million deaths annually worldwide by 2050. While the Gram-negative bacteria Escherichia coli is commonly found as a commensal microbe in the human gut, some strains are dangerously pathogenic, contributing to the highest AMR-associated mortality. Strains of E. coli that can translocate from the gastrointestinal tract to distal sites, called extraintestinal E. coli (ExPEC), are particularly problematic and predominantly afflict women, the elderly, and immunocompromised populations. Despite nearly 40 years of clinical trials, there is still no vaccine against ExPEC. One reason for this is the remarkable diversity in the ExPEC pangenome across pathotypes, clades, and strains, with hundreds of genes associated with pathogenesis including toxins, adhesins, and nutrient acquisition systems. Further, ExPEC is intimately associated with human mucosal surfaces and has evolved creative strategies to avoid the immune system. This review summarizes previous and ongoing preclinical and clinical ExPEC vaccine research efforts to help identify key gaps in knowledge and remaining challenges.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ling Qiu
- Department of Molecular Virology and Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Dylan Chirman
- Department of Molecular Virology and Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Justin R. Clark
- Department of Molecular Virology and Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- Tailored Antibacterials and Innovative Laboratories for Phage (Φ) Research (TAILΦR), Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Yikun Xing
- Department of Molecular Virology and Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Haroldo Hernandez Santos
- Department of Molecular Virology and Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- Tailored Antibacterials and Innovative Laboratories for Phage (Φ) Research (TAILΦR), Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Ellen E. Vaughan
- Department of Molecular Virology and Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Anthony W. Maresso
- Department of Molecular Virology and Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- Tailored Antibacterials and Innovative Laboratories for Phage (Φ) Research (TAILΦR), Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Angulo-Zamudio UA, Flores-Villaseñor H, Leon-Sicairos N, Zazueta-Armenta D, Martínez-Villa FA, Tapia-Pastrana G, Angulo-Rocha J, Murillo-Llanes J, Barajas-Olivas MF, Canizalez-Roman A. Virulence-associated genes and antimicrobial resistance patterns in bacteria isolated from pregnant and nonpregnant women with urinary tract infections: the risk of neonatal sepsis. Can J Microbiol 2023; 69:488-500. [PMID: 37815047 DOI: 10.1139/cjm-2023-0046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/11/2023]
Abstract
Uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) is classified as the major causative agent of urinary tract infections (UTIs). UPEC virulence and antibiotic resistance can lead to complications in pregnant women and (or) newborns. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the etiological agents of UTIs, as well as to identify genes related to virulence factors in bacteria isolated from pregnant and nonpregnant women. A total of 4506 urine samples were collected from pregnant and nonpregnant women. Urine cultures were performed, and PCR was used to identify phylogroups and virulence-related genes. Antibiotic resistance profiles were determined. The incidence of UTIs was 6.9% (pregnant women, n = 206 and nonpregnant women, n = 57), and UPEC belonging to phylogroup A was the most prevalent. The presence of genes related to capsular protection, adhesins, iron acquisition, and serum protection in UPEC was associated with not being pregnant, while the presence of genes related to adhesins was associated with pregnancy. Bacteria isolated from nonpregnant women were more resistant to antibiotics; 36.5% were multidrug resistant, and 34.9% were extensively drug resistant. Finally, UTIs were associated with neonatal sepsis risk, particularly in pregnant women who underwent cesarean section while having a UTI caused by E. coli. In conclusion, UPEC isolated from nonpregnant women carried more virulence factors than those isolated from pregnant women, and maternal UTIs were associated with neonatal sepsis risk.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Hector Flores-Villaseñor
- School of Medicine, Autonomous University of Sinaloa, 80246 Culiacan Sinaloa, Mexico
- The Sinaloa State Public Health Laboratory, Secretariat of Health, 80200 Culiacan Sinaloa, Mexico
| | - Nidia Leon-Sicairos
- School of Medicine, Autonomous University of Sinaloa, 80246 Culiacan Sinaloa, Mexico
- Pediatric Hospital of Sinaloa, 80200 Culiacan Sinaloa, Mexico
| | - Dina Zazueta-Armenta
- School of Medicine, Autonomous University of Sinaloa, 80246 Culiacan Sinaloa, Mexico
- The Women's Hospital, Secretariat of Health, 80127 Culiacan Sinaloa, Mexico
| | | | - Gabriela Tapia-Pastrana
- Laboratorio de Investigación Biomédica, Hospital Regional de Alta Especialidad de Oaxaca, 71256 Oaxaca, Mexico
| | - Jorge Angulo-Rocha
- The Women's Hospital, Secretariat of Health, 80127 Culiacan Sinaloa, Mexico
| | | | | | - Adrian Canizalez-Roman
- School of Medicine, Autonomous University of Sinaloa, 80246 Culiacan Sinaloa, Mexico
- The Women's Hospital, Secretariat of Health, 80127 Culiacan Sinaloa, Mexico
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Zhou Y, Zhou Z, Zheng L, Gong Z, Li Y, Jin Y, Huang Y, Chi M. Urinary Tract Infections Caused by Uropathogenic Escherichia coli: Mechanisms of Infection and Treatment Options. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:10537. [PMID: 37445714 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241310537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common bacterial infections that represent a severe public health problem. They are often caused by Escherichia coli (E. coli), Klebsiella pneumoniae (K. pneumonia), Proteus mirabilis (P. mirabilis), Enterococcus faecalis (E. faecalis), and Staphylococcus saprophyticus (S. saprophyticus). Among these, uropathogenic E. coli (UPEC) are the most common causative agent in both uncomplicated and complicated UTIs. The adaptive evolution of UPEC has been observed in several ways, including changes in colonization, attachment, invasion, and intracellular replication to invade the urothelium and survive intracellularly. While antibiotic therapy has historically been very successful in controlling UTIs, high recurrence rates and increasing antimicrobial resistance among uropathogens threaten to greatly reduce the efficacy of these treatments. Furthermore, the gradual global emergence of multidrug-resistant UPEC has highlighted the need to further explore its pathogenesis and seek alternative therapeutic and preventative strategies. Therefore, a thorough understanding of the clinical status and pathogenesis of UTIs and the advantages and disadvantages of antibiotics as a conventional treatment option could spark a surge in the search for alternative treatment options, especially vaccines and medicinal plants. Such options targeting multiple pathogenic mechanisms of UPEC are expected to be a focus of UTI management in the future to help combat antibiotic resistance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yang Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants, Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutics, Guizhou Medical University, 4 Beijing Road, Guiyang 550004, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guizhou Medical University, 4 Beijing Road, Guiyang 550004, China
| | - Zuying Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants, Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutics, Guizhou Medical University, 4 Beijing Road, Guiyang 550004, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guizhou Medical University, 4 Beijing Road, Guiyang 550004, China
| | - Lin Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants, Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutics, Guizhou Medical University, 4 Beijing Road, Guiyang 550004, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guizhou Medical University, 4 Beijing Road, Guiyang 550004, China
| | - Zipeng Gong
- State Key Laboratory of Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants, Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutics, Guizhou Medical University, 4 Beijing Road, Guiyang 550004, China
| | - Yueting Li
- State Key Laboratory of Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants, Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutics, Guizhou Medical University, 4 Beijing Road, Guiyang 550004, China
| | - Yang Jin
- State Key Laboratory of Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants, Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutics, Guizhou Medical University, 4 Beijing Road, Guiyang 550004, China
| | - Yong Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants, Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutics, Guizhou Medical University, 4 Beijing Road, Guiyang 550004, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guizhou Medical University, 4 Beijing Road, Guiyang 550004, China
| | - Mingyan Chi
- State Key Laboratory of Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants, Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutics, Guizhou Medical University, 4 Beijing Road, Guiyang 550004, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guizhou Medical University, 4 Beijing Road, Guiyang 550004, China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Pokharel P, Dhakal S, Dozois CM. The Diversity of Escherichia coli Pathotypes and Vaccination Strategies against This Versatile Bacterial Pathogen. Microorganisms 2023; 11:344. [PMID: 36838308 PMCID: PMC9965155 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11020344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2023] [Revised: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Escherichia coli (E. coli) is a gram-negative bacillus and resident of the normal intestinal microbiota. However, some E. coli strains can cause diseases in humans, other mammals and birds ranging from intestinal infections, for example, diarrhea and dysentery, to extraintestinal infections, such as urinary tract infections, respiratory tract infections, meningitis, and sepsis. In terms of morbidity and mortality, pathogenic E. coli has a great impact on public health, with an economic cost of several billion dollars annually worldwide. Antibiotics are not usually used as first-line treatment for diarrheal illness caused by E. coli and in the case of bloody diarrhea, antibiotics are avoided due to the increased risk of hemolytic uremic syndrome. On the other hand, extraintestinal infections are treated with various antibiotics depending on the site of infection and susceptibility testing. Several alarming papers concerning the rising antibiotic resistance rates in E. coli strains have been published. The silent pandemic of multidrug-resistant bacteria including pathogenic E. coli that have become more difficult to treat favored prophylactic approaches such as E. coli vaccines. This review provides an overview of the pathogenesis of different pathotypes of E. coli, the virulence factors involved and updates on the major aspects of vaccine development against different E. coli pathotypes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pravil Pokharel
- Centre Armand-Frappier Santé Biotechnologie, Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique (INRS), 531 Boul des Prairies, Laval, QC H7V 1B7, Canada
- Centre de Recherche en Infectiologie Porcine et Avicole (CRIPA), Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal Saint-Hyacinthe, Saint-Hyacinthe, QC J2S 2M2, Canada
| | - Sabin Dhakal
- Centre Armand-Frappier Santé Biotechnologie, Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique (INRS), 531 Boul des Prairies, Laval, QC H7V 1B7, Canada
- Centre de Recherche en Infectiologie Porcine et Avicole (CRIPA), Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal Saint-Hyacinthe, Saint-Hyacinthe, QC J2S 2M2, Canada
| | - Charles M. Dozois
- Centre Armand-Frappier Santé Biotechnologie, Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique (INRS), 531 Boul des Prairies, Laval, QC H7V 1B7, Canada
- Centre de Recherche en Infectiologie Porcine et Avicole (CRIPA), Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal Saint-Hyacinthe, Saint-Hyacinthe, QC J2S 2M2, Canada
- Pasteur Network, Laval, QC H7V 1B7, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Hisyam Bin Ismail CMK, Raihan Mohammad Shabani N, Chuah C, Hassan Z, Bakar Abdul Majeed A, Herng Leow C, Kaur Banga Singh K, Yee Leow C. Shigella iron-binding proteins: An insight into molecular physiology, pathogenesis, and potential target vaccine development. Vaccine 2022; 40:3991-3998. [PMID: 35660036 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2022.05.061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2021] [Revised: 11/21/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Shigella is a well-known etiological agent responsible for intestinal infection among children, the elderly, and immunocompromised people ranging from mild to severe cases. Shigellosis remains endemic in Malaysia and yet there is no commercial vaccine available to eradicate the disease. Iron is an essential element for the survival of Shigella within the host. Hence, it is required for regulating metabolic mechanisms and virulence determinants. Alteration of iron status in the extracellular environment directly triggers the signal in enteropathogenic bacterial, providing information that they are in a hostile environment. To survive in an iron-limited environment, molecular regulation of iron-binding proteins plays a vital role in facilitating the transportation and utilization of sufficient iron sources. Given the importance of iron molecules for bacterial survival and pathogenicity, this review summarizes the physiological role of iron-binding proteins in bacterial survival and their potential use in vaccine and therapeutic developments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Nor Raihan Mohammad Shabani
- Institute for Research in Molecular Medicine (INFORMM), Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800 Minden, Penang, Malaysia; Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Kampus Bertam, 13200 Kepala Batas, Penang, Malaysia
| | - Candy Chuah
- Department of Medical and Parasitology, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 16150 Kubang Kerian, Kelantan, Malaysia; Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Kampus Bertam, 13200 Kepala Batas, Penang, Malaysia
| | - Zurina Hassan
- Centre for Drug Research, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800 Minden, Penang, Malaysia
| | - Abu Bakar Abdul Majeed
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Kampus Puncak Alam, 42300 Kuala Selangor, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Chiuan Herng Leow
- Institute for Research in Molecular Medicine (INFORMM), Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800 Minden, Penang, Malaysia
| | - Kirnpal Kaur Banga Singh
- Department of Medical and Parasitology, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 16150 Kubang Kerian, Kelantan, Malaysia
| | - Chiuan Yee Leow
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800 Minden, Penang, Malaysia.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Butler D, Ambite I, Wan MLY, Tran TH, Wullt B, Svanborg C. Immunomodulation therapy offers new molecular strategies to treat UTI. Nat Rev Urol 2022; 19:419-437. [PMID: 35732832 PMCID: PMC9214477 DOI: 10.1038/s41585-022-00602-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Innovative solutions are needed for the treatment of bacterial infections, and a range of antibacterial molecules have been explored as alternatives to antibiotics. A different approach is to investigate the immune system of the host for new ways of making the antibacterial defence more efficient. However, the immune system has a dual role as protector and cause of disease: in addition to being protective, increasing evidence shows that innate immune responses can become excessive and cause acute symptoms and tissue pathology during infection. This role of innate immunity in disease suggests that the immune system should be targeted therapeutically, to inhibit over-reactivity. The ultimate goal is to develop therapies that selectively attenuate destructive immune response cascades, while augmenting the protective antimicrobial defence but such treatment options have remained underexplored, owing to the molecular proximity of the protective and destructive effects of the immune response. The concept of innate immunomodulation therapy has been developed successfully in urinary tract infections, based on detailed studies of innate immune activation and disease pathogenesis. Effective, disease-specific, immunomodulatory strategies have been developed by targeting specific immune response regulators including key transcription factors. In acute pyelonephritis, targeting interferon regulatory factor 7 using small interfering RNA or treatment with antimicrobial peptide cathelicidin was protective and, in acute cystitis, targeting overactive effector molecules such as IL-1β, MMP7, COX2, cAMP and the pain-sensing receptor NK1R has been successful in vivo. Furthermore, other UTI treatment strategies, such as inhibiting bacterial adhesion and vaccination, have also shown promise. Hyperactivation of innate immunity is a disease determinant in urinary tract infections (UTIs). Modulation of innate immunity has promise as a therapy for UTIs. In this Review, the authors discuss potential mechanisms and immunomodulatory therapeutic strategies in UTIs. Excessive innate immune responses to infection cause symptoms and pathology in acute pyelonephritis and acute cystitis. Innate immunomodulation therapy is, therefore, a realistic option for treating these conditions. Targeting excessive innate immune responses at the level of transcription has been successful in animal models. Innate immunomodulation therapy reduces excessive inflammation and tissue pathology and accelerates bacterial clearance from infected kidneys and bladders in mice. Innate immunomodulation therapy also accelerates the clearance of antibiotic-resistant bacterial strains.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Butler
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Glycobiology, Institute of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Ines Ambite
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Glycobiology, Institute of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Murphy Lam Yim Wan
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Glycobiology, Institute of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Thi Hien Tran
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Glycobiology, Institute of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Björn Wullt
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Glycobiology, Institute of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Catharina Svanborg
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Glycobiology, Institute of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Soltan MA, Behairy MY, Abdelkader MS, Albogami S, Fayad E, Eid RA, Darwish KM, Elhady SS, Lotfy AM, Alaa Eldeen M. In silico Designing of an Epitope-Based Vaccine Against Common E. coli Pathotypes. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:829467. [PMID: 35308494 PMCID: PMC8931290 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.829467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Escherichia coli (E. coli) is a Gram-negative bacterium that belongs to the family Enterobacteriaceae. While E. coli can stay as an innocuous resident in the digestive tract, it can cause a group of symptoms ranging from diarrhea to live threatening complications. Due to the increased rate of antibiotic resistance worldwide, the development of an effective vaccine against E. coli pathotypes is a major health priority. In this study, a reverse vaccinology approach along with immunoinformatics has been applied for the detection of potential antigens to develop an effective vaccine. Based on our screening of 5,155 proteins, we identified lipopolysaccharide assembly protein (LptD) and outer membrane protein assembly factor (BamA) as vaccine candidates for the current study. The conservancy of these proteins in the main E. coli pathotypes was assessed through BLASTp to make sure that the designed vaccine will be protective against major E. coli pathotypes. The multitope vaccine was constructed using cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL), helper T lymphocyte (HTL), and B cell lymphocyte (BCL) epitopes with suitable linkers and adjuvant. Following that, it was analyzed computationally where it was found to be antigenic, soluble, stable, and non-allergen. Additionally, the adopted docking study, as well as all-atom molecular dynamics simulation, illustrated the promising predicted affinity and free binding energy of this constructed vaccine against the human Toll-like receptor-4 (hTLR-4) dimeric state. In this regard, wet lab studies are required to prove the efficacy of the potential vaccine construct that demonstrated promising results through computational validation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed A. Soltan
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Sinai University, Ismailia, Egypt
| | - Mohammed Y. Behairy
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Sadat City, Sadat City, Egypt
| | - Mennatallah S. Abdelkader
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt
| | - Sarah Albogami
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Science, Taif University, Taif, Saudi Arabia
| | - Eman Fayad
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Science, Taif University, Taif, Saudi Arabia
| | - Refaat A. Eid
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
| | - Khaled M. Darwish
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt
| | - Sameh S. Elhady
- Department of Natural Products, Faculty of Pharmacy, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmed M. Lotfy
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
| | - Muhammad Alaa Eldeen
- Division of Cell Biology, Histology and Genetics, Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Torres-Puig S, García V, Stærk K, Andersen TE, Møller-Jensen J, Olsen JE, Herrero-Fresno A. “Omics” Technologies - What Have They Told Us About Uropathogenic Escherichia coli Fitness and Virulence During Urinary Tract Infection? Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:824039. [PMID: 35237532 PMCID: PMC8882828 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.824039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) is the main etiological agent of urinary tract infection (UTI), a widespread infectious disease of great impact on human health. This is further emphasized by the rapidly increase in antimicrobial resistance in UPEC, which compromises UTI treatment. UPEC biology is highly complex since uropathogens must adopt extracellular and intracellular lifestyles and adapt to different niches in the host. In this context, the implementation of forefront ‘omics’ technologies has provided substantial insight into the understanding of UPEC pathogenesis, which has opened the doors for new therapeutics and prophylactics discovery programs. Thus, ‘omics’ technologies applied to studies of UPEC during UTI, or in models of UTI, have revealed extensive lists of factors that are important for the ability of UPEC to cause disease. The multitude of large ‘omics’ datasets that have been generated calls for scrutinized analysis of specific factors that may be of interest for further development of novel treatment strategies. In this review, we describe main UPEC determinants involved in UTI as estimated by ‘omics’ studies, and we compare prediction of factors across the different ‘omics’ technologies, with a focus on those that have been confirmed to be relevant under UTI-related conditions. We also discuss current challenges and future perspectives regarding analysis of data to provide an overview and better understanding of UPEC mechanisms involved in pathogenesis which should assist in the selection of target sites for future prophylaxis and treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sergi Torres-Puig
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Vanesa García
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg, Denmark
- Laboratorio de Referencia de Escherichia coli (LREC), Departamento de Microbioloxía e Parasitoloxía, Facultade de Veterinaria, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela (USC), Lugo, Spain
| | - Kristian Stærk
- Research Unit of Clinical Microbiology, University of Southern Denmark and Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | - Thomas E. Andersen
- Research Unit of Clinical Microbiology, University of Southern Denmark and Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | - Jakob Møller-Jensen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - John E. Olsen
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Ana Herrero-Fresno
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg, Denmark
- *Correspondence: Ana Herrero-Fresno,
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Yamamura F, Sugiura T, Munby M, Shiokura Y, Murata R, Nakamura T, Fujiki J, Iwano H. Relationship between Escherichia coli virulence factors, notably kpsMTII, and symptoms of clinical metritis and endometritis in dairy cows. J Vet Med Sci 2022; 84:420-428. [PMID: 35082195 PMCID: PMC8983293 DOI: 10.1292/jvms.21-0586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Although Escherichia coli is a commensal bacterium of the bovine vaginal microbiota, it is an important pathogenic bacterium that causes diseases of the reproductive tract and sub-fertility. Recent studies have focused on virulence factors (VFs) of intrauterine E. coli; however, actual endometrial VFs have not been clearly identified. The purpose of this study was to identify the VFs of E. coli associated with clinical metritis and endometritis. Thirty-two strains of E. coli and four mixed Trueperella pyogenes (TP) strains were detected in the uterus of 19 Holstein dairy cows with obvious clinical signs (between 8 and 66 days postpartum). The presence of six E. coli VFs (fimH, fyuA, kpsMTII, hra1, csgA, and astA) was examined by PCR, and clinical signs and reproductive performance (mixed TP, the percentage of polymorphonuclear neutrophils [PMN%], days to uterine involution, etc.) were evaluated. Four VFs (fimH, hra1, csgA, and astA) were detected in all E. coli strains, whereas fyuA and kpsMTII were detected in 94% and 50% of strains, respectively. Cows with E. coli strains harboring kpsMTII exhibited significantly severe clinical scores (vaginal discharge score, PMN%, uterine involution), suggesting that kpsMTII is a key VF for progression of clinical metritis and endometritis. In the present study, we clearly identified six VFs associated with clinical metritis and endometritis. In addition, E. coli strains with kpsMTII probably play a crucial role in the progression of clinical metritis and endometritis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fuminosuke Yamamura
- Laboratory of Veterinary Biochemistry, School of Veterinary Medicine, Rakuno Gakuen University
| | - Tomochika Sugiura
- Laboratory of Theriogenology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Rakuno Gakuen University
| | - Montgomery Munby
- Laboratory of Veterinary Biochemistry, School of Veterinary Medicine, Rakuno Gakuen University
| | - Yusei Shiokura
- Laboratory of Veterinary Biochemistry, School of Veterinary Medicine, Rakuno Gakuen University
| | - Ryo Murata
- Laboratory of Food Microbiology and Food Safety, School of Veterinary Medicine, Rakuno Gakuen University
| | - Tomohiro Nakamura
- Laboratory of Veterinary Biochemistry, School of Veterinary Medicine, Rakuno Gakuen University
| | - Jumpei Fujiki
- Laboratory of Veterinary Biochemistry, School of Veterinary Medicine, Rakuno Gakuen University
| | - Hidetomo Iwano
- Laboratory of Veterinary Biochemistry, School of Veterinary Medicine, Rakuno Gakuen University
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Josephs-Spaulding J, Krogh TJ, Rettig HC, Lyng M, Chkonia M, Waschina S, Graspeuntner S, Rupp J, Møller-Jensen J, Kaleta C. Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections: Unraveling the Complicated Environment of Uncomplicated rUTIs. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2021; 11:562525. [PMID: 34368008 PMCID: PMC8340884 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2021.562525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2020] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are frequent in humans, affecting the upper and lower urinary tract. Present diagnosis relies on the positive culture of uropathogenic bacteria from urine and clinical markers of inflammation of the urinary tract. The bladder is constantly challenged by adverse environmental stimuli which influence urinary tract physiology, contributing to a dysbiotic environment. Simultaneously, pathogens are primed by environmental stressors such as antibiotics, favoring recurrent UTIs (rUTIs), resulting in chronic illness. Due to different confounders for UTI onset, a greater understanding of the fundamental environmental mechanisms and microbial ecology of the human urinary tract is required. Such advancements could promote the tandem translation of bench and computational studies for precision treatments and clinical management of UTIs. Therefore, there is an urgent need to understand the ecological interactions of the human urogenital microbial communities which precede rUTIs. This review aims to outline the mechanistic aspects of rUTI ecology underlying dysbiosis between both the human microbiome and host physiology which predisposes humans to rUTIs. By assessing the applications of next generation and systems level methods, we also recommend novel approaches to elucidate the systemic consequences of rUTIs which requires an integrated approach for successful treatment. To this end, we will provide an outlook towards the so-called 'uncomplicated environment of UTIs', a holistic and systems view that applies ecological principles to define patient-specific UTIs. This perspective illustrates the need to withdraw from traditional reductionist perspectives in infection biology and instead, a move towards a systems-view revolving around patient-specific pathophysiology during UTIs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Josephs-Spaulding
- Research Group Medical Systems Biology, Institute of Experimental Medicine, Christian-Albrechts-Universität, Kiel, Germany
| | - Thøger Jensen Krogh
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Hannah Clara Rettig
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Mark Lyng
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Mariam Chkonia
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Silvio Waschina
- Research Group Nutriinformatics, Institute of Human Nutrition and Food Science, Christian-Albrechts-Universität, Kiel, Germany
| | - Simon Graspeuntner
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Jan Rupp
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner site Hamburg-Lübeck-Borstel-Riems, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Jakob Møller-Jensen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Christoph Kaleta
- Research Group Medical Systems Biology, Institute of Experimental Medicine, Christian-Albrechts-Universität, Kiel, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Comparative Pathogenomics of Escherichia coli: Polyvalent Vaccine Target Identification through Virulome Analysis. Infect Immun 2021; 89:e0011521. [PMID: 33941580 PMCID: PMC8281228 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00115-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Comparative genomics of bacterial pathogens has been useful for revealing potential virulence factors. Escherichia coli is a significant cause of human morbidity and mortality worldwide but can also exist as a commensal in the human gastrointestinal tract. With many sequenced genomes, it has served as a model organism for comparative genomic studies to understand the link between genetic content and potential for virulence. To date, however, no comprehensive analysis of its complete “virulome” has been performed for the purpose of identifying universal or pathotype-specific targets for vaccine development. Here, we describe the construction of a pathotype database of 107 well-characterized completely sequenced pathogenic and nonpathogenic E. coli strains, which we annotated for major virulence factors (VFs). The data are cross referenced for patterns against pathotype, phylogroup, and sequence type, and the results were verified against all 1,348 complete E. coli chromosomes in the NCBI RefSeq database. Our results demonstrate that phylogroup drives many of the “pathotype-associated” VFs, and ExPEC-associated VFs are found predominantly within the B2/D/F/G phylogenetic clade, suggesting that these phylogroups are better adapted to infect human hosts. Finally, we used this information to propose polyvalent vaccine targets with specificity toward extraintestinal strains, targeting key invasive strategies, including immune evasion (group 2 capsule), iron acquisition (FyuA, IutA, and Sit), adherence (SinH, Afa, Pap, Sfa, and Iha), and toxins (Usp, Sat, Vat, Cdt, Cnf1, and HlyA). While many of these targets have been proposed before, this work is the first to examine their pathotype and phylogroup distribution and how they may be targeted together to prevent disease.
Collapse
|
14
|
Wang J, Xiong K, Pan Q, He W, Cong Y. Application of TonB-Dependent Transporters in Vaccine Development of Gram-Negative Bacteria. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2021; 10:589115. [PMID: 33585268 PMCID: PMC7873555 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2020.589115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2020] [Accepted: 12/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Multiple scarce nutrients, such as iron and nickel, are essential for bacterial growth. Gram-negative bacteria secrete chelators to bind these nutrients from the environment competitively. The transport of the resulting complexes into bacterial cells is mediated by TonB-dependent transporters (TBDTs) located at the outer membrane in Gram-negative bacteria. The characteristics of TBDTs, including surface exposure, protective immunogenicity, wide distribution, inducible expression in vivo, and essential roles in pathogenicity, make them excellent candidates for vaccine development. The possible application of a large number of TBDTs in immune control of the corresponding pathogens has been recently investigated. This paper summarizes the latest progresses and current major issues in the application.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jia Wang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Traditional Medicine Hospital Affiliated to Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Kun Xiong
- Department of Cold Environmental Medicine, Institute of High Altitude Military Medicine, Army Medical University, Chongqiong, China
| | - Qu Pan
- Department of Microbiology, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, China
| | - Weifeng He
- Department of Burn, Southwest Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yanguang Cong
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Traditional Medicine Hospital Affiliated to Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China.,Precision Medicine Center, Traditional Medicine Hospital Affiliated to Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Comparison of virulence genes and phylogenetic groups of Escherichia coli isolates from urinary tract infections and normal fecal flora. GENE REPORTS 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.genrep.2020.100709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
|
16
|
Forsyth VS, Himpsl SD, Smith SN, Sarkissian CA, Mike LA, Stocki JA, Sintsova A, Alteri CJ, Mobley HLT. Optimization of an Experimental Vaccine To Prevent Escherichia coli Urinary Tract Infection. mBio 2020; 11:e00555-20. [PMID: 32345645 PMCID: PMC7188996 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.00555-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2020] [Accepted: 03/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Urinary tract infections (UTI) affect half of all women at least once during their lifetime. The rise in the numbers of extended-spectrum beta-lactamase-producing strains and the potential for carbapenem resistance within uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC), the most common causative agent of UTI, create an urgent need for vaccine development. Intranasal immunization of mice with UPEC outer membrane iron receptors FyuA, Hma, IreA, and IutA, conjugated to cholera toxin, provides protection in the bladder or kidneys under conditions of challenge with UPEC strain CFT073 or strain 536. On the basis of these data, we sought to optimize the vaccination route (intramuscular, intranasal, or subcutaneous) in combination with adjuvants suitable for human use, including aluminum hydroxide gel (alum), monophosphoryl lipid A (MPLA), unmethylated CpG synthetic oligodeoxynucleotides (CpG), polyinosinic:polycytidylic acid (polyIC), and mutated heat-labile E. coli enterotoxin (dmLT). Mice intranasally vaccinated with dmLT-IutA and dmLT-Hma displayed significant reductions in bladder colonization (86-fold and 32-fold, respectively), with 40% to 42% of mice having no detectable CFU. Intranasal vaccination of mice with CpG-IutA and polyIC-IutA significantly reduced kidney colonization (131-fold) and urine CFU (22-fold), respectively. dmLT generated the most consistently robust antibody response in intranasally immunized mice, while MPLA and alum produced greater concentrations of antigen-specific serum IgG with intramuscular immunization. On the basis of these results, we conclude that intranasal administration of Hma or IutA formulated with dmLT adjuvant provides the greatest protection from UPEC UTI. This report advances our progress toward a vaccine against uncomplicated UTI, which will significantly improve the quality of life for women burdened by recurrent UTI and enable better antibiotic stewardship.IMPORTANCE Urinary tract infections (UTI) are among the most common bacterial infection in humans, affecting half of all women at least once during their lifetimes. The rise in antibiotic resistance and health care costs emphasizes the need to develop a vaccine against the most common UTI pathogen, Escherichia coli Vaccinating mice intranasally with a detoxified heat-labile enterotoxin and two surface-exposed receptors, Hma or IutA, significantly reduced bacterial burden in the bladder. This work highlights progress in the development of a UTI vaccine formulated with adjuvants suitable for human use and antigens that encode outer membrane iron receptors required for infection in the iron-limited urinary tract.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Valerie S Forsyth
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Stephanie D Himpsl
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Sara N Smith
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Christina A Sarkissian
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Laura A Mike
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Jolie A Stocki
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Anna Sintsova
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Christopher J Alteri
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Department of Natural Sciences, University of Michigan-Dearborn, Dearborn, Michigan, USA
| | - Harry L T Mobley
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Asadi Karam MR, Habibi M, Bouzari S. Urinary tract infection: Pathogenicity, antibiotic resistance and development of effective vaccines against Uropathogenic Escherichia coli. Mol Immunol 2019; 108:56-67. [PMID: 30784763 DOI: 10.1016/j.molimm.2019.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2018] [Revised: 02/02/2019] [Accepted: 02/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are recognized as one of the most common infectious diseases in the world that can be divided to different types. Uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) strains are the most prevalent causative agent of UTIs that applied different virulence factors such as fimbriae, capsule, iron scavenger receptors, flagella, toxins, and lipopolysaccharide for their pathogenicity in the urinary tract. Despite the high pathogenicity of UPEC strains, host utilizes different immune systems such as innate and adaptive immunity for eradication of them from the urinary tract. The routine therapy of UTIs is based on the use of antibiotics such as β-lactams, trimethoprim, nitrofurantoin and quinolones in many countries. Unfortunately, the widespread and misuse of these antibiotics resulted in the increasing rate of resistance to them in the societies. Increasing antibiotic resistance and their side effects on human body show the need to develop alternative strategies such as vaccine against UTIs. Developing a vaccine against UTI pathogens will have an important role in reduction the mortality rate as well as reducing economic costs. Different vaccines based on the whole cells (killed or live-attenuated vaccines) and antigens (subunits, toxins and conjugatedvaccines) have been evaluated against UTIs pathogens. Furthermore, other therapeutic strategies such as the use of probiotics and antimicrobial peptides are considered against UTIs. Despite the extensive efforts, limited success has been achieved and more studies are needed to reach an alternative of antibiotics for treatment of UTIs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Mehri Habibi
- Department of Molecular Biology, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Pasteur Ave., Tehran, 13164, Iran.
| | - Saeid Bouzari
- Department of Molecular Biology, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Pasteur Ave., Tehran, 13164, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Choubini E, Habibi M, Khorshidi A, Ghasemi A, Asadi Karam MR, Bouzari S. A novel multi-peptide subunit vaccine admixed with AddaVax adjuvant produces significant immunogenicity and protection against Proteus mirabilis urinary tract infection in mice model. Mol Immunol 2018. [PMID: 29525454 DOI: 10.1016/j.molimm.2018.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Proteus mirabilis is a common pathogen in urinary tract infections (UTIs). There is no vaccine against P. mirabilis, thus a novel multi-peptide vaccine of MrpA, UcaA and Pta factors of P. mirabilis we designed and a mice model was used to evaluate its efficacy in combination with AddaVax adjuvant. According to the bioinformatics studies, 7 fragments of MrpA (31-75, 112-146), UcaA (68-117, 132-156) and Pta (210-265, 340-400, 496-570) with B and T cell epitope regions were selected for fusion construction. Mice subcutaneously vaccinated with the fusion MrpA.Pta.UcaA induced a significant increase in serum and mucosal IgG and IgA responses. The fusion also showed a significant induction in cellular responses (Th1 and Th2). The addition of AddaVax to fusion and the mixture of MrpA, UcaA, and Pta (MUP) improved the humoral and cellular responses, especially the IgG2a and IFN-γ (Th1 responses) levels. Fusion with and without AddaVax and MUP + AddaVax could maintain significant humoral responses until 6 months after the first vaccine dose. All vaccine combinations with and without adjuvant showed high effectiveness in the protection of the bladder and kidney against experimental UTI; this could be attributed to the significant humoral and cellular responses. The present study suggests that the AddaVax-based vaccine formulations especially the fusion Pta.MrpA.UcaA admixed with AddaVax as potential vaccine candidates for protection against P. mirabilis. Furthermore, AddaVax could be considered as an effective adjuvant in designing other vaccines against UTI pathogens.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ehsan Choubini
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran; Department of Molecular Biology, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Pasteur Ave., Tehran 13164, Iran
| | - Mehri Habibi
- Department of Molecular Biology, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Pasteur Ave., Tehran 13164, Iran
| | - Ahmad Khorshidi
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
| | - Amir Ghasemi
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
| | | | - Saeid Bouzari
- Department of Molecular Biology, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Pasteur Ave., Tehran 13164, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Habibi M, Asadi Karam MR, Bouzari S. Construction and evaluation of the immune protection of a recombinant divalent protein composed of the MrpA from MR/P fimbriae and flagellin of Proteus mirabilis strain against urinary tract infection. Microb Pathog 2018; 117:348-355. [PMID: 29452195 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2018.02.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2018] [Revised: 02/08/2018] [Accepted: 02/12/2018] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Urinary tract infections (UTI) caused by Proteus mirabilis are prevalent among the catheterized patients. There is no effective vaccine to reduce the frequency of UTIs caused by P. mirabilis. In the present study, the immune responses and effectiveness of different combinations of MrpA and flagellin (FliC) of P. mirabilis were assessed intranasally in the mice model. The addition of FliC as adjuvant to MrpA in fusion form significantly raised the mucosal IgA and cellular (IFN-γ and IL-17) responses and maintained the serum IgG responses for 180 days after the first vaccination. Furthermore, MrpA in fusion form with FliC significantly increased the systemic, mucosal and IFN-γ responses of the FliC alone. In a bladder challenge assay with P. mirabilis, the fusion MrpA.FliC and the mixture of MrpA and FliC significantly decreased the colony count of the bacteria in the bladder and kidneys of mice in comparison to the control mice. It suggests a complex of the systemic, mucosal and cellular responses are needed for protection of the bladder and kidneys against P. mirabilis UTI. In our knowledge, the adjuvant property of the recombinant P. mirabilis flagellin was evaluated for the first time in a vaccine combination administered by an intranasal route. Our results suggest the recombinant flagellin of P. mirabilis could be used as an intranasal adjuvant in combination with other potential antigens against UTIs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mehri Habibi
- Department of Molecular Biology, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Pasteur Ave., Tehran 13164, Iran
| | | | - Saeid Bouzari
- Department of Molecular Biology, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Pasteur Ave., Tehran 13164, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|