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Development of Untargeted Metabolomics Methods for the Rapid Detection of Pathogenic Naegleria fowleri
Zhihao Yu1, Haylea C Miller2, Geoffrey J Puzon2
1Department of Chemistry, Washington State University , P.O. Box 644630, Pullman, Washington 99164, United States.
Abstract:
Despite comparatively low levels of infection, primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM) induced by Naegleria fowleri is extremely lethal, with mortality rates above 95%. As a thermophile, this organism is often found in moderate-to-warm climates and has the potential to colonize drinking water distribution systems (DWDSs). Current detection approaches require days to obtain results, whereas swift corrective action can maximize the benefit of public health. Presently, there is little information regarding the underlying in situ metabolism for this amoeba but the potential exists to exploit differentially expressed metabolic signatures as a rapid detection technique. This research outlines the biochemical profiles of selected pathogenic and nonpathogenic Naegleria in vitro using an untargeted metabolomics approach to identify a panel of diagnostically meaningful compounds that may enable rapid detection of viable pathogenic N. fowleri and augment results from traditional monitoring approaches.
Insights
This study identifies unique metabolic signatures for rapid detection of the lethal Naegleria fowleri, an amoeba found in warm water systems. Early detection of this pathogen can improve public health outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Environmental Science
- Public Health
Background:
- Primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM) caused by Naegleria fowleri is highly fatal (>95% mortality).
- Naegleria fowleri, a thermophilic amoeba, can contaminate drinking water distribution systems (DWDSs).
- Current detection methods are time-consuming, delaying critical public health interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the potential of metabolomics for rapid detection of pathogenic Naegleria species.
- To identify specific metabolic biomarkers for distinguishing viable pathogenic N. fowleri.
Main Methods:
- Utilized an untargeted metabolomics approach to analyze biochemical profiles of pathogenic and nonpathogenic Naegleria species in vitro.
- Focused on identifying differentially expressed metabolic signatures.
Main Results:
- Established distinct metabolic profiles for different Naegleria species.
- Identified a panel of diagnostically meaningful compounds.
Conclusions:
- Metabolomic profiling offers a promising avenue for rapid detection of viable pathogenic N. fowleri.
- This approach can supplement traditional monitoring methods for improved DWDS safety.
