Role of type IV pilin biosynthesis genes in biofilm formation of Aeromonas hydrophila

Abstract

Aeromonads resides in aquatic environments and infect humans and fish among other animals. This opportunistic pathogen is predicted to have several pili and fimbriae genes which may promote biofilm formation and attachment affecting the infection process. The present study compares biofilm formation and subsequent infection on MDCK cell lines using wildtype Aeromonas hydrophila and putative type IV pilin biosynthesis gene mutant generated by standard protocol. The results indicate the involvement of putative pilus biosynthesis operon AHA0686-AHA0696 in biofilm formation of Aeromonas hydrophila and infection of MDCK cells. In silico analysis of the operon predicts to contain putative type IV pili and pilin biosynthetic genes. Detailed analysis of these genes is required to evaluate the applicability of these mutant strains as potential vaccine candidates.