Arcobacter butzleri: A review

Abstract

Arcobacter butzleri classified as Aliarcobacter butzleri under the revised taxonomy has emerged as an important zoonotic foodborne and waterborne pathogen associated with gastrointestinal infections, bacteremia, septicemia, and other extraintestinal diseases in humans, as well as enteritis, abortion, and reproductive disorders in livestock, particularly cattle, sheep, and pigs. Significant strides have been made in comprehending its taxonomy, epidemiology, genetic variation, as well as pathogenic capability since it was identified as an emerging pathogen. Advances in whole-genome sequencing and comparative genomic analyses have significantly improved the characterization of virulence-associated genes and clarified its taxonomic position within the family Arcobacteraceae. Nevertheless, many aspects of its interaction with the host immune system and the mechanisms responsible for disease development remain poorly understood. Therefore, this review provides a comprehensive and updated overview of the current knowledge regarding the taxonomy, pathogenicity, virulence determinants, antimicrobial resistance, and host–pathogen interactions of A. butzleri, with particular emphasis on its immunopathogenesis. Recent evidence concerning antimicrobial resistance, including the multidrug-resistant (MDR) potential of A. butzleri, is also considered. In addition, recent findings on innate immune responses, inflammatory mediators, immune modulation, and current knowledge gaps are critically discussed to their potential implications for improving the diagnosis, prevention, and control of A. butzleri infections.