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Invasion-related antigens of Campylobacter jejuni
M E Konkel1, F Babakhani, L A Joens
1Department of Veterinary Science, University of Arizona, Tucson 85721.
Abstract:
A HEp-2 cell culture model was used to investigate the antigens required for epithelial cell penetration by Campylobacter jejuni. Penetration of HEp-2 epithelial cells by C. jejuni was significantly inhibited (P less than .05) with C. jejuni lysate and a monoclonal antibody (MAb 1B4) in competitive inhibition assays. Immunogold electron microscopy revealed that MAb 1B4 bound to the flagella and cell surface of low-passage (invasive) C. jejuni M 96, whereas only the flagella of high-passage (noninvasive) C. jejuni M 96 were labeled. Western blot analysis revealed that MAb 1B4 identified an epitope on antigens of 64-44 kDa in lysates prepared from invasive and noninvasive isolates. In addition, antigens of 42-38 kDa were recognized in lysates prepared from only invasive C. jejuni strains. Proteinase K and sodium meta-periodate chemical treatment of C. jejuni M 96 lysate changed the mobility of antigens recognized by MAb 1B4. The increase in mobility demonstrated a decrease in size of molecules and suggested that antigens required for HEp-2 cell invasion by Campylobacter species may be glycoprotein in nature.
Insights
Campylobacter jejuni invasion of epithelial cells was blocked using a specific antibody. This antibody targets bacterial surface glycoproteins essential for C. jejuni to penetrate host cells.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Cell Biology
- Immunology
Background:
- Campylobacter jejuni is a leading cause of bacterial gastroenteritis.
- Understanding the mechanisms of C. jejuni epithelial cell invasion is crucial for developing effective interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify specific antigens of Campylobacter jejuni involved in epithelial cell penetration.
- To investigate the role of bacterial surface components in C. jejuni invasion of HEp-2 cells.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a HEp-2 cell culture model for invasion assays.
- Employed competitive inhibition assays with C. jejuni lysate and a monoclonal antibody (MAb 1B4).
- Performed immunogold electron microscopy and Western blot analysis to characterize antigen-antibody interactions.
Main Results:
- MAb 1B4 significantly inhibited C. jejuni penetration of HEp-2 cells.
- MAb 1B4 bound to flagella and cell surface of invasive C. jejuni, but only flagella of noninvasive strains.
- Western blot identified MAb 1B4-reactive antigens of 64-44 kDa in all strains and 42-38 kDa in invasive strains.
- Chemical treatments suggested the involvement of glycoprotein antigens in C. jejuni invasion.
Conclusions:
- Specific bacterial antigens, potentially glycoproteins, are essential for Campylobacter jejuni invasion of epithelial cells.
- The monoclonal antibody MAb 1B4 targets key antigens involved in C. jejuni host cell entry.
- Further characterization of these antigens could lead to novel therapeutic strategies against C. jejuni infections.