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Cheng KO, Montaño DE, Zelante T, Dietschmann A, Gresnigt MS. Inflammatory cytokine signalling in vulvovaginal candidiasis: a hot mess driving immunopathology. OXFORD OPEN IMMUNOLOGY 2024; 5:iqae010. [PMID: 39234208 PMCID: PMC11374039 DOI: 10.1093/oxfimm/iqae010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2024] [Revised: 07/09/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 09/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Protective immunity to opportunistic fungal infections consists of tightly regulated innate and adaptive immune responses that clear the infection. Immune responses to infections of the vaginal mucosa by Candida species are, however, an exception. In the case of vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC), the inflammatory response is associated with symptomatic disease, rather than that it results in pathogen clearance. As such VVC can be considered an inflammatory disease, which is a significant public health problem due to its predominance as a female-specific fungal infection. Particularly, women with recurrent VVC (RVVC) suffer from a significant negative impact on their quality of life and mental health. Knowledge of the inflammatory pathogenesis of (R)VVC may guide more effective diagnostic and therapeutic options to improve the quality of life of women with (R)VVC. Here, we review the immunopathogenesis of (R)VVC describing several elements that induce an inflammatory arson, starting with the activation threshold established by vaginal epithelial cells that prevent unnecessary ignition of inflammatory responses, epithelial and inflammasome-dependent immune responses. These inflammatory responses will drive neutrophil recruitment and dysfunctional neutrophil-mediated inflammation. We also review the, sometimes controversial, findings on the involvement of adaptive and systemic responses. Finally, we provide future perspectives on the potential of some unexplored cytokine axes and discuss whether VVC needs to be subdivided into subgroups to improve diagnosis and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kar On Cheng
- Junior Research Group Adaptive Pathogenicity Strategies, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology, Hans Knöll Institute (Leibniz-HKI), Beutenbergstraße 11a, Jena, 07749, Germany
| | - Dolly E Montaño
- Junior Research Group Adaptive Pathogenicity Strategies, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology, Hans Knöll Institute (Leibniz-HKI), Beutenbergstraße 11a, Jena, 07749, Germany
| | - Teresa Zelante
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, Piazza Lucio Severi 1, Perugia, 06132, Italy
| | - Axel Dietschmann
- Junior Research Group Adaptive Pathogenicity Strategies, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology, Hans Knöll Institute (Leibniz-HKI), Beutenbergstraße 11a, Jena, 07749, Germany
| | - Mark S Gresnigt
- Junior Research Group Adaptive Pathogenicity Strategies, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology, Hans Knöll Institute (Leibniz-HKI), Beutenbergstraße 11a, Jena, 07749, Germany
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2
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Isidoro-Ayza M, Lorch JM, Klein BS. The skin I live in: Pathogenesis of white-nose syndrome of bats. PLoS Pathog 2024; 20:e1012342. [PMID: 39207947 PMCID: PMC11361426 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1012342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
The emergence of white-nose syndrome (WNS) in North America has resulted in mass mortalities of hibernating bats and total extirpation of local populations. The need to mitigate this disease has stirred a significant body of research to understand its pathogenesis. Pseudogymnoascus destructans, the causative agent of WNS, is a psychrophilic (cold-loving) fungus that resides within the class Leotiomycetes, which contains mainly plant pathogens and is unrelated to other consequential pathogens of animals. In this review, we revisit the unique biology of hibernating bats and P. destructans and provide an updated analysis of the stages and mechanisms of WNS progression. The extreme life history of hibernating bats, the psychrophilic nature of P. destructans, and its evolutionary distance from other well-characterized animal-infecting fungi translate into unique host-pathogen interactions, many of them yet to be discovered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcos Isidoro-Ayza
- Department of Pediatrics, Medicine and Medical Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America
| | - Jeffrey M. Lorch
- U.S. Geological Survey, National Wildlife Health Center, Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America
| | - Bruce S. Klein
- Department of Pediatrics, Medicine and Medical Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America
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3
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Zhou X, Chen X, Pan Q, Wang S, Li J, Yang Y. Exploring the role of candidalysin in the pathogenicity of Candida albicans by gene set enrichment analysis and evolutionary dynamics. Am J Transl Res 2024; 16:3191-3210. [PMID: 39114682 PMCID: PMC11301511 DOI: 10.62347/izym9087] [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: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024]
Abstract
AIMS To explore the pathogenic mechanisms of Candida albicans (C. albicans), focusing on its impact on human health, particularly through invasive infections in the gastrointestinal and respiratory tracts. METHODS In this study, we evaluated the demographic and clinical profiles of 7 pneumonia patients. Meanwhile, we used Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) and Evolutionary Dynamics method to analyze the role of candidalysin in C. albicans pathogenicity. RESULTS By analyzing genomic data and conducting biomedical text mining, we identified novel mutation sites in the candidalysin coding gene ECE1-III, shedding light into the genetic diversity within C. albicans strains and their potential implications for antifungal resistance. Our results revealed significant associations between C. albicans and respiratory as well as gastrointestinal diseases, emphasizing the fungus's role in the pathogenesis of these diseases. Additionally, we identified a new mutation site in the C. albicans strain YF2-5, isolated from patients with pneumonia. This mutation may be associated with its heightened pathogenicity. CONCLUSION Our research advances the understanding of C. albicans pathogenicity and opens new avenues for developing targeted antifungal therapies. By focusing on the molecular basis of fungal virulence, we aim to contribute to the development of more effective treatment strategies, addressing the challenge of multidrug resistance in invasive fungal infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xingchen Zhou
- Bioinformatics Center of AMMS, Beijing Key Laboratory of New Molecular Diagnosis Technologies for Infectious DiseasesBeijing 100850, China
| | - Xiaolin Chen
- Sir Run Run Hospital, Nanjing Medical UniversityNanjing 210009, Jiangsu, China
| | - Qianglong Pan
- Sir Run Run Hospital, Nanjing Medical UniversityNanjing 210009, Jiangsu, China
| | - Shengqi Wang
- Bioinformatics Center of AMMS, Beijing Key Laboratory of New Molecular Diagnosis Technologies for Infectious DiseasesBeijing 100850, China
| | - Jing Li
- School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical UniversityNanjing 210009, Jiangsu, China
| | - Ying Yang
- Bioinformatics Center of AMMS, Beijing Key Laboratory of New Molecular Diagnosis Technologies for Infectious DiseasesBeijing 100850, China
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4
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Isidoro-Ayza M, Klein BS. Pathogenic strategies of Pseudogymnoascus destructans during torpor and arousal of hibernating bats. Science 2024; 385:194-200. [PMID: 38991070 DOI: 10.1126/science.adn5606] [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: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024]
Abstract
Millions of hibernating bats across North America have died from white-nose syndrome (WNS), an emerging disease caused by a psychrophilic (cold-loving) fungus, Pseudogymnoascus destructans, that invades their skin. Mechanisms of P. destructans invasion of bat epidermis remain obscure. Guided by our in vivo observations, we modeled hibernation with a newly generated little brown bat (Myotis lucifugus) keratinocyte cell line. We uncovered the stealth intracellular lifestyle of P. destructans, which inhibits apoptosis of keratinocytes and spreads through the cells by two epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-dependent mechanisms: active penetration during torpor and induced endocytosis during arousal. Melanin of endocytosed P. destructans blocks endolysosomal maturation, facilitating P. destructans survival and germination after return to torpor. Blockade of EGFR aborts P. destructans entry into keratinocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcos Isidoro-Ayza
- Department of Pediatrics, Medicine and Medical Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Bruce S Klein
- Department of Pediatrics, Medicine and Medical Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
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5
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Katsipoulaki M, Stappers MHT, Malavia-Jones D, Brunke S, Hube B, Gow NAR. Candida albicans and Candida glabrata: global priority pathogens. Microbiol Mol Biol Rev 2024; 88:e0002123. [PMID: 38832801 PMCID: PMC11332356 DOI: 10.1128/mmbr.00021-23] [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] [Indexed: 06/05/2024] Open
Abstract
SUMMARYA significant increase in the incidence of Candida-mediated infections has been observed in the last decade, mainly due to rising numbers of susceptible individuals. Recently, the World Health Organization published its first fungal pathogen priority list, with Candida species listed in medium, high, and critical priority categories. This review is a synthesis of information and recent advances in our understanding of two of these species-Candida albicans and Candida glabrata. Of these, C. albicans is the most common cause of candidemia around the world and is categorized as a critical priority pathogen. C. glabrata is considered a high-priority pathogen and has become an increasingly important cause of candidemia in recent years. It is now the second most common causative agent of candidemia in many geographical regions. Despite their differences and phylogenetic divergence, they are successful as pathogens and commensals of humans. Both species can cause a broad variety of infections, ranging from superficial to potentially lethal systemic infections. While they share similarities in certain infection strategies, including tissue adhesion and invasion, they differ significantly in key aspects of their biology, interaction with immune cells, host damage strategies, and metabolic adaptations. Here we provide insights on key aspects of their biology, epidemiology, commensal and pathogenic lifestyles, interactions with the immune system, and antifungal resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Myrto Katsipoulaki
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Hans Knoell Institute, Jena, Germany
| | - Mark H. T. Stappers
- MRC Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Dhara Malavia-Jones
- MRC Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Sascha Brunke
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Hans Knoell Institute, Jena, Germany
| | - Bernhard Hube
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Hans Knoell Institute, Jena, Germany
- Institute of Microbiology, Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany
| | - Neil A. R. Gow
- MRC Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
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6
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Brown GD, Ballou ER, Bates S, Bignell EM, Borman AM, Brand AC, Brown AJP, Coelho C, Cook PC, Farrer RA, Govender NP, Gow NAR, Hope W, Hoving JC, Dangarembizi R, Harrison TS, Johnson EM, Mukaremera L, Ramsdale M, Thornton CR, Usher J, Warris A, Wilson D. The pathobiology of human fungal infections. Nat Rev Microbiol 2024:10.1038/s41579-024-01062-w. [PMID: 38918447 DOI: 10.1038/s41579-024-01062-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
Human fungal infections are a historically neglected area of disease research, yet they cause more than 1.5 million deaths every year. Our understanding of the pathophysiology of these infections has increased considerably over the past decade, through major insights into both the host and pathogen factors that contribute to the phenotype and severity of these diseases. Recent studies are revealing multiple mechanisms by which fungi modify and manipulate the host, escape immune surveillance and generate complex comorbidities. Although the emergence of fungal strains that are less susceptible to antifungal drugs or that rapidly evolve drug resistance is posing new threats, greater understanding of immune mechanisms and host susceptibility factors is beginning to offer novel immunotherapeutic options for the future. In this Review, we provide a broad and comprehensive overview of the pathobiology of human fungal infections, focusing specifically on pathogens that can cause invasive life-threatening infections, highlighting recent discoveries from the pathogen, host and clinical perspectives. We conclude by discussing key future challenges including antifungal drug resistance, the emergence of new pathogens and new developments in modern medicine that are promoting susceptibility to infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gordon D Brown
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK.
| | - Elizabeth R Ballou
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Steven Bates
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Elaine M Bignell
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Andrew M Borman
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Alexandra C Brand
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Alistair J P Brown
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Carolina Coelho
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Peter C Cook
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Rhys A Farrer
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Nelesh P Govender
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Neil A R Gow
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - William Hope
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - J Claire Hoving
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Rachael Dangarembizi
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Thomas S Harrison
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Elizabeth M Johnson
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Liliane Mukaremera
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Mark Ramsdale
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | | | - Jane Usher
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Adilia Warris
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Duncan Wilson
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
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7
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Lin J, Miao J, Schaefer KG, Russell CM, Pyron RJ, Zhang F, Phan QT, Solis-Swidergall NV, Liu H, Tashiro M, Dordick JS, Linhardt RJ, Yeaman MR, King GM, Barrera FN, Peters BM, Filler SG. A genome-scale screen identifies sulfated glycosaminoglycans as pivotal in epithelial cell damage by Candida albicans. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.05.23.595417. [PMID: 38826446 PMCID: PMC11142209 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.23.595417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2024]
Abstract
Candidalysin is a cytolytic peptide produced by the opportunistic fungal pathogen Candida albicans. This peptide is a key virulence factor in mouse models of mucosal and hematogenously disseminated candidiasis. Despite intense interest in the role of candidalysin in C. albicans pathogenicity, its host cell targets have remained elusive. To fill this knowledge gap, we performed a genome-wide loss-of-function CRISPR screen in a human oral epithelial cell line to identify specific host factors required for susceptibility to candidalysin-induced cellular damage. Among the top hits were XYLT2, B3GALT6 and B3GAT3, genes that function in glycosaminoglycan (GAG) biosynthesis. Deletion of these genes led to the absence of GAGs such as heparan sulfate on the epithelial cell surface and increased resistance to damage induced by both candidalysin and live C. albicans. Biophysical analyses including surface plasmon resonance and atomic force and electron microscopy indicated that candidalysin physically binds to sulfated GAGs, facilitating its oligomerization or enrichment on the host cell surface. The addition of exogenous sulfated GAGs or the GAG analogue dextran sulfate protected cells against candidalysin-induced damage. Dextran sulfate, but not non-sulfated dextran, also inhibited epithelial cell endocytosis of C. albicans and fungal-induced epithelial cell cytokine and chemokine production. In a murine model of vulvovaginal candidiasis, topical dextran sulfate administration reduced host tissue damage and decreased intravaginal IL-1β and neutrophil levels. Collectively, these data indicate that GAGs are epithelial cell targets of candidalysin and can be used therapeutically to protect cells from candidalysin-induced damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianfeng Lin
- Institute for Infection and Immunity, Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, California, USA
| | - Jian Miao
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Program, College of Graduate Health Sciences, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Katherine G Schaefer
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri United States
| | - Charles M Russell
- Department of Biochemistry & Cellular and Molecular Biology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee United States
| | - Robert J Pyron
- Genome Science and Technology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, United States
| | - Fuming Zhang
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, and Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, New York, USA
| | - Quynh T Phan
- Institute for Infection and Immunity, Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, California, USA
| | - Norma V Solis-Swidergall
- Institute for Infection and Immunity, Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, California, USA
| | - Hong Liu
- Institute for Infection and Immunity, Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, California, USA
| | - Masato Tashiro
- Institute for Infection and Immunity, Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, California, USA
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Jonathan S Dordick
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, and Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, New York, USA
| | - Robert J Linhardt
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, and Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, New York, USA
| | - Michael R Yeaman
- Institute for Infection and Immunity, Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, California, USA
- David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, California, USA
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, California, USA
| | - Gavin M King
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri United States
| | - Francisco N Barrera
- Department of Biochemistry & Cellular and Molecular Biology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee United States
| | - Brian M Peters
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Translational Science, College of Pharmacy, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Biochemistry, College of Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Scott G Filler
- Institute for Infection and Immunity, Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, California, USA
- David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, California, USA
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8
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Jørgensen MR. Pathophysiological microenvironments in oral candidiasis. APMIS 2024. [PMID: 38571459 DOI: 10.1111/apm.13412] [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: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
Oral candidiasis (OC), a prevalent opportunistic infection of the oral mucosa, presents a considerable health challenge, particularly in individuals with compromised immune responses, advanced age, and local predisposing conditions. A considerable part of the population carries Candida in the oral cavity, but only few develop OC. Therefore, the pathogenesis of OC may depend on factors other than the attributes of the fungus, such as host factors and other predisposing factors. Mucosal trauma and inflammation compromise epithelial integrity, fostering a conducive environment for fungal invasion. Molecular insights into the immunocompromised state reveal dysregulation in innate and adaptive immunity, creating a permissive environment for Candida proliferation. Detailed examination of Candida species (spp.) and their virulence factors uncovers a nuanced understanding beyond traditional C. albicans focus, which embrace diverse Candida spp. and their strategies, influencing adhesion, invasion, immune evasion, and biofilm formation. Understanding the pathophysiological microenvironments in OC is crucial for the development of targeted therapeutic interventions. This review aims to unravel the diverse pathophysiological microenvironments influencing OC development focusing on microbial, host, and predisposing factors, and considers Candida resistance to antifungal therapy. The comprehensive approach offers a refined perspective on OC, seeking briefly to identify potential therapeutic targets for future effective management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mette Rose Jørgensen
- Section of Oral Pathology and Oral Medicine, Department of Odontology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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9
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Szóstak N, Handschuh L, Samelak-Czajka A, Tomela K, Pietrzak B, Schmidt M, Galus Ł, Mackiewicz J, Mackiewicz A, Kozlowski P, Philips A. Gut Mycobiota Dysbiosis Is Associated with Melanoma and Response to Anti-PD-1 Therapy. Cancer Immunol Res 2024; 12:427-439. [PMID: 38315788 PMCID: PMC10985481 DOI: 10.1158/2326-6066.cir-23-0592] [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: 07/21/2023] [Revised: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
Recent research indicates that gut microbiota may be vital in the advancement of melanoma. In this study, we found that melanoma patients exhibited a distinct gut mycobiota structure compared with healthy participants. Candida albicans, Candida dubliniensis, and Neurospora crassa were more abundant in samples from patients with melanoma, whereas Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Debaryomyces hansenii were less abundant. During anti-PD-1 treatment, the relative amount of Malassezia restricta and C. albicans increased. A higher level of Saccharomyces paradoxus was associated with a positive response to anti-PD-1 treatment, whereas a higher level of Tetrapisispora blattae was associated with a lack of clinical benefits. High levels of M. restricta and C. albicans, elevated serum lactate dehydrogenase, and being overweight were linked to increased risk of melanoma progression and poorer response to anti-PD-1 treatment. Thus, this study has revealed melanoma-associated mycobiome dysbiosis, characterized by altered fungal composition and fungi species associated with a higher risk of melanoma progression, identifying a role for the gut mycobiome in melanoma progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Szóstak
- Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Luiza Handschuh
- Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Anna Samelak-Czajka
- Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Tomela
- Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences, Poznan, Poland
- Chair of Medical Biotechnology, Department of Cancer Immunology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Bernadeta Pietrzak
- Department of Food Biotechnology and Microbiology, Poznan University of Life Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Marcin Schmidt
- Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences, Poznan, Poland
- Department of Food Biotechnology and Microbiology, Poznan University of Life Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Łukasz Galus
- Department of Medical and Experimental Oncology, Institute of Oncology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poland
| | - Jacek Mackiewicz
- Department of Medical and Experimental Oncology, Institute of Oncology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poland
| | - Andrzej Mackiewicz
- Chair of Medical Biotechnology, Department of Cancer Immunology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Piotr Kozlowski
- Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Anna Philips
- Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences, Poznan, Poland
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10
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Launder D, Dillon JT, Wuescher LM, Glanz T, Abdul-Aziz N, Yi EMC, Naglik JR, Worth RG, Conti HR. Immunity to pathogenic mucosal C. albicans infections mediated by oral megakaryocytes activated by IL-17 and candidalysin. Mucosal Immunol 2024; 17:182-200. [PMID: 38246240 PMCID: PMC11034721 DOI: 10.1016/j.mucimm.2024.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
The fungus Candida albicans can cause mucosal infections including oropharyngeal candidiasis (OPC) in immunocompromised patients. In humans, an increased risk of fungal infections correlates with thrombocytopenia. However, our understanding of platelets and megakaryocytes (Mks) in mucosal fungal infections is almost entirely unknown. When megakaryocyte- and platelet-depleted mice were infected with OPC, the tongue showed higher fungal burden, due to decreased neutrophil accumulation. Protection depended on a distinct population of oral-resident Mks. Interleukin-17, important in antifungal immunity, was required since mice lacking the IL-17 receptor had decreased circulating platelets and their oral Mks did not expand during OPC. The secretion of the peptide toxin candidalysin activated human Mks to release platelets with antifungal capacity. Infection with a candidalysin-deficient strain resulted in decreased expansion of tongue Mks during OPC. This is the first time that a distinct megakaryocyte population was identified in the oral mucosa which is critical for immunity against fungal infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dylan Launder
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Toledo, Toledo, Ohio, United States
| | - John T Dillon
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Toledo, Toledo, Ohio, United States
| | - Leah M Wuescher
- Department of Medical Microbiology & Immunology, University of Toledo College of Medicine & Life Sciences, Toledo, Ohio, United States
| | - Trevor Glanz
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Toledo, Toledo, Ohio, United States
| | - Nora Abdul-Aziz
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Toledo, Toledo, Ohio, United States
| | - Elise Mein-Chiain Yi
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Toledo, Toledo, Ohio, United States
| | - Julian R Naglik
- Center for Host-Microbiome Interactions, Faculty of Dentistry, Oral & Craniofacial Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Randall G Worth
- Department of Medical Microbiology & Immunology, University of Toledo College of Medicine & Life Sciences, Toledo, Ohio, United States
| | - Heather R Conti
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Toledo, Toledo, Ohio, United States.
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11
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Valentine M, Rudolph P, Dietschmann A, Tsavou A, Mogavero S, Lee S, Priest EL, Zhurgenbayeva G, Jablonowski N, Timme S, Eggeling C, Allert S, Dolk E, Naglik JR, Figge MT, Gresnigt MS, Hube B. Nanobody-mediated neutralization of candidalysin prevents epithelial damage and inflammatory responses that drive vulvovaginal candidiasis pathogenesis. mBio 2024; 15:e0340923. [PMID: 38349176 PMCID: PMC10936171 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.03409-23] [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: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Candida albicans can cause mucosal infections in humans. This includes oropharyngeal candidiasis, which is commonly observed in human immunodeficiency virus infected patients, and vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC), which is the most frequent manifestation of candidiasis. Epithelial cell invasion by C. albicans hyphae is accompanied by the secretion of candidalysin, a peptide toxin that causes epithelial cell cytotoxicity. During vaginal infections, candidalysin-driven tissue damage triggers epithelial signaling pathways, leading to hyperinflammatory responses and immunopathology, a hallmark of VVC. Therefore, we proposed blocking candidalysin activity using nanobodies to reduce epithelial damage and inflammation as a therapeutic strategy for VVC. Anti-candidalysin nanobodies were confirmed to localize around epithelial-invading C. albicans hyphae, even within the invasion pocket where candidalysin is secreted. The nanobodies reduced candidalysin-induced damage to epithelial cells and downstream proinflammatory responses. Accordingly, the nanobodies also decreased neutrophil activation and recruitment. In silico mathematical modeling enabled the quantification of epithelial damage caused by candidalysin under various nanobody dosing strategies. Thus, nanobody-mediated neutralization of candidalysin offers a novel therapeutic approach to block immunopathogenic events during VVC and alleviate symptoms.IMPORTANCEWorldwide, vaginal infections caused by Candida albicans (VVC) annually affect millions of women, with symptoms significantly impacting quality of life. Current treatments are based on anti-fungals and probiotics that target the fungus. However, in some cases, infections are recurrent, called recurrent VVC, which often fails to respond to treatment. Vaginal mucosal tissue damage caused by the C. albicans peptide toxin candidalysin is a key driver in the induction of hyperinflammatory responses that fail to clear the infection and contribute to immunopathology and disease severity. In this pre-clinical evaluation, we show that nanobody-mediated candidalysin neutralization reduces tissue damage and thereby limits inflammation. Implementation of candidalysin-neutralizing nanobodies may prove an attractive strategy to alleviate symptoms in complicated VVC cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marisa Valentine
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology–Hans Knöll Institute, Jena, Germany
| | - Paul Rudolph
- Applied Systems Biology, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology-Hans Knöll Institute, Jena, Germany
- Faculty of Biological Sciences, Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany
| | - Axel Dietschmann
- Junior Research Group Adaptive Pathogenicity Strategies, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology–Hans Knöll Institute, Jena, Germany
| | - Antzela Tsavou
- Centre for Host-Microbiome Interactions, Faculty of Dentistry, Oral and Craniofacial Sciences, King’s College London, London, England, United Kingdom
| | - Selene Mogavero
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology–Hans Knöll Institute, Jena, Germany
| | - Sejeong Lee
- Centre for Host-Microbiome Interactions, Faculty of Dentistry, Oral and Craniofacial Sciences, King’s College London, London, England, United Kingdom
| | - Emily L. Priest
- Centre for Host-Microbiome Interactions, Faculty of Dentistry, Oral and Craniofacial Sciences, King’s College London, London, England, United Kingdom
| | - Gaukhar Zhurgenbayeva
- Institute of Applied Optics and Biophysics, Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence Balance of the Microverse, Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany
| | - Nadja Jablonowski
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology–Hans Knöll Institute, Jena, Germany
| | - Sandra Timme
- Applied Systems Biology, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology-Hans Knöll Institute, Jena, Germany
| | - Christian Eggeling
- Institute of Applied Optics and Biophysics, Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence Balance of the Microverse, Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany
- Biophysical Imaging, Leibniz Institute of Photonic Technology, Jena, Germany
- Jena Center for Soft Matter (JCSM), Jena, Germany
| | - Stefanie Allert
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology–Hans Knöll Institute, Jena, Germany
| | | | - Julian R. Naglik
- Centre for Host-Microbiome Interactions, Faculty of Dentistry, Oral and Craniofacial Sciences, King’s College London, London, England, United Kingdom
| | - Marc T. Figge
- Applied Systems Biology, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology-Hans Knöll Institute, Jena, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence Balance of the Microverse, Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany
- Institute of Microbiology, Friedrich-Schiller-University, Jena, Germany
| | - Mark S. Gresnigt
- Junior Research Group Adaptive Pathogenicity Strategies, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology–Hans Knöll Institute, Jena, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence Balance of the Microverse, Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany
| | - Bernhard Hube
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology–Hans Knöll Institute, Jena, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence Balance of the Microverse, Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany
- Institute of Microbiology, Friedrich-Schiller-University, Jena, Germany
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12
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Müller R, König A, Groth S, Zarnowski R, Visser C, Handrianz T, Maufrais C, Krüger T, Himmel M, Lee S, Priest EL, Yildirim D, Richardson JP, Blango MG, Bougnoux ME, Kniemeyer O, d'Enfert C, Brakhage AA, Andes DR, Trümper V, Nehls C, Kasper L, Mogavero S, Gutsmann T, Naglik JR, Allert S, Hube B. Secretion of the fungal toxin candidalysin is dependent on conserved precursor peptide sequences. Nat Microbiol 2024; 9:669-683. [PMID: 38388771 DOI: 10.1038/s41564-024-01606-z] [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: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
The opportunistic fungal pathogen Candida albicans damages host cells via its peptide toxin, candidalysin. Before secretion, candidalysin is embedded in a precursor protein, Ece1, which consists of a signal peptide, the precursor of candidalysin and seven non-candidalysin Ece1 peptides (NCEPs), and is found to be conserved in clinical isolates. Here we show that the Ece1 polyprotein does not resemble the usual precursor structure of peptide toxins. C. albicans cells are not susceptible to their own toxin, and single NCEPs adjacent to candidalysin are sufficient to prevent host cell toxicity. Using a series of Ece1 mutants, mass spectrometry and anti-candidalysin nanobodies, we show that NCEPs play a role in intracellular Ece1 folding and candidalysin secretion. Removal of single NCEPs or modifications of peptide sequences cause an unfolded protein response (UPR), which in turn inhibits hypha formation and pathogenicity in vitro. Our data indicate that the Ece1 precursor is not required to block premature pore-forming toxicity, but rather to prevent intracellular auto-aggregation of candidalysin sequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rita Müller
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology - Hans Knoell Institute (HKI), Jena, Germany
| | - Annika König
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology - Hans Knoell Institute (HKI), Jena, Germany
- Institute of Microbiology, Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany
| | - Sabrina Groth
- Division of Biophysics, Research Center Borstel, Leibniz Lung Center, Borstel, Germany
| | - Robert Zarnowski
- Department of Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Corissa Visser
- Institute of Microbiology, Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany
- Department of Molecular and Applied Microbiology, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology - Hans Knoell Institute (HKI), Jena, Germany
| | - Tom Handrianz
- Division of Biophysics, Research Center Borstel, Leibniz Lung Center, Borstel, Germany
| | - Corinne Maufrais
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, Bioinformatics and Biostatistics Hub, Paris, France
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, Unité Biologie et Pathogénicité Fongiques, Paris, France
| | - Thomas Krüger
- Department of Molecular and Applied Microbiology, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology - Hans Knoell Institute (HKI), Jena, Germany
| | - Maximilian Himmel
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology - Hans Knoell Institute (HKI), Jena, Germany
| | - Sejeong Lee
- Centre for Host-Microbiome Interactions, Faculty of Dentistry, Oral and Craniofacial Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Emily L Priest
- Centre for Host-Microbiome Interactions, Faculty of Dentistry, Oral and Craniofacial Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Deniz Yildirim
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology - Hans Knoell Institute (HKI), Jena, Germany
| | - Jonathan P Richardson
- Centre for Host-Microbiome Interactions, Faculty of Dentistry, Oral and Craniofacial Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Matthew G Blango
- RNA Biology of Fungal Infections, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology - Hans Knoell Institute (HKI), Jena, Germany
| | - Marie-Elisabeth Bougnoux
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, Unité Biologie et Pathogénicité Fongiques, Paris, France
- Unité de Parasitologie-Mycologie, Service de Microbiologie Clinique, Hôpital Necker-Enfants-Malades, Assistance Publique des Hôpitaux de Paris (APHP), Paris, France
| | - Olaf Kniemeyer
- Department of Molecular and Applied Microbiology, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology - Hans Knoell Institute (HKI), Jena, Germany
| | - Christophe d'Enfert
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, Unité Biologie et Pathogénicité Fongiques, Paris, France
| | - Axel A Brakhage
- Institute of Microbiology, Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany
- Department of Molecular and Applied Microbiology, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology - Hans Knoell Institute (HKI), Jena, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence Balance of the Microverse, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Jena, Germany
| | - David R Andes
- Department of Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Verena Trümper
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology - Hans Knoell Institute (HKI), Jena, Germany
| | - Christian Nehls
- Division of Biophysics, Research Center Borstel, Leibniz Lung Center, Borstel, Germany
- Kiel Nano, Surface and Interface Science KiNSIS, Kiel University, Kiel, Germany
| | - Lydia Kasper
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology - Hans Knoell Institute (HKI), Jena, Germany
| | - Selene Mogavero
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology - Hans Knoell Institute (HKI), Jena, Germany
| | - Thomas Gutsmann
- Division of Biophysics, Research Center Borstel, Leibniz Lung Center, Borstel, Germany
- Kiel Nano, Surface and Interface Science KiNSIS, Kiel University, Kiel, Germany
| | - Julian R Naglik
- Centre for Host-Microbiome Interactions, Faculty of Dentistry, Oral and Craniofacial Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Stefanie Allert
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology - Hans Knoell Institute (HKI), Jena, Germany.
| | - Bernhard Hube
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology - Hans Knoell Institute (HKI), Jena, Germany.
- Institute of Microbiology, Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany.
- Cluster of Excellence Balance of the Microverse, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Jena, Germany.
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13
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Sprague JL, Schille TB, Allert S, Trümper V, Lier A, Großmann P, Priest EL, Tsavou A, Panagiotou G, Naglik JR, Wilson D, Schäuble S, Kasper L, Hube B. Candida albicans translocation through the intestinal epithelial barrier is promoted by fungal zinc acquisition and limited by NFκB-mediated barrier protection. PLoS Pathog 2024; 20:e1012031. [PMID: 38427950 PMCID: PMC10907035 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1012031] [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: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024] Open
Abstract
The opportunistic fungal pathogen Candida albicans thrives on human mucosal surfaces as a harmless commensal, but frequently causes infections under certain predisposing conditions. Translocation across the intestinal barrier into the bloodstream by intestine-colonizing C. albicans cells serves as the main source of disseminated candidiasis. However, the host and microbial mechanisms behind this process remain unclear. In this study we identified fungal and host factors specifically involved in infection of intestinal epithelial cells (IECs) using dual-RNA sequencing. Our data suggest that host-cell damage mediated by the peptide toxin candidalysin-encoding gene ECE1 facilitates fungal zinc acquisition. This in turn is crucial for the full virulence potential of C. albicans during infection. IECs in turn exhibit a filamentation- and damage-specific response to C. albicans infection, including NFκB, MAPK, and TNF signaling. NFκB activation by IECs limits candidalysin-mediated host-cell damage and mediates maintenance of the intestinal barrier and cell-cell junctions to further restrict fungal translocation. This is the first study to show that candidalysin-mediated damage is necessary for C. albicans nutrient acquisition during infection and to explain how IECs counteract damage and limit fungal translocation via NFκB-mediated maintenance of the intestinal barrier.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jakob L. Sprague
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Hans-Knöll-Institute, Jena, Germany
| | - Tim B. Schille
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Hans-Knöll-Institute, Jena, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence Balance of the Microverse, Friedrich-Schiller-University Jena, Jena, Germany
| | - Stefanie Allert
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Hans-Knöll-Institute, Jena, Germany
| | - Verena Trümper
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Hans-Knöll-Institute, Jena, Germany
| | - Adrian Lier
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Hans-Knöll-Institute, Jena, Germany
| | - Peter Großmann
- Department of Microbiome Dynamics, Hans-Knöll-Institute, Jena, Germany
| | - Emily L. Priest
- Centre for Host-Microbiome Interactions, Faculty of Dentistry, Oral and Craniofacial Sciences, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Antzela Tsavou
- Centre for Host-Microbiome Interactions, Faculty of Dentistry, Oral and Craniofacial Sciences, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Gianni Panagiotou
- Cluster of Excellence Balance of the Microverse, Friedrich-Schiller-University Jena, Jena, Germany
- Department of Microbiome Dynamics, Hans-Knöll-Institute, Jena, Germany
- Institute of Microbiology, Friedrich-Schiller-University Jena, Jena, Germany
| | - Julian R. Naglik
- Centre for Host-Microbiome Interactions, Faculty of Dentistry, Oral and Craniofacial Sciences, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Duncan Wilson
- Medical Research Council, Centre for Medical Mycology at the University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Sascha Schäuble
- Department of Microbiome Dynamics, Hans-Knöll-Institute, Jena, Germany
| | - Lydia Kasper
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Hans-Knöll-Institute, Jena, Germany
| | - Bernhard Hube
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Hans-Knöll-Institute, Jena, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence Balance of the Microverse, Friedrich-Schiller-University Jena, Jena, Germany
- Institute of Microbiology, Friedrich-Schiller-University Jena, Jena, Germany
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14
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Zhang TY, Chen YQ, Tan JC, Zhou JA, Chen WN, Jiang T, Zha JY, Zeng XK, Li BW, Wei LQ, Zou Y, Zhang LY, Hong YM, Wang XL, Zhu RZ, Xu WX, Xi J, Wang QQ, Pan L, Zhang J, Luan Y, Zhu RX, Wang H, Chen C, Liu NN. Global fungal-host interactome mapping identifies host targets of candidalysin. Nat Commun 2024; 15:1757. [PMID: 38413612 PMCID: PMC10899660 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-46141-x] [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: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Candidalysin, a cytolytic peptide toxin secreted by the human fungal pathogen Candida albicans, is critical for fungal pathogenesis. Yet, its intracellular targets have not been extensively mapped. Here, we performed a high-throughput enhanced yeast two-hybrid (HT-eY2H) screen to map the interactome of all eight Ece1 peptides with their direct human protein targets and identified a list of potential interacting proteins, some of which were shared between the peptides. CCNH, a regulatory subunit of the CDK-activating kinase (CAK) complex involved in DNA damage repair, was identified as one of the host targets of candidalysin. Mechanistic studies revealed that candidalysin triggers a significantly increased double-strand DNA breaks (DSBs), as evidenced by the formation of γ-H2AX foci and colocalization of CCNH and γ-H2AX. Importantly, candidalysin binds directly to CCNH to activate CAK to inhibit DNA damage repair pathway. Loss of CCNH alleviates DSBs formation under candidalysin treatment. Depletion of candidalysin-encoding gene fails to induce DSBs and stimulates CCNH upregulation in a murine model of oropharyngeal candidiasis. Collectively, our study reveals that a secreted fungal toxin acts to hijack the canonical DNA damage repair pathway by targeting CCNH and to promote fungal infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tian-Yi Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Center for Single-Cell Omics, School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Yao-Qi Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Center for Single-Cell Omics, School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Jing-Cong Tan
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Center for Single-Cell Omics, School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Jin-An Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Center for Single-Cell Omics, School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Wan-Ning Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Department of Bioinformatics, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Tong Jiang
- 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
| | - Jin-Yin Zha
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cell Differentiation and Apoptosis of Chinese Ministry of Education, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Xiang-Kang Zeng
- The Center for Microbes, Development, and Health, Key Laboratory of Molecular Virology and Immunology, Shanghai Institute of Immunity and Infection, Chinese Academy of Science, Shanghai, China
| | - Bo-Wen Li
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Center for Single-Cell Omics, School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Lu-Qi Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Center for Single-Cell Omics, School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Yun Zou
- 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
| | - Lu-Yao Zhang
- 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
| | - Yue-Mei Hong
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Center for Single-Cell Omics, School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Xiu-Li Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Center for Single-Cell Omics, School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Run-Ze Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Center for Single-Cell Omics, School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Wan-Xing Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Center for Single-Cell Omics, School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Jing Xi
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Center for Single-Cell Omics, School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Qin-Qin Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Center for Single-Cell Omics, School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Lei Pan
- The Center for Microbes, Development, and Health, Key Laboratory of Molecular Virology and Immunology, Shanghai Institute of Immunity and Infection, Chinese Academy of Science, Shanghai, China
| | - Jian Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cell Differentiation and Apoptosis of Chinese Ministry of Education, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Yang Luan
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Center for Single-Cell Omics, School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Rui-Xin Zhu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Department of Bioinformatics, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hui Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Center for Single-Cell Omics, School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China.
| | - 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.
| | - Ning-Ning Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Center for Single-Cell Omics, School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China.
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15
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Li L, Huang X, Chen H. Unveiling the hidden players: exploring the role of gut mycobiome in cancer development and treatment dynamics. Gut Microbes 2024; 16:2328868. [PMID: 38485702 PMCID: PMC10950292 DOI: 10.1080/19490976.2024.2328868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024] Open
Abstract
The role of gut fungal species in tumor-related processes remains largely unexplored, with most studies still focusing on fungal infections. This review examines the accumulating evidence suggesting the involvement of commensal and pathogenic fungi in cancer biological process, including oncogenesis, progression, and treatment response. Mechanisms explored include fungal influence on host immunity, secretion of bioactive toxins/metabolites, interaction with bacterial commensals, and migration to other tissues in certain types of cancers. Attempts to utilize fungal molecular signatures for cancer diagnosis and fungal-derived products for treatment are discussed. A few studies highlight fungi's impact on the responsiveness and sensitivity to chemotherapy, radiotherapy, immunotherapy, and fecal microbiota transplant. Given the limited understanding and techniques in fungal research, the studies on gut fungi are still facing great challenges, despite having great potentials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingxi Li
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ministry of Health, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Institute of Digestive Disease, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaowen Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ministry of Health, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Institute of Digestive Disease, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China
| | - Haoyan Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ministry of Health, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Institute of Digestive Disease, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China
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16
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Wang J, Gao B. Mechanisms and Potential Clinical Implications of Oral Microbiome in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma. Curr Oncol 2023; 31:168-182. [PMID: 38248096 PMCID: PMC10814288 DOI: 10.3390/curroncol31010011] [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: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Microorganisms in the oral cavity are abundant in the human body. At present, more than 700 species of oral microorganisms have been identified. Recently, a lot of literature has indicated that the oral microbiota plays an important role in the occurrence, development, and prognosis of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) through various mechanisms. And researchers are now trying to utilize oral microbiota in cancer diagnosis and treatment. However, few articles systematically summarize the effects of oral microbes in the diagnosis, treatment, and disease outcomes of oral cancer. Herein, we made a summary of the microbial changes at cancerous sites and placed more emphasis on the mechanisms by which the oral microbiome promotes cancerization. Moreover, we aimed to find out the clinical value of the oral microbiome in OSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Bo Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China;
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17
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Mori T, Kataoka H, Into T. Effect of NLRP3 deficiency on cytotoxic and IL-1β-producing activities of synthetic candidalysin peptide. J Oral Biosci 2023; 65:287-292. [PMID: 37659475 DOI: 10.1016/j.job.2023.08.007] [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: 07/27/2023] [Revised: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Candidalysin (CL), a hydrophobic peptide toxin secreted by Candida albicans, is a key virulence factor that contributes to cytolysis, tissue damage, and immune activation. CL is thought to exert some of its biological activities, including IL-1β production, through the activation of the NLRP3-inflammasome pathway. To date, the mechanism by which CL affects human NLRP3 is not fully understood. We investigated specific activities of synthetic CL peptides using human-derived NLRP3-deficient cells. METHODS Two distinct synthetic CL peptide solutions were prepared: CLd, with CL completely solubilized as nanoparticles in dimethyl sulfoxide, and CLw, with CL partly solubilized in water, and including insoluble microparticles. THP-1 human monocytic cells and NLRP3-deficient THP-1 cells were differentiated into macrophages and stimulated with these peptide solutions. Cell membrane damage, lactate dehydrogenase release, IL-1β production, and caspase-1 activation in stimulated cells were subsequently evaluated. RESULTS Both CLd and CLw exhibited cytotoxic activities independent of NLRP3. Importantly, CLd induced IL-1β production and caspase-1 activation in an NLRP3-independent manner, whereas these activities in CLw-stimulated cells were entirely NLRP3-dependent, suggesting that the NLRP3-dependent response might be triggered by insoluble microparticles. CONCLUSIONS Our results demonstrate that inherent CL activities can cause cell damage and IL-1β production in an NLRP3-independent manner. Our research advances the elucidation of the role of NLRP3 in CL biological activity, underscoring the necessity for further exploration of the precise mechanisms underlying the NLRP3-independent effects of CL and providing novel insights into the complexity of host-pathogen interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taiki Mori
- Department of Oral Microbiology, Division of Oral Infections Health Sciences, Asahi University School of Dentistry, 1851 Hozumi, Mizuho, Gifu 501-0296, Japan
| | - Hideo Kataoka
- Department of Oral Microbiology, Division of Oral Infections Health Sciences, Asahi University School of Dentistry, 1851 Hozumi, Mizuho, Gifu 501-0296, Japan
| | - Takeshi Into
- Department of Oral Microbiology, Division of Oral Infections Health Sciences, Asahi University School of Dentistry, 1851 Hozumi, Mizuho, Gifu 501-0296, Japan.
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18
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Carlson SL, Mathew L, Savage M, Kok K, Lindsay JO, Munro CA, McCarthy NE. Mucosal Immunity to Gut Fungi in Health and Inflammatory Bowel Disease. J Fungi (Basel) 2023; 9:1105. [PMID: 37998910 PMCID: PMC10672531 DOI: 10.3390/jof9111105] [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: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The gut microbiome is a diverse microbial community composed of bacteria, viruses, and fungi that plays a major role in human health and disease. Dysregulation of these gut organisms in a genetically susceptible host is fundamental to the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). While bacterial dysbiosis has been a predominant focus of research for many years, there is growing recognition that fungal interactions with the host immune system are an important driver of gut inflammation. Candida albicans is likely the most studied fungus in the context of IBD, being a near universal gut commensal in humans and also a major barrier-invasive pathogen. There is emerging evidence that intra-strain variation in C. albicans virulence factors exerts a critical influence on IBD pathophysiology. In this review, we describe the immunological impacts of variations in C. lbicans colonisation, morphology, genetics, and proteomics in IBD, as well as the clinical and therapeutic implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean L. Carlson
- Centre for Immunobiology, The Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London E1 2AT, UK
- Gastroenterology Department, Royal London Hospital, Barts Health NHS Trust, London E1 1BB, UK
| | - Liya Mathew
- Centre for Immunobiology, The Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London E1 2AT, UK
| | - Michael Savage
- Centre for Immunobiology, The Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London E1 2AT, UK
| | - Klaartje Kok
- Centre for Immunobiology, The Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London E1 2AT, UK
- Gastroenterology Department, Royal London Hospital, Barts Health NHS Trust, London E1 1BB, UK
| | - James O. Lindsay
- Centre for Immunobiology, The Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London E1 2AT, UK
- Gastroenterology Department, Royal London Hospital, Barts Health NHS Trust, London E1 1BB, UK
| | - Carol A. Munro
- Aberdeen Fungal Group, Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen AB24 3FX, UK
| | - Neil E. McCarthy
- Centre for Immunobiology, The Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London E1 2AT, UK
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19
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Unger L, Skoluda S, Backman E, Amulic B, Ponce‐Garcia FM, Etiaba CNC, Yellagunda S, Krüger R, von Bernuth H, Bylund J, Hube B, Naglik JR, Urban CF. Candida albicans induces neutrophil extracellular traps and leucotoxic hypercitrullination via candidalysin. EMBO Rep 2023; 24:e57571. [PMID: 37795769 PMCID: PMC10626426 DOI: 10.15252/embr.202357571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The peptide toxin candidalysin, secreted by Candida albicans hyphae, promotes stimulation of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs). However, candidalysin alone triggers a distinct mechanism for NET-like structures (NLS), which are more compact and less fibrous than canonical NETs. Candidalysin activates NADPH oxidase and calcium influx, with both processes contributing to morphological changes in neutrophils resulting in NLS formation. NLS are induced by leucotoxic hypercitrullination, which is governed by calcium-induced protein arginine deaminase 4 activation and initiation of intracellular signalling events in a dose- and time-dependent manner. However, activation of signalling by candidalysin does not suffice to trigger downstream events essential for NET formation, as demonstrated by lack of lamin A/C phosphorylation, an event required for activation of cyclin-dependent kinases that are crucial for NET release. Candidalysin-triggered NLS demonstrate anti-Candida activity, which is resistant to nuclease treatment and dependent on the deprivation of Zn2+ . This study reveals that C. albicans hyphae releasing candidalysin concurrently trigger canonical NETs and NLS, which together form a fibrous sticky network that entangles C. albicans hyphae and efficiently inhibits their growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas Unger
- Department of Clinical MicrobiologyUmeå UniversityUmeåSweden
- Umeå Centre for Microbial Research (UCMR)Umeå UniversityUmeåSweden
| | - Samuel Skoluda
- Department of Clinical MicrobiologyUmeå UniversityUmeåSweden
- Umeå Centre for Microbial Research (UCMR)Umeå UniversityUmeåSweden
| | - Emelie Backman
- Department of Clinical MicrobiologyUmeå UniversityUmeåSweden
- Umeå Centre for Microbial Research (UCMR)Umeå UniversityUmeåSweden
| | - Borko Amulic
- School of Cellular and Molecular MedicineUniversity of BristolBristolUK
| | | | - Chinelo NC Etiaba
- School of Cellular and Molecular MedicineUniversity of BristolBristolUK
| | - Sujan Yellagunda
- Department of Clinical MicrobiologyUmeå UniversityUmeåSweden
- Umeå Centre for Microbial Research (UCMR)Umeå UniversityUmeåSweden
| | - Renate Krüger
- Department of Pediatric Respiratory Medicine, Immunology and Critical Care MedicineCharité – Universitätsmedizin BerlinBerlinGermany
| | - Horst von Bernuth
- Department of Pediatric Respiratory Medicine, Immunology and Critical Care MedicineCharité – Universitätsmedizin BerlinBerlinGermany
- Department of ImmunologyLabor Berlin Labor Berlin – Charité Vivantes GmbHBerlinGermany
- Berlin Institute of Health at Charité – Universitätsmedizin BerlinBerlinGermany
- Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt‐Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health (BIH)Berlin‐Brandenburg Center for Regenerative Therapies (BCRT)BerlinGermany
| | - Johan Bylund
- Department of Oral Microbiology & Immunology, Institute of OdontologySahlgrenska Academy at University of GothenburgGothenburgSweden
| | - Bernhard Hube
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity MechanismsLeibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology ‐ Hans‐Knoell‐InstituteJenaGermany
- Friedrich Schiller UniversityJenaGermany
| | - Julian R Naglik
- Centre for Host‐Microbiome Interactions, Faculty of Dentistry, Oral & Craniofacial SciencesKing's College LondonLondonUK
| | - Constantin F Urban
- Department of Clinical MicrobiologyUmeå UniversityUmeåSweden
- Umeå Centre for Microbial Research (UCMR)Umeå UniversityUmeåSweden
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20
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Wang J, Duan Z, Zeng R, Yang L, Liu W, Liu Y, Yao Q, Chen X, Zhang LJ, Li M. Antimicrobial peptide-producing dermal preadipocytes defend against Candida albicans skin infection via the FGFR-MEK-ERK pathway. PLoS Pathog 2023; 19:e1011754. [PMID: 38032898 PMCID: PMC10688742 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1011754] [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: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Dermal fibroblasts (dFBs) defend against deep bacterial skin infections by differentiating into preadipocytes (pAds) that produce the antimicrobial peptide cathelicidin; this differentiation is known as the dermal reactive adipogenesis response. However, the role of dFBs in fungal infection remains unknown. Here, we found that cathelicidin-producing pAds were present in high numbers in skin lesions from patients with cutaneous Candida granulomas. Second, we showed that dermal Candida albicans (C. albicans) infection in mice robustly triggered the dermal reactive adipogenesis response and induced cathelicidin expression, and inhibition of adipogenesis with pharmacological inhibitors of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) impaired skin resistance to C. albicans. In vitro, C. albicans products induced cathelicidin expression in pAds, and differentiating pAds markedly suppressed the growth of C. albicans by producing cathelicidin. Finally, we showed that C. albicans induced an antimicrobial response in pAds through the FGFR-MEK-ERK pathway. Together, our data reveal a previously unknown role of dFBs in the defense against skin infection caused by C. albicans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianing Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Skin Diseases and Sexually Transmitted Infections, Institute of Dermatology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhimin Duan
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Skin Diseases and Sexually Transmitted Infections, Institute of Dermatology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Nanjing, China
| | - Rong Zeng
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Skin Diseases and Sexually Transmitted Infections, Institute of Dermatology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Nanjing, China
| | - Lu Yang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Skin Diseases and Sexually Transmitted Infections, Institute of Dermatology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Nanjing, China
| | - Weizhao Liu
- School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yiman Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Qian Yao
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Xu Chen
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Skin Diseases and Sexually Transmitted Infections, Institute of Dermatology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Nanjing, China
- School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ling-juan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Min Li
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Skin Diseases and Sexually Transmitted Infections, Institute of Dermatology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Nanjing, China
- School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
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21
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Wu Y, Du S, Bimler LH, Mauk KE, Lortal L, Kichik N, Griffiths JS, Osicka R, Song L, Polsky K, Kasper L, Sebo P, Weatherhead J, Knight JM, Kheradmand F, Zheng H, Richardson JP, Hube B, Naglik JR, Corry DB. Toll-like receptor 4 and CD11b expressed on microglia coordinate eradication of Candida albicans cerebral mycosis. Cell Rep 2023; 42:113240. [PMID: 37819761 PMCID: PMC10753853 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.113240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Revised: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The fungal pathogen Candida albicans is linked to chronic brain diseases such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), but the molecular basis of brain anti-Candida immunity remains unknown. We show that C. albicans enters the mouse brain from the blood and induces two neuroimmune sensing mechanisms involving secreted aspartic proteinases (Saps) and candidalysin. Saps disrupt tight junction proteins of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) to permit fungal brain invasion. Saps also hydrolyze amyloid precursor protein (APP) into amyloid β (Aβ)-like peptides that bind to Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) and promote fungal killing in vitro while candidalysin engages the integrin CD11b (Mac-1) on microglia. Recognition of Aβ-like peptides and candidalysin promotes fungal clearance from the brain, and disruption of candidalysin recognition through CD11b markedly prolongs C. albicans cerebral mycosis. Thus, C. albicans is cleared from the brain through innate immune mechanisms involving Saps, Aβ, candidalysin, and CD11b.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifan Wu
- Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Shuqi Du
- Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Lynn H Bimler
- Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Kelsey E Mauk
- Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Léa Lortal
- Centre for Host-Microbiome Interactions, Faculty of Dentistry, Oral & Craniofacial Sciences, King's College London, London SE1 1UL, UK
| | - Nessim Kichik
- Centre for Host-Microbiome Interactions, Faculty of Dentistry, Oral & Craniofacial Sciences, King's College London, London SE1 1UL, UK
| | - James S Griffiths
- Centre for Host-Microbiome Interactions, Faculty of Dentistry, Oral & Craniofacial Sciences, King's College London, London SE1 1UL, UK
| | - Radim Osicka
- Institute of Microbiology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Lizhen Song
- Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Katherine Polsky
- Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Lydia Kasper
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology - Hans Knoell Institute Jena (HKI), 07737 Jena, Germany
| | - Peter Sebo
- Institute of Microbiology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Jill Weatherhead
- Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, USA; National School of Tropical Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - J Morgan Knight
- Departments of Pathology & Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Farrah Kheradmand
- Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Departments of Pathology & Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Biology of Inflammation Center, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Michael E. DeBakey VA Center for Translational Research on Inflammatory Diseases, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Hui Zheng
- Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Huffington Center on Aging, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Jonathan P Richardson
- Centre for Host-Microbiome Interactions, Faculty of Dentistry, Oral & Craniofacial Sciences, King's College London, London SE1 1UL, UK
| | - Bernhard Hube
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology - Hans Knoell Institute Jena (HKI), 07737 Jena, Germany; Institute of Microbiology, Friedrich Schiller University, 07737 Jena, Germany.
| | - Julian R Naglik
- Centre for Host-Microbiome Interactions, Faculty of Dentistry, Oral & Craniofacial Sciences, King's College London, London SE1 1UL, UK.
| | - David B Corry
- Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Departments of Pathology & Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Biology of Inflammation Center, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Michael E. DeBakey VA Center for Translational Research on Inflammatory Diseases, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
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22
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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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23
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Fusco-Almeida AM, de Matos Silva S, dos Santos KS, de Lima Gualque MW, Vaso CO, Carvalho AR, Medina-Alarcón KP, Pires ACMDS, Belizario JA, de Souza Fernandes L, Moroz A, Martinez LR, Ruiz OH, González Á, Mendes-Giannini MJS. Alternative Non-Mammalian Animal and Cellular Methods for the Study of Host-Fungal Interactions. J Fungi (Basel) 2023; 9:943. [PMID: 37755051 PMCID: PMC10533014 DOI: 10.3390/jof9090943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2023] [Revised: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
In the study of fungal pathogenesis, alternative methods have gained prominence due to recent global legislation restricting the use of mammalian animals in research. The principle of the 3 Rs (replacement, reduction, and refinement) is integrated into regulations and guidelines governing animal experimentation in nearly all countries. This principle advocates substituting vertebrate animals with other invertebrate organisms, embryos, microorganisms, or cell cultures. This review addresses host-fungus interactions by employing three-dimensional (3D) cultures, which offer more faithful replication of the in vivo environment, and by utilizing alternative animal models to replace traditional mammals. Among these alternative models, species like Caenorhabditis elegans and Danio rerio share approximately 75% of their genes with humans. Furthermore, models such as Galleria mellonella and Tenebrio molitor demonstrate similarities in their innate immune systems as well as anatomical and physiological barriers, resembling those found in mammalian organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Marisa Fusco-Almeida
- Department of Clinical Analysis, School of Pharmaceutical Science, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Araraquara 14800-903, SP, Brazil; (A.M.F.-A.); (S.d.M.S.); (K.S.d.S.); (M.W.d.L.G.); (C.O.V.); (A.R.C.); (K.P.M.-A.); (A.C.M.d.S.P.); (J.A.B.); (L.d.S.F.); (A.M.)
| | - Samanta de Matos Silva
- Department of Clinical Analysis, School of Pharmaceutical Science, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Araraquara 14800-903, SP, Brazil; (A.M.F.-A.); (S.d.M.S.); (K.S.d.S.); (M.W.d.L.G.); (C.O.V.); (A.R.C.); (K.P.M.-A.); (A.C.M.d.S.P.); (J.A.B.); (L.d.S.F.); (A.M.)
- Basic and Applied Microbiology Group (MICROBA), School of Microbiology, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellin 050010, Colombia; (O.H.R.); (Á.G.)
| | - Kelvin Sousa dos Santos
- Department of Clinical Analysis, School of Pharmaceutical Science, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Araraquara 14800-903, SP, Brazil; (A.M.F.-A.); (S.d.M.S.); (K.S.d.S.); (M.W.d.L.G.); (C.O.V.); (A.R.C.); (K.P.M.-A.); (A.C.M.d.S.P.); (J.A.B.); (L.d.S.F.); (A.M.)
| | - Marcos William de Lima Gualque
- Department of Clinical Analysis, School of Pharmaceutical Science, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Araraquara 14800-903, SP, Brazil; (A.M.F.-A.); (S.d.M.S.); (K.S.d.S.); (M.W.d.L.G.); (C.O.V.); (A.R.C.); (K.P.M.-A.); (A.C.M.d.S.P.); (J.A.B.); (L.d.S.F.); (A.M.)
| | - Carolina Orlando Vaso
- Department of Clinical Analysis, School of Pharmaceutical Science, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Araraquara 14800-903, SP, Brazil; (A.M.F.-A.); (S.d.M.S.); (K.S.d.S.); (M.W.d.L.G.); (C.O.V.); (A.R.C.); (K.P.M.-A.); (A.C.M.d.S.P.); (J.A.B.); (L.d.S.F.); (A.M.)
| | - Angélica Romão Carvalho
- Department of Clinical Analysis, School of Pharmaceutical Science, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Araraquara 14800-903, SP, Brazil; (A.M.F.-A.); (S.d.M.S.); (K.S.d.S.); (M.W.d.L.G.); (C.O.V.); (A.R.C.); (K.P.M.-A.); (A.C.M.d.S.P.); (J.A.B.); (L.d.S.F.); (A.M.)
| | - Kaila Petrolina Medina-Alarcón
- Department of Clinical Analysis, School of Pharmaceutical Science, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Araraquara 14800-903, SP, Brazil; (A.M.F.-A.); (S.d.M.S.); (K.S.d.S.); (M.W.d.L.G.); (C.O.V.); (A.R.C.); (K.P.M.-A.); (A.C.M.d.S.P.); (J.A.B.); (L.d.S.F.); (A.M.)
| | - Ana Carolina Moreira da Silva Pires
- Department of Clinical Analysis, School of Pharmaceutical Science, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Araraquara 14800-903, SP, Brazil; (A.M.F.-A.); (S.d.M.S.); (K.S.d.S.); (M.W.d.L.G.); (C.O.V.); (A.R.C.); (K.P.M.-A.); (A.C.M.d.S.P.); (J.A.B.); (L.d.S.F.); (A.M.)
| | - Jenyffie Araújo Belizario
- Department of Clinical Analysis, School of Pharmaceutical Science, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Araraquara 14800-903, SP, Brazil; (A.M.F.-A.); (S.d.M.S.); (K.S.d.S.); (M.W.d.L.G.); (C.O.V.); (A.R.C.); (K.P.M.-A.); (A.C.M.d.S.P.); (J.A.B.); (L.d.S.F.); (A.M.)
| | - Lígia de Souza Fernandes
- Department of Clinical Analysis, School of Pharmaceutical Science, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Araraquara 14800-903, SP, Brazil; (A.M.F.-A.); (S.d.M.S.); (K.S.d.S.); (M.W.d.L.G.); (C.O.V.); (A.R.C.); (K.P.M.-A.); (A.C.M.d.S.P.); (J.A.B.); (L.d.S.F.); (A.M.)
| | - Andrei Moroz
- Department of Clinical Analysis, School of Pharmaceutical Science, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Araraquara 14800-903, SP, Brazil; (A.M.F.-A.); (S.d.M.S.); (K.S.d.S.); (M.W.d.L.G.); (C.O.V.); (A.R.C.); (K.P.M.-A.); (A.C.M.d.S.P.); (J.A.B.); (L.d.S.F.); (A.M.)
| | - Luis R. Martinez
- Department of Oral Biology, College of Dentistry, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA;
- Emerging Pathogens Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
- Center for Immunology and Transplantation, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
- Center for Translational Research in Neurodegenerative Disease, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Orville Hernandez Ruiz
- Basic and Applied Microbiology Group (MICROBA), School of Microbiology, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellin 050010, Colombia; (O.H.R.); (Á.G.)
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Group University of Antioquia, Corporation for Biological Research, Medellin 050010, Colombia
| | - Ángel González
- Basic and Applied Microbiology Group (MICROBA), School of Microbiology, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellin 050010, Colombia; (O.H.R.); (Á.G.)
| | - Maria José Soares Mendes-Giannini
- Department of Clinical Analysis, School of Pharmaceutical Science, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Araraquara 14800-903, SP, Brazil; (A.M.F.-A.); (S.d.M.S.); (K.S.d.S.); (M.W.d.L.G.); (C.O.V.); (A.R.C.); (K.P.M.-A.); (A.C.M.d.S.P.); (J.A.B.); (L.d.S.F.); (A.M.)
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24
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Chen X, Wang J, Chen J, Wang G, Zhang R, Qiu J. Vaginal homeostasis features of Vulvovaginal Candidiasis through vaginal metabolic profiling. Med Mycol 2023; 61:myad085. [PMID: 37573133 DOI: 10.1093/mmy/myad085] [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: 04/02/2023] [Revised: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is an inflammatory disease primarily infected by Candida albicans. The condition has good short-term treatment effects, high recurrence, and seriously affects the quality of life of women. Metabolomics has been applied to research a variety of inflammatory diseases. In the present study, the vaginal metabolic profiles of VVC patients and healthy populations (Cnotrol (CTL)) were explored by a non-targeted metabolomics approach. In total, 211 differential metabolites were identified, with the VVC group having 128 over-expressed and 83 under-expressed metabolites compared with healthy individuals. Functional analysis showed that these metabolites were mainly involved in amino acid metabolism and lipid metabolism. In addition, network software analysis indicated that the differential metabolites were associated with mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling and NF-κB signaling. Further molecular docking suggested that linoleic acid can bind to the acyl-CoA synthetase 1 (ACSL1) protein, which has been shown to be associated with multiple inflammatory diseases and is an upstream regulator of the MAPK and NF-κB signaling pathways that mediate inflammation. Therefore, our preliminary analysis results suggest that VVC has a unique metabolic profile. Linoleic acid, a significantly elevated unsaturated fatty acid in the VVC group, may promote VVC development through the ACSL1/MAPK and ACSL1/NF-κB signaling pathways. This study's findings contribute to further exploring the mechanism of VVC infection and providing new perspectives for the treatment of Candida albicans vaginal infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyi Chen
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Tongren Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jinbo Wang
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Tongren Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jing Chen
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Tongren Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Guanghua Wang
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Tongren Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Runjie Zhang
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Tongren Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jin Qiu
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Tongren Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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25
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Yang L, Cheng T, Shao J. Perspective on receptor-associated immune response to Candida albicans single and mixed infections: Implications for therapeutics in oropharyngeal candidiasis. Med Mycol 2023; 61:myad077. [PMID: 37533203 DOI: 10.1093/mmy/myad077] [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: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Oropharyngeal candidiasis (OPC), commonly known as 'thrush', is an oral infection that usually dismantles oral mucosal integrity and malfunctions local innate and adaptive immunities in compromised individuals. The major pathogen responsible for the occurrence and progression of OPC is the dimorphic opportunistic commensal Candida albicans. However, the incidence induced by non-albicans Candida species including C. glabrata, C. tropicalis, C. dubliniensis, C. parapsilosis, and C. krusei are increasing in company with several oral bacteria, such as Streptococcus mutans, S. gordonii, S. epidermidis, and S. aureus. In this review, the microbiological and infection features of C. albicans and its co-contributors in the pathogenesis of OPC are outlined. Since the invasion and concomitant immune response lie firstly on the recognition of oral pathogens through diverse cellular surface receptors, we subsequently emphasize the roles of epidermal growth factor receptor, ephrin-type receptor 2, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2, and aryl hydrocarbon receptor located on oral epithelial cells to delineate the underlying mechanism by which host immune recognition to oral pathogens is mediated. Based on these observations, the therapeutic approaches to OPC comprising conventional and non-conventional antifungal agents, fungal vaccines, cytokine and antibody therapies, and antimicrobial peptide therapy are finally overviewed. In the face of newly emerging life-threatening microbes (C. auris and SARS-CoV-2), risks (biofilm formation and interconnected translocation among diverse organs), and complicated clinical settings (HIV and oropharyngeal cancer), the research on OPC is still a challenging task.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liu Yang
- Laboratory of Anti-infection and Immunity, College of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine (College of Life Science), Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Zhijing Building, 350 Longzihu Road, Xinzhan District, Hefei 230012, P. R. China
| | - Ting Cheng
- Laboratory of Anti-infection and Immunity, College of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine (College of Life Science), Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Zhijing Building, 350 Longzihu Road, Xinzhan District, Hefei 230012, P. R. China
| | - Jing Shao
- Laboratory of Anti-infection and Immunity, College of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine (College of Life Science), Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Zhijing Building, 350 Longzihu Road, Xinzhan District, Hefei 230012, P. R. China
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui Academy of Chinese Medicine, Zhijing Building, 350 Longzihu Road, Xinzhan District, Hefei 230012, P. R. China
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26
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Rapala-Kozik M, Surowiec M, Juszczak M, Wronowska E, Kulig K, Bednarek A, Gonzalez-Gonzalez M, Karkowska-Kuleta J, Zawrotniak M, Satała D, Kozik A. Living together: The role of Candida albicans in the formation of polymicrobial biofilms in the oral cavity. Yeast 2023; 40:303-317. [PMID: 37190878 DOI: 10.1002/yea.3855] [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: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 04/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The oral cavity of humans is colonized by diversity of microbial community, although dominated by bacteria, it is also constituted by a low number of fungi, often represented by Candida albicans. Although in the vast minority, this usually commensal fungus under certain conditions of the host (e.g., immunosuppression or antibiotic therapy), can transform into an invasive pathogen that adheres to mucous membranes and also to medical or dental devices, causing mucosal infections. This transformation is correlated with changes in cell morphology from yeast-like cells to hyphae and is supported by numerous virulence factors exposed by C. albicans cells at the site of infection, such as multifunctional adhesins, degradative enzymes, or toxin. All of them affect the surrounding host cells or proteins, leading to their destruction. However, at the site of infection, C. albicans can interact with different bacterial species and in its filamentous form may produce biofilms-the elaborated consortia of microorganisms, that present increased ability to host colonization and resistance to antimicrobial agents. In this review, we highlight the modification of the infectious potential of C. albicans in contact with different bacterial species, and also consider the mutual bacterial-fungal relationships, involving cooperation, competition, or antagonism, that lead to an increase in the propagation of oral infection. The mycofilm of C. albicans is an excellent hiding place for bacteria, especially those that prefer low oxygen availability, where microbial cells during mutual co-existence can avoid host recognition or elimination by antimicrobial action. However, these microbial relationships, identified mainly in in vitro studies, are modified depending on the complexity of host conditions and microbial dominance in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Rapala-Kozik
- Department of Comparative Biochemistry and Bioanalytics, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Krakow, Poland
| | - Magdalena Surowiec
- Department of Comparative Biochemistry and Bioanalytics, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Krakow, Poland
- Doctoral School of Exact and Natural Sciences, Jagiellonian University, Kraków, Poland
| | - Magdalena Juszczak
- Department of Comparative Biochemistry and Bioanalytics, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Krakow, Poland
- Doctoral School of Exact and Natural Sciences, Jagiellonian University, Kraków, Poland
| | - Ewelina Wronowska
- Department of Comparative Biochemistry and Bioanalytics, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Krakow, Poland
| | - Kamila Kulig
- Department of Comparative Biochemistry and Bioanalytics, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Krakow, Poland
| | - Aneta Bednarek
- Department of Comparative Biochemistry and Bioanalytics, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Krakow, Poland
- Doctoral School of Exact and Natural Sciences, Jagiellonian University, Kraków, Poland
| | - Miriam Gonzalez-Gonzalez
- Department of Comparative Biochemistry and Bioanalytics, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Krakow, Poland
| | - Justyna Karkowska-Kuleta
- Department of Comparative Biochemistry and Bioanalytics, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Krakow, Poland
| | - Marcin Zawrotniak
- Department of Comparative Biochemistry and Bioanalytics, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Krakow, Poland
| | - Dorota Satała
- Department of Comparative Biochemistry and Bioanalytics, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Krakow, Poland
| | - Andrzej Kozik
- Department of Analytical Biochemistry, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Krakow, Poland
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27
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Phan QT, Solis NV, Cravener MV, Swidergall M, Lin J, Huang MY, Liu H, Singh S, Ibrahim AS, Mazzone M, Mitchell AP, Filler SG. Candida albicans stimulates formation of a multi-receptor complex that mediates epithelial cell invasion during oropharyngeal infection. PLoS Pathog 2023; 19:e1011579. [PMID: 37611070 PMCID: PMC10479894 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1011579] [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: 03/21/2023] [Revised: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Fungal invasion of the oral epithelium is central to the pathogenesis of oropharyngeal candidiasis (OPC). Candida albicans invades the oral epithelium by receptor-induced endocytosis but this process is incompletely understood. We found that C. albicans infection of oral epithelial cells induces c-Met to form a multi-protein complex with E-cadherin and the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). E-cadherin is necessary for C. albicans to activate both c-Met and EGFR and to induce the endocytosis of C. albicans. Proteomics analysis revealed that c-Met interacts with C. albicans Hyr1, Als3 and Ssa1. Both Hyr1 and Als3 are required for C. albicans to stimulate c-Met and EGFR in oral epithelial cells in vitro and for full virulence during OPC in mice. Treating mice with small molecule inhibitors of c-Met and EGFR ameliorates OPC, demonstrating the potential therapeutic efficacy of blocking these host receptors for C. albicans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quynh T. Phan
- Institute for Infection and Immunity, Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, California, United States of America
| | - Norma V. Solis
- Institute for Infection and Immunity, Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, California, United States of America
| | - Max V. Cravener
- Department of Microbiology, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia United States of America
| | - Marc Swidergall
- Institute for Infection and Immunity, Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, California, United States of America
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Jianfeng Lin
- Institute for Infection and Immunity, Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, California, United States of America
| | - Manning Y. Huang
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of California, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Hong Liu
- Institute for Infection and Immunity, Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, California, United States of America
| | - Shakti Singh
- Institute for Infection and Immunity, Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, California, United States of America
| | - Ashraf S. Ibrahim
- Institute for Infection and Immunity, Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, California, United States of America
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Massimiliano Mazzone
- Laboratory of Tumor Inflammation and Angiogenesis, Center for Cancer Biology, VIB, Leuven, Belgium
- Laboratory of Tumor Inflammation and Angiogenesis, Center for Cancer Biology, Department of Oncology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Aaron P. Mitchell
- Department of Microbiology, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia United States of America
| | - Scott G. Filler
- Institute for Infection and Immunity, Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, California, United States of America
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
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28
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Spaggiari L, Squartini Ramos GB, Squartini Ramos CA, Ardizzoni A, Pedretti N, Blasi E, De Seta F, Pericolini E. Anti- Candida and Anti-Inflammatory Properties of a Vaginal Gel Formulation: Novel Data Concerning Vaginal Infection and Dysbiosis. Microorganisms 2023; 11:1551. [PMID: 37375053 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11061551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Revised: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Vaginal ecosystem is a unique environment where, in physiological conditions, lactobacilli dominate. However, pathogenic microbial species responsible for vaginitis and vaginosis can also harbor vaginal microbiota. To extend our previously published data, we analyzed here both the anti-Candida and anti-inflammatory properties of the vaginal gel formulation, Respecta® Balance Gel (RBG), commercialized as an adjuvant to treat vaginitis and vaginosis. We evaluated its activity by an in vitro model where a monolayer of A-431 vaginal epithelial cells was infected by Candida albicans in the presence of RBG or the placebo formulation (pRBG). Specifically, we tested the RBG capacity to counteract C. albicans virulence factors and their anti-inflammatory properties. Our results show that, unlike the placebo, RBG reduces C. albicans adhesion, its capacity to form hyphae and C. albicans-induced vaginal cell damage. Interestingly, both RBG and pRBG reduce LPS-induced IL-8 secretion (with RBG being the most effective), demonstrating that also the placebo retains anti-inflammatory properties. From our experimental approach, we highlighted the possible role of farnesol on such effects, but we would like to point out that lactic acid, polydextrose and glycogen too must be relevant in the actual application. In summary, our results show that RBG impairs C. albicans virulence and is able to reduce the inflammation in the vaginal environment, ultimately allowing the establishment of a balanced vaginal ecosystem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Spaggiari
- Clinical and Experimental Medicine Ph.D. Program, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Gianfranco B Squartini Ramos
- Department of Surgical, Medical, Dental and Morphological Sciences with Interest in Transplant, Oncological and Regenerative Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Caterina A Squartini Ramos
- Department of Surgical, Medical, Dental and Morphological Sciences with Interest in Transplant, Oncological and Regenerative Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Andrea Ardizzoni
- Department of Surgical, Medical, Dental and Morphological Sciences with Interest in Transplant, Oncological and Regenerative Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Natalia Pedretti
- Department of Surgical, Medical, Dental and Morphological Sciences with Interest in Transplant, Oncological and Regenerative Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Blasi
- Department of Surgical, Medical, Dental and Morphological Sciences with Interest in Transplant, Oncological and Regenerative Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Francesco De Seta
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Trieste, 34149 Trieste, Italy
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Burlo Garofolo, 34127 Trieste, Italy
| | - Eva Pericolini
- Department of Surgical, Medical, Dental and Morphological Sciences with Interest in Transplant, Oncological and Regenerative Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
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Talapko J, Meštrović T, Dmitrović B, Juzbašić M, Matijević T, Bekić S, Erić S, Flam J, Belić D, Petek Erić A, Milostić Srb A, Škrlec I. A Putative Role of Candida albicans in Promoting Cancer Development: A Current State of Evidence and Proposed Mechanisms. Microorganisms 2023; 11:1476. [PMID: 37374978 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11061476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Candida albicans is a commensal fungal species that commonly colonizes the human body, but it is also a pervasive opportunistic pathogen in patients with malignant diseases. A growing body of evidence suggests that this fungus is not only coincidental in oncology patients, but may also play an active role in the development of cancer. More specifically, several studies have investigated the potential association between C. albicans and various types of cancer, including oral, esophageal, and colorectal cancer, with a possible role of this species in skin cancer as well. The proposed mechanisms include the production of carcinogenic metabolites, modulation of the immune response, changes in cell morphology, microbiome alterations, biofilm production, the activation of oncogenic signaling pathways, and the induction of chronic inflammation. These mechanisms may act together or independently to promote cancer development. Although more research is needed to fully grasp the potential role of C. albicans in carcinogenesis, the available evidence suggests that this species may be an active contributor and underscores the importance of considering the impact of the human microbiome on cancer pathogenesis. In this narrative review, we aimed to summarize the current state of evidence and offer some insights into proposed mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jasminka Talapko
- Faculty of Dental Medicine and Health, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
| | - Tomislav Meštrović
- University Centre Varaždin, University North, 42000 Varaždin, Croatia
- Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation and the Department of Health Metrics Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Branko Dmitrović
- Faculty of Dental Medicine and Health, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
- Department of Pathology and Forensic Medicine, University Hospital Center Osijek, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
| | - Martina Juzbašić
- Faculty of Dental Medicine and Health, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
| | - Tatjana Matijević
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, University Hospital Center Osijek, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
- Faculty of Medicine, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
| | - Sanja Bekić
- Faculty of Medicine, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
- Family Medicine Practice, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
| | - Suzana Erić
- Faculty of Medicine, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
- Department of Radiotherapy and Oncology, University Hospital Center Osijek, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
| | - Josipa Flam
- Faculty of Medicine, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
- Department of Radiotherapy and Oncology, University Hospital Center Osijek, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
| | - Dino Belić
- Faculty of Medicine, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
- Department of Radiotherapy and Oncology, University Hospital Center Osijek, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
| | - Anamarija Petek Erić
- Faculty of Dental Medicine and Health, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
- Faculty of Medicine, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
- Department of Psychiatry, University Hospital Center Osijek, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
| | - Andrea Milostić Srb
- Faculty of Dental Medicine and Health, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
| | - Ivana Škrlec
- Faculty of Dental Medicine and Health, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
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30
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Abstract
The microbiome may impact cancer development, progression and treatment responsiveness, but its fungal components remain insufficiently studied in this context. In this review, we highlight accumulating evidence suggesting a possible involvement of commensal and pathogenic fungi in modulation of cancer-related processes. We discuss the mechanisms by which fungi can influence tumour biology, locally by activity exerted within the tumour microenvironment, or remotely through secretion of bioactive metabolites, modulation of host immunity and communications with neighbouring bacterial commensals. We examine prospects of utilising fungi-related molecular signatures in cancer diagnosis, patient stratification and assessment of treatment responsiveness, while highlighting challenges and limitations faced in performing such research. In all, we demonstrate that fungi likely constitute important members of mucosal and tumour-residing microbiomes. Exploration of fungal inter-kingdom interactions with the bacterial microbiome and the host and decoding of their causal impacts on tumour biology may enable their harnessing into cancer diagnosis and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aurelia Saftien
- Microbiome and Cancer Division, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
- Faculty of Biosciences, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Jens Puschhof
- Microbiome and Cancer Division, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Eran Elinav
- Microbiome and Cancer Division, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Systems Immunology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
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31
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Gaziano R, Sabbatini S, Monari C. The Interplay between Candida albicans, Vaginal Mucosa, Host Immunity and Resident Microbiota in Health and Disease: An Overview and Future Perspectives. Microorganisms 2023; 11:1211. [PMID: 37317186 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11051211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2023] [Revised: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC), which is primarily caused by Candida albicans, is an infection that affects up to 75% of all reproductive-age women worldwide. Recurrent VVC (RVVC) is defined as >3 episodes per year and affects nearly 8% of women globally. At mucosal sites of the vagina, a delicate and complex balance exists between Candida spp., host immunity and local microbial communities. In fact, both immune response and microbiota composition play a central role in counteracting overgrowth of the fungus and maintaining homeostasis in the host. If this balance is perturbed, the conditions may favor C. albicans overgrowth and the yeast-to-hyphal transition, predisposing the host to VVC. To date, the factors that affect the equilibrium between Candida spp. and the host and drive the transition from C. albicans commensalism to pathogenicity are not yet fully understood. Understanding the host- and fungus-related factors that drive VVC pathogenesis is of paramount importance for the development of adequate therapeutic interventions to combat this common genital infection. This review focuses on the latest advances in the pathogenic mechanisms implicated in the onset of VVC and also discusses novel potential strategies, with a special focus on the use of probiotics and vaginal microbiota transplantation in the treatment and/or prevention of recurrent VVC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Gaziano
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Samuele Sabbatini
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Medical Microbiology Section, University of Perugia, 06132 Perugia, Italy
| | - Claudia Monari
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Medical Microbiology Section, University of Perugia, 06132 Perugia, Italy
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Dickenson RE, Pellon A, Ponde NO, Hepworth O, Daniels Gatward LF, Naglik JR, Moyes DL. EGR1 regulates oral epithelial cell responses to Candida albicans via the EGFR- ERK1/2 pathway. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.03.31.535186. [PMID: 37066428 PMCID: PMC10103955 DOI: 10.1101/2023.03.31.535186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/18/2023]
Abstract
Candida albicans is a fungal pathobiont colonising mucosal surfaces of the human body, including the oral cavity. Under certain predisposing conditions, C. albicans invades mucosal tissues activating EGFR-MAPK signalling pathways in epithelial cells via the action of its peptide toxin candidalysin. However, our knowledge of the epithelial mechanisms involved during C. albicans colonisation is rudimentary. Here, we describe the role of the transcription factor early growth response protein 1 (EGR1) in human oral epithelial cells (OECs) in response to C. albicans. EGR1 expression increases in OECs when exposed to C. albicans independently of fungal viability, morphology, or candidalysin release, suggesting EGR1 is involved in the fundamental recognition of C. albicans, rather than in response to invasion or 'pathogenesis'. Upregulation of EGR1 is mediated by EGFR via Raf1, ERK1/2 and NF-κB signalling but not PI3K/mTOR signalling. Notably, EGR1 mRNA silencing impacts on anti-C. albicans immunity, reducing GM-CSF, IL-1α and IL-1β release, and increasing IL-6 and IL-8 production. These findings identify an important role for EGR1 in priming epithelial cells to respond to subsequent invasive infection by C. albicans and elucidate the regulation circuit of this transcription factor after contact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruth E Dickenson
- Centre for Host-Microbiome Interactions, Faculty of Dentistry, Oral & Craniofacial Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Aize Pellon
- Centre for Host-Microbiome Interactions, Faculty of Dentistry, Oral & Craniofacial Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Nicole O Ponde
- Centre for Host-Microbiome Interactions, Faculty of Dentistry, Oral & Craniofacial Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
- Now at Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, USA
| | - Olivia Hepworth
- Centre for Host-Microbiome Interactions, Faculty of Dentistry, Oral & Craniofacial Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Lydia F Daniels Gatward
- Centre for Host-Microbiome Interactions, Faculty of Dentistry, Oral & Craniofacial Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
- School of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine & Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Julian R Naglik
- Centre for Host-Microbiome Interactions, Faculty of Dentistry, Oral & Craniofacial Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - David L Moyes
- Centre for Host-Microbiome Interactions, Faculty of Dentistry, Oral & Craniofacial Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
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33
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Domae E, Kamada A, Yoshikawa Y, Ikeo T. Heparin interacts with candidalysin and neutralizes its cytotoxicity to oral epithelial cells. J Oral Biosci 2023; 65:206-210. [PMID: 36963631 DOI: 10.1016/j.job.2023.03.002] [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: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/26/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Candidalysin is a peptide toxin produced by Candida albicans that causes damage to epithelial cells by destabilizing the plasma membrane. This study aimed to evaluate heparin's ability to neutralize candidalysin and protect epithelial cells from lysis. METHODS The study was conducted using a human oral epithelial cell line and synthetic candidalysin. Cell damage was assessed by measuring lactate dehydrogenase release. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and immunoblotting were used to determine cytokine concentrations and assess activation of intracellular signaling molecules and transcription factors, respectively. Flow cytometry was used to measure cell-bound candidalysin. RESULTS Heparin diminished the cell-lytic activity of candidalysin and subsequent epithelial responses. Additionally, heparin inhibited the interaction between candidalysin and epithelial cells. Furthermore, polyacrylic acid, a synthetic polymer, mimicked the neutralizing effects of candidalysin. CONCLUSION Our findings suggest that negatively charged polymers could be a potential therapeutic option for preventing the damage caused by candidalysin. Further research is needed to explore the effectiveness of other anionic polymers and their potential clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eisuke Domae
- Department of Biochemistry, Osaka Dental University, Hirakata, Osaka 5731121, Japan.
| | - Aiko Kamada
- Department of Biochemistry, Osaka Dental University, Hirakata, Osaka 5731121, Japan
| | - Yoshihiro Yoshikawa
- Department of Biochemistry, Osaka Dental University, Hirakata, Osaka 5731121, Japan
| | - Takashi Ikeo
- Department of Biochemistry, Osaka Dental University, Hirakata, Osaka 5731121, Japan
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34
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Wang X, Zhang W, Wu W, Wu S, Young A, Yan Z. Is Candida albicans a contributor to cancer? A critical review based on the current evidence. Microbiol Res 2023; 272:127370. [PMID: 37028206 DOI: 10.1016/j.micres.2023.127370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Revised: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/26/2023] [Indexed: 04/01/2023]
Abstract
The association between Candida albicans (C. albicans) and cancer has been noticed for decades. Whether C. albicans infection is a complication of cancer status or as a contributor to cancer development remains to be discussed. This review systematically summarized the up-to-date knowledge about associations between C. albicans and various types of cancer, and discussed the role of C. albicans in cancer development. Most of the current clinical and animal evidence support the relationship between C. albicans and oral cancer development. However, there is insufficient evidence to demonstrate the role of C. albicans in other types of cancer. Moreover, this review explored the underlying mechanisms for C. albicans promoting cancer. It was hypothesized that C. albicans may promote cancer progression by producing carcinogenic metabolites, inducing chronic inflammation, remodeling immune microenvironment, activating pro-cancer signals, and synergizing with bacteria.
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Phan QT, Solis NV, Cravener MV, Swidergall M, Lin J, Huang MY, Liu H, Singh S, Ibrahim AS, Mazzone M, Mitchell AP, Filler SG. Candida albicans stimulates the formation of a multi-receptor complex that mediates epithelial cell invasion during oropharyngeal infection. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.02.23.529756. [PMID: 36865306 PMCID: PMC9980113 DOI: 10.1101/2023.02.23.529756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/25/2023]
Abstract
Fungal invasion of the oral epithelium is central to the pathogenesis of oropharyngeal candidiasis (OPC). Candida albicans invades the oral epithelium by receptor-induced endocytosis but this process is incompletely understood. We found that C. albicans infection of oral epithelial cells induces c-Met to form a multi-protein complex with E-cadherin and the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). E-cadherin is necessary for C. albicans to activate both c-Met and EGFR and to induce the endocytosis of C. albicans . Proteomics analysis revealed that c-Met interacts with C. albicans Hyr1, Als3 and Ssa1. Both Hyr1 and Als3 were required for C. albicans stimulation of c-Met and EGFR in oral epithelial cells in vitro and for full virulence during OPC in mice. Treating mice with small molecule inhibitors of c-Met and EGFR ameliorated OPC, demonstrating the potential therapeutic efficacy of blocking these host receptors for C. albicans . Graphical abstract Highlights c-Met is an oral epithelial cell receptor for Candida albicans C. albicans infection causes c-Met and the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) to form a complex with E-cadherin, which is required for c-Met and EGFR function C. albicans Hyr1 and Als3 interact with c-Met and EGFR, inducing oral epithelial cell endocytosis and virulence during oropharyngeal candidiasis Dual blockade of c-Met and EGFR ameliorates oropharyngeal candidiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quynh T. Phan
- Institute for Infection and Immunity, Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, USA
| | - Norma V. Solis
- Institute for Infection and Immunity, Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, USA
| | - Max V. Cravener
- Department of Microbiology, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia 30602, USA
| | - Marc Swidergall
- Institute for Infection and Immunity, Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, USA
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Jianfeng Lin
- Institute for Infection and Immunity, Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, USA
| | - Manning Y. Huang
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Hong Liu
- Institute for Infection and Immunity, Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, USA
| | - Shakti Singh
- Institute for Infection and Immunity, Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, USA
| | - Ashraf S. Ibrahim
- Institute for Infection and Immunity, Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, USA
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Massimiliano Mazzone
- 1Laboratory of Tumor Inflammation and Angiogenesis, Center for Cancer Biology, VIB, Leuven B3000, Belgium
- Laboratory of Tumor Inflammation and Angiogenesis, Center for Cancer Biology, Department of Oncology, KU Leuven, Leuven B3000, Belgium
| | - Aaron P. Mitchell
- Department of Microbiology, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia 30602, USA
| | - Scott G. Filler
- Institute for Infection and Immunity, Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, USA
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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Garbe E, Thielemann N, Hohner S, Kumar A, Vylkova S, Kurzai O, Martin R. Functional analysis of the Candida albicans ECE1 Promoter. Microbiol Spectr 2023; 11:e0025323. [PMID: 36786567 PMCID: PMC10100963 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.00253-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The formation of hyphae is a key virulence attribute of Candida albicans as they are required for adhesion to and invasion of host cells, and ultimately deep-tissue dissemination. Hyphae also secrete the peptide toxin candidalysin, which is crucial for destruction of host cell membranes. The peptide is derived from a precursor protein encoded by the gene ECE1 which is strongly induced during hyphal growth. Previous studies revealed a very complex regulation of this gene involving several transcription factors. However, the promoter of the gene is still not characterized. Here, we present a functional analysis of the intergenic region upstream of the ECE1 gene. Rapid amplification of cDNA ends (RACE)-PCR was performed to identify the 5' untranslated region, which has a size of 49 bp regardless of the hyphae-inducing condition. By using green fluorescent protein (GFP) reporter constructs we further defined a minimal promoter length of 1,500 bp which was verified by RT-qPCR. Finally, we identified the TATA element required for the expression of the gene. It is located 106 to 109 bp upstream of the ECE1 start codon. Our results illustrate that despite a very short 5' UTR, a relatively long promoter is required to secure ECE1 transcription, indicating a complex regulatory machinery tightly controlling the expression of the gene. IMPORTANCE In recent years it was shown that secretion of the toxic peptide candidalysin from hyphae of the major human fungal pathogen Candida albicans contributes heavily to its virulence. The peptide is derived from a precursor protein which is encoded by the ECE1 gene whose transcription is known to be closely associated with formation of hyphae. Here, we used a GFP reporter system to determine the length of the ECE1 promoter and were able to show that it has a minimal size of 1,500 bp. Surprisingly, the gene has a very short 5' UTR of only 49 bp. In accordance with this, the TATA element required for transcription is located 106 to 109 bp upstream of the start codon. This indicates that ECE1 expression is controlled by a very long promoter allowing a complex network of transcription factors to contribute to the gene's regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enrico Garbe
- Septomics Research Center, Friedrich Schiller University and Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology – Hans Knöll Institute, Jena, Germany
| | - Nadja Thielemann
- Institute for Hygiene and Microbiology, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Sina Hohner
- Institute for Hygiene and Microbiology, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Animesh Kumar
- Institute for Hygiene and Microbiology, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Slavena Vylkova
- Septomics Research Center, Friedrich Schiller University and Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology – Hans Knöll Institute, Jena, Germany
| | - Oliver Kurzai
- Institute for Hygiene and Microbiology, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
- Research Group Fungal Septomics, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology – Hans Knöll Institute, Jena, Germany
- National Reference Center for Invasive Fungal Infections, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology – Hans Knöll Institute, Jena, Germany
| | - Ronny Martin
- Institute for Hygiene and Microbiology, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
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Nishikawa Y, Tomotake Y, Kawano H, Naruishi K, Kido JI, Hiroshima Y, Murakami A, Ichikawa T, Yumoto H. Effects of Candidalysin Derived from Candida albicans on the Expression of Pro-Inflammatory Mediators in Human Gingival Fibroblasts. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24043256. [PMID: 36834667 PMCID: PMC9963793 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24043256] [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: 01/10/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Candida albicans (Ca) is frequently detected in the peri-implant sulcus with peri-implantitis, a major postoperative complication after oral implant therapy. However, the involvement of Ca in the pathogenesis of peri-implantitis remains unclear. In this study, we aimed to clarify Ca prevalence in the peri-implant sulcus and investigated the effects of candidalysin (Clys), a toxin produced by Ca, on human gingival fibroblasts (HGFs). Peri-implant crevicular fluid (PICF) was cultured using CHROMagar and Ca colonization rate and colony numbers were calculated. The levels of interleukin (IL)-1β and soluble IL-6 receptor (sIL-6R) in PICF were quantified by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Pro-inflammatory mediator production and intracellular signaling pathway (MAPK) activation in HGFs were measured by ELISA and Western blotting, respectively. The Ca colonization rate and the average number of colonies in the peri-implantitis group tended to be higher than those in the healthy group. IL-1β and sIL-6R levels in the PICF were significantly higher in the peri-implantitis group than in the healthy group. Clys significantly induced IL-6 and pro-matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-1 productions in HGFs, and co-stimulation with Clys and sIL-6R increased IL-6, pro-MMP-1, and IL-8 production levels in HGFs compared with Clys stimulation alone. These findings suggest that Clys from Ca plays a role in the pathogenesis of peri-implantitis by inducing pro-inflammatory mediators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasufumi Nishikawa
- Oral Implant Center, Tokushima University Hospital, 2-50-1 Kuramoto-cho, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan
| | - Yoritoki Tomotake
- Oral Implant Center, Tokushima University Hospital, 2-50-1 Kuramoto-cho, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan
| | - Hiromichi Kawano
- Oral Implant Center, Tokushima University Hospital, 2-50-1 Kuramoto-cho, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan
| | - Koji Naruishi
- Department of Periodontology and Endodontology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, 3-18-15 Kuramoto-cho, Tokushima 770-8504, Japan
| | - Jun-ichi Kido
- Department of Periodontology and Endodontology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, 3-18-15 Kuramoto-cho, Tokushima 770-8504, Japan
| | - Yuka Hiroshima
- Department of Oral Microbiology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, 3-18-15 Kuramoto-cho, Tokushima 770-8504, Japan
| | - Akikazu Murakami
- Department of Oral Microbiology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, 3-18-15 Kuramoto-cho, Tokushima 770-8504, Japan
| | - Tetsuo Ichikawa
- Department of Prosthodontics and Oral Rehabilitation, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, 3-18-15 Kuramoto-cho, Tokushima 770-8504, Japan
| | - Hiromichi Yumoto
- Department of Periodontology and Endodontology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, 3-18-15 Kuramoto-cho, Tokushima 770-8504, Japan
- Correspondence:
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Polyphyllin I Effects Candida albicans via Inhibition of Virulence Factors. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2023; 2023:5645500. [PMID: 36726525 PMCID: PMC9886465 DOI: 10.1155/2023/5645500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2022] [Revised: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Paris polyphylla is often used in Chinese medicine to treat conditions such as carbuncles, trauma, snake bites, and mosquito bites. In the present study, we investigated the effect and mechanism of the morphological transition and extracellular phospholipase activity of Candida albicans treated with polyphyllin I (PPI). First, the minimum inhibitory concentration and antifungal activity of PPI were evaluated using the multiple microdilution method and time-killing assays. Then, the effect of PPI on the morphological transition of Candida albicans in Spider liquid medium and Sabouraud-dextrose liquid medium containing 10% fetal bovine serum was observed under an inverted microscope and by scanning electron microscopy. Finally, egg yolk agar plates were used to evaluate extracellular phospholipase activity. Gene expression was detected by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis. Our results suggest that PPI inhibited the transition from the yeast to the hyphal stage and decreased secreted aspartyl proteinase activity. We further confirmed that PPI significantly downregulated the expression of extracellular phospholipase genes and cAMP-PKA signaling pathway-related genes. Taken together, our results suggest that PPI exerts anti-Candida albicans activity by inhibiting virulence characteristics, including the yeast-to-hyphal transition and the secretion of aspartyl proteases and phospholipases. The study results also indicated that PPI could be a promising therapeutic strategy for Candida albicans.
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Handayani S, Nurdiana N, Winarsih S, Tri Endharti A. The Effects of Holothurin and Caspofungin on the Vaginal Cell Inflammation Parameters of the Rattus norvegicus Strain Post Induction of Candida albicans. Infect Drug Resist 2023; 16:2501-2509. [PMID: 37138836 PMCID: PMC10150739 DOI: 10.2147/idr.s400314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 04/01/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Candida albicans (C. albicans) is a fungus that causes superficial and invasive candidiasis in its host. Caspofungin, has been widely used as a synthetic antifungal, whereas holothurin has been shown to have potential as a natural antifungal. The purpose of this study was to see how holothurin and caspofungin affected the number of C. albicans's colonies, LDH levels, and the number of inflammatory cells in vagina of Rattus norvegicus. Patients and Methods Design of this research is using posttest only with control group design with 48 Rattus norvegicus Wistar strains used in this study were divided into six treatment groups. Each group was divided into three-time intervals of 12, 24, and 48 hours. LDH markers were tested using ELISA, inflammatory cells were counted manually, and the number of colonies was calculated using colonymetry before being diluted with NaCl 0.9% and planted in sabouraud dextrose agar (SDA). Results According to the findings, inflammatory cells in the treatment of holothurin (48-hours) had an OR of 1.68 CI (-0.79-4.16) P = 0.09 and caspofungin had an OR of 4.18 CI (1.26-9.63) P = 0.09. Meanwhile, LDH in the holothurin (48-hour) treatment obtained OR 348, CI (286-410), P=0.03, and Caspofungin OR 393, CI (277-508), P=0.03. Colonies were obtained with zero numbers in the holothurin treatment (48 hours) and with Caspofungin OR 393, CI (273-508) P=0.00. Conclusion Holothurin and caspofungin administration reduced the number of C. albicans colonies and the number of inflammatory cells (P 0.05), implying that holothurin and caspofungin could prevent C. albicans infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sri Handayani
- Doctoral Program of Medical Science Department, Faculty of Medicine, Brawijaya University, Malang, Indonesia
- Department of Midwifery of Aisyiyah, Institution of Surakarta University, Surakarta, Province of Middle Java, Indonesia
- Correspondence: Sri Handayani, Department of Midwifery of Aisyiyah, Institution of Surakarta University, Surakarta, Middle Java State, 57146, Indonesia, Tel +62 816-4252-588, Email
| | - Nurdiana Nurdiana
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Brawijaya University, Malang, Province of East Java, Indonesia
| | - Sri Winarsih
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, Brawijaya University, Malang, Province of East Java, Indonesia
| | - Agustina Tri Endharti
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Brawijaya University, Malang, Province of East Java, Indonesia
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de Assis LJ, Bain JM, Liddle C, Leaves I, Hacker C, Peres da Silva R, Yuecel R, Bebes A, Stead D, Childers DS, Pradhan A, Mackenzie K, Lagree K, Larcombe DE, Ma Q, Avelar GM, Netea MG, Erwig LP, Mitchell AP, Brown GD, Gow NAR, Brown AJP. Nature of β-1,3-Glucan-Exposing Features on Candida albicans Cell Wall and Their Modulation. mBio 2022; 13:e0260522. [PMID: 36218369 PMCID: PMC9765427 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.02605-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Candida albicans exists as a commensal of mucosal surfaces and the gastrointestinal tract without causing pathology. However, this fungus is also a common cause of mucosal and systemic infections when antifungal immune defenses become compromised. The activation of antifungal host defenses depends on the recognition of fungal pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs), such as β-1,3-glucan. In C. albicans, most β-1,3-glucan is present in the inner cell wall, concealed by the outer mannan layer, but some β-1,3-glucan becomes exposed at the cell surface. In response to host signals, such as lactate, C. albicans induces the Xog1 exoglucanase, which shaves exposed β-1,3-glucan from the cell surface, thereby reducing phagocytic recognition. We show here that β-1,3-glucan is exposed at bud scars and punctate foci on the lateral wall of yeast cells, that this exposed β-1,3-glucan is targeted during phagocytic attack, and that lactate-induced masking reduces β-1,3-glucan exposure at bud scars and at punctate foci. β-1,3-Glucan masking depends upon protein kinase A (PKA) signaling. We reveal that inactivating PKA, or its conserved downstream effectors, Sin3 and Mig1/Mig2, affects the amounts of the Xog1 and Eng1 glucanases in the C. albicans secretome and modulates β-1,3-glucan exposure. Furthermore, perturbing PKA, Sin3, or Mig1/Mig2 attenuates the virulence of lactate-exposed C. albicans cells in Galleria. Taken together, the data are consistent with the idea that β-1,3-glucan masking contributes to Candida pathogenicity. IMPORTANCE Microbes that coexist with humans have evolved ways of avoiding or evading our immunological defenses. These include the masking by these microbes of their "pathogen-associated molecular patterns" (PAMPs), which are recognized as "foreign" and used to activate protective immunity. The commensal fungus Candida albicans masks the proinflammatory PAMP β-1,3-glucan, which is an essential component of its cell wall. Most of this β-1,3-glucan is hidden beneath an outer layer of the cell wall on these microbes, but some can become exposed at the fungal cell surface. Using high-resolution confocal microscopy, we examine the nature of the exposed β-1,3-glucan at C. albicans bud scars and at punctate foci on the lateral cell wall, and we show that these features are targeted by innate immune cells. We also reveal that downstream effectors of protein kinase A (Mig1/Mig2, Sin3) regulate the secretion of major glucanases, modulate the levels of β-1,3-glucan exposure, and influence the virulence of C. albicans in an invertebrate model of systemic infection. Our data support the view that β-1,3-glucan masking contributes to immune evasion and the virulence of a major fungal pathogen of humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leandro José de Assis
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Judith M. Bain
- Aberdeen Fungal Group, Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, United Kingdom
| | - Corin Liddle
- Bioimaging Unit, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Ian Leaves
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | | | - Roberta Peres da Silva
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Raif Yuecel
- Exeter Centre for Cytomics, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Attila Bebes
- Exeter Centre for Cytomics, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - David Stead
- Aberdeen Proteomics Facility, Rowett Institute, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, United Kingdom
| | - Delma S. Childers
- Aberdeen Fungal Group, Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, United Kingdom
| | - Arnab Pradhan
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Kevin Mackenzie
- Aberdeen Fungal Group, Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, United Kingdom
| | - Katherine Lagree
- Department of Microbiology, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA
| | - Daniel E. Larcombe
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Qinxi Ma
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Gabriela Mol Avelar
- Aberdeen Fungal Group, Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, United Kingdom
| | - Mihai G. Netea
- Department of Internal Medicine, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
- Radboud Center for Infectious Diseases, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
- Department for Immunology & Metabolism, Life and Medical Sciences Institute (LIMES), University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Lars P. Erwig
- Aberdeen Fungal Group, Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, United Kingdom
- Johnson-Johnson Innovation, EMEA Innovation Centre, London, United Kingdom
| | - Aaron P. Mitchell
- Department of Microbiology, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA
| | - Gordon D. Brown
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Neil A. R. Gow
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Alistair J. P. Brown
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
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Lopes JP, Lionakis MS. Pathogenesis and virulence of Candida albicans. Virulence 2022; 13:89-121. [PMID: 34964702 PMCID: PMC9728475 DOI: 10.1080/21505594.2021.2019950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 125] [Impact Index Per Article: 62.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Revised: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Candida albicans is a commensal yeast fungus of the human oral, gastrointestinal, and genital mucosal surfaces, and skin. Antibiotic-induced dysbiosis, iatrogenic immunosuppression, and/or medical interventions that impair the integrity of the mucocutaneous barrier and/or perturb protective host defense mechanisms enable C. albicans to become an opportunistic pathogen and cause debilitating mucocutaneous disease and/or life-threatening systemic infections. In this review, we synthesize our current knowledge of the tissue-specific determinants of C. albicans pathogenicity and host immune defense mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Pedro Lopes
- From the Fungal Pathogenesis Section, Laboratory of Clinical Immunology and Microbiology (LCIM), National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Michail S. Lionakis
- From the Fungal Pathogenesis Section, Laboratory of Clinical Immunology and Microbiology (LCIM), National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), Bethesda, MD, USA
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Yang Y, Luo R, Chao S, Xue J, Jiang D, Feng YH, Guo XD, Luo D, Zhang J, Li Z, Wang ZL. Improved pharmacodynamics of epidermal growth factor via microneedles-based self-powered transcutaneous electrical stimulation. Nat Commun 2022; 13:6908. [PMID: 36376334 PMCID: PMC9663450 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-34716-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Epidermal growth factor is an excellent drug for promoting wound healing; however, its conventional administration strategies are associated with pharmacodynamic challenges, such as low transdermal permeability, reduction, and receptor desensitization. Here, we develop a microneedle-based self-powered transcutaneous electrical stimulation system (mn-STESS) by integrating a sliding free-standing triboelectric nanogenerator with a microneedle patch to achieve improved epidermal growth factor pharmacodynamics. We show that the mn-STESS facilitates drug penetration and utilization by using microneedles to pierce the stratum corneum. More importantly, we find that it converts the mechanical energy of finger sliding into electricity and mediates transcutaneous electrical stimulation through microneedles. We demonstrate that the electrical stimulation applied by mn-STESS acts as an "adjuvant" that suppresses the reduction of epidermal growth factor by glutathione and upregulates its receptor expression in keratinocyte cells, successfully compensating for receptor desensitization. Collectively, this work highlights the promise of self-powered electrical adjuvants in improving drug pharmacodynamics, creating combinatorial therapeutic strategies for traditional drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Yang
- Beijing Institute of Nanoenergy and Nanosystems, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 101400, China
- Department of Plastic Surgery, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China
- School of Nanoscience and Technology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Ruizeng Luo
- Beijing Institute of Nanoenergy and Nanosystems, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 101400, China
- School of Nanoscience and Technology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Shengyu Chao
- Beijing Institute of Nanoenergy and Nanosystems, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 101400, China
- School of Nanoscience and Technology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Jiangtao Xue
- Institute of Engineering Medicine, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Dongjie Jiang
- Beijing Institute of Nanoenergy and Nanosystems, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 101400, China
- School of Nanoscience and Technology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Yun Hao Feng
- Beijing Laboratory of Biomedical Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Xin Dong Guo
- Beijing Laboratory of Biomedical Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Dan Luo
- Beijing Institute of Nanoenergy and Nanosystems, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 101400, China.
- School of Nanoscience and Technology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China.
- Center of Nanoenergy Research, School of Physical Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, China.
| | - Jiaping Zhang
- Department of Plastic Surgery, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, 400038, China.
| | - Zhou Li
- Beijing Institute of Nanoenergy and Nanosystems, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 101400, China.
- School of Nanoscience and Technology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China.
- Center of Nanoenergy Research, School of Physical Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, China.
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China.
| | - Zhong Lin Wang
- Beijing Institute of Nanoenergy and Nanosystems, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 101400, China
- Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, 30332 0245, USA
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Macias-Paz IU, Pérez-Hernández S, Tavera-Tapia A, Luna-Arias JP, Guerra-Cárdenas JE, Reyna-Beltrán E. Candida albicans the main opportunistic pathogenic fungus in humans. Rev Argent Microbiol 2022:S0325-7541(22)00084-0. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ram.2022.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Revised: 07/03/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
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Ponde NO, Lortal L, Tsavou A, Hepworth OW, Wickramasinghe DN, Ho J, Richardson JP, Moyes DL, Gaffen SL, Naglik JR. Receptor-kinase EGFR-MAPK adaptor proteins mediate the epithelial response to Candida albicans via the cytolytic peptide toxin, candidalysin. J Biol Chem 2022; 298:102419. [PMID: 36037968 PMCID: PMC9530844 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2022.102419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Revised: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Candida albicans (C. albicans) is a dimorphic commensal human fungal pathogen that can cause severe oropharyngeal candidiasis (oral thrush) in susceptible hosts. During invasive infection, C. albicans hyphae invade oral epithelial cells (OECs) and secrete candidalysin, a pore-forming cytolytic peptide that is required for C. albicans pathogenesis at mucosal surfaces. Candidalysin is produced in the hyphal invasion pocket and triggers cell damage responses in OECs. Candidalysin also activates multiple MAPK-based signaling events that collectively drive the production of downstream inflammatory mediators that coordinate downstream innate and adaptive immune responses. The activities of candidalysin are dependent on signaling through the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). Here, we interrogated known EGFR-MAPK signaling intermediates for their roles mediating the OEC response to C. albicans infection. Using RNA silencing and pharmacological inhibition, we identified five key adaptors, including growth factor receptor-bound protein 2 (Grb2), Grb2-associated binding protein 1 (Gab1), Src homology and collagen (Shc), SH2-containing protein tyrosine phosphatase-2 (Shp2), and casitas B-lineage lymphoma (c-Cbl). We determined that all of these signaling effectors were inducibly phosphorylated in response to C. albicans. These phosphorylation events occurred in a candidalysin-dependent manner and additionally required EGFR phosphorylation, matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), and cellular calcium flux to activate a complete OEC response to fungal infection. Of these, Gab1, Grb2, and Shp2 were the dominant drivers of ERK1/2 activation and the subsequent production of downstream innate-acting cytokines. Together, these results identify the key adaptor proteins that drive the EGFR signaling mechanisms that underlie oral epithelial responses to C. albicans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole O Ponde
- Centre for Host-Microbiome Interactions, Faculty of Dentistry, Oral and Craniofacial Sciences, King's College London, London, United Kingdom; Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Léa Lortal
- Centre for Host-Microbiome Interactions, Faculty of Dentistry, Oral and Craniofacial Sciences, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Antzela Tsavou
- Centre for Host-Microbiome Interactions, Faculty of Dentistry, Oral and Craniofacial Sciences, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Olivia W Hepworth
- Centre for Host-Microbiome Interactions, Faculty of Dentistry, Oral and Craniofacial Sciences, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Don N Wickramasinghe
- Centre for Host-Microbiome Interactions, Faculty of Dentistry, Oral and Craniofacial Sciences, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jemima Ho
- Centre for Host-Microbiome Interactions, Faculty of Dentistry, Oral and Craniofacial Sciences, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jonathan P Richardson
- Centre for Host-Microbiome Interactions, Faculty of Dentistry, Oral and Craniofacial Sciences, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - David L Moyes
- Centre for Host-Microbiome Interactions, Faculty of Dentistry, Oral and Craniofacial Sciences, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Sarah L Gaffen
- Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh Pennsylvania, USA.
| | - Julian R Naglik
- Centre for Host-Microbiome Interactions, Faculty of Dentistry, Oral and Craniofacial Sciences, King's College London, London, United Kingdom.
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45
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A Fun-Guide to Innate Immune Responses to Fungal Infections. J Fungi (Basel) 2022; 8:jof8080805. [PMID: 36012793 PMCID: PMC9409918 DOI: 10.3390/jof8080805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2022] [Revised: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Immunocompromised individuals are at high risk of developing severe fungal infections with high mortality rates, while fungal pathogens pose little risk to most healthy people. Poor therapeutic outcomes and growing antifungal resistance pose further challenges for treatments. Identifying specific immunomodulatory mechanisms exploited by fungal pathogens is critical for our understanding of fungal diseases and development of new therapies. A gap currently exists between the large body of literature concerning the innate immune response to fungal infections and the potential manipulation of host immune responses to aid clearance of infection. This review considers the innate immune mechanisms the host deploys to prevent fungal infection and how these mechanisms fail in immunocompromised hosts. Three clinically relevant fungal pathogens (Candida albicans, Cryptococcus spp. and Aspergillus spp.) will be explored. This review will also examine potential mechanisms of targeting the host therapeutically to improve outcomes of fungal infection.
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46
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Le Bars P, Kouadio AA, Bandiaky ON, Le Guéhennec L, de La Cochetière MF. Host's Immunity and Candida Species Associated with Denture Stomatitis: A Narrative Review. Microorganisms 2022; 10:microorganisms10071437. [PMID: 35889156 PMCID: PMC9323190 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10071437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2022] [Revised: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 07/13/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Denture-related Candida stomatitis, which has been described clinically in the literature, is either localized or generalized inflammation of the oral mucosa in connection with a removable prosthesis. During this inflammatory process, the mycobacterial biofilm and the host’s immune response play an essential role. Among microorganisms of this mixed biofilm, the Candida species proliferates easily and changes from a commensal to an opportunistic pathogen. In this situation, the relationship between the Candida spp. and the host is influenced by the presence of the denture and conditioned both by the immune response and the oral microbiota. Specifically, this fungus is able to hijack the innate immune system of its host to cause infection. Additionally, older edentulous wearers of dentures may experience an imbalanced and decreased oral microbiome diversity. Under these conditions, the immune deficiency of these aging patients often promotes the spread of commensals and pathogens. The present narrative review aimed to analyze the innate and adaptive immune responses of patients with denture stomatitis and more particularly the involvement of Candida albicans sp. associated with this pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierre Le Bars
- Department of Prosthetic Dentistry, Faculty of Dentistry, Nantes University, 1 Place Alexis Ricordeau, 44042 Nantes, France; (A.A.K.); (O.N.B.); (L.L.G.)
- Correspondence: authors:
| | - Alain Ayepa Kouadio
- Department of Prosthetic Dentistry, Faculty of Dentistry, Nantes University, 1 Place Alexis Ricordeau, 44042 Nantes, France; (A.A.K.); (O.N.B.); (L.L.G.)
- Department of Prosthetic Dentistry, Faculty of Dentistry, CHU, Abidjan P.O. Box 612, Côte d’Ivoire
| | - Octave Nadile Bandiaky
- Department of Prosthetic Dentistry, Faculty of Dentistry, Nantes University, 1 Place Alexis Ricordeau, 44042 Nantes, France; (A.A.K.); (O.N.B.); (L.L.G.)
| | - Laurent Le Guéhennec
- Department of Prosthetic Dentistry, Faculty of Dentistry, Nantes University, 1 Place Alexis Ricordeau, 44042 Nantes, France; (A.A.K.); (O.N.B.); (L.L.G.)
| | - Marie-France de La Cochetière
- EA 3826 Thérapeutiques Cliniques Et expérimentales des Infections, Faculté de Médecine, CHU Hôtel-Dieu, Université de Nantes, 1, rue G. Veil, 44000 Nantes, France;
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47
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Kumar R, Rojas IG, Edgerton M. Candida albicans Sap6 Initiates Oral Mucosal Inflammation via the Protease Activated Receptor PAR2. Front Immunol 2022; 13:912748. [PMID: 35844627 PMCID: PMC9277060 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.912748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Candida albicans Sap6, a secreted aspartyl protease (Sap), contributes to fungal virulence in oral candidiasis. Beside its protease activity, Sap6 contains RGD (RGDRGD) motif required for its binding to host integrins. Sap6 activates immune cells to induce proinflammatory cytokines, although its ability to interact and activate human oral epithelial cells (OECs) remain unknown. Addition of purified recombinant Sap6 (rSap6) to OECs resulted in production of IL-1β and IL-8 cytokines similar to live hyphal C. albicans. OECs exposed to rSap6 showed phosphorylation of p38 and MKP1 and expression of c-Fos not found with C. albicans Δsap6, heat-inactivated Sap6, or rSap6ΔRGD . Heat inactivated rSap6 was able to induce IL-1β but not IL-8 in OECs, while rSap6ΔRGD induced IL-8 but not IL-1β suggesting parallel signaling pathways. C. albicans hyphae increased surface expression of Protease Activated Receptors PAR1, PAR2 and PAR3, while rSap6 increased PAR2 expression exclusively. Pretreatment of OECs with a PAR2 antagonist blocked rSap6-induced p38 MAPK signaling and IL-8 release, while rSap6ΔRGD had reduced MKP1 signaling and IL-1β release independent from PAR2. OECs exposed to rSap6 exhibited loss of barrier function as measured by TEER and reduction in levels of E-cadherin and occludin junctional proteins that was prevented by pretreating OECs with a PAR2 antagonist. OECs treated with PAR2 antagonist also showed reduced rSap6-mediated invasion by C. albicans cells. Thus, Sap6 may initiate OEC responses mediated both through protease activation of PAR2 and by its RGD domain. This novel role of PAR2 suggests new drug targets to block C. albicans oral infection.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Mira Edgerton
- Department of Oral Biology, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, United States
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48
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Zhang J, Peng J, Li D, Mei H, Yu Y, Li X, She X, Liu W. Divergent EGFR/MAPK-Mediated Immune Responses to Clinical Candida Pathogens in Vulvovaginal Candidiasis. Front Immunol 2022; 13:894069. [PMID: 35720274 PMCID: PMC9204526 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.894069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is characterized by symptomatic inflammatory responses in the vagina caused by Candida albicans and non-albicans Candida (NAC) species. The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) -mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway has been linked to immune responses of oral mucosa after C. albicans exposure, but whether this pathway plays a similar response in vaginal epithelial cells is not known. Here, we observed that phosphorylation of EGFR and p38 was continuously activated in vaginal epithelial cells by C. albicans strain SC5314. This differs markedly from oral epithelial cells, which respond in a biphasic manner in order to properly discriminate the morphology of C. albicans. When compared with SC5314, a highly azole-resistant C. albicans isolate 1052 can induce a stronger phosphorylated signal of EGFR and p38, while clinically-isolated NAC strains including C. tropicalis, C. glabrata, C. parapsilosis and C. auris trigger higher levels of phosphorylated ERK1/2 and c-Fos than C. albicans. Inhibition of EGFR significantly reduces inflammatory response and epithelial damage induced by C. albicans both in vitro and in vivo, while inhibition of p38 leads to significant repair of epithelial damage triggered by both C. albicans and NAC species. These results confirm the importance of the EGFR-MAPK signaling in VVC pathogenesis and highlight the remarkable immunogenic differences between C. albicans and NAC species in host-microbe interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingyun Zhang
- Department of Medical Mycology, Institute of Dermatology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (CAMS) & Peking Union Medical College (PUMC), Nanjing, China.,Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Skin Diseases and STIs, Nanjing, China
| | - Jingwen Peng
- Department of Medical Mycology, Institute of Dermatology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (CAMS) & Peking Union Medical College (PUMC), Nanjing, China.,Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Skin Diseases and STIs, Nanjing, China
| | - Dongmei Li
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Huan Mei
- Department of Medical Mycology, Institute of Dermatology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (CAMS) & Peking Union Medical College (PUMC), Nanjing, China.,Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Skin Diseases and STIs, Nanjing, China
| | - Yu Yu
- Department of Medical Mycology, Institute of Dermatology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (CAMS) & Peking Union Medical College (PUMC), Nanjing, China.,Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Skin Diseases and STIs, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiaofang Li
- Department of Medical Mycology, Institute of Dermatology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (CAMS) & Peking Union Medical College (PUMC), Nanjing, China.,Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Skin Diseases and STIs, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiaodong She
- Department of Medical Mycology, Institute of Dermatology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (CAMS) & Peking Union Medical College (PUMC), Nanjing, China.,Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Skin Diseases and STIs, Nanjing, China
| | - Weida Liu
- Department of Medical Mycology, Institute of Dermatology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (CAMS) & Peking Union Medical College (PUMC), Nanjing, China.,Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Skin Diseases and STIs, Nanjing, China.,Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
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49
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Gamal A, Elshaer M, Alabdely M, Kadry A, McCormick TS, Ghannoum M. The Mycobiome: Cancer Pathogenesis, Diagnosis, and Therapy. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:2875. [PMID: 35740541 PMCID: PMC9221014 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14122875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2022] [Revised: 06/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer is among the leading causes of death globally. Despite advances in cancer research, a full understanding of the exact cause has not been established. Recent data have shown that the microbiome has an important relationship with cancer on various levels, including cancer pathogenesis, diagnosis and prognosis, and treatment. Since most studies have focused only on the role of bacteria in this process, in this article we review the role of fungi-another important group of the microbiome, the totality of which is referred to as the "mycobiome"-in the development of cancer and how it can impact responses to anticancer medications. Furthermore, we provide recent evidence that shows how the different microbial communities interact and affect each other at gastrointestinal and non-gastrointestinal sites, including the skin, thereby emphasizing the importance of investigating the microbiome beyond bacteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Gamal
- Department of Dermatology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA; (A.G.); (M.E.); (A.K.); (T.S.M.)
| | - Mohammed Elshaer
- Department of Dermatology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA; (A.G.); (M.E.); (A.K.); (T.S.M.)
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt
| | - Mayyadah Alabdely
- Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA;
| | - Ahmed Kadry
- Department of Dermatology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA; (A.G.); (M.E.); (A.K.); (T.S.M.)
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Al-Azhar University, Cairo 11651, Egypt
| | - Thomas S. McCormick
- Department of Dermatology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA; (A.G.); (M.E.); (A.K.); (T.S.M.)
| | - Mahmoud Ghannoum
- Department of Dermatology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA; (A.G.); (M.E.); (A.K.); (T.S.M.)
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
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50
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Glittenberg MT, Kounatidis I, Atilano M, Ligoxygakis P. A genetic screen in Drosophila reveals the role of fucosylation in host susceptibility to Candida infection. Dis Model Mech 2022; 15:dmm049218. [PMID: 35142345 PMCID: PMC9118035 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.049218] [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: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Candida infections constitute a blind spot in global public health as very few new anti-fungal drugs are being developed. Genetic surveys of host susceptibilities to such infections using mammalian models have certain disadvantages in that obtaining results is time-consuming, owing to relatively long lifespans, and these results have low statistical resolution because sample sizes are usually small. Here, we report a targeted genetic screening of 5698 RNAi lines encompassing 4135 Drosophila genes with human homologues, several of which we identify as important for host survival after Candida albicans infection. These include genes in a variety of functional classes encompassing gene expression, intracellular signalling, metabolism and enzymatic regulation. Analysis of one of the screen hits, the infection-induced α-(1,3)-fucosylase FucTA, showed that N-glycan fucosylation has several targets among proteins involved in host defence, which provides multiple avenues of investigation for the mechanistic analysis of host survival to systemic C. albicans infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcus T. Glittenberg
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Oxford, South Parks Rd, Oxford OX1 3QU, UK
| | - Ilias Kounatidis
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Oxford, South Parks Rd, Oxford OX1 3QU, UK
| | - Magda Atilano
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Oxford, South Parks Rd, Oxford OX1 3QU, UK
| | - Petros Ligoxygakis
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Oxford, South Parks Rd, Oxford OX1 3QU, UK
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