Episode 62: Campylobacter: the fussy little pathogen

The microbinfie podcast explores Campylobacter, a complex foodborne pathogen, with insights from Dr. Ozan Gundogdu on its unique biological characteristics, transmission dynamics, and research challenges.

Today, we have the pleasure of hosting Dr. Ozan Gundogdu, who provides us with a crash course on the foodborne pathogen Campylobacter. If you've ever experienced stomach issues after consuming undercooked chicken, Campylobacter is likely the culprit. Dr. Gundogdu leads the Foodborne Enteric Pathogen Group at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, where they focus on the physiology and pathogenesis of Campylobacter and other related enteric microorganisms, such as Listeria and Vibrio.

Dr. Gundogdu's academic background is in Molecular Biology and Computer Science. He completed his PhD at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM) in 2011.

For more information, you can visit Dr. Gundogdu's profile at LSHTM.

Extra notes

• Dr. Ozan Gongadou, a specialist in microbiology and computer science, focuses on the study of the physiology and pathogenesis of Campylobacter and other enteric microorganisms using bioinformatics tools.

• Over recent years, research has shifted towards next-generation sequencing approaches, including whole-genome sequencing, transcriptomics, and metagenomics.

• The compact genome of Campylobacter (~1.64 Mb), with efficient genetic regulatory mechanisms, presents a unique challenge in bioinformatics due to its survival in various environmental conditions despite being classified as microaerophilic.

• One of the first bacteria to have its genome sequenced (1999-2000 at the Sanger Institute), revealing novel features like the absence of classic secretion systems (e.g., type III) and the presence of a type VI secretion system in some strains.

• Genome sequencing has revealed other unique features, such as O-link glycosylation and the existence of a capsule, previously unrecognized, contributing to immune evasion.

• Challenges in studying Campylobacter include its classification as a non-model organism, difficulty in cultivation, and lack of convenient animal models, which complicates experimental bioinformatics research.

• The bioinformatics research in Campylobacter requires integrating laboratory findings with applied research to understand its pathogenesis and environmental persistence, which remains inadequately explained.

• Researchers explore whether Campylobacter is a commensal organism, potentially affecting poultry health and microbiome dynamics.

• Current vaccine development efforts face challenges, including the organism's high prevalence and potential post-infectious neuropathy risks (e.g., Guillain-Barre Syndrome).

• Despite technological advances, there are ongoing efforts to understand transmission dynamics through different environments, such as poultry, wild birds, and water sources, all of which remain vital for controlling infections.

• A multi-faceted approach involving laboratory research, potential vaccines, policy intervention, and public education (e.g., proper chicken cooking practices) is advocated as part of addressing Campylobacter infections effectively.