Adaptive modulation of antibiotic resistance through intragenomic coevolution

Bacteria gain antibiotic resistance genes by horizontal acquisition of mobile genetic elements (MGEs) from other lineages. Newly acquired MGEs are often poorly adapted causing intragenomic conflicts; these are resolved by either compensatory adaptation - of the chromosome or the MGE - or reciprocal coadaptation. The footprints of such intragenomic coevolution are present in bacterial genomes, suggesting an important role promoting genomic integration of horizontally acquired genes, but direct experimental evidence of the process is limited. Here we show adaptive modulation of tetracycline resistance via intragenomic coevolution between Escherichia coli and the multidrug resistant plasmid RK2. Tetracycline treatments, including monotherapy or combination therapies with ampicillin, favoured de novo chromosomal resistance mutations coupled with mutations on RK2 impairing the plasmid-encoded tetracycline efflux pump. These mutations together provided increased tetracycline resistance at reduced cost. Additionally, the chromosomal resistance mutations conferred cross-resistance to chloramphenicol. Reciprocal coadaptation was not observed under ampicillin-only or no antibiotic selection. Intragenomic coevolution can create genomes comprising multiple replicons that together provide high-level, low-cost resistance, but the resulting co-dependence may limit the spread of coadapted MGEs to other lineages

Challenge-Based Learning Strategies Using Technological Innovations in Industrial, Mechanical and Mechatronics Engineering Programs

Our university has implemented the Tec21 educational model, based on four fundamental pillars: Challenge-Based Learning (CBL), flexibility, inspiring trained faculty, and a memorable educational experience. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the results of CBL implementation experiences at the beginning of undergraduate engineering programs using technological innovations such as 3D printing, DC motors, and microcontrollers. Three challenges were designed: Rube Goldberg, Cable Car, and Mini Drag Race. The challenges were implemented during at least two years where over 1,000 engineering freshmen took part. The challenges were evaluated by quantitative and qualitative methods. Overall, students enjoyed the learning experiences, learnt new technologies, and developed disciplinary and transversal competencies. Students were also more engaged and motivated to pursue their engineering academic program. These strategies challenged the students with the basic characteristics of the new Tec21 educational model. Finally, faculty involved in the implementation of these challenges expressed they required to get out of their comfort zone, learn new technologies, and change their traditional role to become a coach

Molecular and Catalytic Properties of the Aldehyde Dehydrogenase of Gluconacetobacter diazotrophicus, a Quinoheme Protein Containing Pyrroloquinoline Quinone, Cytochrome b, and Cytochrome c▿

Several aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) complexes have been purified from the membranes of acetic acid bacteria. The enzyme structures and the chemical nature of the prosthetic groups associated with these enzymes remain a matter of debate. We report here on the molecular and catalytic properties of the membrane-bound ALDH complex of the diazotrophic bacterium Gluconacetobacter diazotrophicus. The purified ALDH complex is a heterodimer comprising two subunits of 79.7 and 50 kDa, respectively. Reversed-phase high-pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) and electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy led us to demonstrate, for the first time, the unequivocal presence of a pyrroloquinoline quinone prosthetic group associated with an ALDH complex from acetic acid bacteria. In addition, heme b was detected by UV-visible light (UV-Vis) spectroscopy and confirmed by reversed-phase HPLC. The smaller subunit bears three cytochromes c. Aliphatic aldehydes, but not formaldehyde, were suitable substrates. Using ferricyanide as an electron acceptor, the enzyme showed an optimum pH of 3.5 that shifted to pH 7.0 when phenazine methosulfate plus 2,6-dichlorophenolindophenol were the electron acceptors. Acetaldehyde did not reduce measurable levels of the cytochrome b and c centers; however, the dithionite-reduced hemes were conveniently oxidized by ubiquinone-1; this finding suggests that cytochrome b and the cytochromes c constitute an intramolecular redox sequence that delivers electrons to the membrane ubiquinone