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The ability of airborne Klebsiella pneumoniae to colonize mouse lungs
N J Bolister1, H E Johnson, C M Wathes
1School of Veterinary Science, University of Bristol, Langford, United Kingdom.
Abstract:
A strain of Klebsiella pneumoniae was aerosolized and its survival in air at different relative humidities was studied. Survival was dependent upon relative humidity and aerosols were most stable during storage at a relative humidity of 60%. Mice were exposed to aerosols of K. pneumoniae produced at this humidity and lung samples taken at timed intervals after exposure. Fifteen strains of K. pneumoniae were tested for their ability to colonize mice, but only five were detectable in mouse lungs 7 days after exposure. Three of these strains persisted without an increase in bacterial numbers, regardless of the initial inoculum used. Two strains of K. pneumoniae, designated strains 15 and 16, persisted in a similar manner when used at a low dose; however, when the dose received per lung was increased there was a rapid multiplication of bacteria in the lungs.
Insights
Klebsiella pneumoniae aerosols are most stable at 60% relative humidity. Mouse studies revealed varying colonization abilities among strains, with some persisting or multiplying rapidly in lungs based on dose.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Environmental Science
- Infectious Disease
Background:
- Klebsiella pneumoniae is an opportunistic pathogen.
- Understanding airborne bacterial survival is crucial for infection control.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the optimal relative humidity for Klebsiella pneumoniae aerosol stability.
- To investigate the colonization dynamics of K. pneumoniae in a murine model.
Main Methods:
- Aerosolized K. pneumoniae survival was assessed at various relative humidities.
- Mice were exposed to K. pneumoniae aerosols, and lung colonization was monitored over time.
- Multiple strains were tested for their colonization potential and persistence in mouse lungs.
Main Results:
- K. pneumoniae aerosols exhibited maximum stability at 60% relative humidity.
- Only five out of fifteen tested K. pneumoniae strains were detectable in mouse lungs after 7 days.
- Three strains showed stable persistence, while two strains (15 and 16) demonstrated dose-dependent multiplication in the lungs.
Conclusions:
- Relative humidity significantly impacts airborne K. pneumoniae survival.
- Mouse lung colonization by K. pneumoniae is strain-dependent and influenced by inoculum size.
- Specific K. pneumoniae strains can establish persistent or rapidly multiplying infections in the murine respiratory tract.