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Zheng T, Ji L, Chen Y, Cao C, Bing J, Hu T, Zheng Q, Wu D, Chu H, Huang G. Biology and genetic diversity of Candida krusei isolates from fermented vegetables and clinical samples in China. Virulence 2024; 15:2411543. [PMID: 39359062 DOI: 10.1080/21505594.2024.2411543] [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: 05/12/2024] [Revised: 07/08/2024] [Accepted: 09/23/2024] [Indexed: 10/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Candida krusei, also known as Pichia kudriavzevii, is an emerging non-albicans Candida (NAC) species causing both superficial and deep-seated infections in humans. This fungal pathogen is inherently resistant to the first-line antifungal drug, fluconazole, and is widely distributed in natural environments such as soil, foods, vegetables, and fruits. In this study, we collected 86 C. krusei strains from clinical settings and traditional fermented vegetables from different areas of China. Compared to C. krusei strains from fermented vegetables, clinical isolates exhibited a higher ability to undergo filamentation and biofilm development, which could facilitate its host colonization and infections. Isolates from fermented vegetables showed higher resistance to several antifungal drugs including fluconazole, voriconazole, itraconazole, amphotericin B, and caspofungin, than clinical strains, while they were more susceptible to posaconazole than clinical strains. Although C. krusei has been thought to be a diploid organism, we found that one-fourth of clinical strains and the majority of isolates from fermented vegetables (87.5%) are triploid. Whole-genome sequencing and population genetic analyses demonstrated that isolates from clinical settings and fermented food are genetically associated, and distributed across a wide range of genetic clusters. Additionally, we found that six nucleotide substitutions at the promoter region of the ABC11 gene, encoding a multidrug efflux pump, could play a critical role in antifungal resistance in this species. Given the ubiquitous distribution of C. krusei strains in fermented vegetables and their genetic association with clinical strains, a One Health approach will be necessary to control the prevalence of this pathogen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianhong Zheng
- Shanghai Institute of Infectious Disease and Biosecurity, Department of Infectious Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Biosafety Emergency Response, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Industrial Microorganisms, Shanghai, China
| | - Lingyu Ji
- Shanghai Institute of Infectious Disease and Biosecurity, Department of Infectious Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Biosafety Emergency Response, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Industrial Microorganisms, Shanghai, China
| | - Yi Chen
- The International Peace Maternal and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chengjun Cao
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jian Bing
- Shanghai Institute of Infectious Disease and Biosecurity, Department of Infectious Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Biosafety Emergency Response, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Industrial Microorganisms, Shanghai, China
| | - Tianren Hu
- Shanghai Institute of Infectious Disease and Biosecurity, Department of Infectious Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Biosafety Emergency Response, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Industrial Microorganisms, Shanghai, China
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Tuberculosis, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qiushi Zheng
- Shanghai Institute of Infectious Disease and Biosecurity, Department of Infectious Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Biosafety Emergency Response, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Industrial Microorganisms, Shanghai, China
| | - Dan Wu
- The International Peace Maternal and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Haiqing Chu
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Tuberculosis, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Guanghua Huang
- Shanghai Institute of Infectious Disease and Biosecurity, Department of Infectious Diseases, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Biosafety Emergency Response, National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Industrial Microorganisms, Shanghai, China
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2
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Alonso MF, Bain JM, Erwig LP, Brown AJP, Gow NAR. Hyphal swelling induced in the phagosome of macrophages. Fungal Biol 2024; 128:2148-2156. [PMID: 39384284 DOI: 10.1016/j.funbio.2024.08.011] [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: 04/22/2024] [Revised: 08/09/2024] [Accepted: 08/28/2024] [Indexed: 10/11/2024]
Abstract
Macrophages play critical protective roles as sentinels of the innate immune system against fungal infection. It is therefore important to understand the dynamics of the interaction between these phagocytes and their fungal prey. We show here that many of the hyphal apices formed by Candida albicans within the macrophage ceased elongating, and apical and sub-apical hyphal compartments became swollen. Swollen hyphal cell compartments assimilated less Lysotracker-Red than non-swollen compartments, suggesting they had enhanced viability. Staining with florescent dyes suggested that there were higher levels of β-glucan and chitin in internalized fungal filaments compared to non-internalized hyphae, suggesting active cell wall remodelling within macrophages. These observations suggest that the stresses imposed by macrophages upon the fungus lead to changes in cell wall composition, inhibition of polarised growth and the induction of swelling in hyphal compartments, and that this can prevent or delay loss of viability of hyphal cells within the phagocyte.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Fernanda Alonso
- Aberdeen Fungal Group, School of Medicine, Medical Sciences & Nutrition, Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Foresterhill, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD, UK.
| | - Judith M Bain
- Aberdeen Fungal Group, School of Medicine, Medical Sciences & Nutrition, Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Foresterhill, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD, UK.
| | - Lars P Erwig
- Aberdeen Fungal Group, School of Medicine, Medical Sciences & Nutrition, Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Foresterhill, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD, UK.
| | - Alistair J P Brown
- Aberdeen Fungal Group, School of Medicine, Medical Sciences & Nutrition, Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Foresterhill, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD, UK; Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Geoffrey Pope Building, Stocker Road, Exeter, EX4 4QD, UK.
| | - Neil A R Gow
- Aberdeen Fungal Group, School of Medicine, Medical Sciences & Nutrition, Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Foresterhill, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD, UK; Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Geoffrey Pope Building, Stocker Road, Exeter, EX4 4QD, UK.
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3
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Reza MH, Dutta S, Goyal R, Shah H, Dey G, Sanyal K. Expansion microscopy reveals characteristic ultrastructural features of pathogenic budding yeast species. J Cell Sci 2024; 137:jcs262046. [PMID: 39051746 PMCID: PMC11423813 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.262046] [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: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 07/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Candida albicans is the most prevalent fungal pathogen associated with candidemia. Similar to other fungi, the complex life cycle of C. albicans has been challenging to study with high-resolution microscopy due to its small size. Here, we employed ultrastructure expansion microscopy (U-ExM) to directly visualise subcellular structures at high resolution in the yeast and during its transition to hyphal growth. N-hydroxysuccinimide (NHS)-ester pan-labelling in combination with immunofluorescence via snapshots of various mitotic stages provided a comprehensive map of nucleolar and mitochondrial segregation dynamics and enabled the resolution of the inner and outer plaque of spindle pole bodies (SPBs). Analyses of microtubules (MTs) and SPBs suggest that C. albicans displays a side-by-side SPB arrangement with a short mitotic spindle and longer astral MTs (aMTs) at the pre-anaphase stage. Modifications to the established U-ExM protocol enabled the expansion of six other human fungal pathogens, revealing that the side-by-side SPB configuration is a plausibly conserved feature shared by many fungal species. We highlight the power of U-ExM to investigate subcellular organisation at high resolution and low cost in poorly studied and medically relevant microbial pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Hashim Reza
- Molecular Mycology Laboratory, Molecular Biology and Genetics Unit, Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research, Jakkur, Bengaluru 560064, India
| | - Srijana Dutta
- Molecular Mycology Laboratory, Molecular Biology and Genetics Unit, Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research, Jakkur, Bengaluru 560064, India
| | - Rohit Goyal
- Molecular Mycology Laboratory, Molecular Biology and Genetics Unit, Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research, Jakkur, Bengaluru 560064, India
| | - Hiral Shah
- Cell Biology and Biophysics, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg 69117, Germany
| | - Gautam Dey
- Cell Biology and Biophysics, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg 69117, Germany
| | - Kaustuv Sanyal
- Molecular Mycology Laboratory, Molecular Biology and Genetics Unit, Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research, Jakkur, Bengaluru 560064, India
- Department of Biological Sciences, Bose Institute, Unified Academic Campus, EN-80, Sector V, Bidhan Nagar, Kolkata 700091, India
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4
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Williams C, Carnahan BR, Hyland SN, Grimes CL. Bioorthogonal labeling of chitin in pathogenic Candida species reveals biochemical mechanisms of hyphal growth and homeostasis. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.08.27.609898. [PMID: 39253419 PMCID: PMC11383299 DOI: 10.1101/2024.08.27.609898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/11/2024]
Abstract
Pathogenic fungi rely on the cell wall component, chitin, for critical structural and immunological functions. Here a chitin labeling method to visualize the hyphal pathogenic response was developed. The data show that filamentous fungi, Candida albicans , transport N -acetylglucosamine (NAG) bio-orthogonal probes and incorporate them into the cell wall, indicating the probes utility for in vivo study of the morphological, pathogenic switch. As yeast reside in complex microenvironments, The data show that the opportunistic microbe C. albicans , has developed processes to utilize surrounding bacterial cell wall fragments to initiate the morphogenic switch. The probes are utilized for visualization of growth patterns of pathogenic fungi, providing insights into novel mechanisms for the development of antifungals. Remodeling chitin in fungi using NAG derivatives will advance yeast pathogenic studies.
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Deng Y, Xu M, Li S, Bing J, Zheng Q, Huang G, Liao W, Pan W, Tao L. A single gene mutation underpins metabolic adaptation and acquisition of filamentous competence in the emerging fungal pathogen Candida auris. PLoS Pathog 2024; 20:e1012362. [PMID: 38976759 PMCID: PMC11257696 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1012362] [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: 02/16/2024] [Revised: 07/18/2024] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Filamentous cell growth is a vital property of fungal pathogens. The mechanisms of filamentation in the emerging multidrug-resistant fungal pathogen Candida auris are poorly understood. Here, we show that exposure of C. auris to glycerol triggers a rod-like filamentation-competent (RL-FC) phenotype, which forms elongated filamentous cells after a prolonged culture period. Whole-genome sequencing analysis reveals that all RL-FC isolates harbor a mutation in the C2H2 zinc finger transcription factor-encoding gene GFC1 (Gfc1 variants). Deletion of GFC1 leads to an RL-FC phenotype similar to that observed in Gfc1 variants. We further demonstrate that GFC1 mutation causes enhanced fatty acid β-oxidation metabolism and thereby promotes RL-FC/filamentous growth. This regulation is achieved through a Multiple Carbon source Utilizer (Mcu1)-dependent mechanism. Interestingly, both the evolved RL-FC isolates and the gfc1Δ mutant exhibit an enhanced ability to colonize the skin. Our results reveal that glycerol-mediated GFC1 mutations are beneficial during C. auris skin colonization and infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuchen Deng
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Department of Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Dermatology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Medical Mycology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ming Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Department of Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Shuaihu Li
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Department of Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jian Bing
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Department of Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qiushi Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Department of Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Guanghua Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Department of Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wanqing Liao
- Department of Dermatology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Medical Mycology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Weihua Pan
- Department of Dermatology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Medical Mycology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Li Tao
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Department of Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Dermatology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Medical Mycology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
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6
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Hamion G, Aucher W, Mercier A, Tewes F, Menard M, Bertaux J, Girardot M, Imbert C. Insights into betulinic acid as a promising molecule to fight the interkingdom biofilm Staphylococcus aureus-Candida albicans. Int J Antimicrob Agents 2024; 63:107166. [PMID: 38570017 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijantimicag.2024.107166] [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: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
The demand for antibiofilm molecules has increased over several years due to their potential to fight biofilm-associated infections, such as those including the interkingdom Staphylococcus aureus-Candida albicans occurring in clinical settings worldwide. Recently, we identified a pentacyclic triterpenoid compound, betulinic acid, from invasive macrophytes, with interesting antibiofilm properties. The aim of the present study was to provide insights into the mechanism of action of betulinic acid against the clinically relevant bi-species S. aureus-C. albicans biofilms. Microscopy examinations, flow cytometry and crystal violet assays confirmed that betulinic acid was effective at damaging mature S. aureus-C. albicans biofilms or inhibiting their formation, reducing biofilm biomass by 70% on average and without microbicidal activity. The results suggested an action of betulinic acid on cell membranes, inducing changes in properties such as composition, hydrophobicity and fluidity as observed in C. albicans, which may hinder the early adhesion step, biofilm growth and the physical interactions of both microbial species. Further results of real-time polymerase chain reaction argued in favour of a reduction in S. aureus-C. albicans physical interaction due to betulinic acid by the modulation of biofilm-related gene expression, as observed in early stages of biofilm formation. This study revealed the potential of betulinic acid as a candidate agent for the prevention and treatment of S. aureus-C. albicans biofilm-related infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guillaume Hamion
- Ecology and Biology of Interactions, University of Poitiers, UMR CNRS 7267, Poitiers, France.
| | - Willy Aucher
- Ecology and Biology of Interactions, University of Poitiers, UMR CNRS 7267, Poitiers, France
| | - Anne Mercier
- Ecology and Biology of Interactions, University of Poitiers, UMR CNRS 7267, Poitiers, France
| | - Frederic Tewes
- Pharmacology of Antimicrobial Agents and Antibioresistance, University of Poitiers, INSERM U1070, Poitiers, France
| | - Maëlenn Menard
- Ecology and Biology of Interactions, University of Poitiers, UMR CNRS 7267, Poitiers, France
| | - Joanne Bertaux
- Ecology and Biology of Interactions, University of Poitiers, UMR CNRS 7267, Poitiers, France
| | - Marion Girardot
- Ecology and Biology of Interactions, University of Poitiers, UMR CNRS 7267, Poitiers, France
| | - Christine Imbert
- Ecology and Biology of Interactions, University of Poitiers, UMR CNRS 7267, Poitiers, France
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7
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Randolph NK, Her J, McAloney CA, Wellman M. Gastrointestinal colonization by Diutina (Candida) rugosa in a 6-year-old Siberian Husky. Vet Clin Pathol 2024; 53:255-260. [PMID: 38418373 DOI: 10.1111/vcp.13335] [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: 06/02/2023] [Revised: 09/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/01/2024]
Abstract
A 6-year-old 21.5 kg castrated male Siberian Husky was presented for acute onset of lethargy, vomiting, hemorrhagic diarrhea, and inappetence. Physical examination revealed marked discomfort upon abdominal palpation and 5%-7% dehydration. The CBC and biochemical profile revealed changes consistent with mild to moderate inflammation, dehydration, and gastrointestinal (GI) disease. Despite aggressive gastrointestinal support, anorexia persisted, and an upper GI endoscopy was performed in conjunction with esophagostomy tube placement. Endoscopy revealed abnormal gastric mucosa characterized by moderately well-demarcated areas of blue-black discoloration. Impression smears of a gastric biopsy revealed abundant extracellular yeasts with morphology most consistent with Candida spp. and frequent extracellular cocci. Similar yeast and bacteria, in lower numbers, were observed on cytologic analysis of a direct smear of the rectal mucosa. A rectal swab submitted for fungal culture yielded pure growth of fungal yeasts identified as Diutina (formerly Candida) rugosa by matrix-assisted laser desorption-ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry. The dog's clinical signs improved with fluconazole, and he was discharged. Follow-up fungal culture of a rectal swab showed no growth of D. rugosa. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first case report that describes the clinical, hematologic, cytologic, and gross findings of enteric colonization by D. rugosa in a dog.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina K Randolph
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Jiwoong Her
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Camille A McAloney
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Maxey Wellman
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
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Romo JA, Lopez-Ribot JL. Candidalysin: An unlikely aide for fungal gut commensalism. Cell Host Microbe 2024; 32:625-626. [PMID: 38723598 DOI: 10.1016/j.chom.2024.04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
Fungi colonize the mammalian gastrointestinal (GI) tract and can adopt both commensal and opportunistic lifestyles. In a recent issue of Nature, Liang et al. unraveled the complex interplay between Candida morphotypes and the gut bacterial microbiota and described a key role for candidalysin in gut colonization.1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesús A Romo
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, and the South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases (STCEID), The University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78249, USA.
| | - Jose L Lopez-Ribot
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, and the South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases (STCEID), The University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78249, USA.
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9
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Nenciarini S, Renzi S, di Paola M, Meriggi N, Cavalieri D. Ascomycetes yeasts: The hidden part of human microbiome. WIREs Mech Dis 2024; 16:e1641. [PMID: 38228159 DOI: 10.1002/wsbm.1641] [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: 05/17/2023] [Revised: 12/17/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
The fungal component of the microbiota, the mycobiota, has been neglected for a long time due to its poor richness compared to bacteria. Limitations in fungal detection and taxonomic identification arise from using metagenomic approaches, often borrowed from bacteriome analyses. However, the relatively recent discoveries of the ability of fungi to modulate the host immune response and their involvement in human diseases have made mycobiota a fundamental component of the microbial communities inhabiting the human host, deserving some consideration in host-microbe interaction studies and in metagenomics. Here, we reviewed recent data on the identification of yeasts of the Ascomycota phylum across human body districts, focusing on the most representative genera, that is, Saccharomyces and Candida. Then, we explored the key factors involved in shaping the human mycobiota across the lifespan, ranging from host genetics to environment, diet, and lifestyle habits. Finally, we discussed the strengths and weaknesses of culture-dependent and independent methods for mycobiota characterization. Overall, there is still room for some improvements, especially regarding fungal-specific methodological approaches and bioinformatics challenges, which are still critical steps in mycobiota analysis, and to advance our knowledge on the role of the gut mycobiota in human health and disease. This article is categorized under: Immune System Diseases > Genetics/Genomics/Epigenetics Immune System Diseases > Environmental Factors Infectious Diseases > Environmental Factors.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sonia Renzi
- Department of Biology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Monica di Paola
- Department of Biology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Niccolò Meriggi
- Department of Biology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
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Shen T, Tian B, Liu W, Yang X, Sheng Q, Li M, Wang H, Wang X, Zhou H, Han Y, Ding C, Sai S. Transdermal administration of farnesol-ethosomes enhances the treatment of cutaneous candidiasis induced by Candida albicans in mice. Microbiol Spectr 2024; 12:e0424723. [PMID: 38415658 PMCID: PMC10986551 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.04247-23] [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: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Cutaneous candidiasis, caused by Candida albicans, is a severe and frustrating condition, and finding effective treatments can be challenging. Therefore, the development of farnesol-loaded nanoparticles is an exciting breakthrough. Ethosomes are a novel transdermal drug delivery carrier that incorporates a certain concentration (10-45%) of alcohols into lipid vesicles, resulting in improved permeability and encapsulation rates compared to conventional liposomes. Farnesol is a quorum-sensing molecule involved in morphogenesis regulation in C. albicans, and these ethosomes offer a promising new approach to treating this common fungal infection. This study develops the formulation of farnesol-loaded ethosomes (farnesol-ethosomes) and assesses applications in treating cutaneous candidiasis induced by C. albicans in vitro and in vivo. Farnesol-ethosomes were successfully developed by ethanol injection method. Therapeutic properties of farnesol-ethosomes, such as particle size, zeta potential, and morphology, were well characterized. According to the results, farnesol-ethosomes demonstrated an increased inhibition effect on cells' growth and biofilm formation in C. albicans. In Animal infection models, treating farnesol-ethosomes by transdermal administration effectively relieved symptoms caused by cutaneous candidiasis and reduced fungal burdens in quantity. We also observed that ethosomes significantly enhanced drug delivery efficacy in vitro and in vivo. These results indicate that farnesol-ethosomes can provide future promising roles in curing cutaneous candidiasis. IMPORTANCE Cutaneous candidiasis attributed to Candida infection is a prevalent condition that impacts individuals of all age groups. As a type of microbial community, biofilms confer benefits to host infections and mitigate the clinical effects of antifungal treatments. In C. albicans, the yeast-to-hypha transition and biofilm formation are effectively suppressed by farnesol through its modulation of multiple signaling pathway. However, the characteristics of farnesol such as hydrophobicity, volatility, degradability, and instability in various conditions can impose limitations on its effectiveness. Nanotechnology holds the potential to enhance the efficiency and utilization of this molecule. Treatment of farnesol-ethosomes by transdermal administration demonstrated a very remarkable therapeutic effect against C. albicans in infection model of cutaneous candidiasis in mice. Many patients suffering fungal skin infection will benefit from this study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Shen
- School of Pharmacy, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, Shandong, China
| | - Baocheng Tian
- School of Pharmacy, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, Shandong, China
| | - Wei Liu
- College of Life and Health Science, Northeastern University, Shenyang, China
| | - Xuesong Yang
- School of Pharmacy, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, Shandong, China
| | - Qi Sheng
- School of Pharmacy, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, Shandong, China
| | - Mengxin Li
- School of Pharmacy, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, Shandong, China
| | - Haiyan Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, Shandong, China
| | - Xiuwen Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, Shandong, China
| | - Huihui Zhou
- Department of pathology, Affiliated Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai, Shandong, China
| | - Yanchun Han
- Department of Pathology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, Shandong, China
| | - Chen Ding
- College of Life and Health Science, Northeastern University, Shenyang, China
| | - Sixiang Sai
- School of Pharmacy, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, Shandong, China
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11
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Ji Y, Han J, Moses M, Wang D, Wu L, Xue W, Sun L, Xu B, Chen C, Xiang Y, Huang X. The antimicrobial property of JY-1, a complex mixture of Traditional Chinese Medicine, is linked to it abilities to suppress biofilm formation and disrupt membrane permeability. Microb Pathog 2024; 189:106573. [PMID: 38354989 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2024.106573] [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: 11/10/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 02/11/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
The substantial increase of infections, caused by novel, sudden, and drug-resistant pathogens, poses a significant threat to human health. While numerous studies have demonstrated the antibacterial and antiviral effects of Traditional Chinese Medicine, the potential of a complex mixture of traditional Chinese Medicine with a broad-spectrum antimicrobial property remains underexplored. This study aimed to develop a complex mixture of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), JY-1, and investigate its antimicrobial properties, along with its potential mechanism of action against pathogenic microorganisms. Antimicrobial activity was assessed using a zone of inhibition assay and the drop plate method. Hyphal induction of Candida albicans was conducted using RPMI1640 medium containing 10% FBS, followed by microscopic visualization. Quantitative real-time PCR (RT-qPCR) was employed to quantify the transcript levels of hyphal-specific genes such as HWP1 and ALS3. The impact of JY-1 on biofilm formation was evaluated using both the XTT reduction assay and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Furthermore, the cell membrane integrity was assessed by protein and nucleic acid leakage assays. Our results clearly showed that JY-1 significantly inhibits the vegetative growth of Candida spp. and Cryptococcus spp. In addition, this complex mixture is effectively against a wide range of pathogenic bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus, Vancomycin-resistant enterococci, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Enterobacter cloacae. More interestingly, JY-1 plays a direct anti-viral role against the mammalian viral pathogen vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV). Further mechanistic studies indicate that JY-1 acts to reduce the expression of hyphal specific genes HWP1 and ALS3, resulting in the suppression of the hyphal formation of C. albicans. The antimicrobial property of JY-1 could be attributed to its ability to reduce biofilm formation and disrupt the cell membrane permeability, a process resulting in microbial cell death and the release of cellular contents. Taken together, our work identified a potent broad-spectrum antimicrobial agent, a complex mixture of TCM which might be developed as a potential antimicrobial drug.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Ji
- Unit of Pathogenic Fungal Infection & Host Immunity, CAS Key Laboratory of Molecular Virology and Immunology, Shanghai Institute of Immunity and Infection, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200031, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Ji Han
- Putuo Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No.164 Lanxi Road, Shanghai, 200062, China
| | - Munika Moses
- Unit of Pathogenic Fungal Infection & Host Immunity, CAS Key Laboratory of Molecular Virology and Immunology, Shanghai Institute of Immunity and Infection, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200031, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Di Wang
- Laboratory of Microbiology and Parasitology of Guizhou & Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Monitoring and Disease Control, Ministry of Education of Guizhou & Guizhou Talent Base for Microbiology and Human Health, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550025, China
| | - Lei Wu
- Unit of Pathogenic Fungal Infection & Host Immunity, CAS Key Laboratory of Molecular Virology and Immunology, Shanghai Institute of Immunity and Infection, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200031, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Wenwen Xue
- Nanjing Advanced Academy of Life and Health, Nanjing, 211135, China
| | - Lu Sun
- Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Bo Xu
- Putuo Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No.164 Lanxi Road, Shanghai, 200062, China
| | - Changbin Chen
- Unit of Pathogenic Fungal Infection & Host Immunity, CAS Key Laboratory of Molecular Virology and Immunology, Shanghai Institute of Immunity and Infection, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200031, China; Nanjing Advanced Academy of Life and Health, Nanjing, 211135, China.
| | - Yanwei Xiang
- Department of Dermatology, Yueyang Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 200437, China.
| | - Xinhua Huang
- Unit of Pathogenic Fungal Infection & Host Immunity, CAS Key Laboratory of Molecular Virology and Immunology, Shanghai Institute of Immunity and Infection, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200031, China.
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12
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Bing J, Guan Z, Zheng T, Ennis CL, Nobile CJ, Chen C, Chu H, Huang G. Rapid evolution of an adaptive multicellular morphology of Candida auris during systemic infection. Nat Commun 2024; 15:2381. [PMID: 38493178 PMCID: PMC10944540 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-46786-8] [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: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Candida auris has become a serious threat to public health. The mechanisms of how this fungal pathogen adapts to the mammalian host are poorly understood. Here we report the rapid evolution of an adaptive C. auris multicellular aggregative morphology in the murine host during systemic infection. C. auris aggregative cells accumulate in the brain and exhibit obvious advantages over the single-celled yeast-form cells during systemic infection. Genetic mutations, specifically de novo point mutations in genes associated with cell division or budding processes, underlie the rapid evolution of this aggregative phenotype. Most mutated C. auris genes are associated with the regulation of cell wall integrity, cytokinesis, cytoskeletal properties, and cellular polarization. Moreover, the multicellular aggregates are notably more recalcitrant to the host antimicrobial peptides LL-37 and PACAP relative to the single-celled yeast-form cells. Overall, to survive in the host, C. auris can rapidly evolve a multicellular aggregative morphology via genetic mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Bing
- Shanghai Institute of Infectious Disease and Biosecurity, Department of infectious diseases, Huashan Hospital and State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Industrial Microorganisms, Shanghai, 200438, China
| | - Zhangyue Guan
- Shanghai Institute of Infectious Disease and Biosecurity, Department of infectious diseases, Huashan Hospital and State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, China
| | - Tianhong Zheng
- Shanghai Institute of Infectious Disease and Biosecurity, Department of infectious diseases, Huashan Hospital and State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, China
| | - Craig L Ennis
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Merced, Merced, CA, 95343, USA
- Quantitative and Systems Biology Graduate Program, University of California, Merced, Merced, CA, 95343, USA
| | - Clarissa J Nobile
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Merced, Merced, CA, 95343, USA
- Health Sciences Research Institute, University of California, Merced, Merced, CA, 95343, USA
| | - Changbin Chen
- The Center for Microbes, Development, and Health, Key Laboratory of Molecular Virology and Immunology, Unit of Pathogenic Fungal Infection & Host Immunity, Shanghai Institute of Immunity and Infection, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200031, China
| | - Haiqing Chu
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200433, China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Tuberculosis, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200433, China.
| | - Guanghua Huang
- Shanghai Institute of Infectious Disease and Biosecurity, Department of infectious diseases, Huashan Hospital and State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, China.
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400716, China.
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13
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Hefny ZA, Ji B, Elsemman IE, Nielsen J, Van Dijck P. Transcriptomic meta-analysis to identify potential antifungal targets in Candida albicans. BMC Microbiol 2024; 24:66. [PMID: 38413885 PMCID: PMC10898158 DOI: 10.1186/s12866-024-03213-8] [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: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Candida albicans is a fungal pathogen causing human infections. Here we investigated differential gene expression patterns and functional enrichment in C. albicans strains grown under different conditions. METHODS A systematic GEO database search identified 239 "Candida albicans" datasets, of which 14 were selected after rigorous criteria application. Retrieval of raw sequencing data from the ENA database was accompanied by essential metadata extraction from dataset descriptions and original articles. Pre-processing via the tailored nf-core pipeline for C. albicans involved alignment, gene/transcript quantification, and diverse quality control measures. Quality assessment via PCA and DESeq2 identified significant genes (FDR < = 0.05, log2-fold change > = 1 or <= -1), while topGO conducted GO term enrichment analysis. Exclusions were made based on data quality and strain relevance, resulting in the selection of seven datasets from the SC5314 strain background for in-depth investigation. RESULTS The meta-analysis of seven selected studies unveiled a substantial number of genes exhibiting significant up-regulation (24,689) and down-regulation (18,074). These differentially expressed genes were further categorized into 2,497 significantly up-regulated and 2,573 significantly down-regulated Gene Ontology (GO) IDs. GO term enrichment analysis clustered these terms into distinct groups, providing insights into the functional implications. Three target gene lists were compiled based on previous studies, focusing on central metabolism, ion homeostasis, and pathogenicity. Frequency analysis revealed genes with higher occurrence within the identified GO clusters, suggesting their potential as antifungal targets. Notably, the genes TPS2, TPS1, RIM21, PRA1, SAP4, and SAP6 exhibited higher frequencies within the clusters. Through frequency analysis within the GO clusters, several key genes emerged as potential targets for antifungal therapies. These include RSP5, GLC7, SOD2, SOD5, SOD1, SOD6, SOD4, SOD3, and RIM101 which exhibited higher occurrence within the identified clusters. CONCLUSION This comprehensive study significantly advances our understanding of the dynamic nature of gene expression in C. albicans. The identification of genes with enhanced potential as antifungal drug targets underpins their value for future interventions. The highlighted genes, including TPS2, TPS1, RIM21, PRA1, SAP4, SAP6, RSP5, GLC7, SOD2, SOD5, SOD1, SOD6, SOD4, SOD3, and RIM101, hold promise for the development of targeted antifungal therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeinab Abdelmoghis Hefny
- Laboratory of Molecular Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Kasteelpark Arenberg 31, Leuven, B-3001, Belgium
| | - Boyang Ji
- BioInnovation Institute, Ole Maaløes Vej 3, Copenhagen, DK2200, Denmark
| | - Ibrahim E Elsemman
- Department of Information Systems, Faculty of Computers and Information, Assiut University, Assiut, 2071515, Egypt
| | - Jens Nielsen
- BioInnovation Institute, Ole Maaløes Vej 3, Copenhagen, DK2200, Denmark.
- Department of Life Sciences, Chalmers University of Technology, Kemivägen 10, SE41296, Gothenburg, SE41296, Sweden.
| | - Patrick Van Dijck
- Laboratory of Molecular Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Kasteelpark Arenberg 31, Leuven, B-3001, Belgium.
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14
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Zafer MM, Mohamed GA, Ibrahim SRM, Ghosh S, Bornman C, Elfaky MA. Biofilm-mediated infections by multidrug-resistant microbes: a comprehensive exploration and forward perspectives. Arch Microbiol 2024; 206:101. [PMID: 38353831 PMCID: PMC10867068 DOI: 10.1007/s00203-023-03826-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: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
A biofilm is a collection of microorganisms organized in a matrix of extracellular polymeric material. Biofilms consist of microbial cells that attach to both surfaces and each other, whether they are living or non-living. These microbial biofilms can lead to hospital-acquired infections and are generally detrimental. They possess the ability to resist the human immune system and antibiotics. The National Institute of Health (NIH) states that biofilm formation is associated with 65% of all microbial illnesses and 80% of chronic illnesses. Additionally, non-device-related microbial biofilm infections include conditions like cystic fibrosis, otitis media, infective endocarditis, and chronic inflammatory disorders. This review aims to provide an overview of research on chronic infections caused by microbial biofilms, methods used for biofilm detection, recent approaches to combat biofilms, and future perspectives, including the development of innovative antimicrobial strategies such as antimicrobial peptides, bacteriophages, and agents that disrupt biofilms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mai M Zafer
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ahram Canadian University, Cairo, Egypt.
| | - Gamal A Mohamed
- Department of Natural Products and Alternative Medicine, Faculty of Pharmacy, King Abdulaziz University, 21589, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sabrin R M Ibrahim
- Department of Chemistry, Preparatory Year Program, Batterjee Medical College, 21442, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Assiut University, Assiut, 71526, Egypt
| | - Soumya Ghosh
- Natural and Medical Science Research Center, University of Nizwa, Nizwa, 616, Oman
| | - Charné Bornman
- Department of Engineering Sciences, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, 9301, South Africa
| | - Mahmoud A Elfaky
- Department of Natural Products and Alternative Medicine, Faculty of Pharmacy, King Abdulaziz University, 21589, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
- Center for Artificial Intelligence in Precision Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, 21589, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
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15
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Pinsky M, Kornitzer D. Genetic Analysis of Candida albicans Filamentation by the Iron Chelator BPS Reveals a Role for a Conserved Kinase-WD40 Protein Pair. J Fungi (Basel) 2024; 10:83. [PMID: 38276029 PMCID: PMC10820326 DOI: 10.3390/jof10010083] [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: 12/17/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Candida albicans is a major human pathogenic fungus that is distinguished by its capability to switch from a yeast to a hyphal morphology under different conditions. Here, we analyze the cellular effects of high concentrations of the iron chelator bathophenanthroline disulfonate (BPS). BPS inhibits cellular growth by withholding iron, but when iron chelation is overcome by the addition of hemoglobin as an iron source, the cells resume growth as hyphae. The BPS hyphal induction pathway was characterized by identifying the hyphal-specific transcription factors that it requires and by a forward genetic screen for mutants that fail to form hyphae in BPS using a transposon library generated in a haploid strain. Among the mutants identified are the DYRK1-like kinase Yak1 and Orf19.384, a homolog of the DYRK1-associated protein WDR68/DCAF7. Orf19.384 nuclear localization depends on Yak1, similar to their mammalian counterparts. We identified the hyphal suppressor transcription factor Sfl1 as a candidate target of Yak1-Orf19.384 and show that Sfl1 modification is similarly affected in the yak1 and orf19.384 mutant strains. These results suggest that DYRK1/Yak1 and WDR68/Orf19.384 represent a conserved protein pair that regulates cell differentiation from fungi to animals.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Daniel Kornitzer
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, B. Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion—I.I.T., Haifa 31096, Israel;
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16
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Kovács-Simon A, Fones HN. Use of chitin:DNA ratio to assess growth form in fungal cells. BMC Biol 2024; 22:10. [PMID: 38233847 PMCID: PMC10795418 DOI: 10.1186/s12915-024-01815-2] [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: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/19/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dimorphism, the ability to switch between a 'yeast-like' and a hyphal growth form, is an important feature of certain fungi, including important plant and human pathogens. The switch to hyphal growth is often associated with virulence, pathogenicity, biofilm formation and stress resistance. Thus, the ability to accurately and efficiently measure fungal growth form is key to research into these fungi, especially for discovery of potential drug targets. To date, fungal growth form has been assessed microscopically, a process that is both labour intensive and costly. RESULTS Here, we unite quantification of the chitin in fungal cell walls and the DNA in nuclei to produce a methodology that allows fungal cell shape to be estimated by calculation of the ratio between cell wall quantity and number of nuclei present in a sample of fungus or infected host tissue. Using the wheat pathogen Zymoseptoria tritici as a test case, with confirmation in the distantly related Fusarium oxysporum, we demonstrate a close, linear relationship between the chitin:DNA ratio and the average polarity index (length/width) of fungal cells. We show the utility of the method for estimating growth form in infected wheat leaves, differentiating between the timing of germination in two different Z. tritici isolates using this ratio. We also show that the method is robust to the occurrence of thick-walled chlamydospores, which show a chitin:DNA ratio that is distinct from either 'yeast-like' blastospores or hyphae. CONCLUSIONS The chitin:DNA ratio provides a simple methodology for determining fungal growth form in bulk tissue samples, reducing the need for labour-intensive microscopic studies requiring specific staining or GFP-tags to visualise the fungus within host tissues. It is applicable to a range of dimorphic fungi under various experimental conditions.
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17
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Steyn HF, White LJ, Hilton KLF, Hiscock JR, Pohl CH. Supramolecular Self-Associating Amphiphiles Inhibit Biofilm Formation by the Critical Pathogens, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Candida albicans. ACS OMEGA 2024; 9:1770-1785. [PMID: 38222503 PMCID: PMC10785623 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.3c08425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
In 2019, 4.95 million deaths were directly attributed to antimicrobial-resistant bacterial infections globally. In addition, the mortality associated with fungal infections is estimated at 1.7 million annually, with many of these deaths attributed to species that are no longer susceptible to traditional therapeutic regimes. Herein, we demonstrate the use of a novel class of supramolecular self-associating amphiphilic (SSA) salts as antimicrobial agents against the critical pathogens Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Candida albicans. We also identify preliminary structure-activity relationships for this class of compound that will aid the development of next-generation SSAs demonstrating enhanced antibiofilm activity. To gain insight into the possible mode of action for these agents, a series of microscopy studies were performed, taking advantage of the intrinsic fluorescent nature of benzothiazole-substituted SSAs. Analysis of these data showed that the SSAs interact with the cell surface and that a benzothiazole-containing SSA inhibits hyphal formation by C. albicans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hendrik
J. F. Steyn
- Department
of Microbiology and Biochemistry, University
of the Free State, Bloemfontein, Free State 9301, South Africa
| | - Lisa J. White
- School
of Chemistry and Forensic Science, University
of Kent, Kent, Canterbury CT2 7NH, United Kingdom
| | - Kira L. F. Hilton
- School
of Chemistry and Forensic Science, University
of Kent, Kent, Canterbury CT2 7NH, United Kingdom
| | - Jennifer R. Hiscock
- School
of Chemistry and Forensic Science, University
of Kent, Kent, Canterbury CT2 7NH, United Kingdom
| | - Carolina H. Pohl
- Department
of Microbiology and Biochemistry, University
of the Free State, Bloemfontein, Free State 9301, South Africa
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18
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Seiser S, Arzani H, Ayub T, Phan-Canh T, Staud C, Worda C, Kuchler K, Elbe-Bürger A. Native human and mouse skin infection models to study Candida auris-host interactions. Microbes Infect 2024; 26:105234. [PMID: 37813159 DOI: 10.1016/j.micinf.2023.105234] [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: 08/02/2023] [Revised: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/30/2023] [Indexed: 10/11/2023]
Abstract
The World Health Organization (WHO) declared certain fungal pathogens as global health threats for the next decade. Candida auris (C. auris) is a newly emerging skin-tropic multidrug-resistant fungal pathogen that can cause life-threatening infections of high mortality in hospitals and healthcare settings. Here, we address an unmet need and present novel native ex vivo skin models, thus extending previous C. auris-host interaction studies. We exploit histology and immunofluorescence analysis of ex vivo skin biopsies of human adult and fetal, as well as mouse origin infected with C. auris via distinct routes. We demonstrate that an intact skin barrier efficiently protects from C. auris penetration and invasion. Although C. auris readily grows on native human skin, it can reach deeper layers only upon physical disruption of the barrier by needling or through otherwise damaged skin. By contrast, a barrier disruption is not necessary for C. auris penetration of native mouse skin. Importantly, we show that C. auris undergoes morphogenetic changes upon skin penetration, as it acquires pseudohyphal growth phenotypes in deeper human and mouse dermis. Taken together, this new human and mouse skin model toolset yields new insights into C. auris colonization, adhesion, growth and invasion properties of native versus damaged human skin. The results form a crucial basis for future studies on skin immune defense to colonizing pathogens, and offer new options for testing the action and efficacy of topical antimicrobial compound formulations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saskia Seiser
- Medical University of Vienna, Department of Dermatology, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Hossein Arzani
- Medical University of Vienna, Max Perutz Labs Vienna, Campus Vienna Biocenter, Dr. Bohr-Gasse 9/2, 1030 Vienna, Austria
| | - Tanya Ayub
- Medical University of Vienna, Department of Dermatology, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Trinh Phan-Canh
- Medical University of Vienna, Max Perutz Labs Vienna, Campus Vienna Biocenter, Dr. Bohr-Gasse 9/2, 1030 Vienna, Austria
| | - Clement Staud
- Medical University of Vienna, Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Christof Worda
- Medical University of Vienna, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Karl Kuchler
- Medical University of Vienna, Max Perutz Labs Vienna, Campus Vienna Biocenter, Dr. Bohr-Gasse 9/2, 1030 Vienna, Austria.
| | - Adelheid Elbe-Bürger
- Medical University of Vienna, Department of Dermatology, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, 1090 Vienna, Austria.
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19
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Zeng G, Xu X, Kok YJ, Deng FS, Ling Chow EW, Gao J, Bi X, Wang Y. Cytochrome c regulates hyphal morphogenesis by interfering with cAMP-PKA signaling in Candida albicans. Cell Rep 2023; 42:113473. [PMID: 37980562 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.113473] [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: 06/19/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/21/2023] Open
Abstract
In the human fungal pathogen Candida albicans, invasive hyphal growth is a well-recognized virulence trait. We employed transposon-mediated genome-wide mutagenesis, revealing that inactivating CTM1 blocks hyphal growth. CTM1 encodes a lysine (K) methyltransferase, which trimethylates cytochrome c (Cyc1) at K79. Mutants lacking CTM1 or expressing cyc1K79A grow as yeast under hyphae-inducing conditions, indicating that unmethylated Cyc1 suppresses hyphal growth. Transcriptomic analyses detected increased levels of the hyphal repressor NRG1 and decreased levels of hyphae-specific genes in ctm1Δ/Δ and cyc1K79A mutants, suggesting cyclic AMP (cAMP)-protein kinase A (PKA) signaling suppression. Co-immunoprecipitation and in vitro kinase assays demonstrated that unmethylated Cyc1 inhibits PKA kinase activity. Surprisingly, hyphae-defective ctm1Δ/Δ and cyc1K79A mutants remain virulent in mice due to accelerated proliferation. Our results unveil a critical role for cytochrome c in maintaining the virulence of C. albicans by orchestrating proliferation, growth mode, and metabolism. Importantly, this study identifies a biological function for lysine methylation on cytochrome c.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guisheng Zeng
- A(∗)STAR Infectious Diseases Labs (A(∗)STAR ID Labs), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A(∗)STAR), 8A Biomedical Grove, #05-13 Immunos, Singapore 138648, Singapore.
| | - Xiaoli Xu
- A(∗)STAR Infectious Diseases Labs (A(∗)STAR ID Labs), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A(∗)STAR), 8A Biomedical Grove, #05-13 Immunos, Singapore 138648, Singapore
| | - Yee Jiun Kok
- Bioprocessing Technology Institute, 20 Biopolis Way, #06-01 Centros, Singapore 138668, Singapore
| | - Fu-Sheng Deng
- Department of Biochemical Science and Technology, College of Life Science, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10617, Taiwan
| | - Eve Wai Ling Chow
- A(∗)STAR Infectious Diseases Labs (A(∗)STAR ID Labs), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A(∗)STAR), 8A Biomedical Grove, #05-13 Immunos, Singapore 138648, Singapore
| | - Jiaxin Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Mycology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Xuezhi Bi
- Bioprocessing Technology Institute, 20 Biopolis Way, #06-01 Centros, Singapore 138668, Singapore; Duke-NUS Medical School, National University of Singapore, Singapore 169857, Singapore
| | - Yue Wang
- A(∗)STAR Infectious Diseases Labs (A(∗)STAR ID Labs), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A(∗)STAR), 8A Biomedical Grove, #05-13 Immunos, Singapore 138648, Singapore; Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117597, Singapore.
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20
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Malavia-Jones D, Farrer RA, Stappers MH, Edmondson MB, Borman AM, Johnson EM, Lipke PN, Gow NA. Strain and temperature dependent aggregation of Candida auris is attenuated by inhibition of surface amyloid proteins. Cell Surf 2023; 10:100110. [PMID: 37559873 PMCID: PMC10407437 DOI: 10.1016/j.tcsw.2023.100110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Revised: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Candida auris is a multi-drug resistant human fungal pathogen that has become a global threat to human health due to its drug resistant phenotype, persistence in the hospital environment and propensity for patient to patient spread. Isolates display variable aggregation that may affect the relative virulence of strains. Therefore, dissection of this phenotype has gained substantial interest in recent years. We studied eight clinical isolates from four different clades (I-IV); four of which had a strongly aggregating phenotype and four of which did not. Genome analysis identified polymorphisms associated with loss of cell surface proteins were enriched in weakly-aggregating strains. Additionally, we identified down-regulation of chitin synthase genes involved in the synthesis of the chitinous septum. Characterisation of the cells revealed no ultrastructural defects in cytokinesis or cell separation in aggregating isolates. Strongly and weakly aggregating strains did not differ in net surface charge or in cell surface hydrophobicity. The capacity for aggregation and for adhesion to polystyrene microspheres were also not correlated. However, aggregation and extracellular matrix formation were all increased at higher growth temperatures, and treatment with the amyloid protein inhibitor Thioflavin-T markedly attenuated aggregation. Genome analysis further indicated strain specific differences in the genome content of GPI-anchored proteins including those encoding genes with the potential to form amyloid proteins. Collectively our data suggests that aggregation is a complex strain and temperature dependent phenomenon that may be linked in part to the ability to form extracellular matrix and cell surface amyloids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dhara Malavia-Jones
- MRC Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Geoffrey Pope Building, Stocker Road, Exeter EX4 4QD, UK
| | - Rhys A. Farrer
- MRC Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Geoffrey Pope Building, Stocker Road, Exeter EX4 4QD, UK
| | - Mark H.T. Stappers
- MRC Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Geoffrey Pope Building, Stocker Road, Exeter EX4 4QD, UK
| | - Matt B. Edmondson
- MRC Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Geoffrey Pope Building, Stocker Road, Exeter EX4 4QD, UK
| | - Andrew M. Borman
- MRC Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Geoffrey Pope Building, Stocker Road, Exeter EX4 4QD, UK
- UKHSA Mycology Reference Laboratory, National Infection Services, UKHSA South West Laboratory, Science Quarter, Southmead Hospital, Bristol BS10 5NB, UK
| | - Elizabeth M. Johnson
- MRC Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Geoffrey Pope Building, Stocker Road, Exeter EX4 4QD, UK
- UKHSA Mycology Reference Laboratory, National Infection Services, UKHSA South West Laboratory, Science Quarter, Southmead Hospital, Bristol BS10 5NB, UK
| | - Peter N. Lipke
- Biology Department, Brooklyn College of City University of New York, 2900 Bedford Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11210, USA
| | - Neil A.R. Gow
- MRC Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Geoffrey Pope Building, Stocker Road, Exeter EX4 4QD, UK
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21
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Arévalo-Jaimes BV, Admella J, Blanco-Cabra N, Torrents E. Culture media influences Candida parapsilosis growth, susceptibility, and virulence. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2023; 13:1323619. [PMID: 38156315 PMCID: PMC10753817 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1323619] [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: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Candida parapsilosis, a pathogenic yeast associated with systemic infections, exhibits metabolic adaptability in response to nutrient availability. Methods We investigated the impact of RPMI glucose supplemented (RPMId), TSB, BHI and YPD media on C. parapsilosis growth, morphology, susceptibility (caspofungin and amphotericin B), and in vivo virulence (Galleria mellonella) in planktonic and biofilm states. Results High-glucose media favors growth but hinders metabolic activity and filamentation. Media promoting carbohydrate production reduces biofilm susceptibility. Virulence differences between planktonic cells and biofilm suspensions from the same media shows that biofilm-related factors influence infection outcome depending on nutrient availability. Pseudohyphal growth occurred in biofilms under low oxygen and shear stress, but its presence is not exclusively correlated with virulence. Discussion This study provides valuable insights into the intricate interplay between nutrient availability and C. parapsilosis pathogenicity. It emphasizes the importance of considering pathogen behavior in diverse conditions when designing research protocols and therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Betsy V. Arévalo-Jaimes
- Bacterial Infections and Antimicrobial Therapies Group (BIAT), Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Barcelona, Spain
- Microbiology Section, Department of Genetics, Microbiology and Statistics, Faculty of Biology, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Joana Admella
- Bacterial Infections and Antimicrobial Therapies Group (BIAT), Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Barcelona, Spain
- Microbiology Section, Department of Genetics, Microbiology and Statistics, Faculty of Biology, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Núria Blanco-Cabra
- Bacterial Infections and Antimicrobial Therapies Group (BIAT), Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Barcelona, Spain
- Microbiology Section, Department of Genetics, Microbiology and Statistics, Faculty of Biology, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Eduard Torrents
- Bacterial Infections and Antimicrobial Therapies Group (BIAT), Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Barcelona, Spain
- Microbiology Section, Department of Genetics, Microbiology and Statistics, Faculty of Biology, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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22
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Guan G, Li S, Bing J, Liu L, Tao L. The Rfg1 and Bcr1 transcription factors regulate acidic pH-induced filamentous growth in Candida albicans. Microbiol Spectr 2023; 11:e0178923. [PMID: 37933972 PMCID: PMC10715123 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.01789-23] [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: 04/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/08/2023] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Candida albicans is a human commensal and frequent pathogen that encounters a wide range of pH stresses. The ability of C. albicans to adapt to changes in extracellular pH is crucial for its success in colonization and pathogenesis. The Rim101 pH sensing pathway is well known to govern neutral-alkaline pH responses in this pathogen. Here, we report a novel Rfg1-Bcr1 regulatory pathway that governs acidic pH responses and regulates filamentous growth in C. albicans. In addition, the Rim101-Phr1 pathway, cAMP signaling pathway, transcription factors Efg1 and Flo8, and hyphal-specific G1 cyclin Hgc1 cooperate with this regulation. Our findings provide new insights into the regulatory mechanism of acidic pH response in C. albicans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guobo Guan
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Institute of Infectious Disease and Biosecurity and State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- State Key Laboratory of Mycology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Shuaihu Li
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Institute of Infectious Disease and Biosecurity and State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jian Bing
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Institute of Infectious Disease and Biosecurity and State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ling Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Mycology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Li Tao
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Institute of Infectious Disease and Biosecurity and State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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23
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Phuna ZX, Madhavan P. A reappraisal on amyloid cascade hypothesis: the role of chronic infection in Alzheimer's disease. Int J Neurosci 2023; 133:1071-1089. [PMID: 35282779 DOI: 10.1080/00207454.2022.2045290] [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: 09/01/2020] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer disease (AD) is a progressive neurological disorder that accounted for the most common cause of dementia in the elderly population. Lately, 'infection hypothesis' has been proposed where the infection of microbes can lead to the pathogenesis of AD. Among different types of microbes, human immunodeficiency virus-1 (HIV-1), herpes simplex virus-1 (HSV-1), Chlamydia pneumonia, Spirochetes and Candida albicans are frequently detected in the brain of AD patients. Amyloid-beta protein has demonstrated to exhibit antimicrobial properties upon encountering these pathogens. It can bind to microglial cells and astrocytes to activate immune response and neuroinflammation. Nevertheless, HIV-1 and HSV-1 can develop into latency whereas Chlamydia pneumonia, Spirochetes and Candida albicans can cause chronic infections. At this stage, the DNA of microbes remains undetectable yet active. This can act as the prolonged pathogenic stimulus that over-triggers the expression of Aβ-related genes, which subsequently lead to overproduction and deposition of Aβ plaque. This review will highlight the pathogenesis of each of the stated microbial infection, their association in AD pathogenesis as well as the effect of chronic infection in AD progression. Potential therapies for AD by modulating the microbiome have also been suggested. This review will aid in understanding the infectious manifestations of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi Xin Phuna
- School of Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Taylor's University, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Priya Madhavan
- School of Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Taylor's University, Selangor, Malaysia
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24
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Headley SA, Gomes ALPL, Martinelli TM, Fritzen JTT, Teixeira Vanzela AL, Silva FHP, Gaspar T, Giordano LGP, Alfieri AA, Gomes LA. The pathology of canine mammary candidiasis with embolic dissemination in a dog. Microb Pathog 2023; 185:106424. [PMID: 37913829 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2023.106424] [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: 08/13/2023] [Revised: 09/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/21/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023]
Abstract
Candidiasis is a fungal disease caused by Candida albicans or other members of the genus Candida. Descriptions of candidiasis are comparatively reduced in veterinary relative to human medicine, with no cases of mammary candidiasis being identified in pet animals. This report presents the cytological, pathological, and molecular findings of mammary candidiasis with embolic dissemination in a postpartum dog. A 1-year-old, female Shih-tzu dog that had recently given birth was admitted to a veterinary teaching hospital in Southern Brazil after repeated episodes of intermittent mammary disease and a neurological syndrome. The dog was euthanized due to worsened clinical status and poor prognosis despite adequate clinical therapy and was submitted for routine post-mortem evaluation to determine the cause of the neurological manifestations. Cytological analysis of purulent mastitis identified intralesional fungal hyphae. Gross evaluation revealed multiple masses within the kidneys, liver, myocardium, pancreas, and brain. Routine histopathology and histochemistry identified fungal nephritis, hepatitis, myocarditis, pancreatitis, and encephalitis associated with intralesional fungal hyphae, frequently with fungal emboli and vasculitis. Pure cultures of C. albicans were obtained from fragments of the masses observed at the myocardium and kidneys, with the typical germ tube of C. albicans being identified by microscopic evaluation. A PCR assay that targeted the ITS1 and 4 generic regions of fungi, amplified the desired amplicon, and direct sequencing confirmed C. albicans. Immunohistochemical and molecular assays designed to identify common infectious disease pathogens of dogs did not confirm the participation of canine distemper virus, canine parvovirus, or canine adenovirus in the target tissues of this dog. These findings suggest that this dog suffered an initial cutaneous lesion, that probably served as portal of entry to the mammary gland, resulting in mammary candidiasis with subsequent embolic dissemination to multiple organs. This report represent the first description of mammary candidiasis in pet animals and probably one of the few pathological descriptions of mammary candidiasis in domestic animals. In this case, the cause of the fungal infection was probably associated with factors intrinsic to abdominal surgery, pregnancy, and the utilization of antibiotics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Selwyn Arlington Headley
- Laboratory of Animal Pathology, Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Universidade Estadual de Londrina, Paraná, Brazil; Multi-User Animal Health Laboratory (LAMSA), Universidade Estadual de Londrina, Paraná, Brazil.
| | - Ana Laura Paulino Leite Gomes
- Laboratory of Animal Pathology, Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Universidade Estadual de Londrina, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Tayná Mesias Martinelli
- Small Animal Internal Medicine, Department of Veterinary Clinics, Universidade Estadual de Londrina, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Juliana Torres Tomazi Fritzen
- Laboratory of Animal Virology, Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Universidade Estadual de Londrina, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Ana Laura Teixeira Vanzela
- Small Animal Internal Medicine, Department of Veterinary Clinics, Universidade Estadual de Londrina, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Flavia Helena Pereira Silva
- Laboratory of Animal Pathology, Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Universidade Estadual de Londrina, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Taís Gaspar
- Small Animal Internal Medicine, Department of Veterinary Clinics, Universidade Estadual de Londrina, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Lucienne Garcia Pretto Giordano
- Laboratory of Animal Mycology, Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Universidade Estadual de Londrina, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Amauri Alcindo Alfieri
- Multi-User Animal Health Laboratory (LAMSA), Universidade Estadual de Londrina, Paraná, Brazil; Laboratory of Animal Virology, Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Universidade Estadual de Londrina, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Lucas Alecio Gomes
- Small Animal Internal Medicine, Department of Veterinary Clinics, Universidade Estadual de Londrina, Paraná, Brazil
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Lee Y, Park E, Jang B, Hwang J, Lee J, Oh ES. Antifungal Activity of Bulgarian Rose Damascena Oil against Vaginitis-Causing Opportunistic Fungi. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE : ECAM 2023; 2023:5054865. [PMID: 38074845 PMCID: PMC10708955 DOI: 10.1155/2023/5054865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2023] [Revised: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/16/2024]
Abstract
Since Bulgarian rose damascena oil is known for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties, we investigated its antifungal activity against the species of Candida, which are among the most common opportunistic fungal pathogens. Our disk-diffusion assay revealed that Bulgarian rose damascena oil effectively inhibited the growth of Candida albicans along with various bacteria. The minimum inhibitory and fungicidal concentrations against Candida albicans and Candida glabrata were all 0.25%. Under our experimental conditions, Bulgarian rose damascena oil showed better inhibitory effects on Candida glabrata and Candida albicans than several popular essential oils reported to have antifungal activity other than Origanum vulgare oil. Interestingly, Bulgarian rose damascena oil showed better antifungal activity against Candida species at acidic pH and induced cell death of Candida species in the culture medium, with cell death seen in 25-35% of the cells exposed to 0.05% Bulgarian rose damascena oil. Furthermore, Bulgarian rose damascena oil inhibited the hyphal growth of Candida albicans cultured in the RPMI medium with fetal bovine serum. These findings collectively suggest that Bulgarian rose damascena oil has antifungal activity against Candida species and thus could potentially be developed in novel therapies for vaginitis-causing pathogenic fungi.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yejin Lee
- Department of Life Sciences, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 03760, Republic of Korea
| | - Eunhye Park
- Department of Life Sciences, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 03760, Republic of Korea
| | - Bohee Jang
- Department of Life Sciences, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 03760, Republic of Korea
| | - Jisun Hwang
- Department of Life Sciences, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 03760, Republic of Korea
| | - Jinmin Lee
- Jayeonin Inc., Seoul 04995, Republic of Korea
| | - Eok-Soo Oh
- Department of Life Sciences, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 03760, Republic of Korea
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26
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Song S, Zhao S, Sun X, Meng L, Wang Z, Tan H, Liu J, Zhang M, Deng Y. Anti-virulence strategy of diaryl chalcogenide compounds against Candida albicans infection. Virulence 2023; 14:2265012. [PMID: 37771181 PMCID: PMC10549196 DOI: 10.1080/21505594.2023.2265012] [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: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Candida albicans is an important opportunistic pathogenic fungus that frequently causes serious systemic infection in humans. Due to the vital roles of biofilm formation and the yeast-to-hypha transition in the infection process, we have selected a series of diaryl chalcogenides and tested their efficacy against C. albicans SC5314 pathogenicity by the inhibition of biofilm formation and the yeast-to-hypha transition. The compounds 5-sulfenylindole and 5-selenylindole were found to have excellent abilities to inhibit both biofilm formation and hyphal formation in C. albicans SC5314. Intriguingly, the two leading compounds also markedly attenuated C. albicans SC5314 virulence in human cell lines and mouse infection models at micromolar levels. Furthermore, our results showed that the presence of the compounds at 100 µM resulted in a marked decrease in the expression of genes involved in the cAMP-PKA and MAPK pathways in C. albicans SC5314. Intriguingly, the compounds 5-sulfenylindole and 5-selenylindole not only attenuated the cytotoxicity of Candida species strains but also showed excellent synergistic effects with antifungal agents against the clinical drug-resistant C. albicans strain HCH12. The compound 5-sulfenylindole showed an obvious advantage over fluconazole as it could also restore the composition and richness of the intestinal microbiota in mice infected by C. albicans. Together, these results suggest that diaryl chalcogenides can potentially be designed as novel clinical therapeutic agents against C. albicans infection. The diaryl chalcogenides of 5-sulfenylindole and 5-selenylindole discovered in this study can provide new direction for developing antifungal agents against C. albicans infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shihao Song
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Biological Resources of Ministry of Education, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences (Shenzhen), Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Shuo Zhao
- School of Basic Medicine, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Xiuyun Sun
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Biological Resources of Ministry of Education, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou, China
| | - Lili Meng
- Integrative Microbiology Research Center, College of Plant Protection, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zijie Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences (Shenzhen), Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
- Hunan Children’s Hospital, Changsha, China
| | - Huihui Tan
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences (Shenzhen), Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jingyun Liu
- Integrative Microbiology Research Center, College of Plant Protection, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
- Zhengzhou Shuqing Medical College, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Min Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Functional Molecular Engineering of Guangdong Province, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yinyue Deng
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Biological Resources of Ministry of Education, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hainan University, Haikou, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences (Shenzhen), Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
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27
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Freitas CG, Felipe MS. Candida albicans and Antifungal Peptides. Infect Dis Ther 2023; 12:2631-2648. [PMID: 37940816 PMCID: PMC10746669 DOI: 10.1007/s40121-023-00889-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Candida albicans, a ubiquitous opportunistic fungal pathogen, plays a pivotal role in human health and disease. As a commensal organism, it normally resides harmlessly within the human microbiota. However, under certain conditions, C. albicans can transition into a pathogenic state, leading to various infections collectively known as candidiasis. With the increasing prevalence of immunocompromised individuals and the widespread use of invasive medical procedures, candidiasis has become a significant public health concern. The emergence of drug-resistant strains further complicates treatment options, highlighting the urgent need for alternative therapeutic strategies. Antifungal peptides (AFPs) have gained considerable attention as potential candidates for combating Candida spp. infections. These naturally occurring peptides possess broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity, including specific efficacy against C. albicans. AFPs exhibit several advantageous properties, such as rapid killing kinetics, low propensity for resistance development, and diverse mechanisms of action, making them promising alternatives to conventional antifungal agents. In recent years, extensive research has focused on discovering and developing novel AFPs with improved efficacy and selectivity against Candida species. Advances in biotechnology and synthetic peptide design have enabled the modification and optimization of natural peptides, enhancing their stability, bioavailability, and therapeutic potential. Nevertheless, several challenges must be addressed before AFPs can be widely implemented in clinical practice. These include optimizing peptide stability, enhancing delivery methods, overcoming potential toxicity concerns, and conducting comprehensive preclinical and clinical studies. This commentary presents a short overview of candidemia and AFP; articles and reviews published in the last 10 years were searched on The National Library of Medicine (National Center for Biotechnology Information-NIH-PubMed). The terms used were C. albicans infections, antimicrobial peptides, antifungal peptides, antifungal peptides mechanisms of action, candidemia treatments and guidelines, synthetic peptides and their challenges, and antimicrobial peptides in clinical trials as the main ones. Older publications were cited if they brought some relevant concept or helped to bring a perspective into our narrative. Articles older than 20 years and those that appeared in PubMed but did not match our goal to bring updated information about using antifungal peptides as an alternative to C. albicans infections were not considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camila G Freitas
- Higher Education Course in Food Technology, Instituto Federal de Brasília (IFB), Brasília, DF, Brazil
- Genomic Sciences and Biotechnology Graduate Program, Universidade Católica de Brasília (UCB), Brasília, DF, Brazil
| | - Maria Sueli Felipe
- Genomic Sciences and Biotechnology Graduate Program, Universidade Católica de Brasília (UCB), Brasília, DF, Brazil.
- Universidade de Brasília (UNB), Brasília, DF, Brazil.
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28
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Alhameed RA, Semreen MH, Hamad M, Giddey AD, Sulaiman A, Al Bataineh MT, Al-Hroub HM, Bustanji Y, Alzoubi KH, Soares NC. Multi-Omics Profiling of Candida albicans Grown on Solid Versus Liquid Media. Microorganisms 2023; 11:2831. [PMID: 38137975 PMCID: PMC10745582 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11122831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2023] [Revised: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Candida albicans is a common pathogenic fungus that presents a challenge to healthcare facilities. It can switch between a yeast cell form that diffuses through the bloodstream to colonize internal organs and a filamentous form that penetrates host mucosa. Understanding the pathogen's strategies for environmental adaptation and, ultimately, survival, is crucial. As a complementary study, herein, a multi-omics analysis was performed using high-resolution timsTOF MS to compare the proteomes and metabolomes of Wild Type (WT) Candida albicans (strain DK318) grown on agar plates versus liquid media. Proteomic analysis revealed a total of 1793 proteins and 15,013 peptides. Out of the 1403 identified proteins, 313 proteins were significantly differentially abundant with a p-value < 0.05. Of these, 156 and 157 proteins were significantly increased in liquid and solid media, respectively. Metabolomics analysis identified 192 metabolites in total. The majority (42/48) of the significantly altered metabolites (p-value 0.05 FDR, FC 1.5), mainly amino acids, were significantly higher in solid media, while only 2 metabolites were significantly higher in liquid media. The combined multi-omics analysis provides insight into adaptative morphological changes supporting Candida albicans' life cycle and identifies crucial virulence factors during biofilm formation and bloodstream infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rouba Abdulsalam Alhameed
- Research Institute of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah P.O. Box 27227, United Arab Emirates; (R.A.A.); (M.H.); (A.S.); (H.M.A.-H.); (Y.B.); (K.H.A.)
| | - Mohammad H. Semreen
- Research Institute of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah P.O. Box 27227, United Arab Emirates; (R.A.A.); (M.H.); (A.S.); (H.M.A.-H.); (Y.B.); (K.H.A.)
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Sharjah, Sharjah P.O. Box 27227, United Arab Emirates
| | - Mohamad Hamad
- Research Institute of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah P.O. Box 27227, United Arab Emirates; (R.A.A.); (M.H.); (A.S.); (H.M.A.-H.); (Y.B.); (K.H.A.)
- College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah P.O. Box 27227, United Arab Emirates
| | - Alexander D. Giddey
- Center for Applied and Translational Genomics, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai P.O. Box 505055, United Arab Emirates;
| | - Ashna Sulaiman
- Research Institute of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah P.O. Box 27227, United Arab Emirates; (R.A.A.); (M.H.); (A.S.); (H.M.A.-H.); (Y.B.); (K.H.A.)
| | - Mohammad T. Al Bataineh
- Center for Biotechnology, Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi P.O. Box 127788, United Arab Emirates;
| | - Hamza M. Al-Hroub
- Research Institute of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah P.O. Box 27227, United Arab Emirates; (R.A.A.); (M.H.); (A.S.); (H.M.A.-H.); (Y.B.); (K.H.A.)
| | - Yasser Bustanji
- Research Institute of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah P.O. Box 27227, United Arab Emirates; (R.A.A.); (M.H.); (A.S.); (H.M.A.-H.); (Y.B.); (K.H.A.)
- College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah P.O. Box 27227, United Arab Emirates
- School of Pharmacy, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan
| | - Karem H. Alzoubi
- Research Institute of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah P.O. Box 27227, United Arab Emirates; (R.A.A.); (M.H.); (A.S.); (H.M.A.-H.); (Y.B.); (K.H.A.)
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Pharmacotherapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Sharjah, Sharjah P.O. Box 27227, United Arab Emirates
| | - Nelson C. Soares
- Research Institute of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah P.O. Box 27227, United Arab Emirates; (R.A.A.); (M.H.); (A.S.); (H.M.A.-H.); (Y.B.); (K.H.A.)
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Sharjah, Sharjah P.O. Box 27227, United Arab Emirates
- Laboratory of Proteomics, Department of Human Genetics, National Institute of Health Doutor Ricardo Jorge (INSA), 1649-016 Lisbon, Portugal
- Centre for Toxicogenomics and Human Health (ToxOmics), Faculdade de Lisboa, NOVA School, 1169-056 Lisbon, Portugal
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Jusuf S, Dong PT. Chromophore-Targeting Precision Antimicrobial Phototherapy. Cells 2023; 12:2664. [PMID: 37998399 PMCID: PMC10670386 DOI: 10.3390/cells12222664] [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: 10/03/2023] [Revised: 11/11/2023] [Accepted: 11/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Phototherapy, encompassing the utilization of both natural and artificial light, has emerged as a dependable and non-invasive strategy for addressing a diverse range of illnesses, diseases, and infections. This therapeutic approach, primarily known for its efficacy in treating skin infections, such as herpes and acne lesions, involves the synergistic use of specific light wavelengths and photosensitizers, like methylene blue. Photodynamic therapy, as it is termed, relies on the generation of antimicrobial reactive oxygen species (ROS) through the interaction between light and externally applied photosensitizers. Recent research, however, has highlighted the intrinsic antimicrobial properties of light itself, marking a paradigm shift in focus from exogenous agents to the inherent photosensitivity of molecules found naturally within pathogens. Chemical analyses have identified specific organic molecular structures and systems, including protoporphyrins and conjugated C=C bonds, as pivotal components in molecular photosensitivity. Given the prevalence of these systems in organic life forms, there is an urgent need to investigate the potential impact of phototherapy on individual molecules expressed within pathogens and discern their contributions to the antimicrobial effects of light. This review delves into the recently unveiled key molecular targets of phototherapy, offering insights into their potential downstream implications and therapeutic applications. By shedding light on these fundamental molecular mechanisms, we aim to advance our understanding of phototherapy's broader therapeutic potential and contribute to the development of innovative treatments for a wide array of microbial infections and diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Jusuf
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA;
| | - Pu-Ting Dong
- Department of Microbiology, The Forsyth Institute, Boston, MA 02142, USA
- Department of Oral Medicine, Infection and Immunity, Harvard School of Dental Medicine, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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30
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Khan F, Jeong GJ, Javaid A, Thuy Nguyen Pham D, Tabassum N, Kim YM. Surface adherence and vacuolar internalization of bacterial pathogens to the Candida spp. cells: Mechanism of persistence and propagation. J Adv Res 2023; 53:115-136. [PMID: 36572338 PMCID: PMC10658324 DOI: 10.1016/j.jare.2022.12.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Revised: 12/17/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The co-existence of Candida albicans with the bacteria in the host tissues and organs displays interactions at competitive, antagonistic, and synergistic levels. Several pathogenic bacteria take advantage of such types of interaction for their survival and proliferation. The chemical interaction involves the signaling molecules produced by the bacteria or Candida spp., whereas the physical attachment occurs by involving the surface proteins of the bacteria and Candida. In addition, bacterial pathogens have emerged to internalize inside the C. albicans vacuole, which is one of the inherent properties of the endosymbiotic relationship between the bacteria and the eukaryotic host. AIM OF REVIEW The interaction occurring by the involvement of surface protein from diverse bacterial species with Candida species has been discussed in detail in this paper. An in silico molecular docking study was performed between the surface proteins of different bacterial species and Als3P of C. albicans to explain the molecular mechanism involved in the Als3P-dependent interaction. Furthermore, in order to understand the specificity of C. albicans interaction with Als3P, the evolutionary relatedness of several bacterial surface proteins has been investigated. Furthermore, the environmental factors that influence bacterial pathogen internalization into the Candida vacuole have been addressed. Moreover, the review presented future perspectives for disrupting the cross-kingdom interaction and eradicating the endosymbiotic bacterial pathogens. KEY SCIENTIFIC CONCEPTS OF REVIEW With the involvement of cross-kingdom interactions and endosymbiotic relationships, the bacterial pathogens escape from the environmental stresses and the antimicrobial activity of the host immune system. Thus, the study of interactions between Candida and bacterial pathogens is of high clinical significance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fazlurrahman Khan
- Marine Integrated Biomedical Technology Center, The National Key Research Institutes in Universities, Pukyong National University, Busan 48513, Republic of Korea; Research Center for Marine Integrated Bionics Technology, Pukyong National University, Busan 48513, Republic of Korea.
| | - Geum-Jae Jeong
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Pukyong National University, Busan 48513, Republic of Korea
| | - Aqib Javaid
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, University of Hyderabad, India
| | - Dung Thuy Nguyen Pham
- Institute of Applied Technology and Sustainable Development, Nguyen Tat Thanh University, Ho Chi Minh City 70000, Vietnam
| | - Nazia Tabassum
- Marine Integrated Biomedical Technology Center, The National Key Research Institutes in Universities, Pukyong National University, Busan 48513, Republic of Korea; Research Center for Marine Integrated Bionics Technology, Pukyong National University, Busan 48513, Republic of Korea
| | - Young-Mog Kim
- Marine Integrated Biomedical Technology Center, The National Key Research Institutes in Universities, Pukyong National University, Busan 48513, Republic of Korea; Research Center for Marine Integrated Bionics Technology, Pukyong National University, Busan 48513, Republic of Korea; Department of Food Science and Technology, Pukyong National University, Busan 48513, Republic of Korea.
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31
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David H, Solomon AP. Molecular association of Candida albicans and vulvovaginal candidiasis: focusing on a solution. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2023; 13:1245808. [PMID: 37900321 PMCID: PMC10611527 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1245808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Candida albicans-mediated vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is a significant challenge in clinical settings, owing to the inefficacy of current antifungals in modulating virulence, development of resistance, and poor penetration into the biofilm matrix. Various predisposition factors are molecular drivers that lead to the dysbiosis of normal microflora of the vagina, upregulation of central metabolic pathways, morphogenesis, hyphal extension, adhesion, invasion, and biofilm formation leading to chronic infection and recurrence. Hence, it is crucial to understand the molecular mechanism behind the virulence pathways driven by those drivers to decode the drug targets. Finding innovative solutions targeting fungal virulence/biofilm may potentiate the antifungals at low concentrations without affecting the recurrence of resistance. With this background, the present review details the critical molecular drivers and associated network of virulence pathways, possible drug targets, target-specific inhibitors, and probable mode of drug delivery to cross the preclinical phase by appropriate in vivo models.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Adline Princy Solomon
- Quorum Sensing Laboratory, Centre for Research in Infectious Diseases (CRID), School of Chemical and Biotechnology, SASTRA Deemed to be University, Thanjavur, India
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32
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Fialho L, Costa-Barbosa A, Sampaio P, Carvalho S. Effects of Zn-ZnO Core-Shell Nanoparticles on Antimicrobial Mechanisms and Immune Cell Activation. ACS APPLIED NANO MATERIALS 2023; 6:17149-17160. [PMID: 37772266 PMCID: PMC10526648 DOI: 10.1021/acsanm.3c03241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023]
Abstract
The deposition of zinc-zinc oxide nanoparticles (Zn-ZnO NPs) onto porous Ta2O5 surfaces enriched with calcium phosphate by DC magnetron sputtering was investigated to improve the surface antimicrobial activity without triggering an inflammatory response. Different sizes and amounts of Zn NPs obtained by two optimized different depositions and an additional thin carbon (C) layer deposited over the NPs were explored. The deposition of the Zn NPs and the C layer mitigates the surface porosity, increasing the surface hydrophobicity and decreasing the surface roughness. The possible antimicrobial effect and immune system activation of Zn-ZnO NPs were investigated in Candida albicans and macrophage cells, respectively. It was found that the developed surfaces displayed a fungistatic behavior, as they impair the growth of C. albicans between 5 and 24 h of culture. This behavior was more evident on the surfaces with bigger NPs and the highest amounts of Zn. The same trend was observed in both reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and loss of C. albicans' membrane integrity. After 24 h of culture, cell toxicity was also dependent on the amount of the NPs. Cell toxicity was observed in surfaces with the highest amount of Zn NPs and with the C layer, while cells were able to grow without any signs of cytotoxicity in the porous surfaces with the lowest amount of NPs. The same Zn-dose-dependent behavior was noticed in the TNF-α production. The Zn-containing surfaces show a vastly inferior cytokine secretion than the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated cells, indicating that the modified surfaces do not induce an inflammatory response from macrophage cells. This study provides insights for understanding the Zn amount threshold that allows a simultaneous inhibition of the fungi growth with no toxic effect and the main antimicrobial mechanisms of Zn-ZnO NPs, contributing to future clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luísa Fialho
- CEMMPRE,
Departamento de Engenharia Mecânica, Universidade de Coimbra, 3030-788 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Augusto Costa-Barbosa
- CBMA,
Departamento de Biologia, Campus de Gualtar, Universidade do Minho, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
| | - Paula Sampaio
- CBMA,
Departamento de Biologia, Campus de Gualtar, Universidade do Minho, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
| | - Sandra Carvalho
- CEMMPRE,
Departamento de Engenharia Mecânica, Universidade de Coimbra, 3030-788 Coimbra, Portugal
- IPN
− LED & MAT − Instituto Pedro Nunes, Rua Pedro Nunes, 3030-199 Coimbra, Portugal
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33
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Thompson GR, Jenks JD, Baddley JW, Lewis JS, Egger M, Schwartz IS, Boyer J, Patterson TF, Chen SCA, Pappas PG, Hoenigl M. Fungal Endocarditis: Pathophysiology, Epidemiology, Clinical Presentation, Diagnosis, and Management. Clin Microbiol Rev 2023; 36:e0001923. [PMID: 37439685 PMCID: PMC10512793 DOI: 10.1128/cmr.00019-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Fungal endocarditis accounts for 1% to 3% of all infective endocarditis cases, is associated with high morbidity and mortality (>70%), and presents numerous challenges during clinical care. Candida spp. are the most common causes of fungal endocarditis, implicated in over 50% of cases, followed by Aspergillus and Histoplasma spp. Important risk factors for fungal endocarditis include prosthetic valves, prior heart surgery, and injection drug use. The signs and symptoms of fungal endocarditis are nonspecific, and a high degree of clinical suspicion coupled with the judicious use of diagnostic tests is required for diagnosis. In addition to microbiological diagnostics (e.g., blood culture for Candida spp. or galactomannan testing and PCR for Aspergillus spp.), echocardiography remains critical for evaluation of potential infective endocarditis, although radionuclide imaging modalities such as 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography are increasingly being used. A multimodal treatment approach is necessary: surgery is usually required and should be accompanied by long-term systemic antifungal therapy, such as echinocandin therapy for Candida endocarditis or voriconazole therapy for Aspergillus endocarditis.
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Affiliation(s)
- George R. Thompson
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of California-Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, California, USA
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of California-Davis, Davis, California, USA
| | - Jeffrey D. Jenks
- Durham County Department of Public Health, Durham, North Carolina, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - John W. Baddley
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - James S. Lewis
- Department of Pharmacy, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Matthias Egger
- Division of Infectious Diseases, ECMM Excellence Center for Medical Mycology, Department of Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Ilan S. Schwartz
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Johannes Boyer
- Division of Infectious Diseases, ECMM Excellence Center for Medical Mycology, Department of Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Thomas F. Patterson
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, The University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, Texas, USA
| | - Sharon C.-A. Chen
- Centre for Infectious Diseases and Microbiology Laboratory Services, Institute of Clinical Pathology and Medical Research, New South Wales Health Pathology, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Centre for Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, Westmead Hospital, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Peter G. Pappas
- Department of Medicine Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Martin Hoenigl
- Division of Infectious Diseases, ECMM Excellence Center for Medical Mycology, Department of Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
- BioTechMed-Graz, Graz, Austria
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34
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Stuckey PV, Santiago-Tirado FH. Fungal mechanisms of intracellular survival: what can we learn from bacterial pathogens? Infect Immun 2023; 91:e0043422. [PMID: 37506189 PMCID: PMC10501222 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00434-22] [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: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Fungal infections represent a major, albeit neglected, public health threat with serious medical and economic burdens globally. With unacceptably high mortality rates, invasive fungal pathogens are responsible for millions of deaths each year, with a steadily increasing incidence primarily in immunocompromised individuals. The poor therapeutic options and rise of antifungal drug resistance pose further challenges in controlling these infections. These fungal pathogens have adapted to survive within mammalian hosts and can establish intracellular niches to promote survival within host immune cells. To do that, they have developed diverse methods to circumvent the innate immune system attack. This includes strategies such as altering their morphology, counteracting macrophage antimicrobial action, and metabolic adaptation. This is reminiscent of how bacterial pathogens have adapted to survive within host cells and cause disease. However, relative to the great deal of information available concerning intracellular bacterial pathogenesis, less is known about the mechanisms fungal pathogens employ. Therefore, here we review our current knowledge and recent advances in our understanding of how fungi can evade and persist within host immune cells. This review will focus on the major fungal pathogens, including Cryptococcus neoformans, Candida albicans, and Aspergillus fumigatus, among others. As we discover and understand the strategies used by these fungi, similarities with their bacterial counterparts are becoming apparent, hence we can use the abundant information from bacteria to guide our studies in fungi. By understanding these strategies, new lines of research will open that can improve the treatments of these devastating fungal diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter V. Stuckey
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana, USA
| | - Felipe H. Santiago-Tirado
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana, USA
- Eck Institute for Global Health, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana, USA
- Warren Center for Drug Discovery, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana, USA
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35
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Ng AWR, Li L, Ng EWL, Li C, Qiao Y. Molecular Docking Reveals Critical Residues in Candida albicans Cyr1 for Peptidoglycan Recognition and Hyphal Growth. ACS Infect Dis 2023; 9:1362-1371. [PMID: 37318518 DOI: 10.1021/acsinfecdis.3c00115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The key virulent characteristic of Candida albicans, the major fungal pathogen in humans, lies in its ability to switch between the benign yeast state and the invasive hyphal form upon exposure to specific stimuli. Among the numerous hyphal-inducing signals, bacterial peptidoglycan fragments (PGNs) represent the most potent inducers of C. albicans hyphal growth. The sole adenylyl cyclase Cyr1 in C. albicans is a known sensor for PGNs and activates downstream signaling of hyphal growth, yet the molecular details of PGN-Cyr1 interactions have remained unclear. In this study, we performed in silico docking of a PGN motif to the modeled structure of the Cyr1 leucine-rich repeat (LRR) domain and uncovered four putative PGN-interacting residues in Cyr1_LRR. The critical roles of these residues in PGN binding and supporting C. albicans hyphal growth were demonstrated by in-gel fluorescence binding assay and hyphal induction assay, respectively. Remarkably, the C. albicans mutant harboring the cyr1 variant allele that is defective for PGN recognition exhibits significantly reduced cytotoxicity in macrophage infection assay. Overall, our work offered important insights into the molecular recognition of PGNs by C. albicans Cyr1 sensor protein, establishing that disruption of PGN recognition by Cyr1 results in defective hyphal growth and reduced virulence of C. albicans. Our findings provide an exciting starting point for the future development of Cyr1 antagonists as novel anti-virulence therapeutics to combat C. albicans invasive growth and infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allan Wee Ren Ng
- School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Nanyang Technological University, 21 Nanyang Link, Singapore S637371, Singapore
| | - Lanxin Li
- School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Nanyang Technological University, 21 Nanyang Link, Singapore S637371, Singapore
| | - Evan Wei Long Ng
- School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Nanyang Technological University, 21 Nanyang Link, Singapore S637371, Singapore
| | - Chenyu Li
- School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Nanyang Technological University, 21 Nanyang Link, Singapore S637371, Singapore
| | - Yuan Qiao
- School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Nanyang Technological University, 21 Nanyang Link, Singapore S637371, Singapore
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36
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Som S, Paul R. Mechanistic model for nuclear migration in hyphae during mitosis. Phys Rev E 2023; 108:014401. [PMID: 37583222 DOI: 10.1103/physreve.108.014401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/17/2023]
Abstract
Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Candida albicans, the two well-known human pathogens, can be found in all three morphologies, i.e., yeast, pseudohyphae, and true hyphae. The cylindrical daughter-bud (germ tube) grows very long for true hyphae, and the cell cycle is delayed compared to the other two morphologies. The place of the nuclear division is specific for true hyphae determined by the position of the septin ring. However, the septin ring can localize anywhere inside the germ tube, unlike the mother-bud junction in budding yeast. Since the nucleus often migrates a long path in the hyphae, the underlying mechanism must be robust for executing mitosis in a timely manner. We explore the mechanism of nuclear migration through hyphae in light of mechanical interactions between astral microtubules and the cell cortex. We report that proper migration through constricted hyphae requires a large dynein pull applied on the astral microtubules from the hyphal cortex. This is achieved when the microtubules frequently slide along the hyphal cortex so that a large population of dyneins actively participate, pulling on them. Simulation shows timely migration when the dyneins from the mother cortex do not participate in pulling on the microtubules. These findings are robust for long migration and positioning of the nucleus in the germ tube at the septin ring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Subhendu Som
- Indian Association for the Cultivation of Science, Jadavpur, Kolkata 700032, India
| | - Raja Paul
- Indian Association for the Cultivation of Science, Jadavpur, Kolkata 700032, India
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37
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Jusuf S, Zhan Y, Zhang M, Alexander NJ, Viens A, Mansour MK, Cheng JX. Blue Light Deactivation of Catalase Suppresses Candida Hyphae Development Through Lipogenesis Inhibition. Photochem Photobiol 2023; 99:936-946. [PMID: 36117418 DOI: 10.1111/php.13719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Hyphae formation is a key step for fungal penetration into epithelial cells and escaping from macrophages or neutrophils. We found that 405 nm light-induced catalase deactivation results in the inhibition of hyphae growth in Candida albicans. The treatment is capable of inhibiting hyphae growth across multiple hyphae-producing Candida species. Metabolic studies on light-treated C. albicans reveal that light treatment results in a strong reduction in both lipid and protein metabolism. A significant decrease in unsaturated and saturated fatty acids was detected through mass spectroscopy, indicating that the suppression of hyphae through light-induced catalase deactivation may occur through inhibition of lipid metabolism. Initial in vivo tests indicate that blue light treatment can suppress the hyphae forming capabilities of C. albicans within murine abrasion infections. Together, these findings open new avenues for the treatment of Candida fungal infections by targeting their dimorphism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Jusuf
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, MA
| | - Yuewei Zhan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, MA
| | - Meng Zhang
- Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering, Boston University, Boston, MA
| | | | - Adam Viens
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Michael K Mansour
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Ji-Xin Cheng
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, MA
- Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering, Boston University, Boston, MA
- Photonics Center, Boston University, Boston, MA
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38
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LaMastro V, Campbell KM, Gonzalez P, Meng-Saccoccio T, Shukla A. Antifungal liposomes: Lipid saturation and cholesterol concentration impact interaction with fungal and mammalian cells. J Biomed Mater Res A 2023; 111:644-659. [PMID: 36740998 DOI: 10.1002/jbm.a.37501] [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: 10/20/2022] [Revised: 12/24/2022] [Accepted: 12/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Liposomes are lipid-based nanoparticles that have been used to deliver encapsulated drugs for a variety of applications, including treatment of life-threatening fungal infections. By understanding the effect of composition on liposome interactions with both fungal and mammalian cells, new effective antifungal liposomes can be developed. In this study, we investigated the impact of lipid saturation and cholesterol content on fungal and mammalian cell interactions with liposomes. We used three phospholipids with different saturation levels (saturated hydrogenated soy phosphatidylcholine (HSPC), mono-unsaturated 1-palmitoyl-2-oleoyl-glycero-3-phosphocholine (POPC), and di-unsaturated 1-palmitoyl-2-linoleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (PLPC)) and cholesterol concentrations ranging from 15% to 40% (w/w) in our liposome formulations. Using flow cytometry, >80% of Candida albicans SC5314 cells were found to interact with all liposome formulations developed, while >50% of clinical isolates tested exhibited interaction with these liposomes. In contrast, POPC-containing formulations exhibited low levels of interaction with murine fibroblasts and human umbilical vein endothelial cells (<30%), while HSPC and PLPC formulations had >50% and >80% interaction, respectively. Further, PLPC formulations caused a significant decrease in mammalian cell viability. Formulations that resulted in low levels of mammalian cell interaction, minimal cytotoxicity, and high levels of fungal cell interaction were then used to encapsulate the antifungal drug, amphotericin B. These liposomes eradicated planktonic C. albicans at drug concentrations lower than free drug, potentially due to the high levels of liposome-C. albicans interaction. Overall, this study provides new insights into the design of liposome formulations towards the development of new antifungal therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica LaMastro
- School of Engineering, Center for Biomedical Engineering, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Kayla M Campbell
- School of Engineering, Center for Biomedical Engineering, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Peter Gonzalez
- Department of Chemistry, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Tobias Meng-Saccoccio
- School of Engineering, Center for Biomedical Engineering, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Anita Shukla
- School of Engineering, Center for Biomedical Engineering, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
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Imazato S, Nakatsuka T, Kitagawa H, Sasaki JI, Yamaguchi S, Ito S, Takeuchi H, Nomura R, Nakano K. Multiple-Ion Releasing Bioactive Surface Pre-Reacted Glass-Ionomer (S-PRG) Filler: Innovative Technology for Dental Treatment and Care. J Funct Biomater 2023; 14:jfb14040236. [PMID: 37103326 PMCID: PMC10142353 DOI: 10.3390/jfb14040236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Revised: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 04/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Surface Pre-Reacted Glass-ionomer (S-PRG) filler, which releases strontium (Sr2+), borate (BO33-), fluoride (F-), sodium (Na+), silicate (SiO32-), and aluminum (Al3+) ions at high concentrations, is a unique glass filler that are utilized in dentistry. Because of its multiple-ion releasing characteristics, S-PRG filler exhibits several bioactivities such as tooth strengthening, acid neutralization, promotion of mineralization, inhibition of bacteria and fungi, inhibition of matrix metalloproteinases, and enhancement of cell activity. Therefore, S-PRG filler per se and S-PRG filler-containing materials have the potential to be beneficial for various dental treatments and care. Those include restorative treatment, caries prevention/management, vital pulp therapy, endodontic treatment, prevention/treatment of periodontal disease, prevention of denture stomatitis, and perforation repair/root end filling. This review summarizes bioactive functions exhibited by S-PRG filler and its possible contribution to oral health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satoshi Imazato
- Department of Dental Biomaterials, Osaka University Graduate School of Dentistry, Suita 565-0871, Osaka, Japan
| | - Toshiyuki Nakatsuka
- Marketing Department, Shofu Inc., 11 Kamitakamatsu-cho, Fukuine, Higashiyama, Kyoto 605-0983, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Haruaki Kitagawa
- Department of Dental Biomaterials, Osaka University Graduate School of Dentistry, Suita 565-0871, Osaka, Japan
| | - Jun-Ichi Sasaki
- Department of Dental Biomaterials, Osaka University Graduate School of Dentistry, Suita 565-0871, Osaka, Japan
| | - Satoshi Yamaguchi
- Department of Dental Biomaterials, Osaka University Graduate School of Dentistry, Suita 565-0871, Osaka, Japan
| | - Shuichi Ito
- Division of Clinical Cariology and Endodontology, Department of Oral Rehabilitation, School of Dentistry, Health Sciences University of Hokkaido, Ishikari 061-0293, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Hiroki Takeuchi
- Department of Preventive Dentistry, Osaka University Graduate School of Dentistry, Suita 565-0871, Osaka, Japan
| | - Ryota Nomura
- Department of Pediatric Dentistry, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima 734-8553, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Kazuhiko Nakano
- Department of Pediatric Dentistry, Osaka University Graduate School of Dentistry, Suita 565-0871, Osaka, Japan
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40
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Kim S, Kim SH, Kweon E, Kim J. Apoptotic Factors, CaNma111 and CaYbh3, Function in Candida albicans Filamentation by Regulating the Hyphal Suppressors, Nrg1 and Tup1. J Microbiol 2023; 61:403-409. [PMID: 36972003 DOI: 10.1007/s12275-023-00034-8] [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: 01/06/2023] [Revised: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
Abstract
The morphological switch from the yeast to hyphal form is a key virulence attribute of the opportunistic fungal pathogen, Candida albicans. Our recent report showed that deletion of the newly identified apoptotic factor, CaNma111 or CaYbh3, leads to hyperfilamentation and increased virulence in a mouse infection model. CaNma111 and CaYbh3 are homologs of the pro-apoptotic protease, HtrA2/Omi, and BH3-only protein, respectively. In this study, we examined the effects of CaNMA111 and CaYBH3 deletion mutations on the expression levels of the hypha-specific transcription factors, Cph1 (a hyphal activator), Nrg1 (a hyphal repressor), and Tup1 (a hyphal repressor). The protein levels of Nrg1 were decreased in Caybh3/Caybh3 cells while those of Tup1 were decreased in both Canma111/Canma111 and Caybh3/Caybh3 cells. These effects on Nrg1 and Tup1 proteins were retained during serum-induced filamentation and appear to explain the hyperfilamentation phenotypes of the CaNMA111 and CaYBH3 deletion mutants. Treatment with the apoptosis-inducing dose of farnesol decreased the Nrg1 protein levels in the wild-type strain and more evidently in Canma111/Canma111 and Caybh3/Caybh3 mutant strains. Together, our results suggest that CaNma111 and CaYbh3 are key regulators of Nrg1 and Tup1 protein levels in C. albicans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suyoung Kim
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Biology, College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Se Hyeon Kim
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Biology, College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Eunjoong Kweon
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Biology, College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Jinmi Kim
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Biology, College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, 34134, Republic of Korea.
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41
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Shahina Z, Yennamalli RM, Dahms TE. Key essential oil components delocalize Candida albicans Kar3p and impact microtubule structure. Microbiol Res 2023; 272:127373. [PMID: 37058783 DOI: 10.1016/j.micres.2023.127373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2022] [Revised: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Treatment of Candida albicans associated infections is often ineffective in the light of resistance, with an urgent need to discover novel antimicrobials. Fungicides require high specificity and can contribute to antifungal resistance, so inhibition of fungal virulence factors is a good strategy for developing new antifungals. OBJECTIVES Examine the impact of four plant-derived essential oil components (1,8-cineole, α-pinene, eugenol, and citral) on C. albicans microtubules, kinesin motor protein Kar3 and morphology. METHODS Microdilution assays were used to determine minimal inhibitory concentrations, microbiological assays assessed germ tube, hyphal and biofilm formation, confocal microscopy probed morphological changes and localization of tubulin and Kar3p, and computational modelling was used to examine the theoretical binding of essential oil components to tubulin and Kar3p. RESULTS We show for the first time that essential oil components delocalize the Kar3p, ablate microtubules, and induce psuedohyphal formation with reduced biofilm formation. Single and double deletion mutants of kar3 were resistant to 1,8-cineole, sensitive to α-pinene and eugenol, but unimpacted by citral. Strains with homozygous and heterozygous Kar3p disruption had a gene-dosage effect for all essential oil components, resulting in enhanced resistance or susceptibility patterns that were identical to that of cik1 mutants. The link between microtubule (αβ-tubulin) and Kar3p defects was further supported by computational modeling, showing preferential binding to αβ-tubulin and Kar3p adjacent to their Mg2+-binding sites. CONCLUSION This study highlights how essential oil components interfere with the localization of the kinesin motor protein complex Kar3/Cik1 and disrupt microtubules, leading to their destabilization which results in hyphal and biofilm defects.
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Prasad P, Tippana M. Morphogenic plasticity: the pathogenic attribute of Candida albicans. Curr Genet 2023; 69:77-89. [PMID: 36947241 DOI: 10.1007/s00294-023-01263-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Revised: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/23/2023]
Abstract
Candida albicans is a commensal organism of the human gastrointestinal tract and a prevalent opportunistic pathogen. It exhibits different morphogenic forms to survive in different host niches with distinct environmental conditions (pH, temperature, oxidative stress, nutrients, serum, chemicals, radiation, etc.) and genetic factors (transcription factors and genes). The different morphogenic forms of C. albicans are yeast, hyphal, pseudohyphal, white, opaque, and transient gray cells, planktonic and biofilm forms of cells. These forms differ in the parameters like cellular phenotype, colony morphology, adhesion to solid surfaces, gene expression profile, and the virulent traits. Each form is functionally distinct and responds discretely to the host immune system and antifungal drugs. Hence, morphogenic plasticity is the key to virulence. In this review, we address the characteristics, the pathogenic potential of the different morphogenic forms and the conditions required for morphogenic transitions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priya Prasad
- Department of Biotechnology, National Institute of Technology Warangal, Warangal, Telangana, India.
| | - Meena Tippana
- Department of Biotechnology, National Institute of Technology Warangal, Warangal, Telangana, India
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Antifungal activity and potential mechanism of action of caspofungin in combination with ribavirin against Candida albicans. Int J Antimicrob Agents 2023; 61:106709. [PMID: 36640848 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijantimicag.2023.106709] [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: 04/24/2022] [Revised: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
The number of invasive fungal infections has increased dramatically, resulting in high morbidity and mortality among immunocompromised patients. With increasing use of caspofungin (CAS), resistant strains have emerged frequently and led to limitations in the treatment of patients with severe invasive Candida albicans infections. Combination therapy is an important method to deal with this issue. As such, this study investigated the activity of CAS in combination with ribavirin (RBV) against C. albicans. The results of this in-vitro study showed that the minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of CAS and RBV when they were used as monotherapy were 0.5-1 μg/mL and 2-8 μg/mL, respectively, while the MIC of CAS decreased from 0.5-1 μg/mL to 0.0625-0.25 μg/mL when used in combination with RBV, with a fractional inhibitory concentration index (FICI) ≤0.5. In addition, the RBV + CAS combination group displayed synergistic effects against C. albicans biofilm over 4 h; the sessile MIC (sMIC) of CAS decreased from 0.5-1 µg/mL to 0.0625-0.25µg/mL and the sMIC of RBV decreased from 4-16 µg/mL to 1-2 µg/mL, with FICI <0.5. The survival of C. albicans-infected Galleria mellonella was prolonged, the fungal burden was decreased, and the area of tissue damage was reduced after combination therapy. Further study showed that the mechanisms of action of the synergistic effect were related to the inhibition of biofilm formation, the inhibition of hyphal growth, and the activation of metacaspases, but were not related to the accumulation of reactive oxygen species. It is hoped that these findings will contribute to the understanding of drug resistance in C. albicans, and provide new insights for the application of RBV.
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Pal S, Chatterjee N, Das AK, McClements DJ, Dhar P. Sophorolipids: A comprehensive review on properties and applications. Adv Colloid Interface Sci 2023; 313:102856. [PMID: 36827914 DOI: 10.1016/j.cis.2023.102856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Revised: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/04/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023]
Abstract
Sophorolipids are surface-active glycolipids produced by several non-pathogenic yeast species and are widely used as biosurfactants in several industrial applications. Sophorolipids provide a plethora of benefits over chemically synthesized surfactants for certain applications like bioremediation, oil recovery, and pharmaceuticals. They are, for instance less toxic, more benign and environment friendly in nature, biodegradable, freely adsorb to different surfaces, self-assembly in hydrated solutions, robustness for industrial applications etc. These miraculous properties result in valuable physicochemical attributes such as low critical micelle concentrations (CMCs), reduced interfacial surface tension, and capacity to dissolve non-polar components. Moreover, they exhibit a diverse range of physicochemical, functional, and biological attributes due to their unique molecular composition and structure. In this article, we highlight the physico-chemical properties of sophorolipids, how these properties are exploited by the human community for extensive benefits and the conditions which lead to their unique tailor-made structures and how they entail their interfacial behavior. Besides, we discuss the advantages and disadvantages associated with the use of these sophorolipids. We also review their physiological and functional attributes, along with their potential commercial applications, in real-world scenario. Biosurfactants are compared to their man-made equivalents to show the variations in structure-property correlations and possible benefits. Those attempting to manufacture purported natural or green surfactant with innovative and valuable qualities can benefit from an understanding of biosurfactant features structured along the same principles. The uniqueness of this review article is the detailed physico-chemical study of the sophorolipid biosurfactant and how these properties helps in their usage and detailed explicit study of their applications in the current scenario and also covering their pros and cons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Srija Pal
- Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, Food and Nutrition Division, University of Calcutta, 20B Judges Court Road, Kolkata 700027, West Bengal, India
| | - Niloy Chatterjee
- Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, Food and Nutrition Division, University of Calcutta, 20B Judges Court Road, Kolkata 700027, West Bengal, India; Centre for Research in Nanoscience & Nanotechnology, University of Calcutta, JD 2, Sector III, Salt Lake City, Kolkata 700 098, West Bengal, India
| | - Arun K Das
- Eastern Regional Station, ICAR-IVRI, 37 Belgachia Road, Kolkata 700037, West Bengal, India
| | - David Julian McClements
- Department of Food Science, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA 01003, USA; Department of Food Science & Bioengineering, Zhejiang Gongshang University, 18 Xuezheng Street, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310018, China
| | - Pubali Dhar
- Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, Food and Nutrition Division, University of Calcutta, 20B Judges Court Road, Kolkata 700027, West Bengal, India; Centre for Research in Nanoscience & Nanotechnology, University of Calcutta, JD 2, Sector III, Salt Lake City, Kolkata 700 098, West Bengal, India.
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Wakade RS, Ristow LC, Wellington M, Krysan DJ. Intravital imaging-based genetic screen reveals the transcriptional network governing Candida albicans filamentation during mammalian infection. eLife 2023; 12:e85114. [PMID: 36847358 PMCID: PMC9995110 DOI: 10.7554/elife.85114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 02/26/2023] [Indexed: 03/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Candida albicans is one of the most common human fungal pathogens. C. albicans pathogenesis is tightly linked to its ability to under a morphogenetic transition from typically budding yeast to filamentous forms of hyphae and pseudohyphae. Filamentous morphogenesis is the most intensively studied C. albicans virulence traits; however, nearly all of these studies have been based on in vitro induction of filamentation. Using an intravital imaging assay of filamentation during mammalian (mouse) infection, we have screened a library of transcription factor mutants to identify those that modulate both the initiation and maintenance of filamentation in vivo. We coupled this initial screen with genetic interaction analysis and in vivo transcription profiling to characterize the transcription factor network governing filamentation in infected mammalian tissue. Three core positive (Efg1, Brg1, and Rob1) and two core negative regulators (Nrg1 and Tup1) of filament initiation were identified. No previous systematic analysis of genes affecting the elongation step has been reported and we found that large set of transcription factors affect filament elongation in vivo including four (Hms1, Lys14, War1, Dal81) with no effect on in vitro elongation. We also show that the gene targets of initiation and elongation regulators are distinct. Genetic interaction analysis of the core positive and negative regulators revealed that the master regulator Efg1 primarily functions to mediate relief of Nrg1 repression and is dispensable for expression of hypha-associated genes in vitro and in vivo. Thus, our analysis not only provide the first characterization of the transcriptional network governing C. albicans filamentation in vivo but also revealed a fundamentally new mode of function for Efg1, one of the most widely studied C. albicans transcription factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rohan S Wakade
- Department of Pediatrics, Carver College of Medicine, University of IowaIowa CityUnited States
| | - Laura C Ristow
- Department of Pediatrics, Carver College of Medicine, University of IowaIowa CityUnited States
| | - Melanie Wellington
- Department of Pediatrics, Carver College of Medicine, University of IowaIowa CityUnited States
| | - Damian J Krysan
- Department of Pediatrics, Carver College of Medicine, University of IowaIowa CityUnited States
- Departments of Microbiology and Immunology, Carver College of Medicine, University of IowaIowa CityUnited States
- Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Carver College of Medicine, University of IowaIowa CityUnited States
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Sedono R, Adisasmita A, Djuwita R, Sjaaf A, Nadjib M, Syarif S, Alisjahbana B, Karuniawati A, Wahyuningsih R. Risk Factors for development of invasive candidiasis in critically ill patients: A prospective observational study in intensive care unit of a tertiary hospital. BALI JOURNAL OF ANESTHESIOLOGY 2023. [DOI: 10.4103/bjoa.bjoa_255_22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
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Khan A, Moni SS, Ali M, Mohan S, Jan H, Rasool S, Kamal MA, Alshahrani S, Halawi M, Alhazmi HA. Antifungal Activity of Plant Secondary Metabolites on Candida albicans: An Updated Review. Curr Mol Pharmacol 2023; 16:15-42. [PMID: 35249516 DOI: 10.2174/1874467215666220304143332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2021] [Revised: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Fungal infections have been increasing continuously worldwide, especially in immunocompromised individuals. Fungi, regarded as eukaryotic pathogens, have many similarities to the host cells, which inhibit anti-fungal drug development progress. Various fungal model systems have been studied, and it was concluded that Candida spp. is the most common disease-causing fungus. Candida species are well known to cause infections not only in our mouth, skin, and vagina, but they are also a frequent cause of life-threatening hospital bloodstream infections. The morphological and developmental pathways of Candida have been studied extensively, providing insight into the fungus development. Candida albicans is known to be the most pathogenic species responsible for a variety of infections in humans. Conventional anti-fungal drugs, mainly azoles drugs available in the market, have been used for years developing resistance in C. albicans. Hence, the production of new anti-fungal drugs, which require detailed molecular knowledge of fungal pathogenesis, needs to be encouraged. Therefore, this review targets the new approach of "Green Medicines" or the phytochemicals and their secondary metabolites as a source of novel anti-fungal agents to overcome the drug resistance of C. albicans, their mechanism of action, and their combined effects with the available anti-fungal drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andleeb Khan
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Jazan University, Jazan, 45142, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - M Ali
- Department of Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, Jazan University, Jazan, 45142, Saudi Arabia
| | - Syam Mohan
- Substance Abuse and Toxicology Research Center, Jazan University, Jazan, 45142, Saudi Arabia
- School of Health Sciences, University of Petroleum and Energy Studies, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Huma Jan
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, University of Kashmir, Hazratbal, Srinagar -190006, J&K, India
| | - Saiema Rasool
- Department of School Education, Govt. of Jammu & Kashmir, Srinagar, 190001 J&K, India
| | - Mohammad A Kamal
- Institutes for Systems Genetics, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, Sichuan, China
- King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, P. O. Box 80216, Jeddah 21589. Saudi Arabia
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Daffodil International University, Dhaka 1207, Bangladesh
- Enzymoics, 7 Peterlee place, Hebersham, NSW 2770; Novel Global Community Educational Foundation, Australia
| | - Saeed Alshahrani
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Jazan University, Jazan, 45142, Saudi Arabia
| | - Maryam Halawi
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Jazan University, Jazan, 45142, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hassan A Alhazmi
- Substance Abuse and Toxicology Research Center, Jazan University, Jazan, 45142, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, Jazan University, Jazan, 45142, Saudi Arabia
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Guo M, Yang K, Zhou Z, Chen Y, Zhou Z, Chen P, Huang R, Wang X. Inhibitory effects of Stevioside on Streptococcus mutans and Candida albicans dual-species biofilm. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1128668. [PMID: 37089575 PMCID: PMC10113668 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1128668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Streptococcus mutans is the most prevalent biofilm-forming pathogen in dental caries, while Candida albicans is often detected in the presence of S. mutans. Methods We aimed to evaluate the anti-caries effect of stevioside in medium trypticase soy broth (TSB) with or without sucrose supplementation compared with the same sweetness sucrose and xylitol in a dual-species model of S. mutans and C. albicans, based on planktonic growth, crystal violet assay, acid production, biofilm structural imaging, confocal laser scanning microscopy, and RNA sequencing. Results Our results showed that compared with sucrose, stevioside significantly inhibited planktonic growth and acid production, changed the structure of the mixed biofilm, and reduced the viability of biofilm and the production of extracellular polysaccharides in dual-species biofilm. Through RNA-seq, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway impact analysis showed that stevioside decreased sucrose metabolism and increased galactose and intracellular polysaccharide metabolism in S. mutans, and decreased genes related to GPI-modified proteins and secreted aspartyl proteinase (SAP) family in C. albicans. In contrast to xylitol, stevioside also inhibited the transformation of fungal morphology of C. albicans, which did not form mycelia and thus had reduced pathogenicity. Stevioside revealed a superior suppression of dual-species biofilm formation compared to sucrose and a similar anti-caries effect with xylitol. However, sucrose supplementation diminished the suppression of stevioside on S. mutans and C. albicans. Conclusions Our study is the first to confirm that stevioside has anticariogenic effects on S. mutans and C. albicans in a dual-species biofilm. As a substitute for sucrose, it may help reduce the risk of developing dental caries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingzhu Guo
- Key Laboratory of Military Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Department of Pediatric Dentistry, School of Stomatology, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Kuan Yang
- Department of Orthodontics, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
- School of Stomatology, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Zhifei Zhou
- Department of Stomatology, General Hospital of Tibet Military Region, Chinese People’s Liberation Army, Lhasa, Tibet, China
| | - Yujiang Chen
- Key Laboratory of Military Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Department of Pediatric Dentistry, School of Stomatology, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Ziye Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Military Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Department of Pediatric Dentistry, School of Stomatology, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Peng Chen
- Key Laboratory of Military Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Department of Pediatric Dentistry, School of Stomatology, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Ruizhe Huang
- Department of Oral Prevention, College of Stomatology, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
- *Correspondence: Ruizhe Huang,
| | - Xiaojing Wang
- Key Laboratory of Military Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Department of Pediatric Dentistry, School of Stomatology, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
- Xiaojing Wang,
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Zeng G, Neo SP, Pang LM, Gao J, Chong SC, Gunaratne J, Wang Y. Comprehensive Interactome Analysis for the Sole Adenylyl Cyclase Cyr1 of Candida albicans. Microbiol Spectr 2022; 10:e0393422. [PMID: 36314909 PMCID: PMC9769623 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.03934-22] [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: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Cyr1, the sole adenylyl cyclase of the fungal pathogen Candida albicans, is a central component of the cAMP/protein kinase A signaling pathway that controls the yeast-to-hypha transition. Cyr1 is a multivalent sensor and integrator of various external and internal signals. To better understand how these signals are relayed to Cyr1 to regulate its activity, we sought to establish the interactome of Cyr1 by using stable isotope labeling by amino acids in cell culture (SILAC)-based quantitative proteomics to identify the proteins that coimmunoprecipitated with Cyr1. The method identified 36 proteins as candidates for authentic Cyr1-interacting partners, together with two known Cyr1-binding proteins, Cap1 and Act1. Fourteen identified proteins belonged to three functional groups, including actin regulation, cell wall components, and mitochondrial activities, that are known to play important roles in cell morphogenesis. To validate the proteomics data, we used biochemical and genetic methods to characterize two cell wall-related proteins, Mp65 and Sln1. First, coimmunoprecipitation confirmed their physical association with Cyr1. Second, deleting either MP65 or SLN1 resulted in severe defects in filamentation on serum plates. This study establishes the first Cyr1 interactome and uncovers a potential role for cell wall proteins in directly regulating Cyr1 activity to determine growth forms in C. albicans. IMPORTANCE A critical virulence trait of the human fungal pathogen Candida albicans is its ability to undergo the yeast-to-hypha transition in response to diverse environmental and cellular stimuli. Previous studies suggested that the sole adenylyl cyclase of C. albicans, Cyr1, is a multivalent signal sensor and integrator synthesizing cAMP to activate the downstream hypha-promoting events through the cAMP/protein kinase A pathway. To fully understand how Cyr1 senses and processes multiple stimuli to generate appropriate signal outputs, it was necessary to identify and characterize Cyr1-interacting partners. This study employed SILAC-based quantitative proteomic approaches and identified 36 Cyr1-associated proteins, many having functions associated with hyphal morphogenesis. Coimmunoprecipitation verified two cell surface proteins, Mp65 and Sln1. Furthermore, genetic and phenotypic analyses demonstrated the cAMP-dependent roles of these two proteins in determining hyphal growth. Our study establishes the first Cyr1 interactome and uncovers new Cyr1 regulators that mediate cell surface signals to influence the growth mode of C. albicans.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Suat Peng Neo
- Quantitative Proteomics Group, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Singapore
| | | | | | | | - Jayantha Gunaratne
- Quantitative Proteomics Group, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Singapore
- Department of Anatomy, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Yue Wang
- Infectious Diseases Labs, Singapore
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
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Lupish B, Hall J, Schwartz C, Ramesh A, Morrison C, Wheeldon I. Genome-wide CRISPR-Cas9 screen reveals a persistent null-hyphal phenotype that maintains high carotenoid production in Yarrowia lipolytica. Biotechnol Bioeng 2022; 119:3623-3631. [PMID: 36042688 PMCID: PMC9825908 DOI: 10.1002/bit.28219] [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: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Yarrowia lipolytica is a metabolic engineering host of growing industrial interest due to its ability to metabolize hydrocarbons, fatty acids, glycerol, and other renewable carbon sources. This dimorphic yeast undergoes a stress-induced transition to a multicellular hyphal state, which can negatively impact biosynthetic activity, reduce oxygen and nutrient mass transfer in cell cultures, and increase culture viscosity. Identifying mutations that prevent the formation of hyphae would help alleviate the bioprocess challenges that they create. To this end, we conducted a genome-wide CRISPR screen to identify genetic knockouts that prevent the transition to hyphal morphology. The screen identified five mutants with a null-hyphal phenotype-ΔRAS2, ΔRHO5, ΔSFL1, ΔSNF2, and ΔPAXIP1. Of these hits, only ΔRAS2 suppressed hyphal formation in an engineered lycopene production strain over a multiday culture. The RAS2 knockout was also the only genetic disruption characterized that did not affect lycopene production, producing more than 5 mg L-1 OD-1 from a heterologous pathway with enhanced carbon flux through the mevalonate pathway. These data suggest that a ΔRAS2 mutant of Y. lipolytica could prove useful in engineering a metabolic engineering host of the production of carotenoids and other biochemicals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian Lupish
- Department of BioengineeringUniversity of CaliforniaRiversideCaliforniaUSA
| | - Jordan Hall
- Department of Chemical and Environmental EngineeringUniversity of CaliforniaRiversideCaliforniaUSA
| | - Cory Schwartz
- Department of Chemical and Environmental EngineeringUniversity of CaliforniaRiversideCaliforniaUSA,Present address:
iBio Inc.San DiegoCaliforniaUSA
| | - Adithya Ramesh
- Department of Chemical and Environmental EngineeringUniversity of CaliforniaRiversideCaliforniaUSA
| | - Clifford Morrison
- Department of Chemical and Environmental EngineeringUniversity of CaliforniaRiversideCaliforniaUSA
| | - Ian Wheeldon
- Department of Chemical and Environmental EngineeringUniversity of CaliforniaRiversideCaliforniaUSA,Center for Industrial BiotechnologyUniversity of CaliforniaRiversideCaliforniaUSA
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