Serratia fonticola

Updated : November 28, 2023

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Serratia fonticola was initially discovered in 1979 from freshwater and soil samples and later recognized as a potential human pathogen in 1991. Recent data from Japan in 2017 and 2018 unveiled its presence in imported chicken meat, with five novel strains producing FONA, a minor extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL).

This disclosure raises concerns about its potential role in ESBL transmission via the food chain, highlighting its potential impact on public health. This bacterium’s prevalence knows no bounds, as it inhabits a diverse range of environments across the globe. Aquatic locales, including freshwater sources, frequently harbor Serratia fonticola. Its adaptability spans water bodies and healthcare settings, contributing to its versatile potential as an infectious agent.  

While studies suggest its rarity as a human pathogen in specific regions like India, where only one clinical isolate was identified among Serratia species between 2009 and 2011, its widespread presence in aquatic environments is evident in places like France. Phenotypic and genotypic methods identified 12 isolates in environmental samples from various water sources in 2004 and 2005, emphasizing their affinity for aquatic ecosystems.  

Amid its water-bound habitats, the bacterium’s presence poses exposure risks. Contact with contaminated water or surfaces may facilitate its transmission to humans. This intricate exposure pathway complicates prevention and control efforts, warranting comprehensive strategies to mitigate potential infections. Insights from China reveal its rarity even among Gram-negative bacteria isolates, with only three cases identified through advanced methods between 2013 and 2015, further delineating its limited prevalence in specific regions. 

 

Kingdom: Bacteria 

Phylum: Pseudomonadota 

Class: Gammaproteobacteria 

Order: Enterobacterales 

Family: Yersiniaceae 

Genus: Serratia 

Species: Serratia fonticola  

Serratia fonticola presents as straight or slightly curved rod-shaped cells called bacilli. These elongated cells exhibit a cylindrical form and can vary in size. They typically measure around 0.5 to 1.0 μm in width and 1.0 to 3.0 μm in length.  

It contains an outer membrane containing lipopolysaccharides. And some strains have whip-like flagella and pili or hair-like structures on the surface for movement in liquid environments. 

Antigenic Variation and Capsule:Serratia fonticola exhibits potential antigenic diversity through its O-antigen and K-antigen variations. The K-antigen comprises a group of complex interchanging proteins. This variation in surface antigens allows the bacterium to potentially evade the host’s immune responses by altering its external characteristics.  

Serratia fonticola showcases enzymatic versatility by producing proteases, lipases, and DNases. These enzymes contribute to the degradation of host proteins, lipids, and DNA. This ability to degrade host molecules suggests its potential involvement in tissue damage and immune evasion strategies.  

Quorum-Sensing and Peptidases: The bacterium employs quorum-sensing proteins for inter-bacterial communication, facilitating coordination with bacteria of similar or different species. Additionally, Serratia fonticola produces peptidases, enzymes capable of cleaving peptide bonds in proteins.

Peptidases can disrupt host immunity by degrading critical components such as antibodies, complement factors, and cytokines. They also influence inflammation by activating or deactivating host proteins like kinins and coagulation factors.  

Certain strains, including A3242 and B2A1Ga1, exhibit notable resistance to metals like gallium (Ga) and indium (In). Strain S14 was identified in mosquito species. These strains’ resilience to metal exposure highlights their unique adaptability and suggests potential roles in challenging environments.   

Reference Strains: Strain GDM1.995, derived from a patient with biliary infection in France, and strain ATCC 29844 serves as a reference point for identifying and characterizing Serratia fonticola. This strain aids in further understanding the bacterium’s properties and behavior. 

 

Serratia fonticola is classified as an opportunistic pathogen, predominantly affecting individuals with compromised immunity or underlying health conditions. Although generally considered less virulent than other Serratia species, it can incite diverse infections in susceptible hosts. Its capacity to invade and inhabit different bodily sites hinges on entry routes and host factors.

Invasion avenues encompass wounds, catheters, surgical instruments, and contaminated consumables. Further dissemination can occur via the bloodstream or lymphatic system, culminating in infections in various organs.  

Utilizing motility and adherence elements like flagella and fimbriae, Serratia fonticola establishes host cell or surface attachments. Enzymes and toxins enable its breach of host barriers. Inside host cells, it escapes phagosomes or thwarts phagocytosis. The ensuing harm and inflammation are triggered via diverse mechanisms.

Cell membrane integrity disruption relies on phospholipases and hemolysins, while metalloproteases target extracellular matrix proteins. Host cell signaling pathways are modulated via peptidases and chitinases. Immune response intensification is instigated through interactions with toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS), promoting cytokine release, complement activation, coagulation cascade, and oxidative stress.  

The pathogenicity of Serratia fonticola is underpinned by its array of virulence factors, including proteases, lipases, and DNases. These enzymes degrade host tissues and subvert immune defenses. Its capacity to form biofilms bolsters resilience, as self-produced extracellular matrices shield these structured bacterial communities. Biofilms, prevalent on surfaces like medical devices, heighten resistance to antimicrobials, host immunity, and clearance mechanisms, escalating the risk of device-related infections. 

 

The defense against Serratia fonticola shares similarities with responses against other Gram-negative bacteria. The innate immune system takes center stage in recognizing and combatting these invaders. However, several factors can weaken this defense mechanism, including genetic flaws, immunosuppressive drugs, chronic illnesses, malnutrition, aging, and co-infections.  

Inflammation, a reaction to infection or tissue damage, aims to restore balance. It involves vasodilation, increased permeability, leukocyte recruitment, edema formation, pain, and fever. Inflammation aids in controlling S. fonticola by boosting blood flow, delivering immune cells, and creating an unfavorable environment for bacteria. Yet, excessive inflammation can harm tissues and hinder immune cells, increasing vulnerability to S. fonticola infections. 

 

Serratia fonticola infections can give rise to diverse ailments, encompassing skin and soft tissue infections, urinary tract infections, biliary infections, and even endocarditis. The clinical presentation of these infections differs according to the specific site and the severity of the infection.

Common indicators include fever, chills, localized pain, swelling, redness, the presence of pus, and discharge from affected areas. It’s important to note that the specific context of the infection can influence the manifestations.  

In more severe cases, Serratia fonticola infections can escalate into sepsis, a critical medical condition marked by the body’s heightened response to an infection, which can result in the impairment or failure of organs.

The symptoms of sepsis are notably severe and encompass phenomena such as shock, respiratory distress, confusion, and changes in mental status. Given the life-threatening nature of sepsis, prompt medical attention and intervention are imperative. 

 

Commercial diagnostic tools like the API (Analytical Profile Index) system can be employed to identify Serratia fonticola. These systems utilize a comprehensive panel of biochemical tests to generate a distinct profile, facilitating accurate identification of this bacterium.  

Diagnosing Serratia fonticola infections involves a series of tests to identify the bacterium accurately. Microscopic examination through Gram staining reveals its Gram-negative nature, showcasing its appearance as pink or red rod-shaped cells under a microscope. These cells can be observed individually, in pairs, chains, or clusters, highlighting their distinct morphology.  

Culturing the bacterium is another crucial diagnostic step. Commonly used agar media like blood, MacConkey, and nutrient agar are employed. Incubating the culture plates at 35-37 °C for 24-48 hours encourages growth. Serratia fonticola colonies on these plates exhibit specific traits – they are smooth and mucoid and often display pink or reddish pigmentation. However, this appearance can vary based on strain and growth conditions.  

Biochemical tests play a pivotal role in differentiating S. fonticola from other bacteria. Evaluating metabolic and enzymatic activities includes tests like the oxidase and catalase tests and assessments of glucose and lactose fermentation, indole production, and citrate utilization. These tests yield distinctive results aiding accurate identification.  

Molecular methods further confirm the identity of Serratia fonticola. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR), pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE), multilocus sequence typing (MLST), and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) are employed to detect specific genetic markers. These methods also provide insights into antibiotic resistance genes and virulence factors present in S. fonticola. 

 

  • For healthcare facilities and other settings, maintaining proper water management systems can prevent the colonization of S. fonticola in water sources and minimize the risk of waterborne infections. 
  • Proper hand hygiene among healthcare workers, patients, and the general population is essential. Handwashing with water and soap or using hand sanitizers containing effective alcohol regularly can help prevent the spread of S. fonticola. 

 

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Serratia fonticola

Updated : November 28, 2023

Mail Whatsapp PDF Image



Serratia fonticola was initially discovered in 1979 from freshwater and soil samples and later recognized as a potential human pathogen in 1991. Recent data from Japan in 2017 and 2018 unveiled its presence in imported chicken meat, with five novel strains producing FONA, a minor extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL).

This disclosure raises concerns about its potential role in ESBL transmission via the food chain, highlighting its potential impact on public health. This bacterium’s prevalence knows no bounds, as it inhabits a diverse range of environments across the globe. Aquatic locales, including freshwater sources, frequently harbor Serratia fonticola. Its adaptability spans water bodies and healthcare settings, contributing to its versatile potential as an infectious agent.  

While studies suggest its rarity as a human pathogen in specific regions like India, where only one clinical isolate was identified among Serratia species between 2009 and 2011, its widespread presence in aquatic environments is evident in places like France. Phenotypic and genotypic methods identified 12 isolates in environmental samples from various water sources in 2004 and 2005, emphasizing their affinity for aquatic ecosystems.  

Amid its water-bound habitats, the bacterium’s presence poses exposure risks. Contact with contaminated water or surfaces may facilitate its transmission to humans. This intricate exposure pathway complicates prevention and control efforts, warranting comprehensive strategies to mitigate potential infections. Insights from China reveal its rarity even among Gram-negative bacteria isolates, with only three cases identified through advanced methods between 2013 and 2015, further delineating its limited prevalence in specific regions. 

 

Kingdom: Bacteria 

Phylum: Pseudomonadota 

Class: Gammaproteobacteria 

Order: Enterobacterales 

Family: Yersiniaceae 

Genus: Serratia 

Species: Serratia fonticola  

Serratia fonticola presents as straight or slightly curved rod-shaped cells called bacilli. These elongated cells exhibit a cylindrical form and can vary in size. They typically measure around 0.5 to 1.0 μm in width and 1.0 to 3.0 μm in length.  

It contains an outer membrane containing lipopolysaccharides. And some strains have whip-like flagella and pili or hair-like structures on the surface for movement in liquid environments. 

Antigenic Variation and Capsule:Serratia fonticola exhibits potential antigenic diversity through its O-antigen and K-antigen variations. The K-antigen comprises a group of complex interchanging proteins. This variation in surface antigens allows the bacterium to potentially evade the host’s immune responses by altering its external characteristics.  

Serratia fonticola showcases enzymatic versatility by producing proteases, lipases, and DNases. These enzymes contribute to the degradation of host proteins, lipids, and DNA. This ability to degrade host molecules suggests its potential involvement in tissue damage and immune evasion strategies.  

Quorum-Sensing and Peptidases: The bacterium employs quorum-sensing proteins for inter-bacterial communication, facilitating coordination with bacteria of similar or different species. Additionally, Serratia fonticola produces peptidases, enzymes capable of cleaving peptide bonds in proteins.

Peptidases can disrupt host immunity by degrading critical components such as antibodies, complement factors, and cytokines. They also influence inflammation by activating or deactivating host proteins like kinins and coagulation factors.  

Certain strains, including A3242 and B2A1Ga1, exhibit notable resistance to metals like gallium (Ga) and indium (In). Strain S14 was identified in mosquito species. These strains’ resilience to metal exposure highlights their unique adaptability and suggests potential roles in challenging environments.   

Reference Strains: Strain GDM1.995, derived from a patient with biliary infection in France, and strain ATCC 29844 serves as a reference point for identifying and characterizing Serratia fonticola. This strain aids in further understanding the bacterium’s properties and behavior. 

 

Serratia fonticola is classified as an opportunistic pathogen, predominantly affecting individuals with compromised immunity or underlying health conditions. Although generally considered less virulent than other Serratia species, it can incite diverse infections in susceptible hosts. Its capacity to invade and inhabit different bodily sites hinges on entry routes and host factors.

Invasion avenues encompass wounds, catheters, surgical instruments, and contaminated consumables. Further dissemination can occur via the bloodstream or lymphatic system, culminating in infections in various organs.  

Utilizing motility and adherence elements like flagella and fimbriae, Serratia fonticola establishes host cell or surface attachments. Enzymes and toxins enable its breach of host barriers. Inside host cells, it escapes phagosomes or thwarts phagocytosis. The ensuing harm and inflammation are triggered via diverse mechanisms.

Cell membrane integrity disruption relies on phospholipases and hemolysins, while metalloproteases target extracellular matrix proteins. Host cell signaling pathways are modulated via peptidases and chitinases. Immune response intensification is instigated through interactions with toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS), promoting cytokine release, complement activation, coagulation cascade, and oxidative stress.  

The pathogenicity of Serratia fonticola is underpinned by its array of virulence factors, including proteases, lipases, and DNases. These enzymes degrade host tissues and subvert immune defenses. Its capacity to form biofilms bolsters resilience, as self-produced extracellular matrices shield these structured bacterial communities. Biofilms, prevalent on surfaces like medical devices, heighten resistance to antimicrobials, host immunity, and clearance mechanisms, escalating the risk of device-related infections. 

 

The defense against Serratia fonticola shares similarities with responses against other Gram-negative bacteria. The innate immune system takes center stage in recognizing and combatting these invaders. However, several factors can weaken this defense mechanism, including genetic flaws, immunosuppressive drugs, chronic illnesses, malnutrition, aging, and co-infections.  

Inflammation, a reaction to infection or tissue damage, aims to restore balance. It involves vasodilation, increased permeability, leukocyte recruitment, edema formation, pain, and fever. Inflammation aids in controlling S. fonticola by boosting blood flow, delivering immune cells, and creating an unfavorable environment for bacteria. Yet, excessive inflammation can harm tissues and hinder immune cells, increasing vulnerability to S. fonticola infections. 

 

Serratia fonticola infections can give rise to diverse ailments, encompassing skin and soft tissue infections, urinary tract infections, biliary infections, and even endocarditis. The clinical presentation of these infections differs according to the specific site and the severity of the infection.

Common indicators include fever, chills, localized pain, swelling, redness, the presence of pus, and discharge from affected areas. It’s important to note that the specific context of the infection can influence the manifestations.  

In more severe cases, Serratia fonticola infections can escalate into sepsis, a critical medical condition marked by the body’s heightened response to an infection, which can result in the impairment or failure of organs.

The symptoms of sepsis are notably severe and encompass phenomena such as shock, respiratory distress, confusion, and changes in mental status. Given the life-threatening nature of sepsis, prompt medical attention and intervention are imperative. 

 

Commercial diagnostic tools like the API (Analytical Profile Index) system can be employed to identify Serratia fonticola. These systems utilize a comprehensive panel of biochemical tests to generate a distinct profile, facilitating accurate identification of this bacterium.  

Diagnosing Serratia fonticola infections involves a series of tests to identify the bacterium accurately. Microscopic examination through Gram staining reveals its Gram-negative nature, showcasing its appearance as pink or red rod-shaped cells under a microscope. These cells can be observed individually, in pairs, chains, or clusters, highlighting their distinct morphology.  

Culturing the bacterium is another crucial diagnostic step. Commonly used agar media like blood, MacConkey, and nutrient agar are employed. Incubating the culture plates at 35-37 °C for 24-48 hours encourages growth. Serratia fonticola colonies on these plates exhibit specific traits – they are smooth and mucoid and often display pink or reddish pigmentation. However, this appearance can vary based on strain and growth conditions.  

Biochemical tests play a pivotal role in differentiating S. fonticola from other bacteria. Evaluating metabolic and enzymatic activities includes tests like the oxidase and catalase tests and assessments of glucose and lactose fermentation, indole production, and citrate utilization. These tests yield distinctive results aiding accurate identification.  

Molecular methods further confirm the identity of Serratia fonticola. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR), pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE), multilocus sequence typing (MLST), and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) are employed to detect specific genetic markers. These methods also provide insights into antibiotic resistance genes and virulence factors present in S. fonticola. 

 

  • For healthcare facilities and other settings, maintaining proper water management systems can prevent the colonization of S. fonticola in water sources and minimize the risk of waterborne infections. 
  • Proper hand hygiene among healthcare workers, patients, and the general population is essential. Handwashing with water and soap or using hand sanitizers containing effective alcohol regularly can help prevent the spread of S. fonticola. 

 

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