Pan-Genome Plasticity and Virulence Factors: A Natural Treasure Trove for Acinetobacter baumannii

Abstract

Acinetobacter baumannii is a Gram-negative pathogen responsible for a variety of community- and hospital-acquired infections. It is recognized as a life-threatening pathogen among hospitalized individuals and, in particular, immunocompromised patients in many countries. A. baumannii, as a member of the ESKAPE group, encompasses high genomic plasticity and simultaneously is predisposed to receive and exchange the mobile genetic elements (MGEs) through horizontal genetic transfer (HGT). Indeed, A. baumannii is a treasure trove that contains a high number of virulence factors. In accordance with these unique pathogenic characteristics of A. baumannii, the authors aim to discuss the natural treasure trove of pan-genome and virulence factors pertaining to this bacterial monster and try to highlight the reasons why this bacterium is a great concern in the global public health system.

Genome analyses of colistin-resistant high-risk blaNDM-5 producing Klebsiella pneumoniae ST147 and Pseudomonas aeruginosa ST235 and ST357 in clinical settings

“…Virulence factors in K. pneumoniae and P. aeruginosa enhance pathogenicity, attachement to the host cell and colonization, protection against host immune response and biofilm production [ 48 , 53 , 102 – 104 ]. Globally, K. pneumoniae ST147 comprises two major lineages, one with KL10 (wzi420) capsular type and O3 or O3a locus, and another with KL64 (wzi64) capsular type and O2v1 locus [ 36 ] Unlike previously reported hospital outbreaks of K. pneumoniae ST147 with KL64 capsular typing in Tunisia and Poland, in our study, KL10 (wzi420) was associated [ 17 , 34 ] (Additional Table 3 ).…”

“…In P. aeruginosa , the T6SS is essential for virulence, interbacterial interactions, and outcompeting other bacteria by delivering toxins into neighboring cells, thereby killing or inhibiting their growth. This competitive advantage is particularly important in environments such as the human body, where P. aeruginosa often encounters other microbial species [ 48 , 49 , 52 , 53 ]. (Additional Table 6 ).…”

“…Virulence factors (V.F.s) are crucial for enhancing bacterial infectivity by promoting strong attachment and colonization within host cells, disrupting tissue integration, evading the host immune response, and exploiting nutrient availability [ 48 ]. Classical and Hypervirulent Klebsiella pneumoniae (HVKP) strains differ in virulence, identified through a string test and gene-carrying plasmids.…”

Bacterial Pangenome: A Review on the Current Strategies, Tools and Applications

“…High genomic flexibility and a propensity for horizontal genetic transfer can transfer mobile genetic components among themselves [111] computation methods and paradigms are required. In near future, pangenomics will be a new branch for research in computational biology.…”

Recent advances in the development of antimicrobial peptides against ESKAPE pathogens

“…Moreover, its ability to persist in hospital environments for prolonged periods facilitates transmission between patients, thereby fueling nosocomial outbreaks. Consequently, the treatment of A. baumannii infections entails significant costs due to the requirement for last-resort antimicrobial agents and prolonged hospital stays [ 26 ].…”