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RNA-Seq-based analysis of the physiologic cold shock-induced changes in Moraxella catarrhalis gene expression
Violeta Spaniol1, Stefan Wyder, Christoph Aebi
1Institute for Infectious Diseases, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland. violeta.spaniol@ifik.unibe.ch
Plos One
|July 12, 2013
Summary
Cold shock in Moraxella catarrhalis enhances virulence by upregulating genes for nutrient acquisition and membrane remodeling. This adaptation may increase respiratory tract colonization and infection risk during colder months.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Bacterial Pathogenesis
- Environmental Adaptation
Background:
- Moraxella catarrhalis is a key pathogen in human respiratory infections, prevalent in winter.
- The bacterium experiences temperature downshifts when breathing cold air, potentially influencing its virulence.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate how Moraxella catarrhalis adapts to cold shock.
- To identify survival and virulence systems regulated by cold exposure.
Main Methods:
- RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq) to profile the transcriptome of M. catarrhalis.
- Quantitative RT-PCR for validation of RNA-seq data.
Main Results:
- Cold shock (26 °C) induced genes for high-affinity phosphate and iron transport, enhancing nutrient acquisition.
- Expression of genes for nitrogen metabolism, outer membrane proteins (OmpA, porins), and efflux pumps (acrAB) was upregulated.
- Cold shock increased type IV pili expression, boosting genetic competence and potential acquisition of virulence genes.
Conclusions:
- Cold shock triggers complex adaptive mechanisms in M. catarrhalis.
- These adaptations may confer novel pathogenic functions, enhancing colonization and virulence.
