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Wei Z, Jin Q, Liu W, Liu T, He K, Jin Z, Chen M, Jiang Y, Qian Y, Hong H, Zhang D, Liu Q, Yang Z, Li Q. Gliotoxin elicits immunotoxicity in the early innate immune system of ducks. Poult Sci 2024; 103:103717. [PMID: 38643746 PMCID: PMC11039318 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2024.103717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2024] [Revised: 03/17/2024] [Accepted: 03/31/2024] [Indexed: 04/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Gliotoxin (GT) belongs to the epipolythiodioxopiperazine (ETP) family, which is considered a crucial virulence determinant among the secondary metabolites produced by Aspergillus fumigatus. The metabolites are commonly found in food and feed, contributing to the invasion and immune escape of Aspergillus fumigatus, thereby posing a significant threat to the health of livestock, poultry, and humans. Heterophil extracellular traps (HETs), a novel form of innate immune defense, have been documented in the chicken's innate immune systems for capturing and eliminating invading microbes. However, the effects and mechanisms of GT on the production of duck HETs in vitro remain unknown. In this study, we first confirmed the presence of HETs in duck innate immune systems and further investigated the molecular mechanism underlying GT-induced HETs release. Our results demonstrate that GT can trigger typical release of HETs in duck. The structures of GT-induced HETs structures were characterized by DNA decoration, citrullinated histones 3, and elastase. Furthermore, NADPH oxidase, glycolysis, ERK1/2 and p38 signaling pathway were found to regulate GT-induced HETs. In summary, our findings reveal that gliotoxin activates HETs release in the early innate immune system of duck while providing new insights into the immunotoxicity of GT towards ducks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhengkai Wei
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, PR China.
| | - Qinqin Jin
- College of Life Sciences and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan 528225, Guangdong Province, PR China
| | - Wei Liu
- College of Life Sciences and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan 528225, Guangdong Province, PR China
| | - Tingting Liu
- College of Life Sciences and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan 528225, Guangdong Province, PR China
| | - Kaifeng He
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, PR China
| | - Zha Jin
- College of Life Sciences and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan 528225, Guangdong Province, PR China
| | - Meiyi Chen
- College of Life Sciences and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan 528225, Guangdong Province, PR China
| | - Yuqian Jiang
- College of Life Sciences and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan 528225, Guangdong Province, PR China
| | - Yuxiao Qian
- College of Life Sciences and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan 528225, Guangdong Province, PR China
| | - Hongrong Hong
- College of Life Sciences and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan 528225, Guangdong Province, PR China
| | - Dezhi Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, PR China
| | - Quan Liu
- College of Life Sciences and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan 528225, Guangdong Province, PR China
| | - Zhengtao Yang
- College of Life Sciences and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan 528225, Guangdong Province, PR China
| | - Qianyong Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, PR China
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Kortei NK, Gillette VS, Wiafe-Kwagyan M, Ansah LO, Kyei-Baffour V, Odamtten GT. Fungal profile, levels of aflatoxin M1, exposure, and the risk characterization of local cheese ' wagashi' consumed in the Ho Municipality, Volta Region, Ghana. Toxicol Rep 2024; 12:186-199. [PMID: 38313814 PMCID: PMC10837644 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxrep.2024.01.009] [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: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 01/14/2024] [Indexed: 02/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Wagashi is a West African type cottage cheese locally prepared from cow milk. Wagashi like other milk products, is prone to microbial contamination, particularly by fungi. Many of these fungal species produce mycotoxins which are of serious public health concern. This work aimed to update the mycoflora profile and determine the concentrations of aflatoxin M1 and its health risk characterization due to the consumption of wagashi. Culturing the wagashi on mycological media (Oxytetracycline Glucose Yeast Extract OGYE, Dichloran Rose Bengal Chloramphenicol DRBC) caused a de-novo growth of the quiescent spores at 28-30 °C for 5-7 days. The analysis of AFM1 levels in the samples was done using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography connected to a Fluorescence detector (HPLC-FLD). The exposure and risk assessment to the AFMI levels were determined using deterministic models prescribed by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). The fungal counts ranged between 2.36-4.30 log10 CFU/g. In total, thirteen (13) fungal species from eight (8) genera were isolated from all wagashi samples. They are; Fusarium oxysporum, Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus niger, Fusarium verticillioides, Penicillium digitatum, Trichoderma harzianum, Aspergillus terreus, Rhodotorula mucilaginosa, Rhizopus stolonifer, Aspergillus fumigatus, Yeast sp., Mucor racemosus and Fusarium oligosporum belonging to the genera Fusarium, Aspergillus, Penicillium, Trichoderma, Rhodotorula, Rhizopus, Yeast, and Mucor. The AFM1 observed in the wagashi samples' analysis was low, ranging from 0.00 (Not Detected) ± 0.00 - 0.06 ± 0.002 µg/Kg. Risk assessments of AFM1 using deterministic models produced outcomes that ranged between 5.92 × 10-3- 0.14 ng/kg bw/day, 1.42 -44.35, 0-0.0323 ng aflatoxins/kg bw/day, and 1.51 × 10-3 - 9.69 × 10-4 cases/100,000 person/yr for estimated daily intake (EDI), margin of exposure (MOE), average potency, and cancer risks, respectively, for the age categories investigated. Fungal counts were interpreted as medium to high. It was also established that the consumption of wagashi may pose adverse health effects on all age categories in the selected zones of the study since all calculated MOE values were less than 100,000.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nii Korley Kortei
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, School of Allied Health Sciences, University of Health and Allied Sciences, PMB 31, Ho, Ghana
- Department of Sports Nutrition, School of Sports and Exercise Medicine, University of Health and Allied Sciences, PMB 31, Ho, Ghana
| | - Valentina Sylvia Gillette
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, School of Allied Health Sciences, University of Health and Allied Sciences, PMB 31, Ho, Ghana
| | - Michael Wiafe-Kwagyan
- Department of Plant and Environmental Biology, College of Basic and Applied Sciences, University of Ghana, P. O. Box LG 55, Legon, Ghana
| | - Leslie Owusu Ansah
- Department of Food Laboratory, Food and Drugs Authority, P.O. Box CT 2783, Cantonments, Accra, Ghana
| | - Vincent Kyei-Baffour
- Food Chemistry and Nutrition Research Division, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, Food Research Institute, P. O. Box M20, Accra, Ghana
| | - George Tawia Odamtten
- Department of Plant and Environmental Biology, College of Basic and Applied Sciences, University of Ghana, P. O. Box LG 55, Legon, Ghana
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Curtis A, Dobes P, Marciniak J, Hurychova J, Hyrsl P, Kavanagh K. Characterization of Aspergillus fumigatus secretome during sublethal infection of Galleria mellonella larvae. J Med Microbiol 2024; 73. [PMID: 38836745 DOI: 10.1099/jmm.0.001844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction. The fungal pathogen Aspergillus fumigatus can induce prolonged colonization of the lungs of susceptible patients, resulting in conditions such as allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis and chronic pulmonary aspergillosis.Hypothesis. Analysis of the A. fumigatus secretome released during sub-lethal infection of G. mellonella larvae may give an insight into products released during prolonged human colonisation.Methodology. Galleria mellonella larvae were infected with A. fumigatus, and the metabolism of host carbohydrate and proteins and production of fungal virulence factors were analysed. Label-free qualitative proteomic analysis was performed to identify fungal proteins in larvae at 96 hours post-infection and also to identify changes in the Galleria proteome as a result of infection.Results. Infected larvae demonstrated increasing concentrations of gliotoxin and siderophore and displayed reduced amounts of haemolymph carbohydrate and protein. Fungal proteins (399) were detected by qualitative proteomic analysis in cell-free haemolymph at 96 hours and could be categorized into seven groups, including virulence (n = 25), stress response (n = 34), DNA repair and replication (n = 39), translation (n = 22), metabolism (n = 42), released intracellular (n = 28) and cellular development and cell cycle (n = 53). Analysis of the Gallerial proteome at 96 hours post-infection revealed changes in the abundance of proteins associated with immune function, metabolism, cellular structure, insect development, transcription/translation and detoxification.Conclusion. Characterizing the impact of the fungal secretome on the host may provide an insight into how A. fumigatus damages tissue and suppresses the immune response during long-term pulmonary colonization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron Curtis
- Department of Biology, Maynooth University, Maynooth, Co. Kildare, Ireland
| | - Pavel Dobes
- Department of Experimental Biology, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kamenice 5, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Jacek Marciniak
- Department of Experimental Biology, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kamenice 5, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Jana Hurychova
- Department of Experimental Biology, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kamenice 5, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Pavel Hyrsl
- Department of Experimental Biology, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kamenice 5, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Kevin Kavanagh
- Department of Biology, Maynooth University, Maynooth, Co. Kildare, Ireland
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Nasiri-Jahrodi A, Barati M, Namdar Ahmadabad H, Badali H, Morovati H. A comprehensive review on the role of T cell subsets and CAR-T cell therapy in Aspergillus fumigatus infection. Hum Immunol 2024; 85:110763. [PMID: 38350795 DOI: 10.1016/j.humimm.2024.110763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024]
Abstract
Understanding the immune response to Aspergillus fumigatus, a common cause of invasive fungal infections (IFIs) in immunocompromised individuals, is critical for developing effective treatments. Tcells play a critical role in the immune response to A. fumigatus, with different subsets having distinct functions. Th1 cells are important for controlling fungal growth, while Th2 cells can exacerbate infection. Th17 cells promote the clearance of fungi indirectly by stimulating the production of various antimicrobial peptides from epithelial cells and directly by recruiting and activating neutrophils. Regulatory T cells have varied functions in A.fumigatus infection. They expand after exposure to A. fumigatus conidia and prevent organ injury and fungal sepsis by downregulating inflammation and inhibiting neutrophils or suppressing Th17 cells. Regulatory T cells also block Th2 cells to stop aspergillosis allergies. Immunotherapy with CAR T cells is a promising treatment for fungal infections, including A. fumigatus infections, especially in immunocompromised individuals. However, further research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms underlying the immune response to A. fumigatus and to develop effective immunotherapies with CAR-T cells for this infection. This literature review explores the role of Tcell subsets in A.fumigatus infection, and the effects of CAR-T cell therapy on this fungal infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abozar Nasiri-Jahrodi
- Department of Pathobiology and Medical Laboratory Sciences, North Khorasan University of Medical Sciences, Bojnurd, Iran
| | - Mehdi Barati
- Department of Pathobiology and Medical Laboratory Sciences, North Khorasan University of Medical Sciences, Bojnurd, Iran.
| | - Hasan Namdar Ahmadabad
- Vector-borne Diseases Research Center, North Khorasan University of Medical Sciences, Bojnurd, Iran.
| | - Hamid Badali
- Department of Molecular Microbiology & Immunology, South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, The University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Hamid Morovati
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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Nagashima A, Nagato T, Kobori T, Nagi M, Okochi Y. Uncommon Occurrence of Pulmonary Aspergillosis Caused by Aspergillus sydowii: A Case Report. Cureus 2023; 15:e51353. [PMID: 38292971 PMCID: PMC10827003 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.51353] [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] [Accepted: 12/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
This case report presents an unusual occurrence of pulmonary aspergillosis caused by Aspergillus sydowii in a 26-year-old male patient. The patient is from Nepal and had no significant medical history and was previously in good health. Chest computed tomography (CT) scans revealed localized bronchiectasis primarily in the left inferior lingular segment and the left lower lobe. Subsequently, bronchial lavage fluid was collected, and a comprehensive culture examination was conducted to confirm the cause of the infection. While Aspergillus fumigatus typically predominates as the cause of pulmonary aspergillosis, our bronchial lavage fluid culture revealed the presence of a filamentous fungus, identified as Aspergillus sydowii through molecular analysis. Thus, we conclusively identified this particular strain of fungus as the etiological factor behind the patient's condition. Notably, pulmonary aspergillosis due to Aspergillus sydowii is exceedingly rare, and we present this case alongside relevant prior data for comprehensive clinical insight. This case underscores the clinical significance of Aspergillus sydowii as a fungal pathogen, emphasizing the importance of early recognition and managing fungal infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akimichi Nagashima
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Japan Community Health Care Organization Tokyo Yamate Medical Center, Tokyo, JPN
| | - Tadashi Nagato
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Japan Community Health Care Organization Tokyo Yamate Medical Center, Tokyo, JPN
| | - Tomoko Kobori
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Japan Community Health Care Organization Tokyo Yamate Medical Center, Tokyo, JPN
| | - Minoru Nagi
- Department of Fungal Infection/Antimicrobial Resistance Research Center, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, JPN
| | - Yasumi Okochi
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Japan Community Health Care Organization Tokyo Yamate Medical Center, Tokyo, JPN
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Kamath MM, Lightfoot JD, Adams EM, Kiser RM, Wells BL, Fuller KK. The Aspergillus fumigatus UPR is variably activated across nutrient and host environments and is critical for the establishment of corneal infection. PLoS Pathog 2023; 19:e1011435. [PMID: 37906600 PMCID: PMC10637725 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1011435] [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: 05/23/2023] [Revised: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/14/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The Aspergillus fumigatus unfolded protein response (UPR) is a two-component relay consisting of the ER-bound IreA protein, which splices and activates the mRNA of the transcription factor HacA. Spliced hacA accumulates under conditions of acute ER stress in vitro, and UPR null mutants are hypovirulent in a murine model of invasive pulmonary infection. In this report, we demonstrate that a hacA deletion mutant (ΔhacA) is furthermore avirulent in a model of fungal keratitis, a corneal infection, and an important cause of ocular morbidity and unilateral blindness worldwide. Interestingly, we demonstrate that A. fumigatus hacA is spliced in infected lung samples, but not in the cornea, suggesting the amount of ER stress experienced by the fungus varies upon the host niche. To better understand how the UPR contributes to fungal cell biology across a spectrum of ER-stress levels, we employed transcriptomics on the wild-type and ΔhacA strains in glucose minimal media (low stress), glucose minimal media with dithiothreitol (high stress), and gelatin minimal media as a proxy for the nutrient stress encountered in the cornea (mid-level stress). These data altogether reveal a unique HacA-dependent transcriptome under each condition, suggesting that HacA activity is finely-tuned and required for proper fungal adaptation in each environment. Taken together, our results indicate that the fungal UPR could serve as an important antifungal target in the setting of both invasive pulmonary and corneal infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manali M. Kamath
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, United States of America
| | - Jorge D. Lightfoot
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, United States of America
| | - Emily M. Adams
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, United States of America
| | - Ryan M. Kiser
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, United States of America
| | - Becca L. Wells
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, United States of America
| | - Kevin K. Fuller
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, United States of America
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, United States of America
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Mohamed HMA, Haziri I, Saied AA, Dhama K, Al-Said AA, Abdou SE, Kamaly HF, Abd-Elhafeez HH. Molecular characterization of gliotoxin-producing Aspergillus fumigatus in dairy cattle feed. Vet World 2023; 16:1636-1646. [PMID: 37766716 PMCID: PMC10521192 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2023.1636-1646] [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: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim Several strains of Aspergillus fumigatus produce mycotoxins that affect the health and productivity of dairy cattle, and their presence in dairy cattle feed is a serious concern. This study aimed to determine the densities of A. fumigatus and gliotoxin in commercial dairy feed. Materials and Methods More than 60 dairy feed samples were examined for fungal contamination, specifically for A. fumigatus, using phenotypic approaches and DNA sequencing of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and β-tubulin regions. Thin-layer chromatography and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) were used to assess gliotoxin production in A. fumigatus. Real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) was used to investigate the expression of gliZ, which was responsible for gliotoxin production. High-performance liquid chromatography was used to detect gliotoxin in feed samples. Results Aspergillus was the most commonly identified genus (68.3%). Aspergillus fumigatus was isolated from 18.3% of dairy feed samples. Only four of the 11 A. fumigatus isolates yielded detectable gliotoxins by HPLC. In total, 7/11 (43.7%) feed samples tested had gliotoxin contamination above the threshold known to induce immunosuppressive and apoptotic effects in vitro. The HPLC-based classification of isolates as high, moderate, or non-producers of gliotoxin was confirmed by RT-PCR, and the evaluation of gliZ expression levels corroborated this classification. Conclusion The identification of A. fumigatus from animal feed greatly depended on ITS and β-tubulin sequencing. Significant concentrations of gliotoxin were found in dairy cattle feed, and its presence may affect dairy cow productivity and health. Furthermore, workers face contamination risks when handling and storing animal feed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hams M. A. Mohamed
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, South Valley University, Qena, 83523, Egypt
| | - Imer Haziri
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Agriculture and Veterinary, University of Prishtina “Hasan Prishtina”, 10000 Pristina, Kosovo
| | - AbdulRahman A. Saied
- National Food Safety Authority, Aswan Branch, Aswan 81511, Egypt
- Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, Aswan Office, Aswan 81511, Egypt
| | - Kuldeep Dhama
- Division of Pathology, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar-243122, Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Amal A. Al-Said
- Department of Mycology, Animal Health Research Institute, Agriculture Research Center (ARC), P.O. 12618, Gizza
| | - Suzan E. Abdou
- Biochemistry Unit, Animal Health Research Institute Agriculture Research Center (ARC), P.O. 12618, Gizza
| | - Heba F. Kamaly
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Assiut University, Egypt
| | - Hanan H. Abd-Elhafeez
- Department of Cell and Tissues, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut 71526, Egypt
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Boguś MI, Wrońska AK, Kaczmarek A, Drozdowski M, Laskowski Z, Myczka A, Cybulska A, Gołębiowski M, Chwir-Gołębiowska A, Siecińska L, Mokijewska E. A comprehensive analysis of chemical and biological pollutants (natural and anthropogenic origin) of soil and dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) samples. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0280810. [PMID: 36662824 PMCID: PMC9858760 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0280810] [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] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 01/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
A range of analytical methods (GC-MS, LC-MS, voltammetry, microbiological and microscopic techniques, PCR) was used to assay a range of potential chemical and biological contaminants in soil and dandelion samples. The results provide the first comprehensive safety analysis of dandelion as a herbal product. Samples were collected from three different sites in Poland where the local population collects dandelion plants for their own consumption: Rudenka (a mountain meadow in the European Ecological Network of Natura 2000 protection area, free of agrotechnical treatments for over 30 years), Warszawa 1 (dense single-family housing with heavy traffic), and Warszawa 2 (recreation area with heavy traffic near a coal-fired heat and power plant). The assays of heavy metals and other chemical pollutants (PAHs, PCBs, dioxins, pesticides, mycotoxins) confirm that all collected soil and dandelion samples were chemically pure; however, 95 species of pathogenic bacteria were detected, including "carnivorous" Vibrio vulnificus, zoonotic Pasteurella pneumotropica, Pasteurella canis, Staphylococcus pseudintermedius, Staphylococcus lentus and Francisella tularensis as well as 14 species of pathogenic fungi and one protozoan parasite (Giardia intestinalis). The discovery of septicemia agents V. vulnificus, Fusobacterium mortiferum and Rahnella aquatilis in the soil surrounding dandelion roots and in the flowers, G. intestinalis in dandelion leaves and roots samples, all collected in Warsaw, is highly disturbing. This finding underlines the need for increased caution when collecting dandelion in densely populated areas with a large population of pets. Thorough washing of the harvested plants is necessary before using them for consumption, especially in the case of making salads from fresh dandelion leaves, which is becoming increasingly popular among people leading healthy and an environmentally friendly lifestyle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mieczysława Irena Boguś
- Museum and Institute of Zoology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warszawa, Poland
- Witold Stefański Institute of Parasitology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warszawa, Poland
- BIOMIBO, Warszawa, Poland
| | - Anna Katarzyna Wrońska
- Museum and Institute of Zoology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warszawa, Poland
- Witold Stefański Institute of Parasitology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warszawa, Poland
| | - Agata Kaczmarek
- Museum and Institute of Zoology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warszawa, Poland
- Witold Stefański Institute of Parasitology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warszawa, Poland
| | - Mikołaj Drozdowski
- Museum and Institute of Zoology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warszawa, Poland
- Witold Stefański Institute of Parasitology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warszawa, Poland
| | - Zdzisław Laskowski
- Witold Stefański Institute of Parasitology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warszawa, Poland
| | - Anna Myczka
- Witold Stefański Institute of Parasitology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warszawa, Poland
| | - Aleksandra Cybulska
- Witold Stefański Institute of Parasitology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warszawa, Poland
| | - Marek Gołębiowski
- Department of Environmental Analysis, Laboratory of Analysis of Natural Compounds, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
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Lian X, Scott-Thomas A, Lewis JG, Bhatia M, MacPherson SA, Zeng Y, Chambers ST. Monoclonal Antibodies and Invasive Aspergillosis: Diagnostic and Therapeutic Perspectives. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23105563. [PMID: 35628374 PMCID: PMC9146623 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23105563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2022] [Revised: 05/12/2022] [Accepted: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Invasive aspergillosis (IA) is a life-threatening fungal disease that causes high morbidity and mortality in immunosuppressed patients. Early and accurate diagnosis and treatment of IA remain challenging. Given the broad range of non-specific clinical symptoms and the shortcomings of current diagnostic techniques, most patients are either diagnosed as “possible” or “probable” cases but not “proven”. Moreover, because of the lack of sensitive and specific tests, many high-risk patients receive an empirical therapy or a prolonged treatment of high-priced antifungal agents, leading to unnecessary adverse effects and a high risk of drug resistance. More precise diagnostic techniques alongside a targeted antifungal treatment are fundamental requirements for reducing the morbidity and mortality of IA. Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) with high specificity in targeting the corresponding antigen(s) may have the potential to improve diagnostic tests and form the basis for novel IA treatments. This review summarizes the up-to-date application of mAb-based approaches in assisting IA diagnosis and therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xihua Lian
- Department of Pathology and Biomedical Science, University of Otago, Christchurch 8140, New Zealand; (X.L.); (A.S.-T.); (J.G.L.); (M.B.); (S.A.M.)
- Department of Medical Imaging, The Second Clinical Medical School of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou 362000, China
| | - Amy Scott-Thomas
- Department of Pathology and Biomedical Science, University of Otago, Christchurch 8140, New Zealand; (X.L.); (A.S.-T.); (J.G.L.); (M.B.); (S.A.M.)
| | - John G. Lewis
- Department of Pathology and Biomedical Science, University of Otago, Christchurch 8140, New Zealand; (X.L.); (A.S.-T.); (J.G.L.); (M.B.); (S.A.M.)
- Steroid and Immunobiochemistry Laboratory, Canterbury Health Laboratories, Christchurch 8140, New Zealand
| | - Madhav Bhatia
- Department of Pathology and Biomedical Science, University of Otago, Christchurch 8140, New Zealand; (X.L.); (A.S.-T.); (J.G.L.); (M.B.); (S.A.M.)
| | - Sean A. MacPherson
- Department of Pathology and Biomedical Science, University of Otago, Christchurch 8140, New Zealand; (X.L.); (A.S.-T.); (J.G.L.); (M.B.); (S.A.M.)
- Haematology Department, Christchurch Hospital, Christchurch 8011, New Zealand
| | - Yiming Zeng
- Department of Internal Medicine (Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine), The Second Clinical Medical School of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou 362000, China;
| | - Stephen T. Chambers
- Department of Pathology and Biomedical Science, University of Otago, Christchurch 8140, New Zealand; (X.L.); (A.S.-T.); (J.G.L.); (M.B.); (S.A.M.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +64-3-364-0649
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Abdallah BM, Ali EM. Therapeutic Potential of Green Synthesized Gold Nanoparticles Using Extract of Leptadenia hastata against Invasive Pulmonary Aspergillosis. J Fungi (Basel) 2022; 8:jof8050442. [PMID: 35628698 PMCID: PMC9146234 DOI: 10.3390/jof8050442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2022] [Revised: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Gold nanoparticles are widely used in the biomedical field for the treatment of several diseases, including cancer, inflammatory diseases, and immune system disorders, due to their distinctive physicochemical characteristics. In this study, we investigated the therapeutic potential of green synthesized gold nanoparticles using ethanolic leaf extract of Leptadenia hastata (LH-AuNPs) against invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA) in mice. UV/visible spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), and zeta potential were used to characterize the biofabricated LH-AuNPs. Antifungal activity of LH-AuNPs was determined by MTT assay, (3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide), time-kill assay, and radial growth inhibition. TEM and SEM were used to examine the mode of the antifungal action of LH-AuNPs. The in vivo activity of LH-AuNPs against IPA was studied using a well-established IPA mouse model. LH-AuNPs excreted antifungal activity against Aspergillus fumigatus with MIC 64 µg/mL and inhibited the radial growth of A. fumigatus by 30% compared to the control. LH-AuNPs caused distortion and collapse of fungal hyphae and deterioration of cell walls. Interestingly, LH-AuNPs did not display any cytotoxicity on cultured primary bone marrow stem cells (BMSCs) or A549 human lung cell line in vitro at MIC concentration. IPA mice treated with LH-AuNPs displayed significant lung tissue repair without any in vivo cytotoxicity. LH-AuNPs administration showed significant suppression of fungal burden and gliotoxin production in the lung. In addition, LH-AuNPs inhibited IPA-induced pro-inflammatory cytokines production, including interleukin-1 (IL-1), interleukin-17 (IL-17), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and reduced oxidative stress in lung. In conclusion, our data provide LH-AuNPs as a novel nanoparticle therapy for IPA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Basem M Abdallah
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa 31982, Saudi Arabia
| | - Enas M Ali
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa 31982, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Botany and Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza 12613, Egypt
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Kortei NK, Tetteh RA, Wiafe-Kwagyan M, Amon DNK, Odamtten GT. Mycobiota profile, phenology, and potential toxicogenic and pathogenic species associated with stored groundnuts ( Arachis hypogaea L.) from the Volta Region, Ghana. Food Sci Nutr 2022; 10:888-902. [PMID: 35311164 PMCID: PMC8907750 DOI: 10.1002/fsn3.2719] [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: 07/21/2021] [Revised: 11/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
This study updates the mycobiota resident in groundnut seeds, their phenology during storage with the view to ascertain their occurrence, potential toxigenic species, and pathologically important species in the stored samples. The moisture content of the seeds ranged from 5.7% to 6.5% within the stipulated safe moisture content of 8% for extension of shelf life. Culturing the seeds on mycological media (Sabouraud's Dextrose Agar SDA; Oxytetracycline Glucose Yeast Extract OGYE, Potato Dextrose Agar, PDA) caused a de novo growth of the quiescent spores at 28-30°C for 7-14 days. Fungal population counts on the three media ranged from 2.01 to 2.16 log10 CFU/g samples to a final 6-month count of 1.67-2.60 log10 CFU/g. Eighteen different fungal species belonging to ten genera were encountered on the media, namely Aspergillus, Cladosporium, Curvularia, Fusarium, Penicillium, Trichoderma, Rhizopus, Rhodotorula, Sporendonema, and Paecilomyces. Aspergillus spp. (A. niger, A. flavus, A. fumigatus, and A. terreus) were the most frequently isolated, followed by Fusarium species (F. oxysporum, F. solani, and F. verticillioides), Trichoderma (T. harzianum and T. viride), Rhizopus spp (R. oligosporus and R. stolonifer), and Penicillium verrucosum. The species which were seed borne (A. niger, A. flavus, A. terreus, A. fumigatus, F. solani, F. verticillioides, T. viride, C. herbarum, and Curvularia lunata) were isolated on both surface sterilized and non-surface sterilized seeds. The phenology of the encountered fungal species generally followed five patterns. The most frequently isolated Aspergillus niger, A. flavus, and A. fumigatus predominated throughout the 6 months sampling period, while A. ustus and A. terreus appeared sporadically and disappeared. The early colonizers (R. oligosporus, R. stolonifer, and Paecilomyces) could not be isolated after 2-3 months owing presumably to stronger antibiosis competition from the Aspergillus species. The most predominant Aspergillus species initially constituted 36%-48% of the total population but declined to 10%-36% in 6 months. Mycobiota encountered with mycotoxigenic potential and human health importance were A. niger, A. flavus, A. fumigatus, F. verticillioides, and Penicillium verrucosum. Other species of pathological importance to plants were Curvularia lunata and Fusarium oxysporum. The practical implications of these findings are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nii Korley Kortei
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics School of Allied Health Sciences University of Health and Allied Sciences Ho Ghana
| | - Rachel Adinorkie Tetteh
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics School of Allied Health Sciences University of Health and Allied Sciences Ho Ghana
| | - Michael Wiafe-Kwagyan
- Department of Plant and Environmental Biology College of Basic and Applied Sciences University of Ghana Legon Ghana
| | - Denick Nii Kotey Amon
- Department of Plant and Environmental Biology College of Basic and Applied Sciences University of Ghana Legon Ghana
| | - George Tawia Odamtten
- Department of Plant and Environmental Biology College of Basic and Applied Sciences University of Ghana Legon Ghana
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Margalit A, Sheehan D, Carolan JC, Kavanagh K. Exposure to the Pseudomonas aeruginosa secretome alters the proteome and secondary metabolite production of Aspergillus fumigatus. MICROBIOLOGY (READING, ENGLAND) 2022; 168:001164. [PMID: 35333152 PMCID: PMC9558348 DOI: 10.1099/mic.0.001164] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
The fungal pathogen Aspergillus fumigatus is frequently cultured from the sputum of cystic fibrosis (CF) patients along with the bacterium Pseudomonas aeruginosa. A. fumigatus secretes a range of secondary metabolites, and one of these, gliotoxin, has inhibitory effects on the host immune response. The effect of P. aeruginosa culture filtrate (CuF) on fungal growth and gliotoxin production was investigated. Exposure of A. fumigatus hyphae to P. aeruginosa cells induced increased production of gliotoxin and a decrease in fungal growth. In contrast, exposure of A. fumigatus hyphae to P. aeruginosa CuF led to increased growth and decreased gliotoxin production. Quantitative proteomic analysis was used to characterize the proteomic response of A. fumigatus upon exposure to P. aeruginosa CuF. Changes in the profile of proteins involved in secondary metabolite biosynthesis (e.g. gliotoxin, fumagillin, pseurotin A), and changes to the abundance of proteins involved in oxidative stress (e.g. formate dehydrogenase) and detoxification (e.g. thioredoxin reductase) were observed, indicating that the bacterial secretome had a profound effect on the fungal proteome. Alterations in the abundance of proteins involved in detoxification and oxidative stress highlight the ability of A. fumigatus to differentially regulate protein synthesis in response to environmental stresses imposed by competitors such as P. aeruginosa. Such responses may ultimately have serious detrimental effects on the host.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anatte Margalit
- Department of Biology, Maynooth University, Co. Kildare, Ireland
| | - David Sheehan
- Department of Biology, Maynooth University, Co. Kildare, Ireland
| | - James C. Carolan
- Department of Biology, Maynooth University, Co. Kildare, Ireland
| | - Kevin Kavanagh
- Department of Biology, Maynooth University, Co. Kildare, Ireland
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Zoran T, Seelbinder B, White PL, Price JS, Kraus S, Kurzai O, Linde J, Häder A, Loeffler C, Grigoleit GU, Einsele H, Panagiotou G, Loeffler J, Schäuble S. Molecular Profiling Reveals Characteristic and Decisive Signatures in Patients after Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplantation Suffering from Invasive Pulmonary Aspergillosis. J Fungi (Basel) 2022; 8:jof8020171. [PMID: 35205926 PMCID: PMC8880021 DOI: 10.3390/jof8020171] [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: 09/30/2021] [Revised: 11/17/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite available diagnostic tests and recent advances, diagnosis of pulmonary invasive aspergillosis (IPA) remains challenging. We performed a longitudinal case-control pilot study to identify host-specific, novel, and immune-relevant molecular candidates indicating IPA in patients post allogeneic stem cell transplantation (alloSCT). Supported by differential gene expression analysis of six relevant in vitro studies, we conducted RNA sequencing of three alloSCT patients categorized as probable IPA cases and their matched controls without Aspergillus infection (66 samples in total). We additionally performed immunoassay analysis for all patient samples to gain a multi-omics perspective. Profiling analysis suggested LGALS2, MMP1, IL-8, and caspase-3 as potential host molecular candidates indicating IPA in investigated alloSCT patients. MMP1, IL-8, and caspase-3 were evaluated further in alloSCT patients for their potential to differentiate possible IPA cases and patients suffering from COVID-19-associated pulmonary aspergillosis (CAPA) and appropriate control patients. Possible IPA cases showed differences in IL-8 and caspase-3 serum levels compared with matched controls. Furthermore, we observed significant differences in IL-8 and caspase-3 levels among CAPA patients compared with control patients. With our conceptual work, we demonstrate the potential value of considering the human immune response during Aspergillus infection to identify immune-relevant molecular candidates indicating IPA in alloSCT patients. These human host candidates together with already established fungal biomarkers might improve the accuracy of IPA diagnostic tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamara Zoran
- Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital Wuerzburg, 97080 Wuerzburg, Germany; (T.Z.); (S.K.); (C.L.); (G.U.G.); (H.E.)
- Systems Biology and Bioinformatics Unit, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology—Hans Knoell Institute, 07745 Jena, Germany; (B.S.); (G.P.)
| | - Bastian Seelbinder
- Systems Biology and Bioinformatics Unit, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology—Hans Knoell Institute, 07745 Jena, Germany; (B.S.); (G.P.)
| | - Philip Lewis White
- Public Health Wales, Microbiology Cardiff, UHW, Cardiff CF14 4XW, UK; (P.L.W.); (J.S.P.)
| | - Jessica Sarah Price
- Public Health Wales, Microbiology Cardiff, UHW, Cardiff CF14 4XW, UK; (P.L.W.); (J.S.P.)
| | - Sabrina Kraus
- Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital Wuerzburg, 97080 Wuerzburg, Germany; (T.Z.); (S.K.); (C.L.); (G.U.G.); (H.E.)
| | - Oliver Kurzai
- Research Group Fungal Septomics, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology—Hans Knoell Institute, 07745 Jena, Germany; (O.K.); (A.H.)
- Institute for Hygiene and Microbiology, Julius Maximilians University of Wuerzburg, Josef-Schneider-Straße 2/E1, 97080 Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Joerg Linde
- Friedrich—Loeffler Institute, Institute of Bacterial Infections and Zoonoses, 07743 Jena, Germany;
| | - Antje Häder
- Research Group Fungal Septomics, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology—Hans Knoell Institute, 07745 Jena, Germany; (O.K.); (A.H.)
| | - Claudia Loeffler
- Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital Wuerzburg, 97080 Wuerzburg, Germany; (T.Z.); (S.K.); (C.L.); (G.U.G.); (H.E.)
| | - Goetz Ulrich Grigoleit
- Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital Wuerzburg, 97080 Wuerzburg, Germany; (T.Z.); (S.K.); (C.L.); (G.U.G.); (H.E.)
| | - Hermann Einsele
- Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital Wuerzburg, 97080 Wuerzburg, Germany; (T.Z.); (S.K.); (C.L.); (G.U.G.); (H.E.)
| | - Gianni Panagiotou
- Systems Biology and Bioinformatics Unit, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology—Hans Knoell Institute, 07745 Jena, Germany; (B.S.); (G.P.)
| | - Juergen Loeffler
- Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital Wuerzburg, 97080 Wuerzburg, Germany; (T.Z.); (S.K.); (C.L.); (G.U.G.); (H.E.)
- Correspondence: (J.L.); (S.S.)
| | - Sascha Schäuble
- Systems Biology and Bioinformatics Unit, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology—Hans Knoell Institute, 07745 Jena, Germany; (B.S.); (G.P.)
- Correspondence: (J.L.); (S.S.)
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Subroto E, van Neer J, Valdes I, de Cock H. Growth of Aspergillus fumigatus in Biofilms in Comparison to Candida albicans. J Fungi (Basel) 2022; 8:48. [PMID: 35049988 PMCID: PMC8779434 DOI: 10.3390/jof8010048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Revised: 12/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Biofilm formation during infections with the opportunistic pathogen Aspergillus fumigatus can be very problematic in clinical settings, since it provides the fungal cells with a protective environment. Resistance against drug treatments, immune recognition as well as adaptation to the host environment allows fungal survival in the host. The exact molecular mechanisms behind most processes in the formation of biofilms are unclear. In general, the formation of biofilms can be categorized roughly in a few stages; adhesion, conidial germination and development of hyphae, biofilm maturation and cell dispersion. Fungi in biofilms can adapt to the in-host environment. These adaptations can occur on a level of phenotypic plasticity via gene regulation. However, also more substantial genetic changes of the genome can result in increased resistance and adaptation in the host, enhancing the survival chances of fungi in biofilms. Most research has focused on the development of biofilms. However, to tackle developing microbial resistance and adaptation in biofilms, more insight in mechanisms behind genetic adaptations is required to predict which defense mechanisms can be expected. This can be helpful in the development of novel and more targeted antifungal treatments to combat fungal infections.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Hans de Cock
- Molecular Microbiology Laboratory, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Padualaan 8, 3584 CH Utrecht, The Netherlands; (E.S.); (J.v.N.); (I.V.)
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Fungi—A Component of the Oral Microbiome Involved in Periodontal Diseases. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2022; 1373:113-138. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-96881-6_6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Effective Inhibition of Invasive Pulmonary Aspergillosis by Silver Nanoparticles Biosynthesized with Artemisia sieberi Leaf Extract. NANOMATERIALS 2021; 12:nano12010051. [PMID: 35010001 PMCID: PMC8746907 DOI: 10.3390/nano12010051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Revised: 12/21/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Aspergillus fumigatus is one of the most common fungal pathogens that can cause a diversity of diseases ranging from invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA) and aspergilloma to allergic syndromes. In this study, we investigated the antifungal effect of silver nanoparticles biosynthesized with Artemisia sieberi leaf extract (AS-AgNPs) against A. fumigatus in vitro and in vivo. The biosynthesized AS-AgNPs were characterized by imaging (transmission electron microscopy (TEM)), UV−VIS spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The microdilution method showed the antifungal activity of AS-AgNPs against A. fumigatus, with an MIC of 128 µg/mL. AS-AgNPs significantly inhibited the growth of hyphae in all directions, as imaged by SEM. Additionally, TEM on biofilm revealed invaginations of the cell membrane, a change in the vacuolar system, and the presence of multilamellar bodies within vacuoles. Interestingly, AS-AgNPs displayed low cytotoxicity on the A549 human lung cell line in vitro. Treatment of an invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA) mouse model with AS-AgNPs demonstrated the potency of AS-AgNPs to significantly reduce lung tissue damage and to suppress the elevated levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-1 (IL-1), and interleukin-17 (IL-17). The therapeutic potential of AS-AgNPs was found to be due to their direct action to suppress the fungal burden and gliotoxin production in the lungs. In addition, AS-AgNPs reduced the oxidative stress in the lungs by increasing the enzymatic activities of catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD). Thus, our data indicate the biosynthesized AS-AgNPs as a novel antifungal alternative treatment against aspergillosis.
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The Toxic Mechanism of Gliotoxins and Biosynthetic Strategies for Toxicity Prevention. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222413510. [PMID: 34948306 PMCID: PMC8705807 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222413510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Revised: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Gliotoxin is a kind of epipolythiodioxopiperazine derived from different fungi that is characterized by a disulfide bridge. Gliotoxins can be biosynthesized by a gli gene cluster and regulated by a positive GliZ regulator. Gliotoxins show cytotoxic effects via the suppression the function of macrophage immune function, inflammation, antiangiogenesis, DNA damage by ROS production, peroxide damage by the inhibition of various enzymes, and apoptosis through different signal pathways. In the other hand, gliotoxins can also be beneficial with different doses. Low doses of gliotoxin can be used as an antioxidant, in the diagnosis and treatment of HIV, and as an anti-tumor agent in the future. Gliotoxins have also been used in the control of plant pathogens, including Pythium ultimum and Sclerotinia sclerotiorum. Thus, it is important to elucidate the toxic mechanism of gliotoxins. The toxic mechanism of gliotoxins and biosynthetic strategies to reduce the toxicity of gliotoxins and their producing strains are summarized in this review.
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Aspergillus fumigatus Fumagillin Contributes to Host Cell Damage. J Fungi (Basel) 2021; 7:jof7110936. [PMID: 34829223 PMCID: PMC8619997 DOI: 10.3390/jof7110936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2021] [Revised: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 11/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The activity of fumagillin, a mycotoxin produced by Aspergillus fumigatus, has not been studied in depth. In this study, we used a commercial fumagillin on cultures of two cell types (A549 pneumocytes and RAW 264.7 macrophages). This toxin joins its target, MetAP2 protein, inside cells and, as a result, significantly reduces the electron chain activity, the migration, and the proliferation ability on the A549 cells, or affects the viability and proliferation ability of the RAW 264.7 macrophages. However, the toxin stimulates the germination and double branch hypha production of fungal cultures, pointing out an intrinsic resistant mechanism to fumagillin of fungal strains. In this study, we also used a fumagillin non-producer A. fumigatus strain (∆fmaA) as well as its complemented strain (∆fmaA::fmaA) and we tested the fumagillin secretion of the fungal strains using an Ultra High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (UHPLC) method. Furthermore, fumagillin seems to protect the fungus against phagocytosis in vitro, and during in vivo studies using infection of immunosuppressed mice, a lower fungal burden in the lungs of mice infected with the ∆fmaA mutant was demonstrated.
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González O, Yaldebere A, Guruceaga X, Ramírez-García A, Rementeria A, Alonso RM. A novel SPE-UHPLC-DAD method for the determination of fumagillin produced by Aspergillus fumigatus in cell culture media. Microchem J 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.microc.2021.106605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Zuo L, Wijegunawardana D. Redox Role of ROS and Inflammation in Pulmonary Diseases. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2021; 1304:187-204. [PMID: 34019270 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-68748-9_11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Reactive oxygen species (ROS), either derived from exogenous sources or overproduced endogenously, can disrupt the body's antioxidant defenses leading to compromised redox homeostasis. The lungs are highly susceptible to ROS-mediated damage. Oxidative stress (OS) caused by this redox imbalance leads to the pathogenesis of multiple pulmonary diseases such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). OS causes damage to important cellular components in terms of lipid peroxidation, protein oxidation, and DNA histone modification. Inflammation further enhances ROS production inducing changes in transcriptional factors which mediate cellular stress response pathways. This deviation from normal cell function contributes to the detrimental pathological characteristics often seen in pulmonary diseases. Although antioxidant therapies are feasible approaches in alleviating OS-related lung impairment, a comprehensive understanding of the updated role of ROS in pulmonary inflammation is vital for the development of optimal treatments. In this chapter, we review the major pulmonary diseases-including COPD, asthma, ARDS, COVID-19, and lung cancer-as well as their association with ROS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Zuo
- College of Arts and Sciences, Molecular Physiology and Biophysics Lab, University of Maine, Presque Isle Campus, Presque Isle, ME, USA. .,Interdisciplinary Biophysics Graduate Program, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA.
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PC945, a Novel Inhaled Antifungal Agent, for the Treatment of Respiratory Fungal Infections. J Fungi (Basel) 2020; 6:jof6040373. [PMID: 33348852 PMCID: PMC7765807 DOI: 10.3390/jof6040373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2020] [Revised: 12/02/2020] [Accepted: 12/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Disease due to pulmonary Aspergillus infection remains a significant unmet need, particularly in immunocompromised patients, patients in critical care and those with underlying chronic lung diseases. To date, treatment using inhaled antifungal agents has been limited to repurposing available systemic medicines. PC945 is a novel triazole antifungal agent, a potent inhibitor of CYP51, purpose-designed to be administered via inhalation for high local lung concentrations and limited systemic exposure. In preclinical testing, PC945 is potent versus Aspergillus spp. and Candida spp. and showed two remarkable properties in preclinical studies, in vitro and in vivo. The antifungal effects against Aspergillus fumigatus accumulate on repeat dosing and improved efficacy has been demonstrated when PC945 is dosed in combination with systemic anti-fungal agents of multiple classes. Resistance to PC945 has been induced in Aspergillus fumigatus in vitro, resulting in a strain which remained susceptible to other antifungal triazoles. In healthy volunteers and asthmatics, nebulised PC945 was well tolerated, with limited systemic exposure and an apparently long lung residency time. In two lung transplant patients, PC945 treated an invasive pulmonary Aspergillus infection that had been unresponsive to multiple antifungal agents (systemic ± inhaled) without systemic side effects or detected drug–drug interactions.
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