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Bastholm CJ, Andersen B, Frisvad JC, Oestergaard SK, Nielsen JL, Madsen AM, Richter J. A novel contaminant in museums? A cross-sectional study on xerophilic Aspergillus growth in climate-controlled repositories. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 944:173880. [PMID: 38857796 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.173880] [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: 03/25/2024] [Revised: 05/30/2024] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024]
Abstract
In the last decade, extensive fungal growth has developed in Danish museums parallel to climate change, challenging occupational health and heritage preservation. The growth was unexpected as the museums strived to control relative humidity below 60 %, and it should exceed 75 % to risk growth. A Danish case study found xerophilic Aspergillus species able to grow at low relative humidity in a museum repository. This cross-sectional study aimed to examine whether xerophilic growth from Aspergillus section Restricti has become a novel contaminant nationally distributed in Danish museum repositories striving to control relative humidity according to international environmental recommendations for heritage collections. The study examined The National Museum of Denmark and eight large State Recognized museums distributed throughout Denmark. It was based on 600 swab and tape-lift samples and 60 MAS100-Eco and filter air samples analyzed for fungi with cultivation and morphological identification, Big-Dye-Sanger sequencing, CaM-Nanopore and ITS-Illumina amplicon sequencing. The study showed growth from seven xerophilic Aspergillus species: A. conicus, A. domesticus, A. glabripes, A. halophilicus, A. magnivesiculatus, A. penicilloides, A. vitricola, of which three are new to Denmark, and 13 xerotolerant Aspergillus species. There was no growth from other fungal species. The multiple detection approach provided a broad characterization; however, there was variance in the detected species depending on the analysis approach. Cultivation and Big-Dye Sanger sequencing showed the highest Aspergillus diversity, detecting 17 species; CaM-Nanopore amplicon sequencing detected 12 species; and ITS-illumina amplicon sequencing detected two species but the highest overall diversity. Cultivation, followed by Big-Dye Sanger and CaM-amplicon sequencing, proved the highest compliance. The study concluded that xerophilic Aspergillus growth is nationally distributed and suggests species from Aspergillus section Restricti as a novel contaminant in climate-controlled museum repositories. To safeguard occupational health and heritage preservation research in sustainable solutions, avoiding xerophilic growth in museum collections is most important.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camilla Jul Bastholm
- Museum ROMU, Roskilde and The National Museum of Denmark, Copenhagen, Denmark; Royal Danish Academy, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | | | | | | | | | - Anne Mette Madsen
- The National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Plewa-Tutaj K, Krzyściak P, Dobrzycka A. Mycological air contamination level and biodiversity of airborne fungi isolated from the zoological garden air - preliminary research. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2024; 31:43066-43079. [PMID: 38890249 PMCID: PMC11222260 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-024-33926-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
The aim of this paper was to evaluate the degree of mycological air contamination and determine the taxonomic diversity of airborne fungi residing in the air of 20 different animal facilities in a zoological garden. The concentrations of fungi in the zoological garden were measured using a MAS-100 air sampler. The collected microorganisms were identified using the combination of molecular and morphological methods. The fungal concentration ranged from 50 to 3.65 × 104 CFU/m3 during the whole study. The quantitative analysis of the fungal aerosol showed that the obtained concentration values were lower than the recommended permissible limits (5 × 104 CFU/m3 for fungi). Environmental factors, including temperature and relative humidity, exerted a varying effect on the presence and concentration of isolated fungi. Relative humidity was shown to correlate positively with the concentration of fungal spores in the air of the facilities studied (rho = 0.57, p < 0.0021). In parallel, no significant correlation was established between temperature and total fungal concentration (rho = - 0.1, p < 0.2263). A total of 112 fungal strains belonging to 50 species and 10 genera were isolated. Penicillium was the dominant genera, including 58.9% of total fungal strains, followed by Aspergillus 25.89%, Cladosporium 3.57%, Talaromyces 3.57%, Mucor 1.78%, Schizophyllum 1.78%, Syncephalastrum 0.89%, Alternaria 0.89%, Absidia 0.89%, and Cunninghamella 0.89%. Our preliminary studies provide basic information about the fungal concentrations, as well as their biodiversity in zoological garden. Further studies are needed to generate additional data from long-term sampling in order to increase our understanding of airborne fungal composition in the zoological garden.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kinga Plewa-Tutaj
- Department of Microbial Ecology and Acaroentomology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Wroclaw, Wrocław, 51-148, Poland.
| | - Paweł Krzyściak
- Department of Infection Control and Mycology, Chair of Microbiology, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Czysta 18, 31-121, Kraków, Poland
| | - Aleksandra Dobrzycka
- Department of Microbial Ecology and Acaroentomology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Wroclaw, Wrocław, 51-148, Poland
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Richter A, Blei F, Hu G, Schwitalla JW, Lozano-Andrade CN, Xie J, Jarmusch SA, Wibowo M, Kjeldgaard B, Surabhi S, Xu X, Jautzus T, Phippen CBW, Tyc O, Arentshorst M, Wang Y, Garbeva P, Larsen TO, Ram AFJ, van den Hondel CAM, Maróti G, Kovács ÁT. Enhanced surface colonisation and competition during bacterial adaptation to a fungus. Nat Commun 2024; 15:4486. [PMID: 38802389 PMCID: PMC11130161 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-48812-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Bacterial-fungal interactions influence microbial community performance of most ecosystems and elicit specific microbial behaviours, including stimulating specialised metabolite production. Here, we use a co-culture experimental evolution approach to investigate bacterial adaptation to the presence of a fungus, using a simple model of bacterial-fungal interactions encompassing the bacterium Bacillus subtilis and the fungus Aspergillus niger. We find in one evolving population that B. subtilis was selected for enhanced production of the lipopeptide surfactin and accelerated surface spreading ability, leading to inhibition of fungal expansion and acidification of the environment. These phenotypes were explained by specific mutations in the DegS-DegU two-component system. In the presence of surfactin, fungal hyphae exhibited bulging cells with delocalised secretory vesicles possibly provoking an RlmA-dependent cell wall stress. Thus, our results indicate that the presence of the fungus selects for increased surfactin production, which inhibits fungal growth and facilitates the competitive success of the bacterium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Richter
- Bacterial Interactions and Evolution Group, DTU Bioengineering, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs Lyngby, Denmark
- Terrestrial Biofilms Group, Institute of Microbiology, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Jena, Germany
| | - Felix Blei
- Terrestrial Biofilms Group, Institute of Microbiology, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Jena, Germany
- Department Pharmaceutical Microbiology, Hans-Knöll-Institute, Friedrich-Schiller-Universität, Jena, Germany
| | - Guohai Hu
- Bacterial Interactions and Evolution Group, DTU Bioengineering, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs Lyngby, Denmark
- China National GeneBank, BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
- BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Environmental Microbial Genomics and Application, BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jan W Schwitalla
- Terrestrial Biofilms Group, Institute of Microbiology, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Jena, Germany
| | - Carlos N Lozano-Andrade
- Bacterial Interactions and Evolution Group, DTU Bioengineering, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Jiyu Xie
- Institute of Biology, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Scott A Jarmusch
- Natural Product Discovery Group, DTU Bioengineering, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Mario Wibowo
- Natural Product Discovery Group, DTU Bioengineering, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs Lyngby, Denmark
- Singapore Institute of Food and Biotechnology Innovation (SIFBI), Agency for Science, Technology and Research, Singapore, Republic of Singapore
| | - Bodil Kjeldgaard
- Bacterial Interactions and Evolution Group, DTU Bioengineering, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Surabhi Surabhi
- Terrestrial Biofilms Group, Institute of Microbiology, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Jena, Germany
| | - Xinming Xu
- Institute of Biology, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Theresa Jautzus
- Terrestrial Biofilms Group, Institute of Microbiology, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Jena, Germany
| | - Christopher B W Phippen
- Natural Product Discovery Group, DTU Bioengineering, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Olaf Tyc
- Netherlands Institute of Ecology, Wageningen, The Netherlands
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Goethe University Hospital, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Mark Arentshorst
- Institute of Biology, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Yue Wang
- China National GeneBank, BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
- BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
| | - Paolina Garbeva
- Netherlands Institute of Ecology, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Thomas Ostenfeld Larsen
- Natural Product Discovery Group, DTU Bioengineering, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Arthur F J Ram
- Institute of Biology, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | | | - Gergely Maróti
- Institute of Plant Biology, Biological Research Centre, Eötvös Loránd Research Network (ELKH), Szeged, Hungary
| | - Ákos T Kovács
- Bacterial Interactions and Evolution Group, DTU Bioengineering, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs Lyngby, Denmark.
- Terrestrial Biofilms Group, Institute of Microbiology, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Jena, Germany.
- Institute of Biology, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands.
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El-Khawaga HA, Mustafa AE, El Khawaga MA, Mahfouz AY, Daigham GE. Bio-stimulating effect of endophytic Aspergillus flavus AUMC 16068 and its respective ex-polysaccharides in lead stress tolerance of Triticum aestivum plant. Sci Rep 2024; 14:11952. [PMID: 38796501 PMCID: PMC11127936 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-61936-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Heavy metal accumulation is one of the major agronomic challenges that has seriously threatened food safety. As a result, metal-induced phytotoxicity concerns require quick and urgent action to retain and maintain the physiological activities of microorganisms, the nitrogen pool of soils, and the continuous yields of wheat in a constantly worsening environment. The current study was conducted to evaluate the plant growth-promoting endophytic Aspergillus flavus AUMC 16,068 and its EPS for improvement of plant growth, phytoremediation capacity, and physiological consequences on wheat plants (Triticum aestivum) under lead stress. After 60 days of planting, the heading stage of wheat plants, data on growth metrics, physiological properties, minerals content, and lead content in wheat root, shoot, and grains were recorded. Results evoked that lead pollution reduced wheat plants' physiological traits as well as growth at all lead stress concentrations; however, inoculation with lead tolerant endophytic A. flavus AUMC 16,068 and its respective EPS alleviated the detrimental impact of lead on the plants and promoted the growth and physiological characteristics of wheat in lead-contaminated conditions and also lowering oxidative stress through decreasing (CAT, POD, and MDA), in contrast to plants growing in the un-inoculated lead polluted dealings. In conclusion, endophytic A. flavus AUMC 16,068 spores and its EPS are regarded as eco-friendly, safe, and powerful inducers of wheat plants versus contamination with heavy metals, with a view of protecting plant, soil, and human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hend A El-Khawaga
- Botany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Al-Azhar University, (Girls Branch), Cairo, Egypt
| | - Abeer E Mustafa
- Botany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Al-Azhar University, (Girls Branch), Cairo, Egypt
| | - Maie A El Khawaga
- Botany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Al-Azhar University, (Girls Branch), Cairo, Egypt
| | - Amira Y Mahfouz
- Botany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Al-Azhar University, (Girls Branch), Cairo, Egypt.
| | - Ghadir E Daigham
- Botany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Al-Azhar University, (Girls Branch), Cairo, Egypt
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Sheng L, Jiang W, Yao Y, Zhou J, Zhou H. Value Evaluation of Quantitative Aspergillus fumigatus-Specific IgG Antibody Test in the Diagnosis of Non-neutropenic Invasive Pulmonary Aspergillosis. Infect Drug Resist 2024; 17:2043-2052. [PMID: 38803521 PMCID: PMC11129758 DOI: 10.2147/idr.s460513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2024] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The role of Aspergillus-specific IgG antibody test in the diagnosis of non-neutropenic invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA) is still uncertain, and related studies are also limited. Purpose This study aims to evaluate the quantitative test value of Aspergillus fumigatus-specific IgG antibody in non-neutropenic IPA, which could provide additional evidence for related clinical diagnosis. Methods This prospective study collected clinical data of suspected IPA patients from January, 2020 to December, 2022, and patients were divided into two groups, IPA and non-IPA. The study analyzed clinical characteristics and diagnostic value of Aspergillus-specific IgG antibody test, using the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve to evaluate diagnostic efficacy. Results The study enrolled 59 IPA cases and 68 non-IPA cases, the average admission age of IPA group was 63.2±9.6 (33-79), and the gender ratio (male:female) of IPA group was 42:17. The proportion of patients with history of smoking and COPD were higher in IPA group (59.3% vs 39.7%, P=0.027; 33.9% vs 14.7%, P =0.011, respectively). The level of Aspergillus fumigatus-specific IgG antibody in IPA group was significantly higher than non-IPA group (202.1±167.0 vs 62.6±58.0, P<0.001). The area under the ROC curve was 0.799 (95%CI: 0.718, 0.865 P<0.001), and the cut-off with best diagnostic efficacy was 91 AU/mL. Conclusion Immunological test plays an important role in the diagnosis of pulmonary aspergillosis, and Aspergillus-specific IgG antibody test has the good diagnostic value in non-neutropenic IPA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingyan Sheng
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, People’s Republic of China
| | - Wenhong Jiang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Jiangshan People Hospital, Quzhou, 324110, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yake Yao
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jianying Zhou
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, People’s Republic of China
| | - Hua Zhou
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, People’s Republic of China
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Isola D, Lee HJ, Chung YJ, Zucconi L, Pelosi C. Once upon a Time, There Was a Piece of Wood: Present Knowledge and Future Perspectives in Fungal Deterioration of Wooden Cultural Heritage in Terrestrial Ecosystems and Diagnostic Tools. J Fungi (Basel) 2024; 10:366. [PMID: 38786721 PMCID: PMC11122135 DOI: 10.3390/jof10050366] [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: 02/28/2024] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Wooden Cultural Heritage (WCH) represents a significant portion of the world's historical and artistic heritage, consisting of immovable and movable artefacts. Despite the expertise developed since ancient times to enhance its durability, wooden artefacts are inevitably prone to degradation. Fungi play a pivotal role in the deterioration of WCH in terrestrial ecosystems, accelerating its decay and leading to alterations in color and strength. Reviewing the literature of the last 25 years, we aimed to provide a comprehensive overview of fungal diversity affecting WCH, the biochemical processes involved in wood decay, and the diagnostic tools available for fungal identification and damage evaluation. Climatic conditions influence the occurrence of fungal species in threatened WCH, characterized by a prevalence of wood-rot fungi (e.g., Serpula lacrymans, Coniophora puteana) in architectural heritage in temperate and continental climates and Ascomycota in indoor and harsh environments. More efforts are needed to address the knowledge fragmentation concerning biodiversity, the biology of the fungi involved, and succession in the degradative process, which is frequently centered solely on the main actors. Multidisciplinary collaboration among engineers, restorers, and life sciences scientists is vital for tackling the challenges posed by climate change with increased awareness. Traditional microbiology and culture collections are fundamental in laying solid foundations for a more comprehensive interpretation of big data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Isola
- Department of Economics, Engineering, Society and Business Organization (DEIM), University of Tuscia, Largo dell’Università Snc, 01100 Viterbo, Italy;
| | - Hyun-Ju Lee
- Institute of Preventive Conservation for Cultural Heritage, Korea National University of Cultural Heritage, Buyeo 33115, Republic of Korea;
| | - Yong-Jae Chung
- Department of Heritage Conservation and Restoration, Graduate School of Cultural Heritage, Korea National University of Cultural Heritage, Buyeo 33115, Republic of Korea;
| | - Laura Zucconi
- Department of Ecological and Biological Sciences (DEB), University of Tuscia, Largo dell’Università Snc, 01100 Viterbo, Italy;
| | - Claudia Pelosi
- Department of Economics, Engineering, Society and Business Organization (DEIM), University of Tuscia, Largo dell’Università Snc, 01100 Viterbo, Italy;
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Gwad MMA, El-Sayed ASA, Abdel-Fattah GM, Abdelmoteleb M, Abdel-Fattah GG. Potential fungicidal and antiaflatoxigenic effects of cinnamon essential oils on Aspergillus flavus inhabiting the stored wheat grains. BMC PLANT BIOLOGY 2024; 24:394. [PMID: 38741071 DOI: 10.1186/s12870-024-05065-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
Wheat is one of the essential crops for the human and animal nutrition, however, contamination with aflatoxigenic fungi, due to the improper storage conditions and high humidity, was the main global threats. So, preventing the growth of aflatoxigenic fungi in stored wheat grains, by using different essential oils was the main objective of this work. Aspergillus flavus EFBL-MU12 PP087400, EFBL-MU23 PP087401 and EFBL-MU36 PP087403 isolates were the most potent aflatoxins producers inhabiting wheat grains. The effect of storage conditions of wheat grains "humidity, temperature, incubation period, and pH" on growth of A. flavus, was assessed by the response surface methodology using Plackett-Burman design and FCCD. The highest yield of aflatoxins EFBL-MU12 B1 and B2 by A. flavus grown on wheat grains were 145.3 and 7.6 μg/kg, respectively, at incubation temperature 35°C, 16% moisture contents, initial pH 5.0, and incubated for 14 days. The tested oils had a powerful antifungal activity for the growth and aflatoxins production by A. flavus in a concentration-dependent manner. Among these oils, cinnamon oil had the highest fungicidal activity for A. flavus at 0.125%, with about 85-90 % reduction to the aflatoxins B1 and B2, conidial pigmentation and chitin contents on wheat grains. From the SEM analysis, cinnamon oils had the most deleterious effect on A. flavus with morphological aberrations to the conidial heads, vegetative mycelia, alteration in conidiophores identity, hyphae shrank, and winding. To emphasize the effect of the essential oils on the aflatoxins producing potency of A. flavus, the molecular expression of the aflatoxins biosynthetic genes was estimated by RT-qPCR. The molecular expression of nor-1, afLR, pKsA and afLJ genes was suppressed by 94-96%, due to cinnamon oil at 0.062% compared to the control. Conclusively, from the results, cinnamon oils followed by the peppermint oils displayed the most fungicidal activity for the growth and aflatoxins production by A. flavus grown on wheat grains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manar M Abdel Gwad
- Enzymology and Fungal Biotechnology Lab, Botany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Zagazig University, Zagazig, 44519, Egypt
- Botany Department, Faculty of Science, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Ashraf S A El-Sayed
- Enzymology and Fungal Biotechnology Lab, Botany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Zagazig University, Zagazig, 44519, Egypt.
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Zhou YB, Rezaei-Matehkolaei A, Meijer M, Kraak B, Gerrits van den Ende B, Hagen F, Afzalzadeh S, Kiasat N, Takesh A, Hoseinnejad A, Houbraken J. Aspergillus hubkae, a Novel Species Isolated from a Patient with Probable Invasive Pulmonary Aspergillosis. Mycopathologia 2024; 189:44. [PMID: 38734862 DOI: 10.1007/s11046-024-00848-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024]
Abstract
A 50-year-old man, previously diagnosed with pulmonary tuberculosis and lung cavities, presented with symptoms including fever, shortness of breath, and cough. A pulmonary CT scan revealed multiple cavities, consolidation and tree-in-bud in the upper lungs. Further investigation through direct examination of bronchoalveolar lavage fluid showed septate hyphae with dichotomous acute branching. Subsequent isolation and morphological analysis identified the fungus as belonging to Aspergillus section Nigri. The patient was diagnosed with probable invasive pulmonary aspergillosis and successfully treated with a three-month oral voriconazole therapy. Phylogenetic analysis based on partial β-tubulin, calmodulin and RNA polymerase second largest subunit sequences revealed that the isolate represents a putative new species related to Aspergillus brasiliensis, and is named Aspergillus hubkae here. Antifungal susceptibility testing demonstrated that the isolate is resistant to itraconazole but susceptible to voriconazole. This phenotypic and genetic characterization of A. hubkae, along with the associated case report, will serve as a valuable resource for future diagnoses of infections caused by this species. It will also contribute to more precise and effective patient management strategies in similar clinical scenarios.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya Bin Zhou
- Department of Dermatology, Beijing Children's Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Key Discipline of Pediatrics, Key Laboratory of Major Diseases in Children, Ministry of Education, National Center for Children's Health, Beijing, China
- Westerdijk Fungal Biodiversity Institute, Uppsalalaan 8, 3584 CT, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Ali Rezaei-Matehkolaei
- Department of Medical Mycology, School of Medicine, Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Center, Health Research Institute, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Martin Meijer
- Westerdijk Fungal Biodiversity Institute, Uppsalalaan 8, 3584 CT, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Bart Kraak
- Westerdijk Fungal Biodiversity Institute, Uppsalalaan 8, 3584 CT, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | - Ferry Hagen
- Westerdijk Fungal Biodiversity Institute, Uppsalalaan 8, 3584 CT, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Institute for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Dynamics, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Sara Afzalzadeh
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Razi Teaching Hospital, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Neda Kiasat
- Department of Medical Mycology, School of Medicine, Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Center, Health Research Institute, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Ameneh Takesh
- Department of Medical Mycology, School of Medicine, Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Center, Health Research Institute, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Akbar Hoseinnejad
- Department of Medical Mycology, School of Medicine, Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Center, Health Research Institute, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Jos Houbraken
- Westerdijk Fungal Biodiversity Institute, Uppsalalaan 8, 3584 CT, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
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Lee D, Pan JH, Kim D, Heo W, Shin EC, Kim YJ, Shim YY, Reaney MJT, Ko SG, Hong SB, Cho HT, Kim TG, Lee K, Kim JK. Mycoproteins and their health-promoting properties: Fusarium species and beyond. Compr Rev Food Sci Food Saf 2024; 23:e13365. [PMID: 38767863 DOI: 10.1111/1541-4337.13365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 03/13/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
Filamentous fungal mycoproteins have gained increasing attention as sustainable alternatives to animal and plant-based proteins. This comprehensive review summarizes the nutritional characteristics, toxicological aspects, and health-promoting effects of mycoproteins, focusing on those derived from filamentous fungi, notably Fusarium venenatum. Mycoproteins are characterized by their high protein content, and they have a superior essential amino acid profile compared to soybeans indicating excellent protein quality and benefits for human nutrition. Additionally, mycoproteins offer enhanced digestibility, further highlighting their suitability as a protein source. Furthermore, mycoproteins are rich in dietary fibers, which have been associated with health benefits, including protection against metabolic diseases. Moreover, their fatty acids profile, with significant proportions of polyunsaturated fatty acids and absence of cholesterol, distinguishes them from animal-derived proteins. In conclusion, the future of mycoproteins as a health-promoting protein alternative and the development of functional foods relies on several key aspects. These include improving the acceptance of mycoproteins, conducting further research into their mechanisms of action, addressing consumer preferences and perceptions, and ensuring safety and regulatory compliance. To fully unlock the potential of mycoproteins and meet the evolving needs of a health-conscious society, continuous interdisciplinary research, collaboration among stakeholders, and proactive engagement with consumers will be vital.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daseul Lee
- Department of Food and Biotechnology, Korea University, Sejong, Republic of Korea
- Agricultural Microbiology Division, National Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Rural Development Administration, Wanju, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeong Hoon Pan
- Department of Food and Nutrition, Chosun University, Gwangju, Republic of Korea
| | - Dahye Kim
- Animal Genomics and Bioinformatics Division, National Institute of Animal Science, Rural Development Administration, Wanju, Republic of Korea
| | - Wan Heo
- Department of Food Science and Engineering, Seowon University, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
| | - Eui Cheol Shin
- Department of Food Science, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Republic of Korea
| | - Young Jun Kim
- Department of Food and Biotechnology, Korea University, Sejong, Republic of Korea
| | - Youn Young Shim
- Department of Food and Biotechnology, Korea University, Sejong, Republic of Korea
| | - Martin J T Reaney
- Department of Food and Bioproduct Sciences, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Seong-Gyu Ko
- Department of Preventive Medicine, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung-Beom Hong
- Agricultural Microbiology Division, National Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Rural Development Administration, Wanju, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyung Taek Cho
- Department of Food and Biotechnology, Korea University, Sejong, Republic of Korea
| | - Tae Gyun Kim
- Department of Food and Biotechnology, Korea University, Sejong, Republic of Korea
| | - Kangwook Lee
- Department of Food and Biotechnology, Korea University, Sejong, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae Kyeom Kim
- Department of Food and Biotechnology, Korea University, Sejong, Republic of Korea
- Department of Behavioral Health and Nutrition, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware, USA
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Geremia N, Giovagnorio F, Colpani A, De Vito A, Caruana G, Meloni MC, Madeddu G, Panese S, Parisi SG. What do We Know about Cryptic Aspergillosis? Microorganisms 2024; 12:886. [PMID: 38792716 PMCID: PMC11124275 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms12050886] [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: 04/02/2024] [Revised: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Cryptic Aspergillus species are increasingly recognized as pathogens involved in human disease. They are ubiquitarian fungi with high tenacity in their environment and can express various resistance mechanisms, often due to exposure to antifungal agents employed in agriculture and farming. The identification of such species is increasing thanks to molecular techniques, and a better description of this type of pathogen is granted. Nevertheless, the number of species and their importance in the clinical setting still need to be well studied. Furthermore, their cross-sectional involvement in animal disease, plants, and human activities requires a multidisciplinary approach involving experts from various fields. This comprehensive review aims to provide a sharp vision of the cryptic Aspergillus species, from the importance of correct identification to the better management of the infections caused by these pathogens. The review also accentuates the importance of the One Health approach for this kind of microorganism, given the interconnection between environmental exposure and aspergillosis, embracing transversely the multidisciplinary process for managing the cryptic Aspergillus species. The paper advocates the need for improving knowledge in this little-known species, given the burden of economic and health implications related to the diffusion of these bugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas Geremia
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, Department of Clinical Medicine, Ospedale Dell’Angelo, 30174 Venice, Italy;
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, Department of Clinical Medicine, Ospedale Civile “S.S. Giovanni e Paolo”, 30122 Venice, Italy
| | - Federico Giovagnorio
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padua, 35121 Padua, Italy; (F.G.); (S.G.P.)
| | - Agnese Colpani
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Pharmacy, University of Sassari, 07100 Sassari, Italy; (A.C.); (A.D.V.); (M.C.M.); (G.M.)
| | - Andrea De Vito
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Pharmacy, University of Sassari, 07100 Sassari, Italy; (A.C.); (A.D.V.); (M.C.M.); (G.M.)
- Biomedical Science Department, School in Biomedical Science, University of Sassari, 07100 Sassari, Italy
| | - Giorgia Caruana
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Institute of microbiology, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland;
- Infectious Diseases Service, Department of Medicine, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Maria Chiara Meloni
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Pharmacy, University of Sassari, 07100 Sassari, Italy; (A.C.); (A.D.V.); (M.C.M.); (G.M.)
| | - Giordano Madeddu
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Pharmacy, University of Sassari, 07100 Sassari, Italy; (A.C.); (A.D.V.); (M.C.M.); (G.M.)
| | - Sandro Panese
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, Department of Clinical Medicine, Ospedale Dell’Angelo, 30174 Venice, Italy;
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, Department of Clinical Medicine, Ospedale Civile “S.S. Giovanni e Paolo”, 30122 Venice, Italy
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Sidhoum W, Dib S, Alim Y, Anseur S, Benlatreche S, Belaidouni ZM, Chamouma FEZ. Growth-promoting effects of Aspergillus Elegans and the dark septate endophyte (DSE) Periconia macrospinosa on cucumber. Arch Microbiol 2024; 206:226. [PMID: 38642120 DOI: 10.1007/s00203-024-03958-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/22/2024]
Abstract
Cucurbits are subject to a variety of stresses that limit their sustainable production, despite their important role in ensuring food security and nutrition. Plant stress tolerance can be enhanced through fungal endophytes. In this study, two endophytes isolated from wild plant roots, were tested to determine their effect on the growth promotion of cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) plants. The phylogenetic analysis revealed that the designated isolates were Aspergillus elegans and Periconia macrospinosa. The results of the Plant Growth Promoting Fungal (PGPF) tests showed that both Aspergillus elegans and Periconia macrospinosa have a zinc solubilizing capacity, especially A. elegans, with a solubilization index higher than 80%. Also, both have a high salt tolerance (10-15% NaCl for P. macrospinosa and A. elegans, respectively), cellulolytic activity, and inhibition indices of 40-64.53%. A. elegans and P. macrospinosa had antagonistic effects against the cucumber phytopathogenic fungi Verticillium dahliae and Fusarium oxysporum, respectively. However, A. elegans and P. macrospinosa didn't exhibit certain potential plant benefits, such as the production of hydrogen cyanide (HCN) and phosphate solubilization. The chlorophyll content and growth parameters of two-month-old cucumber plants inoculated with the fungal species were significantly better than those of the controls (non-inoculated); the shoot dry weights of inoculated plants were increased by 138% and 170% for A. elegans and P. macrospinosa, respectively; and the root colonization by fungal endophytes has also been demonstrated. In addition to the fact that P. macrospinosa has long been known as PGPF, this is the first time that the ability of A. elegans to modulate host plant growth has been demonstrated, with the potential to be used as a biofertilizer in sustainable agriculture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Warda Sidhoum
- Laboratoire de Biologie des Microorganismes et Biotechnologie, Faculté des Sciences de la Nature et de la Vie, University Oran 1, Es Senia, 31100, Algerie.
- Département de Biologie, Université de Mostaganem Abdel Hamid Ibn Badis, Mostaganem, 27000, Algerie.
| | - Soulef Dib
- Laboratoire de Biologie des Microorganismes et Biotechnologie, Faculté des Sciences de la Nature et de la Vie, University Oran 1, Es Senia, 31100, Algerie
| | - Yousra Alim
- Laboratoire de Biologie des Microorganismes et Biotechnologie, Faculté des Sciences de la Nature et de la Vie, University Oran 1, Es Senia, 31100, Algerie
| | - Sarra Anseur
- Laboratoire de Biologie des Microorganismes et Biotechnologie, Faculté des Sciences de la Nature et de la Vie, University Oran 1, Es Senia, 31100, Algerie
| | - Sabrina Benlatreche
- Laboratoire de Biologie des Microorganismes et Biotechnologie, Faculté des Sciences de la Nature et de la Vie, University Oran 1, Es Senia, 31100, Algerie
| | | | - Fatiha El Zahra Chamouma
- Département de Biologie, Université de Mostaganem Abdel Hamid Ibn Badis, Mostaganem, 27000, Algerie
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12
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Pontes L, Reichert-Lima F, Perini Leme Giordano AL, Moretti ML, Zaninelli Schreiber A. Challenging fungal infections in cystic fibrosis: a case of mixed Aspergillus species infection and antifungal combination testing. Access Microbiol 2024; 6:000758.v3. [PMID: 38737802 PMCID: PMC11083386 DOI: 10.1099/acmi.0.000758.v3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Aspergillus stands as the predominant fungal genus in the airways of cystic fibrosis (CF) patients, significantly contributing to their morbidity and mortality. Aspergillus fumigatus represents the primary causative species for infections, though the emergence of rare species within the Aspergillus section Fumigati has become noteworthy. Among these, Aspergillus lentulus is particularly significant due to its frequent misidentification and intrinsic resistance to azole antifungal agents. In the management of invasive aspergillosis and resistant infections, combination antifungal therapy has proven to be an effective approach. This report documents a case involving the death of a CF patient due to a pulmonary exacerbation linked to the colonization of multiple Aspergillus species, including A. lentulus, A. fumigatus, and A. terreus, and treated with Itraconazole (ITC) monotherapy. We delineated the procedures used to characterize the Aspergillus isolates in clinical settings and simulated in vitro the impact of the combination antifungal therapy on the isolates obtained from the patient. We evaluated three different combinations: Amphotericin B (AMB)+Voriconazole (VRC), AMB+Anidulafungin (AND), and VRC+AND. Notably, all strains isolated from the patient exhibited a significant decrease in their minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) or minimum effective concentration (MEC) values when treated with all antifungal combinations. The VRC+AMB combination demonstrated the most synergistic effects. This case report emphasizes the critical importance of susceptibility testing and precise identification of Aspergillus species to enhance patient prognosis. It also underscores the potential benefits of combined antifungal treatment, which, in this case, could have led to a more favourable patient outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laís Pontes
- School of Medical Sciences - University of Campinas, Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Franqueline Reichert-Lima
- School of Medical Sciences in São José dos Campos – Humanitas, São José dos Campos – São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Maria Luiza Moretti
- School of Medical Sciences - University of Campinas, Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
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13
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M. Jimenez Madrid A, Paul RA, Rotondo F, Deblais L, Rajashekara G, Miller SA, Ivey MLL. Triazole resistance in Aspergillus fumigatus isolated from a tomato production environment exposed to propiconazole. Appl Environ Microbiol 2024; 90:e0001724. [PMID: 38534143 PMCID: PMC11022574 DOI: 10.1128/aem.00017-24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The emergence of azole-resistant Aspergillus fumigatus (ARAf) across the world is an important public health concern. We sought to determine if propiconazole, a demethylase inhibitor (DMI) fungicide, exerted a selective pressure for ARAf in a tomato production environment following multiple exposures to the fungicide. A tomato field trial was established in 2019 and propiconazole was applied weekly until harvest. Soil, leaf, and fruit (when present) samples were collected at baseline and after each propiconazole application. A. fumigatus isolates (n, 178) were recovered and 173 were tested for susceptibility to itraconazole, posaconazole, voriconazole, and propiconazole in accordance with CLSI M38 guidelines. All the isolates were susceptible to medical triazoles and the propiconazole MIC ranged from 0.25 to 8 mg/L. A linear regression model was fitted that showed no longitudinal increment in the log2-fold azole MIC of the isolates collected after each propiconazole exposure compared to the baseline isolates. AsperGenius real-time multiplex assay ruled out TR34/L98H and TR46/Y121F/T289A cyp51A resistance markers in these isolates. Sequencing of a subset of isolates (n, 46) demonstrated widespread presence of F46Y/M172V/E427K and F46Y/M172V/N248T/D255E/E427K cyp51A mutations previously associated with reduced susceptibility to triazoles. IMPORTANCE The agricultural use of azole fungicides to control plant diseases has been implicated as a major contributor to ARAf infections in humans. Our study did not reveal imposition of selection pressure for ARAf in a vegetable production system. However, more surveillance studies for ARAf in food crop production and other environments are warranted in understanding this public and One Health issue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alejandra M. Jimenez Madrid
- Department of Plant Pathology, The Ohio State University College of Food, Agricultural and Environmental Sciences-Wooster, Wooster, Ohio, USA
| | - Raees A. Paul
- Department of Plant Pathology, The Ohio State University College of Food, Agricultural and Environmental Sciences-Wooster, Wooster, Ohio, USA
| | - Francesca Rotondo
- Department of Plant Pathology, The Ohio State University College of Food, Agricultural and Environmental Sciences-Wooster, Wooster, Ohio, USA
| | - Loic Deblais
- Department of Animal Sciences, Center for Food Animal Health, The Ohio State University College of Food, Agricultural and Environmental Sciences-Wooster, Wooster, Ohio, USA
| | - Gireesh Rajashekara
- Department of Animal Sciences, Center for Food Animal Health, The Ohio State University College of Food, Agricultural and Environmental Sciences-Wooster, Wooster, Ohio, USA
| | - Sally A. Miller
- Department of Plant Pathology, The Ohio State University College of Food, Agricultural and Environmental Sciences-Wooster, Wooster, Ohio, USA
| | - Melanie L. Lewis Ivey
- Department of Plant Pathology, The Ohio State University College of Food, Agricultural and Environmental Sciences-Wooster, Wooster, Ohio, USA
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Ainousah BE, Ibrahim SRM, Alzain AA, Mohamed SGA, Hussein HGA, Ashour A, Abdallah HM, Mohamed GA. Exploring the potential of Aspergillus wentii: secondary metabolites and biological properties. Arch Microbiol 2024; 206:216. [PMID: 38619638 DOI: 10.1007/s00203-024-03934-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2024] [Revised: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Abstract
Fungi are of considerable importance due to their capacity to biosynthesize various secondary metabolites with bioactive properties that draw high attention in new drug discovery with beneficial uses for improving human well-being and life quality. Aspergillus genus members are widespread and cosmopolitan species with varying economic significance in the fields of industry, medicine, and agriculture. Its species are renowned for their biosynthesis of secondary metabolites, characterized by both potent biological activity and structural novelty, making them a substantial reservoir for the development of new pharmaceuticals. The current work aimed at focusing on one species of this genus, Aspergillus wentii Wehmer, including its reported secondary metabolites in the period from 1951 to November 2023. A total of 97 compounds, including nitro-compounds, terpenoids, anthraquinones, xanthones, benzamides, and glucans. A summary of their bioactivities, as well as their biosynthesis was highlighted. Additionally, the reported applications of this fungus and its enzymes have been discussed. This review offers a useful reference that can direct future research into this fungus and its active metabolites, as well as their possible pharmacological and biotechnological applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bayan E Ainousah
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Umm Al-Qura University, 21955, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sabrin R M Ibrahim
- Preparatory Year Program, Department of Chemistry, Batterjee Medical College, 21442, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Assiut University, Assiut, 71526, Egypt.
| | - Abdulrahim A Alzain
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Gezira, Wad Medani, Gezira, Sudan
| | - Shaimaa G A Mohamed
- Faculty of Dentistry, British University, El Sherouk City, Suez Desert Road, Cairo, 11837, Egypt
| | - Hazem G A Hussein
- Preparatory Year Program, Batterjee Medical College, 21442, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmed Ashour
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, 11942, Al-Kharj, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura, 35516, Egypt
| | - Hossam M Abdallah
- Department of Natural Products and Alternative Medicine, Faculty of Pharmacy, King Abdulaziz University, 21589, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo, 11562, Egypt
| | - Gamal A Mohamed
- Department of Natural Products and Alternative Medicine, Faculty of Pharmacy, King Abdulaziz University, 21589, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
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Hussain F, Salam IU, Farzana, Memon ZN, Abdullah M, Abbas G, Akbar M, Hussain A, Majeed M, Ali K, Moda HM. Occurrence of fungal microbial contamination in drinking water of megacity of Karachi (Pakistan) and their physico-chemical control. Heliyon 2024; 10:e28926. [PMID: 38576549 PMCID: PMC10990973 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e28926] [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: 10/28/2023] [Revised: 03/23/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024] Open
Abstract
The water quality in Karachi (Pakistan) is uncertain due to the occurrence of fungi and other microorganisms. A total of twenty-five water samples were collected from public places, educational institutes, hospitals, water supply systems and surface water of the canal of Karachi (Pakistan). The different fungal species including Acremonium sp., Alternaria alternata, Aspergillus flavus, A. fumigatus, A. sulphureus, Cladosporium sp., Fusarium sp., Clonostachys (Gliocladium) sp., Macrophomina phaseolina, Mucor racemosus, Paecilomyces sp. Penicillium chrysogenum, P. citrinum, P. commune, P. expansum, Rhizoctonia sp. and Stachybotrys sp. were isolated from these drinking water samples. However, the bacteria, microalgae and some other microorganisms were present in low concentrations. The reason for fungi infection and production of mycotoxicity depends upon various factors and the availability of their nutrients in filtration plants. The major threats to human health are fungal mycotoxicity which is responsible for carcinogenic and other lethal diseases. Mostly, the genus Aspergillus was dominated and isolated with a maximum of 88-98% of occurrence in the different samples of drinking water by the direct plate-spread method. For the control of fungi, various Physico-chemical coagulation treatments were used, but Potassium alum, clay pot, and hot water treatment disinfected effectively 69-70% removal of the fungi and its spore or mycelia from the water. In addition, it is concluded that drinking water purifications such as chlorination, filtration and lime did not eliminate thermophilic fungal spores or mycelia including Penicillium, Paecilomyces and Mucor from the water.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faisal Hussain
- Department of Botany, Ghazi University, Dera Ghazi Khan, 32200, Pakistan
| | - Iram-us Salam
- Department of Botany, Federal Urdu University of Arts, Sciences & Technology, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Farzana
- Department of Botany, Federal Urdu University of Arts, Sciences & Technology, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Zaibun-nisa Memon
- Department of Zoology, Shah Abdul Latif University Khairpur Mirs Sindh, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Abdullah
- Biodiversity Park, Director Cholistan Institute of Desert Studies (CIDS), The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Pakistan
| | - Ghulam Abbas
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Agriculture Dera Ismail Khan-29111, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Akbar
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Baltistan, Skardu, Pakistan
| | - Alamdar Hussain
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Baltistan, Skardu, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Majeed
- Department of Botany, University of Gujrat, Hafiz Hayat Campus, Gujrat, 50700, Pakistan
| | - Kishwar Ali
- College of General Education, University of Doha for Science and Technology, Al Tarafa, Jelaiah Street, Duhail North, PO Box 24449, Doha, Qatar
| | - Haruna Musa Moda
- Senior Lecturer Occupational Safety Health and Environment, Manchester Metropolitan University, All Saints Building, Manchester, M15 6BH, United Kingdom
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Seo HW, Wassano NS, Amir Rawa MS, Nickles GR, Damasio A, Keller NP. A Timeline of Biosynthetic Gene Cluster Discovery in Aspergillus fumigatus: From Characterization to Future Perspectives. J Fungi (Basel) 2024; 10:266. [PMID: 38667937 PMCID: PMC11051388 DOI: 10.3390/jof10040266] [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: 03/08/2024] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
In 1999, the first biosynthetic gene cluster (BGC), synthesizing the virulence factor DHN melanin, was characterized in Aspergillus fumigatus. Since then, 19 additional BGCs have been linked to specific secondary metabolites (SMs) in this species. Here, we provide a comprehensive timeline of A. fumigatus BGC discovery and find that initial advances centered around the commonly expressed SMs where chemical structure informed rationale identification of the producing BGC (e.g., gliotoxin, fumigaclavine, fumitremorgin, pseurotin A, helvolic acid, fumiquinazoline). Further advances followed the transcriptional profiling of a ΔlaeA mutant, which aided in the identification of endocrocin, fumagillin, hexadehydroastechrome, trypacidin, and fumisoquin BGCs. These SMs and their precursors are the commonly produced metabolites in most A. fumigatus studies. Characterization of other BGC/SM pairs required additional efforts, such as induction treatments, including co-culture with bacteria (fumicycline/neosartoricin, fumigermin) or growth under copper starvation (fumivaline, fumicicolin). Finally, four BGC/SM pairs were discovered via overexpression technologies, including the use of heterologous hosts (fumicycline/neosartoricin, fumihopaside, sphingofungin, and sartorypyrone). Initial analysis of the two most studied A. fumigatus isolates, Af293 and A1160, suggested that both harbored ca. 34-36 BGCs. However, an examination of 264 available genomes of A. fumigatus shows up to 20 additional BGCs, with some strains showing considerable variations in BGC number and composition. These new BGCs present a new frontier in the future of secondary metabolism characterization in this important species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hye-Won Seo
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53706, USA; (H.-W.S.); (N.S.W.); (M.S.A.R.); (G.R.N.)
| | - Natalia S. Wassano
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53706, USA; (H.-W.S.); (N.S.W.); (M.S.A.R.); (G.R.N.)
- Department of Biochemistry and Tissue Biology, Institute of Biology, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), São Paulo 13083-970, Brazil;
| | - Mira Syahfriena Amir Rawa
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53706, USA; (H.-W.S.); (N.S.W.); (M.S.A.R.); (G.R.N.)
| | - Grant R. Nickles
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53706, USA; (H.-W.S.); (N.S.W.); (M.S.A.R.); (G.R.N.)
| | - André Damasio
- Department of Biochemistry and Tissue Biology, Institute of Biology, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), São Paulo 13083-970, Brazil;
| | - Nancy P. Keller
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53706, USA; (H.-W.S.); (N.S.W.); (M.S.A.R.); (G.R.N.)
- Department of Plant Pathology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53706, USA
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Bustamante MI, Elfar K, Kuzmenko J, Zaninovich T, Arreguin M, Carachure C, Zhuang G, Michailides TJ, Eskalen A. Reassessing the Etiology of Aspergillus Vine Canker and Summer Bunch Rot of Table Grapes in California. PLANT DISEASE 2024; 108:941-950. [PMID: 37845185 DOI: 10.1094/pdis-06-23-1137-re] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2023]
Abstract
Fungal taxonomy is in constant flux, and the advent of reliable DNA barcodes has enabled the enhancement of plant pathogen identification accuracy. In California, Aspergillus vine canker (AVC) and summer bunch rot (SBR) are economically important diseases that affect the wood and fruit of grapevines, respectively, and their causal agents are primarily species of black aspergilli (Aspergillus section Nigri). During the last decade, the taxonomy of this fungal group has been rearranged several times using morphological, physiological, and genetic analyses, which resulted in the incorporation of multiple cryptic species that are difficult to distinguish. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to reassess the etiology of AVC and SBR using a combination of morphological observations with phylogenetic reconstructions based on nucleotide sequences of the calmodulin (CaM) gene. Results revealed that the isolates causing AVC from recent isolations corresponded to A. tubingensis, whereas the isolates obtained from initial surveys when the disease was discovered were confirmed as A. niger and A. carbonarius. Similarly, the isolates obtained from table grapes with SBR symptoms and from spore traps placed in those vineyards were identified primarily as A. tubingensis, followed by A. niger and A. carbonarius. Notably, the A. niger isolates formed a subclade with strains previously known as A. welwitschiae, which is a species that was recently synonymized with A. niger. Overall, the most prevalent species was A. tubingensis, which was associated with both AVC and SBR, and representative isolates recovered from AVC-symptomatic wood, berries SBR symptoms, and spore traps were equally pathogenic in healthy wood and berries of 'Red Globe' grapevines. This study also constitutes the first report of A. tubingensis causing AVC and SBR of grapes in California and in the United States.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Karina Elfar
- Department of Plant Pathology, University of California, Davis, CA 95616
| | - Janet Kuzmenko
- Department of Plant Pathology, University of California, Davis, CA 95616
| | - Thomas Zaninovich
- Department of Plant Pathology, University of California, Davis, CA 95616
| | - Molly Arreguin
- Department of Plant Pathology, University of California, Davis, CA 95616
| | - Carlos Carachure
- Department of Plant Pathology, University of California, Davis, CA 95616
| | - George Zhuang
- University of California Cooperative Extension, Fresno, CA 93710
| | - Themis J Michailides
- Department of Plant Pathology, University of California, Davis, CA 95616
- Kearney Agricultural Research and Extension Center, Parlier, CA 93648
| | - Akif Eskalen
- Department of Plant Pathology, University of California, Davis, CA 95616
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18
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Plewa-Tutaj K, Twarużek M, Kosicki R, Soszczyńska E. Analysis of Mycotoxins and Cytotoxicity of Airborne Molds Isolated from the Zoological Garden-Screening Research. Pathogens 2024; 13:294. [PMID: 38668249 PMCID: PMC11053870 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens13040294] [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: 03/01/2024] [Revised: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of this paper was to assess the airborne mold contamination, secondary metabolite profiles, and cytotoxicity of the dominant fungal species isolated from the air in selected rooms at a Zoological Garden. MATERIALS AND METHODS Fungal concentrations were measured with MAS-100 air samplers. The collected airborne fungi were identified using a combination of morphological and molecular methods. The cytotoxicity of 84 strains belonging to two Penicillium and Aspergillus genera was determined using the quantitative colorimetric MTT (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium salt) assay. The mycotoxins were detected using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with a mass spectrometry detector. RESULTS The ITS gene was amplified and sequenced to identify the 132 species. For mycotoxicological and cytotoxicity analyses, 52 Penicillium isolates and 32 Aspergillus representatives were selected. Cytotoxicity was confirmed in 97.6% of cases analyzed. Using the LC-MS/MS method, 42 out of 84 strains produced at least one of the following toxins: ochratoxin A, ochratoxin B, patulin, gliotoxin, roquefortine C, griseofulvin, sterigmatocystin, fumonisin B2, moniliformin, and mycophenolic acid. CONCLUSIONS Analytical methods for assessing the presence of mycotoxins in fungal isolates collected directly from the air have proven to be an effective tool. Our research provides new information on the occurrence of potentially toxin-producing molds within a zoo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kinga Plewa-Tutaj
- Department of Microbial Ecology and Acaroentomology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Wrocław, 51-148 Wrocław, Poland
| | - Magdalena Twarużek
- Department of Physiology and Toxicology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Kazimierz Wielki University, 85-064 Bydgoszcz, Poland; (M.T.); (R.K.); (E.S.)
| | - Robert Kosicki
- Department of Physiology and Toxicology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Kazimierz Wielki University, 85-064 Bydgoszcz, Poland; (M.T.); (R.K.); (E.S.)
| | - Ewelina Soszczyńska
- Department of Physiology and Toxicology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Kazimierz Wielki University, 85-064 Bydgoszcz, Poland; (M.T.); (R.K.); (E.S.)
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19
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Boondaeng A, Keabpimai J, Trakunjae C, Vaithanomsat P, Srichola P, Niyomvong N. Cellulase production under solid-state fermentation by Aspergillus sp. IN5: Parameter optimization and application. Heliyon 2024; 10:e26601. [PMID: 38434300 PMCID: PMC10907733 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e26601] [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: 08/25/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Microbial cellulases are highly versatile catalysts with significant potential in various industries, including pulp and paper, textile manufacturing, laundry, biofuel production, food and animal feed, brewing, and agriculture. Cellulases have attracted considerable attention from the scientific community owing to their broad industrial applications and the complex nature of enzymatic systems. In the present study, a novel fungal isolate of Aspergillus sp. IN5 was used to produce cellulases. We optimized each parameter, including carbon source, incubation temperature, pH, and incubation time, for maximum cellulase production using isolate IN5 under solid-state fermentation conditions. The optimized parameters for cellulase production by isolate IN5 under solid-state fermentation were as follows: substrate, soybean residue; incubation temperature, 35 °C; pH, 7.0; and incubation duration, 5 days. These conditions resulted in the highest total cellulase activity (0.26 U/g substrate), and carboxymethyl cellulase and β-glucosidase activities of 3.32 and 196.09 U/g substrate, respectively. The obtained fungal cellulase was used for the enzymatic hydrolysis of acid- or alkali-pretreated rice straw, which served as a model substrate. Notably, compared with acid pretreatment, the pretreatment of rice straw with diluted alkali led to higher yields of reducing sugars. Maximum reducing sugar yield (286.06 ± 2.77 mg/g substrate) was obtained after 24-h incubation of diluted alkali-pretreated rice straw mixed with an enzyme loading of 15 U/g substrate. The findings of this study provide an alternative strategy for utilizing agricultural waste and an approach to efficiently produce cellulase for the degradation of lignocellulosic materials, with promising benefits for sustainable waste management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antika Boondaeng
- Kasetsart Agricultural and Agro-Industrial Product Improvement Institute, Kasetsart University, Bangkok 10900, Thailand
| | - Jureeporn Keabpimai
- Kasetsart Agricultural and Agro-Industrial Product Improvement Institute, Kasetsart University, Bangkok 10900, Thailand
| | - Chanaporn Trakunjae
- Kasetsart Agricultural and Agro-Industrial Product Improvement Institute, Kasetsart University, Bangkok 10900, Thailand
| | - Pilanee Vaithanomsat
- Kasetsart Agricultural and Agro-Industrial Product Improvement Institute, Kasetsart University, Bangkok 10900, Thailand
| | - Preeyanuch Srichola
- Kasetsart Agricultural and Agro-Industrial Product Improvement Institute, Kasetsart University, Bangkok 10900, Thailand
| | - Nanthavut Niyomvong
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science and Technology, Nakhon Sawan Rajabhat University, Nakhon Sawan 60000, Thailand
- Science Center, Nakhon Sawan Rajabhat University, Nakhon Sawan 60000, Thailand
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20
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El-Dawy EGAM, Hussein MA, El-Nahas S. Description and management of Aspergillus section Nigri causing post-harvest bulbs rot of onion. Sci Rep 2024; 14:6076. [PMID: 38480751 PMCID: PMC10937967 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-53849-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024] Open
Abstract
When onions are improperly stored, a post-harvest disease known as black mold of onion bulbs can result in considerable economic losses. Aspergillus section Nigri, one of many species, has been implicated in the development of black mold. In the present study, rot onion bulbs were collected from markets in Qena, Egypt. Thirteen Aspergillus section Nigri isolates were obtained and identified by morphological and molecular characterization. The ochratoxins potential of isolated A. section Nigri was tested, and three isolates were producers at the range of 1.5-15 ppm. For the presence of pks gene, no amplification product was detected. Using the fungal growth inhibition test, the isolates of A. niger were inhibited by eco-friendly materials Cement and Zeolite. Cement exhibited maximum percentage growth inhibition against the tested isolates at 74.7-86.7%. The pathogenicity activity of the A. niger isolates was tested by inoculation of healthy onion bulbs, other onion bulbs covered with Cement and Zeolite before inoculation by A. niger was used. The two treatments significantly reduced bulbs rot disease of onion than untreated bulbs. Seven and nine isolates showed 0% rot on covered bulbs by Cement and Zeolite, respectively as compared with inoculated onions, which exhibited rot ranging from 55 to 80%. Using eco-friendly materials with efficiency against post-harvest bulbs rot of onion was evaluated in this study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eman G A M El-Dawy
- Botany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, South Valley University, Qena, Egypt.
- Applied and Environmental Microbiology Center, South Valley University, Qena, Egypt.
| | - Mohamed A Hussein
- Botany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, South Valley University, Qena, Egypt
- Applied and Environmental Microbiology Center, South Valley University, Qena, Egypt
| | - Safaa El-Nahas
- Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, South Valley University, Qena, 83523, Egypt
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21
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Mageswari A, Choi Y, Thao LD, Lee D, Kim DH, Hong SB. Re-Identification of Aspergillus Subgenus Nidulantes Strains and Description of Three Unrecorded Species From Korea. MYCOBIOLOGY 2024; 52:92-101. [PMID: 38690031 PMCID: PMC11057467 DOI: 10.1080/12298093.2024.2321670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
Aspergillus subgenus Nidulantes with nine section forms the second largest subgenus of the fungi that comes under the genus Aspergillus. Species in this group of fungi are important as they are reported to play several important roles in the environment including influencing air quality in confined spaces, food spoilage, production of mycotoxins as well as in human pathogenicity. In the present study, 53 strains of Aspergillus subgenus Nidulantes (section: Nidulantes & Usti) isolated from Korea and preserved at the Korean Agricultural Culture Collection (KACC) were subjected to re-identification by using a combined dataset of partial β-tubulin (BenA), Calmodulin (CaM) gene sequences as well as their morphological data. We confirmed 14 species from 53 isolates in Korea. Of them, eleven species were reported in Korea previously (A. amoenus, A. baeticus, A. calidoustus, A. creber, A. insuetus, A. jensenii, A. nidulans, A. protuberus, A. sydowii, A. tabacinus and A. unguis), and three species (A. griseoaurantiacus, A. puulaauensis and A. sublatus) were previously unreported from Korea. We detailed the characteristic features of these three species, that remain unexplored in Korea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anbazhagan Mageswari
- Korean Agricultural Culture Collection, Agricultural Microbiology Division, National Institute of Agricultural Sciences, RDA, Wanju, Republic of Korea
| | - Yunhee Choi
- Korean Agricultural Culture Collection, Agricultural Microbiology Division, National Institute of Agricultural Sciences, RDA, Wanju, Republic of Korea
| | - Le Dinh Thao
- Korean Agricultural Culture Collection, Agricultural Microbiology Division, National Institute of Agricultural Sciences, RDA, Wanju, Republic of Korea
| | - Daseul Lee
- Korean Agricultural Culture Collection, Agricultural Microbiology Division, National Institute of Agricultural Sciences, RDA, Wanju, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong-Hyun Kim
- Korean Agricultural Culture Collection, Agricultural Microbiology Division, National Institute of Agricultural Sciences, RDA, Wanju, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung-Beom Hong
- Korean Agricultural Culture Collection, Agricultural Microbiology Division, National Institute of Agricultural Sciences, RDA, Wanju, Republic of Korea
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22
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Fei X, Du X, Wang J, Liu J, Gong Y, Zhao Z, Cao Z, Fu Q, Zhu Y, Dong L, Dong B, Pan J, Sun W, Xie S, Xue W. Precise diagnosis and risk stratification of prostate cancer by comprehensive serum metabolic fingerprints: a prediction model study. Int J Surg 2024; 110:1450-1462. [PMID: 38181121 PMCID: PMC10942223 DOI: 10.1097/js9.0000000000001033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Prostate cancer (PCa) is one of the most common malignancies in men worldwide and has caused increasing clinical morbidity and mortality, making timely diagnosis and accurate staging crucial. The authors introduced a novel approach based on mass spectrometry for precise diagnosis and stratification of PCa to facilitate clinical decision-making. METHODS Matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight (MALDI-TOF) mass spectrometry analysis of trace blood samples was combined with machine learning algorithms to construct diagnostic and stratification models. A total of 367 subjects, comprising 181 with PCa and 186 with non-PCa were enrolled. Additional 60 subjects, comprising 30 with PCa and 30 with non-PCa were enrolled as an external cohort for validation. Subsequent metabolomic analysis was carried out using Autoflex MALDI-TOF, and the mass spectra were introduced into various algorithms to construct different models. RESULTS Serum metabolic fingerprints were successfully obtained from 181 patients with PCa and 186 patients with non-PCa. The diagnostic model based on the eight signals demonstrated a remarkable area under curve of 100% and was validated in the external cohort with the area under curve of 87.3%. Fifteen signals were selected for enrichment analysis, revealing the potential metabolic pathways that facilitate tumorigenesis. Furthermore, the stage prediction model with an overall accuracy of 85.9% precisely classified subjects with localized disease and those with metastasis. The risk stratification model, with an overall accuracy of 89.6%, precisely classified the subjects as low-risk and high-risk. CONCLUSIONS Our study facilitated the timely diagnosis and risk stratification of PCa and provided new insights into the underlying mechanisms of metabolic alterations in PCa.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Zejun Zhao
- Department of Ultrasound, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine
| | - Zhibin Cao
- Medical Science and Technology Innovation Center, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Shandong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Qibo Fu
- Medical Science and Technology Innovation Center, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Shandong, People’s Republic of China
| | | | | | | | | | - Wenshe Sun
- Department of Urology, Jiading District Central Hospital, Shanghai University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Shanghai
| | - Shaowei Xie
- Department of Ultrasound, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine
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23
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Visagie C, Yilmaz N, Kocsubé S, Frisvad J, Hubka V, Samson R, Houbraken J. A review of recently introduced Aspergillus, Penicillium, Talaromyces and other Eurotiales species. Stud Mycol 2024; 107:1-66. [PMID: 38600958 PMCID: PMC11003441 DOI: 10.3114/sim.2024.107.01] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The order Eurotiales is diverse and includes species that impact our daily lives in many ways. In the past, its taxonomy was difficult due to morphological similarities, which made accurate identification of species difficult. This situation improved and stabilised with recent taxonomic and nomenclatural revisions that modernised Aspergillus, Penicillium and Talaromyces. This was mainly due to the availability of curated accepted species lists and the publication of comprehensive DNA sequence reference datasets. This has also led to a sharp increase in the number of new species described each year with the accepted species lists in turn also needing regular updates. The focus of this study was to review the 160 species described between the last list of accepted species published in 2020 until 31 December 2022. To review these species, single-gene phylogenies were constructed and GCPSR (Genealogical Concordance Phylogenetic Species Recognition) was applied. Multi-gene phylogenetic analyses were performed to further determine the relationships of the newly introduced species. As a result, we accepted 133 species (37 Aspergillus, two Paecilomyces, 59 Penicillium, two Rasamsonia, 32 Talaromyces and one Xerochrysium), synonymised 22, classified four as doubtful and created a new combination for Paraxerochrysium coryli, which is classified in Xerochrysium. This brings the number of accepted species to 453 for Aspergillus, 12 for Paecilomyces, 535 for Penicillium, 14 for Rasamsonia, 203 for Talaromyces and four for Xerochrysium. We accept the newly introduced section Tenues (in Talaromyces), and series Hainanici (in Aspergillus sect. Cavernicolarum) and Vascosobrinhoana (in Penicillium sect. Citrina). In addition, we validate the invalidly described species Aspergillus annui and A. saccharicola, and series Annuorum (in Aspergillus sect. Flavi), introduce a new combination for Dichlaena lentisci (type of the genus) and place it in a new section in Aspergillus subgenus Circumdati, provide an updated description for Rasamsonia oblata, and list excluded and recently synonymised species that were previously accepted. This study represents an important update of the accepted species lists in Eurotiales. Taxonomic novelties: New sections: Aspergillus section Dichlaena Visagie, Kocsubé & Houbraken. New series: Aspergillus series Annuorum J.J. Silva, B.T. Iamanaka, Frisvad. New species: Aspergillus annui J.J. Silva, M.H.P. Fungaro, Frisvad, M.H. Taniwaki & B.T. Iamanaka; Aspergillus saccharicola J.J. Silva, Frisvad, M.H.P. Fungaro, M.H. Taniwaki & B.T. Iamanaka. New combinations: Aspergillus lentisci (Durieu & Mont.) Visagie, Malloch, L. Kriegsteiner, Samson & Houbraken; Xerochrysium coryli (Crous & Decock) Visagie & Houbraken. Citation: Visagie CM, Yilmaz N, Kocsubé S, Frisvad JC, Hubka V, Samson RA, Houbraken J (2024). A review of recently introduced Aspergillus, Penicillium, Talaromyces and other Eurotiales species. Studies in Mycology 107: 1-66. doi: 10.3114/sim.2024.107.01.
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Affiliation(s)
- C.M. Visagie
- Department of Biochemistry, Genetics and Microbiology, Forestry and Agricultural Biotechnology Institute (FABI), University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - N. Yilmaz
- Department of Biochemistry, Genetics and Microbiology, Forestry and Agricultural Biotechnology Institute (FABI), University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - S. Kocsubé
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science and Informatics, University of Szeged, 6726 Szeged, Hungary
- ELKH-SZTE Pathomechanisms of Fungal Infections Research Group, University of Szeged, 6726 Szeged, Hungary
| | - J.C. Frisvad
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Søltofts Plads, Building 221, Technical University of Denmark, Lyngby, DK-2800 Kgs, Denmark
| | - V. Hubka
- Department of Botany, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
- Laboratory of Fungal Genetics and Metabolism, Institute of Microbiology, Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - R.A. Samson
- Westerdijk Fungal Biodiversity Institute, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - J. Houbraken
- Westerdijk Fungal Biodiversity Institute, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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24
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Abd-El-Aziz AS, Abed NN, Mahfouz AY, Fathy RM. Production and characterization of melanin pigment from black fungus Curvularia soli AS21 ON076460 assisted gamma rays for promising medical uses. Microb Cell Fact 2024; 23:68. [PMID: 38408972 PMCID: PMC10895916 DOI: 10.1186/s12934-024-02335-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Owing to the growing need for natural materials in different fields, studying melanin production from biological sources is imperative. In the current study, the extracellular melanin pigment was produced by the fungus Curvularia soli AS21 ON076460. The factors that affect the production of melanin were optimized by the Plackett-Burman design (P-BD). The effect of gamma irradiation on melanin productivity was investigated. The maximum melanin yield (3.376 mg/L) was elicited by a stimulus of gamma irradiation at 1.0 kGy. The results evoked that, Curvularia soli AS21 ON076460 melanin exhibited excellent antimicrobial activity against all tested bacteria and fungi. Klebsiella pneumoniae ATCC 13883 and P. digitatum were mostly affected by melanin registering the inhibition zone diameters of 37.51 ± 0.012 and 44.25 ± 0.214 mm, respectively. Moreover, Curvularia soli AS21 ON076460 melanin indicated a significant antiviral efficacy (77% inhibition) of Herpes simplex virus (HSV1). The melanin pigment showed antioxidant activities with IC50 of 42 ± 0.021 and 17 ± 0.02 µg/mL against DPPH and NO, respectively. Melanin had cytotoxic action against human breast cancer and skin cancer cell lines (Mcf7and A431) as well as exerting a low percentage of cell death against normal skin cell lines (Hfb4). Melanin was effective in wound management of human skin cells by 63.04 ± 1.83% compared with control (68.67 ± 1.10%). The novelty in the study is attributed to the possibility of using gamma rays as a safe method in small economic doses to stimulate melanin production from the fungi that have been isolated. In summary, melanin produced from fungi has significant biological activities that encourage its usage as a supportive medical route.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amira S Abd-El-Aziz
- Botany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Al-Azhar University (Girls Branch), Cairo, Egypt
| | - Nermine N Abed
- Botany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Al-Azhar University (Girls Branch), Cairo, Egypt
| | - Amira Y Mahfouz
- Botany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Al-Azhar University (Girls Branch), Cairo, Egypt.
| | - Rasha Mohammad Fathy
- Drug Radiation Research Department, Egyptian Atomic Energy Authority, National Center for Radiation Research and Technology (NCRRT), Cairo, Egypt.
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25
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Qi G, Hao L, Gan Y, Xin T, Lou Q, Xu W, Song J. Identification of closely related species in Aspergillus through Analysis of Whole-Genome. Front Microbiol 2024; 15:1323572. [PMID: 38450170 PMCID: PMC10915092 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2024.1323572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024] Open
Abstract
The challenge of discriminating closely related species persists, notably within clinical diagnostic laboratories for invasive aspergillosis (IA)-related species and food contamination microorganisms with toxin-producing potential. We employed Analysis of the whole-GEnome (AGE) to address the challenges of closely related species within the genus Aspergillus and developed a rapid detection method. First, reliable whole genome data for 77 Aspergillus species were downloaded from the database, and through bioinformatic analysis, specific targets for each species were identified. Subsequently, sequencing was employed to validate these specific targets. Additionally, we developed an on-site detection method targeting a specific target using a genome editing system. Our results indicate that AGE has successfully achieved reliable identification of all IA-related species (Aspergillus fumigatus, Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus nidulans, Aspergillus flavus, and Aspergillus terreus) and three well-known species (A. flavus, Aspergillus parasiticus, and Aspergillus oryzae) within the Aspergillus section. Flavi and AGE have provided species-level-specific targets for 77 species within the genus Aspergillus. Based on these reference targets, the sequencing results targeting specific targets substantiate the efficacy of distinguishing the focal species from its closely related species. Notably, the amalgamation of room-temperature amplification and genome editing techniques demonstrates the capacity for rapid and accurate identification of genomic DNA samples at a concentration as low as 0.1 ng/μl within a concise 30-min timeframe. Importantly, this methodology circumvents the reliance on large specialized instrumentation by presenting a singular tube operational modality and allowing for visualized result assessment. These advancements aptly meet the exigencies of on-site detection requirements for the specified species, facilitating prompt diagnosis and food quality monitoring. Moreover, as an identification method based on species-specific genomic sequences, AGE shows promising potential as an effective tool for epidemiological research and species classification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guihong Qi
- Key Lab of Chinese Medicine Resources Conservation, State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine of the People's Republic of China, Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Lijun Hao
- Key Lab of Chinese Medicine Resources Conservation, State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine of the People's Republic of China, Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yutong Gan
- Key Lab of Chinese Medicine Resources Conservation, State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine of the People's Republic of China, Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Tianyi Xin
- Key Lab of Chinese Medicine Resources Conservation, State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine of the People's Republic of China, Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Qian Lou
- Key Lab of Chinese Medicine Resources Conservation, State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine of the People's Republic of China, Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Wenjie Xu
- Key Lab of Chinese Medicine Resources Conservation, State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine of the People's Republic of China, Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Jingyuan Song
- Key Lab of Chinese Medicine Resources Conservation, State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine of the People's Republic of China, Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- Engineering Research Center of Chinese Medicine Resource, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China
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26
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El-Dawy EGAM, Gherbawy YA, Hussein MA. Characterization of Aspergillus section Flavi associated with stored grains. Mycotoxin Res 2024; 40:187-202. [PMID: 38231446 PMCID: PMC10834605 DOI: 10.1007/s12550-023-00514-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
Increased frequencies of Aspergillus section Flavi and aflatoxins in cereal grains have been seen in recent years due to changes in climate circumstances, such as high temperatures and drought. To assess the microbiological risks of contamination, it is critical to have a reliable and accurate means of identifying the fungi. The main goal of this study was to characterize Aspergillus species from section Flavi obtained from twenty-three samples of barley and maize grains, gathered from different markets in Qena, Egypt, using morphological and molecular techniques. Twenty-three isolates were chosen, one isolate from each sample; they were identified as A. aflatoxiformans (4 isolates), A. flavus (18), and A. parasiticus (1). The existence of four aflatoxin biosynthesis genes was also investigated in relation to the strains' ability to produce total aflatoxins and aflatoxin B1, focusing on the regulatory gene aflR and the structural genes aflD and aflM. All strains producing aflatoxins were linked to the presence of aflR1 and/or aflR2, except two isolates that exhibited aflatoxins but from which aflR1 or aflR2 were not detected, which may be due to one or more missing or unstudied additional genes involved in aflatoxin production. AflD and aflM genes were amplified by 10 and 9 isolates, respectively. Five samples of barley and maize were contaminated by aflatoxins. Fifteen isolates were positive for producing total aflatoxins in the range of 0.1-240 ppm. Antagonistic activity of Trichoderma viride against A. flavus (F5) was assessed at 31.3%. Trichoderma reduced total aflatoxins in all treated seeds, particularly those subjected to Trichoderma formulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eman G A M El-Dawy
- Botany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, South Valley University, Qena, Egypt.
- Applied and Environmental Microbiology Center, South Valley University, Qena, Egypt.
| | - Youssuf A Gherbawy
- Botany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, South Valley University, Qena, Egypt
- Applied and Environmental Microbiology Center, South Valley University, Qena, Egypt
| | - Mohamed A Hussein
- Botany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, South Valley University, Qena, Egypt
- Applied and Environmental Microbiology Center, South Valley University, Qena, Egypt
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27
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Aynalem T, Meng L, Getachew A, Wu J, Yu H, Tan J, Li N, Xu S. A New Isolated Fungus and Its Pathogenicity for Apis mellifera Brood in China. Microorganisms 2024; 12:313. [PMID: 38399717 PMCID: PMC10892447 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms12020313] [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: 11/10/2023] [Revised: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
In this article, we report the pathogenicity of a new strain of fungus, Rhizopus oryzae to honeybee larvae, isolated from the chalkbrood-diseased mummies of honeybee larvae and pupae collected from apiaries in China. Based on morphological observation and internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region analyses, the isolated pathogenic fungus was identified as R. oryzae. Koch's postulates were performed to determine the cause-and-effect pathogenicity of this isolate fungus. The in vitro pathogenicity of this virulent fungus in honeybees was tested by artificially inoculating worker larvae in the lab. The pathogenicity of this new fungus for honeybee larvae was both conidial-concentration and exposure-time dependent; its highly infectious and virulent effect against the larvae was observed at 1 × 105 conidia/larva in vitro after 96 h of challenge. Using probit regression analysis, the LT50 value against the larvae was 26.8 h at a conidial concentration of 1 × 105 conidia/larva, and the LC50 was 6.2 × 103 conidia/larva. These results indicate that the new isolate of R. oryzae has considerable pathogenicity in honeybee larvae. Additionally, this report suggests that pathogenic phytofungi may harm their associated pollinators. We recommend further research to quantify the levels, mechanisms, and pathways of the pathogenicity of this novel isolated pathogen for honeybee larvae at the colony level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tessema Aynalem
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Institute of Apicultural Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100093, China; (T.A.); (L.M.); (A.G.); (J.W.); (H.Y.); (J.T.); (N.L.)
- College of Agriculture and Environmental Science, Bahir Dar University, Bahir Dar P.O. Box 26, Ethiopia
| | - Lifeng Meng
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Institute of Apicultural Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100093, China; (T.A.); (L.M.); (A.G.); (J.W.); (H.Y.); (J.T.); (N.L.)
| | - Awraris Getachew
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Institute of Apicultural Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100093, China; (T.A.); (L.M.); (A.G.); (J.W.); (H.Y.); (J.T.); (N.L.)
- College of Agriculture and Environmental Science, Bahir Dar University, Bahir Dar P.O. Box 26, Ethiopia
| | - Jiangli Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Institute of Apicultural Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100093, China; (T.A.); (L.M.); (A.G.); (J.W.); (H.Y.); (J.T.); (N.L.)
| | - Huimin Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Institute of Apicultural Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100093, China; (T.A.); (L.M.); (A.G.); (J.W.); (H.Y.); (J.T.); (N.L.)
| | - Jing Tan
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Institute of Apicultural Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100093, China; (T.A.); (L.M.); (A.G.); (J.W.); (H.Y.); (J.T.); (N.L.)
| | - Nannan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Institute of Apicultural Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100093, China; (T.A.); (L.M.); (A.G.); (J.W.); (H.Y.); (J.T.); (N.L.)
| | - Shufa Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Institute of Apicultural Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100093, China; (T.A.); (L.M.); (A.G.); (J.W.); (H.Y.); (J.T.); (N.L.)
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Lutz T, Langer GJ, Heinze C. A virus from Aspergillus cibarius with features of alpha- and betachrysoviruses. Virus Genes 2024; 60:71-79. [PMID: 38160229 PMCID: PMC10861612 DOI: 10.1007/s11262-023-02043-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
From the ascomycete Aspergillus cibarius strain NW-FVA 2590, which was originally isolated from a root, associated with stem collar necrosis of Fraxinus excelsior L., a novel virus was isolated and characterized. Its genome is encoded on three monocistronic dsRNA segments ranging from 3683 bp (dsRNA 1) over 3093 (dsRNA 2) to 2902 bp (dsRNA 3), which are packed in isometric particles of around 35 nm. While the viral RdRp (P1) is encoded on segment 1, protein sequencing showed that two more structural proteins are present which are translated from dsRNA 2 (P2) and dsRNA 3 (P3) and possibly form the viral capsid. Additionally, P2 and P3 may undergo posttranslational modifications since the detected proteins bands deviated from the calculated sizes. Due to its phylogenetic position, the novel virus was grouped in the family of Chrysoviridae and was tentatively denominated as Aspergillus cibarius chrysovirus 1 (AcCV1). Due to its composition, biological properties and phylogenetic position, distant from the genera Alphachrysovirus and Betachrysovirus, we suggest to position AcCV1 in a proposed genus "Gammachrysovirus".
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Affiliation(s)
- Tobias Lutz
- Institute of Plant Science and Microbiology, University of Hamburg, Molecular Phytopathology, Ohnhorststr. 18, 22609, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Gitta Jutta Langer
- Nordwestdeutsche Forstliche Versuchsanstalt, Grätzelstr. 2, 37079, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Cornelia Heinze
- Institute of Plant Science and Microbiology, University of Hamburg, Molecular Phytopathology, Ohnhorststr. 18, 22609, Hamburg, Germany.
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Birnie JD, Ahmed T, Kidd SE, Westall GP, Snell GI, Peleg AY, Morrissey CO. Multi-Locus Microsatellite Typing of Colonising and Invasive Aspergillus fumigatus Isolates from Patients Post Lung Transplantation and with Chronic Lung Disease. J Fungi (Basel) 2024; 10:95. [PMID: 38392766 PMCID: PMC10889758 DOI: 10.3390/jof10020095] [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: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 01/21/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Aspergillus fumigatus can cause different clinical manifestations/phenotypes in lung transplant (LTx) recipients and patients with chronic respiratory diseases. It can also precipitate chronic lung allograft dysfunction (CLAD) in LTx recipients. Many host factors have been linked with the severity of A. fumigatus infection, but little is known about the contribution of different A. fumigatus strains to the development of different phenotypes and CLAD. We used multi-locus microsatellite typing (MLMT) to determine if there is a relationship between strain (i.e., genotype) and phenotype in 60 patients post LTx or with chronic respiratory disease across two time periods (1 November 2006-31 March 2009 and 1 November 2015-30 June 2017). The MLMT (STRAf) assay was highly discriminatory (Simpson's diversity index of 0.9819-0.9942) with no dominant strain detected. No specific genotype-phenotype link was detected, but several clusters and related strains were associated with invasive aspergillosis (IA) and colonisation in the absence of CLAD. Host factors were linked to clinical phenotypes, with prior lymphopenia significantly more common in IA cases as compared with A. fumigatus-colonised patients (12/16 [75%] vs. 13/36 [36.1%]; p = 0.01), and prior Staphylococcus aureus infection was a significant risk factor for the development of IA (odds ratio 13.8; 95% confidence interval [2.01-279.23]). A trend toward a greater incidence of CMV reactivation post-A. fumigatus isolation was observed (0 vs. 5; p = 0.06) in LTx recipients. Further research is required to determine the pathogenicity and immunogenicity of specific A. fumigatus strains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua D Birnie
- University Hospital Geelong, Barwon Health, Geelong, VIC 3220, Australia
| | - Tanveer Ahmed
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Alfred Health and Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia
| | - Sarah E Kidd
- National Mycology Reference Centre, SA Pathology, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
| | - Glen P Westall
- Lung Transplant Service, Department of Respiratory Medicine, Alfred Health and Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia
| | - Gregory I Snell
- Lung Transplant Service, Department of Respiratory Medicine, Alfred Health and Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia
| | - Anton Y Peleg
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Alfred Health and Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia
- Infection and Immunity Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Microbiology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia
| | - Catherine Orla Morrissey
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Alfred Health and Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia
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30
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Zhong M, Li Y, Deng L, Fang J, Yu X. Insight into the adaptation mechanisms of high hydrostatic pressure in physiology and metabolism of hadal fungi from the deepest ocean sediment. mSystems 2024; 9:e0108523. [PMID: 38117068 PMCID: PMC10804941 DOI: 10.1128/msystems.01085-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023] Open
Abstract
High hydrostatic pressure (HHP) influences the life processes of organisms living at depth in the oceans. While filamentous fungi are one of the essential members of deep-sea microorganisms, few works have explored their piezotolerance to HHP. Here, we obtained three homogeneous Aspergillus sydowii from terrestrial, shallow, and hadal areas, respectively, to compare their pressure resistance. A set of all-around evaluation methods including determination of growth rate, metabolic activity, and microscopic staining observation was established and indicated that A. sydowii DM1 from the hadal area displayed significant piezotolerance. Global analysis of transcriptome data under elevated HHP revealed that A. sydowii DM1 proactively modulated cell membrane permeability, hyphae morphology, and septal quantities for seeking a better livelihood under mild pressure. Besides, differentially expressed genes were mainly enriched in the biosynthesis of amino acids, carbohydrate metabolism, cell process, etc., implying how the filamentous fungi respond to elevated pressure at the molecular level. We speculated that A. sydowii DM1 could acclimatize itself to HHP by adopting several strategies, including environmental response pathway HOG-MAPK, stress proteins, and cellular metabolisms.IMPORTANCEFungi play an ecological and biological function in marine environments, while the physiology of filamentous fungi under high hydrostatic pressure (HHP) is an unknown territory due to current technologies. As filamentous fungi are found in various niches, Aspergillus sp. from deep-sea inspire us to the physiological trait of eukaryotes under HHP, which can be considered as a prospective research model. Here, the evaluation methods we constructed would be universal for most filamentous fungi to assess their pressure resistance, and we found that Aspergillus sydowii DM1 from the hadal area owned better piezotolerance and the active metabolisms under HHP indicated the existence of undiscovered metabolic strategies for hadal fungi. Since pressure-related research of marine fungi has been unexpectedly neglected, our study provided an enlightening strategy for them under HHP; we believed that understanding their adaptation and ecological function in original niches will be accelerated in the perceivable future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maosheng Zhong
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Hadal Science and Technology, College of Marine Sciences, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yongqi Li
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Hadal Science and Technology, College of Marine Sciences, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ludan Deng
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Hadal Science and Technology, College of Marine Sciences, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiasong Fang
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Hadal Science and Technology, College of Marine Sciences, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xi Yu
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Hadal Science and Technology, College of Marine Sciences, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai, China
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31
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Unnikrishnan BV, Binitha NK. Positive effect of inoculation with an Aspergillus strain on phosphorus and iron nutrition plus volatile organic compounds in rice. Folia Microbiol (Praha) 2024:10.1007/s12223-024-01129-4. [PMID: 38200388 DOI: 10.1007/s12223-024-01129-4] [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: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
We explored the potential of a fungal strain Aspergillus costaricensis KS1 for modulating growth and nutrient mobilization in rice. At laboratory conditions, there was a decline in pH of the medium on inoculation with the strain and the production of citric acid was observed under broth conditions. Similarly, there was higher solubilization of tricalcium phosphate and siderophore production in liquid medium on inoculation with the strain. The effect of inoculation of KS1 was studied in rice and higher growth and yield were observed on inoculation compared to control. The content of phosphorus and iron in stem and roots of KS1 inoculated plants was higher in comparison with uninoculated control. There was also increased availability of phosphorus and iron content in soil grown with KS1 inoculated plants. In addition, inoculation with strain resulted in a higher content of volatile organic compounds such as linoleic acid, linolenic acid, and ethyl isoallocholate in stem of rice. A. costaricensis KS1 can be used for improving phosphorus and iron nutrition and impart tolerance against stresses in rice.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nadayi Karayi Binitha
- Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, College of Agriculture, Kerala Agricultural University, Kasaragod, Kerala, India
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De la Rosa-García S, Sierra-Fernández A, Solís CG, García NS, Quintana P, Gómez-Cornelio S, Fort R. Fungal community dynamics on limestone at the Chichén Itzá archaeological site in Mexico driven by protective treatments. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 906:167563. [PMID: 37802337 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.167563] [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: 02/23/2023] [Revised: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/08/2023]
Abstract
Microorganisms naturally colonize rock-based materials in outdoor environments, thereby contributing to their degradation. Fungi, especially in tropical environments with abundant water and favorable temperatures, play a significant role in biodegradation. However, many aspects of the microorganism-stone interaction, including fungal colonization dynamics and the impact of treatment applications, remain unclear. This study conducted a four-year in-situ evaluation of fungal community dynamics on limestone surfaces in the Temple of the Warriors at the Chichén Itzá archaeological site in Mexico, focusing on cleaning and treatment using nanoparticles (NPs). These NPs included zinc oxide (ZnO) and CaZn2(OH)6·2H2O (CZ)-based NPs synthesized via sol-gel (CZ-SG) and mechanochemical methods (CZ-MC), as well as CZ/Ca(OH)2-based products (CZ:Ca-SG). The microbial colonization cover was assessed using colorimetric measurements, and the surface was sampled for fungal community isolation and identification. The results demonstrated significant impacts of cleaning and nanomaterial applications on cultivable fungal communities (melanized filamentous, hyaline, and microcolonial fungi), altering composition, dynamics, and stone surface coloration. In particular, ZnO NPs caused 50 % decline in fungal species and individuals, whereas CZ:Ca-SG NPs displaced most species, indicating effective inhibition of the cultivable fungal community. Microcolonial fungi (MCF), known for their tolerance to withstand harsh environmental conditions, were the only fungal group found in the CZ:Ca-SG treatment. In contrast, CZ-SG and CZ-MC increased the abundance of melanized species, resulting in darkening and reduced color intensity. This study highlights the importance of microcolonial fungi that are tolerant to cleaning and coating procedures in the preservation of stone cultural heritage. These findings enhance our understanding of fungal colonization dynamics following treatment and provide valuable insights into the challenges associated with preserving stone materials in tropical environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susana De la Rosa-García
- Laboratorio de Microbiología Aplicada, División Académica de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Juárez Autónoma de Tabasco, 0.5 km Carretera Villahermosa-Cárdenas, Villahermosa 86000, Tabasco, Mexico.
| | | | - Claudia García Solís
- Sección de Conservación y Restauración, Centro INAH-Yucatán, Calle 10 No. 310-A, Col. Gonzalo Guerrero, 97310 Mérida, Yucatán, Mexico
| | - Neftalí Soberanes García
- Universidad Politécnica del Centro, Km. 22.5 Carretera Federal Villahermosa-Teapa, Tumbulushal, Centro, 86290 Villahermosa, Tabasco, Mexico
| | - Patricia Quintana
- Laboratorio Nacional de Nano y Biomateriales, Departamento de Física Aplicada, CINVESTAV-IPN, A.P. 73, Ciordemex, 973109 Mérida, Yucatán, Mexico
| | - Sergio Gómez-Cornelio
- Universidad Politécnica del Centro, Km. 22.5 Carretera Federal Villahermosa-Teapa, Tumbulushal, Centro, 86290 Villahermosa, Tabasco, Mexico; Laboratorio de Nanotecnología-CICTAT, División Académica de Ingeniería y Arquitectura, Universidad Juárez Autónoma de Tabasco, Carr. Cunduacán-Jalpa de Méndez, Km 1, Cunduacán, Tabasco 86690, Mexico
| | - Rafael Fort
- Instituteo de Geociencias (CSIC, UCM), Severo Ochoa 7, CP 28040 Madrid, Spain.
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Tashiro M, Takazono T, Izumikawa K. Chronic pulmonary aspergillosis: comprehensive insights into epidemiology, treatment, and unresolved challenges. Ther Adv Infect Dis 2024; 11:20499361241253751. [PMID: 38899061 PMCID: PMC11186400 DOI: 10.1177/20499361241253751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Chronic pulmonary aspergillosis (CPA) is a challenging respiratory infection caused by the environmental fungus Aspergillus. CPA has a poor prognosis, with reported 1-year mortality rates ranging from 7% to 32% and 5-year mortality rates ranging from 38% to 52%. A comprehensive understanding of the pathogen, pathophysiology, risk factors, diagnosis, surgery, hemoptysis treatment, pharmacological therapy, and prognosis is essential to manage CPA effectively. In particular, Aspergillus drug resistance and cryptic species pose significant challenges. CPA lacks tissue invasion and has specific features such as aspergilloma. The most critical risk factor for the development of CPA is pulmonary cavitation. Diagnostic approaches vary by CPA subtype, with computed tomography (CT) imaging and Aspergillus IgG antibodies being key. Treatment strategies include surgery, hemoptysis management, and antifungal therapy. Surgery is the curative option. However, reported postoperative mortality rates range from 0% to 5% and complications range from 11% to 63%. Simple aspergilloma generally has a low postoperative mortality rate, making surgery the first choice. Hemoptysis, observed in 50% of CPA patients, is a significant symptom and can be life-threatening. Bronchial artery embolization achieves hemostasis in 64% to 100% of cases, but 50% experience recurrent hemoptysis. The efficacy of antifungal therapy for CPA varies, with itraconazole reported to be 43-76%, voriconazole 32-80%, posaconazole 44-61%, isavuconazole 82.7%, echinocandins 42-77%, and liposomal amphotericin B 52-73%. Combinatorial treatments such as bronchoscopic triazole administration, inhalation, or direct injection of amphotericin B at the site of infection also show efficacy. A treatment duration of more than 6 months is recommended, with better efficacy reported for periods of more than 1 year. In anticipation of improvements in CPA management, ongoing advances in basic and clinical research are expected to contribute to the future of CPA management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masato Tashiro
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, 1-7-1 Sakamoto, Nagasaki 852-8501, Japan
- Infection Control and Education Center, Nagasaki University Hospital, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Takahiro Takazono
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki, Japan
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Nagasaki University Hospital, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Koichi Izumikawa
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki, Japan
- Infection Control and Education Center, Nagasaki University Hospital, Nagasaki, Japan
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Nguyen TTT, Kang KH, Kim DH, Kim SJ, Mun HY, Cheon W, Lee HB. Additions to the Knowledge of the Fungal Order Eurotiales in Korea: Eight Undescribed Species. MYCOBIOLOGY 2023; 51:417-435. [PMID: 38179116 PMCID: PMC10763837 DOI: 10.1080/12298093.2023.2290759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
Eurotiales is a relatively large order of Ascomycetes, well-known for their ability to produce secondary metabolites with potential beneficial applications. To understand their diversity and distribution, different environmental sources including soil, freshwater, insect, and indoor air were investigated. Eight strains of Eurotiales were isolated and identified based on their morphological characters and a multi-gene phylogenetic analysis of the ITS, BenA, CaM, and RPB2 regions. We identified eight taxa that were previously not reported from Korea: Aspergillus baeticus, A. griseoaurantiacus, A. spinulosporus, Penicillium anthracinoglaciei, P. labradorum, P. nalgiovense, Talaromyces atroroseus, and T. georgiensis. Detailed descriptions, illustrations, and phylogenetic tree for the eight new records species are presented, and information regarding the records is also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thuong T. T. Nguyen
- Department of Agricultural Biological Chemistry, College of Agriculture & Life Sciences, Environmental Microbiology Lab, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, South Korea
| | - Ki Hyun Kang
- Department of Agricultural Biological Chemistry, College of Agriculture & Life Sciences, Environmental Microbiology Lab, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, South Korea
| | - Dong Hee Kim
- Department of Agricultural Biological Chemistry, College of Agriculture & Life Sciences, Environmental Microbiology Lab, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, South Korea
| | - Su Jin Kim
- Department of Agricultural Biological Chemistry, College of Agriculture & Life Sciences, Environmental Microbiology Lab, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, South Korea
| | - Hye Yeon Mun
- Microbial Research Department, Fungal Research Team, Nakdonggang National Institute of Biological Resources, Sangju, South Korea
| | - Wonsu Cheon
- Microbial Research Department, Fungal Research Team, Nakdonggang National Institute of Biological Resources, Sangju, South Korea
| | - Hyang Burm Lee
- Department of Agricultural Biological Chemistry, College of Agriculture & Life Sciences, Environmental Microbiology Lab, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, South Korea
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Lee JW, Lee W, Perera RH, Lim YW. Long-Term Investigation of Marine-Derived Aspergillus Diversity in the Republic of Korea. MYCOBIOLOGY 2023; 51:436-444. [PMID: 38179120 PMCID: PMC10763834 DOI: 10.1080/12298093.2023.2279342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
Aspergillus species play a crucial role in terrestrial environments as degraders and are well known for producing various secondary metabolites. Recently, Aspergillus species have been discovered in marine environments, exhibiting adaptability to high salinity and producing diverse secondary metabolites with valuable properties. However, limited research has focused on their marine diversity, leading to inaccurate species identification. The current study addresses this gap by investigating diverse marine habitats in the Republic of Korea, including sediment, seawater, seaweed, and marine animals. From three coasts of the Korean Peninsula, 472 Aspergillus strains were isolated from the various marine habitats. A total of 41 species were accurately identified using multigenetic markers: internal transcribed spacer, calmodulin, and β-tubulin. The findings underscore the importance of accurate identification and provide a basis for elucidating the functional role of marine-derived Aspergillus species in marine ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Won Lee
- School of Biological Sciences and Institute of Microbiology, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Wonjun Lee
- School of Biological Sciences and Institute of Microbiology, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Rekhani Hansika Perera
- School of Biological Sciences and Institute of Microbiology, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Young Woon Lim
- School of Biological Sciences and Institute of Microbiology, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
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Agrawal S, Khumlianlal J, Devi SI. Uncovering the Fungal Diversity and Biodeterioration Phenomenon on Archaeological Carvings of the Badami Cave Temples: A Microcosm Study. Life (Basel) 2023; 14:28. [PMID: 38255644 PMCID: PMC10820822 DOI: 10.3390/life14010028] [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: 11/09/2023] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
The Badami Caves are a significant example of ancient Indian rock-cut architecture, dating back to the 6th century. These caves are situated in the Malaprabha River valley and are part of the candidate UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the "Evolution of Temple Architecture-Aihole-Badami-Pattadakal", which is considered to be the cradle of temple architecture in India. Our study aimed to investigate the diversity, distribution, and biodeterioration phenomena of the fungal communities present on the cave surfaces. The study also conducted a comprehensive analysis of fungal biodeterioration on the cave carvings. Utilizing specialized techniques, the dissolution of calcite, alterations in pH levels, and biomineralization capabilities of isolated fungal strains were monitored. Additionally, this study analyzed fungal acid production using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Our findings revealed that the major genera of fungi found on the cave surfaces included Acremonium, Curvularia, Cladosporium, Penicillium, and Aspergillus. These isolated fungi were observed to produce acids, leading to the dissolution of calcium carbonate and subsequent decrease in pH values. Notably, the dominant genus responsible for acid production and the promotion of biomineralization was Aspergillus. These discoveries provide valuable insight into the ecology and functions of fungi inhabiting stone surfaces, contributing to our understanding of how to preserve and protect sculptures from biodeterioration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shivankar Agrawal
- Department of Phytochemistry, ICMR-National Institute of Traditional Medicine, Belagavi 590010, India
| | - Joshua Khumlianlal
- Institute of Bioresources and Sustainable Development (Department of Biotechnology, Government of India), Imphal 795001, India
| | - Sarangthem Indira Devi
- Institute of Bioresources and Sustainable Development (Department of Biotechnology, Government of India), Imphal 795001, India
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37
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Borman AM, Johnson EM. Changes in fungal taxonomy: mycological rationale and clinical implications. Clin Microbiol Rev 2023; 36:e0009922. [PMID: 37930182 PMCID: PMC10732072 DOI: 10.1128/cmr.00099-22] [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: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Numerous fungal species of medical importance have been recently subjected to and will likely continue to undergo nomenclatural changes as a result of the application of molecular approaches to fungal classification together with abandonment of dual nomenclature. Here, we summarize those changes affecting key groups of fungi of medical importance, explaining the mycological (taxonomic) rationale that underpinned the changes and the clinical relevance/importance (where such exists) of the key nomenclatural revisions. Potential mechanisms to mitigate unnecessary taxonomic instability are suggested, together with approaches to raise awareness of important changes to minimize potential clinical confusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew M. Borman
- UK HSA National Mycology Reference Laboratory, Science Quarter, Southmead Hospital, Bristol, United Kingdom
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology (MRC CMM), University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Elizabeth M. Johnson
- UK HSA National Mycology Reference Laboratory, Science Quarter, Southmead Hospital, Bristol, United Kingdom
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology (MRC CMM), University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
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Zhu J, Song L, Shen S, Fu W, Zhu Y, Liu L. Bioactive Alkaloids as Secondary Metabolites from Plant Endophytic Aspergillus Genus. Molecules 2023; 28:7789. [PMID: 38067519 PMCID: PMC10707824 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28237789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2023] [Revised: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Alkaloids represent a large family of natural products with diverse structures and bioactivities. These compounds and their derivatives have been widely used in clinics to treat various diseases. The endophytic Aspergillus is a filamentous fungus renowned for its extraordinary ability to produce active natural products of high therapeutic value and economic importance. This review is the first to focus on Aspergillus-derived alkaloids. Through an extensive literature review and data analysis, 263 alkaloids are categorized according to their structural features into those containing cytochalasans, diketopiperazine alkaloids, quinazoline alkaloids, quinoline alkaloids, indole alkaloids, pyrrolidine alkaloids, and others. These metabolites exhibited diverse biological activities, such as antibacterial activity, cytotoxicity, anti-inflammatory activity, and α-glucosidase, ACE, and DPPH inhibitory activities. The bioactivity, structural diversity, and occurrence of these alkaloids are reviewed in detail.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juntai Zhu
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China; (J.Z.); (L.S.); (S.S.); (W.F.); (Y.Z.)
- Center for Medical Device Evaluation, NMPA, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Lixia Song
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China; (J.Z.); (L.S.); (S.S.); (W.F.); (Y.Z.)
| | - Shengnan Shen
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China; (J.Z.); (L.S.); (S.S.); (W.F.); (Y.Z.)
- State Key Laboratory for Quality Ensurance and Sustainable Use of Dao-di Herbs, Artemisinin Research Center, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Wanxin Fu
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China; (J.Z.); (L.S.); (S.S.); (W.F.); (Y.Z.)
- School of Life Science, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Yaying Zhu
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China; (J.Z.); (L.S.); (S.S.); (W.F.); (Y.Z.)
| | - Li Liu
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China; (J.Z.); (L.S.); (S.S.); (W.F.); (Y.Z.)
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Simmons BC, Rhodes J, Rogers TR, Verweij PE, Abdolrasouli A, Schelenz S, Hemmings SJ, Talento AF, Griffin A, Mansfield M, Sheehan D, Bosch T, Fisher MC. Genomic Epidemiology Identifies Azole Resistance Due to TR 34/L98H in European Aspergillus fumigatus Causing COVID-19-Associated Pulmonary Aspergillosis. J Fungi (Basel) 2023; 9:1104. [PMID: 37998909 PMCID: PMC10672581 DOI: 10.3390/jof9111104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Aspergillus fumigatus has been found to coinfect patients with severe SARS-CoV-2 virus infection, leading to COVID-19-associated pulmonary aspergillosis (CAPA). The CAPA all-cause mortality rate is approximately 50% and may be complicated by azole resistance. Genomic epidemiology can help shed light on the genetics of A. fumigatus causing CAPA, including the prevalence of resistance-associated alleles. We present a population genomic analysis of 21 CAPA isolates from four European countries with these isolates compared against 240 non-CAPA A. fumigatus isolates from a wider population. Bioinformatic analysis and antifungal susceptibility testing were performed to quantify resistance and identify possible genetically encoded azole-resistant mechanisms. The phylogenetic analysis of the 21 CAPA isolates showed that they were representative of the wider A. fumigatus population with no obvious clustering. The prevalence of phenotypic azole resistance in CAPA was 14.3% (n = 3/21); all three CAPA isolates contained a known resistance-associated cyp51A polymorphism. The relatively high prevalence of azole resistance alleles that we document poses a probable threat to treatment success rates, warranting the enhanced surveillance of A. fumigatus genotypes in these patients. Furthermore, potential changes to antifungal first-line treatment guidelines may be needed to improve patient outcomes when CAPA is suspected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin C. Simmons
- Medical Research Council Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, Imperial College London, London W2 1PG, UK; (J.R.); (S.J.H.); (M.C.F.)
- UK Health Security Agency, London EP14 4PU, UK
| | - Johanna Rhodes
- Medical Research Council Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, Imperial College London, London W2 1PG, UK; (J.R.); (S.J.H.); (M.C.F.)
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboudumc Center for Infectious Diseases (RCI), Radboud University Medical Center, P.O. Box 9101, 6500 HB Nijmegen, The Netherlands;
| | - Thomas R. Rogers
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, St. James’ Hospital Campus, Trinity College Dublin, D08 NHY1 Dublin, Ireland; (T.R.R.); (A.F.T.); (M.M.); (D.S.)
| | - Paul E. Verweij
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboudumc Center for Infectious Diseases (RCI), Radboud University Medical Center, P.O. Box 9101, 6500 HB Nijmegen, The Netherlands;
- Radboudumc-CWZ Center of Expertise for Mycology, Radboudumc Center for Infectious Diseases (RCI), Radboud University Medical Center, P.O. Box 9101, 6500 HB Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Center for Infectious Disease Research, Diagnostics and Laboratory Surveillance, National for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), P.O. Box 1, 3720 BA Bilthoven, The Netherlands;
| | - Alireza Abdolrasouli
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Imperial College London, London W2 1NY, UK;
- Department of Infectious Diseases, King’s College Hospital, London SE5 9RS, UK
| | - Silke Schelenz
- Infection Sciences, King’s College Hospital, London SE5 9RS, UK;
- School of Immunology & Microbial Sciences, King’s College London, London WC2R 2LS, UK
| | - Samuel J. Hemmings
- Medical Research Council Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, Imperial College London, London W2 1PG, UK; (J.R.); (S.J.H.); (M.C.F.)
| | - Alida Fe Talento
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, St. James’ Hospital Campus, Trinity College Dublin, D08 NHY1 Dublin, Ireland; (T.R.R.); (A.F.T.); (M.M.); (D.S.)
- Department of Microbiology, Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, A92 VW28 Drogheda, Ireland
- Department of Microbiology, Royal College of Surgeons, D02 YN77 Dublin, Ireland
| | - Auveen Griffin
- Department of Microbiology, St. James’ Hospital, D08 NHY1 Dublin, Ireland;
| | - Mary Mansfield
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, St. James’ Hospital Campus, Trinity College Dublin, D08 NHY1 Dublin, Ireland; (T.R.R.); (A.F.T.); (M.M.); (D.S.)
| | - David Sheehan
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, St. James’ Hospital Campus, Trinity College Dublin, D08 NHY1 Dublin, Ireland; (T.R.R.); (A.F.T.); (M.M.); (D.S.)
| | - Thijs Bosch
- Center for Infectious Disease Research, Diagnostics and Laboratory Surveillance, National for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), P.O. Box 1, 3720 BA Bilthoven, The Netherlands;
| | - Matthew C. Fisher
- Medical Research Council Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, Imperial College London, London W2 1PG, UK; (J.R.); (S.J.H.); (M.C.F.)
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Tio SY, Chen SCA, Hamilton K, Heath CH, Pradhan A, Morris AJ, Korman TM, Morrissey O, Halliday CL, Kidd S, Spelman T, Brell N, McMullan B, Clark JE, Mitsakos K, Hardiman RP, Williams P, Campbell AJ, Beardsley J, Van Hal S, Yong MK, Worth LJ, Slavin MA. Invasive aspergillosis in adult patients in Australia and New Zealand: 2017-2020. THE LANCET REGIONAL HEALTH. WESTERN PACIFIC 2023; 40:100888. [PMID: 37701716 PMCID: PMC10494171 DOI: 10.1016/j.lanwpc.2023.100888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Revised: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023]
Abstract
Background New and emerging risks for invasive aspergillosis (IA) bring the need for contemporary analyses of the epidemiology and outcomes of IA, in order to improve clinical practice. Methods The study was a retrospective, multicenter, cohort design of proven and probable IA in adults from 10 Australasian tertiary centres (January 2017-December 2020). Descriptive analyses were used to report patients' demographics, predisposing factors, mycological characteristics, diagnosis and management. Accelerated failure-time model was employed to determine factor(s) associated with 90-day all-cause mortality (ACM). Findings Of 382 IA episodes, 221 (in 221 patients) fulfilled inclusion criteria - 53 proven and 168 probable IA. Median patient age was 61 years (IQR 51-69). Patients with haematologic malignancies (HM) comprised 49.8% of cases. Fifteen patients (6.8%) had no pre-specified immunosuppression and eleven patients (5.0%) had no documented comorbidity. Only 30% of patients had neutropenia. Of 170 isolates identified, 40 (23.5%) were identified as non-Aspergillus fumigatus species complex. Azole-resistance was present in 3/46 (6.5%) of A. fumigatus sensu stricto isolates. Ninety-day ACM was 30.3%. HM (HR 1.90; 95% CI 1.04-3.46, p = 0.036) and ICU admission (HR 4.89; 95% CI 2.93-8.17, p < 0.001) but not neutropenia (HR 1.45; 95% CI 0.88-2.39, p = 0.135) were associated with mortality. Chronic kidney disease was also a significant predictor of death in the HM subgroup (HR 3.94; 95% CI 1.15-13.44, p = 0.028). Interpretation IA is identified in high number of patients with mild/no immunosuppression in our study. The relatively high proportion of non-A. fumigatus species complex isolates and 6.5% azole-resistance rate amongst A. fumigatus sensu stricto necessitates accurate species identification and susceptibility testing for optimal patient outcomes. Funding This work is unfunded. All authors' financial disclosures are listed in detail at the end of the manuscript.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shio Yen Tio
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Australia
- National Centre for Infections in Cancer, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
- Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Australia
| | - Sharon C.-A. Chen
- Centre for Infectious Diseases and Microbiology Laboratory Services, Institute of Clinical Pathology and Medical Research, New South Wales Health Pathology, Westmead Hospital, Sydney, Australia
- School of Medicine, University of Sydney, Australia
| | - Kate Hamilton
- Centre for Infectious Diseases and Microbiology Laboratory Services, Institute of Clinical Pathology and Medical Research, New South Wales Health Pathology, Westmead Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Christopher H. Heath
- Department of Microbiology, PathWest Laboratory Medicine, Murdoch, Western Australia, Australia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Fiona Stanley Hospital, Murdoch, Western Australia, Australia
- Department of Medicine, University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Alyssa Pradhan
- Prince of Wales Hospital, Southeast Sydney LHD, NSW Health Pathology, Australia
- School of Medicine, University of Sydney, Australia
| | - Arthur J. Morris
- Auckland City Hospital, 2 Park Road, Grafton, Auckland 1023, New Zealand
| | - Tony M. Korman
- Monash University and Monash Health, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Orla Morrissey
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Alfred Health and Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Catriona L. Halliday
- Centre for Infectious Diseases and Microbiology Laboratory Services, Institute of Clinical Pathology and Medical Research, New South Wales Health Pathology, Westmead Hospital, Sydney, Australia
- School of Medicine, University of Sydney, Australia
| | - Sarah Kidd
- National Mycology Reference Centre, Microbiology & Infectious Diseases, SA Pathology, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Timothy Spelman
- Department of Health Services Research, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Nadiya Brell
- Prince of Wales Hospital, Southeast Sydney LHD, NSW Health Pathology, Australia
- University of New South Wales, Australia
| | - Brendan McMullan
- Department of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Sydney Children's Hospital, Randwick, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, UNSW, Australia
| | - Julia E. Clark
- Infection Management Service, Queensland Children’s Hospital, Children’s Health Queensland, Brisbane 4101, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, CHQCU, University of Queensland, Australia
| | - Katerina Mitsakos
- Department of Infectious Disease and Microbiology, Royal North Shore Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Robyn P. Hardiman
- Department of Infectious Disease and Microbiology, Royal North Shore Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Phoebe Williams
- Department of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Sydney Children's Hospital, Randwick, Australia
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Sydney, Australia
| | - Anita J. Campbell
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Perth Children’s Hospital, Western Australia, Australia
- Wesfarmers Centre for Vaccines and Infectious Diseases, Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Justin Beardsley
- University of Sydney Infectious Disease Institute, Australia
- Westmead Hospital, Western Sydney LHD, NSW Health, Australia
- Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Australia
| | - Sebastiaan Van Hal
- School of Medicine, University of Sydney, Australia
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Microbiology Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Australia
| | - Michelle K. Yong
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Australia
- National Centre for Infections in Cancer, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
- Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Australia
| | - Leon J. Worth
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Australia
- National Centre for Infections in Cancer, Melbourne, Australia
- Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Australia
| | - Monica A. Slavin
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Australia
- National Centre for Infections in Cancer, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
- Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Australia
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Montoya Q, Martiarena M, Rodrigues A. Taxonomy and systematics of the fungus-growing ant associate Escovopsis ( Hypocreaceae). Stud Mycol 2023; 106:349-397. [PMID: 38298572 PMCID: PMC10825746 DOI: 10.3114/sim.2023.106.06] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Escovopsis is a symbiont of fungus-growing ant colonies. Unstandardised taxonomy prevented the evaluation of the morphological diversity of Escovopsis for more than a century. The aim of this study is to create a standardised taxonomic framework to assess the morphological and phylogenetic diversity of Escovopsis. Therefore, to set the foundation for Escovopsis taxonomy and allow interspecific comparisons within the genus, we redescribe the ex-type cultures of Escovopsis aspergilloides, E. clavata, E. lentecrescens, E. microspora, E. moelleri, E. multiformis, and E. weberi. Thus, based on the parameters adopted in this study combined with phylogenetic analyses using five molecular markers, we synonymize E. microspora with E. weberi, and introduce 13 new species isolated from attine nests collected in Argentina, Brazil, Costa Rica, Mexico, and Panama: E. breviramosa, E. chlamydosporosa, E. diminuta, E. elongatistipitata, E. gracilis, E. maculosa, E. papillata, E. peniculiformis, E. phialicopiosa, E. pseudocylindrica, E. rectangula, E. rosisimilis, and E. spicaticlavata. Our results revealed a great interspecific morphological diversity throughout Escovopsis. Notwithstanding, colony growth rates at different temperatures, as well as vesicle shape, appear to be the most outstanding features distinguishing species in the genus. This study fills an important gap in the systematics of Escovopsis that will allow future researchers to unravel the genetic and morphological diversity and species diversification of these attine ant symbionts. Taxonomic novelties: New species: Escovopsis breviramosa Q.V. Montoya, M.J.S. Martiarena & A. Rodrigues, E. chlamydosporosa Q.V. Montoya, M.J.S. Martiarena & A. Rodrigues, E. diminuta Q.V. Montoya, M.J.S. Martiarena & A. Rodrigues, E. elongatistipitata Q.V. Montoya, M.J.S. Martiarena & A. Rodrigues, E. gracilis Q.V. Montoya, M.J.S. Martiarena & A. Rodrigues, E. maculosa Q.V. Montoya, M.J.S. Martiarena & A. Rodrigues, E. papillata Q.V. Montoya, M.J.S. Martiarena & A. Rodrigues, E. peniculiformis Q.V. Montoya, M.J.S. Martiarena & A. Rodrigues, E. phialicopiosa Q.V. Montoya, M.J.S. Martiarena & A. Rodrigues, E. pseudocylindrica Q.V. Montoya, M.J.S. Martiarena & A. Rodrigues, E. rectangula Q.V. Montoya, M.J.S. Martiarena & A. Rodrigues, E. rosisimilis Q.V. Montoya, M.J.S. Martiarena & A. Rodrigues, E. spicaticlavata Q.V. Montoya, M.J.S. Martiarena & A. Rodrigues. Citation: Montoya QV, Martiarena MJS, Rodrigues A (2023). Taxonomy and systematics of the fungus-growing ant associate Escovopsis (Hypocreaceae). Studies in Mycology 106: 349-397. doi: 10.3114/sim.2023.106.06.
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Affiliation(s)
- Q.V Montoya
- Department of General and Applied Biology, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Rio Claro, SP, Brazil
| | - M.J.S. Martiarena
- Department of General and Applied Biology, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Rio Claro, SP, Brazil
| | - A. Rodrigues
- Department of General and Applied Biology, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Rio Claro, SP, Brazil
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da Fonseca LMM, Braga VF, Tonani L, Grizante Barião PH, Nascimento E, Martinez R, von Zeska Kress MR. Surveillance of Amphotericin B and Azole Resistance in Aspergillus Isolated from Patients in a Tertiary Teaching Hospital. J Fungi (Basel) 2023; 9:1070. [PMID: 37998875 PMCID: PMC10672583 DOI: 10.3390/jof9111070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2023] [Revised: 10/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The genus Aspergillus harbors human infection-causing pathogens and is involved in the complex one-health challenge of antifungal resistance. Here, a 6-year retrospective study was conducted with Aspergillus spp. isolated from patients with invasive, chronic, and clinically suspected aspergillosis in a tertiary teaching hospital. A total of 64 Aspergillus spp. clinical isolates were investigated regarding molecular identification, biofilm, virulence in Galleria mellonella, antifungal susceptibility, and resistance to amphotericin B and azoles. Aspergillus section Fumigati (A. fumigatus sensu stricto, 62.5%) and section Flavi (A. flavus, 20.3%; A. parasiticus, 14%; and A. tamarii, 3.1%) have been identified. Aspergillus section Flavi clinical isolates were more virulent than section Fumigati clinical isolates. Furthermore, scant evidence supports a link between biofilm formation and virulence. The susceptibility of the Aspergillus spp. clinical isolates to itraconazole, posaconazole, voriconazole, and amphotericin B was evaluated. Most Aspergillus spp. clinical isolates (67.2%) had an AMB MIC value equal to or above 2 µg/mL, warning of a higher probability of therapeutic failure in the region under study. In general, the triazoles presented MIC values above the epidemiological cutoff value. The high triazole MIC values of A. fumigatus s.s. clinical isolates were investigated by sequencing the promoter region and cyp51A locus. The Cyp51A amino acid substitutions F46Y, M172V, N248T, N248K, D255E, and E427K were globally detected in 47.5% of A. fumigatus s.s. clinical isolates, and most of them are associated with high triazole MICs. Even so, the findings support voriconazole or itraconazole as the first therapeutic choice for treating Aspergillus infections. This study emphasizes the significance of continued surveillance of Aspergillus spp. infections to help overcome the gap in knowledge of the global fungal burden of infections and antifungal resistance, supporting public health initiatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lívia Maria Maciel da Fonseca
- Departamento de Análises Clínicas, Toxicológicas e Bromatológicas, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto 14040-903, Brazil; (L.M.M.d.F.); (L.T.); (P.H.G.B.)
| | - Vanessa Fávaro Braga
- Departamento de Análises Clínicas, Toxicológicas e Bromatológicas, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto 14040-903, Brazil; (L.M.M.d.F.); (L.T.); (P.H.G.B.)
| | - Ludmilla Tonani
- Departamento de Análises Clínicas, Toxicológicas e Bromatológicas, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto 14040-903, Brazil; (L.M.M.d.F.); (L.T.); (P.H.G.B.)
| | - Patrícia Helena Grizante Barião
- Departamento de Análises Clínicas, Toxicológicas e Bromatológicas, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto 14040-903, Brazil; (L.M.M.d.F.); (L.T.); (P.H.G.B.)
| | - Erika Nascimento
- Departamento de Clínica Médica, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirao Preto 14040-900, Brazil; (E.N.); (R.M.)
| | - Roberto Martinez
- Departamento de Clínica Médica, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirao Preto 14040-900, Brazil; (E.N.); (R.M.)
| | - Marcia Regina von Zeska Kress
- Departamento de Análises Clínicas, Toxicológicas e Bromatológicas, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto 14040-903, Brazil; (L.M.M.d.F.); (L.T.); (P.H.G.B.)
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De Francesco MA. Drug-Resistant Aspergillus spp.: A Literature Review of Its Resistance Mechanisms and Its Prevalence in Europe. Pathogens 2023; 12:1305. [PMID: 38003770 PMCID: PMC10674884 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12111305] [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: 10/13/2023] [Revised: 10/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Infections due to the Aspergillus species constitute an important challenge for human health. Invasive aspergillosis represents a life-threatening disease, mostly in patients with immune defects. Drugs used for fungal infections comprise amphotericin B, triazoles, and echinocandins. However, in the last decade, an increased emergence of azole-resistant Aspergillus strains has been reported, principally belonging to Aspergillus fumigatus species. Therefore, both the early diagnosis of aspergillosis and its epidemiological surveillance are very important to establish the correct antifungal therapy and to ensure a successful patient outcome. In this paper, a literature review is performed to analyze the prevalence of Aspergillus antifungal resistance in European countries. Amphotericin B resistance is observed in 2.6% and 10.8% of Aspergillus fumigatus isolates in Denmark and Greece, respectively. A prevalence of 84% of amphotericin B-resistant Aspergillus flavus isolates is reported in France, followed by 49.4%, 35.1%, 21.7%, and 20% in Spain, Portugal, Greece, and amphotericin B resistance of Aspergillus niger isolates is observed in Greece and Belgium with a prevalence of 75% and 12.8%, respectively. The prevalence of triazole resistance of Aspergillus fumigatus isolates, the most studied mold obtained from the included studies, is 0.3% in Austria, 1% in Greece, 1.2% in Switzerland, 2.1% in France, 3.9% in Portugal, 4.9% in Italy, 5.3% in Germany, 6.1% in Denmark, 7.4% in Spain, 8.3% in Belgium, 11% in the Netherlands, and 13.2% in the United Kingdom. The mechanism of resistance is mainly driven by the TR34/L98H mutation. In Europe, no in vivo resistance is reported for echinocandins. Future studies are needed to implement the knowledge on the spread of drug-resistant Aspergillus spp. with the aim of defining optimal treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Antonia De Francesco
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Institute of Microbiology, University of Brescia, ASST Spedali Civili, 25123 Brescia, Italy
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44
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Lin P, Kook M, Yi TH, Yan ZF. Current Fungal Taxonomy and Developments in the Identification System. Curr Microbiol 2023; 80:375. [PMID: 37848628 DOI: 10.1007/s00284-023-03514-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/19/2023]
Abstract
A functional identification system is the core and basis of fungal taxonomy, which provides sufficient diagnostic characteristics for species delimitation. Phenotype-based identification systems have exhibited significant drawbacks, such as being laborious and time-consuming. Thus, a molecular-based identification system (rDNA, DNA fingerprint, etc.) is proposed for application to fungi that lack reliable morphological characteristics. High Throughput Sequencing also makes great contributions to fungal taxonomy. However, the formal naming of nonculturable fungi from environmental sequencing is a significant challenge. Biochemical profile-based identification systems have outstanding value in fungal taxonomy and can occasionally be indispensable. This method utilizes biomarker metabolites and proteins that are expected to be unequivocal and stable. Of these, Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization-Time of Flight Mass Spectrometry has become the method of choice for chemotaxonomy. In sum, these described identification systems cannot solve all problems of species delimitation, and considerable attention to the updating of fungal nomenclature, standardization of techniques, knowledge sharing, and dissemination will be necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pei Lin
- School of Life Sciences and Health Engineering, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu Province, People's Republic of China
| | - MooChang Kook
- College of Life Science, Kyung Hee University Global Campus, Yongin-si, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Tae-Hoo Yi
- Department of Food & Nutrition, Baewha Women's University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Zheng-Fei Yan
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Jiangnan University, 1800 Lihu Avenue, Wuxi, 214122, Jiangsu Province, People's Republic of China.
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Mageswari A, Choi Y, Thao LD, Lee D, Kim DH, Park MS, Hong SB. Re-Identification of Aspergillus Subgenus Circumdati Strains in Korea Led to the Discovery of Three Unrecorded Species. MYCOBIOLOGY 2023; 51:288-299. [PMID: 37929011 PMCID: PMC10621256 DOI: 10.1080/12298093.2023.2257997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
Aspergillus is one of the largest and diverse genera of fungi with huge economical, biotechnological, and social significance. Taxonomically, Aspergillus is divided into six subgenera comprising 27 sections. In this study, 235 strains of Aspergillus subgenus Circumdati (section: Candidi, Circumdati, Flavi, Flavipedes, Nigri, and Terrei) preserved at the Korean Agricultural Culture Collection (KACC) were analyzed and re-identified using a combined dataset of partial β-tubulin (BenA), Calmodulin (CaM) gene sequences and morphological data. We confirmed nineteen species to be priorly reported in Korea (A. neotritici, A. terreus, A. floccosus, A. allahabadii, A. steynii, A. westerdijkiae, A. ochraceus, A. ostianus, A. sclerotiorum, A. luchuensis, A. tubingensis, A. niger, A. welwitschiae, A. japonicus, A. nomius, A. tamarii, A. parasiticus, A. flavi, and A. oryzae). Among the studied strains, three species (A. subalbidus, A. iizukae, and A. uvarum), previously unreported or not officially documented, were discovered in Korea, to the best of our knowledge. We have given a detailed description of the characteristic features of the three species, which remain uncharted in Korea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anbazhagan Mageswari
- Korean Agricultural Culture Collection, Agricultural Microbiology Division, National Institute of Agricultural Sciences, RDA, Wanju, Republic of Korea
| | - Yunhee Choi
- Korean Agricultural Culture Collection, Agricultural Microbiology Division, National Institute of Agricultural Sciences, RDA, Wanju, Republic of Korea
| | - Le Dinh Thao
- Korean Agricultural Culture Collection, Agricultural Microbiology Division, National Institute of Agricultural Sciences, RDA, Wanju, Republic of Korea
- Plant Protection Research Institute, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Daseul Lee
- Korean Agricultural Culture Collection, Agricultural Microbiology Division, National Institute of Agricultural Sciences, RDA, Wanju, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong-Hyun Kim
- Korean Agricultural Culture Collection, Agricultural Microbiology Division, National Institute of Agricultural Sciences, RDA, Wanju, Republic of Korea
| | - Myung Soo Park
- Department of Crops and Forestry, Korea National University of Agriculture and Fisheries, Jeonju, South Korea
| | - Seung-Beom Hong
- Korean Agricultural Culture Collection, Agricultural Microbiology Division, National Institute of Agricultural Sciences, RDA, Wanju, Republic of Korea
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Marek A, Meijer EFJ, Tartari E, Zakhour J, Chowdhary A, Voss A, Kanj SS, Bal AM. Environmental monitoring for filamentous fungal pathogens in hematopoietic cell transplant units. Med Mycol 2023; 61:myad103. [PMID: 37793805 DOI: 10.1093/mmy/myad103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The incidence of invasive fungal disease (IFD) is on the rise due to increasing numbers of highly immunocompromized patients. Nosocomial IFD remains common despite our better understanding of its risk factors and pathophysiology. High-efficiency particulate air filtration with or without laminar air flow, frequent air exchanges, a positive pressure care environment, and environmental hygiene, amongst other measures, have been shown to reduce the mould burden in the patient environment. Environmental monitoring for moulds in areas where high-risk patients are cared for, such as hematopoietic cell transplant units, has been considered an adjunct to other routine environmental precautions. As a collaborative effort between authors affiliated to the Infection Prevention and Control Working Group and the Fungal Infection Working Group of the International Society of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy (ISAC), we reviewed the English language literature and international guidance to describe the evidence behind the need for environmental monitoring for filamentous fungi as a quality assurance approach with an emphasis on required additional precautions during periods of construction. Many different clinical sampling approaches have been described for air, water, and surface sampling with significant variation in laboratory methodologies between reports. Importantly, there are no agreed-upon thresholds that correlate with an increase in the clinical risk of mould infections. We highlight important areas for future research to assure a safe environment for highly immunocompromized patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandra Marek
- Department of Microbiology, Glasgow Royal Infirmary, Glasgow, UK
- Infection Control Working Group, International Society of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy
| | - Eelco F J Meijer
- Canisius-Wilhelmina Hospital (CWZ), Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Radboudumc-CWZ Center of Expertise for Mycology, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Fungal Infection Working Group, International Society of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy
| | - Ermira Tartari
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Malta, Msida, Malta
- Infection Control Working Group, International Society of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy
| | - Johnny Zakhour
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine and Center for Infectious Diseases Research, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Anuradha Chowdhary
- Medical Mycology Unit, Department of Microbiology, Vallabhbhai Patel Chest Institute, University of Delhi, Delhi, India
- National Reference Laboratory for Antimicrobial Resistance in Fungal Pathogens, Vallabhbhai Patel Chest Institute, University of Delhi, Delhi, India
- Fungal Infection Working Group, International Society of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy
| | - Andreas Voss
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Prevention, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
- Infection Control Working Group, International Society of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy
| | - Souha S Kanj
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine and Center for Infectious Diseases Research, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
- Fungal Infection Working Group, International Society of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy
| | - Abhijit M Bal
- Department of Microbiology, Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, Glasgow, UK
- Fungal Infection Working Group, International Society of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy
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Ramadán S, Dalmaso H, Luque A, Sortino M, Cuestas ML, Alava KH, Bertola D, Bulacio L. Scedosporium boydii finding in an immunocompromised patient and review of the literature. Rev Iberoam Micol 2023; 40:39-44. [PMID: 38326154 DOI: 10.1016/j.riam.2023.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2023] [Revised: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Scedosporiasis is an emerging mycosis that has gained importance in recent years due to its worldwide prevalence. It is caused by species of the Scedosporium apiospermum complex. These species can cause opportunistic infections in immunocompromised patients and, occasionally, in immunocompetent patients as well. The high intrinsic antifungal resistance make these infections difficult to manage. AIMS The objective of this study was to interpret the mycological findings in a transplant patient, together with the images obtained in the radiological studies, in order to provide an early and effective antifungal therapy. METHODS The mycological analysis of samples taken from a heart transplant patient with radiological images suggesting a fungal infection was performed. Computed tomography scan of the head and thorax showed space-occupying lesions in both the frontal lobe and cerebellum, and multiple pulmonary nodules. The nodules were punctured and the samples obtained were analyzed according to the procedures for mycological analysis. The identity of the isolates was confirmed by nucleotide sequencing. Eventually, the antifungal susceptibility was studied. RESULTS The fungal isolates obtained, whose identity was confirmed by sequencing, belonged to the species Scedosporium boydii. Injured tissues were surgically removed and a treatment with amphotericin B and voriconazole-minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) 0.5μg/mL and ≥0.5μg/mL respectively - was administered. CONCLUSIONS Although the patient died due to complications of a Klebsiella pneumoniae sepsis refractory to treatment, the progression of the fungal disease, although slow, was favourable in the early phases of the treatment due to a correct diagnosis and the antifungal susceptibility test carried out. Clinical cases of this nature highlight the need to increase the epidemiological study of these microorganisms, as well as the proper treatment of the diseases caused, in order to achieve early diagnoses that reduce the morbidity and mortality of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvana Ramadán
- CEREMIC (Centro de Referencia de Micología), Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas, Universidad Nacional de Rosario, Argentina.
| | - Hernán Dalmaso
- CEREMIC (Centro de Referencia de Micología), Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas, Universidad Nacional de Rosario, Argentina
| | - Alicia Luque
- CEREMIC (Centro de Referencia de Micología), Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas, Universidad Nacional de Rosario, Argentina
| | - Maximiliano Sortino
- CEREMIC (Centro de Referencia de Micología), Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas, Universidad Nacional de Rosario, Argentina; Área Farmacognosia, Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas, Universidad Nacional de Rosario, Argentina
| | - María Luján Cuestas
- Centro de Micología, Instituto de Investigaciones en Microbiología y Parasitología Médica, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (IMPaM, UBA-CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Katherine Hermida Alava
- Centro de Micología, Instituto de Investigaciones en Microbiología y Parasitología Médica, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (IMPaM, UBA-CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Diego Bertola
- Servicio de Clínica, Hospital Provincial del Centenario, Rosario, Argentina
| | - Lucía Bulacio
- CEREMIC (Centro de Referencia de Micología), Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas, Universidad Nacional de Rosario, Argentina
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48
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Gołofit-Szymczak M, Wójcik-Fatla A, Stobnicka-Kupiec A, Górny RL. Filters of automobile air conditioning systems as in-car source of exposure to infections and toxic moulds. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:108188-108200. [PMID: 37749467 PMCID: PMC10611836 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-29947-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023]
Abstract
The main component of an air conditioning system is air filters. Over time, the filters of an air conditioning system in cars can turn into sources of emission of microbiological hazards. The aim of this study was to quantitatively and qualitatively assess the presence of infectious and toxic fungi in the AC filters in passenger cars. The studied non-woven filters were removed from passenger cars during the "winter"/"summer" seasons. The taxonomic identification of the fungi isolated from the filters was performed using both the culture-based and molecular methods. RT-PCR was applied to assess the presence of gene fragments regulating aflatoxin biosynthesis in the isolates obtained from fungal cultures. The average fungal concentrations in the filter samples collected during the summer/winter season were 5.4 × 104 cfu/m2 and 2.4 × 104 cfu/m2, respectively. Most of the filter samples, collected in both the studied seasons, revealed the presence of Aspergillus species including A. fumigatus, A. niger, A. terreus and/or A. flavus. The recorded levels of fungal contamination of AC filters in passenger cars indicate the necessity for more frequent filter replacement in this type of vehicle. Occupational exposure to moulds and the resulting health problems that may be experienced by professional drivers should be properly recognised in order to undertake effective preventive measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Małgorzata Gołofit-Szymczak
- Department of Chemical, Aerosol and Biological Hazards, Central Institute for Labour Protection-National Research Institute, Warsaw, Poland.
| | - Angelina Wójcik-Fatla
- Department of Health Biohazards and Parasitology, Institute of Rural Health, Lublin, Poland
| | - Agata Stobnicka-Kupiec
- Department of Chemical, Aerosol and Biological Hazards, Central Institute for Labour Protection-National Research Institute, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Rafał L Górny
- Department of Chemical, Aerosol and Biological Hazards, Central Institute for Labour Protection-National Research Institute, Warsaw, Poland
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49
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Zhou S, Ismail MAI, Buil JB, Gabr A, Verweij PE, Mahgoub ES, de Hoog S, Kang Y, Ahmed SA. Fungi involved in rhinosinusitis in arid regions: insights from molecular identification and antifungal susceptibility. Microbiol Spectr 2023; 11:e0183123. [PMID: 37772821 PMCID: PMC10580872 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.01831-23] [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: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Fungal rhinosinusitis (FRS) is a common problem worldwide, with an increasing burden in arid climate regions. Aspergillus species are the most common causative agents involved. In the present study, we investigated the prevalence, molecular characterization, and antifungal susceptibility of opportunists causing FRS in Sudan on the basis of strains collected over a period of 5 years. β-Tubulin and calmodulin sequencing were used for species identification, and antifungal susceptibility profiles were evaluated by the protocol of the European Committee on Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing (EUCAST). Predominant species belonged to the Aspergillus flavus complex (n = 244), A. terreus complex (n = 16), A. fumigatus complex (n = 7), and other fungi (n = 17). Molecular identification of 94 strains of Aspergillus revealed the following species: A. flavus (n = 88), A. terreus (n = 1), A. citrinoterreus (n = 2), A. fumigatus (n = 1), A. caespitosus (n = 1), and A. sydowii (n = 1). Several A. flavus and an A. fumigatus isolates showed reduced susceptibility to azoles (minimum inhibitory concentrations above the clinical breakpoints or epidemiological cutoff values). Despite several mutations revealed in cyp51A of these isolates, none could be directly linked to azole resistance. Molecular identification of fungi causing FRS is useful to identify cryptic species and for epidemiologic studies. IMPORTANCE Fungal rhinosinusitis (FRS) is a significant clinical problem in arid regions. This study provides new insights into the prevalence, etiology, and antifungal susceptibility of FRS pathogens in Sudan, where the disease burden is high. Aspergillus species, particularly the A. flavus complex, were identified as the primary FRS pathogens in the region, with some evidence of antifungal resistance. The molecular identification of fungal species causing FRS is useful for detecting antifungal resistance, identifying cryptic species, and characterizing the epidemiology of the disease. The emergence of Azole resistance Aspergilli in Sudan highlights the need for continued surveillance and appropriate use of antifungal agents. These findings have important implications for clinical management, public health policy, and future research on FRS. Publishing this study in Microbiology Spectrum would enable other researchers and clinicians to build on these findings, ultimately improving the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of FRS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaoqin Zhou
- School of Public Health, the key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Monitoring and Disease Control, Ministry of Education, School of Basic Medical Science, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
- Radboudumc-CWZ Centre of Expertise for Mycology, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | | | - Jochem B. Buil
- Radboudumc-CWZ Centre of Expertise for Mycology, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Aida Gabr
- Mycology Reference Laboratory, University of Khartoum, Khartoum, Sudan
| | - Paul E. Verweij
- Radboudumc-CWZ Centre of Expertise for Mycology, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - El-Sheikh Mahgoub
- Mycology Reference Laboratory, University of Khartoum, Khartoum, Sudan
| | - Sybren de Hoog
- Radboudumc-CWZ Centre of Expertise for Mycology, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
- Foundation Atlas of Clinical Fungi, Hilversum, the Netherlands
| | - Yingqian Kang
- School of Public Health, the key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Monitoring and Disease Control, Ministry of Education, School of Basic Medical Science, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Sarah A. Ahmed
- Radboudumc-CWZ Centre of Expertise for Mycology, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
- Foundation Atlas of Clinical Fungi, Hilversum, the Netherlands
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50
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Vezzola M, Tosi S, Doria E, Bonazzi M, Alvaro M, Sanfilippo A. Interaction between a Martian Regolith Simulant and Fungal Organic Acids in the Biomining Perspective. J Fungi (Basel) 2023; 9:976. [PMID: 37888232 PMCID: PMC10607307 DOI: 10.3390/jof9100976] [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: 08/28/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate the potential of Aspergillus tubingensis in extracting metals from rocks simulating Martian regolith through biomining. The results indicated that the fungal strain produced organic acids, particularly oxalic acid, in the first five days, leading to a rapid reduction in the pH of the culture medium. This acidic medium is ideal for bioleaching, a process that employs acidolysis and complexolysis to extract metals from rocks. Additionally, the strain synthesized siderophores, molecules capable of mobilizing metals from solid matrices, as verified by the blue CAS colorimetric test. The secretion of siderophores in the culture medium proved advantageous for biomining. The siderophores facilitated the leaching of metal ions, such as manganese, from the rock matrix into the acidified water solution. In addition, the susceptibility of the Martian regolith simulant to the biomining process was assessed by determining the particle size distribution, acid composition after treatment, and geochemical composition of the rock. Although the preliminary results demonstrate successful manganese extraction, further research is required to optimize the extraction technique. To conclude, the A. tubingensis strain exhibits promising abilities in extracting metals from rocks through biomining. Its use could prove useful in future in situ mining operations and environmental remediation efforts. Further research is required to optimize the process and evaluate its feasibility on a larger scale.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele Vezzola
- Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Pavia, Via Ferrata 1, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (S.T.); (M.A.); (A.S.)
| | - Solveig Tosi
- Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Pavia, Via Ferrata 1, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (S.T.); (M.A.); (A.S.)
| | - Enrico Doria
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Pavia, Via Ferrata 9, 27100 Pavia, Italy;
| | - Mattia Bonazzi
- Institute of Geosciences and Earth Resources of Pavia, C.N.R, 27100 Pavia, Italy;
| | - Matteo Alvaro
- Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Pavia, Via Ferrata 1, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (S.T.); (M.A.); (A.S.)
| | - Alessio Sanfilippo
- Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Pavia, Via Ferrata 1, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (S.T.); (M.A.); (A.S.)
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