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Gautier C, Maciel EI, Ene IV. Approaches for identifying and measuring heteroresistance in azole-susceptible Candida isolates. Microbiol Spectr 2024; 12:e0404123. [PMID: 38483474 PMCID: PMC10986555 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.04041-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Heteroresistance to antifungal agents poses a significant challenge in the treatment of fungal infections. Currently, the absence of established methods for detecting and measuring heteroresistance impedes progress in understanding this phenomenon in fungal pathogens. In response to this gap, we present a comprehensive set of new and optimized methods designed to detect and quantify azole heteroresistance in Candida albicans. Here, we define two primary assays for measuring heteroresistance: population analysis profiling, based on growth on solid medium, and single-cell assays, based on growth in liquid culture. We observe good correlations between the measurements obtained with liquid and solid assays, validating their utility for studying azole heteroresistance. We also highlight that disk diffusion assays could serve as an additional tool for the rapid detection of heteroresistance. These methods collectively provide a versatile toolkit for researchers seeking to assess heteroresistance in C. albicans. They also serve as a critical step forward in the characterization of antifungal heteroresistance, providing a framework for investigating this phenomenon in diverse fungal species and in the context of other antifungal agents. Ultimately, these advancements will enhance our ability to effectively measure antifungal drug responses and combat fungal infections.IMPORTANCEHeteroresistance involves varying antimicrobial susceptibility within a clonal population. This phenomenon allows the survival of rare resistant subpopulations during drug treatment, significantly complicating the effective management of infections. However, the absence of established detection methods hampers progress in understanding this phenomenon in human fungal pathogens. We propose a comprehensive toolkit to address this gap in the yeast Candida albicans, encompassing population analysis profiling, single-cell assays, and disk diffusion assays. By providing robust and correlated measurements through both solid and liquid assays, this work will provide a framework for broader applications across clinically relevant Candida species. These methods will enhance our ability to understand this phenomenon and the failure of antifungal therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cécile Gautier
- Fungal Heterogeneity Group, Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Eli I. Maciel
- Fungal Heterogeneity Group, Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Iuliana V. Ene
- Fungal Heterogeneity Group, Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
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Wang X, Jin X, Xie Z, Zhang H, Liu T, Zheng H, Luan X, Sun Y, Fang W, Chang W, Lou H. Benzamidine Conjugation Converts Expelled Potential Active Agents into Antifungals against Drug-Resistant Fungi. J Med Chem 2023; 66:13684-13704. [PMID: 37787457 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c01068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/04/2023]
Abstract
Fungal infections present a growing global public health concern, necessitating the development of novel antifungal drugs. However, many potential antifungals, particularly the expelled potential active agents (EPAAs), are often underestimated owing to their limitations in cellular entry or expulsion by efflux pumps. Herein, we identified 68 EPAAs out of 2322 candidates with activity against a Candida albicans efflux pump-deficient strain and no inhibitory activity against the wild-type strain. Using a novel conjugation strategy involving benzamidine (BM) as a mitochondrion-targeting warhead, we successfully converted EPAAs into potent antifungals against various urgent-threat azole-resistantCandida strains. Among the obtained EPAA-BM conjugates, IS-2-BM (11) exhibited excellent antifungal activities and induced negligible drug resistance. Furthermore, IS-2-BM prevented biofilm formation, eradicated mature biofilms, and exhibited excellent therapeutic effects in a murine model of systemic candidiasis. These findings provide a promising strategy for increasing the possibilities of discovering more antifungals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue Wang
- Department of Natural Product Chemistry, Key Lab of Chemical Biology of Ministry of Education, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China
| | - Xueyang Jin
- Department of Natural Product Chemistry, Key Lab of Chemical Biology of Ministry of Education, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China
| | - Zhiyu Xie
- Key Laboratory of Micro-Nano Materials for Energy Storage and Conversion of Henan Province, Institute of Surface Micro and Nano Materials, College of Chemical and Materials Engineering, Xuchang University, Xuchang 461002, China
| | - Hongyang Zhang
- Department of Natural Product Chemistry, Key Lab of Chemical Biology of Ministry of Education, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China
| | - Tiantian Liu
- Department of Natural Product Chemistry, Key Lab of Chemical Biology of Ministry of Education, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China
| | - Hongbo Zheng
- Department of Natural Product Chemistry, Key Lab of Chemical Biology of Ministry of Education, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China
| | - Xiaoyi Luan
- Department of Natural Product Chemistry, Key Lab of Chemical Biology of Ministry of Education, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China
| | - Yan Sun
- Department of Natural Product Chemistry, Key Lab of Chemical Biology of Ministry of Education, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China
| | - Wenjie Fang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Medical Mycology, Shanghai Institute of Mycology, Shanghai Changzheng Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Wenqiang Chang
- Department of Natural Product Chemistry, Key Lab of Chemical Biology of Ministry of Education, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China
| | - Hongxiang Lou
- Department of Natural Product Chemistry, Key Lab of Chemical Biology of Ministry of Education, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China
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Martorano-Fernandes L, Ricomini-Filho AP, Del Bel Cury AA. Does Streptococcus oralis supernatant influence on the proliferation and virulence of Candida albicans? Arch Oral Biol 2023; 154:105763. [PMID: 37437424 DOI: 10.1016/j.archoralbio.2023.105763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2023] [Revised: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/14/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the influence of Streptococcus oralis supernatant on the proliferation and virulence of Candida albicans. DESIGN S. oralis supernatant was obtained by filtration of overnight cultures. Single or dual-species cultures of C. albicans and S. oralis were cultivated in both planktonic and biofilm-based models. Planktonic culture growth was measured, and mature biofilms formed on resin disks were collected to measure biofilm metabolic activity, total biomass, and cell counts. Hyphae formation (virulence factor) and biofilm thickness were analyzed by confocal laser scanning microscopy. Data were analyzed by a one-way ANOVA test followed by the Tukey posthoc test (α = 0.05). RESULTS We found that S. oralis supernatant did not influence C. albicans proliferation in planktonic cultures. However, biofilms containing S. oralis supernatant showed higher cell metabolism than C. albicans monoculture biofilms and C. albicans-S. oralis dual-culture biofilms (p < 0.05). Though S. oralis supernatants did increase biofilm metabolic activity, they did not affect the total biomass and cell counts of C. albicans (p > 0.05). However, biofilm imaging revealed enhanced C. albicans hyphae formation in biofilms containing S. oralis supernatant compared to C. albicans monoculture biofilms. CONCLUSIONS Secreted metabolites in S. oralis supernatant may contribute to C. albicans metabolism and virulence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Loyse Martorano-Fernandes
- Department of Prosthodontics and Periodontology, Piracicaba Dental School, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Piracicaba, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Antônio Pedro Ricomini-Filho
- Department of Physiological Science, Piracicaba Dental School, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Piracicaba, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Altair Antoninha Del Bel Cury
- Department of Physiological Science, Piracicaba Dental School, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Piracicaba, São Paulo, Brazil.
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Lu JJ, Xu ZC, Zhu H, Zhu LY, Ma XR, Wang RR, Li RT, Ye RR. Cyclometalated iridium(III) complexes combined with fluconazole: antifungal activity against resistant C. albicans. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2023; 13:1200747. [PMID: 37545853 PMCID: PMC10401479 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1200747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Candida albicans (C. albicans) is a ubiquitous clinical fungal pathogen. In recent years, combination therapy, a potential treatment method to overcome C. albicans resistance, has gained traction. In this study, we synthesized a series of cyclometalated iridium(III) complexes with the formula [Ir(C-N)2(tpphz)](PF6) (C-N = 2-phenylpyridine (ppy, in Ir1), 2-(2-thienyl)pyridine (thpy, in Ir2), 2-(2,4-difluorophenyl) pyridine (dfppy, in Ir3), tpphz = tetrapyrido[3,2-a:2',3'-c:3'',2''-h:2''',3'''-j]phenazine) and polypyridyl ruthenium(II) complexes with the formula [Ru(N-N)2(tpphz)](PF6)2 (N-N = 2,2'-bipyridine (bpy, in Ru1), 1,10-phenanthroline (phen, in Ru2), 4,7-diphenyl-1,10-phenanthroline (DIP, in Ru3)), and investigated their antifungal activities against drug-resistant C. albicans and their combination with fluconazole (FLC). Of which, the combination of the lead iridium(III) complex Ir2 and FLC showed strong antifungal activity against drug-resistant C. albicans. Mechanism studies have shown that they can inhibit the formation of hyphae and biofilm, damage mitochondrial function and accumulate intracellular ROS. Therefore, iridium(III) complexes combined with FLC can be used as a promising treatment to exert anti-drug-resistant C. albicans activity, in order to improve the treatment efficiency of fungal infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun-Jian Lu
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
| | - Zhi-Chang Xu
- College of Chinese Materia Medica, Yunnan University of Chinese Medicine, Kunming, China
| | - Hou Zhu
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
| | - Lin-Yuan Zhu
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
| | - Xiu-Rong Ma
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
| | - Rui-Rui Wang
- College of Chinese Materia Medica, Yunnan University of Chinese Medicine, Kunming, China
| | - Rong-Tao Li
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
| | - Rui-Rong Ye
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
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Peralta LCF, Almeida NLM, Pontes FML, Rinaldo D, Carneiro CA, Neppelenbroek KH, Lara VS, Porto VC. Silver nanoparticles in denture adhesive: An antimicrobial approach against Candida albicans. J Dent 2023; 131:104445. [PMID: 36773742 DOI: 10.1016/j.jdent.2023.104445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2022] [Revised: 01/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the antimicrobial potential of silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) synthesized using three different routes (ultraviolet light, Turkevich, and green chemistry method using Glycine max extract) associated with COREGA® denture powder adhesive. METHODS Heat-cured acrylic resin specimens were treated with different Ag NPs associated with the adhesive (AD + Ag UV, AD + Ag Turk, and AD + Ag Gm groups). As controls, the specimens were treated with a combination of adhesive and nystatin (AD + Nyst group), only adhesive (AD group), or submerged on the surface of the specimens (PBS group). After the treatments, biofilms of C. albicans developed for 3, 6, and 12 h on the specimen surfaces. The biofilm was quantified using colony-forming units per milliliter, colorimetric assay, and confocal laser scanning microscopy. RESULTS Regardless of the period, we observed an inhibition of fungal load and a reduction in metabolic activity and biofilm mass in the resin specimens treated with the combinations AD/Ag NPs, compared to AD and PBS. The antimicrobial action of the AD + Turk and AD + Ag Gm groups was similar than that for the AD + Nyst group in all periods and viability tests, except for the biofilm mass (12 h). CONCLUSIONS The COREGA® adhesive with Ag NPs, mainly those synthesized using the Turkevich and Glycine max methods, showed excellent antimicrobial activity against C. albicans biofilms, maintained for up to 12 h. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE The association of Ag NPs to the adhesive can add preventive or therapeutic effects against denture stomatitis, to this prosthetic material.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Catalí Ferreira Peralta
- Department of Prosthodontics and Periodontics, Bauru School of Dentistry, University of São Paulo (USP), Bauru, Brazil, 17012-901
| | - Nara Ligia Martins Almeida
- Department of Surgery, Stomatology, Pathology and Radiology, Bauru School of Dentistry, University of São Paulo (USP), Bauru, Brazil, 17012-901
| | | | - Daniel Rinaldo
- Department of Chemistry, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Bauru, Brazil
| | - Camila Alves Carneiro
- Department of Prosthodontics and Periodontics, Bauru School of Dentistry, University of São Paulo (USP), Bauru, Brazil, 17012-901
| | - Karin Hermana Neppelenbroek
- Department of Prosthodontics and Periodontics, Bauru School of Dentistry, University of São Paulo (USP), Bauru, Brazil, 17012-901
| | - Vanessa Soares Lara
- Department of Surgery, Stomatology, Pathology and Radiology, Bauru School of Dentistry, University of São Paulo (USP), Bauru, Brazil, 17012-901
| | - Vinicius Carvalho Porto
- Department of Prosthodontics and Periodontics, Bauru School of Dentistry, University of São Paulo (USP), Bauru, Brazil, 17012-901.
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Lu Q, Wang Y, Liao X, Zhou F, Zhang B, Wu X. Physiological and transcriptome analysis of Candida albicans in response to X33 antimicrobial oligopeptide treatment. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2023; 13:1123393. [PMID: 36743308 PMCID: PMC9892945 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1123393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Candida albicans is an opportunistic pathogenic fungus, which frequently causes systemic or local fungal infections in humans. The evolution of its drug-resistant mutants necessitate an urgent development of novel antimicrobial agents. Results Here, we explored the antimicrobial activity and inhibitory mechanisms of X33 antimicrobial oligopeptide (X33 AMOP) against C. albicans. The oxford cup test results showed that X33 AMOP had strong inhibitory activity against C. albicans, and its MIC and MFC were 0.625 g/L and 2.5 g/L, respectively. Moreover, SEM and TEM showed that X33 AMOP disrupted the integrity of cell membrane. The AKP, ROS, H2O2 and MDA contents increased, while the reducing sugar, soluble protein, and pyruvate contents decreased after the X33 AMOP treatment. This indicated that X33 AMOP could damage the mitochondrial integrity of the cells, thereby disrupting the energy metabolism by inducing oxidative stress in C. albicans. Furthermore, transcriptome analysis showed that X33 AMOP treatment resulted in the differential expression of 1140 genes, among which 532 were up-regulated, and 608 were down-regulated. These DEGs were related to protein, nucleic acid, and carbohydrate metabolism, and their expression changes were consistent with the changes in physiological characteristics. Moreover, we found that X33 AMOP could effectively inhibit the virulence attributes of C. albicans by reducing phospholipase activity and disrupting hypha formation. Discussion These findings provide the first-ever detailed reference for the inhibitory mechanisms of X33 AMOP against C. albicans and suggest that X33 AMOP is a potential drug candidate for treating C. albicans infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qunlin Lu
- College of Bioscience and Bioengineering, Jiangxi Agriculture University, Nanchang, China
- Jiangxi Engineering Laboratory for the Development and Utilization of Agricultural Microbial Resources, Jiangxi Agriculture University, Nanchang, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Postharvest Key Technology and Quality Safety of Fruits and Vegetables in Jiangxi Province, Jiangxi Agriculture University, Nanchang, China
| | - Yuanxiu Wang
- College of Bioscience and Bioengineering, Jiangxi Agriculture University, Nanchang, China
- Jiangxi Engineering Laboratory for the Development and Utilization of Agricultural Microbial Resources, Jiangxi Agriculture University, Nanchang, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Postharvest Key Technology and Quality Safety of Fruits and Vegetables in Jiangxi Province, Jiangxi Agriculture University, Nanchang, China
| | - Xing Liao
- College of Bioscience and Bioengineering, Jiangxi Agriculture University, Nanchang, China
- Jiangxi Engineering Laboratory for the Development and Utilization of Agricultural Microbial Resources, Jiangxi Agriculture University, Nanchang, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Postharvest Key Technology and Quality Safety of Fruits and Vegetables in Jiangxi Province, Jiangxi Agriculture University, Nanchang, China
| | - Fu Zhou
- College of Bioscience and Bioengineering, Jiangxi Agriculture University, Nanchang, China
- Jiangxi Engineering Laboratory for the Development and Utilization of Agricultural Microbial Resources, Jiangxi Agriculture University, Nanchang, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Postharvest Key Technology and Quality Safety of Fruits and Vegetables in Jiangxi Province, Jiangxi Agriculture University, Nanchang, China
| | - Bin Zhang
- College of Bioscience and Bioengineering, Jiangxi Agriculture University, Nanchang, China
- Jiangxi Engineering Laboratory for the Development and Utilization of Agricultural Microbial Resources, Jiangxi Agriculture University, Nanchang, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Postharvest Key Technology and Quality Safety of Fruits and Vegetables in Jiangxi Province, Jiangxi Agriculture University, Nanchang, China
- *Correspondence: Bin Zhang, ; Xiaoyu Wu,
| | - Xiaoyu Wu
- College of Bioscience and Bioengineering, Jiangxi Agriculture University, Nanchang, China
- Jiangxi Engineering Laboratory for the Development and Utilization of Agricultural Microbial Resources, Jiangxi Agriculture University, Nanchang, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Postharvest Key Technology and Quality Safety of Fruits and Vegetables in Jiangxi Province, Jiangxi Agriculture University, Nanchang, China
- *Correspondence: Bin Zhang, ; Xiaoyu Wu,
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Azole Resistance in Candida albicans Isolates from Oropharyngeal Candidiasis is Associated with ERG11 Mutation and Efflux Overexpression. Jundishapur J Microbiol 2022. [DOI: 10.5812/jjm-131046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Azole resistance rates are rising in Candida species. Fluconazole is one of the most important antifungal drugs used in candidiasis treatment. Objectives: We identified the molecular mechanisms of fluconazole resistance of Candida albicans oropharyngeal candidiasis (OPC) isolates obtained from head and neck cancer patients, a study carried out between 2018 and 2020. Methods: One hundred and twenty-five Candida albicans clinical isolates were collected. Antifungal susceptibilities were determined by the CLSI- M27-A3 method. The ERG11 gene was amplified and sequenced to discover SNP mutation. Moreover, real-time PCR was carried out to measure the mRNA levels of ERG11, CDR1, CDR2, and MDR1. Results: Resistance to fluconazole was found in 15 C. albicans isolates. Amino acid substitutions E266D and D116E were observed in resistant, sensitive dose-dependent (SDD), and susceptible C. albicans isolates. K128T, G465S, A114S, Y257H and V488I were in relation to fluconazole resistance. D504A, P375A, W520C, G59S, and V51L were novel substitutions detected in the isolates; except for D504A, other mutations were observed only in resistance isolates. The expression levels of CDR2, CDR1, MDR1, and ERG11 were increased compared to susceptible isolates, respectively. Conclusions: ERG11 mutation was the principal mechanism for fluconazole resistance in C. albicans isolated from oropharyngeal candidiasis patients, and caspofungin can be used as the effective antifungal substance in fluconazole resistance situation for C. albicans infection.
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Resistance profiles to antifungal agents in Candida albicans isolated from human oral cavities: systematic review and meta-analysis. Clin Oral Investig 2022; 26:6479-6489. [PMID: 36167858 PMCID: PMC9514684 DOI: 10.1007/s00784-022-04716-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Aim To identify the antifungal susceptibility profile of Candida spp. isolated from the human oral cavity was assessed with meta-analyses of observational studies that collected samples from the oral cavity of human subjects. Material and methods Isolated Candida albicans tested by E-test®; disk diffusion test; microdilution and macrodilution; Sensititre YeastOne; and/or FungiTest. Search strategies were conducted on the MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, Dentistry, and Oral Sciences, Central, Scopus, and LILACS databases, and gray literature sources. Articles were initially screened by title and then their abstracts. Articles that met the conditions for inclusion were read in full, followed by data extraction. A descriptive analysis was conducted of each study, and the data were tabulated. A first meta-analysis was conducted to assess the resistance of antifungals regardless of systemic comorbidities. An additional stratified analysis was conducted by systemic comorbidity groups for the outcome “resistance” to the antifungals. Results When not grouping Candida albicans isolates by systemic conditions, the lowest resistance rates to the antifungals tested were observed for amphotericin B, nystatin, flucytosine, and caspofungin. In contrast, the highest resistance rates were observed for miconazole and econazole. There was a high degree of heterogeneity and low resistance in general in all analyses, except for the “several associated comorbidities” group, which had high resistance rates. Conclusions Clinical C. albicans isolates had low antifungal resistance. Clinical relevance The presence of concomitant systemic comorbidities appears to be an essential factor that should be considered when evaluating resistance to antifungals for oral isolates. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s00784-022-04716-2.
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Gong Y, Yin S, Sun S, Li M. Chelerythrine reverses the drug resistance of resistant Candida albicans and the biofilm to fluconazole. Future Microbiol 2022; 17:1325-1333. [DOI: 10.2217/fmb-2021-0203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim: To evaluate the antifungal activity of chelerythrine in combination with fluconazole against planktonic Candida albicans strains and preformed biofilm. Materials & methods: A broth microdilution assay was used to reveal the antifungal activity of chelerythrine combined with fluconazole against C. albicans and the preformed biofilm. A fractional inhibitory concentration index model was used to evaluate the interaction. Results: Chelerythrine strongly synergized with fluconazole against fluconazole-resistant C. albicans and the biofilm preformed for less than 12 h. In addition, chelerythrine combined with fluconazole exhibited a synergistic effect against C. albicans morphogenesis. Conclusion: Chelerythrine could reverse the drug resistance of resistant C. albicans and its biofilm to fluconazole, providing new insights for overcoming the drug resistance of C. albicans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Gong
- Department of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Wuxi People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi, 214023, People's Republic of China
| | - Shulin Yin
- Medical Engineering Section, Weihai Municipal Hosptital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Weihai, 264200, People's Republic of China
| | - Shujuan Sun
- Department of Pharmacy, Shandong Second Provincial General Hospital, Shandong Provincial ENT Hospital, Jinan, 250022, People's Republic of China
| | - Min Li
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, 250014, People's Republic of China
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Daniela SV, Gabriela OM, Andrea PM. A state-of-the-art review and prospective therapeutic applications of prenyl flavonoids as chemosensitizers against antifungal multidrug resistance in Candida albicans. Curr Med Chem 2022; 29:4251-4281. [PMID: 35139777 DOI: 10.2174/0929867329666220209103538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2021] [Revised: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Multidrug resistance (MDR) in the opportunistic pathogen Candida albicans is defined as non-susceptibility to at least one agent in two or more drug classes. This phenomenon has been increasingly reported since the rise in the incidence of fungal infections in immunocompromised patients at the end of the last century. After the discovery of efflux pump overexpression as a principal mechanism causing MDR in Candida strains, drug discovery targeting fungal efflux transporters has had a growing impact. Chemosensitization aims to enhance azole intracellular concentrations through combination therapy with transporter inhibitors. Consequently, the use of drug efflux inhibitors combined with the antifungal agent will sensitize the pathogen. As a result, the use of lower drug concentrations will reduce possible adverse effects on the host. Through an extensive revision of the literature, this review aims to provide an exhaustive and critical analysis of the studies carried out in the past two decades, regarding the chemosensitization strategy to cope with multidrug resistance in C. albicans. This work provides a deep analysis of the research about the inhibition of drug-efflux membrane transporters by prenylated flavonoids and the interactions of these phytocompounds with azole antifungals as an approach to chemosensitize multidrug-resistant C. albicans strains. We highlight the importance of prenylflavonoids and their particular chemical and pharmacological characteristics that make them excellent candidates with therapeutic potential as chemosensitizers. Finally, we propose the need for further research of prenyl flavonoids as inhibitors of drug-efflux mediated fungal resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Santi V Daniela
- Farmacognosia, Departamento de Ciencias Farmacéuticas, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Ciudad Universitaria, Haya de la torre y Medina Allende, Edificio Ciencias II, X5000HUA Córdoba, Argentina
- Instituto Multidisciplinario de Biología Vegetal (IMBIV-CONICET), Ciudad Universitaria. X5000HUA Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Ortega María Gabriela
- Farmacognosia, Departamento de Ciencias Farmacéuticas, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Ciudad Universitaria, Haya de la torre y Medina Allende, Edificio Ciencias II, X5000HUA Córdoba, Argentina
- Instituto Multidisciplinario de Biología Vegetal (IMBIV-CONICET), Ciudad Universitaria. X5000HUA Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Peralta Mariana Andrea
- Farmacognosia, Departamento de Ciencias Farmacéuticas, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Ciudad Universitaria, Haya de la torre y Medina Allende, Edificio Ciencias II, X5000HUA Córdoba, Argentina
- Instituto Multidisciplinario de Biología Vegetal (IMBIV-CONICET), Ciudad Universitaria. X5000HUA Córdoba, Argentina
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Evans BA, Bernstein DA. CRISPR-Mediated Genome Editing in the Human Fungal Pathogen C. albicans. Methods Mol Biol 2022; 2542:3-12. [PMID: 36008653 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2549-1_1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Cas9-mediated genome editing is one tool investigators can use to study fungal pathogens. Such methodologies allow the investigator to examine how fungal cells differ from human cells and thus potentially identify novel therapeutic targets. In this chapter, we describe how CRISPR-mediated genome editing can be used to edit the genome of the most prevalent human fungal pathogen C. albicans. A cassette encoding a fungal optimized Cas9 nuclease and guide RNA is integrated into the C. albicans genome. The guide RNA targets Cas9 to the complementary genome sequence, and Cas9 cleaves the DNA. A repair template encoding whatever changes the investigator wished to make to the genome is co-transformed with the cassette and repairs the break via homologous recombination, thus introducing the change to the genome. The method we describe enables the researcher to edit the C. albicans genome and then efficiently remove the editing machinery and antibiotic resistance markers. This allows one to sequentially edit the C. albicans genome when multiple changes are desired. In addition, we provide notes that provide guidance on how the described protocols can be altered to meet the demands of the researcher. In these notes, we also describe the recent development of a more flexible CRISPR system that has a relaxed PAM site specificity. These and other advancements make CRISPR-mediated genome editing a practical approach when one needs to genetically alter C. albicans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben A Evans
- Department of Biology, Ball State University, Muncie, IN, USA
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Dhasarathan P, AlSalhi MS, Devanesan S, Subbiah J, Ranjitsingh AJA, Binsalah M, Alfuraydi AA. Drug resistance in Candida albicans isolates and related changes in the structural domain of Mdr1 protein. J Infect Public Health 2021; 14:1848-1853. [PMID: 34794907 DOI: 10.1016/j.jiph.2021.11.002] [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] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Revised: 10/26/2021] [Accepted: 11/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The increasing azole drug resistance in fungal pathogens poses a pressing threat to global health care. The coexistence of drug-resistant Candida albicans with tuberculosis patients and the failure of several drugs to treat C. albicans infection extend hospital stay, economic burden, and death. The misuse or abuse of azole-derived antifungals, chronic use of TB drugs, different immune-suppressive drugs, and diseases like HIV, COVID-19, etc., have aggravated the situation. So it is vital to understand the molecular changes in drug-resistant genes to modify the treatment to design an alternative mechanism. METHOD C. albicans isolated from chronic tuberculosis patients were screened for antifungal sensitivity studies using disk diffusion assay. The multidrug-resistant C. albicans were further screened for molecular-level changes in drug resistance using MDR1 gene sequencing and compared with Gen bank data of similar species using the BLAST tool. RESULTS The investigation proved that the isolated C. albicans from TB patients are significantly resistant to the action of six drugs. The molecular changes in MDR1 genes showed differences in seven nucleotide base pairs that interfered with the efflux pump.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Dhasarathan
- Department of Biotechnology, Prathyusha Engineering College, Thiruvallur 602 025, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Mohamad S AlSalhi
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, College of Science, King Saud University, P.O. Box-2455, Riyadh, 11451, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Sandhanasamy Devanesan
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, College of Science, King Saud University, P.O. Box-2455, Riyadh, 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Jeeva Subbiah
- Department Center for Inflammation, Immunity & Infection, Institute for Biomedical Sciences, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA 30303, USA
| | - A J A Ranjitsingh
- Department of Biotechnology, Prathyusha Engineering College, Thiruvallur 602 025, Tamil Nadu, India.
| | - Mohammed Binsalah
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, College of Dentistry, King Saud University, Riyadh, 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Akram A Alfuraydi
- Department of Botany and Microbiology, College of Science, King Saud University, P.O. Box-2455, Riyadh, 11451, Saudi Arabia
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13
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D’Angeli F, Guadagni F, Genovese C, Nicolosi D, Trovato Salinaro A, Spampinato M, Mannino G, Lo Furno D, Petronio Petronio G, Ronsisvalle S, Sipala F, Falzone L, Calabrese V. Anti-Candidal Activity of the Parasitic Plant Orobanche crenata Forssk. Antibiotics (Basel) 2021; 10:1373. [PMID: 34827311 PMCID: PMC8615231 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics10111373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2021] [Revised: 11/04/2021] [Accepted: 11/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Candida albicans (C. albicans) and Candida glabrata (C. glabrata) are part of the human microbiome. However, they possess numerous virulence factors, which confer them the ability to cause both local and systemic infections. Candidiasis can involve multiple organs, including the eye. In the present study, we investigated the anti-candidal activity and the re-epithelizing effect of Orobanche crenata leaf extract (OCLE). By the microdilution method, we demonstrated an inhibitory effect of OCLE on both C. albicans and C. glabrata growth. By crystal violet and 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay, we showed the ability of OCLE to inhibit the biofilm formation and the viability of yeast cells, respectively. By germ tube and adhesion assays, we proved the capacity of OCLE to affect the morphological transition of C. albicans and the adhesion of both pathogens to human retinal pigment epithelial cells (ARPE-19), respectively. Besides, by MTT and wound healing assay, we evaluated the cytotoxic and re-epithelizing effects of OCLE on ARPE-19. Finally, the Folin-Ciocalteu and the ultra-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry revealed a high content of phenols and the presence of several bioactive molecules in the extract. Our results highlighted new properties of O. crenata, useful in the control of Candida infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Floriana D’Angeli
- Department of Human Sciences and Quality of Life Promotion, San Raffaele Roma Open University, Via di Val Cannuta 247, 00166 Rome, Italy; (F.D.); (F.G.)
| | - Fiorella Guadagni
- Department of Human Sciences and Quality of Life Promotion, San Raffaele Roma Open University, Via di Val Cannuta 247, 00166 Rome, Italy; (F.D.); (F.G.)
- InterInstitutional Multidisciplinary Biobank (BioBIM), IRCCS San Raffaele Pisana, Via di Val Cannuta 247, 00166 Rome, Italy
| | - Carlo Genovese
- Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, “Kore” University of Enna, Contrada Santa Panasia, 94100 Enna, Italy
- Nacture S.r.l, Spin-Off University of Catania, Via Santa Sofia 97, 95123 Catania, Italy;
| | - Daria Nicolosi
- Nacture S.r.l, Spin-Off University of Catania, Via Santa Sofia 97, 95123 Catania, Italy;
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, Viale Andrea Doria 6, 95125 Catania, Italy
| | - Angela Trovato Salinaro
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Biochemistry, University of Catania, Via Santa Sofia 97, 95123 Catania, Italy; (A.T.S.); (M.S.); (V.C.)
| | - Mariarita Spampinato
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Biochemistry, University of Catania, Via Santa Sofia 97, 95123 Catania, Italy; (A.T.S.); (M.S.); (V.C.)
| | - Giuliana Mannino
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Physiology, University of Catania, Via Santa Sofia 97, 95123 Catania, Italy; (G.M.); (D.L.F.)
| | - Debora Lo Furno
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Physiology, University of Catania, Via Santa Sofia 97, 95123 Catania, Italy; (G.M.); (D.L.F.)
| | - Giulio Petronio Petronio
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences “Vincenzo Tiberio”, University of Molise, Via Francesco de Sanctis 1, 86100 Campobasso, Italy;
| | - Simone Ronsisvalle
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, Section of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy; (S.R.); (F.S.)
| | - Federica Sipala
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, Section of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy; (S.R.); (F.S.)
| | - Luca Falzone
- Laboratory of Experimental Oncology, Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Via Santa Sofia 97, 95123 Catania, Italy;
| | - Vittorio Calabrese
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Biochemistry, University of Catania, Via Santa Sofia 97, 95123 Catania, Italy; (A.T.S.); (M.S.); (V.C.)
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14
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Ahamefule CS, Ezeuduji BC, Ogbonna JC, Moneke AN, Ike AC, Jin C, Wang B, Fang W. Caenorhabditis elegans as an Infection Model for Pathogenic Mold and Dimorphic Fungi: Applications and Challenges. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2021; 11:751947. [PMID: 34722339 PMCID: PMC8554291 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2021.751947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2021] [Accepted: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The threat burden from pathogenic fungi is universal and increasing with alarming high mortality and morbidity rates from invasive fungal infections. Understanding the virulence factors of these fungi, screening effective antifungal agents and exploring appropriate treatment approaches in in vivo modeling organisms are vital research projects for controlling mycoses. Caenorhabditis elegans has been proven to be a valuable tool in studies of most clinically relevant dimorphic fungi, helping to identify a number of virulence factors and immune-regulators and screen effective antifungal agents without cytotoxic effects. However, little has been achieved and reported with regard to pathogenic filamentous fungi (molds) in the nematode model. In this review, we have summarized the enormous breakthrough of applying a C. elegans infection model for dimorphic fungi studies and the very few reports for filamentous fungi. We have also identified and discussed the challenges in C. elegans-mold modeling applications as well as the possible approaches to conquer these challenges from our practical knowledge in C. elegans-Aspergillus fumigatus model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chukwuemeka Samson Ahamefule
- National Engineering Research Center for Non-Food Biorefinery, Guangxi Academy of Sciences, Nanning, China.,College of Life Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, China.,Department of Microbiology, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria
| | | | - James C Ogbonna
- Department of Microbiology, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria
| | - Anene N Moneke
- Department of Microbiology, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria
| | - Anthony C Ike
- Department of Microbiology, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria
| | - Cheng Jin
- National Engineering Research Center for Non-Food Biorefinery, Guangxi Academy of Sciences, Nanning, China.,College of Life Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
| | - Bin Wang
- National Engineering Research Center for Non-Food Biorefinery, Guangxi Academy of Sciences, Nanning, China.,State Key Laboratory of Non-Food Biomass and Enzyme Technology, Guangxi Academy of Sciences, Nanning, China
| | - Wenxia Fang
- National Engineering Research Center for Non-Food Biorefinery, Guangxi Academy of Sciences, Nanning, China.,State Key Laboratory of Non-Food Biomass and Enzyme Technology, Guangxi Academy of Sciences, Nanning, China
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15
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Alqahtani FM, Handy ST, Sutton CL, Farone MB. Combining Genome-Wide Gene Expression Analysis (RNA-seq) and a Gene Editing Platform (CRISPR-Cas9) to Uncover the Selectively Pro-oxidant Activity of Aurone Compounds Against Candida albicans. Front Microbiol 2021; 12:708267. [PMID: 34335543 PMCID: PMC8319688 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.708267] [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: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Candida albicans is the major fungal cause of healthcare-associated bloodstream infections worldwide with a 40% mortality rate. The scarcity of antifungal treatments due to the eukaryotic origin of fungal cells has challenged the development of selectively antifungal drugs. In an attempt to identify novel antifungal agents, aurones SH1009 and SH9051, as synthetically bioactive compounds, have been recently documented as anti-Candida agents. Since the molecular mechanisms behind the inhibitory activities of these aurones in C. albicans are unclear, this study aimed to determine the comprehensive cellular processes affected by these aurones and their molecular targets. Genome-wide transcriptional analysis of SH1009- and SH9051-treated C. albicans revealed uniquely repressed expression in different metabolic pathways, particularly trehalose and sulfur amino acid metabolic processes for SH1009 and SH9051, respectively. In contrast, the most commonly enriched process for both aurones was the up-regulation of RNA processing and ribosomal cleavages as an indicator of high oxidative stress, suggesting that a common aspect in the chemical structure of both aurones led to pro-oxidative properties. Additionally, uniquely induced responses (iron ion homeostasis for SH1009 and arginine biosynthesis for SH9051) garnered attention on key roles for the aurone functional groups. Deletion of the transcription factor for the trehalose biosynthesis pathway, Tye7p, resulted in an SH1009-resistant mutant, which also exhibited low trehalose content, validating the primary molecular target of SH1009. Aurone SH9051 uniquely simulated an exogenous supply of methionine or cysteine, leading to sulfur amino acid catabolism as evidenced by quantifying an overproduction of sulfite. Phenyl aurone, the common structure of aurones, contributed proportionally in the pro-oxidative activity through ferric ion reduction effects leading to high ROS levels. Our results determined selective and novel molecular mechanisms for aurone SH1009 and also elucidated the diverse cellular effects of different aurones based on functional groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatmah M Alqahtani
- Department of Biology, Middle Tennessee State University, Murfreesboro, TN, United States
| | - Scott T Handy
- Department of Chemistry, Middle Tennessee State University, Murfreesboro, TN, United States
| | - Caleb L Sutton
- Department of Biology, Middle Tennessee State University, Murfreesboro, TN, United States
| | - Mary B Farone
- Department of Biology, Middle Tennessee State University, Murfreesboro, TN, United States
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16
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Uddin W, Dhabalia D, Prakash SMU, Kabir MA. Systematic truncations of chromosome 4 and their responses to antifungals in Candida albicans. J Genet Eng Biotechnol 2021; 19:92. [PMID: 34152516 PMCID: PMC8217416 DOI: 10.1186/s43141-021-00197-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 06/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Candida albicans is an opportunistic human fungal pathogen responsible for superficial and systemic life-threatening infections. Treating these infections is challenging as many clinical isolates show increased drug resistance to antifungals. Chromosome (Chr) 4 monosomy was implicated in a fluconazole-resistant mutant. However, exposure to fluconazole adversely affects Candida cells and can generate numerous mutations. Hence, the present study aimed to truncate Chr4 and challenge the generated Candida strains to antifungals and evaluate their role in drug response. RESULTS Herein, Chr4 was truncated in C. albicans using the telomere-mediated chromosomal truncation method. The resulting eight Candida strains carrying one truncated homolog of Chr4 were tested for response to multiple antifungals. The minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) for these strains was determined against three classes of antifungals. The MIC values against fluconazole, amphotericin B, and caspofungin were closer to that of the wild type strain. Microdilution assay against fluconazole showed that the mutants and wild type strains had similar sensitivity to fluconazole. The disc diffusion assay against five azoles and two polyenes revealed that the zones of inhibition for all the eight strains were similar to those of the wild type. Thus, none of the generated strains showed any significant resistance to the tested antifungals. However, spot assay exhibited a reasonably high tolerance of a few generated strains with increasing concentrations of fluconazole. CONCLUSION This analysis suggested that Chr4 aneuploidy might not underlie drug resistance but rather drug tolerance in Candida albicans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wasim Uddin
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory, School of Biotechnology, National Institute of Technology Calicut, Calicut, Kerala, 673601, India
| | - Darshan Dhabalia
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory, School of Biotechnology, National Institute of Technology Calicut, Calicut, Kerala, 673601, India
| | - S M Udaya Prakash
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory, School of Biotechnology, National Institute of Technology Calicut, Calicut, Kerala, 673601, India
| | - M Anaul Kabir
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory, School of Biotechnology, National Institute of Technology Calicut, Calicut, Kerala, 673601, India.
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17
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Ebrahimi-Shaghaghi F, Noormohammadi Z, Atyabi SM, Razzaghi-Abyaneh M. Inhibitory effects of cold atmospheric plasma on the growth, virulence factors and HSP90 gene expression in Candida albicans. Arch Biochem Biophys 2021; 700:108772. [PMID: 33485850 DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2021.108772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2020] [Revised: 01/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/18/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
In spite of the abundance of antifungal therapies, 75% of women in the world suffer from the second most common cause of vaginal infection named vulvovaginal candidiasis. This complication is characterized with overgrowth of Candida albicans. The low efficacy and side effects of current antifungal therapies have convinced the researchers to look for a non-antibiotic based treatment such as cold atmospheric plasmas (CAP). The aim of this research was to evaluate the effects of CAP on C. albicans growth, ergosterol and biofilm formation. In addition, antibiotic resistance, phospholipase and proteinase activity, and structural properties were examined with different exposure duration. Putative critical effect of CAP on the expression of HSP90 as a target of anti-fungal therapy was investigated. ROS production in C. albicans exposed to CAP was assessed. For this purpose, C. albicans subjected to 0, 90, 120, 150, 180 and 210 s of He/O2 (2%), and non-treated cells as control were examined in terms of the mentioned virulence factors. The results showed that CAP had a significant effect on inhibition of C. albicans growth, Inhibition of biofilm formation, ergosterol content, and fluconazole and amphotericin B antibiotic sensitivity were significant in 210 s treatment group. This effect was validated based on changes of the cell architecture and morphology given the microscopy imaging results. The expression of HSP90 in both C. albicans ATCC 10231 and C. albicans PFCC 9362 was inhibited in 210 s of exposition. CAP exposition induced intracellular ROS, which may cause membrane damage and cell death in C. albicans. Taken together, the potential of CAP for therapeutic purposes in C. albicans-induced fungal infections is supported.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Zahra Noormohammadi
- Department of Biology, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed-Mohammad Atyabi
- Department of Nanobiotechnology, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, 1316943551, Iran.
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18
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Yang X, Pei Z, Hu R, Zhang Z, Lou Z, Sun X. Study on the Inhibitory Activity and Possible Mechanism of Myriocin on Clinically Relevant Drug-Resistant Candida albicans and Its Biofilms. Biol Pharm Bull 2021; 44:305-315. [PMID: 33441497 DOI: 10.1248/bpb.b20-00246] [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] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
In order to prevent and control the infection of Candida albicans, the antifungal activity, possible mechanism of myriocin against C. albicans and its biofilm were studied. The antifungal activity of myriocin was investigated by microdilution method. The effect of myriocin on fungal cell wall or membrane was evaluated by adding sorbitol, ergosterol or phytosphingosine (PHS). The damage to the cell membrane was investigated with propidium iodide (PI) staining and visualized by scanning electron microscope (SEM). The effects on biofilms and extracellular polysaccharides (EPS) were observed by crystal violet staining method and phenol-sulfuric acid method respectively. The adhesion of C. albicans cells to hydrocarbons was tested to evaluate cell surface hydrophobic (CSH). The combined effects of myriocin and antifungal drugs commonly used in clinical practice were investigated by using the checkerboard microdilution method. Minimal inhibitory concentrations (MICs) were found to be 0.125-4 µg/mL. Myriocin was found to affect both cell wall and cell membrane. After exposure to myriocin, biofilm and EPS were found to be inhibited and removed, and the CSH was decreased. The combined fungistasis of myriocin and voriconazole (VCZ) or amphotericin B (AMB) were additive. Myriocin had significant antifungal activity against C. albicans, and the antifungal mechanisms might be cell wall and membrane damage. Myriocin effectively inhibited and eliminated biofilms, and its mechanism may be related to the inhibition of EPS and CSH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Yang
- Department of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Wuxi No.2 People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University
| | - Zejun Pei
- Department of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Wuxi No.2 People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University
| | - Renjing Hu
- Clinical Laboratory, The Affiliated Wuxi No.2 People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University
| | - Zhehao Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Wuxi No.2 People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University
| | - Zaixiang Lou
- School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University
| | - Xin Sun
- Department of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Wuxi No.2 People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University
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19
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Vega-Chacón Y, de Albuquerque MC, Pavarina AC, Goldman GH, Mima EGDO. Verapamil inhibits efflux pumps in Candida albicans, exhibits synergism with fluconazole, and increases survival of Galleria mellonella. Virulence 2021; 12:231-243. [PMID: 33410730 PMCID: PMC8923067 DOI: 10.1080/21505594.2020.1868814] [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: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The emergence of resistance requires alternative methods to treat Candida albicans infections. We evaluated efficacy of the efflux pump inhibitor (EPI) verapamil (VER) with fluconazole (FLC) against FLC-resistant (CaR) and -susceptible C. albicans (CaS). The susceptibility of both strains to VER and FLC was determined, as well as the synergism of VER with FLC. Experiments were performed in vitro for planktonic cultures and biofilms and in vivo using Galleria mellonella. Larval survival and fungal recovery were evaluated after treatment with VER and FLC. Data were analyzed by analysis of variance and Kaplan-Meier tests. The combination of VER with FLC at sub-lethal concentrations reduced fungal growth. VER inhibited the efflux of rhodamine 123 and showed synergism with FLC against CaR. For biofilms, FLC and VER alone reduced fungal viability. The combination of VER with FLC at sub-lethal concentrations also reduced biofilm viability. In the in vivo assays, VER and FLC used alone or in combination increased the survival of larvae infected with CaR. Reduction of fungal recovery was observed only for larvae infected with CaR and treated with VER with FLC. VER reverted the FLC-resistance of C. albicans. Based on the results obtained, VER reverted the FLC-resistance of C. albicans and showed synergism with FLC against CaR. VER also increased the survival of G. mellonella infected with CaR and reduced the fungal recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuliana Vega-Chacón
- Laboratory of Applied Microbiology, Department of Dental Materials and Prosthodontics, São Paulo State University (UNESP), School of Dentistry , Araraquara, Brazil
| | - Maria Carolina de Albuquerque
- Laboratory of Applied Microbiology, Department of Dental Materials and Prosthodontics, São Paulo State University (UNESP), School of Dentistry , Araraquara, Brazil
| | - Ana Cláudia Pavarina
- Laboratory of Applied Microbiology, Department of Dental Materials and Prosthodontics, São Paulo State University (UNESP), School of Dentistry , Araraquara, Brazil
| | - Gustavo Henrique Goldman
- Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo (USP) , Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Ewerton Garcia de Oliveira Mima
- Laboratory of Applied Microbiology, Department of Dental Materials and Prosthodontics, São Paulo State University (UNESP), School of Dentistry , Araraquara, Brazil
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20
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Su S, Shi X, Xu W, Li Y, Chen X, Jia S, Sun S. Antifungal Activity and Potential Mechanism of Panobinostat in Combination With Fluconazole Against Candida albicans. Front Microbiol 2020; 11:1584. [PMID: 32765454 PMCID: PMC7378535 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2020.01584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2020] [Accepted: 06/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Invasive fungal infections are an emerging problem worldwide, which bring huge health challenges. Candida albicans, the most common opportunistic fungal pathogen, can cause bloodstream infections with high mortality in susceptible hosts. At present, available antifungal agents used in clinical practice are limited, and most of them also have some serious adverse effects. The emergence of drug resistance because of the wide use of antifungal agents is a new limitation to successful patient therapy. Drug combination therapy is increasingly becoming a way to enhance antifungal efficacy, and reduce drug resistance and potential toxicity. Panobinostat, as a pan-histone deacetylase inhibitor, has been approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration as novel antitumor agents. In this study, the antifungal effects and mechanisms of panobinostat combined with fluconazole (FLC) against C. albicans were explored for the first time. The results indicated that panobinostat could work synergistically with FLC against resistant C. albicans, the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) of panobinostat could decrease from 128 to 0.5–2 μg/ml and the MIC of FLC could decrease from >512 to 0.25–0.5 μg/ml, and the fractional inhibitory concentration index (FICI) value ranged from 0.0024 to 0.0166. It was not only synergized against planktonic cells but also against C. albicans biofilms performed ≤8 h when panobinostat is combined with fluconazole; the sessile MIC (sMIC) of panobinostat could decrease from >128 to 0.5–8 μg/ml and the sMIC of FLC from >1024 to 0.5–2 μg/ml, and the FICI value was <0.5. The Galleria mellonella infection model was used to evaluate the in vivo effect of the drug combination, and the result showed that the survival rate could be improved obviously. Finally, we explored the synergistic mechanisms of the drug combination. The hyphal growth, which plays roles in drug resistance, was found to be inhibited, and metacaspase which is related to cell apoptosis was activated (p < 0.01), whereas the synergistic effects were proven not to be related to the efflux pumps (p > 0.05). These findings might provide novel insights into the antifungal drug discovery and the treatment of candidiasis caused by C. albicans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shan Su
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Xiaohong Shi
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
| | - Wei Xu
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
| | - Yiman Li
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Xueqi Chen
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Shuang Jia
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
| | - Shujuan Sun
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,Department of Clinical Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
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21
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Alqahtani FM, Arivett BA, Taylor ZE, Handy ST, Farone AL, Farone MB. Chemogenomic profiling to understand the antifungal action of a bioactive aurone compound. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0226068. [PMID: 31825988 PMCID: PMC6905557 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0226068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2019] [Accepted: 11/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Every year, more than 250,000 invasive candidiasis infections are reported with 50,000 deaths worldwide. The limited number of antifungal agents necessitates the need for alternative antifungals with potential novel targets. The 2-benzylidenebenzofuran-3-(2H)-ones have become an attractive scaffold for antifungal drug design. This study aimed to determine the antifungal activity of a synthetic aurone compound and characterize its mode of action. Using the broth microdilution method, aurone SH1009 exhibited inhibition against C. albicans, including resistant isolates, as well as C. glabrata, and C. tropicalis with IC50 values of 4-29 μM. Cytotoxicity assays using human THP-1, HepG2, and A549 human cell lines showed selective toxicity toward fungal cells. The mode of action for SH1009 was characterized using chemical-genetic interaction via haploinsufficiency (HIP) and homozygous (HOP) profiling of a uniquely barcoded Saccharomyces cerevisiae mutant collection. Approximately 5300 mutants were competitively treated with SH1009 followed by DNA extraction, amplification of unique barcodes, and quantification of each mutant using multiplexed next-generation sequencing. Barcode post-sequencing analysis revealed 238 sensitive and resistant mutants that significantly (FDR P values ≤ 0.05) responded to aurone SH1009. The enrichment analysis of KEGG pathways and gene ontology demonstrated the cell cycle pathway as the most significantly enriched pathway along with DNA replication, cell division, actin cytoskeleton organization, and endocytosis. Phenotypic studies of these significantly enriched responses were validated in C. albicans. Flow cytometric analysis of SH1009-treated C. albicans revealed a significant accumulation of cells in G1 phase, indicating cell cycle arrest. Fluorescence microscopy detected abnormally interrupted actin dynamics, resulting in enlarged, unbudded cells. RT-qPCR confirmed the effects of SH1009 in differentially expressed cell cycle, actin polymerization, and signal transduction genes. These findings indicate the target of SH1009 as a cell cycle-dependent organization of the actin cytoskeleton, suggesting a novel mode of action of the aurone compound as an antifungal inhibitor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatmah M. Alqahtani
- Department of Biology, Middle Tennessee State University, Murfreesboro, Tennessee, United States of America
| | - Brock A. Arivett
- Department of Biology, Middle Tennessee State University, Murfreesboro, Tennessee, United States of America
| | - Zachary E. Taylor
- Department of Chemistry, Middle Tennessee State University, Murfreesboro, Tennessee, United States of America
| | - Scott T. Handy
- Department of Chemistry, Middle Tennessee State University, Murfreesboro, Tennessee, United States of America
| | - Anthony L. Farone
- Department of Biology, Middle Tennessee State University, Murfreesboro, Tennessee, United States of America
| | - Mary B. Farone
- Department of Biology, Middle Tennessee State University, Murfreesboro, Tennessee, United States of America
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