Characterization of a novel two-component system in Burkholderia cenocepacia.

Journal Article (Journal Article)

Two-component systems are important regulatory systems that allow bacteria to adjust to environmental conditions, and in some bacteria are used in pathogenesis. We identified a novel two-component system in Burkholderia cenocepacia, an opportunistic pathogen that causes pneumonia in cystic fibrosis (CF) patients. The putative operon encodes BceS, a sensor kinase, and BceR, a response regulator. Our studies indicated that the bceR mutant showed a statistically significant decrease in protease, swimming motility, and quorum sensing when compared to the wild-type, but there was no significant difference in phospholipase C activity, swarming, and biofilm formation. In addition, the mutant showed a statistically significant reduction in virulence compared to the wild-type using the alfalfa plant model. Examination of the Burkholderia cepacia complex (a group of organisms that are phenotypically similar, but genotypically distinct) revealed that this system is prevalent in B. ambifaria, B. multivorans, B. vietnamiensis and B. dolosa. Interestingly, all these organisms have been associated with CF patients. The collective results indicate that BceSR influences various activities important in Burkholderia physiology and possibly pathogenesis. This information could be important in the design of novel therapeutics for Burkholderia infections.

Full Text

Duke Authors

Cited Authors

  • Merry, CR; Perkins, M; Mu, L; Peterson, BK; Knackstedt, RW; Weingart, CL

Published Date

  • April 2015

Published In

Volume / Issue

  • 70 / 4

Start / End Page

  • 556 - 561

PubMed ID

  • 25519693

Electronic International Standard Serial Number (EISSN)

  • 1432-0991

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

  • 10.1007/s00284-014-0744-z

Language

  • eng

Conference Location

  • United States