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Floyd HEE, Kavanagh AM, Lowe GJ, Amado M, Fraser JA, Blaskovich MAT, Elliott AG, Zuegg J. Standardisation of high throughput microdilution antifungal susceptibility testing for Candida albicans and Cryptococcus neoformans. Sci Rep 2024; 14:23407. [PMID: 39379501 PMCID: PMC11461513 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-74068-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2024] [Accepted: 09/23/2024] [Indexed: 10/10/2024] Open
Abstract
The Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) M27 guidelines are the recommended and most commonly used protocols for broth microdilution antifungal susceptibility testing of yeasts. However, these guidelines are limited to the use of 96-well assay plates, limiting assay capacity. With the increased risk of fungal resistance emerging in the community, it is important to have alternative protocols available, that offer higher throughput and can screen more than eight to ten potential antifungal compounds per plate. This study presents an optimised broth microdilution minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) method for testing the susceptibility of yeasts in an efficient high throughput screening setup, with minimal growth variability and maximum reproducibility. We extend the M27 guidelines and optimise the conditions for 384-well plates. Validation of the assay was performed with ten clinically used antifungals (fluconazole, amphotericin B, 5-fluorocytosine, posaconazole, voriconazole, ketoconazole, itraconazole, caspofungin diacetate, anidulafungin and micafungin) against Candida albicans and Cryptococcus neoformans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Holly E E Floyd
- Community for Open Antimicrobial Drug Discovery, Centre for Superbug Solutions, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Angela M Kavanagh
- Community for Open Antimicrobial Drug Discovery, Centre for Superbug Solutions, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Gabrielle J Lowe
- Community for Open Antimicrobial Drug Discovery, Centre for Superbug Solutions, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Maite Amado
- Community for Open Antimicrobial Drug Discovery, Centre for Superbug Solutions, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - James A Fraser
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Mark A T Blaskovich
- Community for Open Antimicrobial Drug Discovery, Centre for Superbug Solutions, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Alysha G Elliott
- Community for Open Antimicrobial Drug Discovery, Centre for Superbug Solutions, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Johannes Zuegg
- Community for Open Antimicrobial Drug Discovery, Centre for Superbug Solutions, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.
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2
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Rajagopal GK, Raorane CJ, Ravichandran V, Rajasekharan SK. Synergy of histone acetyltransferase inhibitor (HATi) with quercetin inhibits biofilm formation in Candida tropicalis. Lett Appl Microbiol 2024; 77:ovae085. [PMID: 39257244 DOI: 10.1093/lambio/ovae085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2024] [Revised: 08/19/2024] [Accepted: 09/09/2024] [Indexed: 09/12/2024]
Abstract
Histone acetyltransferase inhibitors (HATi) are mechanism-based inhibitors that show promise in the treatment of several illnesses, including diabetes, hyperlipidemia, cancer, and Alzheimer's disease. The work emphasizes the significance of HATi as a possible treatment strategy against Candida species biofilms. Here, in this study, we found that combining a HATi, anacardic acid (AA), and quercetin, a known flavonoid, significantly prevented biofilm formation by C. tropicalis. We further show that C. tropicalis exhibited a considerable downregulation of drug-resistance gene expression (CDR1 and MDR1) when co-administrated. Additionally, in silico studies revealed that the AA interacts strongly with a histone acetyltransferase, Rtt109, which may account for the observed biofilm inhibitory effect. In conclusion, the study illustrates how HATi may be used to potentiate the inhibitory action of phytoactives or antifungals against drug-resistant yeast infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gouri Krishna Rajagopal
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Bioengineering, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulathur, 603203 Tamil Nadu, India
| | | | - Vinothkannan Ravichandran
- Center for Drug Discovery and Development (CD3), Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Maharashtra, Bhatan, Panvel, Mumbai 410206, Maharashtra, India
| | - Satish Kumar Rajasekharan
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Bioengineering, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulathur, 603203 Tamil Nadu, India
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3
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Wolfgruber S, Sedik S, Klingspor L, Tortorano A, Gow NAR, Lagrou K, Gangneux JP, Maertens J, Meis JF, Lass-Flörl C, Arikan-Akdagli S, Cornely OA, Hoenigl M. Insights from Three Pan-European Multicentre Studies on Invasive Candida Infections and Outlook to ECMM Candida IV. Mycopathologia 2024; 189:70. [PMID: 39088098 PMCID: PMC11294264 DOI: 10.1007/s11046-024-00871-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2024] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024]
Abstract
Invasive candidiasis and candidemia remain a significant public health concern. The European Confederation of Medical Mycology (ECMM) conducted three pan-European multicentre studies from 1997 to 2022 to investigate various aspects of invasive Candida infections. These studies revealed shifting trends in Candida species distribution, with an increase of non-albicans Candida species as causative pathogens, increasing rates of antifungal resistance, and persistently high mortality rates. Despite advancements in antifungal treatment, the persistently high mortality rate and increasing drug resistance, as well as limited drug access in low-income countries, underscore the need for continued research and development in the treatment of Candida infections. This review aims to summarize the findings of the three completed ECMM Candida studies and emphasize the importance of continued research efforts. Additionally, it introduces the upcoming ECMM Candida IV study, which will focus on assessing candidemia caused by non-albicans Candida species, including Candida auris, investigating antifungal resistance and tolerance, and evaluating novel treatment modalities on a global scale.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stella Wolfgruber
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Auenbruggerplatz 15, 8036, Graz, Austria
- Translational Medical Mycology Research Unit, ECMM Excellence Center for Medical Mycology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Sarah Sedik
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Auenbruggerplatz 15, 8036, Graz, Austria
- Translational Medical Mycology Research Unit, ECMM Excellence Center for Medical Mycology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Lena Klingspor
- Division of Clinical Microbiology, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Annamaria Tortorano
- Dipartimento Scienze Biomediche per la Salute, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Neil A R Gow
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, Department of Biosciences, University of Exeter, Geoffrey Pope Building, Stocker Road, Exeter, UK
| | - Katrien Lagrou
- Laboratory of Clinical Microbiology, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, KU Leuven, Louvain, Belgium
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and National Reference Center for Mycosis, UZ Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Jean-Pierre Gangneux
- Univ Rennes, CHU Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail), UMR_S 1085, 35000, Rennes, France
- Laboratory of Mycology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Rennes, Centre National de référence pour les mycoses et antifongiques - LA AspC, ECMM Excellence Center for Medical Mycology, Rennes, France
| | - Johan Maertens
- Department of Haematology and ECMM Excellence Center for Medical Mycology, University Hospitals Leuven, Campus Gasthuisberg, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Jacques F Meis
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Excellence Center for Medical Mycology (ECMM), Center of Expertise in Mycology Radboudumc/CWZ, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD), Cologne, Germany
| | - Cornelia Lass-Flörl
- Institute of Hygiene and Medical Microbiology Medical University of Innsbruck, Excellence Center for Medical Mycology (ECMM), Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Sevtap Arikan-Akdagli
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Hacettepe University Medical School, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Oliver A Cornely
- University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Department I of Internal Medicine, Center for Integrated Oncology Aachen Bonn Cologne Duesseldorf (CIO ABCD) and Excellence Center for Medical Mycology (ECMM), Cologne, Germany
- University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD), Cologne, Germany
- German Centre for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Bonn-Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Clinical Trials Centre Cologne (ZKS Köln), Cologne, Germany
| | - Martin Hoenigl
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Auenbruggerplatz 15, 8036, Graz, Austria.
- Translational Medical Mycology Research Unit, ECMM Excellence Center for Medical Mycology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria.
- BioTechMed-Graz, Graz, Austria.
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Radonicic V, Kalauzi A, Villalba MI, Radotić K, Devreese B, Kasas S, Willaert RG. Optical Nanomotion Detection to Rapidly Discriminate between Fungicidal and Fungistatic Effects of Antifungals on Single-Cell Candida albicans. Antibiotics (Basel) 2024; 13:712. [PMID: 39200011 PMCID: PMC11350713 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics13080712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2024] [Revised: 07/19/2024] [Accepted: 07/24/2024] [Indexed: 09/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Candida albicans is an emerging pathogen that poses a significant challenge due to its multidrug-resistant nature. There are two types of antifungal agents, fungicidal and fungistatic, with distinct mechanisms of action against fungal pathogens. Fungicidal agents kill fungal pathogens, whereas fungistatic agents inhibit their growth. The growth can be restored once the agent is removed and favorable conditions are established. Recognizing this difference is crucial as it influences treatment selection and infection prognosis. We present a technique based on optical nanomotion detection (ONMD) (i.e., observing the movement of the cells using an optical microscope) to discriminate rapidly between fungicidal (caspofungin) and fungistatic (fluconazole) drugs. The technique is based on the change in a yeast cell's nanomotion as a function of time during a two-hour treatment with the antifungal of interest followed by a one-hour growth period. The cells are entrapped in microwells in a microfluidic chip, which allows a quick exchange of growth medium and antifungal agent, enabling ONMD measurements on the same individual cells before and after treatment. This procedure permits to discriminate between fungicidal and fungistatic antifungals in less than 3 h, with single-cell resolution by observing if the nanomotion recovers after removing the treatment and reintroducing growth medium (YPD), or continues to drop. The simplicity of the approach holds promise for further development into a user-friendly device for rapid antifungal susceptibility testing (AFST), potentially being implemented in hospitals and medical centers worldwide in developed and developing countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vjera Radonicic
- Research Group Structural Biology Brussels, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1050 Brussels, Belgium; (V.R.); (R.G.W.)
- Alliance Research Group VUB-UGent NanoMicrobiology (NAMI), Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1050 Brussels, Belgium; Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
- International Joint Research Group VUB-EPFL NanoBiotechnology & NanoMedicine (NANO), Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1050 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Aleksandar Kalauzi
- Department of Life Sciences, Institute for Multidisciplinary Research, University of Belgrade, 11030 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Maria Ines Villalba
- International Joint Research Group VUB-EPFL NanoBiotechnology & NanoMedicine (NANO), Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1050 Brussels, Belgium
- Laboratory of Biological Electron Microscopy, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), University of Lausanne, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Ksenija Radotić
- Department of Life Sciences, Institute for Multidisciplinary Research, University of Belgrade, 11030 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Bart Devreese
- Alliance Research Group VUB-UGent NanoMicrobiology (NAMI), Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1050 Brussels, Belgium; Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Sandor Kasas
- International Joint Research Group VUB-EPFL NanoBiotechnology & NanoMedicine (NANO), Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1050 Brussels, Belgium
- Laboratory of Biological Electron Microscopy, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), University of Lausanne, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
- Centre Universitaire Romand de Médecine Légale, UFAM, Université de Lausanne, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Ronnie G. Willaert
- Research Group Structural Biology Brussels, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1050 Brussels, Belgium; (V.R.); (R.G.W.)
- Alliance Research Group VUB-UGent NanoMicrobiology (NAMI), Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1050 Brussels, Belgium; Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
- International Joint Research Group VUB-EPFL NanoBiotechnology & NanoMedicine (NANO), Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1050 Brussels, Belgium
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5
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Benarrós MSC, Salvarani FM. Candidiasis in Choloepus sp.-A Review of New Advances on the Disease. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:2092. [PMID: 39061554 PMCID: PMC11273393 DOI: 10.3390/ani14142092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2024] [Revised: 07/12/2024] [Accepted: 07/16/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Candidiasis is a significant fungal infection caused by various species of the genus Candida, posing health challenges to a wide range of animals, including Choloepus species (two-toed sloths). This review article aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of candidiasis in Choloepus sp., highlighting the etiology, epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention strategies. This article begins by examining the causative agents, primarily focusing on Candida albicans, which is the most commonly implicated species in candidiasis. The epidemiological aspects are discussed, emphasizing the prevalence of candidiasis in wild and captive Choloepus populations and identifying predisposing factors, such as immunosuppression, stress, poor nutrition, and environmental conditions. Pathogenesis is explored, detailing the mechanisms through which Candida species invade host tissues and evade immune responses. Clinical manifestations in Choloepus sp. are described, including oral thrush, cutaneous lesions, and gastrointestinal infections, and their impact on the health and behavior of affected individuals. Diagnostic methods, including culture techniques, histopathology, and molecular assays, are reviewed to highlight their roles in accurately identifying Candida infections. This article also covers treatment options, focusing on antifungal therapies and supportive care tailored to the unique physiology of Choloepus sp. Finally, prevention and management strategies are discussed, emphasizing the importance of maintaining optimal husbandry practices, regular health monitoring, and early intervention to reduce the incidence and impact of candidiasis in Choloepus populations. This review underscores the need for further research to enhance our understanding of candidiasis and improve health outcomes for these unique and vulnerable animals.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Felipe Masiero Salvarani
- Instituto de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Pará, Castanhal 68740-970, PA, Brazil;
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Subi TM, Selvasudha N, Priyadharshini S, Kumar P, Singh R, Vasanthi HR. Antibacterial, Antifungal, and Cytotoxic Potential of PlumbaginLoaded pH-Responsive Vaginal Nanoformulations. Appl Biochem Biotechnol 2024:10.1007/s12010-024-04987-3. [PMID: 38935286 DOI: 10.1007/s12010-024-04987-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
Plumbagin is a naphthoquinone from the roots of the Plumbago species and exhibits anticancer activity. Translational usage of plumbagin in biomedical sciences is restricted due to its poor solubility and bioavailability. Therefore, pH-responsive plumbagin-loaded vaginal nanoformulations with polylactic acid (PLA)-chitosan polymeric coat were fabricated by inotropic gelation technique. Among the four (F1, F2, F3, F4) nanoformulations prepared, F3 exhibited good interaction of polymers with plumbagin as evidenced by FTIR, XRD, and thermal analysis. The positive zeta potential (48.4 ± 5.57 mV), optimal size (694 ± 65.76 nm), low PDI (0.157), and good encapsulation efficiency (77.8 ± 3.62%) of F3 were significant. The indirect method of drug loading (58.35 ± 5.00%) confirmed the drug content of about 495.44 ± 5.00 µg of plumbagin in 1 mg of F3. The drug loading pattern was confirmed by TEM analysis, and the spherical morphology of the nanocomposite was confirmed by SEM analysis. F3 formulation showed 46% and 25.2% of drug release in 24 h in simulated vaginal fluid at pH 4.5 and 7 respectively with sustained release and hydrolyses of lactic acid from PLA. Among all the nanoformulations evaluated, nanoformulation F3 with promising physicochemical properties showed good antifungal and antibacterial activity against various fungal and bacterial strains. F3 exhibited potent cytotoxicity with an IC50 of 3.6 ± 0.12 µg/ml for HeLa and an IC50 of 0.81 ± 0.01 µg/ml for SiHa cells. Altogether, the nanoformulation F3 exhibited potent antimicrobial activity against vaginal infections and cytotoxicity against cervical cancer cell lines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamil Mani Subi
- Natural Products Research Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Pondicherry University, Puducherry, 605014, India
| | - Nandhakumar Selvasudha
- Natural Products Research Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Pondicherry University, Puducherry, 605014, India
| | - Sivakumar Priyadharshini
- Natural Products Research Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Pondicherry University, Puducherry, 605014, India
| | - Pradeep Kumar
- Department of Microbiology, Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education & Research, Puducherry, 605006, India
| | - Rakesh Singh
- Department of Microbiology, Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education & Research, Puducherry, 605006, India
| | - Hannah Rachel Vasanthi
- Natural Products Research Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Pondicherry University, Puducherry, 605014, India.
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7
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Pham D, Sivalingam V, Tang HM, Montgomery JM, Chen SCA, Halliday CL. Molecular Diagnostics for Invasive Fungal Diseases: Current and Future Approaches. J Fungi (Basel) 2024; 10:447. [PMID: 39057332 PMCID: PMC11278267 DOI: 10.3390/jof10070447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2024] [Revised: 06/21/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Invasive fungal diseases (IFDs) comprise a growing healthcare burden, especially given the expanding population of immunocompromised hosts. Early diagnosis of IFDs is required to optimise therapy with antifungals, especially in the setting of rising rates of antifungal resistance. Molecular techniques including nucleic acid amplification tests and whole genome sequencing have potential to offer utility in overcoming limitations with traditional phenotypic testing. However, standardisation of methodology and interpretations of these assays is an ongoing undertaking. The utility of targeted Aspergillus detection has been well-defined, with progress in investigations into the role of targeted assays for Candida, Pneumocystis, Cryptococcus, the Mucorales and endemic mycoses. Likewise, whilst broad-range polymerase chain reaction assays have been in use for some time, pathology stewardship and optimising diagnostic yield is a continuing exercise. As costs decrease, there is also now increased access and experience with whole genome sequencing, including metagenomic sequencing, which offers unparalleled resolution especially in the investigations of potential outbreaks. However, their role in routine diagnostic use remains uncommon and standardisation of techniques and workflow are required for wider implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Pham
- Centre for Infectious Diseases and Microbiology Laboratory Services, Institute of Clinical Pathology and Medical Research, NSW Health Pathology, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia; (D.P.)
| | - Varsha Sivalingam
- Centre for Infectious Diseases and Microbiology Laboratory Services, Institute of Clinical Pathology and Medical Research, NSW Health Pathology, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia; (D.P.)
| | - Helen M. Tang
- Centre for Infectious Diseases and Microbiology Laboratory Services, Institute of Clinical Pathology and Medical Research, NSW Health Pathology, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia; (D.P.)
| | - James M. Montgomery
- Centre for Infectious Diseases and Microbiology Laboratory Services, Institute of Clinical Pathology and Medical Research, NSW Health Pathology, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia; (D.P.)
| | - Sharon C.-A. Chen
- Centre for Infectious Diseases and Microbiology Laboratory Services, Institute of Clinical Pathology and Medical Research, NSW Health Pathology, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia; (D.P.)
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2006, Australia
- Sydney Infectious Diseases Institute, The University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Catriona L. Halliday
- Centre for Infectious Diseases and Microbiology Laboratory Services, Institute of Clinical Pathology and Medical Research, NSW Health Pathology, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia; (D.P.)
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8
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Kurnia D, Lestari S, Mayanti T, Gartika M, Nurdin D. Anti-Infection of Oral Microorganisms from Herbal Medicine of Piper crocatum Ruiz & Pav. Drug Des Devel Ther 2024; 18:2531-2553. [PMID: 38952486 PMCID: PMC11215520 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s453375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/03/2024] Open
Abstract
The WHO Global Status Report on Oral Health 2022 reveals that oral diseases caused by infection with oral pathogenic microorganisms affect nearly 3.5 billion people worldwide. Oral health problems are caused by the presence of S. mutans, S. sanguinis, E. faecalis and C. albicans in the oral cavity. Synthetic anti-infective drugs have been widely used to treat oral infections, but have been reported to cause side effects and resistance. Various strategies have been implemented to overcome this problem. Synthetic anti-infective drugs have been widely used to treat oral infections, but they have been reported to cause side effects and resistance. Therefore, it is important to look for safe anti-infective alternatives. Ethnobotanical and ethnopharmacological studies suggest that Red Betel leaf (Piper crocatum Ruiz & Pav) could be a potential source of oral anti-infectives. This review aims to discuss the pathogenesis mechanism of several microorganisms that play an important role in causing health problems, the mechanism of action of synthetic oral anti-infective drugs in inhibiting microbial growth in the oral cavity, and the potential of red betel leaf (Piper crocatum Ruiz & Pav) as an herbal oral anti-infective drug. This study emphasises the importance of researching natural components as an alternative treatment for oral infections that is more effective and can meet global needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dikdik Kurnia
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Science, Universitas Padjadjaran, Sumedang, Indonesia
| | - Seftiana Lestari
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Science, Universitas Padjadjaran, Sumedang, Indonesia
| | - Tri Mayanti
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Science, Universitas Padjadjaran, Sumedang, Indonesia
| | - Meirina Gartika
- Department of Pediatric Dentistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Padjadjaran, Bandung, Indonesia
| | - Denny Nurdin
- Departement of Conservative Dentistry, Faculty of Dentistry, Universitas Padjadjaran, Bandung, Indonesia
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9
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de Paiva Macedo J, Dias VC. Antifungal resistance: why are we losing this battle? Future Microbiol 2024; 19:1027-1040. [PMID: 38904325 PMCID: PMC11318685 DOI: 10.1080/17460913.2024.2342150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024] Open
Abstract
The emergence of fungal pathogens and changes in the epidemiological landscape are prevalent issues in clinical mycology. Reports of resistance to antifungals have been reported. This review aims to evaluate molecular and nonmolecular mechanisms related to antifungal resistance. Mutations in the ERG genes and overexpression of the efflux pump (MDR1, CDR1 and CDR2 genes) were the most reported molecular mechanisms of resistance in clinical isolates, mainly related to Azoles. For echinocandins, a molecular mechanism described was mutation in the FSK genes. Furthermore, nonmolecular virulence factors contributed to therapeutic failure, such as biofilm formation and selective pressure due to previous exposure to antifungals. Thus, there are many public health challenges in treating fungal infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamile de Paiva Macedo
- Master's Student in Biological Science, Federal University of Juiz de Fora – UFJF Rua José Lourenço Kelmer, s/n, São Pedro, Juiz de Fora, MG 36036 900, Brazil
| | - Vanessa Cordeiro Dias
- Department of Parasitology, Microbiology & Immunology Federal University of Juiz de Fora – UFJF Rua José Lourenço Kelmer, s/n, São Pedro, Juiz de Fora, MG 36036 900, Brazil
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10
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Sakamuru S, Ma D, Pierro JD, Baker NC, Kleinstreuer N, Cali JJ, Knudsen TB, Xia M. Development and validation of CYP26A1 inhibition assay for high-throughput screening. Biotechnol J 2024; 19:e2300659. [PMID: 38863121 PMCID: PMC11338008 DOI: 10.1002/biot.202300659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2023] [Revised: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024]
Abstract
All-trans retinoic acid (atRA) is an endogenous ligand of the retinoic acid receptors, which heterodimerize with retinoid X receptors. AtRA is generated in tissues from vitamin A (retinol) metabolism to form a paracrine signal and is locally degraded by cytochrome P450 family 26 (CYP26) enzymes. The CYP26 family consists of three subtypes: A1, B1, and C1, which are differentially expressed during development. This study aims to develop and validate a high throughput screening assay to identify CYP26A1 inhibitors in a cell-free system using a luminescent P450-Glo assay technology. The assay performed well with a signal to background ratio of 25.7, a coefficient of variation of 8.9%, and a Z-factor of 0.7. To validate the assay, we tested a subset of 39 compounds that included known CYP26 inhibitors and retinoids, as well as positive and negative control compounds selected from the literature and/or the ToxCast/Tox21 portfolio. Known CYP26A1 inhibitors were confirmed, and predicted CYP26A1 inhibitors, such as chlorothalonil, prochloraz, and SSR126768, were identified, demonstrating the reliability and robustness of the assay. Given the general importance of atRA as a morphogenetic signal and the localized expression of Cyp26a1 in embryonic tissues, a validated CYP26A1 assay has important implications for evaluating the potential developmental toxicity of chemicals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Srilatha Sakamuru
- Division of Pre-clinical Innovation, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, Maryland, USA
| | - Dongping Ma
- Promega Corporation, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Jocylin D. Pierro
- Center for Computational Toxicology and Exposure, Office of Research and Development, United States Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | | | - Nicole Kleinstreuer
- National Toxicology Program Interagency Center for the Evaluation of Alternative Toxicological Methods, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | | | - Thomas B. Knudsen
- Center for Computational Toxicology and Exposure, Office of Research and Development, United States Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | - Menghang Xia
- Division of Pre-clinical Innovation, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, Maryland, USA
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11
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Izadi A, Paknia F, Roostaee M, Mousavi SAA, Barani M. Advancements in nanoparticle-based therapies for multidrug-resistant candidiasis infections: a comprehensive review. NANOTECHNOLOGY 2024; 35:332001. [PMID: 38749415 DOI: 10.1088/1361-6528/ad4bed] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
Candida auris, a rapidly emerging multidrug-resistant fungal pathogen, poses a global health threat, with cases reported in over 47 countries. Conventional detection methods struggle, and the increasing resistance ofC. auristo antifungal agents has limited treatment options. Nanoparticle-based therapies, utilizing materials like silver, carbon, zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, polymer, and gold, show promise in effectively treating cutaneous candidiasis. This review explores recent advancements in nanoparticle-based therapies, emphasizing their potential to revolutionize antifungal therapy, particularly in combatingC. aurisinfections. The discussion delves into mechanisms of action, combinations of nanomaterials, and their application against multidrug-resistant fungal pathogens, offering exciting prospects for improved clinical outcomes and reduced mortality rates. The aim is to inspire further research, ushering in a new era in the fight against multidrug-resistant fungal infections, paving the way for more effective and targeted therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alireza Izadi
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, Faculty of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
- Medical Mycology and Bacteriology Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Paknia
- Department of Nanobiotechnology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran 14115-154, Iran
| | - Maryam Roostaee
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Sciences, Vali-e-Asr University of Rafsanjan, Rafsanjan, Iran
| | - Seyed Amin Ayatollahi Mousavi
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, Faculty of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
- Medical Mycology and Bacteriology Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mahmood Barani
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Nano and Bio Science and Technology, Persian Gulf University, Bushehr 75168, Iran
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12
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Patil SB, Basrani ST, Chougule SA, Gavandi TC, Karuppayil SM, Jadhav AK. Butyl isothiocyanate exhibits antifungal and anti-biofilm activity against Candida albicans by targeting cell membrane integrity, cell cycle progression and oxidative stress. Arch Microbiol 2024; 206:251. [PMID: 38727840 DOI: 10.1007/s00203-024-03983-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2024] [Revised: 04/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024]
Abstract
The prevalence of Candida albicans infection has increased during the past few years, which contributes to the need for new, effective treatments due to the increasing concerns regarding antifungal drug toxicity and multidrug resistance. Butyl isothiocyanate (butylITC) is a glucosinolate derivative, and has shown a significant antifungal effect contrary to Candida albicans. Additionally, how butylITC affects the virulence traits of C. albicans and molecular mode of actions are not well known. Present study shows that at 17.36 mM concentration butylITC inhibit planktonic growth. butylITC initially slowed the hyphal transition at 0.542 mM concentration. butylITC hampered biofilm development, and inhibits biofilm formation at 17.36 mM concentration which was analysed using metabolic assay (XTT assay) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). In addition, it was noted that butylITC inhibits ergosterol biosynthesis. The permeability of cell membranes was enhanced by butylITC treatment. Moreover, butylITC arrests cells at S-phase and induces intracellular Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) accumulation in C. albicans. The results suggest that butylITC may have a dual mode of action, inhibit virulence factors and modulate cellular processes like inhibit ergosterol biosynthesis, cell cycle arrest, induces ROS production which leads to cell death in C. albicans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shivani Balasaheb Patil
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Medical Biotechnology Centre for Interdisciplinary Research, D. Y. Patil Education Society (Deemed to be University), Kolhapur, 416003, Maharashtra, India
| | - Sargun Tushar Basrani
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Medical Biotechnology Centre for Interdisciplinary Research, D. Y. Patil Education Society (Deemed to be University), Kolhapur, 416003, Maharashtra, India
| | - Sayali Ashok Chougule
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Medical Biotechnology Centre for Interdisciplinary Research, D. Y. Patil Education Society (Deemed to be University), Kolhapur, 416003, Maharashtra, India
| | - Tanjila Chandsaheb Gavandi
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Medical Biotechnology Centre for Interdisciplinary Research, D. Y. Patil Education Society (Deemed to be University), Kolhapur, 416003, Maharashtra, India
| | - Sankunny Mohan Karuppayil
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Medical Biotechnology Centre for Interdisciplinary Research, D. Y. Patil Education Society (Deemed to be University), Kolhapur, 416003, Maharashtra, India.
| | - Ashwini Khanderao Jadhav
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Medical Biotechnology Centre for Interdisciplinary Research, D. Y. Patil Education Society (Deemed to be University), Kolhapur, 416003, Maharashtra, India.
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13
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Chilamakuri SN, Kumar A, Nath AG, Gupta A, Selvaraju S, Basrani S, Jadhav A, Gulbake A. Development and In-Vitro Evaluation of Eugenol-Based Nanostructured Lipid Carriers for Effectual Topical Treatment Against C. albicans. J Pharm Sci 2024; 113:772-784. [PMID: 38043682 DOI: 10.1016/j.xphs.2023.11.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Abstract
The main objective of the experiment is to develop and evaluate hydrogel-bearing nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) loaded with ketoconazole (KTZ) for the effective treatment of candidiasis. The eugenol was used as a liquid lipid (excipient) for the development of KTZ-loaded NLCs and was explored for anti-fungal effect. The production of NLCs involves high energy processes to generate spherical, uniform particles, having a higher percentage of entrapment efficiency (%EE) for KTZ with 89.83 ± 2.31 %. The data from differential scanning calorimeter (DSC), powder x-ray diffraction (PXRD), and attenuated total reflectance (ATR) demonstrated the KTZ dispersion in NLCs. The NLCs loaded hydrogel possessed optimum spreadability and exhibited shear thinning behavior, indicating the ease of application of the final formulation. The 6.41-fold higher transdermal flux (Jss) was governed for KTZ from KTZ-NLC than coarse-KTZ, which explains the usefulness of NLCs. The KTZ-NLCs exhibited significant 2.58 and 6.35-fold higher retention in the stratum corneum and viable epidermis of the skin. The cell cytotoxicity studies using human dermal fibroblast cell (HDFS) lines depicted the usefulness of NLCs in reducing cell toxicities for KTZ. The KTZ-NLCs were found to inhibit planktonic growth and hyphal transition and showed a larger zone of inhibition against C. albicans strains with a MIC-50 value of 0.39 μg/mL. The antibiofilm activity of KTZ-NLCs at lower concentrations, in contrast to plain KTZ, explained the interaction of developed NLCs with fungal membranes. The overall results depicted the effectiveness of the loading KTZ in the lipid matrix to achieve antifungal activity against C. albicans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sudarshan Naidu Chilamakuri
- Department of Pharmaceutics, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Guwahati 781101, Assam, India
| | - Ankaj Kumar
- Department of Pharmaceutics, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Guwahati 781101, Assam, India
| | - A Gowri Nath
- Department of Pharmaceutics, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Guwahati 781101, Assam, India
| | - Anshu Gupta
- Department of Biotechnology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Guwahati 781101, Assam, India
| | - Sudhagar Selvaraju
- Department of Biotechnology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Guwahati 781101, Assam, India
| | - Sargun Basrani
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, CIR, DY Patil Education Society, Institution Deemed to be University, Kolhapur, India
| | - Ashwini Jadhav
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, CIR, DY Patil Education Society, Institution Deemed to be University, Kolhapur, India
| | - Arvind Gulbake
- Department of Pharmaceutics, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Guwahati 781101, Assam, India.
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Naik B, Sasikumar J, B V, Das SP. Fungal coexistence in the skin mycobiome: a study involving Malassezia, Candida, and Rhodotorula. AMB Express 2024; 14:26. [PMID: 38376644 PMCID: PMC10879058 DOI: 10.1186/s13568-024-01674-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Evidence of fungal coexistence in humans points towards fungal adaptation to the host environment, like the skin. The human commensal Malassezia has evolved, especially residing in sebum-rich areas of the mammalian body where it can get the necessary nutrition for its survival. This fungus is primarily responsible for skin diseases like Pityriasis versicolor (PV), characterized by hypo or hyperpigmented skin discoloration and erythematous macules. In this manuscript, we report a 19-year-old healthy female who presented with a one-year history of reddish, hypopigmented, asymptomatic lesions over the chest and a raised erythematous lesion over the face. Upon clinical observation, the patient displayed multiple erythematous macules and erythematous papules over the bilateral malar area of the face, along with multiple hypopigmented scaly macules present on the chest and back. Based on the above clinical findings, a diagnosis of PV and Acne vulgaris (AV) was made. Interestingly, the patient was immunocompetent and didn't have any comorbidities. Upon isolation of skin scrapings and post-culturing, we found the existence of three fungal genera in the same region of the patient's body. We further went on to confirm the identity of the particular species and found it to represent Malassezia, Rhodotorula, and Candida. We report how Malassezia, the predominant microbial resident skin fungus, coexists with other fungal members of the skin mycobiome. This study on an applied aspect of microbiology also shows how important it is to identify the fungal organism associated with skin infections so that appropriate therapeutics can be advised to avoid cases of relapse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bharati Naik
- Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, Yenepoya Research Centre, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), Mangalore, 575018, India
| | - Jayaprakash Sasikumar
- Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, Yenepoya Research Centre, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), Mangalore, 575018, India
| | - Vishal B
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprosy (DVL), Yenepoya Medical College Hospital (YMCH), Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), Mangalore, 575018, India
| | - Shankar Prasad Das
- Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, Yenepoya Research Centre, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), Mangalore, 575018, India.
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15
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Kumar SAS, Krishnan D, Jothipandiyan S, Durai R, Hari BNV, Nithyanand P. Cell-free supernatants of probiotic consortia impede hyphal formation and disperse biofilms of vulvovaginal candidiasis causing Candida in an ex-vivo model. Antonie Van Leeuwenhoek 2024; 117:37. [PMID: 38367023 DOI: 10.1007/s10482-024-01929-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/13/2024] [Indexed: 02/19/2024]
Abstract
Vulvovaginal candidiasis is the second most common vaginal infection caused by drug-resistant Candida species that affects about 70-75% of reproductive age group women across the globe. As current-day antifungal drugs are ineffective against the biofilms formed by the drug-resistant Candida strains, several natural compounds and antagonistic microbes are being explored as alternative antifungal agents. In the present study, we investigated the anti-biofilm activity of Cell-Free Supernatant (CFS) extracted from the commercially available probiotics VSL-3 against the biofilms of Candida species and also evaluated their efficacy in curbing the yeast-to-hyphal transition. Various methodologies like crystal violet staining and scanning electron microscopy were used to study the effect of CFS against the biofilms formed by the species. The ability of CFS to interfere with yeast to hyphal transition in Candida was studied by colony morphology assay and visually confirmed with phase contrast microscopy. The potential of the CFS of the probiotics was also evaluated using goat buccal tissue, a novel ex-vivo model that mimics the vaginal environment. Moreover, the supernatant extracted from VSL-3 had the ability to down-regulate the expression of virulence genes of Candida from the biofilm formed over the ex-vivo model. These results emphasize the anti-fungal and anti-infective properties of the CFS of VSL-3 against drug-resistant Candida strains causing vulvovaginal candidiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sudaarsan Aruna Senthil Kumar
- Biofilm Biology Laboratory, Centre for Research On Infectious Diseases (CRID), School of Chemical and Biotechnology, SASTRA Deemed University, Tirumalaisamudram, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, 613 401, India
| | - Dhesiga Krishnan
- Biofilm Biology Laboratory, Centre for Research On Infectious Diseases (CRID), School of Chemical and Biotechnology, SASTRA Deemed University, Tirumalaisamudram, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, 613 401, India
| | - Sowndarya Jothipandiyan
- Biofilm Biology Laboratory, Centre for Research On Infectious Diseases (CRID), School of Chemical and Biotechnology, SASTRA Deemed University, Tirumalaisamudram, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, 613 401, India
| | - Ramyadevi Durai
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Chemical and Biotechnology, SASTRA Deemed University, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, 613 401, India
| | - B Narayanan Vedha Hari
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Chemical and Biotechnology, SASTRA Deemed University, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, 613 401, India
| | - Paramasivam Nithyanand
- Biofilm Biology Laboratory, Centre for Research On Infectious Diseases (CRID), School of Chemical and Biotechnology, SASTRA Deemed University, Tirumalaisamudram, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, 613 401, India.
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16
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Albusaidi MT, Jabri AA, Hadhrami AAA, Al Khaldi MO, Shummo MA, Haridi KM, Din ASE, Ghawas SM, Saleh AE, Jacob J, Alsafy T, Elias AT, Al-Busaidi S. Analysis of Blood Cultures from Major Burns Patients in a Tertiary Care Burn Unit in Oman. Sultan Qaboos Univ Med J 2024; 24:99-102. [PMID: 38434472 PMCID: PMC10906757 DOI: 10.18295/squmj.12.2023.085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Revised: 10/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/05/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Objectives This study aimed to review the blood stream infections of major burn patients in a tertiary care burn unit to determine the most prevalent infecting organisms in order to have a better empirical therapy protocol. Methods This retrospective study analysed the blood stream infection of 155 major burn (>20% Total Body Surface Area [TBSA]) patients in Khoula Hospital, Muscat, Oman between January 2014 to December 2019. Results The median age was 33 years and 57.42% of patients were male. The median TBSA was 38%, mortality was 25.16% and 50.9% of patients had positive blood cultures. The expired patients had higher TBSAs, Abbreviated Burns Severity Index scores and earlier first positive blood cultures. Candida was commonly grown in all the blood cultures, but the most prevalent organisms were Acinetobacter, Staphylococci, Klebsiella, Enterococcus and Pseudomonas. All Acinetobacter species are multidrug resistant. Of the 17 patients who had Kelbsiella grown in the blood culture, 8 grew multidrug-resistant Klebsiella. Only 4 patients' blood cultures grew methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. The number of blood culture samples taken ranged between 1-28 (median = 6). The first positive blood culture showed that Staphylococcus epidermidis and Acinetobacter were the most common infecting organisms. Conclusions Multidrug-resistant Acinetobacter was the most predominant microorganism grown from the blood cultures of major burn patients in a tertiary care burn unit. Empirical therapy should include antibiotics that are effective against this organism to reduce the mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ahmed Al Jabri
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Craniofacial Surgery, Khoula Hospital, Muscat, Oman
| | - Al Anood Al Hadhrami
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Craniofacial Surgery, Khoula Hospital, Muscat, Oman
| | - Mutazz O. Al Khaldi
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Craniofacial Surgery, Khoula Hospital, Muscat, Oman
| | - Moath A. Shummo
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Craniofacial Surgery, Khoula Hospital, Muscat, Oman
| | - Karim M. Haridi
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Craniofacial Surgery, Khoula Hospital, Muscat, Oman
| | - Ahmed Salah El Din
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Sultan Qaboos Hospital, Salalah, Oman
| | - Salim M. Ghawas
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Sultan Qaboos Hospital, Salalah, Oman
| | - Aml E. Saleh
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Craniofacial Surgery, Khoula Hospital, Muscat, Oman
| | - Joe Jacob
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Sultan Qaboos Hospital, Salalah, Oman
| | - Taif Alsafy
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Sultan Qaboos Hospital, Salalah, Oman
| | - Anish T. Elias
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Sultan Qaboos Hospital, Salalah, Oman
| | - Said Al-Busaidi
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Craniofacial Surgery, Khoula Hospital, Muscat, Oman
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17
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Barbarossa A, Rosato A, Carrieri A, Tardugno R, Corbo F, Clodoveo ML, Fracchiolla G, Carocci A. Antifungal Biofilm Inhibitory Effects of Combinations of Diclofenac and Essential Oils. Antibiotics (Basel) 2023; 12:1673. [PMID: 38136707 PMCID: PMC10740460 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics12121673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/26/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Systemic fungal infections have risen in recent decades and most of them are caused by Candida species, which are becoming increasingly resistant to conventional antifungal drugs. Biofilm production has been considered the most common growth form of Candida cells and is associated with a high level of antifungal resistance. At present, international research reports on the antifungal activity of non-traditional antimicrobial drugs and their potential use against life-threatening resistant fungal infections. Indeed, drug repurposing has led to the consideration of well-known compounds as a last-line therapy. The goal of this work is to evaluate the potential synergistic antifungal biofilm activity of new combinations between diclofenac sodium salt (DSS), a widely used non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), with the essential oils (EOs) of Mentha piperita, Pelargonium graveolens, and Melaleuca alternifolia, whose antifungal activity has been well documented over the years. The in vitro antifungal activity of DSS and EOs was determined on different Candida strains. Susceptibility testing and the synergism of DSS and EOs versus biofilm cells was performed by using the broth microdilution assay and checkerboard methods. Minimum inhibitory concentrations (sMIC50) of DSS alone ranged from 1.25 to 2.05 mg/mL for all the strains considered. These values significantly decreased when the drug was used in combination with the EOs. The fractional inhibitory concentration index (FICI) was lower than 0.5 for almost all the associations, thus indicating a significant synergism, particularly for the DSS-Pelargonium graveolens combination towards the Candida strains examined. These preliminary results show that the combination of the EOs with DSS improves the antifungal activity on all the tested Candida strains, significantly lowering the concentrations of the components used and thus allowing any toxic effects to be overcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexia Barbarossa
- Department of Pharmacy—Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70125 Bari, Italy; (A.B.); (A.R.); (A.C.); (R.T.); (F.C.); (A.C.)
| | - Antonio Rosato
- Department of Pharmacy—Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70125 Bari, Italy; (A.B.); (A.R.); (A.C.); (R.T.); (F.C.); (A.C.)
| | - Antonio Carrieri
- Department of Pharmacy—Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70125 Bari, Italy; (A.B.); (A.R.); (A.C.); (R.T.); (F.C.); (A.C.)
| | - Roberta Tardugno
- Department of Pharmacy—Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70125 Bari, Italy; (A.B.); (A.R.); (A.C.); (R.T.); (F.C.); (A.C.)
| | - Filomena Corbo
- Department of Pharmacy—Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70125 Bari, Italy; (A.B.); (A.R.); (A.C.); (R.T.); (F.C.); (A.C.)
| | - Maria Lisa Clodoveo
- Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy;
| | - Giuseppe Fracchiolla
- Department of Pharmacy—Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70125 Bari, Italy; (A.B.); (A.R.); (A.C.); (R.T.); (F.C.); (A.C.)
| | - Alessia Carocci
- Department of Pharmacy—Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70125 Bari, Italy; (A.B.); (A.R.); (A.C.); (R.T.); (F.C.); (A.C.)
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18
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Khwaza V, Aderibigbe BA. Antifungal Activities of Natural Products and Their Hybrid Molecules. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:2673. [PMID: 38140014 PMCID: PMC10747321 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15122673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Revised: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The increasing cases of drug resistance and high toxicity associated with the currently used antifungal agents are a worldwide public health concern. There is an urgent need to develop new antifungal drugs with unique target mechanisms. Plant-based compounds, such as carvacrol, eugenol, coumarin, cinnamaldehyde, curcumin, thymol, etc., have been explored for the development of promising antifungal agents due to their diverse biological activities, lack of toxicity, and availability. However, researchers around the world are unable to fully utilize the potential of natural products due to limitations, such as their poor bioavailability and aqueous solubility. The development of hybrid molecules containing natural products is a promising synthetic approach to overcome these limitations and control microbes' capability to develop resistance. Based on the potential advantages of hybrid compounds containing natural products to improve antifungal activity, there have been different reported synthesized hybrid compounds. This paper reviews different literature to report the potential antifungal activities of hybrid compounds containing natural products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vuyolwethu Khwaza
- Department of Chemistry, University of Fort Hare, Alice Campus, Alice 5700, Eastern Cape, South Africa
| | - Blessing A. Aderibigbe
- Department of Chemistry, University of Fort Hare, Alice Campus, Alice 5700, Eastern Cape, South Africa
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19
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David H, Solomon AP. Molecular association of Candida albicans and vulvovaginal candidiasis: focusing on a solution. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2023; 13:1245808. [PMID: 37900321 PMCID: PMC10611527 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1245808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Candida albicans-mediated vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is a significant challenge in clinical settings, owing to the inefficacy of current antifungals in modulating virulence, development of resistance, and poor penetration into the biofilm matrix. Various predisposition factors are molecular drivers that lead to the dysbiosis of normal microflora of the vagina, upregulation of central metabolic pathways, morphogenesis, hyphal extension, adhesion, invasion, and biofilm formation leading to chronic infection and recurrence. Hence, it is crucial to understand the molecular mechanism behind the virulence pathways driven by those drivers to decode the drug targets. Finding innovative solutions targeting fungal virulence/biofilm may potentiate the antifungals at low concentrations without affecting the recurrence of resistance. With this background, the present review details the critical molecular drivers and associated network of virulence pathways, possible drug targets, target-specific inhibitors, and probable mode of drug delivery to cross the preclinical phase by appropriate in vivo models.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Adline Princy Solomon
- Quorum Sensing Laboratory, Centre for Research in Infectious Diseases (CRID), School of Chemical and Biotechnology, SASTRA Deemed to be University, Thanjavur, India
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20
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Malinovská Z, Čonková E, Váczi P. Biofilm Formation in Medically Important Candida Species. J Fungi (Basel) 2023; 9:955. [PMID: 37888211 PMCID: PMC10607155 DOI: 10.3390/jof9100955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2023] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Worldwide, the number of infections caused by biofilm-forming fungal pathogens is very high. In human medicine, there is an increasing proportion of immunocompromised patients with prolonged hospitalization, and patients with long-term inserted drains, cannulas, catheters, tubes, or other artificial devices, that exhibit a predisposition for colonization by biofilm-forming yeasts. A high percentage of mortality is due to candidemia caused by medically important Candida species. Species of major clinical significance include C. albicans, C. glabrata, C. tropicalis, C. parapsilosis, C. krusei, and C. auris. The association of these pathogenic species in the biofilm structure is a serious therapeutic problem. Candida cells growing in the form of a biofilm are able to resist persistent therapy thanks to a combination of their protective mechanisms and their ability to disseminate to other parts of the body, thus representing a threat from the perspective of a permanent source of infection. The elucidation of the key mechanisms of biofilm formation is essential to progress in the understanding and treatment of invasive Candida infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zuzana Malinovská
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy, Komenského 73, 041 81 Košice, Slovakia; (E.Č.); (P.V.)
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21
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Keshwania P, Kaur N, Chauhan J, Sharma G, Afzal O, Alfawaz Altamimi AS, Almalki WH. Superficial Dermatophytosis across the World's Populations: Potential Benefits from Nanocarrier-Based Therapies and Rising Challenges. ACS OMEGA 2023; 8:31575-31599. [PMID: 37692246 PMCID: PMC10483660 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.3c01988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
The most prevalent infection in the world is dermatophytosis, which is a major issue with high recurrence and can affect the entire body including the skin, hair, and nails. The major goal of this Review is to acquire knowledge about cutting-edge approaches for treating dermatophytosis efficiently by adding antifungals to formulations based on nanocarriers in order to overcome the shortcomings of standard treatment methods. Updates on nanosystems and research developments on animal and clinical investigations are also presented. Along with the currently licensed formulations, the investigation also emphasizes novel therapies and existing therapeutic alternatives that can be used to control dermatophytosis. The Review also summarizes recent developments on the prevalence, management approaches, and disadvantages of standard dosage types. There are a number of therapeutic strategies for the treatment of dermatophytosis that have good clinical cure rates but also drawbacks such as antifungal drug resistance and unfavorable side effects. To improve therapeutic activity and get around the drawbacks of the traditional therapy approaches for dermatophytosis, efforts have been described in recent years to combine several antifungal drugs into new carriers. These formulations have been successful in providing improved antifungal activity, longer drug retention, improved effectiveness, higher skin penetration, and sustained drug release.
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Affiliation(s)
- Puja Keshwania
- Department
of Microbiology, Maharishi Markandeshwar
Institute of Medical Sciences and Research, Mullana, Ambala, Haryana 133207, India
| | - Narinder Kaur
- Department
of Microbiology, Maharishi Markandeshwar
Institute of Medical Sciences and Research, Mullana, Ambala, Haryana 133207, India
| | - Jyoti Chauhan
- Department
of Microbiology, Maharishi Markandeshwar
Institute of Medical Sciences and Research, Mullana, Ambala, Haryana 133207, India
| | - Gajanand Sharma
- University
Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, UGC-Centre of Advanced Studies, Panjab University, Chandigarh 160014, India
| | - Obaid Afzal
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, Alkharj 11942, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Waleed H. Almalki
- Department
of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah 21961, Saudi Arabia
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22
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Wójcik-Mieszawska S, Lewtak K, Skwarek E, Dębowski D, Gitlin-Domagalska A, Nowak J, Wydrych J, Pawelec J, Fiołka MJ. Autophagy of Candida albicans cells after the action of earthworm Venetin-1 nanoparticle with protease inhibitor activity. Sci Rep 2023; 13:14228. [PMID: 37648723 PMCID: PMC10468520 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-41281-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The present studies show the effect of the Venetin-1 protein-polysaccharide complex obtained from the coelomic fluid of the earthworm Dendrobaena veneta on Candida albicans cells. They are a continuation of research on the mechanisms of action, cellular targets, and modes of cell death. After the action of Venetin-1, a reduced survival rate of the yeast cells was noted. The cells were observed to be enlarged compared to the controls and deformed. In addition, an increase in the number of cells with clearly enlarged vacuoles was noted. The detected autophagy process was confirmed using differential interference contrast, fluorescence microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. Autophagic vesicles were best visible after incubation of fungus cells with the Venetin-1 complex at a concentration of 50 and 100 µg mL-1. The changes in the vacuoles were accompanied by changes in the size of mitochondria, which is probably related to the previously documented oxidative stress. The aggregation properties of Venetin-1 were characterized. Based on the results of the zeta potential at the Venetin-1/KCl interface, the pHiep = 4 point was determined, i.e. the zeta potential becomes positive above pH = 4 and is negative below this value, which may affect the electrostatic interactions with other particles surrounding Venetin-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylwia Wójcik-Mieszawska
- Department of Immunobiology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, Maria Curie-Skłodowska University, Lublin, Poland
| | - Kinga Lewtak
- Department of Cell Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, Maria Curie-Skłodowska University, Lublin, Poland.
| | - Ewa Skwarek
- Department of Radiochemistry and Environmental Chemistry, Institute of Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Chemistry, Maria Curie-Skłodowska University, Lublin, Poland
| | - Dawid Dębowski
- Department of Molecular Biochemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Agata Gitlin-Domagalska
- Department of Molecular Biochemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Jakub Nowak
- Malopolska Centre of Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Kraków, Poland
| | - Jerzy Wydrych
- Department of Functional Anatomy and Cytobiology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Maria Curie-Skłodowska University, Lublin, Poland
| | - Jarosław Pawelec
- Department of Functional Anatomy and Cytobiology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Maria Curie-Skłodowska University, Lublin, Poland
| | - Marta J Fiołka
- Department of Immunobiology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, Maria Curie-Skłodowska University, Lublin, Poland.
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23
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Bihani S, Gupta A, Mehta S, Rajczewski AT, Johnson J, Borishetty D, Griffin TJ, Srivastava S, Jagtap PD. Metaproteomic Analysis of Nasopharyngeal Swab Samples to Identify Microbial Peptides in COVID-19 Patients. J Proteome Res 2023; 22:2608-2619. [PMID: 37450889 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jproteome.3c00040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
During the COVID-19 pandemic, impaired immunity and medical interventions resulted in cases of secondary infections. The clinical difficulties and dangers associated with secondary infections in patients necessitate the exploration of their microbiome. Metaproteomics is a powerful approach to study the taxonomic composition and functional status of the microbiome under study. In this study, the mass spectrometry (MS)-based data of nasopharyngeal swab samples from COVID-19 patients was used to investigate the metaproteome. We have established a robust bioinformatics workflow within the Galaxy platform, which includes (a) generation of a tailored database of the common respiratory tract pathogens, (b) database search using multiple search algorithms, and (c) verification of the detected microbial peptides. The microbial peptides detected in this study, belong to several opportunistic pathogens such as Streptococcus pneumoniae, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Rhizopus microsporus, and Syncephalastrum racemosum. Microbial proteins with a role in stress response, gene expression, and DNA repair were found to be upregulated in severe patients compared to negative patients. Using parallel reaction monitoring (PRM), we confirmed some of the microbial peptides in fresh clinical samples. MS-based clinical metaproteomics can serve as a powerful tool for detection and characterization of potential pathogens, which can significantly impact the diagnosis and treatment of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Surbhi Bihani
- Department of Bioscience and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400076, India
| | - Aryan Gupta
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400076, India
| | - Subina Mehta
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biophysics, University of Minnesota, 7-129 MCB, 420 Washington Ave SE, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Andrew T Rajczewski
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biophysics, University of Minnesota, 7-129 MCB, 420 Washington Ave SE, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - James Johnson
- Minnesota Supercomputing Institute, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Dhanush Borishetty
- Department of Bioscience and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400076, India
| | - Timothy J Griffin
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biophysics, University of Minnesota, 7-129 MCB, 420 Washington Ave SE, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Sanjeeva Srivastava
- Department of Bioscience and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400076, India
| | - Pratik D Jagtap
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biophysics, University of Minnesota, 7-129 MCB, 420 Washington Ave SE, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
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24
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Franconi I, Rizzato C, Poma N, Tavanti A, Lupetti A. Candida parapsilosis sensu stricto Antifungal Resistance Mechanisms and Associated Epidemiology. J Fungi (Basel) 2023; 9:798. [PMID: 37623569 PMCID: PMC10456088 DOI: 10.3390/jof9080798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Revised: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Fungal diseases cause millions of deaths per year worldwide. Antifungal resistance has become a matter of great concern in public health. In recent years rates of non-albicans species have risen dramatically. Candida parapsilosis is now reported to be the second most frequent species causing candidemia in several countries in Europe, Latin America, South Africa and Asia. Rates of acquired azole resistance are reaching a worrisome threshold from multiple reports as in vitro susceptibility testing is now starting also to explore tolerance and heteroresistance to antifungal compounds. With this review, the authors seek to evaluate known antifungal resistance mechanisms and their worldwide distribution in Candida species infections with a specific focus on C. parapsilosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iacopo Franconi
- Department of Translational Research on New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Via San Zeno, 37, 56127 Pisa, Italy; (I.F.); (C.R.)
| | - Cosmeri Rizzato
- Department of Translational Research on New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Via San Zeno, 37, 56127 Pisa, Italy; (I.F.); (C.R.)
| | - Noemi Poma
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Via San Zeno, 37, 56127 Pisa, Italy; (N.P.); (A.T.)
| | - Arianna Tavanti
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Via San Zeno, 37, 56127 Pisa, Italy; (N.P.); (A.T.)
| | - Antonella Lupetti
- Department of Translational Research on New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Via San Zeno, 37, 56127 Pisa, Italy; (I.F.); (C.R.)
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25
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Ghadimi F, Rodrigues CF, Mohammadi SR, Roudbary M, Dos Santos AL, Aslani P, Nikoomanesh F. Oral candidiasis in patients with kidney transplantation in Iran: prevalence and antifungal susceptibility pattern. Future Microbiol 2023; 18:715-722. [PMID: 37665236 DOI: 10.2217/fmb-2022-0179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Aim: This study aimed to identify Candida species recovered from the oral cavity of patients with kidney transplantation. Materials & methods: Two swabs were taken from the oral cavities of 40 patients before and after transplantation, cultured on Sabouraud dextrose agar, and yeasts identified. Antifungal drug susceptibility testing was performed with fluconazole and itraconazole. Results: Candida glabrata was the most frequently isolated species in patients, followed by Candida albicans and Rhodotorula. C. glabrata isolates from patients before transplantation were resistant to fluconazole, whereas C. albicans was fluconazole-resistant both before and after transplantation. Conclusion: The importance of non-albicans Candida species in the oral cavity of patients sheds light on performing antifungal tests for achieving the best outcome to prevent therapeutic failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fardad Ghadimi
- Department of Mycology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, 14115111, Iran
| | - Célia F Rodrigues
- TOXRUN - Toxicology Research Unit, Cooperativa de Ensino Superior Politécnico e Universitário - CESPU, 4585-116 Gandra PRD, Portugal
- LEPABE - Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology & Energy, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
- ALiCE - Associate Laboratory in Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Rua Dr Roberto Frias, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
| | - Shahla Roudbar Mohammadi
- Department of Mycology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, 14115111, Iran
| | - Maryam Roudbary
- Department of Parasitology & Mycology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, 1449614535, Iran
- Sydney Institute for Infectious Diseases, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW2145, Australia
| | - André Ls Dos Santos
- Department of General Microbiology, Microbiology Institute, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, 21941901, Brazil
| | - Peyman Aslani
- Department of Parasitology & Mycology, Faculty of Medicine, Aja University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, 1411718541, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Nikoomanesh
- Infectious Disease Research Center, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, 9717853577, Iran
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26
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Jabeen G, Naz SA, Rangel DEN, Jabeen N, Shafique M, Yasmeen K. In-vitro evaluation of virulence markers and antifungal resistance of clinical Candida albicans strains isolated from Karachi, Pakistan. Fungal Biol 2023; 127:1241-1249. [PMID: 37495314 DOI: 10.1016/j.funbio.2023.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Revised: 04/09/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023]
Abstract
Candidiasis is a significant fungal infection with high mortality and morbidity rates worldwide. Candida albicans is the most dominant species responsible for causing different manifestations of candidiasis. Certain virulence traits as well as its resistance to antifungal drugs contribute to the pathogenesis of this yeast. This study was designed to determine the production of some virulence factors, such as biofilm formation and extracellular hydrolytic enzymes (esterase, coagulase, gelatinase, and catalase) by this fungus, as well as its antifungal resistance profile. A total of 304 clinical C. albicans isolates obtained from different clinical specimens were identified by a conventional diagnostic protocol. The antifungal susceptibility of C. albicans strains was determined by disk diffusion technique against commercially available antifungal disks, such as nystatin 50 μg, amphotericin B 100 unit, fluconazole 25 μg, itraconazole 10 μg, ketoconazole 10 μg, and voriconazole 1 μg. The assessment of biofilm formation was determined by the tube staining assay and spectrophotometry. Gelatinase, coagulase, catalase, and esterase enzyme production was also detected using standard techniques. A total of 66.1% (201/304) and 28.9% (88/304) of C. albicans strains were susceptible-dose dependent (SDD) to nystatin and itraconazole, respectively. Among the antifungal drugs, C. albicans strains showed high resistance to ketoconazole 24.7% (75/304); however, no statistically significant relationship between the clinical origin of C. albicans isolates and antifungal drug resistance pattern was detected. For virulence factors, the majority of the C. albicans strains actively produced biofilm and all hydrolytic enzymes. Biofilm formation was demonstrated by 88% (267/304) of the strains with a quantitative mean value 0.1762 (SD ± 0.08293). However, 100% (304/304) of isolates produced catalase enzyme, 69% (211/304) produced coagulase, 66% (197/304) produced gelatinase, and 52% (157/304) produced esterase enzyme. A significant relationship between the source of specimens and biofilm formation by C. albicans was observed; nevertheless, there was no significant relationship between different sources of C. albicans strains and the production of different enzymatic virulence factors. The study found that C. albicans strains have excellent potential to produce virulence markers and resistance to antifungals, which necessitates surveillance of these opportunistic pathogens to minimize the chances of severe invasive infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gul Jabeen
- Lab of Applied Microbiology and Clinical Mycology, Department of Microbiology, Federal Urdu University of Arts, Science and Technology, Gulshan Iqbal, Karachi, 75300, Pakistan; Department of Microbiology, University of Karachi, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Sehar Afshan Naz
- Lab of Applied Microbiology and Clinical Mycology, Department of Microbiology, Federal Urdu University of Arts, Science and Technology, Gulshan Iqbal, Karachi, 75300, Pakistan.
| | - Drauzio E N Rangel
- Universidade Tecnológica Federal do Paraná, Dois Vizinhos, Paraná, 85660-000, Brazil
| | - Nusrat Jabeen
- Department of Microbiology, University of Karachi, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Maryam Shafique
- Lab of Applied Microbiology and Clinical Mycology, Department of Microbiology, Federal Urdu University of Arts, Science and Technology, Gulshan Iqbal, Karachi, 75300, Pakistan
| | - Kousar Yasmeen
- Department of Chemistry, Federal Urdu University of Arts, Science and Technology, Gulshan, Iqbal, Karachi, 75300, Pakistan
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27
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de-la-Fuente I, Guridi A, Jauregizar N, Eraso E, Quindós G, Sevillano E. In Vitro and In Vivo Activity of Citral in Combination with Amphotericin B, Anidulafungin and Fluconazole against Candida auris Isolates. J Fungi (Basel) 2023; 9:648. [PMID: 37367584 DOI: 10.3390/jof9060648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2023] [Revised: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Candida auris is an emerging fungal pathogen responsible for hospital outbreaks of invasive candidiasis associated with high mortality. The treatment of these mycoses is a clinical challenge due to the high resistance levels of this species to current antifungal drugs, and alternative therapeutic strategies are needed. In this study, we evaluated the in vitro and in vivo activities of combinations of citral with anidulafungin, amphotericin B or fluconazole against 19 C. auris isolates. The antifungal effect of citral was in most cases similar to the effect of the antifungal drugs in monotherapy. The best combination results were obtained with anidulafungin, with synergistic and additive interactions against 7 and 11 of the 19 isolates, respectively. The combination of 0.06 μg/mL anidulafungin and 64 μg/mL citral showed the best results, with a survival rate of 63.2% in Caenorhabditis elegans infected with C. auris UPV 17-279. The combination of fluconazole with citral reduced the MIC of fluconazole from > 64 to 1-4 μg/mL against 12 isolates, and a combination of 2 μg/mL fluconazole and 64 μg/mL citral was also effective in reducing mortality in C. elegans. Amphotericin B combined with citral, although effective in vitro, did not improve the activity of each compound in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iñigo de-la-Fuente
- Department of Immunology, Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), 48940 Leioa, Spain
| | - Andrea Guridi
- Department of Immunology, Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), 48940 Leioa, Spain
| | - Nerea Jauregizar
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), 48940 Leioa, Spain
| | - Elena Eraso
- Department of Immunology, Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), 48940 Leioa, Spain
| | - Guillermo Quindós
- Department of Immunology, Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), 48940 Leioa, Spain
| | - Elena Sevillano
- Department of Immunology, Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), 48940 Leioa, Spain
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28
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Tejada G, Calvo NL, Morri M, Sortino M, Lamas C, Álvarez VA, Leonardi D. Miconazole Nitrate Microparticles in Lidocaine Loaded Films as a Treatment for Oropharyngeal Candidiasis. MATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 16:ma16093586. [PMID: 37176470 PMCID: PMC10180309 DOI: 10.3390/ma16093586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Revised: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Oral candidiasis is an opportunistic infection that affects mainly individuals with weakened immune system. Devices used in the oral area to treat this condition include buccal films, which present advantages over both oral tablets and gels. Since candidiasis causes pain, burning, and itching, the purpose of this work was to develop buccal films loaded with both lidocaine (anesthetic) and miconazole nitrate (MN, antifungal) to treat this pathology topically. MN was loaded in microparticles based on different natural polymers, and then, these microparticles were loaded in hydroxypropyl methylcellulose-gelatin-based films containing lidocaine. All developed films showed adequate adhesiveness and thickness. DSC and XRD tests suggested that the drugs were in an amorphous state in the therapeutic systems. Microparticles based on chitosan-alginate showed the highest MN encapsulation. Among the films, those containing the mentioned microparticles presented the highest tensile strength and the lowest elongation at break, possibly due to the strong interactions between both polymers. These films allowed a fast release of lidocaine and a controlled release of MN. Due to the latter, these systems showed antifungal activity for 24 h. Therefore, the treatment of oropharyngeal candidiasis with these films could reduce the number of daily applications with respect to conventional treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guillermo Tejada
- Grupo Materiales Compuestos Termoplásticos, Instituto de Investigaciones en Ciencia y Tecnología de Materiales, Av. Colón 10850, Mar Del Plata 7600, Argentina
| | - Natalia L Calvo
- Instituto de Química Rosario, Suipacha 570, Rosario 2000, Argentina
- Área de Análisis de Medicamentos, Departamento Química Orgánica, Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas, Universidad Nacional de Rosario, Suipacha 570, Rosario 2000, Argentina
| | - Mauro Morri
- Planta Piloto de Producción de Medicamentos, Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas, Universidad Nacional de Rosario, Suipacha 570, Rosario 2000, Argentina
| | - Maximiliano Sortino
- Centro de Referencia de Micología, Área Farmacognosia, Departamento Química Orgánica, Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas, Universidad Nacional de Rosario, Suipacha 570, Rosario 2000, Argentina
- Área Farmacognosia, Departamento Química Orgánica, Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas, Universidad Nacional de Rosario, Suipacha 570, Rosario 2000, Argentina
| | - Celina Lamas
- Instituto de Química Rosario, Suipacha 570, Rosario 2000, Argentina
- Área Técnica Farmacéutica, Departamento Farmacia, Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas, Universidad Nacional de Rosario, Suipacha 570, Rosario 2000, Argentina
| | - Vera A Álvarez
- Grupo Materiales Compuestos Termoplásticos, Instituto de Investigaciones en Ciencia y Tecnología de Materiales, Av. Colón 10850, Mar Del Plata 7600, Argentina
| | - Darío Leonardi
- Instituto de Química Rosario, Suipacha 570, Rosario 2000, Argentina
- Área Técnica Farmacéutica, Departamento Farmacia, Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas, Universidad Nacional de Rosario, Suipacha 570, Rosario 2000, Argentina
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29
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Varghese JA, Guhan S, Zheng L. Emerging Fungal Infections and Cutaneous Manifestations in Immunosuppressed Patients. CURRENT DERMATOLOGY REPORTS 2023. [DOI: 10.1007/s13671-023-00386-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/08/2023]
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30
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Atypical changes in Candida albicans cells treated with the Venetin-1 complex from earthworm coelomic fluid. Sci Rep 2023; 13:2844. [PMID: 36807384 PMCID: PMC9938250 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-29728-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2023] Open
Abstract
In the present research, the effect of a protein-polysaccharide complex Venetin-1 obtained from the coelomic fluid of Dendrobaena veneta earthworm on Candida albicans cells was characterized. The compound destroyed fungal cells without showing cytotoxicity to human skin fibroblasts, which was demonstrated in earlier studies. Since it had an effect on the fungal cell wall and membrane, this complex was compared with the known antifungal antibiotic fluconazole. Both preparations disturbed the division of yeast cells and resulted in the formation of aggregates and chains of unseparated cells, which was illustrated by staining with fluorochromes. Fluorescent staining of the cell wall with Calcofluor white facilitated comparison of the types of aggregates formed after the action of both substances. The analysis performed with the use of Congo red showed that Venetin-1 exposed deeper layers of the cell wall, whereas no such effect was visible after the use of fluconazole. The FTIR analysis confirmed changes in the mannoprotein layer of the cell wall after the application of the Venetin-1 complex. Staining with Rhodamine 123 and the use of flow cytometry allowed comparison of changes in the mitochondria. Significantly elongated mitochondria were observed after the Venetin-1 application, but not after the application of the classic antibiotic. Phase contrast microscopy revealed vacuole enlargement after the Venetin-1 application. The flow cytometry analysis of C. albicans cells treated with Venetin-1 and fluconazole showed that both substances caused a significant decrease in cell viability.
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31
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Lavandula angustifolia Essential Oils as Effective Enhancers of Fluconazole Antifungal Activity against Candida albicans. Molecules 2023; 28:molecules28031176. [PMID: 36770842 PMCID: PMC9921790 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28031176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The increasing prevalence of Candida albicans resistance to commercial antifungal agents in recent decades has prompted modern medicine and veterinary medicine to search for combined treatment options. The aim of the study was to determine the activity of essential oils from different cultivars and morphological parts of the medicinal lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) in combination with fluconazole against Candida albicans ATCC 10231 strain. The effect of the combination of lavender essential oil with fluconazole was tested using the checkerboard method, and the obtained results were interpreted on the basis of fractional inhibitory concentration indices (FICIs). A synergistic interaction was found for all combinations of fluconazole with essential oils isolated both from flowers and leafy stalks of two tested lavender cultivars: 'Blue River' and 'Ellagance Purple'. The observed enhancement effect of fluconazole antifungal activity was significantly stronger in the case of essential oils obtained from flowers and leafy stalks of 'Blue River' cultivar. Analogous studies were performed for linalool, one of the main components of lavender essential oils, and a similar synergistic interaction with fluconazole was found.
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32
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In Vivo Antifungal Activity and Computational Studies of Some Azole Derivatives against Candida Albicans. J CHEM-NY 2023. [DOI: 10.1155/2023/7834474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Resistance of Candida species is a major problem in the management of Candida infection. This study investigated in vivo antifungal activities of several new imidazole and triazole derivatives in a C. albicans systemic infection. The efficacy of derivatives was determined against systemic infection by C. albicans in mice with cyclophosphamide-induced immunosuppression, and the antifungal activities of the synthesized compounds were evaluated in comparison with fluconazole. Compounds 3 and 8 had the highest efficacy with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values of 0.5–1 μM against the C. albicans pathogen. In vivo activities in immunosuppressed mice were also greater than fluconazole. Furthermore, docking analysis was carried out to know the binding mode of imidazole and triazole derivatives to the CYP51 active site of C. albicans and dihydrofolate reductase as a valid antifungal target. The docking study found that the antifungal results are well correlated with docking results. ADMET and in silico physicochemical parameters were also performed. This study demonstrates that compounds 3 and 8 are potential antifungal candidates against the C. albicans pathogen.
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Uroro EO, Bright R, Hayles A, Vasilev K. Lipase-Responsive Amphotericin B Loaded PCL Nanoparticles for Antifungal Therapies. NANOMATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 13:155. [PMID: 36616065 PMCID: PMC9823996 DOI: 10.3390/nano13010155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Revised: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Amphotericin B is an antifungal drug used for the treatment of invasive fungal infections. However, its clinical use is limited due to its serious side effects, such as renal and cardiovascular toxicity. Furthermore, amphotericin B is administered in high doses due to its poor water solubility. Hence, it is necessary to develop an on-demand release strategy for the delivery of amphotericin B to reduce cytotoxicity. The present report describes a novel encapsulation of amphotericin B into lipase-sensitive polycaprolactone to form a nanocomposite. Nanocomposites were produced by the oil-in-water method and their physicochemical properties such as size, hydrodynamic diameter, drug loading, and zeta potential were determined. The in vitro release of amphotericin B was characterized in the presence and absence of lipase. The antifungal activity of the nanocomposites was verified against lipase-secreting Candida albicans, and cytotoxicity was tested against primary human dermal fibroblasts. In the absence of lipase, the release of amphotericin B from the nanocomposites was minimal. However, in the presence of lipase, an enzyme that is abundant at infection sites, a fungicidal concentration of amphotericin B was released from the nanocomposites. The antifungal activity of the nanocomposites showed an enhanced effect against the lipase-secreting fungus, Candida albicans, in comparison to the free drug at the same concentration. Furthermore, nanoencapsulation significantly reduced amphotericin B-related cytotoxicity compared to the free drug. The synthesized nanocomposites can serve as a potent carrier for the responsive delivery of amphotericin B in antifungal applications.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Richard Bright
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Bedford Park, SA 5042, Australia
| | - Andrew Hayles
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Bedford Park, SA 5042, Australia
| | - Krasimir Vasilev
- UniSA STEM, University of South Australia, Mawson Lakes, SA 5095, Australia
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Bedford Park, SA 5042, Australia
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Multiple F-Box Proteins Collectively Regulate Cell Development and Pathogenesis in the Human Pathogen Cryptococcus neoformans. J Fungi (Basel) 2022; 8:jof8121259. [PMID: 36547592 PMCID: PMC9781138 DOI: 10.3390/jof8121259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Revised: 11/27/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
The ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS) mediates intracellular proteins degradation that influences various cellular functions in eukaryotic cells. The UPS is also involved in the development and virulence of pathogenic fungi. F-box proteins, which are part of the SCF (Skp1-Cullin-F-box protein) ligase, are a key component of UPS and are essential for the recognition of specific substrates. In this study, we identified 20 F-box proteins in C. neoformans and obtained deletion mutants for 19 of them. A comprehensive phenotypic analysis of these mutants revealed the diverse function of F-box proteins in stress response, cell size regulation, sexual reproduction, antifungal drug resistance, and fungal virulence in C. neoformans. The importance of three F-box proteins: Fbp4, Fbp8, and Fbp11, in these cellular functions were characterized in detail. This study provides an overall view of the F-box gene family in C. neoformans, which will lead to a better understanding of the function of fungal SCF E3 ligase-mediated UPS in fungal development and pathogenesis.
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Hammoudi Halat D, Younes S, Mourad N, Rahal M. Allylamines, Benzylamines, and Fungal Cell Permeability: A Review of Mechanistic Effects and Usefulness against Fungal Pathogens. MEMBRANES 2022; 12:membranes12121171. [PMID: 36557078 PMCID: PMC9781035 DOI: 10.3390/membranes12121171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2022] [Revised: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Allylamines, naftifine and terbinafine, and the benzylamine, butenafine, are antifungal agents with activity on the fungal cell membrane. These synthetic compounds specifically inhibit squalene epoxidase, a key enzyme in fungal sterol biosynthesis. This results in a deficiency in ergosterol, a major fungal membrane sterol that regulates membrane fluidity, biogenesis, and functions, and whose damage results in increased membrane permeability and leakage of cellular components, ultimately leading to fungal cell death. With the fungal cell membrane being predominantly made up of lipids including sterols, these lipids have a vital role in the pathogenesis of fungal infections and the identification of improved therapies. This review will focus on the fungal cell membrane structure, activity of allylamines and benzylamines, and the mechanistic damage they cause to the membrane. Furthermore, pharmaceutical preparations and clinical uses of these drugs, mainly in dermatophyte infections, will be reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dalal Hammoudi Halat
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Lebanese International University, Bekaa 146404, Lebanon
| | - Samar Younes
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Lebanese International University, Bekaa 146404, Lebanon
| | - Nisreen Mourad
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Lebanese International University, Bekaa 146404, Lebanon
| | - Mohamad Rahal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Lebanese International University, Bekaa 146404, Lebanon
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Similarities and Differences among Species Closely Related to Candida albicans: C. tropicalis, C. dubliniensis, and C. auris. Cell Microbiol 2022. [DOI: 10.1155/2022/2599136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Although Candida species are widespread commensals of the microflora of healthy individuals, they are also among the most important human fungal pathogens that under certain conditions can cause diseases (candidiases) of varying severity ranging from mild superficial infections of the mucous membranes to life-threatening systemic infections. So far, the vast majority of research aimed at understanding the molecular basis of pathogenesis has been focused on the most common species—Candida albicans. Meanwhile, other closely related species belonging to the CTG clade, namely, Candida tropicalis and Candida dubliniensis, are becoming more important in clinical practice, as well as a relatively newly identified species, Candida auris. Despite the close relationship of these microorganisms, it seems that in the course of evolution, they have developed distinct biochemical, metabolic, and physiological adaptations, which they use to fit to commensal niches and achieve full virulence. Therefore, in this review, we describe the current knowledge on C. tropicalis, C. dubliniensis, and C. auris virulence factors, the formation of a mixed species biofilm and mutual communication, the environmental stress response and related changes in fungal cell metabolism, and the effect of pathogens on host defense response and susceptibility to antifungal agents used, highlighting differences with respect to C. albicans. Special attention is paid to common diagnostic problems resulting from similarities between these species and the emergence of drug resistance mechanisms. Understanding the different strategies to achieve virulence, used by important opportunistic pathogens of the genus Candida, is essential for proper diagnosis and treatment.
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Gihaz S, Gareiss P, Choi JY, Renard I, Pal AC, Surovsteva Y, Chiu JE, Thekkiniath J, Plummer M, Hungerford W, Montgomery ML, Hosford A, Adams EM, Lightfoot JD, Fox D, Ojo KK, Staker BL, Fuller K, Ben Mamoun C. High-resolution crystal structure and chemical screening reveal pantothenate kinase as a new target for antifungal development. Structure 2022; 30:1494-1507.e6. [PMID: 36167065 PMCID: PMC10042587 DOI: 10.1016/j.str.2022.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Revised: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Fungal infections are the leading cause of mortality by eukaryotic pathogens, with an estimated 150 million severe life-threatening cases and 1.7 million deaths reported annually. The rapid emergence of multidrug-resistant fungal isolates highlights the urgent need for new drugs with new mechanisms of action. In fungi, pantothenate phosphorylation, catalyzed by PanK enzyme, is the first step in the utilization of pantothenic acid and coenzyme A biosynthesis. In all fungi sequenced so far, this enzyme is encoded by a single PanK gene. Here, we report the crystal structure of a fungal PanK alone as well as with high-affinity inhibitors from a single chemotype identified through a high-throughput chemical screen. Structural, biochemical, and functional analyses revealed mechanisms governing substrate and ligand binding, dimerization, and catalysis and helped identify new compounds that inhibit the growth of several Candida species. The data validate PanK as a promising target for antifungal drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shalev Gihaz
- Section of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Peter Gareiss
- Yale Center for Molecular Discovery, Yale West Campus, West Haven, CT 06516, USA
| | - Jae-Yeon Choi
- Section of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Isaline Renard
- Section of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Anasuya Chattopadhyay Pal
- Section of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Yulia Surovsteva
- Yale Center for Molecular Discovery, Yale West Campus, West Haven, CT 06516, USA
| | - Joy E Chiu
- Section of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Jose Thekkiniath
- Section of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Mark Plummer
- Section of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - William Hungerford
- Yale Center for Molecular Discovery, Yale West Campus, West Haven, CT 06516, USA
| | - Micaela L Montgomery
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA
| | - Alanah Hosford
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA
| | - Emily M Adams
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA
| | - Jorge D Lightfoot
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA
| | - David Fox
- Seattle Structural Genomics Center for Infectious Disease (SSGCID), Seattle, WA 98109, USA; Center for Global Infectious Disease Research, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA 98109, USA; UCB Pharma, 7869 NE Day Road West, Bainbridge Island, WA 98110, USA
| | - Kayode K Ojo
- Center for Emerging & Re-emerging Infectious Disease, Division of Allergy & Infectious Disease, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
| | - Bart L Staker
- Seattle Structural Genomics Center for Infectious Disease (SSGCID), Seattle, WA 98109, USA; Center for Global Infectious Disease Research, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
| | - Kevin Fuller
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA
| | - Choukri Ben Mamoun
- Section of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA.
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Basharat Z, Khan K, Jalal K, Alnasser SM, Majeed S, Zehra M. Inferring Therapeutic Targets in Candida albicans and Possible Inhibition through Natural Products: A Binding and Physiological Based Pharmacokinetics Snapshot. Life (Basel) 2022; 12:1743. [PMID: 36362898 PMCID: PMC9692583 DOI: 10.3390/life12111743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2022] [Revised: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 09/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Despite being responsible for invasive infections, fungal pathogens have been underrepresented in computer aided therapeutic target mining and drug design. Excess of Candida albicans causes candidiasis, causative of thrush and vaginal infection due to off-balance. In this study, we attempted to mine drug targets (n = 46) using a subtractive proteomic approach in this pathogenic yeast and screen natural products with inhibition potential against fructose-bisphosphate aldolase (FBA) of the C. albicans. The top compound selected on the basis of best docking score from traditional Indian medicine/Ayurvedic library was (4-Hydroxybenzyl)thiocarbamic acid, from the ZINC FBA inhibitor library was ZINC13507461 (IUPAC name: [(2R)-2-hydroxy-3-phosphonooxypropyl] (9E,12E)-octadeca-9,12-dienoate), and from traditional Tibetan medicine/Sowa rigpa was Chelerythrine (IUPAC name: 1,2-Dimethoxy-12-methyl-9H-[1,3]benzodioxolo[5,6-c]phenanthridin-12-ium), compared to the control (2E)-1-(4-nitrophenyl)-2-[(4-nitrophenyl)methylidene]hydrazine. No Ames toxicity was predicted for prioritized compounds while control depicted this toxicity. (4-Hydroxybenzyl)thiocarbamic acid showed hepatotoxicity, while Chelerythrine depicted hERG inhibition, which can lead to QT syndrome, so we recommend ZINC13507461 for further testing in lab. Pharmacological based pharmacokinetic modeling revealed that it has low bioavailability and hence, absorption in healthy state. In cirrhosis and renal impairment, absorption and plasma accumulation increased so we recommend further investigation into this occurrence and recommend high dosage in further tests to increase bioavailability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zarrin Basharat
- Jamil–ur–Rahman Center for Genome Research, Dr. Panjwani Center for Molecular Medicine and Drug Research, International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences, University of Karachi, Karachi 75270, Pakistan
| | - Kanwal Khan
- Dr. Panjwani Center for Molecular Medicine and Drug Research, International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences, University of Karachi, Karachi 75270, Pakistan
| | - Khurshid Jalal
- HEJ Research Institute of Chemistry, International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences, University of Karachi, Karachi 75270, Pakistan
| | - Sulaiman Mohammed Alnasser
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Unaizah College of Pharmacy, Qassim University, Buraydah 52571, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sania Majeed
- Jamil–ur–Rahman Center for Genome Research, Dr. Panjwani Center for Molecular Medicine and Drug Research, International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences, University of Karachi, Karachi 75270, Pakistan
| | - Marium Zehra
- Jamil–ur–Rahman Center for Genome Research, Dr. Panjwani Center for Molecular Medicine and Drug Research, International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences, University of Karachi, Karachi 75270, Pakistan
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Begum N, Lee S, Portlock TJ, Pellon A, Nasab SDS, Nielsen J, Uhlen M, Moyes DL, Shoaie S. Integrative functional analysis uncovers metabolic differences between Candida species. Commun Biol 2022; 5:1013. [PMID: 36163459 PMCID: PMC9512779 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-022-03955-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Candida species are a dominant constituent of the human mycobiome and associated with the development of several diseases. Understanding the Candida species metabolism could provide key insights into their ability to cause pathogenesis. Here, we have developed the BioFung database, providing an efficient annotation of protein-encoding genes. Along, with BioFung, using carbohydrate-active enzyme (CAZymes) analysis, we have uncovered core and accessory features across Candida species demonstrating plasticity, adaption to the environment and acquired features. We show a greater importance of amino acid metabolism, as functional analysis revealed that all Candida species can employ amino acid metabolism. However, metabolomics revealed that only a specific cluster of species (AGAu species—C. albicans, C. glabrata and C. auris) utilised amino acid metabolism including arginine, cysteine, and methionine metabolism potentially improving their competitive fitness in pathogenesis. We further identified critical metabolic pathways in the AGAu cluster with biomarkers and anti-fungal target potential in the CAZyme profile, polyamine, choline and fatty acid biosynthesis pathways. This study, combining genomic analysis, and validation with gene expression and metabolomics, highlights the metabolic diversity with AGAu species that underlies their remarkable ability to dominate they mycobiome and cause disease. Metabolic differences between Candida species are uncovered using the BioFung database alongside genomic and metabolic analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neelu Begum
- Centre for Host-Microbiome Interactions, Faculty of Dentistry, Oral & Craniofacial Sciences, King's College London, SE1 9RT, London, UK
| | - Sunjae Lee
- Centre for Host-Microbiome Interactions, Faculty of Dentistry, Oral & Craniofacial Sciences, King's College London, SE1 9RT, London, UK
| | - Theo John Portlock
- Science for Life Laboratory, KTH - Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, SE-171 21, Sweden
| | - Aize Pellon
- Centre for Host-Microbiome Interactions, Faculty of Dentistry, Oral & Craniofacial Sciences, King's College London, SE1 9RT, London, UK
| | - Shervin Dokht Sadeghi Nasab
- Centre for Host-Microbiome Interactions, Faculty of Dentistry, Oral & Craniofacial Sciences, King's College London, SE1 9RT, London, UK
| | - Jens Nielsen
- Department of Biology and Biological Engineering, Kemivägen 10, Chalmers University of Technology, SE-412 96, Gothenburg, Sweden.,BioInnovation Institute, Ole Maaløes Vej 3, DK2200, Copenhagen N, Denmark
| | - Mathias Uhlen
- Science for Life Laboratory, KTH - Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, SE-171 21, Sweden
| | - David L Moyes
- Centre for Host-Microbiome Interactions, Faculty of Dentistry, Oral & Craniofacial Sciences, King's College London, SE1 9RT, London, UK.
| | - Saeed Shoaie
- Centre for Host-Microbiome Interactions, Faculty of Dentistry, Oral & Craniofacial Sciences, King's College London, SE1 9RT, London, UK. .,Science for Life Laboratory, KTH - Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, SE-171 21, Sweden.
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Arvizu-Rubio VJ, García-Carnero LC, Mora-Montes HM. Moonlighting proteins in medically relevant fungi. PeerJ 2022; 10:e14001. [PMID: 36117533 PMCID: PMC9480056 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.14001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 08/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Moonlighting proteins represent an intriguing area of cell biology, due to their ability to perform two or more unrelated functions in one or many cellular compartments. These proteins have been described in all kingdoms of life and are usually constitutively expressed and conserved proteins with housekeeping functions. Although widely studied in pathogenic bacteria, the information about these proteins in pathogenic fungi is scarce, but there are some reports of their functions in the etiological agents of the main human mycoses, such as Candida spp., Paracoccidioides brasiliensis, Histoplasma capsulatum, Aspergillus fumigatus, Cryptococcus neoformans, and Sporothrix schenckii. In these fungi, most of the described moonlighting proteins are metabolic enzymes, such as enolase and glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase; chaperones, transcription factors, and redox response proteins, such as peroxiredoxin and catalase, which moonlight at the cell surface and perform virulence-related processes, contributing to immune evasion, adhesions, invasion, and dissemination to host cells and tissues. All moonlighting proteins and their functions described in this review highlight the limited information about this biological aspect in pathogenic fungi, representing this a relevant opportunity area that will contribute to expanding our current knowledge of these organisms' pathogenesis.
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Didehdar M, Chegini Z, Shariati A. Eugenol: A novel therapeutic agent for the inhibition of Candida species infection. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:872127. [PMID: 36016558 PMCID: PMC9395595 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.872127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 07/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The high occurrence and mortality rates related to candidiasis emphasize the urgent need to introduce new therapeutic approaches to treat this infection. Eugenol, the main phenolic component of Clove and Cinnamomum essential oil, has been used to inhibit growth and different virulence factors of Candida, including strains with decreased susceptibility to antifungals, particularly fluconazole. The results showed that this compound could bind to Candida membrane and decrease ergosterol biosynthesis, consequently leading to cell wall and membrane damage. Additionally, eugenol not only reduced germ tube formation, which reduces nutrient absorption from host tissues, but it also increased the levels of lipid peroxidation and reactive oxygen species, which induces oxidative stress and causes high permeability in the fungal cell membrane. Eugenol inhibited Candida cells’ adhesion capacity; additionally, this compound inhibited the formation of biofilms and eliminated established Candida biofilms on a variety of surfaces. Furthermore, by disrupting fungal cell integrity, eugenol could boost the entry of the antifungal drugs into the Candida cell, improving treatment efficacy. Therefore, eugenol could be used in the clinical management of various presentations of candidiasis, especially mucocutaneous presentations such as oral and vulvovaginal infections. However, further investigations, including in vivo and animal studies, toxicology studies and clinical trials, as well as molecular analysis, are needed to improve formulations and develop novel antifungal agents based on eugenol.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mojtaba Didehdar
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran
| | - Zahra Chegini
- Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Aref Shariati
- Molecular and Medicine Research Center, Khomein University of Medical Sciences, Khomein, Iran
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Khomein University of Medical Sciences, Khomein, Iran
- *Correspondence: Aref Shariati,
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Jin L, Liu S, Tan S, Wang Y, Zhao Y, Yu S. Petrositis caused by fluconazole-resistant candida: case report and literature review. BMC Infect Dis 2022; 22:649. [PMID: 35896968 PMCID: PMC9327414 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-022-07637-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Petrositis is a rare and fatal complication associated with otitis media. It is most likely caused by bacterial infections, but in some cases it is caused by fungal infections. Case study The case in this report is associated with fungal petrositis. The clinical symptoms are: ear pain from chronic otitis media, severe headache, peripheral facial palsy and diplopia. The case was finally confirmed through imaging of middle ear, bacterial culture, pathology, and blood Metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) test. The patient was treated with sensitive antifungal drugs. Conclusion Drug treatment is conservative but efficient method in this case. mNGS can provide pathogenic reference, when antibiotic is not efficient enough for fungal infections or drug-resistant fungal infections cases. This allows we to adjust drug use for the treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Jin
- Department of Otolaryngology, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, 389 Xincun Road, Putuo, Shanghai, 200065, China
| | - Shuangxi Liu
- Department of Otolaryngology, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, 389 Xincun Road, Putuo, Shanghai, 200065, China
| | - Shiwang Tan
- Department of Otolaryngology, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, 389 Xincun Road, Putuo, Shanghai, 200065, China
| | - Yang Wang
- Department of Otolaryngology, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, 389 Xincun Road, Putuo, Shanghai, 200065, China
| | - Yumin Zhao
- Department of Otolaryngology, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, 389 Xincun Road, Putuo, Shanghai, 200065, China
| | - Shaoqing Yu
- Department of Otolaryngology, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, 389 Xincun Road, Putuo, Shanghai, 200065, China.
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Digoxin Derivatives Sensitize a Saccharomyces cerevisiae Mutant Strain to Fluconazole by Inhibiting Pdr5p. J Fungi (Basel) 2022; 8:jof8080769. [PMID: 35893137 PMCID: PMC9330353 DOI: 10.3390/jof8080769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2022] [Revised: 07/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The poor outcome of treatments for fungal infections is a consequence of the increasing incidence of resistance to antifungal agents, mainly due to the overexpression of efflux pumps. To surpass this mechanism of resistance, a substance able to inhibit these pumps could be administered in association with antifungals. Saccharomyces cerevisiae possesses an efflux pump (Pdr5p) homologue to those found in pathogenic yeast. Digoxin is a natural product that inhibits Na+, K+-ATPase. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether digoxin and its derivatives (i.e., DGB, digoxin benzylidene) can inhibit Pdr5p, reversing the resistance to fluconazole in yeasts. An S. cerevisiae mutant strain that overexpresses Pdr5p was used in the assays. The effects of the compounds on yeast growth, efflux activity, and Pdr5p ATPase activity were measured. All derivatives enhanced the antifungal activity of fluconazole against S. cerevisiae, in comparison to fluconazole alone, with FICI values ranging from 0.031 to 0.500. DGB 1 and DGB 3 presented combined effects with fluconazole against a Candida albicans strain, with fractional inhibitory concentration index (FICI) values of 0.625 and 0.281, respectively The compounds also inhibited the efflux of rhodamine 6G and Pdr5p ATPase activity, with IC50 values ranging from 0.41 μM to 3.72 μM. The results suggest that digoxin derivatives impair Pdr5p activity. Considering the homology between Pdr5p and efflux pumps from pathogenic fungi, these compounds are potential candidates to be used in association with fluconazole to treat resistant fungal infections.
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Moghimi S, Shafiei M, Foroumadi A. Drug design strategies for the treatment azole-resistant candidiasis. Expert Opin Drug Discov 2022; 17:879-895. [PMID: 35793245 DOI: 10.1080/17460441.2022.2098949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Despite the availability of novel antifungals and therapeutic strategies, the rate of global mortality linked to invasive fungal diseases from fungal infection remains high. Candida albicans account for the most invasive mycosis produced by yeast. Thus, the current arsenal of medicinal chemists is focused on finding new effective agents with lower toxicity and broad-spectrum activity. In this review article, recent efforts to find effective agents against azole-resistant candidiasis, a common fungal infection, are covered. AREAS COVERED Herein, the authors outlined all azole-based compounds, dual target, and new scaffolds (non-azole-based compounds) which were effective against azole-resistant candidiasis. In addition, the mechanism of action and SAR studies were also discussed, if the data were available. EXPERT OPINION The current status of fungal infections and the drawbacks of existing drugs have encouraged scientists to find novel scaffolds based on different methods like virtual screening and fragment-based drug discovery. Machine learning and in-silico methods have found their role in this field and experts are hopeful to find novel scaffolds/compounds by using these methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Setareh Moghimi
- Drug Design and Development Research Center, The Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences (TIPS), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Shafiei
- Drug Design and Development Research Center, The Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences (TIPS), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
| | - Alireza Foroumadi
- Drug Design and Development Research Center, The Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences (TIPS), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Lipid-Enriched Parenteral Nutrition and Bloodstream Infections in Hospitalized Patients: Is It a Real Concern? Medicina (B Aires) 2022; 58:medicina58070885. [PMID: 35888604 PMCID: PMC9320926 DOI: 10.3390/medicina58070885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2022] [Revised: 06/25/2022] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Today, few clinicians are still convinced that lipids are sepsis risk factors in patients receiving parenteral nutrition. This dogma is principally based on old literature. This review deals with the most recent literature search that provided up-to-date data over the past ten years. Systematic research was performed on Pubmed, MEDLINE, and Web of Science. The recent evidence does not justify the exclusion of lipid emulsions in patients receiving parenteral nutrition for fear of bloodstream infection risk. Moreover, lipids represent a substantial proportion of the energy source providing essential fatty acids, potentially improving clinical outcomes in patients often malnourished. Understanding the actual risk factors of sepsis during parenteral nutrition is necessary to optimize patient nutritional status and care and avoid essential fatty acid deficiency. There is an urgent need to make updated nutrition training available at all levels of medical education.
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Barantsevich N, Barantsevich E. Diagnosis and Treatment of Invasive Candidiasis. Antibiotics (Basel) 2022; 11:antibiotics11060718. [PMID: 35740125 PMCID: PMC9219674 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics11060718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Revised: 05/14/2022] [Accepted: 05/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Candida species, belonging to commensal microbial communities in humans, cause opportunistic infections in individuals with impaired immunity. Pathogens encountered in more than 90% cases of invasive candidiasis include C. albicans, C. glabrata, C. krusei, C. tropicalis, and C. parapsilosis. The most frequently diagnosed invasive infection is candidemia. About 50% of candidemia cases result in deep-seated infection due to hematogenous spread. The sensitivity of blood cultures in autopsy-proven invasive candidiasis ranges from 21% to 71%. Non-cultural methods (beta-D-glucan, T2Candida assays), especially beta-D-glucan in combination with procalcitonin, appear promising in the exclusion of invasive candidiasis with high sensitivity (98%) and negative predictive value (95%). There is currently a clear deficiency in approved sensitive and precise diagnostic techniques. Omics technologies seem promising, though require further development and study. Therapeutic options for invasive candidiasis are generally limited to four classes of systemic antifungals (polyenes, antimetabolite 5-fluorocytosine, azoles, echinocandins) with the two latter being highly effective and well-tolerated and hence the most widely used. Principles and methods of treatment are discussed in this review. The emergence of pan-drug-resistant C. auris strains indicates an insufficient choice of available medications. Further surveillance, alongside the development of diagnostic and therapeutic methods, is essential.
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Facile Green Synthesis of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles with Potential Synergistic Activity with Common Antifungal Agents against Multidrug-Resistant Candidal Strains. CRYSTALS 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/cryst12060774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
The high incidence of fungal resistance to antifungal drugs represents a global concern, contributing to high levels of morbidity and mortality, especially among immunocompromised patients. Moreover, conventional antifungal medications have poor therapeutic outcomes, as well as possible toxicities resulting from long-term administration. Accordingly, the aim of the present study was to investigate the antifungal effectiveness of biogenic zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) against multidrug-resistant candidal strains. Biogenic ZnO NPs were characterized using physicochemical methods, such as UV-vis spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), energy-dispersive X ray (EDX) spectroscopy, FTIR (Fourier transform infrared) spectroscopy and X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) analysis. UV spectral analysis revealed the formation of two absorption peaks at 367 and 506 nm, which preliminarily indicated the successful synthesis of ZnO NPs, whereas TEM analysis showed that ZnO NPs exhibited an average particle size of 22.84 nm. The EDX spectrum confirmed the successful synthesis of ZnO nanoparticles free of impurities. The FTIR spectrum of the biosynthesized ZnO NPs showed different absorption peaks at 3427.99, 1707.86, 1621.50, 1424.16, 1325.22, 1224.67, 1178.22, 1067.69, 861.22, 752.97 and 574.11 cm−1, corresponding to various functional groups. The average zeta potential value of the ZnO NPs was −7.45 mV. XRD analysis revealed the presence of six diffraction peaks at 2θ = 31.94, 34.66, 36.42, 56.42, 69.54 and 76.94°. The biogenic ZnO NPs (100µg/disk) exhibited potent antifungal activity against C. albicans, C. glabrata and C. tropicalis strains, with suppressive zone diameters of 24.18 ± 0.32, 20.17 ± 0.56 and 26.35 ± 0.16 mm, respectively. The minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) of ZnO NPs against C. tropicalis strain was found to be 10 μg/mL, whereas the minimal fungicidal concentration (MFC) was found to be 20 μg/mL. Moreover, ZnO NPs revealed a potential synergistic efficiency with fluconazole, nystatin and clotrimazole antifungal drugs against C. albicans strain, whereas terbinafine, nystatin and itraconazole antifungal drugs showed a potential synergism with ZnO NPs against C. glabrata as a multidrug-resistant strain. In conclusion, pomegranate peel extract mediated green synthesis of ZnO NPs with potential physicochemical features and antimicrobial activity. The biosynthesized ZnO NPs could be utilized for formulation of novel drug combinations to boost the antifungal efficiency of commonly used antifungal agents.
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Identification of Secondary Metabolites from Mexican Plants with Antifungal Activity against Pathogenic Candida Species. J CHEM-NY 2022. [DOI: 10.1155/2022/8631284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
In the last three decades, invasive fungal infections caused by Candida species have become an important public health problem, because they are associated with high rates of morbidity and mortality in immunocompromised and hospitalized patients. The diagnosis and treatment of candidiasis are difficult and usually inefficient. Accordingly, a diversity of available drugs, currently employed to attack candidiasis, frequently induce resistance in patients promoting toxicity due to long-term treatments. Therefore, development of accurate diagnoses and novel antifungals is of high priority to improve life’s quality and expectancy of individuals infected with this pathogen. Plants are invaluable sources of new biologically active compounds. Among the plants used in Mexico in traditional herbolary medicine which have empirically been demonstrated to have antifungal activity are Pedilanthus tithymaloides, Thymus vulgaris, and Ocimum basilicum. In the present study, we analyzed whether these plants contain metabolites with antifungal activity against five Candida species. The extracts from the different plant organs were obtained by macerating them in ethyl alcohol or hexane and filtering. The obtained extracts were preserved in amber flasks at 4°C until used. The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of the active compound were determined by a microdilution assay. In addition, the following secondary metabolites were identified: linalool (3,7-dimethylocta-1,6-dien-3-ol), eugenol (4-allyl-2-methoxyphenol), limonene (1-methyl-4-(1-methylethenyl)-cyclohexene), and borneol ([(2R)-1,7,7-trimethyl-2-bicyclo[2.2.1]heptanyl] formate). All these compounds were found in the three plants, traditionally used in everyday life, and proved to be effective against Candida species and therefore a viable alternative to conventional antifungals.
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Himiniuc L, Socolov R, Ghizdovat V, Agop M, Anton E, Toma B, Ochiuz L, Vasincu D, Popa O, Onofrei V. Infectious Inflammatory Processes and the Role of Bioactive Agent Released from Imino-Chitosan Derivatives Experimental and Theoretical Aspects. Polymers (Basel) 2022; 14:polym14091848. [PMID: 35567017 PMCID: PMC9100066 DOI: 10.3390/polym14091848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2022] [Revised: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The paper focuses on the development of a multifractal theoretical model for explaining drug release dynamics (drug release laws and drug release mechanisms of cellular and channel-type) through scale transitions in scale space correlated with experimental data. The mathematical model has been developed for a hydrogel system prepared from chitosan and an antimicrobial aldehyde via covalent imine bonds. The reversible nature of the imine linkage points for a progressive release of the antimicrobial aldehyde is controlled by the reaction equilibrium shifting to the reagents, which in turn is triggered by aldehyde consumption in the inhibition of the microbial growth. The development of the mathematical model considers the release dynamic of the aldehyde in the scale space. Because the release behavior is dictated by the intrinsic properties of the polymer–drug complex system, they were explained in scale space, showing that various drug release dynamics laws can be associated with scale transitions. Moreover, the functionality of a Schrödinger-type differential equation in the same scale space reveals drug release mechanisms of channels and cellular types. These mechanisms are conditioned by the intensity of the polymer–drug interactions. It was demonstrated that the proposed mathematical model confirmed a prolonged release of the aldehyde, respecting the trend established by in vitro release experiments. At the same time, the properties of the hydrogel recommend its application in patients with intrauterine adhesions (IUAs) complicated by chronic endometritis as an alternative to the traditional antibiotics or antifungals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Loredana Himiniuc
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Iasi, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (L.H.); (B.T.)
| | - Razvan Socolov
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Iasi, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (R.S.); (E.A.)
| | - Vlad Ghizdovat
- Department of Biophysics and Medical Physics, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Iasi, 700115 Iasi, Romania;
| | - Maricel Agop
- Department of Physics, “Gheorghe Asachi” Technical University of Iasi, 700050 Iasi, Romania
- Academy of Romanian Scientists, 050094 Bucharest, Romania
- Correspondence: (M.A.); (O.P.)
| | - Emil Anton
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Iasi, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (R.S.); (E.A.)
| | - Bogdan Toma
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Iasi, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (L.H.); (B.T.)
| | - Lacramioara Ochiuz
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Biotechnological Drug Industry, ”Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania;
| | - Decebal Vasincu
- Department of Dental and Oro-Maxillo-Facial Surgery, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania;
| | - Ovidiu Popa
- Department of Emergency Medicine, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania
- Correspondence: (M.A.); (O.P.)
| | - Viviana Onofrei
- Department of Internal Medicine (Cardiology), “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania;
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Madrigal-Aguilar DA, Gonzalez-Silva A, Rosales-Acosta B, Bautista-Crescencio C, Ortiz-Álvarez J, Escalante CH, Sánchez-Navarrete J, Hernández-Rodríguez C, Chamorro-Cevallos G, Tamariz J, Villa-Tanaca L. Antifungal Activity of Fibrate-Based Compounds and Substituted Pyrroles That Inhibit the Enzyme 3-Hydroxy-methyl-glutaryl-CoA Reductase of Candida glabrata (CgHMGR), Thus Decreasing Yeast Viability and Ergosterol Synthesis. Microbiol Spectr 2022; 10:e0164221. [PMID: 35377226 PMCID: PMC9045318 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.01642-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2021] [Accepted: 03/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Due to the emergence of multidrug-resistant strains of yeasts belonging to the Candida genus, there is an urgent need to discover antifungal agents directed at alternative molecular targets. The aim of the current study was to evaluate the capacity of three different series of synthetic compounds to inhibit the Candida glabrata enzyme denominated 3-hydroxy-methyl-glutaryl-CoA reductase and thus affect ergosterol synthesis and yeast viability. Compounds 1c (α-asarone-related) and 5b (with a pyrrolic core) were selected as the best antifungal candidates among over 20 synthetic compounds studied. Both inhibited the growth of fluconazole-resistant and fluconazole-susceptible C. glabrata strains. A yeast growth rescue experiment based on the addition of exogenous ergosterol showed that the compounds act by inhibiting the mevalonate synthesis pathway. A greater recovery of yeast growth occurred for the C. glabrata 43 fluconazole-resistant (versus fluconazole-susceptible) strain and after treatment with 1c (versus 5b). Given that the compounds decreased the concentration of ergosterol in the yeast strains, they probably target ergosterol synthesis. According to the docking analysis, the inhibitory effect of 1c and 5b could possibly be mediated by their interaction with the amino acid residues of the catalytic site of the enzyme. Since 1c displayed higher binding energy than α-asarone and 5b, it is the best candidate for further research, which should include structural modifications to increase its specificity and potency. The derivatives could then be examined with in vivo animal models using a therapeutic dose. IMPORTANCE Within the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, there is currently an epidemiological alert in health care services due to outbreaks of Candida auris, Candida glabrata, and other fungal species multiresistant to conventional antifungals. Therefore, it is important to propose alternative molecular targets, as well as new antifungals. The three series of synthetic compounds herein designed and synthesized are inhibitors of ergosterol synthesis in yeasts. Of the more than 20 compounds studied, two were selected as the best antifungal candidates. These compounds were able to inhibit the growth and synthesis of ergosterol in C. glabrata strains, whether susceptible or resistant to fluconazole. The rational design of antifungal compounds derived from clinical drugs (statins, fibrates, etc.) has many advantages. Future studies are needed to modify the structure of the two present test compounds to obtain safer and less toxic antifungals. Moreover, it is important to carry out a more in-depth mechanistic approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damián A. Madrigal-Aguilar
- Departamento de Química Orgánica, Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biológicas, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Adilene Gonzalez-Silva
- Departamento de Microbiología, Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biológicas, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Blanca Rosales-Acosta
- Departamento de Microbiología, Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biológicas, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Celia Bautista-Crescencio
- Departamento de Microbiología, Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biológicas, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Jossué Ortiz-Álvarez
- Departamento de Microbiología, Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biológicas, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Carlos H. Escalante
- Departamento de Química Orgánica, Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biológicas, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Mexico City, Mexico
| | | | - César Hernández-Rodríguez
- Departamento de Microbiología, Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biológicas, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Germán Chamorro-Cevallos
- Departamento de Farmacia, Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biológicas, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Joaquín Tamariz
- Departamento de Química Orgánica, Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biológicas, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Lourdes Villa-Tanaca
- Departamento de Microbiología, Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biológicas, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Mexico City, Mexico
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