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Xie C, Yang L, Jia G, Yan K, Zhang S, Yang G, Wu C, Gai Y, Zheng C, Huang J. Maize HEAT UP-REGULATED GENE 1 plays vital roles in heat stress tolerance. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL BOTANY 2022; 73:6417-6433. [PMID: 35709944 DOI: 10.1093/jxb/erac262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Increasing temperature is one of the major threats to maize growth and yield globally. Under heat stress conditions, intracellular protein homeostasis is seriously disturbed, leading to accumulation of abnormally folded proteins, especially in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). Molecular chaperones are vital players in the renaturation process and in preventing protein aggregation. However, heat stress tolerance-associated chaperones are not well documented in maize. Here, we characterized the biological roles of HEAT UP-REGULATED GENE 1 (ZmHUG1) in maize. ZmHUG1 encodes a heat-inducible holdase-type molecular chaperone localized in the ER. Knockout mutant of ZmHUG1 exhibited remarkably enhanced sensitivity to heat stress. Accordingly, the zmhug1 mutant showed severe ER stress under high temperature. MAIZE PRENYLATED RAB ACCEPTOR 1.C1 (ZmPRA1.C1) was identified as a client of ZmHUG1, and heat-induced aggregation of ZmPRA1.C1 was accelerated in the zmhug1 mutant. Furthermore, the expression of ZmHUG1 was rapidly transactivated by ER stress sensor BASIC LEUCINE ZIPPER DOMAIN 60 (bZIP60) when heat stress occurred. This study reveals a ZmHUG1-based thermo-protective mechanism in maize.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Biology, College of Life Sciences, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an, Shandong, China
| | - Liu Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Biology, College of Life Sciences, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an, Shandong, China
| | - Guixian Jia
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Biology, College of Life Sciences, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an, Shandong, China
| | - Kang Yan
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Biology, College of Life Sciences, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an, Shandong, China
| | - Shizhong Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Biology, College of Life Sciences, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an, Shandong, China
| | - Guodong Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Biology, College of Life Sciences, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an, Shandong, China
| | - Changai Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Biology, College of Life Sciences, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an, Shandong, China
| | - Yingping Gai
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Biology, College of Life Sciences, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an, Shandong, China
| | - Chengchao Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Biology, College of Life Sciences, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an, Shandong, China
| | - Jinguang Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Biology, College of Life Sciences, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an, Shandong, China
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Fardella PA, Tian Z, Clarke BB, Belanger FC. The Epichloë festucae Antifungal Protein Efe-AfpA Protects Creeping Bentgrass ( Agrostis stolonifera) from the Plant Pathogen Clarireedia jacksonii, the Causal Agent of Dollar Spot Disease. J Fungi (Basel) 2022; 8:jof8101097. [PMID: 36294663 PMCID: PMC9605492 DOI: 10.3390/jof8101097] [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: 09/20/2022] [Revised: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Dollar spot disease, caused by the fungal pathogen Clarireedia jacksonii, is a major problem in many turfgrass species, particularly creeping bentgrass (Agrostis stolonifera). It is well-established that strong creeping red fescue (Festuca rubra subsp. rubra) exhibits good dollar spot resistance when infected by the fungal endophyte Epichloë festucae. This endophyte-mediated disease resistance is unique to the fine fescues and has not been observed in other grass species infected with other Epichloë spp. The mechanism underlying the unique endophyte-mediated disease resistance in strong creeping red fescue has not yet been established. We pursued the possibility that it may be due to the presence of an abundant secreted antifungal protein produced by E. festucae. Here, we compare the activity of the antifungal protein expressed in Escherichia coli, Pichia pastoris, and Penicillium chrysogenum. Active protein was recovered from all systems, with the best activity being from Pe. chrysogenum. In greenhouse assays, topical application of the purified antifungal protein to creeping bentgrass and endophyte-free strong creeping red fescue protected the plants from developing severe symptoms caused by C. jacksonii. These results support the hypothesis that Efe-AfpA is a major contributor to the dollar spot resistance observed with E. festucae-infected strong creeping red fescue in the field, and that this protein could be developed as an alternative or complement to fungicides for the management of this disease on turfgrasses.
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Holzknecht J, Dubrac S, Hedtrich S, Galgóczy L, Marx F. Small, Cationic Antifungal Proteins from Filamentous Fungi Inhibit Candida albicans Growth in 3D Skin Infection Models. Microbiol Spectr 2022; 10:e0029922. [PMID: 35499318 PMCID: PMC9241769 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.00299-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The emerging resistance of human-pathogenic fungi to antifungal drugs urges the development of alternative therapeutic strategies. The small, cationic antifungal proteins (AFPs) from filamentous ascomycetes represent promising candidates for next-generation antifungals. These bio-molecules need to be tested for tolerance in the host and efficacy against fungal pathogens before they can be safely applied in humans. Testing of the efficacy and possible adverse effects of new drug candidates in three-dimensional (3D) human-cell based models represents an advantageous alternative to animal experiments. In, this study, as a proof-of-principle, we demonstrate the usefulness of 3D skin infection models for screening new antifungal drug candidates for topical application. We established a cutaneous infection with the opportunistic human-pathogenic yeast Candida albicans in a commercially available 3D full-thickness (FT) skin model to test the curative potential of distinct AFPs from Penicillium chrysogenum (PAFopt, PAFB, and PAFC) and Neosartorya (Aspergillus) fischeri (NFAP2) in vitro. All tested AFPs were comparably well tolerated by the skin models. The infected 3D models exhibited reduced epidermal permeability barriers, allowing C. albicans to colonize the epidermal and dermal layers, and showed increased secretion of the pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-6 and the chemokine IL-8. AFP treatment diminished the fungal burden and penetration depth of C. albicans in the infected models. The epidermal permeability barrier was restored and the secretion of IL-8 was decreased following AFP treatment. In summary, our study proves that the tested AFPs exhibit antifungal potential against cutaneous C. albicans infection in a 3D FT skin model. IMPORTANCE Candida albicans represents one of the most prevalent opportunistic fungal pathogens, causing superficial skin and mucosal infections in humans with certain predisposing health conditions and life-threatening systemic infections in immunosuppressed patients. The emerging drug resistance of this human-pathogenic yeast and the limited number of antifungal drugs for prevention and treatment of infections urgently demands the identification of new antifungal compounds with novel mechanisms of action. Small, cationic antifungal proteins (AFPs) from filamentous fungi represent promising candidates for next-generation antifungals for topical application. These bio-molecules need to be tested for tolerance by the host and efficacy in pathogen clearance prior to being involved in clinical trials. In a proof-of-principle study, we provide evidence for the suitability of 3D human-cell based models as advantageous alternatives to animal experiments. We document the tolerance of specific AFPs and their curative efficacy against cutaneous C. albicans infection in a 3D skin model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeanett Holzknecht
- Biocenter, Institute of Molecular Biology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Sandrine Dubrac
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Sarah Hedtrich
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - László Galgóczy
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Science and Informatics, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
- Institute of Biochemistry, Biological Research Centre, Eötvös Loránd Research Network, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Florentine Marx
- Biocenter, Institute of Molecular Biology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
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Zamani E, Zargan J, Honari H, Hajizade A, Mohammadi AHN, Alikhani HK, Heidari A, Pour MH. Immunological detection of AcAMP antimicrobial peptide secreted by Aspergillus clavatus. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF MICROBIOLOGY 2021; 13:235-242. [PMID: 34540159 PMCID: PMC8408025 DOI: 10.18502/ijm.v13i2.5985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Aspergillus clavatus antimicrobial peptide (AcAMP) is a fungi-derived peptide with a broad spectrum of activity against pathogenic bacteria and fungi. Natural antimicrobial peptides, including AcAMP, have attracted many attentions in the development of new natural antibiotics against pathogenic bacteria, especially multidrug resistant ones. Materials and Methods: In the present study, acamp gene was codon-optimized and chemically synthesized in pUC57 cloning vector, subcloned into pET28a (+) expression vector and transferred into competent Escherichia coli BL21 (DE3) cells. The expression of AcAMP was induced by addition of Isopropyl β- d-1-thiogalactopyranoside (IPTG) and the expressed peptide was purified by Ni-NTA. BALB/c mice were immunized with the purified peptide and the ability of the immunized mice sera for the detection of the native AcAMP secreted by A. clavatus IRAN 142C was examined through ELISA and Western blotting techniques. Results: Both ELISA and Western blotting demonstrated the ability of the sera of the immunized mice to detect the native AcAMP. Conclusion: The results of the present work show that the raised antibody against recombinant AcAMP can be used to detect AcAMP peptide, an issue which paves the way to develop detection kits for the detection of AcAMP-producing organisms, purification of this valuable peptide for further investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ehsan Zamani
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Sciences, Imam Hossein University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Jamil Zargan
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Sciences, Imam Hossein University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hossein Honari
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Sciences, Imam Hossein University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Abbas Hajizade
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Sciences, Imam Hossein University, Tehran, Iran
| | | | | | - Ahmad Heidari
- Department of Agronomy and Plant Breeding, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Zanjan, Zanjan, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hossein Pour
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Sciences, Imam Hossein University, Tehran, Iran
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Moretta A, Scieuzo C, Petrone AM, Salvia R, Manniello MD, Franco A, Lucchetti D, Vassallo A, Vogel H, Sgambato A, Falabella P. Antimicrobial Peptides: A New Hope in Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Fields. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2021; 11:668632. [PMID: 34195099 PMCID: PMC8238046 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2021.668632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 185] [Impact Index Per Article: 61.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Antibiotics are essential drugs used to treat pathogenic bacteria, but their prolonged use contributes to the development and spread of drug-resistant microorganisms. Antibiotic resistance is a serious challenge and has led to the need for new alternative molecules less prone to bacterial resistance. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) have aroused great interest as potential next-generation antibiotics, since they are bioactive small proteins, naturally produced by all living organisms, and representing the first line of defense against fungi, viruses and bacteria. AMPs are commonly classified according to their sources, which are represented by microorganisms, plants and animals, as well as to their secondary structure, their biosynthesis and their mechanism of action. They find application in different fields such as agriculture, food industry and medicine, on which we focused our attention in this review. Particularly, we examined AMP potential applicability in wound healing, skin infections and metabolic syndrome, considering their ability to act as potential Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme I and pancreatic lipase inhibitory peptides as well as antioxidant peptides. Moreover, we argued about the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic approaches to develop new antibiotics, the drug development strategies and the formulation approaches which need to be taken into account in developing clinically suitable AMP applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Moretta
- Department of Sciences, University of Basilicata, Potenza, Italy
| | - Carmen Scieuzo
- Department of Sciences, University of Basilicata, Potenza, Italy
- Spinoff XFlies s.r.l, University of Basilicata, Potenza, Italy
| | | | - Rosanna Salvia
- Department of Sciences, University of Basilicata, Potenza, Italy
- Spinoff XFlies s.r.l, University of Basilicata, Potenza, Italy
| | | | - Antonio Franco
- Department of Sciences, University of Basilicata, Potenza, Italy
- Spinoff XFlies s.r.l, University of Basilicata, Potenza, Italy
| | - Donatella Lucchetti
- Department of Translational Medicine and Surgery, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Vassallo
- Department of Sciences, University of Basilicata, Potenza, Italy
| | - Heiko Vogel
- Department of Entomology, Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology, Jena, Germany
| | - Alessandro Sgambato
- Department of Translational Medicine and Surgery, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
- Centro di Riferimento Oncologico della Basilicata (IRCCS-CROB), Rionero in Vulture, Italy
| | - Patrizia Falabella
- Department of Sciences, University of Basilicata, Potenza, Italy
- Spinoff XFlies s.r.l, University of Basilicata, Potenza, Italy
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Czajlik A, Holzknecht J, Galgóczy L, Tóth L, Poór P, Ördög A, Váradi G, Kühbacher A, Borics A, Tóth GK, Marx F, Batta G. Solution Structure, Dynamics, and New Antifungal Aspects of the Cysteine-Rich Miniprotein PAFC. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:1183. [PMID: 33504082 PMCID: PMC7865535 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22031183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Revised: 01/18/2021] [Accepted: 01/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The genome of Penicillium chrysogenum Q176 contains a gene coding for the 88-amino-acid (aa)-long glycine- and cysteine-rich P. chrysogenum antifungal protein C (PAFC). After maturation, the secreted antifungal miniprotein (MP) comprises 64 aa and shares 80% aa identity with the bubble protein (BP) from Penicillium brevicompactum, which has a published X-ray structure. Our team expressed isotope (15N, 13C)-labeled, recombinant PAFC in high yields, which allowed us to determine the solution structure and molecular dynamics by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) experiments. The primary structure of PAFC is dominated by 14 glycines, and therefore, whether the four disulfide bonds can stabilize the fold is challenging. Indeed, unlike the few published solution structures of other antifungal MPs from filamentous ascomycetes, the NMR data indicate that PAFC has shorter secondary structure elements and lacks the typical β-barrel structure, though it has a positively charged cavity and a hydrophobic core around the disulfide bonds. Some parts within the two putative γ-core motifs exhibited enhanced dynamics according to a new disorder index presentation of 15N-NMR relaxation data. Furthermore, we also provided a more detailed insight into the antifungal spectrum of PAFC, with specific emphasis on fungal plant pathogens. Our results suggest that PAFC could be an effective candidate for the development of new antifungal strategies in agriculture.
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Affiliation(s)
- András Czajlik
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Debrecen, H-4032 Debrecen, Hungary;
| | - Jeanett Holzknecht
- Institute of Molecular Biology, Biocenter, Medical University of Innsbruck, A-6020 Innsbruck, Austria; (J.H.); (A.K.)
| | - László Galgóczy
- Institute of Plant Biology, Biological Research Centre, Eötvös Loránd Research Network, H-6726 Szeged, Hungary; (L.G.); (L.T.)
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Science and Informatics, University of Szeged, H-6726 Szeged, Hungary
| | - Liliána Tóth
- Institute of Plant Biology, Biological Research Centre, Eötvös Loránd Research Network, H-6726 Szeged, Hungary; (L.G.); (L.T.)
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Science and Informatics, University of Szeged, H-6726 Szeged, Hungary
| | - Péter Poór
- Department of Plant Biology, Faculty of Sciences and Informatics, University of Szeged, H-6726 Szeged, Hungary; (P.P.); (A.Ö.)
| | - Attila Ördög
- Department of Plant Biology, Faculty of Sciences and Informatics, University of Szeged, H-6726 Szeged, Hungary; (P.P.); (A.Ö.)
| | - Györgyi Váradi
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Szeged, H-6720 Szeged, Hungary; (G.V.); (G.K.T.)
| | - Alexander Kühbacher
- Institute of Molecular Biology, Biocenter, Medical University of Innsbruck, A-6020 Innsbruck, Austria; (J.H.); (A.K.)
| | - Attila Borics
- Institute of Biochemistry, Biological Research Centre, Eötvös Loránd Research Network, H-6726 Szeged, Hungary;
| | - Gábor K. Tóth
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Szeged, H-6720 Szeged, Hungary; (G.V.); (G.K.T.)
- MTA-SZTE Biomimetic Systems Research Group, University of Szeged, Dóm tér 8, H-6720 Szeged, Hungary
| | - Florentine Marx
- Institute of Molecular Biology, Biocenter, Medical University of Innsbruck, A-6020 Innsbruck, Austria; (J.H.); (A.K.)
| | - Gyula Batta
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Debrecen, H-4032 Debrecen, Hungary;
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7
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Tóth L, Váradi G, Boros É, Borics A, Ficze H, Nagy I, Tóth GK, Rákhely G, Marx F, Galgóczy L. Biofungicidal Potential of Neosartorya ( Aspergillus) Fischeri Antifungal Protein NFAP and Novel Synthetic γ-Core Peptides. Front Microbiol 2020; 11:820. [PMID: 32477291 PMCID: PMC7237641 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2020.00820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2020] [Accepted: 04/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Because of enormous crop losses worldwide due to pesticide-resistant plant pathogenic fungi, there is an increasing demand for the development of novel antifungal strategies in agriculture. Antifungal proteins (APs) and peptides are considered potential biofungicides; however, several factors limit their direct agricultural application, such as the high cost of production, narrow antifungal spectrum, and detrimental effects to plant development and human/animal health. This study evaluated the safety of the application of APs and peptides from the ascomycete Neosartorya fischeri as crop preservatives. The full-length N. fischeri AP (NFAP) and novel rationally designed γ-core peptide derivatives (PDs) γNFAP-opt and γNFAP-optGZ exhibited efficacy by inhibiting the growth of the agriculturally relevant filamentous ascomycetes in vitro. A high positive net charge, however, neither the hydrophilicity nor the primary structure supported the antifungal efficacy of these PDs. Further testing demonstrated that the antifungal activity did not require a conformational change of the β-pleated NFAP or the canonically ordered conformation of the synthetic PDs. Neither hemolysis nor cytotoxicity was observed when the NFAP and γNFAP-opt were applied at antifungally effective concentrations in human cell lines. Similarly, the Medicago truncatula plants that served as toxicity model and were grown from seedlings that were treated with NFAP, γNFAP-opt, or γNFAP-optGZ failed to exhibit morphological aberrations, reduction in primary root length, or the number of lateral roots. Crop protection experiments demonstrated that NFAP and associated antifungal active γ-core PDs were able to protect tomato fruits against the postharvest fungal pathogen Cladosporium herbarum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liliána Tóth
- Institute of Plant Biology, Biological Research Centre, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Györgyi Váradi
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Éva Boros
- Institute of Biochemistry, Biological Research Centre, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Attila Borics
- Institute of Biochemistry, Biological Research Centre, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Hargita Ficze
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Science and Informatics, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - István Nagy
- Institute of Biochemistry, Biological Research Centre, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Gábor K. Tóth
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
- MTA-SZTE Biomimetic Systems Research Group, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Gábor Rákhely
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Science and Informatics, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
- Institute of Biophysics, Biological Research Centre, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Florentine Marx
- Institute of Molecular Biology, Biocenter, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - László Galgóczy
- Institute of Plant Biology, Biological Research Centre, Szeged, Hungary
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Science and Informatics, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
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Two small, cysteine-rich and cationic antifungal proteins from Penicillium chrysogenum: A comparative study of PAF and PAFB. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-BIOMEMBRANES 2020; 1862:183246. [PMID: 32142818 PMCID: PMC7138148 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamem.2020.183246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2019] [Revised: 02/06/2020] [Accepted: 02/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The filamentous fungus Penicillium chrysogenum Q176 secretes the antimicrobial proteins (AMPs) PAF and PAFB, which share a compact disulfide-bond mediated, β-fold structure rendering them highly stable. These two AMPs effectively inhibit the growth of human pathogenic fungi in micromolar concentrations and exhibit antiviral potential without causing cytotoxic effects on mammalian cells in vitro and in vivo. The antifungal mechanism of action of both AMPs is closely linked to - but not solely dependent on - the lipid composition of the fungal cell membrane and requires a strictly regulated protein uptake into the cell, indicating that PAF and PAFB are not canonical membrane active proteins. Variations in their antifungal spectrum and their killing dynamics point towards a divergent mode of action related to their physicochemical properties and surface charge distribution. In this review, we relate characteristic features of PAF and PAFB to the current knowledge about other AMPs of different sources. In addition, we present original data that have never been published before to substantiate our assumptions and provide evidences that help to explain and understand better the mechanistic function of PAF and PAFB. Finally, we underline the promising potential of PAF and PAFB as future antifungal therapeutics. Penicillium chrysogenum secretes the small, cysteine-rich proteins PAF and PAFB. Both exhibit antifungal activity, but with differences in their mode of action. Structure, membrane interaction and cellular uptake determine their function. PAF and PAFB are well tolerated by mammalian cells. They promise applicability in medicine, plant protection and food industry.
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9
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Galgóczy L, Yap A, Marx F. Cysteine-Rich Antifungal Proteins from Filamentous Fungi are Promising Bioactive Natural Compounds in Anti- Candida Therapy. Isr J Chem 2019; 59:360-370. [PMID: 31680702 PMCID: PMC6813639 DOI: 10.1002/ijch.201800168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2018] [Accepted: 01/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The emerging number of life-threatening invasive fungal infections caused by drug-resistant Candida strains urges the need for the development and application of fundamentally new and safe antifungal strategies in the clinical treatment. Recent studies demonstrated that the extracellular cysteine-rich and cationic antifungal proteins (crAFPs) originating from filamentous fungi, and de novo designed synthetic peptide derivatives of these crAFPs provide a feasible basis for this approach. This mini-review focuses on the global challenges of the anti-Canidia therapy and on the crAFPs as potential drug candidates to overcome existing problems. The advantages and limitations in the use of crAFPs and peptide derivatives compared to those of conventional antifungal drugs will also be critically discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- László Galgóczy
- Institute of Plant BiologyBiological Research CentreHungarian Academy of SciencesTemesvári krt. 62H-6726SzegedHungary
- Department of MicrobiologyFaculty of Science and InformaticsUniversity of SzegedKözép fasor 52H-6726SzegedHungary
| | - Annie Yap
- Division of Molecular BiologyBiocenterMedical University of InnsbruckInnrain 80–82A-6020InnsbruckAustria
| | - Florentine Marx
- Division of Molecular BiologyBiocenterMedical University of InnsbruckInnrain 80–82A-6020InnsbruckAustria
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10
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Alex JM, Rennie ML, Engilberge S, Lehoczki G, Dorottya H, Fizil Á, Batta G, Crowley PB. Calixarene-mediated assembly of a small antifungal protein. IUCRJ 2019; 6:238-247. [PMID: 30867921 PMCID: PMC6400181 DOI: 10.1107/s2052252519000411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2018] [Accepted: 01/08/2019] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Synthetic macrocycles such as calixarenes and cucurbiturils are increasingly applied as mediators of protein assembly and crystallization. The macrocycle can facilitate assembly by providing a surface on which two or more proteins bind simultaneously. This work explores the capacity of the sulfonato-calix[n]arene (sclx n ) series to effect crystallization of PAF, a small, cationic antifungal protein. Co-crystallization with sclx4, sclx6 or sclx8 led to high-resolution crystal structures. In the absence of sclx n , diffraction-quality crystals of PAF were not obtained. Interestingly, all three sclx n were bound to a similar patch on PAF. The largest and most flexible variant, sclx8, yielded a dimer of PAF. Complex formation was evident in solution via NMR and ITC experiments, showing more pronounced effects with increasing macrocycle size. In agreement with the crystal structure, the ITC data suggested that sclx8 acts as a bidentate ligand. The contributions of calixarene size/conformation to protein recognition and assembly are discussed. Finally, it is suggested that the conserved binding site for anionic calixarenes implicates this region of PAF in membrane binding, which is a prerequisite for antifungal activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jimi M. Alex
- School of Chemistry, National University of Ireland, University Road, Galway, Ireland
| | - Martin L. Rennie
- School of Chemistry, National University of Ireland, University Road, Galway, Ireland
| | - Sylvain Engilberge
- School of Chemistry, National University of Ireland, University Road, Galway, Ireland
| | - Gábor Lehoczki
- Institute of Chemistry, Centre of Arts, Humanities and Sciences, University of Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Hajdu Dorottya
- Institute of Chemistry, Centre of Arts, Humanities and Sciences, University of Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Ádám Fizil
- Institute of Chemistry, Centre of Arts, Humanities and Sciences, University of Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Gyula Batta
- Institute of Chemistry, Centre of Arts, Humanities and Sciences, University of Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Peter B. Crowley
- School of Chemistry, National University of Ireland, University Road, Galway, Ireland
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In Vivo Applicability of Neosartorya fischeri Antifungal Protein 2 (NFAP2) in Treatment of Vulvovaginal Candidiasis. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2019; 63:AAC.01777-18. [PMID: 30478163 DOI: 10.1128/aac.01777-18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2018] [Accepted: 11/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
As a consequence of emerging numbers of vulvovaginitis cases caused by azole-resistant and biofilm-forming Candida species, fast and efficient treatment of this infection has become challenging. The problem is further exacerbated by the severe side effects of azoles as long-term-use medications in the recurrent form. There is therefore an increasing demand for novel and safely applicable effective antifungal therapeutic strategies. The small, cysteine-rich, and cationic antifungal proteins from filamentous ascomycetes are potential candidates, as they inhibit the growth of several Candida spp. in vitro; however, no information is available about their in vivo antifungal potency against yeasts. In the present study, we investigated the possible therapeutic application of one of their representatives in the treatment of vulvovaginal candidiasis, Neosartorya fischeri antifungal protein 2 (NFAP2). NFAP2 inhibited the growth of a fluconazole (FLC)-resistant Candida albicans strain isolated from a vulvovaginal infection, and it was effective against both planktonic cells and biofilm in vitro We observed that the fungal cell-killing activity of NFAP2 is connected to its pore-forming ability in the cell membrane. NFAP2 did not exert cytotoxic effects on primary human keratinocytes and dermal fibroblasts at the MIC in vitro. In vivo murine vulvovaginitis model experiments showed that NFAP2 significantly decreases the number of FLC-resistant C. albicans cells, and combined application with FLC enhances the efficacy. These results suggest that NFAP2 provides a feasible base for the development of a fundamental new, safely applicable mono- or polytherapeutic topical agent for the treatment of superficial candidiasis.
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Galgóczy L, Marx F. Do Antimicrobial Proteins Contribute to Overcoming the Hidden Antifungal Crisis at the Dawn of a Post-Antibiotic Era? Microorganisms 2019; 7:microorganisms7010016. [PMID: 30641886 PMCID: PMC6352135 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms7010016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2019] [Accepted: 01/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- László Galgóczy
- Institute of Plant Biology, Biological Research Centre, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Temesvári krt. 62, H-6726 Szeged, Hungary.
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science and Informatics, University of Szeged, Közép fasor 52, H-6726 Szeged, Hungary.
| | - Florentine Marx
- Biocenter, Division of Molecular Biology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innrain 80-82, A-6020 Innsbruck, Austria.
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Leiter É, Csernoch L, Pócsi I. Programmed cell death in human pathogenic fungi - a possible therapeutic target. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2018; 22:1039-1048. [PMID: 30360667 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2018.1541087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Diseases caused by pathogenic fungi are increasing because of antibiotic overuse, the rise of immunosuppressive therapies, and climate change. The limited variety of antimycotics and the rapid adaptation of pathogenic fungi to antifungal agents serve to exacerbate this issue. Unfortunately, about 1.6 million people are killed by fungal infections annually. Areas covered: The discovery of the small antimicrobial proteins produced by microorganisms, animals, humans, and plants will hopefully overcome challenges in the treatment of fungal infections. These small proteins are highly stable and any resistance to them rarely evolves; therefore, they are potentially good candidates for the treatment and prevention of infections caused by pathogenic fungi. Some of these proteins target the programmed cell death machinery of pathogenic fungi; this is potentially a novel approach in antimycotic therapies. In this review, we highlight the elements of apoptosis in human pathogenic fungi and related model organisms and discuss the possible therapeutic potential of the apoptosis-inducing, small, antifungal proteins. Expert opinion: Small antimicrobial proteins may establish a new class of antimycotics in the future. The rarity of resistance and their synergistic effects with other frequently used antifungal agents may help pave the way for their use in the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Éva Leiter
- a Department of Biotechnology and Microbiology , University of Debrecen , Debrecen , Hungary
| | - László Csernoch
- b Department of Physiology , University of Debrecen , Debrecen , Hungary
| | - István Pócsi
- a Department of Biotechnology and Microbiology , University of Debrecen , Debrecen , Hungary
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14
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Kurucz V, Kiss B, Szigeti ZM, Nagy G, Orosz E, Hargitai Z, Harangi S, Wiebenga A, de Vries RP, Pócsi I, Emri T. Physiological background of the remarkably high Cd 2+ tolerance of the Aspergillus fumigatus Af293 strain. J Basic Microbiol 2018; 58:957-967. [PMID: 30168857 DOI: 10.1002/jobm.201800200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2018] [Revised: 07/11/2018] [Accepted: 07/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The physiological background of the unusually high cadmium tolerance (MIC50 > 2 mM) of Aspergillus fumigatus Af293 was investigated. The cadmium tolerance of the tested environmental and clinical A. fumigatus strains varied over a wide range (0.25 mM < MIC50 < 1 mM). Only the Af293 strain showed a MIC50 value of >2 mM, and this phenotype was accompanied by increased in vivo virulence in mice. A strong correlation was found between the cadmium tolerance and the transcription of the pcaA gene, which encodes a putative cadmium efflux pump. The cadmium tolerance also correlated with the iron tolerance and the extracellular siderophore production of the strains. In addition to these findings, Af293 did not show the synergism between iron toxicity and cadmium toxicity that was detected in the other strains. Based on these results, we suggest that the primary function of PcaA should be acting as a ferrous iron pump and protecting cells from iron overload. Nevertheless, the heterologous expression of pcaA may represent an attractive strain improvement strategy to construct fungal strains for use in biosorption or biomining processes or to prevent accumulation of this toxic metal in crops.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vivien Kurucz
- Department of Biotechnology and Microbiology, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Beáta Kiss
- Department of Biotechnology and Microbiology, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Zsuzsa M Szigeti
- Department of Biotechnology and Microbiology, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Gábor Nagy
- Department of Biotechnology and Microbiology, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Erzsébet Orosz
- Department of Biotechnology and Microbiology, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Zoltán Hargitai
- Department of Pathology, Kenézy Gyula County Hospital, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Sándor Harangi
- Department of Inorganic and Analytical Chemistry (Agilent Atomic Spectroscopy Partner Laboratory), Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Ad Wiebenga
- Fungal Physiology, CBS-KNAW Fungal Biodiversity Centre & Fungal Molecular Physiology, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Ronald P de Vries
- Fungal Physiology, CBS-KNAW Fungal Biodiversity Centre & Fungal Molecular Physiology, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - István Pócsi
- Department of Biotechnology and Microbiology, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Tamás Emri
- Department of Biotechnology and Microbiology, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
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15
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Banfalvi G. Improved and adopted murine models to combat pulmonary aspergillosis. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2018; 102:6865-6875. [DOI: 10.1007/s00253-018-9161-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2018] [Revised: 06/05/2018] [Accepted: 06/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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16
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Meyer V, Jung S. Antifungal Peptides of the AFP Family Revisited: Are These Cannibal Toxins? Microorganisms 2018; 6:microorganisms6020050. [PMID: 29865265 PMCID: PMC6027536 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms6020050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2018] [Revised: 05/24/2018] [Accepted: 05/28/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The emergence and spread of pathogenic fungi resistant to currently used antifungal drugs represents a serious challenge for medicine and agriculture. The use of smart antimicrobials, so-called “dirty drugs” which affect multiple cellular targets, is one strategy to prevent resistance. Of special interest is the exploitation of the AFP family of antimicrobial peptides, which include its founding member AFP from Aspergillus giganteus. This latter is a highly potent inhibitor of chitin synthesis and affects plasma membrane integrity in many human and plant pathogenic fungi. A transcriptomic meta-analysis of the afp-encoding genes in A. giganteus and A. niger predicts a role for these proteins during asexual sporulation, autophagy, and nutrient recycling, suggesting that AFPs are molecules important for the survival of A. niger and A. giganteus under nutrient limitation. In this review, we discuss parallels which exist between AFPs and bacterial cannibal toxins and provide arguments that the primary function of AFPs could be to kill genetically identical siblings. We hope that this review inspires computational and experimental biologists studying alternative explanations for the nature and function of antimicrobial peptides beyond the general assumption that they are mere defense molecules to fight competitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vera Meyer
- Department Applied and Molecular Microbiology, Technische Universität Berlin, Institute of Biotechnology, Gustav-Meyer-Allee 25, D-13355 Berlin, Germany.
| | - Sascha Jung
- Department Applied and Molecular Microbiology, Technische Universität Berlin, Institute of Biotechnology, Gustav-Meyer-Allee 25, D-13355 Berlin, Germany.
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Regulated Cell Death as a Therapeutic Target for Novel Antifungal Peptides and Biologics. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2018; 2018:5473817. [PMID: 29854086 PMCID: PMC5944218 DOI: 10.1155/2018/5473817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2017] [Accepted: 03/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The rise of microbial pathogens refractory to conventional antibiotics represents one of the most urgent and global public health concerns for the 21st century. Emergence of Candida auris isolates and the persistence of invasive mold infections that resist existing treatment and cause severe illness has underscored the threat of drug-resistant fungal infections. To meet these growing challenges, mechanistically novel agents and strategies are needed that surpass the conventional fungistatic or fungicidal drug actions. Host defense peptides have long been misunderstood as indiscriminant membrane detergents. However, evidence gathered over the past decade clearly points to their sophisticated and selective mechanisms of action, including exploiting regulated cell death pathways of their target pathogens. Such peptides perturb transmembrane potential and mitochondrial energetics, inducing phosphatidylserine accessibility and metacaspase activation in fungi. These mechanisms are often multimodal, affording target pathogens fewer resistance options as compared to traditional small molecule drugs. Here, recent advances in the field are examined regarding regulated cell death subroutines as potential therapeutic targets for innovative anti-infective peptides against pathogenic fungi. Furthering knowledge of protective host defense peptide interactions with target pathogens is key to advancing and applying novel prophylactic and therapeutic countermeasures to fungal resistance and pathogenesis.
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18
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Szigeti ZM, Talas L, Palicz Z, Szentesi P, Hargitai Z, Csernoch L, Balla J, Pocsi I, Banfalvi G, Szeman-Nagy G. Murine model to follow hyphal development in invasive pulmonary aspergillosis. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2018; 102:2817-2825. [PMID: 29423632 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-018-8800-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2017] [Revised: 01/17/2018] [Accepted: 01/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Aspergillus fumigatus is an opportunistic pathogen, the leading cause of invasive and disseminated aspergillosis in systemic immunocompromised patients, and an important cause of mortality. The aim of the present study was to adapt a pulmonary aspergillosis murine model, to determine pathodynamical parameters quantitatively, and to follow the progression of fungal infection in vivo. The nasal inoculation of Aspergillus conidia in mice previously subjected to immunosuppression with cyclophosphamide (CP) turned out to be a more suitable model than that of immunosuppressed with hydrocortisone (HC). The following parameters were found to correlate quantitatively with the progress of the infection: (i) survival rate, (ii) weight loss of mice, (iii) infected focal plaque size, (iv) hyphal density, (v) hyphal length distribution of A. fumigatus, and the (vi) the histopathological status and scores. These parameters will be essential elements for the development of antifungal drugs and therapies, and important for the investigation of the pathogenicity in different strains of A. fumigatus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zsuzsa M Szigeti
- Department of Biotechnology and Microbiology, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Debrecen, 1 Egyetem Square, Debrecen, H-4002, Hungary
| | - Laszlo Talas
- Department of Biotechnology and Microbiology, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Debrecen, 1 Egyetem Square, Debrecen, H-4002, Hungary
| | - Zoltan Palicz
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, H-4002, Hungary
| | - Peter Szentesi
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, H-4002, Hungary
| | - Zoltan Hargitai
- Department of Pathology, Kenezy Hospital, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, H-4031, Hungary
| | - Laszlo Csernoch
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, H-4002, Hungary
| | - Jozsef Balla
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, H-4002, Hungary
| | - Istvan Pocsi
- Department of Biotechnology and Microbiology, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Debrecen, 1 Egyetem Square, Debrecen, H-4002, Hungary
| | - Gaspar Banfalvi
- Department of Biotechnology and Microbiology, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Debrecen, 1 Egyetem Square, Debrecen, H-4002, Hungary.
| | - Gabor Szeman-Nagy
- Department of Biotechnology and Microbiology, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Debrecen, 1 Egyetem Square, Debrecen, H-4002, Hungary
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New Antimicrobial Potential and Structural Properties of PAFB: A Cationic, Cysteine-Rich Protein from Penicillium chrysogenum Q176. Sci Rep 2018; 8:1751. [PMID: 29379111 PMCID: PMC5788923 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-20002-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2017] [Accepted: 01/11/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Small, cysteine-rich and cationic proteins with antimicrobial activity are produced by diverse organisms of all kingdoms and represent promising molecules for drug development. The ancestor of all industrial penicillin producing strains, the ascomycete Penicillium chryosgenum Q176, secretes the extensively studied antifungal protein PAF. However, the genome of this strain harbours at least two more genes that code for other small, cysteine-rich and cationic proteins with potential antifungal activity. In this study, we characterized the pafB gene product that shows high similarity to PgAFP from P. chrysogenum R42C. Although abundant and timely regulated pafB gene transcripts were detected, we could not identify PAFB in the culture broth of P. chrysogenum Q176. Therefore, we applied a P. chrysogenum-based expression system to produce sufficient amounts of recombinant PAFB to address unanswered questions concerning the structure and antimicrobial function. Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR)-based analyses revealed a compact β-folded structure, comprising five β-strands connected by four solvent exposed and flexible loops and an “abcabc” disulphide bond pattern. We identified PAFB as an inhibitor of growth of human pathogenic moulds and yeasts. Furthermore, we document for the first time an anti-viral activity for two members of the small, cysteine-rich and cationic protein group from ascomycetes.
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