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Virulence variations between clonal complexes of Melisococcus plutonius and the possible causes

Gerardo Pérez-Ordóñez1, Alejandro Romo-Chacón1, Claudio Rios-Velasco1

  • 1Centro de Investigación en Alimentación y Desarrollo, A.C. Av. Rio Conchos s/n, parque industrial, Z.C. 31570 Cuauhtémoc, Chihuahua, Mexico.

Journal of Invertebrate Pathology
|November 15, 2021
PubMed

Insights

Melissococcus plutonius causes European foulbrood (EFB) in honeybees, impacting agriculture. This review discusses its virulence factors and genetic variants, crucial for understanding and controlling honeybee larval mortality.

Area of Science:

  • * Microbiology
  • * Apiculture Science
  • * Molecular Biology

Background:

  • * Melissococcus plutonius is a significant honeybee pathogen responsible for European foulbrood (EFB).
  • * EFB poses a threat to beekeeping and agricultural industries, leading to colony collapse.
  • * While M. plutonius pathogenesis and epidemiology are studied, its virulence factors in larval infection remain largely unknown.

Purpose of the Study:

  • * To review current research on Melissococcus plutonius, focusing on virulence factors and genetic variants.
  • * To explore potential genes identified in silico that may contribute to EFB pathogenesis.
  • * To discuss the implications of genetic variation (clonal complexes) on honeybee larval mortality and control strategies.

Main Methods:

  • * Comprehensive literature review of studies on Melissococcus plutonius, European foulbrood, and honeybee health.
  • * Analysis of in silico findings suggesting putative virulence genes.
  • * Synthesis of information on clonal complexes, virulence factors, and their impact on larval mortality.

Main Results:

  • * Identified a knowledge gap regarding specific virulence factors of M. plutonius responsible for larval infection.
  • * Highlighted the potential role of genes suggested by in silico studies in EFB pathogenesis.
  • * Noted the limited understanding of how genetic variants (CCs) of M. plutonius influence larval mortality.

Conclusions:

  • * Further experimental studies are required to validate the function of putative virulence factors in M. plutonius.
  • * Understanding the genetic diversity and virulence differences among M. plutonius variants is essential for effective disease management.
  • * Improved knowledge of virulence mechanisms can aid in developing novel control strategies for European foulbrood.
Keywords:
Clonal complexesEuropean foulbroodPathogenicityVirulence

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