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Lack of correlation between plasmid-encoded outer membrane proteins and virulence of Yersinia enterocolitica

D Mazigh, M A Chalvignac, M L Quilici

    Annales De L'Institut Pasteur. Microbiologie
    |July 1, 1985
    PubMed

    Insights

    This study investigated Yersinia enterocolitica strains and their plasmids in mice. Plasmid-harboring strains showed varied survival, with some leading to mouse death, while others were cleared.

    Area of Science:

    • Microbiology
    • Immunology
    • Bacterial Pathogenesis

    Background:

    • Yersinia enterocolitica is an important foodborne pathogen.
    • Plasmids often play a crucial role in bacterial virulence.
    • Understanding the role of plasmids in Y. enterocolitica infection is essential for public health.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To investigate the role of plasmids in the virulence and survival of Yersinia enterocolitica in a mouse model.
    • To examine the expression of outer membrane proteins in relation to plasmid carriage and temperature.

    Main Methods:

    • Intravenous inoculation of Swiss female mice with various Yersinia enterocolitica strains (plasmid-harboring and cured isogenic pairs).
    • Monitoring bacterial survival kinetics in the spleen over 15 days.
    • Analysis of outer membrane polypeptide synthesis at 37°C.

    Main Results:

    • Plasmid-harboring Y. enterocolitica strains exhibited differential survival kinetics in the spleen, with some leading to host mortality.
    • Early splenic bacterial uptake was similar across all tested strains, irrespective of plasmid presence.
    • Virulent and low-virulent strains synthesized antigenically related, plasmid-encoded outer membrane polypeptides at 37°C.

    Conclusions:

    • Plasmid carriage significantly influences Yersinia enterocolitica pathogenesis and survival in vivo.
    • Outer membrane polypeptides encoded by plasmids are expressed at physiological temperatures and may contribute to virulence.

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