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Nogueira FC, de Souza AÁ, Araújo NMS, de Souza LAL, Guimarães Gomes Silva R, de Oliveira Bezerra de Sousa D, Coêlho Cavalcanti B, de Moraes Filho MO, Gurgel do Amaral Valente Sá L, Vitoriano Nobre Júnior H, de Oliveira HD. Antifungal activity of a trypsin inhibitor from Salvia hispanica L. (chia) seeds against fluconazole-resistant strains of Candida spp. and evaluation of its toxicity in vitro. Braz J Microbiol 2024; 55:1205-1217. [PMID: 38594492 PMCID: PMC11153404 DOI: 10.1007/s42770-024-01337-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024] Open
Abstract
The incidence of Candida species resistant to traditional antifungal drugs is increasing globally. This issue significantly impacts patients' lives and increases healthcare expenses, confirming the need to develop novel therapeutic strategies. Recently, a thermostable trypsin inhibitor named ShTI (11.558 kDa), which has antibacterial effects on Staphylococcus aureus, was isolated from Salvia hispanica L. (chia) seeds. This study aimed to assess the antifungal effect of ShTI against Candida species and its synergism with fluconazole and to evaluate its mode of action. Preliminary toxicological studies on mouse fibroblasts were also performed. ShTI exhibited antifungal effects against C. parapsilosis (ATCC® 22,019), C. krusei (ATCC® 6258), and six clinical fluconazole-resistant strains of C. albicans (2), C. parapsilosis (2), and C. tropicalis (2). The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values were 4.1 µM (inhibiting 50% of the isolates) and 8.2 µM (inhibiting 100% of the isolates). Additionally, when combined with fluconazole, ShTI had a synergistic effect on C. albicans, altering the morphological structure of the yeast. The mode of action of ShTI against C. krusei (ATCC® 6258) and C. albicans involves cell membrane permeabilization, the overproduction of reactive oxygen species, the formation of pseudohyphae, pore formation, and consequently, cell death. In addition, ShTI (8.65 and 17.3 µM) had noncytotoxic and nongenotoxic effects on L929 mouse fibroblasts. These findings suggest that ShTI could be a promising antimicrobial candidate, but further research is necessary to advance its application as a novel antifungal agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisca Cristiane Nogueira
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Science Center, Federal University of Ceará, Campus Do Pici Prof. Prisco Bezerra, Fortaleza, CE, 60440-900, Brazil
| | - Adson Ávila de Souza
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Science Center, Federal University of Ceará, Campus Do Pici Prof. Prisco Bezerra, Fortaleza, CE, 60440-900, Brazil
| | - Nadine Monteiro Salgueiro Araújo
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Science Center, Federal University of Ceará, Campus Do Pici Prof. Prisco Bezerra, Fortaleza, CE, 60440-900, Brazil
| | - Larissa Alves Lopes de Souza
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Science Center, Federal University of Ceará, Campus Do Pici Prof. Prisco Bezerra, Fortaleza, CE, 60440-900, Brazil
| | - Rafael Guimarães Gomes Silva
- Department of Biology, Science Center, Federal University of Ceará, Campus Do Pici Prof. Prisco Bezerra, Fortaleza, CE, 60440-900, Brazil
| | - Daniele de Oliveira Bezerra de Sousa
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Science Center, Federal University of Ceará, Campus Do Pici Prof. Prisco Bezerra, Fortaleza, CE, 60440-900, Brazil
| | - Bruno Coêlho Cavalcanti
- Drug Research and Development Center, Federal University of Ceará, Campus Do Porangabussu, Fortaleza, CE, 60430-270, Brazil
| | - Manoel Odorico de Moraes Filho
- Drug Research and Development Center, Federal University of Ceará, Campus Do Porangabussu, Fortaleza, CE, 60430-270, Brazil
| | | | - Hélio Vitoriano Nobre Júnior
- Drug Research and Development Center, Federal University of Ceará, Campus Do Porangabussu, Fortaleza, CE, 60430-270, Brazil
| | - Hermógenes David de Oliveira
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Science Center, Federal University of Ceará, Campus Do Pici Prof. Prisco Bezerra, Fortaleza, CE, 60440-900, Brazil.
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Holmes CM, Babasyan S, Wagner B. Neonatal and maternal upregulation of antileukoproteinase in horses. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1395030. [PMID: 38736885 PMCID: PMC11082313 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1395030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction The end of gestation, ensuing parturition, and the neonatal period represent highly dynamic phases for immunological changes in both mother and offspring. The regulation of innate immune cells at the maternal-fetal interface during late term pregnancy, after birth, and during microbial colonization of the neonatal gut and other mucosal surfaces, is crucial for controlling inflammation and maintaining homeostasis. Innate immune cells and mucosal epithelial cells express antileukoproteinase (SLPI), which has anti-inflammatory and anti-protease activity that can regulate cellular activation. Methods Here, we developed and validated new monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) to characterize SLPI for the first time in horses. Peripheral blood and mucosal samples were collected from healthy adults horses and a cohort of mares and their foals directly following parturition to assess this crucial stage. Results First, we defined the cell types producing SLPI in peripheral blood by flow cytometry, highlighting the neutrophils and a subset of the CD14+ monocytes as SLPI secreting immune cells. A fluorescent bead-based assay was developed with the new SLPI mAbs and used to establish baseline concentrations for secreted SLPI in serum and secretion samples from mucosal surfaces, including saliva, nasal secretion, colostrum, and milk. This demonstrated constitutive secretion of SLPI in a variety of equine tissues, including high colostrum concentrations. Using immunofluorescence, we identified production of SLPI in mucosal tissue. Finally, longitudinal sampling of clinically healthy mares and foals allowed monitoring of serum SLPI concentrations. In neonates and postpartum mares, SLPI peaked on the day of parturition, with mares returning to the adult normal within a week and foals maintaining significantly higher SLPI secretion until three months of age. Conclusion This demonstrated a physiological systemic change in SLPI in both mares and their foals, particularly at the time around birth, likely contributing to the regulation of innate immune responses during this critical period.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Bettina Wagner
- Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States
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Hiroshima Y, Kido R, Kido JI, Bando M, Yoshida K, Murakami A, Shinohara Y. Synthesis of secretory leukocyte protease inhibitor using cell-free protein synthesis system. Odontology 2024:10.1007/s10266-024-00910-8. [PMID: 38502469 DOI: 10.1007/s10266-024-00910-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
Secretory leukocyte protease inhibitor (SLPI) functions as a protease inhibitor that modulates excessive proteolysis in the body, exhibits broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity, regulates inflammatory responses, and plays an important role in the innate immunity. The purpose of the study was to artificially synthesize a SLPI, an antimicrobial peptide, and investigate its effect on antimicrobial activity against Porphyromonas gingivalis and interleukin-6 (IL-6) production. SLPI protein with a molecular weight of approximately 13 kDa was artificially synthesized using a cell-free protein synthesis (CFPS) system and investigated by western blotting and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Disulfide bond isomerase in the protein synthesis mixture increased the amount of SLPI synthesized. The synthesized SLPI (sSLPI) protein was purified and its antimicrobial activity was investigated based on the growth of Porphyromonas gingivalis and bacterial adhesion to oral epithelial cells. The effect of sSLPI on IL-6 production in human periodontal ligament fibroblasts (HPLFs) was examined by ELISA. Our results showed that sSLPI significantly inhibited the growth of Porphyromonas gingivalis and bacterial adhesion to oral epithelial cells and further inhibited IL-6 production by HPLFs. These results suggested that SLPI artificially synthesized using the CFPS system may play a role in the prevention of periodontal diseases through its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuka Hiroshima
- Department of Oral Microbiology, Tokushima University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, 3-18-15, Kuramoto, Tokushima, 770-8504, Japan.
| | - Rie Kido
- Department of Periodontology and Endodontology, Tokushima University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Jun-Ichi Kido
- Department of Periodontology and Endodontology, Tokushima University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Mika Bando
- Department of Periodontology and Endodontology, Tokushima University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Kaya Yoshida
- Department of Oral Healthcare Promotion, Tokushima University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Akikazu Murakami
- Department of Oral Microbiology, Tokushima University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, 3-18-15, Kuramoto, Tokushima, 770-8504, Japan
| | - Yasuo Shinohara
- Institute of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan
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4
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Rosen AL, Lint MA, Voelker DH, Gilbert NM, Tomera CP, Santiago-Borges J, Wallace MA, Hannan TJ, Burnham CAD, Hultgren SJ, Kau AL. Secretory leukocyte protease inhibitor protects against severe urinary tract infection in mice. mBio 2024; 15:e0255423. [PMID: 38270443 PMCID: PMC10865866 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.02554-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Millions suffer from urinary tract infections (UTIs) worldwide every year with women accounting for the majority of cases. Uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) causes most of these primary infections and leads to 25% becoming recurrent or chronic. To repel invading pathogens, the urinary tract mounts a vigorous innate immune response that includes the secretion of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), rapid recruitment of phagocytes, and exfoliation of superficial umbrella cells. Here, we investigate secretory leukocyte protease inhibitor (SLPI), an AMP with antiprotease, antimicrobial, and immunomodulatory functions, known to play protective roles at other mucosal sites, but not well characterized in UTIs. Using a preclinical model of UPEC-caused UTI, we show that urine SLPI increases in infected mice and that SLPI is localized to bladder epithelial cells. UPEC-infected SLPI-deficient (Slpi-/-) mice suffer from higher urine bacterial burdens, prolonged bladder inflammation, and elevated urine neutrophil elastase (NE) levels compared to wild-type (Slpi+/+) controls. Combined with bulk bladder RNA sequencing, our data indicate that Slpi-/- mice have a dysregulated immune and tissue repair response following UTI. We also measure SLPI in urine samples from a small group of female subjects 18-49 years old and find that SLPI tends to be higher in the presence of a uropathogen, except in patients with a history of recent or recurrent UTI, suggesting a dysregulation of SLPI expression in these women. Taken together, our findings show SLPI promotes clearance of UPEC in mice and provides preliminary evidence that SLPI is likewise regulated in response to uropathogen exposure in women.IMPORTANCEAnnually, millions of people suffer from urinary tract infections (UTIs) and more than $3 billion are spent on work absences and treatment of these patients. While the early response to UTI is known to be important in combating urinary pathogens, knowledge of host factors that help curb infection is still limited. Here, we use a preclinical model of UTI to study secretory leukocyte protease inhibitor (SLPI), an antimicrobial protein, to determine how it protects the bladder against infection. We find that SLPI is increased during UTI, accelerates the clearance of bacteriuria, and upregulates genes and pathways needed to fight an infection while preventing prolonged bladder inflammation. In a small clinical study, we show SLPI is readily detectable in human urine and is associated with the presence of a uropathogen in patients without a previous history of UTI, suggesting SLPI may play an important role in protecting from bacterial cystitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne L. Rosen
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
- Center for Women’s Infectious Disease Research, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Michael A. Lint
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
- Center for Women’s Infectious Disease Research, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Dayne H. Voelker
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
- Center for Women’s Infectious Disease Research, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Nicole M. Gilbert
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Christopher P. Tomera
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
- Center for Women’s Infectious Disease Research, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Jesús Santiago-Borges
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
- Center for Women’s Infectious Disease Research, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Meghan A. Wallace
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Thomas J. Hannan
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Carey-Ann D. Burnham
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
- Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Scott J. Hultgren
- Center for Women’s Infectious Disease Research, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Andrew L. Kau
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
- Center for Women’s Infectious Disease Research, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
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Rosen AL, Lint MA, Voelker DH, Gilbert NM, Tomera CP, Santiago-Borges J, Wallace MA, Hannan TJ, Burnham CAD, Hultgren SJ, Kau AL. Secretory Leukocyte Protease Inhibitor Protects Against Severe Urinary Tract Infection in Mice. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.10.10.561753. [PMID: 37873489 PMCID: PMC10592744 DOI: 10.1101/2023.10.10.561753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2023]
Abstract
Millions suffer from urinary tract infections (UTIs) worldwide every year with women accounting for the majority of cases. Uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) causes most of these primary infections and leads to 25% becoming recurrent or chronic. To repel invading pathogens, the urinary tract mounts a vigorous innate immune response that includes the secretion of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), rapid recruitment of phagocytes and exfoliation of superficial umbrella cells. Here, we investigate secretory leukocyte protease inhibitor (SLPI), an AMP with antiprotease, antimicrobial and immunomodulatory functions, known to play protective roles at other mucosal sites, but not well characterized in UTIs. Using a mouse model of UPEC-caused UTI, we show that urine SLPI increases in infected mice and that SLPI is localized to bladder epithelial cells. UPEC infected SLPI-deficient (Slpi-/-) mice suffer from higher urine bacterial burdens, prolonged bladder inflammation, and elevated urine neutrophil elastase (NE) levels compared to wild-type (Slpi+/+) controls. Combined with bulk bladder RNA sequencing, our data indicate that Slpi-/- mice have a dysregulated immune and tissue repair response following UTI. We also measure SLPI in urine samples from a small group of female subjects 18-49 years old and find that SLPI tends to be higher in the presence of a uropathogen, except in patients with history of recent or recurrent UTI (rUTI), suggesting a dysregulation of SLPI expression in these women. Taken together, our findings show SLPI protects against acute UTI in mice and provides preliminary evidence that SLPI is likewise regulated in response to uropathogen exposure in women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne L. Rosen
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
- Center for Women’s Infectious Disease Research, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
| | - Michael A. Lint
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
- Center for Women’s Infectious Disease Research, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
| | - Dayne H. Voelker
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
- Center for Women’s Infectious Disease Research, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
| | - Nicole M. Gilbert
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
| | - Christopher P. Tomera
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
- Center for Women’s Infectious Disease Research, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
| | - Jesús Santiago-Borges
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
- Center for Women’s Infectious Disease Research, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
| | - Meghan A. Wallace
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
| | - Thomas J. Hannan
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
| | - Carey-Ann D. Burnham
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
- Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
| | - Scott J. Hultgren
- Center for Women’s Infectious Disease Research, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
| | - Andrew L. Kau
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
- Center for Women’s Infectious Disease Research, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
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6
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Balakrishnan SN, Yamang H, Lorenz MC, Chew SY, Than LTL. Role of Vaginal Mucosa, Host Immunity and Microbiota in Vulvovaginal Candidiasis. Pathogens 2022; 11:pathogens11060618. [PMID: 35745472 PMCID: PMC9230866 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11060618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2022] [Revised: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is a prevalent gynaecological disease characterised by vaginal wall inflammation that is caused by Candida species. VVC impacts almost three-quarters of all women throughout their reproductive years. As the vaginal mucosa is the first point of contact with microbes, vaginal epithelial cells are the first line of defence against opportunistic Candida infection by providing a physical barrier and mounting immunological responses. The mechanisms of defence against this infection are displayed through the rapid shedding of epithelial cells, the presence of pattern recognition receptors, and the release of inflammatory cytokines. The bacterial microbiota within the mucosal layer presents another form of defence mechanism within the vagina through acidic pH regulation, the release of antifungal peptides and physiological control against dysbiosis. The significant role of the microbiota in maintaining vaginal health promotes its application as one of the potential treatment modalities against VVC with the hope of alleviating the burden of VVC, especially the recurrent disease. This review discusses and summarises current progress in understanding the role of vaginal mucosa and host immunity upon infection, together with the function of vaginal microbiota in VVC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Subatrra Nair Balakrishnan
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43300, Selangor, Malaysia; (S.N.B.); (H.Y.)
| | - Haizat Yamang
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43300, Selangor, Malaysia; (S.N.B.); (H.Y.)
| | - Michael C. Lorenz
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of Texas McGovern Medical School, Houston, TX 77030, USA;
| | - Shu Yih Chew
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43300, Selangor, Malaysia; (S.N.B.); (H.Y.)
- Correspondence: (S.Y.C.); (L.T.L.T.)
| | - Leslie Thian Lung Than
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43300, Selangor, Malaysia; (S.N.B.); (H.Y.)
- Correspondence: (S.Y.C.); (L.T.L.T.)
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7
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Burchacka E, Pięta P, Łupicka-Słowik A. Recent advances in fungal serine protease inhibitors. Biomed Pharmacother 2021; 146:112523. [PMID: 34902742 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2021.112523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2021] [Revised: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Four types of antifungal drugs are available that include inhibitors of ergosterol synthesis, of fungal RNA biosynthesis, and of cell wall biosynthesis as well as physiochemical regulators of fungal membrane sterols. Increasing resistance to antifungal drugs can severely limit treatment options of fungal nail infections, vaginal candidiasis, ringworm, blastomycosis, histoplasmosis, and Candida infections of the mouth, throat, and esophagus, among other infections. Development of strategies focused on new fungicides can effectively help tackle troublesome fungal diseases. The virulence and optimal growth of fungi depend on various extracellular secreted factors, among which proteases, such as serine proteases, are of particular interest. A specific extracellular proteolytic system enables fungi to survive and penetrate the tissues. Given the role of fungal proteases in infection, any molecule capable of selectively and specifically inhibiting their activity can lead to the development of potential drugs. Owing to their specific mode of action, fungal protease inhibitors can avoid fungal resistance observed with currently available treatments. Although fungal secreted proteases have been extensively studied as potential virulence factors, our understanding of the substrate specificity of such proteases remains poor. In this review, we summarize the recent advances in the design and development of specific serine protease inhibitors and provide a brief history of the compounds that inhibit fungal serine protease activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Burchacka
- Faculty of Chemistry, Department of Organic and Medicinal Chemistry, Wrocław University of Science and Technology, 27 Wybrzeże Wyspiańskiego St, 50-370 Wrocław, Poland.
| | - P Pięta
- Department of Bionic and Medical Experimental Biology, Poznań University of Medical Sciences, Parkowa 2 St, 60-775 Poznań, Poland
| | - A Łupicka-Słowik
- Faculty of Chemistry, Department of Organic and Medicinal Chemistry, Wrocław University of Science and Technology, 27 Wybrzeże Wyspiańskiego St, 50-370 Wrocław, Poland
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8
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Mohsen AM. Cationic Polymeric Nanoparticles for Improved Ocular Delivery and Antimycotic Activity of Terconazole. J Pharm Sci 2021; 111:458-468. [PMID: 34547306 DOI: 10.1016/j.xphs.2021.09.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2021] [Revised: 09/11/2021] [Accepted: 09/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Terconazole (TCZ) is a broad-spectrum antifungal triazole that is particularly active against Candida species, but its poor water solubility hinders its ocular absorption and restricts its application. This study aims to fabricate TCZ-loaded cationic polymeric nanoparticles to enhance the ocular delivery and antimycotic activity of terconazole. TCZ-loaded nanoparticles were developed by nanoprecipitation method employing Eudragit RLPO®. They were characterized by entrapment efficiency (EE%), particle size (PS), zeta potential (ZP), morphology, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and X-ray powder diffraction (XRPD). In-vitro antimycotic activity was evaluated by measuring zone of inhibition (ZI), minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC). The developed nanoparticles were spherical with moderate to high EE% (44.03-71.14%), a nanometric PS (49.41-78.72 nm), and a positively charged ZP (≥ +21.47). In-vitro release studies revealed sustained release of drug up to 24 h. FT-IR of TCZ-loaded nanoparticles revealed distinctive peaks for Eudragit RLPO® and Poloxamer-188, with disappearance of the TCZ characteristic peaks. XRPD revealed the amorphous state of TCZ within the polymer matrix. Mucoadhesive studies proved the mucoadhesive property of the developed TCZ nanoparticles. In-vitro antimycotic studies, assessed by ZI, MIC and MFC, revealed enhanced antimycotic activity of TCZ-loaded nanoparticles against Candida albicans, relative to plain TCZ. No irritation or abnormal changes to the rabbits' eyes for plain and medicated polymeric nanoparticles were found by the in-vivo Draize test. These findings reveal that the cationic polymeric nanoparticles can be regarded as a potential drug delivery system for enhancing the ocular antimycotic activity of TCZ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amira Mohamed Mohsen
- Pharmaceutical Technology Department, National Research Centre, El-Buhouth St., Dokki, Cairo 12622, Egypt.
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9
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Souto XM, Ramos LS, Oliveira SSC, Branquinha MH, Santos ALS. The serine peptidase inhibitor N-ρ-tosyl-l-phenylalanine chloromethyl ketone (TPCK) affects the cell biology of Candida haemulonii species complex. Fungal Biol 2020; 125:378-388. [PMID: 33910679 DOI: 10.1016/j.funbio.2020.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2020] [Revised: 12/03/2020] [Accepted: 12/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Candida haemulonii species complex (C. haemulonii, C. haemulonii var. vulnera and Candida duobushaemulonii) is composed by emerging and multidrug-resistant (MDR) yeasts. Candidiasis, the disease caused by these species, is difficult to treat and culminates in clinical failures and patient death. It is well-known that Candida peptidases play important roles in the fungus-host interactions, and hence these enzymes are promising targets for developing new antifungal drugs. Recently, serine-type peptidases were described in clinical isolates of C. haemulonii complex with the ability to cleave relevant key host proteins. Herein, the effects of serine peptidase inhibitors (SPIs) on the cell biology of this fungal complex were evaluated. Initially, eight distinct SPIs (phenylmethylsulfonyl fluoride - PMSF, 4-(2-aminoethyl) benzenesulfonyl fluoride hydrochloride - AEBSF, N-α-tosyl-l-lysine chloromethyl ketone hydrochloride - TLCK, N-p-tosyl-l-phenylalanine chloromethyl ketone - TPCK, simeprevir, boceprevir, danoprevir and telaprevir) were tested on the fungal growth. TPCK showed the best efficacy in controlling cell proliferation, being selected for the following experiments. This SPI induced changes in the architecture of yeast cells, as observed by scanning electron microscopy, besides injuries at the plasma membrane and reduction in the ergosterol content. TPCK also diminished the ability of yeasts to adhere to abiotic (polystyrene and glass) and biotic (murine macrophages) surfaces in a typically concentration-dependent manner. In addition, the 24 h-treatment of the mature biofilm promoted a decrease in biomass, viability and extracellular matrix. Altogether, our results highlight that SPIs may be promising new therapeutic agents in the treatment of candidiasis caused by emergent, opportunistic and MDR species forming the C. haemulonii complex.
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Affiliation(s)
- X M Souto
- Laboratório de Estudos Avançados de Microrganismos Emergentes e Resistentes (LEAMER), Departamento de Microbiologia Geral, Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes (IMPG), Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - L S Ramos
- Laboratório de Estudos Avançados de Microrganismos Emergentes e Resistentes (LEAMER), Departamento de Microbiologia Geral, Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes (IMPG), Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - S S C Oliveira
- Laboratório de Estudos Avançados de Microrganismos Emergentes e Resistentes (LEAMER), Departamento de Microbiologia Geral, Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes (IMPG), Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - M H Branquinha
- Laboratório de Estudos Avançados de Microrganismos Emergentes e Resistentes (LEAMER), Departamento de Microbiologia Geral, Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes (IMPG), Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - A L S Santos
- Laboratório de Estudos Avançados de Microrganismos Emergentes e Resistentes (LEAMER), Departamento de Microbiologia Geral, Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes (IMPG), Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; Programa de Pós-Graduação em Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
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10
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Montaño-Samaniego M, Bravo-Estupiñan DM, Méndez-Guerrero O, Alarcón-Hernández E, Ibáñez-Hernández M. Strategies for Targeting Gene Therapy in Cancer Cells With Tumor-Specific Promoters. Front Oncol 2020; 10:605380. [PMID: 33381459 PMCID: PMC7768042 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.605380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2020] [Accepted: 10/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer is the second cause of death worldwide, surpassed only by cardiovascular diseases, due to the lack of early diagnosis, and high relapse rate after conventional therapies. Chemotherapy inhibits the rapid growth of cancer cells, but it also affects normal cells with fast proliferation rate. Therefore, it is imperative to develop other safe and more effective treatment strategies, such as gene therapy, in order to significantly improve the survival rate and life expectancy of patients with cancer. The aim of gene therapy is to transfect a therapeutic gene into the host cells to express itself and cause a beneficial biological effect. However, the efficacy of the proposed strategies has been insufficient for delivering the full potential of gene therapy in the clinic. The type of delivery vehicle (viral or non viral) chosen depends on the desired specificity of the gene therapy. The first gene therapy trials were performed with therapeutic genes driven by viral promoters such as the CMV promoter, which induces non-specific toxicity in normal cells and tissues, in addition to cancer cells. The use of tumor-specific promoters over-expressed in the tumor, induces specific expression of therapeutic genes in a given tumor, increasing their localized activity. Several cancer- and/or tumor-specific promoters systems have been developed to target cancer cells. This review aims to provide up-to-date information concerning targeting gene therapy with cancer- and/or tumor-specific promoters including cancer suppressor genes, suicide genes, anti-tumor angiogenesis, gene silencing, and gene-editing technology, as well as the type of delivery vehicle employed. Gene therapy can be used to complement traditional therapies to provide more effective treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariela Montaño-Samaniego
- Laboratorio de Terapia Génica, Departamento de Bioquímica, Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biológicas del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Diana M Bravo-Estupiñan
- Laboratorio de Terapia Génica, Departamento de Bioquímica, Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biológicas del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Oscar Méndez-Guerrero
- Laboratorio de Terapia Génica, Departamento de Bioquímica, Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biológicas del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Ernesto Alarcón-Hernández
- Laboratorio de Genética Molecular, Departamento de Bioquímica, Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biológicas del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Miguel Ibáñez-Hernández
- Laboratorio de Terapia Génica, Departamento de Bioquímica, Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biológicas del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Ciudad de México, México
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11
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Mercer DK, O'Neil DA. Innate Inspiration: Antifungal Peptides and Other Immunotherapeutics From the Host Immune Response. Front Immunol 2020; 11:2177. [PMID: 33072081 PMCID: PMC7533533 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.02177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The purpose of this review is to describe antifungal therapeutic candidates in preclinical and clinical development derived from, or directly influenced by, the immune system, with a specific focus on antimicrobial peptides (AMP). Although the focus of this review is AMP with direct antimicrobial effects on fungi, we will also discuss compounds with direct antifungal activity, including monoclonal antibodies (mAb), as well as immunomodulatory molecules that can enhance the immune response to fungal infection, including immunomodulatory AMP, vaccines, checkpoint inhibitors, interferon and colony stimulating factors as well as immune cell therapies. The focus of this manuscript will be a non-exhaustive review of antifungal compounds in preclinical and clinical development that are based on the principles of immunology and the authors acknowledge the incredible amount of in vitro and in vivo work that has been conducted to develop such therapeutic candidates.
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12
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Gurgel do Amaral Valente Sá L, da Silva CR, Neto JBDA, do Nascimento FBSA, Barroso FDD, da Silva LJ, Cabral VPDF, Barbosa AD, Silva J, Marinho ES, de Moraes MO, Rios MEF, Cavalcanti BC, Lima ISP, Júnior HVN. Antifungal activity of etomidate against growing biofilms of fluconazole-resistant Candida spp. strains, binding to mannoproteins and molecular docking with the ALS3 protein. J Med Microbiol 2020; 69:1221-1227. [PMID: 32894212 DOI: 10.1099/jmm.0.001241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
This study evaluated the effect of etomidate against biofilms of Candida spp. and analysed through molecular docking the interaction of this drug with ALS3, an important protein for fungal adhesion. Three fluconazole-resistant fungi were used: Candida albicans, Candida parapsilosis and Candida tropicalis. Growing biofilms were exposed to etomidate at 31.25-500 µg ml-1. Then, an ALS3 adhesive protein from C. albicans was analysed through a molecular mapping technique, composed of a sequence of algorithms to perform molecular mapping simulation based on classic force field theory. Etomidate showed antifungal activity against growing biofilms of resistant C. albicans, C. parapsilosis and C. tropicalis at all concentrations used in the study. The etomidate coupling analysis revealed three interactions with the residues of interest compared to hepta-threonine, which remained at the ALS3 site. In addition, etomidate decreased the expression of mannoproteins on the surface of C. albicans. These results revealed that etomidate inhibited the growth of biofilms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lívia Gurgel do Amaral Valente Sá
- Drug Research and Development Center, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, 60430-275, CE, Brazil.,Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analysis, School of Pharmacy, Laboratory of Bioprospection in Antimicrobial Molecules (LABIMAN), Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, 60430-170, CE, Brazil
| | - Cecília Rocha da Silva
- Drug Research and Development Center, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, 60430-275, CE, Brazil.,Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analysis, School of Pharmacy, Laboratory of Bioprospection in Antimicrobial Molecules (LABIMAN), Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, 60430-170, CE, Brazil
| | - João Batista de Andrade Neto
- Drug Research and Development Center, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, 60430-275, CE, Brazil.,Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analysis, School of Pharmacy, Laboratory of Bioprospection in Antimicrobial Molecules (LABIMAN), Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, 60430-170, CE, Brazil
| | - Francisca Bruna Stefany Aires do Nascimento
- Drug Research and Development Center, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, 60430-275, CE, Brazil.,Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analysis, School of Pharmacy, Laboratory of Bioprospection in Antimicrobial Molecules (LABIMAN), Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, 60430-170, CE, Brazil
| | - Fátima Daiana Dias Barroso
- Drug Research and Development Center, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, 60430-275, CE, Brazil.,Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analysis, School of Pharmacy, Laboratory of Bioprospection in Antimicrobial Molecules (LABIMAN), Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, 60430-170, CE, Brazil
| | - Lisandra Juvêncio da Silva
- Drug Research and Development Center, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, 60430-275, CE, Brazil.,Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analysis, School of Pharmacy, Laboratory of Bioprospection in Antimicrobial Molecules (LABIMAN), Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, 60430-170, CE, Brazil
| | - Vitória Pessoa de Farias Cabral
- Drug Research and Development Center, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, 60430-275, CE, Brazil.,Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analysis, School of Pharmacy, Laboratory of Bioprospection in Antimicrobial Molecules (LABIMAN), Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, 60430-170, CE, Brazil
| | - Amanda Dias Barbosa
- Drug Research and Development Center, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, 60430-275, CE, Brazil.,Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analysis, School of Pharmacy, Laboratory of Bioprospection in Antimicrobial Molecules (LABIMAN), Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, 60430-170, CE, Brazil
| | - Jacilene Silva
- Department of Chemistry, Group of Theoretical Chemistry and Electrochemistry (GQTE), State University of Ceará, Limoeiro do Norte, 62930-000, CE, Brazil
| | - Emmanuel Silva Marinho
- Department of Chemistry, Group of Theoretical Chemistry and Electrochemistry (GQTE), State University of Ceará, Limoeiro do Norte, 62930-000, CE, Brazil
| | - Manoel Odorico de Moraes
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Neuropharmacology Laboratory, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, 60430-275, CE, Brazil
| | | | - Bruno Coêlho Cavalcanti
- Drug Research and Development Center, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, 60430-275, CE, Brazil
| | - Iri Sandro Pampolha Lima
- Departament of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Federal University of Ceará, Barbalha, 63048-080, CE, Brazil
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13
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Gandra RM, Silva LN, Souto XM, Sangenito LS, Cruz LPS, Braga-Silva LA, Gonçalves DS, Seabra SH, Branquinha MH, Santos ALS. The serine peptidase inhibitor TPCK induces several morphophysiological changes in the opportunistic fungal pathogen Candida parapsilosis sensu stricto. Med Mycol 2020; 57:1024-1037. [PMID: 30753649 DOI: 10.1093/mmy/myz008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2018] [Revised: 12/11/2018] [Accepted: 01/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Candida parapsilosis sensu stricto (C. parapsilosis) has emerged as the second/third commonest Candida species isolated from hospitals worldwide. Candida spp. possess numerous virulence attributes, including peptidases that play multiple roles in both physiological and pathological events. So, fungal peptidases are valid targets for new drugs development. With this premise in mind, we have evaluated the effect of serine peptidase inhibitors (SPIs) on both cell biology and virulence aspects of C. parapsilosis. First, five different SPIs, phenylmethylsulfonyl fluoride, benzamidine, 4-(2-aminoethyl) benzenesulfonyl fluoride hydrochloride, N-α-tosyl-L-lysine chloromethyl ketone hydrochloride, and N-tosyl-L-phenylalanine chloromethyl ketone (TPCK) were tested, and TPCK showed the best efficacy to arrest fungal growth. Subsequently, the ability of TPCK to modulate physiopathological processes was investigated. Overall, TPCK was able to (i) inhibit the cell-associated serine peptidase activities, (ii) promote morphometric and ultrastructural alterations, (iii) induce an increase in the intracellular oxidation level, which culminates in a vigorous lipid peroxidation and accumulation of neutral lipids in cytoplasmic inclusions, (iv) modulate the expression/exposition of surface structures, such as mannose/glucose-rich glycoconjugates, N-acetylglucosamine-containing molecules, chitin, polypeptides and surface aspartic peptidases, (v) reduce the adhesion to either polystyrene or glass surfaces as well as to partially disarticulate the mature biofilm, (vi) block the fungal interaction with macrophages, and (vii) protect Galleria mellonella from fungal infection, enhancing larvae survivability. Altogether, these results demonstrated that TPCK induced several changes over fungal biology besides the interference with aspects associated to C. parapsilosis virulence and pathogenesis, which indicates that SPIs could be novel promising therapeutic agents in dealing with candidiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael M Gandra
- Laboratório de Estudos Avançados de Microrganismos Emergentes e Resistentes, Departamento de Microbiologia Geral, Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.,Programa de Pós-Graduação em Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Laura N Silva
- Laboratório de Estudos Avançados de Microrganismos Emergentes e Resistentes, Departamento de Microbiologia Geral, Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Xênia M Souto
- Laboratório de Estudos Avançados de Microrganismos Emergentes e Resistentes, Departamento de Microbiologia Geral, Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Leandro S Sangenito
- Laboratório de Estudos Avançados de Microrganismos Emergentes e Resistentes, Departamento de Microbiologia Geral, Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Lucas P S Cruz
- Laboratório de Estudos Avançados de Microrganismos Emergentes e Resistentes, Departamento de Microbiologia Geral, Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Lys A Braga-Silva
- Laboratório de Estudos Avançados de Microrganismos Emergentes e Resistentes, Departamento de Microbiologia Geral, Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Diego S Gonçalves
- Laboratório de Estudos Avançados de Microrganismos Emergentes e Resistentes, Departamento de Microbiologia Geral, Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.,Programa de Pós-Graduação em Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Sergio H Seabra
- Laboratório de Tecnologia em Cultura de Células, Centro Universitário Estadual da Zona Oeste, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Marta H Branquinha
- Laboratório de Estudos Avançados de Microrganismos Emergentes e Resistentes, Departamento de Microbiologia Geral, Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - André L S Santos
- Laboratório de Estudos Avançados de Microrganismos Emergentes e Resistentes, Departamento de Microbiologia Geral, Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.,Programa de Pós-Graduação em Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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14
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β-lapachone and α-nor-lapachone modulate Candida albicans viability and virulence factors. J Mycol Med 2018; 28:314-319. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mycmed.2018.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2017] [Revised: 03/05/2018] [Accepted: 03/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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15
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Hao S, Du X, Song Y, Ren M, Yang Q, Wang A, Wang Q, Zhao H, Du Z, Zhang G. Targeted gene therapy of the HSV-TK/hIL-12 fusion gene controlled by the hSLPI gene promoter of human non-small cell lung cancer in vitro. Oncol Lett 2018; 15:6503-6512. [PMID: 29731853 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2018.8148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2016] [Accepted: 11/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The incidence of lung cancer and lung cancer-associated mortality have markedly increased worldwide, and gene-targeted therapy has emerged as a promising treatment strategy. The present study aimed to explore the targeted antitumor effect of the herpes simplex virus-thymidine kinase/human interleukin-12 (HSV-TK/hIL-12) fusion gene regulated by the human secretory leukocyte protease inhibitor (hSLPI) promoter of human non-small cell lung cancer (hNSCLC). There were four recombinant eukaryotic expression vectors: pcDNA3.1-CMV-TK, pcDNA3.1-CMV-TK/hIL-12, pcDNA3.1-phSLP-TK and pcDNA3.1-phSLP-TK/hIL-12. These were constructed and transfected into the A549, SPC-A1 and HepG2 cell lines in vitro. The expression of the HSV-TK/hIL-12 fusion gene was detected with reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), and the content of hIL-12 was measured using an ELISA. The antitumor effect of the fusion gene on the A549, SPC-A1 and HepG2 cell lines was determined using an MTT assay. Analysis of the experimental data demonstrated that genes regulated by the cytomegalovirus promoter were expressed at the same level in three different tumor cell lines. Genes regulated by the hSLPI promoter were expressed in the A549 and SPC-A1 cell lines, but not in the HepG2 cell line. Coincidentally, the hIL-12 expression levels were similar to those observed in previous RT-PCR findings. In the Pcmv-TK/Pcmv-TK-hIL-12 group for all three cell lines, as well as in the PSLPI-TK/PSLPI-TK-hIL-12 group for the A549 and SPC-A1 cell lines, the cell survival rate declined significantly and the fusion gene transfection group indicated a lower cell survival rate, when compared with single gene transfection group. The present study indicated that the fusion gene regulated by the hSLPI promoter had a targeted antitumor effect on hNSCLC, and that the combined suicide gene and immune gene therapy had a stronger antitumor effect, compared with single gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuhong Hao
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, The Second Clinical College, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, P.R. China
| | - Xiaoyuan Du
- Department of Pathology, Liaoning Medical University, Jinzhou, Liaoning 121001, P.R. China
| | - Yang Song
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Clinical College, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, P.R. China.,The Center of Molecular Diagnosis and Cellular Treatment for Metabolic Bone Diseases, Changchun, Jilin 130041, P.R. China
| | - Ming Ren
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Clinical College, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, P.R. China.,The Center of Molecular Diagnosis and Cellular Treatment for Metabolic Bone Diseases, Changchun, Jilin 130041, P.R. China
| | - Qiwei Yang
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Clinical College, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, P.R. China.,The Center of Molecular Diagnosis and Cellular Treatment for Metabolic Bone Diseases, Changchun, Jilin 130041, P.R. China.,Research Center, The Second Clinical College, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, P.R. China
| | - Ao Wang
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Clinical College, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, P.R. China.,The Center of Molecular Diagnosis and Cellular Treatment for Metabolic Bone Diseases, Changchun, Jilin 130041, P.R. China
| | - Qingyu Wang
- The Center of Molecular Diagnosis and Cellular Treatment for Metabolic Bone Diseases, Changchun, Jilin 130041, P.R. China.,Research Center, The Second Clinical College, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, P.R. China
| | - Haiyue Zhao
- Research Center, The Second Clinical College, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, P.R. China
| | - Zhenwu Du
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Clinical College, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, P.R. China.,The Center of Molecular Diagnosis and Cellular Treatment for Metabolic Bone Diseases, Changchun, Jilin 130041, P.R. China.,Research Center, The Second Clinical College, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, P.R. China
| | - Guizhen Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Clinical College, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, P.R. China.,The Center of Molecular Diagnosis and Cellular Treatment for Metabolic Bone Diseases, Changchun, Jilin 130041, P.R. China.,Research Center, The Second Clinical College, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, P.R. China
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16
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Ordonez SR, Veldhuizen EJA, van Eijk M, Haagsman HP. Role of Soluble Innate Effector Molecules in Pulmonary Defense against Fungal Pathogens. Front Microbiol 2017; 8:2098. [PMID: 29163395 PMCID: PMC5671533 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2017.02098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2017] [Accepted: 10/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Fungal infections of the lung are life-threatening but rarely occur in healthy, immunocompetent individuals, indicating efficient clearance by pulmonary defense mechanisms. Upon inhalation, fungi will first encounter the airway surface liquid which contains several soluble effector molecules that form the first barrier of defense against fungal infections. These include host defense peptides, like LL-37 and defensins that can neutralize fungi by direct killing of the pathogen, and collectins, such as surfactant protein A and D, that can aggregate fungi and stimulate phagocytosis. In addition, these molecules have immunomodulatory activities which can aid in fungal clearance from the lung. However, existing observations are based on in vitro studies which do not reflect the complexity of the lung and its airway surface liquid. Ionic strength, pH, and the presence of mucus can have strong detrimental effects on antifungal activity, while the potential synergistic interplay between soluble effector molecules is largely unknown. In this review, we describe the current knowledge on soluble effector molecules that contribute to antifungal activity, the importance of environmental factors and discuss the future directions required to understand the innate antifungal defense in the lung.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soledad R Ordonez
- Division of Molecular Host Defence, Department of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Edwin J A Veldhuizen
- Division of Molecular Host Defence, Department of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Martin van Eijk
- Division of Molecular Host Defence, Department of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Henk P Haagsman
- Division of Molecular Host Defence, Department of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
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17
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Small DM, Doherty DF, Dougan CM, Weldon S, Taggart CC. The role of whey acidic protein four-disulfide-core proteins in respiratory health and disease. Biol Chem 2017; 398:425-440. [PMID: 27930359 DOI: 10.1515/hsz-2016-0262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2016] [Accepted: 10/13/2016] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Members of the whey acidic protein (WAP) or WAP four-disulfide-core (WFDC) family of proteins are a relatively under-explored family of low molecular weight proteins. The two most prominent WFDC proteins, secretory leukocyte protease inhibitor (SLPI) and elafin (or the precursor, trappin-2), have been shown to possess multiple functions including anti-protease, anti-bacterial, anti-viral and anti-inflammatory properties. It is therefore of no surprise that both SLPI and elafin/trappin-2 have been developed as potential therapeutics. Given the abundance of SLPI and elafin/trappin-2 in the human lung, most work in the area of WFDC research has focused on the role of WFDC proteins in protecting the lung from proteolytic attack. In this review, we will outline the current evidence regarding the expanding role of WFDC protein function with a focus on WFDC activity in lung disease as well as emerging data regarding the function of some of the more recently described WFDC proteins.
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18
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de Abreu LCL, Todaro V, Sathler PC, da Silva LCRP, do Carmo FA, Costa CM, Toma HK, Castro HC, Rodrigues CR, de Sousa VP, Cabral LM. Development and Characterization of Nisin Nanoparticles as Potential Alternative for the Recurrent Vaginal Candidiasis Treatment. AAPS PharmSciTech 2016; 17:1421-1427. [PMID: 26810491 DOI: 10.1208/s12249-016-0477-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2015] [Accepted: 01/01/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this work was the development and characterization of nisin-loaded nanoparticles and the evaluation of its potential antifungal activity. Candidiasis is a fungal infection caused by Candida sp. considered as one of the major public health problem currently. The discovery of antifungal agents that present a reduced or null resistance of Candida sp. and the development of more efficient drug release mechanisms are necessary for the improvement of candidiasis treatment. Nisin, a bacteriocin commercially available for more than 50 years, exhibits antibacterial action in food products with potential antifungal activity. Among several alternatives used to modulate antifungal activity of bacteriocins, polymeric nanoparticles have received great attention due to an effective drug release control and reduction of therapeutic dose, besides the minimization of adverse effects by the preferential accumulation in specific tissues. The nisin nanoparticles were prepared by double emulsification and solvent evaporation methods. Nanoparticles were characterized by dynamic light scattering, zeta potential, Fourier transform infrared, X-ray diffraction, differential scanning calorimetry, and scanning electron microscopy. Antifungal activity was accessed by pour plate method and cell counting using Candida albicans strains. The in vitro release profile and in vitro permeation studies were performed using dialysis bag method and pig vaginal mucosa in Franz diffusion cell, respectively. The results revealed nisin nanoparticles (300 nm) with spherical shape and high loading efficiency (93.88 ± 3.26%). In vitro test results suggest a promising application of these nanosystems as a prophylactic agent in recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis and other gynecological diseases.
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19
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Majchrzak-Gorecka M, Majewski P, Grygier B, Murzyn K, Cichy J. Secretory leukocyte protease inhibitor (SLPI), a multifunctional protein in the host defense response. Cytokine Growth Factor Rev 2015; 28:79-93. [PMID: 26718149 DOI: 10.1016/j.cytogfr.2015.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2015] [Accepted: 12/07/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Secretory leukocyte protease inhibitor (SLPI), a ∼12kDa nonglycosylated cationic protein, is emerging as an important regulator of innate and adaptive immunity and as a component of tissue regenerative programs. First described as an inhibitor of serine proteases such as neutrophil elastase, this protein is increasingly recognized as a molecule that benefits the host via its anti-proteolytic, anti-microbial and immunomodulatory activities. Here, we discuss the diverse functions of SLPI. Moreover, we review several novel layers of SLPI-mediated control that protect the host from excessive/dysregulated inflammation typical of infectious, allergic and autoinflammatory diseases and that support healing responses through affecting cell proliferation, differentiation and apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Majchrzak-Gorecka
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
| | - Pawel Majewski
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
| | - Beata Grygier
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
| | - Krzysztof Murzyn
- Department of Computational Biophysics and Bioinformatics, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
| | - Joanna Cichy
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland.
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Nasioudis D, Beghini J, Bongiovanni AM, Giraldo PC, Linhares IM, Witkin SS. α-Amylase in Vaginal Fluid: Association With Conditions Favorable to Dominance of Lactobacillus. Reprod Sci 2015; 22:1393-8. [PMID: 25878210 DOI: 10.1177/1933719115581000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Vaginal glycogen is degraded by host α-amylase and then converted to lactic acid by Lactobacilli. This maintains the vaginal pH at ≤4.5 and prevents growth of other bacteria. Therefore, host α-amylase activity may promote dominance of Lactobacilli. We evaluated whether the α-amylase level in vaginal fluid is altered in women with bacterial vaginosis (BV) and vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) and whether its concentration was associated with levels of lactic acid isomers and host mediators. Vaginal fluid was obtained from 43 women with BV, 50 women with VVC, and 62 women with no vulvovaginal disorders. Vaginal fluid concentrations of α-amylase, secretory leukocyte protease inhibitor (SLPI), hyaluronan, hyaluronidase-1, β-defensin, and elafin were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Vaginal concentrations of neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL), matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) 8, and d- and l-lactic acid levels in these patients were previously reported. The median vaginal fluid α-amylase level was 1.83 mU/mL in control women, 1.45 mU/mL in women with VVC, and 1.07 mU/mL in women with BV. Vaginal levels of α-amylase were correlated with d-lactic acid (P = .003) but not with l-lactic acid (P > .05) and with SLPI (P < .001), hyaluronidase-1 (P < .001), NGAL (P = .001), and MMP-8 (P = .005). The exfoliation of glycogen-rich epithelial cells into the vaginal lumen by hyaluronidase-1 and MMP-8 may increase glycogen availability and promote α-amylase activity. The subsequent enhanced availability of glycogen breakdown products would favor proliferation of Lactobacilli, the primary producers of d-lactic acid in the vagina. Concomitant production of NGAL and SLPI would retard growth of BV-related bacteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitrios Nasioudis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
| | - Joziani Beghini
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University of Campinas, Campinas, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ann Marie Bongiovanni
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
| | - Paulo C Giraldo
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University of Campinas, Campinas, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Iara M Linhares
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University of Sao Paulo Medical School, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Steven S Witkin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
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