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Su S, Li Z, Sun Y, Gao S, Gao Q. The multifaceted role of TolA protein in promoting survival, biofilm formation and virulence of avian pathogenic Escherichia coli. Poult Sci 2024; 103:104142. [PMID: 39106694 PMCID: PMC11343052 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2024.104142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2024] [Revised: 06/26/2024] [Accepted: 07/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Avian pathogenic Escherichia coli (APEC) can spread beyond the intestines and cause systemic infections, leading to various clinical manifestations, including airsacculitis, pericarditis, perihepatitis and colisepticemia. The mechanisms facilitating this extraintestinal infections are not fully understood. In this study, we investigate how the tolA gene affects APEC virulence by encoding a protein involved in maintaining outer membrane integrity. We constructed a tolA deletion mutant of APEC strain E058 and evaluated its growth and survival in various environments, including in vitro cultures and in vivo infection models in chickens. We found that the motility-defective ΔtolA mutant exhibits reduced biofilm formation ability and weakened resistance to the environmental stresses, suggesting an important role for TolA in APEC's survival. The lack of tolA gene affects the bacterial ability to resist the host's immune system, such as complement-mediated serum killing or phagocytosis, as shown by the serum killing and macrophage phagocytosis assays. Additionally, in vivo infection studies using chickens demonstrated that the ΔtolA mutant displayed attenuated virulence, evidenced by reduced mortality and lower tissue bacterial burden. Reverse transcription quantitative real-time PCR (RT-qPCR) analysis revealed that inactivation of tolA led to downregulation of virulence genes associated with serum resistance (traT) and flagellar biosynthesis (fliR). Taken together, our findings demonstrate the multifaceted role of TolA protein in promoting the survival, immune evasion, biofilm formation, and virulence of APEC E058. This suggests that targeting TolA could potentially offer new strategies for combating APEC infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Senyan Su
- Institute of Agricultural Science and Technology Development, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China; Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Avian Bioproduct Development, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Yangzhou, China; Institutes of Agricultural Science and Technology Development, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Zhengliang Li
- Institute of Agricultural Science and Technology Development, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China; Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Avian Bioproduct Development, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Yangzhou, China; Institutes of Agricultural Science and Technology Development, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Yunyan Sun
- Institute of Agricultural Science and Technology Development, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China; Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Avian Bioproduct Development, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Yangzhou, China; Institutes of Agricultural Science and Technology Development, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Song Gao
- Institute of Agricultural Science and Technology Development, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China; Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Avian Bioproduct Development, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Yangzhou, China; Institutes of Agricultural Science and Technology Development, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Qingqing Gao
- Institute of Agricultural Science and Technology Development, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China; Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Avian Bioproduct Development, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Yangzhou, China; Institutes of Agricultural Science and Technology Development, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China.
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Runcharoon K, Garcia B, Peterson BN, Young MM, Favro ME, Barbieri NL, Waltman D, Flores B, Dinh E, Logue CM. Longitudinal Study of Avian Pathogenic Escherichia coli (APEC) serogroups associated with disease in Georgia poultry using molecular serology and virulence gene analysis. Avian Pathol 2024:1-101. [PMID: 39263997 DOI: 10.1080/03079457.2024.2403414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/13/2024]
Abstract
Avian pathogenic Escherichia coli (APEC) is a significant cause of morbidity, mortality, and production loss to the poultry industry worldwide. Here, we characterized 569 E. coli isolates from avian-diagnosed colibacillosis cases from the state of Georgia, USA. A total of 339 isolates were assigned into 32 serogroups with the majority classifying as O78, O2, O25, O8, O1, O86, O18, and O15. Serogroup O25 was found to link with broilers, while broiler breeders were more often associated with serogroup O1 and pet/ hobby birds with serogroup O8. In addition, some serogroups (O1) were more prevalent in the Summer and Fall. Analysis for virulence-associated genes (VAGs) found 23.20% of isolates did not harbor any genes linked with the APEC pathotype, while ColV plasmid-associated genes (iroN, ompT, hlyF, iss, and aerJ,) were frequently detected among most isolates (with 80 to 96% prevalence) and some of these genes were linked with serogroup. Phylogenetic analysis, classified isolates into phylogenetic groups B2 (27%), G (21%), F (15%), and A (11%). The phylogenetic group B2 isolates also harbored the highest number of VAGs. This study highlights that the current APEC-causing disease in birds in the State of Georgia has identified several emerging serogroups possessing several VAGs that could potentially lead to challenges in colibacillosis control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Klao Runcharoon
- Department of Population Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens GA 30602
| | - Bellanirys Garcia
- Department of Population Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens GA 30602
| | - Breck N Peterson
- Department of Population Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens GA 30602
| | - Meaghan M Young
- Department of Population Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens GA 30602
| | - Margaret E Favro
- Department of Population Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens GA 30602
| | - Nicolle L Barbieri
- Department of Population Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens GA 30602
| | - Doug Waltman
- Georgia Poultry Laboratory Network 3235 Abit Massey Way, Gainesville, GA 30507
| | - Bridgeth Flores
- Georgia Poultry Laboratory Network 3235 Abit Massey Way, Gainesville, GA 30507
| | - Emily Dinh
- Georgia Poultry Laboratory Network 3235 Abit Massey Way, Gainesville, GA 30507
| | - Catherine M Logue
- Department of Population Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens GA 30602
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Pilati GVT, Salles GBC, Savi BP, Dahmer M, Muniz EC, Filho VB, Elois MA, Souza DSM, Fongaro G. Isolation and Characterization of Escherichia coli from Brazilian Broilers. Microorganisms 2024; 12:1463. [PMID: 39065231 PMCID: PMC11279037 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms12071463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2024] [Revised: 07/03/2024] [Accepted: 07/16/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Avian pathogenic Escherichia coli (APEC) causes colibacillosis, one of the main diseases leading to economic losses in industrial poultry farming due to high morbidity and mortality and its role in the condemnation of chicken carcasses. This study aimed to isolate and characterize APEC obtained from necropsied chickens on Brazilian poultry farms. Samples from birds already necropsied by routine inspection were collected from 100 batches of broiler chickens from six Brazilian states between August and November 2021. Three femurs were collected per batch, and characteristic E. coli colonies were isolated on MacConkey agar and characterized by qualitative PCR for minimal predictive APEC genes, antimicrobial susceptibility testing, and whole genome sequencing to identify species, serogroups, virulence genes, and resistance genes. Phenotypic resistance indices revealed significant resistance to several antibiotics from different antimicrobial classes. The isolates harbored virulence genes linked to APEC pathogenicity, including adhesion, iron acquisition, serum resistance, and toxins. Aminoglycoside resistance genes were detected in 79.36% of isolates, 74.6% had sulfonamide resistance genes, 63.49% showed β-lactam resistance genes, and 49.2% possessed at least one tetracycline resistance gene. This study found a 58% prevalence of avian pathogenic E. coli in Brazilian poultry, with strains showing notable antimicrobial resistance to commonly used antibiotics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Von Tönnemann Pilati
- Laboratory of Applied Virology, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis 88040-900, Brazil; (G.V.T.P.); (G.B.C.S.); (B.P.S.); (M.D.); (M.A.E.); (D.S.M.S.)
| | - Gleidson Biasi Carvalho Salles
- Laboratory of Applied Virology, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis 88040-900, Brazil; (G.V.T.P.); (G.B.C.S.); (B.P.S.); (M.D.); (M.A.E.); (D.S.M.S.)
- Zoetis Industry of Veterinary Products LTDA, São Paulo 04709-111, Brazil;
| | - Beatriz Pereira Savi
- Laboratory of Applied Virology, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis 88040-900, Brazil; (G.V.T.P.); (G.B.C.S.); (B.P.S.); (M.D.); (M.A.E.); (D.S.M.S.)
| | - Mariane Dahmer
- Laboratory of Applied Virology, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis 88040-900, Brazil; (G.V.T.P.); (G.B.C.S.); (B.P.S.); (M.D.); (M.A.E.); (D.S.M.S.)
| | | | - Vilmar Benetti Filho
- Laboratory of Applied Virology, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis 88040-900, Brazil; (G.V.T.P.); (G.B.C.S.); (B.P.S.); (M.D.); (M.A.E.); (D.S.M.S.)
| | - Mariana Alves Elois
- Laboratory of Applied Virology, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis 88040-900, Brazil; (G.V.T.P.); (G.B.C.S.); (B.P.S.); (M.D.); (M.A.E.); (D.S.M.S.)
| | - Doris Sobral Marques Souza
- Laboratory of Applied Virology, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis 88040-900, Brazil; (G.V.T.P.); (G.B.C.S.); (B.P.S.); (M.D.); (M.A.E.); (D.S.M.S.)
| | - Gislaine Fongaro
- Laboratory of Applied Virology, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis 88040-900, Brazil; (G.V.T.P.); (G.B.C.S.); (B.P.S.); (M.D.); (M.A.E.); (D.S.M.S.)
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Cui J, Dong Y, Chen Q, Zhang C, He K, Hu G, He D, Yuan L. Horizontal transfer characterization of ColV plasmids in bla CTX-M-bearing avian Escherichia coli. Poult Sci 2024; 103:103631. [PMID: 38537404 PMCID: PMC11067769 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2024.103631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2024] [Revised: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Extended-spectrum-β-lactamases (ESBLs)-producing Escherichia coli conferred resistance to most β-lactams, except for carbapenems. To date, the transmission mechanism of blaCTX-M, as the most common ESBLs subtype, in E. coli has received sustained attention around the worldwide, but the research on the pathogenicity of blaCTX-M-bearing E. coli is still scarce. The aims of this study were to discern the spread characteristics of ColV (encoding colicin V) plasmids in blaCTX-M-positive E. coli. The multi-drug resistance traits, phylogroups, and ColV plasmid profilings were screened in 76 blaCTX-M-positive E. coli. Thereafter, the genetic profiles of E. coli G12 and GZM7 were determined by whole genome sequencing, conjugation and S1-pulsed-field gel electrophoresis. The median lethal dose was analyzed in E. coli G12 and TG12A, the ColV-plasmid transconjugant of G12. Of all 76 blaCTX-M-bearing E. coli, 67.11% exhibited resistance to at least 2 drugs in addition to ceftiofur, 14.47% carried ColV-positive plasmids, and 53.95% were phylogroup C. Further studies demonstrated that the blaCTX-M-bearing E. coli G12 was assigned to the predominant lineage O78:H4-ST117 of phylogroup G. In addition, its ColV-positive plasmid simultaneously carried multiple resistance genes, and could be independently transferred to confer partial pathogenicity on its host by plasmid mating. E. coli GZM7 was O53:H9-ST23 of phylogroup C, which belonged to another representative lineage of APEC (avian pathogenic E. coli). Its ColV-positive plasmid could complete conjugation with the help of the other coexisting-resistance conjugative plasmid, although it failed to transfer alone. Our findings highlight the flexibly horizontal transfer of ColV plasmids along with multidrug-resistant genes among blaCTX-M-bearing E. coli poses a threat to poultry health and food safety, which contributes to elucidate the concept of "One Health" and deserves particular concern.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junling Cui
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, PR China
| | - Yanbin Dong
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, PR China
| | - Qiuru Chen
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, PR China
| | - Chaojun Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, PR China
| | - Kun He
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, PR China
| | - Gongzheng Hu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, PR China; Key Laboratory of Quality and Safety Control of Poultry Products (Zhengzhou), Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Zhengzhou 450046, PR China; Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Animal Pathogens and Biosafety, Zhengzhou 450046, PR China
| | - Dandan He
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, PR China; Key Laboratory of Quality and Safety Control of Poultry Products (Zhengzhou), Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Zhengzhou 450046, PR China; Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Animal Pathogens and Biosafety, Zhengzhou 450046, PR China
| | - Li Yuan
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, PR China; Key Laboratory of Quality and Safety Control of Poultry Products (Zhengzhou), Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Zhengzhou 450046, PR China; Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Animal Pathogens and Biosafety, Zhengzhou 450046, PR China; Zhengzhou Key Laboratory of Research and Evaluation of Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine, Zhengzhou 450046, PR China.
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Abdelhamid MK, Hess C, Bilic I, Glösmann M, Rehman HU, Liebhart D, Hess M, Paudel S. A comprehensive study of colisepticaemia progression in layer chickens applying novel tools elucidates pathogenesis and transmission of Escherichia coli into eggs. Sci Rep 2024; 14:8111. [PMID: 38582950 PMCID: PMC10998890 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-58706-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Colisepticaemia caused by avian pathogenic Escherichia coli (APEC) is a challenging disease due to its high economic importance in poultry, dubious pathogenesis and potential link with zoonosis and food safety. The existing in vitro studies can't define hallmark traits of APEC isolates, suggesting a paradigm shift towards host response to understand pathogenesis. This study investigated the comprehensive pathological and microbial progression of colisepticaemia, and transmission of E. coli into eggs using novel tools. In total 48 hens were allocated into three groups and were inoculated intratracheally with ilux2-E. coli PA14/17480/5-/ovary (bioluminescent strain), E. coli PA14/17480/5-/ovary or phosphate buffered saline. Infection with both strains led to typical clinical signs and lesions of colibacillosis as in field outbreaks. Based on lung histopathology, colisepticaemia progression was divided into four disease stages as: stage I (1-3 days post infection (dpi)), stage II (6 dpi), stage III (9 dpi) and stage IV (16 dpi) that were histologically characterized by predominance of heterophils, mixed cells, pyogranuloma, and convalescence, respectively. As disease progressed, bacterial colonization in host organs also decreased, revealed by the quantification of bacterial bioluminescence, bacteriology, and quantitative immunohistochemistry. Furthermore, immunofluorescence, immunohistochemistry, and bacteria re-isolation showed that E. coli colonized the reproductive tract of infected hens and reached to egg yolk and albumen. In conclusion, the study provides novel insights into the pathogenesis of colisepticemia by characterizing microbial and pathological changes at different disease stages, and of the bacteria transmission to table eggs, which have serious consequences on poultry health and food safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Kamal Abdelhamid
- Clinic for Poultry and Fish Medicine, Department for Farm Animals and Veterinary Public Health, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, 62511, Egypt
| | - Claudia Hess
- Clinic for Poultry and Fish Medicine, Department for Farm Animals and Veterinary Public Health, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Ivana Bilic
- Clinic for Poultry and Fish Medicine, Department for Farm Animals and Veterinary Public Health, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Martin Glösmann
- VetCore Facility for Research/Imaging Unit, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Hammad Ur Rehman
- Clinic for Poultry and Fish Medicine, Department for Farm Animals and Veterinary Public Health, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Dieter Liebhart
- Clinic for Poultry and Fish Medicine, Department for Farm Animals and Veterinary Public Health, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Michael Hess
- Clinic for Poultry and Fish Medicine, Department for Farm Animals and Veterinary Public Health, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Surya Paudel
- Clinic for Poultry and Fish Medicine, Department for Farm Animals and Veterinary Public Health, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Public Health, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, 1A-508, Block 1, To Yuen Building, 31 To Yuen Street, Kowloon, Hong Kong, SAR.
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de Lagarde M, Fairbrother JM, Archambault M, Dufour S, Francoz D, Massé J, Lardé H, Aenishaenslin C, Paradis ME, Terrat Y, Roy JP. Clonal and plasmidic dissemination of critical antimicrobial resistance genes through clinically relevant ExPEC and APEC-like lineages (ST) in the dairy cattle population of Québec, Canada. Front Microbiol 2024; 14:1304678. [PMID: 38304859 PMCID: PMC10830774 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1304678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial resistance can be effectively limited by improving the judicious use of antimicrobials in food production. However, its effect on the spread of AMR genes in animal populations is not well described. In the province of Québec, Canada, a new legislation implemented in 2019 has led to an unprecedented reduction in the use of critical antimicrobials in dairy production. We aimed to investigate the potential link between ESBL/AmpC E. coli isolated before and after legislation and to determine the presence of plasmids carrying genes responsible for critical AMR. We collected fecal samples from calves, cows, and manure pit from 87 Québec dairy farms approximately 2 years before and 2 years after the legislation came into effect. The whole genomes of 183 presumptive ESBL/AmpC E. coli isolated after cefotaxime enrichment were sequenced. Their phylogenetic characteristics (MLST, serogroup, cgMLST) and the presence of virulence and resistance genes and replicons were examined. A maximum likelihood phylogenetic tree was constructed based on single nucleotide polymorphism (SNPs). We identified 10 clonal lineages (same cgMLST) and 7 clones (SNPs ≤ 52). Isolates belonging to these clones could be found on different farms before and after the legislation, strongly suggesting a clonal spread of AMR genes in the population during this 4-year period. All isolates were multidrug resistant (MDR), with clone 2 being notable for the presence of macrolide, fluoroquinolone, and third-generation cephalosporin resistance genes. We also identified clinically relevant ExPEC (ST10) and APEC-like lineages (ST117, ST58, ST88) associated with the presence of ExPEC and APEC virulence genes, respectively. Our data also suggests the presence of one epidemic plasmid belonging to the IncY incompatibility group and carrying qnrs1 and blaCTX-M-15. We demonstrated that AMR genes spread through farms and can persist over a 4-year period in the dairy cattle population through both plasmids and E. coli clones, despite the restriction of critical antimicrobial use. MDR ExPEC and APEC-like STs are present in the normal microbiota of cattle (more frequently in calves). These data increase our knowledge on gene dissemination dynamics and highlight the fact that biosecurity measures should be enhanced in this industry to limit such dissemination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maud de Lagarde
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, QC, Canada
- Regroupement Front de Recherche du Québec – Nature et Technologie (FRQNT) Op+lait, Saint-Hyacinthe, QC, Canada
| | - John Morris Fairbrother
- World Organization of Animal Health Reference Laboratory for Escherichia coli, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, QC, Canada
- Swine and Poultry Infectious Diseases Research Center (CRIPA-FQRNT), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, QC, Canada
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, QC, Canada
| | - Marie Archambault
- Regroupement Front de Recherche du Québec – Nature et Technologie (FRQNT) Op+lait, Saint-Hyacinthe, QC, Canada
- Swine and Poultry Infectious Diseases Research Center (CRIPA-FQRNT), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, QC, Canada
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, QC, Canada
| | - Simon Dufour
- Regroupement Front de Recherche du Québec – Nature et Technologie (FRQNT) Op+lait, Saint-Hyacinthe, QC, Canada
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, QC, Canada
| | - David Francoz
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, QC, Canada
- Regroupement Front de Recherche du Québec – Nature et Technologie (FRQNT) Op+lait, Saint-Hyacinthe, QC, Canada
| | - Jonathan Massé
- Regroupement Front de Recherche du Québec – Nature et Technologie (FRQNT) Op+lait, Saint-Hyacinthe, QC, Canada
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, QC, Canada
| | - Hélène Lardé
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, QC, Canada
- Regroupement Front de Recherche du Québec – Nature et Technologie (FRQNT) Op+lait, Saint-Hyacinthe, QC, Canada
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, St. Kitts, St. Kitts and Nevis
| | - Cécile Aenishaenslin
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, QC, Canada
- Groupe de Recherche en Épidémiologie des Zoonoses et Santé Publique, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, QC, Canada
- Centre de recherche en santé publique de l’Université de Montréal et du Centre Intégré Universitaire de Santé et de Service Sociaux (CIUSSS) du Centre-Sud-de-l’Île-de-Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Marie-Eve Paradis
- Association des médecins vétérinaires praticiens du Québec, Saint-Hyacinthe, QC, Canada
| | - Yves Terrat
- Consortium Santé Numérique de l’Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Jean-Philippe Roy
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, QC, Canada
- Regroupement Front de Recherche du Québec – Nature et Technologie (FRQNT) Op+lait, Saint-Hyacinthe, QC, Canada
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Gudeta DD, Foley SL. Versatile allelic replacement and self-excising integrative vectors for plasmid genome mutation and complementation. Microbiol Spectr 2024; 12:e0338723. [PMID: 37991378 PMCID: PMC10782977 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.03387-23] [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: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE In spite of the dissemination of multidrug-resistant plasmids among Gram-negative pathogens, including those carrying virulence genes, vector tools for studying plasmid-born genes are lacking. The allelic replacement vectors can be used to generate plasmid or chromosomal mutations including markless point mutations. This is the first report describing a self-excising integrative vector that can be used as a stable single-copy complementing tool to study medically important pathogens including in vivo studies without the need for antibiotic selection. Overall, our newly developed vectors can be applied for the assessment of the function of plasmid-encoded genes by specifically creating mutations, moving large operons between plasmids and to/from the chromosome, and complementing phenotypes associated with gene mutation. Furthermore, the vectors express chromophores for the detection of target gene modification or colony isolation, avoiding time-consuming screening procedures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dereje D. Gudeta
- Division of Microbiology, National Center for Toxicological Research, Jefferson, Arkansas, USA
| | - Steven L. Foley
- Division of Microbiology, National Center for Toxicological Research, Jefferson, Arkansas, USA
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Aworh MK, Thakur S, Gensler C, Harrell E, Harden L, Fedorka-Cray PJ, Jacob M. Characteristics of antimicrobial resistance in Escherichia coli isolated from retail meat products in North Carolina. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0294099. [PMID: 38180979 PMCID: PMC10769054 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0294099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Escherichia coli is commonly used as an indicator for antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in food, animal, environment, and human surveillance systems. Our study aimed to characterize AMR in E. coli isolated from retail meat purchased from grocery stores in North Carolina, USA as part of the National Antimicrobial Resistance Monitoring System (NARMS). MATERIALS AND METHODS Retail chicken (breast, n = 96; giblets, n = 24), turkey (n = 96), and pork (n = 96) products were purchased monthly from different counties in North Carolina during 2022. Label claims on packages regarding antibiotic use were recorded at collection. E. coli was isolated from meat samples using culture-based methods and isolates were characterized for antimicrobial resistance using whole genome sequencing. Multi-locus sequence typing, phylogroups, and a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP)-based maximum-likelihood phylogenic tree was generated. Data were analyzed statistically to determine differences between antibiotic use claims and meat type. RESULTS Of 312 retail meat samples, 138 (44.2%) were positive for E. coli, with turkey (78/138; 56.5%) demonstrating the highest prevalence. Prevalence was lower in chicken (41/138; 29.7%) and pork (19/138;13.8%). Quality sequence data was available from 84.8% (117/138) of the E. coli isolates, which included 72 (61.5%) from turkey, 27 (23.1%) from chicken breast, and 18 (15.4%) from pork. Genes associated with AMR were detected in 77.8% (91/117) of the isolates and 35.9% (42/117) were defined as multidrug resistant (MDR: being resistant to ≥3 distinct classes of antimicrobials). Commonly observed AMR genes included tetB (35%), tetA (24.8%), aph(3'')-lb (24.8%), and blaTEM-1 (20.5%), the majority of which originated from turkey isolates. Antibiotics use claims had no statistical effect on MDR E. coli isolates from the different meat types (X2 = 2.21, p = 0.33). MDR was observed in isolates from meat products with labels indicating "no claims" (n = 29; 69%), "no antibiotics ever" (n = 9; 21.4%), and "organic" (n = 4; 9.5%). Thirty-four different replicon types were observed. AMR genes were carried on plasmids in 17 E. coli isolates, of which 15 (88.2%) were from turkey and two (11.8%) from chicken. Known sequence types (STs) were described for 81 E. coli isolates, with ST117 (8.5%), ST297 (5.1%), and ST58 (3.4%) being the most prevalent across retail meat types. The most prevalent phylogroups were B1 (29.1%) and A (28.2%). Five clonal patterns were detected among isolates. CONCLUSIONS E. coli prevalence and the presence of AMR and MDR were highest in turkey retail meat. The lack of an association between MDR E. coli in retail meat and antibiotic use claim, including those with no indication of antimicrobial use, suggests that additional research is required to understand the origin of resistance. The presence of ST117, an emerging human pathogen, warrants further surveillance. The isolates were distinctly diverse suggesting an instability in population dynamics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mabel Kamweli Aworh
- Department of Population Health and Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Siddhartha Thakur
- Department of Population Health and Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Catherine Gensler
- Department of Agricultural and Human Sciences, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Erin Harrell
- Department of Population Health and Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Lyndy Harden
- Department of Population Health and Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Paula J. Fedorka-Cray
- Department of Population Health and Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Megan Jacob
- Department of Population Health and Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, United States of America
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Sulejmanovic T, Schnug J, Philipp HC. Veterinary Autogenous Vaccines for Poultry in Europe-Many Ways to Crack an Egg. Avian Dis 2024; 67:456-466. [PMID: 38300664 DOI: 10.1637/aviandiseases-d-23-99991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2024]
Abstract
In the past decade, European animal farming has increasingly used autogenous vaccines for the prevention of nonnotifiable diseases. In Europe, these vaccines are exclusively inactivated bacterial and viral vaccines, with a set of specific regulations that differentiate them from conventional vaccines. The highest number of applications most likely occurs in poultry, as these animal species are farmed in the highest numbers compared with other types of food-producing animals. In 2019, autogenous vaccines came within the scope of harmonized European regulation for the first time, although many important aspects are still missing and need to be further developed. Consequently, several important legal provisions remain in national legislations and can vary tremendously between different member states of the European Union. The inclusion of autogenous vaccines in the management of certain diseases of poultry is justified by the nonavailability of licensed vaccines and the evolution and diversity of antigens in the field that are not covered by licensed vaccines. In addition, these vaccines aid in reducing the use of antibiotics. The methods for isolating and typing pathogenic isolates to obtain relevant antigens are pathogen specific and require a careful approach based on clinical evidence. Manufacturing processes are optimized according to regulatory standards, and they represent the most critical factor influencing the quality of autogenous vaccines and their placement on the market. This review presents the important requirements for manufacturing autogenous vaccines for poultry in addition to the relevant regulatory considerations. The results from a survey of several European Union member states regarding specific provisions within their national legislations are also presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tarik Sulejmanovic
- Vaxxinova Autogenous Vaccines GmbH, Anton-Flettner-Strasse 6, 27472 Cuxhaven, Germany,
| | - Jana Schnug
- Vaxxinova Autogenous Vaccines GmbH, Anton-Flettner-Strasse 6, 27472 Cuxhaven, Germany
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Menck-Costa MF, Baptista AAS, Sanches MS, dos Santos BQ, Cicero CE, Kitagawa HY, Justino L, Medeiros LP, de Souza M, Rocha SPD, Nakazato G, Kobayashi RKT. Resistance and Virulence Surveillance in Escherichia coli Isolated from Commercial Meat Samples: A One Health Approach. Microorganisms 2023; 11:2712. [PMID: 38004724 PMCID: PMC10672981 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11112712] [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: 10/13/2023] [Revised: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Escherichia coli is a key indicator of food hygiene, and its monitoring in meat samples points to the potential presence of antimicrobial-resistant strains capable of causing infections in humans, encompassing resistance profiles categorized as serious threats by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), such as Extended-Spectrum Beta-Lactamase (ESBL)-a problem with consequences for animal, human, and environmental health. The objective of the present work was to isolate and characterize ESBL-producing E. coli strains from poultry, pork, and beef meat samples, with a characterization of their virulence and antimicrobial resistance profiles. A total of 450 meat samples (150 chicken, 150 beef, and 150 pork) were obtained from supermarkets and subsequently cultured in medium supplemented with cefotaxime. The isolated colonies were characterized biochemically, followed by antibiogram testing using the disk diffusion technique. Further classification involved biofilm formation and the presence of antimicrobial resistance genes (blaCTX-M, AmpC-type, mcr-1, and fosA3), and virulence genes (eaeA, st, bfpA, lt, stx1, stx2, aggR, iss, ompT, hlyF, iutA, iroN, fyuA, cvaC, and hylA). Statistical analysis was performed via the likelihood-ratio test. In total, 168 strains were obtained, with 73% originating from chicken, 22% from pork, and 17% from beef samples. Notably, strains exhibited greater resistance to tetracycline (51%), ciprofloxacin (46%), and fosfomycin (38%), apart from β-lactams. The detection of antimicrobial resistance in food-isolated strains is noteworthy, underscoring the significance of antimicrobial resistance as a global concern. More than 90% of the strains were biofilm producers, and strains carrying many ExPEC genes were more likely to be biofilm formers (OR 2.42), which increases the problem since the microorganisms have a greater chance of environment persistence and genetic exchange. Regarding molecular characterization, bovine samples showed a higher prevalence of blaCTX-M-1 (OR 6.52), while chicken strains were more likely to carry the fosA3 gene (OR 2.43, CI 1.17-5.05) and presented between 6 to 8 ExPEC genes (OR 2.5, CI 1.33-5.01) compared to other meat samples. Concerning diarrheagenic E. coli genes, two strains harbored eae. It is important to highlight these strains, as they exhibited both biofilm-forming capacities and multidrug resistance (MDR), potentially enabling colonization in diverse environments and causing infections. In conclusion, this study underscores the presence of β-lactamase-producing E. coli strains, mainly in poultry samples, compared to beef and pork samples. Furthermore, all meat sample strains exhibited many virulence-associated extraintestinal genes, with some strains harboring diarrheagenic E. coli (DEC) genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maísa Fabiana Menck-Costa
- Department of Microbiology, Center for Biological Science (CCB), State University of Londrina (UEL), Londrina 86057-970, Brazil; (M.F.M.-C.); (M.S.S.); (H.Y.K.); (L.P.M.); (S.P.D.R.); (G.N.)
| | - Ana Angelita Sampaio Baptista
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Center for Agricultural Sciences (CCA), State University of Londrina (UEL), Londrina 86057-970, Brazil; (A.A.S.B.); (B.Q.d.S.); (C.E.C.); (L.J.); (M.d.S.)
| | - Matheus Silva Sanches
- Department of Microbiology, Center for Biological Science (CCB), State University of Londrina (UEL), Londrina 86057-970, Brazil; (M.F.M.-C.); (M.S.S.); (H.Y.K.); (L.P.M.); (S.P.D.R.); (G.N.)
| | - Beatriz Queiroz dos Santos
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Center for Agricultural Sciences (CCA), State University of Londrina (UEL), Londrina 86057-970, Brazil; (A.A.S.B.); (B.Q.d.S.); (C.E.C.); (L.J.); (M.d.S.)
| | - Claudinéia Emidio Cicero
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Center for Agricultural Sciences (CCA), State University of Londrina (UEL), Londrina 86057-970, Brazil; (A.A.S.B.); (B.Q.d.S.); (C.E.C.); (L.J.); (M.d.S.)
| | - Hellen Yukari Kitagawa
- Department of Microbiology, Center for Biological Science (CCB), State University of Londrina (UEL), Londrina 86057-970, Brazil; (M.F.M.-C.); (M.S.S.); (H.Y.K.); (L.P.M.); (S.P.D.R.); (G.N.)
| | - Larissa Justino
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Center for Agricultural Sciences (CCA), State University of Londrina (UEL), Londrina 86057-970, Brazil; (A.A.S.B.); (B.Q.d.S.); (C.E.C.); (L.J.); (M.d.S.)
| | - Leonardo Pinto Medeiros
- Department of Microbiology, Center for Biological Science (CCB), State University of Londrina (UEL), Londrina 86057-970, Brazil; (M.F.M.-C.); (M.S.S.); (H.Y.K.); (L.P.M.); (S.P.D.R.); (G.N.)
| | - Marielen de Souza
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Center for Agricultural Sciences (CCA), State University of Londrina (UEL), Londrina 86057-970, Brazil; (A.A.S.B.); (B.Q.d.S.); (C.E.C.); (L.J.); (M.d.S.)
| | - Sergio Paulo Dejato Rocha
- Department of Microbiology, Center for Biological Science (CCB), State University of Londrina (UEL), Londrina 86057-970, Brazil; (M.F.M.-C.); (M.S.S.); (H.Y.K.); (L.P.M.); (S.P.D.R.); (G.N.)
| | - Gerson Nakazato
- Department of Microbiology, Center for Biological Science (CCB), State University of Londrina (UEL), Londrina 86057-970, Brazil; (M.F.M.-C.); (M.S.S.); (H.Y.K.); (L.P.M.); (S.P.D.R.); (G.N.)
| | - Renata Katsuko Takayama Kobayashi
- Department of Microbiology, Center for Biological Science (CCB), State University of Londrina (UEL), Londrina 86057-970, Brazil; (M.F.M.-C.); (M.S.S.); (H.Y.K.); (L.P.M.); (S.P.D.R.); (G.N.)
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11
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Pilati GVT, Cadamuro RD, Filho VB, Dahmer M, Elois MA, Savi BP, Salles GBC, Muniz EC, Fongaro G. Bacteriophage-Associated Antimicrobial Resistance Genes in Avian Pathogenic Escherichia coli Isolated from Brazilian Poultry. Viruses 2023; 15:1485. [PMID: 37515172 PMCID: PMC10386125 DOI: 10.3390/v15071485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2023] [Revised: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Colibacillosis is a disease caused by Escherichia coli and remains a major concern in poultry production, as it leads to significant economic losses due to carcass condemnation and clinical symptoms. The development of antimicrobial resistance is a growing problem of worldwide concern. Lysogenic bacteriophages are effective vectors for acquiring and disseminating antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs). The aim of this study was to investigate the complete genome of Escherichia coli isolates from the femurs of Brazilian broiler chickens in order to investigate the presence of antimicrobial resistance genes associated with bacteriophages. Samples were collected between August and November 2021 from broiler batches from six Brazilian states. Through whole genome sequencing (WGS), data obtained were analyzed for the presence of antimicrobial resistance genes. Antimicrobial resistance genes against the aminoglycosides class were detected in 79.36% of the isolates; 74.6% had predicted sulfonamides resistance genes, 63.49% had predicted resistance genes against β-lactams, and 49.2% of the isolates had at least one of the tetracycline resistance genes. Among the detected genes, 27 have been described in previous studies and associated with bacteriophages. The findings of this study highlight the role of bacteriophages in the dissemination of ARGs in the poultry industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Von Tönnemann Pilati
- Laboratory of Applied Virology, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis 88040-900, Brazil
| | - Rafael Dorighello Cadamuro
- Laboratory of Applied Virology, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis 88040-900, Brazil
| | - Vilmar Benetti Filho
- Laboratory of Applied Virology, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis 88040-900, Brazil
| | - Mariane Dahmer
- Laboratory of Applied Virology, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis 88040-900, Brazil
| | - Mariana Alves Elois
- Laboratory of Applied Virology, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis 88040-900, Brazil
| | - Beatriz Pereira Savi
- Laboratory of Applied Virology, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis 88040-900, Brazil
| | - Gleidson Biasi Carvalho Salles
- Laboratory of Applied Virology, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis 88040-900, Brazil
- Zoetis Industry of Veterinary Products LTDA, São Paulo 04709-111, Brazil
| | | | - Gislaine Fongaro
- Laboratory of Applied Virology, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis 88040-900, Brazil
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Palmieri N, Apostolakos I, Paudel S, Hess M. The genetic network underlying the evolution of pathogenicity in avian Escherichia coli. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1195585. [PMID: 37415967 PMCID: PMC10321414 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1195585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Colibacillosis is a worldwide prevalent disease in poultry production linked to Escherichia coli strains that belong to the avian pathogenic E. coli (APEC) pathotype. While many virulence factors have been linked to APEC isolates, no single gene or set of genes has been found to be exclusively associated with the pathotype. Moreover, a comprehensive description of the biological processes linked to APEC pathogenicity is currently lacking. Methods In this study, we compiled a dataset of 2015 high-quality avian E. coli genomes from pathogenic and commensal isolates, based on publications from 2000 to 2021. We then conducted a genome-wide association study (GWAS) and integrated candidate gene identification with available protein-protein interaction data to decipher the genetic network underlying the biological processes connected to APEC pathogenicity. Results Our GWAS identified variations in gene content for 13 genes and SNPs in 3 different genes associated with APEC isolates, suggesting both gene-level and SNP-level variations contribute to APEC pathogenicity. Integrating protein-protein interaction data, we found that 15 of these genes clustered in the same genetic network, suggesting the pathogenicity of APEC might be due to the interplay of different regulated pathways. We also found novel candidate genes including an uncharacterized multi-pass membrane protein (yciC) and the outer membrane porin (ompD) as linked to APEC isolates. Discussion Our findings suggest that convergent pathways related to nutrient uptake from host cells and defense from host immune system play a major role in APEC pathogenicity. In addition, the dataset curated in this study represents a comprehensive historical genomic collection of avian E. coli isolates and constitutes a valuable resource for their comparative genomics investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Palmieri
- Clinic for Poultry and Fish Medicine, Department for Farm Animals and Veterinary Public Health, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Surya Paudel
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Public Health, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Michael Hess
- Clinic for Poultry and Fish Medicine, Department for Farm Animals and Veterinary Public Health, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Austria
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Delago J, Miller EA, Flores-Figueroa C, Munoz-Aguayo J, Cardona C, Smith AH, Johnson TJ. Survey of clinical and commensal Escherichia coli from commercial broilers and turkeys, with emphasis on high-risk clones using APECTyper. Poult Sci 2023; 102:102712. [PMID: 37156077 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2023.102712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Molecular characterization of avian pathogenic Escherichia coli (APEC) is challenging due to the complex nature of its associated disease, colibacillosis, in poultry. Numerous efforts have been made toward defining APEC, and it is becoming clear that certain clonal backgrounds are predictive of an avian E. coli isolate's virulence potential. Thus, APEC can be further differentiated as high-risk APEC based upon their clonal background's virulence potential. However, less clear is the degree of overlap between clinical isolates of differing bird type, and between clinical and gastrointestinal isolates. This study aimed to determine genomic similarities and differences between such populations, comparing commercial broiler vs. turkey isolates, and clinical vs. gastrointestinal isolates. Differences were observed in Clermont phylogenetic groups between isolate populations, with B2 as the dominant group in turkey clinical isolates and G as the dominant group in broiler clinical isolates. Nearly all clinical isolates were classified as APEC using a traditional gene-based typing scheme, whereas 53.4% and 44.1% of broiler and turkey gastrointestinal isolates were classified as APEC, respectively. High-risk APEC were identified among 31.0% and 46.9% of broiler and turkey clinical isolates, compared with 5.7% and 2.9% of broiler and turkey gastrointestinal isolates. As found in previous studies, no specific known virulence or fitness gene sets were identified which universally differentiate between clinical and gastrointestinal isolates. This study further demonstrates the utility of a hybrid APEC typing approach, considering both plasmid content and clonal background, for the identification of dominant and highly virulent APEC clones in poultry production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jodi Delago
- Arm and Hammer Animal and Food Production, Waukesha, WI, 53186, USA
| | - Elizabeth A Miller
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN, USA
| | | | | | - Carol Cardona
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN, USA
| | | | - Timothy J Johnson
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN, USA; Mid-Central Research and Outreach Center, University of Minnesota, Willmar, MN, USA.
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Yang Y, Lu Y, Zhou Y, Sun H, Ma Y, Tan J, Li N, Li H. Identification and characterization of microRNAs, especially gga-miR-181b-5p, in chicken macrophages associated with avian pathogenic E. coli infection. Avian Pathol 2023; 52:185-198. [PMID: 36803112 DOI: 10.1080/03079457.2023.2181146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/23/2023]
Abstract
AbstractAvian pathogenic E. coli (APEC) is a common pathogen in the poultry industry, which can cause substantial economic losses. Recently, emerging evidence showed that the miRNAs were involved in various viral and bacterial infection. To elucidate the role of miRNAs in chicken macrophages in response to APEC infection, we attempted to investigate the miRNAs expression pattern upon APEC infection via miRNA-seq, and to identify the molecular mechanism of the important miRNAs by using RT-qPCR, Western blotting, dual-luciferase reporter assay, and CCK-8. Results showed that a total of 80 differentially expressed (DE) miRNAs were identified in the comparison of APEC vs. wild type group, which corresponded to 724 target genes. Moreover, the target genes of the identified DE miRNAs were mainly significantly enriched in MAPK signaling pathway, Autophagy-animal, mTOR signaling pathway, ErbB signaling pathway, Wnt signaling pathway, TGF-beta signaling pathway. Remarkably, gga-miR-181b-5p is capable to participate in host immune and inflammatory response against APEC infection via targeting of TGFBR1 to modulate the activation of TGF-beta signaling pathway. Collectively, this study provides a perspective of miRNA expression pattern in chicken macrophages upon APEC infection. These findings provide the insight into miRNAs against APEC infection and gga-miR-181b-5p might be a potential target for treating APEC infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yexin Yang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Yue Lu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Yuyang Zhou
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Hongyan Sun
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China.,Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture & Agri-Product Safety, Ministry of Education, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Yuyi Ma
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Jishuang Tan
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Naying Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Huan Li
- School of Biological and Chemical Engineering, Yangzhou Polytechnic College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China.,Yangzhou Engineering Research Center of Agricultural Products Intelligent Measurement and Control & Cleaner Production, Yangzhou 225009, China
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Kravik IH, Kaspersen H, Sjurseth SK, Dean KR, David B, Aspholm M, Sekse C. A molecular epidemiological study on Escherichia coli in young chicks with colibacillosis identified two possible outbreaks across farms. Vet Res 2023; 54:10. [PMID: 36747303 PMCID: PMC9901153 DOI: 10.1186/s13567-023-01140-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Avian pathogenic Escherichia coli (APEC) is the cause of colibacillosis outbreaks in young poultry chicks, resulting in acute to peracute death. The high morbidity and mortality caused by colibacillosis results in poor animal welfare, reduced sustainability and economical loss worldwide. To advance the understanding of the molecular epidemiology, genomic relatedness and virulence traits of APEC, we performed systematic sampling from 45 confirmed colibacillosis broiler flocks with high first week mortality (FWM) during 2018-2021. From these flocks, 219 APEC isolates were whole genome sequenced (WGS) and bioinformatic analyses were performed. The bioinformatic analyses included sequence typing (ST), serotyping, detection of virulence-associated genes (VAGs) and phylogenetic analysis. Our results showed a high prevalence of ST23, ST429 and ST95 among APEC isolates from Norwegian broiler flocks, and identified ST23, ST429, ST117 and ST371 to cause disease more often alone, compared to ST95, ST69 and ST10. Phylogenetic analyses, together with associated metadata, identified two distinct outbreaks of colibacillosis across farms caused by ST429 and ST23 and gave insight into expected SNP distances within and between flocks identified with the same ST. Further, our results highlighted the need for combining two typing methods, such as serotyping and sequence typing, to better discriminate strains of APEC. Ultimately, systematic sampling of APEC from multiple birds in a flock, together with WGS as a diagnostic tool is important to identify the disease-causing APEC within a flock and to detect outbreaks of colibacillosis across farms.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Bruce David
- Nortura SA, Økern, P.O. Box 360, 0513, Oslo, Norway
| | - Marina Aspholm
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, The Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Postboks 5003, 1432, Ås, Norway
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Assessing the Load, Virulence and Antibiotic-Resistant Traits of ESBL/Ampc E. coli from Broilers Raised on Conventional, Antibiotic-Free, and Organic Farms. Antibiotics (Basel) 2022; 11:antibiotics11111484. [PMID: 36358139 PMCID: PMC9686507 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics11111484] [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: 09/21/2022] [Revised: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Poultry is the most likely source of livestock-associated Extended Spectrum Beta-Lactamase (ESBL) and plasmid-mediated AmpC (pAmpC)-producing E. coli (EC) for humans. We tested the hypothesis that farming methods have an impact on the load of ESBL/pAmpC-EC in the gut of broilers at slaughter. Isolates (n = 156) of antibiotic-free (AF), organic (O), and conventional (C) animals were characterized for antibiotic susceptibility and antibiotic resistance genes. Thirteen isolates were whole-genome sequenced. The average loads of ESBL/pAmpC-EC in cecal contents were 4.17 Log CFU/g for AF; 2.85 Log CFU/g for O; and 3.88 Log CFU/g for C type (p < 0.001). ESBL/pAmpC-EC isolates showed resistance to antibiotic classes historically used in poultry, including penicillins, tetracyclines, quinolones, and sulfonamides. Isolates from O and AF farms harbored a lower proportion of resistance to antibiotics than isolates from C farms. Among the determinants for ESBL/pAmpC, CTX-M-1 prevailed (42.7%), followed by TEM-type (29%) and SHV (19.8%). Avian pathogenic E. coli (APEC), belonging to ST117 and ST349, were identified in the collection. These data confirm the possible role of a broiler as an ESBL/AmpC EC and APEC reservoir for humans. Overall, our study suggests that antibiotic-free and organic production may contribute to a reduced exposure to ESBL/AmpC EC for the consumer.
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