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Xie O, Davies MR, Tong SYC. Streptococcus dysgalactiae subsp. equisimilis infection and its intersection with Streptococcus pyogenes. Clin Microbiol Rev 2024; 37:e0017523. [PMID: 38856686 PMCID: PMC11392527 DOI: 10.1128/cmr.00175-23] [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] [Indexed: 06/11/2024] Open
Abstract
SUMMARYStreptococcus dysgalactiae subsp. equisimilis (SDSE) is an increasingly recognized cause of disease in humans. Disease manifestations range from non-invasive superficial skin and soft tissue infections to life-threatening streptococcal toxic shock syndrome and necrotizing fasciitis. Invasive disease is usually associated with co-morbidities, immunosuppression, and advancing age. The crude incidence of invasive disease approaches that of the closely related pathogen, Streptococcus pyogenes. Genomic epidemiology using whole-genome sequencing has revealed important insights into global SDSE population dynamics including emerging lineages and spread of anti-microbial resistance. It has also complemented observations of overlapping pathobiology between SDSE and S. pyogenes, including shared virulence factors and mobile gene content, potentially underlying shared pathogen phenotypes. This review provides an overview of the clinical and genomic epidemiology, disease manifestations, treatment, and virulence determinants of human infections with SDSE with a particular focus on its overlap with S. pyogenes. In doing so, we highlight the importance of understanding the overlap of SDSE and S. pyogenes to inform surveillance and disease control strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ouli Xie
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The University of Melbourne at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Australia
- Monash Infectious Diseases, Monash Health, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Mark R Davies
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The University of Melbourne at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Steven Y C Tong
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The University of Melbourne at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Australia
- Victorian Infectious Disease Service, The Royal Melbourne Hospital at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Australia
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Glambek M, Skrede S, Sivertsen A, Kittang BR, Kaci A, Jonassen CM, Jørgensen HJ, Oppegaard O. Antimicrobial resistance patterns in Streptococcus dysgalactiae in a One Health perspective. Front Microbiol 2024; 15:1423762. [PMID: 39193432 PMCID: PMC11348040 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2024.1423762] [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: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 08/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Streptococcus dysgalactiae (SD) is an important pathogen in humans as well as in a broad range of animal species. Escalating rates of antibiotic resistance in SD has been reported in both human and veterinary clinical practice, but the dissemination of resistance determinants has so far never been examined in a One Health Perspective. We wanted to explore the occurrence of zoonotic transmission of SD and the potential for exchange of resistance traits between SD from different host populations. Methods We compared whole genome sequences and phenotypical antimicrobial susceptibility of 407 SD isolates, comprising all isolates obtained from human bloodstream infections in 2018 (n = 274) and available isolates associated with animal infections from the years 2018 and 2019 (n = 133) in Norway. Results Antimicrobial resistance genes were detected in 70 (26%), 9 (25%) and 2 (2%) of the isolates derived from humans, companion animals and livestock, respectively. Notably, distinct host associated genotypic resistomes were observed. The erm(A) gene was the dominant cause of erythromycin resistance in human associated isolates, whereas only erm(B) and lsa(C) were identified in SD isolates from animals. Moreover, the tetracycline resistance gene tet(O) was located on different mobile genetic elements in SD from humans and animals. Evidence of niche specialization was also evident in the phylogenetic analysis, as the isolates could be almost perfectly delineated in accordance with host species. Nevertheless, near identical mobile genetic elements were observed in four isolates from different host species including one human, implying potential transmission of antibiotic resistance between different environments. Conclusion We found a phylogenetic delineation of SD strains in line with host adapted populations and niche specialization. Direct transmission of strains or genetic elements carrying resistance genes between SD from different ecological niches appears to be rare in our geographical region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marte Glambek
- Department of Medicine, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Steinar Skrede
- Department of Medicine, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Clinical Medicine 2, Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Audun Sivertsen
- Department of Microbiology, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Bård Reiakvam Kittang
- Department of Clinical Medicine 2, Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Internal Medicine, Haraldsplass Deaconess Hospital (HDS), Bergen, Norway
| | - Alba Kaci
- Center for Laboratory Medicine, Østfold Hospital, Grålum, Norway
| | - Christine Monceyron Jonassen
- Center for Laboratory Medicine, Østfold Hospital, Grålum, Norway
- Department of Virology, Division of Infection Control and Environmental Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
| | | | | | - Oddvar Oppegaard
- Department of Medicine, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Clinical Medicine 2, Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
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Mangano ER, Jones GMC, Suarez-Bonnet A, Waller AS, Priestnall SL. Streptococcus zooepidemicus in dogs: Exploring a canine pathogen through multilocus sequence typing. Vet Microbiol 2024; 292:110059. [PMID: 38554599 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetmic.2024.110059] [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: 12/25/2023] [Revised: 02/24/2024] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/01/2024]
Abstract
Streptococcus equi. subsp. zooepidemicus (S. zooepidemicus) associated diseases in dogs have emerged as a significant concern over recent decades. S. zooepidemicus occurs sporadically in dog populations globally, with increased prevalence in shelters/kennels. This study used multilocus sequence typing (MLST) of 149 independent canine S. zooepidemicus isolates to assess associations between sequence type and breed, country of origin, disease severity, sampling type, year, and behaviour within an outbreak. No clear associations for breed, country, sampling type and year were determined in this study. ST-10 and 123 strains were present within all disease categories, from no clinical signs to severe disease. Assessment of S. zooepidemicus infection in 3 UK outbreaks at the same location found ST-10, 18, 123 strains, and a ST-173 strain in a US outbreak, were associated with haemorrhagic pneumonia and persisted in kennelled populations over time. The ST-173 clonal complex has been noted to have severe virulence capabilities in dogs and other species. S. zooepidemicus seems to thrive in environments with a high risk of transmissibility, overcrowding, stress and naïve populations, particularly for those in shelters/kennels. MLST alone cannot determine the virulence phenotype of S. zooepidemicus in dogs. However, a level of conservancy and diversity within ST allelic loci aids the opportunity to cause severe disease in dogs. Thus, further research into whole genome sequencing and characterising the virulence factors of S. zooepidemicus is warranted in dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elli R Mangano
- Department of Pathobiology and Population Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, United Kingdom.
| | - Gareth M C Jones
- Department of Clinical Science and Services, Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, United Kingdom
| | - Alejandro Suarez-Bonnet
- Department of Pathobiology and Population Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, United Kingdom
| | | | - Simon L Priestnall
- Department of Pathobiology and Population Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, United Kingdom
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Su Y, Zhang Z, Wang L, Zhang B, Su L. Whole-Genome Sequencing and Phenotypic Analysis of Streptococcus equi subsp. zooepidemicus Sequence Type 147 Isolated from China. Microorganisms 2024; 12:824. [PMID: 38674768 PMCID: PMC11051846 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms12040824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2024] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Streptococcus equi subsp. zooepidemicus (S. zooepidemicus) is one of the important zoonotic and opportunistic pathogens. In recent years, there has been growing evidence that supports the potential role of S. zooepidemicus in severe diseases in horses and other animals, including humans. Furthermore, the clinical isolation and drug resistance rates of S. zooepidemicus have been increasing yearly, leading to interest in its in-depth genomic analysis. In order to deepen the understanding of the S. zooepidemicus characteristics and genomic features, we investigated the genomic islands, mobile genetic elements, virulence and resistance genes, and phenotype of S. zooepidemicus strain ZHZ 211 (ST147), isolated from an equine farm in China. We obtained a 2.18 Mb, high-quality chromosome and found eight genomic islands. According to a comparative genomic investigation with other reference strains, ZHZ 211 has more virulence factors, like an iron uptake system, adherence, exoenzymes, and antiphagocytosis. More interestingly, ZHZ 211 has acquired a mobile genetic element (MGE), prophage Ph01, which was found to be in the chromosome of this strain and included two hyaluronidase (hyl) genes, important virulence factors of the strain. Moreover, two transposons and two virulence (virD4) genes were found to be located in the same genome island of ZHZ 211. In vitro phenotypic results showed that ZHZ 211 grows faster and is resistant to clarithromycin, enrofloxacin, and sulfonamides. The higher biofilm-forming capabilities of ZHZ 211 may provide a competitive advantage for survival in its niche. The results expand our understanding of the genomic, pathogenicity, and resistance characterization of Streptococcus zooepidemicus and facilitate further exploration of its molecular pathogenic mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Su
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Xinjiang Agricultural University, Urumqi 830052, China
| | - Zehua Zhang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Xinjiang Agricultural University, Urumqi 830052, China
| | - Li Wang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Xinjiang Agricultural University, Urumqi 830052, China
| | - Baojiang Zhang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Xinjiang Agricultural University, Urumqi 830052, China
| | - Lingling Su
- Xinjiang Academy of Animal Science, Urumqi 830000, China
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Patel SM, Sahoo M, Thakor JC, Murali D, Kumar P, Singh R, Singh KP, Saikumar G, Jana C, Patel SK, Mote AB, Karthikeyan R, Vandre RK, Biswal JK, Sahoo NR. Pathomolecular epidemiology, antimicrobial resistance, and virulence genes of Streptococcus dysgalactiae subsp. equisimilis isolates from slaughtered pigs in India. J Appl Microbiol 2024; 135:lxae002. [PMID: 38178631 DOI: 10.1093/jambio/lxae002] [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: 11/02/2023] [Revised: 12/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
AIMS We aimed to investigate the prevalence, pathology, and characterization of Streptococcus dysgalactiae subsp. equisimilis (SDSE) in slaughtered pigs of India. METHODS AND RESULTS We collected 1254 morbid tissues (lungs-627 and spleen-627) and 627 heart-blood from 627 slaughtered pigs. The bacterial isolation, antibiogram, virulence gene profiling, and mouse pathogenicity testing were performed for the detection and characterization of SDSE. A total of 177 isolates (heart-blood-160 and tissues-17) were recovered from 627 slaughtered pigs with higher isolation rate in heart-blood (25.51%). The prevalence of SDSE was 11% in morbid tissues by polymerase chain reaction. Majority of isolates showed higher detection of streptolysin O, followed by streptokinase and extracellular phospholipase A virulence genes with higher degree of resistance to azithromycin, clindamycin, erythromycin, and penicillin antibiotics. Mouse pathogenicity testing confirmed virulence based on histopathological lesions and re-isolation of SDSE. CONCLUSIONS Our findings highlight the high prevalence of SDSE in slaughtered pigs. The presence of virulence genes and mouse pathogenicity testing confirm their pathogenic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sagar M Patel
- Division of Pathology, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI), Izatnagar 243122, India
| | - Monalisa Sahoo
- Division of Pathology, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI), Izatnagar 243122, India
- ICAR-National Institute on Foot and Mouth Disease (NIFMD), Arugul, Jatni, Bhubaneswar 752050, India
| | - Jigarji Chaturji Thakor
- Division of Pathology, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI), Izatnagar 243122, India
| | - Dinesh Murali
- Division of Pathology, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI), Izatnagar 243122, India
| | - Pradeep Kumar
- Division of Pathology, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI), Izatnagar 243122, India
| | - Rajendra Singh
- Veterinary Pathology, Institute of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Siksha "O" Anusandhan, Ghatikia, Bhubaneswar 751030, India
| | - Karam Pal Singh
- CADRAD, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI), Izatnagar 243122, India
| | - G Saikumar
- Division of Pathology, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI), Izatnagar 243122, India
| | - Chandrakanta Jana
- Division of Pathology, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI), Izatnagar 243122, India
| | - Shailesh Kumar Patel
- Department of Veterinary Pathology, College of Veterinary Science & Animal Husbandry, Rewa 486001, India
| | - Akash B Mote
- Division of Veterinary Public Health, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI), Izatnagar 243122, India
| | - Ravichandran Karthikeyan
- Division of Epidemiology, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI), Izatnagar 243122, India
| | - Rajesh Kumar Vandre
- Department of Animal Genetics and Breeding, College of Veterinary Science & Animal Husbandry, Rewa, India
| | - Jitendra Kumar Biswal
- ICAR-National Institute on Foot and Mouth Disease (NIFMD), Arugul, Jatni, Bhubaneswar 752050, India
| | - Nihar Ranjan Sahoo
- ICAR-National Institute on Foot and Mouth Disease (NIFMD), Arugul, Jatni, Bhubaneswar 752050, India
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Morris ERA, Schroeder ME, Ferro PJ, Waller AS, McGlennon AA, Bustos CP, Gressler LT, Wu J, Lawhon SD, Boyle AG, Lingsweiler S, Paul N, Dimitrov K, Swinford AK, Bordin AI, Cohen ND. Development of a novel real-time PCR multiplex assay for detection of Streptococcus equi subspecies equi and Streptococcus equi subspecies zooepidemicus. Vet Microbiol 2023; 284:109797. [PMID: 37290208 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetmic.2023.109797] [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: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Strangles is a contagious bacterial disease of horses caused by Streptococcus equi subspecies equi (SEE) that occurs globally. Rapid and accurate identification of infected horses is essential for controlling strangles. Because of limitations of existing PCR assays for SEE, we sought to identify novel primers and probes that enable simultaneous detection and differentiation of infection with SEE and S. equi subsp. zooepidemicus (SEZ). Comparative genomics of U.S. strains of SEE and SEZ (n = 50 each) identified SE00768 from SEE and comB from SEZ as target genes. Primers and probes for real-time PCR (rtPCR) were designed for these genes and then aligned in silico with the genomes of strains of SEE (n = 725) and SEZ (n = 343). Additionally, the sensitivity and specificity relative to microbiologic culture were compared between 85 samples submitted to an accredited veterinary medical diagnostic laboratory. The respective primer and probe sets aligned with 99.7 % (723/725) isolates of SEE and 97.1 % (333/343) of SEZ. Of 85 diagnostic samples, 20 of 21 (95.2 %) SEE and 22 of 23 SEZ (95.6 %) culture-positive samples were positive by rtPCR for SEE and SEZ, respectively. Both SEE (n = 2) and SEZ (n = 3) were identified by rtPCR among 32 culture-negative samples. Results were rtPCR-positive for both SEE and SEZ in 21 of 44 (47.7 %) samples that were culture-positive for SEE or SEZ. The primers and probe sets reported here reliably detect SEE and SEZ from Europe and the U.S., and permit detection of concurrent infection with both subspecies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen Ruth A Morris
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Megan E Schroeder
- Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Pamela J Ferro
- Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory, College Station, TX, USA.
| | - Andrew S Waller
- Intervacc AB, Hägersten, Sweden; Department of Biomedical Science and Veterinary Public Health, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Abigail A McGlennon
- Department of Pathobiology and Population Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, University of London, Hatfield, United Kingdom
| | - Carla P Bustos
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Cátedra de Enfermedades Infecciosas, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina; Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Argentina
| | - Leticia T Gressler
- Laboratório de Microbiologia e Imunologia Veterinária, Medicina Veterinária, Instituto Federal Farroupilha (IFFar), Frederico Westphalen, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Jing Wu
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Sara D Lawhon
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Ashley G Boyle
- Department of Clinical Studies, New Bolton Center, University of Pennsylvania, School of Veterinary Medicine, Kennett Square, PA, USA
| | - Sonia Lingsweiler
- Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Narayan Paul
- Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Kiril Dimitrov
- Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Amy K Swinford
- Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Angela I Bordin
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Noah D Cohen
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA.
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Alves-Barroco C, Brito PH, Santos-Sanches I, Fernandes AR. Phylogenetic analysis and accessory genome diversity reveal insight into the evolutionary history of Streptococcus dysgalactiae. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:952110. [PMID: 35928143 PMCID: PMC9343751 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.952110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Streptococcus dysgalactiae (SD) is capable of infecting both humans and animals and causing a wide range of invasive and non-invasive infections. With two subspecies, the taxonomic status of subspecies of SD remains controversial. Subspecies equisimilis (SDSE) is an important human pathogen, while subspecies dysgalactiae (SDSD) has been considered a strictly animal pathogen; however, occasional human infections by this subspecies have been reported in the last few years. Moreover, the differences between the adaptation of SDSD within humans and other animals are still unknown. In this work, we provide a phylogenomic analysis based on the single-copy core genome of 106 isolates from both the subspecies and different infected hosts (animal and human hosts). The accessory genome of this species was also analyzed for screening of genes that could be specifically involved with adaptation to different hosts. Additionally, we searched putatively adaptive traits among prophage regions to infer the importance of transduction in the adaptation of SD to different hosts. Core genome phylogenetic relationships segregate all human SDSE in a single cluster separated from animal SD isolates. The subgroup of bovine SDSD evolved from this later clade and harbors a specialized accessory genome characterized by the presence of specific virulence determinants (e.g., cspZ) and carbohydrate metabolic functions (e.g., fructose operon). Together, our results indicate a host-specific SD and the existence of an SDSD group that causes human–animal cluster infections may be due to opportunistic infections, and that the exact incidence of SDSD human infections may be underestimated due to failures in identification based on the hemolytic patterns. However, more detailed research into the isolation of human SD is needed to assess whether it is a carrier phenomenon or whether the species can be permanently integrated into the human microbiome, making it ready to cause opportunistic infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cinthia Alves-Barroco
- Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit (UCIBIO), Departamento de Ciências da Vida, NOVA School of Science and Technology, Costa da Caparica, Portugal
- i4HB, Associate Laboratory – Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Faculdade de Ciências e Tecnologia, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Costa da Caparica, Portugal
- *Correspondence: Cinthia Alves-Barroco,
| | - Patrícia H. Brito
- Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit (UCIBIO), Departamento de Ciências da Vida, NOVA School of Science and Technology, Costa da Caparica, Portugal
- i4HB, Associate Laboratory – Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Faculdade de Ciências e Tecnologia, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Costa da Caparica, Portugal
- NOVA Medical School, Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- Patrícia H. Brito,
| | - Ilda Santos-Sanches
- Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit (UCIBIO), Departamento de Ciências da Vida, NOVA School of Science and Technology, Costa da Caparica, Portugal
| | - Alexandra R. Fernandes
- Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit (UCIBIO), Departamento de Ciências da Vida, NOVA School of Science and Technology, Costa da Caparica, Portugal
- i4HB, Associate Laboratory – Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Faculdade de Ciências e Tecnologia, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Costa da Caparica, Portugal
- Alexandra R. Fernandes,
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Winter JC, Thieme K, Eule JC, Saliu EM, Kershaw O, Gehlen H. Photodermatitis and ocular changes in nine horses after ingestion of wild parsnip (pastinaca sativa). BMC Vet Res 2022; 18:80. [PMID: 35219345 PMCID: PMC8881838 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-022-03162-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Primary photosensitization rarely occurs in horses and can easily be misinterpreted. Descriptions of the disease in horses after ingestion of parsnip are lacking. The aim of this case series was to describe the dermatological and ocular changes due to photosensitization and to raise awareness of parsnip being a possible aetiologic agent. Case presentation Nine horses from three different stables in Berlin and Brandenburg, Germany, presented variable degrees of erythema, scaling, crusting and necrosis of unpigmented skin at the head and prepuce. Horses were of different breeds with a median age of 15 ± 5.9 years. A mild leukocytosis was diagnosed in 1/9 horses at admission. Analyzed liver enzymes were within the reference ranges in all horses. Ocular changes were diagnosed as follows: blepharitis (3/9), conjunctivitis (7/9), corneal edema without additional signs of keratitis and/or uveitis (2/9), corneal edema with signs of uveitis (1/9) and photophobia (4/9). One horse developed a fluorescein positive corneal erosion. Skin biopsy (1/9) revealed a moderate to severe acute, eosinophilic and lymphocytic dermatitis with dermal edema and vasculitis. All stables housing these patients fed hay from the same distributer. Analyzed hay samples showed high contents of wild parsnip (plants, seeds, roots). Wild parsnip is widespread in Europe and contains furocoumarins, a family of photodynamic pigments, which may cause primary photodermatitis, keratoconjunctivitis and uveitis. Horses were treated according to severity of clinical symptoms systemically with flunixine meglumine (1.1 mg/kg BW 1-2x/day) or prednisolone (1 mg/kg BW 1x/day). Topically, either gentamicin (3x/day), dexamethasone (2-3x/day) and/or atropine (1x/day) were used. Skin care was provided with almond oil or dexpanthenol (2x/day). All horses were kept in a dark environment or were treated with sunscreen and facemasks. Duration of treatment varied from 6–30 days (median 11.3 days). Conclusion Ingestion of wild parsnip (Pastinaca sativa) can induce primary photosensitization with dermatitis and ocular injury in horses. In times of extreme weather, hay may alter in botanical composition, resulting in high amounts of uncharacteristic plants causing novel problems.
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Whole genome sequencing reveals possible host species adaptation of Streptococcus dysgalactiae. Sci Rep 2021; 11:17350. [PMID: 34462475 PMCID: PMC8405622 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-96710-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 08/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Streptococcus dysgalactiae (SD) is an emerging pathogen in human and veterinary medicine, and is associated with several host species, disease phenotypes and virulence mechanisms. SD has traditionally been divided into the subspecies dysgalactiae (SDSD) and subsp. equisimilis (SDSE), but recent molecular studies have indicated that the phylogenetic relationships are more complex. Moreover, the genetic basis for the niche versatility of SD has not been extensively investigated. To expand the knowledge about virulence factors, phylogenetic relationships and host-adaptation strategies of SD, we analyzed 78 SDSD genomes from cows and sheep, and 78 SDSE genomes from other host species. Sixty SDSD and 40 SDSE genomes were newly sequenced in this study. Phylogenetic analysis supported SDSD as a distinct taxonomic entity, presenting a mean value of the average nucleotide identity of 99%. Bovine and ovine associated SDSD isolates clustered separately on pangenome analysis, but no single gene or genetic region was uniquely associated with host species. In contrast, SDSE isolates were more heterogenous and could be delineated in accordance with host. Although phylogenetic clustering suggestive of cross species transmission was observed, we predominantly detected a host restricted distribution of the SD-lineages. Furthermore, lineage specific virulence factors were detected, several of them located in proximity to hotspots for integration of mobile genetic elements. Our study indicates that SD has evolved to adapt to several different host species and infers a potential role of horizontal genetic transfer in niche specialization.
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Glajzner P, Szewczyk EM, Szemraj M. Pathogenicity and drug resistance of animal streptococci responsible for human infections. J Med Microbiol 2021; 70. [PMID: 33750514 DOI: 10.1099/jmm.0.001339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Bacteria of the genus Streptococcus, earlier considered typically animal, currently have also been causing infections in humans. It is necessary to make clinicians aware of the emergence of new species that may cause the development of human diseases. There is an increasing frequency of isolation of streptococci such as S. suis, S. dysgalactiae, S. iniae and S. equi from people. Isolation of Streptococcus bovis/Streptococcus equinus complex bacteria has also been reported. The streptococcal species described in this review are gaining new properties and virulence factors by which they can thrive in new environments. It shows the potential of these bacteria to changes in the genome and the settlement of new hosts. Information is presented on clinical cases that concern streptococcus species belonging to the groups Bovis, Pyogenic and Suis. We also present the antibiotic resistance profiles of these bacteria. The emerging resistance to β-lactams has been reported. In this review, the classification, clinical characteristics and antibiotic resistance of groups and species of streptococci considered as animal pathogens are summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paulina Glajzner
- Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology and Microbiological Diagnostics, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland
| | - Eligia Maria Szewczyk
- Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology and Microbiological Diagnostics, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland
| | - Magdalena Szemraj
- Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology and Microbiological Diagnostics, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland
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Rosa MC, Conrad NL, Moraes CM, Leite FP. Immunogenicity of Streptococcus equi subsp. equi recombinant SeM protein and bacterin in mice. PESQUISA VETERINÁRIA BRASILEIRA 2021. [DOI: 10.1590/1678-5150-pvb-6910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT: The infection caused by Streptococcus equi, known as strangles, affects the respiratory system of horses, causing high morbidity and rapid spread among the herd. Bacterin vaccines, composed of inactivated whole cells of S. equi, have variable efficacy and duration. Infected animals produce specific antibodies against SeM, the immunodominant antigen of S. equi. This makes it a promising target for vaccine development. In this context, the objective of this work was to evaluate a vaccine combining S. equi bacterin and recombinant SeM protein. Mice were vaccinated with bacterin (S. equi ~1.2 × 108CFU/ml); rSeM protein (20μg); bacterin-rSeM combination; or PBS (Control Group) and challenged with a suspension of S. equi, containing 10 × LD50. All vaccinated mice survived the challenge and produced anti-rSeM and anti-S. equi antibodies, which were assessed by indirect ELISA. The Control Group reached endpoint criteria 96 h after infection. These results demonstrate that a vaccine combining the S. equi bacterin with rSeM protein protects mice against strangles. This combination vaccine could potentially protect horses and overcome the limitations of currently available strangle vaccines.
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12
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Schlohsarczyk EK, Schmidt N, Prenger‐Berninghoff E, Herkommer LF, Henrich M. Fatal bacterial septicaemia after immobilisation of a captive brown bear (
Ursus arctos
). VETERINARY RECORD CASE REPORTS 2020. [DOI: 10.1136/vetreccr-2020-001321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Elfi Katrin Schlohsarczyk
- Institute for Veterinary‐PathologyFaculty of Veterinary MedicineJustus‐Liebig‐University GiessenGiessenGermany
| | - Nadine Schmidt
- Institute for Hygiene and Infectious Diseases of AnimalsFaculty of Veterinary MedicineJustus‐Liebig‐University GiessenGiessenGermany
| | - Ellen Prenger‐Berninghoff
- Institute for Hygiene and Infectious Diseases of AnimalsFaculty of Veterinary MedicineJustus‐Liebig‐University GiessenGiessenGermany
| | - Leonie Franziska Herkommer
- Institute for Veterinary‐PathologyFaculty of Veterinary MedicineJustus‐Liebig‐University GiessenGiessenGermany
| | - Manfred Henrich
- Institute for Veterinary‐PathologyFaculty of Veterinary MedicineJustus‐Liebig‐University GiessenGiessenGermany
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13
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Mitchell CM, Johnson LK, Crim MJ, Wiedmeyer CE, Pugazhenthi U, Tousey S, Tollin DJ, Habenicht LM, Fink MK, Fong DL, Leszczynski JK, Manuel CA. Diagnosis, Surveillance and Management of Streptococcus equi subspecies zooepidemicus Infections in Chinchillas ( Chinchilla lanigera). Comp Med 2020; 70:370-375. [PMID: 32731906 PMCID: PMC7446643 DOI: 10.30802/aalas-cm-20-000012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
During a 6-mo period, two 5-6 mo old female chinchillas (Chinchilla lanigera) were examined at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus after the discovery of firm, nonmobile masses in the left ventral cervical and left axillary region. Other than these findings and mild weight loss, both chinchillas' physical exams were normal. Bloodwork revealed an inflammatory leukogram characterized by leukocytosis, toxic neutrophils, lymphopenia, and monocytosis with mild, nonregenerative anemia. At necropsy, both masses were identified as abscesses. Streptococcus equi, subspecies zooepidemicus (S. zooepidemicus) was isolated in pure culture. Histology of the lungs, liver, spleen, and kidneys showed a marked increase in the numbers of both polymorphonuclear leukocytes and lymphocytes. Both animals were deemed unsuitable for research and were euthanized under isoflurane anesthesia by an intracardiac injection of pentobarbital sodium solution. S. zooepidemicus is an opportunistic, commensal organism found in the upper respiratory tract of horses. This organism has been documented to cause disease in other species and is zoonotic. Infections in humans have been reported, resulting in glomerulonephritis, endocarditis, septic arthritis, osteomyelitis, meningitis, and death. To aid in diagnosis and prospective surveillance of this bacteria, oral and nasal swabs were collected from the remaining cohort of chinchillas, and a qPCR screening assay was implemented. Within 12 mo, 4 of 41 additional females tested positive by culture or qPCR, resulting in a disease prevalence of 14% (6 of 43). However, only 2 of the additional 4 S. zooepidemicus positive animals developed clinical signs. The potential for the spread of infection, zoonosis, and adverse effects on research demonstrate that surveillance for S. zooepidemicus should be considered in a biomedical research environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cara M Mitchell
- Animal Resources Center Department of Surgery, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Linda K Johnson
- Department of Pathology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Marcus J Crim
- IDEXX BioAnalytics Diagnostic Services, Columbia, Missouri
| | - Charles E Wiedmeyer
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri
| | - Umarani Pugazhenthi
- School of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Diabetes, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Susan Tousey
- Department of Pathology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado; Office of Laboratory Animal Resources, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Daniel J Tollin
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Lauren M Habenicht
- Office of Laboratory Animal Resources, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado; Department of Pathology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Michael K Fink
- Office of Laboratory Animal Resources, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado; Department of Pathology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Derek L Fong
- Office of Laboratory Animal Resources, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado; Department of Pathology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Jori K Leszczynski
- Office of Laboratory Animal Resources, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado; Department of Pathology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Christopher A Manuel
- Office of Laboratory Animal Resources, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado; Department of Pathology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado;,
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14
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McCarthy MB, Townsend KS, Johnson PJ, LaCarrubba AM, Voelkl DL, Volkmann DH. Occurrence of a vaginal septum in a foal diagnosed with pyometra. EQUINE VET EDUC 2020. [DOI: 10.1111/eve.13272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- M. B. McCarthy
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Surgery College of Veterinary Medicine University of Missouri Columbia Missouri USA
| | - K. S. Townsend
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Surgery College of Veterinary Medicine University of Missouri Columbia Missouri USA
| | - P. J. Johnson
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Surgery College of Veterinary Medicine University of Missouri Columbia Missouri USA
| | - A. M. LaCarrubba
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Surgery College of Veterinary Medicine University of Missouri Columbia Missouri USA
| | - D. L. Voelkl
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Surgery College of Veterinary Medicine University of Missouri Columbia Missouri USA
| | - D. H. Volkmann
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Surgery College of Veterinary Medicine University of Missouri Columbia Missouri USA
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15
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Xu B, Zhang P, Zhou H, Sun Y, Tang J, Fan H. Identification of novel genes associated with anti-phagocytic functions in Streptococcus equi subsp. zooepidemicus. Vet Microbiol 2019; 233:28-38. [PMID: 31176409 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetmic.2019.04.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2018] [Revised: 04/12/2019] [Accepted: 04/16/2019] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
The anti-phagocytic abilities of bacteria often affect bacterial pathogenicity. Here, random mutant library of Streptococcus equi subsp. zooepidemicus (SEZ) was constructed using transposon mutagenesis. After careful screening, 30 transposon mutants with different transposon insertion sites were identified by conducting quantitative phagocytosis and insertion-site confirmation assays, whose anti-phagocytic abilities were significantly reduced relative to the wild-type strain. Insertion sites of 19 strains were monocistronic, including genes coding membrane proteins, transporters, and enzymes with unknown pathological function, such as sadM, adhP, purD, guaA, alpha-galactosidase coding gene, ABC transporter permease coding gene, metallo-beta-lactamase coding gene, and three secreted enzyme coding genes spuZ, slaB, and endoS, as well as known virulence factor coding genes, such as hasA and szM. The insertion sites of another 11 strains were polycistronic. We focused on four monocistronic-mutant strains: MhtpZ, MspuZ, MslaB, and MendoS. The anti-phagocytic abilities of not only the mutants that were precoincubated with the recombinant proteins, but also the complement strains were significantly more pronounced than those of all four corresponding mutants. The polyclonal antiserum against SlaB or EndoS also significantly decreased the anti-phagocytic capacity of wild-type SEZ. All four mutants exhibited significantly decreased viability in whole blood and reduced lethality in mice relative to the wild-type strain. Thus, we identified a variety of new anti-phagocytic factors, particularly multiple SEZ secreted enzymes. These factors are instrumental in the phagocytic resistance of SEZ in the absence of opsonin. Our results provide a framework for further studies of SEZ pathogenesis and relevant vaccine development for novel potential targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Xu
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China; National Research Center of Veterinary Biologicals engineering and Technology, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing, China
| | - Ping Zhang
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China; Poultry Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Yangzhou, China
| | - Hong Zhou
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yu Sun
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jinsheng Tang
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Hongjie Fan
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China; Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou, China.
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16
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Fukushima Y, Tsuyuki Y, Goto M, Yoshida H, Takahashi T. Species Identification of β-Hemolytic Streptococci from Diseased Companion Animals and Their Antimicrobial Resistance Data in Japan (2017). Jpn J Infect Dis 2018; 72:94-98. [PMID: 30381681 DOI: 10.7883/yoken.jjid.2018.231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to identify the species and assess the antimicrobial resistance (AMR) of β-hemolytic streptococci isolated from companion animals in Japan. Strains were isolated from clinical specimens of 131 companion animals that exhibited symptoms in April-May 2017. We identified strains by 16S rRNA sequencing and assessed their antimicrobial susceptibility using the broth microdilution method. AMR genes erm(A)-erm(B)-mef(A) and tet(M)-tet(O)-tet(K)-tet(L)-tet(S) in all isolates were amplified by PCR. 16S rRNA sequencing identified β-hemolytic streptococcal species as Streptococcus canis (n = 117, 89.3%), S. agalactiae (n = 7), S. dysgalactiae subsp. equisimilis (n = 5), S. dysgalactiae subsp. dysgalactiae (n = 1), and S. equi subsp. zooepidemicus (n = 1). Overall AMR rates were 39.7% for minocycline, 19.8% for erythromycin, and 17.6% for clindamycin, with a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC90) of > 4, > 2, and > 1 μg/mL, respectively. AMR genotyping showed the presence of single or mixed types: erm(B)-mef(A) and tet(M)-tet(O)-tet(L)-tet(S). There was a significant relationship between tetracycline-resistance genotypes and open pus/skin-derived specimens. These observations identify some unique features of β-hemolytic streptococcal isolates from companion animals in Japan, such as the dominant isolation of S. canis and resistance to tetracycline, macrolide, and lincosamide antibiotics, in terms of species identification and AMR properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasuto Fukushima
- Laboratory of Infectious Diseases, Graduate School of Infection Control Sciences & Kitasato Institute for Life Sciences, Kitasato University
| | - Yuzo Tsuyuki
- Laboratory of Infectious Diseases, Graduate School of Infection Control Sciences & Kitasato Institute for Life Sciences, Kitasato University.,Division of Clinical Laboratory, Sanritsu Zelkova Veterinary Laboratory
| | - Mieko Goto
- Laboratory of Infectious Diseases, Graduate School of Infection Control Sciences & Kitasato Institute for Life Sciences, Kitasato University
| | - Haruno Yoshida
- Laboratory of Infectious Diseases, Graduate School of Infection Control Sciences & Kitasato Institute for Life Sciences, Kitasato University
| | - Takashi Takahashi
- Laboratory of Infectious Diseases, Graduate School of Infection Control Sciences & Kitasato Institute for Life Sciences, Kitasato University
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17
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Guerrero AE, Stornelli MC, Jurado SB, Giacoboni G, Sguazza GH, de la Sota RL, Stornelli MA. Vaginal isolation of beta-haemolytic Streptococcus from bitches with and without neonatal deaths in the litters. Reprod Domest Anim 2018; 53:609-616. [PMID: 29457285 DOI: 10.1111/rda.13147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2017] [Accepted: 01/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The aim of the study was to identify beta-haemolytic streptococci in the vagina of bitches who had delivered healthy litters and bitches who had delivered litters in which neonatal deaths occurred. Fifty-one bitches divided into two groups were used. Group 1 (G1) included 28 bitches that had delivered healthy litters and group 2 (G2) included 23 bitches that had delivered puppies who died in the neonatal period. Two vaginal samples were taken, one in proestrus and the other at the end of gestation (EG). Beta-haemolytic Streptococcus (BS) was isolated from 16 bitches (57%) in G1 and from 21 bitches (91%) in G2. The bacteriological cultures, serological tests (Streptex® ) and PCR assay allowed identification of Streptococcus canis and Streptococcus dysgalactiae in G1 and G2. Ultramicroscopic studies allowed the observation of M Protein and capsules in strains of S. dysgalactiae and S. canis in G1 and G2. The S. canis strains isolated from G2 showed thicker capsules than S. canis strains isolated from G1 (234 ± 24.2 vs 151.23 ± 28.93 nm; p < .001.). No differences were observed in capsule thickness between strains of S. dysgalactiae isolated from G1 and G2 (210 ± 13.54 vs 211.66 ± 19.67 nm; p > .70). All strains of beta-haemolytic Streptococcus isolated were penicillin sensitive. Penicillin was administered from EG to 5 days post-partum in 10 G2 females with isolation of BS (G2A). Saline solution was administered in eleven G2 females with isolation of BS (G2B). Ninety per cent of the puppies survived in G2A and 25% survived in G2B. Our results suggest BS is involved in canine neonatal deaths.
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Affiliation(s)
- A E Guerrero
- Cátedra y Servicio de Reproducción Animal, La Plata, Argentina.,Cátedra de Microbiología, La Plata, Argentina
| | - M C Stornelli
- Cátedra y Servicio de Reproducción Animal, La Plata, Argentina
| | - S B Jurado
- Servicio Central de Microscopía Electrónica, La Plata, Argentina
| | - G Giacoboni
- Cátedra de Microbiología, La Plata, Argentina
| | - G H Sguazza
- Laboratorio de Virología, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional de La Plata, La Plata, Argentina
| | - R L de la Sota
- Cátedra y Servicio de Reproducción Animal, La Plata, Argentina
| | - M A Stornelli
- Cátedra y Servicio de Reproducción Animal, La Plata, Argentina
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18
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Britton AP, Blum SE, Legge C, Sojonky K, Zabek EN. Multi-locus sequence typing of Streptococcus equi subspecies zooepidemicus strains isolated from cats. J Vet Diagn Invest 2017; 30:126-129. [PMID: 28906182 DOI: 10.1177/1040638717732372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Streptococcus equi subspecies zooepidemicus ( S. zooepidemicus) causes outbreaks of fatal respiratory disease in dog shelters and fatal respiratory and neurologic disease in cat shelters. We conducted multi-locus sequence typing analysis on S. zooepidemicus isolates from 5 Canadian and 3 Israeli cats with severe respiratory and neurologic disease, plus 1 isolate from a clinically normal shelter cat. Our aim was to determine if feline outbreaks are clonal and whether there is commonality between feline and canine strains. ST363 was identified as the causative strain of a Canadian outbreak of S. zooepidemicus-linked disease, and is a double-locus variant of ST173, which was isolated from one of the Israeli cats. ST363 was also isolated from the clinically normal cat, indicative of the potential for enzootic infection in shelters. Strains within the ST173 clonal complex were responsible for 2 large canine outbreaks in the United States and the United Kingdom, as well as the death of 1 cat in the United States outbreak. ST215 was isolated from 2 cats in the Israeli outbreak, and is unrelated to the ST173 complex. We conclude that S. zooepidemicus outbreaks in cat shelters are clonal and that strains within the ST173 clonal complex are pathogenic for both dogs and cats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann P Britton
- Animal Health Centre, BC Ministry of Agriculture, Abbotsford, British Columbia, Canada (Britton, Sojonky, Zabek).,Department of Bacteriology, Kimron Veterinary Institute, Bet Dagan, Israel (Blum).,Diagnostic Services Unit, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada (Legge)
| | - Shlomo E Blum
- Animal Health Centre, BC Ministry of Agriculture, Abbotsford, British Columbia, Canada (Britton, Sojonky, Zabek).,Department of Bacteriology, Kimron Veterinary Institute, Bet Dagan, Israel (Blum).,Diagnostic Services Unit, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada (Legge)
| | - Carolyn Legge
- Animal Health Centre, BC Ministry of Agriculture, Abbotsford, British Columbia, Canada (Britton, Sojonky, Zabek).,Department of Bacteriology, Kimron Veterinary Institute, Bet Dagan, Israel (Blum).,Diagnostic Services Unit, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada (Legge)
| | - Ken Sojonky
- Animal Health Centre, BC Ministry of Agriculture, Abbotsford, British Columbia, Canada (Britton, Sojonky, Zabek).,Department of Bacteriology, Kimron Veterinary Institute, Bet Dagan, Israel (Blum).,Diagnostic Services Unit, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada (Legge)
| | - Erin N Zabek
- Animal Health Centre, BC Ministry of Agriculture, Abbotsford, British Columbia, Canada (Britton, Sojonky, Zabek).,Department of Bacteriology, Kimron Veterinary Institute, Bet Dagan, Israel (Blum).,Diagnostic Services Unit, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada (Legge)
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19
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Ciszewski M, Szewczyk EM. Potential Factors Enabling Human Body Colonization by Animal Streptococcus dysgalactiae subsp. equisimilis Strains. Curr Microbiol 2017; 74:650-654. [PMID: 28314902 PMCID: PMC5376390 DOI: 10.1007/s00284-017-1232-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2016] [Accepted: 03/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Streptococcus dysgalactiae subsp. equisimilis (SDSE) is a pyogenic, Lancefield C or G streptococcal pathogen. Until recently, it has been considered as an exclusive animal pathogen. Nowadays, it is responsible for both animal infections in wild animals, pets, and livestock and human infections often clinically similar to the ones caused by group A streptococcus (Streptococcus pyogenes). The risk of zoonotic infection is the most significant in people having regular contact with animals, such as veterinarians, cattlemen, and farmers. SDSE is also prevalent on skin of healthy dogs, cats, and horses, which pose a risk also to people having contact with companion animals. The main aim of this study was to evaluate if there are features differentiating animal and human SDSE isolates, especially in virulence factors involved in the first stages of pathogenesis (adhesion and colonization). Equal groups of human and animal SDSE clinical strains were obtained from superficial infections (skin, wounds, abscesses). The presence of five virulence genes (prtF1, prtF2, lmb, cbp, emm type) was evaluated, as well as ability to form bacterial biofilm and produce BLIS (bacteriocin-like inhibitory substances) which are active against human skin microbiota. The study showed that the presence of genes coding for fibronectin-binding protein and M protein, as well as BLIS activity inhibiting the growth of Corynebacterium spp. strains might constitute the virulence factors which are necessary to colonize human organism, whereas they are not crucial in animal infections. Those virulence factors might be horizontally transferred from human streptococci to animal SDSE strains, enabling their ability to colonize human organism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcin Ciszewski
- Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology and Microbiological Diagnostics, Medical University of Łódź, 137 Pomorska St., 90-235, Lodz, Poland.
| | - Eligia M Szewczyk
- Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology and Microbiological Diagnostics, Medical University of Łódź, 137 Pomorska St., 90-235, Lodz, Poland
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20
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Kittang BR, Pettersen VK, Oppegaard O, Skutlaberg DH, Dale H, Wiker HG, Skrede S. Zoonotic necrotizing myositis caused by Streptococcus equi subsp. zooepidemicus in a farmer. BMC Infect Dis 2017; 17:147. [PMID: 28201995 PMCID: PMC5312586 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-017-2262-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2016] [Accepted: 02/10/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Streptococcus equi subsp. zooepidemicus is a beta-hemolytic group C streptococcus mainly causing infections in domesticated animals. Here we describe the first case of zoonotic necrotizing myositis caused by this bacterium. CASE PRESENTATION The patient was a 73-year-old, previously healthy farmer with two asymptomatic Shetland ponies in his stable. After close contact with the ponies while feeding them, he rapidly developed erythema of his left thigh and sepsis with multiple organ failure. The clinical course was severe and complicated, requiring repetitive surgical excision of necrotic muscle, treatment with vasopressors, mechanical ventilation and continuous venovenous hemofiltration, along with adjunctive hyperbaric oxygen therapy. The patient was discharged from hospital at day 30, without obvious sequelae. The streptococcal isolate was identified as Streptococcus equi by MALDI-ToF MS, and was later assigned subspecies identification as S. equi subsp. zooepidemicus. Multilocus sequence typing identified the strain as a novel sequence type (ST 364), closely related to types previously identified in horses and cattle. A focused proteomic analysis revealed that the ST 364 expressed putative virulence factors similar to that of Streptococcus pyogenes, including homologues of the M protein, streptodornases, interleukin 8-protease and proteins involved in the biosynthesis of streptolysin S. CONCLUSION This case illustrates the zoonotic potential of S. equi subsp. zooepidemicus and the importance of early clinical recognition, rapid and radical surgical therapy, appropriate antibiotics and adequate supportive measures when necrotizing soft tissue infection is suspected. The expression of Streptococcus pyogenes-like putative virulence determinants in ST 364 might partially explain the fulminant clinical picture.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Veronika Kuchařová Pettersen
- The Gade Research Group for Infection and Immunity, Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Oddvar Oppegaard
- The Gade Research Group for Infection and Immunity, Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.,Department of Medicine, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Dag Harald Skutlaberg
- The Gade Research Group for Infection and Immunity, Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.,Department of Microbiology, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Håvard Dale
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Harald G Wiker
- The Gade Research Group for Infection and Immunity, Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.,Department of Microbiology, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Steinar Skrede
- The Gade Research Group for Infection and Immunity, Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.,Department of Medicine, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
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21
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Moriconi M, Acke E, Petrelli D, Preziuso S. Multiplex PCR-based identification of Streptococcus canis, Streptococcus zooepidemicus and Streptococcus dysgalactiae subspecies from dogs. Comp Immunol Microbiol Infect Dis 2017; 50:48-53. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cimid.2016.11.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2015] [Revised: 07/25/2016] [Accepted: 11/20/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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22
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Tsuyuki Y, Kurita G, Murata Y, Goto M, Takahashi T. Identification of Group G Streptococcal Isolates from Companion Animals in Japan and Their Antimicrobial Resistance Patterns. Jpn J Infect Dis 2016; 70:394-398. [PMID: 28003600 DOI: 10.7883/yoken.jjid.2016.375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
In this study, we conducted a species-level identification of group G streptococcal (GGS) isolates from companion animals in Japan and analyzed antimicrobial resistance (AMR) patterns. Strains were isolated from sterile and non-sterile specimens collected from 72 animals with clinical signs or symptoms in April-May, 2015. We identified the strain by 16S rRNA sequencing, mass spectrometry (MS), and an automated method based on their biochemical properties. Antimicrobial susceptibility was determined using the broth microdilution method and E-test. AMR determinants (erm(A), erm(B), mef(A), tet(M), tet(O), tet(K), tet(L), and tet(S)) in corresponding resistant isolates were amplified by PCR. The 16S rRNA sequencing identified the GGS species as Streptococcus canis (n = 68), Streptococcus dysgalactiae subsp. equisimilis (n = 3), and S. dysgalactiae subsp. dysgalactiae (n = 1). However, there were discrepancies between the sequencing data and both the MS and automated identification data. MS and the automated biochemical technique identified 18 and 37 of the 68 sequencing-identified S. canis strains, respectively. The AMR rates were 20.8% for tetracycline and 5.6% for clarithromycin, with minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC)50 -MIC90 of 2-64 and ≤ 0.12-0.25μg/mL, respectively. AMR genotyping showed single or combined genotypes: erm(B) or tet(M)-tet(O)-tet(S). Our findings show the unique characteristics of GGS isolates from companion animals in Japan in terms of species-level identification and AMR patterns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuzo Tsuyuki
- Laboratory of Infectious Diseases, Kitasato Institute for Life Sciences, Kitasato University.,Division of Clinical Laboratory, Sanritsu Zelkova Veterinary Laboratory
| | | | | | - Mieko Goto
- Laboratory of Infectious Diseases, Kitasato Institute for Life Sciences, Kitasato University
| | - Takashi Takahashi
- Laboratory of Infectious Diseases, Kitasato Institute for Life Sciences, Kitasato University
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Severe forefoot infection complicated by Fusobacterium russii. Anaerobe 2016; 42:162-165. [PMID: 27789247 DOI: 10.1016/j.anaerobe.2016.10.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2016] [Revised: 10/14/2016] [Accepted: 10/23/2016] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
We present the first case of a complicated foot infection caused by Fusobacterium russii in Austria. F. russii is highly associated with mammals such as cats and dogs. Our case underlines the difficulties in isolation and identification of anaerobes and the pitfalls in antimicrobial treatment of polymicrobial infections.
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Jie P, Zhe M, Chengwei H, Huixing L, Hui Z, Chengping L, Hongjie F. Virulent and Vaccine Strains of Streptococcus equi ssp. zooepidemicus Have Different Influences on Phagocytosis and Cytokine Secretion of Macrophages. J Proteome Res 2016; 16:77-86. [PMID: 27726373 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jproteome.6b00571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Swine streptococcosis is a significant threat to the Chinese pig industry, and Streptococcus equi ssp. zooepidemicus (SEZ) is one of the major pathogens. SEZ ATCC35246 is a classical virulent strain, while SEZ ST171 is a Chinese attenuated vaccine strain. In this study, we employed stable isotope labeling by amino acids in cell culture and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) to determine the differential response of macrophages to infection by these two strains. Eighty-seven upregulated proteins and 135 downregulated proteins were identified. The proteomic results were verified by real-time polymerase chain reaction for 10 chosen genes and Western blotting for three proteins. All differentially abundant proteins were analyzed for their Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes annotations. Certain downregulated proteins were associated with immunity functions, and the upregulated proteins were related to cytomembrane and cytoskeleton regulation. The phagocytosis rate and cytokine genes transcription in Raw264.7 cells during SEZ ATCC35246 and ST171 infection were detected to confirm the bioinformatics results. These results showed that different effects on macrophage phagocytosis and cytokine expression might explain the different phenotypes of SEZ ATCC35246 and ST171 infection. This research provided clues to the mechanisms of host immunity responses to SEZ ST171and SEZ ATCC35246, which could identify potential therapy and vaccine development targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Jie
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University , Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Ma Zhe
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University , Nanjing 210095, China.,Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Hua Chengwei
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University , Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Lin Huixing
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University , Nanjing 210095, China.,Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Zhang Hui
- China Animal Health and Epidemiology Center, Qingdao 266032, China
| | - Lu Chengping
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University , Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Fan Hongjie
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University , Nanjing 210095, China.,Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou 225009, China
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25
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Javed R, Taku AK, Gangil R, Sharma RK. Molecular characterization of virulence genes of Streptococcus equi subsp. equi and Streptococcus equi subsp. zooepidemicus in equines. Vet World 2016; 9:875-81. [PMID: 27651677 PMCID: PMC5021838 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2016.875-881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2016] [Accepted: 07/16/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
AIM The aim was to determine the occurrence of streptococci in equines in Jammu (R. S. Pura, Katra), characterization of Streptococci equi subsp. equi and Streptococcus equi subsp. zooepidemicus with respect to their virulence traits and to determine antibiotic sensitivity pattern of virulent Streptococcus isolates. MATERIALS AND METHODS A total of 96 samples were collected from both clinically affected animals (exhibiting signs of respiratory tract disease) and apparently healthy animals and were sent to laboratory. The organisms were isolated on Columbia nalidixic acid agar containing 5% sheep blood as well as on sheep blood agar and confirmed by cultural characteristics and biochemical tests. Molecular detection of Streptococcus was done directly from cultures using sodA and seM gene-based polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Antibiogram was performed against five antibiotics such as amoxicillin, penicillin G, streptomycin, rifampicin, and methicillin. RESULTS During this study, a total 40 streptococcal isolates were obtained out of which 2 isolates were of S. equi subsp. equi, 12 isolates were from S. equi subsp. zooepidemicus. In the PCR-based detection, we revealed amplicons of 235 bp and 679 bp for confirmation of sodA and seM gene, respectively. In antibiogram, two isolates of S. equi subsp. equi were found resistant to penicillin G, and all other isolates were found sensitive to amoxicillin and streptomycin. CONCLUSION The majority of streptococcal infections was due to S. equi subsp. Zooepidemicus, and thus was recognized as a potential pathogen of diseases of equines besides S. equi subsp. equi.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Javed
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences & Animal Husbandry, R.S. Pura, Jammu, Jammu and Kashmir, India
| | - A K Taku
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences & Animal Husbandry, R.S. Pura, Jammu, Jammu and Kashmir, India
| | - Rakhi Gangil
- Department of Microbiology, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Mhow, Madhya Pradesh, India
| | - R K Sharma
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences & Animal Husbandry, R.S. Pura, Jammu, Jammu and Kashmir, India
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26
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Zhe M, Jie P, Hui Z, Bin X, Xiaomeng P, Huixing L, Chengping L, Hongjie F. SILAC and LC-MS/MS identification of Streptococcus equi ssp. zooepidemicus proteins that contribute to mouse brain microvascular endothelial cell infection. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2016; 100:7125-36. [PMID: 27178179 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-016-7579-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2016] [Revised: 04/14/2016] [Accepted: 04/20/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Streptococcus equi ssp. zooepidemicus (SEZ) causes meningitis in both humans and animals. Some dissociative proteins of SEZ are cytotoxic to mouse brain microvascular endothelial cells (mBMECs) and may contribute to the penetration of SEZ across the blood-brain barrier (BBB). In this study, the ability of SEZ to penetrate across an in vitro BBB model was confirmed. We used stable isotope labeling with amino acids in cell culture (SILAC) to label SEZ proteins with heavy or light isotope-tagged amino acids, along with LC-MS/MS to determine which SEZ proteins were involved in interactions with mBMECs. The efficiency of SEZ protein isotope labeling was 94.7 %, which was sufficient for further analysis. Forty-nine labeled peptides were identified as binding to mBMECs, which matched to 25 SEZ proteins. Bioinformatic analysis indicated that most of these proteins were cytoplasmic. These proteins may have functions in breaching the host BBB, and some of them are known virulence factors in other bacteria. Indirect immunofluorescence results indicated that SEZ enolase had binding activity toward mBMECs. Protective test results showed that enolase was a protective antigen against SEZ infection. This research is the first application of SILAC combined with LC-MS/MS to identify SEZ proteins that may contribute to the infection of mBMECs and potentially show functions related to breaching the BBB. The outcomes provide many future avenues for research into the mechanism of SEZ-induced meningitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ma Zhe
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China.,Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou, 225009, China
| | - Peng Jie
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Zhang Hui
- China Animal Health and Epidemiology Center, Qingdao, 266000, China
| | - Xu Bin
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Pei Xiaomeng
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Lin Huixing
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China.,Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou, 225009, China
| | - Lu Chengping
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Fan Hongjie
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China. .,Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou, 225009, China.
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27
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Yi L, Wang Y, Ma Z, Lin HX, Xu B, Grenier D, Fan HJ, Lu CP. Identification and characterization of a Streptococcus equi ssp. zooepidemicus immunogenic GroEL protein involved in biofilm formation. Vet Res 2016; 47:50. [PMID: 27089967 PMCID: PMC4834820 DOI: 10.1186/s13567-016-0334-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2015] [Accepted: 02/11/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Streptococcus equi ssp. zooepidemicus (S. equi spp. zooepidemicus) is an opportunistic pathogen that causes major economic losses in the swine industry in China and is also a threat for human health. Biofilm formation by this bacterium has been previously reported. In this study, we used an immunoproteomic approach to search for immunogenic proteins expressed by biofilm-grown S. equi spp. zooepidemicus. Seventeen immunoreactive proteins were found, of which nine common immunoreactive proteins were identified in planktonic and biofilm-grown bacteria. The immunogenicity and protective efficacy of the S. equi spp. zooepidemicus immunoreactive GroEL chaperone protein was further investigated in mice. The protein was expressed in vivo and elicited high antibody titers following S. equi spp. zooepidemicus infections of mice. An animal challenge experiment with S. equi spp. zooepidemicus showed that 75% of mice immunized with the GroEL protein were protected. Using in vitro biofilm inhibition assays, evidence was obtained that the chaperonin GroEL may represent a promising target for the prevention and treatment of persistent S. equi spp. zooepidemicus biofilm infections. In summary, our results suggest that the recombinant GroEL protein, which is involved in biofilm formation, may efficiently stimulate an immune response, which protects against S. equi spp. zooepidemicus infections. It may therefore be a candidate of interest to be included in vaccines against S. equi spp. zooepidemicus infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Yi
- Key Lab of Animal Bacteriology, Ministry of Agriculture, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China.,College of Life Science, Luoyang Normal University, Luoyang, China
| | - Yang Wang
- Key Lab of Animal Bacteriology, Ministry of Agriculture, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China.,College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, China
| | - Zhe Ma
- Key Lab of Animal Bacteriology, Ministry of Agriculture, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Hui-Xing Lin
- Key Lab of Animal Bacteriology, Ministry of Agriculture, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Bin Xu
- Key Lab of Animal Bacteriology, Ministry of Agriculture, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Daniel Grenier
- Groupe de Recherche En Écologie Buccale (GREB), Faculté de Médecine Dentaire, Université Laval, Québec City, QC, Canada
| | - Hong-Jie Fan
- Key Lab of Animal Bacteriology, Ministry of Agriculture, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China. .,Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for the Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou, China.
| | - Cheng-Ping Lu
- Key Lab of Animal Bacteriology, Ministry of Agriculture, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
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