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de Souza Pitangui N, Fernandes FF, Aparecido da Silva T, Gonçales RA, Roque-Barreira MC. Role of paracoccin on Paracoccidioides brasiliensis virulence and susceptibility to antifungal drugs in the Galleria mellonella larvae model. Virulence 2023; 14:2150455. [PMID: 36599817 PMCID: PMC9815234 DOI: 10.1080/21505594.2022.2150455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Paracoccin (PCN), a Paracoccidioides brasiliensis glycoprotein, has been reported to play roles in fungal biology and paracoccidioidomycosis pathogenesis. Lectin and chitinase domains account for the PCN's dual roles as an immunomodulatory agent and virulence factor. Soluble PCN injected in P. brasiliensis infected mice, by interacting with TLRs' N-glycans, drives the host immune response toward a protective Th1 axis. Otherwise, mice infection with yeasts overexpressing PCN (ov-PCN) revealed that PCN acts as a fungal virulence factor, thanks to its chitinase activity on the cell wall, resulting in resistance to phagocytes' fungicidal activity and development of severe paracoccidioidomycosis. Because antifungal drug administration follows the disease diagnosis, we studied the PCN effect on yeast resistance or susceptibility to antifungal agents. Using a paracoccidioidomycosis model developed in Galleria mellonella larvae, we confirmed the observation, in the murine host, that ov-PCN yeasts display maximum virulence compared to wild-type (wt-PCN) or PCN-silenced (kd-PCN) yeasts. PCN overexpression accounted for the highest susceptibility of P. brasiliensis to antifungal and reduced relative mRNA expression of genes encoding proteins related to cell wall remodeling. The lowest virulence, detected in infection with kd-PCN yeasts, correlated with the lowest susceptibility to antifungals and impact on genes for cell wall remodeling. So, we defined that the grade of endogenous PCN production influences the P. brasiliensis virulence and susceptibility to antifungal drugs, as well as the expression of genes related to cell wall remodeling. We postulate that this variable gene expression is mechanistically associated with P. brasiliensis virulence changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nayla de Souza Pitangui
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology and Pathogenic Bioagents, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Fabrício Freitas Fernandes
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology and Pathogenic Bioagents, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Thiago Aparecido da Silva
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology and Pathogenic Bioagents, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
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Pitangui NDS, Fernandes FF, Gonçales RA, Roque-Barreira MC. Virulence Vs. Immunomodulation: Roles of the Paracoccin Chitinase and Carbohydrate-Binding Sites in Paracoccidioides brasiliensis Infection. Front Mol Biosci 2021; 8:700797. [PMID: 34532342 PMCID: PMC8438136 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2021.700797] [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: 04/26/2021] [Accepted: 08/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Paracoccin (PCN) is a bifunctional protein primarily present in the cell wall of Paracoccidioides brasiliensis, a human pathogenic dimorphic fungus. PCN has one chitinase region and four potential lectin sites and acts as both a fungal virulence factor and an immunomodulator of the host response. The PCN activity on fungal virulence, mediated by the chitinase site, was discovered by infecting mice with yeast overexpressing PCN (PCN-ov). PCN-ov are characterized by increased chitin hydrolysis, a narrow cell wall, and augmented resistance to phagocytes' fungicidal activity. Compared to wild-type (wt) yeast, infection with PCN-ov yeast causes a more severe disease, which is attributed to the increased PCN chitinase activity. In turn, immunomodulation of the host response was demonstrated by injecting, subcutaneously, recombinant PCN in mice infected with wt-P. brasiliensis. Through its carbohydrate binding site, the injected recombinant PCN interacts with Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2) and Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) N-glycans on macrophages, triggers M1 polarization, and stimulates protective Th1 immunity against the fungus. The PCN-treatment of wt yeast-infected mice results in mild paracoccidioidomycosis. Therefore, PCN paradoxically influences the course of murine paracoccidioidomycosis. The disease is severe when caused by yeast that overexpress endogenous PCN, which exerts a robust local chitinase activity, followed by architectural changes of the cell wall and release of low size chito-oligomers. However, the disease is mild when exogenous PCN is injected, which recognizes N-glycans on systemic macrophages resulting in immunomodulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nayla de Souza Pitangui
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology and Pathogenic Bioagents, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Fabrício Freitas Fernandes
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology and Pathogenic Bioagents, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Relber Aguiar Gonçales
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology and Pathogenic Bioagents, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Maria Cristina Roque-Barreira
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology and Pathogenic Bioagents, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
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Gonçales RA, Ricci-Azevedo R, Vieira VCS, Fernandes FF, Thomaz SMDO, Carvalho A, Vendruscolo PE, Cunha C, Roque-Barreira MC, Rodrigues F. Paracoccin Overexpression in Paracoccidioides brasiliensis Enhances Fungal Virulence by Remodeling Chitin Properties of the Cell Wall. J Infect Dis 2020; 224:164-174. [PMID: 33201217 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiaa707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2019] [Accepted: 11/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The thermodimorphic fungi Paracoccidioides spp. are the etiological agents of paracoccidioidomycosis. Although poorly studied, paracoccin (PCN) from Paracoccidioides brasiliensis has been shown to harbor lectinic, enzymatic, and immunomodulatory properties that affect disease development. METHODS Mutants of P. brasiliensis overexpressing PCN (ov-PCN) were constructed by Agrobacterium tumefaciens-mediated transformation. ov-PCN strains were analyzed and inoculated intranasally or intravenously to mice. Fungal burden, lung pathology, and survival were monitored to evaluate virulence. Electron microscopy was used to evaluate the size of chito-oligomer particles released by ov-PCN or wild-type strains to growth media. RESULTS ov-PCN strains revealed no differences in cell growth and viability, although PCN overexpression favored cell separation, chitin processing that results in the release of smaller chito-oligomer particles, and enhanced virulence. Our data show that PCN triggers a critical effect in the cell wall biogenesis through the chitinase activity resulting from overexpression of PCN. As such, PCN overexpression aggravates the disease caused by P. brasiliensis. CONCLUSIONS Our data are consistent with a model in which PCN modulates the cell wall architecture via its chitinase activity. These findings highlight the potential for exploiting PCN function in future therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Relber Aguiar Gonçales
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology and Pathogenic Bioagents, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto/São Paulo, Brazil.,Life and Health Sciences Research Institute School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal.,ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Rafael Ricci-Azevedo
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology and Pathogenic Bioagents, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto/São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Vanessa C S Vieira
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
| | - Fabrício F Fernandes
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology and Pathogenic Bioagents, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto/São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sandra M de O Thomaz
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology and Pathogenic Bioagents, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto/São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Agostinho Carvalho
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal.,ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Patrícia E Vendruscolo
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology and Pathogenic Bioagents, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto/São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Cristina Cunha
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal.,ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Maria Cristina Roque-Barreira
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology and Pathogenic Bioagents, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto/São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Fernando Rodrigues
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal.,ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
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Virulence factors of Paracoccidioides brasiliensis as therapeutic targets: a review. Antonie van Leeuwenhoek 2020; 113:593-604. [PMID: 31902009 DOI: 10.1007/s10482-019-01382-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2019] [Accepted: 12/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Paracoccidiodomycosis (PCM) is a systemic mycosis caused by the fungus Paracoccidioides brasiliensis and Paracoccidioides lutzii. The disease requires long and complicated treatment. The aim of this review is to address the fungal virulence factors that could be the target of the development of new drugs for PCM treatment. Virulence factors favoring the process of fungal infection and pathogenicity are considered as a microbial attribute associated with host susceptibility. P. brasiliensis has some known virulence factors which are 43 kDa glycoprotein (gp 43) which is an important fungal antigen, 70 kDa glycoprotein (gp 70), the carbohydrates constituting the fungal cell wall α-1,3, glucan and β-1,3-glucan, cell adhesion molecules and the presence of melanin pigments. The discovery and development of drugs that interact with these factors, such as inhibitors of β-1,3-glucan, reduced synthesis of gp 43, inhibitors of melanin production, is of great importance for the treatment of PCM. The study of virulence factors favors the understanding of pathogen-host relationships, aiming to evaluate the possibility of developing new therapeutic targets and mechanisms that these molecules play in the infectious process, favoring the design of a more specific treatment for this disease.
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Pitangui NDS, Fernandes FF, Gonçales RA, Roque-Barreira MC. Paracoccin: Purification and Validation of Its Lectin and Enzymatic Properties. Methods Mol Biol 2020; 2132:139-149. [PMID: 32306322 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-0430-4_14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Studies on the effects of components derived from the human pathogenic fungi Paracoccidioides brasiliensis have identified paracoccin (PCN), as a bifunctional protein with lectin (GlcNAc-binding) and enzymatic (chitinase) activities, able to induce modulation of host immune response. Endogenous PCN acts as a fungal virulence factor, whereas exogenous purified PCN, administered to the host, confers protective immunity in a murine model of paracoccidioidomycosis. The immunomodulation induced by purified-PCN injection has characterized it as an agent applicable in the therapy and vaccine against paracoccidioidomycosis. This section describes methods for PCN purification and validation of its lectin and enzymatic activities. It includes detailed protocols to obtain homogeneous PCN from P. brasiliensis yeasts, as well as to purify recombinant PCN from transformed heterologous microorganisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nayla de Souza Pitangui
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Fabrício Freitas Fernandes
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Relber Aguiar Gonçales
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Maria Cristina Roque-Barreira
- Laboratory of Immunochemistry and Glycobiology, Department of Cell and Molecular Biology and Pathogenic Bioagents, Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine University of São Paulo (FMRP/USP), Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil. .,Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil.
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Decyl Gallate as a Possible Inhibitor of N-Glycosylation Process in Paracoccidioides lutzii. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2019; 63:AAC.01909-18. [PMID: 31451502 DOI: 10.1128/aac.01909-18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2018] [Accepted: 07/28/2019] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The available antifungal therapeutic arsenal is limited. The search for alternative drugs with fewer side effects and new targets remains a major challenge. Decyl gallate (G14) is a derivative of gallic acid with a range of biological activities and broad-spectrum antifungal activity. Previously, our group demonstrated the promising anti-Paracoccidioides activity of G14. In this work, to evaluate the antifungal characteristics of G14 for Paracoccidioides lutzii, a chemical-genetic interaction analysis was conducted on a Saccharomyces cerevisiae model. N-glycosylation and/or the unfolded protein response pathway was identified as a high-confidence process for drug target prediction. The overactivation of unfolded protein response (UPR) signaling was confirmed using this model with IRE1/ATF6/PERK genes tagged with green fluorescent protein (GFP). In P. lutzii, this prediction was confirmed by the low activity of glycosylated enzymes [α-(1,3)-glucanase, N-acetyl-β-d-glucosaminidase (NAGase), and α-(1,4)-amylase], by hyperexpression of genes involved with the UPR and glycosylated enzymes, and by the reduction in the amounts of glycosylated proteins and chitin. All of these components are involved in fungal cell wall integrity and are dependent on the N-glycosylation process. This loss of integrity was confirmed by the reduction in mitochondrial activity, impaired budding, enhancement of wall permeability, and a decrease in viability. These events led to a reduction of the ability of fungi to adhere on human lung epithelial cells (A549) in vitro Therefore, G14 may have an important role in balancing the inflammatory reaction caused by fungal infection, without interfering with the microbicidal activity of nitric oxide. This work provides new information on the activity of G14, a potential anti-Paracoccidioides compound.
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Ricci-Azevedo R, Gonçales RA, Roque-Barreira MC, Girard D. Human neutrophils are targets to paracoccin, a lectin expressed by Paracoccidioides brasiliensis. Inflamm Res 2017; 67:31-41. [DOI: 10.1007/s00011-017-1093-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2017] [Revised: 08/16/2017] [Accepted: 09/19/2017] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
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Oliveira AF, Fernandes FF, Mariano VS, Almeida F, Ruas LP, Oliveira LL, Oliver C, Jamur MC, Roque-Barreira MC. Paracoccin distribution supports its role in Paracoccidioides brasiliensis growth and dimorphic transformation. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0184010. [PMID: 28846733 PMCID: PMC5573292 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0184010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2017] [Accepted: 08/16/2017] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Paracoccidioides brasiliensis yeast was reported to express paracoccin, a GlcNAc-binding protein that displays N-acetyl-β-d-glucosaminidase (NAGase) activity. Highly specific anti-paracoccin antibodies have been previously used to examine the localization of paracoccin in yeast and inhibit its growth in vitro. In the present study, anti-paracoccin antibodies were used to characterize, by scanning confocal microscopy, the distribution of paracoccin in P. brasiliensis hyphae, transition forms from hyphae to yeast, and mature yeast. In the mycelial phase, paracoccin was detected mainly in the hyphae tips, where it demonstrated a punctate distribution, and was associated with the cell wall. During the first 48 hours after a temperature shift from 26°C to 37°C, paracoccin expression in the differentiating hyphae was mainly detected in the budding regions, i.e. lateral protrusions, and inside the new daughter cells. There was an increased number of chlamydoconidia that expressed a high concentration of paracoccin on their surfaces and/or in their interiors 72–96 hours after the temperature shift. After 120 hours, yeast cells were the predominant form and their cytoplasm stained extensively for paracoccin, whereas Wheat Germ Agglutinin (WGA) staining was predominant on their exterior walls. After 10 days at 37°C, the interior of both mother and daughter yeast cells, as well as the budding regions, stained intensely for paracoccin. The comparison of mRNA-expression in the different fungal forms showed that PCN transcripts, although detected in all evaluated morphological forms, were higher in hypha and yeast-to-hypha transition forms. In conclusion, the pattern of paracoccin distribution in all P. brasiliensis morphotypes supports prevalent beliefs that it plays important roles in fungal growth and dimorphic transformation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aline Ferreira Oliveira
- Departamento de Biologia Celular e Molecular e Bioagentes Patogênicos, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brasil
| | - Fabricio Freitas Fernandes
- Departamento de Biologia Celular e Molecular e Bioagentes Patogênicos, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brasil
| | - Vânia Sammartino Mariano
- Departamento de Biologia Celular e Molecular e Bioagentes Patogênicos, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brasil
| | - Fausto Almeida
- Departamento de Biologia Celular e Molecular e Bioagentes Patogênicos, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brasil
| | - Luciana Pereira Ruas
- Departamento de Biologia Celular e Molecular e Bioagentes Patogênicos, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brasil
| | | | - Constance Oliver
- Departamento de Biologia Celular e Molecular e Bioagentes Patogênicos, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brasil
| | - Maria Celia Jamur
- Departamento de Biologia Celular e Molecular e Bioagentes Patogênicos, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brasil
| | - Maria Cristina Roque-Barreira
- Departamento de Biologia Celular e Molecular e Bioagentes Patogênicos, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brasil
- * E-mail:
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Abstract
Among the endemic deep mycoses in Latin America, paracoccidioidomycosis (PCM), caused by thermodimorphic fungi of the Paracoccidioides genus, is a major cause of morbidity. Disease development and its manifestations are associated with both host and fungal factors. Concerning the latter, several recent studies have employed the methodology of gene modulation in P. brasiliensis using antisense RNA (AsRNA) and Agrobacterium tumefaciens-mediated transformation (ATMT) to identify proteins that influence fungus virulence. Our previous observations suggested that paracoccin (PCN), a multidomain fungal protein with both lectin and enzymatic activities, may be a potential P. brasiliensis virulence factor. To explore this, we used AsRNA and ATMT methodology to obtain three independent PCN-silenced P. brasiliensis yeast strains (AsPCN1, AsPCN2, and AsPCN3) and characterized them with regard to P. brasiliensis biology and pathogenicity. AsPCN1, AsPCN2, and AsPCN3 showed relative PCN expression levels that were 60%, 40%, and 60% of that of the wild-type (WT) strain, respectively. PCN silencing led to the aggregation of fungal cells, blocked the morphological yeast-to-mycelium transition, and rendered the yeast less resistant to macrophage fungicidal activity. In addition, mice infected with AsPCN1, AsPCN2, and AsPCN3 showed a reduction in fungal burden of approximately 96% compared with those inoculated with the WT strain, which displayed a more extensive destruction of lung tissue. Finally, mice infected with the PCN-silenced yeast strains had lower mortality than those infected with the WT strain. These data demonstrate that PCN acts as a P. brasiliensis contributory virulence factor directly affecting fungal pathogenesis. The nonexistence of efficient genetic transformation systems has hampered studies in the dimorphic fungus Paracoccidioides brasiliensis, the etiological agent of the most frequent systemic mycosis in Latin America. The recent development of a method for gene expression knockdown by antisense RNA technology, associated with an Agrobacterium tumefaciens-mediated transformation system, provides new strategies for studying P. brasiliensis. Through this technology, we generated yeasts that were silenced for paracoccin (PCN), a P. brasiliensis component that has lectin and enzymatic properties. By comparing the phenotypes of PCN-silenced and wild-type strains of P. brasiliensis, we identified PCN as a virulence factor whose absence renders the yeasts unable to undergo the transition to mycelium and causes a milder pulmonary disease in mice, with a lower mortality rate. Our report highlights the importance of the technology used for P. brasiliensis transformation and demonstrates that paracoccin is a virulence factor acting on fungal biology and pathogenesis.
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Freitas MS, Oliveira AF, da Silva TA, Fernandes FF, Gonçales RA, Almeida F, Roque-Barreira MC. Paracoccin Induces M1 Polarization of Macrophages via Interaction with TLR4. Front Microbiol 2016; 7:1003. [PMID: 27458431 PMCID: PMC4932198 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2016.01003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2016] [Accepted: 06/13/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The fungal human pathogen Paracoccidioides brasiliensis contains paracoccin (PCN), a multi-domain protein that has lectin and N-acetyl-glucosaminidase activities, which account for its effects on the growth and morphogenesis of the fungus and on the activation of host macrophages through its interaction with TLR N-glycans. With the purpose of detailing the knowledge on the effects of PCN on macrophages, we used recombinant PCN expressed in Pichia pastoris (p-rPCN) to stimulate isolated murine peritoneal macrophages. The activation of these cells manifested through the release of high levels of inflammatory mediators, such as nitric oxide, TNF-α, IL-12p40, and IL-6. Furthermore, peritoneal macrophages stimulated with p-rPCN increased the relative expression of STAT1, SOCS3, and iNOS2 mRNA (M1 polarization markers). However, the expression of Arginase-1, Ym-1, and FIZZ1 (M2 polarization markers) remained at basal levels. Interestingly, the observed M1 macrophages’ polarization triggered by p-rPCN was abolished in cells obtained from knockout Toll-like receptor-4 mice. In this case, the p-rPCN-induced production of pro-inflammatory mediators was blocked too. These results demonstrate that the classical activation of macrophages induced by paracoccin depends on TLR4. Taken together, the results of our study indicate that paracoccin acts as a TLR agonist able to modulate immunity and exerts biological activities that favor its applicability as an immunotherapeutic agent to combat systemic fungal infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mateus S Freitas
- Departamento de Biologia Celular e Molecular e Bioagentes Patogênicos, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Aline F Oliveira
- Departamento de Biologia Celular e Molecular e Bioagentes Patogênicos, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Thiago A da Silva
- Departamento de Biologia Celular e Molecular e Bioagentes Patogênicos, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Fabrício F Fernandes
- Departamento de Biologia Celular e Molecular e Bioagentes Patogênicos, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Relber A Gonçales
- Departamento de Biologia Celular e Molecular e Bioagentes Patogênicos, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Fausto Almeida
- Departamento de Biologia Celular e Molecular e Bioagentes Patogênicos, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Maria C Roque-Barreira
- Departamento de Biologia Celular e Molecular e Bioagentes Patogênicos, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
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Almeida F, Antoniêto ACC, Pessoni AM, Monteiro VN, Alegre-Maller ACP, Pigosso LL, Pereira M, Soares CMDA, Roque-Barreira MC. Influence of N-glycans on Expression of Cell Wall Remodeling Related Genes in Paracoccidioides brasiliensis Yeast Cells. Curr Genomics 2016; 17:112-8. [PMID: 27226767 PMCID: PMC4864839 DOI: 10.2174/1389202917666151116212705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2015] [Revised: 06/30/2015] [Accepted: 07/12/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Paracoccidioidomycosis is the most prevalent systemic mycosis in Latin America. It is caused by the temperature-dependent dimorphic fungus Paracoccidioides brasiliensis. The P. brasiliensis cell wall is a dynamic outer structure, composed of a network of glycoproteins and polysaccharides, such as chitin, glucan and N-glycosylated proteins. These glycoproteins can interact with the host to affect infection rates, and are known to perform other functions. We inhibited N-linked glycosylation using tunicamycin (TM), and then evaluated the expression of P. brasiliensis genes related to cell wall remodeling. Our results suggest that cell wall synthesis related genes, such as β-1,3-glucanosyltransferase (PbGEL3), 1,3-β-D-glucan synthase (PbFKS1), and α-1,4-amylase (PbAMY), as well as cell wall degrading related genes, such as N-acetyl-β-D-glucosaminidase (PbNAG1), α-1,3-glucanase (PbAGN), and β-1,3-glucanase (PbBGN1 and PbBGN2), have their expression increased by the N-glycosylation inhibition, as detected by qRT-PCR. The observed increases in gene expression levels reveal possible compensatory mechanisms for diminished enzyme activity due to the lack of glycosylation caused by TM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fausto Almeida
- Departamento de Biologia Celular e Molecular e Bioagentes Patogênicos, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Bandeirantes 3900, Ribeirão Preto, SP 14049-900, Brazil
| | - Amanda Cristina Campos Antoniêto
- Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Bandeirantes 3900, Ribeirão Preto, SP 14040-900, Brazil
| | - André Moreira Pessoni
- Departamento de Biologia Celular e Molecular e Bioagentes Patogênicos, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Bandeirantes 3900, Ribeirão Preto, SP 14049-900, Brazil
| | - Valdirene Neves Monteiro
- Universidade Estadural de Goiás, UnUCET, BR 153, Km98. Campus Henrique Santillo, Anapolis, GO 75000-000, Brazil
| | - Ana Claudia Paiva Alegre-Maller
- Departamento de Biologia Celular e Molecular e Bioagentes Patogênicos, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Bandeirantes 3900, Ribeirão Preto, SP 14049-900, Brazil
| | - Laurine Lacerda Pigosso
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, GO, Brazil
| | - Maristela Pereira
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, GO, Brazil
| | - Célia Maria de Almeida Soares
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, GO, Brazil
| | - Maria Cristina Roque-Barreira
- Departamento de Biologia Celular e Molecular e Bioagentes Patogênicos, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Bandeirantes 3900, Ribeirão Preto, SP 14049-900, Brazil
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12
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Almeida F, Sardinha-Silva A, da Silva TA, Pessoni AM, Pinzan CF, Alegre-Maller ACP, Cecílio NT, Moretti NS, Damásio ARL, Pedersoli WR, Mineo JR, Silva RN, Roque-Barreira MC. Toxoplasma gondii Chitinase Induces Macrophage Activation. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0144507. [PMID: 26659253 PMCID: PMC4684212 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0144507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2015] [Accepted: 11/19/2015] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is an obligate intracellular protozoan parasite found worldwide that is able to chronically infect almost all vertebrate species, especially birds and mammalians. Chitinases are essential to various biological processes, and some pathogens rely on chitinases for successful parasitization. Here, we purified and characterized a chitinase from T. gondii. The enzyme, provisionally named Tg_chitinase, has a molecular mass of 13.7 kDa and exhibits a Km of 0.34 mM and a Vmax of 2.64. The optimal environmental conditions for enzymatic function were at pH 4.0 and 50 °C. Tg_chitinase was immunolocalized in the cytoplasm of highly virulent T. gondii RH strain tachyzoites, mainly at the apical extremity. Tg_chitinase induced macrophage activation as manifested by the production of high levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, a pathogenic hallmark of T. gondii infection. In conclusion, to our knowledge, we describe for the first time a chitinase of T. gondii tachyzoites and provide evidence that this enzyme might influence the pathogenesis of T. gondii infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fausto Almeida
- Departamento de Biologia Celular e Molecular e Bioagentes Patogênicos, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Bandeirantes 3900, Ribeirão Preto, SP, 14049-900, Brasil
| | - Aline Sardinha-Silva
- Departamento de Biologia Celular e Molecular e Bioagentes Patogênicos, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Bandeirantes 3900, Ribeirão Preto, SP, 14049-900, Brasil
| | - Thiago Aparecido da Silva
- Departamento de Biologia Celular e Molecular e Bioagentes Patogênicos, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Bandeirantes 3900, Ribeirão Preto, SP, 14049-900, Brasil
| | - André Moreira Pessoni
- Departamento de Biologia Celular e Molecular e Bioagentes Patogênicos, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Bandeirantes 3900, Ribeirão Preto, SP, 14049-900, Brasil
| | - Camila Figueiredo Pinzan
- Departamento de Biologia Celular e Molecular e Bioagentes Patogênicos, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Bandeirantes 3900, Ribeirão Preto, SP, 14049-900, Brasil
| | - Ana Claudia Paiva Alegre-Maller
- Departamento de Biologia Celular e Molecular e Bioagentes Patogênicos, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Bandeirantes 3900, Ribeirão Preto, SP, 14049-900, Brasil
| | - Nerry Tatiana Cecílio
- Departamento de Biologia Celular e Molecular e Bioagentes Patogênicos, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Bandeirantes 3900, Ribeirão Preto, SP, 14049-900, Brasil
| | - Nilmar Silvio Moretti
- Departamento de Microbiologia, Imunologia e Parasitologia, Universidade Federal de Sao Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - André Ricardo Lima Damásio
- Departamento de Bioquímica e Biologia Tecidual, Instituto de Biologia, Universidade de Campinas, Campinas, SP, Brasil
| | - Wellington Ramos Pedersoli
- Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Bandeirantes 3900, Ribeirão Preto, SP, 14040-900, Brasil
| | - José Roberto Mineo
- Laboratorio de Imunoparasitologia, Departamento de Imunologia, Microbiologia e Parasitologia, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Av. Pará, 1720, Uberlândia, MG, 38400 902, Brasil
| | - Roberto Nascimento Silva
- Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Bandeirantes 3900, Ribeirão Preto, SP, 14040-900, Brasil
| | - Maria Cristina Roque-Barreira
- Departamento de Biologia Celular e Molecular e Bioagentes Patogênicos, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Bandeirantes 3900, Ribeirão Preto, SP, 14049-900, Brasil
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13
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Abstract
Enzymes play key roles in fungal pathogenesis. Manipulation of enzyme expression or activity can significantly alter the infection process, and enzyme expression profiles can be a hallmark of disease. Hence, enzymes are worthy targets for better understanding pathogenesis and identifying new options for combatting fungal infections. Advances in genomics, proteomics, transcriptomics, and mass spectrometry have enabled the identification and characterization of new fungal enzymes. This review focuses on recent developments in the virulence-associated enzymes from Cryptococcus neoformans. The enzymatic suite of C. neoformans has evolved for environmental survival, but several of these enzymes play a dual role in colonizing the mammalian host. We also discuss new therapeutic and diagnostic strategies that could be based on the underlying enzymology.
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14
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Klein RC, Fabres-Klein MH, de Oliveira LL, Feio RN, Malouin F, Ribon ADOB. A C-type lectin from Bothrops jararacussu venom disrupts Staphylococcal biofilms. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0120514. [PMID: 25811661 PMCID: PMC4374669 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0120514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2014] [Accepted: 01/26/2015] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Bovine mastitis is a major threat to animal health and the dairy industry. Staphylococcus aureus is a contagious pathogen that is usually associated with persistent intramammary infections, and biofilm formation is a relevant aspect of the outcome of these infections. Several biological activities have been described for snake venoms, which led us to screen secretions of Bothrops jararacussu for antibiofilm activity against S. aureus NRS155. Crude venom was fractionated by size-exclusion chromatography, and the fractions were tested against S. aureus. Biofilm growth, but not bacterial growth, was affected by several fractions. Two fractions (15 and 16) showed the best activities and were also assayed against S. epidermidis NRS101. Fraction 15 was identified by TripleTOF mass spectrometry as a galactose-binding C-type lectin with a molecular weight of 15 kDa. The lectin was purified from the crude venom by D-galactose affinity chromatography, and only one peak was observed. This pure lectin was able to inhibit 75% and 80% of S. aureus and S. epidermidis biofilms, respectively, without affecting bacterial cell viability. The lectin also exhibited a dose-dependent inhibitory effect on both bacterial biofilms. The antibiofilm activity was confirmed using scanning electron microscopy. A pre-formed S. epidermidis biofilm was significantly disrupted by the C-type lectin in a time-dependent manner. Additionally, the lectin demonstrated the ability to inhibit biofilm formation by several mastitis pathogens, including different field strains of S. aureus, S. hyicus, S. chromogenes, Streptococcus agalactiae, and Escherichia coli. These findings reveal a new activity for C-type lectins. Studies are underway to evaluate the biological activity of these lectins in a mouse mastitis model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raphael Contelli Klein
- Laboratório de Biotecnologia Molecular, Departmento de Bioquímica e Biologia Molecular, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, 36570.000, Viçosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Mary Hellen Fabres-Klein
- Laboratório de Biotecnologia Molecular, Departmento de Bioquímica e Biologia Molecular, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, 36570.000, Viçosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Leandro Licursi de Oliveira
- Laboratório de Glicobiologia, Departamento de Biologia Geral, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, 36570.000, Viçosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Renato Neves Feio
- Museu de Zoologia João Moojen, Departamento de Biologia Animal, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, 36570.000, Viçosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - François Malouin
- Centre d’Étude et de Valorisation de la Diversité Microbienne (CEVDM), Département de Biologie, Faculté des Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
- * E-mail: (FM); (AOBR)
| | - Andréa de Oliveira Barros Ribon
- Laboratório de Biotecnologia Molecular, Departmento de Bioquímica e Biologia Molecular, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, 36570.000, Viçosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil
- * E-mail: (FM); (AOBR)
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15
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Marcos CM, de Oliveira HC, da Silva JDF, Assato PA, Fusco-Almeida AM, Mendes-Giannini MJS. The multifaceted roles of metabolic enzymes in the Paracoccidioides species complex. Front Microbiol 2014; 5:719. [PMID: 25566229 PMCID: PMC4271699 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2014.00719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2014] [Accepted: 12/01/2014] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Paracoccidioides species are dimorphic fungi and are the etiologic agents of paracoccidioidomycosis, which is a serious disease that involves multiple organs. The many tissues colonized by this fungus suggest a variety of surface molecules involved in adhesion. A surprising finding is that most enzymes in the glycolytic pathway, tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle and glyoxylate cycle in Paracoccidioides spp. have adhesive properties that aid in interacting with the host extracellular matrix and thus act as ‘moonlighting’ proteins. Moonlighting proteins have multiple functions, which adds a dimension to cellular complexity and benefit cells in several ways. This phenomenon occurs in both eukaryotes and prokaryotes. For example, moonlighting proteins from the glycolytic pathway or TCA cycle can play a role in bacterial pathogenesis by either acting as proteins secreted in a conventional pathway and/or as cell surface components that facilitate adhesion or adherence. This review outlines the multifunctionality exhibited by many Paracoccidioides spp. enzymes, including aconitase, aldolase, glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase, isocitrate lyase, malate synthase, triose phosphate isomerase, fumarase, and enolase. We discuss the roles that moonlighting activities play in the virulence characteristics of this fungus and several other human pathogens during their interactions with the host.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline M Marcos
- Laboratório de Micologia Clínica, Departamento de Análises Clínicas, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Estadual Paulista Araraquara, Brazil
| | - Haroldo C de Oliveira
- Laboratório de Micologia Clínica, Departamento de Análises Clínicas, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Estadual Paulista Araraquara, Brazil
| | - Julhiany de F da Silva
- Laboratório de Micologia Clínica, Departamento de Análises Clínicas, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Estadual Paulista Araraquara, Brazil
| | - Patrícia A Assato
- Laboratório de Micologia Clínica, Departamento de Análises Clínicas, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Estadual Paulista Araraquara, Brazil
| | - Ana M Fusco-Almeida
- Laboratório de Micologia Clínica, Departamento de Análises Clínicas, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Estadual Paulista Araraquara, Brazil
| | - Maria J S Mendes-Giannini
- Laboratório de Micologia Clínica, Departamento de Análises Clínicas, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Estadual Paulista Araraquara, Brazil
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16
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Recombinant paracoccin reproduces the biological properties of the native protein and induces protective Th1 immunity against Paracoccidioides brasiliensis infection. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2014; 8:e2788. [PMID: 24743161 PMCID: PMC3990478 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0002788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2014] [Accepted: 03/02/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Paracoccin is a dual-function protein of the yeast Paracoccidioides brasiliensis that has lectin properties and N-acetylglucosaminidase activities. Proteomic analysis of a paracoccin preparation from P. brasiliensis revealed that the sequence matched that of the hypothetical protein encoded by PADG-3347 of isolate Pb-18, with a polypeptide sequence similar to the family 18 endochitinases. These endochitinases are multi-functional proteins, with distinct lectin and enzymatic domains. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS The multi-exon assembly and the largest exon of the predicted ORF (PADG-3347), was cloned and expressed in Escherichia coli cells, and the features of the recombinant proteins were compared to those of the native paracoccin. The multi-exon protein was also used for protection assays in a mouse model of paracoccidioidomycosis. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE Our results showed that the recombinant protein reproduced the biological properties described for the native protein-including binding to laminin in a manner that is dependent on carbohydrate recognition-showed N-acetylglucosaminidase activity, and stimulated murine peritoneal macrophages to produce high levels of TNF-α and nitric oxide. Considering the immunomodulatory potential of glycan-binding proteins, we also investigated whether prophylactic administration of recombinant paracoccin affected the course of experimental paracoccidioidomycosis in mice. In comparison to animals injected with vehicle (controls), mice treated with recombinant paracoccin displayed lower pulmonary fungal burdens and reduced pulmonary granulomas. These protective effects were associated with augmented pulmonary levels of IL-12 and IFN-γ. We also observed that injection of paracoccin three days before challenge was the most efficient administration protocol, as the induced Th1 immunity was balanced by high levels of pulmonary IL-10, which may prevent the tissue damage caused by exacerbated inflammation. The results indicated that paracoccin is the protein encoded by PADG-3347, and we propose that this gene and homologous proteins in other P. brasiliensis strains be called paracoccin. We also concluded that recombinant paracoccin confers resistance to murine P. brasiliensis infection by exerting immunomodulatory effects.
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17
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Dos Reis Almeida FB, Pigosso LL, de Lima Damásio AR, Monteiro VN, de Almeida Soares CM, Silva RN, Roque-Barreira MC. α-(1,4)-Amylase, but not α- and β-(1,3)-glucanases, may be responsible for the impaired growth and morphogenesis of Paracoccidioides brasiliensis induced by N-glycosylation inhibition. Yeast 2013; 31:1-11. [PMID: 24155051 PMCID: PMC4235422 DOI: 10.1002/yea.2983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2013] [Revised: 08/13/2013] [Accepted: 10/10/2013] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The cell wall of Paracoccidioides brasiliensis, which consists of a network of polysaccharides and glycoproteins, is essential for fungal pathogenesis. We have previously reported that N-glycosylation of proteins such as N-acetyl-β-d-glucosaminidase is required for the growth and morphogenesis of P. brasiliensis. In the present study, we investigated the influence of tunycamicin (TM)-mediated inhibition of N-linked glycosylation on α- and β-(1,3)-glucanases and on α-(1,4)-amylase in P. brasiliensis yeast and mycelium cells. The addition of 15 µg/ml TM to the fungal cultures did not interfere with either α- or β-(1,3)-glucanase production and secretion. Moreover, incubation with TM did not alter α- and β-(1,3)-glucanase activity in yeast and mycelium cell extracts. In contrast, α-(1,4)-amylase activity was significantly reduced in underglycosylated yeast and mycelium extracts after exposure to TM. In spite of its importance for fungal growth and morphogenesis, N-glycosylation was not required for glucanase activities. This is surprising because these activities are directed to wall components that are crucial for fungal morphogenesis. On the other hand, N-glycans were essential for α-(1,4)-amylase activity involved in the production of malto-oligosaccharides that act as primer molecules for the biosynthesis of α-(1,3)-glucan. Our results suggest that reduced fungal α-(1,4)-amylase activity affects cell wall composition and may account for the impaired growth of underglycosylated yeast and mycelium cells. © 2013 The Authors. Yeast published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fausto Bruno Dos Reis Almeida
- Departamento de Biologia Celular e Molecular e Bioagentes Patogênicos, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Bandeirantes 3900, Ribeirão Preto, SP, 14049-900, Brasil
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18
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Valim CXR, Basso LR, dos Reis Almeida FB, Reis TF, Damásio ARL, Arruda LK, Martinez R, Roque-Barreira MC, Oliver C, Jamur MC, Coelho PSR. Characterization of PbPga1, an antigenic GPI-protein in the pathogenic fungus Paracoccidioides brasiliensis. PLoS One 2012; 7:e44792. [PMID: 23024763 PMCID: PMC3443090 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0044792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2012] [Accepted: 08/14/2012] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Paracoccidioides brasiliensis is the etiologic agent of paracoccidioidomycosis (PCM), one of the most prevalent mycosis in Latin America. P. brasiliensis cell wall components interact with host cells and influence the pathogenesis of PCM. Cell wall components, such as glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI)-proteins play a critical role in cell adhesion and host tissue invasion. Although the importance of GPI-proteins in the pathogenesis of other medically important fungi is recognized, little is known about their function in P. brasiliensis cells and PCM pathogenesis. We cloned the PbPga1 gene that codifies for a predicted GPI-anchored glycoprotein from the dimorphic pathogenic fungus P. brasiliensis. PbPga1 is conserved in Eurotiomycetes fungi and encodes for a protein with potential glycosylation sites in a serine/threonine-rich region, a signal peptide and a putative glycosylphosphatidylinositol attachment signal sequence. Specific chicken anti-rPbPga1 antibody localized PbPga1 on the yeast cell surface at the septum between the mother cell and the bud with stronger staining of the bud. The exposure of murine peritoneal macrophages to rPbPga1 induces TNF-α release and nitric oxide (NO) production by macrophages. Furthermore, the presence of O-glycosylation sites was demonstrated by β-elimination under ammonium hydroxide treatment of rPbPga1. Finally, sera from PCM patients recognized rPbPga1 by Western blotting indicating the presence of specific antibodies against rPbPga1. In conclusion, our findings suggest that the PbPga1gene codifies for a cell surface glycoprotein, probably attached to a GPI-anchor, which may play a role in P. brasiliensis cell wall morphogenesis and infection. The induction of inflammatory mediators released by rPbPga1 and the reactivity of PCM patient sera toward rPbPga1 imply that the protein favors the innate mechanisms of defense and induces humoral immunity during P. brasiliensis infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clarissa X. R. Valim
- Departamento de Biologia Celular e Molecular e Biagentes Patogênicos, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Luiz Roberto Basso
- Departamento de Biologia Celular e Molecular e Biagentes Patogênicos, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Fausto B. dos Reis Almeida
- Departamento de Biologia Celular e Molecular e Biagentes Patogênicos, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Thaila Fernanda Reis
- Departamento de Biologia Celular e Molecular e Biagentes Patogênicos, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Luisa Karla Arruda
- Departamento de Clínica Médica, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Roberto Martinez
- Departamento de Clínica Médica, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Maria Cristina Roque-Barreira
- Departamento de Biologia Celular e Molecular e Biagentes Patogênicos, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Constance Oliver
- Departamento de Biologia Celular e Molecular e Biagentes Patogênicos, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Maria Célia Jamur
- Departamento de Biologia Celular e Molecular e Biagentes Patogênicos, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Paulo Sergio Rodrigues Coelho
- Departamento de Biologia Celular e Molecular e Biagentes Patogênicos, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
- * E-mail:
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19
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Dos Reis Almeida FB, Carvalho FC, Mariano VS, Alegre ACP, Silva RDN, Hanna ES, Roque-Barreira MC. Influence of N-glycosylation on the morphogenesis and growth of Paracoccidioides brasiliensis and on the biological activities of yeast proteins. PLoS One 2011; 6:e29216. [PMID: 22216217 PMCID: PMC3244461 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0029216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2011] [Accepted: 11/22/2011] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The fungus Paracoccidioides brasiliensis is a human pathogen that causes paracoccidioidomycosis, the most prevalent systemic mycosis in Latin America. The cell wall of P. brasiliensis is a network of glycoproteins and polysaccharides, such as chitin, that perform several functions. N-linked glycans are involved in glycoprotein folding, intracellular transport, secretion, and protection from proteolytic degradation. Here, we report the effects of tunicamycin (TM)-mediated inhibition of N-linked glycosylation on P. brasiliensis yeast cells. The underglycosylated yeasts were smaller than their fully glycosylated counterparts and exhibited a drastic reduction of cell budding, reflecting impairment of growth and morphogenesis by TM treatment. The intracellular distribution in TM-treated yeasts of the P. brasiliensis glycoprotein paracoccin was investigated using highly specific antibodies. Paracoccin was observed to accumulate at intracellular locations, far from the yeast wall. Paracoccin derived from TM-treated yeasts retained the ability to bind to laminin despite their underglycosylation. As paracoccin has N-acetyl-β-d-glucosaminidase (NAGase) activity and induces the production of TNF-α and nitric oxide (NO) by macrophages, we compared these properties between glycosylated and underglycosylated yeast proteins. Paracoccin demonstrated lower NAGase activity when underglycosylated, although no difference was detected between the pH and temperature optimums of the two forms. Murine macrophages stimulated with underglycosylated yeast proteins produced significantly lower levels of TNF-α and NO. Taken together, the impaired growth and morphogenesis of tunicamycin-treated yeasts and the decreased biological activities of underglycosylated fungal components suggest that N-glycans play important roles in P. brasiliensis yeast biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fausto Bruno Dos Reis Almeida
- Departamento de Biologia Celular e Molecular e Bioagentes Patogênicos, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Fernanda Caroline Carvalho
- Departamento de Biologia Celular e Molecular e Bioagentes Patogênicos, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Vânia Sammartino Mariano
- Departamento de Biologia Celular e Molecular e Bioagentes Patogênicos, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ana Claudia Paiva Alegre
- Departamento de Biologia Celular e Molecular e Bioagentes Patogênicos, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Roberto do Nascimento Silva
- Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ebert Seixas Hanna
- Departamento de Biologia Celular e Molecular e Bioagentes Patogênicos, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
- Invent Biotecnologia Ltda. ME, Incubadora Supera, Rua dos Técnicos s/n, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Maria Cristina Roque-Barreira
- Departamento de Biologia Celular e Molecular e Bioagentes Patogênicos, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
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20
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Puccia R, Vallejo MC, Matsuo AL, Longo LVG. The paracoccidioides cell wall: past and present layers toward understanding interaction with the host. Front Microbiol 2011; 2:257. [PMID: 22194733 PMCID: PMC3243086 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2011.00257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2011] [Accepted: 12/02/2011] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The cell wall of pathogenic fungi plays import roles in the interaction with the host, so that its composition and structure may determine the course of infection. Here we present an overview of the current and past knowledge on the cell wall constituents of Paracoccidioides brasiliensis and P. lutzii. These are temperature-dependent dimorphic fungi that cause paracoccidioidomycosis, a systemic granulomatous, and debilitating disease. Focus is given on cell wall carbohydrate and protein contents, their immune-stimulatory features, adhesion properties, drug target characteristics, and morphological phase specificity. We offer a journey toward the future understanding of the dynamic nature of the cell wall and of the changes that may occur when the fungus infects the human host.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosana Puccia
- Departamento de Microbiologia, Imunologia e Parasitologia, Universidade Federal de São Paulo - Escola Paulista de Medicina São Paulo, Brazil
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21
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Nogueira SV, Fonseca FL, Rodrigues ML, Mundodi V, Abi-Chacra EA, Winters MS, Alderete JF, Soares CMDA. Paracoccidioides brasiliensis enolase is a surface protein that binds plasminogen and mediates interaction of yeast forms with host cells. Infect Immun 2010; 78:4040-50. [PMID: 20605975 PMCID: PMC2937444 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00221-10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2010] [Revised: 03/31/2010] [Accepted: 06/28/2010] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Paracoccidioidomycosis (PCM), caused by the dimorphic fungus Paracoccidioides brasiliensis, is a disseminated, systemic disorder that involves the lungs and other organs. The ability of the pathogen to interact with host components, including extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins, is essential to further colonization, invasion, and growth. Previously, enolase (EC 4.2.1.11) was characterized as a fibronectin binding protein in P. brasiliensis. Interaction of surface-bound enolase with plasminogen has been incriminated in tissue invasion for pathogenesis in several pathogens. In this paper, enolase was expressed in Escherichia coli as a recombinant glutathione S-transferase (GST) fusion protein (recombinant P. brasiliensis enolase [rPbEno]). The P. brasiliensis native enolase (PbEno) was detected at the fungus surface and cytoplasm by immunofluorescence with an anti-rPbEno antibody. Immobilized purified rPbEno bound plasminogen in a specific, concentration-dependent fashion. Both native enolase and rPbEno activated conversion of plasminogen to plasmin through tissue plasminogen activator. The association between PbEno and plasminogen was lysine dependent. In competition experiments, purified rPbEno, in its soluble form, inhibited plasminogen binding to fixed P. brasiliensis, suggesting that this interaction required surface-localized PbEno. Plasminogen-coated P. brasiliensis yeast cells were capable of degrading purified fibronectin, providing in vitro evidence for the generation of active plasmin on the fungus surface. Exposure of epithelial cells and phagocytes to enolase was associated with an increased expression of surface sites of adhesion. In fact, the association of P. brasiliensis with epithelial cells and phagocytes was increased in the presence of rPbEno. The expression of PbEno was upregulated in yeast cells derived from mouse-infected tissues. These data indicate that surface-associated PbEno may contribute to the pathogenesis of P. brasiliensis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Veloso Nogueira
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Goiás, 74001-970 Goiânia, Goiás, Brazil, Laboratorio de Estudos Integrados em Bioquimica Microbiana, Instituto de Microbiologia Professor Paulo de Goes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-590, Brazil, School of Molecular Biosciences, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington 99163, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio 45267
| | - Fernanda L. Fonseca
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Goiás, 74001-970 Goiânia, Goiás, Brazil, Laboratorio de Estudos Integrados em Bioquimica Microbiana, Instituto de Microbiologia Professor Paulo de Goes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-590, Brazil, School of Molecular Biosciences, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington 99163, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio 45267
| | - Marcio L. Rodrigues
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Goiás, 74001-970 Goiânia, Goiás, Brazil, Laboratorio de Estudos Integrados em Bioquimica Microbiana, Instituto de Microbiologia Professor Paulo de Goes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-590, Brazil, School of Molecular Biosciences, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington 99163, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio 45267
| | - Vasanth Mundodi
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Goiás, 74001-970 Goiânia, Goiás, Brazil, Laboratorio de Estudos Integrados em Bioquimica Microbiana, Instituto de Microbiologia Professor Paulo de Goes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-590, Brazil, School of Molecular Biosciences, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington 99163, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio 45267
| | - Erika A. Abi-Chacra
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Goiás, 74001-970 Goiânia, Goiás, Brazil, Laboratorio de Estudos Integrados em Bioquimica Microbiana, Instituto de Microbiologia Professor Paulo de Goes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-590, Brazil, School of Molecular Biosciences, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington 99163, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio 45267
| | - Michael S. Winters
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Goiás, 74001-970 Goiânia, Goiás, Brazil, Laboratorio de Estudos Integrados em Bioquimica Microbiana, Instituto de Microbiologia Professor Paulo de Goes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-590, Brazil, School of Molecular Biosciences, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington 99163, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio 45267
| | - John F. Alderete
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Goiás, 74001-970 Goiânia, Goiás, Brazil, Laboratorio de Estudos Integrados em Bioquimica Microbiana, Instituto de Microbiologia Professor Paulo de Goes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-590, Brazil, School of Molecular Biosciences, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington 99163, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio 45267
| | - Célia Maria de Almeida Soares
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Goiás, 74001-970 Goiânia, Goiás, Brazil, Laboratorio de Estudos Integrados em Bioquimica Microbiana, Instituto de Microbiologia Professor Paulo de Goes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-590, Brazil, School of Molecular Biosciences, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington 99163, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio 45267
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Current awareness on yeast. Yeast 2010. [DOI: 10.1002/yea.1719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
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