Integration of transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics data for the detection of the human pathogenic Prototheca wickerhamii from a One Health perspective

Frontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology, 2023 · DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1152198 · Published: May 5, 2023

Simple Explanation

Prototheca species are microalgae that can cause infections in both vertebrates and humans. This study aims to understand the pathogenicity of Prototheca wickerhamii by analyzing its transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics. The researchers compared two strains of P. wickerhamii, one with a typical colony morphology and another with an atypical mucous morphology, along with an environmental strain, to identify the molecular differences that contribute to pathogenicity. The study found that a specific enzyme, mannan endo-1,4-b-mannosidase, was significantly downregulated in the mucous strain, leading to a thinner cell wall and reduced toxicity to macrophages. The mucoid appearance was linked to increased levels of linoleic acid and glycerol.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Human clinical isolates of Prototheca wickerhamii

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
Mannan endo-1,4-b-mannosidase was significantly downregulated in the mucous strain (S1) of P. wickerhamii, contributing to a thinner cell wall.
2
The thinner cell wall in P. wickerhamii S1 resulted in reduced toxicity to macrophages compared to strains with typical morphology.
3
The mucoid appearance of P. wickerhamii S1 was associated with increased levels of metabolites such as linoleic acid and glycerol.

Research Summary

This study investigates the pathogenic mechanisms of Prototheca wickerhamii by integrating transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics data from different strains. The researchers identified that downregulation of mannan endo-1,4-b-mannosidase in a mucoid strain leads to a thinner cell wall and reduced macrophage toxicity, potentially aiding in immune evasion. Metabolite analysis revealed that the mucoid phenotype is likely due to increased production of linoleic acid and glycerol, offering insights into the metabolic pathways influencing the organism's characteristics.

Practical Implications

Diagnostic Improvements

Improved understanding of P. wickerhamii pathogenicity can lead to better diagnostic tools and strategies for identifying infections.

Therapeutic Targets

Identifying key enzymes and metabolic pathways involved in pathogenicity opens avenues for developing targeted therapies.

One Health Perspective

Understanding the transmission routes of P. wickerhamii between humans, animals, and the environment is crucial for effective prevention and control measures.

Study Limitations

1
The study acknowledges the limited data on the pathogenicity of P. wickerhamii.
2
Many proteins in the Prototheca genome are still annotated as hypothetical proteins, limiting functional analysis.
3
Growth differences were observed when cultured at different temperatures.

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