201
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Fungicidal amphotericin B sponges are assemblies of staggered asymmetric homodimers encasing large void volumes. Nat Struct Mol Biol 2021; 28:972-981. [PMID: 34887566 PMCID: PMC9336184 DOI: 10.1038/s41594-021-00685-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Amphotericin B (AmB) is a powerful but toxic fungicide that operates via enigmatic small molecule-small molecule interactions. This mechanism has challenged the frontiers of structural biology for half a century. We recently showed AmB primarily forms extramembranous aggregates that kill yeast by extracting ergosterol from membranes. Here, we report key structural features of these antifungal 'sponges' illuminated by high-resolution magic-angle spinning solid-state NMR, in concert with simulated annealing and molecular dynamics computations. The minimal unit of assembly is an asymmetric head-to-tail homodimer: one molecule adopts an all-trans C1-C13 motif, the other a C6-C7-gauche conformation. These homodimers are staggered in a clathrate-like lattice with large void volumes similar to the size of sterols. These results illuminate the atomistic interactions that underlie fungicidal assemblies of AmB and suggest this natural product may form biologically active clathrates that host sterol guests.
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202
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Ahmadipour S, Field RA, Miller GJ. Prospects for anti- Candida therapy through targeting the cell wall: A mini-review. Cell Surf 2021; 7:100063. [PMID: 34746525 PMCID: PMC8551693 DOI: 10.1016/j.tcsw.2021.100063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2021] [Revised: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 09/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The impact of fungal infections on humans is a serious public health issue that has received much less attention than bacterial infection and treatment, despite ever-increasing incidence exacerbated by an increased incidence of immunocompromised individuals in the population. Candida species, in particular, cause some of the most prevalent hospital-related fungal infections. Fungal infections are also detrimental to the well-being of grazing livestock, with milk production in dairy cows, and body and coat condition adversely affected by fungal infections. Fungal cell walls are essential for viability, morphogenesis and pathogenesis: numerous anti-fungal drugs rely on targeting either the cell wall or cell membrane, but the pipeline of available bioactives is limited. There is a clear and unmet need to identify novel targets and develop new classes of anti-fungal agents. This mini review focuses on fungal cell wall structure, composition and biosynthesis in Candida spp., including C. auris. In addition, an overview of current advances in the development of cell wall targeted therapies is considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanaz Ahmadipour
- Department of Chemistry and Manchester Institute of Biotechnology, The University of Manchester, Manchester M1 7DN, United Kingdom.,Iceni Diagnostics Ltd, The Innovation Centre, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, Norfolk NR4 7GJ, United Kingdom
| | - Robert A Field
- Department of Chemistry and Manchester Institute of Biotechnology, The University of Manchester, Manchester M1 7DN, United Kingdom.,Iceni Diagnostics Ltd, The Innovation Centre, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, Norfolk NR4 7GJ, United Kingdom
| | - Gavin J Miller
- Lennard-Jones Laboratory, School of Chemical and Physical Sciences, Keele University, Keele, Staffordshire ST5 5BG, United Kingdom
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203
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Bastos RW, Rossato L, Goldman GH, Santos DA. Fungicide effects on human fungal pathogens: Cross-resistance to medical drugs and beyond. PLoS Pathog 2021; 17:e1010073. [PMID: 34882756 PMCID: PMC8659312 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1010073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Fungal infections are underestimated threats that affect over 1 billion people, and Candida spp., Cryptococcus spp., and Aspergillus spp. are the 3 most fatal fungi. The treatment of these infections is performed with a limited arsenal of antifungal drugs, and the class of the azoles is the most used. Although these drugs present low toxicity for the host, there is an emergence of therapeutic failure due to azole resistance. Drug resistance normally develops in patients undergoing azole long-term therapy, when the fungus in contact with the drug can adapt and survive. Conversely, several reports have been showing that resistant isolates are also recovered from patients with no prior history of azole therapy, suggesting that other routes might be driving antifungal resistance. Intriguingly, antifungal resistance also happens in the environment since resistant strains have been isolated from plant materials, soil, decomposing matter, and compost, where important human fungal pathogens live. As the resistant fungi can be isolated from the environment, in places where agrochemicals are extensively used in agriculture and wood industry, the hypothesis that fungicides could be driving and selecting resistance mechanism in nature, before the contact of the fungus with the host, has gained more attention. The effects of fungicide exposure on fungal resistance have been extensively studied in Aspergillus fumigatus and less investigated in other human fungal pathogens. Here, we discuss not only classic and recent studies showing that environmental azole exposure selects cross-resistance to medical azoles in A. fumigatus, but also how this phenomenon affects Candida and Cryptococcus, other 2 important human fungal pathogens found in the environment. We also examine data showing that fungicide exposure can select relevant changes in the morphophysiology and virulence of those pathogens, suggesting that its effect goes beyond the cross-resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael W. Bastos
- Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto-SP, Brazil
| | - Luana Rossato
- Federal University of Grande Dourados, Dourados-MS, Brazil
| | - Gustavo H. Goldman
- Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto-SP, Brazil
| | - Daniel A. Santos
- Laboratory of Mycology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte-MG, Brazil
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204
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Muselius B, Durand SL, Geddes-McAlister J. Proteomics of Cryptococcus neoformans: From the Lab to the Clinic. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:12390. [PMID: 34830272 PMCID: PMC8618913 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222212390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2021] [Revised: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Fungal pathogens cause an array of diseases by targeting both immunocompromised and immunocompetent hosts. Fungi overcome our current arsenal of antifungals through the emergence and evolution of resistance. In particular, the human fungal pathogen, Cryptococcus neoformans is found ubiquitously within the environment and causes severe disease in immunocompromised individuals around the globe with limited treatment options available. To uncover fundamental knowledge about this fungal pathogen, as well as investigate new detection and treatment strategies, mass spectrometry-based proteomics provides a plethora of tools and applications, as well as bioinformatics platforms. In this review, we highlight proteomics approaches within the laboratory to investigate changes in the cellular proteome, secretome, and extracellular vesicles. We also explore regulation by post-translational modifications and the impact of protein-protein interactions. Further, we present the development and comprehensive assessment of murine models of cryptococcal infection, which provide valuable tools to define the dynamic relationship between the host and pathogen during disease. Finally, we explore recent quantitative proteomics studies that begin to extrapolate the findings from the bench to the clinic for improved methods of fungal detection and monitoring. Such studies support a framework for personalized medical approaches to eradicate diseases caused by C. neoformans.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jennifer Geddes-McAlister
- Molecular and Cellular Biology Department, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada; (B.M.); (S.-L.D.)
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205
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Shao Y, Molestak E, Su W, Stankevič M, Tchórzewski M. Sordarin - the antifungal antibiotic with a unique modus operandi. Br J Pharmacol 2021; 179:1125-1145. [PMID: 34767248 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2021] [Revised: 09/13/2021] [Accepted: 10/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Fungal infections cause serious problems in many aspects of human life, in particular infections in immunocompromised patients represent serious problems. Current antifungal antibiotics target various metabolic pathways, predominantly the cell wall or cellular membrane. Numerous compounds are available to combat fungal infections, but their efficacy is far from being satisfactory and some of them display high toxicity. The emerging resistance represents a serious issue as well; hence, there is a considerable need for new anti-fungal compounds with lower toxicity and higher effectiveness. One of the unique antifungal antibiotics is sordarin, the only known compound that acts on the fungal translational machinery per se. Sordarin inhibits protein synthesis at the elongation step of the translational cycle, acting on eukaryotic translation elongation factor 2. In this review, we intend to deliver a robust scientific platform promoting the development of antifungal compounds, in particular focusing on the molecular action of sordarin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yutian Shao
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Yangtze River Delta Region Green Pharmaceuticals, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, PR China.,Department of Molecular Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Maria Curie-Skłodowska University, Lublin, Poland
| | - Eliza Molestak
- Department of Molecular Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Maria Curie-Skłodowska University, Lublin, Poland
| | - Weike Su
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Yangtze River Delta Region Green Pharmaceuticals, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, PR China.,National Engineering Research Center for Process Development of Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients, Collaborative Innovation Center of Yangtze River Delta Region Green Pharmaceuticals, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, PR China.,Key Laboratory for Green Pharmaceutical Technologies and Related Equipment of Ministry of Education, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, PR China
| | - Marek Stankevič
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Institute of Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Chemistry, Maria Curie Sklodowska University, Lublin, Poland
| | - Marek Tchórzewski
- Department of Molecular Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Maria Curie-Skłodowska University, Lublin, Poland
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206
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Fu C, Zhang X, Veri AO, Iyer KR, Lash E, Xue A, Yan H, Revie NM, Wong C, Lin ZY, Polvi EJ, Liston SD, VanderSluis B, Hou J, Yashiroda Y, Gingras AC, Boone C, O’Meara TR, O’Meara MJ, Noble S, Robbins N, Myers CL, Cowen LE. Leveraging machine learning essentiality predictions and chemogenomic interactions to identify antifungal targets. Nat Commun 2021; 12:6497. [PMID: 34764269 PMCID: PMC8586148 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-26850-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2021] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Fungal pathogens pose a global threat to human health, with Candida albicans among the leading killers. Systematic analysis of essential genes provides a powerful strategy to discover potential antifungal targets. Here, we build a machine learning model to generate genome-wide gene essentiality predictions for C. albicans and expand the largest functional genomics resource in this pathogen (the GRACE collection) by 866 genes. Using this model and chemogenomic analyses, we define the function of three uncharacterized essential genes with roles in kinetochore function, mitochondrial integrity, and translation, and identify the glutaminyl-tRNA synthetase Gln4 as the target of N-pyrimidinyl-β-thiophenylacrylamide (NP-BTA), an antifungal compound.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ci Fu
- grid.17063.330000 0001 2157 2938Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 1M1 Canada
| | - Xiang Zhang
- grid.17635.360000000419368657Department of Computer Science and Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455 USA
| | - Amanda O. Veri
- grid.17063.330000 0001 2157 2938Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 1M1 Canada
| | - Kali R. Iyer
- grid.17063.330000 0001 2157 2938Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 1M1 Canada
| | - Emma Lash
- grid.17063.330000 0001 2157 2938Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 1M1 Canada
| | - Alice Xue
- grid.17063.330000 0001 2157 2938Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 1M1 Canada
| | - Huijuan Yan
- grid.266102.10000 0001 2297 6811Department of Microbiology and Immunology, UCSF School of Medicine, San Francisco, CA 94143 USA
| | - Nicole M. Revie
- grid.17063.330000 0001 2157 2938Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 1M1 Canada
| | - Cassandra Wong
- grid.250674.20000 0004 0626 6184Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Sinai Health System, Toronto, ON M5G 1X5, Canada
| | - Zhen-Yuan Lin
- grid.250674.20000 0004 0626 6184Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Sinai Health System, Toronto, ON M5G 1X5, Canada
| | - Elizabeth J. Polvi
- grid.17063.330000 0001 2157 2938Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 1M1 Canada
| | - Sean D. Liston
- grid.17063.330000 0001 2157 2938Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 1M1 Canada
| | - Benjamin VanderSluis
- grid.17635.360000000419368657Department of Computer Science and Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455 USA
| | - Jing Hou
- grid.17063.330000 0001 2157 2938Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 1M1 Canada ,grid.17063.330000 0001 2157 2938Donnelly Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3E1 Canada
| | - Yoko Yashiroda
- grid.509461.fRIKEN Center for Sustainable Resource Science, Wako, Saitama 351-0198 Japan
| | - Anne-Claude Gingras
- grid.17063.330000 0001 2157 2938Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 1M1 Canada ,grid.250674.20000 0004 0626 6184Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Sinai Health System, Toronto, ON M5G 1X5, Canada
| | - Charles Boone
- grid.17063.330000 0001 2157 2938Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 1M1 Canada ,grid.17063.330000 0001 2157 2938Donnelly Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3E1 Canada ,grid.509461.fRIKEN Center for Sustainable Resource Science, Wako, Saitama 351-0198 Japan
| | - Teresa R. O’Meara
- grid.214458.e0000000086837370Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109 USA
| | - Matthew J. O’Meara
- grid.214458.e0000000086837370Department of Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109 USA
| | - Suzanne Noble
- grid.266102.10000 0001 2297 6811Department of Microbiology and Immunology, UCSF School of Medicine, San Francisco, CA 94143 USA
| | - Nicole Robbins
- grid.17063.330000 0001 2157 2938Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 1M1 Canada
| | - Chad L. Myers
- grid.17635.360000000419368657Department of Computer Science and Engineering, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455 USA
| | - Leah E. Cowen
- grid.17063.330000 0001 2157 2938Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 1M1 Canada
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207
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Choi JW, Lee KT, Kim S, Lee YR, Kim HJ, Seo KJ, Lee MH, Yeon SK, Jang BK, Park SJ, Kim HJ, Park JH, Kim D, Lee DG, Cheong E, Lee JS, Bahn YS, Park KD. Optimization and Evaluation of Novel Antifungal Agents for the Treatment of Fungal Infection. J Med Chem 2021; 64:15912-15935. [PMID: 34662122 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.1c01299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Due to the increased morbidity and mortality by fungal infections and the emergence of severe antifungal resistance, there is an urgent need for new antifungal agents. Here, we screened for antifungal activity in our in-house library through the minimum inhibitory concentration test and derived two hit compounds with moderate antifungal activities. The hit compounds' antifungal activities and drug-like properties were optimized by substituting various aryl ring, alkyl chain, and methyl groups. Among the optimized compounds, 22h was the most promising candidate with good drug-like properties and exhibited potent fast-acting fungicidal antifungal effects against various fungal pathogens and synergistic antifungal activities with some known antifungal drugs. Additionally, 22h was further confirmed to disturb fungal cell wall integrity by activating multiple cell wall integrity pathways. Furthermore, 22h exerted significant antifungal efficacy in both the subcutaneous infection mouse model and ex vivo human nail infection model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji Won Choi
- Convergence Research Center for Diagnosis, Treatment & Care System of Dementia, Korea Institute of Science & Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyung-Tae Lee
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Siwon Kim
- Convergence Research Center for Diagnosis, Treatment & Care System of Dementia, Korea Institute of Science & Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
- Division of Bio-Med Science & Technology, KIST School, Korea University of Science and Technology, Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Ye Rim Lee
- Convergence Research Center for Diagnosis, Treatment & Care System of Dementia, Korea Institute of Science & Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyeon Ji Kim
- Convergence Research Center for Diagnosis, Treatment & Care System of Dementia, Korea Institute of Science & Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyung Jin Seo
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Myung Ha Lee
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Seul Ki Yeon
- Convergence Research Center for Diagnosis, Treatment & Care System of Dementia, Korea Institute of Science & Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Bo Ko Jang
- AmtixBio Co., Ltd., Hanam-si, Gyeonggi-do 12925, Republic of Korea
| | - Sun Jun Park
- Convergence Research Center for Diagnosis, Treatment & Care System of Dementia, Korea Institute of Science & Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
- Division of Bio-Med Science & Technology, KIST School, Korea University of Science and Technology, Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyeon Jeong Kim
- Convergence Research Center for Diagnosis, Treatment & Care System of Dementia, Korea Institute of Science & Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Jong-Hyun Park
- Convergence Research Center for Diagnosis, Treatment & Care System of Dementia, Korea Institute of Science & Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
- Division of Bio-Med Science & Technology, KIST School, Korea University of Science and Technology, Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Dahee Kim
- AmtixBio Co., Ltd., Hanam-si, Gyeonggi-do 12925, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong-Gi Lee
- AmtixBio Co., Ltd., Hanam-si, Gyeonggi-do 12925, Republic of Korea
| | - Eunji Cheong
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Jong-Seung Lee
- AmtixBio Co., Ltd., Hanam-si, Gyeonggi-do 12925, Republic of Korea
| | - Yong-Sun Bahn
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Ki Duk Park
- Convergence Research Center for Diagnosis, Treatment & Care System of Dementia, Korea Institute of Science & Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
- Division of Bio-Med Science & Technology, KIST School, Korea University of Science and Technology, Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
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208
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Evaluation of bisphenylthiazoles as a promising class for combating multidrug-resistant fungal infections. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0258465. [PMID: 34735467 PMCID: PMC8568133 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0258465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2020] [Accepted: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
To minimize the intrinsic toxicity of the antibacterial agent hydrazinyloxadiazole 1, the hydrazine moiety was replaced with ethylenediamine (compound 7). This replacement generated a potent antifungal agent with no antibacterial activity. Notably, use of a 1,2-diaminocyclohexane moiety, as a conformationally-restricted isostere for ethylenediamine, potentiated the antifungal activity in both the cis and trans forms of N-(5-(2-([1,1’-biphenyl]-4-yl)-4-methylthiazol-5-yl)-1,3,4-oxadiazol-2-yl)cyclohexane-1,2-diamine (compounds 16 and 17). Both compounds 16 and 17 were void of any antibacterial activity; nonetheless, they showed equipotent antifungal activity in vitro to that of the most potent approved antifungal agent, amphotericin B. The promising antifungal effects of compounds 16 and 17 were maintained when assessed against an additional panel of 26 yeast and mold clinical isolates, including the Candida auris and C. krusei. Furthermore, compound 17 showed superior activity to amphotericin B in vitro against Candida glabrata and Cryptococcus gattii. Additionally, neither compound inhibited the normal human microbiota, and both possessed excellent safety profiles and were 16 times more tolerable than amphotericin B.
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209
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Liu W, Sun Z, An Y, Liu Y, Fan H, Han J, Sun B. Construction and activity evaluation of novel dual-target (SE/CYP51) anti-fungal agents containing amide naphthyl structure. Eur J Med Chem 2021; 228:113972. [PMID: 34772530 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2021.113972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2021] [Revised: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 11/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
With the increase of fungal infection and drug resistance, it is becoming an urgent task to discover the highly effective antifungal drugs. In the study, we selected the key ergosterol bio-synthetic enzymes (Squalene epoxidase, SE; 14 α-demethylase, CYP51) as dual-target receptors to guide the construction of novel antifungal compounds, which could achieve the purpose of improving drug efficacy and reducing drug-resistance. Three different series of amide naphthyl compounds were generated through the method of skeleton growth, and their corresponding target products were synthesized. Most of compounds displayed the obvious biological activity against different Candida spp. and Aspergillus fumigatus. Among of them, target compounds 14a-2 and 20b-2 not only possessed the excellent broad-spectrum anti-fungal activity (MIC50, 0.125-2 μg/mL), but also maintained the anti-drug-resistant fungal activity (MIC50, 1-4 μg/mL). Preliminary mechanism study revealed the compounds (14a-2, 20b-2) could block the bio-synthetic pathway of ergosterol by inhibiting the dual-target (SE/CYP51) activity, and this finally caused the cleavage and death of fungal cells. In addition, we also discovered that compounds 14a-2 and 20b-2 with low toxic and side effects could exert the excellent therapeutic effect in mice model of fungal infection, which was worthy for further in-depth study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenxia Liu
- Institute of BioPharmaceutical Research, Liaocheng University, 1 Hunan Road, Liaocheng, 252000, PR China
| | - Zhuang Sun
- State Key Lab of High-Performance Ceramics and Superfine Microstructure, Shanghai Institute of Ceramics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 1295 Dingxi Road, Shanghai, 200050, PR China
| | - Yunfei An
- Institute of BioPharmaceutical Research, Liaocheng University, 1 Hunan Road, Liaocheng, 252000, PR China
| | - Yating Liu
- Institute of BioPharmaceutical Research, Liaocheng University, 1 Hunan Road, Liaocheng, 252000, PR China
| | - Haiyan Fan
- Institute of BioPharmaceutical Research, Liaocheng University, 1 Hunan Road, Liaocheng, 252000, PR China
| | - Jun Han
- Institute of BioPharmaceutical Research, Liaocheng University, 1 Hunan Road, Liaocheng, 252000, PR China
| | - Bin Sun
- Institute of BioPharmaceutical Research, Liaocheng University, 1 Hunan Road, Liaocheng, 252000, PR China.
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210
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Uthayakumar D, Sharma J, Wensing L, Shapiro RS. CRISPR-Based Genetic Manipulation of Candida Species: Historical Perspectives and Current Approaches. Front Genome Ed 2021; 2:606281. [PMID: 34713231 PMCID: PMC8525362 DOI: 10.3389/fgeed.2020.606281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 12/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The Candida genus encompasses a diverse group of ascomycete fungi that have captured the attention of the scientific community, due to both their role in pathogenesis and emerging applications in biotechnology; the development of gene editing tools such as CRISPR, to analyze fungal genetics and perform functional genomic studies in these organisms, is essential to fully understand and exploit this genus, to further advance antifungal drug discovery and industrial value. However, genetic manipulation of Candida species has been met with several distinctive barriers to progress, such as unconventional codon usage in some species, as well as the absence of a complete sexual cycle in its diploid members. Despite these challenges, the last few decades have witnessed an expansion of the Candida genetic toolbox, allowing for diverse genome editing applications that range from introducing a single point mutation to generating large-scale mutant libraries for functional genomic studies. Clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)-Cas9 technology is among the most recent of these advancements, bringing unparalleled versatility and precision to genetic manipulation of Candida species. Since its initial applications in Candida albicans, CRISPR-Cas9 platforms are rapidly evolving to permit efficient gene editing in other members of the genus. The technology has proven useful in elucidating the pathogenesis and host-pathogen interactions of medically relevant Candida species, and has led to novel insights on antifungal drug susceptibility and resistance, as well as innovative treatment strategies. CRISPR-Cas9 tools have also been exploited to uncover potential applications of Candida species in industrial contexts. This review is intended to provide a historical overview of genetic approaches used to study the Candida genus and to discuss the state of the art of CRISPR-based genetic manipulation of Candida species, highlighting its contributions to deciphering the biology of this genus, as well as providing perspectives for the future of Candida genetics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deeva Uthayakumar
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Jehoshua Sharma
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Lauren Wensing
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Rebecca S Shapiro
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
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211
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Abrantes PMDS, Fisher R, Bouic PJD, McArthur CP, Fielding BC, Africa CWJ. HPLC-MS identification and expression of Candida drug-resistance proteins from African HIV-infected patients. AIMS Microbiol 2021; 7:320-335. [PMID: 34708175 PMCID: PMC8500794 DOI: 10.3934/microbiol.2021020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The objective of this study was to elucidate the proteomic mechanisms of drug resistance in HIV-infected African patients. Cell membrane fractions from forty oral Candida isolates isolated from African HIV-positive patients were analysed using HPLC-MS with the aim of identifying proteins associated with their pathogenicity and drug resistance. Heat shock proteins that mediate the fungicidal activity of salivary peptides were found in all tested Candida fractions, with pH-responsive proteins associated with increased pathogenicity only being present in the three most commonly isolated species. ABC multidrug transporter efflux pumps and estrogen binding proteins were only found in C. albicans fractions, while ergosterol biosynthesis proteins were identified in four species. The combination of various adherence, invasion, upregulation and efflux pump mechanisms appear to be instrumental for the Candida host colonization and drug resistance emergence in HIV-infected individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro M D S Abrantes
- Maternal Endogenous Infections Studies (MEnIS) Research Laboratories, Department of Medical Biosciences, University of the Western Cape, Private Bag X17, Bellville 7535, South Africa
| | - Randall Fisher
- Separated Sector Cyclotron Laboratory, iThemba LABS, Radiation Biophysics Division, National Research Foundation, Cape Town, South Africa
| | | | - Carole P McArthur
- Department of Oral and Craniofacial Sciences, School of Dentistry, University of Missouri-Kansas City, MO 64108, USA
| | - Burtram C Fielding
- Molecular Biology and Virology Laboratory, Department of Medical Biosciences, University of the Western Cape, Private Bag X17, Bellville 7535, South Africa
| | - Charlene W J Africa
- Maternal Endogenous Infections Studies (MEnIS) Research Laboratories, Department of Medical Biosciences, University of the Western Cape, Private Bag X17, Bellville 7535, South Africa
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212
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Willaert RG, Kayacan Y, Devreese B. The Flo Adhesin Family. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10111397. [PMID: 34832553 PMCID: PMC8621652 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10111397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Revised: 10/11/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The first step in the infection of fungal pathogens in humans is the adhesion of the pathogen to host tissue cells or abiotic surfaces such as catheters and implants. One of the main players involved in this are the expressed cell wall adhesins. Here, we review the Flo adhesin family and their involvement in the adhesion of these yeasts during human infections. Firstly, we redefined the Flo adhesin family based on the domain architectures that are present in the Flo adhesins and their functions, and set up a new classification of Flo adhesins. Next, the structure, function, and adhesion mechanisms of the Flo adhesins whose structure has been solved are discussed in detail. Finally, we identified from Pfam database datamining yeasts that could express Flo adhesins and are encountered in human infections and their adhesin architectures. These yeasts are discussed in relation to their adhesion characteristics and involvement in infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ronnie G. Willaert
- Research Group Structural Biology Brussels (SBB), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), 1050 Brussels, Belgium;
- Alliance Research Group VUB-UGent NanoMicrobiology (NAMI), 1050 Brussels, Belgium;
- International Joint Research Group VUB-EPFL NanoBiotechnology & NanoMedicine (NANO), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), 1050 Brussels, Belgium
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +32-2629-1846
| | - Yeseren Kayacan
- Research Group Structural Biology Brussels (SBB), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), 1050 Brussels, Belgium;
- Alliance Research Group VUB-UGent NanoMicrobiology (NAMI), 1050 Brussels, Belgium;
- International Joint Research Group VUB-EPFL NanoBiotechnology & NanoMedicine (NANO), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), 1050 Brussels, Belgium
- Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Bart Devreese
- Alliance Research Group VUB-UGent NanoMicrobiology (NAMI), 1050 Brussels, Belgium;
- International Joint Research Group VUB-EPFL NanoBiotechnology & NanoMedicine (NANO), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), 1050 Brussels, Belgium
- Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
- Laboratory for Microbiology, Gent University (UGent), 9000 Gent, Belgium
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213
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El-Hazek RM, Elkenawy NM, Zaher NH, El-Gazzar MG. Green synthesis of novel antifungal 1,2,4-triazoles effective against γ-irradiated Candida parapsilosis. Arch Pharm (Weinheim) 2021; 355:e2100287. [PMID: 34708424 DOI: 10.1002/ardp.202100287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2021] [Revised: 10/10/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
This study reports the green synthesis of 11 novel 3-substituted-4-amino-5-mercapto-1,2,4-triazole derivatives using water as a readily available nontoxic solvent. Evaluation of their antimicrobial potential against several clinical pathogenic microorganisms was carried out. The newly synthesized cysteine derivative 6 showed promising antifungal activity against both γ-irradiated and nonirradiated Candida parapsilosis 216, with the lowest MIC (minimum inhibitory concentration) value of 3.125 µg/ml, probably through inhibition of 14α-demethylase. In addition, compound 6 showed complete inhibition of gelatinase, a virulence enzyme of C. parapsilosis. Also, scanning electron microscopy was carried out. Interestingly, compound 6 acted as a dual agent as it also showed good antibacterial activity against strains of Gram-positive bacteria used in the study. The synthesized compounds showed no cytotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reham M El-Hazek
- Department of Drug Radiation Research, National Center for Radiation Research and Technology (NCRRT), Egyptian Atomic Energy Authority (EAEA), Cairo, Egypt
| | - Nora M Elkenawy
- Department of Drug Radiation Research, National Center for Radiation Research and Technology (NCRRT), Egyptian Atomic Energy Authority (EAEA), Cairo, Egypt
| | - Nashwa H Zaher
- Department of Drug Radiation Research, National Center for Radiation Research and Technology (NCRRT), Egyptian Atomic Energy Authority (EAEA), Cairo, Egypt
| | - Marwa G El-Gazzar
- Department of Drug Radiation Research, National Center for Radiation Research and Technology (NCRRT), Egyptian Atomic Energy Authority (EAEA), Cairo, Egypt
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214
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Chen YC, Yang Y, Zhang C, Chen HY, Chen F, Wang KJ. A Novel Antimicrobial Peptide Sparamosin 26-54 From the Mud Crab Scylla paramamosain Showing Potent Antifungal Activity Against Cryptococcus neoformans. Front Microbiol 2021; 12:746006. [PMID: 34690992 PMCID: PMC8531530 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.746006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Due to the increasing prevalence of drug-resistant fungi and the limitations of current treatment strategies to fungal infections, exploration and development of new antifungal drugs or substituents are necessary. In the study, a novel antimicrobial peptide, named Sparamosin, was identified in the mud crab Scylla paramamosain, which contains a signal peptide of 22 amino acids and a mature peptide of 54 amino acids. The antimicrobial activity of its synthetic mature peptide and two truncated peptides (Sparamosin1–25 and Sparamosin26–54) were determined. The results showed that Sparamosin26–54 had the strongest activity against a variety of Gram-negative bacteria, Gram-positive bacteria and fungi, in particular had rapid fungicidal kinetics (killed 99% Cryptococcus neoformans within 10 min) and had potent anti-biofilm activity against C. neoformans, but had no cytotoxic effect on mammalian cells. The RNA-seq results showed that after Sparamosin26–54 treatment, the expression of genes involved in cell wall component biosynthesis, cell wall integrity signaling pathway, anti-oxidative stress, apoptosis and DNA repair were significantly up-regulated, indicating that Sparamosin26–54 might disrupt the cell wall of C. neoformans, causing oxidative stress, DNA damage and cell apoptosis. The underlying mechanism was further confirmed. Sparamosin26–54 could bind to several phospholipids in the cell membrane and effectively killed C. neoformans through disrupting the integrity of the cell wall and cell membrane observed by electron microscope and staining assay. In addition, it was found that the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) increased, the mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) was disrupted, and DNA fragmentation was induced after Sparamosin26–54 treatment, which are all hallmarks of apoptosis. Taken together, Sparamosin26–54 has a good application prospect as an effective antimicrobial agent, especially for C. neoformans infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan-Chao Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science, College of Ocean and Earth Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Ying Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science, College of Ocean and Earth Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Chang Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science, College of Ocean and Earth Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Hui-Yun Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science, College of Ocean and Earth Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China.,State-Province Joint Engineering Laboratory of Marine Bioproducts and Technology, College of Ocean and Earth Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China.,Fujian Innovation Research Institute for Marine Biological Antimicrobial Peptide Industrial Technology, College of Ocean and Earth Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Fangyi Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science, College of Ocean and Earth Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China.,State-Province Joint Engineering Laboratory of Marine Bioproducts and Technology, College of Ocean and Earth Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China.,Fujian Innovation Research Institute for Marine Biological Antimicrobial Peptide Industrial Technology, College of Ocean and Earth Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Ke-Jian Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science, College of Ocean and Earth Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China.,State-Province Joint Engineering Laboratory of Marine Bioproducts and Technology, College of Ocean and Earth Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China.,Fujian Innovation Research Institute for Marine Biological Antimicrobial Peptide Industrial Technology, College of Ocean and Earth Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
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215
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Ghandhi LHD, Bidula S, Pask CM, Lord RM, McGowan PC. Bis(N-picolinamido)cobalt(II) Complexes Display Antifungal Activity toward Candida albicans and Aspergillus fumigatus. ChemMedChem 2021; 16:3210-3221. [PMID: 34327861 PMCID: PMC8597028 DOI: 10.1002/cmdc.202100159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Revised: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
This report highlights the synthesis and characterization of ten new bis(N-picolinamido)cobalt(II) complexes of the type [(L)2 CoX2 ]0/2+ , whereby L=N-picolinamide ligand and X=diisothiocyanato (-NCS), dichlorido (-Cl) or diaqua (-OH2 ) ligands. Single crystal X-ray (SC-XRD) analysis for nine of the structures are reported and confirm the picolinamide ligand is bound to the Co(II) center through a neutral N,O binding mode. With the addition of powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), we have confirmed the cis and trans ligand arrangements of each complex. All complexes were screened against several fungal species and show increased antifungal activity. Notably, these complexes had significant activity against strains of Candida albicans and Aspergillus fumigatus, with several compounds exhibiting growth inhibition of >80 %, and onecompound inhibiting Aspergillus fumigatus hyphal growth by >90 %. Conversely, no antifungal activity was exhibited toward Cryptococcus neoformans and no cytotoxicity towards mammalian cell lines.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Stefan Bidula
- School of Biological SciencesUniversity of East AngliaNorwich Research ParkNorwichNR4 7JTUK
| | | | - Rianne M. Lord
- School of ChemistryUniversity of East AngliaNorwich Research ParkNorwichNR4 7JTUK
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216
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León-Buitimea A, Garza-Cervantes JA, Gallegos-Alvarado DY, Osorio-Concepción M, Morones-Ramírez JR. Nanomaterial-Based Antifungal Therapies to Combat Fungal Diseases Aspergillosis, Coccidioidomycosis, Mucormycosis, and Candidiasis. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10101303. [PMID: 34684252 PMCID: PMC8539376 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10101303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Revised: 10/02/2021] [Accepted: 10/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Over the last years, invasive infections caused by filamentous fungi have constituted a serious threat to public health worldwide. Aspergillus, Coccidioides, Mucorales (the most common filamentous fungi), and Candida auris (non-filamentous fungus) can cause infections in humans. They are able to cause critical life-threatening illnesses in immunosuppressed individuals, patients with HIV/AIDS, uncontrolled diabetes, hematological diseases, transplantation, and chemotherapy. In this review, we describe the available nanoformulations (both metallic and polymers-based nanoparticles) developed to increase efficacy and reduce the number of adverse effects after the administration of conventional antifungals. To treat aspergillosis and infections caused by Candida, multiple strategies have been used to develop new therapeutic alternatives, such as incorporating coating materials, complexes synthesized by green chemistry, or coupled with polymers. However, the therapeutic options for coccidioidomycosis and mucormycosis are limited; most of them are in the early stages of development. Therefore, more research needs to be performed to develop new therapeutic alternatives that contribute to the progress of this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angel León-Buitimea
- Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León (UANL), San Nicolás de los Garza C.P. 66455, Mexico; (A.L.-B.); (J.A.G.-C.); (D.Y.G.-A.); (M.O.-C.)
- Centro de Investigación en Biotecnología y Nanotecnología, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Parque de Investigación e Innovación Tecnológica, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Apodaca C.P. 66628, Mexico
| | - Javier A. Garza-Cervantes
- Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León (UANL), San Nicolás de los Garza C.P. 66455, Mexico; (A.L.-B.); (J.A.G.-C.); (D.Y.G.-A.); (M.O.-C.)
- Centro de Investigación en Biotecnología y Nanotecnología, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Parque de Investigación e Innovación Tecnológica, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Apodaca C.P. 66628, Mexico
| | - Diana Y. Gallegos-Alvarado
- Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León (UANL), San Nicolás de los Garza C.P. 66455, Mexico; (A.L.-B.); (J.A.G.-C.); (D.Y.G.-A.); (M.O.-C.)
| | - Macario Osorio-Concepción
- Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León (UANL), San Nicolás de los Garza C.P. 66455, Mexico; (A.L.-B.); (J.A.G.-C.); (D.Y.G.-A.); (M.O.-C.)
- Centro de Investigación en Biotecnología y Nanotecnología, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Parque de Investigación e Innovación Tecnológica, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Apodaca C.P. 66628, Mexico
| | - José Ruben Morones-Ramírez
- Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León (UANL), San Nicolás de los Garza C.P. 66455, Mexico; (A.L.-B.); (J.A.G.-C.); (D.Y.G.-A.); (M.O.-C.)
- Centro de Investigación en Biotecnología y Nanotecnología, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Parque de Investigación e Innovación Tecnológica, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Apodaca C.P. 66628, Mexico
- Correspondence:
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217
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Berkes C, Franco J, Lawson M, Brann K, Mermelstein J, Laverty D, Connors A. Kinase Inhibitor Library Screening Identifies the Cancer Therapeutic Sorafenib and Structurally Similar Compounds as Strong Inhibitors of the Fungal Pathogen Histoplasma capsulatum. Antibiotics (Basel) 2021; 10:antibiotics10101223. [PMID: 34680804 PMCID: PMC8532743 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics10101223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Revised: 09/17/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Histoplasma capsulatum is a dimorphic fungal pathogen endemic to the midwestern and southern United States. It causes mycoses ranging from subclinical respiratory infections to severe systemic disease, and is of particular concern for immunocompromised patients in endemic areas. Clinical management of histoplasmosis relies on protracted regimens of antifungal drugs whose effectiveness can be limited by toxicity. In this study, we hypothesize that conserved biochemical signaling pathways in the eukaryotic domain can be leveraged to repurpose kinase inhibitors as antifungal compounds. We conducted a screen of two kinase inhibitor libraries to identify compounds inhibiting the growth of Histoplasma capsulatum in the pathogenic yeast form. Our approach identified seven compounds with an elongated hydrophobic polyaromatic structure, five of which share a molecular motif including a urea unit linking a halogenated benzene ring and a para-substituted polyaromatic group. The top hits include the cancer therapeutic Sorafenib, which inhibits growth of Histoplasma in vitro and in a macrophage infection model with low host cell cytotoxicity. Our results reveal the possibility of repurposing Sorafenib or derivatives thereof as therapy for histoplasmosis, and suggest that repurposing of libraries developed for human cellular targets may be a fruitful source of antifungal discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte Berkes
- Department of Biology, Merrimack College, North Andover, MA 01845, USA; (M.L.); (K.B.); (J.M.); (D.L.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Jimmy Franco
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Merrimack College, North Andover, MA 01845, USA; (J.F.); (A.C.)
| | - Maxx Lawson
- Department of Biology, Merrimack College, North Andover, MA 01845, USA; (M.L.); (K.B.); (J.M.); (D.L.)
| | - Katelynn Brann
- Department of Biology, Merrimack College, North Andover, MA 01845, USA; (M.L.); (K.B.); (J.M.); (D.L.)
| | - Jessica Mermelstein
- Department of Biology, Merrimack College, North Andover, MA 01845, USA; (M.L.); (K.B.); (J.M.); (D.L.)
| | - Daniel Laverty
- Department of Biology, Merrimack College, North Andover, MA 01845, USA; (M.L.); (K.B.); (J.M.); (D.L.)
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Merrimack College, North Andover, MA 01845, USA; (J.F.); (A.C.)
| | - Allison Connors
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Merrimack College, North Andover, MA 01845, USA; (J.F.); (A.C.)
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218
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Structure and inhibition of Cryptococcus neoformans sterylglucosidase to develop antifungal agents. Nat Commun 2021; 12:5885. [PMID: 34620873 PMCID: PMC8497620 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-26163-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2021] [Accepted: 09/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Pathogenic fungi exhibit a heavy burden on medical care and new therapies are needed. Here, we develop the fungal specific enzyme sterylglucosidase 1 (Sgl1) as a therapeutic target. Sgl1 converts the immunomodulatory glycolipid ergosterol 3β-D-glucoside to ergosterol and glucose. Previously, we found that genetic deletion of Sgl1 in the pathogenic fungus Cryptococcus neoformans (Cn) results in ergosterol 3β-D-glucoside accumulation, renders Cn non-pathogenic, and immunizes mice against secondary infections by wild-type Cn, even in condition of CD4+ T cell deficiency. Here, we disclose two distinct chemical classes that inhibit Sgl1 function in vitro and in Cn cells. Pharmacological inhibition of Sgl1 phenocopies a growth defect of the Cn Δsgl1 mutant and prevents dissemination of wild-type Cn to the brain in a mouse model of infection. Crystal structures of Sgl1 alone and with inhibitors explain Sgl1’s substrate specificity and enable the rational design of antifungal agents targeting Sgl1. Sterylglucosidase 1 (Sgl1) is a virulence factor in Cryptococcus neoformans that modulates fungal pathogenesis and host response. Here, the authors characterize Sgl1 structurally, identify Sgl1 inhibitors, and demonstrate Sgl1 inhibition has efficacy in mouse models of infection.
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219
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Razzaq I, Berg MD, Jiang Y, Genereaux J, Uthayakumar D, Kim GH, Agyare-Tabbi M, Halder V, Brandl CJ, Lajoie P, Shapiro RS. The SAGA and NuA4 component Tra1 regulates Candida albicans drug resistance and pathogenesis. Genetics 2021; 219:iyab131. [PMID: 34849885 PMCID: PMC8633099 DOI: 10.1093/genetics/iyab131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Candida albicans is the most common cause of death from fungal infections. The emergence of resistant strains reducing the efficacy of first-line therapy with echinocandins, such as caspofungin calls for the identification of alternative therapeutic strategies. Tra1 is an essential component of the SAGA and NuA4 transcriptional co-activator complexes. As a PIKK family member, Tra1 is characterized by a C-terminal phosphoinositide 3-kinase domain. In Saccharomyces cerevisiae, the assembly and function of SAGA and NuA4 are compromised by a Tra1 variant (Tra1Q3) with three arginine residues in the putative ATP-binding cleft changed to glutamine. Whole transcriptome analysis of the S. cerevisiae tra1Q3 strain highlights Tra1's role in global transcription, stress response, and cell wall integrity. As a result, tra1Q3 increases susceptibility to multiple stressors, including caspofungin. Moreover, the same tra1Q3 allele in the pathogenic yeast C. albicans causes similar phenotypes, suggesting that Tra1 broadly mediates the antifungal response across yeast species. Transcriptional profiling in C. albicans identified 68 genes that were differentially expressed when the tra1Q3 strain was treated with caspofungin, as compared to gene expression changes induced by either tra1Q3 or caspofungin alone. Included in this set were genes involved in cell wall maintenance, adhesion, and filamentous growth. Indeed, the tra1Q3 allele reduces filamentation and other pathogenesis traits in C. albicans. Thus, Tra1 emerges as a promising therapeutic target for fungal infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iqra Razzaq
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G2W1, Canada
| | - Matthew D Berg
- Department of Biochemistry, The University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada
| | - Yuwei Jiang
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, The University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada
| | - Julie Genereaux
- Department of Biochemistry, The University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, The University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada
| | - Deeva Uthayakumar
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G2W1, Canada
| | - Grace H Kim
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G2W1, Canada
| | - Michelle Agyare-Tabbi
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G2W1, Canada
| | - Viola Halder
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G2W1, Canada
| | - Christopher J Brandl
- Department of Biochemistry, The University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada
| | - Patrick Lajoie
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, The University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada
| | - Rebecca S Shapiro
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G2W1, Canada
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220
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Di Mambro T, Vanzolini T, Bruscolini P, Perez-Gaviro S, Marra E, Roscilli G, Bianchi M, Fraternale A, Schiavano GF, Canonico B, Magnani M. A new humanized antibody is effective against pathogenic fungi in vitro. Sci Rep 2021; 11:19500. [PMID: 34593880 PMCID: PMC8484667 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-98659-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Invasive fungal infections mainly affect patients undergoing transplantation, surgery, neoplastic disease, immunocompromised subjects and premature infants, and cause over 1.5 million deaths every year. The most common fungi isolated in invasive diseases are Candida spp., Cryptococcus spp., and Aspergillus spp. and even if four classes of antifungals are available (Azoles, Echinocandins, Polyenes and Pyrimidine analogues), the side effects of drugs and fungal acquired and innate resistance represent the major hurdles to be overcome. Monoclonal antibodies are powerful tools currently used as diagnostic and therapeutic agents in different clinical contexts but not yet developed for the treatment of invasive fungal infections. In this paper we report the development of the first humanized monoclonal antibody specific for β-1,3 glucans, a vital component of several pathogenic fungi. H5K1 has been tested on C. auris, one of the most urgent threats and resulted efficient both alone and in combination with Caspofungin and Amphotericin B showing an enhancement effect. Our results support further preclinical and clinical developments for the use of H5K1 in the treatment of patients in need.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomas Di Mambro
- grid.12711.340000 0001 2369 7670Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino “Carlo Bo”, 61029 Urbino, Italy ,Diatheva S.R.L, Via Sant’Anna 131/135, 61030 Cartoceto, Italy
| | - Tania Vanzolini
- grid.12711.340000 0001 2369 7670Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino “Carlo Bo”, 61029 Urbino, Italy
| | - Pierpaolo Bruscolini
- grid.11205.370000 0001 2152 8769Instituto de Biocomputación y Física de Sistemas Complejos (BIFI), Universidad de Zaragoza, 50018 Zaragoza, Spain ,grid.11205.370000 0001 2152 8769Departamento de Física Teórica, Universidad de Zaragoza, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Sergio Perez-Gaviro
- grid.11205.370000 0001 2152 8769Instituto de Biocomputación y Física de Sistemas Complejos (BIFI), Universidad de Zaragoza, 50018 Zaragoza, Spain ,grid.11205.370000 0001 2152 8769Departamento de Física Teórica, Universidad de Zaragoza, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain ,grid.467120.6Centro Universitario de la Defensa, 50090 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Emanuele Marra
- Takis S.R.L, Via di Castel Romano 100, 00128 Rome, Italy
| | | | - Marzia Bianchi
- grid.12711.340000 0001 2369 7670Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino “Carlo Bo”, 61029 Urbino, Italy
| | - Alessandra Fraternale
- grid.12711.340000 0001 2369 7670Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino “Carlo Bo”, 61029 Urbino, Italy
| | - Giuditta Fiorella Schiavano
- grid.12711.340000 0001 2369 7670Department of Humanities, University of Urbino “Carlo Bo”, 61029 Urbino, Italy
| | - Barbara Canonico
- grid.12711.340000 0001 2369 7670Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino “Carlo Bo”, 61029 Urbino, Italy
| | - Mauro Magnani
- grid.12711.340000 0001 2369 7670Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino “Carlo Bo”, 61029 Urbino, Italy ,Diatheva S.R.L, Via Sant’Anna 131/135, 61030 Cartoceto, Italy
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221
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Lessons from an Educational Invasive Fungal Disease Conference on Hospital Antifungal Stewardship Practices across the UK and Ireland. J Fungi (Basel) 2021; 7:jof7100801. [PMID: 34682223 PMCID: PMC8538376 DOI: 10.3390/jof7100801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2021] [Revised: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Invasive fungal disease (IFD) is a growing health burden. High mortality rates, increasing numbers of at-risk hosts, and a limited availability of rapid diagnostics and therapeutic options mean that patients are increasingly exposed to unnecessary antifungals. High rates of prescriptions promote patient exposure to undue toxicity and drive the emergence of resistance. Antifungal stewardship (AFS) aims to guide antifungal usage and reduce unnecessary exposure and antifungal consumption whilst maintaining or improving outcomes. Here, we examine several AFS approaches from hospitals across the UK and Ireland to demonstrate the benefits of AFS practices and support the broader implementation of AFS as both a necessary and achievable strategy. Since the accuracy and turnaround times (TATs) of diagnostic tools can impact treatment decisions, several AFS strategies have included the development and implementation of diagnostic-driven care pathways. AFS informed treatment strategies can help stratify patients on a risk basis ensuring the right patients receive antifungals at the optimal time. Using a multidisciplinary approach is also key due to the complexity of managing and treating patients at risk of IFD. Through knowledge sharing, such as The Gilead Antifungal Information Network (GAIN), we hope to drive practices that improve patient management and support the preservation of antifungals for future use.
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222
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Stan D, Enciu AM, Mateescu AL, Ion AC, Brezeanu AC, Stan D, Tanase C. Natural Compounds With Antimicrobial and Antiviral Effect and Nanocarriers Used for Their Transportation. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:723233. [PMID: 34552489 PMCID: PMC8450524 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.723233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Due to the increasing prevalence of life-threatening bacterial, fungal and viral infections and the ability of these human pathogens to develop resistance to current treatment strategies, there is a great need to find and develop new compunds to combat them. These molecules must have low toxicity, specific activity and high bioavailability. The most suitable compounds for this task are usually derived from natural sources (animal, plant or even microbial). In this review article, the latest and most promising natural compounds used to combat bacteria, filamentous fungi and viruses are presented and evaluated. These include plant extracts, essential oils, small antimicrobial peptides of animal origin, bacteriocins and various groups of plant compounds (triterpenoids; alkaloids; phenols; flavonoids) with antimicrobial and antiviral activity. Data are presented on the inhibitory activity of each natural antimicrobial substance and on the putative mechanism of action against bacterial and fungal strains. The results show that among the bioactive compounds studied, triterpenoids have significant inhibitory activity against coronaviruses, but flavonoids have also been shown to inhibit SARS-COV-2. The last chapter is devoted to nanocarriers used to improve stability, bioavailability, cellular uptake/internalization, pharmacokinetic profile and reduce toxicity of natural compunds. There are a number of nanocarriers such as liposomes, drug delivery microemulsion systems, nanocapsules, solid lipid nanoparticles, polymeric micelles, dendrimers, etc. However, some of the recent studies have focused on the incorporation of natural substances with antimicrobial/antiviral activity into polymeric nanoparticles, niosomes and silver nanoparticles (which have been shown to have intrinsic antimicrobial activity). The natural antimicrobials isolated from animals and microorganisms have been shown to have good inhibitory effect on a range of pathogens, however the plants remain the most prolific source. Even if the majority of the studies for the biological activity evaluation are in silico or in vitro, their internalization in the optimum nanocarriers represents the future of “green therapeutics” as shown by some of the recent work in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Stan
- DDS Diagnostic, Bucharest, Romania.,Titu Maiorescu University, PhD Medical School, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Ana-Maria Enciu
- Victor Babes National Institute of Pathology, Biochemistry-Proteomics Department, Bucharest, Romania
| | | | | | - Ariana Cristina Brezeanu
- Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy-Department of Plastic Surgery, Bucharest, Romania
| | | | - Cristiana Tanase
- Victor Babes National Institute of Pathology, Biochemistry-Proteomics Department, Bucharest, Romania.,Titu Maiorescu University, Faculty of Medicine, Bucharest, Romania
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223
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Antibiofilm Potential of Medicinal Plants against Candida spp. Oral Biofilms: A Review. Antibiotics (Basel) 2021; 10:antibiotics10091142. [PMID: 34572724 PMCID: PMC8464735 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics10091142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2021] [Revised: 09/15/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The use of natural products to promote health is as old as human civilization. In recent years, the perception of natural products derived from plants as abundant sources of biologically active compounds has driven their exploitation towards the search for new chemical products that can lead to further pharmaceutical formulations. Candida fungi, being opportunistic pathogens, increase their virulence by acquiring resistance to conventional antimicrobials, triggering diseases, especially in immunosuppressed hosts. They are also pointed to as the main pathogens responsible for most fungal infections of the oral cavity. This increased resistance to conventional synthetic antimicrobials has driven the search for new molecules present in plant extracts, which have been widely explored as alternative agents in the prevention and treatment of infections. This review aims to provide a critical view and scope of the in vitro antimicrobial and antibiofilm activity of several medicinal plants, revealing species with inhibition/reduction effects on the biofilm formed by Candida spp. in the oral cavity. The most promising plant extracts in fighting oral biofilm, given their high capacity to reduce it to low concentrations were the essential oils extracted from Allium sativum L., Cinnamomum zeylanicum Blume. and Cymbopogon citratus (DC) Stapf.
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224
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Brackin AP, Hemmings SJ, Fisher MC, Rhodes J. Fungal Genomics in Respiratory Medicine: What, How and When? Mycopathologia 2021; 186:589-608. [PMID: 34490551 PMCID: PMC8421194 DOI: 10.1007/s11046-021-00573-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Respiratory infections caused by fungal pathogens present a growing global health concern and are a major cause of death in immunocompromised patients. Worryingly, coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) resulting in acute respiratory distress syndrome has been shown to predispose some patients to airborne fungal co-infections. These include secondary pulmonary aspergillosis and mucormycosis. Aspergillosis is most commonly caused by the fungal pathogen Aspergillus fumigatus and primarily treated using the triazole drug group, however in recent years, this fungus has been rapidly gaining resistance against these antifungals. This is of serious clinical concern as multi-azole resistant forms of aspergillosis have a higher risk of mortality when compared against azole-susceptible infections. With the increasing numbers of COVID-19 and other classes of immunocompromised patients, early diagnosis of fungal infections is critical to ensuring patient survival. However, time-limited diagnosis is difficult to achieve with current culture-based methods. Advances within fungal genomics have enabled molecular diagnostic methods to become a fast, reproducible, and cost-effective alternative for diagnosis of respiratory fungal pathogens and detection of antifungal resistance. Here, we describe what techniques are currently available within molecular diagnostics, how they work and when they have been used.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amelie P Brackin
- MRC Centre for Global Disease Analysis, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Sam J Hemmings
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Matthew C Fisher
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Johanna Rhodes
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Imperial College London, London, UK.
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225
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He Q, Zhang D, Zhang F, Liu X, Feng X. Asymmetric Catalytic Epoxidation of Terminal Enones for the Synthesis of Triazole Antifungal Agents. Org Lett 2021; 23:6961-6966. [PMID: 34424719 DOI: 10.1021/acs.orglett.1c02588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
An enantioselective epoxidation of α-substituted vinyl ketones was realized to construct the key epoxide intermediates for the synthesis of various triazole antifungal agents. The reaction proceeded efficiently in high yields with good enantioselectivities by employing a chiral N,N'-dioxide/ScIII complex as the chiral catalyst and 35% aq. H2O2 as the oxidant. It enabled the facile transformation for optically active isavuconazole, efinaconazole, and other potential antifungal agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qianwen He
- Key Laboratory of Green Chemistry & Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China
| | - Dong Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Green Chemistry & Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China
| | - Fengcai Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Green Chemistry & Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China
| | - Xiaohua Liu
- Key Laboratory of Green Chemistry & Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China
| | - Xiaoming Feng
- Key Laboratory of Green Chemistry & Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China
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226
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Antifungal Efficacy of Redox-Active Natamycin against Some Foodborne Fungi-Comparison with Aspergillus fumigatus. Foods 2021; 10:foods10092073. [PMID: 34574183 PMCID: PMC8469148 DOI: 10.3390/foods10092073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2021] [Revised: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The fungal antioxidant system is one of the targets of the redox-active polyene antifungal drugs, including amphotericin B (AMB), nystatin (NYS), and natamycin (NAT). Besides medical applications, NAT has been used in industry for preserving foods and crops. In this study, we investigated two parameters (pH and food ingredients) affecting NAT efficacy. In the human pathogen, Aspergillus fumigatus, NAT (2 to 16 μg mL−1) exerted higher activity at pH 5.6 than at pH 3.5 on a defined medium. In contrast, NAT exhibited higher activity at pH 3.5 than at pH 5.6 against foodborne fungal contaminants, Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus parasiticus, and Penicillium expansum, with P. expansum being the most sensitive. In commercial food matrices (10 organic fruit juices), food ingredients differentially affected NAT antifungal efficacy. Noteworthily, NAT overcame tolerance of the A. fumigatus signaling mutants to the fungicide fludioxonil and exerted antifungal synergism with the secondary metabolite, kojic acid (KA). Altogether, NAT exhibited better antifungal activity at acidic pH against foodborne fungi; however, the ingredients from commercial food matrices presented greater impact on NAT efficacy compared to pH values. Comprehensive determination of parameters affecting NAT efficacy and improved food formulation will promote sustainable food/crop production, food safety, and public health.
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García R, Itto-Nakama K, Rodríguez-Peña JM, Chen X, Sanz AB, de Lorenzo A, Pavón-Vergés M, Kubo K, Ohnuki S, Nombela C, Popolo L, Ohya Y, Arroyo J. Poacic acid, a β-1,3-glucan-binding antifungal agent, inhibits cell-wall remodeling and activates transcriptional responses regulated by the cell-wall integrity and high-osmolarity glycerol pathways in yeast. FASEB J 2021; 35:e21778. [PMID: 34383971 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202100278r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2021] [Revised: 05/26/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
As a result of the relatively few available antifungals and the increasing frequency of resistance to them, the development of novel antifungals is increasingly important. The plant natural product poacic acid (PA) inhibits β-1,3-glucan synthesis in Saccharomyces cerevisiae and has antifungal activity against a wide range of plant pathogens. However, the mode of action of PA is unclear. Here, we reveal that PA specifically binds to β-1,3-glucan, its affinity for which is ~30-fold that for chitin. Besides its effect on β-1,3-glucan synthase activity, PA inhibited the yeast glucan-elongating activity of Gas1 and Gas2 and the chitin-glucan transglycosylase activity of Crh1. Regarding the cellular response to PA, transcriptional co-regulation was mediated by parallel activation of the cell-wall integrity (CWI) and high-osmolarity glycerol signaling pathways. Despite targeting β-1,3-glucan remodeling, the transcriptional profiles and regulatory circuits activated by caspofungin, zymolyase, and PA differed, indicating that their effects on CWI have different mechanisms. The effects of PA on the growth of yeast strains indicated that it has a mode of action distinct from that of echinocandins, suggesting it is a unique antifungal agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raúl García
- Departamento de Microbiología y Parasitología, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, IRYCIS, Madrid, Spain
| | - Kaori Itto-Nakama
- Department of Integrated Biosciences, Graduate School of Frontier Sciences, University of Tokyo, Kashiwa, Japan
| | - José Manuel Rodríguez-Peña
- Departamento de Microbiología y Parasitología, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, IRYCIS, Madrid, Spain
| | - Xiaolin Chen
- Department of Integrated Biosciences, Graduate School of Frontier Sciences, University of Tokyo, Kashiwa, Japan
| | - Ana Belén Sanz
- Departamento de Microbiología y Parasitología, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, IRYCIS, Madrid, Spain
| | - Alba de Lorenzo
- Departamento de Microbiología y Parasitología, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, IRYCIS, Madrid, Spain
| | - Mónica Pavón-Vergés
- Departamento de Microbiología y Parasitología, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, IRYCIS, Madrid, Spain
| | - Karen Kubo
- Department of Integrated Biosciences, Graduate School of Frontier Sciences, University of Tokyo, Kashiwa, Japan
| | - Shinsuke Ohnuki
- Department of Integrated Biosciences, Graduate School of Frontier Sciences, University of Tokyo, Kashiwa, Japan
| | - César Nombela
- Departamento de Microbiología y Parasitología, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, IRYCIS, Madrid, Spain
| | - Laura Popolo
- Department of Biosciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Yoshikazu Ohya
- Department of Integrated Biosciences, Graduate School of Frontier Sciences, University of Tokyo, Kashiwa, Japan.,Collaborative Research Institute for Innovative Microbiology (CRIIM), The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Javier Arroyo
- Departamento de Microbiología y Parasitología, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, IRYCIS, Madrid, Spain
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Screening of Chemical Libraries for New Antifungal Drugs against Aspergillus fumigatus Reveals Sphingolipids Are Involved in the Mechanism of Action of Miltefosine. mBio 2021; 12:e0145821. [PMID: 34372704 PMCID: PMC8406317 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.01458-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Aspergillus fumigatus is an important fungal pathogen and the main etiological agent of aspergillosis, a disease characterized by a noninvasive process that can evolve to a more severe clinical manifestation, called invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA), in immunocompromised patients. The antifungal arsenal to threat aspergillosis is very restricted. Azoles are the main therapeutic approach to control IPA, but the emergence of azole-resistant A. fumigatus isolates has significantly increased over recent decades. Therefore, new strategies are necessary to combat aspergillosis, and drug repurposing has emerged as an efficient and alternative approach for identifying new antifungal drugs. Here, we used a screening approach to analyze A. fumigatus in vitro susceptibility to 1,127 compounds. A. fumigatus was susceptible to 10 compounds, including miltefosine, a drug that displayed fungicidal activity against A. fumigatus. By screening an A. fumigatus transcription factor null library, we identified a single mutant, which has the smiA (sensitive to miltefosine) gene deleted, conferring a phenotype of susceptibility to miltefosine. The transcriptional profiling (RNA-seq) of the wild-type and ΔsmiA strains and chromatin immunoprecipitation coupled to next-generation sequencing (ChIP-Seq) of an SmiA-tagged strain exposed to miltefosine revealed genes of the sphingolipid pathway that are directly or indirectly regulated by SmiA. Sphingolipid analysis demonstrated that the mutant has overall decreased levels of sphingolipids when growing in the presence of miltefosine. The identification of SmiA represents the first genetic element described and characterized that plays a direct role in miltefosine response in fungi. IMPORTANCE The filamentous fungus Aspergillus fumigatus causes a group of diseases named aspergillosis, and their development occurs after the inhalation of conidia dispersed in the environment. Very few classes of antifungal drugs are available for aspergillosis treatment, e.g., azoles, but the emergence of global resistance to azoles in A. fumigatus clinical isolates has increased over recent decades. Repositioning or repurposing drugs already available on the market is an interesting and faster opportunity for the identification of novel antifungal agents. By using a repurposing strategy, we identified 10 different compounds that impact A. fumigatus survival. One of these compounds, miltefosine, demonstrated fungicidal activity against A. fumigatus. The mechanism of action of miltefosine is unknown, and, aiming to get more insights about it, we identified a transcription factor, SmiA (sensitive to miltefosine), important for miltefosine resistance. Our results suggest that miltefosine displays antifungal activity against A. fumigatus, interfering in sphingolipid biosynthesis.
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230
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Tabassum R, Ashfaq M, Oku H. Current Pharmaceutical Aspects of Synthetic Quinoline Derivatives. Mini Rev Med Chem 2021; 21:1152-1172. [PMID: 33319670 DOI: 10.2174/1389557520999201214234735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2020] [Revised: 10/06/2020] [Accepted: 10/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Quinoline derivatives are considered broad-spectrum pharmacological compounds that exhibit a wide range of biological activities. Integration of quinoline moiety can improve its physical and chemical properties and also pharmacological behavior. Due to its wide range of pharmaceutical applications, it is a very popular compound to design new drugs for the treatment of multiple diseases like cancer, dengue fever, malaria, tuberculosis, fungal infections, AIDS, Alzheimer's disease and diabetes. In this review, our major focus is to pay attention to the biological activities of quinoline compounds in the treatment of these diseases such as anti-viral, anti-cancer, anti-malarial, antibacterial, anti-fungal, anti-tubercular and anti-diabetic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rukhsana Tabassum
- Department of Chemistry, The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Bahawalpur, 36100, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Ashfaq
- Department of Chemistry, The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Bahawalpur, 36100, Pakistan
| | - Hiroyuki Oku
- Division of Molecular Science, Graduate School of Science & Engineering Gunma University, Gunma 376-8515, Japan
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231
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Lewis RA, Devi J, Green K, Li J, Hopkins A, Hayles J, Nurse P, Errington J, Allenby NEE. Screening and Purification of Natural Products from Actinomycetes that Induce a "Rounded" Morphological Phenotype in Fission Yeast. NATURAL PRODUCTS AND BIOPROSPECTING 2021; 11:431-445. [PMID: 33881756 PMCID: PMC8275771 DOI: 10.1007/s13659-021-00304-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Accepted: 04/06/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
This study was designed to identify and investigate bioactive natural product compounds that alter the cellular shape of the fission yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe and induce a "rounded" or "small" cellular morphological phenotype. Bioassays using a range of antifungal agents against a multidrug-sensitive fission yeast strain, SAK950 showed that many induced a "rounded" phenotype. We then investigated whether 46 of the actinomycete strains identified in our previous study as inducing a similar phenotype produced antifungal agents of similar classes. We show that five of the strains produced streptothricin and that 26 strains produced polyenes, including fungichromin, filipin and candicidin, the last of which was produced by 24 strains. A taxonomic study of the strains indicated that the majority of the candicidin only producers were Streptomyces hydrogenans and S. albidoflavus whilst those that additionally produced streptothricin were related to S. enissocaesilis. A follow-up study to investigate the natural products made by related strains indicated that they followed a similar pattern. The identification of several compounds from the actinomycete strains similar to the antifungal agents initially tested confirm the validity of an approach using the S. pombe morphological phenotype and actinomycete taxonomy as a predictive tool for natural product identification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard Alexander Lewis
- Demuris Ltd, The Biosphere, Draymans Way, Newcastle Helix, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE4 5BX, UK.
| | - Jenileima Devi
- Demuris Ltd, The Biosphere, Draymans Way, Newcastle Helix, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE4 5BX, UK
| | - Katherine Green
- Demuris Ltd, The Biosphere, Draymans Way, Newcastle Helix, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE4 5BX, UK
| | - Juanjuan Li
- University of Southampton, University Road, Southampton, SO17 1BJ, UK
| | - Adam Hopkins
- Demuris Ltd, The Biosphere, Draymans Way, Newcastle Helix, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE4 5BX, UK
| | - Jacqueline Hayles
- Cell Cycle Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London, NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Paul Nurse
- Cell Cycle Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London, NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Jeff Errington
- Demuris Ltd, The Biosphere, Draymans Way, Newcastle Helix, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE4 5BX, UK
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Wang X, Mohammad IS, Fan L, Zhao Z, Nurunnabi M, Sallam MA, Wu J, Chen Z, Yin L, He W. Delivery strategies of amphotericin B for invasive fungal infections. Acta Pharm Sin B 2021; 11:2585-2604. [PMID: 34522599 PMCID: PMC8424280 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2021.04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2020] [Revised: 02/18/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Invasive fungal infections (IFIs) represent a growing public concern for clinicians to manage in many medical settings, with substantial associated morbidities and mortalities. Among many current therapeutic options for the treatment of IFIs, amphotericin B (AmB) is the most frequently used drug. AmB is considered as a first-line drug in the clinic that has strong antifungal activity and less resistance. In this review, we summarized the most promising research efforts on nanocarriers for AmB delivery and highlighted their efficacy and safety for treating IFIs. We have also discussed the mechanism of actions of AmB, rationale for treating IFIs, and recent advances in formulating AmB for clinical use. Finally, this review discusses some practical considerations and provides recommendations for future studies in applying AmB for combating IFIs.
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Key Words
- ABCD, AmB colloidal dispersion
- AIDS, acquired immunodeficiency syndrome
- AP, antisolvent precipitation
- ARDS, acute respiratory distress syndrome
- AmB, amphotericin B
- AmB-GCPQ, AmB-encapsulated N-palmitoyl-N-methyl-N,N-dimethyl-N,N,N-trimethyl-6-O-glycol-chitosan nanoparticles
- AmB-IONP, AmB-loaded iron oxide nanoparticles
- AmB-PM, AmB-polymeric micelles
- AmB-SD, AmB sodium deoxycholate
- AmBd, AmB deoxycholate
- Amphotericin B
- Aspergillus fumigatus, A. fumigatus
- BBB, blood‒brain barrier
- BCS, biopharmaceutics classification system
- BDDE, butanediol diglycidyl ether
- BSA, bovine serum albumin
- BUN, blood urea nitrogen
- C. Albicans, Candida Albicans
- CFU, colony-forming unit
- CLSM, confocal laser scanning microscope
- CMC, carboxymethylated l-carrageenan
- CP, chitosan-polyethylenimine
- CS, chitosan
- Conjugates
- DDS, drug delivery systems
- DMPC, dimyristoyl phosphatidyl choline
- DMPG, dimyristoyl phosphatidylglycerole
- DMSA, dimercaptosuccinic acid
- Drug delivery
- GNPs, gelatin nanoparticles
- HPH, high-pressure homogenization
- HPMC, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose
- ICV, intensive care unit
- IFIs, invasive fungal infections
- Invasive fungal infections
- L-AmB, liposomal AmB
- LNA, linolenic acid
- MAA, methacrylic acid
- MFC, minimum fungicidal concentrations
- MIC, minimum inhibitory concentration
- MN, microneedles
- MOP, microneedle ocular patch
- MPEG-PCL, monomethoxy poly(ethylene glycol)-poly(epsilon-caprolactone)
- NEs, nanoemulsions
- NLC, nanostructured lipid carriers
- NPs, nanoparticles
- Nanoparticles
- P-407, poloxamer-407
- PAM, polyacrylamide
- PCL, polycaprolactone
- PDA, poly(glycolic acid)
- PDLLA, poly(d,l-lactic acid)
- PDLLGA, poly(d,l-lactic-co-glycolic acid)
- PEG, poly(ethylene glycol)
- PEG-DSPE, PEG-lipid poly(ethylene glycol)-distearoylphosphatidylethanolamine
- PEG-PBC, phenylboronic acid-functionalized polycarbonate/PEG
- PEG-PUC, urea-functionalized polycarbonate/PEG
- PGA-PPA, poly(l-lysine-b-l-phenylalanine) and poly(l-glutamic acid-b-l-phenylalanine)
- PLA, poly(lactic acid)
- PLGA, polyvinyl alcohol poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid)
- PLGA-PLH-PEG, PLGA-b-poly(l-histidine)-b-poly(ethylene glycol)
- PMMA, poly(methyl methacrylate)
- POR, porphyran
- PVA, poly(vinyl alcohol)
- PVP, polyvinylpyrrolidone
- Poor water-solubility
- RBCs, red blood cells
- RES, reticuloendothelial system
- ROS, reactive oxygen species
- SEM, scanning electron microscope
- SL-AmB, sophorolipid-AmB
- SLNs, solid lipid nanoparticles
- Topical administration
- Toxicity
- γ-CD, γ-cyclodextrin
- γ-PGA, γ-poly(gamma-glutamic acid
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaochun Wang
- Department of Pharmaceutics, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Imran Shair Mohammad
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, University Town, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Lifang Fan
- Jiangsu Aosaikang Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Nanjing 211112, China
| | - Zongmin Zhao
- School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
| | - Md Nurunnabi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Texas at El Paso, El Paso, TX 79902, USA
| | - Marwa A. Sallam
- Department of Industrial Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Alexandria University, Alexandria 21521, Egypt
| | - Jun Wu
- Department of Geriatric Cardiology, Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory of Geriatrics, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Zhongjian Chen
- Shanghai Skin Disease Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200443, China
| | - Lifang Yin
- Department of Pharmaceutics, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Wei He
- Department of Pharmaceutics, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
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Hameed S, Hans S, Singh S, Dhiman R, Monasky R, Pandey RP, Thangamani S, Fatima Z. Revisiting the Vital Drivers and Mechanisms of β-Glucan Masking in Human Fungal Pathogen, Candida albicans. Pathogens 2021; 10:942. [PMID: 34451406 PMCID: PMC8399646 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10080942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2021] [Revised: 07/14/2021] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Among the several human fungal pathogens, Candida genus represents one of the most implicated in the clinical scenario. There exist several distinctive features that govern the establishment of Candida infections in addition to their capacity to adapt to multiple stress conditions inside humans which also include evasion of host immune responses. The complex fungal cell wall of the prevalent pathogen, Candida albicans, is one of the main targets of antifungal drugs and recognized by host immune cells. The wall consists of tiered arrangement of an outer thin but dense covering of mannan and inner buried layers of β-glucan and chitin. However, the pathogenic fungi adopt strategies to evade immune recognition by masking these molecules. This capacity to camouflage the immunogenic polysaccharide β-glucan from the host is a key virulence factor of C. albicans. The present review is an attempt to collate various underlying factors and mechanisms involved in Candida β-glucan masking from the available pool of knowledge and provide a comprehensive understanding. This will further improve therapeutic approaches to candidiasis by identifying new antifungal targets that blocks fungal immune evasion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saif Hameed
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Haryana, Gurugram 122413, India; (S.H.); (S.H.); (S.S.)
| | - Sandeep Hans
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Haryana, Gurugram 122413, India; (S.H.); (S.H.); (S.S.)
| | - Shweta Singh
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Haryana, Gurugram 122413, India; (S.H.); (S.H.); (S.S.)
| | - Ruby Dhiman
- Centre for Drug Design Discovery and Development (C4D), SRM University, Sonepat 131029, India; (R.D.); (R.P.P.)
| | - Ross Monasky
- Department of Pathology and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Midwestern University, 19555 N. 59th Ave., Glendale, AZ 85308, USA; (R.M.); (S.T.)
| | - Ramendra Pati Pandey
- Centre for Drug Design Discovery and Development (C4D), SRM University, Sonepat 131029, India; (R.D.); (R.P.P.)
| | - Shankar Thangamani
- Department of Pathology and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Midwestern University, 19555 N. 59th Ave., Glendale, AZ 85308, USA; (R.M.); (S.T.)
- Department of Comparative Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47906, USA
| | - Zeeshan Fatima
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Haryana, Gurugram 122413, India; (S.H.); (S.H.); (S.S.)
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234
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Lin Y, Betts H, Keller S, Cariou K, Gasser G. Recent developments of metal-based compounds against fungal pathogens. Chem Soc Rev 2021; 50:10346-10402. [PMID: 34313264 DOI: 10.1039/d0cs00945h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
This review provides insight into the rapidly expanding field of metal-based antifungal agents. In recent decades, the antibacterial resistance crisis has caused reflection on many aspects of public health where weaknesses in our medicinal arsenal may potentially be present - including in the treatment of fungal infections, particularly in the immunocompromised and those with underlying health conditions where mortality rates can exceed 50%. Combination of organic moieties with known antifungal properties and metal ions can lead to increased bioavailability, uptake and efficacy. Development of such organometallic drugs may alleviate pressure on existing antifungal medications. Prodigious antimicrobial moieties such as azoles, Schiff bases, thiosemicarbazones and others reported herein lend themselves easily to the coordination of a host of metal ions, which can vastly improve the biocidal activity of the parent ligand, thereby extending the library of antifungal drugs available to medical professionals for treatment of an increasing incidence of fungal infections. Overall, this review shows the impressive but somewhat unexploited potential of metal-based compounds to treat fungal infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Lin
- Chimie ParisTech, PSL University, CNRS, Institute of Chemistry for Life and Health Sciences, Laboratory for Inorganic Chemical Biology, 75005 Paris, France.
| | - Harley Betts
- Chimie ParisTech, PSL University, CNRS, Institute of Chemistry for Life and Health Sciences, Laboratory for Inorganic Chemical Biology, 75005 Paris, France.
| | - Sarah Keller
- Chimie ParisTech, PSL University, CNRS, Institute of Chemistry for Life and Health Sciences, Laboratory for Inorganic Chemical Biology, 75005 Paris, France.
| | - Kevin Cariou
- Chimie ParisTech, PSL University, CNRS, Institute of Chemistry for Life and Health Sciences, Laboratory for Inorganic Chemical Biology, 75005 Paris, France.
| | - Gilles Gasser
- Chimie ParisTech, PSL University, CNRS, Institute of Chemistry for Life and Health Sciences, Laboratory for Inorganic Chemical Biology, 75005 Paris, France.
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235
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Kim LJ, Ohashi M, Zhang Z, Tan D, Asay M, Cascio D, Rodriguez JA, Tang Y, Nelson HM. Prospecting for natural products by genome mining and microcrystal electron diffraction. Nat Chem Biol 2021; 17:872-877. [PMID: 34312563 DOI: 10.1038/s41589-021-00834-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
More than 60% of pharmaceuticals are related to natural products (NPs), chemicals produced by living organisms. Despite this, the rate of NP discovery has slowed over the past few decades. In many cases the rate-limiting step in NP discovery is structural characterization. Here we report the use of microcrystal electron diffraction (MicroED), an emerging cryogenic electron microscopy (CryoEM) method, in combination with genome mining to accelerate NP discovery and structural elucidation. As proof of principle we rapidly determine the structure of a new 2-pyridone NP, Py-469, and revise the structure of fischerin, an NP isolated more than 25 years ago, with potent cytotoxicity but hitherto ambiguous structural assignment. This study serves as a powerful demonstration of the synergy of MicroED and synthetic biology in NP discovery, technologies that when taken together will ultimately accelerate the rate at which new drugs are discovered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lee Joon Kim
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Masao Ohashi
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Zhuan Zhang
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Dan Tan
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Matthew Asay
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Duilio Cascio
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA.,UCLA-DOE Institute for Genomics and Proteomics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - José A Rodriguez
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA.,UCLA-DOE Institute for Genomics and Proteomics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Yi Tang
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA. .,Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
| | - Hosea M Nelson
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
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236
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Haroun M, Tratrat C, Kochkar H, Nair AB. CDATA[Recent Advances in the Development of 1,2,3-Triazole-containing Derivatives as Potential Antifungal Agents and Inhibitors of Lanoster ol 14α-Demethylase. Curr Top Med Chem 2021; 21:462-506. [PMID: 33319673 DOI: 10.2174/1568026621999201214232018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2020] [Revised: 10/12/2020] [Accepted: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
1,2,3-Triazole, a five-membered heterocyclic nucleus, is widely recognized as a key chromophore of great value in medicinal chemistry for delivering compounds possessing innumerable biological activities, including antimicrobial, antitubercular, antidiabetic, antiviral, antitumor, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory activities. Mainly, in the past years, diverse conjugates carrying this biologically valuable core have been reported due to their attractive fungicidal potential and potent effects on various infective targets. Hence, hybridization of 1,2,3-triazole with other antimicrobial pharmacophores appears to be a judicious strategy to develop new effective anti-fungal candidates to combat the emergence of drug-sensitive and drug-resistant infectious diseases. Thus, the current review highlights the recent advances of this promising category of 1,2,3-triazole-containing hybrids incorporating diverse varieties of bioactive heterocycles such as conozole, coumarin, imidazole, benzimidazole, pyrazole, indole, oxindole, chromene, pyrane, quinazoline, chalcone, isoflavone, carbohydrates, and amides. It underlies their inhibition behavior against a wide array of infectious fungal species during 2015-2020.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelyne Haroun
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Clinical Pharmacy, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa 31982, Saudi Arabia
| | - Christophe Tratrat
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Clinical Pharmacy, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa 31982, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hafedh Kochkar
- Department of Chemistry, College of Science, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam 31441, Saudi Arabia
| | - Anroop B Nair
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Clinical Pharmacy, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa 31982, Saudi Arabia
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237
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Dahiya S, Sharma N, Punia A, Choudhary P, Gulia P, Parmar VS, Chhillar AK. Antimycotic Drugs and their Mechanisms of Resistance to Candida Species. Curr Drug Targets 2021; 23:116-125. [PMID: 34551694 DOI: 10.2174/1389450122666210719124143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2021] [Revised: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Fungal infections have shown an upsurge in recent decades, which is mainly because of the increasing number of immunocompromised patients and the occurrence of invasive candidiasis has been found to be 7-15 fold greater than that of invasive aspergillosis. The genus Candida comprises more than 150 distinct species, however, only a few of them are found to be pathogenic to humans. Mortality rates of Candida species are found to be around 45% and the reasons for this intensified mortality are inefficient diagnostic techniques and unfitting initial treatment strategies. There are only a few antifungal drug classes that are employed for the remedy of invasive fungal infections. which include azoles, polyenes, echinocandins, and pyrimidine analogs. During the last 2-3 decades, the usage of antifungal drugs has increased several folds due to which the reports of escalating antifungal drug resistance have also been recorded. The resistance is mostly to the triazole- based compounds. Due to the occurrence of antifungal drug resistance, the success rates of treatment have been reduced as well as major changes have been observed in the frequency of fungal infections. In this review, we have summarized the major molecular mechanisms for the development of antifungal drug resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sweety Dahiya
- Centre for Biotechnology, MaharshiDayanand University Rohtak, Haryana. India
| | - Namita Sharma
- Centre for Biotechnology, MaharshiDayanand University Rohtak, Haryana. India
| | - Aruna Punia
- Centre for Biotechnology, MaharshiDayanand University Rohtak, Haryana. India
| | - Pooja Choudhary
- Centre for Biotechnology, MaharshiDayanand University Rohtak, Haryana. India
| | - Prity Gulia
- Centre for Biotechnology, MaharshiDayanand University Rohtak, Haryana. India
| | - Virinder S Parmar
- Department of Chemistry and Environmental Science, Medgar Evers College, The City University of New York, 1638 Bedford Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11225. India
| | - Anil K Chhillar
- Centre for Biotechnology, MaharshiDayanand University Rohtak, Haryana. India
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238
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Curto MÁ, Butassi E, Ribas JC, Svetaz LA, Cortés JCG. Natural products targeting the synthesis of β(1,3)-D-glucan and chitin of the fungal cell wall. Existing drugs and recent findings. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2021; 88:153556. [PMID: 33958276 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2021.153556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2021] [Revised: 03/12/2021] [Accepted: 03/21/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND During the last three decades systemic fungal infections associated to immunosuppressive therapies have become a serious healthcare problem. Clinical development of new antifungals is an urgent requirement. Since fungal but not mammalian cells are encased in a carbohydrate-containing cell wall, which is required for the growth and viability of fungi, the inhibition of cell wall synthesizing machinery, such as β(1,3)-D-glucan synthases (GS) and chitin synthases (CS) that catalyze the synthesis of β(1-3)-D-glucan and chitin, respectively, represent an ideal mode of action of antifungal agents. Although the echinocandins anidulafungin, caspofungin and micafungin are clinically well-established GS inhibitors for the treatment of invasive fungal infections, much effort must still be made to identify inhibitors of other enzymes and processes involved in the synthesis of the fungal cell wall. PURPOSE Since natural products (NPs) have been the source of several antifungals in clinical use and also have provided important scaffolds for the development of semisynthetic analogues, this review was devoted to investigate the advances made to date in the discovery of NPs from plants that showed capacity of inhibiting cell wall synthesis targets. The chemical characterization, specific target, discovery process, along with the stage of development are provided here. METHODS An extensive systematic search for NPs against the cell wall was performed considering all the articles published until the end of 2020 through the following scientific databases: NCBI PubMed, Scopus and Google Scholar and using the combination of the terms "natural antifungals" and "plant extracts" with "fungal cell wall". RESULTS The first part of this review introduces the state of the art of the structure and biosynthesis of the fungal cell wall and considers exclusively those naturally produced GS antifungals that have given rise to both existing semisynthetic approved drugs and those derivatives currently in clinical trials. According to their chemical structure, natural GS inhibitors can be classified as 1) cyclic lipopeptides, 2) glycolipids and 3) acidic terpenoids. We also included nikkomycins and polyoxins, NPs that inhibit the CS, which have traditionally been considered good candidates for antifungal drug development but have finally been discarded after enduring unsuccessful clinical trials. Finally, the review focuses in the most recent findings about the growing field of plant-derived molecules and extracts that exhibit activity against the fungal cell wall. Thus, this search yielded sixteen articles, nine of which deal with pure compounds and seven with plant extracts or fractions with proven activity against the fungal cell wall. Regarding the mechanism of action, seven (44%) produced GS inhibition while five (31%) inhibited CS. Some of them (56%) interfered with other components of the cell wall. Most of the analyzed articles refer to tests carried out in vitro and therefore are in early stages of development. CONCLUSION This report delivers an overview about both existing natural antifungals targeting GS and CS activities and their mechanisms of action. It also presents recent discoveries on natural products that may be used as starting points for the development of potential selective and non-toxic antifungal drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Ángeles Curto
- Instituto de Biología Funcional y Genómica and Departamento de Microbiología y Genética, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC)/Universidad de Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Estefanía Butassi
- Área Farmacognosia, Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas, Universidad Nacional de Rosario, Suipacha 531, 2000 Rosario, Argentina
| | - Juan C Ribas
- Instituto de Biología Funcional y Genómica and Departamento de Microbiología y Genética, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC)/Universidad de Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Laura A Svetaz
- Área Farmacognosia, Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas, Universidad Nacional de Rosario, Suipacha 531, 2000 Rosario, Argentina.
| | - Juan C G Cortés
- Instituto de Biología Funcional y Genómica and Departamento de Microbiología y Genética, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC)/Universidad de Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain.
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Gaikani H, Smith AM, Lee AY, Giaever G, Nislow C. Systematic Prediction of Antifungal Drug Synergy by Chemogenomic Screening in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. FRONTIERS IN FUNGAL BIOLOGY 2021; 2:683414. [PMID: 37744101 PMCID: PMC10512392 DOI: 10.3389/ffunb.2021.683414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2021] [Accepted: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
Since the earliest days of using natural remedies, combining therapies for disease treatment has been standard practice. Combination treatments exhibit synergistic effects, broadly defined as a greater-than-additive effect of two or more therapeutic agents. Clinicians often use their experience and expertise to tailor such combinations to maximize the therapeutic effect. Although understanding and predicting biophysical underpinnings of synergy have benefitted from high-throughput screening and computational studies, one challenge is how to best design and analyze the results of synergy studies, especially because the number of possible combinations to test quickly becomes unmanageable. Nevertheless, the benefits of such studies are clear-by combining multiple drugs in the treatment of infectious disease and cancer, for instance, one can lessen host toxicity and simultaneously reduce the likelihood of resistance to treatment. This study introduces a new approach to characterize drug synergy, in which we extend the widely validated chemogenomic HIP-HOP assay to drug combinations; this assay involves parallel screening of comprehensive collections of barcoded deletion mutants. We identify a class of "combination-specific sensitive strains" that introduces mechanisms for the synergies we observe and further suggest focused follow-up studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamid Gaikani
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Department of Chemistry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Andrew M. Smith
- Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomedical Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Anna Y. Lee
- Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomedical Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Guri Giaever
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Corey Nislow
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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240
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Semenov VV, Raihstat MM, Konyushkin LD, Semenov RV, Blaskovich MA, Zuegg J, Elliott AG, Hansford KA, Cooper MA. Antimicrobial screening of a historical collection of over 140 000 small molecules. MENDELEEV COMMUNICATIONS 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mencom.2021.07.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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241
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Behrens-Baumann WJ. New Antimycotics in the Pipeline - For Ophthalmology Too? Klin Monbl Augenheilkd 2021; 238:1108-1112. [PMID: 34198353 DOI: 10.1055/a-1478-4248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Seven new antimycotics are presented that are at different points of development or approval. These substances are mainly first-in-class drugs. They are primarily developed for systemic administration. However, with the support of a pharmacist, the intravenous formulation may be used as eyedrops. In this short review, the activities of the substances against various fungal infections are described. After unsuccessful conventional therapy of fungal eye infections, one of these new substances might be suitable to cure the mycosis.
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242
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Antifungal activity of dendritic cell lysosomal proteins against Cryptococcus neoformans. Sci Rep 2021; 11:13619. [PMID: 34193926 PMCID: PMC8245489 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-92991-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryptococcal meningitis is a life-threatening disease among immune compromised individuals that is caused by the opportunistic fungal pathogen Cryptococcus neoformans. Previous studies have shown that the fungus is phagocytosed by dendritic cells (DCs) and trafficked to the lysosome where it is killed by both oxidative and non-oxidative mechanisms. While certain molecules from the lysosome are known to kill or inhibit the growth of C. neoformans, the lysosome is an organelle containing many different proteins and enzymes that are designed to degrade phagocytosed material. We hypothesized that multiple lysosomal components, including cysteine proteases and antimicrobial peptides, could inhibit the growth of C. neoformans. Our study identified the contents of the DC lysosome and examined the anti-cryptococcal properties of different proteins found within the lysosome. Results showed several DC lysosomal proteins affected the growth of C. neoformans in vitro. The proteins that killed or inhibited the fungus did so in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, the concentration of protein needed for cryptococcal inhibition was found to be non-cytotoxic to mammalian cells. These data show that many DC lysosomal proteins have antifungal activity and have potential as immune-based therapeutics.
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243
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Zhu C, Liao B, Ye X, Zhou Y, Chen X, Liao M, Cheng L, Zhou X, Ren B. Artemisinin elevates ergosterol levels of Candida albicans to synergise with amphotericin B against oral candidiasis. Int J Antimicrob Agents 2021; 58:106394. [PMID: 34197906 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijantimicag.2021.106394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2021] [Revised: 06/11/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Oral candidiasis, especially caused by Candida albicans, is the most common fungal infection of the oral cavity. The increase in drug resistance and lack of new antifungal agents call for new strategies of antifungal treatment. This study repurposed artemisinin (Art) as a potentiator to the polyene amphotericin B (AmB) and characterised their synergistic mechanism against C. albicans and oral candidiasis. The synergistic antifungal activity between Art and AmB was identified by the checkerboard and recovery plate assays according to the fractional inhibitory concentration index (FICI). Art showed no antifungal activity even at >200 mg/L. However, it significantly reduced AmB dosages against the wild-type strain and 75 clinical isolates of C. albicans (FICI ≤ 0.5). Art significantly upregulated expression of genes from the ergosterol biosynthesis pathway (ERG1, ERG3, ERG9 and ERG11), as shown by RT-qPCR, and elevated the ergosterol content of Candida cells. Increased ergosterol content significantly enhanced binding between fungal cells and the polyene agent, resulting in sensitisation of C. albicans to AmB. Drug combinations of Art and AmB showed synergistic activity against oral mucosal infection in vivo by reducing the epithelial infection area, fungal burden and inflammatory infiltrates in murine oropharyngeal candidiasis. These findings indicate a novel synergistic antifungal drug combination and a new Art mechanism of action, suggesting that drug repurposing is a clinically practical means of antifungal drug development and treatment of oral candidiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chengguang Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & West China School of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China; Department of Operative Dentistry and Endodontics, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Binyou Liao
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & West China School of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China
| | - Xingchen Ye
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & West China School of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China
| | - Yujie Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & West China School of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China; Department of Operative Dentistry and Endodontics, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Xi Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & West China School of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China; Department of Operative Dentistry and Endodontics, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Min Liao
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & West China School of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China; Department of Operative Dentistry and Endodontics, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Lei Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & West China School of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China; Department of Operative Dentistry and Endodontics, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.
| | - Xuedong Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & West China School of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China; Department of Operative Dentistry and Endodontics, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.
| | - Biao Ren
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & West China School of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China.
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Groll AH, Gordon K, Buchheidt D, Willinger B, Heinz WJ, Kurzai O, Rickerts V, Cornely OA. State of Medical Mycology at German Academic Medical Centres: A Survey of the German-Speaking Mycological Society (DMYKG) and the Paul-Ehrlich-Society for Chemotherapy (PEG). Mycoses 2021; 64:1177-1182. [PMID: 34180098 DOI: 10.1111/myc.13346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2021] [Revised: 06/21/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Little is known about the infrastructure to translate advances in the management of patients at risk to develop invasive opportunistic fungal diseases. To assess the current state of Medical Mycology support in Germany, we conducted a survey among all 36 academic medical centres. METHODS The survey consisted of a 3-pages questionnaire sent out in the first half of 2019. Information included details of infrastructure, education and teaching; consultation services and interdisciplinary conferences; research activities and participation in network groups; radiology, microbiology and pharmacology support; publication activity; and European Confederation for Medical Mycology (ECMM) Excellence Center designation, if assigned. RESULTS Information was returned from 24 centres (67%). Thirteen institutions (54%) reported an independent infectious disease, and two a separate Medical Mycology department (8%); a Medical Mycology working group was reported for nine institutions (38%). An infectious disease consultation service was existent in 16 institutions (67%) and a multidisciplinary conference in 13 (54%). Fifteen institutions reported a separate study office with activities in infectious disease studies (63%). Laboratory capability for fungal identification and susceptibility testing was confirmed by all 24 institutions; testing of galactomannan by 23 (96%), cryptococcal antigen by 21 (88%), ß-D-Glucan by 9 (38%), and panfungal and Pneumocystis PCR by 21 and 22 (88% and 92%), respectively. Therapeutic drug monitoring of voriconazole was reported to be available in 15 (63%) institutions with a turnaround of ≤24 h during weekdays in 10 (42%). Two of the 24 University hospitals (8%) reported ECMM Diamond Excellence Status. CONCLUSIONS The results of this survey document the continuing need to improve the availability of specialised Medical Mycology support in German academic medical centres.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas H Groll
- Infectious Disease Research Program, Center for Bone Marrow Transplantation and Department of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, University Children's Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Kathrin Gordon
- Infectious Disease Research Program, Center for Bone Marrow Transplantation and Department of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, University Children's Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Dieter Buchheidt
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Mannheim University Hospital, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Birgit Willinger
- Division of Clinical Microbiology, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Werner J Heinz
- Department of Internal Medicine II, Caritas Hospital Bad Mergentheim, Bad Mergentheim, Germany
| | - Oliver Kurzai
- Institute for Hygiene and Microbiology, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany.,National Reference Center for Invasive Fungal Infections NRZMyk, Leibniz Institut für Naturstoff-Forschung und Infektionsbiologie - Hans-Knöll-Institut, Jena, Germany
| | - Volker Rickerts
- Unit 16, Mycotic and Parasitic Agents and Mycobacteria, Robert Koch Institute Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Oliver A Cornely
- Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Department I of Internal Medicine, Excellence Center for Medical Mycology (ECMM), Translational Research, Cologne Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Ageing-Associated Diseases (CECAD), and German Centre for Infection Research (DZIF) Partner Site Bonn-Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
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245
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Emerging Prospects for Combating Fungal Infections by Targeting Phosphatidylinositol Transfer Proteins. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22136754. [PMID: 34201733 PMCID: PMC8269425 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22136754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Revised: 06/11/2021] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The emergence of fungal “superbugs” resistant to the limited cohort of anti-fungal agents available to clinicians is eroding our ability to effectively treat infections by these virulent pathogens. As the threat of fungal infection is escalating worldwide, this dwindling response capacity is fueling concerns of impending global health emergencies. These developments underscore the urgent need for new classes of anti-fungal drugs and, therefore, the identification of new targets. Phosphoinositide signaling does not immediately appear to offer attractive targets due to its evolutionary conservation across the Eukaryota. However, recent evidence argues otherwise. Herein, we discuss the evidence identifying Sec14-like phosphatidylinositol transfer proteins (PITPs) as unexplored portals through which phosphoinositide signaling in virulent fungi can be chemically disrupted with exquisite selectivity. Recent identification of lead compounds that target fungal Sec14 proteins, derived from several distinct chemical scaffolds, reveals exciting inroads into the rational design of next generation Sec14 inhibitors. Development of appropriately refined next generation Sec14-directed inhibitors promises to expand the chemical weaponry available for deployment in the shifting field of engagement between fungal pathogens and their human hosts.
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246
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Wang X, Yang X, Sun X, Qian Y, Fan M, Zhang Z, Deng K, Lou Z, Pei Z, Zhu J. Identification of a novel SPT inhibitor WXP-003 by docking-based virtual screening and investigation of its anti-fungi effect. J Enzyme Inhib Med Chem 2021; 36:1007-1015. [PMID: 34148472 PMCID: PMC8218698 DOI: 10.1080/14756366.2021.1915301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Serine palmitoyltransferase (SPT) plays the key role on catalysing the formation of 3-ketodihydrosphingosine, which is the first step of the de novo biosynthesis of sphingolipids. SPT is linked to many diseases including fungal infection, making it a potential therapeutic target. Thus, a logical docking-based virtual screening method was used to screen selective SPT inhibitor against fungi, not human. We used myriocin-similarity database to identify compounds with good binding with fungal SPT and poor binding with homology human SPT model. Preliminary bio-assay led to the discovery of a promising inhibitor WXP-003, which displayed good inhibitory activity against diversity fungi strains with MIC ranging from 0.78 to 12.5 μg/mL. WXP-003 could significantly reduce sphingolipids content in fungi and no effect on mouse fibroblast cell line L929. Molecular dynamics simulation depicted that SPT/WXP-003 complex formed the favoured interactions. Taken together, discovery of WXP-003 provided valuable guide for the development of novel anti-fungal agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Wang
- The Affiliated Wuxi No. 2 People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi, China
| | - Xin Yang
- The Affiliated Wuxi No. 2 People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi, China
| | - Xin Sun
- The Affiliated Wuxi No. 2 People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi, China
| | - Yi Qian
- The Affiliated Wuxi No. 2 People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi, China
| | - Mengyao Fan
- The Affiliated Wuxi No. 2 People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi, China
| | - Zhehao Zhang
- The Affiliated Wuxi No. 2 People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi, China
| | - Kaiyuan Deng
- The Affiliated Wuxi No. 2 People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi, China
| | - Zaixiang Lou
- School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
| | - Zejun Pei
- The Affiliated Wuxi No. 2 People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi, China
| | - Jingyu Zhu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
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247
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Recognition of Diagnostic Gaps for Laboratory Diagnosis of Fungal Diseases: Expert Opinion from the Fungal Diagnostics Laboratories Consortium (FDLC). J Clin Microbiol 2021; 59:e0178420. [PMID: 33504591 DOI: 10.1128/jcm.01784-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Fungal infections are a rising threat to our immunocompromised patient population, as well as other nonimmunocompromised patients with various medical conditions. However, little progress has been made in the past decade to improve fungal diagnostics. To jointly address this diagnostic challenge, the Fungal Diagnostics Laboratory Consortium (FDLC) was recently created. The FDLC consists of 26 laboratories from the United States and Canada that routinely provide fungal diagnostic services for patient care. A survey of fungal diagnostic capacity among the 26 members of the FDLC was recently completed, identifying the following diagnostic gaps: lack of molecular detection of mucormycosis; lack of an optimal diagnostic algorithm incorporating fungal biomarkers and molecular tools for early and accurate diagnosis of Pneumocystis pneumonia, aspergillosis, candidemia, and endemic mycoses; lack of a standardized molecular approach to identify fungal pathogens directly in formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissues; lack of robust databases to enhance mold identification with matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry; suboptimal diagnostic approaches for mold blood cultures, tissue culture processing for Mucorales, and fungal respiratory cultures for cystic fibrosis patients; inadequate capacity for fungal point-of-care testing to detect and identify new, emerging or underrecognized, rare, or uncommon fungal pathogens; and performance of antifungal susceptibility testing. In this commentary, the FDLC delineates the most pressing unmet diagnostic needs and provides expert opinion on how to fulfill them. Most importantly, the FDLC provides a robust laboratory network to tackle these diagnostic gaps and ultimately to improve and enhance the clinical laboratory's capability to rapidly and accurately diagnose fungal infections.
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248
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Preparation and Antimicrobial Activity of Chitosan and Its Derivatives: A Concise Review. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26123694. [PMID: 34204251 PMCID: PMC8233993 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26123694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2021] [Revised: 06/10/2021] [Accepted: 06/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite the advantages presented by synthetic polymers such as strength and durability, the lack of biodegradability associated with the persistence in the environment for a long time turned the attention of researchers to natural polymers. Being biodegradable, biopolymers proved to be extremely beneficial to the environment. At present, they represent an important class of materials with applications in all economic sectors, but also in medicine. They find applications as absorbers, cosmetics, controlled drug delivery, tissue engineering, etc. Chitosan is one of the natural polymers which raised a strong interest for researchers due to some exceptional properties such as biodegradability, biocompatibility, nontoxicity, non-antigenicity, low-cost and numerous pharmacological properties as antimicrobial, antitumor, antioxidant, antidiabetic, immunoenhancing. In addition to this, the free amino and hydroxyl groups make it susceptible to a series of structural modulations, obtaining some derivatives with different biomedical applications. This review approaches the physico-chemical and pharmacological properties of chitosan and its derivatives, focusing on the antimicrobial potential including mechanism of action, factors that influence the antimicrobial activity and the activity against resistant strains, topics of great interest in the context of the concern raised by the available therapeutic options for infections, especially with resistant strains.
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249
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Schaefer S, Pham TTP, Brunke S, Hube B, Jung K, Lenardon MD, Boyer C. Rational Design of an Antifungal Polyacrylamide Library with Reduced Host-Cell Toxicity. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2021; 13:27430-27444. [PMID: 34060800 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.1c05020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Life-threatening invasive fungal infections represent an urgent threat to human health worldwide. The limited set of antifungal drugs has critical constraints such as resistance development and/or adverse side effects. One approach to overcome these limitations is to mimic naturally occurring antifungal peptides called defensins. Inspired by their advantageous amphiphilic properties, a library of 35 synthetic, linear, ternary polyacrylamides was prepared by controlled/living radical polymerization. The effect of the degree of polymerization (20, 40, and 100) and varying hydrophobic functionalities (branched, linear, cyclic, or aromatic differing in their number of carbons) on their antifungal activity was investigated. Short copolymers with a calculated log P of ∼1.5 revealed optimal activity against the major human fungal pathogen Candida albicans and other pathogenic fungal species with limited toxicity to mammalian host cells (red blood cells and fibroblasts). Remarkably, selected copolymers outperformed the commercial antifungal drug amphotericin B, with respect to the therapeutic index, highlighting their potential as novel antifungal compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Schaefer
- School of Chemical Engineering, UNSW, Sydney, New South Wales 2052, Australia
- Australian Centre for Nanomedicine, UNSW, Sydney, New South Wales 2052, Australia
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology, Hans Knoell Institute, 07745 Jena, Germany
| | - Thi Thu Phuong Pham
- School of Chemical Engineering, UNSW, Sydney, New South Wales 2052, Australia
- Australian Centre for Nanomedicine, UNSW, Sydney, New South Wales 2052, Australia
| | - Sascha Brunke
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology, Hans Knoell Institute, 07745 Jena, Germany
| | - Bernhard Hube
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology, Hans Knoell Institute, 07745 Jena, Germany
- Institute of Microbiology, Friedrich Schiller University, 07743 Jena, Germany
| | - Kenward Jung
- School of Chemical Engineering, UNSW, Sydney, New South Wales 2052, Australia
- Australian Centre for Nanomedicine, UNSW, Sydney, New South Wales 2052, Australia
| | - Megan Denise Lenardon
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, UNSW, Sydney, New South Wales 2052, Australia
| | - Cyrille Boyer
- School of Chemical Engineering, UNSW, Sydney, New South Wales 2052, Australia
- Australian Centre for Nanomedicine, UNSW, Sydney, New South Wales 2052, Australia
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250
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Nawrot J, Adamski Z, Kamińska-Kolat B, Kubisiak-Rzepczyk H, Kroma A, Nowak G, Gornowicz-Porowska J. Antifungal Activity of the Sesquiterpene Lactones from Psephellus bellus. PLANTS 2021; 10:plants10061180. [PMID: 34207928 PMCID: PMC8227665 DOI: 10.3390/plants10061180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2021] [Revised: 06/07/2021] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Due to increasing resistance of pathogenic fungi to antifungal treatments, new types of drugs are needed. For this purpose, active substances with antifungal properties occurring in natural compounds should be considered. The herb Psephellus bellus shows strong antifungal activity and is characterized by unique guaianolides, which have an ester on C-2. Thus, a specialized method of isolation and testing was applied to assess the pharmacological effects of these guaianolides. After phytochemical analysis (chromatography and spectral methods), selected lipophilic compounds and the herb extract of this species containing 26 sesquiterpene lactones were tested. The antifungal effect of the herbal compounds was determined on clinical strains of fungi Candida, Rhodotorula, Trichophyton, Microsporum, and Scopulariopsis using a diffusion test. The MTT assay was employed to study the cytotoxic effects of the extract against human fibroblasts. Statistical analysis was performed. All analyzed compounds exhibited antifungal activity in cultivations suitable for assessment. Most lipophilic cebellins from Psephellus bellus prevent the growth of most fungal strains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Nawrot
- Department and Division of Practical Cosmetology and Skin Diseases Prophylaxis, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Mazowiecka 33, 60-623 Poznan, Poland; (J.N.); (B.K.-K.); (A.K.); (G.N.)
| | - Zygmunt Adamski
- Department of Dermatology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Przybyszewskiego 49, 60-356 Poznan, Poland;
| | - Beata Kamińska-Kolat
- Department and Division of Practical Cosmetology and Skin Diseases Prophylaxis, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Mazowiecka 33, 60-623 Poznan, Poland; (J.N.); (B.K.-K.); (A.K.); (G.N.)
| | - Honorata Kubisiak-Rzepczyk
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Przybyszewskiego 49, 60-356 Poznan, Poland;
| | - Anna Kroma
- Department and Division of Practical Cosmetology and Skin Diseases Prophylaxis, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Mazowiecka 33, 60-623 Poznan, Poland; (J.N.); (B.K.-K.); (A.K.); (G.N.)
| | - Gerard Nowak
- Department and Division of Practical Cosmetology and Skin Diseases Prophylaxis, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Mazowiecka 33, 60-623 Poznan, Poland; (J.N.); (B.K.-K.); (A.K.); (G.N.)
| | - Justyna Gornowicz-Porowska
- Department and Division of Practical Cosmetology and Skin Diseases Prophylaxis, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Mazowiecka 33, 60-623 Poznan, Poland; (J.N.); (B.K.-K.); (A.K.); (G.N.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel./Fax: +48-61-847-0628
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