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We described the pathological findings of an abortion associated with Yersinia enterocolitica infection in an ewe. A late-gestation aborted ovine fetus and placenta were submitted for necropsy. Pathologic changes were restricted to the chorioallantois. Grossly, cotyledons and intercodilenary regions had areas of mild red discoloration, and cotyledons were covered with a small amount of fibrin. Histological lesions consisted of multifocal, severe necrotizing and fibrinosuppurative placentitis with fibrinoid vasculitis and mineralization. Bacterial culture of lung, abomasum, and placenta samples yielded pure growth of Y. enterocolitica. This report described the first case of infection by Yersinia enterocolitica causing ovine abortion in Brazil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Bacterial gastroenteritis is a significant public health concern, capable of causing severe infections. Among the various pathogens involved, those belonging to the Enterobacteriaceae family are the most frequently isolated and associated with gastrointestinal disorders. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of common diarrheagenic Enterobacteriaceae in Iran over the past two decades, from 2000 to 2023. Methods: A comprehensive systematic search was conducted across multiple databases, including EMBASE, HINARI, MEDLINE, PubMed, Google Scholar, and the Cochrane Library. The focus was on observational published studies reporting the prevalence of diarrheagenic Enterobacteriaceae in Iran during 2000 and 2023. The criteria did not restrict patient demographics such as age, gender, health conditions, or occupation. This meta-analysis employed a 95% confidence interval (CI) for analysis. Evidence of heterogeneity was determined using an I² value greater than 50%. To explore potential sources of heterogeneity, subgroup analysis and meta-regression analysis were performed. Statistical analyses were executed using R version 4.3.2 along with the meta package. A p-value less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Out of 3,701 papers reviewed, 56 studies met the inclusion criteria and were analyzed. The overall pooled prevalence of diarrheagenic Enterobacteriaceae species from 2000 to 2023 was 14.0% (95% CI: 0.11–0.17). Subgroup analysis revealed Shigella spp. had the highest prevalence at 18.0% (95% CI: 0.13–0.24; I²=99%), followed by diarrheagenic Escherichia coli at 11.0% (95% CI: 0.09–0.15; I²=97%), Salmonella spp. at 9.0% (95% CI: 0.05–0.17; I²=99%), and Yersinia spp. at 2.0% (95% CI: 0.00-0.10; I²=94%). Prevalence trends showed Shigella spp. increasing from 4% (95% CI: 0.03–0.08) in 2000–2004 to 36% (95% CI: 0.20–0.55) in 2021–2023. Diarrheagenic E. coli (DEC) showed no clear pattern, ranging from 5% (95% CI: 0.01–0.24) to 17% (95% CI: 0.07–0.36). Salmonella spp. exhibited more significant fluctuations, rising from 6% (95% CI) in both 2000–2004 and 2005–2008 periods to 20% (95% CI: 0.03–0.66) in 2009–2012 and 30% (95% CI: 0.11–0.60) in 2017–2020. Yersinia spp. was only determined in 2000–2004 with a pool prevalence of 12% (95% CI: 0.00-0.91). Sub-species analysis revealed Shigella sonnei was the most prevalent species among Shigella spp. in Iran, accounting for 42% of cases (95% CI: 0.33–0.52). Regarding DEC species, Enteroaggregative E. coli (EAEC) and Enterotpathogenic E. coli (EPEC) had the highest rate at 15% (95% CI). Furthermore, a pool prevalence of 2% (95% CI: 0.00-0.89) was reported for Yersinia enterocolitica among diarrheagenic Enterobacteriaceae in Iran. Conclusion: This meta-analysis provides valuable insights into the prevalence of diarrheagenic Enterobacteriaceae in Iran over the past two decades. The findings highlight the significant impact of these pathogens on public health, with Shigella spp. showing the highest prevalence and increasing trends. Further research should investigate the factors contributing to the prevalence of diarrheagenic Enterobacteriaceae, including genetic diversity of diarrheagenic Enterobacteriaceae isolates, molecular mechanisms underlying the virulence of these pathogens, or antibiotic resistance patterns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This prospective pilot study examined the association between microorganisms and knee osteoarthritis by identifying pathogens in the synovial membrane, synovial fluid, and blood samples from two patients with primary bilateral knee osteoarthritis, using metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS). Intraoperatively, during routine knee arthroplasty procedures, we collected the following 12 samples from each patient: two synovial membrane samples, two synovial fluid samples, and two venous blood samples. After DNA isolation and library construction, each sample was subjected to deep whole-genome sequencing using the DNBSEQT17 platform with the read length PE150 as the default. Metagenomic sequencing data were mapped to the NCBI NT database to determine species abundance. The predominant species in all samples tested were classified under the Enterobacterales order, the most abundant being Yersinia enterocolitica. The second and third most common microorganisms detected were Escherichia coli and autotrophic, Gram-negative bacteria Synechococcus sp., which is a bioaerosol component, indicating a risk of inhalation of the toxic metabolites of this latter microorganism. This article provides an initial exploration of mNGS use to study the etiopathogenetic mechanisms of knee osteoarthritis (OA). While our analysis identified bacterial DNA, particularly from Yersinia, further cross-sectional studies in larger populations with and without OA are needed to determine the role of these agents in OA pathogenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to conduct a preliminary investigation in eight Sardinian fermented sausage (SFS) production plants to acquire knowledge about the differences in the applied technological process and their influence on the safety and sensory characteristics of the finished product. Two audits were conducted in each plant to evaluate structural characteristics and process technologies; 72 samples of SFS at the end of seasoning and 48 environmental samples were analyzed. Listeria monocytogenes, Listeria spp., Salmonella spp., and Yersinia enterocolitica were investigated, and chemical-physical analyses were also performed. A panel of consumers was subjected to the Check All That Apply test and acceptability test to determine the qualities perceived by consumers and assess the product acceptance rating. A water activity value of >0.941, permissive for the growth of L. monocytogenes, was detected in SFS produced by one producing plant; L. monocytogenes, Salmonella spp., and Y. enterocolitica were detected in 2.8% of SFS samples, and Listeria spp. in 20.8% of samples. Environmental samples tested positive for 45.8% of Listeria spp. and 16.7% of L. monocytogenes. Correct drying and ripening steps, applied for at least 20 days, are critical for the development of hurdles required to guarantee the safety of fermented sausages. The application of proper hygiene and cleaning procedures is required to reduce environmental contamination. Sensory analysis results show how the production processes applied determine the marketing of sensorially different products. The ideal profile suggested by consumers confirms that the attributes that allow for improved liking are "moderate spicing", "moderate spiciness", "seasoned product", and "artisanal character". [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present investigation deals with the optimization of various parameters for extraction of oleoresins from Syzygium aromaticum (L.) Merr. and L.M. Perry buds (clove) using microwave assisted extraction (MAE) and ultrasound assisted extraction (UAE) by response surface methodology comparing the results with Soxhlet extraction (SE). The chemical composition of oleoresins was studied by GC-MS analysis. This was followed by testing their antibacterial potential against Escherichia coli, Yersinia enterocolitica, Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus sp. and antioxidant potential. The maximum yield of clove oleoresin (COR) was obtained by UAE (42.00%) at 1:35 (solid to liquid ratio), 70°C for 12.50 min followed by SE (41.38%) and MAE (41.07%, 1:31 (solid to liquid ratio), 625 W for 60 s). The COR extracted by MAE showed the maximum percentage of various oxygenated terpenes (76.96%), followed by UAE (74.98%) and SE (44.92%). The major compound found in CORs extracted by MAE and UAE was eugenol acetate and for SE was 4,8,13-duvatriene-1,3-diol. The CORs extracted by MAE exhibited maximum antibacterial potential with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) which is the lowest COR concentration that inhibited the detectable growth of the test microorganisms in the range of 2.80–4.20 mg/ml followed by UAE (3.20–4.45 mg/ml) and SE (3.75–4.56 mg/ml). The COR extracted by MAE also exhibited maximum antioxidant activity against mustard oil degradation having the least increase in peroxide value, anisidine value, thiobarbituric acid value and total oxidation value after 28 days of storage. Hence, the maximum yield of COR was obtained by UAE but the maximum antibacterial and antioxidant potential was shown by COR extracted by MAE. Hence, COR extracted by MAE can be used as a natural food preservative as an alternative to synthetic food preservatives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract We report the case of a young woman sough care for disseminated form of Yersinia enterocolitica infection (pseudoappendicitis with mesenteric lymph node, arthralgia, glomerulonephritis and hepatitis) diagnosed on Western Blot method for the detection of Yersinia antibodies. The patient also presented a rare concomitant cutaneous manifestation, as Sweet’s syndrome, confirmed histologically. Neutrophilic dermatosis is an exceptional skin features among post-infectious autoimmune disorders when encountering Yersinia enterocolitica infection in clinical practice.

Yersinia enterocolitica infection, the third most prevalent gastrointestinal infection in Europe, poses a diagnostic challenge due to its resemblance to other common conditions such as acute appendicitis, Crohn’s disease, and malignancy. We report the case of a 48-year-old female patient who sought medical attention for abdominal pain and diarrhoea. Her endoscopic examination revealed a cobblestone pattern affecting the entire colon, more pronounced in the right colon, but with normal mucosa in the terminal ileum. This unique presentation created a challenge in distinguishing Yersiniosis from Crohn’s disease. This case report aimed to highlight this atypical endoscopic manifestation of Y. enterocolitica infection. We underline the subacute nature of the symptoms, which can last up to 4–6 weeks. This reinforces the importance of considering Y. enterocolitica infection as a diagnostic possibility, even when the endoscopic appearance closely resembles other chronic intestinal diseases.

Introduction: Yersinia enterocolitica (Ye) is a Gram-negative bacterium that causes gastrointestinal infections. The myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) constitute a cellular population with the capacity of inducing the specific suppression of T cells. Although there is evidence supporting the role of MDSCs in controlling the immune responses in several bacterial infections, its role during Ye infection has not yet been reported. Therefore, the purpose of the present work was to analyze MDSCs after oral Ye infection. Methods: C57BL/6 wild-type mice were infected with Ye WAP-314 serotype O:8. The proliferation of splenocytes and mesenteric lymph nodes (MLN) cells was measured as well as the levels of cytokines and nitric oxide (NO) in culture supernatants. The frequency and subsets of MDSCs were analyzed in the intestinal mucosa and spleen by flow cytometry. Furthermore, monocytic-MDSCs (Mo-MDSCs) and polymorphonuclear-MDSCs (PMN-MDSCs) were purified from the spleen of infected mice and their suppressor activity was evaluated in co-cultures with purified T cells. Results: we observed a marked expansion of CD11b+Gr-1+ cells, a phenotype consistent with MDSCs, in the spleen and intestinal mucosa of Ye-infected mice. Interestingly, a robust proliferation of splenocytes and MLN cells was observed only when the MDSCs were depleted or the NO production was blocked. In addition, we determined that only Mo-MDSCs had the ability to suppress T-cell proliferation. Conclusion: Our results highlight a mechanism by which Ye may induce suppression of the immune responses. We suggest that NO-producing Mo-MDSCs expand and accumulate in MLN and spleen of Ye-infected mice. These cells can then suppress the T-cell function without interfering with the anti-bacterial effector response. Instead, these immature myeloid cells may perform an important function in regulating the inflammatory response and protecting affected tissues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A unique species of pine, Cedrus deodara is known for its wood oil. Its traditional therapeutic use is mainly antibacterial and anti-inflammatory. The aim of this study was to investigate the antibacterial properties of Cedrus deodara essential oil (CDEO) obtained from the crushed wood. The antimicrobial activity of CDEO was evaluated against Gram-negative (G-) bacteria which included Pseudomonas aeruginosa CCM 1595, Salmonella enterica subs. enterica CCM 3807 and Gram-positive (G+) bacteria Yersinia enterocolitica CCM 5671. Listeria monocytogenes CCM 4699, Staphylococcus aureus subs. aureus CCM 2461 and Streptococcus consellatus CCM 4043 in vitro and in situ. The best antimicrobial activity for the disc diffusion method ranged from 4.67 to 9.67 mm and the minimum inhibitory concentration ranged from 1.48 to 5.44 mg.mL-1. The most effective antimicrobial effect was found against S. aureus and L. monocytogenes. The vapour phase used showed the best antimicrobial effect against P. aeruginosa in the kiwifruit model and L. monocytogenes in the banana model at a lower CDEO concentration of 62.5 µg.L-1 and against P. aeruginosa in the potato model and Y. enterocolitica in the cucumber model at a higher CDEO concentration of 500 µg.L-1. CDEO showed good antimicrobial activity against bacteria on vegetable and fruit model and may be a new preservative for storage of vegetables and fruits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We aimed to estimate the prevalence of potentially diarrhoeagenic microbes (PDMs) in faecal samples from asymptomatic individuals in a high‐income country, identify risk factors for carriage and to identify microbial factors that differ between PDMs in asymptomatic versus symptomatic individuals. Samples from 1000 asymptomatic participants were collected, together with a questionnaire, between 2015 and 2020 and examined by PCR for 11 PDMs. Isolates were characterised and potential risk factors were registered. Atypical enteropathogenic Escherichia coli (aEPEC), Yersinia enterocolitica, Shiga toxin‐producing E. coli (STEC), enterotoxigenic E. coli (ETEC) and Campylobacter spp. were found in 163 (16%), 20 (2.0%), 17 (1.7%), 12 (1.2%) and 11 (1.1%) asymptomatic individuals, respectively. Other PDMs were rare. Only low virulent STEC, with stx1c, stx2b or stx2f, was detected. Travels outside Europe was a significant risk factor for detecting Campylobacter spp. (odds ratio (OR) 6.99; 95% CI 1.12–43.6) and ETEC (OR 11.4; 95% CI 1.26–102). Individuals ≥65 years of age had lower odds of carrying STEC (OR 0.11; 95% CI 0.02–0.57) or EPEC (OR 0.09; 95% CI 0.05–0.16) than individuals ≤5 years of age. The common finding of PDMs in asymptomatic individuals could have implications for the interpretation of positive findings in clinical samples and infection control measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous investigations have explored the involvement of wolves in parasitic and viral diseases, but data on the zoonotic bacteria are limited. The aim of this study was to assess the occurrence of bacterial zoonotic agents in 16 wolf (Canis lupus italicus) fecal samples collected in a protected area in Central Italy. Campylobacter spp., Salmonella spp., Yersinia spp., Listeria monocytogenes, and Shiga Toxin-Producing Escherichia coli (STEC) were investigated by culture, while polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was employed to detect Coxiella burnetii, Mycobacterium spp., Brucella spp., and Francisella tularensis. The presence of Extended Spectrum β-Lactamase (ESBL)- and carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae was also evaluated, using selective isolation media and detection of antimicrobial resistance genes. All samples were negative for Campylobacter spp., Salmonella spp., C. burnetii, Mycobacterium spp., Brucella spp., F. tularensis, and carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae. One sample tested positive for Yersinia aldovae and three for Yersinia enterocolitica BT1A. One L. monocytogenes (serogroup IIa) and one STEC, carrying the stx1 gene, were isolated. Two ESBL isolates were detected: one Serratia fonticola, carrying blaFONA-3/6 gene, and one Escherichia coli, carrying blaCTX-M-1 gene. Both ESBL isolates were resistant to different antimicrobials and therefore classified as multi-drug-resistant. Our data suggest that wolves are potential carriers of zoonotic bacteria and may contribute to the environmental contamination through their feces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biofilms in food processing environments pose a potential risk of contamination by pathogenic and spoilage microorganisms, and Yersinia enterocolitica, known for its wide temperature adaptation, is the third most common zoonotic pathogen in the European Union. This study investigates the inhibitory effects of protocatechuic acid (PCA) at sub-inhibitory concentrations on various stages of Y. enterocolitica biofilm formation. Core genes are identified through transcriptome data and weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA), and the potential binding sites are predicted using molecular docking. Additionally, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) films containing PCA are prepared to assess their antibacterial and mechanical properties. PCA is found to inhibit biofilm formation by up to 50.5% without affecting bacterial growth, reducing flagella-mediated motility, hydrophobicity, cohesion, and extracellular polysaccharides (EPS) content, and inhibiting the production of acyl-homoserine lactones (AHLs). Transcriptome data reveal that PCA inhibits biofilm formation by suppressing the quorum sensing system and reducing the expression of genes such as CsrD, yenR, FlhD, and FlhC. The PVA-PCA antimicrobial film exhibits robust mechanical properties, effectively reducing total colonies in pork and slowing down the deterioration rate. This study enhances our understanding of PCA's inhibitory effects on Y. enterocolitica and suggests its potential application as a quorum-sensing inhibitor in antimicrobial films for the food industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diclofenac is a hepatotoxic non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that affects liver histology and its protein expression levels. Here, we studied the effect of diclofenac on rat liver when co-administrated with either Yersinia enterocolitica strain 8081 serotype O:8 biovar 1B (D*Y) or Lactobacillus fermentum strain 9338 (D*L). Spectroscopic analysis of stool samples showed biotransformation of diclofenac. When compared with each other, D*Y rats lack peaks at 1709 and 1198 cm−1, while D*L rats lack peaks at 1411 cm−1. However, when compared to control, both groups lack peaks at 1379 and 1170 cm−1. Assessment of serum biomarkers of hepatotoxicity indicated significantly altered activities of AST (D*Y: 185.65 ± 8.575 vs Control: 61.9 ± 2.607, D*L: 247.5 ± 5.717 vs Control: 61.9 ± 2.607), ALT (D*Y: 229.8 ± 6.920 vs Control: 70.7 ± 3.109, D*L: 123.75 ± 6.068 vs Control: 70.7 ± 3.109), and ALP (D*Y: 276.4 ± 18.154 vs Control: 320.6 ± 9.829, D*L: 298.5 ± 12.336 vs Control: 320.6 ± 9.829) in IU/L. The analysis of histological alterations showed hepatic sinusoidal dilation with vein congestion and cell infiltration exclusively in D*Y rats along with other histological changes that are common to both test groups, thereby suggesting more pronounced alterations in D*Y rats. Further, LC–MS/MS based label-free quantitation of proteins from liver tissues revealed 74.75% up-regulated, 25.25% down-regulated in D*Y rats and 51.16% up-regulated, 48.84% down-regulated in D*L experiments. The proteomics-identified proteins majorly belonged to metabolism, apoptosis, stress response and redox homeostasis, and detoxification and antioxidant defence that demonstrated the potential damage of rat liver, more pronounced in D*Y rats. Altogether the results are in favor that the administration of lactobacilli somewhat protected the rat hepatic cells against the diclofenac-induced toxicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report the case of a young woman sough care for disseminated form of Yersinia enterocolitica infection (pseudoappendicitis with mesenteric lymph node, arthralgia, glomerulonephritis and hepatitis) diagnosed on Western Blot method for the detection of Yersinia antibodies. The patient also presented a rare concomitant cutaneous manifestation, as Sweet's syndrome, confirmed histologically. Neutrophilic dermatosis is an exceptional skin features among post-infectious autoimmune disorders when encountering Yersinia enterocolitica infection in clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dry-aged meat is gaining popularity among food business operators and private consumers. The process is carried out in aerobic conditions by hanging beef carcasses or placing subprimal or primal cuts in a dedicated cabinet for several weeks or even months while controlling the environment through the management of process parameters such as temperature, relative humidity, and airflow. In this review, we present a critical evaluation of the literature to evaluate tools to manage the process to guarantee food safety and identify critical control points, as well as good hygiene and manufacturing practices. In controlled aging conditions, only Listeria monocytogenes and Yersinia enterocolitica can multiply, while a reduction in the number of Salmonella spp. and Escherichia coli O157:H7 is generally reported. Enterobacteriaceae usually decrease on the surface of the meat during maturation; thus, for the purpose of the hygiene evaluation of the production process, a count no higher than that of unmatured meat is expected. Besides, various studies report that the total bacterial count and the spoilage microorganisms significantly increase on the surface of the meat, up to 5-6 Log10 CFU/g in the absence of visible spoilage. Bacteria of the Pseudomonas genus tend to progressively replace other microorganisms during maturation; thus, the total mesophilic or psychrophilic bacterial load is not a good indicator of process hygiene for matured meat. Critical parameters for the control of the process are temperature, relative humidity, and ventilation, which should be monitored during the process. For this reason, equipment designed and certified for dryaging must be used, and the manufacturer must validate the process. Food business operators must apply general good manufacturing practices (GMP) and good hygiene practices (GHP) for meat processing and some GMP and GHP specific for dry-aging. Several research needs were identified, among them the evolution of the populations of L. monocytogenes and Y. enterocolitica and the microbiology of the inner parts of the dry-aged meat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to isolate, identify, and evaluate the antibacterial and probiotic potential of bacteria from honeydew honey collected in Poland. Isolates (189 colonies from 10 honey samples) were evaluated for their antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus, Escherichia coli, and Yersinia enterocolitica, and then identified by MALDI-TOF-MS. The isolates with the greatest antimicrobial properties were screened for their probiotic potential. The total number of bacteria isolated from honey did not exceed the value of 2.5 × 102 CFU/mL. The Bacillus pumilus/altitudinis, B. licheniformis, and Bacillus cereus groups were the dominant identified bacteria. Almost 16% of the isolates expressed antibacterial potential against three pathogenic bacteria, over 20% against two, while almost 34% of the isolates did not inhibit any. The survival rate of the isolates under gastrointestinal tract conditions was higher after 4 h of exposure to bile salts (>60% survival rate for 66.66% of the isolates), while at pH 2.0, it was lower (>50% survival rate for 44% of the isolates). The most resistant isolate B. pumilus/altitudinis survived at a rate of 77% at low pH and 108% with bile salts. These results confirmed that honeydew honey is a promising reservoir of bacteria that produces metabolites with antimicrobial and probiotic potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this work was to assess the microbiological safety and quality of horsemeat. A total of 19 fresh horsemeat samples were analysed. Mesophile counts were 4.89 ± 1.08 log CFU/g, and Enterobacteriaceae, Staphylococcus spp., and enterococci were only isolated from 36.84%, 21.05%, and 15.79% of the samples, respectively. Neither Staphylococcus aureus nor Escherichia coli were found in any sample. Listeria spp. and Listeria monocytogenes were detected in 31.58% and 21.05% of the samples, respectively. Campylobacter jejuni was not detected in any sample. The dominant bacteria were lactic acid bacteria. Seven different Staphylococcus spp. were identified, the most common being S. delphini, S. saprophyticus, and S. warneri. S. delphini showed resistance against mupirocin and cefoxitin. All the L. monocytogenes strains showed resistance against ampicillin, cefotaxime, and oxacillin. Multi-resistant Yersinia enterocolitica, Stenotrophomonas maltophilia, and Vagococcus. fluvialis strains were found, with resistance to 11, 7, and 8 antibiotics, respectively, causing significant concern. Therefore, specific actions should be taken to decrease the contamination of horsemeat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The viable but non-culturable (VBNC) state is a survival strategy for many foodborne pathogens under adverse conditions. Yersinia enterocolitica (Y. enterocolitica) as a kind of primary foodborne pathogen, and it is crucial to investigate its survival strategies and potential risks in the food chain. In this study, the effectiveness of ultraviolet (UV) irradiation and chlorine treatment in disinfecting the foodborne pathogen Y. enterocolitica was investigated. The results indicated that both UV irradiation and chlorine treatment can induce the VBNC state in Y. enterocolitica. The bacteria completely lost culturability after being treated with 25 mg/L of NaClO for 30 min and a UV dose of 100 mJ/cm². The number of culturable and viable cells were detected using plate counting and a combination of fluorescein and propidium iodide (live/dead cells). Further research found that these VBNC cells exhibited reduced intracellular Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP) levels, and increased levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) compared to non-induced cells. Morphologically, the cells changed from a rod shape to a shorter, coccobacillary shape with small vacuoles forming at the edges, indicating structural changes. Both condition-induced VBNC-state cells were able to resuscitate in tryptic soy broth (TSB) medium supplemented with Tween 80, sodium pyruvate, and glucose. These findings contribute to a better understanding of the survival mechanisms of Y. enterocolitica in the environment and are of significant importance for the development of effective disinfection strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Yersiniosis has a causal relationship with hereditary hemochromatosis (HH). Physicians should have a high index of suspicion for the diagnosis of HH when approaching a patient with yersiniosis in the setting of high ferritin levels and increased iron saturation. Yersiniosis serves as a precursor for the diagnosis of HH.

The article discusses a rare case of Yersinia enterocolitica pneumonia in a heart transplant recipient, presenting as a lung mass. The patient, a 73-year-old male farmer, had symptoms of cough, diarrhea, fevers, and weight loss. Treatment involved antibiotics and adjustments to immunosuppression. Yersinia enterocolitica is a bacterium causing gastroenteritis, with extra-intestinal manifestations, and can lead to pneumonia in immunocompromised individuals. The case highlights the importance of early diagnosis and appropriate treatment in solid organ transplant recipients. [Extracted from the article]

Background: Commonly used approaches for genomic investigation of bacterial outbreaks, including SNP and gene-by-gene approaches, are limited by the requirement for background genomes and curated allele schemes, respectively. As a result, they only work on a select subset of known organisms, and fail on novel or less studied pathogens. We introduce refMLST, a gene-by-gene approach using the reference genome of a bacterium to form a scalable, reproducible and robust method to perform outbreak investigation. Results: When applied to multiple outbreak causing bacteria including 1263 Salmonella enterica, 331 Yersinia enterocolitica and 6526 Campylobacter jejuni genomes, refMLST enabled consistent clustering, improved resolution, and faster processing in comparison to commonly used tools like chewieSnake. Conclusions: refMLST is a novel multilocus sequence typing approach that is applicable to any bacterial species with a public reference genome, does not require a curated scheme, and automatically accounts for genetic recombination. Availability and implementation: refMLST is freely available for academic use at https://bugseq.com/academic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Three Yersinia species were identified from samples of drinking water from diverse geographic regions of Ireland. Conventional commercial biochemical identification systems classified them as Yersinia enterocolitica. Since this organism is the most common cause of bacterial gastroenteritis in some countries, further investigation was warranted. The aim of the study was to provide a microbial characterisation of three Yersinia species, to determine their pathogenicity, and to review the incidence rate of Yersinia enterocolitica detection in our region. Methods: Organism identification was performed using conventional commercial diagnostic systems MALDI-TOF, API 20E, API 50CHE, TREK Sensititre GNID and Vitek 2 GN, and whole genome sequencing (WGS) was performed. Historical data for detections was extracted from the lab system for 2008 to 2023. Results: All three isolates gave "good" identifications of Yersinia enterocolitica on conventional systems. Further analysis by WGS matched two of the isolates with recently described Yersinia proxima, and the third was a member of the non-pathogenic Yersinia enterocolitica clade 1Aa. Discussion: Our analysis of these three isolates deemed them to be Yersinia species not known currently to be pathogenic, but determining this necessitated the use of next-generation sequencing and advanced bioinformatics. Our work highlights the importance of having this technology available to public laboratories, either locally or in a national reference laboratory. The introduction of molecular technologies for the detection of Yersinia species may increase the rate of detections. Accurate identification of significant pathogens in environmental, public health and clinical microbiology laboratories is critically important for the protection of society. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Foodborne diseases are a significant global public health concern due to their high prevalence, mortality, and economic losses. The aim of this study was to conduct a systematic review of identified foodborne pathogens and outbreaks in Iran over the past 23 years to provide an overview of the risk assessment and prevention approaches in the country. Using appropriate keywords and searching major databases, such as ScienceDirect, Scopus, PubMed, Google Scholar, and the Iranian Scientific Knowledge Database, we initially identified 4,740 articles. Finally, 328 articles were selected for evaluation. Among these articles, publications on Salmonella, Staphylococcus aureus, and Listeria were the most numerous. Poultry meat was found to be the main source of major foodborne pathogens in Iran, including Campylobacter (46.21%), Listeria monocytogenes (38.45), Salmonella (24.83%), and Yersinia enterocolitica (16.81%). Given the high prevalence of foodborne bacteria in Iranian foods, it is crucial to implement effective control measures to reduce the risk and burden of foodborne diseases. In particular, poultry meat, which poses a high risk for the occurrence of foodborne diseases in Iran, should be subjected to further risk assessment and control measures throughout the food chain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Yersinia enterocolitica is a gram-negative foodborne pathogen that can form biofilms on the surfaces of food and food processing equipment. Biofilms can enhance strain viability and affect food safety. In this study, Y. enterocolitica strain C1967-1 isolated from quick-frozen food, which has a strong ability to form biofilms, was evaluated. Proteomics analysis was used to analyze the differences in protein expression between the biofilms and planktonic bacteria. Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analysis demonstrated that, among the top nine GO categories with the highest degree of enrichment, seven showed downregulation trends in biofilms. Only GO:0046873 (metal ion transmembrane transporter activity) did not show significant upregulation or downregulation trends in biofilms. The Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment results suggested that the top 20 KEGG pathways with the highest degree of enrichment mainly involved metabolism of carbohydrates, amino acids, and lipids. The subcellular localization analysis results revealed that 45.65% of differential proteins were located in the cytoplasm. The upregulated protein MgtA of the biofilm was selected from GO:0046873, and the gene mgtA was knocked out to further verify the proteomics data. The results indicated that the knockout of mgtA did not inhibit strain growth. However, the biofilm amount of ΔmgtA was reduced by approximately 80%, and the structure of the biofilm was loosened. In summary, these results provide an important theoretical basis for the biofilm formation mechanism of Y. enterocolitica and the prevention of bacterial biofilm formation in the food industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the study was to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of the extracted plants basil (Ocimum basilicum L.), sage (Salvia officinalis L.), lavender (Lavandula officinalis L.), immortelle (Helichrysum italicum (Roth) G. Don), savory (Satureja montana L.), and rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus Spenn.) against foodborne and clinical pathogens. Dried plants were used in the production of Dalmatian cow's milk hard cheese at concentrations of 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, and 2% to evaluate the microbiological safety and sensory properties of novel cheeses. The broadest antimicrobial activity was found in rosemary and sage, inhibiting ten indicator pathogens, and the strongest antimicrobial activity was found in immortelle and sage, which showed the widest zones of inhibition. The most sensitive indicators were Staphylococcus species and Yersinia enterocolitica. The supplemented cheeses met the official microbiological criteria and were mycotoxin negative. The surface mycobiota of control and experimental cheeses consisted mainly of Penicillium sollitum, based on the sequence analysis of the beta-tubulin and calmodulin genes. The antifungal effect of the added plants was clearly demonstrated in cheeses with added basil and sage (p < 0.05). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background In the US, yersinosis was understood to predominantly occur in winter and among Black or African American infants and Asian children. Increased use of culture-independent diagnostic tests (CIDTs) has led to marked increases in yersinosis diagnoses. Methods We describe differences in the epidemiology of yersiniosis diagnosed by CIDT versus culture in 10 US sites, and identify determinants of health associated with diagnostic method. Results Annual reported incidence increased from 0.3/100 000 in 2010 to 1.3/100 000 in 2021, particularly among adults ≥18 years, regardless of race and ethnicity, and during summer months. The proportion of CIDT-diagnosed infections increased from 3% in 2012 to 89% in 2021. An ill person's demographic characteristics and location of residence had a significant impact on their odds of being diagnosed by CIDT. Conclusions Improved detection due to increased CIDT use has altered our understanding of yersinosis epidemiology, however differential access to CIDTs may still affect our understanding of yersinosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this pilot study, we compared the metagenomic profiles of different types of artisanal fermented meat products collected in Italy, Greece, Portugal, and Morocco to investigate their taxonomic profile, also in relation to the presence of foodborne pathogens and antimicrobial resistance genes. In addition, technical replicates of the same biological sample were tested to estimate the reproducibility of shotgun metagenomics. The taxonomic analysis showed a high level of variability between different fermented meat products at both the phylum and genus levels. Staphylococcus aureus was identified with the highest abundance in Italian fermented meat; Escherichia coli in fermented meat from Morocco; Salmonella enterica in fermented meat from Greece; Klebsiella pneumoniae and Yersinia enterocolitica in fermented meat from Portugal. The fungi Aspergillus, Neosartoria, Emericella, Penicillum and Debaryomyces showed a negative correlation with Lactococcus, Enterococcus, Streptococcus, Leuconostoc and Lactobacillus. The resistome analysis indicated that genes conferring resistance to aminoglycoside, macrolide, and tetracycline were widely spread in all samples. Our results showed that the reproducibility between technical replicates tested by shotgun metagenomic was very high under the same conditions of analysis (either DNA extraction, library preparation, sequencing analysis, and bioinformatic analysis), considering both the degree of overlapping and the pairwise correlation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diarrhoea remains an important public health concern, particularly in developing countries, and has become difficult to treat because of antibacterial resistance. The development of synergistic antimicrobial agents appears to be a promising alternative treatment against diarrhoeic infections. In this study, the combined effect of tetracycline together with either nitroxoline, sanguinarine, or zinc pyrithione (representing various classes of plant-based compounds) was evaluated in vitro against selected diarrhoeic bacteria (Enterococcus faecalis, Escherichia coli, Listeria monocytogenes, Shigella flexneri, Vibrio parahaemolyticus, and Yersinia enterocolitica). The chequerboard method in 96-well microtiter plates was used to determine the sum of the fractional inhibitory concentration indices (FICIs). Three independent experiments were performed per combination, each in triplicate. It was observed that the combination of tetracycline with either nitroxoline, sanguinarine, or zinc pyrithione produced synergistic effects against most of the pathogenic bacteria tested, with FICI values ranging from 0.086 to 0.5. Tetracycline–nitroxoline combinations produced the greatest synergistic action against S. flexneri at a FICI value of 0.086. The combinations of the agents tested in this study can thus be used for the development of new anti-diarrhoeic medications. However, studies focusing on their in vivo anti-diarrhoeic activity and safety are required before any consideration for utilization in human medicine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examined 75 samples of raw meat from cows and camels sold in local marketplaces in the governorate of Najaf/ Iraq, for bacterial load and heavy metal contamination. The culture results were classified into 10 types involving E. coli (36–90%) (31–88.5%), Enterobacter spp. (7–17.5%) (3–8.5%), Pseudomonas spp. (10–25%) (8–22.8%), Klebsiella spp. (3–7.5%) (4–11.4%), Staphylococcus aureus (4–10%) (5–14.2%), Staphylococcus epidermidis (5–12.5%) (5–14.2%), Proteus spp. (5–12.5%) (6–17.1%), E. coli O157 (6–15%) (2–5.7%), Yersinia enterocolitica (3–7.5%) (4–11.2%), and Salmonella spp. (3–7.5%) (4–11.2%), from cows and camels respectively. The averages of heavy metals concentrations in cow meat samples were 0.54±0.25, 0.50±0.18, 0.33±0.22, 0.22±2.5, 1.0±0.25 mg/kg; however, in camel meat samples were 0.27±0.20, 0.31±0.12, 0.26±0.11, 0.17±1.5 and 0.5±0.15 mg/kg for Lead (Pb), Cadmium (Cd), Copper (Cu), Nickel (Ni) and Zinc (Zn) respectively. The presence of significant levels of pathogenic microorganisms and metals in the meat samples indicates poor sanitation and hygiene practices during dealing with meat through steps of production, packaging, transportation, and storage, and the high amounts of heavy metal contamination in the environment, which will have an impact on the meat and milk animal products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we investigated faecal specimens from legally hunted and road‐killed red foxes, raccoons, raccoon dogs, badgers and martens in Germany for parasites and selected zoonotic bacteria. We found that Baylisascaris procyonis, a zoonotic parasite of raccoons, had spread to northeastern Germany, an area previously presumed to be free of this parasite. We detected various pathogenic bacterial species from the genera Listeria, Clostridium (including baratii), Yersinia and Salmonella, which were analysed using whole‐genome sequencing. One isolate of Yersinia enterocolitica contained a virulence plasmid. The Salmonella Cholerasuis isolate encoded an aminoglycoside resistance gene and a parC point mutation, conferring resistance to ciprofloxacin. We also found tetracycline resistance genes in Paeniclostridium sordellii and Clostridium baratii. Phylogenetic analyses revealed that the isolates were polyclonal, indicating the absence of specific wildlife‐adapted clones. Predators, which scavenge from various sources including human settlements, acquire and spread zoonotic pathogens. Therefore, their role should not be overlooked in the One Health context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mono-O-glycosylation of target proteins by bacterial toxins or effector proteins is a well-known mechanism by which bacteria interfere with essential functions of host cells. The respective glycosyltransferases are important virulence factors such as the Clostridioides difficile toxins A and B. Here, we describe two glycosyltransferases of Yersinia species that have a high sequence identity: YeGT from the zoonotic pathogen Yersinia enterocolitica and YkGT from the murine pathogen Yersinia kristensenii. We show that both modify Rho family proteins by attachment of GlcNAc at tyrosine residues (Tyr-34 in RhoA). Notably, the enzymes differed in their target protein specificity. While YeGT modified RhoA, B, and C, YkGT possessed a broader substrate spectrum and glycosylated not only Rho but also Rac and Cdc42 subfamily proteins. Mutagenesis studies indicated that residue 177 is important for this broader target spectrum. We determined the crystal structure of YeGT shortened by 16 residues N terminally (sYeGT) in the ligand-free state and bound to UDP, the product of substrate hydrolysis. The structure assigns sYeGT to the GT-A family. It shares high structural similarity to glycosyltransferase domains from toxins. We also demonstrated that the 16 most N-terminal residues of YeGT and YkGT are important for the mediated translocation into the host cell using the pore-forming protective antigen of anthrax toxin. Mediated introduction into HeLa cells or ectopic expression of YeGT and YkGT caused morphological changes and redistribution of the actin cytoskeleton. The data suggest that YeGT and YkGT are likely bacterial effectors belonging to the family of tyrosine glycosylating bacterial glycosyltransferases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Yersinia enterocolitica, a species within the genus Yersinia, thrives optimally at 22–25°C but can also grow at the mammalian core body temperature of 37°C. This dual temperature adaptability necessitates establishing both temperature conditions in research to examine the effects on various biological processes. In quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) assays, the selection of appropriate housekeeping genes is vital for data accuracy. Nevertheless, the lack of alternatives and information often leads to the default use of the 16S rRNA gene despite potential limitations. This investigation sourced 16 potential reference genes through a comprehensive review of the literature and transcriptome sequencing data analysis. We validated the expression stability of these genes via qRT-PCR across 12 Y. enterocolitica strains, representing the four prevalent serotypes O:3, O:5,27, O:8, and O:9, isolated from diarrheal patient stool samples. This approach aimed to minimize the impact of serotype heterogeneity. After acquiring Cq values, gene stability was evaluated using four established algorithms—ΔCq, geNorm, NormFinder, and BestKeeper—and subsequently synthesized into a consolidated ranking through the Robust Rank Aggregation (RRA) method. Our study suggests that the genes glnS, nuoB, glmS, gyrB, dnaK, and thrS maintain consistent expression across varying culture temperatures, supporting their candidacy as robust housekeeping genes. We advise against the exclusive use of 16S rRNA for this purpose. Should tradition prevail in its utilization, it must be employed with discernment, preferably alongside one or two of the housekeeping genes identified in this study as internal controls.IMPORTANCEIn our study, we focused on identifying stable reference genes for quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) experiments on Y. enterocolitica cultured at different temperatures (22°C and 37°C). After thoroughly evaluating 16 candidate genes, we identified six genes—glnS, nuoB, glmS, gyrB, dnaK, and thrS—as exhibiting stable expression across these temperature conditions, making them ideal reference genes for Y. enterocolitica studies. This discovery is crucial for ensuring the accuracy and reliability of qRT-PCR data, as the choice of appropriate reference genes is key to normalizing expression data and minimizing experimental variability. Importantly, our research extended beyond bioinformatics analysis by incorporating validation with clinical strains, bridging the gap between theoretical predictions and practical application. This approach not only underscores the robustness and reliability of our findings but also directly addresses the critical need for experimental validation in the field. By providing a set of validated, stably expressed reference genes, our work offers valuable guidance for designing experiments involving Y. enterocolitica, enhancing the reliability of research outcomes, and advancing our understanding of this significant pathogen.

IntroductionYersinia enterocolitica (Ye) is a Gram-negative bacterium that causes gastrointestinal infections. The myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) constitute a cellular population with the capacity of inducing the specific suppression of T cells. Although there is evidence supporting the role of MDSCs in controlling the immune responses in several bacterial infections, its role during Ye infection has not yet been reported. Therefore, the purpose of the present work was to analyze MDSCs after oral Ye infection.MethodsC57BL/6 wild-type mice were infected with Ye WAP-314 serotype O:8. The proliferation of splenocytes and mesenteric lymph nodes (MLN) cells was measured as well as the levels of cytokines and nitric oxide (NO) in culture supernatants. The frequency and subsets of MDSCs were analyzed in the intestinal mucosa and spleen by flow cytometry. Furthermore, monocytic-MDSCs (Mo-MDSCs) and polymorphonuclear-MDSCs (PMN-MDSCs) were purified from the spleen of infected mice and their suppressor activity was evaluated in co-cultures with purified T cells.Resultswe observed a marked expansion of CD11b+Gr-1+ cells, a phenotype consistent with MDSCs, in the spleen and intestinal mucosa of Ye-infected mice. Interestingly, a robust proliferation of splenocytes and MLN cells was observed only when the MDSCs were depleted or the NO production was blocked. In addition, we determined that only Mo-MDSCs had the ability to suppress T-cell proliferation.ConclusionOur results highlight a mechanism by which Ye may induce suppression of the immune responses. We suggest that NO-producing Mo-MDSCs expand and accumulate in MLN and spleen of Ye-infected mice. These cells can then suppress the T-cell function without interfering with the anti-bacterial effector response. Instead, these immature myeloid cells may perform an important function in regulating the inflammatory response and protecting affected tissues.

Vertebrate sialic acids (Sias) display much diversity in modifications, linkages, and underlying glycans. Slide microarrays allow high-throughput explorations of sialoglycan-protein interactions. A microarray presenting ~150 structurally defined sialyltrisaccharides with various Sias linkages and modifications still poses challenges in planning, data sorting, visualization, and analysis. To address these issues, we devised a simple 9-digit code for sialyltrisaccharides with terminal Sias and underlying two monosaccharides assigned from the nonreducing end, with 3 digits assigning a monosaccharide, its modifications, and linkage. Calculations based on the encoding system reveal >113,000 likely linear sialyltrisaccharides in nature. Notably, a biantennary N-glycan with 2 terminal sialyltrisaccharides could thus have >1010 potential combinations and a triantennary N-glycan with 3 terminal sequences, >1015 potential combinations. While all possibilities likely do not exist in nature, sialoglycans encode enormous diversity. While glycomic approaches are used to probe such diverse sialomes, naturally occurring bacterial AB5 toxin B subunits are simpler tools to track the dynamic sialome in biological systems. Sialoglycan microarray was utilized to compare sialoglycan-recognizing bacterial toxin B subunits. Unlike the poor correlation between B subunits and species phylogeny, there is stronger correlation with Sia-epitope preferences. Further supporting this pattern, we report a B subunit (YenB) from Yersinia enterocolitica (broad host range) recognizing almost all sialoglycans in the microarray, including 4-O-acetylated-Sias not recognized by a Yersinia pestis orthologue (YpeB). Differential Sia-binding patterns were also observed with phylogenetically related B subunits from Escherichia coli (SubB), Salmonella Typhi (PltB), Salmonella Typhimurium (ArtB), extra-intestinal E.coli (EcPltB), Vibrio cholera (CtxB), and cholera family homologue of E. coli (EcxB).

Fontitrygon margarita liver oil, rich in unsaturated fatty acids, is susceptible to oxidation during storage, which can diminish its antibacterial qualities. This study examines the effects of storage temperature and the addition of spices on the stability and antibacterial properties of F. margarita liver oil. Oils with added spices were stored in opaque bottles at room temperature (28 ± 2°C) and in a refrigerator (4°C) and were periodically analyzed over a six-month period. Standard methods were used to determine oil quality indices; the Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) profile was assessed by spectroscopy; and antibacterial activities were measured using the broth microdilution method. The quality indices, FTIR profile, and antibacterial activities of the oil were evaluated and compared based on the incorporation of spices. The quality indices of oil extracted without a stabilizer and stored at room temperature significantly increased over time. The antibacterial activity of these oils gradually decreased during storage, with the minimal inhibitory concentrations (MICs) on bacterial strains of Escherichia coli (EC 137), Enterobacter cloacae (ENT 119 and ENT 51), and Yersinia enterocolitica (YERB 1) increasing from 16 to 128 mg/ml. Regardless of oil quality indices, oils stored in a refrigerator had lower values and better antibacterial activities than those stored at room temperature ((16 ≤ MIC ≤ 64 mg/ml on the strains of EC 137, YERB 1, ENT 51, and Klebsiella pneumoniae (KL 11)). The inclusion of spices significantly reduced the oxidative reaction in the oils and maintained the antibacterial activities of the tested oils. Given its antibacterial properties, F. margarita liver oil holds significant potential for the nutraceutical industry and could be used as a dietary supplement. This research underscores the importance of proper storage conditions and the use of natural stabilizers in maintaining the quality of such valuable natural resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The wastewater treatment processes are associated with the emission of microbial aerosols, including enteropathogenic bacteria. Their presence in this work environment poses a real threat to the health of employees, both through the possibility of direct inhalation of the contaminated air and indirectly through the pollution of all types of surfaces with such bioaerosol particles. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of enteropathogenic bacteria in the air, on surfaces, and in wastewater samples collected in four wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs). The effectiveness of conventional culture-biochemical, as well as spectrometric and molecular methods for the rapid detection of enteropathogenic bacteria at workstations related to particular stages of wastewater processing, was also evaluated. Bioaerosol, surface swab, and influent and effluent samples were collected from wastewater plants employing mechanical–biological treatment technologies. The air samples were collected using MAS-100 NT impactor placed at a height of 1.5 m above the floor or ground, simulating aspiration from the human breathing zone. Surface samples were collected with sterile swabs from different surfaces (valves, handles, handrails, and coveyor belts) at workplaces. The raw influent and treated effluent wastewater samples were aseptically collected using sterile bottles. The identification of bacterial entheropathogens was simultaneously conducted using a culture-based method supplemented with biochemical (API) tests, mass-spectrometry (MALDI TOF MS), and molecular (multiplex real-time PCR) methods. This study confirmed the common presence of bacterial pathogens (including enteropathogenic and enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli, Salmonella spp., Campylobacter spp., and Yersinia enterocolitica) in all air, surface, and wastewater samples at studied workplaces. Higher concentrations of enteropathogenic bacteria were observed in the air and on surfaces at workplaces where treatment processes were not hermetized. The results of this study underline that identification of enteropathogenic bacteria in WWTPs is of great importance for the correct risk assessment at workplaces. From the analytical point of view, the control of enteropathogenic bacterial air and surface pollution using rapid multiplex-PCR method should be routinely performed as a part of hygienic quality assessment in WWTPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The evolutionary conserved YopJ family comprises numerous type-III-secretion system (T3SS) effectors of diverse mammalian and plant pathogens that acetylate host proteins to dampen immune responses. Acetylation is mediated by a central acetyltrans-ferase domain that is flanked by conserved regulatory sequences, while a nonconserved N-terminal extension encodes the T3SS-specific translocation signal. Bartonella spp. are facultative-intracellular pathogens causing intraerythrocytic bacteremia in their mammalian reservoirs and diverse disease manifestations in incidentally infected humans. Bartonellae do not encode a T3SS, but most species possess a type-IV-secretion system (T4SS) to translocate Bartonella effector proteins (Beps) into host cells. Here we report that the YopJ homologs present in Bartonellae species represent genuine T4SS effectors. Like YopJ family T3SS effectors of mammalian pathogens, the "Bartonella YopJ-like effector A" (ByeA) of Bartonella taylorii also targets MAP kinase signaling to dampen proinflammatory responses, however, translocation depends on a functional T4SS. A split NanoLuc luciferase-based translocation assay identified sequences required for T4SS-dependent translocation in conserved regulatory regions at the C-terminus and proximal to the N-terminus of ByeA. The T3SS effectors YopP from Yersinia enterocolitica and AvrA from Salmonella Typhimurium were also translocated via the Bartonella T4SS, while ByeA was not translocated via the Yersinia T3SS. Our data suggest that YopJ family T3SS effectors may have evolved from an ancestral T4SS effector, such as ByeA of Bartonella. In this evolutionary scenario, the signal for T4SS-dependent translocation encoded by N- and C-terminal sequences remained functional in the derived T3SS effectors due to the essential role these sequences coincidentally play in regulating acetyltransferase activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aeromonas species cause a wide spectrum of human diseases, primarily gastroenteritis, septicemia, and wound infections. Several studies have shown that about 40% of these cases involve mixed or polymicrobial infections between Aeromonas spp. and bacteria from other genera. However, the immune response of macrophages in front of the bacteria present in the mixed infections, as well as their impact on antimicrobial therapy, have not been investigated. This study evaluated the cell damage and immune response of the mouse macrophage BALB/c cell line (J774A.1) after performing a single and a mixed infection with a strain of Aeromonas caviae and Yersinia enterocolitica, both recovered from the same fecal sample from a patient with diarrhea. Macrophage cell damage was measured by the release of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) while the immune response was evaluated studying the expression by RT-qPCR of six relevant immune-related genes. Additionally, the antimicrobial susceptibility pattern of the single and mixed strains in front of seventeen antibiotics was evaluated to determine the potential impact on the infection treatment. Macrophages infected with the mixture of the two strains showed a higher cell damage in comparison with the single infections and the immune-related genes, i.e., cytokines and chemokines genes (TNF-α, CCL20), and apoptotic and pyroptotic genes (TP53 and IL-1β) were overexpressed. After infection with the mixed cultures, an increase in the antimicrobial resistance was observed for ciprofloxacin, trimethoprim, chloramphenicol, gentamicin and ertapenem. This study increased the knowledge about the synergetic effect of the bacteria involved in mixed infection and on their potential impact on the treatment and evolution of the infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The unique structural and biological diversity found in plants renders them a distinctive and sustainable source for discovering new antibacterial, antifungal and antiparasitic compounds. In the present study, antimicrobial and antibiofilm properties of essential oils of citrus varieties of Northeast India were studied against selected foodborne pathogens using both in vitro and in silico approaches. These essential oils showed significant antimicrobial and antibiofilm activities against foodborne pathogens. i.e. Bacillus cereus MTCC430 and Yersinia enterocolitica MTCC859. It was observed that the treatment with essential oil disturbed the membrane integrity of the pathogens, thereby causing the release of nucleic acids. This study also postulated that active compounds of the essential oils interact with different target proteins of the pathogens and provide an explanation for the mechanisms of antimicrobial and antibiofilm action of the essential oils of citrus varieties against foodborne pathogens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Higher plants produce secondary metabolites expressing antimicrobial effects as a defense mechanism against opportunistic microorganisms living in close proximity with the plant. Fermentation leads to bioconversion of plant substrates to these bioactive compounds and their subsequent release via breakdown of plant cell walls. Fermented feed products have recently started to become implemented in the pig industry to reduce overall disease pressure and have been found to reduce events such as post-weaning diarrhea. In this study, we investigate the antimicrobial potential of fermented soybean- and rapeseed-based pig feed supplements with and without added seaweed. The antimicrobial effect was tested in a plate well diffusion assay against a range of known human and livestock pathogenic bacteria. Further, we investigate the metabolite profiles based on liquid-chromatography mass-spectrometry (LC-MS) analysis of the fermented products in comparison to their unfermented constituents. We observed a pronounced release of potential antimicrobial secondary metabolites such as benzoic acids when the plant material was fermented, and a significantly increased antimicrobial effect compared to the unfermented controls against several pathogenic bacteria, especially Salmonella enterica Typhimurium, Listeria monocytogenes, Yersinia enterocolitica, and a strain of atopic dermatitis causing Staphylococcus aureus CC1. In conclusion, fermentation significantly enhances the antimicrobial properties of rapeseed, soybean, and seaweed, offering a promising alternative to zinc oxide for controlling pathogens in piglet feed. This effect is attributed to the release of bioactive metabolites effective against pig production-relevant bacteria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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