Cetobacterium somerae

Updated : November 15, 2023

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Cetobacterium somerae infections in humans are exceedingly rare, with only one documented case reported. This case involved a 63-year-old man in Japan who had underlying health conditions, including liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Notably, this individual had a history of endoscopic variceal ligation (EVL) for esophageal varices, which may have served as a potential source of the bacteremia. Successful treatment with antibiotics resulted in a complete recovery after a 14-day hospitalization.  

The prevalence of Cetobacterium somerae in human feces remains largely unknown. This anaerobic bacterium is adapted to a microaerophilic environment, making it less likely to thrive in the oxygen-rich gut. While it may be present in some healthy individuals, it does not typically cause symptoms or disease in the human population.  

In contrast, Cetobacterium somerae is more prevalent in the intestinal tracts of various freshwater fish species, including goldfish, common carp, grass carp, ayu, and Yangtze finless porpoise. It has been found in different geographic regions, such as Japan and China, suggesting a more comprehensive distribution among these aquatic hosts. However, the overall distribution and diversity of Cetobacterium somerae in various habitats and hosts, including humans, require further investigation. 

 

Classification and Structure: 

Kingdom: Bacteria 

Phylum: Fusobacteriota 

Class: Fusobacteriia 

Order: Fusobacteriales 

Family: Fusobacteriaceae 

Genus: Cetobacterium 

Species: C. somerae  

The cells of Cetobacterium somerae are non-spore-forming, rod-shaped bacteria and typically measure between 0.5 to 1.0 µm in width and 2.0 to 10.0 µm in length. It does not possess flagella or pili, which are used for motility. This bacterium is non-motile; it does not exhibit active movement via flagellar propulsion. 

C. somerae possesses a relatively simple cell structure. It has a thin cell wall that surrounds the cell membrane. Various enzymes and transporters are present within the cytoplasmic membrane, contributing to its metabolic activities and cellular functions. An important characteristic of C. somerae is its ability to produce vitamin B12 (cobalamin). 

 

Cetobacterium somerae possesses the remarkable ability to produce vitamin B12, a vital nutrient essential for both humans and animals. Vitamin B12 is crucial in maintaining the nervous system’s health, supporting red blood cell production, and facilitating DNA synthesis.  

Among its distinctive characteristics, Cetobacterium somerae exhibits various antigens on its cell surface, including outer membrane proteins (OMPs). Notably, a strain known as C. somerae CS2105-BJ, originating from the intestinal tract of a freshwater fish, shares typical features with the species but stands out due to the presence of pili composed of N-methylphenylalanine residues.

These pili enable adherence to intestinal epithelial cells, underscoring the bacterium’s adaptability. In contrast, Cetobacterium somerae ATCC BAA-474, originally isolated from human feces, represents the type strain of this species. This strain is a reference point for understanding the bacterium’s characteristics and presence in the human gut. 

 

The pathogenesis of Cetobacterium somerae in humans remains a subject of limited understanding due to its rarity and recent discovery. This bacterium has been isolated from human feces and freshwater fish. It is primarily recognized as an opportunistic pathogen, typically causing infections in individuals with compromised immune systems or those experiencing stress.  

In the context of pathogenesis, two critical determinants stand out: the host’s immune system and the composition of the gut microbiota. These factors are pivotal in dictating susceptibility to or resistance against Cetobacterium somerae infections. When the immune system is weakened, or disruptions occur in the gut microbiota, C. somerae may exploit these vulnerabilities. It can breach the intestinal mucosa, gaining entry into the bloodstream and potentially leading to systemic infection.  

Furthermore, transmission routes for Cetobacterium somerae are not yet fully elucidated, but contaminated fish food or water sources, especially in individuals with compromised immune systems, present plausible avenues for infection. An illustrative case involved a patient diagnosed with Cetobacterium somerae bacteremia, characterized by symptoms including fever, abdominal pain, and jaundice. This individual had a history of endoscopic variceal ligation (EVL) for esophageal varices, which might have been the source of the bacteremia. 

Host defenses against Cetobacterium somerae involve multifaceted mechanisms aimed at countering potential infection. One essential defense is the production of intrinsic factor (IF), a glycoprotein secreted by gastric parietal cells. IF plays a crucial role by binding to vitamin B12 in the stomach, shielding it from the harsh gastric acid and enzymatic environment.

Additionally, IF facilitates the absorption of vitamin B12 in the ileum through its interaction with specific receptors on enterocytes, ensuring the essential nutrient’s uptake and utilization within the body.  

Another defense strategy involves the regulation of the gut microbiota through probiotics, live microorganisms that offer various health benefits when administered in sufficient quantities. Probiotics exert their influence by modulating the composition and function of the gut microbiota.

They achieve this by inhibiting potential pathogens, reinforcing the gut’s barrier function, stimulating immune responses, and generating beneficial metabolites. For instance, Bacillus velezensis, a probiotic strain, enhances host resistance against Aeromonas hydrophila infection by strengthening interactions within the gut microbiota, particularly with Cetobacterium somerae.  

The gut microbiota serves as a protective barrier against Cetobacterium somerae infection through multiple mechanisms, including competition for resources and space, production of antimicrobial substances, bolstering the gut’s barrier function, influencing the gut’s redox status, reshaping the gut microbiome’s structure and function, and enhancing the stability of the gut microbial ecological network.  

Furthermore, the adaptive immune system plays a vital role in recognizing and responding to Cetobacterium somerae. Antigens from Cetobacterium somerae can be presented by antigen-presenting cells (APCs) such as dendritic cells, macrophages, or B cells to T cells.

This interaction triggers the activation and differentiation of T cells into various subsets, including helper T cells (Th1, Th2, Th17), cytotoxic T cells (Tc), or regulatory T cells (Treg). Each T cell subset fulfills distinct functions, such as cytokine production, targeted cell killing, or immune response regulation, contributing to the overall immune defense against Cetobacterium somerae and maintaining gut health. 

 

Clinical manifestations of Cetobacterium somerae infection are relatively rare but have been reported in the literature. One notable case involved bacteremia following necrotizing cholecystitis, an uncommon presentation.

In this case, the patient presented with severe gallbladder inflammation and infection symptoms. Cetobacterium somerae bacteremia has been associated with specific clinical findings, including liver cirrhosis, conjunctival hemorrhage, and skin necrosis. 

 

Diagnosing Cetobacterium somerae, a recently discovered bacterium found in human feces and freshwater fish, can be challenging due to its rarity. However, several diagnostic tests have been employed to identify this microorganism:  

Matrix-assisted laser ionization/desorption time-of-flight mass spectrometry: This technique utilizes laser-induced ionization to analyze the molecular mass of bacteria. By comparing the mass spectrum of sampled bacterium with a reference database, MALDI-TOF MS can accurately identify Cetobacterium somerae. Notably, it played a crucial role in diagnosing a case of Cetobacterium somerae bacteremia in an older man with liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma in Japan.  

16S rRNA gene sequence analysis: Another valuable tool for Cetobacterium somerae identification is 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis. This method employs polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and DNA sequencing to amplify and analyze the highly conserved yet variable 16S rRNA gene region, facilitating phylogenetic and taxonomic classification. By comparing the 16S rRNA gene sequence with a reference database, this test can confirm the presence of Cetobacterium somerae.  

Nuclease treatment and nucleotide measurement: To detect Cetobacterium somerae, a unique approach involves nuclease treatment and nucleotide measurement. By using nucleases to degrade bacterial DNA and RNA, this method subsequently measures the concentration of nucleotides in the sample.

The characteristic high level of nucleotides associated with Cetobacterium somerae, stemming from its ability to produce vitamin B12, can be identified using this test. This approach was utilized to assess the impact of nuclease treatment on the stabilized fermentation product of Cetobacterium somerae, particularly in the context of probiotic supplementation for fish. 

 

  • Good hygiene and sanitation are crucial, particularly when handling or consuming freshwater fish and other aquatic products that may harbor Cetobacterium somerae. This includes thorough cleaning of fish and utensils, as well as safe food handling & storage practices. 
  • It’s essential to avoid exposure to contaminated food or water that may contain Cetobacterium somerae, especially for individuals with liver diseases or compromised immune systems. Ensuring food and water safety through proper cooking, washing, storage, and disinfecting prevents potential infections. 
  • A healthy diet also contributes to maintaining a well-functioning gut microbiota, which can help prevent the overgrowth of Cetobacterium somerae and other potentially harmful bacteria in the gut. 

 

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Cetobacterium somerae

Updated : November 15, 2023

Mail Whatsapp PDF Image



Cetobacterium somerae infections in humans are exceedingly rare, with only one documented case reported. This case involved a 63-year-old man in Japan who had underlying health conditions, including liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Notably, this individual had a history of endoscopic variceal ligation (EVL) for esophageal varices, which may have served as a potential source of the bacteremia. Successful treatment with antibiotics resulted in a complete recovery after a 14-day hospitalization.  

The prevalence of Cetobacterium somerae in human feces remains largely unknown. This anaerobic bacterium is adapted to a microaerophilic environment, making it less likely to thrive in the oxygen-rich gut. While it may be present in some healthy individuals, it does not typically cause symptoms or disease in the human population.  

In contrast, Cetobacterium somerae is more prevalent in the intestinal tracts of various freshwater fish species, including goldfish, common carp, grass carp, ayu, and Yangtze finless porpoise. It has been found in different geographic regions, such as Japan and China, suggesting a more comprehensive distribution among these aquatic hosts. However, the overall distribution and diversity of Cetobacterium somerae in various habitats and hosts, including humans, require further investigation. 

 

Classification and Structure: 

Kingdom: Bacteria 

Phylum: Fusobacteriota 

Class: Fusobacteriia 

Order: Fusobacteriales 

Family: Fusobacteriaceae 

Genus: Cetobacterium 

Species: C. somerae  

The cells of Cetobacterium somerae are non-spore-forming, rod-shaped bacteria and typically measure between 0.5 to 1.0 µm in width and 2.0 to 10.0 µm in length. It does not possess flagella or pili, which are used for motility. This bacterium is non-motile; it does not exhibit active movement via flagellar propulsion. 

C. somerae possesses a relatively simple cell structure. It has a thin cell wall that surrounds the cell membrane. Various enzymes and transporters are present within the cytoplasmic membrane, contributing to its metabolic activities and cellular functions. An important characteristic of C. somerae is its ability to produce vitamin B12 (cobalamin). 

 

Cetobacterium somerae possesses the remarkable ability to produce vitamin B12, a vital nutrient essential for both humans and animals. Vitamin B12 is crucial in maintaining the nervous system’s health, supporting red blood cell production, and facilitating DNA synthesis.  

Among its distinctive characteristics, Cetobacterium somerae exhibits various antigens on its cell surface, including outer membrane proteins (OMPs). Notably, a strain known as C. somerae CS2105-BJ, originating from the intestinal tract of a freshwater fish, shares typical features with the species but stands out due to the presence of pili composed of N-methylphenylalanine residues.

These pili enable adherence to intestinal epithelial cells, underscoring the bacterium’s adaptability. In contrast, Cetobacterium somerae ATCC BAA-474, originally isolated from human feces, represents the type strain of this species. This strain is a reference point for understanding the bacterium’s characteristics and presence in the human gut. 

 

The pathogenesis of Cetobacterium somerae in humans remains a subject of limited understanding due to its rarity and recent discovery. This bacterium has been isolated from human feces and freshwater fish. It is primarily recognized as an opportunistic pathogen, typically causing infections in individuals with compromised immune systems or those experiencing stress.  

In the context of pathogenesis, two critical determinants stand out: the host’s immune system and the composition of the gut microbiota. These factors are pivotal in dictating susceptibility to or resistance against Cetobacterium somerae infections. When the immune system is weakened, or disruptions occur in the gut microbiota, C. somerae may exploit these vulnerabilities. It can breach the intestinal mucosa, gaining entry into the bloodstream and potentially leading to systemic infection.  

Furthermore, transmission routes for Cetobacterium somerae are not yet fully elucidated, but contaminated fish food or water sources, especially in individuals with compromised immune systems, present plausible avenues for infection. An illustrative case involved a patient diagnosed with Cetobacterium somerae bacteremia, characterized by symptoms including fever, abdominal pain, and jaundice. This individual had a history of endoscopic variceal ligation (EVL) for esophageal varices, which might have been the source of the bacteremia. 

Host defenses against Cetobacterium somerae involve multifaceted mechanisms aimed at countering potential infection. One essential defense is the production of intrinsic factor (IF), a glycoprotein secreted by gastric parietal cells. IF plays a crucial role by binding to vitamin B12 in the stomach, shielding it from the harsh gastric acid and enzymatic environment.

Additionally, IF facilitates the absorption of vitamin B12 in the ileum through its interaction with specific receptors on enterocytes, ensuring the essential nutrient’s uptake and utilization within the body.  

Another defense strategy involves the regulation of the gut microbiota through probiotics, live microorganisms that offer various health benefits when administered in sufficient quantities. Probiotics exert their influence by modulating the composition and function of the gut microbiota.

They achieve this by inhibiting potential pathogens, reinforcing the gut’s barrier function, stimulating immune responses, and generating beneficial metabolites. For instance, Bacillus velezensis, a probiotic strain, enhances host resistance against Aeromonas hydrophila infection by strengthening interactions within the gut microbiota, particularly with Cetobacterium somerae.  

The gut microbiota serves as a protective barrier against Cetobacterium somerae infection through multiple mechanisms, including competition for resources and space, production of antimicrobial substances, bolstering the gut’s barrier function, influencing the gut’s redox status, reshaping the gut microbiome’s structure and function, and enhancing the stability of the gut microbial ecological network.  

Furthermore, the adaptive immune system plays a vital role in recognizing and responding to Cetobacterium somerae. Antigens from Cetobacterium somerae can be presented by antigen-presenting cells (APCs) such as dendritic cells, macrophages, or B cells to T cells.

This interaction triggers the activation and differentiation of T cells into various subsets, including helper T cells (Th1, Th2, Th17), cytotoxic T cells (Tc), or regulatory T cells (Treg). Each T cell subset fulfills distinct functions, such as cytokine production, targeted cell killing, or immune response regulation, contributing to the overall immune defense against Cetobacterium somerae and maintaining gut health. 

 

Clinical manifestations of Cetobacterium somerae infection are relatively rare but have been reported in the literature. One notable case involved bacteremia following necrotizing cholecystitis, an uncommon presentation.

In this case, the patient presented with severe gallbladder inflammation and infection symptoms. Cetobacterium somerae bacteremia has been associated with specific clinical findings, including liver cirrhosis, conjunctival hemorrhage, and skin necrosis. 

 

Diagnosing Cetobacterium somerae, a recently discovered bacterium found in human feces and freshwater fish, can be challenging due to its rarity. However, several diagnostic tests have been employed to identify this microorganism:  

Matrix-assisted laser ionization/desorption time-of-flight mass spectrometry: This technique utilizes laser-induced ionization to analyze the molecular mass of bacteria. By comparing the mass spectrum of sampled bacterium with a reference database, MALDI-TOF MS can accurately identify Cetobacterium somerae. Notably, it played a crucial role in diagnosing a case of Cetobacterium somerae bacteremia in an older man with liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma in Japan.  

16S rRNA gene sequence analysis: Another valuable tool for Cetobacterium somerae identification is 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis. This method employs polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and DNA sequencing to amplify and analyze the highly conserved yet variable 16S rRNA gene region, facilitating phylogenetic and taxonomic classification. By comparing the 16S rRNA gene sequence with a reference database, this test can confirm the presence of Cetobacterium somerae.  

Nuclease treatment and nucleotide measurement: To detect Cetobacterium somerae, a unique approach involves nuclease treatment and nucleotide measurement. By using nucleases to degrade bacterial DNA and RNA, this method subsequently measures the concentration of nucleotides in the sample.

The characteristic high level of nucleotides associated with Cetobacterium somerae, stemming from its ability to produce vitamin B12, can be identified using this test. This approach was utilized to assess the impact of nuclease treatment on the stabilized fermentation product of Cetobacterium somerae, particularly in the context of probiotic supplementation for fish. 

 

  • Good hygiene and sanitation are crucial, particularly when handling or consuming freshwater fish and other aquatic products that may harbor Cetobacterium somerae. This includes thorough cleaning of fish and utensils, as well as safe food handling & storage practices. 
  • It’s essential to avoid exposure to contaminated food or water that may contain Cetobacterium somerae, especially for individuals with liver diseases or compromised immune systems. Ensuring food and water safety through proper cooking, washing, storage, and disinfecting prevents potential infections. 
  • A healthy diet also contributes to maintaining a well-functioning gut microbiota, which can help prevent the overgrowth of Cetobacterium somerae and other potentially harmful bacteria in the gut. 

 

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