1
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Wang D, Zeng N, Li C, Li Z, Zhang N, Li B. Fungal biofilm formation and its regulatory mechanism. Heliyon 2024; 10:e32766. [PMID: 38988529 PMCID: PMC11233959 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e32766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2023] [Revised: 06/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Fungal biofilm is a microbial community composed of fungal cells and extracellular polymeric substances (EPS). In recent years, fungal biofilms have played an increasingly important role in many fields. However, there are few studies on fungal biofilms and their related applications and development are still far from enough. Therefore, this review summarizes the composition and function of EPS in fungal biofilms, and improves and refines the formation process of fungal biofilms according to the latest viewpoints. Moreover, based on the study of Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Candida albicans, this review summarizes the gene regulation network of fungal biofilm synthesis, which is crucial for systematically understanding the molecular mechanism of fungal biofilm formation. It is of great significance to further develop effective methods at the molecular level to control harmful biofilms or enhance and regulate the formation of beneficial biofilms. Finally, the quorum sensing factors and mixed biofilms formed by fungi in the current research of fungal biofilms are summarized. These results will help to deepen the understanding of the formation process and internal regulation mechanism of fungal biofilm, provide reference for the study of EPS composition and structure, formation, regulation, group behavior and mixed biofilm formation of other fungal biofilms, and provide strategies and theoretical basis for the control, development and utilization of fungal biofilms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dandan Wang
- College of Land and Environment, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, 110866, PR China
| | - Nan Zeng
- College of Land and Environment, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, 110866, PR China
| | - Chunji Li
- Innovative Institute for Plant Health, Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou, 510225, PR China
- Key Laboratory of Green Prevention and Control on Fruits and Vegetables in South China, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Guangzhou, 510225, PR China
- College of Agriculture and Biology, Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou, 510225, PR China
| | - Zijing Li
- College of Food Science, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, 110866, PR China
| | - Ning Zhang
- College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, 110866, PR China
| | - Bingxue Li
- College of Land and Environment, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, 110866, PR China
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2
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Fan J, Wei PL, Yin WB. Formation of Bridged Disulfide in Epidithiodioxopiperazines. Chembiochem 2024; 25:e202300770. [PMID: 38116907 DOI: 10.1002/cbic.202300770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
Epidithiodioxopiperazine (ETP) alkaloids, featuring a 2,5-diketopiperazine core and transannular disulfide bridge, exhibit a broad spectrum of biological activities. However, the structural complexity has prevented efficient chemical synthesis and further clinical research. In the past few decades, many achievements have been made in the biosynthesis of ETPs. Here, we discuss the biosynthetic progress and summarize them as two comprehensible metabolic principles for better understanding the complex pathways of α, α'- and α, β'-disulfide bridged ETPs. Specifically, we systematically outline the catalytic machineries to install α, α'- and α, β'-disulfide by flavin-containing oxygenases. This concept would contribute to the medical and industrial applications of ETPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Fan
- State Key Laboratory of Mycology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, P. R. China
| | - Peng-Lin Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Mycology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, P. R. China
- Savaid Medical School, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, P. R. China
| | - Wen-Bing Yin
- State Key Laboratory of Mycology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, P. R. China
- Savaid Medical School, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, P. R. China
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3
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Boshoff HI, Malhotra N, Barry CE, Oh S. The Antitubercular Activities of Natural Products with Fused-Nitrogen-Containing Heterocycles. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2024; 17:211. [PMID: 38399426 PMCID: PMC10892018 DOI: 10.3390/ph17020211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2024] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Tuberculosis (TB) is notorious as the leading cause of death worldwide due to a single infectious entity and its causative agent, Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb), has been able to evolve resistance to all existing drugs in the treatment arsenal complicating disease management programs. In drug discovery efforts, natural products are important starting points in generating novel scaffolds that have evolved to specifically bind to vulnerable targets not only in pathogens such as Mtb, but also in mammalian targets associated with human diseases. Structural diversity is one of the most attractive features of natural products. This review provides a summary of fused-nitrogen-containing heterocycles found in the natural products reported in the literature that are known to have antitubercular activities. The structurally targeted natural products discussed in this review could provide a revealing insight into novel chemical aspects with novel biological functions for TB drug discovery efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Sangmi Oh
- Tuberculosis Research Section, Laboratory of Clinical Immunology and Microbiology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD 20892, USA; (H.I.B.); (N.M.); (C.E.B.III)
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4
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Dabholkar A, Pandit S, Devkota R, Dhingra S, Lorber S, Puel O, Calvo AM. Role of the osaA Gene in Aspergillus fumigatus Development, Secondary Metabolism and Virulence. J Fungi (Basel) 2024; 10:103. [PMID: 38392775 PMCID: PMC10890407 DOI: 10.3390/jof10020103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Aspergillus fumigatus is the leading cause of aspergillosis, associated with high mortality rates, particularly in immunocompromised individuals. In search of novel genetic targets against aspergillosis, we studied the WOPR transcription factor OsaA. The deletion of the osaA gene resulted in colony growth reduction. Conidiation is also influenced by osaA; both osaA deletion and overexpression resulted in a decrease in spore production. Wild-type expression levels of osaA are necessary for the expression of the conidiation regulatory genes brlA, abaA, and wetA. In addition, osaA is necessary for normal cell wall integrity. Furthermore, the deletion of osaA resulted in a reduction in the ability of A. fumigatus to adhere to surfaces, decreased thermotolerance, as well as increased sensitivity to oxidative stress. Metabolomics analysis indicated that osaA deletion or overexpression led to alterations in the production of multiple secondary metabolites, including gliotoxin. This was accompanied by changes in the expression of genes in the corresponding secondary metabolite gene clusters. These effects could be, at least in part, due to the observed reduction in the expression levels of the veA and laeA global regulators when the osaA locus was altered. Importantly, our study shows that osaA is indispensable for virulence in both neutropenic and corticosteroid-immunosuppressed mouse models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Apoorva Dabholkar
- Department of Biological Sciences, Northern Illinois University, DeKalb, IL 60115, USA
| | - Sandesh Pandit
- Department of Biological Sciences, Northern Illinois University, DeKalb, IL 60115, USA
| | - Ritu Devkota
- Department of Biological Sciences and Eukaryotic Pathogen Innovation Center, Clemson University, Clemson, SC 29634, USA
| | - Sourabh Dhingra
- Department of Biological Sciences and Eukaryotic Pathogen Innovation Center, Clemson University, Clemson, SC 29634, USA
| | - Sophie Lorber
- Toxalim (Research Centre in Food Toxicology), Université de Toulouse, INRAE, ENVT, INP-Purpan, UPS, 31027 Toulouse, France
| | - Olivier Puel
- Toxalim (Research Centre in Food Toxicology), Université de Toulouse, INRAE, ENVT, INP-Purpan, UPS, 31027 Toulouse, France
| | - Ana M Calvo
- Department of Biological Sciences, Northern Illinois University, DeKalb, IL 60115, USA
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5
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Earle K, Valero C, Conn DP, Vere G, Cook PC, Bromley MJ, Bowyer P, Gago S. Pathogenicity and virulence of Aspergillus fumigatus. Virulence 2023; 14:2172264. [PMID: 36752587 PMCID: PMC10732619 DOI: 10.1080/21505594.2023.2172264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 02/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Pulmonary infections caused by the mould pathogen Aspergillus fumigatus are a major cause of morbidity and mortality globally. Compromised lung defences arising from immunosuppression, chronic respiratory conditions or more recently, concomitant viral or bacterial pulmonary infections are recognised risks factors for the development of pulmonary aspergillosis. In this review, we will summarise our current knowledge of the mechanistic basis of pulmonary aspergillosis with a focus on emerging at-risk populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kayleigh Earle
- Manchester Fungal Infection Group, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Clara Valero
- Manchester Fungal Infection Group, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Daniel P. Conn
- MRC Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - George Vere
- MRC Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Peter C. Cook
- MRC Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Michael J. Bromley
- Manchester Fungal Infection Group, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Paul Bowyer
- Manchester Fungal Infection Group, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Sara Gago
- Manchester Fungal Infection Group, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
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Wulff SM, Perch M, Helweg-Larsen J, Bredahl P, Arendrup MC, Lundgren J, Helleberg M, Crone CG. Associations between invasive aspergillosis and cytomegalovirus in lung transplant recipients: a nationwide cohort study. APMIS 2023; 131:574-583. [PMID: 37022293 DOI: 10.1111/apm.13317] [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: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/02/2023] [Indexed: 04/07/2023]
Abstract
Cytomegalovirus (CMV) and invasive aspergillosis (IA) cause morbidity among lung transplant recipients (LTXr). Early diagnosis and treatment could improve outcomes. We examined rates of CMV after IA and vice versa to assess whether screening for one infection is warranted after detecting the other. All Danish LTXr, 2010-2019, were followed for IA and CMV for 2 years after transplantation. IA was defined using ISHLT criteria. Adjusted incidence rate ratios (aIRR) were estimated by Poisson regression adjusted for time after transplantation. We included 295 LTXr, among whom CMV and IA were diagnosed in 128 (43%) and 48 (16%). The risk of CMV was high the first 3 months after IA, IR 98/100 person-years of follow-up (95% CI 47-206). The risk of IA was significantly increased in the first 3 months after CMV, aIRR 2.91 (95% CI 1.32-6.44). Numbers needed to screen to diagnose one case of CMV after IA, and one case of IA after CMV was approximately seven and eight, respectively. Systematic screening for CMV following diagnosis of IA, and vice versa, may improve timeliness of diagnosis and outcomes for LTXr.
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Affiliation(s)
- Signe Marie Wulff
- Centre of Excellence for Health, Immunity and Infections (CHIP), Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Michael Perch
- Department of Cardiology, Section for Lung Transplantation, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jannik Helweg-Larsen
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Pia Bredahl
- Department of Thoracic Anaesthesiology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Maiken Cavling Arendrup
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Unit of Mycology, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jens Lundgren
- Centre of Excellence for Health, Immunity and Infections (CHIP), Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Marie Helleberg
- Centre of Excellence for Health, Immunity and Infections (CHIP), Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Cornelia Geisler Crone
- Centre of Excellence for Health, Immunity and Infections (CHIP), Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Prasad SK, Bhat SS, Koskowska O, Sangta J, Ahmad SF, Nadeem A, Sommano SR. Naringin from Coffee Inhibits Foodborne Aspergillus fumigatus via the NDK Pathway: Evidence from an In Silico Study. Molecules 2023; 28:5189. [PMID: 37446851 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28135189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Revised: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
In the tropics, coffee has been one of the most extensively cultivated economic crops, especially Arabica coffee (Coffea arabica L.). The coffee pulp, which includes phytochemicals with a proven antifungal action, is one of the most insufficiently utilized and neglected byproducts of coffee refining. In the current experiment, we carried out in silico screening of the isolated Arabica coffee phytochemicals for antifungal activity against Aspergillus fumigatus: a foodborne fungus of great public health importance. As determined by the molecular docking interactions of the library compounds indicated, the best interactions were found to occur between the nucleoside-diphosphate kinase protein 6XP7 and the test molecules Naringin (-6.771 kcal/mol), followed by Epigallocatechin gallate (-5.687 kcal/mol). Therefore, Naringin was opted for further validation with molecular dynamic simulations. The ligand-protein complex RMSD indicated a fairly stable Naringin-NDK ligand-protein complex throughout the simulation period (2-16 Å). In ADME and gastrointestinal absorbability testing, Naringin was observed to be orally bioavailable, with very low intestinal absorption and a bioavailability score of 0.17. This was further supported by the boiled egg analysis data, which clearly indicated that the GI absorption of the Naringin molecule was obscure. We found that naringin could be harmful only when swallowed at a median lethal dose between 2000 and 5000 mg/kg. In accordance with these findings, the toxicity prediction reports suggested that Naringin, found especially in citrus fruits and tomatoes, is safe for human consumption after further investigation. Overall, Naringin may be an ideal candidate for developing anti-A. fumigatus treatments and food packaging materials. Thus, this study addresses the simultaneous problems of discarded coffee waste management and antifungal resistance to available medications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shashanka K Prasad
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research, Mysuru 570 015, India
- Plant Bioactive Compound Laboratory, Faculty of Agriculture, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand
| | - Smitha S Bhat
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research, Mysuru 570 015, India
| | - Olga Koskowska
- Department of Vegetable and Medicinal Plants, Institute of Horticulture Sciences, Warsaw University of Life Sciences-SGGW, 16602-787 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Jiraporn Sangta
- Plant Bioactive Compound Laboratory, Faculty of Agriculture, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand
- Interdisciplinary Program in Biotechnology, Graduate School, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | - Sheikh F Ahmad
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmed Nadeem
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sarana Rose Sommano
- Plant Bioactive Compound Laboratory, Faculty of Agriculture, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand
- Department of Plant and Soil Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
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8
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Seo H, Kang S, Lee D, Yun CW. Regulation of pseurotin A biosynthesis by GliZ and zinc in Aspergillus fumigatus. Sci Rep 2023; 13:2431. [PMID: 36765124 PMCID: PMC9918513 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-29753-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Recently, we reported that zinc regulates gliotoxin biosynthesis via ZafA, which is a zinc-responsive transcriptional activator. From an HPLC analysis of culture media of Aspergillus fumigatus, we found a trend of decreasing gliotoxin production but increasing pseurotin A and fumagillin production in proportion to the zinc concentration. The expression of the genes involved in pseurotin A biosynthesis was upregulated under high zinc concentrations. Furthermore, upregulated expression of pseurotin A biosynthetic genes and higher production of pseurotin A were observed in the zafA deletion strain. Interestingly, the deletion of gliZ, a transcriptional activator of gliotoxin biosynthesis genes, resulted in upregulated expression of pseurotin A biosynthetic genes and increased production of pseurotin A. We detected upregulation of fumR expression in the gliZ and zafA deletion mutants. The overexpression of gliZ observed in the zafA deletion mutant resulted in the failure of the mutant to increase pseurotin A production, which is a phenotype of the zafA deletion mutant. These results suggest that ZafA sequentially regulates pseurotin A biosynthesis through GliZ. Finally, we found through a murine virulence test that the gliZ and fumR double-deletion mutants showed a delayed death rate compared with the single-deletion mutants of either gliZ or fumR. Taken together, these results suggested that the biosynthesis of gliotoxin and pseurotin A are regulated in opposite ways by zinc utilization and that each secondary metabolite is synthesized when the synthesis of another secondary metabolite fails to protect it against the defense system of the host.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyewon Seo
- School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University, Anam-Dong, Sungbuk-Gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Suzie Kang
- School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University, Anam-Dong, Sungbuk-Gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Dongho Lee
- Department of Plant Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Cheol-Won Yun
- School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University, Anam-Dong, Sungbuk-Gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
- NeuroEsgel Co., Anam-Dong, Sungbuk-Gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
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9
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Jha NG, Dkhar DS, Singh SK, Malode SJ, Shetti NP, Chandra P. Engineered Biosensors for Diagnosing Multidrug Resistance in Microbial and Malignant Cells. BIOSENSORS 2023; 13:235. [PMID: 36832001 PMCID: PMC9954051 DOI: 10.3390/bios13020235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2022] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
To curtail pathogens or tumors, antimicrobial or antineoplastic drugs have been developed. These drugs target microbial/cancer growth and survival, thereby improving the host's health. In attempts to evade the detrimental effects of such drugs, these cells have evolved several mechanisms over time. Some variants of the cells have developed resistances against multiple drugs or antimicrobial agents. Such microorganisms or cancer cells are said to exhibit multidrug resistance (MDR). The drug resistance status of a cell can be determined by analyzing several genotypic and phenotypic changes, which are brought about by significant physiological and biochemical alterations. Owing to their resilient nature, treatment and management of MDR cases in clinics is arduous and requires a meticulous approach. Currently, techniques such as plating and culturing, biopsy, gene sequencing, and magnetic resonance imaging are prevalent in clinical practices for determining drug resistance status. However, the major drawbacks of using these methods lie in their time-consuming nature and the problem of translating them into point-of-care or mass-detection tools. To overcome the shortcomings of conventional techniques, biosensors with a low detection limit have been engineered to provide quick and reliable results conveniently. These devices are highly versatile in terms of analyte range and quantities that can be detected to report drug resistance in a given sample. A brief introduction to MDR, along with a detailed insight into recent biosensor design trends and use for identifying multidrug-resistant microorganisms and tumors, is presented in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niharika G. Jha
- School of Biochemical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology (BHU) Varanasi, Varanasi 221005, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Daphika S. Dkhar
- School of Biochemical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology (BHU) Varanasi, Varanasi 221005, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Sumit K. Singh
- School of Biochemical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology (BHU) Varanasi, Varanasi 221005, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Shweta J. Malode
- Center for Energy and Environment, School of Advanced Sciences, KLE Technological University, Hubballi 580031, Karnataka, India
| | - Nagaraj P. Shetti
- Center for Energy and Environment, School of Advanced Sciences, KLE Technological University, Hubballi 580031, Karnataka, India
- University Center for Research & Development (UCRD), Chandigarh University, Mohali 140413, Panjab, India
| | - Pranjal Chandra
- School of Biochemical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology (BHU) Varanasi, Varanasi 221005, Uttar Pradesh, India
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Wang J, Liang L, Wei S, Zhang S, Hu Y, Lv Y. Histone 2-Hydroxyisobutyryltransferase Encoded by Afngg1 Is Involved in Pathogenicity and Aflatoxin Biosynthesis in Aspergillus flavus. Toxins (Basel) 2022; 15:7. [PMID: 36668827 PMCID: PMC9861817 DOI: 10.3390/toxins15010007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Revised: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Aflatoxin, a carcinogenic secondary metabolite produced by Aspergillus flavus, is a significant threat to human health and agricultural production. Histone 2-hydroxyisobutyrylation is a novel post-translational modification that regulates various biological processes, including secondary metabolism. In this study, we identified the novel histone 2-hydroxyisobutyryltransferase Afngg1 in A. flavus, and explored its role in cell growth, development and aflatoxin biosynthesis. Afngg1 gene deletion markedly decreased lysine 2-hydroxyisobutyrylation modification of histones H4K5 and H4K8 compared with the control strain. Additionally, Afngg1 deletion inhibited mycelial growth of A. flavus, and the number of conidia and hydrophobicity were significantly decreased. Notably, aflatoxin B1 biosynthesis and sclerotia production were completely inhibited in the ΔAfngg1 strain. Furthermore, the pathogenicity of the ΔAfngg1 strain infecting peanut and corn grains was also diminished, including reduced spore production and aflatoxin biosynthesis compared with A. flavus control and Afngg1 complementation strains. Transcriptome analysis showed that, compared with control strains, differentially expressed genes in ΔAfngg1 were mainly involved in chromatin remodelling, cell development, secondary metabolism and oxidative stress. These results suggest that Afngg1 is involved in histone 2-hydroxyisobutyrylation and chromatin modification, and thus affects cell development and aflatoxin biosynthesis in A. flavus. Our results lay a foundation for in-depth research on the 2-hydroxyisobutyrylation modification in A. flavus, and may provide a novel target for aflatoxin contamination prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Wang
- College of Biological Engineering, Henan University of Technology, Zhengzhou 450001, China
- Henan Provincial Key Laboratory of Biological Processing and Nutritional Function of Wheat, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Liuke Liang
- College of Biological Engineering, Henan University of Technology, Zhengzhou 450001, China
- Henan Provincial Key Laboratory of Biological Processing and Nutritional Function of Wheat, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Shan Wei
- College of Biological Engineering, Henan University of Technology, Zhengzhou 450001, China
- Henan Provincial Key Laboratory of Biological Processing and Nutritional Function of Wheat, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Shuaibing Zhang
- College of Biological Engineering, Henan University of Technology, Zhengzhou 450001, China
- Henan Provincial Key Laboratory of Biological Processing and Nutritional Function of Wheat, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Yuansen Hu
- College of Biological Engineering, Henan University of Technology, Zhengzhou 450001, China
- Henan Provincial Key Laboratory of Biological Processing and Nutritional Function of Wheat, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Yangyong Lv
- College of Biological Engineering, Henan University of Technology, Zhengzhou 450001, China
- Henan Provincial Key Laboratory of Biological Processing and Nutritional Function of Wheat, Zhengzhou 450001, China
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11
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Liang L, Yang H, Wei S, Zhang S, Chen L, Hu Y, Lv Y. Putative C 2H 2 Transcription Factor AflZKS3 Regulates Aflatoxin and Pathogenicity in Aspergillus flavus. Toxins (Basel) 2022; 14:toxins14120883. [PMID: 36548780 PMCID: PMC9786134 DOI: 10.3390/toxins14120883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2022] [Revised: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Aflatoxin is a carcinogenic secondary metabolite that poses a serious threat to human and animal health. Some C2H2 transcription factors are associated with fungal growth and secondary metabolic regulation. In this study, we characterized the role of AflZKS3, a putative C2H2 transcription factor based on genome annotation, in the growth and aflatoxin biosynthesis of A. flavus and explored its possible mechanisms of action. Surprisingly, the protein was found to be located in the cytoplasm, and gene deletion in A. flavus resulted in defective growth and conidia formation, as well as increased sensitivity to the fluorescent brightener Calcofluor white, Congo red, NaCl, and sorbitol stress. Notably, the biosynthesis of aflatoxin B1 was completely inhibited in the ΔAflZKS3 deletion strain, and its ability to infect peanut and corn seeds was also reduced. RNA sequencing showed that differentially expressed genes in the ΔAflZKS3 strain compared with the control and complementation strains were mainly associated with growth, aflatoxin biosynthesis, and oxidative stress. Thus, AflZKS3 likely contributes to growth, cell development, and aflatoxin synthesis in A. flavus. These findings lay the foundation for a deeper understanding of the roles of C2H2 transcription factors in A. flavus and provide a potential biocontrol target for preventing aflatoxin contamination.
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12
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Huber EM. Epipolythiodioxopiperazine-Based Natural Products: Building Blocks, Biosynthesis and Biological Activities. Chembiochem 2022; 23:e202200341. [PMID: 35997236 PMCID: PMC10086836 DOI: 10.1002/cbic.202200341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2022] [Revised: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Epipolythiodioxopiperazines (ETPs) are fungal secondary metabolites that share a 2,5-diketopiperazine scaffold built from two amino acids and bridged by a sulfide moiety. Modifications of the core and the amino acid side chains, for example by methylations, acetylations, hydroxylations, prenylations, halogenations, cyclizations, and truncations create the structural diversity of ETPs and contribute to their biological activity. However, the key feature responsible for the bioactivities of ETPs is their sulfide moiety. Over the last years, combinations of genome mining, reverse genetics, metabolomics, biochemistry, and structural biology deciphered principles of ETP production. Sulfurization via glutathione and uncovering of the thiols followed by either oxidation or methylation crystallized as fundamental steps that impact expression of the biosynthesis cluster, toxicity and secretion of the metabolite as well as self-tolerance of the producer. This article showcases structure and activity of prototype ETPs such as gliotoxin and discusses the current knowledge on the biosynthesis routes of these exceptional natural products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva M Huber
- Chair of Biochemistry, Center for Protein Assemblies, Technical University of Munich, Ernst-Otto-Fischer-Str. 8, 85748, Garching, Germany
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13
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The pan-genome of Aspergillus fumigatus provides a high-resolution view of its population structure revealing high levels of lineage-specific diversity driven by recombination. PLoS Biol 2022; 20:e3001890. [PMID: 36395320 PMCID: PMC9714929 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pbio.3001890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2022] [Revised: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Aspergillus fumigatus is a deadly agent of human fungal disease where virulence heterogeneity is thought to be at least partially structured by genetic variation between strains. While population genomic analyses based on reference genome alignments offer valuable insights into how gene variants are distributed across populations, these approaches fail to capture intraspecific variation in genes absent from the reference genome. Pan-genomic analyses based on de novo assemblies offer a promising alternative to reference-based genomics with the potential to address the full genetic repertoire of a species. Here, we evaluate 260 genome sequences of A. fumigatus including 62 newly sequenced strains, using a combination of population genomics, phylogenomics, and pan-genomics. Our results offer a high-resolution assessment of population structure and recombination frequency, phylogenetically structured gene presence-absence variation, evidence for metabolic specificity, and the distribution of putative antifungal resistance genes. Although A. fumigatus disperses primarily via asexual conidia, we identified extraordinarily high levels of recombination with the lowest linkage disequilibrium decay value reported for any fungal species to date. We provide evidence for 3 primary populations of A. fumigatus, with recombination occurring only rarely between populations and often within them. These 3 populations are structured by both gene variation and distinct patterns of gene presence-absence with unique suites of accessory genes present exclusively in each clade. Accessory genes displayed functional enrichment for nitrogen and carbohydrate metabolism suggesting that populations may be stratified by environmental niche specialization. Similarly, the distribution of antifungal resistance genes and resistance alleles were often structured by phylogeny. Altogether, the pan-genome of A. fumigatus represents one of the largest fungal pan-genomes reported to date including many genes unrepresented in the Af293 reference genome. These results highlight the inadequacy of relying on a single-reference genome-based approach for evaluating intraspecific variation and the power of combined genomic approaches to elucidate population structure, genetic diversity, and putative ecological drivers of clinically relevant fungi.
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14
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Mahata PK, Dass RS, Gunti L, Thorat PA. First report on the metabolic characterization of Sterigmatocystin production by select Aspergillus species from the Nidulantes section in Foeniculum vulgare. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:958424. [PMID: 36090109 PMCID: PMC9459157 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.958424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Spices are typically grown in climates that support the growth of toxigenic fungi and the production of mycotoxins. The Aspergilli described in this study, as well as the sterigmatocystin (STC) detected, are causes for concern due to their potential to induce food poisoning. One of the most well-known producers of the carcinogenic STC is Aspergillus nidulans. This research explores the occurrence of STC-producing fungi in Foeniculum vulgare, a spice that is marketed in India and other parts of the world. This innovative study details the mycotoxigenic potential of five Aspergilli belonging to Section Nidulantes, namely Aspergillus latus (02 isolates), Emericella quadrilineata (02 isolates), and Aspergillus nidulans (01 isolate), with respect to STC contamination. These five isolates of Aspergilli were screened to produce STC on yeast extract sucrose (YES) medium in a controlled environment with regard to light, temperature, pH, and humidity, among other variables. The expression patterns of regulatory genes, namely, aflR, laeA, pacC, fluG, flbA, pksA, and mtfA were studied on the Czapek–Dox agar (CDA) medium. STC biosynthesis by the test isolates was done in potato dextrose broth (PDB) under optimum conditions, followed by the extraction and purification of the broth using ethyl acetate. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with an ultraviolet (UV) detector was utilized to detect compounds in eluted samples. F. vulgare contains Aspergilli that have been shown to have mycotoxigenic potential, which can accumulate in the spice during its active growth and thereby cause the elaboration of mycotoxins.
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15
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Gerdemann A, Behrens M, Esselen M, Humpf HU. Metabolic profiling as a powerful tool for the analysis of cellular alterations caused by 20 mycotoxins in HepG2 cells. Arch Toxicol 2022; 96:2983-2998. [PMID: 35932296 PMCID: PMC9525358 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-022-03348-5] [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: 04/24/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Mycotoxins are secondary fungal metabolites which exhibit toxic effects in low concentrations. Several mycotoxins are described as carcinogenic or immunosuppressive, but their underlying modes of action especially on molecular level have not yet been entirely elucidated. Metabolic profiling as part of the omics methods is a powerful tool to study the toxicity and the mode of action of xenobiotics. The use of hydrophilic interaction chromatography in combination with targeted mass spectrometric detection enables the selective and sensitive analysis of more than 100 polar and ionic metabolites and allows the evaluation of metabolic alterations caused by xenobiotics such as mycotoxins. For metabolic profiling, the hepato-cellular carcinoma cell line HepG2 was treated with sub-cytotoxic concentrations of 20 mycotoxins. Moniliformin and citrinin significantly affected target elements of the citric acid cycle, but also influenced glycolytic pathways and energy metabolism. Penitrem A, zearalenone, and T2 toxin mainly interfered with the urea cycle and the amino acid homeostasis. The formation of reactive oxygen species seemed to be influenced by T2 toxin and gliotoxin. Glycolysis was altered by ochratoxin A and DNA synthesis was affected by several mycotoxins. The observed effects were not limited to these metabolic reactions as the metabolic pathways are closely interrelated. In general, metabolic profiling proved to be a highly sensitive tool for hazard identification in comparison to single-target cytotoxicity assays as metabolic alterations were already observed at sub-toxic concentrations. Metabolic profiling could therefore be a powerful tool for the overall evaluation of the toxic properties of xenobiotics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Gerdemann
- Institute of Food Chemistry, University of Münster, Corrensstraße 45, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Matthias Behrens
- Institute of Food Chemistry, University of Münster, Corrensstraße 45, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Melanie Esselen
- Institute of Food Chemistry, University of Münster, Corrensstraße 45, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Hans-Ulrich Humpf
- Institute of Food Chemistry, University of Münster, Corrensstraße 45, 48149, Münster, Germany.
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16
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Desoubeaux G, Cray C, Chesnay A. Challenges to establish the diagnosis of aspergillosis in non-laboratory animals: looking for alternatives in veterinary medicine and demonstration of feasibility through two concrete examples in penguins and dolphins. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:757200. [PMID: 35928207 PMCID: PMC9345302 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.757200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Aspergillosis remains difficult to diagnose in animals. Laboratory-based assays are far less developed than those for human medicine, and only few studies have been completed to validate their utility in routine veterinary diagnostics. To overcome the current limitations, veterinarians and researchers have to propose alternative methods including extrapolating from human diagnostic tools and using innovative technology. In the present overview, two specific examples were complementarily addressed in penguins and dolphins to illustrate how is challenging the diagnosis of aspergillosis in animals. Specific focus will be made on the novel application of simple testing in blood based on serological assays or protein electrophoresis and on the new information garnered from metabolomics/proteomics to discover potential new biomarkers. In conclusion, while the diagnostic approach of aspergillosis in veterinary medicine cannot be directly taken from options developed for human medicine, it can certainly serve as inspiration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guillaume Desoubeaux
- Parasitologie – Mycologie – Médecine tropicale, Hôpital Bretonneau, CHRU Tours, Tours, France
- Centre d’étude des pathologies respiratoires – Inserm U1100, faculté de Médecine, Université de Tours, Tours, France
- *Correspondence: Guillaume Desoubeaux,
| | - Carolyn Cray
- University of Miami, Comparative Pathology, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Adélaïde Chesnay
- Parasitologie – Mycologie – Médecine tropicale, Hôpital Bretonneau, CHRU Tours, Tours, France
- Centre d’étude des pathologies respiratoires – Inserm U1100, faculté de Médecine, Université de Tours, Tours, France
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17
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Redrado S, Esteban P, Domingo MP, Lopez C, Rezusta A, Ramirez-Labrada A, Arias M, Pardo J, Galvez EM. Integration of In Silico and In Vitro Analysis of Gliotoxin Production Reveals a Narrow Range of Producing Fungal Species. J Fungi (Basel) 2022; 8:jof8040361. [PMID: 35448592 PMCID: PMC9030297 DOI: 10.3390/jof8040361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Revised: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Gliotoxin is a fungal secondary metabolite with impact on health and agriculture since it might act as virulence factor and contaminate human and animal food. Homologous gliotoxin (GT) gene clusters are spread across a number of fungal species although if they produce GT or other related epipolythiodioxopiperazines (ETPs) remains obscure. Using bioinformatic tools, we have identified homologous gli gene clusters similar to the A. fumigatus GT gene cluster in several fungal species. In silico study led to in vitro confirmation of GT and Bisdethiobis(methylthio)gliotoxin (bmGT) production in fungal strain cultures by HPLC detection. Despite we selected most similar homologous gli gene cluster in 20 different species, GT and bmGT were only detected in section Fumigati species and in a Trichoderma virens Q strain. Our results suggest that in silico gli homology analyses in different fungal strains to predict GT production might be only informative when accompanied by analysis about mycotoxin production in cell cultures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergio Redrado
- Instituto de Carboquımica ICB-CSIC, 50018 Zaragoza, Spain; (S.R.); (M.P.D.)
| | - Patricia Esteban
- Biomedical Research Centre of Aragon (CIBA), Fundacion Instituto de Investigacion Sanitaria Aragon (IIS Aragon), 50009 Zaragoza, Spain; (P.E.); (A.R.-L.); (M.A.); (J.P.)
| | | | - Concepción Lopez
- Department of Microbiology, Hospital Universitario Miguel Servet, IIS Aragón, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain; (C.L.); (A.R.)
| | - Antonio Rezusta
- Department of Microbiology, Hospital Universitario Miguel Servet, IIS Aragón, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain; (C.L.); (A.R.)
| | - Ariel Ramirez-Labrada
- Biomedical Research Centre of Aragon (CIBA), Fundacion Instituto de Investigacion Sanitaria Aragon (IIS Aragon), 50009 Zaragoza, Spain; (P.E.); (A.R.-L.); (M.A.); (J.P.)
| | - Maykel Arias
- Biomedical Research Centre of Aragon (CIBA), Fundacion Instituto de Investigacion Sanitaria Aragon (IIS Aragon), 50009 Zaragoza, Spain; (P.E.); (A.R.-L.); (M.A.); (J.P.)
| | - Julián Pardo
- Biomedical Research Centre of Aragon (CIBA), Fundacion Instituto de Investigacion Sanitaria Aragon (IIS Aragon), 50009 Zaragoza, Spain; (P.E.); (A.R.-L.); (M.A.); (J.P.)
- Department of Microbiology, Pediatrics, Radiology and Public Health, University of Zaragoza, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
- Aragon I+D Foundation (ARAID), 50018 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Eva M. Galvez
- Instituto de Carboquımica ICB-CSIC, 50018 Zaragoza, Spain; (S.R.); (M.P.D.)
- Correspondence:
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18
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Reidy L, Desoubeaux G, Cardenas J, Seither J, Kahl K, Chauvin D, Adkesson M, Govett P, Aitken-Palmer C, Stadler C, Tocidlowski M, Sirpenski G, Bronson E, Cray C. DETECTION OF GLIOTOXIN BUT NOT BIS(METHYL)GLIOTOXIN IN PLASMA FROM BIRDS WITH CONFIRMED AND PROBABLE ASPERGILLOSIS. J Zoo Wildl Med 2022; 53:60-69. [PMID: 35339150 DOI: 10.1638/2021-0070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Aspergillosis remains a difficult disease to diagnose antemortem in many species, especially avian species. In the present study, banked plasma samples from various avian species were examined for gliotoxin (GT), which is a recognized key virulence factor produced during the replication of Aspergillus species hyphae and a secondary metabolite bis(methyl)gliotoxin (bmGT). Initially, liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry methods for detecting GT and bmGT were validated in a controlled model using sera obtained from rats experimentally infected with Aspergillus fumigatus. The minimum detection level for both measurements was determined to be 3 ng/ml, and the assay was found to be accurate and reliable. As proof of concept, GT was detected in 85.7% (30/35) of the samples obtained from birds with confirmed aspergillosis and in 60.7% (17/28) of samples from birds with probable infection but only in one of those from clinically normal birds (1/119). None of the birds were positive for bmGT. Repeated measures from birds under treatment suggests results may have prognostic value. Further studies are needed to implement quantitative methods and to determine the utility of this test in surveillance screening in addition to its use as a diagnostic test in birds with suspected aspergillosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Reidy
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Guillaume Desoubeaux
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
- Université de Tours, CEPR, INSERM U1100/Equipe 3, 37000 Tours, France
- CHU de Tours, Service de Parasitologie, Mycologie, Médicine tropicale, 37000 Tours, France
| | - Julia Cardenas
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Joshua Seither
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Kristin Kahl
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - David Chauvin
- Université de Tours, CEPR, INSERM U1100/Equipe 3, 37000 Tours, France
| | - Michael Adkesson
- Chicago Zoological Society/Brookfield Zoo, Brookfield, IL 60513, USA
| | - Pamela Govett
- Chicago Zoological Society/Brookfield Zoo, Brookfield, IL 60513, USA
| | | | - Cynthia Stadler
- Los Angeles Zoo & Botanical Gardens, Los Angeles, CA 90027, USA
| | | | | | | | - Carolyn Cray
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA,
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19
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Current Opinion on the Therapeutic Capacity of Taurine-Containing Halogen Derivatives in Infectious and Inflammatory Diseases. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2022; 1370:83-98. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-93337-1_8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
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20
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Rahman S, van Rhijn N, Papastamoulis P, Thomson DD, Carter Z, Fortune-Grant R, Rattray M, Bromley MJ, Bignell E. Distinct Cohorts of Aspergillus fumigatus Transcription Factors Are Required for Epithelial Damage Occurring via Contact- or Soluble Effector-Mediated Mechanisms. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:907519. [PMID: 35982778 PMCID: PMC9379863 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.907519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 05/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Damage to the lung epithelium is a unifying feature of disease caused by the saprophytic fungus Aspergillus fumigatus. However, the mechanistic basis and the regulatory control of such damage is poorly characterized. Previous studies have identified A. fumigatus mediated pathogenesis as occurring at early (≤ 16 hours) or late (>16 hours) phases of the fungal interaction with epithelial cells, and respectively involve direct contact with the host cell or the action of soluble factors produced by mature fungal hyphae. Both early and late phases of epithelial damage have been shown to be subject to genetic regulation by the pH-responsive transcription factor PacC. This study sought to determine whether other transcriptional regulators play a role in modulating epithelial damage. In particular, whether the early and late phases of epithelial damage are governed by same or distinct regulators. Furthermore, whether processes such as spore uptake and hyphal adhesion, that have previously been documented to promote epithelial damage, are governed by the same cohorts of epithelial regulators. Using 479 strains from the recently constructed library of A. fumigatus transcription factor null mutants, two high-throughput screens assessing epithelial cell detachment and epithelial cell lysis were conducted. A total of 17 transcription factor mutants were found to exhibit reproducible deficits in epithelial damage causation. Of these, 10 mutants were defective in causing early phase damage via epithelial detachment and 8 mutants were defective in causing late phase damage via epithelial lysis. Remarkably only one transcription factor, PacC, was required for causation of both phases of epithelial damage. The 17 mutants exhibited varied and often unique phenotypic profiles with respect to fitness, epithelial adhesion, cell wall defects, and rates of spore uptake by epithelial cells. Strikingly, 9 out of 10 mutants deficient in causing early phase damage also exhibited reduced rates of hyphal extension, and culture supernatants of 7 out of 8 mutants deficient in late phase damage were significantly less cytotoxic. Our study delivers the first high-level overview of A. fumigatus regulatory genes governing lung epithelial damage, suggesting highly coordinated genetic orchestration of host-damaging activities that govern epithelial damage in both space and time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sayema Rahman
- Manchester Fungal Infection Group, Division of Evolution, Infection and Genomics, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Norman van Rhijn
- Manchester Fungal Infection Group, Division of Evolution, Infection and Genomics, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | | | - Darren D Thomson
- Manchester Fungal Infection Group, Division of Evolution, Infection and Genomics, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom.,MRC Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Zorana Carter
- Manchester Fungal Infection Group, Division of Evolution, Infection and Genomics, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Rachael Fortune-Grant
- Manchester Fungal Infection Group, Division of Evolution, Infection and Genomics, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Magnus Rattray
- Division of Informatics, School of Heath Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Michael John Bromley
- Manchester Fungal Infection Group, Division of Evolution, Infection and Genomics, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Elaine Bignell
- Manchester Fungal Infection Group, Division of Evolution, Infection and Genomics, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom.,MRC Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
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21
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Moloney NM, Larkin A, Xu L, Fitzpatrick DA, Crean HL, Walshe K, Haas H, Decristoforo C, Doyle S. Generation and characterisation of a semi-synthetic siderophore-immunogen conjugate and a derivative recombinant triacetylfusarinine C-specific monoclonal antibody with fungal diagnostic application. Anal Biochem 2021; 632:114384. [PMID: 34543643 DOI: 10.1016/j.ab.2021.114384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2021] [Revised: 08/16/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA) is a severe life-threatening condition. Diagnosis of fungal disease in general, and especially that caused by Aspergillus fumigatus is problematic. A. fumigatus secretes siderophores to acquire iron during infection, which are also essential for virulence. We describe the chemoacetylation of ferrated fusarinine C to diacetylated fusarinine C (DAFC), followed by protein conjugation, which facilitated triacetylfusarinine C (TAFC)-specific monoclonal antibody production with specific recognition of the ferrated form of TAFC. A single monoclonal antibody sequence was ultimately elucidated by a combinatorial strategy involving protein LC-MS/MS, cDNA sequencing and RNAseq. The resultant murine IgG2a monoclonal antibody was secreted in, and purified from, mammalian cell culture (5 mg) and demonstrated to be highly specific for TAFC detection by competitive ELISA (detection limit: 15 nM) and in a lateral flow test system (detection limit: 3 ng), using gold nanoparticle conjugated- DAFC-bovine serum albumin for competition. Overall, this work reveals for the first time a recombinant TAFC-specific monoclonal antibody with diagnostic potential for IPA diagnosis in traditional and emerging patient groups (e.g., COVID-19) and presents a useful strategy for murine Ig sequence determination, and expression in HEK293 cells, to overcome unexpected limitations associated with aberrant or deficient murine monoclonal antibody production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola M Moloney
- Department of Biology, Maynooth University, Maynooth, Co. Kildare, W23 F2H6, Ireland
| | - Annemarie Larkin
- National Institute for Cellular Biotechnology, Dublin City University, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Linan Xu
- Department of Biology, Maynooth University, Maynooth, Co. Kildare, W23 F2H6, Ireland
| | - David A Fitzpatrick
- Department of Biology, Maynooth University, Maynooth, Co. Kildare, W23 F2H6, Ireland
| | - Holly L Crean
- Department of Biology, Maynooth University, Maynooth, Co. Kildare, W23 F2H6, Ireland
| | - Kieran Walshe
- Department of Biology, Maynooth University, Maynooth, Co. Kildare, W23 F2H6, Ireland
| | - Hubertus Haas
- Institute of Molecular Biology, Medical University Innsbruck, A-6020, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Clemens Decristoforo
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Medical University Innsbruck, Anichstrasse 5, A-6020, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Sean Doyle
- Department of Biology, Maynooth University, Maynooth, Co. Kildare, W23 F2H6, Ireland.
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22
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Ramšak B, Markau J, Pazen T, Dahlmann TA, Krappmann S, Kück U. The master regulator MAT1-1-1 of fungal mating binds to its targets via a conserved motif in the human pathogen Aspergillus fumigatus. G3-GENES GENOMES GENETICS 2021; 11:6026963. [PMID: 33598704 PMCID: PMC8022922 DOI: 10.1093/g3journal/jkaa012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2020] [Accepted: 10/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Mating-type transcription factors are master regulators of sexually related signal transduction pathways in fungi; however, their recognition of specific DNA sequences from target genes is widely undetermined. Here, we identified and characterized the DNA-binding sequence of the MAT1-1-1 alpha-box domain transcription factor from the human pathogen Aspergillus fumigatus. In order to explore MAT1-1-1 DNA-binding targets, we used the previously reported MAT1-1-1 binding motif from Penicillium chrysogenum, in a bioinformatics approach. We identified 18 A. fumigatus genes carrying the MAT1.1 sequence in their upstream region, among them genes for the α-pheromone precursor (PpgA), G-protein-coupled pheromone receptor (PreA), and for TomA, an unidentified protein. To validate our prediction further, quantification of transcript levels showed a decrease in expression of ppgA, tomA, and others in a MAT1-1 deletion strain. For a functional analysis of the binding sites, truncated variants of the A. fumigatus MAT1-1-1 gene were introduced into Escherichia coli for heterologous expression. The yield of recombinant protein was further optimized for the AfMAT1-1-178-235 variant that harbors an extended alpha-box domain. AfMAT1-1-178-235 bound to a subset of the most strongly upregulated genes: ppgA, preA, and tomA. The DNA-binding specificity was confirmed by testing mutated binding sequences, as well as performing competition experiments with specific and non-specific sequences. Finally, equilibrium dissociation constants of 1.83 ± 0.1 and 1.45 ± 0.26 µM were determined for AfMAT1-1-178-235 and fusion protein GST-AfMAT1-1-178-235. Collectively, these findings provide further insights into AfMAT1-1-1-mediated gene expression and imply that alpha-box domain regulators from other members of Eurotiales control fungal development in a conserved manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Ramšak
- Allgemeine und Molekulare Botanik, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, 44780 Bochum, Germany
| | - Jessica Markau
- Allgemeine und Molekulare Botanik, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, 44780 Bochum, Germany
| | - Tobias Pazen
- Mikrobiologisches Institut - Klinische Mikrobiologie, Immunologie und Hygiene, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen und Friedrich-Alexander-Universität (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Tim A Dahlmann
- Allgemeine und Molekulare Botanik, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, 44780 Bochum, Germany
| | - Sven Krappmann
- Mikrobiologisches Institut - Klinische Mikrobiologie, Immunologie und Hygiene, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen und Friedrich-Alexander-Universität (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Ulrich Kück
- Allgemeine und Molekulare Botanik, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, 44780 Bochum, Germany
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Toxicity studies of Aspergillus fumigatus administered by inhalation to B6C3F1/N mice (revised). TOXICITY REPORT SERIES 2021:NTP-TOX-100. [PMID: 34283822 PMCID: PMC8436148 DOI: 10.22427/ntp-tox-100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Aspergillus fumigatus is a thermotolerant, soil-borne fungal species that is ubiquitous in the environment. Mold was nominated to the National Toxicology Program (NTP) by a private individual due to suspected adverse health effects associated with personal exposure in indoor and occupational settings. A. fumigatus is of particular concern in the biowaste industry as the species can contaminate self-heating compost piles. Because of this potential for personal and occupational exposure and the lack of available toxicity data, toxicity studies were conducted in which male and female B6C3F1/N mice were exposed to A. fumigatus conidia (spores) two times a week for 3 months. All in-life procedures, including inhalation exposure, test article preparation, and hematology analysis, were completed by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH, Morgantown, WV). Battelle (Columbus, OH) conducted terminal necropsies, measured terminal body and organ weights, and evaluated gross lesions on-site at NIOSH. Tissue processing and histopathology were completed at Battelle. Grocott's methenamine silver (GMS) staining was performed at NIOSH. Genetic toxicology studies on mouse peripheral blood erythrocytes were conducted by Integrated Laboratory Systems, LLC (Research Triangle Park, NC). (Abstract Abridged).
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Roy A, Ahuja S, Garg S. Fungal Secondary Metabolites: Biological Activity and Potential Applications. Fungal Biol 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-60659-6_7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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Abstract
Opportunistic commensal and environmental fungi can cause superficial to systemic diseases in humans. But how did these pathogens adapt to infect us and how does host-pathogen co-evolution shape their virulence potential? During evolution toward pathogenicity, not only do microorganisms gain virulence genes, but they also tend to lose non-adaptive genes in the host niche. Additionally, virulence factors can become detrimental during infection when they trigger host recognition. The loss of non-adaptive genes as well as the loss of the virulence potential of genes by adaptations to the host has been investigated in pathogenic bacteria and phytopathogenic fungi, where they are known as antivirulence and avirulence genes, respectively. However, these concepts are nearly unknown in the field of pathogenic fungi of humans. We think that this unnecessarily limits our view of human-fungal interplay, and that much could be learned if we applied a similar framework to aspects of these interactions. In this review, we, therefore, define and adapt the concepts of antivirulence and avirulence genes for human pathogenic fungi. We provide examples for analogies to antivirulence genes of bacterial pathogens and to avirulence genes of phytopathogenic fungi. Introducing these terms to the field of pathogenic fungi of humans can help to better comprehend the emergence and evolution of fungal virulence and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofía Siscar-Lewin
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Hans Knoell Institute, Jena, Germany
| | - Bernhard Hube
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Hans Knoell Institute, Jena, Germany.,Institute of Microbiology, Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany
| | - Sascha Brunke
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Hans Knoell Institute, Jena, Germany
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Stoszko M, Al-Hatmi AMS, Skriba A, Roling M, Ne E, Crespo R, Mueller YM, Najafzadeh MJ, Kang J, Ptackova R, LeMasters E, Biswas P, Bertoldi A, Kan TW, de Crignis E, Sulc M, Lebbink JH, Rokx C, Verbon A, van Ijcken W, Katsikis PD, Palstra RJ, Havlicek V, de Hoog S, Mahmoudi T. Gliotoxin, identified from a screen of fungal metabolites, disrupts 7SK snRNP, releases P-TEFb, and reverses HIV-1 latency. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2020; 6:eaba6617. [PMID: 32851167 PMCID: PMC7423394 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.aba6617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2019] [Accepted: 07/01/2020] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
A leading pharmacological strategy toward HIV cure requires "shock" or activation of HIV gene expression in latently infected cells with latency reversal agents (LRAs) followed by their subsequent clearance. In a screen for novel LRAs, we used fungal secondary metabolites as a source of bioactive molecules. Using orthogonal mass spectrometry (MS) coupled to latency reversal bioassays, we identified gliotoxin (GTX) as a novel LRA. GTX significantly induced HIV-1 gene expression in latent ex vivo infected primary cells and in CD4+ T cells from all aviremic HIV-1+ participants. RNA sequencing identified 7SK RNA, the scaffold of the positive transcription elongation factor b (P-TEFb) inhibitory 7SK small nuclear ribonucleoprotein (snRNP) complex, to be significantly reduced upon GTX treatment of CD4+ T cells. GTX directly disrupted 7SK snRNP by targeting La-related protein 7 (LARP7), releasing active P-TEFb, which phosphorylated RNA polymerase II (Pol II) C-terminal domain (CTD), inducing HIV transcription.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mateusz Stoszko
- Department of Biochemistry, Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam, PO Box 2040, 3000 CA Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Abdullah M. S. Al-Hatmi
- Westerdijk Fungal Biodiversity Institute, Utrecht, Netherlands
- Center of Expertise in Mycology of Radboud UMC/CWZ, Nijmegen, Netherlands
- Ministry of Health, Directorate General of Health Services, Ibri, Oman
| | - Anton Skriba
- Institute of Microbiology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Videnska 1083, CZ 14220 Prague 4, Czech Republic
| | - Michael Roling
- Department of Biochemistry, Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam, PO Box 2040, 3000 CA Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Enrico Ne
- Department of Biochemistry, Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam, PO Box 2040, 3000 CA Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Raquel Crespo
- Department of Biochemistry, Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam, PO Box 2040, 3000 CA Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Yvonne M. Mueller
- Department of Immunology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam, PO Box 2040, 3000 CA Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Mohammad Javad Najafzadeh
- Westerdijk Fungal Biodiversity Institute, Utrecht, Netherlands
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Joyce Kang
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Monitoring/Disease Control, Ministry of Education and Guizhou Talent Base of Microbes and Human Health, School of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550025, P. R. China
| | - Renata Ptackova
- Institute of Microbiology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Videnska 1083, CZ 14220 Prague 4, Czech Republic
| | - Elizabeth LeMasters
- Department of Biochemistry, Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam, PO Box 2040, 3000 CA Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Pritha Biswas
- Department of Biochemistry, Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam, PO Box 2040, 3000 CA Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Alessia Bertoldi
- Department of Biochemistry, Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam, PO Box 2040, 3000 CA Rotterdam, Netherlands
- Microbiology Section, Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Tsung Wai Kan
- Department of Biochemistry, Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam, PO Box 2040, 3000 CA Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Elisa de Crignis
- Department of Biochemistry, Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam, PO Box 2040, 3000 CA Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Miroslav Sulc
- Institute of Microbiology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Videnska 1083, CZ 14220 Prague 4, Czech Republic
| | - Joyce H.G. Lebbink
- Departments of Molecular Genetics and Radiation Oncology, Erasmus University Medical Center, PO Box 2040, 3000 CA Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Casper Rokx
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, Erasmus University Medical Center, PO Box 2040, 3000 CA, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Annelies Verbon
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, Erasmus University Medical Center, PO Box 2040, 3000 CA, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Wilfred van Ijcken
- Erasmus MC Genomics Core Facility, Department of Cell Biology, Erasmus University Medical Center, PO Box 2040, 3000 CA, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Peter D. Katsikis
- Department of Immunology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam, PO Box 2040, 3000 CA Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Robert-Jan Palstra
- Department of Biochemistry, Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam, PO Box 2040, 3000 CA Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Vladimir Havlicek
- Institute of Microbiology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Videnska 1083, CZ 14220 Prague 4, Czech Republic
| | - Sybren de Hoog
- Westerdijk Fungal Biodiversity Institute, Utrecht, Netherlands
- Center of Expertise in Mycology of Radboud UMC/CWZ, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Tokameh Mahmoudi
- Department of Biochemistry, Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam, PO Box 2040, 3000 CA Rotterdam, Netherlands
- Corresponding author.
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Ries LNA, Pardeshi L, Dong Z, Tan K, Steenwyk JL, Colabardini AC, Ferreira Filho JA, de Castro PA, Silva LP, Preite NW, Almeida F, de Assis LJ, dos Santos RAC, Bowyer P, Bromley M, Owens RA, Doyle S, Demasi M, Hernández DCR, Netto LES, Pupo MT, Rokas A, Loures FV, Wong KH, Goldman GH. The Aspergillus fumigatus transcription factor RglT is important for gliotoxin biosynthesis and self-protection, and virulence. PLoS Pathog 2020; 16:e1008645. [PMID: 32667960 PMCID: PMC7384679 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1008645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2020] [Revised: 07/27/2020] [Accepted: 05/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Aspergillus fumigatus is an opportunistic fungal pathogen that secretes an array of immune-modulatory molecules, including secondary metabolites (SMs), which contribute to enhancing fungal fitness and growth within the mammalian host. Gliotoxin (GT) is a SM that interferes with the function and recruitment of innate immune cells, which are essential for eliminating A. fumigatus during invasive infections. We identified a C6 Zn cluster-type transcription factor (TF), subsequently named RglT, important for A. fumigatus oxidative stress resistance, GT biosynthesis and self-protection. RglT regulates the expression of several gli genes of the GT biosynthetic gene cluster, including the oxidoreductase-encoding gene gliT, by directly binding to their respective promoter regions. Subsequently, RglT was shown to be important for virulence in a chemotherapeutic murine model of invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA). Homologues of RglT and GliT are present in eurotiomycete and sordariomycete fungi, including the non-GT-producing fungus A. nidulans, where a conservation of function was described. Phylogenetically informed model testing led to an evolutionary scenario in which the GliT-based resistance mechanism is ancestral and RglT-mediated regulation of GliT occurred subsequently. In conclusion, this work describes the function of a previously uncharacterised TF in oxidative stress resistance, GT biosynthesis and self-protection in both GT-producing and non-producing Aspergillus species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laure N. A. Ries
- Faculty of Medicine of Ribeirao Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Lakhansing Pardeshi
- Genomics and Bioinformatics Core, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macau SAR, China
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macau SAR, China
| | - Zhiqiang Dong
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macau SAR, China
| | - Kaeling Tan
- Genomics and Bioinformatics Core, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macau SAR, China
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macau SAR, China
- Centre for Precision Medicine and Research and Training, University of Macau, Macau SAR, China
| | - Jacob L. Steenwyk
- Department of Biological Sciences, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, United States of America
| | - Ana Cristina Colabardini
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirao Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Jaire A. Ferreira Filho
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirao Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Patricia A. de Castro
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirao Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Lilian P. Silva
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirao Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Nycolas W. Preite
- Institute of Science and Technology, Federal University of São Paulo, São José dos Campos, Brazil
| | - Fausto Almeida
- Faculty of Medicine of Ribeirao Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Leandro J. de Assis
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirao Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Renato A. C. dos Santos
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirao Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Paul Bowyer
- Manchester Fungal Infection Group, Division of Infection, Immunity and Respiratory Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Michael Bromley
- Manchester Fungal Infection Group, Division of Infection, Immunity and Respiratory Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | | | - Sean Doyle
- Department of Biology, Maynooth University, Maynooth, Ireland
| | - Marilene Demasi
- Institute Butantan, Laboratory of Biochemistry and Biophysics, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Diego C. R. Hernández
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirao Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | | | - Monica T. Pupo
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirao Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Antonis Rokas
- Department of Biological Sciences, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, United States of America
| | - Flavio V. Loures
- Institute of Science and Technology, Federal University of São Paulo, São José dos Campos, Brazil
| | - Koon H. Wong
- Genomics and Bioinformatics Core, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macau SAR, China
- Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Macau, Macau SAR, China
| | - Gustavo H. Goldman
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirao Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
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Schlosser O, Robert S, Noyon N. Airborne mycotoxins in waste recycling and recovery facilities: Occupational exposure and health risk assessment. WASTE MANAGEMENT (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2020; 105:395-404. [PMID: 32126367 DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2020.02.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2019] [Revised: 01/07/2020] [Accepted: 02/23/2020] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Mycotoxins are metabolites secreted by certain types of moulds, and some of them can be harmful to health. The objective of this study was to estimate the level of exposure to airborne aflatoxin B1, ochratoxin A, gliotoxin and sterigmatocystin in waste recycling and recovery facilities. An additional goal was to assess the related health risks for workers. Targeted mycotoxins were analysed quantitatively in 94 air samples collected in five sites using ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with high resolution mass spectrometry. The level of exposure to mycotoxin during working day scenarios was compared to benchmark values, either health-based guidelines when available or the concentration of no toxicological concern (CoNTC) when not. Eleven per cent of samples showed quantifiable measurement results. Aflatoxin B1 and sterigmatocystin were quantified at the mechanical separation area in mechanical-biological treatment (MBT) facilities and in the materials recovery facility (MRF), but not in composting plants and composting units in MBT facilities. The levels of exposure were all below 1 ng m-3. This is the first time exposure to sterigmatocystin in waste management facilities is reported and quantified. Ochratoxin A and gliotoxin were not quantified in any of the air samples. Health risk assessment approaches did not suggest a significant threat to workers' health. These data do not suggest the need for specific prevention measures in addition to those against other airborne biological agents.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Samuel Robert
- SUEZ, CIRSEE, 38 rue du Président Wilson, 78230 Le Pecq, France
| | - Naike Noyon
- SUEZ, CIRSEE, 38 rue du Président Wilson, 78230 Le Pecq, France
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29
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Ráduly Z, Szabó L, Madar A, Pócsi I, Csernoch L. Toxicological and Medical Aspects of Aspergillus-Derived Mycotoxins Entering the Feed and Food Chain. Front Microbiol 2020; 10:2908. [PMID: 31998250 PMCID: PMC6962185 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2019.02908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2019] [Accepted: 12/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Due to Earth's changing climate, the ongoing and foreseeable spreading of mycotoxigenic Aspergillus species has increased the possibility of mycotoxin contamination in the feed and food production chain. These harmful mycotoxins have aroused serious health and economic problems since their first appearance. The most potent Aspergillus-derived mycotoxins include aflatoxins, ochratoxins, gliotoxin, fumonisins, sterigmatocystin, and patulin. Some of them can be found in dairy products, mainly in milk and cheese, as well as in fresh and especially in dried fruits and vegetables, in nut products, typically in groundnuts, in oil seeds, in coffee beans, in different grain products, like rice, wheat, barley, rye, and frequently in maize and, furthermore, even in the liver of livestock fed by mycotoxin-contaminated forage. Though the mycotoxins present in the feed and food chain are well documented, the human physiological effects of mycotoxin exposure are not yet fully understood. It is known that mycotoxins have nephrotoxic, genotoxic, teratogenic, carcinogenic, and cytotoxic properties and, as a consequence, these toxins may cause liver carcinomas, renal dysfunctions, and also immunosuppressed states. The deleterious physiological effects of mycotoxins on humans are still a first-priority question. In food production and also in the case of acute and chronic poisoning, there are possibilities to set suitable food safety measures into operation to minimize the effects of mycotoxin contaminations. On the other hand, preventive actions are always better, due to the multivariate nature of mycotoxin exposures. In this review, the occurrence and toxicological features of major Aspergillus-derived mycotoxins are summarized and, furthermore, the possibilities of treatments in the medical practice to heal the deleterious consequences of acute and/or chronic exposures are presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zsolt Ráduly
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
- Doctoral School of Molecular Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - László Szabó
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
- Doctoral School of Molecular Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Anett Madar
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - István Pócsi
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Microbiology, Faculty of Science and Technology, Institute of Biotechnology, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - László Csernoch
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
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30
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Abo Nouh FA, Gezaf SA, Abdel-Azeem AM. Aspergillus Mycotoxins: Potential as Biocontrol Agents. Fungal Biol 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-48474-3_7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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31
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Marijani E, Kigadye E, Okoth S. Occurrence of Fungi and Mycotoxins in Fish Feeds and Their Impact on Fish Health. Int J Microbiol 2019; 2019:6743065. [PMID: 31827520 PMCID: PMC6881585 DOI: 10.1155/2019/6743065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2019] [Accepted: 10/01/2019] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The rapid population growth in developing countries has led to strong pressure on capture fisheries. However, capture fisheries have reached their maximal limits of fish production and are supplemented by farmed fish. The growth in aquaculture has led to high demand for fish feeds, which play a very important role in fish nutrition and health. Use of animal protein in fish feeds is expensive; hence, a majority of farmers from developing countries use local feed ingredients from plant origin as a source of dietary protein. However, these ingredients of plant origin provide the best natural substrates for fungi, which can be easily accompanied by mycotoxin development under suitable conditions. The locally made feed comprises ingredients such as soybeans, cottonseed cake, and wheat and maize bran which are mixed together and ground after which the compounded feed is pelleted and stored. Among the ingredients, maize and oilseeds are more susceptible for mycotoxigenic fungi compared to other ingredients. The outcomes of mycotoxin contamination in fish feeds are not different from other animal species intended for human consumption, and they are directly associated with production losses, particularly decreased weight gain and feed conversion, impaired immune system and reproductive performance, and increased fish mortality. Fish may also carry mycotoxin residues along the food chain, thus compromising human health. Hence, it is important to ensure the control of mycotoxin contamination in fish feeds, especially during the production and storage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esther Marijani
- Open University of Tanzania, P.O. Box 23409, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Emmanuel Kigadye
- Open University of Tanzania, P.O. Box 23409, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Sheila Okoth
- University of Nairobi, School of Biological Science, P.O. Box 30197-00100, Nairobi, Kenya
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Kjærbølling I, Mortensen UH, Vesth T, Andersen MR. Strategies to establish the link between biosynthetic gene clusters and secondary metabolites. Fungal Genet Biol 2019; 130:107-121. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fgb.2019.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2018] [Revised: 05/26/2019] [Accepted: 06/02/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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Zhang C, Chen F, Liu X, Han X, Hu Y, Su X, Chen Y, Sun Y, Han L. Gliotoxin Induces Cofilin Phosphorylation to Promote Actin Cytoskeleton Dynamics and Internalization of Aspergillus fumigatus Into Type II Human Pneumocyte Cells. Front Microbiol 2019; 10:1345. [PMID: 31275272 PMCID: PMC6591310 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2019.01345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2019] [Accepted: 05/29/2019] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Aspergillus fumigatus is able to internalize into lung epithelial cells to escape from immune attack for further dissemination. We previously reported that gliotoxin, a major mycotoxin of A. fumigatus, promotes this internalization; however, the mechanism remained unclear. Here, we report that gliotoxin is able to induce cofilin phosphorylation in A549 type II human pneumocytes. Either too high or too low a level of cofilin phosphorylation blocked the gliotoxin-induced actin cytoskeleton rearrangement and A. fumigatus internalization. LIM domain kinase 1 (LIMK1) and its upstream small GTPases (Cdc42 and RhoA, but not Rac1) predominantly mediated the gliotoxin-induced cofilin phosphorylation and A. fumigatus internalization. Simultaneously, gliotoxin significantly stimulated an increase in cAMP; however, adding an antagonist of PKA did not block gliotoxin-induced A. fumigatus internalization. In vivo, exogenous gliotoxin helped gliotoxin synthesis deficient strain gliPΔ invade into the lung tissue and the lung fungal burden increased markedly in immunosuppressed mice. In conclusion, these data revealed a novel role of gliotoxin in inducing cofilin phosphorylation mostly through the Cdc42/RhoA-LIMK1 signaling pathway to promote actin cytoskeleton rearrangement and internalization of A. fumigatus into type II human pneumocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Changjian Zhang
- Chinese PLA Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China.,Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Fangyan Chen
- Chinese PLA Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoyu Liu
- Chinese PLA Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China.,Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xuelin Han
- Chinese PLA Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
| | - Yingsong Hu
- Chinese PLA Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
| | - Xueting Su
- Chinese PLA Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
| | - Yong Chen
- Chinese PLA Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
| | - Yansong Sun
- Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Li Han
- Chinese PLA Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
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34
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Comas L, Polo E, Domingo MP, Hernández Y, Arias M, Esteban P, Martínez-Lostao L, Pardo J, Martínez de la Fuente J, Gálvez EM. Intracellular Delivery of Biologically-Active Fungal Metabolite Gliotoxin Using Magnetic Nanoparticles. MATERIALS 2019; 12:ma12071092. [PMID: 30987007 PMCID: PMC6480141 DOI: 10.3390/ma12071092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2019] [Revised: 03/25/2019] [Accepted: 03/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Gliotoxin (GT), a secondary metabolite produced by Aspergillus molds, has been proposed as a potential anti-tumor agent. Here we have developed a nanoparticle approach to enhance delivery of GT in tumor cells and establish a basis for its potential use as therapeutical drug. GT bound to magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) retained a high anti-tumor activity, correlating with efficient intracellular delivery, which was increased in the presence of glucose. Our results show that the attachment of GT to MNPs by covalent bonding enhances intracellular GT delivery without affecting its biological activity. This finding represents the first step to use this potent anti-tumor agent in the treatment of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Comas
- Instituto de Carboquímica (ICB-CSIC), 50018 Zaragoza, Spain.
| | - Esther Polo
- Centro Singular de Investigación en Química Biolóxica e Materiais Moleculares (CiQUS), Universidad de Santiago de Compostela, 15782 Santiago de Compostela, Spain.
| | - M Pilar Domingo
- Instituto de Carboquímica (ICB-CSIC), 50018 Zaragoza, Spain.
| | - Yulán Hernández
- Pontificia Universidad Católica del Peru, Departamento de Ciencias - Sección Química, Lima 1761, Peru.
| | - Maykel Arias
- Instituto de Carboquímica (ICB-CSIC), 50018 Zaragoza, Spain.
| | | | - Luis Martínez-Lostao
- Instituto de Investigaciones Sanitarias de Aragón (IIS), 50009 Zaragoza, Spain.
- Departamento de Microbiología, Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública, Universidad de Zaragoza, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain.
- Servicio de Inmunologia, Hospital Clinico Lozano Blesa, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain.
- Instituto de Nanociencia de Aragón, Universidad de Zaragoza, 50018 Zaragoza, Spain.
| | - Julián Pardo
- Departamento de Microbiología, Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública, Universidad de Zaragoza, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain.
- Instituto de Nanociencia de Aragón, Universidad de Zaragoza, 50018 Zaragoza, Spain.
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica de Aragón, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Aragón, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain.
- Fundacion Agencia Aragonesa para la Investigación y el Desarrollo (ARAID), 50018 Zaragoza, Spain.
- Instituto de Ciencia de Materiales de Aragón, ICMA-CSIC, Universidad de Zaragoza, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain.
| | - Jesús Martínez de la Fuente
- Instituto de Nanociencia de Aragón, Universidad de Zaragoza, 50018 Zaragoza, Spain.
- Instituto de Ciencia de Materiales de Aragón, ICMA-CSIC, Universidad de Zaragoza, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain.
| | - Eva M Gálvez
- Instituto de Carboquímica (ICB-CSIC), 50018 Zaragoza, Spain.
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Animal Models to Study Mucormycosis. J Fungi (Basel) 2019; 5:jof5020027. [PMID: 30934788 PMCID: PMC6617025 DOI: 10.3390/jof5020027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2019] [Revised: 03/22/2019] [Accepted: 03/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Mucormycosis is a rare but often fatal or debilitating infection caused by a diverse group of fungi. Animal models have been crucial in advancing our knowledge of mechanisms influencing the pathogenesis of mucormycoses, and to evaluate therapeutic strategies. This review describes the animal models established for mucormycosis, summarizes how they have been applied to study mucormycoses, and discusses the advantages and limitations of the different model systems.
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36
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Nafuka SN, Misihairabgwi JM, Bock R, Ishola A, Sulyok M, Krska R. Variation of Fungal Metabolites in Sorghum Malts Used to Prepare Namibian Traditional Fermented Beverages Omalodu and Otombo. Toxins (Basel) 2019; 11:toxins11030165. [PMID: 30884826 PMCID: PMC6468557 DOI: 10.3390/toxins11030165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2018] [Revised: 02/09/2019] [Accepted: 03/12/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Sorghum malts, which are important ingredients in traditional fermented beverages, are commonly infected by mycotoxigenic fungi and mycotoxins may transfer into the beverages, risking consumers’ health. Liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry was used to determine variation of fungal metabolites in 81 sorghum malts processed for brewing of Namibian beverages, otombo (n = 45) and omalodu (n = 36). Co-occurrence of European Union (EU)-regulated mycotoxins, such as patulin, aflatoxins (B1, B2, and G2), and fumonisins (B1, B2, and B3) was detected in both malts with a prevalence range of 2–84%. Aflatoxin B1 was quantified in omalodu (44%) and otombo malts (14%), with 20% of omalodu malts and 40% of otombo malts having levels above the EU allowable limit. Fumonisin B1 was quantified in both omalodu (84%) and otombo (42%) malts. Emerging mycotoxins, aflatoxin precursors, and ergot alkaloids were quantified in both malts. Notably, 102 metabolites were quantified in both malts, with 96% in omalodu malts and 93% in otombo malts. An average of 48 metabolites were quantified in otombo malts while an average of 67 metabolites were quantified in omalodu malts. The study accentuates the need to monitor mycotoxins in sorghum malts intended for brewing and to determine their fate in the beverages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylvia N Nafuka
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Namibia, Windhoek 10005, Namibia.
| | - Jane M Misihairabgwi
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, School of Medicine, University of Namibia, Windhoek 10005, Namibia.
| | - Ronnie Bock
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Namibia, Windhoek 10005, Namibia.
| | - Anthony Ishola
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Phytochemistry, School of Pharmacy, University of Namibia, Windhoek 10005, Namibia.
| | - Michael Sulyok
- Center for Analytical Chemistry, Department of Agro Biotechnology (IFA-Tulln), University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences Vienna (BOKU), Konrad Lorenz Str. 20, 3430 Tulln, Austria.
| | - Rudolf Krska
- Center for Analytical Chemistry, Department of Agro Biotechnology (IFA-Tulln), University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences Vienna (BOKU), Konrad Lorenz Str. 20, 3430 Tulln, Austria.
- Institute for Global Food Security, School of Biological Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, University Road, Belfast BT7 1NN, Northern Ireland, UK.
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Sheehan G, Nagl M, Kavanagh K. Exposure to N-chlorotaurine induces oxidative stress responses in Aspergillus fumigatus. J Med Microbiol 2018; 68:279-288. [PMID: 30543319 DOI: 10.1099/jmm.0.000900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The neutrophil-derived oxidant N-chlorotaurine (NCT) displays remarkable in vivo tolerability and efficacy against a range of pathogens. The aim of this study was to characterize the response of the pulmonary pathogen Aspergillus fumigatus to NCT. METHODOLOGY The effect of NCT on the growth and viability of A. fumigatus was characterized. NCT-induced alteration of amino acids and gliotoxin from A. fumigatus mycelium was assessed. Label-free shotgun quantitative proteomic analysis was performed on A. fumigatus exposed to NCT for 24 h. RESULTS Incubation of A. fumigatus with NCT at concentrations ranging from 6.8 to 55 mM decreased conidial growth and viability, and mycelium biomass relative to the controls. Exposure to NCT (13.77 mM) resulted in increased amino acids and gliotoxin levels from A. fumigatus mycelium. Exposure of A. fumigatus mycelium to NCT (6.8 mM) revealed an enrichment in proteins associated with the ribosome, transcription and translation and non-ribosomal peptide biosynthesis (e.g. Pes1, Pes3), which play an essential role in oxidative stress resistance in A. fumigatus. A decrease in the abundance of proteins associated with fumagillin and pseurotin biosynthesis highlighted the anti-virulence activity of NCT. CONCLUSION These results indicate that NCT induces an oxidative stress response in A. fumigatus as evidenced by alterations in the proteome and inhibits conidial and mycelial growth. Clinical investigations of topical application of NCT to treat Aspergillus infections are encouraged.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerard Sheehan
- 1Medical Mycology Laboratory, Department of Biology, Maynooth University, Maynooth, Co. Kildare, Ireland
| | - Markus Nagl
- 2Division of Hygiene and Medical Microbiology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Kevin Kavanagh
- 1Medical Mycology Laboratory, Department of Biology, Maynooth University, Maynooth, Co. Kildare, Ireland
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Arias M, Santiago L, Vidal-García M, Redrado S, Lanuza P, Comas L, Domingo MP, Rezusta A, Gálvez EM. Preparations for Invasion: Modulation of Host Lung Immunity During Pulmonary Aspergillosis by Gliotoxin and Other Fungal Secondary Metabolites. Front Immunol 2018; 9:2549. [PMID: 30459771 PMCID: PMC6232612 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.02549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2018] [Accepted: 10/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Pulmonary aspergillosis is a severe infectious disease caused by some members of the Aspergillus genus, that affects immunocompetent as well as immunocompromised patients. Among the different disease forms, Invasive Aspergillosis is the one causing the highest mortality, mainly, although not exclusively, affecting neutropenic patients. This genus is very well known by humans, since different sectors like pharmaceutical or food industry have taken advantage of the biological activity of some molecules synthetized by the fungus, known as secondary metabolites, including statins, antibiotics, fermentative compounds or colorants among others. However, during infection, in response to a hostile host environment, the fungal secondary metabolism is activated, producing different virulence factors to increase its survival chances. Some of these factors also contribute to fungal dissemination and invasion of adjacent and distant organs. Among the different secondary metabolites produced by Aspergillus spp. Gliotoxin (GT) is the best known and better characterized virulence factor. It is able to generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) due to the disulfide bridge present in its structure. It also presents immunosuppressive activity related with its ability to kill mammalian cells and/or inactivate critical immune signaling pathways like NFkB. In this comprehensive review, we will briefly give an overview of the lung immune response against Aspergillus as a preface to analyse the effect of different secondary metabolites on the host immune response, with a special attention to GT. We will discuss the results reported in the literature on the context of the animal models employed to analyse the role of GT as virulence factor, which is expected to greatly depend on the immune status of the host: why should you hide when nobody is seeking for you? Finally, GT immunosuppressive activity will be related with different human diseases predisposing to invasive aspergillosis in order to have a global view on the potential of GT to be used as a target to treat IA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maykel Arias
- Instituto de Carboquímica ICB-CSIC, Zaragoza, Spain
- Immune Effector Cells Group, Aragón Health Research Institute (IIS Aragón), Biomedical Research Centre of Aragón (CIBA), Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Llipsy Santiago
- Immune Effector Cells Group, Aragón Health Research Institute (IIS Aragón), Biomedical Research Centre of Aragón (CIBA), Zaragoza, Spain
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular and Cell Biology, Fac. Ciencias, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Matxalen Vidal-García
- Immune Effector Cells Group, Aragón Health Research Institute (IIS Aragón), Biomedical Research Centre of Aragón (CIBA), Zaragoza, Spain
- Servicio de Microbiología - Hospital Universitario Miguel Servet, Zaragoza, Spain
| | | | - Pilar Lanuza
- Immune Effector Cells Group, Aragón Health Research Institute (IIS Aragón), Biomedical Research Centre of Aragón (CIBA), Zaragoza, Spain
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular and Cell Biology, Fac. Ciencias, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Laura Comas
- Instituto de Carboquímica ICB-CSIC, Zaragoza, Spain
- Immune Effector Cells Group, Aragón Health Research Institute (IIS Aragón), Biomedical Research Centre of Aragón (CIBA), Zaragoza, Spain
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular and Cell Biology, Fac. Ciencias, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | | | - Antonio Rezusta
- Servicio de Microbiología - Hospital Universitario Miguel Servet, Zaragoza, Spain
- Department of Microbiology, Preventive Medicine and Public Health, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
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Yu Y, Blachowicz A, Will C, Szewczyk E, Glenn S, Gensberger-Reigl S, Nowrousian M, Wang CCC, Krappmann S. Mating-type factor-specific regulation of the fumagillin/pseurotin secondary metabolite supercluster in Aspergillus fumigatus. Mol Microbiol 2018; 110:1045-1065. [PMID: 30240513 DOI: 10.1111/mmi.14136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
In the human pathogenic mold Aspergillus fumigatus, sexual identity is determined by the mating-type idiomorphs MAT1-1 and MAT1-2 residing at the MAT locus. Upon crossing of compatible partners, a heterothallic mating is executed to eventually form cleistothecia that contain recombinant ascospores. Given that the MAT1 gene products are DNA binding master regulators that govern this complex developmental process, we monitored the MAT1-driven transcriptomes of A. fumigatus by conditional overexpression of either MAT1 gene followed by RNA-seq analyses. Numerous genes related to the process of mating were found to be under transcriptional control, such as pheromone production and recognition. Substantial differences between the MAT1-1- and MAT1-2-driven transcriptomes could be detected by functional categorization of differentially expressed genes. Moreover, a significant and distinct impact on expression of genetic clusters of secondary metabolism became apparent, which could be verified on the product level. Unexpectedly, specific cross-regulation of the fumagillin/pseurotin supercluster was evident, thereby uncoupling its co-regulatory characteristic. These insights imply a tight interconnection of sexual development accompanied by ascosporogenesis with secondary metabolite production of a pathogenic fungus and impose evolutionary constraints that link these two fundamental aspects of the fungal lifestyle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yidong Yu
- Mikrobiologisches Institut - Klinische Mikrobiologie, Immunologie und Hygiene, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen and Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Germany
| | - Adriana Blachowicz
- School of Pharmacy, John Staffer Pharmaceutical Sciences Center, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Cornelia Will
- Mikrobiologisches Institut - Klinische Mikrobiologie, Immunologie und Hygiene, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen and Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Germany
| | - Edyta Szewczyk
- Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg, Germany
| | - Steven Glenn
- School of Pharmacy, John Staffer Pharmaceutical Sciences Center, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Sabrina Gensberger-Reigl
- Henriette Schmidt-Burkhardt Chair of Food Chemistry, Emil Fischer Center, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Germany
| | - Minou Nowrousian
- Department of General and Molecular Botany, Ruhr University Bochum, Germany
| | - Clay C C Wang
- School of Pharmacy, John Staffer Pharmaceutical Sciences Center, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Sven Krappmann
- Mikrobiologisches Institut - Klinische Mikrobiologie, Immunologie und Hygiene, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen and Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Germany
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40
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Comparative systems analysis of the secretome of the opportunistic pathogen Aspergillus fumigatus and other Aspergillus species. Sci Rep 2018; 8:6617. [PMID: 29700415 PMCID: PMC5919931 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-25016-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2017] [Accepted: 04/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Aspergillus fumigatus and multiple other Aspergillus species cause a wide range of lung infections, collectively termed aspergillosis. Aspergilli are ubiquitous in environment with healthy immune systems routinely eliminating inhaled conidia, however, Aspergilli can become an opportunistic pathogen in immune-compromised patients. The aspergillosis mortality rate and emergence of drug-resistance reveals an urgent need to identify novel targets. Secreted and cell membrane proteins play a critical role in fungal-host interactions and pathogenesis. Using a computational pipeline integrating data from high-throughput experiments and bioinformatic predictions, we have identified secreted and cell membrane proteins in ten Aspergillus species known to cause aspergillosis. Small secreted and effector-like proteins similar to agents of fungal-plant pathogenesis were also identified within each secretome. A comparison with humans revealed that at least 70% of Aspergillus secretomes have no sequence similarity with the human proteome. An analysis of antigenic qualities of Aspergillus proteins revealed that the secretome is significantly more antigenic than cell membrane proteins or the complete proteome. Finally, overlaying an expression dataset, four A. fumigatus proteins upregulated during infection and with available structures, were found to be structurally similar to known drug target proteins in other organisms, and were able to dock in silico with the respective drug.
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41
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Oakley CE, Ahuja M, Sun WW, Entwistle R, Akashi T, Yaegashi J, Guo CJ, Cerqueira GC, Russo Wortman J, Wang CCC, Chiang YM, Oakley BR. Discovery of McrA, a master regulator of Aspergillus secondary metabolism. Mol Microbiol 2016; 103:347-365. [PMID: 27775185 DOI: 10.1111/mmi.13562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/16/2016] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Fungal secondary metabolites (SMs) are extremely important in medicine and agriculture, but regulation of their biosynthesis is incompletely understood. We have developed a genetic screen in Aspergillus nidulans for negative regulators of fungal SM gene clusters and we have used this screen to isolate mutations that upregulate transcription of the non-ribosomal peptide synthetase gene required for nidulanin A biosynthesis. Several of these mutations are allelic and we have identified the mutant gene by genome sequencing. The gene, which we designate mcrA, is conserved but uncharacterized, and it encodes a putative transcription factor. Metabolite profiles of mcrA deletant, mcrA overexpressing, and parental strains reveal that mcrA regulates at least ten SM gene clusters. Deletion of mcrA stimulates SM production even in strains carrying a deletion of the SM regulator laeA, and deletion of mcrA homologs in Aspergillus terreus and Penicillum canescens alters the secondary metabolite profile of these organisms. Deleting mcrA in a genetic dereplication strain has allowed us to discover two novel compounds as well as an antibiotic not known to be produced by A. nidulans. Deletion of mcrA upregulates transcription of hundreds of genes including many that are involved in secondary metabolism, while downregulating a smaller number of genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Elizabeth Oakley
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, University of Kansas, 1200 Sunnyside Avenue, Lawrence, Kansas, 66045, USA
| | - Manmeet Ahuja
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, University of Kansas, 1200 Sunnyside Avenue, Lawrence, Kansas, 66045, USA
| | - Wei-Wen Sun
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Southern California, 1985 Zonal Avenue, Los Angeles, California, 90089, USA
| | - Ruth Entwistle
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, University of Kansas, 1200 Sunnyside Avenue, Lawrence, Kansas, 66045, USA
| | - Tomohiro Akashi
- Division of OMICS analysis, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai, Nagoya, Aichi, 466-8550, Japan
| | - Junko Yaegashi
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Southern California, 1985 Zonal Avenue, Los Angeles, California, 90089, USA
| | - Chun-Jun Guo
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Southern California, 1985 Zonal Avenue, Los Angeles, California, 90089, USA
| | - Gustavo C Cerqueira
- Genome Sequencing and Analysis Program, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, 415 Main St, Cambridge, MA, 02142, USA
| | - Jennifer Russo Wortman
- Genome Sequencing and Analysis Program, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, 415 Main St, Cambridge, MA, 02142, USA
| | - Clay C C Wang
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Southern California, 1985 Zonal Avenue, Los Angeles, California, 90089, USA.,Department of Chemistry, Dornsife Colleges of Letters, Arts, and Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, 90089, USA
| | - Yi-Ming Chiang
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Southern California, 1985 Zonal Avenue, Los Angeles, California, 90089, USA.,Department of Pharmacy, Chia Nan University of Pharmacy and Science, Tainan City, Taiwan, 71710, Republic of China
| | - Berl R Oakley
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, University of Kansas, 1200 Sunnyside Avenue, Lawrence, Kansas, 66045, USA
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Duell ER, Glaser M, Le Chapelain C, Antes I, Groll M, Huber EM. Sequential Inactivation of Gliotoxin by the S-Methyltransferase TmtA. ACS Chem Biol 2016; 11:1082-9. [PMID: 26808594 DOI: 10.1021/acschembio.5b00905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The epipolythiodioxopiperazine (ETP) gliotoxin mediates toxicity via its reactive thiol groups and thereby contributes to virulence of the human pathogenic fungus Aspergillus fumigatus. Self-intoxication of the mold is prevented either by reversible oxidation of reduced gliotoxin or by irreversible conversion to bis(methylthio)gliotoxin. The latter is produced by the S-methyltransferase TmtA and attenuates ETP biosynthesis. Here, we report the crystal structure of TmtA in complex with S-(5'-adenosyl)-l-homocysteine. TmtA features one substrate and one cofactor binding pocket per protein, and thus, bis-thiomethylation of gliotoxin occurs sequentially. Molecular docking of substrates and products into the active site of TmtA reveals that gliotoxin forms specific interactions with the protein surroundings, and free energy calculations indicate that methylation of the C10a-SH group precedes alkylation of the C3-SH site. Altogether, TmtA is well suited to selectively convert gliotoxin and to control its biosynthesis, suggesting that homologous enzymes serve to regulate the production of their toxic natural sulfur compounds in a similar manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elke R. Duell
- Center for Integrated Protein
Science Munich (CIPSM) at the Department Chemie, Technische Universität München, Lichtenbergstr. 4, 85748 Garching, Germany
| | - Manuel Glaser
- Center for Integrated Protein
Science Munich (CIPSM) at the Department Chemie, Technische Universität München, Lichtenbergstr. 4, 85748 Garching, Germany
| | - Camille Le Chapelain
- Center for Integrated Protein
Science Munich (CIPSM) at the Department Chemie, Technische Universität München, Lichtenbergstr. 4, 85748 Garching, Germany
| | - Iris Antes
- Center for Integrated Protein
Science Munich (CIPSM) at the Department Chemie, Technische Universität München, Lichtenbergstr. 4, 85748 Garching, Germany
| | - Michael Groll
- Center for Integrated Protein
Science Munich (CIPSM) at the Department Chemie, Technische Universität München, Lichtenbergstr. 4, 85748 Garching, Germany
| | - Eva M. Huber
- Center for Integrated Protein
Science Munich (CIPSM) at the Department Chemie, Technische Universität München, Lichtenbergstr. 4, 85748 Garching, Germany
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43
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Zhuang Z, Lohmar JM, Satterlee T, Cary JW, Calvo AM. The Master Transcription Factor mtfA Governs Aflatoxin Production, Morphological Development and Pathogenicity in the Fungus Aspergillus flavus. Toxins (Basel) 2016; 8:toxins8010029. [PMID: 26805883 PMCID: PMC4728551 DOI: 10.3390/toxins8010029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2015] [Revised: 12/23/2015] [Accepted: 01/06/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Aspergillus flavus produces a variety of toxic secondary metabolites; among them, the aflatoxins (AFs) are the most well known. These compounds are highly mutagenic and carcinogenic, particularly AFB1. A. flavus is capable of colonizing a number of economically-important crops, such as corn, cotton, peanut and tree nuts, and contaminating them with AFs. Molecular genetic studies in A. flavus could identify novel gene targets for use in strategies to reduce AF contamination and its adverse impact on food and feed supplies worldwide. In the current study, we investigated the role of the master transcription factor gene mtfA in A. flavus. Our results revealed that forced overexpression of mtfA results in a drastic decrease or elimination of several secondary metabolites, among them AFB1. The reduction in AFB1 was accompanied by a decrease in aflR expression. Furthermore, mtfA also regulates development; conidiation was influenced differently by this gene depending on the type of colonized substrate. In addition to its effect on conidiation, mtfA is necessary for the normal maturation of sclerotia. Importantly, mtfA positively affects the pathogenicity of A. flavus when colonizing peanut seeds. AF production in colonized seeds was decreased in the deletion mtfA strain and particularly in the overexpression strain, where only trace amounts were detected. Interestingly, a more rapid colonization of the seed tissue occurred when mtfA was overexpressed, coinciding with an increase in lipase activity and faster maceration of the oily part of the seed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenhong Zhuang
- Department of Biological Sciences, Northern Illinois University, 155 Castle Dr., Dekalb, IL 60115, USA.
| | - Jessica M Lohmar
- Department of Biological Sciences, Northern Illinois University, 155 Castle Dr., Dekalb, IL 60115, USA.
| | - Timothy Satterlee
- Department of Biological Sciences, Northern Illinois University, 155 Castle Dr., Dekalb, IL 60115, USA.
| | - Jeffrey W Cary
- Food and Feed Safety Research Unit, USDA/ARS, Southern Regional Research Center, New Orleans, LA 70124, USA.
| | - Ana M Calvo
- Department of Biological Sciences, Northern Illinois University, 155 Castle Dr., Dekalb, IL 60115, USA.
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Throckmorton K, Lim FY, Kontoyiannis DP, Zheng W, Keller NP. Redundant synthesis of a conidial polyketide by two distinct secondary metabolite clusters in Aspergillus fumigatus. Environ Microbiol 2015; 18:246-59. [PMID: 26242966 DOI: 10.1111/1462-2920.13007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2015] [Revised: 07/27/2015] [Accepted: 07/29/2015] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Filamentous fungi are renowned for the production of bioactive secondary metabolites. Typically, one distinct metabolite is generated from a specific secondary metabolite cluster. Here, we characterize the newly described trypacidin (tpc) cluster in the opportunistic human pathogen Aspergillus fumigatus. We find that this cluster as well as the previously characterized endocrocin (enc) cluster both contribute to the production of the spore metabolite endocrocin. Whereas trypacidin is eliminated when only tpc cluster genes are deleted, endocrocin production is only eliminated when both the tpc and enc non-reducing polyketide synthase-encoding genes, tpcC and encA, respectively, are deleted. EncC, an anthrone oxidase, converts the product released from EncA to endocrocin as a final product. In contrast, endocrocin synthesis by the tpc cluster likely results from incomplete catalysis by TpcK (a putative decarboxylase), as its deletion results in a nearly 10-fold increase in endocrocin production. We suggest endocrocin is likely a shunt product in all related non-reducing polyketide synthase clusters containing homologues of TpcK and TpcL (a putative anthrone oxidase), e.g. geodin and monodictyphenone. This finding represents an unusual example of two physically discrete secondary metabolite clusters generating the same natural product in one fungal species by distinct routes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kurt Throckmorton
- Department of Genetics, University of Wisconsin - Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Fang Yun Lim
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Wisconsin - Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | | | - Weifa Zheng
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Wisconsin - Madison, Madison, WI, USA.,Key Laboratory for Biotechnology, Jiangsu Normal University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Nancy P Keller
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Wisconsin - Madison, Madison, WI, USA.,Department of Bacteriology, University of Wisconsin - Madison, Madison, WI, USA
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45
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Welch TR, Williams RM. Epidithiodioxopiperazines. occurrence, synthesis and biogenesis. Nat Prod Rep 2014; 31:1376-404. [PMID: 24816491 DOI: 10.1039/c3np70097f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Epidithiodioxopiperazine alkaloids possess an astonishing array of molecular architecture and generally exhibit potent biological activity. Nearly twenty distinct families have been isolated and characterized since the seminal discovery of gliotoxin in 1936. Numerous biosynthetic investigations offer a glimpse at the relative ease with which Nature is able to assemble this class of molecules, while providing synthetic chemists inspiration for the development of more efficient syntheses. Herein, we discuss the isolation and characterization, proposed fungal biogeneses, and total syntheses of epidithiodioxopiperazines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy R Welch
- Department of Chemistry, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado 80523, USA.
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46
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Scharf DH, Habel A, Heinekamp T, Brakhage AA, Hertweck C. Opposed effects of enzymatic gliotoxin N- and S-methylations. J Am Chem Soc 2014; 136:11674-9. [PMID: 25062268 DOI: 10.1021/ja5033106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Gliotoxin (1), a virulence factor of the human pathogenic fungus Aspergillus fumigatus, is the prototype of epipoly(thiodioxopiperazine) (ETP) toxins. Here we report the discovery and functional analysis of two methyl transferases (MTs) that play crucial roles for ETP toxicity. Genome comparisons, knockouts, and in vitro enzyme studies identified a new S-adenosyl-l-methionine-dependent S-MT (TmtA) that is, surprisingly, encoded outside the gli gene cluster. We found that TmtA irreversibly inactivates ETP by S-alkylation and that this detoxification strategy appears to be not only limited to ETP producers. Furthermore, we unveiled that GliN functions as a freestanding amide N-MT. GliN-mediated amide methylation confers stability to ETP, damping the spontaneous formation of tri- and tetrasulfides. In addition, enzymatic N-alkylation constitutes the last step in gliotoxin biosynthesis and is a prerequisite for the cytotoxicity of the molecule. Thus, these specialized alkylating enzymes have dramatic and fully opposed effects: complete activation or inactivation of the toxin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel H Scharf
- Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology, Hans Knoell Institute , Beutenbergstrasse 11a, 07745 Jena, Germany
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Dolan S, Owens R, O’Keeffe G, Hammel S, Fitzpatrick D, Jones G, Doyle S. Regulation of Nonribosomal Peptide Synthesis: bis-Thiomethylation Attenuates Gliotoxin Biosynthesis in Aspergillus fumigatus. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014; 21:999-1012. [DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2014.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2014] [Revised: 07/09/2014] [Accepted: 07/21/2014] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
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Wang DN, Toyotome T, Muraosa Y, Watanabe A, Wuren T, Bunsupa S, Aoyagi K, Yamazaki M, Takino M, Kamei K. GliA in Aspergillus fumigatus is required for its tolerance to gliotoxin and affects the amount of extracellular and intracellular gliotoxin. Med Mycol 2014; 52:506-18. [DOI: 10.1093/mmy/myu007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
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Schoberle TJ, Nguyen-Coleman CK, Herold J, Yang A, Weirauch M, Hughes TR, McMurray JS, May GS. A novel C2H2 transcription factor that regulates gliA expression interdependently with GliZ in Aspergillus fumigatus. PLoS Genet 2014; 10:e1004336. [PMID: 24784729 PMCID: PMC4006717 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1004336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2013] [Accepted: 03/13/2014] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Secondary metabolites are produced by numerous organisms and can either be beneficial, benign, or harmful to humans. Genes involved in the synthesis and transport of these secondary metabolites are frequently found in gene clusters, which are often coordinately regulated, being almost exclusively dependent on transcription factors that are located within the clusters themselves. Gliotoxin, which is produced by a variety of Aspergillus species, Trichoderma species, and Penicillium species, exhibits immunosuppressive properties and has therefore been the subject of research for many laboratories. There have been a few proteins shown to regulate the gliotoxin cluster, most notably GliZ, a Zn2Cys6 binuclear finger transcription factor that lies within the cluster, and LaeA, a putative methyltransferase that globally regulates secondary metabolism clusters within numerous fungal species. Using a high-copy inducer screen in A. fumigatus, our lab has identified a novel C2H2 transcription factor, which plays an important role in regulating the gliotoxin biosynthetic cluster. This transcription factor, named GipA, induces gliotoxin production when present in extra copies. Furthermore, loss of gipA reduces gliotoxin production significantly. Through protein binding microarray and mutagenesis, we have identified a DNA binding site recognized by GipA that is in extremely close proximity to a potential GliZ DNA binding site in the 5' untranslated region of gliA, which encodes an efflux pump within the gliotoxin cluster. Not surprisingly, GliZ and GipA appear to work in an interdependent fashion to positively control gliA expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taylor J. Schoberle
- The University of Texas Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences at Houston, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - C. Kim Nguyen-Coleman
- The University of Texas Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences at Houston, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Jennifer Herold
- The University of Texas Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences at Houston, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, United States of America
- Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Division of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Ally Yang
- Banting and Best Department of Medical Research, Donnelly Centre, and Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Matt Weirauch
- Banting and Best Department of Medical Research, Donnelly Centre, and Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Timothy R. Hughes
- Banting and Best Department of Medical Research, Donnelly Centre, and Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - John S. McMurray
- The University of Texas Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences at Houston, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, United States of America
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, Division of Cancer Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Gregory S. May
- The University of Texas Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences at Houston, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, United States of America
- Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Division of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, United States of America
- Program in Genes and Development, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, United States of America
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Eshwika A, Kelly J, Fallon JP, Kavanagh K. Exposure of Aspergillus fumigatus to caspofungin results in the release, and de novo biosynthesis, of gliotoxin. Med Mycol 2014; 51:121-7. [PMID: 23323804 DOI: 10.3109/13693786.2012.688180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Caspofungin is a member of the echinocandin class of antifungal agents that inhibit the synthesis of β 1,3 glucan thus disrupting fungal cell wall structure and function. Exposure of the Aspergillus fumigatus cultures to caspofungin (0.01, 0.1 or 1.0 μg/ml) resulted in a reduction in cell growth, but the production of the epipolythiodioxopiperazine toxin, gliotoxin, was comparable, or greater, in cultures exposed to caspofungin than untreated controls. Exposure of A. fumigatus hyphae to 1.0 μg/ml caspofungin for 4 h resulted in the release of amino acids (P = 0.01), protein (P = 0.002) and gliotoxin (P = 0.02). Cultures of A. fumigatus incubated in the presence of caspofungin for 4 or 24 h demonstrated enhanced gliotoxin release (P = 0.04 and 0.03, respectively) and biosynthesis (P = 0.04 and 0.03, respectively) compared to that by control cultures. The results presented here indicate that exposure of A. fumigatus to caspofungin results in increased cell permeability and an increase in the synthesis and release of gliotoxin. Since gliotoxin has well established immunosuppressive properties it is possible that exposure of A. fumigatus to caspofungin may potentiate the production of this toxin at the site of infection. Elevated gliotoxin biosynthesis may be an attempt by the fungus to restore the redox balance of the cell following exposure to the antifungal agent but the overall effect appears to be enhanced synthesis and release.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Eshwika
- Medical Mycology Unit, National Institute for Cellular Biotechnology, Department of Biology, National University of Ireland Maynooth, Co. Kildare, Ireland
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