Abstract
In cystic fibrosis (CF) airways, Pseudomonas aeruginosa forms cellular aggregates called biofilms that are thought to contribute to chronic infection. To form aggregates, P. aeruginosa can use different mechanisms, each with its own pathogenic implications. However, how they form in vivo is controversial and unclear. One mechanism involves a bacterially produced extracellular matrix that holds the aggregates together. Pel and Psl exopolysaccharides are structural and protective components of this matrix. We develop an immunohistochemical method to visualize Pel and Psl in CF sputum. We demonstrate that both exopolysaccharides are expressed in the CF airways and that the morphology of aggregates is consistent with an exopolysaccharide-dependent aggregation mechanism. We reason that the cationic exopolysaccharide Pel may interact with some of the abundant anionic host polymers in sputum. We show that Pel binds extracellular DNA (eDNA) and that this interaction likely impacts current therapies by increasing antimicrobial tolerance and protecting eDNA from digestion.
Original language | English |
---|---|
Article number | 108782 |
Journal | Cell Reports |
Volume | 34 |
Issue number | 8 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Feb 23 2021 |
Keywords
- IHC
- Pel
- Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilm matrix
- Psl
- antibiotic susceptibility
- bacterial aggregation
- biofilm
- cystic fibrosis
- exopolysaccharide
- extracellular DNA
Fingerprint
Dive into the research topics of 'Pseudomonas aeruginosa aggregates in cystic fibrosis sputum produce exopolysaccharides that likely impede current therapies'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.Press/Media
-
How Bacteria in Cystic Fibrosis Patients Overcome Treatments
03/1/21
1 item of Media coverage
Press/Media
-
Research reveals how bacteria defeat drugs that fight cystic fibrosis
02/26/21
3 items of Media coverage
Press/Media