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Disentangling the microbial ecological factors impacting honey bee susceptibility to Paenibacillus larvae infection
Brendan A Daisley1, Andrew P Pitek2, Elizabeth Mallory3
1Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1, Canada; Department of Biology, Western University, London, ON, N6A 5B7, Canada.
Abstract:
Paenibacillus larvae is a spore-forming bacterial entomopathogen and causal agent of the important honey bee larval disease, American foulbrood (AFB). Active infections by vegetative P. larvae are often deadly, highly transmissible, and incurable for colonies but, when dormant, the spore form of this pathogen can persist asymptomatically for years. Despite intensive investigation over the past century, this process has remained enigmatic. Here, we provide an up-to-date synthesis on the often overlooked microbiota factors involved in the spore-to-vegetative growth transition (corresponding with the onset of AFB disease symptoms) and offer a novel outlook on AFB pathogenesis by focusing on the 'collaborative' and 'competitive' interactions between P. larvae and other honey bee-adapted microorganisms. Furthermore, we discuss the health trade-offs associated with chronic antibiotic exposure and propose new avenues for the sustainable control of AFB via probiotic and microbiota management strategies.
Insights
Paenibacillus larvae causes American foulbrood (AFB) in honey bees. This study explores how honey bee microbiota influences the transition from dormant spores to active infection, offering new control strategies.
Area of Science:
- * Microbiology
- * Apiculture
- * Insect Pathology
Background:
- * Paenibacillus larvae is a significant bacterial entomopathogen responsible for American foulbrood (AFB) in honey bee larvae.
- * The dormant spore stage of P. larvae can persist asymptomatically for years, making the transition to active infection poorly understood.
- * Honey bee microbiota is increasingly recognized for its role in host health and disease resistance.
Purpose of the Study:
- * To synthesize current knowledge on microbiota factors influencing the P. larvae spore-to-vegetative growth transition.
- * To present a novel perspective on AFB pathogenesis through microbial interactions.
- * To explore sustainable AFB control strategies involving microbiota management.
Main Methods:
- * Literature review and synthesis of existing research on P. larvae and honey bee microbiota.
- * Analysis of collaborative and competitive interactions between P. larvae and other honey bee microorganisms.
- * Discussion of antibiotic exposure effects and potential probiotic applications.
Main Results:
- * The honey bee microbiota plays a crucial role in modulating the transition of P. larvae from dormant spores to active vegetative cells.
- * Microbial interactions within the honey bee gut, both cooperative and competitive, significantly impact AFB disease onset and severity.
- * Chronic antibiotic use may disrupt beneficial microbial communities, potentially exacerbating AFB susceptibility.
Conclusions:
- * Understanding honey bee microbiota dynamics is key to deciphering AFB pathogenesis.
- * Probiotic and microbiota management strategies offer promising avenues for sustainable AFB control.
- * Further research into microbial interactions can lead to novel disease prevention and treatment methods for honey bee colonies.
