1
|
Cao Y, Yuan S, Pang L, Xie J, Gao Y, Zhang J, Zhao Z, Yao S. Study on microbial diversity of washing machines. Biodegradation 2024:10.1007/s10532-023-10069-8. [PMID: 38733426 DOI: 10.1007/s10532-023-10069-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2024]
Abstract
Health and environmental protection are the development trend of household appliances, coupled with the impact of the COVID-19 epidemic in the past few years. Consumers have unprecedented concerns and expectations about the sterilization and disinfection functions of household appliances. As a washing and nursing equipment for household clothes, the anti-bacterial technology of washing machine has developed rapidly. The new models of washing machines in the market have basically added the function of sterilization. In order to thoroughly solve the problem of sterilization and bacteriostasis of washing machines from the source, the distribution of microbial contamination in washing machines should be fully investigated. At present, there is almost no systematic study on the microbial community structure in washing machines in China. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to analyze the bacterial community structure in Chinese household washing machines. To explore the key factors affecting the bacterial community structure of washing machines. Bacterial communities were comprehensively analyzed by high throughput sequencing. Using chao and shannon indexes as indicators, one-way ANOVA was used to explore the key factors affecting the bacterial community structure of washing machines. A total of 2,882,778 tags and 21,265 OTUs from 522 genera were sequenced from 56 washing machine samples. Genus Mycobacterium, Pseudomonas, Brevundimonas, Sphingomonas, Sphingobium, Enhydrobacter, Methylobacterium, Pseudoxanthomonas, Stenotrophomonas and Sphingopyxis were the top ten bacteria genera in abundance. The effects of sources, types, frequency of utilization, sampling locations and service life of washing machines on bacterial diversity in washing machine were systematically analyzed. The statistical analysis showed that service life was an important factor affecting bacterial diversity in washing machine. Our study lays a foundation for directional screening of characteristic microorganisms with targeted characters including malodor-producing, fouling, pathogenic and stress-resistance, the antibacterial evaluation, metabolic mechanism of key characteristic microorganisms as well as antibacterial materials development. At present, the sterilization technology of washing machines has not been fully in combination with the distribution survey of microorganisms in washing machines. According to the specific microorganism distribution condition of the washing machine, the key distribution positions and the types of specific microorganisms contained in different positions, conduct more targeted sterilization treatment. This will help to completely solve the problem of microbial growth in washing machines from the source.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yunyi Cao
- Wuxi Little Swan Electric Co., Ltd., Wuxi, China
| | - Shuai Yuan
- China Standardization Technology Service (Qingdao) Co., Ltd., Qingdao, China
| | - Lingling Pang
- China Standardization Technology Service (Qingdao) Co., Ltd., Qingdao, China.
| | - Jiuyan Xie
- China Center of Industrial Culture Collection (CICC), China National Research Institute of Food and Fermentation Industries, Beijing, China
| | - Yi Gao
- China Center of Industrial Culture Collection (CICC), China National Research Institute of Food and Fermentation Industries, Beijing, China
| | - Jian Zhang
- China Center of Industrial Culture Collection (CICC), China National Research Institute of Food and Fermentation Industries, Beijing, China
| | - Zhenyao Zhao
- China Center of Industrial Culture Collection (CICC), China National Research Institute of Food and Fermentation Industries, Beijing, China
| | - Su Yao
- China Center of Industrial Culture Collection (CICC), China National Research Institute of Food and Fermentation Industries, Beijing, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Anh Nga NT, Fathima H A, Alahmadi TA. Assessment of possible biomedical applications of green synthesized TiO 2NPs-an in-vitro approach. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 248:118278. [PMID: 38246297 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2024.118278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2023] [Revised: 01/13/2024] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
Biomedical applications for various types of nanoparticles are emerging on a daily basis. Hence this research was performed to evaluate the antifungal (Aspergillus sp., Alternaria sp., Trichophyton sp., Candida sp., and Penicillium sp.), cytotoxicity (MCF10A cell lines), and antioxidant (DPPH) potential of Coleus aromaticus mediated and pre-characterized TiO2NPs were studied with respective standard methodology. Interestingly, the TiO2NPs exhibited significant antifungal activity on pathogenic fungal strains like Alternaria sp., Aspergillus sp. (31 ± 1.4), Penicillium sp. (31 ± 1.9) Trichophyton sp. (27 ± 2.1), and Candida sp. (26 ± 2.3) at high concentration (250 μg mL-1). However, the considerable levels of zone of inhibitions on fungal pathogens were recorded at 100 μg mL-1 of TiO2NPs as well as it was considerably greater than positive control. It also demonstrated dose based anti-inflammatory and antidiabetic activities. The plant-mediated TiO2NPs demonstrated a maximum DPPH scavenging efficiency of 91% at a dosage of 250 μg mL-1, comparable to the positive control's 94%. Furthermore, TiO2NPs at 100 μg mL-1 concentration did not cause cytotoxicity in MCF10A cell lines. At higher concentrations (250 μg mL-1), the nanoparticles showed the lowest cytotoxicity (17%). These findings suggest that C. aromaticus-mediated TiO2NPs have significant biomedical applications. However, in-vivo studies are needed to learn more about their (C. aromaticus-mediated TiO2NPs) potential biomedical applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nguyen Thi Anh Nga
- Biomaterials and Nanotechnology Research Group, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Ton Duc Thang University, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
| | - Aafreen Fathima H
- Center for Global Health Research, Saveetha Medical College, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, India
| | - Tahani Awad Alahmadi
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine and King Khalid University Hospital, King Saud University, Medical City, PO Box-2925, Riyadh, 11461, Saudi Arabia
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Rensink S, van Nieuwenhuijzen EJ, Sailer MF, Struck C, Wösten HAB. Use of Aureobasidium in a sustainable economy. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2024; 108:202. [PMID: 38349550 PMCID: PMC10864419 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-024-13025-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/15/2024]
Abstract
Aureobasidium is omnipresent and can be isolated from air, water bodies, soil, wood, and other plant materials, as well as inorganic materials such as rocks and marble. A total of 32 species of this fungal genus have been identified at the level of DNA, of which Aureobasidium pullulans is best known. Aureobasidium is of interest for a sustainable economy because it can be used to produce a wide variety of compounds, including enzymes, polysaccharides, and biosurfactants. Moreover, it can be used to promote plant growth and protect wood and crops. To this end, Aureobasidium cells adhere to wood or plants by producing extracellular polysaccharides, thereby forming a biofilm. This biofilm provides a sustainable alternative to petrol-based coatings and toxic chemicals. This and the fact that Aureobasidium biofilms have the potential of self-repair make them a potential engineered living material avant la lettre. KEY POINTS: •Aureobasidium produces products of interest to the industry •Aureobasidium can stimulate plant growth and protect crops •Biofinish of A. pullulans is a sustainable alternative to petrol-based coatings •Aureobasidium biofilms have the potential to function as engineered living materials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Rensink
- Department of Biology, Microbiology, Utrecht University, Padualaan 8, 3584 CH, Utrecht, the Netherlands.
- Department of Business, Building and Technology, Sustainable Building Technology, Saxion University of Applied Sciences, M.H. Tromplaan 28, 7513 AB, Enschede, the Netherlands.
| | - Elke J van Nieuwenhuijzen
- Faculty of Technology, Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences, Rhijnspoorplein 2, 1091 GC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Michael F Sailer
- Department of Business, Building and Technology, Sustainable Building Technology, Saxion University of Applied Sciences, M.H. Tromplaan 28, 7513 AB, Enschede, the Netherlands
| | - Christian Struck
- Department of Business, Building and Technology, Sustainable Building Technology, Saxion University of Applied Sciences, M.H. Tromplaan 28, 7513 AB, Enschede, the Netherlands
| | - Han A B Wösten
- Department of Biology, Microbiology, Utrecht University, Padualaan 8, 3584 CH, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Chen T, Zhang S, Yang J, Li Y, Kogure E, Zhu Y, Xiong W, Chen E, Shi G. Metabarcoding Analysis of Microorganisms Inside Household Washing Machines in Shanghai, China. Microorganisms 2024; 12:160. [PMID: 38257987 PMCID: PMC10819172 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms12010160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Revised: 12/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Washing machines are one of the tools that bring great convenience to people's daily lives. However, washing machines that have been used for a long time often develop issues such as odor and mold, which can pose health hazards to consumers. There exists a conspicuous gap in our understanding of the microorganisms that inhabit the inner workings of washing machines. In this study, samples were collected from 22 washing machines in Shanghai, China, including both water eluted from different parts of washing machines and biofilms. Quantitative qualitative analysis was performed using fluorescence PCR quantification, and microbial communities were characterized by high-throughput sequencing (HTS). This showed that the microbial communities in all samples were predominantly composed of bacteria. HTS results showed that in the eluted water samples, the bacteria mainly included Pseudomonas, Enhydrobacter, Brevibacterium, and Acinetobacter. Conversely, in the biofilm samples, Enhydrobacter and Brevibacterium were the predominant bacterial microorganisms. Correlation analysis results revealed that microbial colonies in washing machines were significantly correlated with years of use and the type of detergent used to clean the washing machine. As numerous pathogenic microorganisms can be observed in the results, effective preventive measures and future research are essential to mitigate these health problems and ensure the continued safe use of these household appliances.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tong Chen
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Biotechnology, Ministry of Education, School of Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
- KAO (China) Research and Development Center, No. 623, Ziri Road, Minhang District, Shanghai 100098, China (Y.Z.); (W.X.); (E.C.)
- National Engineering Research Center for Cereal Fermentation and Food Biomanufacturing, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214000, China
- Jiangsu Provincial Research Center for Bioactive Product Processing Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Shu Zhang
- KAO (China) Research and Development Center, No. 623, Ziri Road, Minhang District, Shanghai 100098, China (Y.Z.); (W.X.); (E.C.)
| | - Juan Yang
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Biotechnology, Ministry of Education, School of Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
- National Engineering Research Center for Cereal Fermentation and Food Biomanufacturing, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214000, China
- Jiangsu Provincial Research Center for Bioactive Product Processing Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Youran Li
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Biotechnology, Ministry of Education, School of Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
- National Engineering Research Center for Cereal Fermentation and Food Biomanufacturing, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214000, China
- Jiangsu Provincial Research Center for Bioactive Product Processing Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Eiichi Kogure
- Kao Corporation, 1334, Minato, Wakayama 640-8580, Japan
| | - Ye Zhu
- KAO (China) Research and Development Center, No. 623, Ziri Road, Minhang District, Shanghai 100098, China (Y.Z.); (W.X.); (E.C.)
| | - Weiqi Xiong
- KAO (China) Research and Development Center, No. 623, Ziri Road, Minhang District, Shanghai 100098, China (Y.Z.); (W.X.); (E.C.)
| | - Enhui Chen
- KAO (China) Research and Development Center, No. 623, Ziri Road, Minhang District, Shanghai 100098, China (Y.Z.); (W.X.); (E.C.)
| | - Guiyang Shi
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Biotechnology, Ministry of Education, School of Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
- National Engineering Research Center for Cereal Fermentation and Food Biomanufacturing, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214000, China
- Jiangsu Provincial Research Center for Bioactive Product Processing Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Satari L, Iglesias A, Porcar M. The Microbiome of Things: Appliances, Machines, and Devices Hosting Artificial Niche-Adapted Microbial Communities. Microorganisms 2023; 11:1507. [PMID: 37375009 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11061507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Revised: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
As it is the case with natural substrates, artificial surfaces of man-made devices are home to a myriad of microbial species. Artificial products are not necessarily characterized by human-associated microbiomes; instead, they can present original microbial populations shaped by specific environmental-often extreme-selection pressures. This review provides a detailed insight into the microbial ecology of a range of artificial devices, machines, and appliances, which we argue are specific microbial niches that do not necessarily fit in the "build environment" microbiome definition. Instead, we propose here the Microbiome of Things (MoT) concept analogous to the Internet of Things (IoT) because we believe it may be useful to shed light on human-made, but not necessarily human-related, unexplored microbial niches.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Leila Satari
- Institute for Integrative Systems Biology (I2SysBio), Universitat de València-CSIC, 46980 Paterna, Spain
| | - Alba Iglesias
- Institute for Integrative Systems Biology (I2SysBio), Universitat de València-CSIC, 46980 Paterna, Spain
| | - Manuel Porcar
- Institute for Integrative Systems Biology (I2SysBio), Universitat de València-CSIC, 46980 Paterna, Spain
- Darwin Bioprospecting Excellence SL., Parc Científic, Universitat de València, 46980 Paterna, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Gupta AK, Simkovich AJ, Hall DC. The March Against Onychomycosis: A Systematic Review of the Sanitization Methods for Shoes, Socks, and Textiles. J Am Podiatr Med Assoc 2022; 112:21-223. [PMID: 36074338 DOI: 10.7547/21-223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Drug-based treatment of superficial fungal infections, such as onychomycosis, is not the only defense. Sanitization of footwear such as shoes, socks/stockings, and other textiles is integral to the prevention of recurrence and reduction of spread for superficial fungal mycoses. The goal of this review was to examine the available methods of sanitization for footwear and textiles against superficial fungal infections. A systematic literature search of various sanitization devices and methods that could be applied to footwear and textiles using PubMed, Scopus, and MEDLINE was performed. Fifty-four studies were found relevant to the different methodologies, devices, and techniques of sanitization as they pertain to superficial fungal infections of the feet. These included topics of basic sanitization, antifungal and antimicrobial materials, sanitization chemicals and powder, laundering, ultraviolet, ozone, nonthermal plasma, microwave radiation, essential oils, and natural plant extracts. In the management of onychomycosis, it is necessary to think beyond treatment of the nail, as infections enter through the skin. Those prone to onychomycosis should examine their environment, including surfaces, shoes, and socks, and ensure that proper sanitization is implemented.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aditya K Gupta
- *Mediprobe Research Inc, London, Ontario, Canada.,†Department of Medicine, Division of Dermatology, University of Toronto School of Medicine, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
7
|
The Improved Biocontrol Agent, F1-35, Protects Watermelon against Fusarium Wilt by Triggering Jasmonic Acid and Ethylene Pathways. Microorganisms 2022; 10:microorganisms10091710. [PMID: 36144312 PMCID: PMC9501610 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10091710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2022] [Revised: 08/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Watermelon Fusarium wilt, caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. niveum (FON), is one of the most important diseases, and has become a major limiting factor to watermelon production worldwide. Previous research has found that the improved biocontrol agent, F1-35, had a high control efficiency to watermelon Fusarium wilt. In this study, the control efficiency of F1-35 to watermelon Fusarium wilt was firstly tested, and the control efficiency was 61.7%. Then, we investigated the mode of action of F1-35 in controlling watermelon Fusarium wilt. Using a pairing assay, we found that F1-35 did not inhibit the normal growth of FON. To know more about the interaction between F1-35 and watermelon root, the protein expressions of roots after 12, 24, and 48 h post-inoculation were examined. A total of 1109 differentially expressed proteins were obtained. KEGG analysis found that the most differentially expressed proteins occurred in alpha-linolenic acid metabolism, cysteine and methionine metabolism, plant–pathogen interaction, and the MAPK signaling pathway to the plant. A further analysis of differentially expressed proteins showed that F1-35 triggered the jasmonic acid and ethylene pathways in watermelon. To validate our results, the qRT-PCR was used to analyze the gene expression levels of PAL, LOX1, and CTR1. The gene expression results showed that those genes, which were positive correlated with the JA pathway, were up-expressed, including PAL and LOX1, and the negative associated gene, CTR1, was down-expressed. In conclusion, the improved biocontrol agent, F1-35, improves the resistance of watermelons to FON by triggering the JA and ET pathways.
Collapse
|
8
|
Cao R, Wan Q, Xu X, Tian S, Wu G, Wang J, Huang T, Wen G. Differentiation of DNA or membrane damage of the cells in disinfection by flow cytometry. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2022; 435:128924. [PMID: 35483263 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2022.128924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2021] [Revised: 04/10/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Recently, the viabilities changes of fungal spores in the water supply system during different disinfection processes have been revealed. SYBR Green I (SG), a nucleic acid stain, its fluorescence intensity is correlated with the amount of double-stranded DNA. This study established a new method through successive SG-SG-PI staining (PI: Propidium Iodide) with flow cytometry (FCM). It could successfully distinguish DNA damage and membrane damage of fungal spores, clearly elucidating the intrinsic disinfection mechanism during the chemical disinfection. This method was briefly described as follows: firstly, (1) the fungal spores were stained with SG and washed by centrifugation; and then, (2) the washed spores were treated with disinfectants and terminated; after that, (3) the disinfected spores were re-stained with SG and analyzed by FCM; finally, (4) the SG re-stained spores were stained with PI and analyzed by FCM. The percentages of spores with DNA damage and membrane damage were determined by the fluorescence intensity obtained from steps (3) and (4), respectively. The repeatability and applicability of this developed method were confirmed. It was further applied to explore the inactivation mechanism during chlorine-based disinfection, and results demonstrated that chloramine attacked the DNA more seriously than the membrane, while chlorine and chlorine dioxide worked in a reverse way.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ruihua Cao
- Key Laboratory of Northwest Water Resource, Environment and Ecology, MOE, Xi'an University of Architecture and Technology, Xi'an 710055, PR China; Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Environmental Engineering, Xi'an University of Architecture and Technology, Xi'an 710055, PR China
| | - Qiqi Wan
- Key Laboratory of Northwest Water Resource, Environment and Ecology, MOE, Xi'an University of Architecture and Technology, Xi'an 710055, PR China; Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Environmental Engineering, Xi'an University of Architecture and Technology, Xi'an 710055, PR China
| | - Xiangqian Xu
- Key Laboratory of Northwest Water Resource, Environment and Ecology, MOE, Xi'an University of Architecture and Technology, Xi'an 710055, PR China; Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Environmental Engineering, Xi'an University of Architecture and Technology, Xi'an 710055, PR China
| | - Shiqi Tian
- Key Laboratory of Northwest Water Resource, Environment and Ecology, MOE, Xi'an University of Architecture and Technology, Xi'an 710055, PR China; Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Environmental Engineering, Xi'an University of Architecture and Technology, Xi'an 710055, PR China
| | - Gehui Wu
- Key Laboratory of Northwest Water Resource, Environment and Ecology, MOE, Xi'an University of Architecture and Technology, Xi'an 710055, PR China; Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Environmental Engineering, Xi'an University of Architecture and Technology, Xi'an 710055, PR China
| | - Jingyi Wang
- Key Laboratory of Northwest Water Resource, Environment and Ecology, MOE, Xi'an University of Architecture and Technology, Xi'an 710055, PR China; Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Environmental Engineering, Xi'an University of Architecture and Technology, Xi'an 710055, PR China
| | - Tinglin Huang
- Key Laboratory of Northwest Water Resource, Environment and Ecology, MOE, Xi'an University of Architecture and Technology, Xi'an 710055, PR China; Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Environmental Engineering, Xi'an University of Architecture and Technology, Xi'an 710055, PR China
| | - Gang Wen
- Key Laboratory of Northwest Water Resource, Environment and Ecology, MOE, Xi'an University of Architecture and Technology, Xi'an 710055, PR China; Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Environmental Engineering, Xi'an University of Architecture and Technology, Xi'an 710055, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Kadaifçiler D, Danışman M, Arslan-Vatansever D, Cansever N, Ilhan-Sungur E. Corrosion Behavior of Galvanized Steel Exposed to Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cumini Isolated from a Natural Biofilm. Microbiology (Reading) 2022. [DOI: 10.1134/s0026261722300221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
|
10
|
Ejdys E, Kulesza K, Wiśniewski P, Pajewska M, Sucharzewska E. Window seals as a source of yeast contamination. Lett Appl Microbiol 2022; 75:1021-1027. [DOI: 10.1111/lam.13757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Revised: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- E. Ejdys
- Department of Microbiology and Mycology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn Oczapowskiego 1A 10‐719 Olsztyn Poland
| | - K. Kulesza
- Department of Microbiology and Mycology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn Oczapowskiego 1A 10‐719 Olsztyn Poland
| | - P. Wiśniewski
- Department of Microbiology and Mycology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn Oczapowskiego 1A 10‐719 Olsztyn Poland
| | - M.S. Pajewska
- Department of Microbiology and Mycology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn Oczapowskiego 1A 10‐719 Olsztyn Poland
| | - E. Sucharzewska
- Department of Microbiology and Mycology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn Oczapowskiego 1A 10‐719 Olsztyn Poland
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
|
12
|
Witty M. Examples of potato epidermis endophytes and rhizosphere microbes that may be human pathogens contributing to potato peel colic. ACTA ALIMENTARIA 2022. [DOI: 10.1556/066.2021.00157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Potato tubers defend themselves against herbivores with endogenous secondary compounds such as solanine and scopolamine. They also recruit endophytes and members of the tuberosphere to repel herbivores. Many of these endophyte defence features are overcome by cooking, with some notable exceptions that have been identified by rDNA analysis of potato peel samples and may account for some previously unrecognised features of potato peel colic. This is relevant regarding the rather modern way of cooking, where the potato peel is left intact in food and consumed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M. Witty
- Math and Science Department, School of Pure and Applied Sciences, Florida SouthWestern State College, 8099 College Parkway, Fort Myers, Florida 33919, USA
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Thermotolerance and Adaptation to Climate Change. Fungal Biol 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-89664-5_3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
|
14
|
Koide T, Tamura M. Effect of diglyceryl dicaprylate on Candida albicans growth and pathogenicity. Biosci Biotechnol Biochem 2021; 85:2334-2342. [PMID: 34508624 DOI: 10.1093/bbb/zbab159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 09/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
The antifungal effect of diglyceryl dicaprylate, one of the emulsifiers used as a food additive, on Candida albicans that is a pathogenic fungus that is predominant in the oral cavity was investigated. This component did not affect C. albicans growth; however, it suppressed some virulence factors in a concentration-dependent manner. Furthermore, the suppression of pathogenic factors, such as biofilm formation, adhesion, highly pathogenic dimorphism, and ability to produce proteolytic enzymes, was due to reduction in mRNA expression levels of genes involved in fungal pathogenicities. From these results, this emulsifier could potentially prevent the development of intraoral and extraoral diseases involving C. albicans and could potentially use in oral care and improvement of quality of life.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tomojiro Koide
- Department of Food Ingredients Development, Riken Vitamin Co., Ltd., Mihama-ku Chiba-City, Chiba, Japan
| | - Muneaki Tamura
- Department of Microbiology, Nihon University School of Dentistry, Kanda-surugadai Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Černoša A, Sun X, Gostinčar C, Fang C, Gunde-Cimerman N, Song Z. Virulence Traits and Population Genomics of the Black Yeast Aureobasidium melanogenum. J Fungi (Basel) 2021; 7:jof7080665. [PMID: 34436204 PMCID: PMC8401163 DOI: 10.3390/jof7080665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2021] [Revised: 08/13/2021] [Accepted: 08/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The black yeast-like fungus Aureobasidium melanogenum is an opportunistic human pathogen frequently found indoors. Its traits, potentially linked to pathogenesis, have never been systematically studied. Here, we examine 49 A. melanogenum strains for growth at 37 °C, siderophore production, hemolytic activity, and assimilation of hydrocarbons and human neurotransmitters and report within-species variability. All but one strain grew at 37 °C. All strains produced siderophores and showed some hemolytic activity. The largest differences between strains were observed in the assimilation of hydrocarbons and human neurotransmitters. We show for the first time that fungi from the order Dothideales can assimilate aromatic hydrocarbons. To explain the background, we sequenced the genomes of all 49 strains and identified genes putatively involved in siderophore production and hemolysis. Genomic analysis revealed a fairly structured population of A.melanogenum, raising the possibility that some phylogenetic lineages have higher virulence potential than others. Population genomics indicated that the species is strictly clonal, although more than half of the genomes were diploid. The existence of relatively heterozygous diploids in an otherwise clonal species is described for only the second time in fungi. The genomic and phenotypic data from this study should help to resolve the non-trivial taxonomy of the genus Aureobasidium and reduce the medical hazards of exploiting the biotechnological potential of other, non-pathogenic species of this genus.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anja Černoša
- Department of Biology, Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (A.Č.); (N.G.-C.)
| | - Xiaohuan Sun
- BGI-Shenzhen, Beishan Industrial Zone, Shenzhen 518083, China; (X.S.); (C.F.); (Z.S.)
| | - Cene Gostinčar
- Department of Biology, Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (A.Č.); (N.G.-C.)
- Lars Bolund Institute of Regenerative Medicine, BGI-Qingdao, Qingdao 266555, China
- Correspondence: or ; Tel.: +386-1-320-3392
| | - Chao Fang
- BGI-Shenzhen, Beishan Industrial Zone, Shenzhen 518083, China; (X.S.); (C.F.); (Z.S.)
| | - Nina Gunde-Cimerman
- Department of Biology, Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (A.Č.); (N.G.-C.)
| | - Zewei Song
- BGI-Shenzhen, Beishan Industrial Zone, Shenzhen 518083, China; (X.S.); (C.F.); (Z.S.)
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Metatranscriptomic Analysis of Bacterial Communities on Laundered Textiles: A Pilot Case Study. Microorganisms 2021; 9:microorganisms9081591. [PMID: 34442670 PMCID: PMC8400938 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms9081591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Revised: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Microbially contaminated washing machines and mild laundering conditions facilitate the survival and growth of microorganisms on laundry, promoting undesired side effects such as malodor formation. Clearly, a deeper understanding of the functionality and hygienic relevance of the laundry microbiota necessitates the analysis of the microbial gene expression on textiles after washing, which—to the best of our knowledge—has not been performed before. In this pilot case study, we used single-end RNA sequencing to generate de novo transcriptomes of the bacterial communities remaining on polyester and cotton fabrics washed in a domestic washing machine in mild conditions and subsequently incubated under moist conditions for 72 h. Two common de novo transcriptome assemblers were used. The final assemblies included 22,321 Trinity isoforms and 12,600 Spades isoforms. A large part of these isoforms could be assigned to the SwissProt database, and was further categorized into “molecular function”, “biological process” and “cellular component” using Gene Ontology (GO) terms. In addition, differential gene expression was used to show the difference in the pairwise comparison of the two tissue types. When comparing the assemblies generated with the two assemblers, the annotation results were relatively similar. However, there were clear differences between the de novo assemblies regarding differential gene expression.
Collapse
|
17
|
Tischner Z, Sebők R, Kredics L, Allaga H, Vargha M, Sebestyén Á, Dobolyi C, Kriszt B, Magyar D. Mycological Investigation of Bottled Water Dispensers in Healthcare Facilities. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10070871. [PMID: 34358021 PMCID: PMC8308914 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10070871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2021] [Revised: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 07/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The usage of bottled water dispensers (BWDs) has spread worldwide. Despite their popularity, few studies have dealt with their microbial contaminants, and little attention is given to their fungal contamination. To our knowledge this is the first mycological study of BWDs in Europe. 36 devices have been examined in Budapest, Hungary. Despite of the strictly regulated water hygiene system in Hungary, molds and yeasts were detected in 86.8% of the samples, 56.76% were highly contaminated. Elevated heterotrophic plate counts were also observed in all samples compared to that of Hungarian drinking water. As all physical and chemical water quality characteristics have met the relevant national and European parametric values and neither totally explained the results of microbial counts, the effect of usage and maintenance habits of the devices were examined. Fungal concentrations were affected by the time elapsed since disinfection, days remaining until expiration of bottles, month of sampling and exposure to sunlight during storage. Microbes are able to proliferate in the bottled water and disperse inside the BWDs. Many of the detected fungal species (Sarocladium kiliense, Acremonium sclerotigenum/egyptiacum, Exophiala jeanselmei var. lecanii-corni, Exophiala equina, Meyerozyma guilliermondii, Cystobasidium slooffiae, Aspergillus jensenii, Bisifusarium biseptatum) are opportunistic pathogens for subpopulations of sensitive age groups and patients with immunodeficient conditions, including cystic fibrosis. Thus BWDs may pose a health risk to visitors of healthcare institutions, especially to patients with oral lesions in dental surgeries. The study draws attention to the need to investigate microbial contamination of these devices in other countries as well.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zsófia Tischner
- Department of Environmental Safety, Institute of Aquaculture and Environmental Safety, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, H-2100 Gödöllő, Hungary; (C.D.); (B.K.)
- National Public Health Center, H-1097 Budapest, Hungary; (M.V.); (Á.S.); (D.M.)
- Correspondence: (Z.T.); (R.S.)
| | - Rózsa Sebők
- Department of Environmental Safety, Institute of Aquaculture and Environmental Safety, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, H-2100 Gödöllő, Hungary; (C.D.); (B.K.)
- Correspondence: (Z.T.); (R.S.)
| | - László Kredics
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science and Informatics, University of Szeged, H-6726 Szeged, Hungary; (L.K.); (H.A.)
| | - Henrietta Allaga
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science and Informatics, University of Szeged, H-6726 Szeged, Hungary; (L.K.); (H.A.)
| | - Márta Vargha
- National Public Health Center, H-1097 Budapest, Hungary; (M.V.); (Á.S.); (D.M.)
| | - Ágnes Sebestyén
- National Public Health Center, H-1097 Budapest, Hungary; (M.V.); (Á.S.); (D.M.)
| | - Csaba Dobolyi
- Department of Environmental Safety, Institute of Aquaculture and Environmental Safety, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, H-2100 Gödöllő, Hungary; (C.D.); (B.K.)
| | - Balázs Kriszt
- Department of Environmental Safety, Institute of Aquaculture and Environmental Safety, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, H-2100 Gödöllő, Hungary; (C.D.); (B.K.)
| | - Donát Magyar
- National Public Health Center, H-1097 Budapest, Hungary; (M.V.); (Á.S.); (D.M.)
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Abstract
Laundering of textiles—clothing, linens, and cleaning cloths—functionally removes dirt and bodily fluids, which prevents the transmission of and reexposure to pathogens as well as providing odor control. Thus, proper laundering is key to controlling microbes that cause illness and produce odors. The practice of laundering varies from region to region and is influenced by culture and resources. This review aims to define laundering as a series of steps that influence the exposure of the person processing the laundry to pathogens, with respect to the removal and control of pathogens and odor-causing bacteria, while taking into consideration the types of textiles. Defining laundering in this manner will help better educate the consumer and highlight areas where more research is needed and how to maximize products and resources. The control of microorganisms during laundering involves mechanical (agitation and soaking), chemical (detergent and bleach), and physical (detergent and temperature) processes. Temperature plays the most important role in terms of pathogen control, requiring temperatures exceeding 40°C to 60°C for proper inactivation, while detergents play a role in reducing the microbial load of laundering through the release of microbes attached to fabrics and the inactivation of microbes sensitive to detergents (e.g., enveloped viruses). The use of additives (enzymes) and bleach (chlorine and activated oxygen) becomes essential in washes with temperatures below 20°C, especially for certain enteric viruses and bacteria. A structured approach is needed that identifies all the steps in the laundering process and attempts to identify each step relative to its importance to infection risk and odor production.
Collapse
|
19
|
Cultivation-Based Quantification and Identification of Bacteria at Two Hygienic Key Sides of Domestic Washing Machines. Microorganisms 2021; 9:microorganisms9050905. [PMID: 33922491 PMCID: PMC8146927 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms9050905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2021] [Revised: 04/18/2021] [Accepted: 04/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Detergent drawer and door seal represent important sites for microbial life in domestic washing machines. Interestingly, quantitative data on the microbial contamination of these sites is scarce. Here, 10 domestic washing machines were swab-sampled for subsequent bacterial cultivation at four different sampling sites: detergent drawer and detergent drawer chamber, as well as the top and bottom part of the rubber door seal. The average bacterial load over all washing machines and sites was 2.1 ± 1.0 × 104 CFU cm−2 (average number of colony forming units ± standard error of the mean (SEM)). The top part of the door seal showed the lowest contamination (11.1 ± 9.2 × 101 CFU cm−2), probably due to less humidity. Out of 212 isolates, 178 (84%) were identified on the genus level, and 118 (56%) on the species level using matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) Biotyping, resulting in 29 genera and 40 identified species across all machines. The predominant bacterial genera were Staphylococcus and Micrococcus, which were found at all sites. 22 out of 40 species were classified as opportunistic pathogens, emphasizing the need for regular cleaning of the investigated sites.
Collapse
|
20
|
Dishwashers as an Extreme Environment of Potentially Pathogenic Yeast Species. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10040446. [PMID: 33917934 PMCID: PMC8068352 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10040446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2021] [Revised: 03/26/2021] [Accepted: 04/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The study aimed to compare the yeast species diversity in the specific environment of dishwashers, taking into account the potential risk for users. Yeasts were isolated from ten dishwashers and from tap water supplied to the appliances. Samples were collected for mycological analyses at the beginning of each month, from February to May 2016. Four dishwasher sites (rubber seals, detergent dispensers, sprinklers, and water drains) were analyzed. The microfungi were identified by the standard procedures applied in mycological diagnostics. To confirm species identification, molecular analysis was performed based on the sequences of the D1/D2 region. The presence of microfungi was detected in 70% of the investigated appliances. Rubber seals, detergent dispensers, and water drains were the most frequently colonized elements. Thirty-five yeast strains were isolated in this study, of which twenty-seven were obtained from dishwashers and eight from tap water. The strains belonged to six genera and six species (Candida parapsilosis, Clavispora lusitaniae, Dipodascus capitatus, Exophiala dermatitidis, Meyerozyma guilliermondii, and Rhodotorula mucilaginosa). Most of the strains came from rubber seals. In this way, it was demonstrated that the dishwashers’ condition is sufficient as an ecological niche for microfungi.
Collapse
|
21
|
Khémiri I, Essghaier B, Sadfi-Zouaoui N, Bitri L. Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Potentials of Seed Oil from Carthamus tinctorius L. in the Management of Skin Injuries. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2020; 2020:4103418. [PMID: 33204394 PMCID: PMC7661123 DOI: 10.1155/2020/4103418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2020] [Accepted: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Infection of skin injuries by pathogenic microbial strains is generally associated if not treated with a lasting wound bed oxidative stress status, a delay in healing process, and even wound chronicity with several human health complications. The aim of the current study was to explore the antioxidant and antimicrobial potentialities of safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.) extracted oil from seeds by cold pressing which would be beneficial in the management of skin wounds. Antioxidant capacity of the oil was evaluated (scavenging ability against 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical (DPPH) and 2,2'-azino-bis 3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS), and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP)). Total phenolic, total flavonoid, total carotenoid, and total chlorophyll contents were determined. Antimicrobial activities of safflower oil were tested against 10 skin pathogenic microorganisms: 4 bacterial strains (Escherichia coli, Enterobacter cloacae, Staphylococcus aureus, and Streptococcus agalactiae), 3 yeast species strains (Candida albicans, Candida parapsilosis, and Candida sake), and 3 fungi species (Aspergillus niger, Penicillium digitatum, and Fusarium oxysporum). A notable antioxidant capacity was demonstrated for the tested oil that exhibited moreover high antibacterial effects by both bacteriostatic and bactericidal pathways including lysozyme activity. An antifungal effect was further observed on the spore's germination. Safflower oil could be considered as a good natural alternative remedy in the management of skin wounds and their possible microbial infections.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ikram Khémiri
- Unité de Physiologie des Systèmes de Régulations et des Adaptations, Faculté des Sciences de Tunis, Université de Tunis El Manar, Campus Universitaire, 2092 Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Badiaa Essghaier
- Laboratoire de Mycologie, Pathologies et Biomarqueurs, Faculté des Sciences de Tunis, Université de Tunis El Manar, Campus Universitaire, 2092 Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Najla Sadfi-Zouaoui
- Laboratoire de Mycologie, Pathologies et Biomarqueurs, Faculté des Sciences de Tunis, Université de Tunis El Manar, Campus Universitaire, 2092 Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Lotfi Bitri
- Unité de Physiologie des Systèmes de Régulations et des Adaptations, Faculté des Sciences de Tunis, Université de Tunis El Manar, Campus Universitaire, 2092 Tunis, Tunisia
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Biological and Chemical Processes that Lead to Textile Malodour Development. Microorganisms 2020; 8:microorganisms8111709. [PMID: 33142874 PMCID: PMC7692034 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms8111709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2020] [Revised: 10/15/2020] [Accepted: 10/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
The development of malodour on clothing is a well-known problem with social, economic and ecological consequences. Many people still think malodour is the result of a lack of hygiene, which causes social stigma and embarrassment. Clothing is washed more frequently due to odour formation or even discarded when permastink develops. The malodour formation process is impacted by many variables and processes throughout the textile lifecycle. The contact with the skin with consequent transfer of microorganisms, volatiles and odour precursors leads to the formation of a distinctive textile microbiome and volatilome. The washing and drying processes further shape the textile microbiome and impact malodour formation. These processes are impacted by interindividual differences and fabric type as well. This review describes the current knowledge on the volatilome and microbiome of the skin, textile and washing machine, the multiple factors that determine malodour formation on textiles and points out what information is still missing.
Collapse
|
23
|
Owen L, Laird K. The role of textiles as fomites in the healthcare environment: a review of the infection control risk. PeerJ 2020; 8:e9790. [PMID: 32904371 PMCID: PMC7453921 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.9790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2020] [Accepted: 07/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Infectious diseases are a significant threat in both healthcare and community settings. Healthcare associated infections (HCAIs) in particular are a leading cause of complications during hospitalisation. Contamination of the healthcare environment is recognised as a source of infectious disease yet the significance of porous surfaces including healthcare textiles as fomites is not well understood. It is currently assumed there is little infection risk from textiles due to a lack of direct epidemiological evidence. Decontamination of healthcare textiles is achieved with heat and/or detergents by commercial or in-house laundering with the exception of healthcare worker uniforms which are laundered domestically in some countries. The emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic has increased the need for rigorous infection control including effective decontamination of potential fomites in the healthcare environment. This article aims to review the evidence for the role of textiles in the transmission of infection, outline current procedures for laundering healthcare textiles and review studies evaluating the decontamination efficacy of domestic and industrial laundering. METHODOLOGY Pubmed, Google Scholar and Web of Science were searched for publications pertaining to the survival and transmission of microorganisms on textiles with a particular focus on the healthcare environment. RESULTS A number of studies indicate that microorganisms survive on textiles for extended periods of time and can transfer on to skin and other surfaces suggesting it is biologically plausible that HCAIs and other infectious diseases can be transmitted directly through contact with contaminated textiles. Accordingly, there are a number of case studies that link small outbreaks with inadequate laundering or infection control processes surrounding healthcare laundry. Studies have also demonstrated the survival of potential pathogens during laundering of healthcare textiles, which may increase the risk of infection supporting the data published on specific outbreak case studies. CONCLUSIONS There are no large-scale epidemiological studies demonstrating a direct link between HCAIs and contaminated textiles yet evidence of outbreaks from published case studies should not be disregarded. Adequate microbial decontamination of linen and infection control procedures during laundering are required to minimise the risk of infection from healthcare textiles. Domestic laundering of healthcare worker uniforms is a particular concern due to the lack of control and monitoring of decontamination, offering a route for potential pathogens to enter the clinical environment. Industrial laundering of healthcare worker uniforms provides greater assurances of adequate decontamination compared to domestic laundering, due to the ability to monitor laundering parameters; this is of particular importance during the COVID-19 pandemic to minimise any risk of SARS-CoV-2 transmission.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lucy Owen
- Infectious Disease Research Group, The Leicester School of Pharmacy, De Montfort University, Leicester, United Kingdom
| | - Katie Laird
- Infectious Disease Research Group, The Leicester School of Pharmacy, De Montfort University, Leicester, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Novak Babič M, Gostinčar C, Gunde-Cimerman N. Microorganisms populating the water-related indoor biome. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2020; 104:6443-6462. [PMID: 32533304 PMCID: PMC7347518 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-020-10719-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2020] [Revised: 05/22/2020] [Accepted: 06/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Modernisation of our households created novel opportunities for microbial growth and thus changed the array of microorganisms we come in contact with. While many studies have investigated microorganisms in the air and dust, tap water, another major input of microbial propagules, has received far less attention. The quality of drinking water in developed world is strictly regulated to prevent immediate danger to human health. However, fungi, algae, protists and bacteria of less immediate concern are usually not screened for. These organisms can thus use water as a vector of transmission into the households, especially if they are resistant to various water treatment procedures. Good tolerance of unfavourable abiotic conditions is also important for survival once microbes enter the household. Limitation of water availability, high or low temperatures, application of antimicrobial chemicals and other measures are taken to prevent indoor microbial overgrowth. These conditions, together with a large number of novel chemicals in our homes, shape the diversity and abundance of indoor microbiota through constant selection of the most resilient species, resulting in a substantial overlap in diversity of indoor and natural extreme environments. At least in fungi, extremotolerance has been linked to human pathogenicity, explaining why many species found in novel indoor habitats (such as dishwasher) are notable opportunistic pathogens. As a result, microorganisms that often enter our households with water and are then enriched in novel indoor habitats might have a hitherto underestimated impact on the well-being of the increasingly indoor-bound human population. KEY POINTS: Domestic environment harbours a large diversity of microorganisms. Microbiota of water-related indoor habitats mainly originates from tap water. Bathrooms, kitchens and household appliances select for polyextremotolerant species. Many household-related microorganisms are human opportunistic pathogens.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Monika Novak Babič
- Department of Biology, Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Jamnikarjeva 101, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Cene Gostinčar
- Department of Biology, Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Jamnikarjeva 101, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Lars Bolund Institute of Regenerative Medicine, BGI-Qingdao, Qingdao, 266555, China
| | - Nina Gunde-Cimerman
- Department of Biology, Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Jamnikarjeva 101, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Wang CJ, Thanarut C, Sun PL, Chung WH. Colonization of human opportunistic Fusarium oxysporum (HOFo) isolates in tomato and cucumber tissues assessed by a specific molecular marker. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0234517. [PMID: 32530955 PMCID: PMC7292389 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0234517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2020] [Accepted: 05/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Fusarium oxysporum is a large complex cosmopolitan species composed of plant pathogens, human opportunistic pathogens, and nonpathogenic isolates. Many plant pathogenic strains are known based on host plant specificity and the large number of plant species attacked. F. oxysporum is an opportunistic pathogen in humans with a compromised immune system. The objectives of this study were: (1) to develop a specific marker to detect human opportunistic F. oxysporum (HOFo) isolates; (2) to determine whether or not HOFo isolates can colonize and cause disease symptoms in plants; and (3) to assess Taiwan isolates sensitivity to two agro-fungicides. The primer pair, Primer 5/ST33-R, specifically amplifying Taiwan and international reference HOFo isolates was developed and used to detect and assess the distribution of a Taiwan isolate in inoculated tomato plants and tomato and cucumber fruit. Taiwan HOFo isolate MCC2074 was shown to colonize tomato roots, hypocotyls, and cotyledons, but did not show any visible symptoms. Four days after surface inoculation of tomato and cucumber fruit with the same isolate, MCC2074 was detected in the pericarp and locular cavities of both tomato and cucumber fruit and in columella of tomato fruit. Three Taiwan HOFo isolates were found to be moderately sensitive to azoxystrobin and highly sensitive to difenconazole.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chao-Jen Wang
- Department of Plant Pathology, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Chinnapan Thanarut
- Faculty of Agricultural Production, Division of Pomology Maejo University, Chiangmai, Thailand
| | - Pei-Lun Sun
- Department of Dermatology, Mackay Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Hsin Chung
- Department of Plant Pathology, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Lavrin T, Konte T, Kostanjšek R, Sitar S, Sepčič K, Prpar Mihevc S, Žagar E, Župunski V, Lenassi M, Rogelj B, Gunde Cimerman N. The Neurotropic Black Yeast Exophiala dermatitidis Induces Neurocytotoxicity in Neuroblastoma Cells and Progressive Cell Death. Cells 2020; 9:cells9040963. [PMID: 32295162 PMCID: PMC7226985 DOI: 10.3390/cells9040963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2020] [Revised: 04/10/2020] [Accepted: 04/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The neurotropic and extremophilic black yeast Exophiala dermatitidis (Herpotrichellaceae) inhabits diverse indoor environments, in particular bathrooms, steam baths, and dishwashers. Here, we show that the selected strain, EXF-10123, is polymorphic, can grow at 37 °C, is able to assimilate aromatic hydrocarbons (toluene, mineral oil, n-hexadecane), and shows abundant growth with selected neurotransmitters (acetylcholine, gamma-aminobutyric acid, glycine, glutamate, and dopamine) as sole carbon sources. We have for the first time demonstrated the effect of E. dermatitidis on neuroblastoma cell model SH-SY5Y. Aqueous and organic extracts of E. dermatitidis biomass reduced SH-SY5Y viability by 51% and 37%, respectively. Melanized extracellular vesicles (EVs) prepared from this strain reduced viability of the SH-SY5Y to 21%, while non-melanized EVs were considerably less neurotoxic (79% viability). We also demonstrated direct interactions of E. dermatitidis with SH-SY5Y by scanning electron and confocal fluorescence microscopy. The observed invasion and penetration of neuroblastoma cells by E. dermatitidis hyphae presumably causes the degradation of most neuroblastoma cells in only three days. This may represent a so far unknown indirect or direct cause for the development of some neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Teja Lavrin
- Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (R.K.); (K.S.)
- Correspondence: (T.L.); (N.G.C.); Tel.: +386-(0)1-543-7652 (T.L.); +386-(0)1-320-3400 (N.G.C.)
| | - Tilen Konte
- Institute of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (T.K.); (M.L.)
| | - Rok Kostanjšek
- Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (R.K.); (K.S.)
| | - Simona Sitar
- Laboratory for Polymer Chemistry and Technology, National Institute of Chemistry, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (S.S.); (E.Ž.)
| | - Kristina Sepčič
- Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (R.K.); (K.S.)
| | | | - Ema Žagar
- Laboratory for Polymer Chemistry and Technology, National Institute of Chemistry, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (S.S.); (E.Ž.)
| | - Vera Župunski
- Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Technology, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (V.Ž.); (B.R.)
| | - Metka Lenassi
- Institute of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (T.K.); (M.L.)
| | - Boris Rogelj
- Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Technology, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (V.Ž.); (B.R.)
- Department of Biotechnology, Jožef Stefan Institute, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Biomedical Research Institute, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Nina Gunde Cimerman
- Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (R.K.); (K.S.)
- Correspondence: (T.L.); (N.G.C.); Tel.: +386-(0)1-543-7652 (T.L.); +386-(0)1-320-3400 (N.G.C.)
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Bakker A, Siegel JA, Mendell MJ, Prussin AJ, Marr LC, Peccia J. Bacterial and fungal ecology on air conditioning cooling coils is influenced by climate and building factors. INDOOR AIR 2020; 30:326-334. [PMID: 31845419 DOI: 10.1111/ina.12632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2019] [Revised: 12/06/2019] [Accepted: 12/12/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
The presence of biofilms on the cooling coils of commercial air conditioning (AC) units can significantly reduce the heat transfer efficiency of the coils and may lead to the aerosolization of microbes into occupied spaces of a building. We investigated how climate and AC operation influence the ecology of microbial communities on AC coils. Forty large-scale commercial ACs were considered with representation from warm-humid and hot-dry climates. Both bacterial and fungal ecologies, including richness and taxa, on the cooling coil surfaces were significantly impacted by outdoor climate, through differences in dew point that result in increased moisture (condensate) on coils, and by the minimum efficiency reporting value (MERV 8 vs MERV 14) of building air filters. Based on targeted qPCR and sequence analysis, low efficiency upstream filters (MERV 8) were associated with a greater abundance of pathogenic bacteria and medically relevant fungi. As the implementation of air conditioning continues to grow worldwide, better understanding of the factors impacting microbial growth and ecology on cooling coils should enable more rational approaches for biofilm control and ultimately result in reduced energy consumption and healthier buildings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexa Bakker
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Jeffrey A Siegel
- Department of Civil & Mineral Engineering, The University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, The University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Mark J Mendell
- California Department of Public Health, Environmental Health Laboratory Branch, Richmond, CA, USA
| | - Aaron J Prussin
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, USA
| | - Linsey C Marr
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, USA
| | - Jordan Peccia
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
First Report of Micrococcus luteus in the Buccal Cavity of Bearded Dragon (Pogona vitticeps) in Namibia. JOURNAL OF PURE AND APPLIED MICROBIOLOGY 2019. [DOI: 10.22207/jpam.13.4.24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
|
29
|
Brands B, Schulze Struchtrup S, Stamminger R, Bockmühl DP. A method to evaluate factors influencing the microbial reduction in domestic dishwashers. J Appl Microbiol 2019; 128:1324-1338. [PMID: 31872930 DOI: 10.1111/jam.14564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2019] [Revised: 11/27/2019] [Accepted: 12/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
AIMS To develop a method that is able to determine the microbial reduction in different dishwasher cleaning cycles and differentiate between different program parameters used. METHODS AND RESULTS Stainless steel biomonitors were contaminated with Micrococcus luteus or Entereococcus faecium and cleaned in a specially programmed household dishwasher with different cleaning temperatures and durations. No detergent, bleach-free detergent or detergent containing activated oxygen bleach was used. The logarithmic reduction (LR) was determined. The microbial reduction depended on the cleaning temperature, the duration of the cleaning cycles and the detergent type used. LR increased with higher temperatures, longer cleaning cycles and use of detergent. CONCLUSIONS The factors cleaning cycle temperature, cleaning cycle duration, final rinsing temperature and the use of detergent all contributed to the reduction of test-strains in dishwasher cycles. A combination of longer dishwashing cycles and increased temperatures resulted in LRmax of the microbial load. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY Cycles in domestic appliances are very diverse; therefore a standardized method to determine their ability to reduce the microbial load is of great use. The method described here is able to demonstrate the reductions achieved by dishwashing cycles with different parameters and might help to find the necessary balance between energy saving and an acceptable level of hygiene.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- B Brands
- Faculty of Life Sciences, Rhine-Waal University of Applied Sciences, Kleve, Germany
| | | | - R Stamminger
- Household and Appliance Technology Section, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - D P Bockmühl
- Faculty of Life Sciences, Rhine-Waal University of Applied Sciences, Kleve, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Influence of Sampling Site and other Environmental Factors on the Bacterial Community Composition of Domestic Washing Machines. Microorganisms 2019; 8:microorganisms8010030. [PMID: 31877898 PMCID: PMC7022543 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms8010030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2019] [Revised: 12/16/2019] [Accepted: 12/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Modern, mainly sustainability-driven trends, such as low-temperature washing or bleach-free liquid detergents, facilitate microbial survival of the laundry processes. Favourable growth conditions like humidity, warmth and sufficient nutrients also contribute to microbial colonization of washing machines. Such colonization might lead to negatively perceived staining, corrosion of washing machine parts and surfaces, as well as machine and laundry malodour. In this study, we characterized the bacterial community of 13 domestic washing machines at four different sampling sites (detergent drawer, door seal, sump and fibres collected from the washing solution) using 16S rRNA gene pyrosequencing and statistically analysed associations with environmental and user-dependent factors. Across 50 investigated samples, the bacterial community turned out to be significantly site-dependent with the highest alpha diversity found inside the detergent drawer, followed by sump, textile fibres isolated from the washing solution, and door seal. Surprisingly, out of all other investigated factors only the monthly number of wash cycles at temperatures ≥ 60 °C showed a significant influence on the community structure. A higher number of hot wash cycles per month increased microbial diversity, especially inside the detergent drawer. Potential reasons and the hygienic relevance of this finding need to be assessed in future studies.
Collapse
|
31
|
Zupančič J, Turk M, Črnigoj M, Ambrožič Avguštin J, Gunde-Cimerman N. The dishwasher rubber seal acts as a reservoir of bacteria in the home environment. BMC Microbiol 2019; 19:300. [PMID: 31856722 PMCID: PMC6924085 DOI: 10.1186/s12866-019-1674-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2019] [Accepted: 12/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In modern lifestyles, people make their everyday tasks easier by using household appliances, for example dishwashers. Previous studies showed massive contamination of dishwasher rubber seals with fungi, thus bacterial community, able to survive under harsh conditions, remain undetermined. Methods Bacteria that colonise the extreme environment of household dishwasher rubber seals were investigated using cultivation-dependent and metagenomic approaches. All bacterial isolates were tested for resistance to seven selected antibiotics. Same time bacterial diversity of tap water, connected to the dishwashers was investigated. Results All 30 dishwashers investigated were colonised by various bacteria. Cultivation approaches resulted in 632 bacterial isolates in total, belonging to four phyla, eight classes, 40 genera and 74 species. The majority were Gram-positive, as solely Firmicutes (dominated by the Bacillus cereus group) and Actinobacteria. Gammaproteobacteria were primarily represented by Stenotrophomonas maltophilia, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli. Metagenomic assessment of the bacterial biodiversity of the dishwasher rubber seals confirmed the predominance of Gram-positive bacteria, as primarily Actinobacteria, followed by Proteobacteria dominated by Gammaproteobacteria, and by pathogenic species such as Escherichia sp., Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas sp., Stenotrophomonas maltophilia, and Enterobacter sp.. Metagenomic assessment of bacterial biodiversity in the tap water connected to dishwashers revealed predominance of Gram-negative bacteria, in particular Proteobacteria, mainly represented by Tepidimonas sp.. Actinobacteria showed low numbers while no Firmicutes were detected in the tap water. The bacterial diversity of tap water was also lower, 23 genera compared to 39 genera on dishwasher rubber seals. Only 13 out of 49 genera identified by metagenomics approach was found in both environments, of those Gordonia was enriched while half of 13 genera were depleted in dishwashers compared to tap water. Conclusions These data indicate that colonisation of dishwasher rubber seals probably depends primarily on the bacterial input from the dirty vessels, and much less on the bacteria in the tap water. Based on the antibiotic resistance data, the dishwasher rubber seal bacterial isolates do not represent a serious threat for the spread of antibiotic resistance into the household environment. Nevertheless dishwashers cannot be ignored as potential sources of human infections, in particular for immuno-compromised individuals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jerneja Zupančič
- Department of Biology, Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia.
| | - Martina Turk
- Department of Biology, Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Miha Črnigoj
- Department of Biology, Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | | | - Nina Gunde-Cimerman
- Department of Biology, Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia.,Centre of Excellence for Integrated Approaches in Chemistry and Biology of Proteins (CIPKeBiP), Ljubljana, Slovenia
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Bockmühl DP, Schages J, Rehberg L. Laundry and textile hygiene in healthcare and beyond. MICROBIAL CELL (GRAZ, AUSTRIA) 2019; 6:299-306. [PMID: 31294042 PMCID: PMC6600116 DOI: 10.15698/mic2019.07.682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2018] [Revised: 11/02/2018] [Accepted: 11/22/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
The elimination of microbial contaminations from textile is an important aspect of laundering apart from the removal of stains and dirt from used and worn textiles. Although the framework for institutional laundering is well regulated to ensure hygienic cleanliness via the use of e.g. high temperatures and bleaching agents, there are several open points, especially in domestic laundering. In both cases, energy efficiency of appliances is a main driver for innovation and has resulted in a general decrease in washing temperatures which in turn can impact the antimicrobial efficacy of laundering. Thus, the different factors influencing the input and removal of microbial cells in the laundering process and possible adverse effects of microbial contaminants in the washing machine and on the textiles as well as suitable counteractions are discussed in this article, focusing on the clinical area but also considering the domestic environment, which will gain importance in the future, e.g. by the increase of elderly and ill persons being cared for at home.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dirk P. Bockmühl
- Rhine-Waal University of Applied Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences, Hygiene and Microbiology, Marie-Curie-Str. 1, 47533 Kleve, Germany
| | - Jan Schages
- Rhine-Waal University of Applied Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences, Hygiene and Microbiology, Marie-Curie-Str. 1, 47533 Kleve, Germany
| | - Laura Rehberg
- Rhine-Waal University of Applied Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences, Hygiene and Microbiology, Marie-Curie-Str. 1, 47533 Kleve, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Abbasi F, Samaei MR. The effect of temperature on airborne filamentous fungi in the indoor and outdoor space of a hospital. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2019; 26:16868-16876. [PMID: 29299864 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-017-0939-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2017] [Accepted: 12/04/2017] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Fungi are one of the bioaerosols in indoor air of hospitals. They have adverse effects on staff and patients. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of three incubation temperature on the density and composition of airborne fungi in an indoor and outdoor space of hospital. Sabouraud dextrose agar was used for culture the fungi. For improvement of aseptic properties, chloramphenicol was added to this medium. The density of airborne fungi was less than 282 CFU/m3. The highest density was detected in emergency room and the lowest of them was in neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) and operation room (OR). Results showed that fungi levels at 25 °C were higher than 37 and 15 °C (p = 0.006). In addition, ten different genera of fungi were identified in all departments. The predominant fungi were Fusarium spp., Penicillium spp., Paecilomyces spp., and Aspergillus niger. Moreover, the density and trend of distribution of Fusaruim spp. in the indoor space was directivity to outdoor space by ventilation system. The present study has provided that incubation temperature had effect on airborne fungi remarkably. We are suggested that more studies would be conducted on incubation temperature and other ambient factors on airborne fungi.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fariba Abbasi
- Department of environmental health engineering, School of health, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Reza Samaei
- Research Center for Health Sciences, Institute of health, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Tischner Z, Kredics L, Marik T, Vörös K, Kriszt B, Péter B, Magyar D. Environmental characteristics and taxonomy of microscopic fungi isolated from washing machines. Fungal Biol 2019; 123:650-659. [PMID: 31416584 DOI: 10.1016/j.funbio.2019.05.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2018] [Revised: 05/09/2019] [Accepted: 05/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Washing machines (WMs) are convenient places for fungal colonization. This study is focused on fungal diversity of WMs, and investigates relationships between habits of WM users and colonising species. Housekeeping conditions and habits were assessed in Hungary with a questionnaire. Several fungal species were identified by microscopy and sequence analysis of diagnostic loci. Based on the results, 32 % of the sampled WMs were highly polluted with various species of fungi. Forty six percent of them were colonised also by opportunistically human pathogenic species. In total, 32 yeast and 39 filamentous fungal strains were isolated. Growth tests were conducted with five selected taxa (Cutaneotrichosporon dermatis, Cystobasidium slooffiae, Meyerozyma guilliermondii, Candida parapsilosis and the Fusarium oxysporum species complex (FOSC)) to ascertain their tolerance ranges. None of the examined isolates were able to grow >50 °C, 4.10 < pH < 10.88. FOSC could grow at high salinity. More species were detected in WMs operated in rooms without heating systems (p = 0.0025). The number of species was higher in WMs located in the kitchen than the ones kept in bathroom or in other rooms (p = 0.0205). WMs may serve as a reservoir of pathogenic fungi, the presence of which may depend on the usage of these devices.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zsófia Tischner
- Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Szent István University, Gödöllő, Hungary; Department of Air Hygiene and Aerobiology, National Public Health Institute, Budapest, Hungary.
| | - László Kredics
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science and Informatics, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Tamás Marik
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science and Informatics, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Krisztina Vörös
- Semmelweis University, School of Ph.D. Studies, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Balázs Kriszt
- Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Szent István University, Gödöllő, Hungary
| | - Balázs Péter
- Department of Air Hygiene and Aerobiology, National Public Health Institute, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Donát Magyar
- Department of Air Hygiene and Aerobiology, National Public Health Institute, Budapest, Hungary
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Zajc J, Gostinčar C, Černoša A, Gunde-Cimerman N. Stress-Tolerant Yeasts: Opportunistic Pathogenicity Versus Biocontrol Potential. Genes (Basel) 2019; 10:genes10010042. [PMID: 30646593 PMCID: PMC6357073 DOI: 10.3390/genes10010042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2018] [Revised: 01/03/2019] [Accepted: 01/09/2019] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Stress-tolerant fungi that can thrive under various environmental extremes are highly desirable for their application to biological control, as an alternative to chemicals for pest management. However, in fungi, the mechanisms of stress tolerance might also have roles in mammal opportunism. We tested five species with high biocontrol potential in agriculture (Aureobasidium pullulans, Debayomyces hansenii, Meyerozyma guilliermondii, Metschnikowia fructicola, Rhodotorula mucilaginosa) and two species recognized as emerging opportunistic human pathogens (Exophiala dermatitidis, Aureobasidium melanogenum) for growth under oligotrophic conditions and at 37 °C, and for tolerance to oxidative stress, formation of biofilms, production of hydrolytic enzymes and siderophores, and use of hydrocarbons as sole carbon source. The results show large overlap between traits desirable for biocontrol and traits linked to opportunism (growth under oligotrophic conditions, production of siderophores, high oxidative stress tolerance, and specific enzyme activities). Based on existing knowledge and these data, we suggest that oligotrophism and thermotolerance together with siderophore production at 37 °C, urease activity, melanization, and biofilm production are the main traits that increase the potential for fungi to cause opportunistic infections in mammals. These traits should be carefully considered when assessing safety of potential biocontrol agents.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Janja Zajc
- Department of Biotechnology and Systems Biology, National Institute of Biology, Večna pot 111, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia.
- Department of Biology, Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Jamnikarjeva 101, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia.
| | - Cene Gostinčar
- Department of Biology, Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Jamnikarjeva 101, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia.
- Institut 'Jožef Stefan', Jamova cesta 39, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia.
| | - Anja Černoša
- Department of Biotechnology and Systems Biology, National Institute of Biology, Večna pot 111, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia.
| | - Nina Gunde-Cimerman
- Department of Biology, Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Jamnikarjeva 101, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia.
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Egert M. Honor Thy Lodgers? – Structure and Function of the Human Built Environment Microbiome. TENSIDE SURFACT DET 2018. [DOI: 10.3139/113.110577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
AbstractThe microbiome of the built environment (BE) and its interactions with the human occupants represent a new and highly interdisciplinary research field. The BE is characterized by a great microbial diversity as well as very fluctuating environmental conditions and sharp gradients of physicochemical parameters, which significantly shape the resident microbiomes. A great significance of the BE microbiome for human health is obvious, but far from being fully understood. However, there is a growing body of evidence that antimicrobial and probiotic strategies will have to be balanced in a well-considered manner to successfully manage the BE microbiome in a way that finally is most beneficial for human health.
Collapse
|
37
|
Opportunistic Water-Borne Human Pathogenic Filamentous Fungi Unreported from Food. Microorganisms 2018; 6:microorganisms6030079. [PMID: 30081519 PMCID: PMC6164083 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms6030079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2018] [Revised: 08/02/2018] [Accepted: 08/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Clean drinking water and sanitation are fundamental human rights recognized by the United Nations (UN) General Assembly and the Human Rights Council in 2010 (Resolution 64/292). In modern societies, water is not related only to drinking, it is also widely used for personal and home hygiene, and leisure. Ongoing human population and subsequent environmental stressors challenge the current standards on safe drinking and recreational water, requiring regular updating. Also, a changing Earth and its increasingly frequent extreme weather events and climatic changes underpin the necessity to adjust regulation to a risk-based approach. Although fungi were never introduced to water quality regulations, the incidence of fungal infections worldwide is growing, and changes in antimicrobial resistance patterns are taking place. The presence of fungi in different types of water has been thoroughly investigated during the past 30 years only in Europe, and more than 400 different species were reported from ground-, surface-, and tap-water. The most frequently reported fungi, however, were not waterborne, but are frequently related to soil, air, and food. This review focuses on waterborne filamentous fungi, unreported from food, that offer a pathogenic potential.
Collapse
|
38
|
Dögen A, Sav H, Gonca S, Kaplan E, Ilkit M, Novak Babic M, Gunde-Cimerman N, de Hoog GS. Candida parapsilosis in domestic laundry machines. Med Mycol 2018; 55:813-819. [PMID: 28204594 DOI: 10.1093/mmy/myx008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2016] [Accepted: 01/20/2017] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Candida parapsilosis, although a human commensal, acts as an opportunistic pathogen associated with nosocomial infections, with a rising incidence worldwide. Its ecological characteristics are poorly understood. Human-made environments within dwellings, such as dishwashers and water distribution systems, represent major sources of fungi such as C. parapsilosis. Here, we investigated the presence of members of the C. parapsilosis complex in 99 washing machines in various dwellings in the city of Mersin, Turkey. We sampled three sites in each washing machine: (i) the washing powder drawers, (ii) fabric softener drawers, and (iii) rubber seals around the washing machine doors. Additionally, we recorded the type of cleanser used by each customer. Of note, 25.3% of sampled washing machines harbored C. parapsilosis strains, later identified as the members of the C. parapsilosis sensu stricto via internal transcribed spacer (ITS) sequencing. Out of the 29 isolates obtained, biofilm-forming ability and proteinase and esterase activities were recorded in 14, 11, and 4 of the isolates, respectively. Our results suggest that the washing machines investigated abundantly harbored C. parapsilosis sensu stricto; however, no single preferred isolation site or association with cleanser type was observed (P > .05). Furthermore, C. parapsilosis isolates grew at temperatures ranging from 10°C to 37°C, at pH values ranging from 4 to 10, and were found to tolerate 5-10% NaCl. Domestic laundry appliances as a potential source of C. parapsilosis infections are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aylin Dögen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Mersin, Mersin, Turkey
| | - Hafize Sav
- Division of Mycology, Kayseri Education and Research Hospital, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Serpil Gonca
- Advanced Technology Education, Research, and Application Center, Mersin University, Mersin, Turkey
| | - Engin Kaplan
- Advanced Technology Education, Research, and Application Center, Mersin University, Mersin, Turkey.,Division of Mycology, Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Çukurova, Adana, Turkey
| | - Macit Ilkit
- Division of Mycology, Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Çukurova, Adana, Turkey
| | - Monika Novak Babic
- Department of Biology, Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Nina Gunde-Cimerman
- Department of Biology, Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Slovenia.,Centre of Excellence of Integrated Approaches in Chemistry and Biology of Proteins (CIPKeBiP), Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - G Sybren de Hoog
- CBS-KNAW Fungal Biodiversity Centre, Utrecht, Netherlands.,Institute for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Dynamics, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Microbial Diversity and Putative Opportunistic Pathogens in Dishwasher Biofilm Communities. Appl Environ Microbiol 2018; 84:AEM.02755-17. [PMID: 29330184 PMCID: PMC5812945 DOI: 10.1128/aem.02755-17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2017] [Accepted: 12/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Extreme habitats are not only limited to natural environments, but also exist in manmade systems, for instance, household appliances such as dishwashers. Limiting factors, such as high temperatures, high and low pHs, high NaCl concentrations, presence of detergents, and shear force from water during washing cycles, define microbial survival in this extreme system. Fungal and bacterial diversity in biofilms isolated from rubber seals of 24 different household dishwashers was investigated using next-generation sequencing. Bacterial genera such as Pseudomonas, Escherichia, and Acinetobacter, known to include opportunistic pathogens, were represented in most samples. The most frequently encountered fungal genera in these samples belonged to Candida, Cryptococcus, and Rhodotorula, also known to include opportunistic pathogenic representatives. This study showed how specific conditions of the dishwashers impact the abundance of microbial groups and investigated the interkingdom and intrakingdom interactions that shape these biofilms. The age, usage frequency, and hardness of incoming tap water of dishwashers had significant impact on bacterial and fungal community compositions. Representatives of Candida spp. were found at the highest prevalence (100%) in all dishwashers and are assumed to be one of the first colonizers in recently purchased dishwashers. Pairwise correlations in tested microbiomes showed that certain bacterial groups cooccur, as did the fungal groups. In mixed bacterial-fungal biofilms, early adhesion, contact, and interactions were vital in the process of biofilm formation, where mixed complexes of bacteria and fungi could provide a preliminary biogenic structure for the establishment of these biofilms. IMPORTANCE Worldwide demand for household appliances, such as dishwashers and washing machines, is increasing, as is the number of immunocompromised individuals. The harsh conditions in household dishwashers should prevent the growth of most microorganisms. However, our research shows that persisting polyextremotolerant groups of microorganisms in household appliances are well established under these unfavorable conditions and supported by the biofilm mode of growth. The significance of our research is in identifying the microbial composition of biofilms formed on dishwasher rubber seals, how diverse abiotic conditions affect microbiota, and which key microbial members were represented in early colonization and contamination of dishwashers, as these appliances can present a source of domestic cross-contamination that leads to broader medical impacts.
Collapse
|
40
|
Zupančič J, Raghupathi PK, Houf K, Burmølle M, Sørensen SJ, Gunde-Cimerman N. Synergistic Interactions in Microbial Biofilms Facilitate the Establishment of Opportunistic Pathogenic Fungi in Household Dishwashers. Front Microbiol 2018; 9:21. [PMID: 29441043 PMCID: PMC5797641 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2018.00021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2017] [Accepted: 01/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Biofilms formed on rubber seals in dishwashers harbor diverse microbiota. In this study, we focussed on the microbial composition of bacteria and fungi, isolated from a defined area of one square centimeter of rubber from four domestic dishwashers and assessed their abilities to in vitro multispecies biofilm formation. A total of 80 isolates (64 bacterial and 16 fungal) were analyzed. Multiple combinations of bacterial isolates from each dishwasher were screened for synergistic interactions. 32 out of 140 tested (23%) four-species bacterial combinations displayed consistent synergism leading to an overall increase in biomass, in all experimental trails. Bacterial isolates from two of the four dishwashers generated a high number of synergistically interacting four-species consortia. Network based correlation analyses also showed higher co-occurrence patterns observed between bacterial members in the same two dishwasher samples, indicating cooperative effects. Furthermore, two synergistic four-species bacterial consortia were tested for their abilities to incorporate an opportunistic fungal pathogen, Exophiala dermatitidis and their establishment as biofilms on sterile ethylene propylene diene monomer M-class (EPDM) rubber and polypropylene (PP) surfaces. When the bacterial consortia included E. dermatitidis, the overall cell numbers of both bacteria and fungi increased and a substantial increase in biofilm biomass was observed. These results indicate a novel phenomenon of cross kingdom synergy in biofilm formation and these observations could have potential implications for human health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jerneja Zupančič
- Department of Biology, Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Prem K Raghupathi
- Molecular Microbial Ecology Group, Section of Microbiology, Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Laboratory of Hygiene and Technology, Department of Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Kurt Houf
- Laboratory of Hygiene and Technology, Department of Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Mette Burmølle
- Molecular Microbial Ecology Group, Section of Microbiology, Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Søren J Sørensen
- Molecular Microbial Ecology Group, Section of Microbiology, Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Nina Gunde-Cimerman
- Department of Biology, Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Francesca N, Gaglio R, Stucchi C, De Martino S, Moschetti G, Settanni L. Yeasts and moulds contaminants of food ice cubes and their survival in different drinks. J Appl Microbiol 2017; 124:188-196. [PMID: 29080227 DOI: 10.1111/jam.13624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2017] [Revised: 10/13/2017] [Accepted: 10/20/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
AIMS To evaluate the levels of unicellular and filamentous fungi in ice cubes produced at different levels and to determine their survival in alcoholic beverages and soft drinks. METHODS AND RESULTS Sixty samples of ice cubes collected from home level (HL) productions, bars and pubs (BP) and industrial manufacturing plants (MP) were investigated for the presence and cell density of yeasts and moulds. Moulds were detected in almost all samples, while yeasts developed from the majority of HL and MP samples. Representative colonies of microfungi were subjected to phenotypic and genotypic characterization. The identification was carried out by restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) analysis of the region spanning the internal transcribed spacers (ITS1 and ITS2) and the 5·8S rRNA gene. The process of yeast identification was concluded by sequencing the D1/D2 region of the 26S rRNA gene. The fungal biodiversity associated with food ice was represented by nine yeast and nine mould species. Strains belonging to Candida parapsilosis and Cryptococcus curvatus, both opportunistic human pathogens, and Penicillium glabrum, an ubiquitous mould in the ice samples analysed, were selected to evaluate the effectiveness of the ice cubes to transfer pathogenic microfungi to consumers, after addition to alcoholic beverages and soft drinks. All strains retained their viability. CONCLUSIONS The survival test indicated that the most common mode of consumption of ice cubes, through its direct addition to drinks and beverages, did not reduce the viability of microfungi. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY This study evidenced the presence of microfungi in food ice and ascertained their survival in soft drinks and alcoholic beverages.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- N Francesca
- Dipartimento Scienze Agrarie, Alimentari e Forestali, Università di Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - R Gaglio
- Dipartimento Scienze Agrarie, Alimentari e Forestali, Università di Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - C Stucchi
- INGA, Istituto Nazionale Ghiaccio Alimentare, Roma, Italy
| | - S De Martino
- INGA, Istituto Nazionale Ghiaccio Alimentare, Roma, Italy
| | - G Moschetti
- Dipartimento Scienze Agrarie, Alimentari e Forestali, Università di Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - L Settanni
- Dipartimento Scienze Agrarie, Alimentari e Forestali, Università di Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Fungal Contaminants in Drinking Water Regulation? A Tale of Ecology, Exposure, Purification and Clinical Relevance. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2017. [PMCID: PMC5486322 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph14060636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Microbiological drinking water safety is traditionally monitored mainly by bacterial parameters that indicate faecal contamination. These parameters correlate with gastro-intestinal illness, despite the fact that viral agents, resulting from faecal contamination, are usually the cause. This leaves behind microbes that can cause illness other than gastro-intestinal and several emerging pathogens, disregarding non-endemic microbial contaminants and those with recent pathogenic activity reported. This white paper focuses on one group of contaminants known to cause allergies, opportunistic infections and intoxications: Fungi. It presents a review on their occurrence, ecology and physiology. Additionally, factors contributing to their presence in water distribution systems, as well as their effect on water quality are discussed. Presence of opportunistic and pathogenic fungi in drinking water can pose a health risk to consumers due to daily contact with water, via several exposure points, such as drinking and showering. The clinical relevance and influence on human health of the most common fungal contaminants in drinking water is discussed. Our goal with this paper is to place fungal contaminants on the roadmap of evidence based and emerging threats for drinking water quality safety regulations.
Collapse
|
43
|
Malandain D, Bémer P, Leroy AG, Léger J, Plouzeau C, Valentin AS, Jolivet-Gougeon A, Tandé D, Héry-Arnaud G, Lemarié C, Kempf M, Bret L, Burucoa C, Corvec S. Assessment of the automated multiplex-PCR Unyvero i60 ITI ® cartridge system to diagnose prosthetic joint infection: a multicentre study. Clin Microbiol Infect 2017; 24:83.e1-83.e6. [PMID: 28559002 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmi.2017.05.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2017] [Revised: 05/17/2017] [Accepted: 05/20/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Prosthetic joint infections (PJI) are responsible for significant morbidity and mortality and their number continues to rise. Their management remains complex, especially the microbiological diagnosis. Besides 'homemade' tests developed by several teams, new molecular biology methods are now available with different analytical performance and usability. METHODS We studied the performances of one of these tests: ITI® multiplex PCR (mPCR) by the Curetis® company and compared it to either 'optimized' culture or 16S rRNA PCR. We performed a retrospective multicentre study to assess the contributions of mPCR in the diagnosis of PJI. We randomly selected 484 intraoperative specimens among 1252 of various types (biopsy, bone, tissue around the prosthesis, synovial fluid) from 251 patients in seven different hospitals. Each sample was treated according to the recommendations of the manufacturer. RESULTS In all, 154 out of 164 (93.9%) samples negative in culture were negative with the mPCR. Among the 276 positive samples in culture, 251 (90.9%) were monomicrobial, of which 119 (47.4%) were positive with the mPCR, and 25 (9.1%) were polymicrobial, of which 12 (48%) were positive with the mPCR. The concordance rate of mPCR with culture was 58.1% (53.6%-62.7%) and the concordance rate with 16S rRNA PCR was 70.1% (65.5%-74.6%). CONCLUSION This new standardized molecular test showed a lack of detection when the bacterial inoculum was low (number of positive media per sample and number of colonies per media) but can be useful when patients have received antibiotic therapy previously.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- D Malandain
- CHU Nantes, Laboratoire de Bactériologie, Nantes, France
| | - P Bémer
- CHU Nantes, Laboratoire de Bactériologie, Nantes, France
| | - A G Leroy
- CHU Nantes, Laboratoire de Bactériologie, Nantes, France
| | - J Léger
- Inserm, CIC 1415, Tours, France
| | - C Plouzeau
- CHU Poitiers, Laboratoire de Bactériologie, Poitiers, France
| | - A S Valentin
- CHU Tours, Laboratoire de Bactériologie, Tours, France
| | | | - D Tandé
- CHU Brest, Laboratoire de Bactériologie, Brest, France
| | - G Héry-Arnaud
- CHU Brest, Laboratoire de Bactériologie, Brest, France
| | - C Lemarié
- CHU Angers, Laboratoire de Bactériologie, Angers, France
| | - M Kempf
- CHU Angers, Laboratoire de Bactériologie, Angers, France
| | - L Bret
- CH Orléans, Laboratoire de Bactériologie, Orléans, France
| | - C Burucoa
- CHU Poitiers, Laboratoire de Bactériologie, Poitiers, France
| | - S Corvec
- CHU Nantes, Laboratoire de Bactériologie, Nantes, France.
| | | |
Collapse
|
44
|
Abstract
Melanins are ancient biological pigments found in all kingdoms of life. In fungi, their role in microbial pathogenesis is well established; however, these complex biomolecules also confer upon fungal microorganisms the faculty to tolerate extreme environments such as the Earth's poles, the International Space Station and places contaminated by toxic metals and ionizing radiation. A remarkable property of melanin is its capacity to interact with a wide range of electromagnetic radiation frequencies, functioning as a protecting and energy harvesting pigment. Other roles of fungal melanin include scavenging of free radical, thermo-tolerance, metal ion sequestration, cell development, and mechanical-chemical cellular strength. In this review, we explore the various functions ascribed to this biological pigment in fungi and its remarkable physicochemical properties.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Radames JB Cordero
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD 21205
| | - Arturo Casadevall
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD 21205
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Bockmühl DP. Laundry hygiene-how to get more than clean. J Appl Microbiol 2017; 122:1124-1133. [PMID: 28092141 DOI: 10.1111/jam.13402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2016] [Revised: 12/21/2016] [Accepted: 01/05/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Although laundering should mainly remove stains and dirt from used and worn textiles, the elimination of microbial contamination is an important aim of the laundry process as well. While industrial and institutional laundering employs standardized processes using high temperatures (i.e. 60°C and above) and bleaching agents to ensure a sufficient hygienic reconditioning of textiles, domestic laundering processes are less defined and not always led by purposeful aims. The strive for energy efficiency of household appliances has resulted in a decrease in washing temperatures in Europe during the last decades and convenience aspects led to an increased use of liquid detergents that do not contain bleach which in turn impacts the antimicrobial efficacy of domestic laundering. This review compiles the different factors that influence the input and removal of micro-organisms in the laundering process and discusses the possible adverse effects of microbial contaminants in the washing machine and on the textiles as well as suitable counteractions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- D P Bockmühl
- Rhine-Waal-University of Applied Sciences, Kleve, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Moat J, Rizoulis A, Fox G, Upton M. Domestic shower hose biofilms contain fungal species capable of causing opportunistic infection. JOURNAL OF WATER AND HEALTH 2016; 14:727-737. [PMID: 27740540 DOI: 10.2166/wh.2016.297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
The domestic environment can be a source of pathogenic bacteria. We show here that domestic shower hoses may harbour potentially pathogenic bacteria and fungi. Well-developed biofilms were physically removed from the internal surface of shower hoses collected in four locations in England and Scotland. Amplicon pyrosequencing of 16S and 18S rRNA targets revealed the presence of common aquatic and environmental bacteria, including members of the Actinobacteria, Alphaproteobacteria, Bacteroidetes and non-tuberculous Mycobacteria. These bacteria are associated with infections in immunocompromised hosts and are widely reported in shower systems and as causes of water-acquired infection. More importantly, this study represents the first detailed analysis of fungal populations in shower systems and revealed the presence of sequences related to Exophiala mesophila, Fusarium fujikuroi and Malassezia restricta. These organisms can be associated with the environment and healthy skin, but also with infection in compromised and immuno-competent hosts and occurrence of dandruff. Domestic showering may result in exposure to aerosols of bacteria and fungi that are potentially pathogenic and toxigenic. It may be prudent to limit development of these biofilms by the use of disinfectants, or regular replacement of hoses, where immuno-compromised persons are present.
Collapse
MESH Headings
- Bacteria/classification
- Bacteria/isolation & purification
- Bacterial Physiological Phenomena
- Biofilms/growth & development
- England
- Fungi/classification
- Fungi/isolation & purification
- Fungi/physiology
- Opportunistic Infections/microbiology
- Polymerase Chain Reaction
- RNA, Bacterial/genetics
- RNA, Bacterial/metabolism
- RNA, Fungal/genetics
- RNA, Fungal/metabolism
- RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics
- RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/metabolism
- RNA, Ribosomal, 18S/genetics
- RNA, Ribosomal, 18S/metabolism
- Scotland
- Water Microbiology
- Water Supply
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- John Moat
- Faculty of Medical and Human Sciences, The University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9WL, UK E-mail: ; Current address: AV Hill Building, University of Manchester, Rumford Street, Manchester M13 9PT, UK
| | - Athanasios Rizoulis
- School of Earth, Atmospheric and Environmental Sciences, The University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9WL, UK
| | - Graeme Fox
- Faculty of Medical and Human Sciences, The University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9WL, UK E-mail:
| | - Mathew Upton
- Faculty of Medical and Human Sciences, The University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9WL, UK E-mail: ; Plymouth University Peninsula Schools of Medicine and Dentistry, Plymouth PL4 8AA, UK
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Ota A, Višnjevec AM, Vidrih R, Prgomet Ž, Nečemer M, Hribar J, Cimerman NG, Možina SS, Bučar-Miklavčič M, Ulrih NP. Nutritional, antioxidative, and antimicrobial analysis of the Mediterranean hackberry ( Celtis australis L.). Food Sci Nutr 2016; 5:160-170. [PMID: 28070327 PMCID: PMC5217915 DOI: 10.1002/fsn3.375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2016] [Revised: 03/18/2016] [Accepted: 04/01/2016] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Celtis australis is a deciduous tree commonly known as Mediterranean hackberry or the European nettle tree. The fruit of hackberry are seldom used for nutritional purposes. The nutritional and physicochemical properties of ripe hackberry fruit from Istria (Marasi village near Vrsar, Croatia) were determined, including water, total fiber, protein, vitamin, mineral, and phenolic contents. This analysis demonstrates that the hackberry fruit is a valuable source of dietary fiber, protein, and vitamins, and of pigments such as lutein, β‐carotene, zeaxanthin, and tocopherols. The seasonal differences associated with the different growth stages for the element composition, total phenolic content, and phenolic profile were also determined for hackberry mesocarp and leaves. Water and ethanol extracts were prepared from mesocarp and leaves harvested at different growth stages and their phenolic profiles and antioxidant and antimicrobial activities were investigated. This study demonstrates that water and ethanol extracts of hackberry fruit and leaves collected at different growth stages contain epicatechin, gallic acid, vanillic acid, 3,4‐dihydroxybenzaldehyde, delphinidin‐3,5‐di‐O‐glucoside, cyanidin‐3,5‐di‐O‐glucoside, and pelargonidin‐3,5‐di‐O‐glucoside. They also show some antimicrobial and antifungal activities. Further studies are needed to identify and define the active ingredients of these hackberry leaf ethanol extracts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ajda Ota
- Biotechnical Faculty University of Ljubljana Jamnikarjeva 101 Ljubljana SI-1000 Slovenia
| | - Ana Miklavčič Višnjevec
- Science and Research Centre of Koper University of Primorska Zelena ulica 8 Izola SI-6310 Slovenia
| | - Rajko Vidrih
- Biotechnical Faculty University of Ljubljana Jamnikarjeva 101 Ljubljana SI-1000 Slovenia
| | - Željko Prgomet
- Agricultural Department in Poreč University of Rijeka Carla Huguesa 6 Poreč Croatia
| | - Marijan Nečemer
- Institute Jožef Stefan Jamova cesta 39 Ljubljana SI-1000 Slovenia
| | - Janez Hribar
- Biotechnical Faculty University of Ljubljana Jamnikarjeva 101 Ljubljana SI-1000 Slovenia
| | - Nina Gunde Cimerman
- Biotechnical Faculty University of Ljubljana Jamnikarjeva 101 Ljubljana SI-1000 Slovenia; Centre of Excellence for Integrated Approaches in Chemistry and Biology of Proteins (CIPKeBiP) Jamova cesta 39 Ljubljana SI-1000 Slovenia
| | - Sonja Smole Možina
- Biotechnical Faculty University of Ljubljana Jamnikarjeva 101 Ljubljana SI-1000 Slovenia
| | - Milena Bučar-Miklavčič
- Science and Research Centre of Koper University of Primorska Zelena ulica 8 Izola SI-6310 Slovenia
| | - Nataša Poklar Ulrih
- Biotechnical Faculty University of Ljubljana Jamnikarjeva 101 Ljubljana SI-1000 Slovenia; Centre of Excellence for Integrated Approaches in Chemistry and Biology of Proteins (CIPKeBiP) Jamova cesta 39 Ljubljana SI-1000 Slovenia
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Yeasts and yeast-like fungi in tap water and groundwater, and their transmission to household appliances. FUNGAL ECOL 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.funeco.2015.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
|
49
|
Zupančič J, Novak Babič M, Zalar P, Gunde-Cimerman N. The Black Yeast Exophiala dermatitidis and Other Selected Opportunistic Human Fungal Pathogens Spread from Dishwashers to Kitchens. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0148166. [PMID: 26867131 PMCID: PMC4750988 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0148166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2015] [Accepted: 01/13/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
We investigated the diversity and distribution of fungi in nine different sites inside 30 residential dishwashers. In total, 503 fungal strains were isolated, which belong to 10 genera and 84 species. Irrespective of the sampled site, 83% of the dishwashers were positive for fungi. The most frequent opportunistic pathogenic species were Exophiala dermatitidis, Candida parapsilosis sensu stricto, Exophiala phaeomuriformis, Fusarium dimerum, and the Saprochaete/Magnusiomyces clade. The black yeast E. dermatitidis was detected in 47% of the dishwashers, primarily at the dishwasher rubber seals, at up to 106 CFU/cm2; the other fungi detected were in the range of 102 to 105 CFU/cm2. The other most heavily contaminated dishwasher sites were side nozzles, doors and drains. Only F. dimerum was isolated from washed dishes, while dishwasher waste water contained E. dermatitidis, Exophiala oligosperma and Sarocladium killiense. Plumbing systems supplying water to household appliances represent the most probable route for contamination of dishwashers, as the fungi that represented the core dishwasher mycobiota were also detected in the tap water. Hot aerosols from dishwashers contained the human opportunistic yeast C. parapsilosis, Rhodotorula mucilaginosa and E. dermatitidis (as well as common air-borne genera such as Aspergillus, Penicillium, Trichoderma and Cladosporium). Comparison of fungal contamination of kitchens without and with dishwashers revealed that virtually all were contaminated with fungi. In both cases, the most contaminated sites were the kitchen drain and the dish drying rack. The most important difference was higher prevalence of black yeasts (E. dermatitidis in particular) in kitchens with dishwashers. In kitchens without dishwashers, C. parapsilosis strongly prevailed with negligible occurrence of E. dermatitidis. F. dimerum was isolated only from kitchens with dishwashers, while Saprochaete/Magnusiomyces isolates were only found within dishwashers. We conclude that dishwashers represent a reservoir of enriched opportunistic pathogenic species that can spread from the dishwasher into the indoor biome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jerneja Zupančič
- Department of Biology, Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Monika Novak Babič
- Department of Biology, Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Polona Zalar
- Department of Biology, Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Nina Gunde-Cimerman
- Department of Biology, Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Centre of Excellence for Integrated Approaches in Chemistry and Biology of Proteins (CIPKeBiP), Ljubljana, Slovenia
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Sav H, Ozakkas F, Altınbas R, Kiraz N, Tümgör A, Gümral R, Döğen A, Ilkit M, de Hoog GS. Virulence markers of opportunistic black yeast in Exophiala. Mycoses 2016; 59:343-50. [PMID: 26857806 DOI: 10.1111/myc.12478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2015] [Revised: 01/10/2016] [Accepted: 01/12/2016] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
The black yeast genus Exophiala is known to cause a wide variety of diseases in severely ill individuals but can also affect immunocompetent individuals. Virulence markers and other physiological parameters were tested in eight clinical and 218 environmental strains, with a specific focus on human-dominated habitats for the latter. Urease and catalase were consistently present in all samples; four strains expressed proteinase and three strains expressed DNase, whereas none of the strains showed phospholipase, haemolysis, or co-haemolysis activities. Biofilm formation was identified in 30 (13.8%) of the environmental isolates, particularly in strains from dishwashers, and was noted in only two (25%) of the clinical strains. These results indicate that virulence factors are inconsistently present in the investigated Exophiala species, suggesting opportunism rather than pathogenicity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hafize Sav
- Department of Microbiology, Cerrahpasa Medical Faculty, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Fatma Ozakkas
- Department of Microbiology, Cerrahpasa Medical Faculty, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Rabiye Altınbas
- Department of Microbiology, Cerrahpasa Medical Faculty, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Nuri Kiraz
- Department of Microbiology, Cerrahpasa Medical Faculty, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ayşegül Tümgör
- Department of Microbiology, Adana Numune Training and Research Hospital, Adana, Turkey
| | - Ramazan Gümral
- Department of Microbiology, Gülhane Military Medical Academy, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Aylin Döğen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Mersin, Mersin, Turkey
| | - Macit Ilkit
- Division of Mycology, Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Çukurova, Adana, Turkey
| | - G Sybren de Hoog
- CBS-KNAW Fungal Biodiversity Centre, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Institute for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Dynamics, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Basic Pathology Department, Federal University of Paraná State, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil.,King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| |
Collapse
|