Campylobacter jejuni permeabilizes the host cell membrane by short chain lysophosphatidylethanolamines

Abstract

Lysophospholipids (LPLs) are crucial for regulating epithelial integrity and homeostasis in eukaryotes, however the effects of LPLs produced by bacteria on host cells is largely unknown. The membrane of the human bacterial pathogen Campylobacter jejuni is rich in LPLs. Although C. jejuni possesses several virulence factors, it lacks traditional virulence factors like type III secretion systems, present in most enteropathogens. Here, we provide evidence that membrane lipids lysophosphatidylethanolamines (lysoPEs) of C. jejuni are able to lyse erythrocytes and are toxic for HeLa and Caco-2 cells. Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release assays and confocal microscopy revealed that lysoPE permeabilizes the cells. LysoPE toxicity was partially rescued by oxidative stress inhibitors, indicating that intracellular reactive oxygen species may contribute to the cell damage. Our results show that especially the short-chain lysoPEs (C:14) which is abundantly present in the C. jejuni membrane may be considered as a novel virulence factor.

Glycol‐Split Heparin‐Linked Prodrug Nanoparticles Target the Mitochondrion Apparatus for Cancer Metastasis Treatment

“…Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH) Assay: The amount of intracellular LDH released was measured to evaluate Plasma membrane damage. [34] The LDH released from damaged cells could serve as a sign of cell membrane integrity and an indicator of cytotoxicity. After incubation with the drug, the cells were centrifuged at room temperature.…”

Extracellular vesicles in the pathogenesis of Campylobacter jejuni

“…Finally, some lysophospholipids contained in the membrane of C. jejuni are also considered to be novel virulence factors. Short lysophosphatidylethanolamines (lysoPE) were reported to permeabilize cell membranes and thus cause cell damage via oxidative stress [37].…”

Extracellular vesicles in the pathogenesis of Campylobacter jejuni

“…Finally, some lysophospholipids contained in the membrane of C. jejuni are also considered to be novel virulence factors. Short lysophosphatidylethanolamines (lysoPE) were reported to permeabilize host cell membranes and thus cause cell damage via oxidative stress [44].…”