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Tanwar M, Singh A, Singh TP, Sharma S, Sharma P. Comprehensive Review on the Virulence Factors and Therapeutic Strategies with the Aid of Artificial Intelligence against Mucormycosis. ACS Infect Dis 2024; 10:1431-1457. [PMID: 38682683 DOI: 10.1021/acsinfecdis.4c00082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
Mucormycosis, a rare but deadly fungal infection, was an epidemic during the COVID-19 pandemic. The rise in cases (COVID-19-associated mucormycosis, CAM) is attributed to excessive steroid and antibiotic use, poor hospital hygiene, and crowded settings. Major contributing factors include diabetes and weakened immune systems. The main manifesting forms of CAM─cutaneous, pulmonary, and the deadliest, rhinocerebral─and disseminated infections elevated mortality rates to 85%. Recent focus lies on small-molecule inhibitors due to their advantages over standard treatments like surgery and liposomal amphotericin B (which carry several long-term adverse effects), offering potential central nervous system penetration, diverse targets, and simpler dosing owing to their small size, rendering the ability to traverse the blood-brain barrier via passive diffusion facilitated by the phospholipid membrane. Adaptation and versatility in mucormycosis are facilitated by a multitude of virulence factors, enabling the pathogen to dynamically respond to various environmental stressors. A comprehensive understanding of these virulence mechanisms is imperative for devising effective therapeutic interventions against this highly opportunistic pathogen that thrives in immunocompromised individuals through its angio-invasive nature. Hence, this Review delineates the principal virulence factors of mucormycosis, the mechanisms it employs to persist in challenging host environments, and the current progress in developing small-molecule inhibitors against them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mansi Tanwar
- Department of Biophysics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi-110029, India
| | - Anamika Singh
- Department of Biophysics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi-110029, India
| | - Tej Pal Singh
- Department of Biophysics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi-110029, India
| | - Sujata Sharma
- Department of Biophysics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi-110029, India
| | - Pradeep Sharma
- Department of Biophysics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi-110029, India
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2
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Alqarihi A, Kontoyiannis DP, Ibrahim AS. Mucormycosis in 2023: an update on pathogenesis and management. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2023; 13:1254919. [PMID: 37808914 PMCID: PMC10552646 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1254919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Mucormycosis (MCR) is an emerging and frequently lethal fungal infection caused by the Mucorales family, with Rhizopus, Mucor, and Lichtheimia, accounting for > 90% of all cases. MCR is seen in patients with severe immunosuppression such as those with hematologic malignancy or transplantation, Diabetes Mellitus (DM) and diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) and immunocompetent patients with severe wounds. The recent SARS COV2 epidemy in India has resulted in a tremendous increase in MCR cases, typically seen in the setting of uncontrolled DM and corticosteroid use. In addition to the diversity of affected hosts, MCR has pleiotropic clinical presentations, with rhino-orbital/rhino-cerebral, sino-pulmonary and necrotizing cutaneous forms being the predominant manifestations. Major insights in MCR pathogenesis have brought into focus the host receptors (GRP78) and signaling pathways (EGFR activation cascade) as well as the adhesins used by Mucorales for invasion. Furthermore, studies have expanded on the importance of iron availability and the complex regulation of iron homeostasis, as well as the pivotal role of mycotoxins as key factors for tissue invasion. The molecular toolbox to study Mucorales pathogenesis remains underdeveloped, but promise is brought by RNAi and CRISPR/Cas9 approaches. Important recent advancements have been made in early, culture-independent molecular diagnosis of MCR. However, development of new potent antifungals against Mucorales remains an unmet need. Therapy of MCR is multidisciplinary and requires a high index of suspicion for initiation of early Mucorales-active antifungals. Reversal of underlying immunosuppression, if feasible, rapid DKA correction and in selected patients, surgical debulking are crucial for improved outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdullah Alqarihi
- Division of Infectious Diseases, The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) Medical Center, Torrance, CA, United States
| | - Dimitrios P Kontoyiannis
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Infection Control and Employee Health, The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, United States
| | - Ashraf S Ibrahim
- Division of Infectious Diseases, The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) Medical Center, Torrance, CA, United States
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, United States
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3
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Lecointe K, Coulon P, Krzewinski F, Charlet R, Bortolus C, Sendid B, Cornu M. Parietal composition of Lichtheimia corymbifera: Differences between spore and germ tube stages and host-pathogen interactions. Med Mycol 2022; 61:6960681. [PMID: 36565722 DOI: 10.1093/mmy/myac100] [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: 10/14/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The molecular composition and structural organization of the cell wall of filamentous fungi underlie the ability of the host to identify them as pathogens. Although the organization of the fungal cell wall, composed of 90% polysaccharides, is similar from one fungus to another, small variations condition their ability to trigger pattern recognition receptors. Because the incidence of mucormycosis, an emerging life-threatening infection caused by the species of the order Mucorales is increasing worldwide, the precise composition of the cell wall of two strains of Lichtheimia corymbifera was investigated in the early growth stages of germination (spores and germ-tubes) using trimethylsilylation and confocal microscopy. This study also characterizes the response of THP-1 cells to Mucorales. The study identified the presence of uncommon monosaccharides (fucose, galactose, and glucuronic acid) whose respective proportions vary according to the germination stage, revealing early parietal reorganization. Immunofluorescence studies confirmed the exposure of β-glucan on the surface of swollen spores and germ-tubes. Both spores and germ-tubes of L. corymbifera promoted an early and strong pro-inflammatory response, through TLR-2. Our results show the singularity of the cell wall of the order Mucorales, opening perspectives for the development of specific diagnostic biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karine Lecointe
- CNRS, UMR 8576 - UGSF - Unité de Glycobiologie Structurale et Fonctionnelle, Univ. Lille, F-59000 Lille, France.,Inserm U1285 ; Univ. Lille, F-59000 Lille, France.,CHU Lille, Laboratoire de Parasitologie-Mycologie, F-59000 Lille, France
| | - Pauline Coulon
- CNRS, UMR 8576 - UGSF - Unité de Glycobiologie Structurale et Fonctionnelle, Univ. Lille, F-59000 Lille, France.,Inserm U1285 ; Univ. Lille, F-59000 Lille, France.,CHU Lille, Laboratoire de Parasitologie-Mycologie, F-59000 Lille, France
| | - Frédéric Krzewinski
- CNRS, UMR 8576 - UGSF - Unité de Glycobiologie Structurale et Fonctionnelle, Univ. Lille, F-59000 Lille, France
| | - Rogatien Charlet
- CNRS, UMR 8576 - UGSF - Unité de Glycobiologie Structurale et Fonctionnelle, Univ. Lille, F-59000 Lille, France.,Inserm U1285 ; Univ. Lille, F-59000 Lille, France
| | - Clovis Bortolus
- CNRS, UMR 8576 - UGSF - Unité de Glycobiologie Structurale et Fonctionnelle, Univ. Lille, F-59000 Lille, France.,Inserm U1285 ; Univ. Lille, F-59000 Lille, France
| | - Boualem Sendid
- CNRS, UMR 8576 - UGSF - Unité de Glycobiologie Structurale et Fonctionnelle, Univ. Lille, F-59000 Lille, France.,Inserm U1285 ; Univ. Lille, F-59000 Lille, France.,CHU Lille, Laboratoire de Parasitologie-Mycologie, F-59000 Lille, France
| | - Marjorie Cornu
- CNRS, UMR 8576 - UGSF - Unité de Glycobiologie Structurale et Fonctionnelle, Univ. Lille, F-59000 Lille, France.,Inserm U1285 ; Univ. Lille, F-59000 Lille, France.,CHU Lille, Laboratoire de Parasitologie-Mycologie, F-59000 Lille, France
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Gogineni H, So W, Mata K, Greene JN. Multidisciplinary approach in diagnosis and treatment of COVID-19-associated mucormycosis: a description of current reports. THE EGYPTIAN JOURNAL OF INTERNAL MEDICINE 2022; 34:58. [PMID: 35911783 PMCID: PMC9308120 DOI: 10.1186/s43162-022-00143-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2022] [Accepted: 06/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
We reviewed the epidemiology, risk factors, pathophysiology, and clinical presentations of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)-associated mucormycosis (CAM), then discussed the importance of rapid diagnosis and treatment facilitated by multidisciplinary approach.
Main body
India has reported world’s highest number of CAM cases where Rhizopus arrhizus was the most predominant etiology. CAM caused by Rhizopus microsporus was the most common from the rest of the world. Multiple risk factors for CAM were identified including diabetes mellitus, inappropriate corticosteroid use, COVID-19-related hypoxia, and lung damage.
Rhino-orbito-cerebral mucormycosis (ROCM) accounted for almost 90% of CAM in India while 64% of global cases were ROCM. Less than 10% of CAM from India were pulmonary while the rest of the world reported 21% of pulmonary CAM.
CAM is diagnosed by confirmed SARS-CoV2 infection along with clinical, radiological, histopathological, and/or microbiological evidence of mucormycosis. In patients with risks of CAM and associated symptoms, CT or MRI are recommended. If ROCM is suspected, endoscopy and biopsy are recommended. If pulmonary CAM is suspected, tissue biopsies, nasal samples, or bronchoalveolar lavage is recommended with histopathological exams.
Early diagnosis, surgical, and pharmaceutical interventions are key to treat mucormycosis. Upon diagnosis, antifungal therapy with liposomal amphotericin B (IV) is considered first-line of therapy. Alternatively, posaconazole (PO/IV) or isavuconazole (PO/IV) can be used.
Conclusion
Treating CAM requires a multidisciplinary approach for early diagnosis and prompt initiation of interventions to maximize patient’s chance of survival.
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COVID-19-Associated Mucormycosis: A Matter of Concern Amid the SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic. Vaccines (Basel) 2022; 10:vaccines10081266. [PMID: 36016154 PMCID: PMC9415927 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines10081266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2022] [Revised: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Mucormycosis is an invasive fungal infection caused by fungi belonging to order Mucorales. Recently, with the increase in COVID-19 infections, mucormycosis infections have become a matter of concern globally, because of the high morbidity and mortality rates associated with them. Due to the association of mucormycosis with COVID-19 disease, it has been termed COVID-19-associated mucormycosis (CAM). In the present review, we focus on mucormycosis incidence, pathophysiology, risk factors, immune dysfunction, interactions of Mucorales with endothelial cells, and the possible role of iron in Mucorales growth. We review the limitations associated with current diagnostic procedures and the requirement for more specific, cost-effective, convenient, and sensitive assays, such as PCR-based assays and monoclonal antibody-based assays for the effective diagnosis of mucormycosis. We discuss the current treatment options involving antifungal drug therapies, adjunctive therapy, surgical treatment, and their limitations. We also review the importance of nutraceuticals-based therapy for the prevention as well as treatment of mucormycosis. Our review also highlights the need to explore the potential of novel immunotherapeutics, which include antibody-based therapy, cytokine-based therapy, and combination/synergistic antifungal therapy, as treatment options for mucormycosis. In summary, this review provides a complete overview of COVID-19-associated mucormycosis, addressing the current research gaps and future developments required in the field.
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García-Carnero LC, Mora-Montes HM. Mucormycosis and COVID-19-Associated Mucormycosis: Insights of a Deadly but Neglected Mycosis. J Fungi (Basel) 2022; 8:jof8050445. [PMID: 35628701 PMCID: PMC9144279 DOI: 10.3390/jof8050445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Revised: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has quickly become a health threat worldwide, with high mortality and morbidity among patients with comorbidities. This viral infection promotes the perfect setting in patients for the development of opportunistic infections, such as those caused by fungi. Mucormycosis, a rare but deadly fungal infection, has recently increased its incidence, especially in endemic areas, since the onset of the pandemic. COVID-19-associated mucormycosis is an important complication of the pandemic because it is a mycosis hard to diagnose and treat, causing concern among COVID-19-infected patients and even in the already recovered population. The risk factors for the development of mucormycosis in these patients are related to the damage caused by the SARS-CoV-2 itself, the patient’s overstimulated immune response, and the therapy used to treat COVID-19, causing alterations such as hyperglycemia, acidosis, endothelial and lung damage, and immunosuppression. In this review, the molecular aspects of mucormycosis and the main risk factors for the development of COVID-19-associated mucormycosis are explained to understand this virus–fungi–host interaction and highlight the importance of this neglected mycosis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Héctor M. Mora-Montes
- Correspondence: (L.C.G.-C.); (H.M.M.-M.); Tel.: +52-473-7320006 (ext. 8193) (H.M.M.-M.)
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7
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Itabangi H, Sephton-Clark PCS, Tamayo DP, Zhou X, Starling GP, Mahamoud Z, Insua I, Probert M, Correia J, Moynihan PJ, Gebremariam T, Gu Y, Ibrahim AS, Brown GD, King JS, Ballou ER, Voelz K. A bacterial endosymbiont of the fungus Rhizopus microsporus drives phagocyte evasion and opportunistic virulence. Curr Biol 2022; 32:1115-1130.e6. [PMID: 35134329 PMCID: PMC8926845 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2022.01.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2020] [Revised: 11/04/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Opportunistic infections by environmental fungi are a growing clinical problem, driven by an increasing population of people with immunocompromising conditions. Spores of the Mucorales order are ubiquitous in the environment but can also cause acute invasive infections in humans through germination and evasion of the mammalian host immune system. How they achieve this and the evolutionary drivers underlying the acquisition of virulence mechanisms are poorly understood. Here, we show that a clinical isolate of Rhizopus microsporus contains a Ralstonia pickettii bacterial endosymbiont required for virulence in both zebrafish and mice and that this endosymbiosis enables the secretion of factors that potently suppress growth of the soil amoeba Dictyostelium discoideum, as well as their ability to engulf and kill other microbes. As amoebas are natural environmental predators of both bacteria and fungi, we propose that this tri-kingdom interaction contributes to establishing endosymbiosis and the acquisition of anti-phagocyte activity. Importantly, we show that this activity also protects fungal spores from phagocytosis and clearance by human macrophages, and endosymbiont removal renders the fungal spores avirulent in vivo. Together, these findings describe a new role for a bacterial endosymbiont in Rhizopus microsporus pathogenesis in animals and suggest a mechanism of virulence acquisition through environmental interactions with amoebas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Herbert Itabangi
- Institute of Microbiology and Infection, School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Poppy C S Sephton-Clark
- Institute of Microbiology and Infection, School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Diana P Tamayo
- MRC Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Geoffrey Pope Building, Stocker Road, Exeter, EX4 4QD, UK
| | - Xin Zhou
- Institute of Microbiology and Infection, School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Georgina P Starling
- School of Biosciences, University of Sheffield, Western Bank, Sheffield, S10 2TN, UK
| | - Zamzam Mahamoud
- School of Biosciences, University of Sheffield, Western Bank, Sheffield, S10 2TN, UK
| | - Ignacio Insua
- School of Chemistry, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - Mark Probert
- Institute of Microbiology and Infection, School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Joao Correia
- Institute of Microbiology and Infection, School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Patrick J Moynihan
- Institute of Microbiology and Infection, School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Teclegiorgis Gebremariam
- The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, USA
| | - Yiyou Gu
- The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, USA
| | - Ashraf S Ibrahim
- The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, USA; David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Gordon D Brown
- MRC Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Geoffrey Pope Building, Stocker Road, Exeter, EX4 4QD, UK
| | - Jason S King
- School of Biosciences, University of Sheffield, Western Bank, Sheffield, S10 2TN, UK.
| | - Elizabeth R Ballou
- Institute of Microbiology and Infection, School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK; MRC Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Geoffrey Pope Building, Stocker Road, Exeter, EX4 4QD, UK.
| | - Kerstin Voelz
- Institute of Microbiology and Infection, School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK.
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Dogra S, Arora A, Aggarwal A, Passi G, Sharma A, Singh G, Barnwal RP. Mucormycosis Amid COVID-19 Crisis: Pathogenesis, Diagnosis, and Novel Treatment Strategies to Combat the Spread. Front Microbiol 2022; 12:794176. [PMID: 35058909 PMCID: PMC8763841 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.794176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The havoc unleashed by COVID-19 pandemic has paved way for secondary ominous fungal infections like Mucormycosis. It is caused by a class of opportunistic pathogens from the order Mucorales. Fatality rates due to this contagious infection are extremely high. Numerous clinical manifestations result in damage to multiple organs subject to the patient's underlying condition. Lack of a proper detection method and reliable treatment has made the management of this infection troublesome. Several reports studying the behavior pattern of Mucorales inside the host by modulation of its defense mechanisms have helped in understanding the pathogenesis of this angio-invasive infection. Many recent advances in diagnosis and treatment of this fungal infection have not been much beneficial. Therefore, there is a need to foster more viable strategies. This article summarizes current and imminent approaches that could aid effective management of these secondary infections in these times of global pandemic. It is foreseen that the development of newer antifungal drugs, antimicrobial peptides, and nanotechnology-based approaches for drug delivery would help combat this infection and curb its spread.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shreya Dogra
- Department of Biophysics, Panjab University, Chandigarh, India
| | - Akanksha Arora
- Department of Biophysics, Panjab University, Chandigarh, India
| | - Aashni Aggarwal
- Department of Biophysics, Panjab University, Chandigarh, India
| | - Gautam Passi
- Department of Biophysics, Panjab University, Chandigarh, India
| | - Akanksha Sharma
- Department of Biophysics, Panjab University, Chandigarh, India
- University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Panjab University, Chandigarh, India
| | - Gurpal Singh
- University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Panjab University, Chandigarh, India
| | - Ravi P. Barnwal
- Department of Biophysics, Panjab University, Chandigarh, India
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9
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Dental and Oral Manifestations of COVID-19 Related Mucormycosis: Diagnoses, Management Strategies and Outcomes. J Fungi (Basel) 2021; 8:jof8010044. [PMID: 35049983 PMCID: PMC8781413 DOI: 10.3390/jof8010044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Revised: 12/28/2021] [Accepted: 12/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
It has been nearly two years since the pandemic caused by the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has affected the world. Several innovations and discoveries related to COVID-19 are surfacing every day and new problems associated with the COVID-19 virus are also coming to light. A similar situation is with the emergence of deep invasive fungal infections associated with severe acute respiratory syndrome 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Recent literature reported the cases of pulmonary and rhino-cerebral fungal infections appearing in patients previously infected by COVID-19. Histopathological analysis of these cases has shown that most of such infections are diagnosed as mucormycosis or aspergillosis. Rhino-orbital-cerebral mucormycosis usually affects the maxillary sinus with involvement of maxillary teeth, orbits, and ethmoidal sinuses. Diabetes mellitus is an independent risk factor for both COVID-19 as well as mucormycosis. At this point, there is scanty data on the subject and most of the published literature comprises of either case reports or case series with no long-term data available. The aim of this review paper is to present the characteristics of COVID-19 related mucormycosis and associated clinical features, outcome, diagnostic and management strategies. A prompt diagnosis and aggressive treatment planning can surely benefit these patients.
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Soltan MA, Eldeen MA, Elbassiouny N, Kamel HL, Abdelraheem KM, El-Gayyed HA, Gouda AM, Sheha MF, Fayad E, Ali OAA, Ghany KAE, El-damasy DA, Darwish KM, Elhady SS, Sileem AE. In Silico Designing of a Multitope Vaccine against Rhizopus microsporus with Potential Activity against Other Mucormycosis Causing Fungi. Cells 2021; 10:3014. [PMID: 34831237 PMCID: PMC8616407 DOI: 10.3390/cells10113014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2021] [Revised: 10/27/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
During the current era of the COVID-19 pandemic, the dissemination of Mucorales has been reported globally, with elevated rates of infection in India, and because of the high rate of mortality and morbidity, designing an effective vaccine against mucormycosis is a major health priority, especially for immunocompromised patients. In the current study, we studied shared Mucorales proteins, which have been reported as virulence factors, and after analysis of several virulent proteins for their antigenicity and subcellular localization, we selected spore coat (CotH) and serine protease (SP) proteins as the targets of epitope mapping. The current study proposes a vaccine constructed based on top-ranking cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL), helper T lymphocyte (HTL), and B cell lymphocyte (BCL) epitopes from filtered proteins. In addition to the selected epitopes, β-defensins adjuvant and PADRE peptide were included in the constructed vaccine to improve the stimulated immune response. Computational tools were used to estimate the physicochemical and immunological features of the proposed vaccine and validate its binding with TLR-2, where the output data of these assessments potentiate the probability of the constructed vaccine to stimulate a specific immune response against mucormycosis. Here, we demonstrate the approach of potential vaccine construction and assessment through computational tools, and to the best of our knowledge, this is the first study of a proposed vaccine against mucormycosis based on the immunoinformatics approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed A. Soltan
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Sinai University, Ismailia 41611, Egypt;
| | - Muhammad Alaa Eldeen
- Cell Biology, Histology & Genetics Division, Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44519, Egypt;
| | - Nada Elbassiouny
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Sinai University, Ismailia 41611, Egypt;
| | - Hasnaa L. Kamel
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Sinai University, Ismailia 41611, Egypt;
| | - Kareem M. Abdelraheem
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44519, Egypt; (K.M.A.); (H.A.E.-G.)
| | - Hanaa Abd El-Gayyed
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44519, Egypt; (K.M.A.); (H.A.E.-G.)
| | - Ahmed M. Gouda
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44519, Egypt;
| | - Mohammed F. Sheha
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Suez Canal University, Ismailia 41522, Egypt;
| | - Eman Fayad
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Sciences, Taif University, P.O. Box 11099, Taif 21944, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Ola A. Abu Ali
- Department of Chemistry, College of Science, Taif University, P.O. Box 11099, Taif 21944, Saudi Arabia;
| | | | - Dalia A. El-damasy
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Egyptian Russian University, Cairo 11829, Egypt;
| | - Khaled M. Darwish
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Suez Canal University, Ismailia 41522, Egypt;
| | - Sameh S. Elhady
- Department of Natural Products, Faculty of Pharmacy, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Ashraf E. Sileem
- Department of Chest Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44519, Egypt;
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DNA Methylation on N6-Adenine Regulates the Hyphal Development during Dimorphism in the Early-Diverging Fungus Mucor lusitanicus. J Fungi (Basel) 2021; 7:jof7090738. [PMID: 34575776 PMCID: PMC8470550 DOI: 10.3390/jof7090738] [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: 07/22/2021] [Revised: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The epigenetic modifications control the pathogenicity of human pathogenic fungi, which have been poorly studied in Mucorales, causative agents of mucormycosis. This order belongs to a group referred to as early-diverging fungi that are characterized by high levels of N6-methyldeoxy adenine (6mA) in their genome with dense 6mA clusters associated with actively expressed genes. AlkB enzymes can act as demethylases of 6mA in DNA, with the most remarkable eukaryotic examples being mammalian ALKBH1 and Caenorhabditis elegans NMAD-1. The Mucor lusitanicus (formerly M. circinelloides f. lusitanicus) genome contains one gene, dmt1, and two genes, dmt2 and dmt3, encoding proteins similar to C. elegans NMAD-1 and ALKBH1, respectively. The function of these three genes was analyzed by the generation of single and double deletion mutants for each gene. Multiple processes were studied in the mutants, but defects were only found in single and double deletion mutants for dmt1. In contrast to the wild-type strain, dmt1 mutants showed an increase in 6mA levels during the dimorphic transition, suggesting that 6mA is associated with dimorphism in M. lusitanicus. Furthermore, the spores of dmt1 mutants challenged with macrophages underwent a reduction in polar growth, suggesting that 6mA also has a role during the spore–macrophage interaction that could be important in the infection process.
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Naik B, Ahmed SMQ, Laha S, Das SP. Genetic Susceptibility to Fungal Infections and Links to Human Ancestry. Front Genet 2021; 12:709315. [PMID: 34490039 PMCID: PMC8417537 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2021.709315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 07/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Over the ages, fungi have associated with different parts of the human body and established symbiotic associations with their host. They are mostly commensal unless there are certain not so well-defined factors that trigger the conversion to a pathogenic state. Some of the factors that induce such transition can be dependent on the fungal species, environment, immunological status of the individual, and most importantly host genetics. In this review, we discuss the different aspects of how host genetics play a role in fungal infection since mutations in several genes make hosts susceptible to such infections. We evaluate how mutations modulate the key recognition between the pathogen associated molecular patterns (PAMP) and the host pattern recognition receptor (PRR) molecules. We discuss the polymorphisms in the genes of the immune system, the way it contributes toward some common fungal infections, and highlight how the immunological status of the host determines fungal recognition and cross-reactivity of some fungal antigens against human proteins that mimic them. We highlight the importance of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) that are associated with several of the receptor coding genes and discuss how it affects the signaling cascade post-infection, immune evasion, and autoimmune disorders. As part of personalized medicine, we need the application of next-generation techniques as a feasible option to incorporate an individual’s susceptibility toward invasive fungal infections based on predisposing factors. Finally, we discuss the importance of studying genomic ancestry and reveal how genetic differences between the human race are linked to variation in fungal disease susceptibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bharati Naik
- Yenepoya Research Centre, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), Mangalore, India
| | - Sumayyah M Q Ahmed
- Yenepoya Research Centre, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), Mangalore, India
| | - Suparna Laha
- Yenepoya Research Centre, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), Mangalore, India
| | - Shankar Prasad Das
- Yenepoya Research Centre, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), Mangalore, India
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13
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Sahu RK, Salem-Bekhit MM, Bhattacharjee B, Almoshari Y, Ikbal AMA, Alshamrani M, Bharali A, Salawi A, Widyowati R, Alshammari A, Elbagory I. Mucormycosis in Indian COVID-19 Patients: Insight into Its Patho-Genesis, Clinical Manifestation, and Management Strategies. Antibiotics (Basel) 2021; 10:1079. [PMID: 34572661 PMCID: PMC8468123 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics10091079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2021] [Revised: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Mucormycosis in patients who have COVID-19 or who are otherwise immunocompromised has become a global problem, causing significant morbidity and mortality. Infection is debilitating and fatal, leading to loss of organs and emotional trauma. Radiographic manifestations are not specific, but diagnosis can be made through microscopic examination of materials collected from necrotic lesions. Treatment requires multidisciplinary expertise, as the fungus enters through the eyes and nose and may even reach the brain. Use of the many antifungal drugs available is limited by considerations of resistance and toxicity, but nanoparticles can overcome such limitations by reducing toxicity and increasing bioavailability. The lipid formulation of amphotericin-B (liposomal Am-B) is the first-line treatment for mucormycosis in COVID-19 patients, but its high cost and low availability have prompted a shift toward surgery, so that surgical debridement to remove all necrotic lesions remains the hallmark of effective treatment of mucormycosis in COVID-19. This review highlights the pathogenesis, clinical manifestation, and management of mucormycosis in patients who have COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ram Kumar Sahu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Science, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya 60115, Indonesia; (R.K.S.); (R.W.)
- Department of Pharmaceutical Science, Assam University (A Central University), Silchar 788011, India
| | - Mounir M. Salem-Bekhit
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University, Cairo 11884, Egypt
| | - Bedanta Bhattacharjee
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Dibrugarh University, Dibrugarh 786004, India;
| | - Yosif Almoshari
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, Jazan University, Jazan 45142, Saudi Arabia; (Y.A.); (M.A.); (A.S.)
| | - Abu Md Ashif Ikbal
- Department of Pharmacy, Tripura University (A Central University), Suryamaninagar 799022, India
| | - Meshal Alshamrani
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, Jazan University, Jazan 45142, Saudi Arabia; (Y.A.); (M.A.); (A.S.)
| | - Alakesh Bharali
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Girijananda Chowdhury Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Azara, Hatkhowapara, Guwahati 781017, India;
| | - Ahmad Salawi
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, Jazan University, Jazan 45142, Saudi Arabia; (Y.A.); (M.A.); (A.S.)
| | - Retno Widyowati
- Department of Pharmaceutical Science, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya 60115, Indonesia; (R.K.S.); (R.W.)
| | - Abdulrahman Alshammari
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Ibrahim Elbagory
- College of Pharmacy, Northern Border University, Arar 1321, Saudi Arabia;
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14
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Jose A, Singh S, Roychoudhury A, Kholakiya Y, Arya S, Roychoudhury S. Current Understanding in the Pathophysiology of SARS-CoV-2-Associated Rhino-Orbito-Cerebral Mucormycosis: A Comprehensive Review. J Maxillofac Oral Surg 2021; 20:373-380. [PMID: 34155426 PMCID: PMC8208379 DOI: 10.1007/s12663-021-01604-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM Recently, with the second wave of COVID-19, the Indian subcontinent has witnessed a dramatic rise in mucormycosis infection in patients recovered from COVID-19. This association has been documented in various case reports/case series and institutional experiences, and the mortality associated with this fungal infection is emerging as a cause of concern. The aim of the present paper is to provide a scientific overview on the pathogenesis of mucormycosis in COVID-19 beyond the conventional understanding of the disease process, which may not otherwise explain the increased incidence of mucormycosis in SARS-CoV-2. METHODOLOGY This paper is structured as a narrative review of the published literature on the pathogenesis of COVID-19 which contributes to the development of mucormycosis. Apart from the acknowledged role of ketoacidosis, high blood sugar, and iron metabolism in the pathogenesis of mucormycosis, other factors involved in pathophysiology of COVID-19 which might alter or enhance the mucormycosis infection such as (1) the role of ferritin, (2) high serum iron, (3) free radical-induced endothelitis, (4) hepcidin activation, (5) upregulation of glucose receptor protein (GRP78) are discussed in the pathophysiology of COVID-19-associated mucormycosis. CONCLUSION A new proposal for the pathogenesis based on the ferritin, viral mimicry of hepcidin and GRP78-CotH3 interaction, which clearly explains the surge in mucormycosis in SARS-CoV-2 infection, has been explained.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anson Jose
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon, Private Practitioner, New Delhi, India
| | - Shagun Singh
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon, Armed Forces, New Delhi, India
| | - Ajoy Roychoudhury
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Yathin Kholakiya
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Saurabh Arya
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon, Armed Forces, New Delhi, India
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15
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Coinfection pulmonary mucormycosis and aspergillosis with disseminated mucormycosis involving gastrointestinalin in an acute B-lymphoblastic leukemia patient. Braz J Microbiol 2021; 52:2063-2068. [PMID: 34218427 PMCID: PMC8254622 DOI: 10.1007/s42770-021-00554-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Pulmonary mucormycosis and aspergillosis with disseminated mucormycosis involving gastrointestinalin is a very rare but lethal infection leading to extreme mortality. Herein, we present a unique case of pulmonary coinfection with Cunninghamella bertholletiae and Aspergillus flavus, with disseminated mucormycosis involving the jejunum caused by C. bertholletiae in an acute B-lymphocytic leukemia (B-ALL) patient with familial diabetes. Early administration of active antifungal agents at optimal doses and complete resection of all infected tissues led to improved therapeutic outcomes.
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16
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Marques GN, Silva NU, Leal MO, Flanagan CA. The use of posaconazole delayed-release tablets in the successful treatment of suspected mucormycosis in a bottlenose dolphin ( Tursiops truncatus) calf. Med Mycol Case Rep 2021; 32:77-80. [PMID: 33996427 PMCID: PMC8102706 DOI: 10.1016/j.mmcr.2021.04.003] [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: 03/27/2021] [Revised: 04/06/2021] [Accepted: 04/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Mucorales infections in cetaceans have a high mortality rate. This case report refers to a bottlenose dolphin calf with suspected mucormycosis treated with posaconazole. This antifungal agent was discontinued after 96 days of therapy, however, the infection relapsed. Posaconazole was then resumed for a total of 255 days, with no signs of disease reactivation. The retrospective analysis of posaconazole serum levels in this successful case showed concentrations varying between 5.18 and 11.63 mg/L.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nuno U Silva
- Zoomarine Portugal, N125 KM 65, 8201-864, Guia, Portugal
| | - Miriam O Leal
- Zoomarine Portugal, N125 KM 65, 8201-864, Guia, Portugal
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17
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Wurster S, Ruiz OE, Samms KM, Tatara AM, Albert ND, Kahan PH, Nguyen AT, Mikos AG, Kontoyiannis DP, Eisenhoffer GT. EGF-mediated suppression of cell extrusion during mucosal damage attenuates opportunistic fungal invasion. Cell Rep 2021; 34:108896. [PMID: 33761358 PMCID: PMC8842569 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2021.108896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2020] [Revised: 12/17/2020] [Accepted: 03/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Severe and often fatal opportunistic fungal infections arise frequently
following mucosal damage caused by trauma or cytotoxic chemotherapy. Interaction
of fungal pathogens with epithelial cells that comprise mucosae is a key early
event associated with invasion, and, therefore, enhancing epithelial defense
mechanisms may mitigate infection. Here, we establish a model of mold and yeast
infection mediated by inducible epithelial cell loss in larval zebrafish.
Epithelial cell loss by extrusion promotes exposure of laminin associated with
increased fungal attachment, invasion, and larval lethality, whereas fungi
defective in adherence or filamentation have reduced virulence. Transcriptional
profiling identifies significant upregulation of the epidermal growth factor
receptor ligand epigen (EPGN) upon mucosal damage. Treatment
with recombinant human EPGN suppresses epithelial cell extrusion, leading to
reduced fungal invasion and significantly enhanced survival. These data support
the concept of augmenting epithelial restorative capacity to attenuate
pathogenic invasion of fungi associated with human disease. Wurster et al. show that extrusion of numerous epithelial cells from
tissue can expose underlying extracellular matrix components to promote
increased attachment and invasion of fungi associated with human disease.
Treatment with recombinant human EPGN suppressed epithelial cell extrusion,
leading to significantly reduced opportunistic fungal invasion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Wurster
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Infection Control and Employee Health, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Oscar E Ruiz
- Department of Genetics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Krystin M Samms
- Department of Genetics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Alexander M Tatara
- Medical Scientist Training Program, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Nathaniel D Albert
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Infection Control and Employee Health, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Philip H Kahan
- Department of Genetics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Anh Trinh Nguyen
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX, USA; MD Anderson Cancer Center UTHealth Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Houston, TX, USA
| | | | - Dimitrios P Kontoyiannis
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Infection Control and Employee Health, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.
| | - George T Eisenhoffer
- Department of Genetics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA; MD Anderson Cancer Center UTHealth Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Houston, TX, USA.
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18
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Brunet K, Arrivé F, Martellosio JP, Lamarche I, Marchand S, Rammaert B. Corticosteroids alter alveolar macrophage control of Lichtheimia corymbifera spores in an ex vivo mouse model. Med Mycol 2020; 59:694-700. [PMID: 33369666 DOI: 10.1093/mmy/myaa104] [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: 09/30/2020] [Revised: 11/23/2020] [Accepted: 12/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Alveolar macrophages (AM) are the first-line lung defense against Mucorales in pulmonary mucormycosis. Since corticosteroid use is a known risk factor for mucormycosis, the aim of this study was to describe the role of corticosteroids on AM capacities to control Lichtheimia corymbifera spore growth using a new ex vivo model. An in vivo mouse model was developed to determine the acetate cortisone dose able to trigger pulmonary invasive infection. Then, in the ex vivo model, male BALB/c mice were pretreated with the corticosteroid regimen triggering invasive infection, before AM collection through bronchoalveolar lavage. AMs from corticosteroid-treated mice and untreated control AMs were then exposed to L. corymbifera spores in vitro (ratio 1:5). AM control of fungal growth, adherence/phagocytosis, and oxidative burst were assessed using optical densities by spectrophotometer, flow cytometry, and 2', 7'-dichlorofluoresceine diacetate fluorescence, respectively. Cortisone acetate at 500 mg/kg, at D-3 and at D0, led to pulmonary invasive infection at D3. Co-incubated spores and AMs from corticosteroid-treated mice had significantly higher absorbance (fungal growth) than co-incubated spores and control AMs, at 24 h (P = .025), 36 h (P = .004), and 48 h (P = .001). Colocalization of spores with AMs from corticosteroid-treated mice was significantly lower than for control AMs (7.6 ± 1.9% vs 22.3 ± 5.8%; P = .003), reflecting spore adherence and phagocytosis inhibition. Finally, oxidative burst was significantly increased when control AMs were incubated with spores (P = 0.029), while corticosteroids hampered oxidative burst from treated AMs (P = 0.321). Corticosteroids enhanced fungal growth of L. corymbifera through AM phagocytosis inhibition and burst oxidative decrease in our ex vivo model. LAY SUMMARY The aim of this study was to describe the impact of corticosteroids on alveolar macrophage (AM) capacities to control Mucorales growth in a new murine ex vivo model. Corticosteroids enhanced fungal growth of L. corymbifera through AM phagocytosis inhibition and burst oxidative decrease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kévin Brunet
- INSERM U1070, Poitiers, France.,Université de Poitiers, Faculté de médecine et pharmacie, Poitiers, France.,Centre Hospitalo-Universitaire de Poitiers, service de Mycologie-Parasitologie, Département des agents infectieux, Poitiers, France
| | - François Arrivé
- INSERM U1070, Poitiers, France.,Université de Poitiers, Faculté de médecine et pharmacie, Poitiers, France.,Centre Hospitalo-Universitaire de Poitiers, service de Maladies infectieuses et tropicales, Poitiers, France
| | - Jean-Philippe Martellosio
- INSERM U1070, Poitiers, France.,Université de Poitiers, Faculté de médecine et pharmacie, Poitiers, France.,Centre Hospitalo-Universitaire de Poitiers, service de Maladies infectieuses et tropicales, Poitiers, France
| | | | - Sandrine Marchand
- INSERM U1070, Poitiers, France.,Université de Poitiers, Faculté de médecine et pharmacie, Poitiers, France.,Centre Hospitalo-Universitaire de Poitiers, service de Toxicologie et Pharmacocinétique, Poitiers, France
| | - Blandine Rammaert
- INSERM U1070, Poitiers, France.,Université de Poitiers, Faculté de médecine et pharmacie, Poitiers, France.,Centre Hospitalo-Universitaire de Poitiers, service de Maladies infectieuses et tropicales, Poitiers, France
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19
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Nicolás FE, Murcia L, Navarro E, Navarro-Mendoza MI, Pérez-Arques C, Garre V. Mucorales Species and Macrophages. J Fungi (Basel) 2020; 6:E94. [PMID: 32604972 PMCID: PMC7344864 DOI: 10.3390/jof6020094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2020] [Revised: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Mucormycosis is an emerging fungal infection caused by Mucorales with an unacceptable high mortality rate. Mucorales is a complex fungal group, including eleven different genera that can infect humans. This heterogeneity is associated with species-specific invasion pathways and responses to the host defense mechanisms. The host innate immune system plays a major role in preventing Mucorales growth and host invasion. In this system, macrophages are the main immune effector cells in controlling these fungi by rapid and efficient phagocytosis of the spores. However, Mucorales have evolved mechanisms to block phagosomal maturation and species-specific mechanisms to either survive as dormant spores inside the macrophage, as Rhizopus species, or geminate and escape, as Mucor species. Classical fungal models of mucormycosis, mostly Rhizopus, have made important contributions to elucidate key aspects of the interaction between Mucorales and macrophages, but they lack robust tools for genetic manipulation. The recent introduction of the genetically tractable Mucor circinelloides as a model of mucormycosis offers the possibility to analyze gene function. This has allowed the identification of regulatory pathways that control the fungal response to phagocytosis, including a non-canonical RNAi pathway (NCRIP) that regulates the expression of most genes regulated by phagocytosis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Victoriano Garre
- Departamento de Genética y Microbiología, Facultad de Biología, Universidad de Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain; (F.E.N.); (L.M.); (E.N.); (M.I.N.-M.); (C.P.-A.)
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20
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Nichols L, Rios DA. How could hypoglycemia-inducing glycogen storage disease lead to hyperglycemia-induced mucormycosis? AUTOPSY AND CASE REPORTS 2020; 10:e2020149. [PMID: 32185145 PMCID: PMC7061730 DOI: 10.4322/acr.2020.149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2019] [Accepted: 01/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Mucormycosis is an increasingly frequent, difficult to diagnose, difficult to treat, often fatal infection, especially in patients with hyperglycemia from uncontrolled diabetes. Type I (von Gierke) glycogen storage disease is due to inherited deficiency of enzymes in glycogen metabolism, which causes hypoglycemia. This report is the case of a patient with von Gierke disease and a missed diagnosis of pulmonary mucormycosis. This report illustrates the importance of having a high index of suspicion for mucormycosis in the appropriate clinical context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larry Nichols
- Mercer University School of Medicine, Department of Pathology. Macon, GA, United States of America
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21
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Pérez-Arques C, Navarro-Mendoza MI, Murcia L, Lax C, Martínez-García P, Heitman J, Nicolás FE, Garre V. Mucor circinelloides Thrives inside the Phagosome through an Atf-Mediated Germination Pathway. mBio 2019; 10:e02765-18. [PMID: 30723131 PMCID: PMC6428757 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.02765-18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2018] [Accepted: 12/17/2018] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Mucormycosis is an emerging fungal infection that is often lethal due to the ineffectiveness of current therapies. Here, we have studied the first stage of this infection-the germination of Mucor circinelloides spores inside phagocytic cells-from an integrated transcriptomic and functional perspective. A relevant fungal gene network is remodeled in response to phagocytosis, being enriched in crucial functions to survive and germinate inside the phagosome, such as nutritional adaptation and response to oxidative stress. Correspondingly, the phagocytic cells induced a specific proinflammatory and apoptotic response to the pathogenic strain. Deletion of fungal genes encoding putative transcription factors (atf1, atf2, and gcn4), extracellular proteins (chi1 and pps1), and an aquaporin (aqp1) revealed that these genes perform important roles in survival following phagocytosis, germination inside the phagosome, and virulence in mice. atf1 and atf2 play a major role in these pathogenic processes, since their mutants showed the strongest phenotypes and both genes control a complex gene network of secondarily regulated genes, including chi1 and aqp1 These new insights into the initial phase of mucormycosis define genetic regulators and molecular processes that could serve as pharmacological targets.IMPORTANCE Mucorales are a group of ancient saprophytic fungi that cause neglected infectious diseases collectively known as mucormycoses. The molecular processes underlying the establishment and progression of this disease are largely unknown. Our work presents a transcriptomic study to unveil the Mucor circinelloides genetic network triggered in fungal spores in response to phagocytosis by macrophages and the transcriptional response of the host cells. Functional characterization of differentially expressed fungal genes revealed three transcription factors and three extracellular proteins essential for the fungus to survive and germinate inside the phagosome and to cause disease in mice. Two of the transcription factors, highly similar to activating transcription factors (ATFs), coordinate a complex secondary gene response involved in pathogenesis. The significance of our research is in characterizing the initial stages that lead to evasion of the host innate immune response and, in consequence, the dissemination of the infection. This genetic study offers possible targets for novel antifungal drugs against these opportunistic human pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Pérez-Arques
- Departamento de Genética y Microbiología, Universidad de Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | | | - Laura Murcia
- Departamento de Genética y Microbiología, Universidad de Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Carlos Lax
- Departamento de Genética y Microbiología, Universidad de Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | | | - Joseph Heitman
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Francisco E Nicolás
- Departamento de Genética y Microbiología, Universidad de Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Victoriano Garre
- Departamento de Genética y Microbiología, Universidad de Murcia, Murcia, Spain
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23
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Gupta N, Kumar R, Soneja M, Singh G, Khot W, Malla S, Xess I. Mucor menace in an immunocompetent young male after dental manipulation. J Family Med Prim Care 2019; 8:757-759. [PMID: 30984710 PMCID: PMC6436271 DOI: 10.4103/jfmpc.jfmpc_412_18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Fungal rhino-orbital sinusitis due to mucormycetes is a rapidly progressive condition with high mortality, rarely seen in immunocompetent individuals. A 26-year-old immunocompetent male presented with rhino-orbital mucormycosis after a history of dental manipulation. The patient was successfully managed with a combination of surgery, amphotericin B, and posaconazole. Here, we highlight the delay in diagnosis and challenges faced in the management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nitin Gupta
- Department of Medicine and Microbiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Rajeev Kumar
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Manish Soneja
- Department of Medicine, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Gagandeep Singh
- Department of Microbiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Wasim Khot
- Department of Medicine and Microbiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Sundeep Malla
- Department of Radiodiagnosis, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Immaculata Xess
- Department of Microbiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
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24
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Brunet K, Alanio A, Lortholary O, Rammaert B. Reactivation of dormant/latent fungal infection. J Infect 2018; 77:463-468. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jinf.2018.06.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2018] [Revised: 06/23/2018] [Accepted: 06/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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Navarro-Mendoza MI, Pérez-Arques C, Murcia L, Martínez-García P, Lax C, Sanchis M, Capilla J, Nicolás FE, Garre V. Components of a new gene family of ferroxidases involved in virulence are functionally specialized in fungal dimorphism. Sci Rep 2018; 8:7660. [PMID: 29769603 PMCID: PMC5955967 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-26051-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2018] [Accepted: 05/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Mucormycosis is an emerging angio-invasive infection caused by Mucorales that presents unacceptable mortality rates. Iron uptake has been related to mucormycosis, since serum iron availability predisposes the host to suffer this infection. In addition, iron uptake has been described as a limiting factor that determines virulence in other fungal infections, becoming a promising field to study virulence in Mucorales. Here, we identified a gene family of three ferroxidases in Mucor circinelloides, fet3a, fet3b and fet3c, which are overexpressed during infection in a mouse model for mucormycosis, and their expression in vitro is regulated by the availability of iron in the culture media and the dimorphic state. Thus, only fet3a is specifically expressed during yeast growth under anaerobic conditions, whereas fet3b and fet3c are specifically expressed in mycelium during aerobic growth. A deep genetic analysis revealed partially redundant roles of the three genes, showing a predominant role of fet3c, which is required for virulence during in vivo infections, and shared functional roles with fet3b and fet3c during vegetative growth in media with low iron concentration. These results represent the first described functional specialization of an iron uptake system during fungal dimorphism.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Carlos Pérez-Arques
- Departamento de Genética y Microbiología, Universidad de Murcia, 30100, Murcia, Spain
| | - Laura Murcia
- Departamento de Genética y Microbiología, Universidad de Murcia, 30100, Murcia, Spain
| | - Pablo Martínez-García
- Departamento de Genética y Microbiología, Universidad de Murcia, 30100, Murcia, Spain
| | - Carlos Lax
- Departamento de Genética y Microbiología, Universidad de Murcia, 30100, Murcia, Spain
| | - Marta Sanchis
- Unidad de Microbiología, Universitat Rovira i Virgili. IISPV, Tarragona, Spain
| | - Javier Capilla
- Unidad de Microbiología, Universitat Rovira i Virgili. IISPV, Tarragona, Spain
| | - Francisco E Nicolás
- Departamento de Genética y Microbiología, Universidad de Murcia, 30100, Murcia, Spain.
| | - Victoriano Garre
- Departamento de Genética y Microbiología, Universidad de Murcia, 30100, Murcia, Spain.
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Petrikkos G, Tsioutis C. Recent Advances in the Pathogenesis of Mucormycoses. Clin Ther 2018; 40:894-902. [PMID: 29631910 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinthera.2018.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2018] [Revised: 02/10/2018] [Accepted: 03/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The purposes of this review are to describe the pathogenesis of mucormycosis and to address recent research advances in understanding the mechanisms of fungal invasion and dissemination. METHODS Studies and reviews published in the PubMed and ClinicalTrials.gov databases until December 2017 that explored or reported recent advances in the understanding of the pathogenesis of mucormycosis were reviewed. FINDINGS To cause disease, fungal spores need to evade the innate immune system and germinate, leading to angioinvasion and tissue destruction. Recent studies have found that Mucorales are able to downregulate several host defense mechanisms and have identified the specific receptors through which Mucorales attach to the endothelium, facilitating their endocytosis and subsequent angioinvasion. In addition, certain conditions found to act through various mechanisms and pathways in experimental and animal studies, such as hyperglycemia, elevated iron concentrations, and acidosis (particularly diabetic ketoacidosis), increase the virulence of the fungi and enhance their attachment to the endothelium, rendering patients with uncontrolled diabetes and patients with iron overload susceptible to mucormycosis. The role and various antifungal functions of platelets and natural killer cells are highlighted, and the potential contribution of alternative therapies, such as manipulating the innate immune host defenses with granulocyte transfusions or administration of growth factors and using the antifungal effects of calcineurin inhibitors, are presented. Finally, directions and possible implications for future research are provided. IMPLICATIONS This article provides a comprehensive overview of research advances in the pathogenesis of infections caused by Mucorales and helps future studies develop effective treatment strategies and improve patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- George Petrikkos
- School of Medicine, European University Cyprus, Nicosia, Cyprus; Infectious Diseases Research Laboratory, Fourth Dept of Internal Medicine, University General Hospital Attikon, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece.
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