1
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Kumar D, Kumar A. Molecular Determinants Involved in Candida albicans Biofilm Formation and Regulation. Mol Biotechnol 2024; 66:1640-1659. [PMID: 37410258 DOI: 10.1007/s12033-023-00796-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023]
Abstract
Candida albicans is known for its pathogenicity, although it lives within the human body as a commensal member. The commensal nature of C. albicans is well controlled and regulated by the host's immune system as they live in the harmonized microenvironment. However, the development of certain unusual microhabitat conditions (change in pH, co-inhabiting microorganisms' population ratio, debilitated host-immune system) pokes this commensal fungus to transform into a pathogen in such a way that it starts to propagate very rapidly and tries to breach the epithelial barrier to enter the host's systemic circulations. In addition, Candida is infamous as a major nosocomial (hospital-acquired infection) agent because it enters the human body through venous catheters or medical prostheses. The hysterical mode of C. albicans growth builds its microcolony or biofilm, which is pathogenic for the host. Biofilms propose additional resistance mechanisms from host immunity or extracellular chemicals to aid their survival. Differential gene expressions and regulations within the biofilms cause altered morphology and metabolism. The genes associated with adhesiveness, hyphal/pseudo-hyphal growth, persister cell transformation, and biofilm formation by C. albicans are controlled by myriads of cell-signaling regulators. These genes' transcription is controlled by different molecular determinants like transcription factors and regulators. Therefore, this review has focused discussion on host-immune-sensing molecular determinants of Candida during biofilm formation, regulatory descriptors (secondary messengers, regulatory RNAs, transcription factors) of Candida involved in biofilm formation that could enable small-molecule drug discovery against these molecular determinants, and lead to disrupt the well-structured Candida biofilms effectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dushyant Kumar
- Department of Biotechnology, National Institute of Technology, Raipur, Chhattisgarh, 492010, India
| | - Awanish Kumar
- Department of Biotechnology, National Institute of Technology, Raipur, Chhattisgarh, 492010, India.
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2
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Bregón-Villahoz M, Menéndez-Manjón P, Carrano G, Díez-Villalba A, Arrieta-Aguirre I, Fernandez-de-Larrinoa I, Moragues MD. Candida albicans cDNA library screening reveals novel potential diagnostic targets for invasive candidiasis. Diagn Microbiol Infect Dis 2024; 109:116311. [PMID: 38657353 DOI: 10.1016/j.diagmicrobio.2024.116311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
The detection of patterns associated with the invasive form of Candida albicans, such as Candida albicans germ tube antibodies (CAGTA), is a useful complement to blood culture for Invasive Candidiasis (IC) diagnosis. As CAGTA are detected by a non-standardisable and non-automatable technique, a Candida albicans cDNA expression library was screened with CAGTA isolated from serum of an animal model of invasive candidiasis, and five protein targets were identified: hyphally regulated cell wall protein 1 (Hyr1), enolase 1 (Eno1), coatomer subunit gamma (Sec21), a metallo-aminopeptidase (Ape2) and cystathionine gamma-lyase (Cys3). Homology with proteins from other organisms rules out Cys3 as a good biomarker while Sec21 results suggest that it is not in the germ tubes surface but secreted to the external environment. Our analysis propose Ape2, Sec21 and a region of Hyr1 different from the one currently being studied for immunoprotection as potential biomarker candidates for the diagnosis of IC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Bregón-Villahoz
- Department of Nursing I, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Spain; Department of Immunology, Microbiology and Parasitology, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Spain
| | - Pilar Menéndez-Manjón
- Department of Nursing I, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Spain; Department of Immunology, Microbiology and Parasitology, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Spain
| | - Giulia Carrano
- Department of Immunology, Microbiology and Parasitology, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Spain
| | - Ander Díez-Villalba
- Department of Nursing I, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Spain; Department of Immunology, Microbiology and Parasitology, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Spain
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3
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El-Shiekh RA, Meselhy MR, Elshimy R, Ibrahim MA, Ali ME, Hassanen EI. Plumieride as a novel anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory iridoid against superficial candidiasis in mice. BMC Complement Med Ther 2024; 24:224. [PMID: 38858704 PMCID: PMC11163697 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-024-04508-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024] Open
Abstract
In the past few decades, there has been a notable rise in the occurrence of several types of candidiasis. Candida albicans is the most common cause of superficial fungal infections in humans. In this study, plumieride, one of the major iridoids from Plumeria obtusa L. leaves, was isolated and investigated for its potential against Candida albicans (CA)-induced dermatitis in mice. qRT-PCR was done to assess the impact of plumieride on the expression of the major virulence genes of CA. Five groups (n = 7) of adult male BALB/c mice were categorized into: group I: non-infected mice; group II: mice infected intradermally with 107-108 CFU/mL of CA; group III: CA-infected mice treated with standard fluconazole (50 mg/kg bwt.); group IV and V: CA-infected mice treated with plumieride (25- and 50 mg/kg. bwt., respectively). All the treatments were subcutaneously injected once a day for 3 days. Skin samples were collected on the 4th day post-inoculation to perform pathological, microbial, and molecular studies. The results of the in vitro study proved that plumieride has better antifungal activity than fluconazole, manifested by a wider zone of inhibition and a lower MIC. Plumieride also downregulated the expression of CA virulence genes (ALS1, Plb1, and Hyr1). CA-infected mice showed extensive dermatitis, confirmed by strong iNOS, TNF-α, IL-1β, and NF-κB genes or immune expressions. Whereas the treatment of CA-infected mice with plumieride significantly reduced the microscopic skin lesions and modulated the expression of all measured proinflammatory cytokines and inflammatory markers in a dose-dependent manner. Plumieride interfered with the expression of C. albicans virulence factors and modulated the inflammatory response in the skin of mice infected with CA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riham A El-Shiekh
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo, 11562, Egypt.
| | - Meselhy Rageb Meselhy
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo, 11562, Egypt
| | - Rana Elshimy
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ahram Canadian University, Giza, 12573, Egypt
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Egyptian Drug Authority, Cairo, 15301, Egypt
| | - Marwa A Ibrahim
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Giza, 12211, Egypt
| | - Merhan E Ali
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Giza, 12211, Egypt
| | - Eman I Hassanen
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Giza, 12211, Egypt
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4
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Wang Z, Shao J. Fungal vaccines and adjuvants: a tool to reveal the interaction between host and fungi. Arch Microbiol 2024; 206:293. [PMID: 38850421 DOI: 10.1007/s00203-024-04010-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2024] [Revised: 05/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/10/2024]
Abstract
Fungal infections are incurring high risks in a range from superficial mucosal discomforts (such as oropharyngeal candidiasis and vulvovaginal candidiasis) to disseminated life-threatening diseases (such as invasive pulmonary aspergillosis and cryptococcal meningitis) and becoming a global health problem in especially immunodeficient population. The major obstacle to conquer fungal harassment lies in the presence of increasing resistance to conventional antifungal agents used in newly clinically isolated strains. Although recombinant cytokines and mono-/poly-clonal antibodies are added into antifungal armamentarium, more effective antimycotic drugs are exceedingly demanded. It is comforting that the development of fungal vaccines and adjuvants opens up a window to brighten the prospective way in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of fungal assaults. In this review, we focus on the progression of several major fungal vaccines devised for the control of Candida spp., Aspergillus spp., Cryptococcus spp., Coccidioides spp., Paracoccidioides spp., Blastomyces spp., Histoplasma spp., Pneumocystis spp. as well as the adjuvants adopted. We then expound the interaction between fungal vaccines/adjuvants and host innate (macrophages, dendritic cells, neutrophils), humoral (IgG, IgM and IgA) and cellular (Th1, Th2, Th17 and Tc17) immune responses which generally experience immune recognition of pattern recognition receptors, activation of immune cells, and clearance of invaded fungi. Furthermore, we anticipate an in-depth understanding of immunomodulatory properties of univalent and multivalent vaccines against diverse opportunistic fungi, providing helpful information in the design of novel fungal vaccines and adjuvants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zixu Wang
- Laboratory of Anti-Infection and Immunity, College of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine (College of Life Science), Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Zhijing Building, 350 Longzihu Road, Xinzhan District, Hefei, 230012, Anhui, People's Republic of China
| | - Jing Shao
- Laboratory of Anti-Infection and Immunity, College of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine (College of Life Science), Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Zhijing Building, 350 Longzihu Road, Xinzhan District, Hefei, 230012, Anhui, People's Republic of China.
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Anhui Academy of Chinese Medicine, Zhijing Building, 350 Longzihu Road, Xinzhan District, Hefei, 230012, Anhui, People's Republic of China.
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Consuegra-Asprilla JM, Rodríguez-Echeverri C, Posada DH, Gómez BL, González Á. Patients with recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis exhibit a decrease in both the fungicidal activity of neutrophils and the proliferation of peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Mycoses 2024; 67:e13720. [PMID: 38551114 DOI: 10.1111/myc.13720] [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: 12/12/2023] [Revised: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis (RVVC) is an important and underestimated fungal infection. OBJECTIVE We aimed to determine the fungicidal and proliferative capacities of neutrophils and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), respectively and the clinical and microbiological characteristics of a cohort of Colombian patients diagnosed with RVVC. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted. A total of 66 women were included (40 diagnosed with RVVC and 26 healthy women [HW]). Demographic and clinical data were recorded. Vaginal fluid samples were obtained for isolation, identification and antifungal susceptibility testing of Candida species using selective culture media and the Vitek 2.0® system. Blood samples were also obtained to evaluate cell subpopulations; furthermore, neutrophils and PBMCs were isolated to determine their fungicidal and proliferative capacities, respectively. RESULTS The median age was 29 (IQR: 34-23) for RVVC and 24 (IQR: 30-23) for HW. Only two species of the genus Candida were identified: Candida albicans (92.5%) and Candida lusitaniae (7.5%). Resistance to fluconazole, voriconazole, flucytosine and amphotericin B was observed on six C. albicans isolates and one C. lusitaniae isolate. Only the family history of vulvovaginal candidiasis was associated with RVVC occurrence. The RVVC group exhibited a significantly higher number of neutrophils but with lower fungicidal activity in comparison to HW; likewise, PBMCs from RVVC patients presented a lower proliferation index when stimulated with C. albicans. CONCLUSION Contrary to what has been reported worldwide, in Colombian patients with RVVC, C. albicans was the main isolated species without increased antifungal resistance. The diminished fungicidal and proliferative capacities of neutrophils and PBMCs, respectively, could suggest a possible alteration in the innate and adaptive immune responses.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Carolina Rodríguez-Echeverri
- Basic and Applied Microbiology Research Group (MICROBA), School of Microbiology, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellin, Colombia
| | - Daniela Herrera Posada
- Sexual Health and Cancer Group, School of Microbiology, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellin, Colombia
| | - Beatriz L Gómez
- Translational Microbiology and Emerging Diseases Research Group (MICROS), School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Ángel González
- Basic and Applied Microbiology Research Group (MICROBA), School of Microbiology, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellin, Colombia
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6
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Feng Z, Lu H, Jiang Y. Promising immunotherapeutic targets for treating candidiasis. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2024; 14:1339501. [PMID: 38404288 PMCID: PMC10884116 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2024.1339501] [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: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024] Open
Abstract
In the last twenty years, there has been a significant increase in invasive fungal infections, which has corresponded with the expanding population of individuals with compromised immune systems. As a result, the mortality rate linked to these infections remains unacceptably high. The currently available antifungal drugs, such as azoles, polyenes, and echinocandins, face limitations in terms of their diversity, the escalating resistance of fungi and the occurrence of significant adverse effects. Consequently, there is an urgent need to develop new antifungal medications. Vaccines and antibodies present a promising avenue for addressing fungal infections due to their targeted antifungal properties and ability to modulate the immune response. This review investigates the structure and function of cell wall proteins, secreted proteins, and functional proteins within C. albicans. Furthermore, it seeks to analyze the current advancements and challenges in macromolecular drugs to identify new targets for the effective management of candidiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hui Lu
- Department of Pharmacy, Shanghai Tenth People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuanying Jiang
- Department of Pharmacy, Shanghai Tenth People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
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Bromuro C, Posteraro B, Murri R, Fantoni M, Tumbarello M, Sanguinetti M, Dattilo R, Cauda R, Cassone A, Torosantucci A. Identification of two anti- Candida antibodies associated with the survival of patients with candidemia. mBio 2024; 15:e0276923. [PMID: 38088540 PMCID: PMC10790786 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.02769-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2024] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Candidemia (bloodstream invasion by Candida species) is a major fungal disease in humans. Despite the recent progress in diagnosis and treatment, therapeutic options are limited and under threat of antimicrobial resistance. The disease mortality remains high (around 40%). In contrast with deep-seated invasive candidiasis, particularly that occurring in patients with hematologic malignancies and organ transplants, patients with candidemia are often not immunocompromised and therefore able to mount memory anticandidal immune responses, perhaps primed by Candida commensalism. We investigated antibody immunity in candidemia patients and report here on the ability of these patients to produce antibodies that react with Candida antigens. In particular, the patients with high titers of IgG reactive with two immunodominant, virulence-associated antigens (Als3 and MP65) had a higher 30-day survival. If confirmed by controlled, prospective clinical studies, our data could inform the development of antibody therapy to better treat a severe fungal infection such as candidiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Bromuro
- Dipartimento di Malattie Infettive, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Brunella Posteraro
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biotecnologiche di Base, Cliniche Intensivologiche e Perioperatorie, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Rita Murri
- Dipartimento Salute e Bioetica, Sezione Malattie Infettive, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS , Rome, Italy
| | - Massimo Fantoni
- Dipartimento Salute e Bioetica, Sezione Malattie Infettive, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS , Rome, Italy
| | - Mario Tumbarello
- Dipartimento Biotecnologie Mediche, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Maurizio Sanguinetti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biotecnologiche di Base, Cliniche Intensivologiche e Perioperatorie, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Rosanna Dattilo
- Dipartimento di Malattie Infettive, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Roberto Cauda
- Dipartimento Salute e Bioetica, Sezione Malattie Infettive, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS , Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Cassone
- Polo d'Innovazione della Genomica, Genetica e Biologia, Siena, Italy
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8
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Kabir AR, Chaudhary AA, Aladwani MO, Podder S. Decoding the host-pathogen interspecies molecular crosstalk during oral candidiasis in humans: an in silico analysis. Front Genet 2023; 14:1245445. [PMID: 37900175 PMCID: PMC10603195 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2023.1245445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: The objective of this study is to investigate the interaction between Candida albicans and human proteins during oral candidiasis, with the aim of identifying pathways through which the pathogen subverts host cells. Methods: A comprehensive list of interactions between human proteins and C. albicans was obtained from the Human Protein Interaction Database using specific screening criteria. Then, the genes that exhibit differential expression during oral candidiasis in C. albicans were mapped with the list of human-Candida interactions to identify the corresponding host proteins. The identified host proteins were further compared with proteins specific to the tongue, resulting in a final list of 99 host proteins implicated in oral candidiasis. The interactions between host proteins and C. albicans proteins were analyzed using the STRING database, enabling the construction of protein-protein interaction networks. Similarly, the gene regulatory network of Candida proteins was reconstructed using data from the PathoYeastract and STRING databases. Core module proteins within the targeted host protein-protein interaction network were identified using ModuLand, a Cytoscape plugin. The expression levels of the core module proteins under diseased conditions were assessed using data from the GSE169278 dataset. To gain insights into the functional characteristics of both host and pathogen proteins, ontology analysis was conducted using Enrichr and YeastEnrichr, respectively. Result: The analysis revealed that three Candida proteins, HHT21, CYP5, and KAR2, interact with three core host proteins, namely, ING4 (in the DNMT1 module), SGTA, and TOR1A. These interactions potentially impair the immediate immune response of the host against the pathogen. Additionally, differential expression analysis of fungal proteins and their transcription factors in Candida-infected oral cell lines indicated that Rob1p, Tye7p, and Ume6p could be considered candidate transcription factors involved in instigating the pathogenesis of oral candidiasis during host infection. Conclusion: Our study provides a molecular map of the host-pathogen interaction during oral candidiasis, along with potential targets for designing regimens to overcome oral candidiasis, particularly in immunocompromised individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Rejwan Kabir
- Computational and System Biology Lab, Department of Microbiology, Raiganj University, Raiganj, West Bengal, India
| | - Anis Ahmad Chaudhary
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU), Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Malak O Aladwani
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU), Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Soumita Podder
- Computational and System Biology Lab, Department of Microbiology, Raiganj University, Raiganj, West Bengal, India
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9
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Kumar D, Kumar A. Cellular Attributes of Candida albicans Biofilm-Associated in Resistance Against Multidrug and Host Immune System. Microb Drug Resist 2023; 29:423-437. [PMID: 37428599 DOI: 10.1089/mdr.2022.0347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/12/2023] Open
Abstract
One of the ubiquitous hospital-acquired infections is associated with Candida albicans fungus. Usually, this commensal fungus causes no harm to its human host, as it lives mutually with mucosal/epithelial tissue surface cells. Nevertheless, due to the activity of various immune weakening factors, this commensal starts reinforcing its virulence attributes with filamentation/hyphal growth and building an absolute microcolony composed of yeast, hyphal, and pseudohyphal cells, which is suspended in an extracellular gel-like polymeric substance (EPS) called biofilms. This polymeric substance is the mixture of the secreted compounds from C. albicans as well as several host cell proteins. Indeed, the presence of these host factors makes their identification and differentiation process difficult by host immune components. The gel-like texture of the EPS makes it sticky, which adsorbs most of the extracolonial compounds traversing through it that aid in penetration hindrance. All these factors further contribute to the multidrug resistance phenotype of C. albicans biofilm that is spotlighted in this article. The mechanisms it employs to escape the host immune system are also addressed effectively. The article focuses on cellular and molecular determinants involved in the resistance of C. albicans biofilm against multidrug and the host immune system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dushyant Kumar
- Department of Biotechnology, National Institute of Technology, Raipur, India
| | - Awanish Kumar
- Department of Biotechnology, National Institute of Technology, Raipur, India
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10
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Phan QT, Solis NV, Cravener MV, Swidergall M, Lin J, Huang MY, Liu H, Singh S, Ibrahim AS, Mazzone M, Mitchell AP, Filler SG. Candida albicans stimulates formation of a multi-receptor complex that mediates epithelial cell invasion during oropharyngeal infection. PLoS Pathog 2023; 19:e1011579. [PMID: 37611070 PMCID: PMC10479894 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1011579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Revised: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Fungal invasion of the oral epithelium is central to the pathogenesis of oropharyngeal candidiasis (OPC). Candida albicans invades the oral epithelium by receptor-induced endocytosis but this process is incompletely understood. We found that C. albicans infection of oral epithelial cells induces c-Met to form a multi-protein complex with E-cadherin and the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). E-cadherin is necessary for C. albicans to activate both c-Met and EGFR and to induce the endocytosis of C. albicans. Proteomics analysis revealed that c-Met interacts with C. albicans Hyr1, Als3 and Ssa1. Both Hyr1 and Als3 are required for C. albicans to stimulate c-Met and EGFR in oral epithelial cells in vitro and for full virulence during OPC in mice. Treating mice with small molecule inhibitors of c-Met and EGFR ameliorates OPC, demonstrating the potential therapeutic efficacy of blocking these host receptors for C. albicans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quynh T. Phan
- Institute for Infection and Immunity, Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, California, United States of America
| | - Norma V. Solis
- Institute for Infection and Immunity, Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, California, United States of America
| | - Max V. Cravener
- Department of Microbiology, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia United States of America
| | - Marc Swidergall
- Institute for Infection and Immunity, Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, California, United States of America
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Jianfeng Lin
- Institute for Infection and Immunity, Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, California, United States of America
| | - Manning Y. Huang
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of California, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Hong Liu
- Institute for Infection and Immunity, Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, California, United States of America
| | - Shakti Singh
- Institute for Infection and Immunity, Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, California, United States of America
| | - Ashraf S. Ibrahim
- Institute for Infection and Immunity, Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, California, United States of America
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Massimiliano Mazzone
- Laboratory of Tumor Inflammation and Angiogenesis, Center for Cancer Biology, VIB, Leuven, Belgium
- Laboratory of Tumor Inflammation and Angiogenesis, Center for Cancer Biology, Department of Oncology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Aaron P. Mitchell
- Department of Microbiology, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia United States of America
| | - Scott G. Filler
- Institute for Infection and Immunity, Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, California, United States of America
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
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11
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Inácio MM, Moreira ALE, Cruz-Leite VRM, Mattos K, Silva LOS, Venturini J, Ruiz OH, Ribeiro-Dias F, Weber SS, Soares CMDA, Borges CL. Fungal Vaccine Development: State of the Art and Perspectives Using Immunoinformatics. J Fungi (Basel) 2023; 9:633. [PMID: 37367569 DOI: 10.3390/jof9060633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Fungal infections represent a serious global health problem, causing damage to health and the economy on the scale of millions. Although vaccines are the most effective therapeutic approach used to combat infectious agents, at the moment, no fungal vaccine has been approved for use in humans. However, the scientific community has been working hard to overcome this challenge. In this sense, we aim to describe here an update on the development of fungal vaccines and the progress of methodological and experimental immunotherapies against fungal infections. In addition, advances in immunoinformatic tools are described as an important aid by which to overcome the difficulty of achieving success in fungal vaccine development. In silico approaches are great options for the most important and difficult questions regarding the attainment of an efficient fungal vaccine. Here, we suggest how bioinformatic tools could contribute, considering the main challenges, to an effective fungal vaccine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moisés Morais Inácio
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia 74605-170, Brazil
- Estácio de Goiás University Center, Goiânia 74063-010, Brazil
| | - André Luís Elias Moreira
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia 74605-170, Brazil
| | | | - Karine Mattos
- Faculty of Medicine, Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul, Campo Grande 79070-900, Brazil
| | - Lana O'Hara Souza Silva
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia 74605-170, Brazil
| | - James Venturini
- Faculty of Medicine, Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul, Campo Grande 79070-900, Brazil
| | - Orville Hernandez Ruiz
- MICROBA Research Group-Cellular and Molecular Biology Unit-CIB, School of Microbiology, University of Antioquia, Medellín 050010, Colombia
| | - Fátima Ribeiro-Dias
- Laboratório de Imunidade Natural (LIN), Instituto de Patologia Tropical e Saúde Pública, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia 74001-970, Brazil
| | - Simone Schneider Weber
- Bioscience Laboratory, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Food and Nutrition, Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul, Campo Grande 79070-900, Brazil
| | - Célia Maria de Almeida Soares
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia 74605-170, Brazil
| | - Clayton Luiz Borges
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia 74605-170, Brazil
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12
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Smoak RA, Snyder LF, Fassler JS, He BZ. Parallel expansion and divergence of an adhesin family in pathogenic yeasts. Genetics 2023; 223:iyad024. [PMID: 36794645 PMCID: PMC10319987 DOI: 10.1093/genetics/iyad024] [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: 12/07/2022] [Revised: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Opportunistic yeast pathogens arose multiple times in the Saccharomycetes class, including the recently emerged, multidrug-resistant (MDR) Candida auris. We show that homologs of a known yeast adhesin family in Candida albicans, the Hyr/Iff-like (Hil) family, are enriched in distinct clades of Candida species as a result of multiple, independent expansions. Following gene duplication, the tandem repeat-rich region in these proteins diverged extremely rapidly and generated large variations in length and β-aggregation potential, both of which are known to directly affect adhesion. The conserved N-terminal effector domain was predicted to adopt a β-helical fold followed by an α-crystallin domain, making it structurally similar to a group of unrelated bacterial adhesins. Evolutionary analyses of the effector domain in C. auris revealed relaxed selective constraint combined with signatures of positive selection, suggesting functional diversification after gene duplication. Lastly, we found the Hil family genes to be enriched at chromosomal ends, which likely contributed to their expansion via ectopic recombination and break-induced replication. Combined, these results suggest that the expansion and diversification of adhesin families generate variation in adhesion and virulence within and between species and are a key step toward the emergence of fungal pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel A Smoak
- Civil and Environmental Engineering, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Lindsey F Snyder
- Interdisciplinary Graduate Program in Genetics, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Jan S Fassler
- Interdisciplinary Graduate Program in Genetics, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
- Department of Biology, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Bin Z He
- Interdisciplinary Graduate Program in Genetics, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
- Department of Biology, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
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13
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Prasad P, Tippana M. Morphogenic plasticity: the pathogenic attribute of Candida albicans. Curr Genet 2023; 69:77-89. [PMID: 36947241 DOI: 10.1007/s00294-023-01263-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Revised: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/23/2023]
Abstract
Candida albicans is a commensal organism of the human gastrointestinal tract and a prevalent opportunistic pathogen. It exhibits different morphogenic forms to survive in different host niches with distinct environmental conditions (pH, temperature, oxidative stress, nutrients, serum, chemicals, radiation, etc.) and genetic factors (transcription factors and genes). The different morphogenic forms of C. albicans are yeast, hyphal, pseudohyphal, white, opaque, and transient gray cells, planktonic and biofilm forms of cells. These forms differ in the parameters like cellular phenotype, colony morphology, adhesion to solid surfaces, gene expression profile, and the virulent traits. Each form is functionally distinct and responds discretely to the host immune system and antifungal drugs. Hence, morphogenic plasticity is the key to virulence. In this review, we address the characteristics, the pathogenic potential of the different morphogenic forms and the conditions required for morphogenic transitions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priya Prasad
- Department of Biotechnology, National Institute of Technology Warangal, Warangal, Telangana, India.
| | - Meena Tippana
- Department of Biotechnology, National Institute of Technology Warangal, Warangal, Telangana, India
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14
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Phan QT, Solis NV, Cravener MV, Swidergall M, Lin J, Huang MY, Liu H, Singh S, Ibrahim AS, Mazzone M, Mitchell AP, Filler SG. Candida albicans stimulates the formation of a multi-receptor complex that mediates epithelial cell invasion during oropharyngeal infection. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.02.23.529756. [PMID: 36865306 PMCID: PMC9980113 DOI: 10.1101/2023.02.23.529756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/25/2023]
Abstract
Fungal invasion of the oral epithelium is central to the pathogenesis of oropharyngeal candidiasis (OPC). Candida albicans invades the oral epithelium by receptor-induced endocytosis but this process is incompletely understood. We found that C. albicans infection of oral epithelial cells induces c-Met to form a multi-protein complex with E-cadherin and the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). E-cadherin is necessary for C. albicans to activate both c-Met and EGFR and to induce the endocytosis of C. albicans . Proteomics analysis revealed that c-Met interacts with C. albicans Hyr1, Als3 and Ssa1. Both Hyr1 and Als3 were required for C. albicans stimulation of c-Met and EGFR in oral epithelial cells in vitro and for full virulence during OPC in mice. Treating mice with small molecule inhibitors of c-Met and EGFR ameliorated OPC, demonstrating the potential therapeutic efficacy of blocking these host receptors for C. albicans . Graphical abstract Highlights c-Met is an oral epithelial cell receptor for Candida albicans C. albicans infection causes c-Met and the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) to form a complex with E-cadherin, which is required for c-Met and EGFR function C. albicans Hyr1 and Als3 interact with c-Met and EGFR, inducing oral epithelial cell endocytosis and virulence during oropharyngeal candidiasis Dual blockade of c-Met and EGFR ameliorates oropharyngeal candidiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quynh T. Phan
- Institute for Infection and Immunity, Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, USA
| | - Norma V. Solis
- Institute for Infection and Immunity, Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, USA
| | - Max V. Cravener
- Department of Microbiology, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia 30602, USA
| | - Marc Swidergall
- Institute for Infection and Immunity, Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, USA
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Jianfeng Lin
- Institute for Infection and Immunity, Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, USA
| | - Manning Y. Huang
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Hong Liu
- Institute for Infection and Immunity, Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, USA
| | - Shakti Singh
- Institute for Infection and Immunity, Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, USA
| | - Ashraf S. Ibrahim
- Institute for Infection and Immunity, Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, USA
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Massimiliano Mazzone
- 1Laboratory of Tumor Inflammation and Angiogenesis, Center for Cancer Biology, VIB, Leuven B3000, Belgium
- Laboratory of Tumor Inflammation and Angiogenesis, Center for Cancer Biology, Department of Oncology, KU Leuven, Leuven B3000, Belgium
| | - Aaron P. Mitchell
- Department of Microbiology, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia 30602, USA
| | - Scott G. Filler
- Institute for Infection and Immunity, Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, USA
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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15
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Singh S, Barbarino A, Youssef EG, Coleman D, Gebremariam T, Ibrahim AS. Protective Efficacy of Anti-Hyr1p Monoclonal Antibody against Systemic Candidiasis Due to Multi-Drug-Resistant Candida auris. J Fungi (Basel) 2023; 9:103. [PMID: 36675924 PMCID: PMC9860579 DOI: 10.3390/jof9010103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Candida auris is a multi-drug-resistant fungal pathogen that can survive outside the host and can easily spread and colonize the healthcare environment, medical devices, and human skin. C. auris causes serious life-threatening infections (up to 60% mortality) in immunosuppressed patients staying in such contaminated healthcare facilities. Some isolates of C. auris are resistant to virtually all clinically available antifungal drugs. Therefore, alternative therapeutic approaches are urgently needed. Using in silico protein modeling and analysis, we identified a highly immunogenic and surface-exposed epitope that is conserved between C. albicans hyphal-regulated protein (Cal-Hyr1p) and Hyr1p/Iff-like proteins in C. auris (Cau-HILp). We generated monoclonal antibodies (MAb) against this Cal-Hyr1p epitope, which recognized several clinical isolates of C. auris representing all four clades. An anti-Hyr1p MAb prevented biofilm formation and enhanced opsonophagocytic killing of C. auris by macrophages. When tested for in vivo efficacy, anti-Hyr1p MAb protected 55% of mice against lethal systemic C. auris infection and showed significantly less fungal burden. Our study is highly clinically relevant and provides an effective alternative therapeutic option to treat infections due to MDR C. auris.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shakti Singh
- Division of Infectious Diseases, The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) Medical Center, Torrance, CA 90502, USA
- David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Ashley Barbarino
- Division of Infectious Diseases, The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) Medical Center, Torrance, CA 90502, USA
| | - Eman G. Youssef
- Division of Infectious Diseases, The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) Medical Center, Torrance, CA 90502, USA
| | - Declan Coleman
- Division of Infectious Diseases, The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) Medical Center, Torrance, CA 90502, USA
- Biology Department, Pomona College, Pomona, CA 91711, USA
| | - Teclegiorgis Gebremariam
- Division of Infectious Diseases, The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) Medical Center, Torrance, CA 90502, USA
| | - Ashraf S. Ibrahim
- Division of Infectious Diseases, The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) Medical Center, Torrance, CA 90502, USA
- David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
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16
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Gemler BT, Mukherjee C, Howland CA, Huk D, Shank Z, Harbo LJ, Tabbaa OP, Bartling CM. Function-based classification of hazardous biological sequences: Demonstration of a new paradigm for biohazard assessments. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:979497. [PMID: 36277394 PMCID: PMC9585941 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.979497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 08/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Bioengineering applies analytical and engineering principles to identify functional biological building blocks for biotechnology applications. While these building blocks are leveraged to improve the human condition, the lack of simplistic, machine-readable definition of biohazards at the function level is creating a gap for biosafety practices. More specifically, traditional safety practices focus on the biohazards of known pathogens at the organism-level and may not accurately consider novel biodesigns with engineered functionalities at the genetic component-level. This gap is motivating the need for a paradigm shift from organism-centric procedures to function-centric biohazard identification and classification practices. To address this challenge, we present a novel methodology for classifying biohazards at the individual sequence level, which we then compiled to distinguish the biohazardous property of pathogenicity at the whole genome level. Our methodology is rooted in compilation of hazardous functions, defined as a set of sequences and associated metadata that describe coarse-level functions associated with pathogens (e.g., adherence, immune subversion). We demonstrate that the resulting database can be used to develop hazardous “fingerprints” based on the functional metadata categories. We verified that these hazardous functions are found at higher levels in pathogens compared to non-pathogens, and hierarchical clustering of the fingerprints can distinguish between these two groups. The methodology presented here defines the hazardous functions associated with bioengineering functional building blocks at the sequence level, which provide a foundational framework for classifying biological hazards at the organism level, thus leading to the improvement and standardization of current biosecurity and biosafety practices.
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17
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Khalil FO, Taj MB, Ghonaim EM, Abed El-Sattar S, Elkhadry SW, El-Refai H, Ali OM, Elgawad ASA, Alshater H. Hydrothermal assisted biogenic synthesis of silver nanoparticles: A potential study on virulent candida isolates from COVID-19 patients. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0269864. [PMID: 36201485 PMCID: PMC9536612 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0269864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Till now the exact mechanism and effect of biogenic silver nanoparticles on fungus is an indefinable question. To focus on this issue, the first time we prepared hydrothermal assisted thyme coated silver nanoparticles (T/AgNPs) and their toxic effect on Candida isolates were determined. The role of thyme (Thymus Vulgaris) in the reduction of silver ions and stabilization of T/AgNPs was estimated by Fourier transforms infrared spectroscopy, structure and size of present silver nanoparticles were detected via atomic force microscopy as well as high-resolution transmission electron microscopy. The biological activity of T/AgNPs was observed against Candida isolates from COVID-19 Patients. Testing of virulence of Candida species using Multiplex PCR. T/AgNPs proved highly effective against Candida albicans, Candida kruzei, Candida glabrata and MIC values ranging from 156.25 to 1,250 μg/mL and MFC values ranging from 312.5 to 5,000 μg/mL. The structural and morphological modifications due to T/AgNPs on Candida albicans were detected by TEM. It was highly observed that when Candida albicans cells were subjected to 50 and 100 μg/mL T/AgNPs, a remarkable change in the cell wall and cell membrane was observed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatma O. Khalil
- Clinical and Molecular Microbiology and Immunology Department, National Liver Institute, Menoufia University, Shebin El-Kom, Egypt
| | - Muhammad B. Taj
- Division of Inorganic Chemistry, Institute of Chemistry, The Islamia University Bahawalpur, Bahawalpur, Pakistan
- * E-mail: (MBT); (OMA)
| | - Enas M. Ghonaim
- Clinical and Molecular Microbiology and Immunology Department, National Liver Institute, Menoufia University, Shebin El-Kom, Egypt
| | - Shimaa Abed El-Sattar
- Clinical Biochemistry and Molecular Diagnostics, National Liver Institute, Menoufia University, Shebin El-Kom, Egypt
| | - Sally W. Elkhadry
- Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine Department, National Liver Institute, Menoufia University, Shebin El-Kom, Egypt
| | - Hala El-Refai
- Clinical and Molecular Microbiology and Immunology Department, National Liver Institute, Menoufia University, Shebin El-Kom, Egypt
| | - Omar M. Ali
- Department of Chemistry, Turabah University College, Turabah Branch, Taif University, Taif Saudi Arabia
- * E-mail: (MBT); (OMA)
| | - Ahmed Salah A. Elgawad
- Department of Clinical Pathology, National Liver Institute, Menoufia University Hospital, Menoufia University, Shebin El-Kom, Egypt
| | - Heba Alshater
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology, Menoufia University Hospital, Menoufia University, Shebin El-Kom, Egypt
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18
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Characterization of the Secretome of Pathogenic Candida glabrata and Their Effectiveness against Systemic Candidiasis in BALB/c Mice for Vaccine Development. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14101989. [PMID: 36297425 PMCID: PMC9612021 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14101989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Revised: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Infections by non-albicans Candida species have increased drastically in the past few decades. Candida glabrata is one of the most common opportunistic fungal pathogens in immunocompromised individuals, owing to its capability to attach to various human cell types and medical devices and being intrinsically weakly susceptible to azoles. Immunotherapy, including the development of antifungal vaccines, has been recognized as an alternative approach for preventing and treating fungal infections. Secretory proteins play a crucial role in establishing host–pathogen interactions and are also responsible for eliciting an immune response in the host during candidiasis. Therefore, fungal secretomes can provide promising protein candidates for antifungal vaccine development. This study attempts to uncover the presence of immunodominant antigenic proteins in the C. glabrata secretome and delineate their role in various biological processes and their potency in the development of antifungal vaccines. LC–MS/MS results uncovered that C. glabrata secretome consisted of 583 proteins, among which 33 were identified as antigenic proteins. The protection ability of secretory proteins against hematogenously disseminated infection caused by C. glabrata was evaluated in BALB/c mice. After immunization and booster doses, all the animals were challenged with a lethal dose of C. glabrata. All the mice showing signs of distress were sacrificed post-infection, and target organs were collected, followed by histopathology and C. glabrata (CFU/mg) estimation. Our results showed a lower fungal burden in target organs and increased survival in immunized mice compared to the infection control group, thus revealing the immunogenic property of secreted proteins. Thus, identified secretome proteins of C. glabrata have the potential to act as antigenic proteins, which can serve as potential candidates for the development of antifungal vaccines. This study also emphasizes the importance of a mass-spectrometry approach to identifying the antigenic proteins in C. glabrata secretome.
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19
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Qin Z, Bouteau A, Herbst C, Igyártó BZ. Pre-exposure to mRNA-LNP inhibits adaptive immune responses and alters innate immune fitness in an inheritable fashion. PLoS Pathog 2022; 18:e1010830. [PMID: 36054264 PMCID: PMC9477420 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1010830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2022] [Revised: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Hundreds of millions of SARS-CoV-2 mRNA-LNP vaccine doses have already been administered to humans. However, we lack a comprehensive understanding of the immune effects of this platform. The mRNA-LNP-based SARS-CoV-2 vaccine is highly inflammatory, and its synthetic ionizable lipid component responsible for the induction of inflammation has a long in vivo half-life. Since chronic inflammation can lead to immune exhaustion and non-responsiveness, we sought to determine the effects of pre-exposure to the mRNA-LNP on adaptive immune responses and innate immune fitness. We found that pre-exposure to mRNA-LNPs or LNP alone led to long-term inhibition of the adaptive immune response, which could be overcome using standard adjuvants. On the other hand, we report that after pre-exposure to mRNA-LNPs, the resistance of mice to heterologous infections with influenza virus increased while resistance to Candida albicans decreased. The diminished resistance to Candida albicans correlated with a general decrease in blood neutrophil percentages. Interestingly, mice pre-exposed to the mRNA-LNP platform can pass down the acquired immune traits to their offspring, providing better protection against influenza. In summary, the mRNA-LNP vaccine platform induces long-term unexpected immunological changes affecting both adaptive immune responses and heterologous protection against infections. Thus, our studies highlight the need for more research to determine this platform's true impact on human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhen Qin
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Aurélie Bouteau
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Christopher Herbst
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Botond Z. Igyártó
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
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20
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Singh S, Nabeela S, Barbarino A, Ibrahim AS, Uppuluri P. Antibodies targeting Candida albicans Als3 and Hyr1 antigens protect neonatal mice from candidiasis. Front Immunol 2022; 13:925821. [PMID: 35935947 PMCID: PMC9355692 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.925821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Pre-term infants in neonatal intensive care units are vulnerable to fungal sepsis. In this patient population, Candida albicans remains the predominant fungal pathogen causing high morbidity and mortality, despite antifungal therapy. Thus, new preventative/therapeutic strategies against neonatal candidiasis are needed. Previously, we have reported that vaccination with recombinant forms of the C. albicans N-termini of the cell wall proteins Als3 (rAls3p-N) and Hyr1 (rHyr1p-N) protected adult mice from disseminated candidiasis. Further, in a Phase 1b/2a NDV-3A (an rAls3p-N formulated with alum) protected women from recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis, with anti-Als3p IgG2 isotype being a biomarker for efficacy. Here, we performed a proof of concept study to evaluate if anti-Als3p or anti-Hyr1p antibodies are important for prevention of disseminated candidiasis in neonates. Als3 and Hyr1 antigens when adjuvanted with complete Freund’s adjuvant (CFA)/incomplete Freund’s adjuvant (IFA) induced a robust antibody response with a ten-fold higher titer of IgG2, than attained by either antigen formulated with alum. Transplacental transfer of these antibodies significantly reduced fungal burden in the kidneys of mice pups, and adoptive transfer of vaccinated mothers’ sera into pups displayed similar levels of protection. Neutrophils were found important for this efficacy. Finally, anti-Hyr1 antisera potentiated the activity of fluconazole in protecting from C. albicans infection. Our current studies are the first in the field to emphasize the importance of anti-Als3 and anti-Hyr1 antibodies in preventing neonatal candidiasis. Considering that Candida infections in low birthweight infants is a lethal infection, active and passive vaccination strategies using these antigens could have profound clinical relevance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shakti Singh
- Division of Infectious Diseases, The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor, University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) Medical Center, Torrance, CA, United States
| | - Sunna Nabeela
- Division of Infectious Diseases, The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor, University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) Medical Center, Torrance, CA, United States
| | - Ashley Barbarino
- Division of Infectious Diseases, The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor, University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) Medical Center, Torrance, CA, United States
| | - Ashraf S. Ibrahim
- Division of Infectious Diseases, The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor, University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) Medical Center, Torrance, CA, United States
- David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Priya Uppuluri
- Division of Infectious Diseases, The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor, University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) Medical Center, Torrance, CA, United States
- David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, United States
- *Correspondence: Priya Uppuluri,
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21
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Qin Z, Bouteau A, Herbst C, Igyártó BZ. Pre-exposure to mRNA-LNP inhibits adaptive immune responses and alters innate immune fitness in an inheritable fashion.. [PMID: 36032972 PMCID: PMC9413714 DOI: 10.1101/2022.03.16.484616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Hundreds of millions of SARS-CoV-2 mRNA-LNP vaccine doses have already been administered to humans. However, we lack a comprehensive understanding of the immune effects of this platform. The mRNA-LNP-based SARS-CoV-2 vaccine is highly inflammatory, and its synthetic ionizable lipid component responsible for the induction of inflammation has a long in vivo half-life. Since chronic inflammation can lead to immune exhaustion and non-responsiveness, we sought to determine the effects of pre-exposure to the mRNA-LNP on adaptive immune responses and innate immune fitness. We found that pre-exposure to mRNA-LNPs or LNP alone led to long-term inhibition of the adaptive immune responses, which could be overcome using standard adjuvants. On the other hand, we report that after pre-exposure to mRNA-LNPs, the resistance of mice to heterologous infections with influenza virus increased while Candida albicans decreased. The diminished resistance to Candida albicans correlated with a general decrease in blood neutrophil percentages. Interestingly, mice pre-exposed to the mRNA-LNP platform can pass down the acquired immune traits to their offspring, providing better protection against influenza. In summary, the mRNA-LNP vaccine platform induces long-term unexpected immunological changes affecting both adaptive immune responses and heterologous protection against infections. Thus, our studies highlight the need for more research to determine this platform’s true impact on human health. We bring experimental evidence that pre-exposure to mRNA-LNPs or its LNP component affects innate and adaptive immune responses. Pre-exposure to mRNA-LNPs led to long-term inhibition of the adaptive immune responses, which the use of adjuvants could overcome. On the other hand, we report that after pre-exposure to mRNA-LNPs, the resistance of mice to heterologous infections with influenza virus increased while Candida albicans decreased. We also detected a general neutropenia in the mRNA-LNP exposed mice. Interestingly, mice pre-exposed to mRNA-LNPs can pass down the acquired immune traits to their offspring. In summary, the mRNA-LNP vaccine platform induces long-term immunological changes that can affect both adaptive immune responses and heterologous protection against infections, some of which can be inherited by the offspring. More studies are needed to understand the mechanisms responsible for these effects and determine this platform’s impact on human health.
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22
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Ibe C, Oladele RO, Alamir O. Our pursuit for effective antifungal agents targeting fungal cell wall components, where are we? Int J Antimicrob Agents 2021; 59:106477. [PMID: 34798234 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijantimicag.2021.106477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2021] [Revised: 10/26/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Invasive mycotic infections account for an unacceptably high mortality rates in humans. These infections are initiated by the fungal cell wall which mediates host-fungi interactions. The cell wall is fused to the physiology of fungi, and it is involved in essential functions in the entire cell functionality. Components of the cell wall are synthesised and modified in the cell wall space by the activities of cell wall proteins through a range of signalling pathways that have only been described in many fungi, therefore making them suitable drug targets. The echinocandins class of cell wall-active drugs block cell wall β-1,3-glucan biosynthesis through inhibiting the catalytic subunit of the synthetic protein complex. Resistance to echinocandins can be through the acquisition of single nucleotide polymorphisms and/or through activation of cell wall signalling pathways resulting in altered cell wall proteome and elevated chitin content in the cell wall. Countering the cell wall remodelling process will enhance the effectiveness of β-1,3-glucan-active antifungal agents. Cell surface proteins are also important antifungal targets which can be used to develop rapid and robust diagnostics and more effective therapeutics. The cell wall remains a crucial target in fungi that needs to be harnessed to combat mycotic infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chibuike Ibe
- Department of Microbiology, Abia State University, PMB 2000 Uturu, Abia State, Nigeria.
| | - Rita O Oladele
- Medical Microbiology & Parasitology, College of Medicine, University of Lagos, Lagos State, Nigeria
| | - Omran Alamir
- Natural Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Public Authority for Applied Education and Training, Al Asimah, Kuwait
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The Role of B-Cells and Antibodies against Candida Vaccine Antigens in Invasive Candidiasis. Vaccines (Basel) 2021; 9:vaccines9101159. [PMID: 34696267 PMCID: PMC8540628 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines9101159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2021] [Revised: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 10/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Systemic candidiasis is an invasive fungal infection caused by members of the genus Candida. The recent emergence of antifungal drug resistance and increased incidences of infections caused by non-albicans Candida species merit the need for developing immune therapies against Candida infections. Although the role of cellular immune responses in anti-Candida immunity is well established, less is known about the role of humoral immunity against systemic candidiasis. This review summarizes currently available information on humoral immune responses induced by several promising Candida vaccine candidates, which have been identified in the past few decades. The protective antibody and B-cell responses generated by polysaccharide antigens such as mannan, β-glucan, and laminarin, as well as protein antigens like agglutinin-like sequence gene (Als3), secreted aspartyl proteinase (Sap2), heat shock protein (Hsp90), hyphally-regulated protein (Hyr1), hyphal wall protein (Hwp1), enolase (Eno), phospholipase (PLB), pyruvate kinase (Pk), fructose bisphosphate aldolase (Fba1), superoxide dismutase gene (Sod5) and malate dehydrogenase (Mdh1), are outlined. As per studies reviewed, antibodies induced in response to leading Candida vaccine candidates contribute to protection against systemic candidiasis by utilizing a variety of mechanisms such as opsonization, complement fixation, neutralization, biofilm inhibition, direct candidacidal activity, etc. The contributions of B-cells in controlling fungal infections are also discussed. Promising results using anti-Candida monoclonal antibodies for passive antibody therapy reinforces the need for developing antibody-based therapeutics including anti-idiotypic antibodies, single-chain variable fragments, peptide mimotopes, and antibody-derived peptides. Future research involving combinatorial immunotherapies using humanized monoclonal antibodies along with antifungal drugs/cytokines may prove beneficial for treating invasive fungal infections.
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Ibe C, Munro CA. Fungal Cell Wall Proteins and Signaling Pathways Form a Cytoprotective Network to Combat Stresses. J Fungi (Basel) 2021; 7:jof7090739. [PMID: 34575777 PMCID: PMC8466366 DOI: 10.3390/jof7090739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Revised: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 09/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Candida species are part of the normal flora of humans, but once the immune system of the host is impaired and they escape from commensal niches, they shift from commensal to pathogen causing candidiasis. Candida albicans remains the primary cause of candidiasis, accounting for about 60% of the global candidiasis burden. The cell wall of C. albicans and related fungal pathogens forms the interface with the host, gives fungal cells their shape, and also provides protection against stresses. The cell wall is a dynamic organelle with great adaptive flexibility that allows remodeling, morphogenesis, and changes in its components in response to the environment. It is mainly composed of the inner polysaccharide rich layer (chitin, and β-glucan) and the outer protein coat (mannoproteins). The highly glycosylated protein coat mediates interactions between C. albicans cells and their environment, including reprograming of wall architecture in response to several conditions, such as carbon source, pH, high temperature, and morphogenesis. The mannoproteins are also associated with C. albicans adherence, drug resistance, and virulence. Vitally, the mannoproteins contribute to cell wall construction and especially cell wall remodeling when cells encounter physical and chemical stresses. This review describes the interconnected cell wall integrity (CWI) and stress-activated pathways (e.g., Hog1, Cek1, and Mkc1 mediated pathways) that regulates cell wall remodeling and the expression of some of the mannoproteins in C. albicans and other species. The mannoproteins of the surface coat is of great importance to pathogen survival, growth, and virulence, thus understanding their structure and function as well as regulatory mechanisms can pave the way for better management of candidiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chibuike Ibe
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Abia State University, Uturu 441107, Nigeria
- Correspondence:
| | - Carol A. Munro
- Aberdeen Fungal Group, Institute of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen AB24 3FX, UK;
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Padder SA, Ramzan A, Tahir I, Rehman RU, Shah AH. Metabolic flexibility and extensive adaptability governing multiple drug resistance and enhanced virulence in Candida albicans. Crit Rev Microbiol 2021; 48:1-20. [PMID: 34213983 DOI: 10.1080/1040841x.2021.1935447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Commensal fungus-Candida albicans turn pathogenic during the compromised immunity of the host, causing infections ranging from superficial mucosal to dreadful systemic ones. C. albicans has evolved various adaptive measures which collectively contribute towards its enhanced virulence. Among fitness attributes, metabolic flexibility and vigorous stress response are essential for its pathogenicity and virulence. Metabolic flexibility provides a means for nutrient assimilation and growth in diverse host microenvironments and reduces the vulnerability of the pathogen to various antifungals besides evading host immune response(s). Inside the host micro-environments, C. albicans efficiently utilizes the multiple fermentable and non-fermentable carbon sources to sustain and proliferate in glucose deficit conditions. The utilization of alternative carbon sources further highlights the importance of understanding these pathways as the attractive and potential therapeutic target. A thorough understanding of metabolic flexibility and adaptation to environmental stresses is warranted to decipher in-depth insights into virulence and molecular mechanisms of fungal pathogenicity. In this review, we have attempted to provide a detailed and recent understanding of some key aspects of fungal biology. Particular focus will be placed on processes like nutrient assimilation and utilization, metabolic adaptability, virulence factors, and host immune response in C. albicans leading to its enhanced pathogenicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sajad Ahmad Padder
- Department of Bioresources, School of Biological Sciences, University of Kashmir, Srinagar, India
| | - Asiya Ramzan
- Department of Bioresources, School of Biological Sciences, University of Kashmir, Srinagar, India
| | - Inayatullah Tahir
- Departments of Botany, School of Biological Sciences, University of Kashmir, Srinagar, India
| | - Reiaz Ul Rehman
- Department of Bioresources, School of Biological Sciences, University of Kashmir, Srinagar, India
| | - Abdul Haseeb Shah
- Department of Bioresources, School of Biological Sciences, University of Kashmir, Srinagar, India
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26
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Affiliation(s)
- Chibuike Ibe
- Department of Microbiology, Abia State University, Uturu, Abia State, Nigeria
| | - Carol A Munro
- Aberdeen Fungal Group, Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen United Kingdom
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García-Carnero LC, Martínez-Álvarez JA, Salazar-García LM, Lozoya-Pérez NE, González-Hernández SE, Tamez-Castrellón AK. Recognition of Fungal Components by the Host Immune System. Curr Protein Pept Sci 2021; 21:245-264. [PMID: 31889486 DOI: 10.2174/1389203721666191231105546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2019] [Revised: 08/08/2019] [Accepted: 10/15/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
By being the first point of contact of the fungus with the host, the cell wall plays an important role in the pathogenesis, having many molecules that participate as antigens that are recognized by immune cells, and also that help the fungus to establish infection. The main molecules reported to trigger an immune response are chitin, glucans, oligosaccharides, proteins, melanin, phospholipids, and others, being present in the principal pathogenic fungi with clinical importance worldwide, such as Histoplasma capsulatum, Paracoccidioides brasiliensis, Aspergillus fumigatus, Candida albicans, Cryptococcus neoformans, Blastomyces dermatitidis, and Sporothrix schenckii. Knowledge and understanding of how the immune system recognizes and responds to fungal antigens are relevant for the future research and development of new diagnostic tools and treatments for the control of mycosis caused by these fungi.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura C García-Carnero
- Department of Biology, Exact and Natural Sciences Division, Universidad de Guanajuato, Guanajuato, Mexico
| | - José A Martínez-Álvarez
- Department of Biology, Exact and Natural Sciences Division, Universidad de Guanajuato, Guanajuato, Mexico
| | - Luis M Salazar-García
- Department of Biology, Exact and Natural Sciences Division, Universidad de Guanajuato, Guanajuato, Mexico
| | - Nancy E Lozoya-Pérez
- Department of Biology, Exact and Natural Sciences Division, Universidad de Guanajuato, Guanajuato, Mexico
| | | | - Alma K Tamez-Castrellón
- Department of Biology, Exact and Natural Sciences Division, Universidad de Guanajuato, Guanajuato, Mexico
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28
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Černáková L, Rodrigues CF. Microbial interactions and immunity response in oral Candida species. Future Microbiol 2020; 15:1653-1677. [PMID: 33251818 DOI: 10.2217/fmb-2020-0113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Oral candidiasis are among the most common noncommunicable diseases, related with serious local and systemic illnesses. Although these infections can occur in all kinds of patients, they are more recurrent in immunosuppressed ones such as patients with HIV, hepatitis, cancer or under long antimicrobial treatments. Candida albicans continues to be the most frequently identified Candida spp. in these disorders, but other non-C. albicans Candida are rising. Understanding the immune responses involved in oral Candida spp. infections is a key feature to a successful treatment and to the design of novel therapies. In this review, we performed a literature search in PubMed and WoS, in order to examine and analyze common oral Candida spp.-bacteria/Candida-Candida interactions and the host immunity response in oral candidiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Černáková
- Department of Microbiology & Virology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Comenius University in Bratislava, Ilkovičova 6, 842 15 Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Célia F Rodrigues
- Department of Chemical Engineering, LEPABE - Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology & Energy, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Portugal
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Youssef EG, Zhang L, Alkhazraji S, Gebremariam T, Singh S, Yount NY, Yeaman MR, Uppuluri P, Ibrahim AS. Monoclonal IgM Antibodies Targeting Candida albicans Hyr1 Provide Cross-Kingdom Protection Against Gram-Negative Bacteria. Front Immunol 2020; 11:76. [PMID: 32153560 PMCID: PMC7045048 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.00076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2019] [Accepted: 01/13/2020] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent years have seen an unprecedented rise in the incidence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) Gram-negative bacteria (GNBs) such as Acinetobacter and Klebsiella species. In view of the shortage of novel drugs in the pipeline, alternative strategies to prevent, and treat infections by GNBs are urgently needed. Previously, we have reported that the Candida albicans hypha-regulated protein Hyr1 shares striking three-dimensional structural homology with cell surface proteins of Acinetobacter baumannii. Moreover, active vaccination with rHyr1p-N or passive immunization with anti-Hyr1p polyclonal antibody protects mice from Acinetobacter infection. In the present study, we use molecular modeling to guide design of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) generated against Hyr1p and show them to bind to priority surface antigens of Acinetobacter and Klebsiella pneumoniae. The anti-Hyr1 mAbs block damage to primary endothelial cells induced by the bacteria and protect mice from lethal pulmonary infections mediated by A. baumannii or K. pneumoniae. Our current studies emphasize the potential of harnessing Hyr1p mAbs as a cross-kingdom immunotherapeutic strategy against MDR GNBs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eman G. Youssef
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, United States
- The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, United States
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, Faculty of Postgraduate Studies for Advanced Sciences, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, Egypt
| | - Lina Zhang
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, United States
- College of Wildlife Resources, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin, China
| | - Sondus Alkhazraji
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, United States
- The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, United States
| | - Teclegiorgis Gebremariam
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, United States
- The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, United States
| | - Shakti Singh
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, United States
- The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, United States
| | - Nannette Y. Yount
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, United States
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, United States
| | - Michael R. Yeaman
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, United States
- The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, United States
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, United States
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Priya Uppuluri
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, United States
- The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, United States
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Ashraf S. Ibrahim
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, United States
- The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, United States
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, United States
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30
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Vendele I, Willment JA, Silva LM, Palma AS, Chai W, Liu Y, Feizi T, Spyrou M, Stappers MHT, Brown GD, Gow NAR. Mannan detecting C-type lectin receptor probes recognise immune epitopes with diverse chemical, spatial and phylogenetic heterogeneity in fungal cell walls. PLoS Pathog 2020; 16:e1007927. [PMID: 31999794 PMCID: PMC7012452 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1007927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2019] [Revised: 02/11/2020] [Accepted: 12/22/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
During the course of fungal infection, pathogen recognition by the innate immune system is critical to initiate efficient protective immune responses. The primary event that triggers immune responses is the binding of Pattern Recognition Receptors (PRRs), which are expressed at the surface of host immune cells, to Pathogen-Associated Molecular Patterns (PAMPs) located predominantly in the fungal cell wall. Most fungi have mannosylated PAMPs in their cell walls and these are recognized by a range of C-type lectin receptors (CTLs). However, the precise spatial distribution of the ligands that induce immune responses within the cell walls of fungi are not well defined. We used recombinant IgG Fc-CTLs fusions of three murine mannan detecting CTLs, including dectin-2, the mannose receptor (MR) carbohydrate recognition domains (CRDs) 4–7 (CRD4-7), and human DC-SIGN (hDC-SIGN) and of the β-1,3 glucan-binding lectin dectin-1 to map PRR ligands in the fungal cell wall of fungi grown in vitro in rich and minimal media. We show that epitopes of mannan-specific CTL receptors can be clustered or diffuse, superficial or buried in the inner cell wall. We demonstrate that PRR ligands do not correlate well with phylogenetic relationships between fungi, and that Fc-lectin binding discriminated between mannosides expressed on different cell morphologies of the same fungus. We also demonstrate CTL epitope differentiation during different phases of the growth cycle of Candida albicans and that MR and DC-SIGN labelled outer chain N-mannans whilst dectin-2 labelled core N-mannans displayed deeper in the cell wall. These immune receptor maps of fungal walls of in vitro grown cells therefore reveal remarkable spatial, temporal and chemical diversity, indicating that the triggering of immune recognition events originates from multiple physical origins at the fungal cell surface. Invasive fungal infections remain an important health problem in immunocompromised patients. Immune recognition of fungal pathogens involves binding of specific cell wall components by pathogen recognition receptors (PRRs) and subsequent activation of immune defences. Some cell wall components are conserved among fungal species while other components are species-specific and phenotypically diverse. The fungal cell wall is dynamic and capable of changing its composition and organization when adapting to different growth niches and environmental stresses. Differences in the composition of the cell wall lead to differential immune recognition by the host. Understanding how changes in the cell wall composition affect recognition by PRRs is likely to be of major diagnostic and clinical relevance. Here we address this fundamental question using four soluble immune receptor-probes which recognize mannans and β-glucan in the cell wall. We use this novel methodology to demonstrate that mannan epitopes are differentially distributed in the inner and outer layers of fungal cell wall in a clustered or diffuse manner. Immune reactivity of fungal cell surfaces was not correlated with relatedness of different fungal species, and mannan-detecting receptor-probes discriminated between cell surface mannans generated by the same fungus growing under different conditions. These studies demonstrate that mannan-epitopes on fungal cell surfaces are differentially distributed within and between the cell walls of fungal pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ingrida Vendele
- MRC Centre for Medical Mycology, Aberdeen Fungal Group, College of Life Sciences and Medicine, Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Foresterhill, Aberdeen, United Kingdom
- Division of Infection and Immunity, The Roslin Institute and Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Janet A. Willment
- MRC Centre for Medical Mycology, Aberdeen Fungal Group, College of Life Sciences and Medicine, Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Foresterhill, Aberdeen, United Kingdom
- School of Biosciences, University of Exeter, Geoffrey Pope Building, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Lisete M. Silva
- Glycosciences Laboratory, Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Angelina S. Palma
- Glycosciences Laboratory, Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
- UCIBIO, Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Technology, NOVA University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Wengang Chai
- Glycosciences Laboratory, Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Yan Liu
- Glycosciences Laboratory, Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Ten Feizi
- Glycosciences Laboratory, Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Maria Spyrou
- MRC Centre for Medical Mycology, Aberdeen Fungal Group, College of Life Sciences and Medicine, Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Foresterhill, Aberdeen, United Kingdom
- School of Biosciences, University of Exeter, Geoffrey Pope Building, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Mark H. T. Stappers
- MRC Centre for Medical Mycology, Aberdeen Fungal Group, College of Life Sciences and Medicine, Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Foresterhill, Aberdeen, United Kingdom
- School of Biosciences, University of Exeter, Geoffrey Pope Building, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Gordon D. Brown
- MRC Centre for Medical Mycology, Aberdeen Fungal Group, College of Life Sciences and Medicine, Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Foresterhill, Aberdeen, United Kingdom
- School of Biosciences, University of Exeter, Geoffrey Pope Building, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Neil A. R. Gow
- MRC Centre for Medical Mycology, Aberdeen Fungal Group, College of Life Sciences and Medicine, Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Foresterhill, Aberdeen, United Kingdom
- School of Biosciences, University of Exeter, Geoffrey Pope Building, Exeter, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
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Sekizuka T, Iguchi S, Umeyama T, Inamine Y, Makimura K, Kuroda M, Miyazaki Y, Kikuchi K. Clade II Candida auris possess genomic structural variations related to an ancestral strain. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0223433. [PMID: 31596885 PMCID: PMC6785063 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0223433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2019] [Accepted: 09/20/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Candida auris is an invasive and multidrug-resistant ascomycetous yeast that is under global surveillance. All clinical cases of C. auris infection diagnosed from 1997 to 2019 in Japan were non-invasive and sporadic otitis media cases. In the present study, we performed whole-genome sequencing of seven C. auris strains isolated from patients with otitis media in Japan, all of which belonged to clade II. Comparative genome analysis using the high-quality draft genome sequences JCM 15448T revealed that single nucleotide variations (SNVs), clade-specific accessory genes, and copy number variations (CNVs) were identified in each C. auris clade. A total of 61 genes involved in cell wall and stress response-related functions was absent in clade II, and the pattern of conserved CNVs in each clade was more stable in clade II than in other clades. Our data suggest that the genomic structural diversity is stable in C. auris isolated from each biogeographic location, and Japanese strains isolated from patients with otitis media might belong to an ancestral type of C. auris. One Japanese strain, TWCC 58362, with reduced susceptibility to fluconazole, exhibited no mutation in ergosterol biosynthesis-related genes (ERG). However, TWCC 58362-specific variations, including SNVs, indels, and CNVs were detected, suggesting that gene duplication events in C. auris might contribute to antifungal drug resistance. Taken together, we demonstrated that genomic structural variations in C. auris could correlate to geographical dissemination, epidemiology, lesions in the host, and antifungal resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tsuyoshi Sekizuka
- Pathogen Genomics Center, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan
- * E-mail: (TS); (KK)
| | - Shigekazu Iguchi
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo Women’s Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takashi Umeyama
- Department of Chemotherapy and Mycoses, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuba Inamine
- Pathogen Genomics Center, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Koichi Makimura
- Department of Medical Mycology, Graduate School of Medicine, Teikyo University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Makoto Kuroda
- Pathogen Genomics Center, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yoshitsugu Miyazaki
- Department of Chemotherapy and Mycoses, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ken Kikuchi
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo Women’s Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
- * E-mail: (TS); (KK)
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NDV-3A vaccination prevents C. albicans colonization of jugular vein catheters in mice. Sci Rep 2019; 9:6194. [PMID: 30996274 PMCID: PMC6470131 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-42517-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2018] [Accepted: 03/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
NDV-3A, a novel fungal vaccine undergoing clinical trials, contains a recombinant version of the Candida albicans rAls3 N-terminus protein (rAls3p-N) in aluminum hydroxide. In a Phase 1b/2a clinical trial, NDV-3A protected women from recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis. Here, we reveal that active immunization in mice with NDV-3A induces high titers of anti-rAls3p-N antibodies that interfere with C. albicans ability to adhere to and invade endothelial cells, and form biofilm in vitro. Anti-rAls3p-N antibodies also significantly inhibit yeast dispersal from the hyphal layers of biofilms. Compared to placebo, NDV-3A vaccination inhibited C. albicans dissemination to kidneys and prevented colonization of central venous catheters in mice. Overall, these preclinical studies suggest that NDV-3A may serve as an immunotherapeutic strategy for prevention of infections on indwelling medical devices.
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Abstract
Abstract
Purpose of Review
Pervasive fungal infection among the immunocompromised population, in conjunction with a lack of effective treatment options, has demanded further scrutiny. Millions of people are still dying annually from fungal infections. While existing treatment for these fungal infections exists, it is difficult to administer without adverse effects in the immunocompromised and is slowly becoming obsolete due to varying mutation rates and rising resistance in multiple species. Thus, vaccines may be a viable target for preventing and treating fungal infections and addressing the critical challenge of such infections.
Recent Findings
Candida albicans, along with other non-albicans Candida species, is among the more virulent class of fungal specimens considered for vaccine development. C. albicans is responsible for a large percentage of invasive fungal infections among immunocompromised and immunocompetent populations and carries a relatively high mortality rate. In the last decade, a recent increase in infective capacity among Candida species has shed light on the lack of adequate fungal vaccine choices. While roadblocks still exist in the development of antifungal vaccines, several novel targets have been examined and proposed as candidates.
Summary
Success in vaccine development has universal appeal; an anti-Candida vaccine formulation could be modified to work against other fungal infections and thus bolster the antifungal pipeline.
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De Bernardis F, Graziani S, Tirelli F, Antonopoulou S. Candida vaginitis: virulence, host response and vaccine prospects. Med Mycol 2018. [PMID: 29538739 DOI: 10.1093/mmy/myx139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Vulvovaginal candidiasis is a common mucosal infection affecting a large proportion of women with some of them affected by recurrent often intractable forms of the disease. Thus, there is an increasing interest in understanding the pathogenesis of this disease. The aim of our work was to characterize, in animal models of vaginal candidiasis, the components of the host-fungus interaction at the mucosal level.The evidence of an immune response in the vaginal compartment was very encouraging to identify the proper targets for new strategies for vaccination or immunotherapy of vaginal candidiasis. Aspartyl-proteinase (Sap2), which is an important immunodominant antigens and virulence factors of C.albicans acting in mucosal infections, was assembled with virosomes and a vaccine PEV7 was obtained. The results obtained in the mouse model and in the clinical trial conducted by Pevion on women have evidenced that the vaccine PEV7, intravaginally administered, has an encouraging therapeutic potential for the treatment of recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis. This opens the way to a modality for anti-Candida protection at mucosal level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Flavia De Bernardis
- Department. of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Sofia Graziani
- Department. of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Flavio Tirelli
- Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Largo F. Vito, 1, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Stavroula Antonopoulou
- Departmentt. of Clinical Microbiology, G. Gennimatas General Hospital, 154 Avenue Mesogeion, 11527, Athens, Greece.,Department of Genetics and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biology, National Kapodistrian University of Athens, Avenue oulof Palme, Ano Ilisia 15784, Athens, Greece
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Rudkin FM, Raziunaite I, Workman H, Essono S, Belmonte R, MacCallum DM, Johnson EM, Silva LM, Palma AS, Feizi T, Jensen A, Erwig LP, Gow NAR. Single human B cell-derived monoclonal anti-Candida antibodies enhance phagocytosis and protect against disseminated candidiasis. Nat Commun 2018; 9:5288. [PMID: 30538246 PMCID: PMC6290022 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-018-07738-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2016] [Accepted: 11/13/2018] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The high global burden of over one million annual lethal fungal infections reflects a lack of protective vaccines, late diagnosis and inadequate chemotherapy. Here, we have generated a unique set of fully human anti-Candida monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) with diagnostic and therapeutic potential by expressing recombinant antibodies from genes cloned from the B cells of patients suffering from candidiasis. Single class switched memory B cells isolated from donors serum-positive for anti-Candida IgG were differentiated in vitro and screened against recombinant Candida albicans Hyr1 cell wall protein and whole fungal cell wall preparations. Antibody genes from Candida-reactive B cell cultures were cloned and expressed in Expi293F human embryonic kidney cells to generate a panel of human recombinant anti-Candida mAbs that demonstrate morphology-specific, high avidity binding to the cell wall. The species-specific and pan-Candida mAbs generated through this technology display favourable properties for diagnostics, strong opsono-phagocytic activity of macrophages in vitro, and protection in a murine model of disseminated candidiasis. Late diagnosis and ineffective treatment of fungal infections lead to high mortality. Here, Rudkin et al. generate anti-Candida human monoclonal antibodies with diagnostic and therapeutic potential, by expressing recombinant antibodies from genes cloned from B cells of patients suffering candidiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiona M Rudkin
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology at the University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD, UK
| | - Ingrida Raziunaite
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology at the University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD, UK.,Division of Infection and Immunity, The Roslin Institute and Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH25 9RG, UK
| | - Hillary Workman
- Global Biotherapeutic Technologies, Pfizer Inc, Cambridge Kendall Square, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
| | - Sosthene Essono
- Global Biotherapeutic Technologies, Pfizer Inc, Cambridge Kendall Square, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA.,HiFiBiO, 325 Vassar Street, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
| | - Rodrigo Belmonte
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology at the University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD, UK.,MSD Animal Health Innovation AS, Thormøhlensgate 55, N-5006, Bergen, Norway
| | - Donna M MacCallum
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology at the University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD, UK
| | - Elizabeth M Johnson
- National Infection Service, PHE South West Laboratory, Science Quarter, Southmead Hospital, Bristol, BS10 5NB, UK
| | - Lisete M Silva
- Glycosciences Laboratory, Department of Medicine, Imperial College London, Du Cane Road, W12 0NN, UK
| | - Angelina S Palma
- UCIBIO-REQUIMTE, Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Technology, NOVA University of Lisbon, Lisbon, 1099-085, Portugal
| | - Ten Feizi
- Glycosciences Laboratory, Department of Medicine, Imperial College London, Du Cane Road, W12 0NN, UK
| | - Allan Jensen
- Global Biotherapeutic Technologies, Pfizer Inc, Cambridge Kendall Square, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA.,H. Lundbeck, Ottiliavej 9, 2500, Valby, Denmark
| | - Lars P Erwig
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology at the University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD, UK.,Galvani Bioelectronics, 980 Great West Road, Brentford, TW8 9GS, UK
| | - Neil A R Gow
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology at the University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD, UK. .,School of Biosciences, University of Exeter, Geoffrey Pope Building, Exeter, EX4 4QD, UK.
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Uppuluri P, Singh S, Alqarihi A, Schmidt CS, Hennessey JP, Yeaman MR, Filler SG, Edwards JE, Ibrahim AS. Human Anti-Als3p Antibodies Are Surrogate Markers of NDV-3A Vaccine Efficacy Against Recurrent Vulvovaginal Candidiasis. Front Immunol 2018; 9:1349. [PMID: 29963049 PMCID: PMC6013566 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.01349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2018] [Accepted: 05/31/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
A Phase 1b/2a clinical trial of NDV-3A vaccine containing a Candida albicans recombinant Als3 protein formulated with alum protected women <40 years old from recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis (RVVC). We investigated the potential use of anti-Als3p sera as surrogate marker of NDV-3A efficacy. Pre- and post-vaccination sera from subjects who experienced recurrence of vulvovaginal candidiasis (R) vs. those who were recurrence-free [non-recurrent (NR)] were evaluated. Anti-Als3p antisera obtained were evaluated for (1) titer and subclass profile and (2) their ability to influence C. albicans virulence traits including hyphal elongation, adherence to plastic, invasion of vaginal epithelial cells, biofilm formation on plastic and catheter material, and susceptibility to neutrophil killing in vitro. Serum IgG titers in NR patients were consistently higher than in R patients, particularly for anti-Als3 subclass IgG2. Sera from vaccinated NR patients reduced hyphal elongation, adhesion to plastic, invasion of vaginal epithelial cells, and biofilm formation significantly more than pre-immune sera, or sera from R- or placebo-group subjects. Pre-adsorption of sera with C. albicans germ tubes eliminated these effects, while heat inactivation did not. Finally, sera from NR subjects enhanced neutrophil-mediated killing of C. albicans relative to pre-immune sera or sera from R patients. Our results suggest that higher Als3p antibody titers are associated with protection from RVVC, attenuate C. albicans virulence, and augment immune clearance of the fungus in vitro. Thus, Als3p serum IgG antibodies are likely useful markers of efficacy in RVVC patients vaccinated with NDV-3A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priya Uppuluri
- Los Angeles Biomedical Research Institute, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, United States.,David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Shakti Singh
- Los Angeles Biomedical Research Institute, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, United States
| | - Abdullah Alqarihi
- Los Angeles Biomedical Research Institute, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, United States
| | | | | | - Michael R Yeaman
- Los Angeles Biomedical Research Institute, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, United States.,David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Scott G Filler
- Los Angeles Biomedical Research Institute, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, United States.,David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - John E Edwards
- Los Angeles Biomedical Research Institute, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, United States.,David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Ashraf S Ibrahim
- Los Angeles Biomedical Research Institute, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, United States.,David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
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37
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Uppuluri P, Lin L, Alqarihi A, Luo G, Youssef EG, Alkhazraji S, Yount NY, Ibrahim BA, Bolaris MA, Edwards JE, Swidergall M, Filler SG, Yeaman MR, Ibrahim AS. The Hyr1 protein from the fungus Candida albicans is a cross kingdom immunotherapeutic target for Acinetobacter bacterial infection. PLoS Pathog 2018; 14:e1007056. [PMID: 29746596 PMCID: PMC5963808 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1007056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2018] [Revised: 05/22/2018] [Accepted: 04/26/2018] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Different pathogens share similar medical settings and rely on similar virulence strategies to cause infections. We have previously applied 3-D computational modeling and bioinformatics to discover novel antigens that target more than one human pathogen. Active and passive immunization with the recombinant N-terminus of Candida albicans Hyr1 (rHyr1p-N) protect mice against lethal candidemia. Here we determine that Hyr1p shares homology with cell surface proteins of the multidrug resistant Gram negative bacterium, Acinetobacter baumannii including hemagglutinin (FhaB) and outer membrane protein A (OmpA). The A. baumannii OmpA binds to C. albicans Hyr1p, leading to a mixed species biofilm. Deletion of HYR1, or blocking of Hyr1p using polyclonal antibodies, significantly reduce A. baumannii binding to C. albicans hyphae. Furthermore, active vaccination with rHyr1p-N or passive immunization with polyclonal antibodies raised against specific peptide motifs of rHyr1p-N markedly improve survival of diabetic or neutropenic mice infected with A. baumannii bacteremia or pneumonia. Antibody raised against one particular peptide of the rHyr1p-N sequence (peptide 5) confers majority of the protection through blocking A. baumannii invasion of host cells and inducing death of the bacterium by a putative iron starvation mechanism. Anti-Hyr1 peptide 5 antibodies also mitigate A. baumannii /C. albicans mixed biofilm formation in vitro. Consistent with our bioinformatic analysis and structural modeling of Hyr1p, anti-Hyr1p peptide 5 antibodies bound to A. baumannii FhaB, OmpA, and an outer membrane siderophore binding protein. Our studies highlight the concept of cross-kingdom vaccine protection against high priority human pathogens such as A. baumannii and C. albicans that share similar ecological niches in immunocompromised patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priya Uppuluri
- Department of Medicine, Los Angeles Biomedical Research Institute at Harbor-University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) Medical Center, Torrance, California, United States of America
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Lin Lin
- Department of Medicine, Los Angeles Biomedical Research Institute at Harbor-University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) Medical Center, Torrance, California, United States of America
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Abdullah Alqarihi
- Department of Medicine, Los Angeles Biomedical Research Institute at Harbor-University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) Medical Center, Torrance, California, United States of America
| | - Guanpingsheng Luo
- Department of Medicine, Los Angeles Biomedical Research Institute at Harbor-University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) Medical Center, Torrance, California, United States of America
| | - Eman G. Youssef
- Department of Medicine, Los Angeles Biomedical Research Institute at Harbor-University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) Medical Center, Torrance, California, United States of America
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, Faculty of Postgraduate Studies for Advanced Sciences (PSAS), Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, Egypt
| | - Sondus Alkhazraji
- Department of Medicine, Los Angeles Biomedical Research Institute at Harbor-University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) Medical Center, Torrance, California, United States of America
| | - Nannette Y. Yount
- Department of Medicine, Los Angeles Biomedical Research Institute at Harbor-University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) Medical Center, Torrance, California, United States of America
| | - Belal A. Ibrahim
- Portola High School, Irvine, California, United States of America
| | - Michael Anthony Bolaris
- Department of Medicine, Los Angeles Biomedical Research Institute at Harbor-University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) Medical Center, Torrance, California, United States of America
| | - John E. Edwards
- Department of Medicine, Los Angeles Biomedical Research Institute at Harbor-University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) Medical Center, Torrance, California, United States of America
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Marc Swidergall
- Department of Medicine, Los Angeles Biomedical Research Institute at Harbor-University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) Medical Center, Torrance, California, United States of America
| | - Scott G. Filler
- Department of Medicine, Los Angeles Biomedical Research Institute at Harbor-University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) Medical Center, Torrance, California, United States of America
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Michael R. Yeaman
- Department of Medicine, Los Angeles Biomedical Research Institute at Harbor-University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) Medical Center, Torrance, California, United States of America
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Ashraf S. Ibrahim
- Department of Medicine, Los Angeles Biomedical Research Institute at Harbor-University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) Medical Center, Torrance, California, United States of America
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
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Abstract
Glycosylation is an important post-translational modification that is required for structural and stability purposes and functional roles such as signalling, attachment and shielding. Many human pathogens such as bacteria display an array of carbohydrates on their surface that are non-self to the host; others such as viruses highjack the host-cell machinery and present self-carbohydrates sometimes arranged in a non-self more immunogenic manner. In combination with carrier proteins, these glycan structures can be highly immunogenic. During natural infection, glycan-binding antibodies are often elicited that correlate with long-lasting protection. A great amount of research has been invested in carbohydrate vaccine design to elicit such an immune response, which has led to the development of vaccines against the bacterial pathogens Haemophilus influenzae type b, Streptococcus pneumonia and Neisseria meningitidis. Other vaccines, e.g. against HIV-1, are still in development, but promising progress has been made with the isolation of broadly neutralizing glycan-binding antibodies and the engineering of stable trimeric envelope glycoproteins. Carbohydrate vaccines against other pathogens such as viruses (Dengue, Hepatitis C), parasites (Plasmodium) and fungi (Candida) are at different stages of development. This chapter will discuss the challenges in inducing cross-reactive carbohydrate-targeting antibodies and progress towards carbohydrate vaccines.
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Abstract
Oropharyngeal candidiasis (OPC), caused predominantly by Candida albicans, is a prevalent infection in patients with advanced AIDS, defects in Th17 immunity, and head and neck cancer. A characteristic feature of OPC is fungal invasion of the oral epithelial cells. One mechanism by which C. albicans hyphae can invade oral epithelial cells is by expressing the Als3 and Ssa1 invasins that interact with the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) on epithelial cells and stimulate endocytosis of the organism. However, the signaling pathways that function downstream of EGFR and mediate C. albicans endocytosis are poorly defined. Here, we report that C. albicans infection activates the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR), leading to activation of Src family kinases (SFKs), which in turn phosphorylate EGFR and induce endocytosis of the fungus. Furthermore, treatment of oral epithelial cells with interferon gamma inhibits fungal endocytosis by inducing the synthesis of kynurenines, which cause prolonged activation of AhR and SFKs, thereby interfering with C. albicans-induced EGFR signaling. Treatment of both immunosuppressed and immunocompetent mice with an AhR inhibitor decreases phosphorylation of SFKs and EGFR in the oral mucosa, reduces fungal invasion, and lessens the severity of OPC. Thus, our data indicate that AhR plays a central role in governing the pathogenic interactions of C. albicans with oral epithelial cells during OPC and suggest that this receptor is a potential therapeutic target. OPC is caused predominantly by the fungus C. albicans, which can invade the oral epithelium by several mechanisms. One of these mechanisms is induced endocytosis, which is stimulated when fungal invasins bind to epithelial cell receptors such as EGFR. Receptor binding causes rearrangement of epithelial cell microfilaments, leading to the formation of pseudopods that engulf the fungus and pull it into the epithelial cell. We discovered AhR acts via SFKs to phosphorylate EGFR and induce the endocytosis of C. albicans. Our finding that a small molecule inhibitor of AhR ameliorates OPC in mice suggests that a strategy of targeting host cell signaling pathways that govern epithelial cell endocytosis of C. albicans holds promise as a new approach to preventing or treating OPC.
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40
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Li W, Hu Y. Assessment of Post-Vaccination Phagocytic Activation Using Candida albicans Killing Assays. Methods Mol Biol 2017; 1625:313-326. [PMID: 28584999 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-7104-6_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Candida albicans is an important opportunistic fungal pathogen. It is now the fourth leading cause of nosocomial bloodstream infections and a great threat to the immuncompromised patients attributed to the disseminated candidiasis with the mortality up to 40%. Phagocytic cells are the first line of defense against Candida infections. Antibodies induced by vaccination can effectively enhance the capacities of phagocytosis and killing of neutrophils and macrophages. In this chapter, flow cytometric analysis (FACS) and killing assay by plate culture methods are introduced to evaluate the phagocytosis and killing of strains of Candida albicans opsonized with immune serum obtained from mice vaccinated with yeast and recombinant enolase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenqing Li
- Department of Oral Biology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, 56 Lingyuan West Road, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510100, China
| | - Yan Hu
- Department of Oral Biology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, 56 Lingyuan West Road, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510100, China.
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41
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Bommanavar SB, Gugwad S, Malik N. Phenotypic switch: The enigmatic white-gray-opaque transition system of Candida albicans. J Oral Maxillofac Pathol 2017; 21:82-86. [PMID: 28479692 PMCID: PMC5406825 DOI: 10.4103/0973-029x.203781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Candida albicans represents the most common commensal and opportunistic fungal pathogen colonizing humans. As a member of the normal microflora, it is present on the skin and the mucous membranes of the upper respiratory tract, gastrointestinal tract and female genital tracts. It is therefore not transmitted. It lies in wait for a change in some aspect of the host physiology that normally suppress growth and invasiveness through an enigmatic phenomenon called Phenotypic Switch System or White-Opaque Transition. This system involves reversible and heritable switching between alternative cellular phenotypes. White–opaque switching in Candida albicans was first discovered in 1987. This was initially identified in strain WO-1. Switching has been demonstrated to occur at sites of infection and to occur between recurrent episodes of infection in select cases esp. AIDS and diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sushma Basavaraj Bommanavar
- Department of Oral Pathology and Microbiology and Forensic Odontology, School of Dental Sciences, Krishna Institute of Medical Sciences, Karad, Maharashtra, India
| | - Sachin Gugwad
- Department of Pedodontics and Preventive Dentistry, School of Dental Sciences, Krishna Institute of Medical Sciences, Karad, Maharashtra, India
| | - Neelima Malik
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, School of Dental Sciences, Krishna Institute of Medical Sciences, Karad, Maharashtra, India
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van Wijlick L, Swidergall M, Brandt P, Ernst JF. Candida albicansresponds to glycostructure damage by Ace2-mediated feedback regulation of Cek1 signaling. Mol Microbiol 2016; 102:827-849. [DOI: 10.1111/mmi.13494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/30/2016] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Lasse van Wijlick
- Department Biologie; Molekulare Mykologie, Heinrich-Heine-Universität; 40225 Düsseldorf Germany
- Manchot Graduate School Molecules of Infection, Heinrich-Heine-Universität; 40225 Düsseldorf Germany
| | - Marc Swidergall
- Department Biologie; Molekulare Mykologie, Heinrich-Heine-Universität; 40225 Düsseldorf Germany
| | - Philipp Brandt
- Department Biologie; Molekulare Mykologie, Heinrich-Heine-Universität; 40225 Düsseldorf Germany
| | - Joachim F. Ernst
- Department Biologie; Molekulare Mykologie, Heinrich-Heine-Universität; 40225 Düsseldorf Germany
- Manchot Graduate School Molecules of Infection, Heinrich-Heine-Universität; 40225 Düsseldorf Germany
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43
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Saputo S, Norman KL, Murante T, Horton BN, Diaz JDLC, DiDone L, Colquhoun J, Schroeder JW, Simmons LA, Kumar A, Krysan DJ. Complex Haploinsufficiency-Based Genetic Analysis of the NDR/Lats Kinase Cbk1 Provides Insight into Its Multiple Functions in Candida albicans. Genetics 2016; 203:1217-33. [PMID: 27206715 PMCID: PMC4937472 DOI: 10.1534/genetics.116.188029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2016] [Accepted: 05/11/2016] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Although the analysis of genetic interactions and networks is a powerful approach to understanding biology, it has not been applied widely to the pathogenic yeast Candida albicans Here, we describe the use of both screening and directed genetic interaction studies based on complex haploinsufficiency to probe the function of the R: egulation of A: ce2 and M: orphogenesis (RAM) pathway in C. albicans A library of 5200 Tn7-mutagenized derivatives of a parental strain heterozygous at CBK1, the key kinase in the RAM pathway, was screened for alterations in serum-induced filamentation. Following confirmation of phenotypes and identification of insertion sites by sequencing, a set of 36 unique double heterozygous strains showing complex haploinsufficiency was obtained. In addition to a large set of genes regulated by the RAM transcription factor Ace2, genes related to cell wall biosynthesis, cell cycle, polarity, oxidative stress, and nitrogen utilization were identified. Follow-up analysis led to the first demonstration that the RAM pathway is required for oxidative stress tolerance in a manner related to the two-component-regulated kinase Chk1 and revealed a potential direct connection between the RAM pathway and the essential Mps1 spindle pole-related kinase. In addition, genetic interactions with CDC42-related genes MSB1, a putative scaffold protein, and RGD3, a putative Rho GTPase-activating protein (GAP) were identified. We also provide evidence that Rgd3 is a GAP for Cdc42 and show that its localization and phosphorylation are dependent on Cbk1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Saputo
- Department of Microbiology/Immunology University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York 14642
| | - Kaitlyn L Norman
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109
| | - Thomas Murante
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York 14642
| | - Brooke N Horton
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109
| | - Jacinto De La Cruz Diaz
- Department of Microbiology/Immunology University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York 14642
| | - Louis DiDone
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York 14642
| | - Jennifer Colquhoun
- Department of Microbiology/Immunology University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York 14642
| | - Jeremy W Schroeder
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109
| | - Lyle A Simmons
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109
| | - Anuj Kumar
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109
| | - Damian J Krysan
- Department of Microbiology/Immunology University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York 14642 Department of Pediatrics, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York 14642
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44
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Lagunes L, Rello J. Invasive candidiasis: from mycobiome to infection, therapy, and prevention. Eur J Clin Microbiol Infect Dis 2016; 35:1221-6. [PMID: 27146877 DOI: 10.1007/s10096-016-2658-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2016] [Accepted: 04/06/2016] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Candida spp. are commonly found in humans, colonizing most healthy individuals. A high prevalence of invasive candidiasis has been reported in recent years. Here, we assess the relation between Candida spp. as part of the human mycobiome, the host defense mechanisms, and the pathophysiology of invasive disease in critically ill patients. Many hypotheses have been proposed to explain the different immune responses to the process where Candida goes through healthy mycobiome to colonization to invasion; the involvement of other microbiota inhabitants, changes in temperature, low nitrogen levels, and the caspase system activation have been described. Patients admitted to an intensive care unit (ICU) are at the highest risk for invasive candidiasis, mostly due to the severity of their disease, immune-suppressive states, prolonged length of stay, broad-spectrum antibiotics, septic shock, and Candida colonization. The first approach should be using predictive scores as screening, followed by the determination of biomarkers (when available), and, in the near future, probably immune-genomics and analysis of the clinical background in order to initiate prompt and correct treatment. Regarding treatment, the initiation with an echinocandin is strongly recommended in critically ill patients. In conclusion, prompt treatment and adequate source control in the more severe patients remains the ultimate goal, as well as restoration of a healthy microbiota.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Lagunes
- Critical Care Department, Vall d'Hebron University Hospital, Ps Vall d'Hebron 119-129, 08035, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - J Rello
- Department of Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,CIBER de Enfermedades Respiratorias, Instituto de Salud Carlos III (CIBERES), Madrid, Spain
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45
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Abstract
During infection, fungi frequently transition to a biofilm lifestyle, proliferating as communities of surface-adherent aggregates of cells. Phenotypically, cells in a biofilm are distinct from free-floating cells. Their high tolerance of antifungals and ability to withstand host defenses are two characteristics that foster resilience. Biofilm infections are particularly difficult to eradicate, and most available antifungals have minimal activity. Therefore, the discovery of novel compounds and innovative strategies to treat fungal biofilms is of great interest. Although many fungi have been observed to form biofilms, the most well-studied is Candida albicans. Animal models have been developed to simulate common Candida device-associated infections, including those involving vascular catheters, dentures, urinary catheters, and subcutaneous implants. Models have also reproduced the most common mucosal biofilm infections: oropharyngeal and vaginal candidiasis. These models incorporate the anatomical site, immune components, and fluid dynamics of clinical niches and have been instrumental in the study of drug resistance and investigation of novel therapies. This chapter describes the significance of fungal biofilm infections, the animal models developed for biofilm study, and how these models have contributed to the development of new strategies for the eradication of fungal biofilm infections.
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Abstract
There has been a global upsurge in fungal infections due to rise in immunodeficiencies, debilitation and situations of violated anatomical barriers. The available antifungal repertoire has limited activity and is fraught with toxicity concerns. Drug resistance has also shown a rapid upward trend. This has resulted in increased treatment failures, mortality and health care costs. Novel effective and safe antimycotics are needed. Analogues of existing antifungal compounds and new molecules are being developed. New targets are being explored for their putative role in curtailing fungal infections. Newer antigens as vaccine candidates are being researched into. Focused efforts in this direction have yielded encouraging results. This review illuminates the various antifungal strategies which hold promise for the future.
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47
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De Bernardis F, Arancia S, Sandini S, Graziani S, Norelli S. Studies of Immune Responses in Candida vaginitis. Pathogens 2015; 4:697-707. [PMID: 26473934 PMCID: PMC4693159 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens4040697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2015] [Revised: 09/23/2015] [Accepted: 09/30/2015] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The widespread occurrence of vaginal candidiasis and the development of resistance against anti-fungal agents has stimulated interest in understanding the pathogenesis of this disease. The aim of our work was to characterize, in an animal model of vaginal candidiasis, the mechanisms that play a role in the induction of mucosal immunity against C. albicans and the interaction between innate and adaptive immunity. Our studies evidenced the elicitation of cell-mediated immunity (CMIs) and antibody (Abs)-mediated immunity with a Th1 protective immunity. An immune response of this magnitude in the vagina was very encouraging to identify the proper targets for new strategies for vaccination or immunotherapy of vaginal candidiasis. Overall, our data provide clear evidence that it is possible to prevent C. albicans vaginal infection by active intravaginal immunization with aspartyl proteinase expressed as recombinant protein. This opens the way to a modality for anti-Candida protection at the mucosa. The recombinant protein Sap2 was assembled with virosomes, and a vaccine PEVION7 (PEV7) was obtained. The results have given evidence that the vaccine, constituted of virosomes and Secretory aspartyl proteinase 2 (Sap2) (PEV7), has an encouraging therapeutic potential for the treatment of recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Flavia De Bernardis
- Department of Infectious, Parasitic and Immunomediated Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy.
| | - Silvia Arancia
- Department of Infectious, Parasitic and Immunomediated Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy.
| | - Silvia Sandini
- Department of Infectious, Parasitic and Immunomediated Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy.
| | - Sofia Graziani
- Department of Infectious, Parasitic and Immunomediated Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy.
| | - Sandro Norelli
- Department of Infectious, Parasitic and Immunomediated Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy.
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48
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Wang L, Yan L, Li XX, Xu GT, An MM, Jiang YY. Vaccination with Recombinant Non-transmembrane Domain of Protein Mannosyltransferase 4 Improves Survival during Murine Disseminated Candidiasis. Biol Pharm Bull 2015; 38:1779-87. [PMID: 26268065 DOI: 10.1248/bpb.b15-00475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Candida albicans is the most common cause of invasive fungal infections in humans. The C. albicans cell wall proteins play an important role in crucial host-fungus interactions and might be ideal vaccine targets to induce protective immune response in host. Meanwhile, protein that is specific to C. albicans is also an ideal target of vaccine. In this study, 11 proteins involving cell wall biosynthesis, yeast-to-hypha formation, or specific to C. albicans were chosen and were successfully cloned, purified and verified. The immune protection of vaccination with each recombinant protein respectively in preventing systemic candidiasis in BALB/c mice was assessed. The injection of rPmt4p vaccination significantly increased survival rate, decreased fungal burdens in the heart, liver, brain, and kidneys, and increased serum levels of both immunoglobulin G (IgG) and IgM against rPmt4p in the immunized mice. Histopathological assessment demonstrated that rPmt4p vaccination protected the tissue structure, and decreased the infiltration of inflammatory cells. Passive transfer of the rPmt4p immunized serum increased survival rate against murine systemic candidiasis and significantly reduced organ fungal burden. The immune serum enhanced mouse neutrophil killing activity by directly neutralizing rPmt4p effects in vitro. Levels of interleukin (IL)-4, IL-10, IL-12p70, IL-17A and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α in serum were higher in the immunized mice compared to those in the adjuvant control group. In conclusion, our results suggested that rPmt4p vaccination may be considered as a potential vaccine candidate against systemic candidiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Wang
- Center for New Drug Research, School of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University
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Whibley N, Gaffen SL. Beyond Candida albicans: Mechanisms of immunity to non-albicans Candida species. Cytokine 2015; 76:42-52. [PMID: 26276374 DOI: 10.1016/j.cyto.2015.07.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2015] [Revised: 07/27/2015] [Accepted: 07/28/2015] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The fungal genus Candida encompasses numerous species that inhabit a variety of hosts, either as commensal microbes and/or pathogens. Candida species are a major cause of fungal infections, yet to date there are no vaccines against Candida or indeed any other fungal pathogen. Our knowledge of immunity to Candida mainly comes from studies on Candida albicans, the most frequent species associated with disease. However, non-albicans Candida (NAC) species also cause disease and their prevalence is increasing. Although research into immunity to NAC species is still at an early stage, it is becoming apparent that immunity to C. albicans differs in important ways from non-albicans species, with important implications for treatment, therapy and predicted demographic susceptibility. This review will discuss the current understanding of immunity to NAC species in the context of immunity to C. albicans, and highlight as-yet unanswered questions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natasha Whibley
- Division of Rheumatology & Clinical Immunology, Dept. of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
| | - Sarah L Gaffen
- Division of Rheumatology & Clinical Immunology, Dept. of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA; Division of Rheumatology & Clinical Immunology, BST S702, 200 Lothrop St., Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA.
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50
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Rana A, Ahmed M, Rub A, Akhter Y. A tug-of-war between the host and the pathogen generates strategic hotspots for the development of novel therapeutic interventions against infectious diseases. Virulence 2015; 6:566-80. [PMID: 26107578 PMCID: PMC4720223 DOI: 10.1080/21505594.2015.1062211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2015] [Revised: 06/02/2015] [Accepted: 06/10/2015] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Microbial pathogens are known to express an array of specific signaling molecules referred as Pathogen Associated Molecular Patterns (PAMPs), which are recognized by Pattern Recognition Receptors (PRRs), present on the surface of the host cells. Interactions between PAMPs and PRRs on the surface of the host cells lead to signaling events which could culminate into either successful infection or clearance of the pathogens. Here, we summarize how these events may generate novel host based as well as pathogen based molecular targets for designing effective therapeutic strategies against infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aarti Rana
- School of Life Sciences; Central University of Himachal Pradesh; Shahpur, District-Kangra, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Mushtaq Ahmed
- School of Earth and Environmental Sciences; Central University of Himachal Pradesh; Shahpur, District-Kangra, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Abdur Rub
- Infection and Immunity Lab; Department of Biotechnology; Jamia Millia Islamia (A Central University); New Delhi, India
| | - Yusuf Akhter
- School of Life Sciences; Central University of Himachal Pradesh; Shahpur, District-Kangra, Himachal Pradesh, India
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