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Lopes-Bezerra LM, Mora-Montes HM, Zhang Y, Nino-Vega G, Rodrigues AM, de Camargo ZP, de Hoog S. Sporotrichosis between 1898 and 2017: The evolution of knowledge on a changeable disease and on emerging etiological agents. Med Mycol 2018. [DOI: 10.1093/mmy/myx103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Leila M Lopes-Bezerra
- Laboratory of Cellular Mycology and Proteomics, Department of Cell Biology, Rio de Janeiro State University, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Hector M Mora-Montes
- Departamento de Biología, División de Ciencias Naturales y Exactas, Campus Guanajuato, Universidad de Guanajuato, Guanajuato, Mexico
| | - Yu Zhang
- Department of Dermatology, Tianjin Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Gustavo Nino-Vega
- Departamento de Biología, División de Ciencias Naturales y Exactas, Campus Guanajuato, Universidad de Guanajuato, Guanajuato, Mexico
| | - Anderson Messias Rodrigues
- Cell Biology Division, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Zoilo Pires de Camargo
- Cell Biology Division, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sybren de Hoog
- Westerdijk Fungal Biodiversity Institute, Utrecht, and Center of Expertise in Mycology of Radboudumc/CWZ, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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52
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Cell walls of the dimorphic fungal pathogens Sporothrix schenckii and Sporothrix brasiliensis exhibit bilaminate structures and sloughing of extensive and intact layers. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2018. [PMID: 29522522 PMCID: PMC5903669 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0006169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Sporotrichosis is a subcutaneous mycosis caused by pathogenic species of the Sporothrix genus. A new emerging species, Sporothrix brasiliensis, is related to cat-transmitted sporotrichosis and has severe clinical manifestations. The cell wall of pathogenic fungi is a unique structure and impacts directly on the host immune response. We reveal and compare the cell wall structures of Sporothrix schenckii and S. brasiliensis using high-pressure freezing electron microscopy to study the cell wall organization of both species. To analyze the components of the cell wall, we also used infrared and 13C and 1H NMR spectroscopy and the sugar composition was determined by quantitative high-performance anion-exchange chromatography. Our ultrastructural data revealed a bi-layered cell wall structure for both species, including an external microfibrillar layer and an inner electron-dense layer. The inner and outer layers of the S. brasiliensis cell wall were thicker than those of S. schenckii, correlating with an increase in the chitin and rhamnose contents. Moreover, the outer microfibrillar layer of the S. brasiliensis cell wall had longer microfibrils interconnecting yeast cells. Distinct from those of other dimorphic fungi, the cell wall of Sporothrix spp. lacked α-glucan component. Interestingly, glycogen α-particles were identified in the cytoplasm close to the cell wall and the plasma membrane. The cell wall structure as well as the presence of glycogen α-particles varied over time during cell culture. The structural differences observed in the cell wall of these Sporothrix species seemed to impact its uptake by monocyte-derived human macrophages. The data presented here show a unique cell wall structure of S. brasiliensis and S. schenckii during the yeast parasitic phase. A new cell wall model for Sporothrix spp. is therefore proposed that suggests that these fungi molt sheets of intact cell wall layers. This observation may have significant effects on localized and disseminated immunopathology.
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53
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An immunoproteomic approach revealing peptides from Sporothrix brasiliensis that induce a cellular immune response in subcutaneous sporotrichosis. Sci Rep 2018. [PMID: 29520092 PMCID: PMC5843658 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-22709-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Sporothrix brasiliensis is the most virulent fungus of the Sporothrix complex and is the main species recovered in the sporotrichosis zoonotic hyperendemic area in Rio de Janeiro. A vaccine against S. brasiliensis could improve the current sporotrichosis situation. Here, we show 3 peptides from S. brasiliensis immunogenic proteins that have a higher likelihood for engaging MHC-class II molecules. We investigated the efficiency of the peptides as vaccines for preventing subcutaneous sporotrichosis. In this study, we observed a decrease in lesion diameters in peptide-immunized mice, showing that the peptides could induce a protective immune response against subcutaneous sporotrichosis. ZR8 peptide is from the GP70 protein, the main antigen of the Sporothrix complex, and was the best potential vaccine candidate by increasing CD4+ T cells and higher levels of IFN-γ, IL-17A and IL-1β characterizing a strong cellular immune response. This immune environment induced a higher number of neutrophils in lesions that are associated with fungus clearance. These results indicated that the ZR8 peptide induces a protective immune response against subcutaneous sporotrichosis and is a vaccine candidate against S. brasiliensis infection.
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54
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López-Ramírez LA, Hernández NV, Lozoya-Pérez NE, Lopes-Bezerra LM, Mora-Montes HM. Functional characterization of the Sporothrix schenckii Ktr4 and Ktr5, mannosyltransferases involved in the N-linked glycosylation pathway. Res Microbiol 2018; 169:188-197. [PMID: 29476824 DOI: 10.1016/j.resmic.2018.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2017] [Revised: 02/05/2018] [Accepted: 02/06/2018] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Sporothrix schenckii is one of the causative agents of the deep-seated mycosis sporotrichosis, a fungal infection with worldwide distribution. Fungus-specific molecules and biosynthetic pathways are potential targets for the development of new antifungal drugs. The MNT1/KRE2 gene family is a group of genes that encode fungus-specific Golgi-resident mannosyltransferases that participate in the synthesis of O-linked and N-linked glycans. While this family is composed of five and nine members in Candida albicans and Saccharomyces cerevisiae, respectively, the S. schenckii genome contains only three putative members. MNT1 has been previously characterized as an enzyme that participates in the synthesis of both N-linked and O-linked glycans. Here, we aimed to establish the functional role of the two remaining family members, KTR4 and KTR5, in the protein glycosylation pathways by using heterologous complementation in C. albicans mutants lacking genes of the MNT1/KRE2 family. The two S. schenckii genes restored defects in the elaboration of N-linked glycans, but no complementation of mutants that synthesize truncated O-linked glycans was observed. Therefore, our results suggest that MNT1 is the sole member with a role in O-linked glycan elaboration, whereas the three family members have redundant activity in the S. schenckii N-linked glycan synthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luz A López-Ramírez
- Departamento de Biología, División de Ciencias Naturales y Exactas, Campus Guanajuato, Universidad de Guanajuato, Noria Alta s/n, col. Noria Alta, C.P. 36050, Guanajuato Gto., Mexico
| | - Nahúm V Hernández
- Departamento de Biología, División de Ciencias Naturales y Exactas, Campus Guanajuato, Universidad de Guanajuato, Noria Alta s/n, col. Noria Alta, C.P. 36050, Guanajuato Gto., Mexico
| | - Nancy E Lozoya-Pérez
- Departamento de Biología, División de Ciencias Naturales y Exactas, Campus Guanajuato, Universidad de Guanajuato, Noria Alta s/n, col. Noria Alta, C.P. 36050, Guanajuato Gto., Mexico
| | - Leila M Lopes-Bezerra
- Laboratory of Cellular Mycology and Proteomics, Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade de São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Héctor M Mora-Montes
- Departamento de Biología, División de Ciencias Naturales y Exactas, Campus Guanajuato, Universidad de Guanajuato, Noria Alta s/n, col. Noria Alta, C.P. 36050, Guanajuato Gto., Mexico.
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55
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Orofino-Costa R, de Macedo PM, Rodrigues AM, Bernardes-Engemann AR. Sporotrichosis: an update on epidemiology, etiopathogenesis, laboratory and clinical therapeutics. An Bras Dermatol 2017; 92:606-620. [PMID: 29166494 PMCID: PMC5674690 DOI: 10.1590/abd1806-4841.2017279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 189] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2017] [Accepted: 07/23/2017] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
In the late 90's there was a change in both the route of transmission and the people at risk for sporotrichosis. This zoonotic cat-man alternative transmission route elicited changes in strategies to control the epidemic. There was a progressive increase in the number of cases involving especially children and the elderly. In addition to becoming hyperendemic, uncommon clinical pictures like immunoreactive clinical presentations or severe systemic cases have emerged. New species were identified and classified through molecular tools using more virulent clinical isolates, like S. brasiliensis, compared to the environmental isolates. Likewise, different species of Sporothrix have been associated with different geographic regions. The serological and molecular techniques are used as an auxiliary tool for the diagnosis and/or for species identification, although the isolation and the identification of Sporothrix spp. in clinical specimen is still the gold standard. Currently sporotrichosis epidemics requires the knowledge of the epidemiological-molecular profile to control the disease and the specific treatment. Itraconazole, potassium iodide, terfinafine, and amphotericin B are the available drugs in Brazil to treat sporotrichosis. The drug of choice, its posology, and treatment duration vary according to the clinical presentation, the Sporothrix species, and host immune status. New treatment choices, including a vaccine, are being developed; nevertheless, more clinical trials are required to confirm its efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosane Orofino-Costa
- Dermatology Department, Faculdade de Ciências
Médicas, Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro (FCM-UERJ), Rio de Janeiro,
RJ, Brazil
- Medical Mycology Laboratory, Dermatology Department, Hospital
Universitário Pedro Ernesto, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Priscila Marques de Macedo
- Infectious Dermatology Clinical Research Laboratory, Instituto
Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz
(INI/Fiocruz), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Anderson Messias Rodrigues
- Laboratory of Emerging Fungal Pathogen, Department of Microbiology,
Immunology and Parasitology, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), SP,
Brazil
| | - Andréa Reis Bernardes-Engemann
- Dermatology Department, Faculdade de Ciências
Médicas, Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro (FCM-UERJ), Rio de Janeiro,
RJ, Brazil
- Medical Mycology Laboratory, Dermatology Department, Hospital
Universitário Pedro Ernesto, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
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56
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Trujillo-Esquivel E, Martínez-Álvarez JA, Clavijo-Giraldo DM, Hernández NV, Flores-Martínez A, Ponce-Noyola P, Mora-Montes HM. The Sporothrix schenckii Gene Encoding for the Ribosomal Protein L6 Has Constitutive and Stable Expression and Works as an Endogenous Control in Gene Expression Analysis. Front Microbiol 2017; 8:1676. [PMID: 28919888 PMCID: PMC5585144 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2017.01676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2017] [Accepted: 08/18/2017] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Sporothrix schenckii is one of the causative agents of sporotrichosis, a worldwide-distributed mycosis that affects humans and other mammals. The interest in basic and clinical features of this organism has significantly increased in the last years, yet little progress in molecular aspects has been reported. Gene expression analysis is a set of powerful tools that helps to assess the cell response to changes in the extracellular environment, the genetic networks controlling metabolic pathways, and the adaptation to different growth conditions. Most of the quantitative methodologies used nowadays require data normalization, and this is achieved measuring the expression of endogenous control genes. Reference genes, whose expression is assumed to suffer minimal changes regardless the cell morphology, the stage of the cell cycle or the presence of harsh extracellular conditions are commonly used as controls in Northern blotting assays, microarrays, and semi-quantitative or quantitative RT-PCR. Since the biology of the organisms is usually species specific, it is difficult to find a reliable group of universal genes that can be used as controls for data normalization in experiments addressing the gene expression, regardless the taxonomic classification of the organism under study. Here, we compared the transcriptional stability of the genes encoding for elongation factor 1A, Tfc1, a protein involved in transcription initiation on Pol III promoters, ribosomal protein L6, histone H2A, β-actin, β-tubulin, glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase, UAF30, the upstream activating factor 30, and the transcription initiation factor TFIID subunit 10, during the fungal growth in different culture media and cell morphologies. Our results indicated that only the gene encoding for the ribosomal protein L6 showed a stable and constant expression. Furthermore, it displayed not transcriptional changes when S. schenckii infected larvae of Galleria mellonella or interacted with immune cells. Therefore, this gene could be used as control for data normalization in expression assays. As a proof of concept, this gene was used to assess the expression of genes encoding for glycosidases involved in the protein N-linked glycosylation pathway, a histidine kinase whose expression is regulated during the fungal dimorphism, and a glycosidase that participates in sucrose assimilation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elías Trujillo-Esquivel
- División de Ciencias Naturales y Exactas, Departamento de Biología, Universidad de GuanajuatoGuanajuato, Mexico
| | - José A Martínez-Álvarez
- División de Ciencias Naturales y Exactas, Departamento de Biología, Universidad de GuanajuatoGuanajuato, Mexico
| | - Diana M Clavijo-Giraldo
- División de Ciencias Naturales y Exactas, Departamento de Biología, Universidad de GuanajuatoGuanajuato, Mexico
| | - Nahúm V Hernández
- División de Ciencias Naturales y Exactas, Departamento de Biología, Universidad de GuanajuatoGuanajuato, Mexico
| | - Alberto Flores-Martínez
- División de Ciencias Naturales y Exactas, Departamento de Biología, Universidad de GuanajuatoGuanajuato, Mexico
| | - Patricia Ponce-Noyola
- División de Ciencias Naturales y Exactas, Departamento de Biología, Universidad de GuanajuatoGuanajuato, Mexico
| | - Héctor M Mora-Montes
- División de Ciencias Naturales y Exactas, Departamento de Biología, Universidad de GuanajuatoGuanajuato, Mexico
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57
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Della Terra PP, Rodrigues AM, Fernandes GF, Nishikaku AS, Burger E, de Camargo ZP. Exploring virulence and immunogenicity in the emerging pathogen Sporothrix brasiliensis. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2017; 11:e0005903. [PMID: 28854184 PMCID: PMC5595342 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0005903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2017] [Revised: 09/12/2017] [Accepted: 08/23/2017] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Sporotrichosis is a polymorphic chronic infection of humans and animals classically acquired after traumatic inoculation with soil and plant material contaminated with Sporothrix spp. propagules. An alternative and successful route of transmission is bites and scratches from diseased cats, through which Sporothrix yeasts are inoculated into mammalian tissue. The development of a murine model of subcutaneous sporotrichosis mimicking the alternative route of transmission is essential to understanding disease pathogenesis and the development of novel therapeutic strategies. To explore the impact of horizontal transmission in animals (e.g., cat-cat) and zoonotic transmission on Sporothrix fitness, the left hind footpads of BALB/c mice were inoculated with 5×106 yeasts (n = 11 S. brasiliensis, n = 2 S. schenckii, or n = 1 S. globosa). Twenty days post-infection, our model reproduced both the pathophysiology and symptomology of sporotrichosis with suppurating subcutaneous nodules that progressed proximally along lymphatic channels. Across the main pathogenic members of the S. schenckii clade, S. brasiliensis was usually more virulent than S. schenckii and S. globosa. However, the virulence in S. brasiliensis was strain-dependent, and we demonstrated that highly virulent isolates disseminate from the left hind footpad to the liver, spleen, kidneys, lungs, heart, and brain of infected animals, inducing significant and chronic weight loss (losing up to 15% of their body weight). The weight loss correlated with host death between 2 and 16 weeks post-infection. Histopathological features included necrosis, suppurative inflammation, and polymorphonuclear and mononuclear inflammatory infiltrates. Immunoblot using specific antisera and homologous exoantigen investigated the humoral response. Antigenic profiles were isolate-specific, supporting the hypothesis that different Sporothrix species can elicit a heterogeneous humoral response over time, but cross reaction was observed between S. brasiliensis and S. schenckii proteomes. Despite great diversity in the immunoblot profiles, antibodies were mainly derived against 3-carboxymuconate cyclase, a glycoprotein oscillating between 60 and 70 kDa (gp60-gp70) and a 100-kDa molecule in nearly 100% of the assays. Thus, our data broaden the current view of virulence and immunogenicity in the Sporothrix-sporotrichosis system, substantially expanding the possibilities for comparative genomic with isolates bearing divergent virulence traits and helping uncover the molecular mechanisms and evolutionary pressures underpinning the emergence of Sporothrix virulence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula Portella Della Terra
- Department of Medicine, Discipline of Infectious Diseases, Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Anderson Messias Rodrigues
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, Discipline of Cellular Biology, Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Geisa Ferreira Fernandes
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, Discipline of Cellular Biology, Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Angela Satie Nishikaku
- Department of Medicine, Discipline of Infectious Diseases, Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Eva Burger
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Federal University of Alfenas (UNIFAL-MG), Alfenas, Brazil
| | - Zoilo Pires de Camargo
- Department of Medicine, Discipline of Infectious Diseases, Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, Brazil
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, Discipline of Cellular Biology, Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, Brazil
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58
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Suzuki R, Yikelamu A, Tanaka R, Igawa K, Yokozeki H, Yaguchi T. Studies in Phylogeny, Development of Rapid IdentificationMethods, Antifungal Susceptibility, and Growth Rates of Clinical Strains of Sporothrix schenckii Complex in Japan. Med Mycol J 2017; 57:E47-57. [PMID: 27581775 DOI: 10.3314/mmj.16-00005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Sporotrichosis is a fungal infection caused by the Sporothrix species, which have distinct virulence profiles and geographic distributions. We performed a phylogenetic study in strains morphologically identified as Sporothrix schenckii from clinical specimens in Japan, which were preserved at the Medical Mycology Research Center, Chiba University. In addition, we examined the in vitro antifungal susceptibility and growth rate to evaluate their physiological features. Three hundred strains were examined using sequence analysis of the partial calmodulin gene, or polymerase chain reaction(PCR)method using newly designed species-specific primers; 291 strains were Sporothrix globosa and 9 strains were S. schenckii sensu stricto (in narrow sense, s. s.). S. globosa strains were further clustered into two subclades, and S. schenckii s. s. strains were divided into three subclades. In 38 strains of S. globosa for which antifungal profiles were determined, 4 strains (11%) showed high minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) value for itraconazole. All tested strains of S. schenckii s. s. and S. globosa showed low sensitivity for amphotericin B. These antifungals are used for treatment of sporotrichosis when infection is severe. S. schenckii s. s. grew better than S. globosa; wherein S. globosa showed restricted growth at 35℃ and did not grow at 37℃. Our molecular data showed that S. globosa is the main causal agent of sporotrichosis in Japan. It is important to determine the antifungal profiles of each case, in addition to accurate species-level identification, to strategize the therapy for sporotrichosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rumi Suzuki
- Medical Mycology Research Center, Chiba University
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59
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Moussa TAA, Kadasa NMS, Al Zahrani HS, Ahmed SA, Feng P, Gerrits van den Ende AHG, Zhang Y, Kano R, Li F, Li S, Song Y, Dong B, Rossato L, Dolatabadi S, Hoog SD. Origin and distribution of Sporothrix globosa causing sapronoses in Asia. J Med Microbiol 2017; 66:560-569. [PMID: 28327256 DOI: 10.1099/jmm.0.000451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of the study was to evaluate the main sources and epidemiological patterns and speculate on the evolutionary origin of Sporothrix globosa in Asia. METHODOLOGY Case and case series literature on sporotrichosis in Asia from January 2007 onwards were reviewed using meta-analysis. Phylogenetic analysis of relevant S. globosa was carried out on the basis of concatenated sequences of ITS, TEF3 and CAL. A haplotype network of CAL sequences of 281 Sporothrix isolates was analysed to determine the population structure of S. globosa. RESULTS Nearly all cases of sporotrichosis caused by S. globosa in Asia were human. In contrast to the remaining pathogenic Sporothrix species, feline transmission was exceptional; nearly all regional cat-associated cases were caused by Sporothrix schenckii. While the latter species was highly variable and showed recombination, S. globosa seemed to be a clonal offshoot, as was Sporothrix brasiliensis. The origin of the segregants was located in an area of high variability in S. schenckii with a relatively high frequency of Asian strains. CONCLUSION In Asia, S. globosa was the prevalent species. The low diversity of S. globosa suggested a recent divergence with a founder effect of low variability from the variable ancestral species, S. schenckii.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tarek A A Moussa
- Botany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt.,Biological Sciences Department, Faculty of Science, University of Jeddah, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.,Biological Sciences Department, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Naif M S Kadasa
- Biological Sciences Department, Faculty of Science, University of Jeddah, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.,Biological Sciences Department, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hassan S Al Zahrani
- Biological Sciences Department, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Peiying Feng
- Department of Dermatology, Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, PR China.,Westerdijk Fungal Biodiversity Institute, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | - Yu Zhang
- Department of Dermatology, Tianjin Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated Hospital, Tianjin, PR China
| | - Rui Kano
- Department of Pathobiology, Nihon University School of Veterinary Medicine, Fujisawa, Japan
| | - Fuqiu Li
- Department of Dermatology, Second Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin, PR China
| | - Shanshan Li
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, First Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin, PR China
| | - Yang Song
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, First Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin, PR China
| | - Bilin Dong
- Center for Infectious Skin Diseases, Department of Dermatology, No. 1 Hospital of Wuhan, Wuhan, PR China
| | - Luana Rossato
- Laboratório de Micologia, Departamento de Análises Clínicas e Toxicológicas, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Somayeh Dolatabadi
- Faculty of Engineering, Sabzevar University of New Technologies, Sabzevar, Iran.,Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Sabzevar University of Medical Sciences, Sabzevar, Iran.,Westerdijk Fungal Biodiversity Institute, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Sybren de Hoog
- Westerdijk Fungal Biodiversity Institute, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Biological Sciences Department, Faculty of Science, University of Jeddah, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
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60
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Martínez-Álvarez JA, Pérez-García LA, Mellado-Mojica E, López MG, Martínez-Duncker I, Lópes-Bezerra LM, Mora-Montes HM. Sporothrix schenckii sensu stricto and Sporothrix brasiliensis Are Differentially Recognized by Human Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells. Front Microbiol 2017; 8:843. [PMID: 28539922 PMCID: PMC5423980 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2017.00843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2017] [Accepted: 04/25/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Sporothrix schenckii sensu stricto and S. brasiliensis are usually associated to sporotrichosis, a subcutaneous mycosis worldwide distributed. Comparative analyses between these two species indicate they contain genetic and physiological differences that are likely to impact the interaction with host cells. Here, we study the composition of the cell wall from conidia, yeast-like cells and germlings of both species and found they contained the same sugar composition. The carbohydrate proportion in the S. schenckii sensu stricto wall was similar across the three cell morphologies, with exception in the chitin content, which was significantly different in the three morphologies. The cell wall from germlings showed lower rhamnose content and higher glucose levels than other cell morphologies. In S. brasiliensis, the wall sugars were constant in the three morphologies, but glucose was lower in yeast-like cells. In S. schenckii sensu stricto cells most of chitin and β1,3-glucan were underneath wall components, but in S. brasiliensis germlings, chitin was exposed at the cell surface, and β1,3-glucan was found in the outer part of the conidia wall. We also compared the ability of these cells to stimulate cytokine production by human peripheral blood mononuclear cells. The three S. schenckii sensu stricto morphologies stimulated increased levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, when compared to S. brasiliensis cells; while the latter, with exception of conidia, stimulated higher IL-10 levels. Dectin-1 was a key receptor for cytokine production during stimulation with the three morphologies of S. schenckii sensu stricto, but dispensable for cytokine production stimulated by S. brasiliensis germlings. TLR2 and TLR4 were also involved in the sensing of Sporothrix cells, with a major role for the former during cytokine stimulation. Mannose receptor had a minor contribution during cytokine stimulation by S. schenckii sensu stricto yeast-like cells and germlings, but S. schenckii sensu stricto conidia and S. brasiliensis yeast-like cells stimulated pro-inflammatory cytokines via this receptor. In conclusion, S. brasiliensis and S. schenckii sensu stricto, have similar wall composition, which undergoes changes depending on the cell morphology. These differences in the cell wall composition, are likely to influence the contribution of immune receptors during cytokine stimulation by human monocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- José A Martínez-Álvarez
- Departamento de Biología, División de Ciencias Naturales y Exactas, Universidad de GuanajuatoGuanajuato, Mexico
| | - Luis A Pérez-García
- Departamento de Biología, División de Ciencias Naturales y Exactas, Universidad de GuanajuatoGuanajuato, Mexico
| | - Erika Mellado-Mojica
- Centro de Investigacion y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico NacionalIrapuato, Mexico
| | - Mercedes G López
- Centro de Investigacion y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico NacionalIrapuato, Mexico
| | - Iván Martínez-Duncker
- Laboratorio de Glicobiología Humana y Diagnóstico Molecular, Centro de Investigación en Dinámica Celular, Instituto de Investigación en Ciencias Básicas y Aplicada, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de MorelosCuernavaca, Mexico
| | - Leila M Lópes-Bezerra
- Laboratory of Cellular Mycology and Proteomics, Biology Institute, University of Rio de Janeiro StateRio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Héctor M Mora-Montes
- Departamento de Biología, División de Ciencias Naturales y Exactas, Universidad de GuanajuatoGuanajuato, Mexico
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de Almeida JRF, Santiago KL, Kaihami GH, Maranhão AQ, de Macedo Brígido M, de Almeida SR. The Efficacy of Humanized Antibody against the Sporothrix Antigen, gp70, in Promoting Phagocytosis and Reducing Disease Burden. Front Microbiol 2017; 8:345. [PMID: 28316596 PMCID: PMC5334357 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2017.00345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2016] [Accepted: 02/20/2017] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Sporotrichosis is a subcutaneous mycosis distributed worldwide and is frequently reported in countries with tropical climates, as Latin America countries. We previously demonstrated that mice with sporotrichosis produce specific antibodies against a 70-kDa fungal protein, indicating that specific antibodies against this molecule may help to control the sporotrichosis. IgG1 monoclonal antibody was generated, and called mAbP6E7, in mice against a 70-kDa glycoprotein (gp70) of S. schenckii. The mAbP6E7 showed prophylactic and therapeutic activity against sporotrichosis. However, this antibody has a murine origin, and this can generate an immune response when administered to humans, precluding its use for a prolonged time. For its possible use in the treatment of human sporotrichosis, we humanized the mAbP6E7 by genetic engineering. Once expressed, the humanized antibodies had good stability and were able to bind to the 70-kDa cell wall antigens of Sporothrix schenckii and S. brasiliensis. The humanized P6E7 were able to opsonize S. schenckii yeasts, thus increasing the phagocytic index in human monocyte-derived macrophages. The treatment with humanized P6E7 decreased fungal burden in vivo. These data suggest that humanized P6E7 may have a therapeutic role in sporotrichosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- José R F de Almeida
- Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analysis, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of São Paulo São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Karla L Santiago
- Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analysis, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of São Paulo São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Gilberto H Kaihami
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Chemistry, University of São Paulo São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Andrea Q Maranhão
- Department of Cell Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Brasilia Brasilia, Brazil
| | - Marcelo de Macedo Brígido
- Department of Cell Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Brasilia Brasilia, Brazil
| | - Sandro R de Almeida
- Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analysis, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of São Paulo São Paulo, Brazil
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Chen F, Jiang R, Wang Y, Zhu M, Zhang X, Dong S, Shi H, Wang L. Recombinant Phage Elicits Protective Immune Response against Systemic S. globosa Infection in Mouse Model. Sci Rep 2017; 7:42024. [PMID: 28165018 PMCID: PMC5292741 DOI: 10.1038/srep42024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2016] [Accepted: 01/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Sporothrix globosa is a type of fungus that typically infects immunocompromised patients. Its prevention continues to pose a challenge. A 70-KDa glycoprotein (Gp70) of Sporothrix has been previously reported to protect host against infection from this fungus. Here, we displayed an epitope peptide (kpvqhalltplgldr) of Gp70 on the major coat protein (pIII), and investigated its efficiency as a vaccine for preventing S. globosa infection. The recombinant phage and the heat-killed S. globosa were used to immunize mice separately. In this study, we evaluated the humoral and cellular immune responses in the mice and demonstrated that recombinant phage could induce mice to produce a stronger immune response and generate antibodies to inhibit S. globosa infection. Furthermore, immunization with recombinant phage could increase the survival rate of S. globosa infection in mice. All these results together indicated that recombinant phages displaying kpvqhalltplgldr are a potential vaccine candidate against S. globosa infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Chen
- Dermatology Department, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, 126Xiantai Street, Changchun, Jilin Province 130033, People's Republic of China
| | - Rihua Jiang
- Dermatology Department, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, 126Xiantai Street, Changchun, Jilin Province 130033, People's Republic of China
| | - Yicun Wang
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory on Molecular and Chemical Genetic, the Second Hospital of Jilin University, 218 Ziqiang Street, Changchun, Jilin Province 130041, People's Republic of China
| | - Mingji Zhu
- Dermatology Department, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, 126Xiantai Street, Changchun, Jilin Province 130033, People's Republic of China
| | - Xu Zhang
- Department of Hang Surgery, Second Hospital of Qinhuangdao, Hebei 066600, People's Republic of China
| | - Shuai Dong
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics, School of Life Sciences, Northeast Normal University, 5268 Renmin Street, Changchun, Jilin Province 130024, People's Republic of China
| | - Hongxi Shi
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics, School of Life Sciences, Northeast Normal University, 5268 Renmin Street, Changchun, Jilin Province 130024, People's Republic of China
| | - Li Wang
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics, School of Life Sciences, Northeast Normal University, 5268 Renmin Street, Changchun, Jilin Province 130024, People's Republic of China
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Alba-Fierro CA, Pérez-Torres A, Toriello C, Romo-Lozano Y, López-Romero E, Ruiz-Baca E. Molecular Components of the Sporothrix schenckii Complex that Induce Immune Response. Curr Microbiol 2016; 73:292-300. [PMID: 27117164 DOI: 10.1007/s00284-016-1045-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2016] [Accepted: 03/12/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Sporotrichosis is a fungal disease caused by the Sporothrix schenckii complex that includes species such as S. brasiliensis, S. schenckii sensu stricto, S. globosa, S. luriei, S. mexicana, and S. pallida, which exhibit different potentially antigenic molecular components. The immune response of susceptible hosts to control infection and disease caused by these fungi has been little studied. Besides, the fungus-host interaction induces the activation of different types of immune response. This mini-review analyzes and discusses existing reports on the identification and functional characterization of molecules from species of the S. schenckii complex with clinical relevance, and the mechanisms that mediate the type and magnitude of the immune response in experimental models in vivo and in vitro. This knowledge is expected to contribute to the development of protective and therapeutic strategies against sporotrichosis and other mycoses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos A Alba-Fierro
- Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Juárez del Estado de Durango, Av. Veterinaria S/N, 34120, Durango, Dgo., Mexico
| | - Armando Pérez-Torres
- Departamento de Biología Celular y Tisular, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, 04510, Mexico, D.F., Mexico
| | - Conchita Toriello
- Departamento de Microbiología y Parasitología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, 04510, Mexico, D.F., Mexico
| | - Yolanda Romo-Lozano
- Departamento de Microbiología, Centro de Ciencias Básicas, Universidad Autónoma de Aguascalientes, Av. Universidad # 940, 20131, Aguascalientes, Ags., Mexico
| | - Everardo López-Romero
- Departamento de Biología, División de Ciencias Naturales y Exactas, Campus Guanajuato, Universidad de Guanajuato, Noria Alta S/N, C.P. 36050, Guanajuato, Gto., Mexico
| | - Estela Ruiz-Baca
- Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Juárez del Estado de Durango, Av. Veterinaria S/N, 34120, Durango, Dgo., Mexico.
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Fischman Gompertz O, Rodrigues AM, Fernandes GF, Bentubo HDL, de Camargo ZP, Petri V. Atypical Clinical Presentation of Sporotrichosis Caused by Sporothrix globosa Resistant to Itraconazole. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2016; 94:1218-22. [PMID: 27114300 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.15-0267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2015] [Accepted: 01/09/2016] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Sporotrichosis is a polymorphic disease of humans and animals, which is acquired via traumatic inoculation of Sporothrix propagules into cutaneous or subcutaneous tissue. The etiological agents are in a clinical complex, which includes Sporothrix brasiliensis, Sporothrix schenckii, Sporothrix globosa, and Sporothrix luriei, each of which has specific epidemiological and virulence characteristics. Classical manifestation in humans includes a fixed localized lesion at the site of trauma plus lymphocutaneous sporotrichosis with fungal spreading along the lymphatic channels. Atypical sporotrichosis is a challenge to diagnosis because it can mimic many other dermatological diseases. We report an unusual, itraconazole-resistant cutaneous lesion of sporotrichosis in a 66-year-old Brazilian man. Histopathological examination of the skin revealed vascular and fibroblastic proliferation with chronic granulomatous infiltrate composed of multinucleated giant cells. Sporothrix were isolated from the skin lesion, and phylogenetic analyses confirmed it to be sporotrichosis due to S. globosa, a widespread pathogen. Immunoblotting analysis showed several IgG-reactive molecules in autochthonous preparations of the whole cellular proteins (160, 80, 60, 55, 46, 38, 35, and 30 kDa) and exoantigen (35 and 33 kDa). The patient was first unsuccessfully treated with daily itraconazole, and then successfully treated with potassium iodide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga Fischman Gompertz
- Cell Biology Division, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil; Department of Dermatology, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Anderson M Rodrigues
- Cell Biology Division, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil; Department of Dermatology, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Geisa F Fernandes
- Cell Biology Division, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil; Department of Dermatology, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Henri D L Bentubo
- Cell Biology Division, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil; Department of Dermatology, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Zoilo Pires de Camargo
- Cell Biology Division, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil; Department of Dermatology, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Valéria Petri
- Cell Biology Division, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil; Department of Dermatology, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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Immune Response Induced by an Immunodominant 60 kDa Glycoprotein of the Cell Wall of Sporothrix schenckii in Two Mice Strains with Experimental Sporotrichosis. J Immunol Res 2016; 2016:6525831. [PMID: 27051673 PMCID: PMC4808653 DOI: 10.1155/2016/6525831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2015] [Accepted: 01/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Cell wall (CW) components of fungus Sporothrix schenckii are the major inductors antigens of immune responses. The immunodominant 60 kDa glycoprotein (gp60) has been shown to be associated with the virulence of this fungus but its role in experimental sporotrichosis is unknown. In this work, the immunological effects of CW-purified gp60 were investigated in a model of experimental subcutaneous sporotrichosis in normal and gp60-preimmunized C57BL/6 and BALB/c mice strains which were then infected with S. schenckii conidia. Results showed that both mice strains use different cytokine profiles in order to fight S. schenckii infection; C57BL/6 mice seem to use a Th17 response while BALB/c mice tend to depend on a Th1 profile. Preimmunization with gp60 showed a downregulatory effect on the immune response since cytokines levels were diminished in both strains. There were no significant differences in the magnitude of dorsoplantar inflammation between gp60-preimmunized and nonimmunized mice of both strains. However, skin lesions due to the infection in gp60-preimmunized mice were more severe in BALB/c than in C57BL/6 mice, suggesting that the antigen exerts a higher downregulatory effect on the Th1 response.
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Borba-Santos LP, Visbal G, Gagini T, Rodrigues AM, de Camargo ZP, Lopes-Bezerra LM, Ishida K, de Souza W, Rozental S. Δ(24)-Sterol Methyltransferase Plays an Important Role in the Growth and Development of Sporothrix schenckii and Sporothrix brasiliensis. Front Microbiol 2016; 7:311. [PMID: 27014234 PMCID: PMC4786573 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2016.00311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2016] [Accepted: 02/26/2016] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Inhibition of Δ24-sterol methyltransferase (24-SMT) in Sporothrix schenckii sensu stricto and Sporothrix brasiliensis was investigated in vitro. The effects on fungal growth and sterol composition of the 24-SMT inhibitor 22-hydrazone-imidazolin-2-yl-chol-5-ene-3β-ol (H3) were compared to those of itraconazole. MIC and MFC analysis showed that H3 was more effective than itraconazole against both species in both their filamentous and yeast forms. H3 showed fungistatic activity in a time-kill assay, with inhibitory activity stronger than that of itraconazole. GC analysis of cell sterol composition showed that sterols present in control cells (ergosterol and precursors) were completely replaced by 14α-methylated sterols after H3 exposure. Itraconazole only partially inhibited ergosterol synthesis but completely arrested synthesis of other sterols found in control cells, promoting accumulation of nine 14α-methyl sterols. Based on these results, we propose a schematic model of sterol biosynthesis pathways in S. schenckii and S. brasiliensis. Effects on cell morphology due to 24-SMT inhibition by H3 as analyzed by SEM and TEM included irregular cell shape, reduced cytoplasmic electron-density, and reduced thickness of the microfibrillar cell wall layer. Moreover, 24-SMT inhibition by H3 promoted mitochondrial disturbance, as demonstrated by alterations in MitoTracker® Red CMXRos fluorescence intensity evaluated by flow cytometry. When used in conjunction with itraconazole, H3 enhanced the effectiveness of itraconazole against all tested strains, reducing at least half (or more) the MIC values of itraconazole. In addition, cytotoxicity assays revealed that H3 was more selective toward these fungi than was itraconazole. Thus, 24-SMT inhibition by H3 was an effective antifungal strategy against S. schenckii and S. brasiliensis. Inhibition of the methylation reaction catalyzed by 24-SMT has a strong antiproliferative effect via disruption of ergosterol homeostasis, suggesting that this enzyme is a promising target for novel antifungal therapies against sporotrichosis, either as sole treatments or in combination with itraconazole.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luana P Borba-Santos
- Laboratório de Biologia Celular de Fungos, Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Gonzalo Visbal
- Instituto Nacional de Metrologia, Qualidade e TecnologiaDuque de Caxias, Brazil; Instituto Venezolano de Investigaciones CientíficasCaracas, Venezuela
| | - Thalita Gagini
- Laboratório de Biologia Celular de Fungos, Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Anderson M Rodrigues
- Departamento de Microbiologia, Imunologia e Parasitologia, Universidade Federal de São Paulo São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Zoilo P de Camargo
- Departamento de Microbiologia, Imunologia e Parasitologia, Universidade Federal de São Paulo São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Leila M Lopes-Bezerra
- Departamento de Biologia Celular, Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Kelly Ishida
- Departamento de Microbiologia, Universidade de São Paulo São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Wanderley de Souza
- Laboratório de Ultraestrutura Celular Hertha Meyer, Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Sonia Rozental
- Laboratório de Biologia Celular de Fungos, Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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Analysis of Sporothrix schenckii sensu stricto and Sporothrix brasiliensis virulence in Galleria mellonella. J Microbiol Methods 2016; 122:73-7. [PMID: 26826293 DOI: 10.1016/j.mimet.2016.01.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2015] [Revised: 01/25/2016] [Accepted: 01/26/2016] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The study of the host-pathogen interaction is essential to understand the mechanisms underlying adhesion, colonization and tissue damage by pathogens. This is usually achieved by performing in vivo studies using small mammals, such as rats, mice and guinea pigs. Nowadays, the mouse models of systemic or subcutaneous infection are the gold standard assays to analyze the virulence of members of the Sporothrix schenckii complex. There are, however, invertebrates that have been recently used as alternative hosts to assess the virulence of both bacteria and fungi, and among them, larvae of Galleria mellonella are popular because they are easy to breed, and require non-specialized facilities to maintain the colony. Here, we assessed the use of G. mellonella larvae to test the virulence of S. schenckii sensu stricto and Sporothrix brasiliensis strains, and found that infection with yeast-like cells, but not with conidia or germlings, reproduces the virulence data generated in the mouse model of infection. Furthermore, with this insect model we could classify the virulence of some strains as low, intermediate or high, in line with the observations in the mammalian model. Therefore, G. mellonella is suitable, and a new alternative, to test virulence of both S. schenckii sensu stricto and S. brasiliensis.
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Portuondo DL, Batista-Duharte A, Ferreira LS, Martínez DT, Polesi MC, Duarte RA, de Paula E Silva ACA, Marcos CM, Almeida AMFD, Carlos IZ. A cell wall protein-based vaccine candidate induce protective immune response against Sporothrix schenckii infection. Immunobiology 2015; 221:300-9. [PMID: 26547105 DOI: 10.1016/j.imbio.2015.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2015] [Revised: 10/03/2015] [Accepted: 10/23/2015] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Sporotrichosis is a subcutaneous mycosis caused by several closely related thermo-dimorphic fungi of the Sporothrix schenckii species complex, affecting humans and other mammals. In the last few years, new strategies have been proposed for controlling sporotrichosis owning to concerns about its growing incidence in humans, cats, and dogs in Brazil, as well as the toxicity and limited efficacy of conventional antifungal drugs. In this study, we assessed the immunogenicity and protective properties of two aluminum hydroxide (AH)-adsorbed S. schenckii cell wall protein (ssCWP)-based vaccine formulations in a mouse model of systemic S. schenckii infection. Fractioning by SDS-PAGE revealed nine protein bands, two of which were functionally characterized: a 44kDa peptide hydrolase and a 47kDa enolase, which was predicted to be an adhesin. Sera from immunized mice recognized the 47kDa enolase and another unidentified 71kDa protein, whereas serum from S. schenckii-infected mice recognized both these proteins plus another unidentified 9.4kDa protein. Furthermore, opsonization with the anti-ssCWP sera led to markedly increased phagocytosis and was able to strongly inhibit the fungus' adhesion to fibroblasts. Immunization with the higher-dose AH-adjuvanted formulation led to increased ex vivo release of IL-12, IFN-γ, IL-4, and IL-17, whereas only IL-12 and IFN-γ were induced by the higher-dose non-adjuvanted formulation. Lastly, passive transference of the higher-dose AH-adjuvanted formulation's anti-ssCWP serum was able to afford in vivo protection in a subsequent challenge with S. schenckii, becoming a viable vaccine candidate for further testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deivys Leandro Portuondo
- Department of Clinical Analysis, Araraquara's School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universidade Estadual Paulista-UNESP, Júlio Mesquita Filho, Rua Expedicionários do Brasil, 1621, Postal Code: 14801-902, Araraquara, SP, Brazil.
| | - Alexander Batista-Duharte
- Immunotoxicology Laboratory, Toxicology and Biomedicine Center (TOXIMED), Medical Science University, Autopista Nacional Km. 1 1/2CP 90400, AP 4033 Santiago de Cuba, Cuba.
| | - Lucas Souza Ferreira
- Department of Clinical Analysis, Araraquara's School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universidade Estadual Paulista-UNESP, Júlio Mesquita Filho, Rua Expedicionários do Brasil, 1621, Postal Code: 14801-902, Araraquara, SP, Brazil.
| | - Damiana Téllez Martínez
- Department of Clinical Analysis, Araraquara's School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universidade Estadual Paulista-UNESP, Júlio Mesquita Filho, Rua Expedicionários do Brasil, 1621, Postal Code: 14801-902, Araraquara, SP, Brazil.
| | - Marisa Campos Polesi
- Department of Clinical Analysis, Araraquara's School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universidade Estadual Paulista-UNESP, Júlio Mesquita Filho, Rua Expedicionários do Brasil, 1621, Postal Code: 14801-902, Araraquara, SP, Brazil.
| | - Roberta Aparecida Duarte
- Department of Clinical Analysis, Araraquara's School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universidade Estadual Paulista-UNESP, Júlio Mesquita Filho, Rua Expedicionários do Brasil, 1621, Postal Code: 14801-902, Araraquara, SP, Brazil.
| | - Ana Carolina Alves de Paula E Silva
- Department of Clinical Analysis, Araraquara's School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universidade Estadual Paulista-UNESP, Júlio Mesquita Filho, Rua Expedicionários do Brasil, 1621, Postal Code: 14801-902, Araraquara, SP, Brazil.
| | - Caroline Maria Marcos
- Department of Clinical Analysis, Araraquara's School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universidade Estadual Paulista-UNESP, Júlio Mesquita Filho, Rua Expedicionários do Brasil, 1621, Postal Code: 14801-902, Araraquara, SP, Brazil.
| | - Ana Marisa Fusco de Almeida
- Department of Clinical Analysis, Araraquara's School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universidade Estadual Paulista-UNESP, Júlio Mesquita Filho, Rua Expedicionários do Brasil, 1621, Postal Code: 14801-902, Araraquara, SP, Brazil.
| | - Iracilda Zeppone Carlos
- Department of Clinical Analysis, Araraquara's School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universidade Estadual Paulista-UNESP, Júlio Mesquita Filho, Rua Expedicionários do Brasil, 1621, Postal Code: 14801-902, Araraquara, SP, Brazil.
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Rodrigues AM, Fernandes GF, Araujo LM, Della Terra PP, dos Santos PO, Pereira SA, Schubach TMP, Burger E, Lopes-Bezerra LM, de Camargo ZP. Proteomics-Based Characterization of the Humoral Immune Response in Sporotrichosis: Toward Discovery of Potential Diagnostic and Vaccine Antigens. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2015; 9:e0004016. [PMID: 26305691 PMCID: PMC4549111 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0004016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2015] [Accepted: 07/29/2015] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Sporothrix schenckii and associated species are agents of human and animal sporotrichosis that cause large sapronoses and zoonoses worldwide. Epidemiological surveillance has highlighted an overwhelming occurrence of the highly pathogenic fungus Sporothrix brasiliensis during feline outbreaks, leading to massive transmissions to humans. Early diagnosis of feline sporotrichosis by demonstrating the presence of a surrogate marker of infection can have a key role for selecting appropriate disease control measures and minimizing zoonotic transmission to humans. Methodology We explored the presence and diversity of serum antibodies (IgG) specific against Sporothrix antigens in cats with sporotrichosis and evaluated the utility of these antibodies for serodiagnosis. Antigen profiling included protein extracts from the closest known relatives S. brasiliensis and S. schenckii. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays and immunoblotting enabled us to characterize the major antigens of feline sporotrichosis from sera from cats with sporotrichosis (n = 49), healthy cats (n = 19), and cats with other diseases (n = 20). Principal Findings Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay-based quantitation of anti-Sporothrix IgG exhibited high sensitivity and specificity in cats with sporotrichosis (area under the curve, 1.0; 95% confidence interval, 0.94–1; P<0.0001) versus controls. The two sets of Sporothrix antigens were remarkably cross-reactive, supporting the hypothesis that antigenic epitopes may be conserved among closely related agents. One-dimensional immunoblotting indicated that 3-carboxymuconate cyclase (a 60-kDa protein in S. brasiliensis and a 70-kDa protein in S. schenckii) is the immunodominant antigen in feline sporotrichosis. Two-dimensional immunoblotting revealed six IgG-reactive isoforms of gp60 in the S. brasiliensis proteome, similar to the humoral response found in human sporotrichosis. Conclusions A convergent IgG-response in various hosts (mice, cats, and humans) has important implications for our understanding of the coevolution of Sporothrix and its warm-blooded hosts. We propose that 3-carboxymuconate cyclase has potential for the serological diagnosis of sporotrichosis and as target for the development of an effective multi-species vaccine against sporotrichosis in animals and humans. Sporotrichosis is a neglected fungal disease of humans and animals that remains a serious public-health problem. Sporothrix infections persist in cats, leading to continued transmission via cat-to-cat and cat-to-human contact. Cats are the major source of transmission of Sporothrix brasiliensis to the human population. We stress the importance of implementing health policies aimed at detecting Sporothrix infection in cats as an attempt to reduce massive zoonotic transmission to humans. Early diagnosis of feline sporotrichosis is critical to recognize outbreaks areas and effectively tackle future spread of the disease among humans. We explored the diversity of molecules that are expressed by S. brasiliensis and S. schenckii and that are recognized by immunoglobulin G. Upon infection, the cat delivers an IgG-mediated response against Sporothrix antigens, similar to the response in murine and human sporotrichosis. We detected remarkable cross-reactivity among S. brasiliensis and S. schenckii antigens, supporting the hypothesis that antigenic epitopes may be conserved among closely related species. One protein, 3-carboxymuconate cyclase, was prominent in immune profiles from infected animals, using both types of Sporothrix antigens. Knowledge of the immune response in feline sporotrichosis is critical to advancing techniques for serological diagnosis, developing vaccines, and improving our understanding of Sporothrix evolution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anderson Messias Rodrigues
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, Discipline of Cellular Biology, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- * E-mail: (AMR); (ZPdC)
| | - Geisa Ferreira Fernandes
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, Discipline of Cellular Biology, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Leticia Mendes Araujo
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, Discipline of Cellular Biology, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Paula Portella Della Terra
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, Discipline of Cellular Biology, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Priscila Oliveira dos Santos
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, Discipline of Cellular Biology, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sandro Antonio Pereira
- Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (INI/Fiocruz), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | | | - Eva Burger
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Biomedical Sciences Institute, Federal University of Alfenas, Alfenas, Brazil
| | | | - Zoilo Pires de Camargo
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, Discipline of Cellular Biology, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- * E-mail: (AMR); (ZPdC)
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Mora-Montes HM, Dantas ADS, Trujillo-Esquivel E, de Souza Baptista AR, Lopes-Bezerra LM. Current progress in the biology of members of the Sporothrix schenckii complex following the genomic era. FEMS Yeast Res 2015; 15:fov065. [PMID: 26260509 DOI: 10.1093/femsyr/fov065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/05/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Sporotrichosis has been attributed for more than a century to one single etiological agent, Sporothrix schencki. Only eight years ago, it was described that, in fact, the disease is caused by several pathogenic cryptic species. The present review will focus on recent advances to understand the biology and virulence of epidemiologically relevant pathogenic species of the S. schenckii complex. The main subjects covered are the new clinical and epidemiological aspects including diagnostic and therapeutic challenges, the development of molecular tools, the genome database and the perspectives for study of virulence of emerging Sporothrix species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Héctor M Mora-Montes
- Departamento de Biología, División de Ciencias Naturales y Exactas, Campus Guanajuato, Universidad de Guanajuato, CP 36050, Guanajuato, Gto., México
| | - Alessandra da Silva Dantas
- Laboratório de Micologia Celular e Proteômica, Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro (UERJ), CEP 20550-013 Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Elías Trujillo-Esquivel
- Departamento de Biología, División de Ciencias Naturales y Exactas, Campus Guanajuato, Universidad de Guanajuato, CP 36050, Guanajuato, Gto., México
| | - Andrea R de Souza Baptista
- Laboratório de Micologia Médica e Molecular, Universidade Federal Fluminense (UFF), CEP 24210-130 Niterói, RJ, Brazil
| | - Leila M Lopes-Bezerra
- Laboratório de Micologia Celular e Proteômica, Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro (UERJ), CEP 20550-013 Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
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Phenotypic characteristics associated with virulence of clinical isolates from the Sporothrix complex. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2015; 2015:212308. [PMID: 25961005 PMCID: PMC4417584 DOI: 10.1155/2015/212308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2014] [Revised: 01/30/2015] [Accepted: 01/31/2015] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The Sporothrix complex members cause sporotrichosis, a subcutaneous mycosis with a wide spectrum of clinical manifestations. Several specific phenotypic characteristics are associated with virulence in many fungi, but studies in this field involving the Sporothrix complex species are scarce. Melanization, thermotolerance, and production of proteases, catalase, and urease were investigated in 61 S. brasiliensis, one S. globosa, and 10 S. schenckii strains. The S. brasiliensis strains showed a higher expression of melanin and urease compared with S. schenckii. These two species, however, presented similar thermotolerances. Our S. globosa strain had low expression of all studied virulence factors. The relationship between these phenotypes and clinical aspects of sporotrichosis was also evaluated. Strains isolated from patients with spontaneous regression of infection were heavily melanized and produced high urease levels. Melanin was also related to dissemination of internal organs and protease production was associated with HIV-coinfection. A murine sporotrichosis model showed that a S. brasiliensis strain with high expression of virulence factors was able to disseminate and yield a high fungal burden in comparison with a control S. schenckii strain. Our results show that virulence-related phenotypes are variably expressed within the Sporothrix complex species and might be involved in clinical aspects of sporotrichosis.
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72
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Phylogeography and evolutionary patterns in Sporothrix spanning more than 14 000 human and animal case reports. Persoonia - Molecular Phylogeny and Evolution of Fungi 2015; 35:1-20. [PMID: 26823625 PMCID: PMC4713101 DOI: 10.3767/003158515x687416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 136] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2014] [Accepted: 10/21/2014] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Pathology to vertebrate hosts has emerged repeatedly in the order Ophiostomatales. Occasional infections have been observed in Sporothrix mexicana at a low level of virulence, while the main pathogenic species cluster in a derived clade around S. schenckii s.str. In this paper, phylogeny and epidemiology of the members of this clade were investigated for 99 clinical and 36 environmental strains using four genetic loci, viz. rDNA ITS and partial CAL, TEF1, and TEF3; data are compared with amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) genotyping. The four main species of the pathogenic clade were recognised. The species proved to show high degrees of endemicity, which enabled interpretation of literature data where live material or genetic information is lacking. The clade of four species comprised nine subclusters, which often had limited geographic distribution and were separate from each other in all partitions, suggesting low degrees of interbreeding between populations. In contrast, S. globosa exhibited consistent global distribution of identical AFLP types, suggesting another type of dispersal. Sporothrix brasiliensis is known to be involved in an expanding zoonosis and transmitted by cats, whereas S. globosa infections originated from putrid plant material, causing a sapronosis. Sporothrix schenckii s.str., the most variable species within the clade, also had a plant origin, with ecological similarities to that of S. globosa. A hypothesis was put forward that highly specific conditions in the plant material are required to promote the growth of Sporothrix. Fermented, self-heated plant debris may stimulate the thermodependent yeast-like invasive form of the fungus, which facilitates repeated infection of mammals.
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73
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Lopes-Bezerra LM, Mora-Montes HM. Sporothrix and sporotrichosis: Contributions from the first international meeting sponsored by the Working Group on Sporothrix and sporotrichosis of the International Society for Human and Animal Mycology, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, October, 2013. Med Mycol 2015; 53:1-2. [DOI: 10.1093/mmy/myu096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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74
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Peroxide sensing and signaling in the Sporothrix schenckii complex: an in silico analysis to uncover putative mechanisms regulating the Hog1 and AP-1 like signaling pathways. Med Mycol 2014; 53:51-9. [DOI: 10.1093/mmy/myu069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
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75
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de Almeida JRF, Kaihami GH, Jannuzzi GP, de Almeida SR. Therapeutic vaccine using a monoclonal antibody against a 70-kDa glycoprotein in mice infected with highly virulent Sporothrix schenckii and Sporothrix brasiliensis. Med Mycol 2014; 53:42-50. [PMID: 25533623 DOI: 10.1093/mmy/myu049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Sporotrichosis is a chronic granulomatous mycosis caused by the dimorphic fungi that comprise the Sporothrix complex. The latter are widely distributed in nature, developing a saprophytic mycelial form on plant debris and soil. Formerly, the S. schenckii species was thought to be the only species capable of causing sporotrichosis. However, in recent years, the existence of a group of highly genotypically and phenotypically variable species has been reported as etiologic agents of this mycosis. Recently, it has become important to study aspects such as virulence and the immune response against key members of the Sporothrix complex and to observe the presence of glycoprotein (gp) 70 and efficacy of the P6E7 monoclonal antibody against more virulent strains. The data presented here demonstrate that the strain isolated from a case of feline sporotrichosis, that is, strain 5110 (American Type Culture Collection MYA-4823) is the most virulent and the only one able to secrete gp70. This glycoprotein is apparently an important factor in the virulence of Sporothrix spp. because treatment with MAb P6E7 resulted in the reduction of fungal burden in the analyzed organs. Additional studies of the role of gp70 in modulating the immune response of the host are needed to understand the pathology of sporotrichosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Roberto Fogaça de Almeida
- Departamento de Análises Clínicas e Toxicológicas, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Gilberto Hideo Kaihami
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Grasielle Pereira Jannuzzi
- Departamento de Análises Clínicas e Toxicológicas, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sandro Rogerio de Almeida
- Departamento de Análises Clínicas e Toxicológicas, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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76
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Lopes-Bezerra LM, Lozoya-Pérez NE, López-Ramírez LA, Martínez-Álvarez JA, Teixeira MM, Felipe MSS, Flores-Carreón A, Mora-Montes HM. Functional characterization of Sporothrix schenckii glycosidases involved in the N-linked glycosylation pathway. Med Mycol 2014; 53:60-8. [PMID: 25526779 DOI: 10.1093/mmy/myu057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Protein glycosylation pathways are conserved metabolic processes in eukaryotic organisms and are required for cell fitness. In fungal pathogens, the N-linked glycosylation pathway is indispensable for proper cell wall composition and virulence. In Sporothrix schenckii sensu stricto, the causative agent of sporotrichosis, little is known about this glycosylation pathway. Here, using a genome-wide screening for putative members of the glycosyl hydrolase (CAZy - GH) families 47 and 63, which group enzymes involved in the processing step during N-linked glycan maturation, we found seven homologue genes belonging to family 47 and one to family 63. The eight genes were individually expressed in C. albicans null mutants lacking either MNS1 (for members of family 47) or CWH41 (for the member of family 63). Our results indicate that SsCWH41 is the functional ortholog of CaCWH41, whereas SsMNS1 is the functional ortholog of CaMNS1. The remaining genes of family 47 encode Golgi mannosidases and endoplasmic reticulum degradation-enhancing alpha-mannosidase-like proteins (EDEMs). Since these GH families gather proteins used as target for drugs to control cell growth, identification of these genes could help in the design of antifungals that could be used to treat sporotrichosis and other fungal diseases. In addition, to our knowledge, we are the first to report that Golgi mannosidases and EDEMs are expressed and characterized in yeast cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leila M Lopes-Bezerra
- Departamento de Biologia Celular, Instituto de Biologia Roberto Alcântara Gomes, Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Nancy E Lozoya-Pérez
- Departamento de Biología, División de Ciencias Naturales y Exactas, Campus Guanajuato, Universidad de Guanajuato, Noria Alta s/n, colonia Noria Alta, Guanajuato, Guanajuato, México
| | - Luz A López-Ramírez
- Departamento de Biología, División de Ciencias Naturales y Exactas, Campus Guanajuato, Universidad de Guanajuato, Noria Alta s/n, colonia Noria Alta, Guanajuato, Guanajuato, México
| | - José A Martínez-Álvarez
- Departamento de Biología, División de Ciencias Naturales y Exactas, Campus Guanajuato, Universidad de Guanajuato, Noria Alta s/n, colonia Noria Alta, Guanajuato, Guanajuato, México
| | - Marcus M Teixeira
- Departamento de Biologia Celular, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil
| | - Maria S S Felipe
- Departamento de Biologia Celular, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil
| | - Arturo Flores-Carreón
- Departamento de Biología, División de Ciencias Naturales y Exactas, Campus Guanajuato, Universidad de Guanajuato, Noria Alta s/n, colonia Noria Alta, Guanajuato, Guanajuato, México
| | - Héctor M Mora-Montes
- Departamento de Biología, División de Ciencias Naturales y Exactas, Campus Guanajuato, Universidad de Guanajuato, Noria Alta s/n, colonia Noria Alta, Guanajuato, Guanajuato, México
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77
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Asexual propagation of a virulent clone complex in a human and feline outbreak of sporotrichosis. EUKARYOTIC CELL 2014; 14:158-69. [PMID: 25480940 DOI: 10.1128/ec.00153-14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Sporotrichosis is one of the most frequent subcutaneous fungal infections in humans and animals caused by members of the plant-associated, dimorphic genus Sporothrix. Three of the four medically important Sporothrix species found in Brazil have been considered asexual as no sexual stage has ever been reported in Sporothrix schenckii, Sporothrix brasiliensis, or Sporothrix globosa. We have identified the mating type (MAT) loci in the S. schenckii (strain 1099-18/ATCC MYA-4821) and S. brasiliensis (strain 5110/ATCC MYA-4823) genomes by using comparative genomic approaches to determine the mating type ratio in these pathogen populations. Our analysis revealed the presence of a MAT1-1 locus in S. schenckii while a MAT1-2 locus was found in S. brasiliensis representing genomic synteny to other Sordariomycetes. Furthermore, the components of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)-pheromone pathway, pheromone processing enzymes, and meiotic regulators have also been identified in the two pathogens, suggesting the potential for sexual reproduction. The ratio of MAT1-1 to MAT1-2 was not significantly different from 1:1 for all three Sporothrix species, but the population of S. brasiliensis in the outbreaks originated from a single mating type. We also explored the population genetic structure of these pathogens using sequence data of two loci to improve our knowledge of the pattern of geographic distribution, genetic variation, and virulence phenotypes. Population genetics data showed significant population differentiation and clonality with a low level of haplotype diversity in S. brasiliensis isolates from different regions of sporotrichosis outbreaks in Brazil. In contrast, S. schenckii isolates demonstrated a high degree of genetic variability without significant geographic differentiation, indicating the presence of recombination. This study demonstrated that two species causing the same disease have contrasting reproductive strategies and genetic variability patterns.
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78
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Immunoproteomic analysis reveals a convergent humoral response signature in the Sporothrix schenckii complex. J Proteomics 2014; 115:8-22. [PMID: 25434489 DOI: 10.1016/j.jprot.2014.11.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2014] [Revised: 10/27/2014] [Accepted: 11/16/2014] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Sporotrichosis is a polymorphic disease that affects both humans and animals worldwide. The fungus gains entry into a warm-blooded host through minor trauma to the skin, typically by contaminated vegetation or by scratches and bites from a diseased cat. Cellular and humoral responses triggered upon pathogen introduction play important roles in the development and severity of the disease. We investigated molecules expressed during the host-parasite interplay that elicit the humoral response in human sporotrichosis. For antigenic profiling, Sporothrix yeast cell extracts were separated by two-dimensional (2D) gel electrophoresis and probed with pooled sera from individuals with fixed cutaneous and lymphocutaneous sporotrichosis. Thirty-five IgG-seroreactive spots were identified as eight specific proteins by MALDI-ToF/MS. Remarkable cross-reactivity among Sporothrix brasiliensis, Sporothrix schenckii, and Sporothrix globosa was noted and antibodies strongly reacted with the 70-kDa protein (gp70), irrespective of clinical manifestation. Gp70 was successfully identified in multiple spots as 3-carboxymuconate cyclase. In addition, 2D-DIGE characterization suggested that the major antigen of sporotrichosis undergoes post-translational modifications involving glycosylation and amino acid substitution, resulting in at least six isoforms and glycoforms that were present in the pathogenic species but absent in the ancestral non-virulent Sporothrix mexicana. Although a primary environmental function related to the benzoate degradation pathway of aromatic polymers has been attributed to orthologs of this molecule, our findings support the hypothesis that gp70 is important for pathogenesis and invasion in human sporotrichosis. We propose a diverse panel of new putative candidate molecules for diagnostic tests and vaccine development. BIOLOGICAL SIGNIFICANCE Outbreaks due to Sporothrix spp. have emerged over time, affecting thousands of patients worldwide. A sophisticated host-pathogen interplay drives the manifestation and severity of infection, involving immune responses elicited upon traumatic exposure of the skin barrier to the pathogen followed by immune evasion. Using an immunoproteomic approach we characterized proteins of potential significance in pathogenesis and invasion that trigger the humoral response during human sporotrichosis. We found gp70 to be a cross-immunogenic protein shared among pathogenic Sporothrix spp. but absent in the ancestral environmental S. mexicana, supporting the hypothesis that gp70 plays key roles in pathogenicity. For the first time, we demonstrate with 2D-DIGE that post-translational modifications putatively involve glycosylation and amino acid substitution, resulting in at least six isoforms and glycoforms, all of them IgG-reactive. These findings of a convergent humoral response highlight gp70 as an important target serological diagnosis and for vaccine development among phylogenetically related agents of sporotrichosis.
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79
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Borba-Santos LP, Rodrigues AM, Gagini TB, Fernandes GF, Castro R, de Camargo ZP, Nucci M, Lopes-Bezerra LM, Ishida K, Rozental S. Susceptibility of Sporothrix brasiliensis isolates to amphotericin B, azoles, and terbinafine. Med Mycol 2014; 53:178-88. [PMID: 25394542 DOI: 10.1093/mmy/myu056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The in vitro activity of the antifungal agents amphotericin B (AMB), itraconazole (ITC), posaconazole (PSC), voriconazole (VRC), and terbinafine (TRB) against 32 Brazilian isolates of Sporothrix brasiliensis, including 16 isolates from a recent (2011-2012) epidemic in Rio de Janeiro state, was examined. We describe and genotype new isolates and clustered them with 16 older (from 2004 or earlier) S. brasiliensis isolates by phylogenetic analysis. We tested both the yeast and the mycelium form of all isolates using broth microdilution methods based on the reference protocols M38-A2 and M27-A3 (recommended by the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute). Considering minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) and minimum fungicidal concentrations (MFCs), TRB was found to be the most active drug in vitro for both fungal forms, followed by PSC. Several isolates showed high MICs for AMB and/or ITC, which are currently used as first-line therapy for sporotrichosis. VRC displayed very low activity against S. brasiliensis isolates. The primary morphological modification observed on treated yeasts by transmission electron microscopy analysis was changes in cell wall. Our results indicate that TRB is the antifungal with the best in vitro activity against S. brasiliensis and support the use of TRB as a promising option for the treatment of cutaneous and/or lymphocutaneous sporotrichosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luana Pereira Borba-Santos
- Institute of Biophysics Carlos Chagas Filho, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Anderson Messias Rodrigues
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Thalita Braga Gagini
- Institute of Biophysics Carlos Chagas Filho, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Geisa Ferreira Fernandes
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Rafaela Castro
- Department of Cell Biology, State University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Zoilo Pires de Camargo
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Marcio Nucci
- University Hospital Clementino Fraga Filho, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | | | - Kelly Ishida
- Department of Microbiology, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sonia Rozental
- Institute of Biophysics Carlos Chagas Filho, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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80
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Téllez MD, Batista-Duharte A, Portuondo D, Quinello C, Bonne-Hernández R, Carlos IZ. Sporothrix
schenckii complex biology: environment and fungal pathogenicity. Microbiology (Reading) 2014; 160:2352-2365. [DOI: 10.1099/mic.0.081794-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Sporothrix schenckii is a complex of various species of fungus found in soils, plants, decaying vegetables and other outdoor environments. It is the aetiological agent of sporotrichosis in humans and several animals. Humans and animals can acquire the disease through traumatic inoculation of the fungus into subcutaneous tissue. Despite the importance of sporotrichosis, it being currently regarded as an emergent disease in several countries, the factors driving its increasing medical importance are still largely unknown. There have only been a few studies addressing the influence of the environment on the virulence of these pathogens. However, recent studies have demonstrated that adverse conditions in its natural habitats can trigger the expression of different virulence factors that confer survival advantages both in animal hosts and in the environment. In this review, we provide updates on the important advances in the understanding of the biology of Spor. schenckii and the modification of its virulence linked to demonstrated or putative environmental factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. D. Téllez
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universidade Estadual Paulista Julio Mesquita Filho, UNESP Rua Expedicionarios do Brasil 1621-CEP : 14801-902, Araraquara, SP, Brazil
- Faculty of Chemical Engineering, Oriente University, Ave Las Americas, Santiago de Cuba, Cuba
| | - A. Batista-Duharte
- Immunotoxicology Laboratory, Toxicology and Biomedicine Center (TOXIMED), Medical Science University, Autopista Nacional Km. 1 1/2 CP 90400, Santiago de Cuba, Cuba
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universidade Estadual Paulista Julio Mesquita Filho, UNESP Rua Expedicionarios do Brasil 1621-CEP : 14801-902, Araraquara, SP, Brazil
| | - D. Portuondo
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universidade Estadual Paulista Julio Mesquita Filho, UNESP Rua Expedicionarios do Brasil 1621-CEP : 14801-902, Araraquara, SP, Brazil
| | - C. Quinello
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universidade Estadual Paulista Julio Mesquita Filho, UNESP Rua Expedicionarios do Brasil 1621-CEP : 14801-902, Araraquara, SP, Brazil
| | | | - I. Z. Carlos
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universidade Estadual Paulista Julio Mesquita Filho, UNESP Rua Expedicionarios do Brasil 1621-CEP : 14801-902, Araraquara, SP, Brazil
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81
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Teixeira MM, de Almeida LGP, Kubitschek-Barreira P, Alves FL, Kioshima ÉS, Abadio AKR, Fernandes L, Derengowski LS, Ferreira KS, Souza RC, Ruiz JC, de Andrade NC, Paes HC, Nicola AM, Albuquerque P, Gerber AL, Martins VP, Peconick LDF, Neto AV, Chaucanez CB, Silva PA, Cunha OL, de Oliveira FFM, dos Santos TC, Barros ALN, Soares MA, de Oliveira LM, Marini MM, Villalobos-Duno H, Cunha MML, de Hoog S, da Silveira JF, Henrissat B, Niño-Vega GA, Cisalpino PS, Mora-Montes HM, Almeida SR, Stajich JE, Lopes-Bezerra LM, Vasconcelos ATR, Felipe MSS. Comparative genomics of the major fungal agents of human and animal Sporotrichosis: Sporothrix schenckii and Sporothrix brasiliensis. BMC Genomics 2014; 15:943. [PMID: 25351875 PMCID: PMC4226871 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2164-15-943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2014] [Accepted: 09/25/2014] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The fungal genus Sporothrix includes at least four human pathogenic species. One of these species, S. brasiliensis, is the causal agent of a major ongoing zoonotic outbreak of sporotrichosis in Brazil. Elsewhere, sapronoses are caused by S. schenckii and S. globosa. The major aims on this comparative genomic study are: 1) to explore the presence of virulence factors in S. schenckii and S. brasiliensis; 2) to compare S. brasiliensis, which is cat-transmitted and infects both humans and cats with S. schenckii, mainly a human pathogen; 3) to compare these two species to other human pathogens (Onygenales) with similar thermo-dimorphic behavior and to other plant-associated Sordariomycetes. RESULTS The genomes of S. schenckii and S. brasiliensis were pyrosequenced to 17x and 20x coverage comprising a total of 32.3 Mb and 33.2 Mb, respectively. Pair-wise genome alignments revealed that the two species are highly syntenic showing 97.5% average sequence identity. Phylogenomic analysis reveals that both species diverged about 3.8-4.9 MYA suggesting a recent event of speciation. Transposable elements comprise respectively 0.34% and 0.62% of the S. schenckii and S. brasiliensis genomes and expansions of Gypsy-like elements was observed reflecting the accumulation of repetitive elements in the S. brasiliensis genome. Mitochondrial genomic comparisons showed the presence of group-I intron encoding homing endonucleases (HE's) exclusively in S. brasiliensis. Analysis of protein family expansions and contractions in the Sporothrix lineage revealed expansion of LysM domain-containing proteins, small GTPases, PKS type1 and leucin-rich proteins. In contrast, a lack of polysaccharide lyase genes that are associated with decay of plants was observed when compared to other Sordariomycetes and dimorphic fungal pathogens, suggesting evolutionary adaptations from a plant pathogenic or saprobic to an animal pathogenic life style. CONCLUSIONS Comparative genomic data suggest a unique ecological shift in the Sporothrix lineage from plant-association to mammalian parasitism, which contributes to the understanding of how environmental interactions may shape fungal virulence. . Moreover, the striking differences found in comparison with other dimorphic fungi revealed that dimorphism in these close relatives of plant-associated Sordariomycetes is a case of convergent evolution, stressing the importance of this morphogenetic change in fungal pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcus M Teixeira
- />Departamento de Biologia Celular, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, DF Brazil
| | | | - Paula Kubitschek-Barreira
- />Departamento de Biologia Celular, Instituto de Biologia Roberto Alcântara Gomes, Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ Brazil
| | - Fernanda L Alves
- />Departamento de Microbiologia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG Brazil
- />Grupo Informática de Biossistemas, Centro de Pesquisas René Rachou, FIOCRUZ, Minas, Belo Horizonte, MG Brazil
| | - Érika S Kioshima
- />Departamento de Biologia Celular, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, DF Brazil
- />Departamento de Análises Clínicas, Universidade Estadual de Maringá, Maringá, PR Brazil
| | - Ana KR Abadio
- />Departamento de Biologia Celular, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, DF Brazil
| | - Larissa Fernandes
- />Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências e Tecnologias em Saúde, Universidade de Brasília, Ceilândia, Brasília, DF Brazil
| | - Lorena S Derengowski
- />Departamento de Biologia Celular, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, DF Brazil
| | - Karen S Ferreira
- />Instituto de Ciências Ambientais, Químicas e Farmacêuticas, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Campus Diadema, São Paulo, SP Brazil
| | - Rangel C Souza
- />Laboratório Nacional de Computação Científica, Petrópolis, RJ Brazil
| | - Jeronimo C Ruiz
- />Grupo Informática de Biossistemas, Centro de Pesquisas René Rachou, FIOCRUZ, Minas, Belo Horizonte, MG Brazil
| | - Nathalia C de Andrade
- />Departamento de Biologia Celular, Instituto de Biologia Roberto Alcântara Gomes, Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ Brazil
| | - Hugo C Paes
- />Departamento de Biologia Celular, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, DF Brazil
| | - André M Nicola
- />Pós-Graduação em Ciências Genômicas e Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica de Brasília, Brasília, DF Brazil
- />Programa de pós-graduação em Medicina Tropical, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, DF Brazil
| | - Patrícia Albuquerque
- />Departamento de Biologia Celular, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, DF Brazil
- />Programa de pós-graduação em Medicina Tropical, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, DF Brazil
| | | | - Vicente P Martins
- />Departamento de Biologia Celular, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, DF Brazil
| | - Luisa DF Peconick
- />Departamento de Biologia Celular, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, DF Brazil
| | - Alan Viggiano Neto
- />Departamento de Biologia Celular, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, DF Brazil
| | - Claudia B Chaucanez
- />Departamento de Biologia Celular, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, DF Brazil
| | - Patrícia A Silva
- />Departamento de Biologia Celular, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, DF Brazil
| | - Oberdan L Cunha
- />Laboratório Nacional de Computação Científica, Petrópolis, RJ Brazil
| | | | - Tayná C dos Santos
- />Departamento de Biologia Celular, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, DF Brazil
| | - Amanda LN Barros
- />Departamento de Biologia Celular, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, DF Brazil
| | - Marco A Soares
- />Departamento de Microbiologia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG Brazil
| | - Luciana M de Oliveira
- />Departamento de Microbiologia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG Brazil
- />Programa de pós-graduação em Bioinformática, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Marjorie M Marini
- />Departamento de Microbiologia Imunobiologia e Parasitologia, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP Brazil
| | - Héctor Villalobos-Duno
- />Centro de Microbiología y Biología Celular, Instituto Venezolano de Investigaciones Cientificas, Caracas, Venezuela
| | - Marcel ML Cunha
- />Departamento de Biologia Celular, Instituto de Biologia Roberto Alcântara Gomes, Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ Brazil
| | - Sybren de Hoog
- />CBS-KNAW Fungal Biodiversity Centre, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - José F da Silveira
- />Departamento de Microbiologia Imunobiologia e Parasitologia, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP Brazil
| | - Bernard Henrissat
- />Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Aix-Marseille, Université, CNRS, Marseille, France
| | - Gustavo A Niño-Vega
- />Centro de Microbiología y Biología Celular, Instituto Venezolano de Investigaciones Cientificas, Caracas, Venezuela
| | - Patrícia S Cisalpino
- />Grupo Informática de Biossistemas, Centro de Pesquisas René Rachou, FIOCRUZ, Minas, Belo Horizonte, MG Brazil
| | | | - Sandro R Almeida
- />Departamento de Análises Clínicas e Toxicológicas, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP Brazil
| | - Jason E Stajich
- />Department of Plant Pathology & Microbiology, University of California, Riverside, CA USA
| | - Leila M Lopes-Bezerra
- />Departamento de Biologia Celular, Instituto de Biologia Roberto Alcântara Gomes, Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ Brazil
| | | | - Maria SS Felipe
- />Departamento de Biologia Celular, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, DF Brazil
- />Pós-Graduação em Ciências Genômicas e Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica de Brasília, Brasília, DF Brazil
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82
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Ishida K, de Castro RA, Borba Dos Santos LP, Quintella LP, Lopes-Bezerra LM, Rozental S. Amphotericin B, alone or followed by itraconazole therapy, is effective in the control of experimental disseminated sporotrichosis by Sporothrix brasiliensis. Med Mycol 2014; 53:34-41. [PMID: 25306202 DOI: 10.1093/mmy/myu050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Sporothrix brasiliensis is a highly virulent member of the S. schenckii complex, which is responsible for the emergence of the epidemic sporotrichosis in southeastern Brazil over the last two decades. There are no in vivo studies on the sensitivity of S. brasiliensis to the therapeutic regimens used to treat sporotrichosis. Here, we evaluated the efficacy and safety of antifungal treatments against S. brasiliensis using a murine model of disseminated sporotrichosis. In vitro, S. brasiliensis yeasts were sensitive to low concentrations of amphotericin B-deoxycholate (AMB-d) and itraconazole (ITZ), the latter having greater selectivity toward the fungus. The following treatment regimens were tested in vivo: intravenous AMB-d for 7 days post-infection (p.i.), oral ITZ for up to 30 days p.i., and AMB-d followed by ITZ (AMB-d/ITZ). AMB-d and AMB-d/ITZ led to 100% survival of infected mice at the end of the 45-day experimental period. Although all treatments extended mice survival, only AMB-d and AMB-d/ITZ significantly reduced fungal load in all organs, but AMB-d/ITZ led to a more consistent decrease in overall fungal burden. No treatment increased the levels of serum toxicity biomarkers. Taken together, our results indicate that AMB-d/ITZ is the best therapeutic option for controlling disseminated sporotrichosis caused by S. brasiliensis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly Ishida
- Laboratory of Antifungal Chemotherapy, Department of Microbiology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Rafaela Alves de Castro
- Laboratory of Cellular Mycology and Proteomics, Department of Cellular Biology, University of State of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Luana Pereira Borba Dos Santos
- Laboratory of Fungal Cell Biology, Institute of Biophysic Carlos Chagas Filho, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Leonardo Pereira Quintella
- Department of Pathology and Laboratories, Faculty of Medical Sciences, State University of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Leila M Lopes-Bezerra
- Laboratory of Cellular Mycology and Proteomics, Department of Cellular Biology, University of State of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Sonia Rozental
- Laboratory of Fungal Cell Biology, Institute of Biophysic Carlos Chagas Filho, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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83
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Macedo P, Lopes-Bezerra L, Bernardes-Engemann A, Orofino-Costa R. New posology of potassium iodide for the treatment of cutaneous sporotrichosis: study of efficacy and safety in 102 patients. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2014; 29:719-24. [DOI: 10.1111/jdv.12667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2014] [Accepted: 06/27/2014] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- P.M. Macedo
- Dermatology Department; Rio de Janeiro State University (Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro); Rio de Janeiro Brazil
| | - L.M. Lopes-Bezerra
- Cellular Biology Department; Rio de Janeiro State University (Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro); Rio de Janeiro Brazil
| | - A.R. Bernardes-Engemann
- Dermatology Department; Rio de Janeiro State University (Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro); Rio de Janeiro Brazil
| | - R. Orofino-Costa
- Dermatology Department; Rio de Janeiro State University (Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro); Rio de Janeiro Brazil
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