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A novel ColV plasmid encoding type IV pili.
Uri Gophna1, Anat Parket, Joerg Hacker
1Department of Molecular Microbiology and Biotechnology, The George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel.
Microbiology (Reading, England)
|February 11, 2003
Summary
This study identifies a novel ColV plasmid, pO78V, from avian pathogenic Escherichia coli. This plasmid encodes type IV pili, expanding the known virulence factors associated with ColV plasmids in bacterial infections.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Genetics
- Pathogenesis
Background:
- Septicemic Escherichia coli often possess ColV virulence plasmids.
- ColV plasmids contribute to bacterial pathogenesis and survival.
- Avian pathogenic E. coli are a significant concern in animal health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the pO78V plasmid from an avian pathogenic E. coli strain.
- To investigate the presence and expression of type IV pili genes on this plasmid.
- To understand the genetic makeup and virulence potential of pO78V.
Main Methods:
- Southern hybridization to confirm plasmid location of type IV pili genes.
- Reverse transcription PCR (RT-PCR) to assess gene expression.
- Phage sensitivity assays to demonstrate pilus expression.
Main Results:
- The pO78V plasmid, isolated from avian pathogenic E. coli, encodes type IV pili.
- This is the first report of type IV pili encoded by a ColV plasmid.
- pO78V is a mosaic plasmid with IncI1 and IncFII replicons, also conferring tetracycline resistance.
Conclusions:
- The presence of type IV pili on a ColV plasmid enhances the virulence repertoire of E. coli.
- Type IV pili are implicated in various stages of bacterial infection.
- This finding broadens our understanding of plasmid-mediated virulence in Gram-negative bacteria.