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Alfaifi AA, Wang TW, Perez P, Sultan AS, Meiller TF, Rock P, Kleiner DE, Chertow DS, Hewitt SM, Gasmi B, Stein S, Ramelli S, Martin D, Warner BM, Jabra-Rizk MA. SARS-CoV-2 Infection of Salivary Glands Compromises Oral Antifungal Innate Immunity and Predisposes to Oral Candidiasis. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.05.13.593942. [PMID: 38798323 PMCID: PMC11118411 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.13.593942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 targets salivary glands potentially impacting oral health. We show that presence of replicating viruses in the acinar cells of salivary glands compromises production and secretion of histatin-5, a key host-produced antifungal peptide. The salivary levels of histatin-5 were significantly reduced in SARS-CoV-2 infected subjects, concomitant with enhanced prevalence of the fungal opportunistic pathogen Candida albicans. These findings provide direct evidence associating SARS-CoV-2 infection with predisposition to oral candidiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Areej A. Alfaifi
- Department of Oncology and Diagnostic Sciences, School of Dentistry, University of Maryland Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Department of Restorative and Prosthetic Dental Sciences, College of Dentistry, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- King Abdullah International Medical Research Center (KAIMRC), Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Tristan W. Wang
- Department of Oncology and Diagnostic Sciences, School of Dentistry, University of Maryland Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Paola Perez
- Salivary Disorders Unit, National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Ahmed S. Sultan
- Department of Oncology and Diagnostic Sciences, School of Dentistry, University of Maryland Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- University of Maryland Greenebaum Cancer Center, University of Maryland Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Timothy F. Meiller
- Department of Oncology and Diagnostic Sciences, School of Dentistry, University of Maryland Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- University of Maryland Greenebaum Cancer Center, University of Maryland Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Peter Rock
- Department of Anesthesia, School of Medicine, University of Maryland Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - David E. Kleiner
- Laboratory of Pathology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Daniel S. Chertow
- Critical Care Medicine Department, Clinical Center, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
- Laboratory of Virology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Hamilton, MT, United States of America, USA
| | - Stephen M. Hewitt
- Laboratory of Pathology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Billel Gasmi
- Laboratory of Pathology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Sydney Stein
- Critical Care Medicine Department, Clinical Center, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Sabrina Ramelli
- Critical Care Medicine Department, Clinical Center, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Daniel Martin
- Genomics and Computational Biology Core, National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Blake M. Warner
- Salivary Disorders Unit, National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Mary Ann Jabra-Rizk
- Department of Oncology and Diagnostic Sciences, School of Dentistry, University of Maryland Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
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Shu C, Sun X, Cao J, Droby S, Jiang W. Antifungal efficiency and mechanisms of ethyl ferulate against postharvest pathogens. Int J Food Microbiol 2024; 417:110710. [PMID: 38643598 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijfoodmicro.2024.110710] [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: 01/15/2024] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/23/2024]
Abstract
Postharvest loss caused by a range of pathogens necessitates exploring novel antifungal compounds that are safe and efficient in managing the pathogens. This study evaluated the antifungal activity of ethyl ferulate (EF) and explored its mechanisms of action against Alternaria alternata, Aspergillus niger, Botrytis cinerea, Penicillium expansum, Penicillium digitatum, Geotrichum candidum and evaluated its potential to inhibit postharvest decay. The results demonstrated that EF exerts potent antifungal activity against a wide board of postharvest pathogens. Results also revealed that its antifungal mechanism is multifaceted: EF may be involved in binding to and disturbing the integrity of the fungal plasma membrane, causing leakage of intracellular content and losing normal morphology and ultrastructure. EF also induced oxidative stress in the pathogen, causing membrane lipid peroxidation and malondialdehyde accumulation. EF inhibited the critical gene expression of the pathogen, affecting its metabolic regulation, antioxidant metabolism, and cell wall degrading enzymes. EF exhibited antifungal inhibitory activity when applied directly into peel wounds or after incorporation with chitosan coating. Due to its wide board and efficient antifungal activity, EF has the potential to provide a promising alternative to manage postharvest decay.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang Shu
- College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, 17 Qinghuadonglu Road, Beijing 100083, China; United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Daniel K. Inouye U.S. Pacific Basin Agricultural Research Center, 64 Nowelo Street, Hilo, HI 96720, USA; Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education, 1299 Bethel Valley Road, Oak Ridge, TN 37830, USA
| | - Xiuxiu Sun
- United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Daniel K. Inouye U.S. Pacific Basin Agricultural Research Center, 64 Nowelo Street, Hilo, HI 96720, USA
| | - Jiankang Cao
- College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, 17 Qinghuadonglu Road, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Samir Droby
- Department of Postharvest Science, Agricultural Research Organization, the Volcani Center, 68 Ha Maccabim Road, Rishon LeZion 7505101, Israel
| | - Weibo Jiang
- College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, 17 Qinghuadonglu Road, Beijing 100083, China.
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3
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Yang X, Gao X, Ou J, Chen G, Ye L. Antimicrobial activity and mechanism of anti-MRSA of phloroglucinol derivatives. Daru 2024; 32:177-187. [PMID: 38246975 PMCID: PMC11087386 DOI: 10.1007/s40199-024-00503-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In previous studies, authors have completed the total synthesis of several phloroglucinol natural products and synthesized a series of their derivatives, which were tested with good biological activities. OBJECTIVES To discover anti-MRSA lead compound and study their mechanism of action. METHODS Phloroglucinol derivatives were tested to investigate their activities against several gram-positive strains including Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). The mechanism study was conducted by determining extracellular potassium ion concentration, intracellular NADPH oxidase content, SOD activity, ROS amount in MRSA and MRSA survival rate under A5 treatment. The in vitro cytotoxicity test of A5 was conducted. RESULTS The activity of monocyclic compounds was stronger than that of bicyclic compounds, and compound A5 showed the best MIC value of 0.98 μg/mL and MBC value of 1.95 μg/mL, which were 4-8 times lower than that of vancomycin. The mechanism study of A5 showed that it achieved anti-MRSA effect through membrane damage, which is proved by increased concentration of extracellular potassium ion after A5 treatment. Another possible mechanism is the over ROS production induced cell death, which is suggested by observed alternation of several reactive oxygen species (ROS) related indicators including NADPH concentration, superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, ROS content and bacterial survival rate after A5 treatment. The cytotoxicity results in vitro showed that A5 was basically non-toxic to cells. CONCLUSION Acylphloroglucinol derivative A5 showed good anti-MRSA activity, possibly via membrane damage and ROS-mediated oxidative stress mechanism. It deserves further exploration to be a potential lead for the development of new anti-MRSA agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xianjing Yang
- School of Pharmacy, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Xinjiao Gao
- School of Pharmacy, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Jiayi Ou
- School of Pharmacy, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Gong Chen
- School of Pharmacy, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Lianbao Ye
- School of Pharmacy, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, 510006, China.
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Bioactive Substances, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, 510006, China.
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Muszalska-Kolos I, Dwiecki PM. Searching for Conjugates as New Structures for Antifungal Therapies. J Med Chem 2024. [PMID: 38470824 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c01750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/14/2024]
Abstract
The progressive increase in fungal infections and the decrease in the effectiveness of current therapy explain research on new drugs. The synthesis of compounds with proven antifungal activity, favorable physicochemical and pharmacokinetic properties affecting their pharmaceutical availability and bioavailability, and limiting or eliminating side effects has become the goal of many studies. The publication describes the directions of searching for new compounds with antifungal activity, focusing on conjugates. The described modifications include, among others, azoles or amphotericin B in combination with fatty acids, polysaccharides, proteins, and synthetic polymers. The benefits of these combinations in terms of activity, mechanism of action, and bioavailability were indicated. The possibilities of creating or using nanoparticles, "umbrella" conjugates, siderophores (iron-chelating compounds), and monoclonal antibodies were also presented. Taking into account the role of vaccinations in prevention, the scope of research related to developing a vaccine protecting against fungal infections was also indicated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Izabela Muszalska-Kolos
- Chair and Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Rokietnicka 3, 60-806 Poznan, Poland
| | - Piotr Mariusz Dwiecki
- Chair and Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Rokietnicka 3, 60-806 Poznan, Poland
- Pharmaceutical Company "Ziołolek" Sp. z o.o., Starolecka 189, 61-341 Poznan, Poland
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5
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Campbell JX, Schulte NB, Lai B, Harris HH, Franz KJ. Histatin-5 interacts with cellular copper to promote antifungal activity against Candida albicans. Metallomics 2023; 15:mfad070. [PMID: 38061812 PMCID: PMC10733623 DOI: 10.1093/mtomcs/mfad070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/22/2023]
Abstract
Histatin-5 (Hist-5) is an antimicrobial peptide found in human saliva that functions to defend the oral cavity from microbial infections, such as those caused by the fungal pathogen Candida albicans (C. albicans). Hist-5 can bind Cu in multiple oxidation states, Cu2+ and Cu+in vitro, and supplemental Cu2+ has been shown to improve the fungicidal activity of the peptide against C. albicans in culture. However, the exact role of Cu on the antifungal activity of Hist-5 and whether direct peptide-Cu interactions occur intracellularly has yet to be fully determined. Here, we used a combination of fluorescence spectroscopy and confocal microscopy experiments to show reversible Cu-dependent quenching of a fluorescent Hist-5 analogue, Hist-5*, indicating a direct interaction between Hist-5 and intracellular Cu. X-ray fluorescence microscopy images revealed peptide-induced changes to cellular Cu distribution and cell-associated Cu content. These data support a model in which Hist-5 can facilitate the hyperaccumulation of Cu in C. albicans and directly interact with Cu intracellularly to increase the fungicidal activity of Hist-5.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Barry Lai
- X-ray Science Division, Argonne National Laboratory, Lemont, IL 60439, USA
| | - Hugh H Harris
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia 5005, Australia
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6
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Wang A, Zhou M, Chen Q, Jin H, Xu G, Guo R, Wang J, Lai R. Functional Analyses of Three Targeted DNA Antimicrobial Peptides Derived from Goats. Biomolecules 2023; 13:1453. [PMID: 37892141 PMCID: PMC10605153 DOI: 10.3390/biom13101453] [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: 07/23/2023] [Revised: 09/03/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
With the increase in drug-resistant bacteria, new antibacterial drugs have emerged as a prominent area of research and development. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), as innate immune agents, have garnered significant attention due to their potent, rapid, and broad-spectrum antibacterial activity. This study focused on investigating the functionality of three AMPs (CATH 1, CATH 2, and MAP34-B) derived from goat submandibular glands. Among these AMPs, CATH 2 and MAP34-B exhibited direct antibacterial activity against both Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria, primarily targeting the bacterial membrane. Additionally, these two AMPs were found to have the potential to induce reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in bacterial cells and interact with bacterial genome DNA, which may play a crucial role in their mechanisms of action. Furthermore, both CATH 1 and CATH 2 demonstrated significant antioxidant activity, and all three AMPs exhibited potential anti-inflammatory activity. Importantly, the cytotoxic activity of these AMPs against mammalian cells was found to be weak, and their hemolytic activity was extremely low. Overall, the characteristics of these three AMPs found in goat submandibular glands offer new insights for the study of host protection from an immunological perspective. They hold promise as potential candidates for the development of novel antibacterial agents, particularly in the context of combating drug-resistant bacteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aili Wang
- Center for Evolution and Conservation Biology, Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), Guangzhou 511458, China; (A.W.)
| | - Mengying Zhou
- Suzhou Guangji Hospital, The Affiliated Guangji Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215137, China
| | - Qian Chen
- Center for Evolution and Conservation Biology, Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), Guangzhou 511458, China; (A.W.)
| | - Hui Jin
- Center for Evolution and Conservation Biology, Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), Guangzhou 511458, China; (A.W.)
| | - Gaochi Xu
- Center for Evolution and Conservation Biology, Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), Guangzhou 511458, China; (A.W.)
| | - Ruiyin Guo
- Center for Evolution and Conservation Biology, Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), Guangzhou 511458, China; (A.W.)
| | - Jianmin Wang
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology and Disease Control and Prevention, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Agricultural University, Taian 271000, China;
| | - Ren Lai
- Center for Evolution and Conservation Biology, Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), Guangzhou 511458, China; (A.W.)
- Key Laboratory of Bioactive Peptides of Yunnan Province, KIZ-CUHK Joint Laboratory of Bioresources and Molecular Research in Common Diseases, National Resource Center for Non-Human Primates, Kunming Primate Research Center, National Research Facility for Phenotypic & Genetic Analysis of Model Animals (Primate Facility), Sino-African Joint Research Center and Engineering Laboratory of Peptides, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Kunming 650107, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
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7
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Li R, Hou M, Yu L, Luo W, Kong J, Yu R, Liu R, Li Q, Tan L, Pan C, Wang H. Anti-biofilm effect of salivary histatin 5 on Porphyromonas gingivalis. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2023:10.1007/s00253-023-12664-4. [PMID: 37395749 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-023-12664-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2023] [Revised: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/24/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the effects of salivary histatin 5 (Hst5) on Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis) biofilms in vitro and in vivo and the possible mechanisms. In in vitro experiments, P. gingivalis biomass was determined by crystal violet staining. Polymerase chain reaction, scanning electron microscopy, and confocal laser scanning microscopy were used to determine the Hst5 concentration. A search for potential targets was performed using transcriptomic and proteomic analyses. In vivo experimental periodontitis was established in rats to evaluate the effects of Hst5 on periodontal tissues. Experimental results showed that 25 µg/mL Hst5 effectively inhibited biofilm formation, and increased concentrations of Hst5 increased the inhibitive effect. Hst5 might bind to the outer membrane protein RagAB. A combination of transcriptomic and proteomic analyses revealed that Hst5 could regulate membrane function and metabolic processes in P. gingivalis, in which RpoD and FeoB proteins were involved. In the rat periodontitis model, alveolar bone resorption and inflammation levels in periodontal tissues were reduced by 100 µg/mL Hst5. This study showed that 25 µg/mL Hst5 inhibited P. gingivalis biofilm formation in vitro by changing membrane function and metabolic process, and RpoD and FeoB proteins might play important roles in this process. Moreover, 100 µg/mL Hst5 inhibited periodontal inflammation and alveolar bone loss in rat periodontitis via its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects. KEY POINTS: • Anti-biofilm activity of histatin 5 on Porphyromonas gingivalis was investigated. • Histatin 5 inhibited Porphyromonas gingivalis biofilm formation. • Histatin 5 showed inhibitory effects on the occurrence of rat periodontitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Li
- Department of Periodontology, School of Stomatology, China Medical University, Nanjing North Street 117, Shenyang, 110000, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Mengjie Hou
- Department of Periodontology, School of Stomatology, China Medical University, Nanjing North Street 117, Shenyang, 110000, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Liying Yu
- Department of Periodontology, School of Stomatology, China Medical University, Nanjing North Street 117, Shenyang, 110000, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Wen Luo
- Department of Periodontology, School of Stomatology, China Medical University, Nanjing North Street 117, Shenyang, 110000, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Jie Kong
- Department of Periodontology, School of Stomatology, China Medical University, Nanjing North Street 117, Shenyang, 110000, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Renmei Yu
- Department of Periodontology, School of Stomatology, China Medical University, Nanjing North Street 117, Shenyang, 110000, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Ruihan Liu
- Clinical Medicine, Shenyang Medical College, Huanghe North Street 146, Shenyang, 110034, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Qian Li
- Department of Periodontology, School of Stomatology, China Medical University, Nanjing North Street 117, Shenyang, 110000, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Lisi Tan
- Department of Periodontology, School of Stomatology, China Medical University, Nanjing North Street 117, Shenyang, 110000, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Chunling Pan
- Department of Periodontology, School of Stomatology, China Medical University, Nanjing North Street 117, Shenyang, 110000, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Hongyan Wang
- Department of Periodontology, School of Stomatology, China Medical University, Nanjing North Street 117, Shenyang, 110000, Liaoning Province, China.
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8
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Pan C, Yang K, Erhunmwunsee F, Li YX, Liu M, Pan S, Yang D, Lu G, Ma D, Tian J. Inhibitory effect of cinnamaldehyde on Fusarium solani and its application in postharvest preservation of sweet potato. Food Chem 2023; 408:135213. [PMID: 36527924 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2022.135213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Revised: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Root rot caused by Fusarium solani is one of major postharvest diseases limiting sweet potato production. Antifungal effect and possible mode of action of cinnamaldehyde (CA) against F. solani were investigated. CA concentration of 0.075 g/L inhibited conidial viability of F. solani. CA vapor of 0.3 g/L in air completely controlled the F. solani development in sweet potatoes during storage for 10 days at 28 °C, and protected soluble sugar and starch in the flesh from depletion by the fungus. Further results demonstrated that CA induced reduction in mitochondrial membrane potential (Δψm), ROS accumulation, and cell apoptosis characterized by DNA fragmentation in F. solani. Moreover, CA facilitated decomposition of mitochondria-specific cardiolipin (CL) into its catabolites by the catalytic action of phospholipases. Altogether, the results revealed a specific antifungal mechanism of CA against F. solani, and suggest that CA holds promise as a preservative for postharvest preservation of sweet potato.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Pan
- School of Life Science, Jiangsu Normal University, Xuzhou 221116, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Kunlong Yang
- School of Life Science, Jiangsu Normal University, Xuzhou 221116, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Famous Erhunmwunsee
- School of Life Science, Jiangsu Normal University, Xuzhou 221116, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Yong-Xin Li
- School of Life Science, Jiangsu Normal University, Xuzhou 221116, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Man Liu
- School of Life Science, Jiangsu Normal University, Xuzhou 221116, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Shenyuan Pan
- School of Life Science, Jiangsu Normal University, Xuzhou 221116, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Dongjing Yang
- Xuzhou Institute of Agricultural Sciences in Jiangsu Xuhuai District, Xuzhou 221131, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Guoquan Lu
- School of Life Science, Jiangsu Normal University, Xuzhou 221116, Jiangsu, PR China; School of Agriculture and Food Science, Zhejiang A&F University, Hangzhou 311300, Zhejiang, PR China
| | - Daifu Ma
- School of Life Science, Jiangsu Normal University, Xuzhou 221116, Jiangsu, PR China; Xuzhou Institute of Agricultural Sciences in Jiangsu Xuhuai District, Xuzhou 221131, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Jun Tian
- School of Life Science, Jiangsu Normal University, Xuzhou 221116, Jiangsu, PR China.
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9
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Shahmiri M, Bleackley MR, Dawson CS, van der Weerden NL, Anderson MA, Mechler A. Membrane binding properties of plant defensins. PHYTOCHEMISTRY 2023; 209:113618. [PMID: 36828099 DOI: 10.1016/j.phytochem.2023.113618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Revised: 02/18/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The membrane interaction characteristics of five antifungal plant defensin peptides: NaD1, and the related HXP4 and L5, as well as NaD2 and the related ZmD32 were studied. These peptides were chosen to cover a broad range of cationic charges with little structural variations, allowing for assessment of the role of charge in their membrane interactions. Membrane permeabilizing activity against C. albicans was confirmed and quantified for benchmarking purposes. Viscoelastic characteristics of the membrane interactions were studied in typical neutral and charged model membranes using quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation (QCM-D. Frequency-dissipation fingerprinting analysis of the QCM-D results revealed that all of the peptides were able to bind to all studied model membranes albeit with slightly different viscoelastic character for each membrane type. However, characteristic disruption patterns were not observed suggesting that the membrane disrupting activity of these defensins is mostly specific to fungal membranes, and that increasing the peptide charge does not enhance their action. The results also show that the presence of specific sterols has a profound effect on the ability of the peptides to disrupt the membrane.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahdi Shahmiri
- Department of Chemistry and Physics, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Vic, 3086, Australia; Department of Medical Nanotechnology, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine (SATiM), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mark R Bleackley
- Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Vic, 3086, Australia
| | - Charlotte S Dawson
- Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Vic, 3086, Australia
| | - Nicole L van der Weerden
- Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Vic, 3086, Australia
| | - Marilyn A Anderson
- Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Vic, 3086, Australia
| | - Adam Mechler
- Department of Chemistry and Physics, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Vic, 3086, Australia.
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Antifungal Activity of Perillaldehyde on Fusarium solani and Its Control Effect on Postharvest Decay of Sweet Potatoes. J Fungi (Basel) 2023; 9:jof9020257. [PMID: 36836371 PMCID: PMC9964956 DOI: 10.3390/jof9020257] [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: 02/02/2023] [Revised: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Root rot caused by Fusarium solani is one of the major postharvest diseases limiting sweet potato production. Here, antifungal activity and the action mode of perillaldehyde (PAE) against F. solani were investigated. A PAE concentration of 0.15 mL/L in air (mL/L air) markedly inhibited the mycelial growth, spore reproduction and spore viability of F. solani. A PAE vapor of 0.25 mL/L in air could control the F. solani development in sweet potatoes during storage for 9 days at 28 °C. Moreover, the results of a flow cytometer demonstrated that PAE drove an increase in cell membrane permeability, reduction of mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) and accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in F. solani spores. Subsequently, a fluorescence microscopy assay demonstrated that PAE caused serious damage to the cell nuclei in F. solani by inducing chromatin condensation. Further, the spread plate method showed that the spore survival rate was negatively correlated with the level of ROS and nuclear damage, of which the results indicated that PAE-driven ROS accumulation plays a critical role in contributing to cell death in F. solani. In all, the results revealed a specific antifungal mechanism of PAE against F. solani, and suggest that PAE could be a useful fumigant for controlling the postharvest diseases of sweet potatoes.
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11
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Guevara-Lora I, Bras G, Juszczak M, Karkowska-Kuleta J, Gorecki A, Manrique-Moreno M, Dymek J, Pyza E, Kozik A, Rapala-Kozik M. Cecropin D-derived synthetic peptides in the fight against Candida albicans cell filamentation and biofilm formation. Front Microbiol 2023; 13:1045984. [PMID: 36713201 PMCID: PMC9880178 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.1045984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The recent progressive increase in the incidence of invasive fungal infections, especially in immunocompromised patients, makes the search for new therapies crucial in the face of the growing drug resistance of prevalent nosocomial yeast strains. The latest research focuses on the active compounds of natural origin, inhibiting fungal growth, and preventing the formation of fungal biofilms. Antimicrobial peptides are currently the subject of numerous studies concerning effective antifungal therapy. In the present study, the antifungal properties of two synthetic peptides (ΔM3, ΔM4) derived from an insect antimicrobial peptide - cecropin D - were investigated. The fungicidal activity of both compounds was demonstrated against the yeast forms of Candida albicans, Candida tropicalis, and Candida parapsilosis, reaching a MFC99.9 in the micromolar range, while Candida glabrata showed greater resistance to these peptides. The scanning electron microscopy revealed a destabilization of the yeast cell walls upon treatment with both peptides; however, their effectiveness was strongly modified by the presence of salt or plasma in the yeast environment. The transition of C. albicans cells from yeast to filamentous form, as well as the formation of biofilms, was effectively reduced by ΔM4. Mature biofilm viability was inhibited by a higher concentration of this peptide and was accompanied by increased ROS production, activation of the GPX3 and SOD5 genes, and finally, increased membrane permeability. Furthermore, both peptides showed a synergistic effect with caspofungin in inhibiting the metabolic activity of C. albicans cells, and an additive effect was also observed for the mixtures of peptides with amphotericin B. The results indicate the possible potential of the tested peptides in the prevention and treatment of candidiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ibeth Guevara-Lora
- Department of Analytical Biochemistry, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
| | - Grazyna Bras
- Department of Comparative Biochemistry and Bioanalytics, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
| | - Magdalena Juszczak
- Department of Comparative Biochemistry and Bioanalytics, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
| | - Justyna Karkowska-Kuleta
- Department of Comparative Biochemistry and Bioanalytics, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
| | - Andrzej Gorecki
- Department of Physical Biochemistry, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
| | - Marcela Manrique-Moreno
- Chemistry Institute, Faculty of Exact and Natural Sciences, University of Antioquia, Medellin, Colombia
| | - Jakub Dymek
- Department of Cell Biology and Imaging, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
| | - Elzbieta Pyza
- Department of Cell Biology and Imaging, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
| | - Andrzej Kozik
- Department of Analytical Biochemistry, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
| | - Maria Rapala-Kozik
- Department of Comparative Biochemistry and Bioanalytics, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland,*Correspondence: Maria Rapala-Kozik,
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12
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Synergistic effect of bovine cateslytin-loaded nanoparticles combined with ultrasound against Candida albicans biofilm. Future Med Chem 2023; 15:43-55. [PMID: 36660946 DOI: 10.4155/fmc-2022-0062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose: To investigate the synergistic effect of bovine cateslytin-loaded nanoparticles (bCAT-NPs) combined with ultrasound against Candida albicans biofilm and uncover the underlying mechanism. Methods: bCAT-NPs were prepared by the double emulsion method, and toxicity was observed by the hemolysis ratio. The metabolic activity and viable cell biomass, morphology and membrane permeability of C. albicans biofilm were observed. The expression of ALS3 mRNA, the content of reactive oxygen species, was detected. Finally, bCAT structure was analyzed. Results & conclusion: The hemolysis ratio of the bCAT-NPs group was significantly lower than that of the bCAT group. bCAT-NPs combined with ultrasound significantly reduced biofilm metabolic activity, inhibited the formation of hyphae, decreased the expression of ALS3 mRNA and increased the intracellular reactive oxygen species content. In the in vivo experiments, the colony-forming units/ml in the ultrasound+bCAT-NPs group decreased, and a few planktonic fungal cells were observed.
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13
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Miao F, Tai Z, Wang Y, Zhu Q, Fang JKH, Hu M. Tachyplesin I Analogue Peptide as an Effective Antimicrobial Agent against Candida albicans- Staphylococcus aureus Poly-Biofilm Formation and Mixed Infection. ACS Infect Dis 2022; 8:1839-1850. [PMID: 35998684 DOI: 10.1021/acsinfecdis.2c00080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Microbial biofilms are difficult to tackle in many infectious diseases. Candida albicans and Staphylococcus aureus are prevalent symbiotic strains in polymicrobial biofilms, which showed enhanced antimicrobial resistance and made identifying effective treatment techniques more difficult. The antibiofilm abilities of tachplesin I analogue peptide (TP11A) and tachplesin I were investigated quantitatively in this study. Both inhibited C. albicans monomicrobial, S. aureus monomicrobial, and C. albicans-S. aureus polymicrobial biofilms quite well. TP11A suppressed the biofilm- and virulence-related genes of C. albicans (hwp 1) and S. aureus (ica A, fnb B, agr A, hla, nor A, and sig B) in the mixed biofilm, according to quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction analysis. We created an injectable thermosensitive in situ PLEL@TP11A gel system by simply adding TP11A into poly(d,l-lactide)-poly(ethylene glycol)-poly(d,l-lactide) (PLEL). Using C. albicans-S. aureus mixed infected wound models of mice, the in vivo therapeutic effect of TP11A and PLEL@TP11A in polymicrobial infections was investigated. The findings revealed that TP11A and PLEL@TP11A could efficiently reduce bacterial and fungal burden in wound infections, as well as accelerated wound healing. Based on above findings, TP11A might be an effective antimicrobial against C. albicans-S. aureus poly-biofilm formation and mixed infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fengze Miao
- International Research Center for Marine Biosciences, Ministry of Science and Technology, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China.,Shanghai Collaborative Innovation for Aquatic Animal Genetics and Breeding, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China
| | - Zongguang Tai
- Shanghai Skin Disease Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200443, China.,Shanghai Engineering Research Center for Topical Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200443, China
| | - Youji Wang
- International Research Center for Marine Biosciences, Ministry of Science and Technology, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China.,Shanghai Collaborative Innovation for Aquatic Animal Genetics and Breeding, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China
| | - Quangang Zhu
- Shanghai Skin Disease Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200443, China.,Shanghai Engineering Research Center for Topical Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200443, China
| | - James Kar-Hei Fang
- Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Kowloon 999077, China
| | - Menghong Hu
- International Research Center for Marine Biosciences, Ministry of Science and Technology, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China.,Shanghai Collaborative Innovation for Aquatic Animal Genetics and Breeding, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China
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14
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Campbell JX, Gao S, Anand KS, Franz KJ. Zinc Binding Inhibits Cellular Uptake and Antifungal Activity of Histatin-5 in Candida albicans. ACS Infect Dis 2022; 8:1920-1934. [PMID: 35997625 PMCID: PMC9671271 DOI: 10.1021/acsinfecdis.2c00289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Histatin-5 (Hist-5) is a polycationic, histidine-rich antimicrobial peptide with potent antifungal activity against the opportunistic fungal pathogen Candida albicans. Hist-5 can bind metals in vitro, and metals have been shown to alter the fungicidal activity of the peptide. Previous reports on the effect of Zn2+ on Hist-5 activity have been varied and seemingly contradictory. Here, we present data elucidating the dynamic role Zn2+ plays as an inhibitory switch to regulate Hist-5 fungicidal activity. A novel fluorescently labeled Hist-5 peptide (Hist-5*) was developed to visualize changes in internalization and localization of the peptide as a function of metal availability in the growth medium. Hist-5* was verified for use as a model peptide and retained antifungal activity and mode of action similar to native Hist-5. Cellular growth assays showed that Zn2+ had a concentration-dependent inhibitory effect on Hist-5 antifungal activity. Imaging by confocal microscopy revealed that equimolar concentrations of Zn2+ kept the peptide localized along the cell periphery rather than internalizing, thus preventing cytotoxicity and membrane disruption. However, the Zn-induced decrease in Hist-5 activity and uptake was rescued by decreasing the Zn2+ availability upon addition of a metal chelator EDTA or S100A12, a Zn-binding protein involved in the innate immune response. These results lead us to suggest a model wherein commensal C. albicans may exist in harmony with Hist-5 at concentrations of Zn2+ that inhibit peptide internalization and antifungal activity. Activation of host immune processes that initiate Zn-sequestering mechanisms of nutritional immunity could trigger Hist-5 internalization and cell killing.
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15
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Perez-Rodriguez A, Eraso E, Quindós G, Mateo E. Antimicrobial Peptides with Anti-Candida Activity. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23169264. [PMID: 36012523 PMCID: PMC9409312 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23169264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Revised: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/13/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Mycoses are accountable for millions of infections yearly worldwide. Invasive candidiasis is the most usual, presenting a high morbidity and mortality. Candida albicans remains the prevalent etiologic agent, but the incidence of other species such as Candida parapsilosis, Candida glabrata and Candida auris keeps increasing. These pathogens frequently show a reduced susceptibility to commonly used antifungal drugs, including polyenes, triazoles and echinocandins, and the incidence of emerging multi-drug-resistant strains of these species continues to increase. Therefore, the need to search for new molecules that target these pathogenic species in a different manner is now more urgent than ever. Nature is an almost endless source of interesting new molecules that could meet this need. Among these molecules, antimicrobial peptides, present in different sources in nature, possess some advantages over conventional antifungal agents, even with their own drawbacks, and are considered as a promising pharmacological option against a wide range of microbial infections. In this review, we describe 20 antimicrobial peptides from different origins that possess an activity against Candida.
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16
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Zupin L, dos Santos-Silva CA, Al Mughrbi ARH, Vilela LMB, Benko-Iseppon AM, Crovella S. Bioactive Antimicrobial Peptides: A New Weapon to Counteract Zoonosis. Microorganisms 2022; 10:microorganisms10081591. [PMID: 36014009 PMCID: PMC9414035 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10081591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Zoonoses have recently become the center of attention of the general population and scientific community. Notably, more than 30 new human pathogens have been identified in the last 30 years, 75% of which can be classified as zoonosis. The complete eradication of such types of infections is far out of reach, considering the limited understanding of animal determinants in zoonoses and their causes of emergence. Therefore, efforts must be doubled in examining the spread, persistence, and pathogenicity of zoonosis and studying possible clinical interventions and antimicrobial drug development. The search for antimicrobial bioactive compounds has assumed great emphasis, considering the emergence of multi-drug-resistant microorganisms. Among the biomolecules of emerging scientific interest are antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), potent biomolecules that can potentially act as important weapons against infectious diseases. Moreover, synthetic AMPs are easily tailored (bioinformatically) to target specific features of the pathogens to hijack, inducing no or very low resistance. Although very promising, previous studies on SAMPs’ efficacy are still at their early stages. Indeed, further studies and better characterization on their mechanism of action with in vitro and in vivo assays are needed so as to proceed to their clinical application on human beings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luisa Zupin
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health—IRCCS Burlo Garofolo, 34137 Trieste, Italy
- Correspondence: (L.Z.); (S.C.)
| | | | | | - Livia Maria Batista Vilela
- Centro de Biociências, Departamento de Genética, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife 50670-420, Brazil
| | - Ana Maria Benko-Iseppon
- Centro de Biociências, Departamento de Genética, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife 50670-420, Brazil
| | - Sergio Crovella
- Biological Science Program, Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, Qatar University, Doha 2713, Qatar
- Correspondence: (L.Z.); (S.C.)
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17
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Johnstone KF, Herzberg MC. Antimicrobial peptides: Defending the mucosal epithelial barrier. FRONTIERS IN ORAL HEALTH 2022; 3:958480. [PMID: 35979535 PMCID: PMC9376388 DOI: 10.3389/froh.2022.958480] [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: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The recent epidemic caused by aerosolized SARS-CoV-2 virus illustrates the importance and vulnerability of the mucosal epithelial barrier against infection. Antimicrobial proteins and peptides (AMPs) are key to the epithelial barrier, providing immunity against microbes. In primitive life forms, AMPs protect the integument and the gut against pathogenic microbes. AMPs have also evolved in humans and other mammals to enhance newer, complex innate and adaptive immunity to favor the persistence of commensals over pathogenic microbes. The canonical AMPs are helictical peptides that form lethal pores in microbial membranes. In higher life forms, this type of AMP is exemplified by the defensin family of AMPs. In epithelial tissues, defensins, and calprotectin (complex of S100A8 and S100A9) have evolved to work cooperatively. The mechanisms of action differ. Unlike defensins, calprotectin sequesters essential trace metals from microbes, which inhibits growth. This review focuses on defensins and calprotectin as AMPs that appear to work cooperatively to fortify the epithelial barrier against infection. The antimicrobial spectrum is broad with overlap between the two AMPs. In mice, experimental models highlight the contribution of both AMPs to candidiasis as a fungal infection and periodontitis resulting from bacterial dysbiosis. These AMPs appear to contribute to innate immunity in humans, protecting the commensal microflora and restricting the emergence of pathobionts and pathogens. A striking example in human innate immunity is that elevated serum calprotectin protects against neonatal sepsis. Calprotectin is also remarkable because of functional differences when localized in epithelial and neutrophil cytoplasm or released into the extracellular environment. In the cytoplasm, calprotectin appears to protect against invasive pathogens. Extracellularly, calprotectin can engage pathogen-recognition receptors to activate innate immune and proinflammatory mechanisms. In inflamed epithelial and other tissue spaces, calprotectin, DNA, and histones are released from degranulated neutrophils to form insoluble antimicrobial barriers termed neutrophil extracellular traps. Hence, calprotectin and other AMPs use several strategies to provide microbial control and stimulate innate immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mark C. Herzberg
- Department of Diagnostic and Biological Sciences, School of Dentistry, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
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18
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Alfaifi A, Sultan AS, Montelongo-Jauregui D, Meiller TF, Jabra-Rizk MA. Long-Term Post-COVID-19 Associated Oral Inflammatory Sequelae. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:831744. [PMID: 35310855 PMCID: PMC8924417 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.831744] [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: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The oral cavity remains an underappreciated site for SARS-CoV-2 infection despite the myriad oral conditions observed in COVID-19 patients. Recently, replicating SARS-CoV-2 was found inside salivary epithelial cells resulting in inflammation and atrophy of salivary glands. Saliva possesses healing properties crucial for maintaining the health of the oral mucosa. Specifically, salivary antimicrobial peptides, most notable, histatin-5 exclusively produced in salivary glands, plays a vital role in innate immunity against colonizing microbial species. The demonstration of SARS-CoV-2 destruction of gland tissue where histatin-5 is produced strongly indicate that histatin-5 production is compromised due to COVID-19. Here we present a case of a patient presenting with unexplained chronic oral dysesthesia and dysgeusia post-recovery from COVID-19. To explore potential physiological mechanisms behind the symptoms, we comparatively analyzed saliva samples from the patient and matched healthy subject for histatin-5 and key cytokines. Findings demonstrated significantly reduced histatin-5 levels in patient's saliva and activation of the Th17 inflammatory pathway. As histatin-5 exhibits potent activity against the opportunistic oral pathogen Candida albicans, we evaluated saliva potency against C. albicans ex vivo. Compared to control, patient saliva exhibited significantly reduced anti-candidal efficacy. Although speculative, based on history and salivary analysis we hypothesize that salivary histatin-5 production may be compromised due to SARS-CoV-2 mediated salivary gland destruction. With the current lack of emphasis on implications of COVID-19 on oral health, this report may provide lacking mechanistic insights that may lead to reassessment of risks for oral opportunistic infections and mucosal inflammatory processes in acutely-ill and recovered COVID-19 patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Areej Alfaifi
- Department of Oncology and Diagnostic Sciences, School of Dentistry, University of Maryland Baltimore, MD, United States.,Department of Restorative and Prosthetic Dental Sciences, College of Dentistry King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmed S Sultan
- Department of Oncology and Diagnostic Sciences, School of Dentistry, University of Maryland Baltimore, MD, United States.,Greenebaum Cancer Center, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Daniel Montelongo-Jauregui
- Department of Oncology and Diagnostic Sciences, School of Dentistry, University of Maryland Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Timothy F Meiller
- Department of Oncology and Diagnostic Sciences, School of Dentistry, University of Maryland Baltimore, MD, United States.,Greenebaum Cancer Center, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Mary Ann Jabra-Rizk
- Department of Oncology and Diagnostic Sciences, School of Dentistry, University of Maryland Baltimore, MD, United States.,Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD, United States
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19
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Sharma P, Chaudhary M, Khanna G, Rishi P, Kaur IP. Envisaging Antifungal Potential of Histatin 5: A Physiological Salivary Peptide. J Fungi (Basel) 2021; 7:jof7121070. [PMID: 34947052 PMCID: PMC8707063 DOI: 10.3390/jof7121070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Revised: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Fungi are reported to cause a range of superficial to invasive human infections. These often result in high morbidity and at times mortality. Conventional antifungal agents though effective invariably exhibit drug interactions, treatment-related toxicity, and fail to elicit significant effect, thus indicating a need to look for suitable alternatives. Fungi thrive in humid, nutrient-enriched areas. Such an environment is well-supported by the oral cavity. Despite this, there is a relatively low incidence of severe oral and periodontal fungal infections, attributed to the presence of antimicrobial peptides hosted by saliva, viz. histatin 5 (Hstn 5). It displays fungicidal activity against a variety of fungi including Candida albicans, Candida glabrata, Candida krusei, Cryptococcus neoformans, and unicellular yeast-like Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Candida albicans alone accounts for about 70% of all global fungal infections including periodontal disease. This review intends to discuss the scope of Hstn 5 as a novel recourse for the control of fungal infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pratibha Sharma
- University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Panjab University, Chandigarh 160014, India; (P.S.); (M.C.); (G.K.)
| | - Mehak Chaudhary
- University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Panjab University, Chandigarh 160014, India; (P.S.); (M.C.); (G.K.)
| | - Garima Khanna
- University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Panjab University, Chandigarh 160014, India; (P.S.); (M.C.); (G.K.)
| | - Praveen Rishi
- Department of Microbiology, Panjab University, Chandigarh 160014, India
- Correspondence: (P.R.); (I.P.K.); Tel.: +91-172-2534-113 (P.R.); +91-985-5166-432 (I.P.K.)
| | - Indu Pal Kaur
- University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Panjab University, Chandigarh 160014, India; (P.S.); (M.C.); (G.K.)
- Correspondence: (P.R.); (I.P.K.); Tel.: +91-172-2534-113 (P.R.); +91-985-5166-432 (I.P.K.)
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20
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Jadi PK, Sharma P, Bhogapurapu B, Roy S. Alternative Therapeutic Interventions: Antimicrobial Peptides and Small Molecules to Treat Microbial Keratitis. Front Chem 2021; 9:694998. [PMID: 34458234 PMCID: PMC8386189 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2021.694998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 07/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Microbial keratitis is a leading cause of blindness worldwide and results in unilateral vision loss in an estimated 2 million people per year. Bacteria and fungus are two main etiological agents that cause corneal ulcers. Although antibiotics and antifungals are commonly used to treat corneal infections, a clear trend with increasing resistance to these antimicrobials is emerging at rapid pace. Extensive research has been carried out to determine alternative therapeutic interventions, and antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are increasingly recognized for their clinical potential in treating infections. Small molecules targeted against virulence factors of the pathogens and natural compounds are also explored to meet the challenges and growing demand for therapeutic agents. Here we review the potential of AMPs, small molecules, and natural compounds as alternative therapeutic interventions for the treatment of corneal infections to combat antimicrobial resistance. Additionally, we have also discussed about the different formats of drug delivery systems for optimal administration of drugs to treat microbial keratitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Praveen Kumar Jadi
- Prof, Brien Holden Eye Research Centre, LV Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, India
| | - Prerana Sharma
- Prof, Brien Holden Eye Research Centre, LV Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, India
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad, India
| | - Bharathi Bhogapurapu
- Prof, Brien Holden Eye Research Centre, LV Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, India
| | - Sanhita Roy
- Prof, Brien Holden Eye Research Centre, LV Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, India
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21
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Lu M, Wang S, Wang T, Hu S, Bhayana B, Ishii M, Kong Y, Cai Y, Dai T, Cui W, Wu MX. Bacteria-specific phototoxic reactions triggered by blue light and phytochemical carvacrol. Sci Transl Med 2021; 13:13/575/eaba3571. [PMID: 33408183 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.aba3571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2019] [Revised: 06/26/2020] [Accepted: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Development of alternatives to antibiotics is one of the top priorities in the battle against multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacterial infections. Here, we report that two naturally occurring nonantibiotic modalities, blue light and phytochemical carvacrol, synergistically kill an array of bacteria including their planktonic forms, mature biofilms, and persisters, irrespective of their antibiotic susceptibility. Combination but not single treatment completely or substantially cured acute and established biofilm-associated Acinetobacter baumannii and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus infections of full thickness murine third-degree burn wounds and rescued mice from lethal Pseudomonas aeruginosa skin wound infections. The combined therapy diminished bacterial colony-forming units as high as 7.5 log10 within 30 min and introduced few adverse events in the survival of cocultured mammalian cells, wound healing, or host DNA. Mechanistic studies revealed that carvacrol was photocatalytically oxidized into a series of photoreactive substrates that underwent photolysis or additional photosensitization reactions in response to the same blue light, forming two autoxidation cycles that interacted with each other resulting in robust generation of cytotoxic reactive oxygen species. This phototoxic reaction took place exclusively in bacteria, initiated by blue light excitation of endogenous porphyrin-like molecules abundantly produced in bacteria compared with mammalian cells. Moreover, no bacterial resistance developed to the combined treatment after 20 successive passages. This highly selective phototoxic reaction confers a unique strategy to combat the growing threat of MDR bacteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Lu
- Wellman Center for Photomedicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Department of Dermatology, Harvard Medical School, 50 Blossom Street, Boston, MA 02114, USA.,Department of Orthopaedics, Shanghai Key Laboratory for Prevention and Treatment of Bone and Joint Diseases, Shanghai Institute of Traumatology and Orthopaedics, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, P. R. China
| | - Shen Wang
- Wellman Center for Photomedicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Department of Dermatology, Harvard Medical School, 50 Blossom Street, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Tao Wang
- Department of Orthopaedics, Shanghai Key Laboratory for Prevention and Treatment of Bone and Joint Diseases, Shanghai Institute of Traumatology and Orthopaedics, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, P. R. China
| | - Sisi Hu
- Wellman Center for Photomedicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Department of Dermatology, Harvard Medical School, 50 Blossom Street, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Brijesh Bhayana
- Wellman Center for Photomedicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Department of Dermatology, Harvard Medical School, 50 Blossom Street, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Momoko Ishii
- Wellman Center for Photomedicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Department of Dermatology, Harvard Medical School, 50 Blossom Street, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Yifei Kong
- Wellman Center for Photomedicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Department of Dermatology, Harvard Medical School, 50 Blossom Street, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Yuchen Cai
- Wellman Center for Photomedicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Department of Dermatology, Harvard Medical School, 50 Blossom Street, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Tianhong Dai
- Wellman Center for Photomedicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Department of Dermatology, Harvard Medical School, 50 Blossom Street, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Wenguo Cui
- Department of Orthopaedics, Shanghai Key Laboratory for Prevention and Treatment of Bone and Joint Diseases, Shanghai Institute of Traumatology and Orthopaedics, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, P. R. China.
| | - Mei X Wu
- Wellman Center for Photomedicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Department of Dermatology, Harvard Medical School, 50 Blossom Street, Boston, MA 02114, USA.
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22
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Chang CK, Kao MC, Lan CY. Antimicrobial Activity of the Peptide LfcinB15 against Candida albicans. J Fungi (Basel) 2021; 7:jof7070519. [PMID: 34209722 PMCID: PMC8306953 DOI: 10.3390/jof7070519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2021] [Revised: 06/24/2021] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Lactoferricin (Lfcin) is an amphipathic, cationic peptide derived from proteolytic cleavage of the N-lobe of lactoferrin (Lf). Lfcin and its derivatives possess broad-spectrum antibacterial and antifungal activities. However, unlike their antibacterial functions, the modes of action of Lfcin and its derivatives against pathogenic fungi are less well understood. In this study, the mechanisms of LfcinB15, a derivative of bovine Lfcin, against Candida albicans were, therefore, extensively investigated. LfcinB15 exhibited inhibitory activity against planktonic cells, biofilm cells, and clinical isolates of C. albicans and non-albicans Candida species. We further demonstrated that LfcinB15 is localized on the cell surface and vacuoles of C. albicans cells. Moreover, LfcinB15 uses several different methods to kill C. albicans, including disturbing the cell membrane, inducing reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, and causing mitochondrial dysfunction. Finally, the Hog1 and Mkc1 mitogen-activated protein kinases were both activated in C. albicans cells in response to LfcinB15. These findings help us to obtain more insight into the complex mechanisms used by LfcinB15 and other Lfcin-derived peptides to fight fungal pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Che-Kang Chang
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Biology, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu 30013, Taiwan;
| | - Mou-Chieh Kao
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu 30013, Taiwan
- Department of Life Science, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu 30013, Taiwan
- Correspondence: (M.-C.K.); ; (C.-Y.L.); Tel.: +886-3-5742473 (M.-C.K.); +886-3-5742472 (C.-Y.L.)
| | - Chung-Yu Lan
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Biology, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu 30013, Taiwan;
- Department of Life Science, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu 30013, Taiwan
- Correspondence: (M.-C.K.); ; (C.-Y.L.); Tel.: +886-3-5742473 (M.-C.K.); +886-3-5742472 (C.-Y.L.)
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Moulahoum H, Ghorbani Zamani F, Timur S, Zihnioglu F. Metal Binding Antimicrobial Peptides in Nanoparticle Bio-functionalization: New Heights in Drug Delivery and Therapy. Probiotics Antimicrob Proteins 2021; 12:48-63. [PMID: 31001788 DOI: 10.1007/s12602-019-09546-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Peptides are considered very important due to the diversity expressed through their amino acid sequence, structure variation, large spectrum, and their essential role in biological systems. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) emerged as a potent tool in therapy owing to their antimicrobial properties but also their ability to trespass the membranes, specificity, and low toxicity. They comprise a variety of peptides from which specific amino acid-rich peptides are of interest to the current review due to their features in metal interaction and cell penetration. Histidine-rich peptides such as Histatins belong to the metal binding salivary residing peptides with efficient antibacterial, antifungal, and wound-healing activities. Furthermore, their ability to activate in acidic environment attracted the attention to their potential in therapy. The current review covers the current knowledge about AMPs and critically assess the potential of associating with metal ions both structurally and functionally. This review provides interesting hints for the advantages provided by AMPs and metal ions in biomedicine, making use of their direct properties in brain diseases therapy or in the creation of new bio-functionalized nanoparticles for cancer diagnosis and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hichem Moulahoum
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Ege University, 35100, Bornova, Izmir, Turkey.
| | - Faezeh Ghorbani Zamani
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Ege University, 35100, Bornova, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Suna Timur
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Ege University, 35100, Bornova, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Figen Zihnioglu
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Ege University, 35100, Bornova, Izmir, Turkey.
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Shu C, Cui K, Li Q, Cao J, Jiang W. Epsilon-poly-l-lysine (ε-PL) exhibits multifaceted antifungal mechanisms of action that control postharvest Alternaria rot. Int J Food Microbiol 2021; 348:109224. [PMID: 33965694 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijfoodmicro.2021.109224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2020] [Revised: 04/06/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
ε-Poly-l-lysine (ε-PL) is a natural antimicrobial poly-cationic peptide widely applied as a natural preservative in the food industry, whereas its application in preventing postharvest loss of fruit was largely absent. This study investigated the antifungal activity of ε-PL and determined the possible mechanisms involved. The in vivo results indicated that 500 mg L-1 exogenous ε-PL treatment significantly inhibited black spot rot in apple, jujube, and tomato. The lesion diameter inhibition rate was range from 20.11% to 29.09% by 500 mg L-1 ε-PL treatment. ε-PL exerts antifungal activity against A. alternata in vitro, the half-inhibition concentration is 160.1 mg L-1. ε-PL induced morphology and ultrastructure change on the pathogen, which resulted in the inhibition of A. alternata. This was accomplished by disturbing pathogen membrane integrity and functionality. The fluorometric assay confirmed that ε-PL induced endogenous reactive oxygen species formation and accumulation in A. alternata and the elicited severe lipid peroxidation that caused membrane lesions. Further, ε-PL treatment enhanced the expression of genes involved in antioxidant metabolism and pathogenesis-related responses in apple fruit. These findings illustrated that ε-PL exhibits multifaceted antifungal activity by the direct effect on the pathogen as well as induce host defense responses. ε-PL may be conducive as a promising alternative for Alternaria rot management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang Shu
- College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100083, PR China.
| | - Kuanbo Cui
- College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100083, PR China; Agricultural Mechanization Institute, Xinjiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, No. 291 Nanchangnanlu, Urumqi 830091, PR China
| | - Qianqian Li
- College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100083, PR China
| | - Jiankang Cao
- College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100083, PR China
| | - Weibo Jiang
- College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100083, PR China.
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25
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Zhang B, Qin X, Zhou M, Tian T, Sun Y, Li S, Xiao D, Cai X. Tetrahedral DNA nanostructure improves transport efficiency and anti-fungal effect of histatin 5 against Candida albicans. Cell Prolif 2021; 54:e13020. [PMID: 33694264 PMCID: PMC8088467 DOI: 10.1111/cpr.13020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2020] [Revised: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 02/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Anti-microbial peptides (AMPs) have been comprehensively investigated as a novel alternative to traditional antibiotics against microorganisms. Meanwhile, Tetrahedral DNA nanostructures (TDNs) have gained attention in the field of biomedicine for their premium biological effects and transportation efficiency as delivery vehicles. Hence, in this study, TDN/Histatin 5 (His-5) was synthesized and the transport efficiency and anti-fungal effect were measured to evaluate the promotion of His-5 modified by TDNs. MATERIALS AND METHODS Tetrahedral DNA nanostructures/His-5 complex was prepared via electrostatic attraction and characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE), dynamic light scattering (DLS) and electrophoretic light scattering (ELS). The anti-fungal effect of the TDN/His-5 complex was evaluated by determining the growth curve and colony-forming units of C. albicans. The morphological transformation of C. albicans was observed by light microscope and scanning electron microscope (SEM). Immunofluorescence was performed, and potassium efflux was detected to mechanistically demonstrate the efficacy of TDN/His-5. RESULTS The results showed that Histatin 5 modified by TDNs had preferable stability in serum and was effectively transported into C. albicans, leading to the increased formation of intracellular reactive oxygen species, higher potassium efflux and enhanced anti-fungal effect against C. albicans. CONCLUSIONS Our study showed that TDN/His-5 was synthesized successfully. And by the modification of TDNs, His-5 showed increased transport efficiency and improved anti-fungal effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bowen Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral DiseasesNational Clinical Research Center for Oral DiseasesWest China Hospital of StomatologySichuan UniversityChengduChina
| | - Xin Qin
- State Key Laboratory of Oral DiseasesNational Clinical Research Center for Oral DiseasesWest China Hospital of StomatologySichuan UniversityChengduChina
| | - Mi Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Oral DiseasesNational Clinical Research Center for Oral DiseasesWest China Hospital of StomatologySichuan UniversityChengduChina
| | - Taoran Tian
- State Key Laboratory of Oral DiseasesNational Clinical Research Center for Oral DiseasesWest China Hospital of StomatologySichuan UniversityChengduChina
| | - Yue Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Oral DiseasesNational Clinical Research Center for Oral DiseasesWest China Hospital of StomatologySichuan UniversityChengduChina
| | - Songhang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Oral DiseasesNational Clinical Research Center for Oral DiseasesWest China Hospital of StomatologySichuan UniversityChengduChina
| | - Dexuan Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Oral DiseasesNational Clinical Research Center for Oral DiseasesWest China Hospital of StomatologySichuan UniversityChengduChina
| | - Xiaoxiao Cai
- State Key Laboratory of Oral DiseasesNational Clinical Research Center for Oral DiseasesWest China Hospital of StomatologySichuan UniversityChengduChina
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Metal Sulfide Nanoparticles Based Phytolectin Scaffolds Inhibit Vulvovaginal Candidiasis Causing Candida albicans. J CLUST SCI 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s10876-021-02061-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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Antimicrobial nanomedicine for ocular bacterial and fungal infection. Drug Deliv Transl Res 2021; 11:1352-1375. [PMID: 33840082 DOI: 10.1007/s13346-021-00966-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Ocular infection induced by bacteria and fungi is a major cause of visual impairment and blindness. Topical administration of antibiotics remains the first-line treatment, as effective eradication of pathogens is the core of the anti-infection strategy. Whereas, eye drops lack efficiency and have relatively low bioavailability. Intraocular injection may cause concurrent ocular damage and secondary infection. In addition, antibiotic-based management can be limited by the low sensitivity to multidrug-resistant bacteria. Nanomedicine is proposed as a prospective, effective, and noninvasive platform to mediate ocular delivery and combat pathogen or even resistant strains. Nanomedicine can not only carry antimicrobial agents to fight against pathogens but also directly active microbicidal capability, killing pathogens. More importantly, by modification, nanomedicine can achieve enhanced residence time and release time on the cornea, and easy penetration through corneal tissues into anterior and posterior segments of the eye, thus improving the therapeutic effect for ocular infection. In this review, several categories of antimicrobial nanomedicine are systematically discussed, where the efficiency and possibility of further embellishment and improvement to adapt to clinical use are also investigated. All in all, novel antimicrobial nanomedicine provides potent and prospective ways to manage severe and refractory ocular infections.
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F. Q. Smith D, Casadevall A. Fungal immunity and pathogenesis in mammals versus the invertebrate model organism Galleria mellonella. Pathog Dis 2021; 79:ftab013. [PMID: 33544836 PMCID: PMC7981337 DOI: 10.1093/femspd/ftab013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2020] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent decades, Galleria mellonella (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) have emerged as a model system to explore experimental aspects of fungal pathogenesis. The benefits of the G. mellonella model include being faster, cheaper, higher throughput and easier compared with vertebrate models. Additionally, as invertebrates, their use is subject to fewer ethical and regulatory issues. However, for G. mellonella models to provide meaningful insight into fungal pathogenesis, the G. mellonella-fungal interactions must be comparable to mammalian-fungal interactions. Indeed, as discussed in the review, studies suggest that G. mellonella and mammalian immune systems share many similarities, and fungal virulence factors show conserved functions in both hosts. While the moth model has opened novel research areas, many comparisons are superficial and leave large gaps of knowledge that need to be addressed concerning specific mechanisms underlying G. mellonella-fungal interactions. Closing these gaps in understanding will strengthen G. mellonella as a model for fungal virulence in the upcoming years. In this review, we provide comprehensive comparisons between fungal pathogenesis in mammals and G. mellonella from immunological and virulence perspectives. When information on an antifungal immune component is unknown in G. mellonella, we include findings from other well-studied Lepidoptera. We hope that by outlining this information available in related species, we highlight areas of needed research and provide a framework for understanding G. mellonella immunity and fungal interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel F. Q. Smith
- W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, The Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Arturo Casadevall
- W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, The Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
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Ciociola T, Pertinhez TA, De Simone T, Magliani W, Ferrari E, Belletti S, D’Adda T, Conti S, Giovati L. In Vitro and In Vivo Anti- Candida Activity and Structural Analysis of Killer Peptide (KP)-Derivatives. J Fungi (Basel) 2021; 7:129. [PMID: 33578728 PMCID: PMC7916522 DOI: 10.3390/jof7020129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2021] [Revised: 02/05/2021] [Accepted: 02/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The previously described decapeptide AKVTMTCSAS (killer peptide, KP), derived from the variable region of a recombinant yeast killer toxin-like anti-idiotypic antibody, proved to exert a variety of antimicrobial, antiviral, and immunomodulatory activities. It also showed a peculiar self-assembly ability, likely responsible for the therapeutic effect in animal models of systemic and mucosal candidiasis. The present study analyzed the biological and structural properties of peptides derived from KP by substitution or deletion of the first residue, leaving unchanged the remaining amino acids. The investigated peptides proved to exert differential in vitro and/or in vivo anti-Candida activity without showing toxic effects on mammalian cells. The change of the first residue in KP amino acidic sequence affected the conformation of the resulting peptides in solution, as assessed by circular dichroism spectroscopy. KP-derivatives, except one, were able to induce apoptosis in yeast cells, like KP itself. ROS production and changes in mitochondrial transmembrane potential were also observed. Confocal and transmission electron microscopy studies allowed to establish that selected peptides could penetrate within C. albicans cells and cause gross morphological alterations. Overall, the physical and chemical properties of the first residue were found to be important for peptide conformation, candidacidal activity and possible mechanism of action. Small antimicrobial peptides could be exploited for the development of a new generation of antifungal drugs, given their relative low cost and ease of production as well as the possibility of devising novel delivery systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tecla Ciociola
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy; (T.C.); (T.A.P.); (T.D.S.); (W.M.); (E.F.); (S.B.); (T.D.); (L.G.)
| | - Thelma A. Pertinhez
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy; (T.C.); (T.A.P.); (T.D.S.); (W.M.); (E.F.); (S.B.); (T.D.); (L.G.)
- Transfusion Medicine Unit, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, 42122 Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Tiziano De Simone
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy; (T.C.); (T.A.P.); (T.D.S.); (W.M.); (E.F.); (S.B.); (T.D.); (L.G.)
| | - Walter Magliani
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy; (T.C.); (T.A.P.); (T.D.S.); (W.M.); (E.F.); (S.B.); (T.D.); (L.G.)
| | - Elena Ferrari
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy; (T.C.); (T.A.P.); (T.D.S.); (W.M.); (E.F.); (S.B.); (T.D.); (L.G.)
| | - Silvana Belletti
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy; (T.C.); (T.A.P.); (T.D.S.); (W.M.); (E.F.); (S.B.); (T.D.); (L.G.)
| | - Tiziana D’Adda
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy; (T.C.); (T.A.P.); (T.D.S.); (W.M.); (E.F.); (S.B.); (T.D.); (L.G.)
| | - Stefania Conti
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy; (T.C.); (T.A.P.); (T.D.S.); (W.M.); (E.F.); (S.B.); (T.D.); (L.G.)
| | - Laura Giovati
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy; (T.C.); (T.A.P.); (T.D.S.); (W.M.); (E.F.); (S.B.); (T.D.); (L.G.)
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Zhang W, Lv Y, Lv A, Wei S, Zhang S, Li C, Hu Y. Sub3 inhibits Aspergillus flavus growth by disrupting mitochondrial energy metabolism, and has potential biocontrol during peanut storage. JOURNAL OF THE SCIENCE OF FOOD AND AGRICULTURE 2021; 101:486-496. [PMID: 32643802 DOI: 10.1002/jsfa.10657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2020] [Revised: 06/16/2020] [Accepted: 07/09/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Aspergillus flavus, a saprophytic fungus, is regularly detected in oil-enriched seeds. During colonization, this organism releases aflatoxins that pose a serious risk to food safety and human health. Therefore, an eco-friendly biological approach to inhibit the pathogen is desirable. RESULTS Experimental results indicated that A. flavus spores could not germinate in potato dextrose broth culture medium, when the concentration of Sub3 exceeded 0.15 g L-1 . Morphological evaluation performed by flow cytometry and scanning electron microscopy indicated that spores were shrunken and pitted following Sub3 exposure. Physiological assessment using propidium iodide, 5,5',6,6'-tetrachloro-1,1',3,3'-tetraethylbenzimidazolocarbocyanine iodide, 2,7-dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate and 4',6-diamidino-2-phenylindole staining revealed damaged cell membranes, decreased mitochondrial membrane potential, increased intracellular reactive oxygen species levels, and elevated large nuclear condensation and DNA fragmentation. Moreover, mitochondrial dehydrogenase activity was reduced by 29.42% and 45.48% after treatment with 0.1 and 0.15 g L-1 Sub3, respectively. Additionally, colonization capacity in peanut was significantly decreased, and the number of spores on seeds treated with Sub3 was decreased by 26.86% (0.1 g L-1 ) and 77.74% (0.15 g L-1 ) compared with the control group. CONCLUSION Sub3 likely inhibits A. flavus by crossing the cell wall and targeting the cell membrane, disrupting mitochondrial energy metabolism, and inducing DNA damage, leading to spore death. Thus, Sub3 may provide a useful biocontrol strategy to control A. flavus growth in peanuts. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Zhang
- College of Biological Engineering, Henan University of Technology, Zhengzhou, P. R. China
| | - Yangyong Lv
- College of Biological Engineering, Henan University of Technology, Zhengzhou, P. R. China
| | - Ang Lv
- College of Biological Engineering, Henan University of Technology, Zhengzhou, P. R. China
| | - Shan Wei
- College of Biological Engineering, Henan University of Technology, Zhengzhou, P. R. China
| | - Shuaibing Zhang
- College of Biological Engineering, Henan University of Technology, Zhengzhou, P. R. China
| | - Cuixiang Li
- College of Biological Engineering, Henan University of Technology, Zhengzhou, P. R. China
| | - Yuansen Hu
- College of Biological Engineering, Henan University of Technology, Zhengzhou, P. R. China
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Černáková L, Rodrigues CF. Microbial interactions and immunity response in oral Candida species. Future Microbiol 2020; 15:1653-1677. [PMID: 33251818 DOI: 10.2217/fmb-2020-0113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Oral candidiasis are among the most common noncommunicable diseases, related with serious local and systemic illnesses. Although these infections can occur in all kinds of patients, they are more recurrent in immunosuppressed ones such as patients with HIV, hepatitis, cancer or under long antimicrobial treatments. Candida albicans continues to be the most frequently identified Candida spp. in these disorders, but other non-C. albicans Candida are rising. Understanding the immune responses involved in oral Candida spp. infections is a key feature to a successful treatment and to the design of novel therapies. In this review, we performed a literature search in PubMed and WoS, in order to examine and analyze common oral Candida spp.-bacteria/Candida-Candida interactions and the host immunity response in oral candidiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Černáková
- Department of Microbiology & Virology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Comenius University in Bratislava, Ilkovičova 6, 842 15 Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Célia F Rodrigues
- Department of Chemical Engineering, LEPABE - Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology & Energy, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Portugal
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32
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Sharma D, Bisht GS. Recent Updates on Antifungal Peptides. Mini Rev Med Chem 2020; 20:260-268. [PMID: 31556857 DOI: 10.2174/1389557519666190926112423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2018] [Revised: 07/17/2018] [Accepted: 09/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The current trend of increment in the frequency of antifungal resistance has brought research into an era where new antifungal compounds with novel mechanisms of action are required. Natural antimicrobial peptides, which are ubiquitous components of innate immunity, represent their candidature for novel antifungal peptides. Various antifungal peptides have been isolated from different species ranging from small marine organisms to insects and from various other living species. Based on these peptides, various mimetics of antifungal peptides have also been synthesized using non-natural amino acids. Utilization of these antifungal peptides is somehow limited due to their toxic and unstable nature. This review discusses recent updates and future directions of antifungal peptides, for taking them to the shelf from the bench.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepika Sharma
- Department of Pharmacy, Jaypee University of Information Technology, Waknaghat, Solan, Himachal Pradesh, 173234, India
| | - Gopal Singh Bisht
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Jaypee University of Information Technology, Waknaghat, Solan, Himachal Pradesh, 173234, India
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Abstract
Invasive fungal infections in humans are generally associated with high mortality, making the choice of antifungal drug crucial for the outcome of the patient. The limited spectrum of antifungals available and the development of drug resistance represent the main concerns for the current antifungal treatments, requiring alternative strategies. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), expressed in several organisms and used as first-line defenses against microbial infections, have emerged as potential candidates for developing new antifungal therapies, characterized by negligible host toxicity and low resistance rates. Most of the current literature focuses on peptides with antibacterial activity, but there are fewer studies of their antifungal properties. This review focuses on AMPs with antifungal effects, including their in vitro and in vivo activities, with the biological repercussions on the fungal cells, when known. The classification of the peptides is based on their mode of action: although the majority of AMPs exert their activity through the interaction with membranes, other mechanisms have been identified, including cell wall inhibition and nucleic acid binding. In addition, antifungal compounds with unknown modes of action are also described. The elucidation of such mechanisms can be useful to identify novel drug targets and, possibly, to serve as the templates for the synthesis of new antimicrobial compounds with increased activity and reduced host toxicity.
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34
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Huan Y, Kong Q, Mou H, Yi H. Antimicrobial Peptides: Classification, Design, Application and Research Progress in Multiple Fields. Front Microbiol 2020; 11:582779. [PMID: 33178164 PMCID: PMC7596191 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2020.582779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 561] [Impact Index Per Article: 140.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2020] [Accepted: 09/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are a class of small peptides that widely exist in nature and they are an important part of the innate immune system of different organisms. AMPs have a wide range of inhibitory effects against bacteria, fungi, parasites and viruses. The emergence of antibiotic-resistant microorganisms and the increasing of concerns about the use of antibiotics resulted in the development of AMPs, which have a good application prospect in medicine, food, animal husbandry, agriculture and aquaculture. This review introduces the progress of research on AMPs comprehensively and systematically, including their classification, mechanism of action, design methods, environmental factors affecting their activity, application status, prospects in various fields and problems to be solved. The research progress on antivirus peptides, especially anti-coronavirus (COVID-19) peptides, has been introduced given the COVID-19 pandemic worldwide in 2020.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Qing Kong
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, China
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35
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Yang Y, Wang C, Gao N, Lyu Y, Zhang L, Zhang S, Wang J, Shan A. A Novel Dual-Targeted α-Helical Peptide With Potent Antifungal Activity Against Fluconazole-Resistant Candida albicans Clinical Isolates. Front Microbiol 2020; 11:548620. [PMID: 33101226 PMCID: PMC7554340 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2020.548620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2020] [Accepted: 09/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Due to compromised immune system, fungal infection incidences have markedly increased in the last few decades. Pathogenic fungi have developed resistance to the clinically available antifungal agents. Antifungal resistance poses a great challenge to clinical treatment and has stimulated the demand for novel antifungal agents. A promising alternative to the treatment of fungal diseases is the use of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs). However, the antifungal activities of AMPs have not been fully determined. Therefore, this study aimed at designing and screening α-helical peptides with potential antifungal activities. The effects of key physicochemical parameters on antifungal activities were also investigated. A series of lengthened and residue-substituted derivatives of the template peptide KV, a hexapeptide truncated from the α-helical region of porcine myeloid antimicrobial peptide-36, were designed and synthesized. Enhancement of hydrophobicity by introducing aromatic hydrophobic amino acids (tryptophan and phenylalanine) significantly increased the efficacies of the peptides against Candida albicans strains, including fluconazole-resistant isolates. Increased hydrophobicity also elevated the toxic properties of these peptides. RF3 with moderate hydrophobicity exhibited potent anticandidal activities (GM = 6.96 μM) and modest hemolytic activities (HC10 > 64 μM). Additionally, repeated exposure to a subinhibitory concentration of RF3 did not induce resistance development. The antifungal mechanisms of RF3 were due to membrane disruptions and induction of reactive oxygen species production. Such a dual-targeted mechanism was active against drug-resistant fungi. These results show the important role of hydrophobicity and provide new insights into designing and developing antifungal peptides. Meanwhile, the successful design of RF3 highlights the potential utility of AMPs in preventing the spread of drug-resistant fungal infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Yang
- Laboratory of Molecular Nutrition and Immunity, Institute of Animal Nutrition, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, China
| | - Chenxi Wang
- Laboratory of Molecular Nutrition and Immunity, Institute of Animal Nutrition, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, China
| | - Nan Gao
- Laboratory of Molecular Nutrition and Immunity, Institute of Animal Nutrition, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, China
| | - Yinfeng Lyu
- Laboratory of Molecular Nutrition and Immunity, Institute of Animal Nutrition, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, China
| | - Licong Zhang
- Laboratory of Molecular Nutrition and Immunity, Institute of Animal Nutrition, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, China
| | - Sujiang Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Tarim Animal Husbandry Science and Technology, College of Animal Science, Tarim University, Alar, China
| | - Jiajun Wang
- Laboratory of Molecular Nutrition and Immunity, Institute of Animal Nutrition, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, China
| | - Anshan Shan
- Laboratory of Molecular Nutrition and Immunity, Institute of Animal Nutrition, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, China
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36
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Mercer DK, O'Neil DA. Innate Inspiration: Antifungal Peptides and Other Immunotherapeutics From the Host Immune Response. Front Immunol 2020; 11:2177. [PMID: 33072081 PMCID: PMC7533533 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.02177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The purpose of this review is to describe antifungal therapeutic candidates in preclinical and clinical development derived from, or directly influenced by, the immune system, with a specific focus on antimicrobial peptides (AMP). Although the focus of this review is AMP with direct antimicrobial effects on fungi, we will also discuss compounds with direct antifungal activity, including monoclonal antibodies (mAb), as well as immunomodulatory molecules that can enhance the immune response to fungal infection, including immunomodulatory AMP, vaccines, checkpoint inhibitors, interferon and colony stimulating factors as well as immune cell therapies. The focus of this manuscript will be a non-exhaustive review of antifungal compounds in preclinical and clinical development that are based on the principles of immunology and the authors acknowledge the incredible amount of in vitro and in vivo work that has been conducted to develop such therapeutic candidates.
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Nostadt R, Hilbert M, Nizam S, Rovenich H, Wawra S, Martin J, Küpper H, Mijovilovich A, Ursinus A, Langen G, Hartmann MD, Lupas AN, Zuccaro A. A secreted fungal histidine- and alanine-rich protein regulates metal ion homeostasis and oxidative stress. THE NEW PHYTOLOGIST 2020; 227:1174-1188. [PMID: 32285459 DOI: 10.1111/nph.16606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2020] [Accepted: 04/01/2020] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Like pathogens, beneficial endophytic fungi secrete effector proteins to promote plant colonization, for example, through perturbation of host immunity. The genome of the root endophyte Serendipita indica encodes a novel family of highly similar, small alanine- and histidine-rich proteins, whose functions remain unknown. Members of this protein family carry an N-terminal signal peptide and a conserved C-terminal DELD motif. Here we report on the functional characterization of the plant-responsive DELD family protein Dld1 using a combination of structural, biochemical, biophysical and cytological analyses. The crystal structure of Dld1 shows an unusual, monomeric histidine zipper consisting of two antiparallel coiled-coil helices. Similar to other histidine-rich proteins, Dld1 displays varying affinity to different transition metal ions and undergoes metal ion- and pH-dependent unfolding. Transient expression of mCherry-tagged Dld1 in barley leaf and root tissue suggests that Dld1 localizes to the plant cell wall and accumulates at cell wall appositions during fungal penetration. Moreover, recombinant Dld1 enhances barley root colonization by S. indica, and inhibits H2 O2 -mediated radical polymerization of 3,3'-diaminobenzidine. Our data suggest that Dld1 has the potential to enhance micronutrient accessibility for the fungus and to interfere with oxidative stress and reactive oxygen species homeostasis to facilitate host colonization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robin Nostadt
- Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology, Karl-von-Frisch Str. 10, 35043, Marburg, Germany
| | - Magdalena Hilbert
- Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology, Karl-von-Frisch Str. 10, 35043, Marburg, Germany
| | - Shadab Nizam
- Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology, Karl-von-Frisch Str. 10, 35043, Marburg, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence on Plant Sciences (CEPLAS), Cologne Biocenter, Botanical Institute, University of Cologne, Zülpicher Str. 47b, 50674, Cologne, Germany
| | - Hanna Rovenich
- Cluster of Excellence on Plant Sciences (CEPLAS), Cologne Biocenter, Botanical Institute, University of Cologne, Zülpicher Str. 47b, 50674, Cologne, Germany
| | - Stephan Wawra
- Cluster of Excellence on Plant Sciences (CEPLAS), Cologne Biocenter, Botanical Institute, University of Cologne, Zülpicher Str. 47b, 50674, Cologne, Germany
| | - Jörg Martin
- Max Planck Institute for Developmental Biology, Spemannstr. 35, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Hendrik Küpper
- Department of Plant Biophysics & Biochemistry, Biology Centre, Institute of Plant Molecular Biology, Czech Academy of Sciences, Branišovská 31/1160, 37005, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
- Department of Experimental Plant Biology, Faculty of Science, University of South Bohemia, Branišovská 31/1160, 37005, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
| | - Ana Mijovilovich
- Department of Plant Biophysics & Biochemistry, Biology Centre, Institute of Plant Molecular Biology, Czech Academy of Sciences, Branišovská 31/1160, 37005, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
| | - Astrid Ursinus
- Max Planck Institute for Developmental Biology, Spemannstr. 35, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Gregor Langen
- Cluster of Excellence on Plant Sciences (CEPLAS), Cologne Biocenter, Botanical Institute, University of Cologne, Zülpicher Str. 47b, 50674, Cologne, Germany
| | - Marcus D Hartmann
- Max Planck Institute for Developmental Biology, Spemannstr. 35, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Andrei N Lupas
- Max Planck Institute for Developmental Biology, Spemannstr. 35, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Alga Zuccaro
- Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology, Karl-von-Frisch Str. 10, 35043, Marburg, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence on Plant Sciences (CEPLAS), Cologne Biocenter, Botanical Institute, University of Cologne, Zülpicher Str. 47b, 50674, Cologne, Germany
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Norris HL, Kumar R, Ong CY, Xu D, Edgerton M. Zinc Binding by Histatin 5 Promotes Fungicidal Membrane Disruption in C. albicans and C. glabrata. J Fungi (Basel) 2020; 6:E124. [PMID: 32751915 PMCID: PMC7559477 DOI: 10.3390/jof6030124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2020] [Revised: 07/22/2020] [Accepted: 07/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Histatin 5 (Hst 5) is an antimicrobial peptide produced in human saliva with antifungal activity for opportunistic pathogen Candida albicans. Hst 5 binds to multiple cations including dimerization-inducing zinc (Zn2+), although the function of this capability is incompletely understood. Hst 5 is taken up by C. albicans and acts on intracellular targets under metal-free conditions; however, Zn2+ is abundant in saliva and may functionally affect Hst 5. We hypothesized that Zn2+ binding would induce membrane-disrupting pores through dimerization. Through the use of Hst 5 and two derivatives, P113 (AA 4-15 of Hst 5) and Hst 5ΔMB (AA 1-3 and 15-19 mutated to Glu), we determined that Zn2+ significantly increases killing activity of Hst 5 and P113 for both C. albicans and Candida glabrata. Cell association assays determined that Zn2+ did not impact initial surface binding by the peptides, but Zn2+ did decrease cell association due to active peptide uptake. ATP efflux assays with Zn2+ suggested rapid membrane permeabilization by Hst 5 and P113 and that Zn2+ affinity correlates to higher membrane disruption ability. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) showed that the higher relative Zn2+ affinity of Hst 5 likely promotes dimerization. Together, these results suggest peptide assembly into fungicidal pore structures in the presence of Zn2+, representing a novel mechanism of action that has exciting potential to expand the list of Hst 5-susceptible pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Mira Edgerton
- Department of Oral Biology, School of Dental Medicine, University at Buffalo, Foster Hall Buffalo, NY 14214, USA; (H.L.N.); (R.K.); (C.Y.O.); (D.X.)
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Komatsu T, Kobayashi K, Morimoto Y, Helmerhorst E, Oppenheim F, Chang-Il Lee M. Direct evaluation of the antioxidant properties of salivary proline-rich proteins. J Clin Biochem Nutr 2020; 67:131-136. [PMID: 33041509 PMCID: PMC7533858 DOI: 10.3164/jcbn.19-75] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2019] [Accepted: 11/10/2019] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Proline-rich proteins are associated with the formation of an acquired protein layer overlying the tooth enamel surface. Previous studies have described the antioxidant activity of salivary histatin against the hydroxyl radical from Fenton’s reaction, acting as the critical reactive oxygen species. However, the role of proline-rich proteins in mitigating the oxidative stress caused by reactive oxygen species in the oral cavity remains unclear. In this study, we investigated the antioxidant effects of proline-rich proteins 2 on direct reactive oxygen species using electron spin resonance spectroscopy. For the first time, we demonstrated that proline-rich proteins 2 exhibits antioxidant activity directly against the hydroxyl radical produced by hydrogen peroxide with ultraviolet. Considering that identical results were obtained when assaying 30 residues of proline-rich proteins 2, the direct antioxidant effects against the hydroxyl radical by proline-rich proteins 2 may be related to these specific 30 residues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomoko Komatsu
- Division of Dentistry for the Special Patient, Department of Critical Care Medicine and Dentistry, Kanagawa Dental University Graduate School of Dental Medicine, 82 Inaoka-cho, Yokosuka, Kanagawa 238-8580, Japan.,Yokosuka-Shonan Disaster Oral Health Research Center & Oxidative Stress/ESR Laboratories, Kanagawa Dental University Graduate School of Dental Medicine, 82 Inaoka-cho, Yokosuka, Kanagawa 238-8580, Japan
| | - Kyo Kobayashi
- Yokosuka-Shonan Disaster Oral Health Research Center & Oxidative Stress/ESR Laboratories, Kanagawa Dental University Graduate School of Dental Medicine, 82 Inaoka-cho, Yokosuka, Kanagawa 238-8580, Japan
| | - Yoshinari Morimoto
- Department of Critical Care Medicine and Dentistry, Kanagawa Dental University Graduate School of Dental Medicine, 82 Inaoka-cho, Yokosuka, Kanagawa 238-8580, Japan
| | - Eva Helmerhorst
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, Boston University Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine, Albany street, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Frank Oppenheim
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, Boston University Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine, Albany street, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Masaichi Chang-Il Lee
- Yokosuka-Shonan Disaster Oral Health Research Center & Oxidative Stress/ESR Laboratories, Kanagawa Dental University Graduate School of Dental Medicine, 82 Inaoka-cho, Yokosuka, Kanagawa 238-8580, Japan
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Tong S, Li M, Keyhani NO, Liu Y, Yuan M, Lin D, Jin D, Li X, Pei Y, Fan Y. Characterization of a fungal competition factor: Production of a conidial cell-wall associated antifungal peptide. PLoS Pathog 2020; 16:e1008518. [PMID: 32324832 PMCID: PMC7200012 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1008518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2019] [Revised: 05/05/2020] [Accepted: 04/05/2020] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Competition is one of the fundamental driving forces of natural selection. Beauveria bassiana is a soil and plant phylloplane/root fungus capable of parasitizing insect hosts. Soil and plant environments are often enriched with other fungi against which B. bassiana competes for survival. Here, we report an antifungal peptide (BbAFP1), specifically expressed and localized to the conidial cell wall and is released into the surrounding microenvironment inhibiting growth of competing fungi. B. bassiana strains expressing BbAFP1, including overexpression strains, inhibited growth of Alternaria brassicae in co-cultured experiments, whereas targeted gene deletion of BbAFP1 significantly decreased (25%) this inhibitory effect. Recombinant BbAFP1 showed chitin and glucan binding abilities, and growth inhibition of a wide range of phytopathogenic fungi by disrupting membrane integrity and eliciting reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. A phenylalanine residue (F50) contributes to chitin binding and antifungal activity, but was not required for the latter. Expression of BbAFP1 in tomato resulted in transgenic plants with enhanced resistance to plant fungal pathogens. These results highlight the importance of fungal competition in shaping primitive competition strategies, with antimicrobial compounds that can be embedded in the spore cell wall to be released into the environment during the critical initial phases of germination for successful growth in its environmental niche. Furthermore, these peptides can be exploited to increase plant resistance to fungal pathogens. Microbial competition exerts powerful selective pressures for the development of defensive and offensive methods of suppressing potential competitors. One of the most vulnerable stages for any fungi is the initial germination of resting spores in potentially hostile environments. Currently, we know little about how fungi defend other microbial competitors during the beginning stage of conidial germination. Here, we report on an antifungal peptide from B. bassiana (BbAFP1) that is specifically expressed in mature aerial conidia, with the protein localized exclusively to the conidial cell wall. The “pre-loaded” BbAFP1 is released into the surrounding microenvironment where it can act to inhibit the growth of competing fungi during the initial stages of fungal germination, i.e. largely before actual germ tubes are apparent, thus conferring an advantage to B. bassiana in out-competing susceptible competitors in the microenvironment surrounding the spore. The effects of BbAFP1 on membrane integrity were characterized and a key amino acid (F50) was shown to function in chitin binding and antifungal activity. Transgenic tomato overexpressing BbAFP1 were shown to exhibit enhanced resistance to plant fungal pathogens. Our study provides new insights into the microbial competition and genes involved in this process that can be exploited to increase plant disease resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheng Tong
- Biotechnology Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing, P.R. China
| | - Maolian Li
- Biotechnology Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing, P.R. China
| | - Nemat O. Keyhani
- Department of Microbiology and Cell Science, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
| | - Yu Liu
- College of Biotechnology, Southwest University, Chongqing, P. R. China
| | - Min Yuan
- Biotechnology Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing, P.R. China
| | - Dongmei Lin
- Biotechnology Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing, P.R. China
| | - Dan Jin
- Biotechnology Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing, P.R. China
| | - Xianbi Li
- Biotechnology Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing, P.R. China
| | - Yan Pei
- Biotechnology Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing, P.R. China
| | - Yanhua Fan
- Biotechnology Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing, P.R. China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Plant Resource Conservation and Germplasm Innovation, Southwest University, Chongqing, P.R. China
- * E-mail:
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Lima PG, Souza PF, Freitas CD, Oliveira JT, Dias LP, Neto JX, Vasconcelos IM, Lopes JL, Sousa DO. Anticandidal activity of synthetic peptides: Mechanism of action revealed by scanning electron and fluorescence microscopies and synergism effect with nystatin. J Pept Sci 2020; 26:e3249. [DOI: 10.1002/psc.3249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2020] [Revised: 02/28/2020] [Accepted: 03/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Patrícia G. Lima
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular BiologyFederal University of Ceará Fortaleza Brazil
| | - Pedro F.N. Souza
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular BiologyFederal University of Ceará Fortaleza Brazil
| | - Cleverson D.T. Freitas
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular BiologyFederal University of Ceará Fortaleza Brazil
| | - Jose T.A. Oliveira
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular BiologyFederal University of Ceará Fortaleza Brazil
| | - Lucas P. Dias
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular BiologyFederal University of Ceará Fortaleza Brazil
| | - João X.S. Neto
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular BiologyFederal University of Ceará Fortaleza Brazil
| | - Ilka M. Vasconcelos
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular BiologyFederal University of Ceará Fortaleza Brazil
| | - José L.S. Lopes
- Department of Applied PhysicsUniversity of Sao Paulo Sao Paulo Brazil
| | - Daniele O.B. Sousa
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular BiologyFederal University of Ceará Fortaleza Brazil
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Antifungal peptides produced by actinomycetes and their biological activities against plant diseases. J Antibiot (Tokyo) 2020; 73:265-282. [PMID: 32123311 DOI: 10.1038/s41429-020-0287-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2019] [Revised: 01/11/2020] [Accepted: 01/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Antibacterial peptides are a class of naturally occurring peptides produced by eukaryotes and prokaryotes. Some of them exhibit broad-spectrum antifungal activity. Antifungal peptides (AFPs) can be developed as antibiotic to control fungal infections in agriculture due to their different antifungal mechanisms. As actinomycetes are still one of the most important sources of novel antibiotics, in this review, the mechanisms of action of AFPs are explained. Characterization of several AFPs produced by actinomycetes and their biological activities against plant diseases are summarized. Furthermore, the pathway for total synthesis of naturally occurring cyclodepsipeptide, valinomycin, is proposed. Finally, the pathway for biosynthesis of kutzneride 2 is proposed and the structure-activity relationship of kutznerides is discussed.
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Whole-Genome Approach to Understanding the Mechanism of Action of a Histatin 5-Derived Peptide. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2020; 64:AAC.01698-19. [PMID: 31843998 DOI: 10.1128/aac.01698-19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2019] [Accepted: 12/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The incidence of opportunistic fungal infections that threaten immunocompromised patients, along with the limited arsenal of antifungal drugs, calls for renewed efforts to develop novel antifungal therapies. Antimicrobial peptides have garnered interest as potential therapeutics. Among naturally occurring peptides, histatin 5 is a well-characterized 24-amino-acid peptide with strong antifungal activity. Our lab has identified a smaller histatin derivative, KM29, with stronger activity against multiple Candida spp., prompting us to investigate its fungicidal mechanism. A genetic screen was developed to test the Saccharomyces cerevisiae genomewide deletion collection for mutants with increased or decreased peptide sensitivity. The goal was to identify genes that would reveal insights into the mechanism of action of KM29, to be assessed in Candida albicans Several biological processes yielded increased sensitivity, with endosomal transport and vacuolar function appearing at high frequencies. Among the pathways involved in increased resistance, mitochondrial function showed the highest normalized genome frequency; hence, we focused on characterizing this pathway. KM29 localizes to mitochondria, and the killing activity depends on a functional electron transport chain. In addition, KM29 triggered reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, which was responsible for some cell death but insufficient to account for the complete killing activity. In agreement with this finding, we found that KM29 induced mitochondrial fragmentation and a mild loss of mitochondrial membrane potential. Furthermore, respiratory mutants exhibited severely diminished KM29 uptake. We confirmed this behavior in a C. albicans respiratory mutant. Taking our findings together, this work delineates the mitochondrial functions associated with KM29 fungicidal activity and provides additional pathways for further characterization in Candida spp.
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Vila T, Sultan AS, Montelongo-Jauregui D, Jabra-Rizk MA. Oral Candidiasis: A Disease of Opportunity. J Fungi (Basel) 2020; 6:jof6010015. [PMID: 31963180 PMCID: PMC7151112 DOI: 10.3390/jof6010015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 161] [Impact Index Per Article: 40.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2019] [Revised: 01/10/2020] [Accepted: 01/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Oral candidiasis, commonly referred to as “thrush,” is an opportunistic fungal infection that commonly affects the oral mucosa. The main causative agent, Candida albicans, is a highly versatile commensal organism that is well adapted to its human host; however, changes in the host microenvironment can promote the transition from one of commensalism to pathogen. This transition is heavily reliant on an impressive repertoire of virulence factors, most notably cell surface adhesins, proteolytic enzymes, morphologic switching, and the development of drug resistance. In the oral cavity, the co-adhesion of C. albicans with bacteria is crucial for its persistence, and a wide range of synergistic interactions with various oral species were described to enhance colonization in the host. As a frequent colonizer of the oral mucosa, the host immune response in the oral cavity is oriented toward a more tolerogenic state and, therefore, local innate immune defenses play a central role in maintaining Candida in its commensal state. Specifically, in addition to preventing Candida adherence to epithelial cells, saliva is enriched with anti-candidal peptides, considered to be part of the host innate immunity. The T helper 17 (Th17)-type adaptive immune response is mainly involved in mucosal host defenses, controlling initial growth of Candida and inhibiting subsequent tissue invasion. Animal models, most notably the mouse model of oropharyngeal candidiasis and the rat model of denture stomatitis, are instrumental in our understanding of Candida virulence factors and the factors leading to host susceptibility to infections. Given the continuing rise in development of resistance to the limited number of traditional antifungal agents, novel therapeutic strategies are directed toward identifying bioactive compounds that target pathogenic mechanisms to prevent C. albicans transition from harmless commensal to pathogen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taissa Vila
- Department of Oncology and Diagnostic Sciences, School of Dentistry, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA; (T.V.); (A.S.S.); (D.M.-J.)
| | - Ahmed S. Sultan
- Department of Oncology and Diagnostic Sciences, School of Dentistry, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA; (T.V.); (A.S.S.); (D.M.-J.)
| | - Daniel Montelongo-Jauregui
- Department of Oncology and Diagnostic Sciences, School of Dentistry, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA; (T.V.); (A.S.S.); (D.M.-J.)
| | - Mary Ann Jabra-Rizk
- Department of Oncology and Diagnostic Sciences, School of Dentistry, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA; (T.V.); (A.S.S.); (D.M.-J.)
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-410-706-0508; Fax: +1-410-706-0519
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C16-Fengycin A affect the growth of Candida albicans by destroying its cell wall and accumulating reactive oxygen species. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2019; 103:8963-8975. [PMID: 31630240 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-019-10117-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2019] [Revised: 08/19/2019] [Accepted: 09/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Candida albicans is the most common clinical pathogenic fungus, which is highly susceptible to immunodeficiency. Development of novel antifungal agents has become a growing trend in the treatment of Candida infections. C16-Fengycin A, a lipopeptide isolated from Bacillus amyloliquefaciens fmb60 showed significant fungicidal activity against C. albicans. In the study, we explored the possible antifungal mode of C16-Fengycin A. It was predicted that C16-Fengycin A had the ability to disrupt the cell wall due to its alterations of cell ultrastructure, and reduction of cell wall hydrophobicity. This was further confirmed by the changes in the exposure of the cell wall components and down-regulation of the genes related in the cell wall synthesis. Meanwhile, with the treatment of C16-Fengycin A, the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) increased, resulting in mitochondrial dysfunction in the cells. We hypothesized that the antifungal mechanism of C16-Fengycin A might be via the destruction of the cell wall and the accumulation of ROS, which could activate the High-Osmolarity Glycerol Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase (HOG-MAPK) pathway. Our findings indicated that C16-Fengycin A could be a potential antifungal agent that could be used to treat candida infections.
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Komatsu T, Kobayashi K, Helmerhorst E, Oppenheim F, Chang-Il Lee M. Direct assessment of the antioxidant property of salivary histatin. J Clin Biochem Nutr 2019; 65:217-222. [PMID: 31777423 PMCID: PMC6877405 DOI: 10.3164/jcbn.19-53] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2019] [Accepted: 08/17/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Histatin, a salivary protein, affects oral homeostasis through preservation of tooth integrity and protection against caries and fungal infections. However, the effects of histatin in the generation of oxidative stress induced by reactive oxygen species and in the oral cavity remain unclear. In this study, the effects of histatin on direct reactive oxygen species scavenging activity were examined using electron spin resonance. We demonstrated, for the first time, that histatin exhibits antioxidant activity against hydroxyl radicals generated by Fenton's reaction by metal chelation or binding. The direct antioxidant effects of histatin, along with its antimicrobial activity, may be important in the oral protection of salivary proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomoko Komatsu
- Division of Dentistry for the Special Patient, Department of Critical Care Medicine and Dentistry, Kanagawa Dental University Graduate School of Dental Medicine, 82 Inaoka-cho, Yokosuka, Kanagawa 238-8580, Japan.,Yokosuka-Shonan Disaster Oral Health Research Center & Oxidative Stress/ESR Laboratories, Kanagawa Dental University Graduate School of Dental Medicine, 82 Inaoka-cho, Yokosuka, Kanagawa 238-8580, Japan
| | - Kyo Kobayashi
- Yokosuka-Shonan Disaster Oral Health Research Center & Oxidative Stress/ESR Laboratories, Kanagawa Dental University Graduate School of Dental Medicine, 82 Inaoka-cho, Yokosuka, Kanagawa 238-8580, Japan
| | - Eva Helmerhorst
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, Boston University Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine, Albany street, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Frank Oppenheim
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, Boston University Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine, Albany street, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Masaichi Chang-Il Lee
- Yokosuka-Shonan Disaster Oral Health Research Center & Oxidative Stress/ESR Laboratories, Kanagawa Dental University Graduate School of Dental Medicine, 82 Inaoka-cho, Yokosuka, Kanagawa 238-8580, Japan
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47
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Ultra-Structural Alterations in Botrytis cinerea-The Causal Agent of Gray Mold-Treated with Salt Solutions. Biomolecules 2019; 9:biom9100582. [PMID: 31597236 PMCID: PMC6843600 DOI: 10.3390/biom9100582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2019] [Revised: 08/27/2019] [Accepted: 08/28/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Potassium bicarbonate (PB), calcium chelate (CCh), and sodium silicate (SSi) have been extensively used as antifungal generally recognized as safe (GRAS) compounds against plant pathogenic fungi. In this research, in in vitro tests, the radial growth, conidial germination, and germ tube elongation of Botrytis cinerea was completely inhibited at 0.3% of PB, SSi, and CCh. In in vivo tests, application of PB, SSi, and CCh completely inhibited the occurrence of gray mold incidence of inoculated 'Italia' grape berries at concentrations of 1.0, 0.8, and 0.8%, respectively. In order to investigate the detailed mechanisms by which salts exhibited antifungal activity, we analyzed their influence on morphological changes by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and also on reactive species of oxygen (ROS), mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) content. Defects such as malformation and excessive septation were detected on salt-treated hyphae morphology observed by SEM. The internal structure of conidia treated or not with salt solutions was examined by TEM. In treated conidia, most of the conidia were affected and cellular vacuolization and cytoplasmic disorganization was observed. For ROS accumulation, a higher increase was observed in fluorescent conidia in presence of PB, SSi, and CCh by 75, 68, and 70% as compared to control, respectively. MMP was significantly decreased after salt application indicating a loss of mitochondria function. Also, luminescence showed that B. cinerea-conidia treated with salts contained less ATP than the untreated conidia. The results obtained herein are a step towards a comprehensive understanding of the mode of action by which salts act as antifungal agents against B. cinerea.
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Xue YP, Kao MC, Lan CY. Novel mitochondrial complex I-inhibiting peptides restrain NADH dehydrogenase activity. Sci Rep 2019; 9:13694. [PMID: 31548559 PMCID: PMC6757105 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-50114-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2019] [Accepted: 08/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The emergence of drug-resistant fungal pathogens is becoming increasingly serious due to overuse of antifungals. Antimicrobial peptides have potent activity against a broad spectrum of pathogens, including fungi, and are considered a potential new class of antifungals. In this study, we examined the activities of the newly designed peptides P-113Du and P-113Tri, together with their parental peptide P-113, against the human fungal pathogen Candida albicans. The results showed that these peptides inhibit mitochondrial complex I, specifically NADH dehydrogenase, of the electron transport chain. Moreover, P-113Du and P-113Tri also block alternative NADH dehydrogenases. Currently, most inhibitors of the mitochondrial complex I are small molecules or artificially-designed antibodies. Here, we demonstrated novel functions of antimicrobial peptides in inhibiting the mitochondrial complex I of C. albicans, providing insight in the development of new antifungal agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yao-Peng Xue
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Biology, National Tsing Hua University, No. 101, Section 2, Kuang-Fu Road, Hsinchu, 30013, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Mou-Chieh Kao
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, National Tsing Hua University, No. 101, Section 2, Kuang-Fu Road, Hsinchu, 30013, Taiwan, ROC. .,Department of Life Science, National Tsing Hua University, No. 101, Section 2, Kuang-Fu Road, Hsinchu, 30013, Taiwan, ROC.
| | - Chung-Yu Lan
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Biology, National Tsing Hua University, No. 101, Section 2, Kuang-Fu Road, Hsinchu, 30013, Taiwan, ROC. .,Department of Life Science, National Tsing Hua University, No. 101, Section 2, Kuang-Fu Road, Hsinchu, 30013, Taiwan, ROC.
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Evaluation of the Antifungal and Wound-Healing Properties of a Novel Peptide-Based Bioadhesive Hydrogel Formulation. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2019; 63:AAC.00888-19. [PMID: 31332066 DOI: 10.1128/aac.00888-19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2019] [Accepted: 07/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Oral candidiasis (OC) caused by the fungal pathogen Candida albicans is the most common opportunistic infection in immunocompromised populations. The dramatic increase in resistance to common antifungal agents has emphasized the importance of identifying alternative therapeutic options. Antimicrobial peptides have emerged as promising drug candidates due to their antimicrobial properties; specifically, histatin-5 (Hst-5), a peptide naturally produced and secreted by human salivary glands, has demonstrated potent activity against C. albicans However, as we previously demonstrated vulnerability for Hst-5 to proteolysis by C. albicans proteolytic enzymes at specific amino acid residues, a new variant (K11R-K17R) was designed with amino acid substitutions at the identified cleavage sites. The new resistant peptide demonstrated no cytotoxicity to erythrocytes or human oral keratinocytes. To evaluate the potential of the new peptide for clinical application, we utilized our FDA-approved polymer-based bioadhesive hydrogel as a delivery system and developed a therapeutic formulation specifically designed for oral topical application. The new formulation was demonstrated to be effective against C. albicans strains resistant to the traditional antifungals, and the in vitro therapeutic efficacy was found to be comparable to that of the common topical antifungal agents in clinical use. Importantly, in addition to its antifungal properties, our findings also demonstrated that the new peptide variant induces cell proliferation and rapid cell migration of human oral keratinocytes, indicative of wound healing properties. The findings from this study support the progression of the novel formulation as a therapeutic agent against oral candidiasis, as well as a therapeutic modality for promoting wound healing.
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Salazar VA, Arranz-Trullén J, Prats-Ejarque G, Torrent M, Andreu D, Pulido D, Boix E. Insight into the Antifungal Mechanism of Action of Human RNase N-terminus Derived Peptides. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20184558. [PMID: 31540052 PMCID: PMC6770517 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20184558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2019] [Accepted: 09/13/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Candida albicans is a polymorphic fungus responsible for mucosal and skin infections. Candida cells establish themselves into biofilm communities resistant to most currently available antifungal agents. An increase of severe infections ensuing in fungal septic shock in elderly or immunosuppressed patients, along with the emergence of drug-resistant strains, urge the need for the development of alternative antifungal agents. In the search for novel antifungal drugs our laboratory demonstrated that two human ribonucleases from the vertebrate-specific RNaseA superfamily, hRNase3 and hRNase7, display a high anticandidal activity. In a previous work, we proved that the N-terminal region of the RNases was sufficient to reproduce most of the parental protein bactericidal activity. Next, we explored their potency against a fungal pathogen. Here, we have tested the N-terminal derived peptides that correspond to the eight human canonical RNases (RN1-8) against planktonic cells and biofilms of C. albicans. RN3 and RN7 peptides displayed the most potent inhibitory effect with a mechanism of action characterized by cell-wall binding, membrane permeabilization and biofilm eradication activities. Both peptides are able to eradicate planktonic and sessile cells, and to alter their gene expression, reinforcing its role as a lead candidate to develop novel antifungal and antibiofilm therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vivian A Salazar
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biosciences, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain.
| | - Javier Arranz-Trullén
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biosciences, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain.
| | - Guillem Prats-Ejarque
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biosciences, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain.
| | - Marc Torrent
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biosciences, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain.
| | - David Andreu
- Department of Experimental and Health Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Dr. Aiguader 88, 08003 Barcelona, Spain.
| | - David Pulido
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biosciences, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain.
| | - Ester Boix
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biosciences, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain.
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