1
|
Liu F, Zeng M, Zhou X, Huang F, Song Z. Aspergillus fumigatus escape mechanisms from its harsh survival environments. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2024; 108:53. [PMID: 38175242 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-023-12952-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: 08/15/2023] [Revised: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Aspergillus fumigatus is a ubiquitous pathogenic mold and causes several diseases, including mycotoxicosis, allergic reactions, and systemic diseases (invasive aspergillosis), with high mortality rates. In its ecological niche, the fungus has evolved and mastered many reply strategies to resist and survive against negative threats, including harsh environmental stress and deficiency of essential nutrients from natural environments, immunity responses and drug treatments in host, and competition from symbiotic microorganisms. Hence, treating A. fumigatus infection is a growing challenge. In this review, we summarized A. fumigatus reply strategies and escape mechanisms and clarified the main competitive or symbiotic relationships between A. fumigatus, viruses, bacteria, or fungi in host microecology. Additionally, we discussed the contemporary drug repertoire used to treat A. fumigatus and the latest evidence of potential resistance mechanisms. This review provides valuable knowledge which will stimulate further investigations and clinical applications for treating and preventing A. fumigatus infections. KEY POINTS: • Harsh living environment was a great challenge for A. fumigatus survival. • A. fumigatus has evolved multiple strategies to escape host immune responses. • A. fumigatus withstands antifungal drugs via intrinsic escape mechanisms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fangyan Liu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, People's Republic of China
| | - Meng Zeng
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, People's Republic of China
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Yongchuan Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 402160, People's Republic of China
| | - Xue Zhou
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, People's Republic of China
| | - Fujiao Huang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhangyong Song
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, People's Republic of China.
- Molecular Biotechnology Platform, Public Center of Experimental Technology, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Vargas-Blanco DA, Hepworth OW, Basham KJ, Simaku P, Crossen AJ, Timmer KD, Hopke A, Brown Harding H, Vandal SR, Jensen KN, Floyd DJ, Reedy JL, Reardon C, Mansour MK, Ward RA, Irimia D, Abramson JS, Vyas JM. BTK inhibitor-induced defects in human neutrophil effector activity against Aspergillus fumigatus are restored by TNF-α. JCI Insight 2024; 9:e176162. [PMID: 38713531 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.176162] [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: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Inhibition of Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK) through covalent modifications of its active site (e.g., ibrutinib [IBT]) is a preferred treatment for multiple B cell malignancies. However, IBT-treated patients are more susceptible to invasive fungal infections, although the mechanism is poorly understood. Neutrophils are the primary line of defense against these infections; therefore, we examined the effect of IBT on primary human neutrophil effector activity against Aspergillus fumigatus. IBT significantly impaired the ability of neutrophils to kill A. fumigatus and potently inhibited reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, chemotaxis, and phagocytosis. Importantly, exogenous TNF-α fully compensated for defects imposed by IBT and newer-generation BTK inhibitors and restored the ability of neutrophils to contain A. fumigatus hyphal growth. Blocking TNF-α did not affect ROS production in healthy neutrophils but prevented exogenous TNF-α from rescuing the phenotype of IBT-treated neutrophils. The restorative capacity of TNF-α was independent of transcription. Moreover, the addition of TNF-α immediately rescued ROS production in IBT-treated neutrophils, indicating that TNF-α worked through a BTK-independent signaling pathway. Finally, TNF-α restored effector activity of primary neutrophils from patients on IBT therapy. Altogether, our data indicate that TNF-α rescued the antifungal immunity block imposed by inhibition of BTK in primary human neutrophils.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Diego A Vargas-Blanco
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Olivia W Hepworth
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Kyle J Basham
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Patricia Simaku
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Arianne J Crossen
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Kyle D Timmer
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Alex Hopke
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- BioMEMS Resource Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Shriners Hospital for Children, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Hannah Brown Harding
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Steven R Vandal
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Kirstine N Jensen
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Daniel J Floyd
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jennifer L Reedy
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Christopher Reardon
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Michael K Mansour
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Rebecca A Ward
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Daniel Irimia
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- BioMEMS Resource Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Shriners Hospital for Children, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jeremy S Abramson
- Center for Lymphoma, Mass General Cancer Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jatin M Vyas
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Nasiri-Jahrodi A, Barati M, Namdar Ahmadabad H, Badali H, Morovati H. A comprehensive review on the role of T cell subsets and CAR-T cell therapy in Aspergillus fumigatus infection. Hum Immunol 2024; 85:110763. [PMID: 38350795 DOI: 10.1016/j.humimm.2024.110763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024]
Abstract
Understanding the immune response to Aspergillus fumigatus, a common cause of invasive fungal infections (IFIs) in immunocompromised individuals, is critical for developing effective treatments. Tcells play a critical role in the immune response to A. fumigatus, with different subsets having distinct functions. Th1 cells are important for controlling fungal growth, while Th2 cells can exacerbate infection. Th17 cells promote the clearance of fungi indirectly by stimulating the production of various antimicrobial peptides from epithelial cells and directly by recruiting and activating neutrophils. Regulatory T cells have varied functions in A.fumigatus infection. They expand after exposure to A. fumigatus conidia and prevent organ injury and fungal sepsis by downregulating inflammation and inhibiting neutrophils or suppressing Th17 cells. Regulatory T cells also block Th2 cells to stop aspergillosis allergies. Immunotherapy with CAR T cells is a promising treatment for fungal infections, including A. fumigatus infections, especially in immunocompromised individuals. However, further research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms underlying the immune response to A. fumigatus and to develop effective immunotherapies with CAR-T cells for this infection. This literature review explores the role of Tcell subsets in A.fumigatus infection, and the effects of CAR-T cell therapy on this fungal infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abozar Nasiri-Jahrodi
- Department of Pathobiology and Medical Laboratory Sciences, North Khorasan University of Medical Sciences, Bojnurd, Iran
| | - Mehdi Barati
- Department of Pathobiology and Medical Laboratory Sciences, North Khorasan University of Medical Sciences, Bojnurd, Iran.
| | - Hasan Namdar Ahmadabad
- Vector-borne Diseases Research Center, North Khorasan University of Medical Sciences, Bojnurd, Iran.
| | - Hamid Badali
- Department of Molecular Microbiology & Immunology, South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, The University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Hamid Morovati
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Wang M, Hu Y, Cai F, Qiu J, Mao Y, Zhang Y. HIF‑1 and macrophage activation signalling pathways are potential biomarkers of invasive aspergillosis. Exp Ther Med 2024; 27:86. [PMID: 38274338 PMCID: PMC10809359 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2024.12375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Invasive aspergillosis (IA) is a severe disease, the pathogenesis of which remains unclear. The present study aimed to determine the molecular mechanism of IA and to identify potential biomarkers using bioinformatics analysis. The GSE78000 dataset, which includes data from patients with IA and healthy individuals, was downloaded from Gene Expression Omnibus. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between the IA and control groups were identified with the 'affy' package in R software. The Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopaedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) databases were then used to analyse the function and pathway enrichment of DEGs. The protein-protein interaction network was analysed with the Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes (STRING) website. In addition, DEGs were confirmed using reverse transcription-quantitative PCR and western blotting in samples with IA (n=6) and control samples (n=6) collected from the Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine of the First Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Science and Technology (Luoyang, China). The present study identified 735 DEGs, including 312 upregulated and 423 downregulated genes. Through GO and KEGG analyses of the DEGs, macrophage activation and hypoxia-inducible factor 1 (HIF-1) signalling pathways were revealed to be significantly upregulated and downregulated, respectively, in patients with IA compared with that of the healthy individuals. Subsequently, correlation analysis of macrophage activation and HIF-1 signalling pathways was revealed using correlation as a distance metric for hierarchical clustering correlation analysis. However, there was no protein-protein interaction between the macrophage activity regulation and HIF-1 signalling pathways based on STRING analysis. In summary, the present study identified candidate genes and associated molecules that may be associated to IA and revealed potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets for IA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Min Wang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital and College of Clinical Medicine of Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, Henan 471003, P.R. China
| | - Yuling Hu
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital and College of Clinical Medicine of Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, Henan 471003, P.R. China
| | - Feng Cai
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226000, P.R. China
| | - Jiayong Qiu
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital and College of Clinical Medicine of Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, Henan 471003, P.R. China
| | - Yimin Mao
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital and College of Clinical Medicine of Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, Henan 471003, P.R. China
| | - Yingmin Zhang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital and College of Clinical Medicine of Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, Henan 471003, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Shang S, He D, Liu C, Bao X, Han S, Wang L. TRAF3 gene regulates macrophage migration and activation by lung epithelial cells infected with Aspergillus fumigatus. Microbiol Spectr 2024; 12:e0269923. [PMID: 38018974 PMCID: PMC10783100 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.02699-23] [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: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/21/2023] [Indexed: 11/30/2023] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Aspergillus fumigatus can infect immunocompromised individuals and cause chronic and fatal invasive fungal infections. A better understanding of the molecular mechanisms of A. fumigatus-host interactions may provide new references for disease treatment. In this study, we demonstrated that the TRAF3 gene plays an important role in the early infection of A. fumigatus by regulating the resistance of lung epithelial cells to A. fumigatus. Macrophages are the most abundant innate immune cells in the alveoli; however, few studies have reported on the interactions between lung epithelial cells and macrophages in response to A. fumigatus invasion. In our study, it was demonstrated that the TRAF3 gene reduces migration to macrophages and cytokine production by negatively regulating lung epithelial cell adhesion and internalization of A. fumigatus spores. Together, our results provide new insights into lung epithelial cell-macrophage interactions during A. fumigatus infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shumi Shang
- Department of Pathogenobiology, Jilin University Mycology Research Center, Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Research, Ministry of Education, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Dan He
- Department of Pathogenobiology, Jilin University Mycology Research Center, Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Research, Ministry of Education, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Cong Liu
- Department of Dermatology, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Xinyuan Bao
- Department of Pathogenobiology, Jilin University Mycology Research Center, Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Research, Ministry of Education, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Shuaishuai Han
- Beijing ZhongKai TianCheng Bio-technology Co. Ltd., Beijing, China
| | - Li Wang
- Department of Pathogenobiology, Jilin University Mycology Research Center, Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Research, Ministry of Education, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Zhan L, Tian X, Lin J, Zhang Y, Zhao G, Peng X. The Therapeutic Role and Mechanism of Glabridin Under Aspergillus fumigatus Infection. J Ocul Pharmacol Ther 2024; 40:89-99. [PMID: 38346287 DOI: 10.1089/jop.2023.0085] [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: 02/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose: To characterize the efficiency of glabridin alone and in combination with clinical antifungals in Aspergillus fumigatus keratitis. Methods: The broth microdilution method was performed to investigate whether glabridin exerted an antifungal role on planktonic cells and immature and mature biofilm. Antifungal mechanism was evaluated by Sorbitol and Ergosterol Assays. The synergistic effect of glabridin and antifungals was assessed through the checkerboard microdilution method and time-killing test. Regarding anti-inflammatory role, inflammatory substances induced by A. fumigatus were assessed by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction, western blot, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Drug toxicity was assessed by Draize test in vivo. Macrophage phenotypes were examined by flow cytometry. Results: Regarding antifungal activity, glabridin destroyed fungal cell wall and membrane on planktonic cells and suppressed immature and mature biofilm formation. After combining with natamycin or amphotericin B, glabridin possessed a potent synergistic effect against A. fumigatus. Regarding anti-inflammatory aspects, Dectin-1, toll‑like receptor (TLR)-2 and TLR-4 expression of human corneal epithelial cells were significantly elevated after A. fumigatus challenge and reduced by glabridin. The elevated expression of interleukin-1β and tumor necrosis factor-alpha induced by A. fumigatus or corresponding agonists were reversed by glabridin, equivalent to the effect of corresponding inhibitors. Glabridin could also contribute to anti-inflammation by downregulating inflammatory mediator expression to suppress macrophage infiltration. Conclusions: Glabridin contributed to fungal clearance by destroying fungal cell wall and membrane, and disrupting biofilm. Combining glabridin with clinical antifungals was superior in reducing A. fumigatus growth. Glabridin exerted an anti-inflammatory effect by downregulating proinflammatory substance expression and inhibiting macrophage infiltration, which provide a potential agent and treatment strategies for fungal keratitis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lu Zhan
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Xue Tian
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Jing Lin
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Yingxue Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Guiqiu Zhao
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Xudong Peng
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Earle K, Valero C, Conn DP, Vere G, Cook PC, Bromley MJ, Bowyer P, Gago S. Pathogenicity and virulence of Aspergillus fumigatus. Virulence 2023; 14:2172264. [PMID: 36752587 PMCID: PMC10732619 DOI: 10.1080/21505594.2023.2172264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 02/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Pulmonary infections caused by the mould pathogen Aspergillus fumigatus are a major cause of morbidity and mortality globally. Compromised lung defences arising from immunosuppression, chronic respiratory conditions or more recently, concomitant viral or bacterial pulmonary infections are recognised risks factors for the development of pulmonary aspergillosis. In this review, we will summarise our current knowledge of the mechanistic basis of pulmonary aspergillosis with a focus on emerging at-risk populations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kayleigh Earle
- Manchester Fungal Infection Group, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Clara Valero
- Manchester Fungal Infection Group, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Daniel P. Conn
- MRC Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - George Vere
- MRC Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Peter C. Cook
- MRC Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Michael J. Bromley
- Manchester Fungal Infection Group, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Paul Bowyer
- Manchester Fungal Infection Group, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Sara Gago
- Manchester Fungal Infection Group, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Wang K, Espinosa V, Rivera A. Commander-in-chief: monocytes rally the troops for defense against aspergillosis. Curr Opin Immunol 2023; 84:102371. [PMID: 37523967 DOI: 10.1016/j.coi.2023.102371] [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: 03/20/2023] [Revised: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/02/2023]
Abstract
The detrimental impact of fungal infections to human health has steadily increased over the past decades. In October of 2022, the World Health Organization published the first ever fungal-pathogen priority list highlighting increased awareness of this problem, and the need for more research in this area. There were four distinct fungal pathogens identified as critical priority groups with Aspergillus fumigatus (Af) being the only mold. Af is a common environmental fungus responsible for over 90% of invasive aspergillosis cases worldwide. Pulmonary protection against Af is critically dependent on innate effector cells with essential roles played by neutrophils and monocytes. In this review, we will summarize our current understanding of how monocytes help orchestrate antifungal defense against Af.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Keyi Wang
- Center for Immunity and Inflammation, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ, USA; School of Graduate Studies, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - Vanessa Espinosa
- Center for Immunity and Inflammation, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - Amariliz Rivera
- Center for Immunity and Inflammation, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Bouyssi A, Déméautis T, Trecourt A, Delles M, Agostini F, Monneret G, Glehen O, Wallon M, Persat F, Devouassoux G, Bentaher A, Menotti J. Characterization of Lung Inflammatory Response to Aspergillus fumigatus Spores. J Fungi (Basel) 2023; 9:682. [PMID: 37367618 DOI: 10.3390/jof9060682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2023] [Revised: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The airway exposure to Aspergillus fumigatus spores (AFsp) is associated with an inflammatory response, potentially leading to allergic and/or chronic pulmonary aspergillosis. The aim of our study is to better understand the host response, first in vitro, then in vivo, following the chronic exposure of mice to AFsp. We investigated the inflammatory response to AFsp in cell mono- and co-culture systems with murine macrophages and alveolar epithelial cells. The mice were subjected to two intranasal instillations using 105 AFsp. Their lungs were processed for inflammatory and histopathological analyses. In cell culture, the gene expressions significantly increased for TNF-α, CXCL-1, CXCL-2, IL-1β, IL-1α and GM-CSF in macrophages, with these increases being limited for TNF-α, CXCL-1 and IL-1α in epithelial cells. In co-culture, increases in the TNF-α, CXCL-2 and CXCL-1 gene expressions were observed to be associated with increased protein levels. The in vivo lung histological analyses of mice challenged by AFsp showed cellular infiltrates in the peribronchial and/or alveolar spaces. A Bio-Plex approach on the bronchoalveolar lavage revealed significant increases in the protein secretion of selected mediators of the challenged mice compared to the unchallenged mice. In conclusion, the exposure to AFsp resulted in a marked inflammatory response of macrophages and epithelial cells. These inflammatory findings were confirmed in mouse models associated with lung histologic changes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Bouyssi
- UR3738 Centre pour l'lnnovation en Cancérologie de Lyon, Team Inflammation and Immunity of the Respiratory Epithelium, Claude Bernard University-Lyon 1, 69495 Pierre Bénite, France
| | - Tanguy Déméautis
- UR3738 Centre pour l'lnnovation en Cancérologie de Lyon, Team Inflammation and Immunity of the Respiratory Epithelium, Claude Bernard University-Lyon 1, 69495 Pierre Bénite, France
| | - Alexis Trecourt
- UR3738 Centre pour l'lnnovation en Cancérologie de Lyon, Team Inflammation and Immunity of the Respiratory Epithelium, Claude Bernard University-Lyon 1, 69495 Pierre Bénite, France
- Department of Pathology, South Lyon Hospital, Hospices Civils de Lyon, 69495 Pierre Bénite, France
| | - Marie Delles
- UR3738 Centre pour l'lnnovation en Cancérologie de Lyon, Team Inflammation and Immunity of the Respiratory Epithelium, Claude Bernard University-Lyon 1, 69495 Pierre Bénite, France
| | - Fany Agostini
- UR3738 Centre pour l'lnnovation en Cancérologie de Lyon, Team Inflammation and Immunity of the Respiratory Epithelium, Claude Bernard University-Lyon 1, 69495 Pierre Bénite, France
| | - Guillaume Monneret
- Immunology Laboratory, EA7426, Edouard Herriot Hospital, Hospices Civils de Lyon and Claude Bernard University-Lyon 1, 69003 Lyon, France
| | - Olivier Glehen
- UR3738 Centre pour l'lnnovation en Cancérologie de Lyon, Surgical Department, South Lyon Hospital, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Claude Bernard University-Lyon 1, 69495 Pierre Bénite, France
| | - Martine Wallon
- Department of Medical Mycology and Parasitology, Institute of Infectious Agents, Croix-Rousse Hospital, Hospices Civils de Lyon, 69004 Lyon, France
| | - Florence Persat
- UR3738 Centre pour l'lnnovation en Cancérologie de Lyon, Team Inflammation and Immunity of the Respiratory Epithelium, Claude Bernard University-Lyon 1, 69495 Pierre Bénite, France
- Department of Medical Mycology and Parasitology, Institute of Infectious Agents, Croix-Rousse Hospital, Hospices Civils de Lyon, 69004 Lyon, France
| | - Gilles Devouassoux
- UR3738 Centre pour l'lnnovation en Cancérologie de Lyon, Team Inflammation and Immunity of the Respiratory Epithelium, Claude Bernard University-Lyon 1, 69495 Pierre Bénite, France
- Department of Pulmonology, Croix-Rousse Hospital, Hospices Civils de Lyon, 69004 Lyon, France
| | - Abderrazzak Bentaher
- UR3738 Centre pour l'lnnovation en Cancérologie de Lyon, Team Inflammation and Immunity of the Respiratory Epithelium, Claude Bernard University-Lyon 1, 69495 Pierre Bénite, France
| | - Jean Menotti
- UR3738 Centre pour l'lnnovation en Cancérologie de Lyon, Team Inflammation and Immunity of the Respiratory Epithelium, Claude Bernard University-Lyon 1, 69495 Pierre Bénite, France
- Department of Medical Mycology and Parasitology, Institute of Infectious Agents, Croix-Rousse Hospital, Hospices Civils de Lyon, 69004 Lyon, France
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Peng M, Li X, Zhang X, Peng L. Inhibition of cGAS aggravated the host inflammatory response to Aspergillus fumigatus. Exp Lung Res 2023; 49:86-100. [PMID: 37190937 DOI: 10.1080/01902148.2023.2211663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Backgroud: Aspergillus fumigatus (A. fumigatus) is a clinically important fungal pathogen. Invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA) is the main fungal infection with increased morbidity and mortality in immunocompromised populations, although treatments are available. An innate DNA sensor known as cyclic GMP-AMP Synthase (cGAS) has recently been discovered that senses invading pathogens and has a significant impact on innate immunity. It can activate the cGAS-STING signaling pathway to stimulate downstream signals. But it is still unclear what role it plays in IPA's pathogenesis.Methods: An investigation into the infection of A. fumigatus was conducted by inhibiting cGAS activity in vivo and in vitro using siRNA and RU.521(an inhibitor of cGAS).Results: We discovered that suppressing cGAS increased the host's susceptibility to A. fumigatus and harmed those with infections by enhancing pulmonary tissue damage and edema, as well as decreasing fungal clearance. Furthermore, our findings show that inhibiting or silencing cGAS can exacerbate the inflammatory response in IPA mouse models and human bronchi epithelial cells (HBECs) treated with A. fumigatus by upregulating the production of inflammatory genes with non-type 1 interferon.Conclusion: Based on our analysis, we conclude that activating cGAS might increase host resistance to A. fumigatus, protect against pulmonary illnesses brought on by A. fumigatus and that exploring the cGAS-STING signaling pathway is beneficial not only for the immunological investigation of IPA but also may be a potential therapeutic objective.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mei Peng
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiujun Li
- Department of Pathology, College of Basic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiaobing Zhang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Li Peng
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Obar JJ, Shepardson KM. Coinfections in the lung: How viral infection creates a favorable environment for bacterial and fungal infections. PLoS Pathog 2023; 19:e1011334. [PMID: 37141196 PMCID: PMC10159189 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1011334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/05/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Joshua J Obar
- Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Lebanon, New Hampshire, United States of America
| | - Kelly M Shepardson
- University of California, Merced, Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, Merced, California, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Zhan L, Tian X, Lin J, Zhang Y, Zheng H, Peng X, Zhao G. Honokiol reduces fungal burden and ameliorate inflammation lesions of Aspergillus fumigatus keratitis via Dectin-2 down-regulation. Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 118:109849. [PMID: 36933490 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.109849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2022] [Revised: 01/29/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To screen and identify the mechanism of honokiol on anti-fungi and anti-inflammation in fungal keratitis (FK) through bioinformatic analysis and biological experiments. METHODS Transcriptome profile demonstrated differential expression genes (DEGs) of Aspergillus fumigatus keratitis between PBS-treated and honokiol-treated groups via bioinformatics analyses. Inflammatory substances were quantified by qRT-PCR, Western blot and ELISA, and macrophage polarization was examined by flow cytometry. Periodic acid Schiff staining and morphological interference assay were used to detect hyphal distribution in vivo and fungal germination in vitro, respectively. Electron microscopy was to illustrate hyphal microstructure. RESULTS Illumina sequencing demonstrated that compared with the honokiol group, 1175 up-regulated and 383 down-regulated genes were induced in C57BL/6 mice Aspergillus fumigatus keratitis with PBS treatment. Through GO analysis, some differential expression proteins (DEPs) played major roles in biological processes, especially fungal defense and immune activation. KEGG analysis provided fungus-related signaling pathways. PPI analysis demonstrated that DEPs from multiple pathways form a close-knit network, providing a broader context for FK treatment. In biological experiments, Dectin-2, NLRP3 and IL-1β were upregulated by Aspergillus fumigatus to evaluate immune response. Honokiol could reverse the trend, comparable to Dectin-2 siRNA interference. Meanwhile, honokiol could also play an anti-inflammatory role via promoting M2 phenotype polarization. Moreover, honokiol reduced hyphal distribution in the stroma, delayed germination, and destroyed the hyphal cell membrane in-vitro. CONCLUSIONS Honokiol possesses anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory effects in Aspergillus fumigatus keratitis and may develop a potential and safe therapeutic modality for FK.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lu Zhan
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Xue Tian
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Jing Lin
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Yingxue Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Wayne State University School of Medicine 540 E. Canfield Avenue Detroit, MI 48201, USA
| | - Hengrui Zheng
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Xudong Peng
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China; Department of Ophthalmology, University of Washington, Seattle WA98104, USA.
| | - Guiqiu Zhao
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
PU.1-CD23 signaling mediates pulmonary innate immunity against Aspergillus fumigatus infection by driving inflammatory response. BMC Immunol 2023; 24:4. [PMID: 36650424 PMCID: PMC9844028 DOI: 10.1186/s12865-023-00539-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Aspergillosis is a common cause of morbidity and mortality in immunocompromised populations. PU.1 is critical for innate immunity against Aspergillus fumigatus (AF) in macrophages. However, the molecular mechanism underlying PU.1 mediating immunity against AF infection in human alveolar macrophages (AMs) is still unclear. METHODS In this study, we detected the expressions of PU.1, CD23, p-ERK, CCL20 and IL-8 and key inflammatory markers IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α and IL-12 in human THP-1-derived macrophages (HTMs) or PU.1/CD23-overexpressed immunodeficient mice with AF infection. Moreover, we examined these expressions in PU.1-overexpressed/interfered HTMs. Additionally, we detected the phagocytosis of macrophages against AF infection with altered PU.1 expression. Dual luciferase, ChIP and EMSAs were performed to detect the interaction of PU.1 and CD23. And we invested the histological changes in mouse lung tissues transfected with PU.1/CD23-expressing adenoviruses in AF infection. RESULTS The results showed that the expressions of PU.1, CD23, p-ERK, CCL20, IL-8, IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α and IL-12 increased significantly with AF infection, and PU.1 regulated the later 8 gene expressions in HTMs. Moreover, CD23 was directly activated by PU.1, and overexpression of CD23 in PU.1-interfered HTMs upregulated IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α and IL-12 levels which were downregulated by PU.1 interference. PU.1 overexpression strengthened the phagocytosis of the HTMs against AF. And injection of PU.1/CD23-expressing adenoviruses attenuated pathological defects in immunodeficient mouse lung tissues with AF infection. Adenovirus (Ad)-PU.1 increased the CD23, p-ERK, CCL20, IL-8 levels. CONCLUSIONS Our study concluded that PU.1-CD23 signaling mediates innate immunity against AF in lungs through regulating inflammatory response. Therefore, PU.1-CD23 may be a new anti-aspergillosis therapeutic for the treatment of invasive aspergillosis with the deepening of gene therapy and its wide application in the clinic.
Collapse
|
14
|
Innate and Adaptive Immune Responses Induced by Aspergillus fumigatus Conidia and Hyphae. Curr Microbiol 2023; 80:28. [PMID: 36474044 PMCID: PMC9734344 DOI: 10.1007/s00284-022-03102-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2022] [Accepted: 10/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Previous research indicated that hyphae of Aspergillus fumigatus (A. fumigatus) rather than conidia could successfully build a pulmonary aspergillosis model in immunocompetent mice. In this study, we compared the immune responses induced by hyphae and conidia to explore the possible mechanism of this striking phenomenon. Herein, a novel method was designed and adopted to quantify hyphal fragments. Murine macrophages RAW264.7 and human peripheral blood mononuclear cells were stimulated by A. fumigatus hyphae and conidia in vitro, respectively, and then immunological reactions were measured. Male C57BL/6 mice were challenged with conidia and hyphae through intratracheal inoculation. Dynamic conditions of mice were recorded, and RNA-seq measured corresponding immune responses. The results of the study confirmed that hyphae could induce more intensive inflammation than conidia in vitro and in vivo. However, macrophages revealed a higher production of ROS and M1 polarisation in response to conidia stimuli. Additionally, conidia could promote Th1 cell differentiation, while hyphae could increase the CD4/CD8 ratio. RNA-seq validated the fact that those multiple immunologically relevant pathways were more strongly activated by hyphae than conidia, which also promoted Th2 cell differentiation and suppressed Th1 signalling. Both hyphae and conidia could activate Th17 signalling. In general, conidia and hyphae induced distinctly different host immune responses, and the immune responses induced by conidia played a better protective effect. Therefore, the unique function of hyphae in the spread and infection of Aspergillus should be emphasised, and more research is required to clarify the underlying mechanisms for better understanding and management of aspergillosis.
Collapse
|
15
|
Forn-Cuní G, Welvaarts L, Stel FM, van den Hondel CJ, Arentshorst M, Ram AFJ, Meijer AH. Stimulating the autophagic-lysosomal axis enhances host defense against fungal infection in a zebrafish model of invasive Aspergillosis. Autophagy 2023; 19:324-337. [PMID: 35775203 PMCID: PMC9809955 DOI: 10.1080/15548627.2022.2090727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The increasing prevalence of antifungal-resistant human pathogenic fungi, particularly azole-resistant Aspergillus fumigatus, is a life-threatening challenge to the immunocompromised population. Autophagy-related processes such as LC3-associated phagocytosis have been shown to be activated in the host response against fungal infection, but their overall effect on host resistance remains uncertain. To analyze the relevance of these processes in vivo, we used a zebrafish animal model of invasive Aspergillosis. To confirm the validity of this model to test potential treatments for this disease, we confirmed that immunosuppressive treatments or neutropenia rendered zebrafish embryos more susceptible to A. fumigatus. We used GFP-Lc3 transgenic zebrafish to visualize the autophagy-related processes in innate immune phagocytes shortly after phagocytosis of A. fumigatus conidia, and found that both wild-type and melanin-deficient conidia elicited Lc3 recruitment. In macrophages, we observed GFP-Lc3 accumulation in puncta after phagocytosis, as well as short, rapid events of GFP-Lc3 decoration of single and multiple conidia-containing vesicles, while neutrophils covered single conidia-containing vesicles with bright and long-lasting GFP-Lc3 signal. Next, using genetic and pharmacological stimulation of three independent autophagy-inducing pathways, we showed that the antifungal autophagy response improves the host survival against A. fumigatus infection, but only in the presence of phagocytes. Therefore, we provide proof-of-concept that stimulating the (auto)phagolysosomal pathways is a promising approach to develop host-directed therapies against invasive Aspergillosis, and should be explored further either as adjunctive or stand-alone therapy for drug-resistant Aspergillus infections.Abbreviations: DMSO: dimethyl sulfoxide; HR: hazard ratio; HDT: host-directed therapy; Hpf: hours post fertilization; IA: invasive Aspergillosis; LAP: LC3-associated phagocytosis; MTZ: metronidazole; PTU: N-phenylthiourea; ROS: reactive oxygen species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- G Forn-Cuní
- Institute of Biology Leiden, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands,CONTACT G Forn-Cuní Institute of Biology Leiden, Leiden University, Einsteinweg 55, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - L Welvaarts
- Institute of Biology Leiden, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - FM Stel
- Institute of Biology Leiden, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - CJ van den Hondel
- Institute of Biology Leiden, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - M Arentshorst
- Institute of Biology Leiden, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - AFJ Ram
- Institute of Biology Leiden, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - AH Meijer
- Institute of Biology Leiden, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands,AH Meijer Institute of Biology Leiden, Leiden University, Einsteinweg 55, 2333CC Leiden, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Crossen AJ, Ward RA, Reedy JL, Surve MV, Klein BS, Rajagopal J, Vyas JM. Human Airway Epithelium Responses to Invasive Fungal Infections: A Critical Partner in Innate Immunity. J Fungi (Basel) 2022; 9:40. [PMID: 36675861 PMCID: PMC9862202 DOI: 10.3390/jof9010040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Revised: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The lung epithelial lining serves as the primary barrier to inhaled environmental toxins, allergens, and invading pathogens. Pulmonary fungal infections are devastating and carry high mortality rates, particularly in those with compromised immune systems. While opportunistic fungi infect primarily immunocompromised individuals, endemic fungi cause disease in immune competent and compromised individuals. Unfortunately, in the case of inhaled fungal pathogens, the airway epithelial host response is vastly understudied. Furthering our lack of understanding, very few studies utilize primary human models displaying pseudostratified layers of various epithelial cell types at air-liquid interface. In this review, we focus on the diversity of the human airway epithelium and discuss the advantages and disadvantages of oncological cell lines, immortalized epithelial cells, and primary epithelial cell models. Additionally, the responses by human respiratory epithelial cells to invading fungal pathogens will be explored. Future investigations leveraging current human in vitro model systems will enable identification of the critical pathways that will inform the development of novel vaccines and therapeutics for pulmonary fungal infections.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Arianne J. Crossen
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Rebecca A. Ward
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Jennifer L. Reedy
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Manalee V. Surve
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Bruce S. Klein
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Jayaraj Rajagopal
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA
- Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
- Klarman Cell Observatory, Broad Institute of Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Jatin M. Vyas
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Liu KW, Grau MS, Jones JT, Wang X, Vesely EM, James MR, Gutierrez-Perez C, Cramer RA, Obar JJ. Postinfluenza Environment Reduces Aspergillus fumigatus Conidium Clearance and Facilitates Invasive Aspergillosis In Vivo. mBio 2022; 13:e0285422. [PMID: 36377895 PMCID: PMC9765436 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.02854-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Aspergillus fumigatus is a human fungal pathogen that is most often avirulent in immunecompetent individuals because the innate immune system is efficient at eliminating fungal conidia. However, recent clinical observations have shown that severe influenza A virus (IAV) infection can lead to secondary A. fumigatus infections with high mortality. Little is currently known about how IAV infection alters the innate antifungal immune response. Here, we established a murine model of IAV-induced A. fumigatus (IAV-Af) superinfection by inoculating mice with IAV followed 6 days later by A. fumigatus conidia challenge. We observed increased mortality in the IAV-Af-superinfected mice compared to mice challenged with either IAV or A. fumigatus alone. A. fumigatus conidia were able to germinate and establish a biofilm in the lungs of the IAV-Af superinfection group, which was not seen following fungal challenge alone. While we did not observe any differences in inflammatory cell recruitment in the IAV-Af superinfection group compared to single-infection controls, we observed defects in Aspergillus conidial uptake and killing by both neutrophils and monocytes after IAV infection. pHrodo Green zymosan bioparticle (pHrodo-zymosan) and CM-H2DCFDA [5-(and-6)-chloromethyl-2',7'-dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate] staining, indicators of phagolysosome maturation and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, respectively, revealed that the fungal killing defect was due in part to reduced phagolysosome maturation. Collectively, our data demonstrate that the ability of neutrophils and monocytes to kill and clear Aspergillus conidia is strongly reduced in the pulmonary environment of an IAV-infected lung, which leads to invasive pulmonary aspergillosis and increased overall mortality in our mouse model, recapitulating what is observed clinically in humans. IMPORTANCE Influenza A virus (IAV) is a common respiratory virus that causes seasonal illness in humans, but can cause pandemics and severe infection in certain patients. Since the emergence of the 2009 H1N1 pandemic strains, there has been an increase in clinical reports of IAV-infected patients in the intensive care unit (ICU) developing secondary pulmonary aspergillosis. These cases of flu-Aspergillus superinfections are associated with worse clinical outcomes than secondary bacterial infections in the setting of IAV. To date, we have a limited understanding of the cause(s) of secondary fungal infections in immunocompetent hosts. IAV-induced modulation of cytokine production and innate immune cellular function generates a unique immune environment in the lung, which could make the host vulnerable to a secondary fungal infection. Our work shows that defects in phagolysosome maturation in neutrophils and monocytes after IAV infection impair the ability of these cells to kill A. fumigatus, thus leading to increased fungal germination and growth and subsequent invasive aspergillosis. Our work lays a foundation for future mechanistic studies examining the exact immune modulatory events occurring in the respiratory tract after viral infection leading to secondary fungal infections.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ko-Wei Liu
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, New Hampshire, USA
| | - Madeleine S. Grau
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, New Hampshire, USA
| | - Jane T. Jones
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, New Hampshire, USA
| | - Xi Wang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, New Hampshire, USA
| | - Elisa M. Vesely
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, New Hampshire, USA
| | - Matthew R. James
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, New Hampshire, USA
| | - Cecilia Gutierrez-Perez
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, New Hampshire, USA
| | - Robert A. Cramer
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, New Hampshire, USA
| | - Joshua J. Obar
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, New Hampshire, USA
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Wong SSW, Dellière S, Schiefermeier-Mach N, Lechner L, Perkhofer S, Bomme P, Fontaine T, Schlosser AG, Sorensen GL, Madan T, Kishore U, Aimanianda V. Surfactant protein D inhibits growth, alters cell surface polysaccharide exposure and immune activation potential of Aspergillus fumigatus. Cell Surf 2022; 8:100072. [PMID: 35118215 PMCID: PMC8792412 DOI: 10.1016/j.tcsw.2022.100072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2021] [Revised: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
|
19
|
Vaccination with Live or Heat-Killed Aspergillus fumigatus Δ sglA Conidia Fully Protects Immunocompromised Mice from Invasive Aspergillosis. mBio 2022; 13:e0232822. [PMID: 36066100 PMCID: PMC9600187 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.02328-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Aspergillus fumigatus causes invasive aspergillosis (IA) in immunocompromised patients, resulting in high mortality rates. Currently, no vaccine formulations to promote immune protection in at-risk individuals have been developed. In this work, we deleted the sterylglucosidase-encoding gene, sglA, in Aspergillus fumigatus and investigated its role in fungal virulence and host vaccine protection. The ΔsglA mutant accumulated sterylglucosides (SGs), newly studied immunomodulatory glycolipids, and exhibited reduced hyphal growth and altered compositions of cell wall polysaccharides. Interestingly, the ΔsglA mutant was avirulent in two murine models of IA and was fully eliminated from the lungs. Both corticosteroid-induced immunosuppressed and cyclophosphamide-induced leukopenic mice vaccinated with live or heat-killed ΔsglA conidia were fully protected against a lethal wild-type A. fumigatus challenge. These results highlight the potential of SG-accumulating strains as safe and promising vaccine formulations against invasive fungal infections. IMPORTANCE Infections by Aspergillus fumigatus occur by the inhalation of environmental fungal spores called conidia. We found that live mutant conidia accumulating glycolipids named sterylglucosides are not able to cause disease when injected into the lung. Interestingly, these animals are now protected against a secondary challenge with live wild-type conidia. Remarkably, protection against a secondary challenge persists even with vaccination with heat-killed mutant conidia. These results will significantly advance the field of the research and development of a safe fungal vaccine for protection against the environmental fungus A. fumigatus.
Collapse
|
20
|
Shende R, Wong SSW, Meitei HT, Lal G, Madan T, Aimanianda V, Pal JK, Sahu A. Protective role of host complement system in Aspergillus fumigatus infection. Front Immunol 2022; 13:978152. [PMID: 36211424 PMCID: PMC9539816 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.978152] [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: 06/25/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Invasive aspergillosis (IA) is a life-threatening fungal infection for immunocompromised hosts. It is, therefore, necessary to understand the immune pathways that control this infection. Although the primary infection site is the lungs, aspergillosis can disseminate to other organs through unknown mechanisms. Herein we have examined the in vivo role of various complement pathways as well as the complement receptors C3aR and C5aR1 during experimental systemic infection by Aspergillus fumigatus, the main species responsible for IA. We show that C3 knockout (C3-/-) mice are highly susceptible to systemic infection of A. fumigatus. Intriguingly, C4-/- and factor B (FB)-/- mice showed susceptibility similar to the wild-type mice, suggesting that either the complement pathways display functional redundancy during infection (i.e., one pathway compensates for the loss of the other), or complement is activated non-canonically by A. fumigatus protease. Our in vitro study substantiates the presence of C3 and C5 cleaving proteases in A. fumigatus. Examination of the importance of the terminal complement pathway employing C5-/- and C5aR1-/- mice reveals that it plays a vital role in the conidial clearance. This, in part, is due to the increased conidial uptake by phagocytes. Together, our data suggest that the complement deficiency enhances the susceptibility to systemic infection by A. fumigatus.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rajashri Shende
- Complement Biology Laboratory, National Centre for Cell Science, Savitribai Phule (S. P.) Pune University Campus, Pune, India
- Dr. D.Y. Patil Biotechnology & Bioinformatics Institute, Dr. D.Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, Pune, India
| | - Sarah Sze Wah Wong
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, CNRS UMR2000, Unité Mycologie Moléculaire, Department of Mycology, Paris, France
| | - Heikrujam Thoihen Meitei
- Laboratory of Autoimmunity and Tolerance, National Centre for Cell Science, Savitribai Phule (S. P.) Pune University Campus, Pune, India
| | - Girdhari Lal
- Laboratory of Autoimmunity and Tolerance, National Centre for Cell Science, Savitribai Phule (S. P.) Pune University Campus, Pune, India
| | - Taruna Madan
- Department of Innate Immunity, ICMR – National Institute for Research in Reproductive and Child Health, Mumbai, India
| | - Vishukumar Aimanianda
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, CNRS UMR2000, Unité Mycologie Moléculaire, Department of Mycology, Paris, France
- *Correspondence: Arvind Sahu, ; Vishukumar Aimanianda,
| | - Jayanta Kumar Pal
- Dr. D.Y. Patil Biotechnology & Bioinformatics Institute, Dr. D.Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, Pune, India
| | - Arvind Sahu
- Complement Biology Laboratory, National Centre for Cell Science, Savitribai Phule (S. P.) Pune University Campus, Pune, India
- *Correspondence: Arvind Sahu, ; Vishukumar Aimanianda,
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Cao Y, Wang L, Ke S, Kelly CP, Pollock NR, Villafuerte Gálvez JA, Daugherty K, Xu H, Yao J, Chen Y, Liu YY, Chen X. Analysis of Intestinal Mycobiota of Patients with Clostridioides difficile Infection among a Prospective Inpatient Cohort. Microbiol Spectr 2022; 10:e0136222. [PMID: 35867408 PMCID: PMC9430669 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.01362-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) is a burden to health care systems worldwide. Gut microbiota dysbiosis associated with CDI has been well accepted. However, contribution of fungal mycobiota to CDI has recently gained research interest. Here, we report the gut mycobiota composition of 149 uniquely well characterized participants from a prospective clinical cohort and evaluate the discriminating ability of gut mycobiota to classify CDI and non-CDI patients. Fecal samples were divided into two groups: (i) CDI (inpatients who had clinically significant diarrhea and positive nucleic acid amplification testing [NAAT] and received subsequent CDI therapy, n = 58) and (ii) non-CDI, which can be further divided into three subgroups: (a) carrier (inpatients with positive stool NAAT but without diarrhea; n = 28); (b) diarrhea (inpatients with negative stool NAAT; n = 31); and (c) control (inpatients with negative stool NAAT and without diarrhea; n = 32). Fecal mycobiota composition was analyzed by internal transcribed spacer 2 (ITS2) sequencing. In comparison to non-CDI patients, CDI patients tend to have gut mycobiota with lower biodiversity, weaker fungi correlations, and weaker correlations between fungi and host immune factors. Notably, 11 genera (Saccharomyces, Penicillium, Aspergillus, Cystobasidium, Cladosporium, and so on) were significantly enriched in non-CDI patients, and Pichia and Suhomyces were enriched in patients with CDI, while 1 two genera, Cystobasidium and Exophiala, had higher abundance in patients with diarrhea compared with CDI (linear discriminant analysis [LDA] > 3.0; P < 0.05). Ascomycota and Basidiomycota (or Candida and Saccharomyces) exhibited a strong negative correlation (r ≤ -0.714 or r ≤ -0.387; P < 0.05), and the ratios of Ascomycota to Basidiomycota or genera Candida to Saccharomyces were dramatically higher in CDI patients than in non-CDI patients (P < 0.05). A disease-specific pattern with much weaker fungal abundance correlations was observed in the CDI group compared to that in the non-CDI and diarrhea groups, suggesting that these correlations may contribute to the development of CDI. Our findings provided specific markers of stool fungi that distinguish CDI from all non-CDI hospitalized patients. This study's potential clinical utility for better CDI diagnosis warrants further investigation. IMPORTANCE Clostridioides difficile is an opportunistic bacterial pathogen that causes a serious and potentially life-threatening infection of the human gut. It remains an existing challenge to distinguish active infection of CDI from diarrhea with non-CDI causes. A few large prospective studies from recent years suggest that there is no single optimal test for the diagnosis of CDI. Previous research has concentrated on the relationship between bacteria and CDI, while the roles of fungi, as a significant proportion of the gut microbial ecosystem, remain understudied. In this study, we report a series of fungal markers that may add diagnostic values for the development of a more systematic approach to accurate CDI diagnosis. These results help open the door for better understanding of the relationship between host immune factors and the fungal community in the context of CDI pathogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yangchun Cao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi Province, China
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Lamei Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi Province, China
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Shanlin Ke
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Ciarán P. Kelly
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Nira R. Pollock
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Javier A. Villafuerte Gálvez
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Kaitlyn Daugherty
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Hua Xu
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Junhu Yao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Yulin Chen
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Yang-Yu Liu
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Xinhua Chen
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Xie Y, Zhou X, Zhang J, Yu H, Song Z. Immunomodulatory responses of differentially polarized macrophages to fungal infections. Int Immunopharmacol 2022; 111:109089. [PMID: 35964406 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2022.109089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2022] [Revised: 07/16/2022] [Accepted: 07/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Macrophages, the first line of defense against invasive fungi in the innate immune system, are widely distributed in the blood and tissues of the body. In response to various internal and external stimulators, macrophages can polarize into classically activated macrophages (M1) and alternatively activated macrophages (M2). These two types of polarized macrophages play different roles in antifungal activity and in maintaining the steady-state balance between inflammation and tissue repair. However, the antifungal mechanisms of M1- and M2-type macrophages have not been fully described. In this review, the immune regulatory mechanisms against pathogenic fungi of these two classical types of macrophages in various tissues are summarized. The effects of antifungal factors on macrophage differentiation are also highlighted. The description of these data, on the one hand provides valuable insight for future investigations and also highlights new strategies for the treatment of pathogenic fungal infections.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuxin Xie
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, PR China.
| | - Xue Zhou
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, PR China.
| | - Jinping Zhang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, PR China; The Public Platform of Molecular Biotechnology, Public Center of Experimental Technology, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, People's Republic of China.
| | - Hong Yu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, PR China; The Public Platform of Cell Biotechnology, Public Center of Experimental Technology, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, PR China.
| | - Zhangyong Song
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, PR China; The Public Platform of Molecular Biotechnology, Public Center of Experimental Technology, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Novel Treatment Approach for Aspergilloses by Targeting Germination. J Fungi (Basel) 2022; 8:jof8080758. [PMID: 35893126 PMCID: PMC9331470 DOI: 10.3390/jof8080758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Revised: 07/03/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Germination of conidia is an essential process within the Aspergillus life cycle and plays a major role during the infection of hosts. Conidia are able to avoid detection by the majority of leukocytes when dormant. Germination can cause severe health problems, specifically in immunocompromised people. Aspergillosis is most often caused by Aspergillus fumigatus (A. fumigatus) and affects neutropenic patients, as well as people with cystic fibrosis (CF). These patients are often unable to effectively detect and clear the conidia or hyphae and can develop chronic non-invasive and/or invasive infections or allergic inflammatory responses. Current treatments with (tri)azoles can be very effective to combat a variety of fungal infections. However, resistance against current azoles has emerged and has been increasing since 1998. As a consequence, patients infected with resistant A. fumigatus have a reported mortality rate of 88% to 100%. Especially with the growing number of patients that harbor azole-resistant Aspergilli, novel antifungals could provide an alternative. Aspergilloses differ in defining characteristics, but germination of conidia is one of the few common denominators. By specifically targeting conidial germination with novel antifungals, early intervention might be possible. In this review, we propose several morphotypes to disrupt conidial germination, as well as potential targets. Hopefully, new antifungals against such targets could contribute to disturbing the ability of Aspergilli to germinate and grow, resulting in a decreased fungal burden on patients.
Collapse
|
24
|
Palmieri F, Koutsokera A, Bernasconi E, Junier P, von Garnier C, Ubags N. Recent Advances in Fungal Infections: From Lung Ecology to Therapeutic Strategies With a Focus on Aspergillus spp. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:832510. [PMID: 35386908 PMCID: PMC8977413 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.832510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Fungal infections are estimated to be the main cause of death for more than 1.5 million people worldwide annually. However, fungal pathogenicity has been largely neglected. This is notably the case for pulmonary fungal infections, which are difficult to diagnose and to treat. We are currently facing a global emergence of antifungal resistance, which decreases the chances of survival for affected patients. New therapeutic approaches are therefore needed to face these life-threatening fungal infections. In this review, we will provide a general overview on respiratory fungal infections, with a focus on fungi of the genus Aspergillus. Next, the immunological and microbiological mechanisms of fungal pathogenesis will be discussed. The role of the respiratory mycobiota and its interactions with the bacterial microbiota on lung fungal infections will be presented from an ecological perspective. Finally, we will focus on existing and future innovative approaches for the treatment of respiratory fungal infections.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fabio Palmieri
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Institute of Biology, University of Neuchâtel, Neuchâtel, Switzerland
- *Correspondence: Fabio Palmieri,
| | - Angela Koutsokera
- Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Service de Pneumologie, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois (CHUV), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Eric Bernasconi
- Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Service de Pneumologie, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois (CHUV), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Pilar Junier
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Institute of Biology, University of Neuchâtel, Neuchâtel, Switzerland
| | - Christophe von Garnier
- Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Service de Pneumologie, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois (CHUV), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Niki Ubags
- Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Service de Pneumologie, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois (CHUV), Lausanne, Switzerland
- Niki Ubags,
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
SARS-CoV-2 Associated Immune Dysregulation and COVID-Associated Pulmonary Aspergilliosis (CAPA): A Cautionary Tale. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23063228. [PMID: 35328649 PMCID: PMC8953852 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23063228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Revised: 03/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
As the global SARS-CoV-2 pandemic continues to plague healthcare systems, it has become clear that opportunistic pathogens cause a considerable proportion of SARS-CoV-2-associated mortality and morbidity cases. Of these, Covid-Associated Pulmonary Aspergilliosis (CAPA) is a major concern with evidence that it occurs in the absence of traditional risk factors such as neutropenia and is diagnostically challenging for the attending physician. In this review, we focus on the immunopathology of SARS-CoV-2 and how this potentiates CAPA through dysregulation of local and systemic immunity as well as the unintended consequences of approved COVID treatments including corticosteroids and IL-6 inhibitors. Finally, we will consider how knowledge of the above may aid in the diagnosis of CAPA using current diagnostics and what treatment should be instituted in probable and confirmed cases.
Collapse
|
26
|
Amich J. Sulfur Metabolism as a Promising Source of New Antifungal Targets. J Fungi (Basel) 2022; 8:295. [PMID: 35330297 PMCID: PMC8951744 DOI: 10.3390/jof8030295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Revised: 02/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Fungal infections are a growing threat to human health. Despite their clinical relevance, there is a surprisingly limited availability of clinically approved antifungal agents, which is seriously aggravated by the recent appearance and fast spread of drug resistance. It is therefore clear that there is an urgent need for novel and efficient antifungals. In this context, metabolism is recognized as a promising source for new antifungal targets and, indeed, there are new drugs in development that target metabolic pathways. Fungal sulfur metabolism is particularly interesting, as many of its processes are essential for viability and/or pathogenicity and it shows substantial differences with human metabolism. This short-review will summarize our current knowledge of sulfur-related genes and routes that are important for Aspergillus fumigatus virulence, which consequently could be pursued for drug development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jorge Amich
- Mycology Reference Laboratory, National Centre for Microbiology, Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), Majadahonda, 28222 Madrid, Spain;
- Manchester Fungal Infection Group (MFIG), Division of Evolution, Infection, and Genomics, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9NT, UK
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Colabardini AC, Wang F, Dong Z, Pardeshi L, Rocha MC, Costa JH, dos Reis TF, Brown A, Jaber QZ, Fridman M, Fill T, Rokas A, Malavazi I, Wong KH, Goldman GH. Heterogeneity in the transcriptional response of the human pathogen Aspergillus fumigatus to the antifungal agent caspofungin. Genetics 2022; 220:iyab183. [PMID: 34718550 PMCID: PMC8733440 DOI: 10.1093/genetics/iyab183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2021] [Accepted: 10/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Aspergillus fumigatus is the main causative agent of invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA), a severe disease that affects immunosuppressed patients worldwide. The fungistatic drug caspofungin (CSP) is the second line of therapy against IPA but has increasingly been used against clinical strains that are resistant to azoles, the first line antifungal therapy. In high concentrations, CSP induces a tolerance phenotype with partial reestablishment of fungal growth called CSP paradoxical effect (CPE), resulting from a change in the composition of the cell wall. An increasing number of studies has shown that different isolates of A. fumigatus exhibit phenotypic heterogeneity, including heterogeneity in their CPE response. To gain insights into the underlying molecular mechanisms of CPE response heterogeneity, we analyzed the transcriptomes of two A. fumigatus reference strains, Af293 and CEA17, exposed to low and high CSP concentrations. We found that there is a core transcriptional response that involves genes related to cell wall remodeling processes, mitochondrial function, transmembrane transport, and amino acid and ergosterol metabolism, and a variable response related to secondary metabolite (SM) biosynthesis and iron homeostasis. Specifically, we show here that the overexpression of a SM pathway that works as an iron chelator extinguishes the CPE in both backgrounds, whereas iron depletion is detrimental for the CPE in Af293 but not in CEA17. We next investigated the function of the transcription factor CrzA, whose deletion was previously shown to result in heterogeneity in the CPE response of the Af293 and CEA17 strains. We found that CrzA constitutively binds to and modulates the expression of several genes related to processes involved in CSP tolerance and that crzA deletion differentially impacts the SM production and growth of Af293 and CEA17. As opposed to the ΔcrzACEA17 mutant, the ΔcrzAAf293 mutant fails to activate cell wall remodeling genes upon CSP exposure, which most likely severely affects its macrostructure and extinguishes its CPE. This study describes how heterogeneity in the response to an antifungal agent between A. fumigatus strains stems from heterogeneity in the function of a transcription factor and its downstream target genes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ana Cristina Colabardini
- Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo CEP 14040-903, Brazil
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macau 999078, China
| | - Fang Wang
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macau 999078, China
| | - Zhiqiang Dong
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macau 999078, China
| | - Lakhansing Pardeshi
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macau 999078, China
- Genomics, Bioinformatics and Single Cell Analysis Core, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macau, 999078, China
| | - Marina Campos Rocha
- Departamento de Genética e Evolução, Centro de Ciências Biológicas e da Saúde, Universidade Federal de São Carlos, São Carlos CEP 13565-905, Brazil
| | - Jonas Henrique Costa
- Instituto de Química, Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Campinas, São Paulo CEP 13083-970, Brazil
| | - Thaila Fernanda dos Reis
- Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo CEP 14040-903, Brazil
| | - Alec Brown
- Department of Biological Sciences, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37235, USA
| | - Qais Z Jaber
- School of Chemistry, Raymond & Beverly Sackler Faculty of Exact Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel
| | - Micha Fridman
- School of Chemistry, Raymond & Beverly Sackler Faculty of Exact Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel
| | - Taicia Fill
- Instituto de Química, Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Campinas, São Paulo CEP 13083-970, Brazil
| | - Antonis Rokas
- Department of Biological Sciences, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37235, USA
| | - Iran Malavazi
- Departamento de Genética e Evolução, Centro de Ciências Biológicas e da Saúde, Universidade Federal de São Carlos, São Carlos CEP 13565-905, Brazil
| | - Koon Ho Wong
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macau 999078, China
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Macau, Macau 999078, China
- MoE Frontiers Science Center for Precision Oncology, University of Macau, Macau 999078, China
| | - Gustavo Henrique Goldman
- Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo CEP 14040-903, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Colabardini AC, Wang F, Miao Z, Pardeshi L, Valero C, de Castro PA, Akiyama DY, Tan K, Nora LC, Silva-Rocha R, Marcet-Houben M, Gabaldón T, Fill T, Wong KH, Goldman GH. Chromatin profiling reveals heterogeneity in clinical isolates of the human pathogen Aspergillus fumigatus. PLoS Genet 2022; 18:e1010001. [PMID: 35007279 PMCID: PMC8782537 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1010001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2021] [Revised: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Invasive Pulmonary Aspergillosis, which is caused by the filamentous fungus Aspergillus fumigatus, is a life-threatening infection for immunosuppressed patients. Chromatin structure regulation is important for genome stability maintenance and has the potential to drive genome rearrangements and affect virulence and pathogenesis of pathogens. Here, we performed the first A. fumigatus global chromatin profiling of two histone modifications, H3K4me3 and H3K9me3, focusing on the two most investigated A. fumigatus clinical isolates, Af293 and CEA17. In eukaryotes, H3K4me3 is associated with active transcription, while H3K9me3 often marks silent genes, DNA repeats, and transposons. We found that H3K4me3 deposition is similar between the two isolates, while H3K9me3 is more variable and does not always represent transcriptional silencing. Our work uncovered striking differences in the number, locations, and expression of transposable elements between Af293 and CEA17, and the differences are correlated with H3K9me3 modifications and higher genomic variations among strains of Af293 background. Moreover, we further showed that the Af293 strains from different laboratories actually differ in their genome contents and found a frequently lost region in chromosome VIII. For one such Af293 variant, we identified the chromosomal changes and demonstrated their impacts on its secondary metabolites production, growth and virulence. Overall, our findings not only emphasize the influence of genome heterogeneity on A. fumigatus fitness, but also caution about unnoticed chromosomal variations among common laboratory strains.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ana Cristina Colabardini
- Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macau SAR of China
| | - Fang Wang
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macau SAR of China
- Intensive Care Unit, Biomedical Research Center, Shenzhen Institute of Translational Medicine, Shenzhen Second People’s Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Zhengqiang Miao
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macau SAR of China
| | - Lakhansing Pardeshi
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macau SAR of China
- Genomics, Bioinformatics and Single Cell Analysis Core, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macau SAR of China
| | - Clara Valero
- Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Patrícia Alves de Castro
- Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Daniel Yuri Akiyama
- Instituto de Química, Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Kaeling Tan
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macau SAR of China
- Genomics, Bioinformatics and Single Cell Analysis Core, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macau SAR of China
| | - Luisa Czamanski Nora
- Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Rafael Silva-Rocha
- Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Marina Marcet-Houben
- Barcelona Supercomputing Centre (BSC-CNS). Jordi Girona, Barcelona, Spain
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Baldiri Reixac, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Toni Gabaldón
- Barcelona Supercomputing Centre (BSC-CNS). Jordi Girona, Barcelona, Spain
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Baldiri Reixac, Barcelona, Spain
- Catalan Institution for Research and Advanced Studies (ICREA), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Taicia Fill
- Instituto de Química, Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Koon Ho Wong
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macau SAR of China
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macau SAR of China
- MoE Frontiers Science Center for Precision Oncology, University of Macau, Macau SAR of China
| | - Gustavo H. Goldman
- Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
The Heterotrimeric Transcription Factor CCAAT-Binding Complex and Ca 2+-CrzA Signaling Reversely Regulate the Transition between Fungal Hyphal Growth and Asexual Reproduction. mBio 2021; 12:e0300721. [PMID: 34781745 PMCID: PMC8593669 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.03007-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The life cycle of filamentous fungi generally comprises hyphal growth and asexual reproduction. Both growth and propagation processes are critical for invasion growth, spore dissemination, and virulence in fungal pathogens and for the production of secondary metabolites or for biomass accumulation in industrial filamentous fungi. The CCAAT-binding complex (CBC) is a heterotrimeric transcription factor comprising three subunits, HapB, HapC, and HapE, and is highly conserved in fungi. Previous studies revealed that CBC regulates sterol metabolism by repressing several genes in the ergosterol biosynthetic pathway in the human fungal pathogen Aspergillus fumigatus. In the present study, we found dysfunction of CBC caused the abnormal asexual reproduction (conidiation) in submerged liquid culture. CBC suppresses the activation of the brlA gene in the central regulatory pathway for conidiation combined with its upstream regulators fluG, flbD, and flbC by binding to the 5'-CCAAT-3' motif within conidiation gene promoters, and lack of CBC member HapB results in the upregulation of these genes. Furthermore, when the expression of brlA or flbC is repressed, the submerged conidiation does not happen in the hapB mutant. Interestingly, deletion of HapB leads to enhanced transient cytosolic Ca2+ levels and activates conidiation-positive inducer Ca2+-CrzA modules to enhance submerged conidiation, demonstrating that CrzA works with CBC as a reverse regulator of fungal conidiation. To the best of our knowledge, the finding of this study is the first report for the molecular switch mechanism between vegetative hyphal growth and asexual development regulated by CBC, in concert with Ca2+-CrzA signaling in A. fumigatus. IMPORTANCE A precisely timed switch between vegetative hyphal growth and asexual development is a crucial process for the filamentous fungal long-term survival, dissemination, biomass production, and virulence. However, under the submerged culture condition, filamentous fungi would undergo constant vegetative growth whereas asexual conidiation rarely occurs. Knowledge about possible regulators is scarce, and how they could inhibit conidiation in liquid culture is poorly understood. Here, we demonstrated that the transcription factor heterotrimeric CBC dominantly maintains vegetative growth in liquid-submerged cultures by directly suppressing the conidiation-inductive signal. In contrast, calcium and the transcription factor CrzA, are positive inducers of conidiation. Our new insights into the CBC and Ca2+-CrzA regulatory system for transition control in the submerged conidiation of A. fumigatus may have broad repercussions for all filamentous fungi. Moreover, our elucidation of the molecular mechanism for submerged conidiation may support new strategies to precisely control vegetative growth and asexual conidiation in aspergilli used in industry.
Collapse
|
30
|
Moloney NM, Larkin A, Xu L, Fitzpatrick DA, Crean HL, Walshe K, Haas H, Decristoforo C, Doyle S. Generation and characterisation of a semi-synthetic siderophore-immunogen conjugate and a derivative recombinant triacetylfusarinine C-specific monoclonal antibody with fungal diagnostic application. Anal Biochem 2021; 632:114384. [PMID: 34543643 DOI: 10.1016/j.ab.2021.114384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2021] [Revised: 08/16/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA) is a severe life-threatening condition. Diagnosis of fungal disease in general, and especially that caused by Aspergillus fumigatus is problematic. A. fumigatus secretes siderophores to acquire iron during infection, which are also essential for virulence. We describe the chemoacetylation of ferrated fusarinine C to diacetylated fusarinine C (DAFC), followed by protein conjugation, which facilitated triacetylfusarinine C (TAFC)-specific monoclonal antibody production with specific recognition of the ferrated form of TAFC. A single monoclonal antibody sequence was ultimately elucidated by a combinatorial strategy involving protein LC-MS/MS, cDNA sequencing and RNAseq. The resultant murine IgG2a monoclonal antibody was secreted in, and purified from, mammalian cell culture (5 mg) and demonstrated to be highly specific for TAFC detection by competitive ELISA (detection limit: 15 nM) and in a lateral flow test system (detection limit: 3 ng), using gold nanoparticle conjugated- DAFC-bovine serum albumin for competition. Overall, this work reveals for the first time a recombinant TAFC-specific monoclonal antibody with diagnostic potential for IPA diagnosis in traditional and emerging patient groups (e.g., COVID-19) and presents a useful strategy for murine Ig sequence determination, and expression in HEK293 cells, to overcome unexpected limitations associated with aberrant or deficient murine monoclonal antibody production.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicola M Moloney
- Department of Biology, Maynooth University, Maynooth, Co. Kildare, W23 F2H6, Ireland
| | - Annemarie Larkin
- National Institute for Cellular Biotechnology, Dublin City University, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Linan Xu
- Department of Biology, Maynooth University, Maynooth, Co. Kildare, W23 F2H6, Ireland
| | - David A Fitzpatrick
- Department of Biology, Maynooth University, Maynooth, Co. Kildare, W23 F2H6, Ireland
| | - Holly L Crean
- Department of Biology, Maynooth University, Maynooth, Co. Kildare, W23 F2H6, Ireland
| | - Kieran Walshe
- Department of Biology, Maynooth University, Maynooth, Co. Kildare, W23 F2H6, Ireland
| | - Hubertus Haas
- Institute of Molecular Biology, Medical University Innsbruck, A-6020, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Clemens Decristoforo
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Medical University Innsbruck, Anichstrasse 5, A-6020, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Sean Doyle
- Department of Biology, Maynooth University, Maynooth, Co. Kildare, W23 F2H6, Ireland.
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Lewington-Gower E, Chan L, Shah A. Review of current and future therapeutics in ABPA. Ther Adv Chronic Dis 2021; 12:20406223211047003. [PMID: 34729149 PMCID: PMC8543630 DOI: 10.1177/20406223211047003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2021] [Accepted: 08/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis is an allergic pulmonary condition caused by hypersensitivity to antigens of Aspergillus sp. found most commonly in patients with underlying asthma or cystic fibrosis. Host factors which alter the innate and adaptive immune responses to this abundant airborne fungus contribute to the development of chronic airway inflammation, bronchiectasis, and fibrosis. Traditionally, treatment has focussed on reducing fungal burden and immune response to fungal antigens. However, a significant proportion of patients continue to suffer recurrent exacerbations with progressive lung damage, and the side effect burden of existing treatments is high. New treatments including novel antifungal agents, monoclonal antibodies against aspects of the adaptive immune response as well as targeted immunotherapies may be better tolerated and achieve improved outcomes but have not yet been studied in large-scale randomised control trials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Lewington-Gower
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Royal Brompton and Harefield Hospitals, Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Ley Chan
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Royal Brompton and Harefield Hospitals, Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Anand Shah
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Royal Brompton and Harefield Hospitals, Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, London SW3 6NP, UK
- MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Hawkins AN, Determann BF, Nelson BN, Wozniak KL. Transcriptional Changes in Pulmonary Phagocyte Subsets Dictate the Outcome Following Interaction With The Fungal Pathogen Cryptococcus neoformans. Front Immunol 2021; 12:722500. [PMID: 34650554 PMCID: PMC8505728 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.722500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
With over 220,000 cases and 180,000 deaths annually, Cryptococcus neoformans is the most common cause of fungal meningitis and a leading cause of death in HIV/AIDS patients in Sub-Saharan Africa. Either C. neoformans can be killed by innate airway phagocytes, or it can survive intracellularly. Pulmonary murine macrophage and dendritic cell (DC) subsets have been identified in the naïve lung, and we hypothesize that each subset has different interactions with C. neoformans. For these studies, we purified murine pulmonary macrophage and DC subsets from naïve mice - alveolar macrophages, Ly6c- and Ly6c+ monocyte-like macrophages, interstitial macrophages, CD11b+ and CD103+ DCs. With each subset, we examined cryptococcal association (binding/internalization), fungicidal activity, intracellular fungal morphology, cytokine secretion and transcriptional profiling in an ex vivo model using these pulmonary phagocyte subsets. Results showed that all subsets associate with C. neoformans, but only female Ly6c- monocyte-like macrophages significantly inhibited growth, while male CD11b+ DCs significantly enhanced fungal growth. In addition, cytokine analysis revealed that some subsets from female mice produced increased amounts of cytokines compared to their counterparts in male mice following exposure to C. neoformans. In addition, although cells were analyzed ex vivo without the influence of the lung microenviroment, we did not find evidence of phagocyte polarization following incubation with C. neoformans. Imaging flow cytometry showed differing ratios of cryptococcal morphologies, c-shaped or budding, depending on phagocyte subset. RNA sequencing analysis revealed the up- and down-regulation of many genes, from immunological pathways (including differential regulation of MHC class I in the antigen processing pathway and the cell adhesion pathway) and pathways relating to relating to metabolic activity (genes in the Cytochrome P450 family, genes related to actin binding, calcium voltage channels, serine proteases, and phospholipases). Future studies gaining a more in-depth understanding on the functionality of individual genes and pathways specific to permissive and non-permissive pulmonary phagocytes will allow identification of key targets when developing therapeutic strategies to prevent cryptococcal meningitis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ashlee N Hawkins
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, United States
| | - Brenden F Determann
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, United States
| | - Benjamin N Nelson
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, United States
| | - Karen L Wozniak
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, United States
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Improved saccharification of Chlorella vulgaris biomass by fungal secreted enzymes for bioethanol production. ALGAL RES 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.algal.2021.102402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
|
34
|
McLean SA, Cullen L, Gardam DJ, Schofield CJ, Laucirica DR, Sutanto EN, Ling KM, Stick SM, Peacock CS, Kicic A, Garratt LW. Cystic Fibrosis Clinical Isolates of Aspergillus fumigatus Induce Similar Muco-inflammatory Responses in Primary Airway Epithelial Cells. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10081020. [PMID: 34451484 PMCID: PMC8399118 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10081020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2021] [Revised: 08/03/2021] [Accepted: 08/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Aspergillus is increasingly associated with lung inflammation and mucus plugging in early cystic fibrosis (CF) disease during which conidia burden is low and strains appear to be highly diverse. It is unknown whether clinical Aspergillus strains vary in their capacity to induce epithelial inflammation and mucus production. We tested the hypothesis that individual colonising strains of Aspergillus fumigatus would induce different responses. Ten paediatric CF Aspergillus isolates were compared along with two systemically invasive clinical isolates and an ATCC reference strain. Isolates were first characterised by ITS gene sequencing and screened for antifungal susceptibility. Three clusters (A-C) of Aspergillus isolates were identified by ITS. Antifungal susceptibility was variable, particularly for itraconazole. Submerged CF and non-CF monolayers as well as differentiated primary airway epithelial cell cultures were incubated with conidia for 24 h to allow germination. None of the clinical isolates were found to significantly differ from one another in either IL-6 or IL-8 release or gene expression of secretory mucins. Clinical Aspergillus isolates appear to be largely homogenous in their mucostimulatory and immunostimulatory capacities and, therefore, only the antifungal resistance characteristics are likely to be clinically important.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samantha A. McLean
- Wal-Yan Respiratory Research Centre, Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Crawley 6009, Australia; (S.A.M.); (C.J.S.); (D.R.L.); (E.N.S.); (K.-M.L.); (S.M.S.); (A.K.)
| | - Leilani Cullen
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Western Australia, Crawley 6009, Australia; (L.C.); (C.S.P.)
| | - Dianne J. Gardam
- PathWest Laboratory Medicine WA, Fiona Stanley Hospital, Murdoch 6150, Australia;
| | - Craig J. Schofield
- Wal-Yan Respiratory Research Centre, Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Crawley 6009, Australia; (S.A.M.); (C.J.S.); (D.R.L.); (E.N.S.); (K.-M.L.); (S.M.S.); (A.K.)
| | - Daniel R. Laucirica
- Wal-Yan Respiratory Research Centre, Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Crawley 6009, Australia; (S.A.M.); (C.J.S.); (D.R.L.); (E.N.S.); (K.-M.L.); (S.M.S.); (A.K.)
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Western Australia, Crawley 6009, Australia; (L.C.); (C.S.P.)
| | - Erika N. Sutanto
- Wal-Yan Respiratory Research Centre, Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Crawley 6009, Australia; (S.A.M.); (C.J.S.); (D.R.L.); (E.N.S.); (K.-M.L.); (S.M.S.); (A.K.)
| | - Kak-Ming Ling
- Wal-Yan Respiratory Research Centre, Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Crawley 6009, Australia; (S.A.M.); (C.J.S.); (D.R.L.); (E.N.S.); (K.-M.L.); (S.M.S.); (A.K.)
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Western Australia, Crawley 6009, Australia; (L.C.); (C.S.P.)
| | - Stephen M. Stick
- Wal-Yan Respiratory Research Centre, Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Crawley 6009, Australia; (S.A.M.); (C.J.S.); (D.R.L.); (E.N.S.); (K.-M.L.); (S.M.S.); (A.K.)
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Western Australia, Crawley 6009, Australia; (L.C.); (C.S.P.)
- Department of Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, Perth Children’s Hospital, Nedlands 6009, Australia
| | - Christopher S. Peacock
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Western Australia, Crawley 6009, Australia; (L.C.); (C.S.P.)
| | - Anthony Kicic
- Wal-Yan Respiratory Research Centre, Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Crawley 6009, Australia; (S.A.M.); (C.J.S.); (D.R.L.); (E.N.S.); (K.-M.L.); (S.M.S.); (A.K.)
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Western Australia, Crawley 6009, Australia; (L.C.); (C.S.P.)
- Department of Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, Perth Children’s Hospital, Nedlands 6009, Australia
- Occupation and Environment, School of Public Health, Curtin University, Bentley 6102, Australia
| | - Luke W. Garratt
- Wal-Yan Respiratory Research Centre, Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Crawley 6009, Australia; (S.A.M.); (C.J.S.); (D.R.L.); (E.N.S.); (K.-M.L.); (S.M.S.); (A.K.)
- Correspondence:
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
35
|
Characterisation of Aspergillus fumigatus Endocytic Trafficking within Airway Epithelial Cells Using High-Resolution Automated Quantitative Confocal Microscopy. J Fungi (Basel) 2021; 7:jof7060454. [PMID: 34200399 PMCID: PMC8229978 DOI: 10.3390/jof7060454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2021] [Revised: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 06/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The precise characterization of the mechanisms modulating Aspergillus fumigatus survival within airway epithelial cells has been impaired by the lack of live-cell imaging technologies and user-friendly quantification approaches. Here we described the use of an automated image analysis pipeline to estimate the proportion of A. fumigatus spores taken up by airway epithelial cells, those contained within phagolysosomes or acidified phagosomes, along with the fungal factors contributing to these processes. Coupling the use of fluorescent A. fumigatus strains and fluorescent epithelial probes targeting lysosomes, acidified compartments and cell membrane, we found that both the efficacy of lysosome recruitment to phagosomes and phagosome acidification determines the capacity of airway epithelial cells to contain A. fumigatus growth. Overall, the capability of the airway epithelium to prevent A. fumigatus survival was higher in bronchial epithelial than alveolar epithelial cells. Certain A. fumigatus cell wall mutants influenced phagosome maturation in airway epithelial cells. Taken together, this live-cell 4D imaging approach allows observation and measurement of the very early processes of A. fumigatus interaction within live airway epithelial monolayers.
Collapse
|
36
|
Voss M, Kotrba J, Gaffal E, Katsoulis-Dimitriou K, Dudeck A. Mast Cells in the Skin: Defenders of Integrity or Offenders in Inflammation? Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22094589. [PMID: 33925601 PMCID: PMC8123885 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22094589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Revised: 04/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Mast cells (MCs) are best-known as key effector cells of immediate-type allergic reactions that may even culminate in life-threatening anaphylactic shock syndromes. However, strategically positioned at the host–environment interfaces and equipped with a plethora of receptors, MCs also play an important role in the first-line defense against pathogens. Their main characteristic, the huge amount of preformed proinflammatory mediators embedded in secretory granules, allows for a rapid response and initiation of further immune effector cell recruitment. The same mechanism, however, may account for detrimental overshooting responses. MCs are not only detrimental in MC-driven diseases but also responsible for disease exacerbation in other inflammatory disorders. Focusing on the skin as the largest immune organ, we herein review both beneficial and detrimental functions of skin MCs, from skin barrier integrity via host defense mechanisms to MC-driven inflammatory skin disorders. Moreover, we emphasize the importance of IgE-independent pathways of MC activation and their role in sustained chronic skin inflammation and disease exacerbation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Martin Voss
- Medical Faculty, Institute for Molecular and Clinical Immunology, Otto-Von-Guericke-University Magdeburg, 39120 Magdeburg, Germany; (M.V.); (J.K.); (K.K.-D.)
| | - Johanna Kotrba
- Medical Faculty, Institute for Molecular and Clinical Immunology, Otto-Von-Guericke-University Magdeburg, 39120 Magdeburg, Germany; (M.V.); (J.K.); (K.K.-D.)
| | - Evelyn Gaffal
- Laboratory for Experimental Dermatology, Department of Dermatology, University Hospital Magdeburg, 39120 Magdeburg, Germany;
| | - Konstantinos Katsoulis-Dimitriou
- Medical Faculty, Institute for Molecular and Clinical Immunology, Otto-Von-Guericke-University Magdeburg, 39120 Magdeburg, Germany; (M.V.); (J.K.); (K.K.-D.)
| | - Anne Dudeck
- Medical Faculty, Institute for Molecular and Clinical Immunology, Otto-Von-Guericke-University Magdeburg, 39120 Magdeburg, Germany; (M.V.); (J.K.); (K.K.-D.)
- Health Campus Immunology, Infectiology and Inflammation, Otto-Von-Guericke-University Magdeburg, 39120 Magdeburg, Germany
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Hind LE, Giese MA, Schoen TJ, Beebe DJ, Keller N, Huttenlocher A. Immune Cell Paracrine Signaling Drives the Neutrophil Response to A. fumigatus in an Infection-on-a-Chip Model. Cell Mol Bioeng 2021; 14:133-145. [PMID: 33868496 PMCID: PMC8010091 DOI: 10.1007/s12195-020-00655-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2020] [Accepted: 09/24/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Neutrophils act as first responders during an infection, following signals from the pathogen as well as other host cells to migrate from blood vessels to the site of infection. This tightly regulated process is critical for pathogen clearance and, in many cases, eliminates the pathogen without the need for an additional immune response. It is, therefore, critical to understand what signals drive neutrophil migration to infection in a physiologically relevant environment. METHODS In this study, we used an infection-on-a-chip model to recapitulate many important aspects of the infectious microenvironment including an endothelial blood vessel, an extracellular matrix, and the environmental fungal pathogen Aspergillus fumigatus. We then used this model to visualize the innate immune response to fungal infection. RESULTS We found that A. fumigatus germination dynamics are influenced by the presence of an endothelial lumen. Furthermore, we demonstrated that neutrophils are recruited to and swarm around A. fumigatus hyphae and that the presence of monocytes significantly increases the neutrophil response to A. fumigatus. Using secreted protein analysis and blocking antibodies, we found that this increased migration is likely due to signaling by MIP-1 family proteins. Finally, we demonstrated that signal relay between neutrophils, mediated by LTB4 signaling, is also important for sustained neutrophil migration and swarming in response to A. fumigatus infection in our system. CONCLUSIONS Taken together, these results suggest that paracrine signaling from both monocytes and neutrophils plays an important role in driving the neutrophil response to A. fumigatus.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laurel E. Hind
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO USA
| | - Morgan A. Giese
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI USA
| | - Taylor J. Schoen
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI USA
| | - David J. Beebe
- Department of Pathology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI USA
| | - Nancy Keller
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI USA
- Department of Bacteriology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI USA
| | - Anna Huttenlocher
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI USA
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
F. Q. Smith D, Casadevall A. Fungal immunity and pathogenesis in mammals versus the invertebrate model organism Galleria mellonella. Pathog Dis 2021; 79:ftab013. [PMID: 33544836 PMCID: PMC7981337 DOI: 10.1093/femspd/ftab013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2020] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent decades, Galleria mellonella (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) have emerged as a model system to explore experimental aspects of fungal pathogenesis. The benefits of the G. mellonella model include being faster, cheaper, higher throughput and easier compared with vertebrate models. Additionally, as invertebrates, their use is subject to fewer ethical and regulatory issues. However, for G. mellonella models to provide meaningful insight into fungal pathogenesis, the G. mellonella-fungal interactions must be comparable to mammalian-fungal interactions. Indeed, as discussed in the review, studies suggest that G. mellonella and mammalian immune systems share many similarities, and fungal virulence factors show conserved functions in both hosts. While the moth model has opened novel research areas, many comparisons are superficial and leave large gaps of knowledge that need to be addressed concerning specific mechanisms underlying G. mellonella-fungal interactions. Closing these gaps in understanding will strengthen G. mellonella as a model for fungal virulence in the upcoming years. In this review, we provide comprehensive comparisons between fungal pathogenesis in mammals and G. mellonella from immunological and virulence perspectives. When information on an antifungal immune component is unknown in G. mellonella, we include findings from other well-studied Lepidoptera. We hope that by outlining this information available in related species, we highlight areas of needed research and provide a framework for understanding G. mellonella immunity and fungal interactions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel F. Q. Smith
- W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, The Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Arturo Casadevall
- W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, The Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Margalit A, Carolan JC, Kavanagh K. Bacterial Interactions with Aspergillus fumigatus in the Immunocompromised Lung. Microorganisms 2021; 9:microorganisms9020435. [PMID: 33669831 PMCID: PMC7923216 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms9020435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2021] [Revised: 02/18/2021] [Accepted: 02/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The immunocompromised airways are susceptible to infections caused by a range of pathogens which increases the opportunity for polymicrobial interactions to occur. Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus are the predominant causes of pulmonary infection for individuals with respiratory disorders such as cystic fibrosis (CF). The spore-forming fungus Aspergillus fumigatus, is most frequently isolated with P. aeruginosa, and co-infection results in poor outcomes for patients. It is therefore clinically important to understand how these pathogens interact with each other and how such interactions may contribute to disease progression so that appropriate therapeutic strategies may be developed. Despite its persistence in the airways throughout the life of a patient, A. fumigatus rarely becomes the dominant pathogen. In vitro interaction studies have revealed remarkable insights into the molecular mechanisms that drive agonistic and antagonistic interactions that occur between A. fumigatus and pulmonary bacterial pathogens such as P. aeruginosa. Crucially, these studies demonstrate that although bacteria may predominate in a competitive environment, A. fumigatus has the capacity to persist and contribute to disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Kevin Kavanagh
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +353-1-708-3859; Fax: +353-1-708-3845
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Zhan L, Peng X, Lin J, Zhang Y, Gao H, Zhu Y, Huan Y, Zhao G. Honokiol Reduces Fungal Load, Toll-Like Receptor-2, and Inflammatory Cytokines in Aspergillus fumigatus Keratitis. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2020; 61:48. [PMID: 32347916 PMCID: PMC7401949 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.61.4.48] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose We characterized the effects of Honokiol (HNK) on Aspergillus fumigatus-caused keratomycosis and the underlying mechanisms. HNK is known to have anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties, but the influence on fungal keratitis (FK) remains unknown. Methods In ex vivo, minimum inhibitory concentration and Cell Count Kit-8 assay were carried out spectrophotometrically to provide preferred concentration applied in vivo. Time kill assay pointed that HNK was fungicidal and fungistatic chronologically. Adherence assay, crystal violet staining, and membrane permeability assay tested HNK effects on different fungal stages. In vivo, clinical scores reflected the improvement degree of keratitis outcome. Myeloperoxidase (MPO) assay, flow cytometry (FCM), and immunohistofluorescence staining (IFS) were done to evaluate neutrophil infiltration. Plate count detected HNK fungicidal potentiality. RT-PCR, Western blot, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) verified the anti-inflammatory activity of HNK collaboratively. Results In vitro, MIC90 HNK was 8 µg/mL (no cytotoxicity), and Minimal Fungicidal Concentration (MFC) was 12 µg/mL for A. fumigatus. HNK played the fungistatic and fungicidal roles at 6 and 24 hours, respectively, inhibiting adherence at the beginning, diminishing biofilms formation, and increasing membrane permeability all the time. In vivo, HNK improved C57BL/6 mice outcome by reducing disease severity (clinical scores), neutrophil infiltration (MPO, FCM, and IFS), and fungal loading (plate count). RT-PCR, Western blot, and ELISA revealed that HNK downregulated mRNA and protein expression levels of Toll-like receptor-2 (TLR-2), high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1), IL-1β, and TNF-α. Conclusions Our study suggested HNK played antifungal and anti-inflammatory roles on keratomycosis by reducing survival of fungi, infiltration of leucocytes, and expression of HMGB1, TLR-2, and proinflammatory cytokines, providing a potential treatment for FK.
Collapse
|
41
|
Blickensdorf M, Timme S, Figge MT. Hybrid Agent-Based Modeling of Aspergillus fumigatus Infection to Quantitatively Investigate the Role of Pores of Kohn in Human Alveoli. Front Microbiol 2020; 11:1951. [PMID: 32903715 PMCID: PMC7438790 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2020.01951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2020] [Accepted: 07/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The healthy state of an organism is constantly threatened by external cues. Due to the daily inhalation of hundreds of particles and pathogens, the immune system needs to constantly accomplish the task of pathogen clearance in order to maintain this healthy state. However, infection dynamics are highly influenced by the peculiar anatomy of the human lung. Lung alveoli that are packed in alveolar sacs are interconnected by so called Pores of Kohn. Mainly due to the lack of in vivo methods, the role of Pores of Kohn in the mammalian lung is still under debate and partly contradicting hypotheses remain to be investigated. Although it was shown by electron microscopy that Pores of Kohn may serve as passageways for immune cells, their impact on the infection dynamics in the lung is still unknown under in vivo conditions. In the present study, we apply a hybrid agent-based infection model to quantitatively compare three different scenarios and discuss the importance of Pores of Kohn during infections of Aspergillus fumigatus. A. fumigatus is an airborne opportunistic fungus with rising incidences causing severe infections in immunocompromised patients that are associated with high mortality rates. Our hybrid agent-based model incorporates immune cell dynamics of alveolar macrophages – the resident phagocytes in the lung – as well as molecular dynamics of diffusing chemokines that attract alveolar macrophages to the site of infection. Consequently, this model allows a quantitative comparison of three different scenarios and to study the importance of Pores of Kohn. This enables us to demonstrate how passaging of alveolar macrophages and chemokine diffusion affect A. fumigatus infection dynamics. We show that Pores of Kohn alter important infection clearance mechanisms, such as the spatial distribution of macrophages and the effect of chemokine signaling. However, despite these differences, a lack of passageways for alveolar macrophages does impede infection clearance only to a minor extend. Furthermore, we quantify the importance of recruited macrophages in comparison to resident macrophages.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marco Blickensdorf
- Research Group Applied Systems Biology, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology - Hans Knöll Institute, Jena, Germany.,Faculty of Biological Sciences, Institute of Microbiology, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Jena, Germany
| | - Sandra Timme
- Research Group Applied Systems Biology, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology - Hans Knöll Institute, Jena, Germany
| | - Marc Thilo Figge
- Research Group Applied Systems Biology, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology - Hans Knöll Institute, Jena, Germany.,Faculty of Biological Sciences, Institute of Microbiology, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Jena, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Dellière S, Sze Wah Wong S, Aimanianda V. Soluble mediators in anti-fungal immunity. Curr Opin Microbiol 2020; 58:24-31. [PMID: 32604018 DOI: 10.1016/j.mib.2020.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2020] [Revised: 05/11/2020] [Accepted: 05/13/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Although soluble mediators of our innate immune system have a substantial impact on invading microbes, their role against fungal pathogens has been underexplored. Constituting the humoral immunity, soluble mediators comprise the complement system, collectins, acute-phase proteins, antibodies and antimicrobial peptides. These components can prevent fungal infection either by directly interacting with invading microbes, leading to their aggregation (microbistatic), destruction (microbicidal) or linking them to cellular immunity. The composition of soluble-mediator varies with human body-fluids, resulting in different antifungal mechanisms. Moreover, cellular immune system deploys both oxidative and non-oxidative mechanisms to destroy extracellular or internalized fungal pathogens; however, cellular immune activation is mainly influenced as well as regulated by soluble mediators. This review outlines the antifungal mechanism employed, directly or indirectly, by soluble mediators, and in response, the evading strategies of the fungal pathogens.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Dellière
- Institut Pasteur, Molecular Mycology Unit, UMR2000, CNRS, Paris, France; Parasitology-Mycoloy Laboratory, Groupe Hospitalier Saint-Louis-Lariboisière-Fernand-Widal, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Université de Paris, Paris, France
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
43
|
Zhang Z, Jiang Y, Chen J, Chen P, Kong Q, Lu L, Sang H. In vitro and in vivo characterization of two nonsporulating Aspergillus fumigatus clinical isolates from immunocompetent patients. Med Mycol 2020; 58:543-551. [PMID: 31290538 DOI: 10.1093/mmy/myz076] [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] [Received: 03/08/2019] [Revised: 05/06/2019] [Accepted: 06/15/2019] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Aspergillus fumigatus is a pathogenic fungus responsible for invasive aspergillosis (IA). Typically, it can produce abundant conidia to survive and spread. The infection by A. fumigatus usually occurs in immunocompromised patients due to failed clearance of inhaled conidia. However, the incidence of aspergillosis in immunocompetent hosts has been increasing, the pathogenesis of which is still unknown. Our team previously obtained two clinical nonsporulating A. fumigatus isolates from non-immunocompromised patients, which only have the form of hyphae. This present study demonstrated the in vitro and in vivo characteristics of the two nonsporulating A. fumigatus isolates and verified that their conidiation defects are associated to abolished expression of the sporulation-related central regulatory pathway brlA gene. In addition, we confirmed the mutation site of brlA gene (c.657_660delTCCT) contributes to the nonsporulating phenotype in one clinical isolate. Plate assay showed that the two nonsporulating isolates have a similar resistance to antifungal drugs, cell wall disturbing substances, and oxidative stress compared with the wild-type reference Af293. Most important of all, we employed an immunocompetent mouse model to mimic the pathogenesis of pulmonary aspergillosis in non-immunocompromised patients. It revealed that the hyphae of two nonsporulating isolates and Af293 have similar virulence in immunocompetent hosts. Interestingly, the hyphae fragments of Af293 but not conidia are able to induce invasive aspergillosis in immunocompetent mice. In conclusion, our study indicate that the form of hyphae may play a dominant causative role in pulmonary aspergillosis of immunocompetent hosts rather than conidia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Zhang
- Department of Dermatology, Jinling Hospital, School of Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yuan Jiang
- Department of Dermatology, Jinling Hospital, School of Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jun Chen
- Department of Dermatology, Jinling Hospital, School of Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Peiying Chen
- Department of Dermatology, Jinling Hospital, School of Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Qingtao Kong
- Department of Dermatology, Jinling Hospital, School of Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ling Lu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Microbes and Functional Genomics, Jiangsu Engineering and Technology Research Center for Microbiology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, China
| | - Hong Sang
- Department of Dermatology, Jinling Hospital, School of Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Kozlova Y, Frolova E, Uchevatkina A, Filippova L, Aak O, Burygina E, Taraskina A, Vasilyeva N, Klimko N. Diagnostic markers of allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis in patients with severe asthma. Mycoses 2020; 63:596-603. [PMID: 32246509 DOI: 10.1111/myc.13083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2019] [Revised: 03/10/2020] [Accepted: 03/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA) is a lung disease in patients with asthma or cystic fibrosis (CF) caused by chronic allergic inflammation to Aspergillus spp. antigens. The role of different immunological mediators in the formation of chronic allergic inflammation in patients with ABPA is not sufficiently explored. OBJECTIVES This study aimed to investigate serum levels of thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP), thymus and activated chemokine (TARC) as well as IL-8 in patients with ABPA, and to evaluate their diagnostic and monitoring value in the disease. PATIENTS/METHODS Prospective study included 21 patients with ABPA, 25 patients with severe asthma with fungal sensitisation (SAFS), 37 patients with severe asthma without fungal sensitisation (SAwFS), and 16 healthy people. In patients with ABPA, the serum levels of biomarkers were determined at baseline and after 12 weeks of itraconazole therapy. Serum levels of total IgE, Aspergillus-fumigatus-specific IgE, TSLP, TARC, IL-8 were analysed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. RESULTS In patients with ABPA we established significantly higher serum levels of TARC, IL-8, total IgE, Aspergillus-fumigatus-specific IgE and peripheral blood eosinophil counts, compared to patients with SAwFS. There were no differences in TSLP levels between the examined groups of patients. Serum TARC levels were positively correlated to serum total IgE levels, A fumigatus-specific IgE levels and peripheral blood eosinophil counts and also negatively correlated to lung function (FEV1 ). Longitudinally, serum levels TARC, total IgE and peripheral blood eosinophil counts significant decreased after treatment of ABPA. CONCLUSION Thymus and activated chemokine is a useful test in diagnosing and monitoring response to the antifungal treatment of patients with ABPA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yana Kozlova
- North-Western State Medical University named after I.I. Mechnikov, Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Ekaterina Frolova
- North-Western State Medical University named after I.I. Mechnikov, Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Aleksandra Uchevatkina
- North-Western State Medical University named after I.I. Mechnikov, Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Larisa Filippova
- North-Western State Medical University named after I.I. Mechnikov, Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Oleg Aak
- North-Western State Medical University named after I.I. Mechnikov, Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Ekaterina Burygina
- North-Western State Medical University named after I.I. Mechnikov, Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Anastasiya Taraskina
- North-Western State Medical University named after I.I. Mechnikov, Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Natalia Vasilyeva
- North-Western State Medical University named after I.I. Mechnikov, Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Nikolay Klimko
- North-Western State Medical University named after I.I. Mechnikov, Saint Petersburg, Russia
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Ajdidi A, Sheehan G, Kavanagh K. Exposure of Aspergillus fumigatus to Atorvastatin Leads to Altered Membrane Permeability and Induction of an Oxidative Stress Response. J Fungi (Basel) 2020; 6:jof6020042. [PMID: 32225059 PMCID: PMC7344724 DOI: 10.3390/jof6020042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2020] [Revised: 03/18/2020] [Accepted: 03/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Aspergillus fumigatus is a serious cause of disease in immune-deficient patients and in those with pulmonary malfunction (e.g., cystic fibrosis (CF), asthma). Atorvastatin is a member of the statin drug family, which are the main therapeutic agents used to decrease high serum cholesterol levels by inhibiting (HMG-CoA) reductase enzyme. The aim of the work presented here was to analyse the antifungal activity of atorvastatin and assess its effect on the virulence of A. fumigatus. Atorvastatin demonstrated strong antifungal activity and reduced the growth and viability of A. fumigatus. Exposure of A. fumigatus to atorvastatin led to a reduction in ergosterol content and increased membrane permeability, as evidenced by the release of protein, amino acids and gliotoxin. Proteomic analysis revealed an increased abundance of proteins associated with an oxidative stress response, such as the glutathione s-transferase family protein (+8.43-fold), heat shock protein Hsp30/Hsp42 (+2.02-fold) and 5-demethoxyubiquinone hydroxylase, mitochondrial (+1.73-fold), as well as secondary metabolites such as isocyanide synthase A icsA (+8.52-fold) and non-ribosomal peptide synthetase fmpE (+3.06-fold). The results presented here indicate that atorvastatin has strong antifungal properties and may have potential application in the treatment of A. fumigatus infections alone or in combination with existing antifungal agents.
Collapse
|
46
|
Nelson BN, Hawkins AN, Wozniak KL. Pulmonary Macrophage and Dendritic Cell Responses to Cryptococcus neoformans. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2020; 10:37. [PMID: 32117810 PMCID: PMC7026008 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2020.00037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2019] [Accepted: 01/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The fungal pathogen Cryptococcus neoformans can cause life-threatening infections in immune compromised individuals. This pathogen is typically acquired via inhalation, and enters the respiratory tract. Innate immune cells such as macrophages and dendritic cells (DCs) are the first host cells that encounter C. neoformans, and the interactions between Cryptococcus and innate immune cells play a critical role in the progression of disease. Cryptococcus possesses several virulence factors and evasion strategies to prevent its killing and destruction by pulmonary phagocytes, but these phagocytic cells can also contribute to anti-cryptococcal responses. This review will focus on the interactions between Cryptococcus and primary macrophages and dendritic cells (DCs), dealing specifically with the cryptococcal/pulmonary cell interface.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin N Nelson
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, United States
| | - Ashlee N Hawkins
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, United States
| | - Karen L Wozniak
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, United States
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Malacco NL, Souza JA, Mendes AC, Rachid MA, Kraemer LR, Mattos MS, Lima GN, Sousa LP, Souza DG, Pinho V, Teixeira MM, Russo RC, Soriani FM. Acute lung injury and repair induced by single exposure of Aspergillus fumigatus in immunocompetent mice. Future Microbiol 2020; 14:1511-1525. [PMID: 31913059 DOI: 10.2217/fmb-2019-0214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim: Characterize the course of acute Aspergillus fumigatus lung infection in immunocompetent mice, investigating the immunological, pathological and tissue functional modifications. Materials & methods: C57BL/6 mice were intranasally infected with A. fumigatus conidia and euthanized to access inflammatory parameters. Results: Mice infected with A. fumigatus showed an inoculum-dependent lethality and body weight loss. An intense proinflammatory cytokine release, neutrophil infiltrate and pulmonary dysfunction was also observed in the early phase of infection. In the late phase of infection, proresolving mediators release, apoptosis and efferocytosis increased and lung tissue architecture is restored. Conclusion: Our study characterized an immunocompetent model of acute pulmonary Aspergillus infection in mice and opened an array of possibilities for investigations on interactions of A. fumigatus with host-immune system.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nathália Lso Malacco
- Centro de Pesquisa e Desenvolvimento de Fármacos, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Jéssica Am Souza
- Centro de Pesquisa e Desenvolvimento de Fármacos, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Aline C Mendes
- Centro de Pesquisa e Desenvolvimento de Fármacos, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Milene A Rachid
- Laboratório de Patologia Celular e Molecular, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Lucas R Kraemer
- Laboratório de Imunologia e Mecânica Pulmonar, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Matheus S Mattos
- Laboratório de Imunologia e Mecânica Pulmonar, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Graziele N Lima
- Laboratório de Sinalização da Inflamação, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Lirlândia P Sousa
- Laboratório de Sinalização da Inflamação, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Daniele G Souza
- Laboratório de Interação Microrganismo Hospedeiro, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Vanessa Pinho
- Centro de Pesquisa e Desenvolvimento de Fármacos, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Mauro M Teixeira
- Centro de Pesquisa e Desenvolvimento de Fármacos, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Remo C Russo
- Laboratório de Imunologia e Mecânica Pulmonar, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Frederico M Soriani
- Centro de Pesquisa e Desenvolvimento de Fármacos, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Margalit A, Kavanagh K, Carolan JC. Characterization of the Proteomic Response of A549 Cells Following Sequential Exposure to Aspergillus fumigatus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. J Proteome Res 2020; 19:279-291. [PMID: 31693381 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jproteome.9b00520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Aspergillus fumigatus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa are the most prevalent fungal and bacterial pathogens associated with cystic-fibrosis-related infections, respectively. P. aeruginosa eventually predominates as the primary pathogen, though it is unknown why this is the case. Label-free quantitative proteomics was employed to investigate the cellular response of the alveolar epithelial cell line, A549, to coexposure of A. fumigatus and P. aeruginosa. These studies revealed a significant increase in the rate of P. aeruginosa proliferation where A. fumigatus was present. Shotgun proteomics performed on A549 cells exposed to either A. fumigatus or P. aeruginosa or to A. fumigatus and P. aeruginosa sequentially revealed distinct changes to the host cell proteome in response to either or both pathogens. While key signatures of infection were retained among all pathogen-exposed groups, including changes in mitochondrial activity and energy output, the relative abundance of proteins associated with endocytosis, phagosomes, and lysosomes was decreased in sequentially exposed cells compared to cells exposed to either pathogen. Our findings indicate that A. fumigatus renders A549 cells unable to internalize bacteria, thus providing an environment in which P. aeruginosa can proliferate. This research provides novel insights into the whole-cell proteomic response of A549 cells to A. fumigatus and P. aeruginosa and highlights distinct differences in the proteome following sequential exposure to both pathogens, which may explain why P. aeruginosa can predominate.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anatte Margalit
- Department of Biology , Maynooth University , Maynooth, Co. Kildare W23F2H6 , Ireland
| | - Kevin Kavanagh
- Department of Biology , Maynooth University , Maynooth, Co. Kildare W23F2H6 , Ireland
| | - James C Carolan
- Department of Biology , Maynooth University , Maynooth, Co. Kildare W23F2H6 , Ireland
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Neutrophil extracellular traps impair fungal clearance in a mouse model of invasive pulmonary aspergillosis. Immunobiology 2019; 225:151867. [PMID: 31761474 DOI: 10.1016/j.imbio.2019.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2019] [Revised: 11/12/2019] [Accepted: 11/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) are formed by polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMN) and contribute to the innate host defense by binding and killing bacterial and fungal pathogens. Because NET formation depends on histone hypercitrullination by peptidylarginine deiminase 4 (PAD4), we used PAD4 gene deficient (Pad4-/-) mice in a mouse model of invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA) to address the contribution of NETs to the innate host defense in vivo. After the induction (24 h) of IPA by i.t. infection with Aspergillus fumigatus conidia, Pad4-/- mice revealed lower fungal burden in the lungs, accompanied by less acute lung injury, TNFα and citH3 compared to wildtype controls. These findings suggest that release of NETs contributes to tissue damage and limits control of fungal outgrowth. Thus inhibition of NETosis might be a useful strategy to maintain neutrophil function and avoid lung damage in patients suffering from IPA, especially in those suffering from preexisting pulmonary disease.
Collapse
|
50
|
Saini S, Poelmans J, Korf H, Dooley JL, Liang S, Manshian BB, Verbeke R, Soenen SJ, Vande Velde G, Lentacker I, Lagrou K, Liston A, Gysemans C, De Smedt SC, Himmelreich U. Longitudinal In Vivo Assessment of Host-Microbe Interactions in a Murine Model of Pulmonary Aspergillosis. iScience 2019; 20:184-194. [PMID: 31581067 PMCID: PMC6817634 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2019.09.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2019] [Revised: 07/24/2019] [Accepted: 09/13/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The fungus Aspergillus fumigatus is ubiquitous in nature and the most common cause of invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA) in patients with a compromised immune system. The development of IPA in patients under immunosuppressive treatment or in patients with primary immunodeficiency demonstrates the importance of the host immune response in controlling aspergillosis. However, study of the host-microbe interaction has been hampered by the lack of tools for their non-invasive assessment. We developed a methodology to study the response of the host's immune system against IPA longitudinally in vivo by using fluorine-19 magnetic resonance imaging (19F MRI). We showed the advantage of a perfluorocarbon-based contrast agent for the in vivo labeling of macrophages and dendritic cells, permitting quantification of pulmonary inflammation in different murine IPA models. Our findings reveal the potential of 19F MRI for the assessment of rapid kinetics of innate immune response against IPA and the permissive niche generated through immunosuppression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shweta Saini
- Biomedical MRI/Molecular Small Animal Imaging Center (MoSAIC), KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Jennifer Poelmans
- Biomedical MRI/Molecular Small Animal Imaging Center (MoSAIC), KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Hannelie Korf
- Laboratory of Hepatology, CHROMETA Department, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - James L Dooley
- Laboratory of Genetics of Autoimmunity (VIB-KU Leuven Center for Brain & Disease Research), Leuven, Belgium
| | - Sayuan Liang
- Biomedical MRI/Molecular Small Animal Imaging Center (MoSAIC), KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; Philips Research China, Shanghai, China
| | - Bella B Manshian
- Biomedical MRI/Molecular Small Animal Imaging Center (MoSAIC), KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Rein Verbeke
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Ghent University, Belgium
| | - Stefaan J Soenen
- Biomedical MRI/Molecular Small Animal Imaging Center (MoSAIC), KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Greetje Vande Velde
- Biomedical MRI/Molecular Small Animal Imaging Center (MoSAIC), KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Ine Lentacker
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Ghent University, Belgium
| | - Katrien Lagrou
- Clinical Bacteriology and Mycology, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Adrian Liston
- Laboratory of Genetics of Autoimmunity (VIB-KU Leuven Center for Brain & Disease Research), Leuven, Belgium
| | - Conny Gysemans
- Clinical and Experimental Endocrinology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | | | - Uwe Himmelreich
- Biomedical MRI/Molecular Small Animal Imaging Center (MoSAIC), KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
| |
Collapse
|