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Pinheiro BG, Pôssa AP, Ricci G, Nishikaku AS, Hagen F, Hahn RC, de Camargo ZP, Rodrigues AM. Development of a Multiplex qPCR Assay for Fast Detection and Differentiation of Paracoccidioidomycosis Agents. J Fungi (Basel) 2023; 9:jof9030358. [PMID: 36983526 PMCID: PMC10057483 DOI: 10.3390/jof9030358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2023] [Revised: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Classic paracoccidioidomycosis (PCM) is a potentially deadly neglected tropical systemic mycosis caused by members of the Paracoccidioides brasiliensis complex (P. brasiliensis s. str., P. americana, P. restrepiensis, and P. venezuelensis) and P. lutzii. The laboratorial diagnosis of PCM relies on observing pathognomonic structures such as the “steering wheel” or “Mickey Mouse” shape in the direct mycological examination, fresh biopsied tissue in 10% KOH, histopathological analysis, and/or the isolation of the fungus in culture. However, these procedures are time-consuming and do not allow for the speciation of Paracoccidioides due to overlapping morphologies. Here, we propose a new one-tube multiplex probe-based qPCR assay to detect and recognize agents of the P. brasiliensis complex and P. lutzii. Primers (Paracoco-F and Paracoco-R) and TaqMan probes (PbraCx-Fam, Plu-Ned, and Paracoco-Vic) were developed to target the rDNA (ITS2/28S) in the Paracoccidioides genome. A panel of 77 Paracoccidioides isolates revealed a 100% specificity (AUC = 1.0, 95% CI 0.964–1.000, p < 0.0001) without cross-reacting with other medically relevant fungi or human and murine DNA. The lower limit of detection was 10 fg of gDNA and three copies of the partial rDNA amplicon. Speciation using qPCR was in perfect agreement with AFLP and TUB1-RFLP markers (kappa = 1.0). As a proof of concept, we assessed a panel of 16 formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded specimens from histopathologically confirmed PCM patients to reveal a significant sensitivity of 81.25% and specificity of 100% (AUC = 0.906 ± 0.05, 95% CI = 0.756–0.979, p < 0.0001, Youden index J = 0.8125). Our assay achieved maximum sensitivity (100%) and specificity (100%) using fresh clinical samples (n = 9) such as sputum, bronchoalveolar lavage, and tissue fragments from PCM patients (AUC = 1.0, 95% CI 0.872–1.000, p < 0.0001, Youden index J = 1.0). Overall, our qPCR assay simplifies the molecular diagnosis of PCM and can be easily implemented in any routine laboratory, decreasing a critical bottleneck for the early treatment of PCM patients across a vast area of the Americas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Breno Gonçalves Pinheiro
- Laboratory of Emerging Fungal Pathogens, Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Parasitology, Discipline of Cellular Biology, Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo 04023-062, Brazil
| | - Ana Paula Pôssa
- Laboratory of Emerging Fungal Pathogens, Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Parasitology, Discipline of Cellular Biology, Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo 04023-062, Brazil
- Department of Medicine, Discipline of Infectious Diseases, Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo 04023-062, Brazil
| | - Giannina Ricci
- Centro de Diagnóstico e Pesquisa em Biologia Molecular Dr. Ivo Ricci, São Carlos 13561-020, Brazil
| | - Angela Satie Nishikaku
- Centro de Diagnóstico e Pesquisa em Biologia Molecular Dr. Ivo Ricci, São Carlos 13561-020, Brazil
| | - Ferry Hagen
- Department of Medical Mycology, Westerdijk Fungal Biodiversity Institute, Uppsalalaan 8, 3584 CT Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Institute for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Dynamics (IBED), University of Amsterdam, Sciencepark 904, 1098 XH Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Heidelberglaan 100, 3584 CX Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Rosane Christine Hahn
- Laboratory of Mycology/Research, Faculty of Medicine, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Cuiabá 78060-900, Brazil
- Júlio Muller University Hospital, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Cuiabá 78048-902, Brazil
| | - Zoilo Pires de Camargo
- Laboratory of Emerging Fungal Pathogens, Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Parasitology, Discipline of Cellular Biology, Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo 04023-062, Brazil
- Department of Medicine, Discipline of Infectious Diseases, Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo 04023-062, Brazil
| | - Anderson Messias Rodrigues
- Laboratory of Emerging Fungal Pathogens, Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Parasitology, Discipline of Cellular Biology, Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo 04023-062, Brazil
- Department of Medicine, Discipline of Infectious Diseases, Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo 04023-062, Brazil
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +55-1155764551 (ext. 1540)
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Molecular Phylogenetic Analysis of Paracoccidioides Species Complex Present in Paracoccidioidomycosis Patient Tissue Samples. Microorganisms 2023; 11:microorganisms11030562. [PMID: 36985136 PMCID: PMC10055015 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11030562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Paracoccidioidomycosis (PCM) is the main and most prevalent systemic mycosis in Latin America, that until recently, it was believed to be caused only by Paracoccidioides brasiliensis (P. brasiliensis). In 2006, researchers described three cryptic species: S1, PS2, PS3, and later, another one, PS4. In 2009, Paracoccidioides lutzii (Pb01-like) was described, and in 2017, a new nomenclature was proposed for the different agents: P. brasiliensis (S1), P. americana (PS2), P. restrepiensis (PS3), and P. venezuelensis (PS4). These species are not uniformly distributed throughout Latin America and, knowing that more than one cryptic species could coexist in some regions, we aimed to identify those species in patients’ biopsy samples for a better understanding of the distribution and occurrence of these recently described species in Botucatu region. The Hospital of Medical School of Botucatu—UNESP, which is a PCM study pole, is located in São Paulo State mid-west region and is classified as a PCM endemic area. Genotyping analyses of clinical specimens from these patients that have been diagnosed and treated in our Hospital could favor a possible correlation between genetic groups and mycological and clinical characteristics. For this, molecular techniques to differentiate Paracoccidioides species in these biopsies, such as DNA extraction, PCR, and sequencing of three target genes (ITS, CHS2, and ARF) were conducted. All the sequences were analyzed at BLAST to testify the presence of P. brasiliensis. The phylogenetic trees were constructed using Mega 7.0 software and showed that 100% of our positive samples were from S1 cryptic species, therefore P. brasiliensis. This is important data, demonstrating the predominance of this species in the São Paulo State region.
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Hahn RC, Hagen F, Mendes RP, Burger E, Nery AF, Siqueira NP, Guevara A, Rodrigues AM, de Camargo ZP. Paracoccidioidomycosis: Current Status and Future Trends. Clin Microbiol Rev 2022; 35:e0023321. [PMID: 36074014 PMCID: PMC9769695 DOI: 10.1128/cmr.00233-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Paracoccidioidomycosis (PCM), initially reported in 1908 in the city of São Paulo, Brazil, by Adolpho Lutz, is primarily a systemic and neglected tropical mycosis that may affect individuals with certain risk factors around Latin America, especially Brazil. Paracoccidioides brasiliensis sensu stricto, a classical thermodimorphic fungus associated with PCM, was long considered to represent a monotypic taxon. However, advances in molecular taxonomy revealed several cryptic species, including Paracoccidioides americana, P. restrepiensis, P. venezuelensis, and P. lutzii, that show a preference for skin and mucous membranes, lymph nodes, and respiratory organs but can also affect many other organs. The classical diagnosis of PCM benefits from direct microscopy culture-based, biochemical, and immunological assays in a general microbiology laboratory practice providing a generic identification of the agents. However, molecular assays should be employed to identify Paracoccidioides isolates to the species level, data that would be complemented by epidemiological investigations. From a clinical perspective, all probable and confirmed cases should be treated. The choice of treatment and its duration must be considered, along with the affected organs, process severity, history of previous treatment failure, possibility of administering oral medication, associated diseases, pregnancy, and patient compliance with the proposed treatment regimen. Nevertheless, even after appropriate treatment, there may be relapses, which generally occur 5 years after the apparent cure following treatment, and also, the mycosis may be confused with other diseases. This review provides a comprehensive and critical overview of the immunopathology, laboratory diagnosis, clinical aspects, and current treatment of PCM, highlighting current issues in the identification, treatment, and patient follow-up in light of recent Paracoccidioides species taxonomic developments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosane Christine Hahn
- Medical Mycology Laboratory/Investigation, Faculty of Medicine, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Cuiabá, Mato Grosso, Brazil
- Júlio Muller Hospital, EBSERH, Cuiabá, Mato Grosso, Brazil
| | - Ferry Hagen
- Westerdijk Fungal Biodiversity Institute, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Institute for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Dynamics (IBED), University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Rinaldo Poncio Mendes
- Faculdade de Medicina de Botucatu, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
- Faculdade de Medicina, Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul (UFMS), Campo Grande, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil
| | - Eva Burger
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Federal University of Alfenasgrid.411180.d (UNIFAL), Alfenas, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Andreia Ferreira Nery
- Medical Mycology Laboratory/Investigation, Faculty of Medicine, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Cuiabá, Mato Grosso, Brazil
- Júlio Muller Hospital, EBSERH, Cuiabá, Mato Grosso, Brazil
| | - Nathan Pereira Siqueira
- Medical Mycology Laboratory/Investigation, Faculty of Medicine, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Cuiabá, Mato Grosso, Brazil
| | - Armando Guevara
- Medical Mycology Laboratory/Investigation, Faculty of Medicine, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Cuiabá, Mato Grosso, Brazil
| | - Anderson Messias Rodrigues
- Laboratory of Emerging Fungal Pathogens, Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Parasitology, Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Department of Medicine, Discipline of Infectious Diseases, Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Zoilo Pires de Camargo
- Laboratory of Emerging Fungal Pathogens, Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Parasitology, Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Department of Medicine, Discipline of Infectious Diseases, Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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Carpouron JE, de Hoog S, Gentekaki E, Hyde KD. Emerging Animal-Associated Fungal Diseases. J Fungi (Basel) 2022; 8:611. [PMID: 35736094 PMCID: PMC9225262 DOI: 10.3390/jof8060611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Revised: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The Global Action Fund for Fungal Infections (GAFFI) estimates that fungal diseases kill around 150 people each hour, and yet they are globally overlooked and neglected. Histoplasma and Talaromyces, which are associated with wildlife, cause systemic infections that are often lethal in patients with impaired cellular immunity. Dermatophytes that cause outbreaks in human hosts are often associated with domesticated animals. Changes in human behavior have been identified as a main cause of the emergence of animal-associated fungal diseases in humans, sometimes caused by the disturbance of natural habitats. An understanding of ecology and the transmission modes of causative agents is therefore essential. Here, we focus on fungal diseases contracted from wildlife and domesticated animals, their habitats, feces and carcasses. We discuss some basic fungal lifestyles and the risk of transmission to humans and illustrate these with examples from emerging and established diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Eva Carpouron
- Center of Excellence in Fungal Research, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai 57100, Thailand; (J.E.C.); (E.G.)
- School of Science, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai 57100, Thailand
| | - Sybren de Hoog
- Centre of Expertise in Mycology, Radboud University Medical Centre/Canisius Wilhelmina Hospital, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands;
| | - Eleni Gentekaki
- Center of Excellence in Fungal Research, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai 57100, Thailand; (J.E.C.); (E.G.)
- School of Science, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai 57100, Thailand
| | - Kevin David Hyde
- Center of Excellence in Fungal Research, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai 57100, Thailand; (J.E.C.); (E.G.)
- Institute of Plant Health, Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Haizhu District, Guangzhou 510225, China
- Mushroom Research Foundation, 128 M.3 Ban Pa Deng T. Pa Pae, A. Mae Taeng, Chiang Mai 50150, Thailand
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Andrade-Silva J, Andrade-Silva LE, Paes HC, Alves L, Rosa A, Tenório BG, Ferreira MS, Felipe MSS, Teixeira MDM, Silva-Vergara ML. Molecular epidemiology of Paracoccidiodes spp. recovered from patients with paracoccidioidomycosis in a teaching hospital from Minas Gerais State of Brazil. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2021; 15:e0009956. [PMID: 34843484 PMCID: PMC8659327 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0009956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2021] [Revised: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Paracoccidioidomycosis (PCM) is caused by several species of the Paracoccidioides genus which can be differentiated by interspecific genetic variations, morphology and geographic distribution. Intraspecific variability correlation with clinical and epidemiological aspects of these species still remains unclear. This study aimed to sequence the loci GP43, exon 2 and ARF of 23 clinical isolates of Paracoccidioides spp. from patients in the Southeast Region of Brazil. Methodology and main findings GenBank was used to compare the present (23) with previous described sequences (151) that included ARF and GP43. It was identified a high polymorphism rate among the 23 isolates in comparison to the other 151. Among the isolates, 22 (95.66%) were S1/P. brasiliensis and 1 (4.34%) was identified as PS2/P. americana. A total of 45 haplotypes were found as follows: 19 from S1/P. brasiliensis (13 from the present study), 15 from P. lutzii, 6 from PS2/P. americana (1 from the present study), 3 from PS3/P. restrepiensis and 2 from PS4/P. venezuelensis. Moreover, exclusive haplotypes according to clinical origin and geographical area were found. S1/P. brasiliensis (HD = 0.655 and K = 4.613) and P. lutzii (HD = 0.649 and K = 2.906) presented the highest rate of polymorphism among all species, from which 12 isolates of the present study were clustered within S1b/P. brasiliensis. The GP43 locus showed a higher variability and was found to be the main reason for the species differentiation. Conclusions The results herein decribed show a high intraspecific genetic variability among S1/P. brasiliensis isolates and confirm the predominance of this species in the Southeast region of Brazil. The finding of exclusive haplotypes according to clinical origin and geographical area would suggest correlation between the molecular profile with the clinical form and geographic origin of patients with PCM. Paracoccidioidomycosis (PCM) is one of the most important systemic mycosis of Latin America. This disease can be caused by Paracoccidioides lutzii and four different phylogenetic species: S1/Paracoccidioides brasiliensis sensu stricto that harboring S1a and S1b, PS2/Paracoccidioides americana, PS3/Paracoccidioides restrepiensis and PS4/Paracoccidioides venezuelensis. Some of these species show differences in their main geographic region of predominance such as PS2/P. americana that can be found in Venezuela and Southern Brazil; PS3/P. restrepiensis and PS4/P. venezuelensis which are distributed in Colombia and Venezuela. However, and due to their wide geographical distribution, the species S1/P. brasiliensis and P. lutzii overlapping ecological niches and can be found in different regions of Brazil and other Latin American countries. Regarding eco-epidemiological aspects, the habitat is believed to be the soil due to the predominance of the disease among rural workers who become infected by inhaling infectious propagules during their farm activities. According to other authors, these species could have relation with the different PCM clinical presentation. This study aimed to describe the molecular epidemiology associated with clinical and epidemiological data of Paracoccidiodes spp. in the Minas Gerais State, located in the Southeast region, Brazil. Among the 23 isolates herein evaluated, 22 were S1/P. brasiliensis and 1 was identified as PS2/P. americana. A total of 45 haplotypes were found when these isolates were compared with other 151 deposited in the Genbank. The preliminar finding of exclusive haplotypes according to clinical origin and geographical area would suggest correlation between the molecular profile with the clinical form and geographic origin of patients with PCM. The GP43 locus showed a higher variability and was found to be the main promotor of species differentiation. The results herein described pointed out a high intraspecific genetic variability among S1/P. brasiliensis isolates and confirm the predominance of this species in the Southeast region of Brazil.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliana Andrade-Silva
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Internal Medicine Department, Triangulo Mineiro Federal University, Uberaba, Brazil
| | | | - Hugo Costa Paes
- Faculty of Medicina, University of Brasília, Brasília, Brazil
| | - Lucas Alves
- Faculty of Medicina, University of Brasília, Brasília, Brazil
| | - Adair Rosa
- Faculty of Medicina, University of Brasília, Brasília, Brazil
| | | | - Marcelo Simão Ferreira
- Infectious diseases Unit, Internal Medicine Department Federal University of Uberlândia, Uberlândia, Brazil
| | | | | | - Mario León Silva-Vergara
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Internal Medicine Department, Triangulo Mineiro Federal University, Uberaba, Brazil
- * E-mail:
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Gnat S, Łagowski D, Nowakiewicz A, Dyląg M. A global view on fungal infections in humans and animals: infections caused by dimorphic fungi and dermatophytoses. J Appl Microbiol 2021; 131:2688-2704. [PMID: 33754409 DOI: 10.1111/jam.15084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2020] [Accepted: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Fungal infections are still underappreciated and their prevalence is underestimated, which renders them a serious public health problem. Realistic discussions about their distribution, symptoms, and control can improve management and diagnosis and contribute to refinement of preventive actions using currently available tools. This article represents an overview of dermatophytes and endemic fungi that cause infections in humans and animals. In addition, the impact of climate change on the fungal spread is discussed. The endemic fungal infections characterized in this article include coccidioidomycosis, histoplasmosis, blastomycosis, lobomycosis, emergomycosis and sporotrichosis. Moreover the geographic distribution of these fungi, which are known to be climate sensitive and/or limited to endemic tropical and subtropical areas, is highlighted. In turn, dermatophytes cause superficial fungal infections of skin, hairs and nails, which are the most prevalent mycoses worldwide with a high economic burden. Therefore, the possibility of causing zoonoses and reverse zoonoses by dermatophytes is highly important. In conclusion, the article illustrates the current issues of the epidemiology and distribution of fungal diseases, emphasizing the lack of public programmes for prevention and control of these types of infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Gnat
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Veterinary Microbiology, Institute of Preclinical Veterinary Sciences, University of Life Sciences, Lublin, Poland
| | - D Łagowski
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Veterinary Microbiology, Institute of Preclinical Veterinary Sciences, University of Life Sciences, Lublin, Poland
| | - A Nowakiewicz
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Veterinary Microbiology, Institute of Preclinical Veterinary Sciences, University of Life Sciences, Lublin, Poland
| | - M Dyląg
- Faculty of Biological Sciences, Department of Mycology and Genetics, Institute of Genetics and Microbiology, University of Wroclaw, Wroclaw, Poland
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Lenhard-Vidal A, Bender FR, Assolini JP, Maruo AEM, Vieira LT, Pereira EC, Ono MA, Sano A, Itano EN. IgG reactivity profile to Paracoccidioides spp. antigens in people with asymptomatic Paracoccidioidomycosis. J Med Microbiol 2021; 70. [PMID: 33258768 DOI: 10.1099/jmm.0.001279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction. Paracoccidioidomycosis (PCM) is a systemic mycosis caused by Paracoccidioides spp. As the disease is known to affect mostly men over 40 years old who previously worked handling soil, some cities of agricultural economy in endemic regions may have more cases of paracoccidioidal infection.Gap statement. The true frequency of PCM cannot be established in Brazil because it is not a disease of mandatory reporting. The detection of paracoccidioidal infection may assist in the planning of health services, in order to provide early detection of the disease and to prevent its worsening or even progression to death. In addition, little is described about sera reactivity with antigens from different species of Paracoccidiodes, especially P. lutzii.Aim. Current research was conducted in an inland municipality of southern Brazil, in order to assess infection rate within this endemic region of PCM disease.Methodology. ELISA was employed to evaluate 359 sera from random volunteers from Guarapuava, Paraná, Brazil, to detect IgG against cell-free antigens (CFA) from P. restrepiensis B339, P. americana LDR3 and P. lutzii LDR2. Confirmatory ELISA employed gp43 from B339. Reduction of cross-reactions was sought by treatment with sodium metaperiodate (SMP-CFA, SMP-gp43). Immunoblot was performed with 37 selected sera among those reactive in ELISA. Epidemiological profile was assessed by questionnaire.Results. ELISA reactivity was: CFA/SMP-CFA in general 37.3/17.8 %, B339 25.3/14.5 %, LDR3 24.5/1.4 %, LDR2 8.3/5.8 %; gp43/SMP-gp43 7.2/4.7 %. There were sera reactive with multiple CFAs. In immunoblot, five sera showed the same reaction profile with P. lutzii's antigens as PCM disease sera. Rural residence and soil-related professions were risk factors for paracoccidioidal infection.Conclusion. The low prevalence is in accordance with previous reports of lower PCM disease endemicity in Guarapuava than in other areas of Paraná. Although P. brasiliensis seems to be the prevalent strain of the region, 21 sera from people who only lived in Guarapuava reacted with P. lutzii LDR2. CFA-ELISA with whole antigens seems a good option for serological screening in epidemiological surveys.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriane Lenhard-Vidal
- State University of Londrina, Londrina, Brazil.,University Center Campo Real, Guarapuava, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Ayako Sano
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of the Ryukyus, Okinawa, Japan
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8
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Kluyber D, Desbiez ALJ, Attias N, Massocato GF, Gennari SM, Soares HS, Bagagli E, Bosco SMG, Garcés HG, Ferreira JDS, Fontes ANB, Suffys PN, Meireles LR, Jansen AM, Luna EJA, Roque ALR. Zoonotic parasites infecting free-living armadillos from Brazil. Transbound Emerg Dis 2020; 68:1639-1651. [PMID: 32964690 DOI: 10.1111/tbed.13839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2020] [Revised: 08/21/2020] [Accepted: 09/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Armadillos are specialist diggers and their burrows are used to find food, seek shelter and protect their pups. These burrows can also be shared with dozens of vertebrate and invertebrate species and; consequently, their parasites including the zoonotics. The aim of this study was to diagnose the presence of zoonotic parasites in four wild-caught armadillo species from two different Brazilian ecosystems, the Cerrado (Brazilian savanna) and the Pantanal (wetland). The investigated parasites and their correspondent diseases were: Toxoplasma gondii (toxoplasmosis), Trypanosoma cruzi (Chagas disease), Leishmania spp., (leishmaniasis), Paracoccidioides brasiliensis (Paracoccidioidomicosis) and Mycobacterium leprae (Hansen's disease). Forty-three free-living armadillos from Pantanal and seven road-killed armadillos from the Cerrado were sampled. Trypanosoma cruzi DTU TcIII were isolated from 2 out of 43 (4.65%) armadillos, including one of them also infected with Trypanosoma rangeli. Antibodies anti-T. gondii were detected in 13 out of 43 (30.2%) armadillos. All seven armadillos from Cerrado tested positive for P. brasiliensis DNA, in the lungs, spleen, liver fragments. Also, by molecular analysis, all 43 individuals were negative for M. leprae and Leishmania spp. Armadillos were infected by T. cruzi, T. rangeli, P. brasiliensis and presented seric antibodies to T. gondii, highlighting the importance of those armadillos could have in the epidemiology of zoonotic parasites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danilo Kluyber
- Associate Researcher, Naples Zoo at Caribbeans Gardens, Naples, FL, USA.,Instituto de Conservação de Animais Silvestres (ICAS), Campo Grande, Brazil
| | - Arnaud L J Desbiez
- Instituto de Conservação de Animais Silvestres (ICAS), Campo Grande, Brazil.,Associate Researcher, The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS), Edinburgh, Scotland
| | - Nina Attias
- Instituto de Conservação de Animais Silvestres (ICAS), Campo Grande, Brazil.,Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biologia Animal, Universidade Federal do Mato Grosso do Sul, Campo Grande, Brazil
| | - Gabriel F Massocato
- Instituto de Conservação de Animais Silvestres (ICAS), Campo Grande, Brazil.,Associate Researcher, Houston Zoo, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Solange M Gennari
- Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, USP, São Paulo, Brazil.,Programa de Pós Graduação em Saúde Única e Bem-Estar Animal, Universidade Santo Amaro, UNISA, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Herbert S Soares
- Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, USP, São Paulo, Brazil.,Programa de Pós Graduação em Saúde Única e Bem-Estar Animal, Universidade Santo Amaro, UNISA, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Eduardo Bagagli
- Departamento de Ciências Químicas e Biológicas, Instituto de Biociências, UNESP, Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Sandra M G Bosco
- Departamento de Ciências Químicas e Biológicas, Instituto de Biociências, UNESP, Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Hans G Garcés
- Departamento de Ciências Químicas e Biológicas, Instituto de Biociências, UNESP, Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Jessica da S Ferreira
- Laboratório Multi-user do, Departamento de Parasitologia Animal, Instituto de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Seropédica, Brazil.,Laboratório de Biologia Molecular aplicada à Micobactérias, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Amanda N B Fontes
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular aplicada à Micobactérias, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Philip N Suffys
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular aplicada à Micobactérias, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Luciana R Meireles
- Laboratório de Protozoologia, Instituto de Medicina Tropical de São Paulo da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ana M Jansen
- Laboratório de Biologia de Tripanosomatídeos, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Expedito J A Luna
- Instituto de Medicina Tropical, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - André L R Roque
- Laboratório de Biologia de Tripanosomatídeos, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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9
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Nojosa Oliveira L, Aguiar Gonçales R, Garcia Silva M, Melo Lima R, Vieira Tomazett M, Santana de Curcio J, Domiraci Paccez J, Milhomem Cruz-Leite VR, Rodrigues F, de Sousa Lima P, Pereira M, de Almeida Soares CM. Characterization of a heme-protein responsive to hypoxia in Paracoccidioides brasiliensis. Fungal Genet Biol 2020; 144:103446. [PMID: 32822859 DOI: 10.1016/j.fgb.2020.103446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2019] [Revised: 08/02/2020] [Accepted: 08/12/2020] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Oxygen is fundamental to the life of aerobic organisms and is not always available to Paracoccidioides cells. During the life cycle stages, reduced oxygen levels directly affect general metabolic processes and oxygen adaptation mechanisms may play a fundamental role on fungal ability to survive under such condition. Heme proteins can bind to oxygen and participate in important biological processes. Several fungi, including Paracoccidioides, express a heme-binding globin (fungoglobin - FglA) presumable to regulate fungal adaptation to hypoxia. However, the characterization of fungoglobin in Paracoccidioides spp. has not yet been performed. In this study, we predicted the structure of fungoglobin and determined its level of expression during hypoxic-mimetic conditions. Genomic screening revealed that the fungoglobin gene is conserved in all species of the Paracoccidioides genus. Molecular modeling showed biochemical and biophysical characteristics that support the hypothesis that FglA binds to the heme group and oxygen as well. The fungoglobin transcript and proteins are expressed at higher levels at the early treatment time, remaining elevated while oxygen is limited. A P. brasiliensis fglA knockdown strain depicted reduced growth in hypoxia indicating that this protein can be essential for growth at low oxygen. Biochemical analysis confirmed the binding of fungoglobin to heme. Initial analyzes were carried out to establish the relationship between FlglA and iron metabolism. The FglA transcript was up regulated in pulmonary infection, suggesting its potential role in the disease establishment. We believe that this study can contribute to the understanding of fungal biology and open new perspectives for scientific investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas Nojosa Oliveira
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, ICB II, Campus II, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, Goiás, Brazil
| | - Relber Aguiar Gonçales
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal; ICVS/3B's - PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Marielle Garcia Silva
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, ICB II, Campus II, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, Goiás, Brazil
| | - Raisa Melo Lima
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, ICB II, Campus II, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, Goiás, Brazil
| | - Mariana Vieira Tomazett
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, ICB II, Campus II, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, Goiás, Brazil
| | - Juliana Santana de Curcio
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, ICB II, Campus II, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, Goiás, Brazil
| | - Juliano Domiraci Paccez
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, ICB II, Campus II, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, Goiás, Brazil
| | - Vanessa Rafaela Milhomem Cruz-Leite
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, ICB II, Campus II, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, Goiás, Brazil
| | - Fernando Rodrigues
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal; ICVS/3B's - PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Patrícia de Sousa Lima
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, ICB II, Campus II, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, Goiás, Brazil
| | - Maristela Pereira
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, ICB II, Campus II, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, Goiás, Brazil
| | - Célia Maria de Almeida Soares
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, ICB II, Campus II, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, Goiás, Brazil.
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10
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Li X, Fang C, Zhao JP, Zhou XY, Ni Z, Niu DK. Desiccation does not drastically increase the accessibility of exogenous DNA to nuclear genomes: evidence from the frequency of endosymbiotic DNA transfer. BMC Genomics 2020; 21:452. [PMID: 32611311 PMCID: PMC7329468 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-020-06865-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2019] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Although horizontal gene transfer (HGT) is a widely accepted force in the evolution of prokaryotic genomes, its role in the evolution of eukaryotic genomes remains hotly debated. Some bdelloid rotifers that are resistant to extreme desiccation and radiation undergo a very high level of HGT, whereas in another desiccation-resistant invertebrate, the tardigrade, the pattern does not exist. Overall, the DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) induced by prolonged desiccation have been postulated to open a gateway to the nuclear genome for exogenous DNA integration and thus to facilitate the HGT process, thereby enhancing the rate of endosymbiotic DNA transfer (EDT). Results We first surveyed the abundance of nuclear mitochondrial DNAs (NUMTs) and nuclear plastid DNAs (NUPTs) in five eukaryotes that are highly resistant to desiccation: the bdelloid rotifers Adineta vaga and Adineta ricciae, the tardigrade Ramazzottius varieornatus, and the resurrection plants Dorcoceras hygrometricum and Selaginella tamariscina. Excessive NUMTs or NUPTs were not detected. Furthermore, we compared 24 groups of desiccation-tolerant organisms with their relatively less desiccation-tolerant relatives but did not find a significant difference in NUMT/NUPT contents. Conclusions Desiccation may induce DSBs, but it is unlikely to dramatically increase the frequency of exogenous sequence integration in most eukaryotes. The capture of exogenous DNA sequences is possible only when DSBs are repaired through a subtype of non-homologous end joining, named alternative end joining (alt-EJ). Due to the deleterious effects of the resulting insertion mutations, alt-EJ is less frequently initiated than other mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xixi Li
- MOE Key Laboratory for Biodiversity Science and Ecological Engineering and Beijing Key Laboratory of Gene Resource and Molecular Development, College of Life Sciences, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, 100875, China
| | - Cheng Fang
- MOE Key Laboratory for Biodiversity Science and Ecological Engineering and Beijing Key Laboratory of Gene Resource and Molecular Development, College of Life Sciences, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, 100875, China
| | - Jun-Peng Zhao
- MOE Key Laboratory for Biodiversity Science and Ecological Engineering and Beijing Key Laboratory of Gene Resource and Molecular Development, College of Life Sciences, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, 100875, China
| | - Xiao-Yu Zhou
- MOE Key Laboratory for Biodiversity Science and Ecological Engineering and Beijing Key Laboratory of Gene Resource and Molecular Development, College of Life Sciences, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, 100875, China
| | - Zhihua Ni
- MOE Key Laboratory for Biodiversity Science and Ecological Engineering and Beijing Key Laboratory of Gene Resource and Molecular Development, College of Life Sciences, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, 100875, China.,College of Life Sciences, Hebei University, Baoding, 071002, China
| | - Deng-Ke Niu
- MOE Key Laboratory for Biodiversity Science and Ecological Engineering and Beijing Key Laboratory of Gene Resource and Molecular Development, College of Life Sciences, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, 100875, China.
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11
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Milhomem Cruz-Leite VR, Salem-Izacc SM, Novaes E, Neves BJ, de Almeida Brito W, O'Hara Souza Silva L, Paccez JD, Parente-Rocha JA, Pereira M, Maria de Almeida Soares C, Borges CL. Nitrogen Catabolite Repression in members of Paracoccidioides complex. Microb Pathog 2020; 149:104281. [PMID: 32585293 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2020.104281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2020] [Revised: 05/24/2020] [Accepted: 05/25/2020] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Paracoccidioides complex is a genus that comprises pathogenic fungi which are responsible by systemic disease Paracoccidioidomycosis. In host tissues, pathogenic fungi need to acquire nutrients in order to survive, making the uptake of nitrogen essential for their establishment and dissemination. Nitrogen utilization is employed by the alleviation of Nitrogen Catabolite Repression (NCR) which ensures the use of non-preferential or alternative nitrogen sources when preferential sources are not available. NCR is controlled by GATA transcription factors which act through GATA binding sites on promoter regions in NCR-sensitive genes. This process is responsible for encoding proteins involved with the scavenge, uptake and catabolism of a wide variety of non-preferential nitrogen sources. In this work, we predict the existence of AreA GATA transcription factor and feature the zinc finger domain by three-dimensional structure in Paracoccidioides. Furthermore, we demonstrate the putative genes involved with NCR response by means of in silico analysis. The gene expression profile under NCR conditions was evaluated. Demonstrating that P. lutzii supported transcriptional regulation and alleviated NCR in non-preferential nitrogen-dependent medium. The elucidation of NCR in members of Paracoccidioides complex will provide new knowledge about survival, dissemination and virulence for these pathogens with regard to nitrogen-scavenging strategies in the interactions of host-pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Silvia Maria Salem-Izacc
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, Goiás, Brazil.
| | - Evandro Novaes
- Escola de Agronomia, Setor de Melhoramento de Plantas, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Campus II Samambaia, Rodovia Goiânia a Nova Veneza, Goiás, Brazil.
| | - Bruno Junior Neves
- Centro Universitário de Anápolis - UniEVANGÉLICA, Anápolis, Goiás, Brazil.
| | - Wesley de Almeida Brito
- Centro Universitário de Anápolis - UniEVANGÉLICA, Anápolis, Goiás, Brazil; Universidade Estadual de Goiás - UEG - CCET, Anápolis, Goiás, Brazil.
| | - Lana O'Hara Souza Silva
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, Goiás, Brazil.
| | - Juliano Domiraci Paccez
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, Goiás, Brazil.
| | - Juliana Alves Parente-Rocha
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, Goiás, Brazil.
| | - Maristela Pereira
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, Goiás, Brazil.
| | - Célia Maria de Almeida Soares
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, Goiás, Brazil.
| | - Clayton Luiz Borges
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, Goiás, Brazil.
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12
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Elias Moreira AL, Milhomem Cruz-Leite VR, O'Hara Souza Silva L, Alves Parente AF, Bailão AM, Maria de Almeida Soares C, Parente-Rocha JA, Ruiz OH, Borges CL. Proteome characterization of Paracoccidioides lutzii conidia by using nanoUPLC-MS E. Fungal Biol 2020; 124:766-780. [PMID: 32883428 DOI: 10.1016/j.funbio.2020.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2019] [Revised: 04/27/2020] [Accepted: 05/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Fungi of the genus Paracoccidioides are the etiological agents of Paracoccidioidomycosis (PCM), the most prevalent mycosis in Latin America. Paracoccidioidomycosis infection is acquired by inhalation of Paracoccidioides conidia, which have first contact with the lungs and can subsequently spread to other organs/tissues. Until now, there have been no proteomic studies focusing on this infectious particle of Paracoccidioides. In order to identify the Paracoccidioides lutzii conidia proteome, conidia were produced and purified. Proteins were characterized by use of the nanoUPLC-MSE approach. The strategy allowed us to identify a total of 242 proteins in P. lutzii conidia. In the conidia proteome, proteins were classified in functional categories such as protein synthesis, energy production, metabolism, cellular defense/virulence processes, as well as other processes that can be important for conidia survival. Through this analysis, a pool of ribosomal proteins was identified, which may be important for the initial processes of dimorphic transition. In addition, molecules related to energetic and metabolic processes were identified, suggesting a possible basal metabolism during this form of resistance of the fungus. In addition, adhesins and virulence factors were identified in the P. lutzii conidia proteome. Our results demonstrate the potential role that these molecules can play during early cell-host interaction processes, as well as the way in which these molecules are involved in environmental survival during this form of propagation.
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Affiliation(s)
- André Luís Elias Moreira
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, Goiás, Brazil.
| | | | - Lana O'Hara Souza Silva
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, Goiás, Brazil.
| | | | - Alexandre Melo Bailão
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, Goiás, Brazil.
| | - Célia Maria de Almeida Soares
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, Goiás, Brazil.
| | - Juliana Alves Parente-Rocha
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, Goiás, Brazil.
| | - Orville Hernandez Ruiz
- Unidad de Biología Celular y Molecular, Corporación para Investigaciones Biológicas (CIB), Medellín, Colombia; Grupo de Investigación MICROBA, Escuela de Microbiología, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellín, Colombia.
| | - Clayton Luiz Borges
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, Goiás, Brazil.
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13
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Calich VLG, Mamoni RL, Loures FV. Regulatory T cells in paracoccidioidomycosis. Virulence 2019; 10:810-821. [PMID: 30067137 PMCID: PMC6779406 DOI: 10.1080/21505594.2018.1483674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2017] [Accepted: 05/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
This review addresses the role of regulatory T cells (Tregs), which are essential for maintaining peripheral tolerance and controlling pathogen immunity, in the host response against Paracoccidioides brasiliensis, a primary fungal pathogen. A brief introduction on the general features of Treg cells summarizes their main functions, subpopulations, mechanisms of suppression and plasticity. The main aspects of immunity in the diverse forms of the P. brasiliensis infection are presented, as are the few extant studies on the relevance of Treg cells in the control of severity of the human disease. Finally, the influence of Toll-like receptors, Dectin-1, NOD-like receptor P3 (NLRP3), Myeloid differentiation factor-88 (MyD88), as well as the enzyme indoleamine 2,3 dioxygenase (IDO) on the expansion and function of Treg cells in a murine model of pulmonary paracoccidioidomycosis (PCM) is also discussed. It is demonstrated that some of these components are involved in the negative control of Treg cell expansion, whereas others positively trigger the proliferation and activity of these cells. Finally, the studies here summarized highlight the dual role of Treg cells in PCM, which can be protective by controlling excessive immunity and tissue pathology but also deleterious by inhibiting the anti-fungal immunity necessary to control fungal growth and dissemination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vera L. G. Calich
- Department of Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo (USP), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ronei L. Mamoni
- Department of Morphology and Basic Pathology, Faculty of Medicine of Jundiai (FMJ), Jundiai, Brazil
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Flávio V. Loures
- Department of Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo (USP), São Paulo, Brazil
- Institute of Science and Technology (ICT), Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP) at São José dos Campos, São Paulo, Brazil
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14
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Rosa Júnior M, Amorim AC, Baldon IV, Martins LA, Pereira RM, Campos RP, Gonçalves SS, Velloso TRG, Peçanha P, Falqueto A. Paracoccidioidomycosis of the Central Nervous System: CT and MR Imaging Findings. AJNR Am J Neuroradiol 2019; 40:1681-1688. [PMID: 31515216 DOI: 10.3174/ajnr.a6203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2019] [Accepted: 07/25/2019] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Paracoccidioidomycosis is a fungal infection mainly caused by the thermodimorphic fungus Paracoccidioides. The purpose of our study was to demonstrate the neuroimaging findings from 24 patients with CNS paracoccidioidomycosis. MATERIALS AND METHODS We performed a retrospective analysis focusing on the radiologic characteristics of CNS paracoccidioidomycosis. The 24 selected patients underwent MR imaging and/or CT, and the diagnosis was made by the presence of typical neuroimaging features, combined with fungus isolation, a serologic test, or the presence of disseminated disease. RESULTS Headache was the most common neurologic symptom, while the pseudotumoral form was the most common pattern. The number of lesions ranged from 1 to 11, with most localized on the frontal lobe with >2-cm lesions. CT showed mainly hypoattenuating lesions, whereas MR imaging demonstrated mainly hyposignal lesions on T1WI and T2WI. Furthermore, ring enhancement was present in most patients. The "dual rim sign" on SWI occurred in 100% of our patients with lesions of >2 cm. CONCLUSIONS The diagnosis of CNS paracoccidioidomycosis is difficult. Nevertheless, imaging examinations can play an important role in the diagnosis and evaluation of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - A C Amorim
- Radiology (A.C.A., I.V.B., L.A.M., R.M.P.), Hospital Universitário Cassiano Antônio de Moraes da Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, HUCAM/UFES/EBSERH, Vitória, Espírito Santo, Brazil
| | - I V Baldon
- Radiology (A.C.A., I.V.B., L.A.M., R.M.P.), Hospital Universitário Cassiano Antônio de Moraes da Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, HUCAM/UFES/EBSERH, Vitória, Espírito Santo, Brazil
| | - L A Martins
- Radiology (A.C.A., I.V.B., L.A.M., R.M.P.), Hospital Universitário Cassiano Antônio de Moraes da Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, HUCAM/UFES/EBSERH, Vitória, Espírito Santo, Brazil
| | - R M Pereira
- Radiology (A.C.A., I.V.B., L.A.M., R.M.P.), Hospital Universitário Cassiano Antônio de Moraes da Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, HUCAM/UFES/EBSERH, Vitória, Espírito Santo, Brazil
| | - R P Campos
- Department of Neuroradiology (R.P.C.), Hospital Meridional, Cariacica, Espírito Santo, Brazil
| | | | | | - P Peçanha
- Infectious Disease (P.P., A.F.), Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Vitória, Espírito Santo, Brazil
| | - A Falqueto
- Infectious Disease (P.P., A.F.), Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Vitória, Espírito Santo, Brazil
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15
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Leprosy survey among rural communities and wild armadillos from Amazonas state, Northern Brazil. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0209491. [PMID: 30629624 PMCID: PMC6328080 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0209491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2018] [Accepted: 12/06/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
There is evidence that in southern US, leprosy is a zoonosis infecting wild Dasypus novemcinctus armadillos but the extent of this finding is unknown. This ecological study investigated leprosy in rural communities and in wild armadillos from the Brazilian Amazon. The study area was the Mamiá Lake of Coari municipality, Amazonas State, Northern region, a hyper endemic leprosy area where residents live on subsistence farming, fishing and armadillo hunting and its meat intake are frequent. The leprosy survey was conducted in sixteen communities by a visiting team of specialists. Local partakers provided wild armadillos to investigate M. leprae infection. Volunteers had complete dermato-neurological examination by a dermatologist with expertise in leprosy diagnosis, suspect skin lesions were biopsied for histopathology (Hematoxylin-eosin/HE, Fite-Faraco/FF staining); slit skin smears were collected. Armadillos’ tissue fragments (skins, spleens, livers, lymph nodes, adrenal glands, others) were prepared for histopathology (HE/FF) and for M. leprae repetitive element-RLEP-qPCR. Among 176 volunteers, six new indeterminate leprosy cases were identified (incidence = 3.4%). Suspect skin sections and slit skin smears were negative for bacilli. Twelve wild D. novemcinctus were investigated (48 specimens/96 slides) and histopathological features of M. leprae infection were not found, except for one skin presenting unspecific inflammatory infiltrate suggestive of indeterminate leprosy. Possible traumatic neuroma, granuloma with epithelioid and Langhans cells, foreign-body granuloma were also identified. Granulomatous/non-granulomatous dermatitides were periodic-acid-Schiff/PAS negative for fungus. M. leprae-RLEP-qPCR was negative in all armadillos’ tissues; no bacillus was found in histopathology. Our survey in rural communities confirmed the high endemicity for leprosy while one armadillo was compatible with paucibacillary M. leprae infection. At least in the highly endemic rural area of Coari, in the Brazilian Amazon region where infectious sources from untreated multibacillary leprosy are abundant, M. leprae infected armadillos may not represent a major source of infection nor a significant public health concern.
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16
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Phylogeny, ecology and taxonomy of systemic pathogens and their relatives in Ajellomycetaceae (Onygenales): Blastomyces, Emergomyces, Emmonsia, Emmonsiellopsis. FUNGAL DIVERS 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/s13225-018-0403-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
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17
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Bernardes Filho F, Sgarbi I, Flávia da Silva Domingos S, Sampaio RCR, Queiroz RM, Fonseca SNS, Hay RJ, Towersey L. Acute paracoccidioidomycosis with duodenal and cutaneous involvement and obstructive jaundice. Med Mycol Case Rep 2018; 20:21-25. [PMID: 30148057 PMCID: PMC6105911 DOI: 10.1016/j.mmcr.2018.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2017] [Accepted: 01/11/2018] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Paracoccidioidomycosis (PCM) is the most widespread endemic mycosis in LatinAmerica. If PCM is not diagnosed and treated early and adequately, the endemic fungal infection could result in serious sequelae. We report a case of PCM with duodenal and cutaneous involvement simulating cholangitis that was initially misdiagnosed as a lymphoproliferative disease. Clinicians should consider acute paracoccidioidomycosis in the differential diagnosis of jaundice and/or signs/symptoms of cholangitis developing in young patients from paracoccidioidomycosis endemic regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fred Bernardes Filho
- Department of Internal Medicine, São Francisco Hospital, Ribeirão Preto 14015-130, São Paulo, Brazil
- Dermatology Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto 14049-900, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Isabela Sgarbi
- Department of Internal Medicine, São Francisco Hospital, Ribeirão Preto 14015-130, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | | | - Rodolfo Mendes Queiroz
- Documenta, Centro Avançado de Diagnóstico por Imagem. São Francisco Hospital, Ribeirão Preto 14015-130, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sílvia Nunes Szente Fonseca
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology Department, São Francisco Hospital, Ribeirão Preto 14015-130, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Loan Towersey
- AIDS Division, Carlos Tortelly Municipal Hospital, Ministry of Health, Niterói 24070-090, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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18
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Rosa Júnior M, Baldon IV, Amorim AFC, Fonseca APA, Volpato R, Lourenço RB, Baptista RM, de Mello RAF, Peçanha P, Falqueto A. Imaging paracoccidioidomycosis: A pictorial review from head to toe. Eur J Radiol 2018; 103:147-162. [PMID: 29685479 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejrad.2018.03.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2018] [Revised: 03/17/2018] [Accepted: 03/22/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Paracoccidioidomycosis is an infectious disease characterized primarily by pulmonary involvement and potential dissemination to other organs, mainly mucosa and skin; however, it can affect any organ in the body. Although difficult to diagnose purely based on imaging, imaging is important for diagnosis, follow-up, and assessment of disease-related complications. We provide a comprehensive review of the most notable imaging findings of paracoccidioidomycosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcos Rosa Júnior
- Department of Neuroradiology, Hospital Universitário Cassiano Antônio de Moraes da Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo - HUCAM/UFES/EBSERH, Vitória ES, Brazil.
| | - Isabella Vargas Baldon
- Department of Radiology, Hospital Universitário Cassiano Antônio de Moraes da Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo - HUCAM/UFES/EBSERH, Vitória ES, Brazil.
| | - André Felipe Candeas Amorim
- Department of Radiology, Hospital Universitário Cassiano Antônio de Moraes da Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo - HUCAM/UFES/EBSERH, Vitória ES, Brazil.
| | - Ana Paula Alves Fonseca
- Department of Radiology, Hospital Universitário Cassiano Antônio de Moraes da Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo - HUCAM/UFES/EBSERH, Vitória ES, Brazil.
| | - Richard Volpato
- Department of Abdominal Radiology, Hospital Universitário Cassiano Antônio de Moraes da Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo - HUCAM/UFES/EBSERH, Vitória ES, Brazil.
| | - Rafael B Lourenço
- Department of Musculoskeletal Radiology, Hospital Universitário Cassiano Antônio de Moraes da Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo - HUCAM/UFES/EBSERH, Vitória ES, Brazil.
| | - Rodrigo Melo Baptista
- Department of Thoracic Radiology, Hospital Universitário Cassiano Antônio de Moraes da Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo - HUCAM/UFES/EBSERH, Vitória ES, Brazil.
| | - Ricardo Andrade Fernandes de Mello
- Department of Musculoskeletal Radiology, Hospital Universitário Cassiano Antônio de Moraes da Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo - HUCAM/UFES/EBSERH, Vitória ES, Brazil.
| | - Paulo Peçanha
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Hospital Universitário Cassiano Antônio de Moraes da Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo - HUCAM/UFES/EBSERH, Vitória ES, Brazil.
| | - Aloísio Falqueto
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Hospital Universitário Cassiano Antônio de Moraes da Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo - HUCAM/UFES/EBSERH, Vitória ES, Brazil.
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Croston TL, Lemons AR, Beezhold DH, Green BJ. MicroRNA Regulation of Host Immune Responses following Fungal Exposure. Front Immunol 2018; 9:170. [PMID: 29467760 PMCID: PMC5808297 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.00170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2017] [Accepted: 01/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Fungal bioaerosols are ubiquitous in the environment and human exposure can result in a variety of health effects ranging from systemic, subcutaneous, and cutaneous infections to respiratory morbidity including allergy, asthma, and hypersensitivity pneumonitis. Recent research has focused on the role of microRNAs (miRNAs) following fungal exposure and is overlooked, yet important, group of regulators capable of influencing fungal immune responses through a variety of cellular mechanisms. These small non-coding ribose nucleic acids function to regulate gene expression at the post-transcriptional level and have been shown to participate in multiple disease pathways including cancer, heart disease, apoptosis, as well as immune responses to microbial hazards and occupational allergens. Recent animal model studies have characterized miRNAs following the exposure to inflammatory stimuli. Studies focused on microbial exposure, including bacterial infections, as well as exposure to different allergens have shown miRNAs, such as miR-21, miR-146, miR-132, miR-155, and the let-7 family members, to be involved in immune and inflammatory responses. Interestingly, the few studies have assessed that the miRNA profiles following fungal exposure have identified the same critical miRNAs that have been characterized in other inflammatory-mediated and allergy-induced experimental models. Review of available in vitro, animal and human studies of exposures to Aspergillus fumigatus, Candida albicans, Cryptococcus neoformans, Paracoccidioides brasiliensis, and Stachybotrys chartarum identified several miRNAs that were shared between responses to these species including miR-125 a/b (macrophage polarization/activation), miR-132 [toll-like receptor (TLR)2-mediated signaling], miR-146a (TLR mediated signaling, alternative macrophage activation), and miR-29a/b (natural killer cell function, C-leptin signaling, inhibition of Th1 immune response). Although these datasets provide preliminary insight into the role of miRNAs in fungal exposed models, interpretation of miRNA datasets can be challenging for researchers. To assist in navigating this rapidly evolving field, the aim of this review is to describe miRNAs in the framework of host recognition mechanisms and provide initial insight into the regulatory pathways in response to fungal exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tara L Croston
- Allergy and Clinical Immunology Branch, Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Morgantown, WV, United States
| | - Angela R Lemons
- Allergy and Clinical Immunology Branch, Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Morgantown, WV, United States
| | - Donald H Beezhold
- Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Morgantown, WV, United States
| | - Brett J Green
- Allergy and Clinical Immunology Branch, Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Morgantown, WV, United States
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20
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Abstract
Fungi must meet four criteria to infect humans: growth at human body temperatures, circumvention or penetration of surface barriers, lysis and absorption of tissue, and resistance to immune defenses, including elevated body temperatures. Morphogenesis between small round, detachable cells and long, connected cells is the mechanism by which fungi solve problems of locomotion around or through host barriers. Secretion of lytic enzymes, and uptake systems for the released nutrients, are necessary if a fungus is to nutritionally utilize human tissue. Last, the potent human immune system evolved in the interaction with potential fungal pathogens, so few fungi meet all four conditions for a healthy human host. Paradoxically, the advances of modern medicine have made millions of people newly susceptible to fungal infections by disrupting immune defenses. This article explores how different members of four fungal phyla use different strategies to fulfill the four criteria to infect humans: the Entomophthorales, the Mucorales, the Ascomycota, and the Basidiomycota. Unique traits confer human pathogenic potential on various important members of these phyla: pathogenic Onygenales comprising thermal dimorphs such as Histoplasma and Coccidioides; the Cryptococcus spp. that infect immunocompromised as well as healthy humans; and important pathogens of immunocompromised patients-Candida, Pneumocystis, and Aspergillus spp. Also discussed are agents of neglected tropical diseases important in global health such as mycetoma and paracoccidiomycosis and common pathogens rarely implicated in serious illness such as dermatophytes. Commensalism is considered, as well as parasitism, in shaping genomes and physiological systems of hosts and fungi during evolution.
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21
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Mendes RP, Cavalcante RDS, Marques SA, Marques MEA, Venturini J, Sylvestre TF, Paniago AMM, Pereira AC, da Silva JDF, Fabro AT, Bosco SDMG, Bagagli E, Hahn RC, Levorato AD. Paracoccidioidomycosis: Current Perspectives from Brazil. Open Microbiol J 2017; 11:224-282. [PMID: 29204222 PMCID: PMC5695158 DOI: 10.2174/1874285801711010224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2017] [Revised: 10/10/2017] [Accepted: 10/10/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This review article summarizes and updates the knowledge on paracoccidioidomycosis. P lutzii and the cryptic species of P. brasiliensis and their geographical distribution in Latin America, explaining the difficulties observed in the serological diagnosis. OBJECTIVES Emphasis has been placed on some genetic factors as predisposing condition for paracoccidioidomycosis. Veterinary aspects were focused, showing the wide distribution of infection among animals. The cell-mediated immunity was better characterized, incorporating the recent findings. METHODS Serological methods for diagnosis were also compared for their parameters of accuracy, including the analysis of relapse. RESULTS Clinical forms have been better classified in order to include the pictures less frequently observesiod. CONCLUSION Itraconazole and the trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole combination was compared regarding efficacy, effectiveness and safety, demonstrating that azole should be the first choice in the treatment of paracoccidioidomycosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rinaldo Poncio Mendes
- Department of Tropical Diseases, Faculdade de Medicina de Botucatu – São Paulo State University – UNESP, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ricardo de Souza Cavalcante
- Department of Tropical Diseases, Faculdade de Medicina de Botucatu – São Paulo State University – UNESP, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sílvio Alencar Marques
- Department of Dermatology, Faculdade de Medicina de Botucatu – São Paulo State University – UNESP, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - James Venturini
- Laboratory of Experimental Immunology, Department of Biological Science, Faculty of Science, São Paulo State University – UNESP, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Tatiane Fernanda Sylvestre
- Department of Tropical Diseases, Faculdade de Medicina de Botucatu – São Paulo State University – UNESP, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Anamaria Mello Miranda Paniago
- Department of Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Faculdade de Medicina – Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul – UFMS, Brazil
| | | | - Julhiany de Fátima da Silva
- Department of Tropical Diseases, Faculdade de Medicina de Botucatu – São Paulo State University – UNESP, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Alexandre Todorovic Fabro
- Unit of Experimental Research, Faculdade de Medicina de Botucatu – São Paulo State University – UNESP, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sandra de Moraes Gimenes Bosco
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology – Instituto de Biociências de Botucatu – São Paulo State University – UNESP, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Eduardo Bagagli
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology – Instituto de Biociências de Botucatu – São Paulo State University – UNESP, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Rosane Christine Hahn
- Laboratory of Investigation and Mycology, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Faculty of Medicine Cuiabá, Mato Grosso, Brazil
| | - Adriele Dandara Levorato
- Department of Tropical Diseases, Faculdade de Medicina de Botucatu – São Paulo State University – UNESP, São Paulo, Brazil
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22
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Landgraf TN, Costa MV, Oliveira AF, Ribeiro WC, Panunto-Castelo A, Fernandes FF. Involvement of Dihydrolipoyl Dehydrogenase in the Phagocytosis and Killing of Paracoccidioides brasiliensis by Macrophages. Front Microbiol 2017; 8:1803. [PMID: 28970825 PMCID: PMC5609111 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2017.01803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2017] [Accepted: 09/05/2017] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Paracoccidioides brasiliensis and Paracoccidioides lutzii are fungi causing paracoccidioidomycosis (PCM), an autochthonous systemic mycosis found in Latin America. These microorganisms contain a multitude of molecules that may be associated with the complex interaction of the fungus with the host. Here, we identify the enzyme dihydrolipoyl dehydrogenase (DLD) as an exoantigen from P. brasiliensis (Pb18_Dld) by mass spectrometry. Interestingly, the DLD gene expression in yeast form showed higher expression levels than those in mycelial form and transitional phases. Pb18_Dld gene was cloned, and the recombinant protein (rPb18_Dld) was expressed and purified for subsequent studies and production of antibodies. Immunogold labeling and transmission electron microscopy revealed that the Pb18_Dld is also localized in mitochondria and cytoplasm of P. brasiliensis. Moreover, when macrophages were stimulated with rPb18Dld, there was an increase in the phagocytic and microbicidal activity of these cells, as compared with non-stimulated cells. These findings suggest that Pb18_Dld can be involved in the pathogen-host interaction, opening possibilities for studies of this protein in PCM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taise N Landgraf
- Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São PauloRibeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Marcelo V Costa
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Philosophy, Sciences and Letters of Ribeirão Preto, University of São PauloRibeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Aline F Oliveira
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São PauloRibeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Wander C Ribeiro
- Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São PauloRibeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Ademilson Panunto-Castelo
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Philosophy, Sciences and Letters of Ribeirão Preto, University of São PauloRibeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Fabrício F Fernandes
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São PauloRibeirão Preto, Brazil
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23
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Turissini DA, Gomez OM, Teixeira MM, McEwen JG, Matute DR. Species boundaries in the human pathogen Paracoccidioides. Fungal Genet Biol 2017; 106:9-25. [PMID: 28602831 PMCID: PMC8335726 DOI: 10.1016/j.fgb.2017.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 147] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2017] [Revised: 04/12/2017] [Accepted: 05/31/2017] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The use of molecular taxonomy for identifying recently diverged species has transformed the study of speciation in fungi. The pathogenic fungus Paracoccidioides spp has been hypothesized to be composed of five phylogenetic species, four of which compose the brasiliensis species complex. Nuclear gene genealogies support this divergence scenario, but mitochondrial loci do not; while all species from the brasiliensis complex are differentiated at nuclear coding loci, they are not at mitochondrial loci. We addressed the source of this incongruity using 11 previously published gene fragments, 10 newly-sequenced nuclear non-coding loci, and 10 microsatellites. We hypothesized and further demonstrated that the mito-nuclear incongruence in the brasiliensis species complex results from interspecific hybridization and mitochondrial introgression, a common phenomenon in eukaryotes. Additional population genetic analyses revealed possible nuclear introgression but much less than that seen in the mitochondrion. Our results are consistent with a divergence scenario of secondary contact and subsequent mitochondrial introgression despite the continued persistence of species boundaries. We also suggest that yeast morphology slightly-but significantly-differs across all five Paracoccidioides species and propose to elevate four of these phylogenetic species to formally described taxonomic species.
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Affiliation(s)
- David A Turissini
- Biology Department, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Oscar M Gomez
- Corporación para Investigaciones Biológicas (CIB), Medellín, Colombia; Biology Institute, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellín, Colombia
| | - Marcus M Teixeira
- Northern Arizona Center for Valley Fever Research, Flagstaff, AZ, USA
| | - Juan G McEwen
- Corporación para Investigaciones Biológicas (CIB), Medellín, Colombia; School of Medicine, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellín, Colombia
| | - Daniel R Matute
- Biology Department, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
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24
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Alves ABRM, David MA, de Castro LF, da Silva RM, Longhi LNA, Blotta MHDSL, Mamoni RL. Differential production of interleukin-1 family cytokines (IL-1β, IL-18, IL-33 and IL-37) in patients with paracoccidioidomycosis: correlation with clinical form and antifungal therapy. Med Mycol 2017; 56:332-343. [DOI: 10.1093/mmy/myx050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2016] [Accepted: 06/06/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - Murilo Amato David
- Department of Morphology and Basic Pathology, Faculty of Medicine of Jundiaí (FMJ), Jundiaí, SP, Brazil
| | - Lívia Furquim de Castro
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, SP, Brazil
| | - Rosiane Maria da Silva
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, SP, Brazil
| | - Larissa Nara Alegrini Longhi
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, SP, Brazil
| | | | - Ronei Luciano Mamoni
- Department of Morphology and Basic Pathology, Faculty of Medicine of Jundiaí (FMJ), Jundiaí, SP, Brazil
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, SP, Brazil
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25
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Arantes TD, Theodoro RC, Teixeira MDM, Bosco SDMG, Bagagli E. Environmental Mapping of Paracoccidioides spp. in Brazil Reveals New Clues into Genetic Diversity, Biogeography and Wild Host Association. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2016; 10:e0004606. [PMID: 27045486 PMCID: PMC4821608 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0004606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2015] [Accepted: 03/13/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Paracoccidioides brasiliensis and Paracoccidioides lutzii are the etiological agents of Paracoccidioidomycosis (PCM), and are easily isolated from human patients. However, due to human migration and a long latency period, clinical isolates do not reflect the spatial distribution of these pathogens. Molecular detection of P. brasiliensis and P. lutzii from soil, as well as their isolation from wild animals such as armadillos, are important for monitoring their environmental and geographical distribution. This study aimed to detect and, for the first time, evaluate the genetic diversity of P. brasiliensis and P. lutzii for Paracoccidioidomycosis in endemic and non-endemic areas of the environment, by using Nested PCR and in situ hybridization techniques. Methods/Principal Findings Aerosol (n = 16) and soil (n = 34) samples from armadillo burrows, as well as armadillos (n = 7) were collected in endemic and non-endemic areas of PCM in the Southeastern, Midwestern and Northern regions of Brazil. Both P. brasiliensis and P. lutzii were detected in soil (67.5%) and aerosols (81%) by PCR of Internal Transcribed Spacer (ITS) region (60%), and also by in situ hybridization (83%). Fungal isolation from armadillo tissues was not possible. Sequences from both species of P. brasiliensis and P. lutzii were detected in all regions. In addition, we identified genetic Paracoccidioides variants in soil and aerosol samples which have never been reported before in clinical or armadillo samples, suggesting greater genetic variability in the environment than in vertebrate hosts. Conclusions/Significance Data may reflect the actual occurrence of Paracoccidioides species in their saprobic habitat, despite their absence/non-detection in seven armadillos evaluated in regions with high prevalence of PCM infection by P. lutzii. These results may indicate a possible ecological difference between P. brasiliensis and P. lutzii concerning their wild hosts. Paracoccidioides brasiliensis and Paracoccidioides lutzii are the fungal species responsible for one of the most important mycoses of Latin America, Paracoccidioidomycosis (PCM). These fungi can grow in soil from forests, deforested areas, sugarcane, coffee, and rice plantations, as well as pasturelands, and they are strongly associated to armadillo burrows, which can explain their frequent isolation from this mammal’s tissues. The environmental detection of these pathogens in endemic and non-endemic areas of PCM is important for mapping risk areas, as well as for understanding the infection ability and clinical manifestations of these fungi. These pieces of information are not provided by isolates obtained from human patients, because these fungi have a long latency period and the human host can migrate, leading to a misinterpretation of the actual geographic distribution of these pathogens. By using two different molecular methodologies (Nested PCR and in situ fluorescence), we detected both species of P. brasiliensis and P. lutzii in soil and in aerosol samples, even in areas where PCM is only associated to one of these two species. These data might indicate different habitat maintenance strategies between the species, which means that the infection ability may change according to the climatic and soil conditions. Despite contributing new information about the ecology of these important fungal pathogens, our molecular approach for the environmental detection of Paracoccidioides species may also be applied for their detection and differentiation in clinical samples, improving the diagnosis of this important systemic mycosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thales Domingos Arantes
- Departamento de Microbiologia e Imunologia, Instituto de Biociências de Botucatu, Universidade Estadual Paulista/UNESP, Botucatu, Brazil.,Instituto de Medicina Tropical-IMT/RN, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte/UFRN, Natal, Brazil
| | - Raquel Cordeiro Theodoro
- Instituto de Medicina Tropical-IMT/RN, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte/UFRN, Natal, Brazil.,Departamento de Biologia Celular e Genética, Centro de Biociências, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte/UFRN, Natal, Brazil
| | - Marcus de Melo Teixeira
- Departamento de Biologia Celular, Universidade de Brasília-UnB, Brasília, Brazil.,Northern Arizona Center for Valley Fever Research, Translational Genomics Research Institute-Tgen North, Flagstaff, Arizona, United States of America
| | - Sandra de Moraes Gimenes Bosco
- Departamento de Microbiologia e Imunologia, Instituto de Biociências de Botucatu, Universidade Estadual Paulista/UNESP, Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Eduardo Bagagli
- Departamento de Microbiologia e Imunologia, Instituto de Biociências de Botucatu, Universidade Estadual Paulista/UNESP, Botucatu, Brazil
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26
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Gonzalez A, Hernandez O. New insights into a complex fungal pathogen: the case of Paracoccidioides spp. Yeast 2016; 33:113-28. [PMID: 26683539 DOI: 10.1002/yea.3147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2015] [Revised: 11/30/2015] [Accepted: 11/30/2015] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Paracoccidioidomycosis is a systemic mycosis endemic to Latin America, with Paracoccidioides brasiliensis and P. lutzii being the causal agents of this disorder. Several issues have been raised in the 100 years since its discovery and in this article we discuss features of this fascinating fungal pathogen, including its biology, eco-epidemiology and aspects of its pathogenicity. We also consider some of its virulence determinants, the most recent advances in the study of its metabolic pathways and the molecular and genetic research tools developed for this research. We also review the animal models used to study host-fungal interactions and how the host defence mechanisms against this pathogen work.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angel Gonzalez
- Basic and Applied Microbiology Research Group (MICROBA), School of Microbiology, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellín, Colombia
| | - Orville Hernandez
- Basic and Applied Microbiology Research Group (MICROBA), School of Microbiology, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellín, Colombia
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27
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ARANTES TD, BAGAGLI E, NIÑO-VEGA G, SAN-BLAS G, THEODORO RC. Paracoccidioides brasiliensis AND Paracoccidioides lutzii, A SECRET LOVE AFFAIR. Rev Inst Med Trop Sao Paulo 2015; 57 Suppl 19:25-30. [PMID: 26465366 PMCID: PMC4711194 DOI: 10.1590/s0036-46652015000700006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
To commemorate Prof. Carlos da Silva Lacaz's centennial anniversary, the authors have written a brief account of a few, out of hundreds, biological, ecological, molecular and phylogenetic studies that led to the arrival of Paracoccidioides lutzii, hidden for more than a century within Paracoccidioides brasiliensis. Lacaz's permanent interest in this fungus, and particularly his conviction on the benefits that research on paracoccidioidomycosis would bring to patients, were pivotal in the development of the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thales Domingos ARANTES
- Universidade Estadual Paulista, Instituto de Biociências/UNESP, Depto.
Microbiologia e Imunologia, Botucatu, SP, Brasil
- Instituto de Medicina Tropical/IMT, Laboratório de Virologia e
Micologia, Campus Universitário Lagoa Nova, Natal, RN, Brasil
| | - Eduardo BAGAGLI
- Universidade Estadual Paulista, Instituto de Biociências/UNESP, Depto.
Microbiologia e Imunologia, Botucatu, SP, Brasil
| | - Gustavo NIÑO-VEGA
- Instituto Venezolano de Investigaciones Científicas (IVIC), Laboratorio
de Micología, Centro de Microbiología y Biología Celular, Caracas, Venezuela
| | - Gioconda SAN-BLAS
- Instituto Venezolano de Investigaciones Científicas (IVIC), Laboratorio
de Micología, Centro de Microbiología y Biología Celular, Caracas, Venezuela
| | - Raquel Cordeiro THEODORO
- Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, Depto. de Biologia Celular
e Genética, Campus Universitário Lagoa Nova, Natal, RN, Brasil
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28
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do Carmo Silva L, Tamayo Ossa DP, Castro SVDC, Bringel Pires L, Alves de Oliveira CM, Conceição da Silva C, Coelho NP, Bailão AM, Parente-Rocha JA, Soares CMDA, Ruiz OH, Ochoa JGM, Pereira M. Transcriptome Profile of the Response of Paracoccidioides spp. to a Camphene Thiosemicarbazide Derivative. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0130703. [PMID: 26114868 PMCID: PMC4483234 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0130703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2015] [Accepted: 05/23/2015] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Paracoccidioidomycosis (PCM) is a systemic granulomatous human mycosis caused by fungi of the genus Paracoccidioides, which is geographically restricted to Latin America. Inhalation of spores, the infectious particles of the fungus, is a common route of infection. The PCM treatment of choice is azoles such as itraconazole, but sulfonamides and amphotericin B are used in some cases despite their toxicity to mammalian cells. The current availability of treatments highlights the need to identify and characterize novel targets for antifungal treatment of PCM as well as the need to search for new antifungal compounds obtained from natural sources or by chemical synthesis. To this end, we evaluated the antifungal activity of a camphene thiosemicarbazide derivative (TSC-C) compound on Paracoccidioides yeast. To determine the response of Paracoccidioides spp. to TSC-C, we analyzed the transcriptional profile of the fungus after 8 h of contact with the compound. The results demonstrate that Paracoccidioides lutzii induced the expression of genes related to metabolism; cell cycle and DNA processing; biogenesis of cellular components; cell transduction/signal; cell rescue, defense and virulence; cellular transport, transport facilities and transport routes; energy; protein synthesis; protein fate; transcription; and other proteins without classification. Additionally, we observed intensely inhibited genes related to protein synthesis. Analysis by fluorescence microscopy and flow cytometry revealed that the compound induced the production of reactive oxygen species. Using an isolate with down-regulated SOD1 gene expression (SOD1-aRNA), we sought to determine the function of this gene in the defense of Paracoccidioides yeast cells against the compound. Mutant cells were more susceptible to TSC-C, demonstrating the importance of this gene in response to the compound. The results presented herein suggest that TSC-C is a promising candidate for PCM treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lívia do Carmo Silva
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular, Instituto de Patologia Tropical e Saúde Pública Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, Brazil
| | - Diana Patrícia Tamayo Ossa
- Unidad de Biología Celular y Molecular, Corporación para Investigaciones Biológicas (CIB) and Facultad de Medicina Universidad de Antioquia, Medellín, Colombia
| | | | - Ludmila Bringel Pires
- Laboratório de Produtos Naturais, Instituto de Química, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, Brazil
| | | | - Cleuza Conceição da Silva
- Laboratório de Fitoquímica e Síntese Orgânica, Departamento de Química, Universidade Estadual de Maringá, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Narcimário Pereira Coelho
- Laboratório de Fitoquímica e Síntese Orgânica, Departamento de Química, Universidade Estadual de Maringá, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Alexandre Melo Bailão
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular, Instituto de Patologia Tropical e Saúde Pública Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, Brazil
| | - Juliana Alves Parente-Rocha
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular, Instituto de Patologia Tropical e Saúde Pública Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, Brazil
| | - Célia Maria de Almeida Soares
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular, Instituto de Patologia Tropical e Saúde Pública Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, Brazil
| | - Orville Hernández Ruiz
- Unidad de Biología Celular y Molecular, Corporación para Investigaciones Biológicas (CIB) and Facultad de Medicina Universidad de Antioquia, Medellín, Colombia
| | - Juan G. McEwen Ochoa
- Unidad de Biología Celular y Molecular, Corporación para Investigaciones Biológicas (CIB) and Facultad de Medicina Universidad de Antioquia, Medellín, Colombia
| | - Maristela Pereira
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular, Instituto de Patologia Tropical e Saúde Pública Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, Brazil
- * E-mail:
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da Silva JDF, de Oliveira HC, Marcos CM, Assato PA, Fusco-Almeida AM, Mendes-Giannini MJS. Advances and challenges in paracoccidioidomycosis serology caused by Paracoccidioides species complex: an update. Diagn Microbiol Infect Dis 2015; 84:87-94. [PMID: 26494541 DOI: 10.1016/j.diagmicrobio.2015.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2015] [Revised: 06/01/2015] [Accepted: 06/07/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Understanding the possible methodologies for the rapid and inexpensive identification of fungal infections is essential for disease diagnosis, but there are some limitations. To help with this problem, serological methods that detect antigens or antibodies are widely used and are useful for the diagnosis of paracoccidioidomycosis (PCM) through the detection of gp43, which is the main antigen employed for the immunodiagnosis of this disease caused by Paracoccidioides brasiliensis. However, the use of gp43 has become restricted because it was recently found that this marker is not identified in the infections caused by Paracoccidioides lutzii. Therefore, it is necessary to identify new antigens in both species or antigens specific for P. lutzii to decrease the morbidity and/or mortality associated with PCM. This review provides a discussion of new diagnostic challenges after the recent discoveries regarding the taxonomy of the Paracoccidioides genus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julhiany de Fátima da Silva
- Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Araraquara, FCFAr, UNESP - Univ Estadual Paulista, Araraquara, Departamento de Análises Clínicas, SP, Brazil
| | - Haroldo Cesar de Oliveira
- Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Araraquara, FCFAr, UNESP - Univ Estadual Paulista, Araraquara, Departamento de Análises Clínicas, SP, Brazil
| | - Caroline Maria Marcos
- Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Araraquara, FCFAr, UNESP - Univ Estadual Paulista, Araraquara, Departamento de Análises Clínicas, SP, Brazil
| | - Patricia Akemi Assato
- Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Araraquara, FCFAr, UNESP - Univ Estadual Paulista, Araraquara, Departamento de Análises Clínicas, SP, Brazil
| | - Ana Marisa Fusco-Almeida
- Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Araraquara, FCFAr, UNESP - Univ Estadual Paulista, Araraquara, Departamento de Análises Clínicas, SP, Brazil
| | - Maria José Soares Mendes-Giannini
- Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Araraquara, FCFAr, UNESP - Univ Estadual Paulista, Araraquara, Departamento de Análises Clínicas, SP, Brazil.
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Loth EA, Dos Santos JHF, De Oliveira CS, Uyeda H, De Cássia Garcia Simão R, Gandra RF. Infection caused by the yeast form of Paracoccidioides brasiliensis. JMM Case Rep 2015. [DOI: 10.1099/jmmcr.0.000016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Eduardo Alexandre Loth
- Centro de Ciências Biológicas e da Saúde, Universidade Estadual do Oeste do Paraná, UNIOESTE, Brazil
| | | | - Carla Sakuma De Oliveira
- Hospital Universitário do Oeste do Paraná, Universidade Estadual do Oeste do Paraná, UNIOESTE, Brazil
| | - Hirofumi Uyeda
- Hospital Universitário do Oeste do Paraná, Universidade Estadual do Oeste do Paraná, UNIOESTE, Brazil
| | | | - Rinaldo Ferreira Gandra
- Hospital Universitário do Oeste do Paraná, Universidade Estadual do Oeste do Paraná, UNIOESTE, Brazil
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Sil A, Andrianopoulos A. Thermally Dimorphic Human Fungal Pathogens--Polyphyletic Pathogens with a Convergent Pathogenicity Trait. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Med 2014; 5:a019794. [PMID: 25384771 PMCID: PMC4526722 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a019794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Fungi are adept at changing their cell shape and developmental program in response to signals in their surroundings. Here we focus on a group of evolutionarily related fungal pathogens of humans known as the thermally dimorphic fungi. These organisms grow in a hyphal form in the environment but shift their morphology drastically within a mammalian host. Temperature is one of the main host signals that initiates their conversion to the "host" form and is sufficient in the laboratory to trigger establishment of this host-adapted developmental program. Here we discuss the major human pathogens in this group, which are Blastomyces dermatiditis, Coccidioides immitis/posadasii, Histoplasma capsulatum, Paracoccidioides brasiliensis/lutzii, Sporothrix schenckii, and Talaromyces marneffei (formerly known as Penicillium marneffei). The majority of these organisms are primary pathogens, with the ability to cause disease in healthy humans who encounter them in endemic areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anita Sil
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of California, San Francisco, California 94143
| | - Alex Andrianopoulos
- Department of Genetics, The University of Melbourne, Victoria 3010, Australia
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Abstract
Few among the millions of fungal species fulfill four basic conditions necessary to infect humans: high temperature tolerance, ability to invade the human host, lysis and absorption of human tissue, and resistance to the human immune system. In previously healthy individuals, invasive fungal disease is rare because animals' sophisticated immune systems evolved in constant response to fungal challenges. In contrast, fungal diseases occur frequently in immunocompromised patients. Paradoxically, successes of modern medicine have put increasing numbers of patients at risk for invasive fungal infections. Uncontrolled HIV infection additionally makes millions vulnerable to lethal fungal diseases. A concerted scientific and social effort is needed to meet these challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia R Köhler
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115
| | - Arturo Casadevall
- Departments of Microbiology and Immunology and Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, New York 10461
| | - John Perfect
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Duke Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina 27710
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Marques SA. Paracoccidioidomycosis: epidemiological, clinical, diagnostic and treatment up-dating. An Bras Dermatol 2014; 88:700-11. [PMID: 24173174 PMCID: PMC3798345 DOI: 10.1590/abd1806-4841.20132463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2013] [Accepted: 02/18/2013] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Paracoccidioidomycosis is an acute - to chronic systemic mycosis caused by fungi of
the genus Paracoccidioides. Due to its frequent tegument clinical expression,
paracoccidioidomycosis is an important disease for dermatologists, who must be
up-to-date about it. This article focuses on recent epidemiological data and
discusses the new insights coming from molecular studies, as well as those related to
clinical, diagnostic and therapeutic aspects. In the latter section, we give
particular attention to the guideline on paracoccidioidomycosis organized by
specialists in this subject.
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Abstract
Paracoccidioidomycosis is an endemic systemic mycosis that predominates in southern Mexico, parts of Central America, and South America. It is caused by a dimorphic fungus and is generally acquired through the lungs, from where it disseminates. Paracoccidioidomycosis has different clinical manifestations that require differentiation with tuberculosis, Hodgkin disease, several systemic and subcutaneous mycoses, and squamous cell carcinoma. Diagnosis is made by finding the organism in a biopsy specimen and isolating it in fungal culture. Treatment includes sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim for mild forms and itraconazole for moderate cases. Fluconazole and voriconazole can be used for meningeal involvement, and amphotericin B is indicated for severe disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sílvio Alencar Marques
- Department of Dermatology and Radiotherapy, Botucatu Medical School, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Rua Costa Leite 515, 18600-010, Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil.
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Abstract
CLSI method M27-A3 is not available for use with dimorphic fungi, such as those of the Paracoccidioides genus. In this study, we developed a microdilution method and added the alamarBlue reagent to test the responses of Paracoccidioides brasiliensis and Paracoccidioides lutzii against amphotericin B and itraconazole antifungals. The test proved to be sensitive, practical, and inexpensive and can be used to monitor the activity of low-growth microorganisms and their response to various drugs.
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Reis TF, Basso LR, Oliveira RR, Coelho PSR. Septin localization in the dimorphic fungus Paracoccidioides brasiliensis. Yeast 2012; 28:843-54. [PMID: 22140009 DOI: 10.1002/yea.1911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Septins are evolutionarily conserved proteins that contain a GTPase domain and are capable of forming filaments at the cell periphery. Septins are involved in many essential cellular processes, such as cytokinesis and cell polarization, and are used as markers of morphogenesis in several fungi. Dimorphism in fungi enables cells to switch between morphologies (yeast or filament forms), due to changes in the temperature of the environment. We analysed the localization of septin proteins in yeast and filamentous cells of the dimorphic fungus Paracoccidioides brasiliensis, a common cause of granulomatous mycosis. In order to determine septin localization, we first cloned Cdc12p, a septin homolog from P. brasiliensis, and expressed it in Escherichia coli. Following PbCdc12p purification, specific serum against PbCdc12p were raised for use in immunofluorescence assays. We observed the hourglass and ring forms of septin filaments during cell division in yeast. Septin filaments were also simultaneously localized in the necks of multiple budding cells. A distinctive pattern of punctuate and/or diffuse localization was also seen in the periphery of multinucleate yeast cells and at the tips and septa of filamentous cells. A more diffuse and punctuate pattern of localization observed in P. brasiliensis cells seems to be unique to filamentous and dimorphic fungi and may be related to their specialization in cell wall deposition, morphogenesis and cell cycle control.
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Affiliation(s)
- T F Reis
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology and Pathogenic Bioagents, Faculty of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, USP, Brazil
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Buitrago MJ, Cuenca-Estrella M. Epidemiología actual y diagnóstico de laboratorio de las micosis endémicas en España. Enferm Infecc Microbiol Clin 2012; 30:407-13. [DOI: 10.1016/j.eimc.2011.09.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2011] [Revised: 09/20/2011] [Accepted: 09/26/2011] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Theodoro RC, Teixeira MDM, Felipe MSS, Paduan KDS, Ribolla PM, San-Blas G, Bagagli E. Genus paracoccidioides: Species recognition and biogeographic aspects. PLoS One 2012; 7:e37694. [PMID: 22666382 PMCID: PMC3364295 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0037694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 113] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2011] [Accepted: 04/24/2012] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Paracoccidioidomycosis is a systemic mycosis caused by Paracoccidioides brasiliensis (species S1, PS2, PS3), and Paracoccidioides lutzii. This work aimed to differentiate species within the genus Paracoccidioides, without applying multilocus sequencing, as well as to obtain knowledge of the possible speciation processes. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS Single nucleotide polymorphism analysis on GP43, ARF and PRP8 intein genes successfully distinguished isolates into four different species. Morphological evaluation indicated that elongated conidia were observed exclusively in P. lutzii isolates, while all other species (S1, PS2 and PS3) were indistinguishable. To evaluate the biogeographic events that led to the current geographic distribution of Paracoccidioides species and their sister species, Nested Clade and Likelihood Analysis of Geographic Range Evolution (LAGRANGE) analyses were applied. The radiation of Paracoccidioides started in northwest South America, around 11-32 million years ago, as calculated on the basis of ARF substitution rate, in the BEAST program. Vicariance was responsible for the divergence among S1, PS2 and P. lutzii and a recent dispersal generated the PS3 species, restricted to Colombia. Taking into account the ancestral areas revealed by the LAGRANGE analysis and the major geographic distribution of L. loboi in the Amazon basin, a region strongly affected by the Andes uplift and marine incursions in the Cenozoic era, we also speculate about the effect of these geological events on the vicariance between Paracoccidioides and L. loboi. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE The use of at least 3 SNPs, but not morphological criteria, as markers allows us to distinguish among the four cryptic species of the genus Paracoccidioides. The work also presents a biogeographic study speculating on how these species might have diverged in South America, thus contributing to elucidating evolutionary aspects of the genus Paracoccidioides.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Gioconda San-Blas
- Venezuelan Institute for Scientific Research, Center of Microbiology and Cell Biology, Caracas, Venezuela
| | - Eduardo Bagagli
- Universidade Estadual Paulista, Campus de Botucatu-UNESP, São Paulo, Brazil
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Hernandez O, Garcia AM, Almeida AJ, Tamayo D, Gonzalez A, Restrepo A, McEwen JG. Gene expression during activation of Paracoccidioides brasiliensis conidia. Yeast 2011; 28:771-81. [PMID: 21960298 DOI: 10.1002/yea.1902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2011] [Revised: 06/13/2011] [Accepted: 08/05/2011] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
This study focuses on gene expression during crucial biological phenomena of the dimorphic fungal human pathogen Paracoccidioides brasiliensis, the conidia-to-yeast (C-Y) transition and the conidia-to-mycelia (C-M) germination. We studied 10 genes involved in different cellular functions: oxidative stress response (alternative oxidase (AOX), superoxide dismutase (SOD), flavodoxin, conserved hypothetical protein (Y20)); cell metabolism (glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GADPH), cholestenol Delta-isomerase (ChDI), glycine dehydrogenase (GDh)) and heat shock response (Heat shock protein 90 (HSP90)), and cell synthesis and wall structure (glucan synthase-1 (GS-1), α-1,3-glucan synthase (αGS), and mannosyltransferase (MT)). Gene expression was measured during the first 72 h and 96 h of C-Y and C-M, respectively, previously shown to be a fundamental time frame for the consolidation of these cellular processes. The gene expression of AOX, GAPDH, HSP90, MT, αGS, and GDh was significantly increased during the C-Y transition, while SOD, ChDI, GAPDH, MT, GDh, and GS-1 were increased during C-M germination. Additionally, some were highly expressed in each process: AOX, HSP90, and αGS during C-Y; SOD, ChDI, and GS-1 during C-M. Altogether, these data add new information regarding gene expression during the C-Y and C-M processes. Future research will be targeted to further characterize the true relevance of the studied genes during the morphological transition, either during adaptation to the environment or to the infected host.
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Affiliation(s)
- O Hernandez
- Biology Institute, University of Antioquia, Medellín, Colombia.
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41
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Paes HC, Mello-de-Sousa TM, Fernandes L, Teixeira MDM, Melo RDO, Derengowski LDS, Torres FAG, Felipe MSS. Characterisation of the heat shock factor of the human thermodimorphic pathogen Paracoccidioides lutzii. Fungal Genet Biol 2011; 48:947-55. [PMID: 21708278 DOI: 10.1016/j.fgb.2011.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2010] [Revised: 06/07/2011] [Accepted: 06/09/2011] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Thermodimorphic fungi include most causative agents of systemic mycoses, but the molecular mechanisms that underlie their defining trait, i.e. the ability to shift between mould and yeast on temperature change alone, remain poorly understood. We hypothesised that the heat shock factor (Hsf), a protein that evolved to sense thermal stimuli quickly, might play a role in this process in addition to the known regulator Drk1 and the Ryp proteins. To test this hypothesis, we characterised the Hsf from the thermodimorph Paracoccidioides lutzii (formerly Paracoccidioides brasiliensis isolate 01). We show in the present work that PlHsf possesses regulatory domains that are exclusive of the Eurotiomycetidae family, suggesting evolutionary specialisation; that it can successfully rescue the otherwise lethal loss of the native protein of Saccharomyces cerevisiae; and that its DNA-binding domain is able to recognise regulatory elements from the promoters of both Drk1 and Ryp1. An in silico screening of all 1 kb sequences upstream of P. lutzii ORFs revealed that 7% of them possess a heat shock element. This is the first description of a heat shock factor in a thermodimorphic fungus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hugo Costa Paes
- Departamento de Biologia Celular, Universidade de Brasília, 70910-900 Brasília, DF, Brazil
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Silvana dos Santos S, Ferreira KS, Almeida SR. Paracoccidioides brasilinsis-induced migration of dendritic cells and subsequent T-cell activation in the lung-draining lymph nodes. PLoS One 2011; 6:e19690. [PMID: 21611175 PMCID: PMC3097193 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0019690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2011] [Accepted: 04/13/2011] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Paracoccidioidomycosis is a mycotic disease caused by a dimorphic fungus, Paracoccidioides brasiliensis (Pb), that starts with inhalation of the fungus; thus, lung cells such as DC are part of the first line of defense against this microorganism. Migration of DC to the lymph nodes is the first step in initiating T cell responses. The mechanisms involved in resistance to Pb infection are poorly understood, but it is likely that DC play a pivotal role in the induction of effector T cells that control Pb infection. In this study, we showed that after Pb Infection, an important modification of lung DC receptor expression occurred. We observed an increased expression of CCR7 and CD103 on lung DC after infection, as well as MHC-II. After Pb infection, bone marrow-derived DC as well lung DC, migrate to lymph nodes. Migration of lung DC could represent an important mechanism of pathogenesis during PCM infection. In resume our data showed that Pb induced DC migration. Furthermore, we demonstrated that bone marrow-derived DC stimulated by Pb migrate to the lymph nodes and activate a T helper (Th) response. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first reported data showing that Pb induces migration of DC and activate a T helper (Th) response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suelen Silvana dos Santos
- Departamento de Análises Clínicas e Toxicológicas, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade de São Paulo, Brasil
| | - Karen Spadari Ferreira
- Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brasil
| | - Sandro Rogerio Almeida
- Departamento de Análises Clínicas e Toxicológicas, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade de São Paulo, Brasil
- * E-mail:
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43
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Colombo AL, Tobón A, Restrepo A, Queiroz-Telles F, Nucci M. Epidemiology of endemic systemic fungal infections in Latin America. Med Mycol 2011; 49:785-98. [PMID: 21539506 DOI: 10.3109/13693786.2011.577821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 137] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Although endemic mycoses are a frequent health problem in Latin American countries, clinical and epidemiological data remain scarce and fragmentary. These mycoses have a significant impact on public health, and early diagnosis and appropriate treatment remain important. The target population for endemic disease in Latin America is mostly represented by low-income rural workers with limited access to a public or private health system. Unfortunately, diagnostic tools are not widely available in medical centers in Latin America; consequently, by the time patients are diagnosed with fungal infection, many are already severely ill. Among immunocompromised patients, endemic mycoses usually behave as opportunistic infections causing disseminated rather than localized disease. This paper reviews the epidemiology of the most clinically significant endemic mycoses in Latin America: paracoccidioidomycosis, histoplasmosis, and coccidioidomycosis. The burdens of disease, typically affected populations, and clinical outcomes also are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arnaldo Lopes Colombo
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.
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44
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Takayama A, Itano EN, Sano A, Ono MA, Kamei K. An atypical Paracoccidioides brasiliensis clinical isolate based on multiple gene analysis. Med Mycol 2010; 48:64-72. [PMID: 19225977 DOI: 10.3109/13693780902718065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
An atypical isolate of Paracoccidioides brasiliensis (IFM54648), recovered from the sputum of a Brazilian man, was not detected in immunodiffusion tests for paracoccidioidomycosis and in species-specific PCR for the major antigen 43-kDa glycoprotein coding gene (gp43). The mycological characteristics of the isolate were similar to those of a typical P. brasiliensis. A total of 8 genes were sequenced from IFM54648, and the sequences were compared between the new isolate and other reference isolates and database sequences. We analyzed fragments of the gene sequences that code for gp43, the internal transcribed spacer regions of ribosomal RNA, the D1/D2 domains of the large subunit ribosomal RNA, glucan synthase, chitin synthase, glyoxalase I mRNA, 70-kDa heat-shock protein mRNA and urease. The gene sequences were 98.9-100% identical between IFM54648 and Pb01 (another atypical isolate). When compared to the other typical isolates, the identities were generally lower than 98%. A phylogenetic tree constructed using gp43 sequences showed that IFM54648 clustered with Pb01 at a considerable distance from other isolates. Therefore, this isolate is likely related to Pb01, which has recently been shown to be genetically distinct from other isolates of this species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akiko Takayama
- Medical Mycology Research Center, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
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45
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Naranjo TW, Lopera DE, Diaz-Granados LR, Duque JJ, Restrepo AM, Cano LE. Combined itraconazole-pentoxifylline treatment promptly reduces lung fibrosis induced by chronic pulmonary paracoccidioidomycosis in mice. Pulm Pharmacol Ther 2010; 24:81-91. [PMID: 20851204 DOI: 10.1016/j.pupt.2010.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2010] [Revised: 07/22/2010] [Accepted: 09/09/2010] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Fibrosis is a severe and progressive sequel of many pulmonary diseases, has no effective therapy at present and, consequently, represents a serious health problem. In Latin America, chronic pulmonary paracoccidioidomycosis (PCM) is one of the most important, prevalent and systemic fungal diseases that allows the development of lung fibrosis, with the additional disadvantage that this sequel may appear even after an apparently successful course of antifungal therapy. In this study, was propose the pentoxifylline as complementary treatment in the pulmonary PCM due to its immunomodulatory and anti-fibrotic properties demonstrated in vitro and in vivo in liver, skin and lung. Our objective was to investigate the possible beneficial effects that a combined antifungal (Itraconazole) and immunomodulatory (Pentoxifylline) therapy would have in the development of fibrosis in a model of experimental chronic pulmonary PCM in an attempt to simulate the naturally occurring events in human patients. Two different times post-infection (PI) were chosen for starting therapy, an "early time" (4 weeks PI) when fibrosis was still absent and a "late time" (8 weeks PI) when the fibrotic process had started. Infected mice received the treatments via gavage and were sacrificed during or upon termination of treatment; their lungs were then removed and processed for immunological and histopathologic studies in order to assess severity of fibrosis. When pulmonary paracoccidioidomycosis had evolved and reached an advanced stage of disease before treatment began (as normally occurs in many human patients when first diagnosed), the combined therapy (itraconazole plus pentoxifylline) resulted in a significantly more rapid reduction of granulomatous inflammation and pulmonary fibrosis, when compared with the results of classical antifungal therapy using itraconazole alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tonny W Naranjo
- Unidad de Micología Médica y Experimental, Corporación para Investigaciones Biológicas, Medellín, Colombia.
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46
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Costa PF, Fernandes GF, dos Santos PO, Amaral CC, Camargo ZP. Characteristics of environmental Paracoccidioides brasiliensis isolates. Mycopathologia 2010; 169:37-46. [PMID: 19653119 DOI: 10.1007/s11046-009-9228-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2009] [Accepted: 07/16/2009] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The ecological niche or exact habitat of the fungus Paracoccidioides brasiliensis is not known, and few isolates have been obtained from the environment. In this study, ten isolates were analyzed with respect to antigenic composition, serology, pathogenicity, and molecular aspects. Gp43 is considered to be the molecular basis for the serodiagnosis of paracoccidioidomycosis; however, in this study only six of the environmental isolates secreted this molecule (four in great amounts and two in small amounts). Other molecules were also produced. When exoantigens from these isolates were tested using immunodiffusion, only four preparations were positive by ID tests. However, when these exoantigens were tested by ELISA, all of them except one were able to detect anti-P. brasiliensis antibodies. In Western blot assays, these exoantigens showed different reactivities. Isolates that secreted gp43 presented positive reactions for this molecule, and isolates that did not secrete gp43 gave positive reactions for other minor molecules. RAPD analysis revealed that there is great genetic variation between these environmental isolates. These isolates were non-pathogenic: no mortality was observed among the inoculated mice during an 18-month follow-up period.
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47
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Richini-Pereira VB, Bosco SDMG, Theodoro RC, Macoris SADG, Bagagli E. Molecular approaches for eco-epidemiological studies of Paracoccidioides brasiliensis. Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz 2010; 104:636-43. [PMID: 19722090 DOI: 10.1590/s0074-02762009000400018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2008] [Accepted: 04/15/2009] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Medical mycology has greatly benefited from the introduction of molecular techniques. New knowledge on molecular genetics has provided both theoretical and practical frameworks, permitting important advances in our understanding of several aspects of pathogenic fungi. Considering Paracoccidioides brasiliensis in particular, important eco-epidemiological aspects, such as environmental distribution and new hosts were clarified through molecular approaches. These methodologies also contributed to a better understanding about the genetic variability of this pathogen; thus, P. brasiliensis is now assumed to represent a species complex. The present review focuses on some recent findings about the current taxonomic status of P. brasiliensis, its phylogenetic and speciation processes, as well as on some practical applications for the molecular detection of this pathogen in environmental and clinical materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virgínia Bodelão Richini-Pereira
- Departamento de Microbiologia e Imunologia, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, SP 18618-000, Brasil
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Sano A, Itano EN. Applications of Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplificaton Methods (LAMP) for Identification and Diagnosis of Mycotic Diseases: Paracoccidioidomycosis and Ochroconis gallopava infection. MOLECULAR IDENTIFICATION OF FUNGI 2010. [PMCID: PMC7124037 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-642-05042-8_18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) methods are now useful for the detection of a specific gene in infectious diseases, genetic diseases, and/or genetic disorders in the large number of medical fields, and it was recently introduced to fungal investigation. It is characterized by the use of four different primers specifically designed to recognize six distinct regions of the target gene, and the reaction process proceeds at a constant temperature using strand displacement reaction. Quickness and simplicity is the advantage of the method. Amplification and detection of gene can be completed in a single step, by incubating the mixture of samples, primers, DNA polymerase with strand displacement activity and substrates at a constant temperature. The method was applied to two fungal infections; paracoccidioidomycosis (PCM), a deep mycosis caused by Paracoccidioides brasiliensis and Ochroconis gallopava infection. For PCM a combination of F3, B3, FIP, and BIP primers designed from the partial sequence of P. brasiliensis gp43 gene was used. The PCR products amplified by the primer set; F3 and B3 showed species specificity for P. brasiliensis and the detection limit of the PCR was 100 fg of fungal genomic DNA. The specific DNA banding pattern of P. brasiliensis was detected in the clinical and nine-banded armadillo derived isolates, paraffin-embedded tissue sample or sputum from PCM patient. LAMP method was used also for the identification of O. gallopava by using species-specific primer sets based on the D1/D2 domain of the LSU rDNA sequence. The method successfully detected the gene from both fungal DNA derived from brains and spleens of experimentally-infected mice with O. gallopava and environmental isolates. In conclusion, LAMP method for PCM and O. gallopava seemed to be useful for identification, diagnosis or retrospective study with advantage in the quickness and simplicity procedure, but require strictly-controlled environments.
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Torres I, García AM, Hernández O, González A, McEwen JG, Restrepo A, Arango M. Presence and expression of the mating type locus in Paracoccidioides brasiliensis isolates. Fungal Genet Biol 2009; 47:373-80. [PMID: 19932183 DOI: 10.1016/j.fgb.2009.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2009] [Revised: 11/12/2009] [Accepted: 11/13/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Paracoccidioides brasiliensis has been classified in the phylum Ascomycota, order Onygenales, family Ajellomycetaceae, even in the absence of a known sexual cycle or mating system. The objective of this work was to determine the presence of the mating type locus in 71 P. brasiliensis isolates from various sources. A PCR assay using specific primers for the MAT 1 gene was developed and applied for the detection of such genes. Two heterothallic groups (MAT1-1 or MAT1-2) were recognized and, in some isolates, gene expression was confirmed indicating the existence of a basal gene expression. The distribution of two mating type loci in the studied population suggested that sexual reproduction might occur in P. brasiliensis. This finding points towards the possibility of applying a more precise definition of the concept of biological species to P. brasiliensis. Further studies should be conducted to confirm the sexual capacity of this fungus and its implications among phylogenetic species and geographical distribution.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Torres
- Unidad de Biología Celular y Molecular, Corporación para Investigaciones Biológicas (CIB), Medellín, Colombia
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Theodoro RC, Bagagli E. Inteins in pathogenic fungi: a phylogenetic tool and perspectives for therapeutic applications. Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz 2009; 104:497-504. [PMID: 19547879 DOI: 10.1590/s0074-02762009000300017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2008] [Accepted: 03/13/2009] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Inteins or 'internal proteins' are coding sequences that are transcribed and translated with flanking sequences (exteins). After translation, the inteins are excised by an autocatalytic process and the host protein assumes its normal conformation and develops its expected function. These parasitic genetic elements have been found in important, conserved proteins in all three domains of life. Most of the eukaryotic inteins are present in the fungi kingdom and the PRP8 intein is one of the most widespread inteins, occurring in important pathogens such as Cryptococcus neoformans (varieties grubii and neoformans), Cryptococcus gattii, Histoplasma capsulatum and Paracoccidioides brasiliensis. The knowledge of conserved and non-conserved domains in inteins have opened up new opportunities for the study of population variability in pathogenic fungi, including their phylogenetic relationships and recognition or diagnoses of species. Furthermore, inteins in pathogenic fungi should also be considered a promising therapeutic drug target, since once the autocatalytic splicing is inhibited, the host protein, which is typically vital, will not be able to perform its normal function and the fungal cell will not survive or reproduce.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raquel Cordeiro Theodoro
- Departamento de Microbiologia e Imunologia, Instituto de Biociências, UNESP, Botucatu, São Paulo, Brasil
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