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Tong L, Li Y, Lou X, Wang B, Jin C, Fang W. Powerful cell wall biomass degradation enzymatic system from saprotrophic Aspergillus fumigatus. Cell Surf 2024; 11:100126. [PMID: 38827922 PMCID: PMC11143905 DOI: 10.1016/j.tcsw.2024.100126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2024] [Revised: 05/08/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Cell wall biomass, Earth's most abundant natural resource, holds significant potential for sustainable biofuel production. Composed of cellulose, hemicellulose, lignin, pectin, and other polymers, the plant cell wall provides essential structural support to diverse organisms in nature. In contrast, non-plant species like insects, crustaceans, and fungi rely on chitin as their primary structural polysaccharide. The saprophytic fungus Aspergillus fumigatus has been widely recognized for its adaptability to various environmental conditions. It achieves this by secreting different cell wall biomass degradation enzymes to obtain essential nutrients. This review compiles a comprehensive collection of cell wall degradation enzymes derived from A. fumigatus, including cellulases, hemicellulases, various chitin degradation enzymes, and other polymer degradation enzymes. Notably, these enzymes exhibit biochemical characteristics such as temperature tolerance or acid adaptability, indicating their potential applications across a spectrum of industries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lige Tong
- National Key Laboratory of Non-food Biomass Energy Technology, Institute of Biological Sciences and Technology, Guangxi Academy of Sciences, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Yunaying Li
- National Key Laboratory of Non-food Biomass Energy Technology, Institute of Biological Sciences and Technology, Guangxi Academy of Sciences, Nanning, Guangxi, China
- College of Life Sciences, Hebei Innovation Center for Bioengineering and Biotechnology, Institute of Life Sciences and Green Development, Baoding, Hebei, China
| | - Xinke Lou
- National Key Laboratory of Non-food Biomass Energy Technology, Institute of Biological Sciences and Technology, Guangxi Academy of Sciences, Nanning, Guangxi, China
- College of Life Sciences, Hebei Innovation Center for Bioengineering and Biotechnology, Institute of Life Sciences and Green Development, Baoding, Hebei, China
| | - Bin Wang
- National Key Laboratory of Non-food Biomass Energy Technology, Institute of Biological Sciences and Technology, Guangxi Academy of Sciences, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Cheng Jin
- National Key Laboratory of Non-food Biomass Energy Technology, Institute of Biological Sciences and Technology, Guangxi Academy of Sciences, Nanning, Guangxi, China
- State Key Laboratory of Mycology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Wenxia Fang
- National Key Laboratory of Non-food Biomass Energy Technology, Institute of Biological Sciences and Technology, Guangxi Academy of Sciences, Nanning, Guangxi, China
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Mjokane N, Akintemi EO, Sabiu S, Gcilitshana OMN, Albertyn J, Pohl CH, Sebolai OM. Aspergillus fumigatus secretes a protease(s) that displays in silico binding affinity towards the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein and mediates SARS-CoV-2 pseudovirion entry into HEK-293T cells. Virol J 2024; 21:58. [PMID: 38448991 PMCID: PMC10919004 DOI: 10.1186/s12985-024-02331-z] [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: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The novel coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19) is an infectious disease caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2). Data from the COVID-19 clinical control case studies showed that this disease could also manifest in patients with underlying microbial infections such as aspergillosis. The current study aimed to determine if the Aspergillus (A.) fumigatus culture media (i.e., supernatant) possessed protease activity that was sufficient to activate the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. METHODS The supernatant was first analysed for protease activity. Thereafter, it was assessed to determine if it possessed proteolytic activity to cleave a fluorogenic mimetic peptide of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein that contained the S1/S2 site and a full-length spike protein contained in a SARS-CoV-2 pseudovirion. To complement this, a computer-based tool, HADDOCK, was used to predict if A. fumigatus alkaline protease 1 could bind to the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. RESULTS We show that the supernatant possessed proteolytic activity, and analyses of the molecular docking parameters revealed that A. fumigatus alkaline protease 1 could bind to the spike protein. To confirm the in silico data, it was imperative to provide experimental evidence for enzymatic activity. Here, it was noted that the A. fumigatus supernatant cleaved the mimetic peptide as well as transduced the HEK-293T cells with SARS-CoV-2 pseudovirions. CONCLUSION These results suggest that A. fumigatus secretes a protease(s) that activates the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. Importantly, should these two infectious agents co-occur, there is the potential for A. fumigatus to activate the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, thus aggravating COVID-19 development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nozethu Mjokane
- Department of Microbiology and Biochemistry, University of the Free State, 205 Nelson Mandela Drive, Park West, 9301, Bloemfontein, South Africa
| | - Eric O Akintemi
- Department of Microbiology and Biochemistry, University of the Free State, 205 Nelson Mandela Drive, Park West, 9301, Bloemfontein, South Africa
| | - Saheed Sabiu
- Department of Biotechnology and Food Science, Faculty of Applied Science, Durban University of Technology, 4000, Durban, P.O. Box 1334, South Africa
| | - Onele M N Gcilitshana
- Department of Microbiology and Biochemistry, University of the Free State, 205 Nelson Mandela Drive, Park West, 9301, Bloemfontein, South Africa
| | - Jacobus Albertyn
- Department of Microbiology and Biochemistry, University of the Free State, 205 Nelson Mandela Drive, Park West, 9301, Bloemfontein, South Africa
| | - Carolina H Pohl
- Department of Microbiology and Biochemistry, University of the Free State, 205 Nelson Mandela Drive, Park West, 9301, Bloemfontein, South Africa
| | - Olihile M Sebolai
- Department of Microbiology and Biochemistry, University of the Free State, 205 Nelson Mandela Drive, Park West, 9301, Bloemfontein, South Africa.
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Nikaein D, Malekmadani H, Beikzadeh B, Mardanpour R, Khosravi A, Moghadami SM. Effect of yeast probiotic Saccharomyces boulardii cell wall extract on Aspergillus fumigatus allergenicity in A549 cells. Curr Med Mycol 2023; 9:1-8. [PMID: 38983617 PMCID: PMC11230140 DOI: 10.22034/cmm.2024.345134.1463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 01/01/2024] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Background and Purpose Interest in probiotic use for respiratory allergies has increased. In this regard, the present study aimed to evaluate the effect of cell wall extract of Saccharomyces boulardii on Aspergillus fumigatus as an allergenic fungus and its effectiveness in reducing inflammatory cytokines in A549 cells sensitized with A. fumigatus conidia. Materials and Methods Cell wall of S. boulardii was prepared and challenged by A. fumigatus conidia at various concentrations. Secretory protease activity was tested using the Casein method. The A. fumigatus allergen 1 (Asp f1) gene expression was calculated by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). In another experiment, qRT-PCR was used to examine gene expression of interleukin 13 and interleukin 17 by A549 lung epithelial cells exposed to A. fumigatus conidia and treated with different concentrations of S. boulardii cell wall extract. Results Saccharomyces boulardii cell wall extract significantly reduced the protease activity of A. fumigatus at concentrations of 10 and 20 mg/ml (P<0.05). The Asp f1 gene expression was significantly down-regulated in each concentration of S. boulardii cell wall extract (P<0.05). Aspergillus fumigatus conidia upregulated the expression of IL-13 and IL-17 in A549 cells, and S. boulardii cell wall extract could downregulate the expression of the mentioned cytokines at concentrations of 10 and 20 mg/ml (P<0.05). Conclusion According to the results, it can be concluded that S. boulardii cell wall extract could be a candidate for IL-13- and IL-17-induced Aspergillus-mediated allergy and asthma therapies. Nevertheless, future studies need to be conducted on the safety of S. boulardii cell wall extract in vivo and its effects on other arms of allergic hypersensitivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donya Nikaein
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Haleh Malekmadani
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Babak Beikzadeh
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology and Microbiology, Faculty of Biological Sciences and Technology, University of Isfahan, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Reza Mardanpour
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Alireza Khosravi
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Mohammad Moghadami
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
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Zhang P, Zhou Y, Pan X, He J, Zou X, Zhong Y, Zhang J, Cai Q. Enhanced acidogenic fermentation from Al-rich waste activated sludge by combining lysozyme and sodium citrate pretreatment: Perspectives of Al stabilization and enzyme activity. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 864:161108. [PMID: 36566869 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.161108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2022] [Revised: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 12/17/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The accumulation of poly aluminum chloride (PAC) in dewatered waste activated sludge (WAS) can cause severe Al pollution and significantly reduce the production of volatile fatty acids (VFAs) from anaerobic fermentation. Herein, the combination of lysozyme and sodium citrate pretreatment was applied to stabilize the aluminum and enhance the VFAs production via anaerobic fermentation. The complexation and stabilization of aluminum by the citrate was efficient, which is conducive to relieving the inhibition of aluminum on lysozymes and other extracellular hydrolases. Compared with the control group, the lysozyme, protease and α-glucosidase activities were obtained at 1.86, 1.72, and 1.15 times, respectively, following the pretreatment. 129.71 mg/g volatile suspended solids (VSS) of soluble proteins and 26.3 mg/g VSS of polysaccharides were obtained within 4 h, together with the degradation of 124 % more proteins and 75 % more polysaccharides within three days. This provided a sufficient number of substrates for VFA production. 588.4 mg COD/g VSS of total VFAs were obtained after the six-day anaerobic fermentation from Al-rich WAS following the combination of lysozyme and sodium citrate pretreatment, which was 7.3 times higher than that of the control group. This study presents a novel approach for enhancing VFA production in anaerobic fermentation as well as reducing risk of Al hazards from Al-rich WAS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pengfei Zhang
- School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, PR China; State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, PR China
| | - Yan Zhou
- Advanced Environmental Biotechnology Centre, Nanyang Environment & Water Research Institute, Nanyang Technological University, 1 Cleantech Loop, Singapore 637141, Singapore; School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore 639798, Singapore
| | - Xinlei Pan
- School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, PR China; State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, PR China.
| | - Junguo He
- School of Civil Engineering, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou 510006, PR China
| | - Xiang Zou
- School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, PR China; State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, PR China
| | - Yijie Zhong
- School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, PR China; State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, PR China
| | - Jie Zhang
- School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, PR China; State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, PR China
| | - Qiupeng Cai
- School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, PR China; State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, PR China
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Kasakura K, Kawakami Y, Jacquet A, Kawakami T. Histamine-Releasing Factor Is a Novel Alarmin Induced by House Dust Mite Allergen, Cytokines, and Cell Death. JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY (BALTIMORE, MD. : 1950) 2022; 209:1851-1859. [PMID: 36426937 PMCID: PMC9643630 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.2200276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Histamine-releasing factor (HRF) is a multifunctional protein with fundamental intracellular functions controlling cell survival and proliferation. HRF is also secreted during allergic reactions and promotes IgE-mediated activation of mast cells and basophils. In this study, we investigated HRF secretion and its relevance to airway inflammation. HRF monomers were constitutively secreted from BEAS-2B human bronchial epithelial cells (HBECs) and converted to oligomers over the course of culture. Stimulation with house dust mite (HDM) extract increased HRF secretion substantially. Several cytokines involved in asthma pathogenesis showed moderate effects on HRF secretion but dramatically enhanced HDM-induced HRF secretion. HDM-induced HRF secretion from BEAS-2B cells and normal HBECs proceeded via TLR2. Consistent with this, multiple TLR2 ligands, including Der p 2, Der p 5, Der p 13, and Der p 21, induced HRF secretion. Der p 10 (tropomyosin) also promoted HRF secretion. Cell death or incubation with adenosine and ATP, compounds released upon cell death, also enhanced HRF secretion. Furthermore, intranasal administration of recombinant HRF elicited robust airway inflammation in HDM-sensitized mice in an FcεRI-dependent manner. Therefore, we conclude that HRF is a novel alarmin that promotes allergic airway inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazumi Kasakura
- Laboratory of Allergic Diseases, Center for Autoimmunity and Inflammation, La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Yu Kawakami
- Laboratory of Allergic Diseases, Center for Autoimmunity and Inflammation, La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Alain Jacquet
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, 10330 Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Toshiaki Kawakami
- Laboratory of Allergic Diseases, Center for Autoimmunity and Inflammation, La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
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Namvar S, Labram B, Rowley J, Herrick S. Aspergillus fumigatus-Host Interactions Mediating Airway Wall Remodelling in Asthma. J Fungi (Basel) 2022; 8:jof8020159. [PMID: 35205913 PMCID: PMC8879933 DOI: 10.3390/jof8020159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Revised: 01/29/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Asthma is a chronic heterogeneous respiratory condition that is mainly associated with sensitivity to airborne agents such as pollen, dust mite products and fungi. Key pathological features include increased airway inflammation and airway wall remodelling. In particular, goblet cell hyperplasia, combined with excess mucus secretion, impairs clearance of the inhaled foreign material. Furthermore, structural changes such as subepithelial fibrosis and increased smooth muscle hypertrophy collectively contribute to deteriorating airway function and possibility of exacerbations. Current pharmacological therapies focused on airway wall remodelling are limited, and as such, are an area of unmet clinical need. Sensitisation to the fungus, Aspergillus fumigatus, is associated with enhanced asthma severity, bronchiectasis, and hospitalisation. How Aspergillus fumigatus may drive airway structural changes is unclear, although recent evidence points to a central role of the airway epithelium. This review provides an overview of the airway pathology in patients with asthma and fungal sensitisation, summarises proposed airway epithelial cell-fungal interactions and discusses the initiation of a tissue remodelling response. Related findings from in vivo animal models are included given the limited analysis of airway pathology in patients. Lastly, an important role for Aspergillus fumigatus-derived proteases in triggering a cascade of damage-repair events through upregulation of airway epithelial-derived factors is proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Namvar
- School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester and Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester M13 9PT, UK; (B.L.); (J.R.)
- School of Science, Engineering and Environment, University of Salford, Salford M5 4WT, UK
- Correspondence: (S.N.); (S.H.)
| | - Briony Labram
- School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester and Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester M13 9PT, UK; (B.L.); (J.R.)
| | - Jessica Rowley
- School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester and Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester M13 9PT, UK; (B.L.); (J.R.)
| | - Sarah Herrick
- School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester and Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester M13 9PT, UK; (B.L.); (J.R.)
- Correspondence: (S.N.); (S.H.)
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Naeem M, Manzoor S, Abid MUH, Tareen MBK, Asad M, Mushtaq S, Ehsan N, Amna D, Xu B, Hazafa A. Fungal Proteases as Emerging Biocatalysts to Meet the Current Challenges and Recent Developments in Biomedical Therapies: An Updated Review. J Fungi (Basel) 2022; 8:109. [PMID: 35205863 PMCID: PMC8875690 DOI: 10.3390/jof8020109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Revised: 12/31/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
With the increasing world population, demand for industrialization has also increased to fulfill humans' living standards. Fungi are considered a source of essential constituents to produce the biocatalytic enzymes, including amylases, proteases, lipases, and cellulases that contain broad-spectrum industrial and emerging applications. The present review discussed the origin, nature, mechanism of action, emerging aspects of genetic engineering for designing novel proteases, genome editing of fungal strains through CRISPR technology, present challenges and future recommendations of fungal proteases. The emerging evidence revealed that fungal proteases show a protective role to many environmental exposures and discovered that an imbalance of protease inhibitors and proteases in the epithelial barriers leads to the protection of chronic eosinophilic airway inflammation. Moreover, mitoproteases recently were found to execute intense proteolytic processes that are crucial for mitochondrial integrity and homeostasis function, including mitochondrial biogenesis, protein synthesis, and apoptosis. The emerging evidence revealed that CRISPR/Cas9 technology had been successfully developed in various filamentous fungi and higher fungi for editing of specific genes. In addition to medical importance, fungal proteases are extensively used in different industries such as foods to prepare butter, fruits, juices, and cheese, and to increase their shelf life. It is concluded that hydrolysis of proteins in industries is one of the most significant applications of fungal enzymes that led to massive usage of proteomics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Naeem
- College of Life Science, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang 050025, China;
| | - Saba Manzoor
- Department of Zoology, University of Sialkot, Sialkot 51310, Pakistan;
| | | | | | - Mirza Asad
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Agriculture Faisalabad, Faisalabad 38040, Pakistan;
| | - Sajida Mushtaq
- Department of Zoology, Government College Women University, Sialkot 51040, Pakistan;
| | - Nazia Ehsan
- Department of Zoology, Wildlife and Fisheries, University of Agriculture Faisalabad, Faisalabad 38040, Pakistan;
| | - Dua Amna
- Institute of Food Science & Nutrition, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan 60800, Pakistan;
| | - Baojun Xu
- Food Science and Technology Program, Beijing Normal University-Hong Kong Baptist University (BNU-HKBU) United International College, Zhuhai 519087, China
| | - Abu Hazafa
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Agriculture Faisalabad, Faisalabad 38040, Pakistan;
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Osmolovskiy AA, Schmidt L, Orekhova AV, Komarevtsev SK, Kreyer VG, Shabunin SV, Egorov NS. Action of Extracellular Proteases of Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus ochraceus Micromycetes on Plasma Hemostasis Proteins. Life (Basel) 2021; 11:782. [PMID: 34440526 PMCID: PMC8400497 DOI: 10.3390/life11080782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2021] [Revised: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 07/31/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
In this study, we investigated the properties of proteolytic enzymes of two species of Aspergillus, Aspergillus flavus 1 (with a high degree of pathogenicity) and Aspergillus ochraceus L-1 (a conditional pathogen), and their effects on various components of the hemostasis system (in vitro) in the case of their penetration into the bloodstream. We showed that micromycete proteases were highly active in cleaving both globular (albuminolysis) and fibrillar (fibrin) proteins, and, to varying degrees, they could coagulate the plasma of humans and animals (due to proteolysis of factors of the blood coagulation cascade) but were not able to coagulate fibrinogen. The proteases of both Aspergillus fully hydrolyzed thrombi in 120-180 min. Micromycetes did not show hemolytic activity but were able to break down hemoglobin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander A. Osmolovskiy
- Biological Faculty, M.V. Lomonosov Moscow State University, 199234 Moscow, Russia; (A.V.O.); (V.G.K.)
- All-Russian Scientific Research Veterinary Institute of Pathology, Pharmacology and Therapy, 394087 Voronezh, Russia; (S.K.K.); (S.V.S.)
| | - Laura Schmidt
- Institut für Agrar- und Ernährungswissenschaften, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, 06108 Halle, Germany;
| | - Anastasia V. Orekhova
- Biological Faculty, M.V. Lomonosov Moscow State University, 199234 Moscow, Russia; (A.V.O.); (V.G.K.)
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Disease, “La Sapienza” University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Sergey K. Komarevtsev
- All-Russian Scientific Research Veterinary Institute of Pathology, Pharmacology and Therapy, 394087 Voronezh, Russia; (S.K.K.); (S.V.S.)
| | - Valeriana G. Kreyer
- Biological Faculty, M.V. Lomonosov Moscow State University, 199234 Moscow, Russia; (A.V.O.); (V.G.K.)
| | - Sergey V. Shabunin
- All-Russian Scientific Research Veterinary Institute of Pathology, Pharmacology and Therapy, 394087 Voronezh, Russia; (S.K.K.); (S.V.S.)
| | - Nikolay S. Egorov
- International Biotechnological Center, M.V. Lomonosov Moscow State University, 199234 Moscow, Russia;
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Nitrogen, Iron and Zinc Acquisition: Key Nutrients to Aspergillus fumigatus Virulence. J Fungi (Basel) 2021; 7:jof7070518. [PMID: 34203370 PMCID: PMC8303583 DOI: 10.3390/jof7070518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Revised: 06/24/2021] [Accepted: 06/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Aspergillus fumigatus is a ubiquitous soil decomposer and an opportunistic pathogen that is characterized by its large metabolic machinery for acquiring nutrients from media. Lately, an ever-increasing number of genes involved in fungal nutrition has been associated with its virulence. Of these, nitrogen, iron, and zinc metabolism-related genes are particularly noteworthy, since 78% of them have a direct implication in virulence. In this review, we describe the sensing, uptake and regulation process of the acquisition of these nutrients, the connections between pathways and the virulence-implicated genes. Nevertheless, only 40% of the genes mentioned in this review have been assayed for roles in virulence, leaving a wide field of knowledge that remains uncertain and might offer new therapeutic and diagnostic targets.
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Rowley J, Namvar S, Gago S, Labram B, Bowyer P, Richardson MD, Herrick SE. Differential Proinflammatory Responses to Aspergillus fumigatus by Airway Epithelial Cells In Vitro Are Protease Dependent. J Fungi (Basel) 2021; 7:468. [PMID: 34200666 PMCID: PMC8228831 DOI: 10.3390/jof7060468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Revised: 05/29/2021] [Accepted: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Aspergillus fumigatus is an important human respiratory mould pathogen. In addition to a barrier function, airway epithelium elicits a robust defence against inhaled A. fumigatus by initiating an immune response. The manner by which A. fumigatus initiates this response and the reasons for the immunological heterogeneity with different isolates are unclear. Both direct fungal cell wall-epithelial cell interaction and secretion of soluble proteases have been proposed as possible mechanisms. Our aim was to determine the contribution of fungal proteases to the induction of epithelial IL-6 and IL-8 in response to different A. fumigatus isolates. Airway epithelial cells were exposed to conidia from a low or high protease-producing strain of A. fumigatus, and IL-6 and IL-8 gene expression and protein production were quantified. The role of proteases in cytokine production was further determined using specific protease inhibitors. The proinflammatory cytokine response correlated with conidia germination and hyphal extension. IL-8 induction was significantly reduced in the presence of matrix metalloprotease or cysteine protease inhibitors. With a high protease-producing strain of A. fumigatus, IL-6 release was metalloprotease dependent. Dectin-1 antagonism also inhibited the production of both cytokines. In conclusion, A. fumigatus-secreted proteases mediate a proinflammatory response by airway epithelial cells in a strain-dependent manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Rowley
- School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, University of Manchester and Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester M13 9PT, UK; (J.R.); (S.N.); (S.G.); (B.L.); (P.B.); (M.D.R.)
| | - Sara Namvar
- School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, University of Manchester and Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester M13 9PT, UK; (J.R.); (S.N.); (S.G.); (B.L.); (P.B.); (M.D.R.)
- School of Science, Engineering and Environment, University of Salford, Salford M5 4WT, UK
| | - Sara Gago
- School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, University of Manchester and Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester M13 9PT, UK; (J.R.); (S.N.); (S.G.); (B.L.); (P.B.); (M.D.R.)
- Manchester Fungal Infection Group, Division of Infection, Immunity and Respiratory Medicine, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9NT, UK
- NIHR Manchester Biomedical Research Centre, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester M23 9LT, UK
| | - Briony Labram
- School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, University of Manchester and Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester M13 9PT, UK; (J.R.); (S.N.); (S.G.); (B.L.); (P.B.); (M.D.R.)
| | - Paul Bowyer
- School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, University of Manchester and Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester M13 9PT, UK; (J.R.); (S.N.); (S.G.); (B.L.); (P.B.); (M.D.R.)
- Manchester Fungal Infection Group, Division of Infection, Immunity and Respiratory Medicine, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9NT, UK
| | - Malcolm D. Richardson
- School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, University of Manchester and Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester M13 9PT, UK; (J.R.); (S.N.); (S.G.); (B.L.); (P.B.); (M.D.R.)
- Manchester Fungal Infection Group, Division of Infection, Immunity and Respiratory Medicine, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9NT, UK
- NIHR Manchester Biomedical Research Centre, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester M23 9LT, UK
- Mycology Reference Centre, ECMM Excellence Centre of Medical Mycology, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester M23 9LT, UK
| | - Sarah E. Herrick
- School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, University of Manchester and Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester M13 9PT, UK; (J.R.); (S.N.); (S.G.); (B.L.); (P.B.); (M.D.R.)
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11
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Margalit A, Carolan JC, Kavanagh K. Bacterial Interactions with Aspergillus fumigatus in the Immunocompromised Lung. Microorganisms 2021; 9:microorganisms9020435. [PMID: 33669831 PMCID: PMC7923216 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms9020435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2021] [Revised: 02/18/2021] [Accepted: 02/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The immunocompromised airways are susceptible to infections caused by a range of pathogens which increases the opportunity for polymicrobial interactions to occur. Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus are the predominant causes of pulmonary infection for individuals with respiratory disorders such as cystic fibrosis (CF). The spore-forming fungus Aspergillus fumigatus, is most frequently isolated with P. aeruginosa, and co-infection results in poor outcomes for patients. It is therefore clinically important to understand how these pathogens interact with each other and how such interactions may contribute to disease progression so that appropriate therapeutic strategies may be developed. Despite its persistence in the airways throughout the life of a patient, A. fumigatus rarely becomes the dominant pathogen. In vitro interaction studies have revealed remarkable insights into the molecular mechanisms that drive agonistic and antagonistic interactions that occur between A. fumigatus and pulmonary bacterial pathogens such as P. aeruginosa. Crucially, these studies demonstrate that although bacteria may predominate in a competitive environment, A. fumigatus has the capacity to persist and contribute to disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Kevin Kavanagh
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +353-1-708-3859; Fax: +353-1-708-3845
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12
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13
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Gastric Ulceration and Immune Suppression in Weaned Piglets Associated with Feed-Borne Bacillus cereus and Aspergillus fumigatus. Toxins (Basel) 2020; 12:toxins12110703. [PMID: 33171754 PMCID: PMC7694960 DOI: 10.3390/toxins12110703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2020] [Revised: 11/03/2020] [Accepted: 11/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
As a multifactorial cause, gastric ulceration-mediated diarrhea is widely prevalent in the weaned piglets, impairing pig health and economic benefits. With full implementation of antibiotic stewardship programs in China, Bacillus cereus (B. cereus) and Aspergillus fumigatus (A. fumigatus) were identified frequently in porcine feedstuffs and feeds of the animal industry. Association between feed-borne B. cereus and frequent diarrhea remains unclear. In the present study, we conducted a survey of B. cereus and A. fumigatus from feeds and feedstuffs in pig farms during hot season. Interestingly, B. cereus, B. subtilis, B. licheniformis and B. thuringinesis were isolated and identified from piglets’ starter meals to sow feeds, accounting for 56.1%, 23.7%, 13.7% and 6.5%, respectively. Obviously, both B. cereus and B. subtili were dominant contaminants in the survey. In an in vitro study, Deoxynivalenol (DON) contents were determined in a dose-dependent manner post fermentation with B. cereus (405 and DawuC). Subsequently, 36 weaned piglets were randomly assigned to four groups and the piglets simultaneously received the combination of virulent B. cereus (Dawu C) and A. fumigatus while animals were inoculated with B. cereus (Dawu C), A. fumigatus or PBS as the control group. Clinically, piglets developed yellow diarrhea on day 5 and significant reductions of relative body weight were observed in the B. cereus group, and co-infection group. More importantly, IgG titers against Classical swine fever virus (CSFV) and Porcine epidemic diarrhea (PED) were reduced dramatically during 14-day observation in co-infection group, the B. cereus (Dawu C) group or the A. fumigatus group. However, lower Foot and mouth disease (FMD) -specific antibodies were reduced on day 7 compared to those of the control group. Additionally, lower lymphocyte proliferations were found in the B. cereus group and the co-infection group compared to the control group. Postmortem, higher lesions of gastric ulceration were observed in the B. cereus group and the co-infection group from day 7 to day 14 compared with those of the A. fumigatus group and the control group. Compared to the A. fumigatus group, higher DON contents were detected in the stomach inoculated with B. cereus and the co-infection with A. fumigatus. In conclusion, our data support the hypothesis that B. cereus might be associated with severe diarrhea by inducing gastric ulcerations and A. fumigatus might aggravate immune suppression, threating a sustainable swine industry. It is urgently needed to control feed-borne B. cereus contamination.
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14
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de Oliveira JM, Fernandes P, Benevides RG, de Assis SA. Production, characterization, and immobilization of protease from the yeast Rhodotorula oryzicola. Biotechnol Appl Biochem 2020; 68:1033-1043. [PMID: 32918838 DOI: 10.1002/bab.2023] [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: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
The protease was produced extracellularly in submerged fermentation by the yeast Rhodotorula oryzicola using different sources of nitrogen and maximum activity (6.54 × 10-3 U/mg) was obtained in medium containing 2% casein (w/v). Purification of the protease by gel filtration chromatography resulted in a 3.07-fold increase of specific protease activity. The optimal pH and temperature for enzyme activity were 6.51 and 63.04 °C, respectively. Incubation in the presence of some salts enhanced enzyme activity, which peaked under 0.01 M BaCl2 . The enzyme retained about 90% of enzymatic activity at temperatures 50-60 °C. The commercially available enzyme carriers evaluated, silica gel, Celite 545, and chitosan effectively immobilized the protease. The enzyme immobilized in Celite 545 retained 73.53% of the initial activity after 15 reuse cycles. These results are quite promising for large-scale production and immobilization of protease from R. oryzicola, as the high operational stability of the immobilized enzyme lowers production costs in biotechnological applications that require high enzymatic activity and stability under high temperatures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliana Mota de Oliveira
- Enzymology and Fermentation Technology Laboratory, Health Department, State University of Feira de Santana, Feira de Santana, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Pedro Fernandes
- DREAMS and Faculty of Engineering, Lusófona University, Lisbon, Portugal.,Department of Bioengineering, IBB - Institute for Bioengineering and Biosciences, Instituto Superior Técnico, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Raquel Guimarães Benevides
- Enzymology and Fermentation Technology Laboratory, Health Department, State University of Feira de Santana, Feira de Santana, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Sandra Aparecida de Assis
- Enzymology and Fermentation Technology Laboratory, Health Department, State University of Feira de Santana, Feira de Santana, Bahia, Brazil
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15
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Valle Arevalo A, Nobile CJ. Interactions of microorganisms with host mucins: a focus on Candida albicans. FEMS Microbiol Rev 2020; 44:645-654. [PMID: 32627827 PMCID: PMC7476774 DOI: 10.1093/femsre/fuaa027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2020] [Accepted: 07/02/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Mucus is an important host innate defense factor that lines most epithelial cell layers of the body and provides crucial physical and biological protection against pathogenic microorganisms. Mucins are the main glycoproteins of mucus that are responsible for interacting with microorganisms and are critical for the antimicrobial properties of mucus. The mechanisms by which microorganisms interact with mucins are poorly understood, especially in terms of fungi, and these interactions are continually evolving. Work in bacterial pathogens has shown that mucins inhibit bacterial virulence traits, including quorum sensing, toxin secretion and biofilm formation. Among the fungal clade, the common opportunistic human fungal pathogen and commensal Candida albicans engages in constant battle with the host innate immune system. This battle creates strong selective pressures for C. albicans to evolve in response to the host. Recent work in C. albicans found that mucins inhibit specific virulence traits, such as surface adherence, filamentation, biofilm formation and the production of secreted proteases. Here we review the current knowledge of microbial interactions with mucins, with a special emphasis on the interactions between C. albicans and mucins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley Valle Arevalo
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California – Merced, 5200 North Lake Rd., Merced, CA 95343, USA
- Quantitative and Systems Biology Graduate Program, University of California – Merced, 5200 North Lake Rd., Merced, CA 95343, USA
| | - Clarissa J Nobile
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California – Merced, 5200 North Lake Rd., Merced, CA 95343, USA
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16
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Margalit A, Carolan JC, Sheehan D, Kavanagh K. The Aspergillus fumigatus Secretome Alters the Proteome of Pseudomonas aeruginosa to Stimulate Bacterial Growth: Implications for Co-infection. Mol Cell Proteomics 2020; 19:1346-1359. [PMID: 32447284 PMCID: PMC8015003 DOI: 10.1074/mcp.ra120.002059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2020] [Revised: 05/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Individuals with cystic fibrosis are susceptible to co-infection by Aspergillus fumigatus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa Despite the persistence of A. fumigatus in the cystic fibrosis lung P. aeruginosa eventually predominates as the primary pathogen. Several factors are likely to facilitate P. aeruginosa colonization in the airways, including alterations to the microbial environment. The cystic fibrosis airways are hypoxic, nitrate-rich environments, and the sputum has higher amino acid concentrations than normal. In this study, significant growth proliferation was observed in P. aeruginosa when the bacteria were exposed to A. fumigatus culture filtrates (CuF) containing a high nitrate content. Proteomic analysis of the A. fumigatus CuF identified a significant number of environment-altering proteases and peptidases. The molecular mechanisms promoting bacterial growth were investigated using label-free quantitative (LFQ) proteomics to compare the proteome of P. aeruginosa grown in the A. fumigatus CuF and in CuF produced by a P. aeruginosa-A. fumigatus co-culture, to that cultured in P. aeruginosa CuF. LFQ proteomics revealed distinct changes in the proteome of P. aeruginosa when cultured in the different CuFs, including increases in the levels of proteins involved in denitrification, stress response, replication, amino acid metabolism and efflux pumps, and a down-regulation of pathways involving ABC transporters. These findings offer novel insights into the complex dynamics that exist between P. aeruginosa and A. fumigatus Understanding the molecular strategies that enable P. aeruginosa to predominate in an environment where A. fumigatus exists is important in the context of therapeutic development to target this pathogen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anatte Margalit
- Department of Biology, Maynooth University, Maynooth, Co. Kildare, Ireland
| | - James C Carolan
- Department of Biology, Maynooth University, Maynooth, Co. Kildare, Ireland
| | - David Sheehan
- Department of Biology, Maynooth University, Maynooth, Co. Kildare, Ireland
| | - Kevin Kavanagh
- Department of Biology, Maynooth University, Maynooth, Co. Kildare, Ireland.
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17
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Role of Amino Acid Metabolism in the Virulence of Human Pathogenic Fungi. CURRENT CLINICAL MICROBIOLOGY REPORTS 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s40588-019-00124-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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18
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Labram B, Namvar S, Hussell T, Herrick SE. Endothelin-1 mediates Aspergillus fumigatus-induced airway inflammation and remodelling. Clin Exp Allergy 2019; 49:861-873. [PMID: 30737857 PMCID: PMC6563189 DOI: 10.1111/cea.13367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2018] [Revised: 12/21/2018] [Accepted: 01/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Asthma is a chronic inflammatory condition of the airways and patients sensitized to airborne fungi such as Aspergillus fumigatus have more severe asthma. Thickening of the bronchial subepithelial layer is a contributing factor to asthma severity for which no current treatment exists. Airway epithelium acts as an initial defence barrier to inhaled spores, orchestrating an inflammatory response and contributing to subepithelial fibrosis. OBJECTIVE We aimed to analyse the production of pro-fibrogenic factors by airway epithelium in response to A fumigatus, in order to propose novel anti-fibrotic strategies for fungal-induced asthma. METHODS We assessed the induction of key pro-fibrogenic factors, TGF-β1, TGF-β2, periostin and endothelin-1, by human airway epithelial cells and in mice exposed to A fumigatus spores or secreted fungal factors. RESULTS Aspergillus fumigatus specifically caused production of endothelin-1 by epithelial cells in vitro but not any of the other pro-fibrogenic factors assessed. A fumigatus also induced endothelin-1 in murine lungs, associated with extensive inflammation and airway remodelling. Using a selective endothelin-1 receptor antagonist, we demonstrated for the first time that endothelin-1 drives many features of airway remodelling and inflammation elicited by A fumigatus. CONCLUSION Our findings are consistent with the hypothesis that elevated endothelin-1 levels contribute to subepithelial thickening and highlight this factor as a possible therapeutic target for difficult-to-treat fungal-induced asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Briony Labram
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative MedicineFaculty of Biology Medicine and HealthSchool of Biological SciencesUniversity of ManchesterManchesterUK
- Manchester Academic Health Science CentreManchesterUK
| | - Sara Namvar
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative MedicineFaculty of Biology Medicine and HealthSchool of Biological SciencesUniversity of ManchesterManchesterUK
- Manchester Academic Health Science CentreManchesterUK
- Environment and Life SciencesUniversity of SalfordGreater ManchesterUK
| | - Tracy Hussell
- Manchester Academic Health Science CentreManchesterUK
- Manchester Collaborative Centre for Inflammation Research (MCCIR)University of ManchesterManchesterUK
| | - Sarah E. Herrick
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative MedicineFaculty of Biology Medicine and HealthSchool of Biological SciencesUniversity of ManchesterManchesterUK
- Manchester Academic Health Science CentreManchesterUK
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19
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Snyman C, Theron LW, Divol B. Understanding the regulation of extracellular protease gene expression in fungi: a key step towards their biotechnological applications. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2019; 103:5517-5532. [PMID: 31129742 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-019-09902-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2019] [Revised: 05/07/2019] [Accepted: 05/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The secretion of proteases by certain species of yeast and filamentous fungi is of importance not only for their biological function and survival, but also for their biotechnological application to various processes in the food, beverage, and bioprocessing industries. A key step towards understanding the role that these organisms play in their environment, and how their protease-secreting ability may be optimally utilised through industrial applications, involves an evaluation of those factors which influence protease production. The objective of this review is to provide an overview of the findings from investigations directed at elucidating the regulatory mechanisms underlying extracellular protease secretion in yeast and filamentous fungi, and the environmental stimuli that elicit these responses. The influence of nitrogen-, carbon-, and sulphur-containing compounds, as well as proteins, temperature, and pH, on extracellular protease regulation, which is frequently exerted at the transcriptional level, is discussed in particular depth. Protease-secreting organisms of biotechnological interest are also presented in this context, in an effort to explore the areas of industrial significance that could possibly benefit from such knowledge. In this way, the establishment of a platform of existing knowledge regarding fungal protease regulation is attempted, with the particular goal of aiding in the practical application of these organisms to processes that require secretion of this enzyme.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Snyman
- Department of Viticulture and Oenology, Institute for Wine Biotechnology, Private Bag X1, Matieland, 7602, South Africa
| | - L W Theron
- Department of Viticulture and Oenology, Institute for Wine Biotechnology, Private Bag X1, Matieland, 7602, South Africa
| | - B Divol
- Department of Viticulture and Oenology, Institute for Wine Biotechnology, Private Bag X1, Matieland, 7602, South Africa.
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20
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Mat'at'a M, Galádová H, Varečka L, Šimkovič M. The study of intracellular and secreted high-molecular-mass protease(s) of Trichoderma spp., and their responses to conidiation stimuli. Can J Microbiol 2019; 65:653-667. [PMID: 31059650 DOI: 10.1139/cjm-2018-0670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
We continued our study of high-molecular-mass proteases (HMMPs) using several strains of the genus Trichoderma, and other filamentous fungi (Botrytis cinerea, Aspergillus niger, Fusarium culmorum, and Penicillium purpurogenum). We found that five Trichoderma strains secreted HMMPs into the media after induction with bovine serum albumin. Botrytis cinerea and F. culmorum secreted proteases in the absence of inducer, while A. niger or P. purpurogenum did not secrete proteolytic activity (PA). The activity of HMMPs secreted by or intracellularly located in Trichoderma spp. represents the predominant part of cellular PA, according to zymogram patterns. This observation allowed the study of HMMPs' physiological role(s) independent from the secretion. In studying conidiation, we found that illumination significantly stimulated PA in Trichoderma strains. In the T. atroviride IMI 206040 strain, we demonstrated that this stimulation is dependent on the BLR1 and BLR2 receptors. No stimulation of PA was observed when mechanical injury was used as an elicitor of conidiation. Compounds used as inhibitors or activators of conidiation exerted no congruent effects on both PA and conidiation. These results do not favour a direct role of HMMPs in conidiation. Probably, HMMP activity may be involved in the process of the activation of metabolism during vegetative growth, differentiation, and aging-related processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matej Mat'at'a
- Institute of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Faculty of Chemical and Food Technology, Slovak University of Technology, Radlinského 9, 812 37 Bratislava, Slovak Republic.,Institute of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Faculty of Chemical and Food Technology, Slovak University of Technology, Radlinského 9, 812 37 Bratislava, Slovak Republic
| | - Helena Galádová
- Institute of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Faculty of Chemical and Food Technology, Slovak University of Technology, Radlinského 9, 812 37 Bratislava, Slovak Republic.,Institute of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Faculty of Chemical and Food Technology, Slovak University of Technology, Radlinského 9, 812 37 Bratislava, Slovak Republic
| | - L'udovít Varečka
- Institute of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Faculty of Chemical and Food Technology, Slovak University of Technology, Radlinského 9, 812 37 Bratislava, Slovak Republic.,Institute of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Faculty of Chemical and Food Technology, Slovak University of Technology, Radlinského 9, 812 37 Bratislava, Slovak Republic
| | - Martin Šimkovič
- Institute of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Faculty of Chemical and Food Technology, Slovak University of Technology, Radlinského 9, 812 37 Bratislava, Slovak Republic.,Institute of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Faculty of Chemical and Food Technology, Slovak University of Technology, Radlinského 9, 812 37 Bratislava, Slovak Republic
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21
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Ries LNA, Steenwyk JL, de Castro PA, de Lima PBA, Almeida F, de Assis LJ, Manfiolli AO, Takahashi-Nakaguchi A, Kusuya Y, Hagiwara D, Takahashi H, Wang X, Obar JJ, Rokas A, Goldman GH. Nutritional Heterogeneity Among Aspergillus fumigatus Strains Has Consequences for Virulence in a Strain- and Host-Dependent Manner. Front Microbiol 2019; 10:854. [PMID: 31105662 PMCID: PMC6492530 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2019.00854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2019] [Accepted: 04/03/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Acquisition and subsequent metabolism of different carbon and nitrogen sources have been shown to play an important role in virulence attributes of the fungal pathogen Aspergillus fumigatus, such as the secretion of host tissue-damaging proteases and fungal cell wall integrity. We examined the relationship between the metabolic processes of carbon catabolite repression (CCR), nitrogen catabolite repression (NCR) and virulence in a variety of A. fumigatus clinical isolates. A considerable amount of heterogeneity with respect to the degree of CCR and NCR was observed and a positive correlation between NCR and virulence in a neutropenic mouse model of pulmonary aspergillosis (PA) was found. Isolate Afs35 was selected for further analysis and compared to the reference strain A1163, with both strains presenting the same degree of virulence in a neutropenic mouse model of PA. Afs35 metabolome analysis in physiological-relevant carbon sources indicated an accumulation of intracellular sugars that also serve as cell wall polysaccharide precursors. Genome analysis showed an accumulation of missense substitutions in the regulator of protease secretion and in genes encoding enzymes required for cell wall sugar metabolism. Based on these results, the virulence of strains Afs35 and A1163 was assessed in a triamcinolone murine model of PA and found to be significantly different, confirming the known importance of using different mouse models to assess strain-specific pathogenicity. These results highlight the importance of nitrogen metabolism for virulence and provide a detailed example of the heterogeneity that exists between A. fumigatus isolates with consequences for virulence in a strain-specific and host-dependent manner.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jacob L. Steenwyk
- Department of Biological Sciences, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, United States
| | - Patrícia Alves de Castro
- Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Fausto Almeida
- Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Leandro José de Assis
- Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | | | - Yoko Kusuya
- Medical Mycology Research Center, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Daisuke Hagiwara
- Medical Mycology Research Center, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Hiroki Takahashi
- Medical Mycology Research Center, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Xi Wang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Dartmouth Geisel School of Medicine, Lebanon, NH, United States
| | - Joshua J. Obar
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Dartmouth Geisel School of Medicine, Lebanon, NH, United States
| | - Antonis Rokas
- Department of Biological Sciences, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, United States
| | - Gustavo H. Goldman
- Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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22
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Gago S, Denning DW, Bowyer P. Pathophysiological aspects of Aspergillus colonization in disease. Med Mycol 2019; 57:S219-S227. [PMID: 30239804 DOI: 10.1093/mmy/myy076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2018] [Revised: 07/20/2018] [Accepted: 08/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Aspergillus colonization of the lower respiratory airways is common in normal people, and of little clinical significance. However, in some patients, colonization is associated with severe disease including poorly controlled asthma, allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA) with sputum plugs, worse lung function in chronic obstructive pulmonary aspergillosis (COPD), invasive aspergillosis, and active infection in patients with chronic pulmonary aspergillosis (CPA). Therefore, understanding the pathophysiological mechanisms of fungal colonization in disease is essential to develop strategies to avert or minimise disease. Aspergillus cell components promoting fungal adherence to the host surface, extracellular matrix, or basal lamina are indispensable for pathogen persistence. However, our understanding of individual differences in clearance of A. fumigatus from the lung in susceptible patients is close to zero.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Gago
- Manchester Fungal Infection Group, Division of Infection, Immunity and Respiratory Medicine, University of Manchester, CTF Building, 46 Grafton, Street, Manchester M13 9NT, United Kingdom
| | - David W Denning
- Manchester Fungal Infection Group, Division of Infection, Immunity and Respiratory Medicine, University of Manchester, CTF Building, 46 Grafton, Street, Manchester M13 9NT, United Kingdom.,National Aspergillosis Centre, University Hospital of South Manchester NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Paul Bowyer
- Manchester Fungal Infection Group, Division of Infection, Immunity and Respiratory Medicine, University of Manchester, CTF Building, 46 Grafton, Street, Manchester M13 9NT, United Kingdom
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23
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Comparative systems analysis of the secretome of the opportunistic pathogen Aspergillus fumigatus and other Aspergillus species. Sci Rep 2018; 8:6617. [PMID: 29700415 PMCID: PMC5919931 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-25016-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2017] [Accepted: 04/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Aspergillus fumigatus and multiple other Aspergillus species cause a wide range of lung infections, collectively termed aspergillosis. Aspergilli are ubiquitous in environment with healthy immune systems routinely eliminating inhaled conidia, however, Aspergilli can become an opportunistic pathogen in immune-compromised patients. The aspergillosis mortality rate and emergence of drug-resistance reveals an urgent need to identify novel targets. Secreted and cell membrane proteins play a critical role in fungal-host interactions and pathogenesis. Using a computational pipeline integrating data from high-throughput experiments and bioinformatic predictions, we have identified secreted and cell membrane proteins in ten Aspergillus species known to cause aspergillosis. Small secreted and effector-like proteins similar to agents of fungal-plant pathogenesis were also identified within each secretome. A comparison with humans revealed that at least 70% of Aspergillus secretomes have no sequence similarity with the human proteome. An analysis of antigenic qualities of Aspergillus proteins revealed that the secretome is significantly more antigenic than cell membrane proteins or the complete proteome. Finally, overlaying an expression dataset, four A. fumigatus proteins upregulated during infection and with available structures, were found to be structurally similar to known drug target proteins in other organisms, and were able to dock in silico with the respective drug.
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24
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Desoubeaux G, Cray C. Animal Models of Aspergillosis. Comp Med 2018; 68:109-123. [PMID: 29663936 PMCID: PMC5897967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2017] [Revised: 03/29/2017] [Accepted: 07/09/2017] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Aspergillosis is an airborne fungal disease caused by Aspergillus spp., a group of ubiquitous molds. This disease causes high morbidity and mortality in both humans and animals. The growing importance of this infection over recent decades has created a need for practical and reproducible models of aspergillosis. The use of laboratory animals provides a platform to understand fungal virulence and pathophysiology, assess diagnostic tools, and evaluate new antifungal drugs. In this review, we describe the fungus, various Aspergillus-related diseases in humans and animals and various experimental animal models. Overall, we highlight the advantages and limitations of the animal models, the experimental variables that can affect the course of the disease and the reproducibility of infection, and the critical need for standardization of the species, immunosuppressive drugs, route of infection, and diagnostic criteria to use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guillaume Desoubeaux
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Division of Comparative Pathology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, USA; Parasitology-Mycology Service, Tropical Medicine Program, University Hospital of Tours, CEPR - Inserm U1100, Medical Faculty, François Rabelais University, Tours, France
| | - Carolyn Cray
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Division of Comparative Pathology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, USA.,
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Ries LNA, Beattie S, Cramer RA, Goldman GH. Overview of carbon and nitrogen catabolite metabolism in the virulence of human pathogenic fungi. Mol Microbiol 2017; 107:277-297. [PMID: 29197127 DOI: 10.1111/mmi.13887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2017] [Revised: 11/20/2017] [Accepted: 11/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
It is estimated that fungal infections, caused most commonly by Candida albicans, Aspergillus fumigatus and Cryptococcus neoformans, result in more deaths annually than malaria or tuberculosis. It has long been hypothesized the fungal metabolism plays a critical role in virulence though specific nutrient sources utilized by human pathogenic fungi in vivo has remained enigmatic. However, the metabolic utilisation of preferred carbon and nitrogen sources, encountered in a host niche-dependent manner, is known as carbon catabolite and nitrogen catabolite repression (CCR, NCR), and has been shown to be important for virulence. Several sensory and uptake systems exist, including carbon and nitrogen source-specific sensors and transporters, that allow scavenging of preferred nutrient sources. Subsequent metabolic utilisation is governed by transcription factors, whose functions and essentiality differ between fungal species. Furthermore, additional factors exist that contribute to the implementation of CCR and NCR. The role of the CCR and NCR-related factors in virulence varies greatly between fungal species and a substantial gap in knowledge exists regarding specific pathways. Further elucidation of carbon and nitrogen metabolism mechanisms is therefore required in a fungal species- and animal model-specific manner in order to screen for targets that are potential candidates for anti-fungal drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laure Nicolas Annick Ries
- Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Bandeirantes, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, 3900, CEP 14049-900, Brazil
| | - Sarah Beattie
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, 74 College Street Remsen 213, Hanover, NH 03755, USA
| | - Robert A Cramer
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, 74 College Street Remsen 213, Hanover, NH 03755, USA
| | - Gustavo H Goldman
- Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Avenida do Café s/n°, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, CEP 14040903, Brazil
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Boral H, Metin B, Döğen A, Seyedmousavi S, Ilkit M. Overview of selected virulence attributes in Aspergillus fumigatus, Candida albicans, Cryptococcus neoformans, Trichophyton rubrum, and Exophiala dermatitidis. Fungal Genet Biol 2017; 111:92-107. [PMID: 29102684 DOI: 10.1016/j.fgb.2017.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2017] [Revised: 10/24/2017] [Accepted: 10/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The incidence of fungal diseases has been increasing since 1980, and is associated with excessive morbidity and mortality, particularly among immunosuppressed patients. Of the known 625 pathogenic fungal species, infections caused by the genera Aspergillus, Candida, Cryptococcus, and Trichophyton are responsible for more than 300 million estimated episodes of acute or chronic infections worldwide. In addition, a rather neglected group of opportunistic fungi known as black yeasts and their filamentous relatives cause a wide variety of recalcitrant infections in both immunocompetent and immunosuppressed hosts. This article provides an overview of selected virulence factors that are known to suppress host immunity and enhance the infectivity of these fungi.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hazal Boral
- Division of Mycology, Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Çukurova, Adana, Turkey
| | - Banu Metin
- Department of Food Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Istanbul Sabahattin Zaim University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Aylin Döğen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Mersin, Mersin, Turkey
| | - Seyedmojtaba Seyedmousavi
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands; Invasive Fungi Research Center, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran; Center of Excellence for Infection Biology and Antimicrobial Pharmacology, Tehran, Iran
| | - Macit Ilkit
- Division of Mycology, Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Çukurova, Adana, Turkey.
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Souza PM, Werneck G, Aliakbarian B, Siqueira F, Ferreira Filho EX, Perego P, Converti A, Magalhães PO, Junior AP. Production, purification and characterization of an aspartic protease from Aspergillus foetidus. Food Chem Toxicol 2017; 109:1103-1110. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2017.03.055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2017] [Revised: 03/21/2017] [Accepted: 03/23/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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van Rijt LS, Utsch L, Lutter R, van Ree R. Oxidative Stress: Promoter of Allergic Sensitization to Protease Allergens? Int J Mol Sci 2017; 18:ijms18061112. [PMID: 28545251 PMCID: PMC5485936 DOI: 10.3390/ijms18061112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2017] [Revised: 05/19/2017] [Accepted: 05/19/2017] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Allergies arise from aberrant T helper type 2 responses to allergens. Several respiratory allergens possess proteolytic activity, which has been recognized to act as an adjuvant for the development of a Th2 response. Allergen source-derived proteases can activate the protease-activated receptor-2, have specific effects on immune cells by cleaving cell membrane-bound regulatory molecules, and can disrupt tight junctions. The protease activity can induce a non-allergen-specific inflammatory response in the airways, which will set the stage for an allergen-specific Th2 response. In this review, we will discuss the evidence for the induction of oxidative stress as an underlying mechanism in Th2 sensitization to proteolytic allergens. We will discuss recent data linking the proteolytic activity of an allergen to its potential to induce oxidative stress and how this can facilitate allergic sensitization. Based on experimental data, we propose that a less proficient anti-oxidant response to allergen-induced oxidative stress contributes to the susceptibility to allergic sensitization. Besides the effect of oxidative stress on the immune response, we will also discuss how oxidative stress can increase the immunogenicity of an allergen by chemical modification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonie S van Rijt
- Department of Experimental Immunology, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Lara Utsch
- Department of Experimental Immunology, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - René Lutter
- Department of Experimental Immunology, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Ronald van Ree
- Department of Experimental Immunology, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
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Proteomics as a Tool to Identify New Targets Against Aspergillus and Scedosporium in the Context of Cystic Fibrosis. Mycopathologia 2017; 183:273-289. [PMID: 28484941 DOI: 10.1007/s11046-017-0139-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2017] [Accepted: 04/25/2017] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a genetic disorder that increases the risk of suffering microbial, including fungal, infections. In this paper, proteomics-based information was collated relating to secreted and cell wall proteins with potential medical applications from the most common filamentous fungi in CF, i.e., Aspergillus and Scedosporium/Lomentospora species. Among the Aspergillus fumigatus secreted allergens, β-1,3-endoglucanase, the alkaline protease 1 (Alp1/oryzin), Asp f 2, Asp f 13/15, chitinase, chitosanase, dipeptidyl-peptidase V (DppV), the metalloprotease Asp f 5, mitogillin/Asp f 1, and thioredoxin reductase receive a special mention. In addition, the antigens β-glucosidase 1, catalase, glucan endo-1,3-β-glucosidase EglC, β-1,3-glucanosyltransferases Gel1 and Gel2, and glutaminase A were also identified in secretomes of other Aspergillus species associated with CF: Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus nidulans, and Aspergillus terreus. Regarding cell wall proteins, cytochrome P450 and eEF-3 were proposed as diagnostic targets, and alkaline protease 2 (Alp2), Asp f 3 (putative peroxiredoxin pmp20), probable glycosidases Asp f 9/Crf1 and Crf2, GPI-anchored protein Ecm33, β-1,3-glucanosyltransferase Gel4, conidial hydrophobin Hyp1/RodA, and secreted aspartyl protease Pep2 as protective vaccines in A. fumigatus. On the other hand, for Scedosporium/Lomentospora species, the heat shock protein Hsp70 stands out as a relevant secreted and cell wall antigen. Additionally, the secreted aspartyl proteinase and an ortholog of Asp f 13, as well as the cell wall endo-1,3-β-D-glucosidase and 1,3-β-glucanosyl transferase, were also found to be significant proteins. In conclusion, proteins mentioned in this review may be promising candidates for developing innovative diagnostic and therapeutic tools for fungal infections in CF patients.
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Han Z, Kautto L, Nevalainen H. Secretion of Proteases by an Opportunistic Fungal Pathogen Scedosporium aurantiacum. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0169403. [PMID: 28060882 PMCID: PMC5218550 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0169403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2016] [Accepted: 12/16/2016] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Scedosporium aurantiacum is an opportunistic filamentous fungus increasingly isolated from the sputum of cystic fibrosis patients, and is especially prevalent in Australia. At the moment, very little is known about the infection mechanism of this fungus. Secreted proteases have been shown to contribute to fungal virulence in several studies with other fungi. Here we have compared the profiles of proteases secreted by a clinical isolate Scedosporium aurantiacum (WM 06.482) and an environmental strain (WM 10.136) grown on a synthetic cystic fibrosis sputum medium supplemented with casein or mucin. Protease activity was assessed using class-specific substrates and inhibitors. Subtilisin-like and trypsin-like serine protease activity was detected in all cultures. The greatest difference in the secretion of proteases between the two strains occurred in mucin-supplemented medium, where the activities of the elastase-like, trypsin-like and aspartic proteases were, overall, 2.5–75 fold higher in the clinical strain compared to the environmental strain. Proteases secreted by the two strains in the mucin-supplemented medium were further analyzed by mass spectrometry. Six homologs of fungal proteases were identified from the clinical strain and five from the environmental strain. Of these, three were common for both strains including a subtilisin peptidase, a putative leucine aminopeptidase and a PA-SaNapH-like protease. Trypsin-like protease was identified by mass spectrometry only in the clinical isolate even though trypsin-like activity was present in all cultures. In contrast, high elastase-like activity was measured in the culture supernatant of the clinical strain but could not be identified by mass spectrometry searching against other fungi in the NCBI database. Future availability of an annotated genome will help finalise identification of the S. aurantiacum proteases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiping Han
- Department of Chemistry and Biomolecular Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
- Biomolecular Frontiers Research Centre, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
- * E-mail:
| | - Liisa Kautto
- Department of Chemistry and Biomolecular Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
- Biomolecular Frontiers Research Centre, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Helena Nevalainen
- Department of Chemistry and Biomolecular Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
- Biomolecular Frontiers Research Centre, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
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Moloney NM, Owens RA, Doyle S. Proteomic analysis of Aspergillus fumigatus – clinical implications. Expert Rev Proteomics 2016; 13:635-49. [DOI: 10.1080/14789450.2016.1203783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Sean Doyle
- Department of Biology, Maynooth University, Maynooth, Ireland
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Antibacterial Activity of Extracellular Protease Isolated From an Algicolous Fungus Xylaria psidii KT30 Against Gram-Positive Bacteria. HAYATI JOURNAL OF BIOSCIENCES 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.hjb.2016.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
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Namvar S, Warn P, Farnell E, Bromley M, Fraczek M, Bowyer P, Herrick S. Aspergillus fumigatus proteases, Asp f 5 and Asp f 13, are essential for airway inflammation and remodelling in a murine inhalation model. Clin Exp Allergy 2016; 45:982-993. [PMID: 25270353 DOI: 10.1111/cea.12426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2014] [Revised: 07/21/2014] [Accepted: 09/10/2014] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In susceptible individuals, exposure to Aspergillus fumigatus can lead to the development of atopic lung diseases such as allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA) and severe asthma with fungal sensitization (SAFS). Protease allergens including Asp f 5 and Asp f 13 from Aspergillus fumigatus are thought to be important for initiation and progression of allergic asthma. OBJECTIVE To assess the importance of secreted protease allergens Asp f 5 (matrix metalloprotease) and Asp f 13 (serine protease) in Aspergillus fumigatus-induced inflammation, airway hyperactivity, atopy and airway wall remodelling in a murine model following chronic exposure to secreted allergens. METHODS BALB/c mice were repeatedly intranasally dosed over the course of 5 weeks with culture filtrate from wild-type (WT), Asp f 5 null (∆5) or Asp f 13 null (∆13) strains of Aspergillus fumigatus. Airway hyper-reactivity was measured by non-invasive whole-body plethysmography, Th2 response and airway inflammation by ELISA and cell counts, whilst airway remodelling was assessed by histological analysis. RESULTS Parent WT and ∆5 culture filtrates showed high protease activity, whilst protease activity in ∆13 culture filtrate was low. Chronic intranasal exposure to the three different filtrates led to comparable airway hyper-reactivity and Th2 response. However, protease allergen deleted strains, in particular ∆13 culture filtrate, induced significantly less airway inflammation and remodelling compared to WT culture filtrate. CONCLUSION Aspergillus fumigatus-secreted allergen proteases, Asp f 5 and Asp f 13, are important for recruitment of inflammatory cells and remodelling of the airways in this murine model. However, deletion of a single allergen protease fails to alleviate airway hyper-reactivity and allergic immune response. Targeting protease activity of Aspergillus fumigatus in conditions such as SAFS or ABPA may have beneficial effects in preventing key aspects of airway pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Namvar
- Inflammation and Repair, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - P Warn
- Inflammation and Repair, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - E Farnell
- Inflammation and Repair, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - M Bromley
- Inflammation and Repair, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - M Fraczek
- Inflammation and Repair, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - P Bowyer
- Inflammation and Repair, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - S Herrick
- Inflammation and Repair, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
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de Castro RJS, Soares MH, Albernaz JRM, Sato HH. Biochemical characterization of solvent, salt, surfactant and oxidizing agent tolerant proteases from Aspergillus niger produced in different agroindustrial wastes. BIOCATALYSIS AND AGRICULTURAL BIOTECHNOLOGY 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bcab.2015.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Carnés J, Iraola V, Gallego M, Leonor JR. Control Process for Manufacturing and Standardization of Allergenic Molecules. Curr Allergy Asthma Rep 2015; 15:37. [PMID: 26143393 DOI: 10.1007/s11882-015-0541-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
It is widely accepted that the success of the allergen immunotherapy (AIT), beyond clinical parameters such as dose, dosage regimen, or compliance, depends on the quality and composition of the final products used in the vaccines. Allergenic vaccines are pharmaceutical preparations derived from the natural sources which contain the allergenic components responsible for allergic sensitization. The selection of the appropriate allergenic sources must be a requirement. They suffer a dramatic transformation during the manufacturing process which renders a biologically standardized final product. The inclusion of the appropriate control analyses in the manufacturing process has demonstrated to be an efficient method to guarantee the quality and homogeneity of the final product as well as being a very useful tool for saving time and money. In this context, in the last years, the Regulatory Agencies have released specific guidelines to guarantee the manufacturing of the most appropriate products for the treatment of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jerónimo Carnés
- R&D Department, Laboratorios LETI SLu, C/ Sol n° 5, Tres Cantos, Madrid, Spain,
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Moreira AS, Silva D, Ferreira AR, Delgado L. Antifungal treatment in allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis with and without cystic fibrosis: a systematic review. Clin Exp Allergy 2015; 44:1210-27. [PMID: 24809846 DOI: 10.1111/cea.12333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA) is a rare disease that affects patients with asthma or cystic fibrosis. Its debilitating course has led to the search for new treatments, including antifungals and monoclonal antibodies. To evaluate the efficacy and safety of antifungal treatments in patients with ABPA and either asthma or cystic fibrosis, we performed a systematic review of the literature on the effects of antifungal agents in ABPA using three biomedical databases. Quality assessment was performed using the GRADE methodology and, where appropriate, studies with comparable outcomes were pooled for meta-analysis. Thirty-eight studies - four randomized controlled trials and 34 observational studies - met the eligibility criteria. The antifungal interventions described were itraconazole, voriconazole, posaconazole, ketoconazole, natamycin, nystatin and amphotericin B. An improvement in symptoms, frequency of exacerbations and lung function was reported in most of the studies and was more common with oral azoles. Antifungals also had a positive impact on biomarkers and radiological pulmonary infiltrates, but adverse effects were also common. The quality of the evidence supporting these results was low or very low due to a shortage of controlled studies, heterogeneity between studies and potential bias. Antifungal interventions in ABPA improved patient and disease outcomes in both asthma and cystic fibrosis. However, the recommendation for their use is weak and clinicians should therefore weigh up desirable and undesirable effects on a case-by-case basis. More studies with a better methodology are needed, especially in cystic fibrosis, to increase confidence in the effects of antifungal treatments in ABPA.
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Affiliation(s)
- A S Moreira
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
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de Castro RJS, Ohara A, Nishide TG, Albernaz JRM, Soares MH, Sato HH. A new approach for proteases production by Aspergillus niger based on the kinetic and thermodynamic parameters of the enzymes obtained. BIOCATALYSIS AND AGRICULTURAL BIOTECHNOLOGY 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bcab.2014.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
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Sueiro-Olivares M, Fernandez-Molina JV, Abad-Diaz-de-Cerio A, Gorospe E, Pascual E, Guruceaga X, Ramirez-Garcia A, Garaizar J, Hernando FL, Margareto J, Rementeria A. Aspergillus fumigatus transcriptome response to a higher temperature during the earliest steps of germination monitored using a new customized expression microarray. MICROBIOLOGY-SGM 2014; 161:490-502. [PMID: 25536999 DOI: 10.1099/mic.0.000021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Aspergillus fumigatus is considered to be the most prevalent airborne pathogenic fungus and can cause invasive diseases in immunocompromised patients. It is known that its virulence is multifactorial, although the mechanisms of pathogenicity remain unclear. With the aim of improving our understanding of these mechanisms, we designed a new expression microarray covering the entire genome of A. fumigatus. In this first study, we analysed the transcriptomes of this fungus at the first steps of germination after being grown at 24 and 37 °C. The microarray data revealed that 1249 genes were differentially expressed during growth at these two temperatures. According to our results, A. fumigatus modified significantly the expression of genes related to metabolism to adapt to new conditions. The high percentages of genes that encoded hypothetical or unclassified proteins differentially expressed implied that many as yet unknown genes were involved in the establishment of A. fumigatus infection. Furthermore, amongst the genes implicated in virulence upregulated at 37 °C on the microarray, we found those that encoded proteins mainly related to allergens (Asp F1, Asp F2 and MnSOD), gliotoxin biosynthesis (GliP and GliZ), nitrogen (NiiA and NiaD) or iron (HapX, SreA, SidD and SidC) metabolism. However, gene expression in iron and nitrogen metabolism might be influenced not only by heat shock, but also by the availability of nutrients in the medium, as shown by the addition of fresh medium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mónica Sueiro-Olivares
- Department of Immunology, Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Spain
| | - Jimena V Fernandez-Molina
- Department of Immunology, Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Spain
| | - Ana Abad-Diaz-de-Cerio
- Department of Immunology, Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Spain
| | - Eva Gorospe
- Tecnalia Research & Innovation, 48160 Derio, Spain
| | | | - Xabier Guruceaga
- Department of Immunology, Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Spain
| | - Andoni Ramirez-Garcia
- Department of Immunology, Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Spain
| | - Javier Garaizar
- Department of Immunology, Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Spain
| | - Fernando L Hernando
- Department of Immunology, Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Spain
| | | | - Aitor Rementeria
- Department of Immunology, Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Spain
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de Castro RJS, Nishide TG, Sato HH. Production and biochemical properties of proteases secreted by Aspergillus niger under solid state fermentation in response to different agroindustrial substrates. BIOCATALYSIS AND AGRICULTURAL BIOTECHNOLOGY 2014. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bcab.2014.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
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40
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Arsic Arsenijevic VS, Pekmezovic MG, Rajkovic KM, Vekic BP, Barac AM, Tasic-Otasevic S, Petkovic LD. In vitro protease inhibition and cytotoxicity of Aspergillus fumigatus biomolecules secreted under long-term aerated conditions. Int J Med Sci 2014; 11:1133-9. [PMID: 25170296 PMCID: PMC4147639 DOI: 10.7150/ijms.8325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2013] [Accepted: 07/01/2014] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The fatality rate of invasive aspergillosis (IA) is still very high, especially in prolonged and untreated pulmonary cases. Aspergillus fumigatus is the main causative agent of IA and investigation of its metabolites could provide valuable insight into virulence factor(s) associated with this organism. We evaluated the A. fumigatus culture filtrate (CF) products generated during short- and long-term aerated and non-aerated conditions and tested for (i) inhibition of cysteine or serine proteases and (ii) cytotoxicity. In addition, the mathematical model was determined using response surface methodology (RSM) to estimate the influence of different fermentation conditions on A. fumigatus CF characteristics, predict enzyme inhibition and make possible correlations with in vivo conditions. Biosynthesis of A. fumigatus low molecular weight proteinaceous products (from 6.4 to 15.4 kDa) was observed after 6 days of growth under aerated and alkaline conditions. Also, only these CFs showed significant reduction in cell lines survival (Caco-2 and WISH 35.6% and 54.6%, respectively). Obtained results provide solid starting point for further studies that would include: (i) detailed chemical characterization of A. fumigatus CF, (ii) activity relationships and in vivo correlation with pathogenicity of prolonged pulmonary IA and (iii) possible use of biomolecules as diagnostic or therapeutic markers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina S. Arsic Arsenijevic
- 1. National Reference Medical Mycology Laboratory, Institute of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, dr Subotića 1, 11 000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Marina G. Pekmezovic
- 1. National Reference Medical Mycology Laboratory, Institute of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, dr Subotića 1, 11 000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Katarina M. Rajkovic
- 2. High Chemical and Technological School for Professional Studies, Kosančićeva 36, 37 000 Kruševac, Serbia
| | - Berislav P. Vekic
- 3. Clinical Centre “Dr Dragiša Mišović” Department of Surgery, Milana Tepića 1, 11 000 Belgrade, Serbia
- 4. University of Alfa, Palmira Toljatija 3, 11 000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Aleksandra M. Barac
- 1. National Reference Medical Mycology Laboratory, Institute of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, dr Subotića 1, 11 000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Suzana Tasic-Otasevic
- 5. Institute of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Nis, Bulevar Dr Zorana Djindjica 81, 18000 Nis, Serbia
| | - Ljubica Dj. Petkovic
- 6. Institute of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Zaloška 4, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
- 7. Gynecology Department Grajska ulica 24, 9000 Murska Sobota, Slovenia
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Troiano F, Polo A, Villa F, Cappitelli F. Assessing the microbiological risk to stored sixteenth century parchment manuscripts: a holistic approach based on molecular and environmental studies. BIOFOULING 2014; 30:299-311. [PMID: 24552245 DOI: 10.1080/08927014.2013.871539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
The microbial risk for the conservation of seven sixteenth century parchment manuscripts, which showed brown discolouration putatively caused by microorganisms, was evaluated using non-invasive sampling techniques, microscopy, studies of surface-associated and airborne microflora with culture-independent molecular methods, and by measuring repository thermo-hygrometric values. Microscopic observations and ATP assays demonstrated a low level of contamination, indicating that the discolouration was not related to currently active microbial colonisation. Nevertheless, a culture-independent molecular approach was adopted to fully characterise surface-associated communities searching for biodeteriogens that could grow under appropriate thermo-hygrometric conditions. Indeed, potential biodeteriogens and microorganisms that are ecologically related to humans were found, suggesting the need to control the conservation environment and improve handling procedures. Microbial loads of air and thermo-hygrometric measurements showed that the repository was not suitable for preventing the microbial deterioration of parchment. A holistic approach to the assessment of risk of microbial deterioration of documents and heritage preservation is proposed for the first time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Troiano
- a a Dipartimento di Scienze per gli Alimenti, la Nutrizione e l'Ambiente (DeFENS) , Università degli Studi di Milano , Milan , Italy
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Krishnan K, Askew DS. The fungal UPR: a regulatory hub for virulence traits in the mold pathogen Aspergillus fumigatus. Virulence 2013; 5:334-40. [PMID: 24189125 PMCID: PMC3956511 DOI: 10.4161/viru.26571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Aspergillus fumigatus is an opportunistic pathogen that is responsible for a life-threatening fungal infection known as invasive aspergillosis. Current therapies for the treatment of this disease continue to be associated with a poor outcome, so there is a need for more information about aspects of the fungus-host interaction that could offer novel targets for drug intervention. One attractive possibility is the unfolded protein response (UPR), an intracellular signaling network that helps the fungus meet the demand for secretion in the host environment. The major function of the UPR is to mitigate ER stress by maintaining an equilibrium between the load of client proteins entering the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and the protein folding capacity of the organelle. However, recent findings suggest that A. fumigatus, as well as several other pathogenic fungi, also rely upon this pathway for virulence. In this review, we provide an update on the A. fumigatus UPR, discuss emerging evidence that the UPR is situated at the nexus of a number of physiological functions that are vital for the virulence of this fungus, and suggest exciting possibilities for future therapeutic targeting of this pathway for the treatment of aspergillosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karthik Krishnan
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine; University of Cincinnati College of Medicine; Cincinnati, OH USA
| | - David S Askew
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine; University of Cincinnati College of Medicine; Cincinnati, OH USA
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Wickström C, Chávez de Paz L, Davies JR, Svensäter G. Surface-associated MUC5B mucins promote protease activity in Lactobacillus fermentum biofilms. BMC Oral Health 2013; 13:43. [PMID: 24010726 PMCID: PMC3847627 DOI: 10.1186/1472-6831-13-43] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2013] [Accepted: 08/30/2013] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mucosal surfaces are coated with layers of mucus gel that protect the underlying tissues and promote colonization by members of the commensal microflora. Lactobacillus fermentum is a common inhabitant of the oral cavity, gastrointestinal and reproductive tracts and is one of the most important lactic acid bacteria contributing to the formation of a healthy intestinal microflora. We have investigated the proteolytic activity in L. fermentum in response to interactions with the MUC5B mucin, which is a major component of mucus gels at sites colonized by this micro-organism. METHODS Biofilms of Lactobacillus fermentum were established in mini-flow cells in the presence or absence of human salivary MUC5B. The proteolytic activity of biofilm cells was examined in a confocal scanning laser microscope with a fluorescent protease substrate. Degradation of MUC5B by L. fermentum was analysed using SDS-PAGE followed by Western blotting with antisera raised against the MUC5B peptide. Cell surface proteins differentialy expressed in a MUC5B-rich environment were identified with the aid of comparative two-dimensional electrophoresis followed by LC-MS/MS. RESULTS Lactobacillus fermentum adhered well to surfaces coated with MUC5B mucin and in biofilms of L. fermentum formed in a MUC5B environment, the proportion of proteolytically-active cells (47 ± 0.6% of the population), as shown by cleavage of a fluorescent casein substrate, was significantly greater (p < 0.01) than that in biofilms formed in nutrient broth (0.4 ± 0.04% of the population). Thus, the presence of MUC5B mucins enhanced bacterial protease activity. This effect was mainly attributable to contact with surface-associated mucins rather than those present in the fluid phase. Biofilms of L. fermentum were capable of degrading MUC5B mucins suggesting that this complex glycoprotein can be exploited as a nutrient source by the bacteria.Comparison of the surface proteomes of biofilm cells of L. fermentum in a MUC5B environment with those in nutrient broth using two-dimensional electrophoresis and mass spectroscopy, showed that the enhanced proteolytic activity was associated with increased expression of a glycoprotease; O-sialoglycoprotein endopeptidase, as well as chaperone proteins such as DnaK and trigger factor. CONCLUSIONS Adhesion to mucin-coated surfaces leads to a shift towards a more protease-active phenotype within L. fermentum biofilms and proteases produced within the biofilms can degrade MUC5B mucins. The enhanced proteolytic activity was associated with an increase in O-sialoglycoprotein endopeptidase on the cell surface. We propose that the upregulation of chaperone proteins in the mucin environment may contribute to the protease-active phenotype through activation of the glycopeptidase. This would represent one way for commensal lactobacilli e.g. L. fermentum to exploit complex substrates in their local environment in order to survive on mucosal surfaces.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claes Wickström
- Department of Oral Biology, Faculty of Odontology, Malmö University, Malmö 20506, SE, Sweden.
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