1
|
Kumar D, Kumar A. Molecular Determinants Involved in Candida albicans Biofilm Formation and Regulation. Mol Biotechnol 2024; 66:1640-1659. [PMID: 37410258 DOI: 10.1007/s12033-023-00796-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023]
Abstract
Candida albicans is known for its pathogenicity, although it lives within the human body as a commensal member. The commensal nature of C. albicans is well controlled and regulated by the host's immune system as they live in the harmonized microenvironment. However, the development of certain unusual microhabitat conditions (change in pH, co-inhabiting microorganisms' population ratio, debilitated host-immune system) pokes this commensal fungus to transform into a pathogen in such a way that it starts to propagate very rapidly and tries to breach the epithelial barrier to enter the host's systemic circulations. In addition, Candida is infamous as a major nosocomial (hospital-acquired infection) agent because it enters the human body through venous catheters or medical prostheses. The hysterical mode of C. albicans growth builds its microcolony or biofilm, which is pathogenic for the host. Biofilms propose additional resistance mechanisms from host immunity or extracellular chemicals to aid their survival. Differential gene expressions and regulations within the biofilms cause altered morphology and metabolism. The genes associated with adhesiveness, hyphal/pseudo-hyphal growth, persister cell transformation, and biofilm formation by C. albicans are controlled by myriads of cell-signaling regulators. These genes' transcription is controlled by different molecular determinants like transcription factors and regulators. Therefore, this review has focused discussion on host-immune-sensing molecular determinants of Candida during biofilm formation, regulatory descriptors (secondary messengers, regulatory RNAs, transcription factors) of Candida involved in biofilm formation that could enable small-molecule drug discovery against these molecular determinants, and lead to disrupt the well-structured Candida biofilms effectively.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dushyant Kumar
- Department of Biotechnology, National Institute of Technology, Raipur, Chhattisgarh, 492010, India
| | - Awanish Kumar
- Department of Biotechnology, National Institute of Technology, Raipur, Chhattisgarh, 492010, India.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Kim HJ, Shin HA, Chung WK, Om AS, Jeon A, Kang EK, An W, Kang JS. Analyses of the Chemical Composition of Plasma-Activated Water and Its Potential Applications for Vaginal Health. Biomedicines 2023; 11:3121. [PMID: 38137342 PMCID: PMC10740551 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11123121] [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: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/18/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to elucidate the unique chemical compositions of plasma-activated water (PAW) and the potential antibacterial efficacy of PAW as a novel vaginal cleanser. We analyzed the ion compositions (four anions: F-, Cl-, NO3-, SO42-; five cations: Na+, NH4+, K+, Mg2+, Ca2+) of several formulations of PAW generated at different electrical powers (12 and 24 V) at various treatment time points (1, 10, and 20 min), and stay durations (immediate, 30, and 60 min). As treatment duration increased, hypochlorous acid (HOCl), Ca2+, and Mg2+ concentrations increased and Cl- concentration decreased. Higher electrical power and longer treatment duration resulted in increased HOCl levels, which acts to prevent the growth of general microorganisms. Notably, PAW had no antibacterial effects against the probiotic, Lactobacillus reuteri, which produces lactic acid and is important for vaginal health. These findings indicate that PAW contains HOCl and some cations (Ca2+ and Mg2+), which should help protect against pathogens of the vaginal mucosa and have a cleansing effect within the vaginal environment while not harming beneficial bacteria.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hyun-Jin Kim
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, Hanyang University, Seoul 04736, Republic of Korea; (H.-J.K.); (H.-A.S.); (A.J.); (E.-K.K.); (W.A.)
| | - Hyun-A Shin
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, Hanyang University, Seoul 04736, Republic of Korea; (H.-J.K.); (H.-A.S.); (A.J.); (E.-K.K.); (W.A.)
| | - Woo-Kyung Chung
- Department of Food and Nutrition, Hanyang University, Seoul 04736, Republic of Korea; (W.-K.C.); (A.-S.O.)
| | - Ae-Son Om
- Department of Food and Nutrition, Hanyang University, Seoul 04736, Republic of Korea; (W.-K.C.); (A.-S.O.)
| | - Areum Jeon
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, Hanyang University, Seoul 04736, Republic of Korea; (H.-J.K.); (H.-A.S.); (A.J.); (E.-K.K.); (W.A.)
| | - Eun-Kyung Kang
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, Hanyang University, Seoul 04736, Republic of Korea; (H.-J.K.); (H.-A.S.); (A.J.); (E.-K.K.); (W.A.)
| | - Wen An
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, Hanyang University, Seoul 04736, Republic of Korea; (H.-J.K.); (H.-A.S.); (A.J.); (E.-K.K.); (W.A.)
| | - Ju-Seop Kang
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, Hanyang University, Seoul 04736, Republic of Korea; (H.-J.K.); (H.-A.S.); (A.J.); (E.-K.K.); (W.A.)
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Czajka KM, Venkataraman K, Brabant-Kirwan D, Santi SA, Verschoor C, Appanna VD, Singh R, Saunders DP, Tharmalingam S. Molecular Mechanisms Associated with Antifungal Resistance in Pathogenic Candida Species. Cells 2023; 12:2655. [PMID: 37998390 PMCID: PMC10670235 DOI: 10.3390/cells12222655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Candidiasis is a highly pervasive infection posing major health risks, especially for immunocompromised populations. Pathogenic Candida species have evolved intrinsic and acquired resistance to a variety of antifungal medications. The primary goal of this literature review is to summarize the molecular mechanisms associated with antifungal resistance in Candida species. Resistance can be conferred via gain-of-function mutations in target pathway genes or their transcriptional regulators. Therefore, an overview of the known gene mutations is presented for the following antifungals: azoles (fluconazole, voriconazole, posaconazole and itraconazole), echinocandins (caspofungin, anidulafungin and micafungin), polyenes (amphotericin B and nystatin) and 5-fluorocytosine (5-FC). The following mutation hot spots were identified: (1) ergosterol biosynthesis pathway mutations (ERG11 and UPC2), resulting in azole resistance; (2) overexpression of the efflux pumps, promoting azole resistance (transcription factor genes: tac1 and mrr1; transporter genes: CDR1, CDR2, MDR1, PDR16 and SNQ2); (3) cell wall biosynthesis mutations (FKS1, FKS2 and PDR1), conferring resistance to echinocandins; (4) mutations of nucleic acid synthesis/repair genes (FCY1, FCY2 and FUR1), resulting in 5-FC resistance; and (5) biofilm production, promoting general antifungal resistance. This review also provides a summary of standardized inhibitory breakpoints obtained from international guidelines for prominent Candida species. Notably, N. glabrata, P. kudriavzevii and C. auris demonstrate fluconazole resistance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Karolina M. Czajka
- Medical Sciences Division, NOSM University, 935 Ramsey Lake Rd., Sudbury, ON P3E 2C6, Canada; (K.M.C.); (K.V.); (C.V.); (R.S.); (D.P.S.)
| | - Krishnan Venkataraman
- Medical Sciences Division, NOSM University, 935 Ramsey Lake Rd., Sudbury, ON P3E 2C6, Canada; (K.M.C.); (K.V.); (C.V.); (R.S.); (D.P.S.)
- School of Natural Sciences, Laurentian University, Sudbury, ON P3E 2C6, Canada;
| | | | - Stacey A. Santi
- Health Sciences North Research Institute, Sudbury, ON P3E 2H2, Canada; (D.B.-K.); (S.A.S.)
| | - Chris Verschoor
- Medical Sciences Division, NOSM University, 935 Ramsey Lake Rd., Sudbury, ON P3E 2C6, Canada; (K.M.C.); (K.V.); (C.V.); (R.S.); (D.P.S.)
- School of Natural Sciences, Laurentian University, Sudbury, ON P3E 2C6, Canada;
- Health Sciences North Research Institute, Sudbury, ON P3E 2H2, Canada; (D.B.-K.); (S.A.S.)
| | - Vasu D. Appanna
- School of Natural Sciences, Laurentian University, Sudbury, ON P3E 2C6, Canada;
| | - Ravi Singh
- Medical Sciences Division, NOSM University, 935 Ramsey Lake Rd., Sudbury, ON P3E 2C6, Canada; (K.M.C.); (K.V.); (C.V.); (R.S.); (D.P.S.)
- Health Sciences North Research Institute, Sudbury, ON P3E 2H2, Canada; (D.B.-K.); (S.A.S.)
| | - Deborah P. Saunders
- Medical Sciences Division, NOSM University, 935 Ramsey Lake Rd., Sudbury, ON P3E 2C6, Canada; (K.M.C.); (K.V.); (C.V.); (R.S.); (D.P.S.)
- Health Sciences North Research Institute, Sudbury, ON P3E 2H2, Canada; (D.B.-K.); (S.A.S.)
| | - Sujeenthar Tharmalingam
- Medical Sciences Division, NOSM University, 935 Ramsey Lake Rd., Sudbury, ON P3E 2C6, Canada; (K.M.C.); (K.V.); (C.V.); (R.S.); (D.P.S.)
- School of Natural Sciences, Laurentian University, Sudbury, ON P3E 2C6, Canada;
- Health Sciences North Research Institute, Sudbury, ON P3E 2H2, Canada; (D.B.-K.); (S.A.S.)
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Kumar D, Kumar A. Cellular Attributes of Candida albicans Biofilm-Associated in Resistance Against Multidrug and Host Immune System. Microb Drug Resist 2023; 29:423-437. [PMID: 37428599 DOI: 10.1089/mdr.2022.0347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/12/2023] Open
Abstract
One of the ubiquitous hospital-acquired infections is associated with Candida albicans fungus. Usually, this commensal fungus causes no harm to its human host, as it lives mutually with mucosal/epithelial tissue surface cells. Nevertheless, due to the activity of various immune weakening factors, this commensal starts reinforcing its virulence attributes with filamentation/hyphal growth and building an absolute microcolony composed of yeast, hyphal, and pseudohyphal cells, which is suspended in an extracellular gel-like polymeric substance (EPS) called biofilms. This polymeric substance is the mixture of the secreted compounds from C. albicans as well as several host cell proteins. Indeed, the presence of these host factors makes their identification and differentiation process difficult by host immune components. The gel-like texture of the EPS makes it sticky, which adsorbs most of the extracolonial compounds traversing through it that aid in penetration hindrance. All these factors further contribute to the multidrug resistance phenotype of C. albicans biofilm that is spotlighted in this article. The mechanisms it employs to escape the host immune system are also addressed effectively. The article focuses on cellular and molecular determinants involved in the resistance of C. albicans biofilm against multidrug and the host immune system.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dushyant Kumar
- Department of Biotechnology, National Institute of Technology, Raipur, India
| | - Awanish Kumar
- Department of Biotechnology, National Institute of Technology, Raipur, India
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Debourgogne A, Monpierre L, Sy KA, Valsecchi I, Decousser JW, Botterel F. Interactions between Bacteria and Aspergillus fumigatus in Airways: From the Mycobiome to Molecular Interactions. J Fungi (Basel) 2023; 9:900. [PMID: 37755008 PMCID: PMC10533028 DOI: 10.3390/jof9090900] [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: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 08/26/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Interactions between different kingdoms of microorganisms in humans are common but not well described. A recent analysis of the mycobiome has described the presence of different fungi and their positive and/or negative interactions with bacteria and other fungi. In chronic respiratory diseases, these different microorganisms form mixed biofilms to live inside. The interactions between Gram-negative bacteria and filamentous fungi in these biofilms have attracted more attention recently. In this review, we analyse the microbiota of the respiratory tract of healthy individuals and patients with chronic respiratory disease. Additionally, we describe the regulatory mechanisms that rule the mixed biofilms of Aspergillus fumigatus and Gram-negative bacteria and the effects of this biofilm on clinical presentations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anne Debourgogne
- UR 7300, Stress Immunité Pathogène, Université de Lorraine, 54000 Vandoeuvre les Nancy, France;
| | - Lorra Monpierre
- Unité de Parasitologie-Mycologie, Département de Prévention, Diagnostic et Traitement des Infections, CHU Henri Mondor, Assistance Publique des Hôpitaux de Paris (APHP), 94000 Créteil, France;
- UR DYNAMYC 7380, Faculté de Santé, Univ Paris-Est Créteil (UPEC), Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d’Alfort (ENVA), USC Anses, 94700 Créteil, France; (K.A.S.); (I.V.); (J.-W.D.)
| | - Khadeeja Adam Sy
- UR DYNAMYC 7380, Faculté de Santé, Univ Paris-Est Créteil (UPEC), Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d’Alfort (ENVA), USC Anses, 94700 Créteil, France; (K.A.S.); (I.V.); (J.-W.D.)
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (Inserm) U955, 94010 Créteil, France
| | - Isabel Valsecchi
- UR DYNAMYC 7380, Faculté de Santé, Univ Paris-Est Créteil (UPEC), Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d’Alfort (ENVA), USC Anses, 94700 Créteil, France; (K.A.S.); (I.V.); (J.-W.D.)
| | - Jean-Winoc Decousser
- UR DYNAMYC 7380, Faculté de Santé, Univ Paris-Est Créteil (UPEC), Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d’Alfort (ENVA), USC Anses, 94700 Créteil, France; (K.A.S.); (I.V.); (J.-W.D.)
- Department of Infection Control, University Hospital Henri Mondor, Assistance Publique—Hôpitaux de Paris, 94000 Créteil, France
| | - Françoise Botterel
- Unité de Parasitologie-Mycologie, Département de Prévention, Diagnostic et Traitement des Infections, CHU Henri Mondor, Assistance Publique des Hôpitaux de Paris (APHP), 94000 Créteil, France;
- UR DYNAMYC 7380, Faculté de Santé, Univ Paris-Est Créteil (UPEC), Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d’Alfort (ENVA), USC Anses, 94700 Créteil, France; (K.A.S.); (I.V.); (J.-W.D.)
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Huang L, Lu W, Ning Y, Liu J. Reverse effects of Streptococcus mutans physiological states on neutrophil extracellular traps formation as a strategy to escape neutrophil killing. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:1023457. [PMID: 36439223 PMCID: PMC9687095 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.1023457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 03/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Bacteria in nature are present in different lifestyles with distinct characteristics. Streptococcus mutans is the etiologic pathogen of dental caries and could easily gain access into the bloodstream after oral surgery and adopt a biofilm lifestyle, resulting in infective endocarditis. A growing amount of evidence have revealed that the large web-like structure composed of extracellular DNA and antimicrobial proteins released by neutrophils, named Neutrophil Extracellular Traps (NETs), play an active role in the defense against bacterial invasion. The present study demonstrated that NETs formation was discriminatively affected by S. mutans biofilm and its planktonic counterpart. The free-floating planktonic S. mutans exhibited an active NETs response, whereas the biofilm community exhibited a reverse negative NETs response. Besides, impaired biofilm killing correlated with the decrease in NETs production. Unlike planktonic cells, biofilm avoided the burst of reactive oxygen species (ROS) when co-culture with neutrophils, and the NADPH-oxidase pathway was partially involved. A mice infection model also supported the distinguishing response of neutrophils challenged by different lifestyles of S. mutans. In conclusion, different bacterial physiological states can affect the distinct response of the host-microbe interaction, thus contributing to the anti-pathogen immune response activation and immune surveillance survival.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lijia Huang
- Hospital of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangdong, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangdong, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wenhua Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangdong, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yang Ning
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangdong, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Periodontology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Hospital of Stomatology, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangdong, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jia Liu
- Hospital of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangdong, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangdong, Guangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Fan F, Liu Y, Liu Y, Lv R, Sun W, Ding W, Cai Y, Li W, Liu X, Qu W. Candida albicans biofilms: antifungal resistance, immune evasion, and emerging therapeutic strategies. Int J Antimicrob Agents 2022; 60:106673. [PMID: 36103915 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijantimicag.2022.106673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 09/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Candida albicans is a fungal pathogen that can form biofilms on medical devices and host tissue, resulting in serious, life-threatening infections. These fungal biofilms are inherently resistant to traditional antifungal therapies and the host immune system; therefore, biofilm-associated infections are a huge clinical challenge. This review summarizes the most important insights into C. albicans biofilm-associated antifungal drug resistance mechanisms and immune evasion strategies. In addtion, this review also discusses the strategies for antifungal drug use to combat these processes, providing further evidence for novel drugs research and clinical therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- FangMei Fan
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Guiyang Maternity & Child Health Hospital, Guiyang, 550003, China
| | - Yi Liu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Guiyang Maternity & Child Health Hospital, Guiyang, 550003, China
| | - YiQing Liu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Guiyang Maternity & Child Health Hospital, Guiyang, 550003, China
| | - RuiXue Lv
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Guiyang Maternity & Child Health Hospital, Guiyang, 550003, China
| | - Wei Sun
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Guiyang Maternity & Child Health Hospital, Guiyang, 550003, China
| | - WenJing Ding
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Guiyang Maternity & Child Health Hospital, Guiyang, 550003, China
| | - YanXing Cai
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Guiyang Maternity & Child Health Hospital, Guiyang, 550003, China
| | - WeiWei Li
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Guiyang Maternity & Child Health Hospital, Guiyang, 550003, China
| | - Xing Liu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Guiyang Maternity & Child Health Hospital, Guiyang, 550003, China
| | - Wei Qu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Guiyang Maternity & Child Health Hospital, Guiyang, 550003, China.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Menthol Inhibits Candida albicans Growth by Affecting the Membrane Integrity Followed by Apoptosis. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2022; 2022:1297888. [PMID: 36337581 PMCID: PMC9635957 DOI: 10.1155/2022/1297888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Revised: 08/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Inclusion of Candida albicans in the list of pathogens with potential drug resistance threat in recent years has compelled scientists to explore novel and potent antifungal agents. In this study, we have evaluated anti-Candida potential of menthol against different growth forms and synergistic potential with fluconazole. Menthol inhibited planktonic growth of all the isolates completely at ≤3.58 mM and killed 99.9% inoculum at MIC, indicating that menthol is fungicidal. Menthol inhibited hyphal form growth completely at 0.62 mM. It has inhibited developing a biofilm by 79% at 3.58 mM, exhibiting excellent activity against recalcitrant biofilms. FIC index values of 0.182 and 0.093 indicate excellent synergistic activity between fluconazole and menthol against planktonic and biofilm growth, respectively. Menthol enhanced rate of OxPhos among 22% cells; arrested 71% cells at G2-M phase of cell cycle and induced apoptosis in 15% cells. Thus, menthol exhibits excellent anti-Candida activity against differentially susceptible isolates as well as various growth and morphological forms of C. albicans. Menthol affects membrane integrity thereby inducing oxidative stress followed by cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. Considering the excellent anti-Candida potential and as it is Generally Recognized as Safe by the Food and Drug Administration, it may find use in antifungal chemotherapy, alone or in combination.
Collapse
|
9
|
Fayez MM, Swelum AA, Alharbi NK, AlRokban AH, Almubarak A, Almubarak AH, Alaql F, Ahmed AE. Multilocus Sequence Typing and Antifungal Susceptibility of Candida albicans Isolates From Milk and Genital Tract of Dromedary Camel. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:905962. [PMID: 35873700 PMCID: PMC9305711 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.905962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Multilocus sequence typing (MLST) was used to study the genetic diversity and population structure of 48 Candida albicans (C. albicans) isolates from the udder or genital tract of apparently healthy or diseased camels. This study aimed also to determine the frequency of C. albicans isolates in the genital tract and udder of healthy or diseased female dromedary camels. A total of 240 mature dromedary camels (230 females and 10 males) were categorized based on the clinical examination of gentile tract and udder into five groups [fertile females (n = 70), infertile females (n = 115), healthy udder (n = 15), mastitis (n = 30), and fertile males (n = 10)]. Swabs were collected from male and female genital tracts of dromedary camels and milk samples were collected from healthy and diseased udders. C. albicans was isolated from 20% of the samples. The frequency of isolation was significantly higher (p < 0.00001) in disease camels (75%) compared with apparently healthy camels (25%). Most of C. albicans was isolated from infertile female genitalia (62.50%) which was significantly higher than that isolated from fertile female genitalia (16.67%). Multilocus sequence (MLS) analysis identified seven different diploid sequence types (DSTs) including DST2, DST50, DST62, DST69, DST124, DST142, and DST144. The most frequently identified DTS was DST69 (13/48) which significantly higher (p ≤ 0.05) than DST2, DST62, and DST124. The frequency of identification of DST50, DST142, and DST 144 was significantly higher (p ≤ 0.05) than DST62. DST62 and DST124 were isolated only from diseased camels. DST62 was isolated only from mastitic milk. DST124 was isolated only from infertile female genitalia. The percentage of DST50 and DST 142 was significantly higher in diseased camels (infertile females) than in the apparently healthy ones (fertile females). DST2 and DST50 were isolated only from female genitalia of apparent health and diseased camels. The C. albicans isolated from diseased camels had significantly higher biofilm formation, hydrophobicity, phospholipase, proteinase, and hemolysin activities compared with the isolates from apparent healthy camels. All isolates were sensitive to amphotericin B, itraconazole, micafungin, posaconazole and voriconazole. In conclusion, the present study represents the first molecular typing of C. albicans in samples isolated from milk and the genital tract of the dromedary camel. MLST is a useful tool for studying the epidemiology and evolution of C. albicans. Early identification of Candida species and attention to Candida virulence factors and their antifungal susceptibility patterns is very important for establishing strategies to control and/or prevent candidiasis by novel therapeutic management. Amphotericin B, itraconazole, micafungin, posaconazole, or voriconazole can be efficient in treatment of candidiasis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mahmoud M. Fayez
- Department of Bacteriology, Veterinary Serum and Vaccine Research Institute, Ministry of Agriculture, Cairo, Egypt
- Al Ahsa Laboratory, Ministry of Agriculture Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Al Ahsa, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ayman A. Swelum
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
| | - Nada K. Alharbi
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahlam H. AlRokban
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdullah Almubarak
- Al Ahsa Laboratory, Ministry of Agriculture Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Al Ahsa, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ameen H. Almubarak
- Al Ahsa Laboratory, Ministry of Agriculture Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Al Ahsa, Saudi Arabia
| | - Fanan Alaql
- Riyadh Veterinary Diagnostic Lab, Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmed E. Ahmed
- Biology Department, College of Science, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, South Valley University, Qena, Egypt
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Abdulghani M, Iram R, Chidrawar P, Bhosle K, Kazi R, Patil R, Kharat K, Zore G. Proteomic profile of Candida albicans biofilm. J Proteomics 2022; 265:104661. [PMID: 35728770 DOI: 10.1016/j.jprot.2022.104661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2021] [Revised: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Candida albicans biofilms are characterized by structural and cellular heterogeneity that confers antifungal resistance and immune evasion. Despite this, biofilm formation remains poorly understood. In this study, we used proteomic analysis to understand biofilm formation in C. albicans related to morphophysiological and architectural features. LC-MS/MS analysis revealed that 64 proteins were significantly modulated, of which 31 were upregulated and 33 were downregulated. The results indicate that metabolism (25 proteins), gene expression (13 proteins), stress response (7 proteins), and cell wall (5 proteins) composition are modulated. The rate of oxidative phosphorylation (OxPhos) and biosynthesis of UDP-N-acetylglucosamine, vitamin B6, and thiamine increased, while the rate of methionine biosynthesis decreased. There was a significant modification of the cell wall architecture due to higher levels of Sun41, Pir1 and Csh1 and increased glycosylation of proteins. It was observed that C. albicans induces hyphal growth by upregulating the expression of genes involved in cAMP-PKA and MAPK pathways. This study is significant in that it suggests an increase in OxPhos and alteration of cell wall architecture that could be contributing to the recalcitrance of C. albicans cells growing in biofilms. Nevertheless, a deeper investigation is needed to explore it further. SIGNIFICANCE: Candida sps is included in the list of pathogens with potential drug resistance threat due to the increased frequency especially colonization of medical devices, and tissues among the patients, in recent years. Significance of our study is that we are reporting traits like modulation in cell wall composition, amino acid and vitamin biosynthesis and importantly energy generation (OxPhos) etc. These traits could be conferring antifungal resistance, host immune evasion etc. and thus survival, in addition to facilitating biofilm formation. These findings are expected to prime the further studies on devising potent strategy against biofilm growth among the patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mazen Abdulghani
- School of Life Sciences, Swami Ramanand Teerth Marathwada University, Nanded 431606, MS, India
| | - Rasiqua Iram
- School of Life Sciences, Swami Ramanand Teerth Marathwada University, Nanded 431606, MS, India
| | - Priti Chidrawar
- School of Life Sciences, Swami Ramanand Teerth Marathwada University, Nanded 431606, MS, India
| | - Kajal Bhosle
- School of Life Sciences, Swami Ramanand Teerth Marathwada University, Nanded 431606, MS, India
| | - Rubina Kazi
- Division of Biochemical Sciences, CSIR-NCL, Pune 8, MS, India
| | - Rajendra Patil
- Department of Biotechnology, Savitribai Phule Pune University, Ganeshkhind, Pune 411007, MS, India
| | - Kiran Kharat
- Department of Biotechnology, Deogiri College, Aurangabad, MS, India
| | - Gajanan Zore
- School of Life Sciences, Swami Ramanand Teerth Marathwada University, Nanded 431606, MS, India.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Pasman R, Krom BP, Zaat SAJ, Brul S. The Role of the Oral Immune System in Oropharyngeal Candidiasis-Facilitated Invasion and Dissemination of Staphylococcus aureus. FRONTIERS IN ORAL HEALTH 2022; 3:851786. [PMID: 35464779 PMCID: PMC9021398 DOI: 10.3389/froh.2022.851786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Candida albicans and Staphylococcus aureus account for most invasive fungal and bacterial bloodstream infections (BSIs), respectively. However, the initial point of invasion responsible for S. aureus BSIs is often unclear. Recently, C. albicans has been proposed to mediate S. aureus invasion of immunocompromised hosts during co-colonization of oral mucosal surfaces. The status of the oral immune system crucially contributes to this process in two distinct ways: firstly, by allowing invasive C. albicans growth during dysfunction of extra-epithelial immunity, and secondly following invasion by some remaining function of intra-epithelial immunity. Immunocompromised individuals at risk of developing invasive oral C. albicans infections could, therefore, also be at risk of contracting concordant S. aureus BSIs. Considering the crucial contribution of both oral immune function and dysfunction, the aim of this review is to provide an overview of relevant aspects of intra and extra-epithelial oral immunity and discuss predominant immune deficiencies expected to facilitate C. albicans induced S. aureus BSIs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Raymond Pasman
- Department of Molecular Biology and Microbial Food Safety, Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Bastiaan P. Krom
- Department of Preventive Dentistry, Academic Centre for Dentistry Amsterdam (ACTA), University of Amsterdam and Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Sebastian A. J. Zaat
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Prevention, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Stanley Brul
- Department of Molecular Biology and Microbial Food Safety, Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- *Correspondence: Stanley Brul
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Amann V, Kissmann AK, Krämer M, Krebs I, Perez-Erviti JA, Otero-Gonzalez AJ, Morales-Vicente F, Rodríguez A, Ständker L, Weil T, Rosenau F. Increased Activities against Biofilms of the Pathogenic Yeast Candida albicans of Optimized Pom-1 Derivatives. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14020318. [PMID: 35214049 PMCID: PMC8877593 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14020318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Revised: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are an alternative group for the therapy of infectious diseases, with activity against a wide range of diverse pathogens. However, classical AMPs have significant side effects in human cells due to their unspecific pore formation in biomembranes. Nevertheless, AMPs are promising therapeutics and can be isolated from natural sources, which include sea and freshwater molluscs. The AMPs identified in these organisms show promising antimicrobial activities, as pathogens are mainly fought by innate defence mechanisms. An auspicious candidate among molluscs is the Cuban freshwater snail Pomacea poeyana, from which the peptides Pom-1 and Pom-2 have been isolated and studied. These studies revealed significant antimicrobial activities for both AMPs. Based on the activities determined, Pom-1 was used for further optimization. In order to meet the emerging requirements of improved anti-biofilm activity against naturally occurring Candida species, the six derivatives Pom-1A to F were developed and investigated. Analysis of the derivatives acting on the most abundant naturally occurring Candida yeast Candida albicans (C. albicans) revealed a strong anti-biofilm activity, especially induced by Pom-1 B, C, and D. Furthermore, a moderate decrease in the metabolic activity of planktonic yeast cells was observed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Valerie Amann
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Ulm University, Albert-Einstein-Allee 11, 89081 Ulm, Germany; (V.A.); (A.-K.K.); (M.K.); (I.K.)
| | - Ann-Kathrin Kissmann
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Ulm University, Albert-Einstein-Allee 11, 89081 Ulm, Germany; (V.A.); (A.-K.K.); (M.K.); (I.K.)
| | - Markus Krämer
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Ulm University, Albert-Einstein-Allee 11, 89081 Ulm, Germany; (V.A.); (A.-K.K.); (M.K.); (I.K.)
| | - Imke Krebs
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Ulm University, Albert-Einstein-Allee 11, 89081 Ulm, Germany; (V.A.); (A.-K.K.); (M.K.); (I.K.)
| | - Julio A. Perez-Erviti
- Center for Protein Studies, Faculty of Biology, University of Havana, 25 Str. and I Str., La Habana 10400, Cuba; (J.A.P.-E.); (A.J.O.-G.)
| | - Anselmo J. Otero-Gonzalez
- Center for Protein Studies, Faculty of Biology, University of Havana, 25 Str. and I Str., La Habana 10400, Cuba; (J.A.P.-E.); (A.J.O.-G.)
| | - Fidel Morales-Vicente
- General Chemistry Department, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Havana, Zapata y G, La Habana 10400, Cuba;
- Synthetic Peptides Group, Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, La Havana 10600, Cuba
| | - Armando Rodríguez
- Core Facility for Functional Peptidomics, Ulm Peptide Pharmaceuticals (U-PEP), Faculty of Medicine, Ulm University, 89081 Ulm, Germany; (A.R.); (L.S.)
- Core Unit of Mass Spectrometry and Proteomics, Faculty of Medicine, Ulm University, 89081 Ulm, Germany
| | - Ludger Ständker
- Core Facility for Functional Peptidomics, Ulm Peptide Pharmaceuticals (U-PEP), Faculty of Medicine, Ulm University, 89081 Ulm, Germany; (A.R.); (L.S.)
| | - Tanja Weil
- Max Planck Institute for Polymer Research Mainz, Ackermannweg 10, 55128 Mainz, Germany;
| | - Frank Rosenau
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Ulm University, Albert-Einstein-Allee 11, 89081 Ulm, Germany; (V.A.); (A.-K.K.); (M.K.); (I.K.)
- Max Planck Institute for Polymer Research Mainz, Ackermannweg 10, 55128 Mainz, Germany;
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Nadar S, Khan T, Patching SG, Omri A. Development of Antibiofilm Therapeutics Strategies to Overcome Antimicrobial Drug Resistance. Microorganisms 2022; 10:microorganisms10020303. [PMID: 35208758 PMCID: PMC8879831 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10020303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Revised: 01/19/2022] [Accepted: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
A biofilm is a community of stable microorganisms encapsulated in an extracellular matrix produced by themselves. Many types of microorganisms that are found on living hosts or in the environment can form biofilms. These include pathogenic bacteria that can serve as a reservoir for persistent infections, and are culpable for leading to a broad spectrum of chronic illnesses and emergence of antibiotic resistance making them difficult to be treated. The absence of biofilm-targeting antibiotics in the drug discovery pipeline indicates an unmet opportunity for designing new biofilm inhibitors as antimicrobial agents using various strategies and targeting distinct stages of biofilm formation. The strategies available to control biofilm formation include targeting the enzymes and proteins specific to the microorganism and those involved in the adhesion pathways leading to formation of resistant biofilms. This review primarily focuses on the recent strategies and advances responsible for identifying a myriad of antibiofilm agents and their mechanism of biofilm inhibition, including extracellular polymeric substance synthesis inhibitors, adhesion inhibitors, quorum sensing inhibitors, efflux pump inhibitors, and cyclic diguanylate inhibitors. Furthermore, we present the structure–activity relationships (SAR) of these agents, including recently discovered biofilm inhibitors, nature-derived bioactive scaffolds, synthetic small molecules, antimicrobial peptides, bioactive compounds isolated from fungi, non-proteinogenic amino acids and antibiotics. We hope to fuel interest and focus research efforts on the development of agents targeting the uniquely complex, physical and chemical heterogeneous biofilms through a multipronged approach and combinatorial therapeutics for a more effective control and management of biofilms across diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sahaya Nadar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, St. John Institute of Pharmacy and Research, Mumbai 400056, India;
| | - Tabassum Khan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry & Quality Assurance, SVKM’s Dr. Bhanuben Nanavati College of Pharmacy, Mumbai 400056, India;
| | - Simon G. Patching
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Astbury Centre for Structural Molecular Biology, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK
- Correspondence: or (S.G.P.); (A.O.)
| | - Abdelwahab Omri
- The Novel Drug & Vaccine Delivery Systems Facility, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Laurentian University, Sudbury, ON P3E 2C6, Canada
- Correspondence: or (S.G.P.); (A.O.)
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Subroto E, van Neer J, Valdes I, de Cock H. Growth of Aspergillus fumigatus in Biofilms in Comparison to Candida albicans. J Fungi (Basel) 2022; 8:48. [PMID: 35049988 PMCID: PMC8779434 DOI: 10.3390/jof8010048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Revised: 12/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Biofilm formation during infections with the opportunistic pathogen Aspergillus fumigatus can be very problematic in clinical settings, since it provides the fungal cells with a protective environment. Resistance against drug treatments, immune recognition as well as adaptation to the host environment allows fungal survival in the host. The exact molecular mechanisms behind most processes in the formation of biofilms are unclear. In general, the formation of biofilms can be categorized roughly in a few stages; adhesion, conidial germination and development of hyphae, biofilm maturation and cell dispersion. Fungi in biofilms can adapt to the in-host environment. These adaptations can occur on a level of phenotypic plasticity via gene regulation. However, also more substantial genetic changes of the genome can result in increased resistance and adaptation in the host, enhancing the survival chances of fungi in biofilms. Most research has focused on the development of biofilms. However, to tackle developing microbial resistance and adaptation in biofilms, more insight in mechanisms behind genetic adaptations is required to predict which defense mechanisms can be expected. This can be helpful in the development of novel and more targeted antifungal treatments to combat fungal infections.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Hans de Cock
- Molecular Microbiology Laboratory, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Padualaan 8, 3584 CH Utrecht, The Netherlands; (E.S.); (J.v.N.); (I.V.)
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Padder SA, Ramzan A, Tahir I, Rehman RU, Shah AH. Metabolic flexibility and extensive adaptability governing multiple drug resistance and enhanced virulence in Candida albicans. Crit Rev Microbiol 2021; 48:1-20. [PMID: 34213983 DOI: 10.1080/1040841x.2021.1935447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Commensal fungus-Candida albicans turn pathogenic during the compromised immunity of the host, causing infections ranging from superficial mucosal to dreadful systemic ones. C. albicans has evolved various adaptive measures which collectively contribute towards its enhanced virulence. Among fitness attributes, metabolic flexibility and vigorous stress response are essential for its pathogenicity and virulence. Metabolic flexibility provides a means for nutrient assimilation and growth in diverse host microenvironments and reduces the vulnerability of the pathogen to various antifungals besides evading host immune response(s). Inside the host micro-environments, C. albicans efficiently utilizes the multiple fermentable and non-fermentable carbon sources to sustain and proliferate in glucose deficit conditions. The utilization of alternative carbon sources further highlights the importance of understanding these pathways as the attractive and potential therapeutic target. A thorough understanding of metabolic flexibility and adaptation to environmental stresses is warranted to decipher in-depth insights into virulence and molecular mechanisms of fungal pathogenicity. In this review, we have attempted to provide a detailed and recent understanding of some key aspects of fungal biology. Particular focus will be placed on processes like nutrient assimilation and utilization, metabolic adaptability, virulence factors, and host immune response in C. albicans leading to its enhanced pathogenicity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sajad Ahmad Padder
- Department of Bioresources, School of Biological Sciences, University of Kashmir, Srinagar, India
| | - Asiya Ramzan
- Department of Bioresources, School of Biological Sciences, University of Kashmir, Srinagar, India
| | - Inayatullah Tahir
- Departments of Botany, School of Biological Sciences, University of Kashmir, Srinagar, India
| | - Reiaz Ul Rehman
- Department of Bioresources, School of Biological Sciences, University of Kashmir, Srinagar, India
| | - Abdul Haseeb Shah
- Department of Bioresources, School of Biological Sciences, University of Kashmir, Srinagar, India
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Raas MWD, Silva TP, Freitas JCO, Campos LM, Fabri RL, Melo RCN. Whole slide imaging is a high-throughput method to assess Candida biofilm formation. Microbiol Res 2021; 250:126806. [PMID: 34157481 DOI: 10.1016/j.micres.2021.126806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2021] [Revised: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
New strategies that enable fast and accurate visualization of Candida biofilms are necessary to better study their structure and response to antifungals agents. Here, we applied whole slide imaging (WSI) to study biofilm formation of Candida species. Three relevant biofilm-forming Candida species (C. albicans ATCC 10231, C. glabrata ATCC 2001, and C. tropicalis ATCC 750) were cultivated on glass coverslips both in presence and absence of widely used antifungals. Accumulated biofilms were stained with fluorescent markers and scanned in both bright-field and fluorescence modes using a WSI digital scanner. WSI enabled clear assessment of both size and structural features of Candida biofilms. Quantitative analyses readily detected reductions in biofilm-covered surface area upon antifungal exposure. Furthermore, we show that the overall biofilm growth can be adequately assessed across both bright-field and fluorescence modes. At the single-cell level, WSI proved adequate, as morphometric parameters evaluated with WSI did not differ significantly from those obtained with scanning electron microscopy, considered as golden standard at single-cell resolution. Thus, WSI allows for reliable visualization of Candida biofilms enabling both large-scale growth assessment and morphometric characterization of single-cell features, making it an important addition to the available microscopic toolset to image and analyse fungal biofilm growth.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maximilian W D Raas
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Biology, ICB, Federal University of Juiz de Fora, UFJF, Juiz de Fora, MG, Brazil; Faculty of Medical Sciences, Radboud University, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Thiago P Silva
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Biology, ICB, Federal University of Juiz de Fora, UFJF, Juiz de Fora, MG, Brazil
| | - Jhamine C O Freitas
- Bioactive Natural Products Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Juiz de Fora, UFJF, Juiz de Fora, MG, Brazil
| | - Lara M Campos
- Bioactive Natural Products Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Juiz de Fora, UFJF, Juiz de Fora, MG, Brazil
| | - Rodrigo L Fabri
- Bioactive Natural Products Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Juiz de Fora, UFJF, Juiz de Fora, MG, Brazil
| | - Rossana C N Melo
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Biology, ICB, Federal University of Juiz de Fora, UFJF, Juiz de Fora, MG, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Wooten DJ, Zañudo JGT, Murrugarra D, Perry AM, Dongari-Bagtzoglou A, Laubenbacher R, Nobile CJ, Albert R. Mathematical modeling of the Candida albicans yeast to hyphal transition reveals novel control strategies. PLoS Comput Biol 2021; 17:e1008690. [PMID: 33780439 PMCID: PMC8031856 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pcbi.1008690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2021] [Revised: 04/08/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Candida albicans, an opportunistic fungal pathogen, is a significant cause of human infections, particularly in immunocompromised individuals. Phenotypic plasticity between two morphological phenotypes, yeast and hyphae, is a key mechanism by which C. albicans can thrive in many microenvironments and cause disease in the host. Understanding the decision points and key driver genes controlling this important transition and how these genes respond to different environmental signals is critical to understanding how C. albicans causes infections in the host. Here we build and analyze a Boolean dynamical model of the C. albicans yeast to hyphal transition, integrating multiple environmental factors and regulatory mechanisms. We validate the model by a systematic comparison to prior experiments, which led to agreement in 17 out of 22 cases. The discrepancies motivate alternative hypotheses that are testable by follow-up experiments. Analysis of this model revealed two time-constrained windows of opportunity that must be met for the complete transition from the yeast to hyphal phenotype, as well as control strategies that can robustly prevent this transition. We experimentally validate two of these control predictions in C. albicans strains lacking the transcription factor UME6 and the histone deacetylase HDA1, respectively. This model will serve as a strong base from which to develop a systems biology understanding of C. albicans morphogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David J. Wooten
- Department of Physics, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Jorge Gómez Tejeda Zañudo
- Eli and Edythe L. Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - David Murrugarra
- Department of Mathematics, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, United States of America
| | - Austin M. Perry
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, School of Natural Sciences, University of California Merced, Merced, California, United States of America
- Quantitative and Systems Biology Graduate Program, University of California Merced, Merced, California, United States of America
| | - Anna Dongari-Bagtzoglou
- Department of Oral Health and Diagnostic Sciences, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, Connecticut, United States of America
| | - Reinhard Laubenbacher
- Department of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
| | - Clarissa J. Nobile
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, School of Natural Sciences, University of California Merced, Merced, California, United States of America
- Health Sciences Research Institute, University of California Merced, Merced, California, United States of America
| | - Réka Albert
- Department of Physics, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Wang Y, Pei Z, Lou Z, Wang H. Evaluation of Anti-Biofilm Capability of Cordycepin Against Candida albicans. Infect Drug Resist 2021; 14:435-448. [PMID: 33574683 PMCID: PMC7872900 DOI: 10.2147/idr.s285690] [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: 10/08/2020] [Accepted: 12/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The opportunistic pathogen Candida albicans can form biofilms, resulting in drug resistance with great risk to medical treatment. METHODOLOGY We investigated the ability of C. albicans to form biofilms on different materials, as well as the inhibitory and eradicating effects of cordycepin on biofilm. The action mechanism of cordycepin against biofilm was studied by crystal violet staining, XTT [2, 3-bis (2-methoxy-4-nitro-5-sulfophenyl)-2H-tetrazolium-5-carboxanilide] reduction method, phenol-sulfuric acid method, cellular superficial hydrophobicity (CSH) assay, and confocal laser scanning microscope observation. We also evaluated the acute toxicity of cordycepin in vivo. RESULTS The results showed facile formation of biofilms by C. albicans on polypropylene. The 50% minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC50) of cordycepin was 0.062 mg/mL. A concentration of 0.125 mg/mL significantly decreased biofilm formation, metabolic activity, secretion of extracellular polysaccharides, and relative CSH. Cordycepin could inhibit biofilm formation at low concentration without affecting fungal growth. In addition, cordycepin effectively eradicated 59.14% of mature biofilms of C. albicans at a concentration of 0.5 mg/mL. For acute toxicity, the LD50 (50% of lethal dose) of cordycepin was determined as higher than 500 mg/kg for mice. CONCLUSION The results of this study show that cordycepin significantly inhibited and eradicated biofilms by decreasing metabolic activity, the ratio of living cells, the hydrophobicity, and damaging the extracellular polysaccharides of biofilm. These findings should facilitate more effective application of cordycepin and suggest a new direction for the treatment of fungal infections.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yu Wang
- The Affiliated Wuxi No. 2 People’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi, 214122, People’s Republic of China
- School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zejun Pei
- The Affiliated Wuxi No. 2 People’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi, 214122, People’s Republic of China
- School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zaixiang Lou
- School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, People’s Republic of China
| | - Hongxin Wang
- School of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, People’s Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Ponde NO, Lortal L, Ramage G, Naglik JR, Richardson JP. Candida albicans biofilms and polymicrobial interactions. Crit Rev Microbiol 2021; 47:91-111. [PMID: 33482069 PMCID: PMC7903066 DOI: 10.1080/1040841x.2020.1843400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2020] [Revised: 10/05/2020] [Accepted: 10/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Candida albicans is a common fungus of the human microbiota. While generally a harmless commensal in healthy individuals, several factors can lead to its overgrowth and cause a range of complications within the host, from localized superficial infections to systemic life-threatening disseminated candidiasis. A major virulence factor of C. albicans is its ability to form biofilms, a closely packed community of cells that can grow on both abiotic and biotic substrates, including implanted medical devices and mucosal surfaces. These biofilms are extremely hard to eradicate, are resistant to conventional antifungal treatment and are associated with high morbidity and mortality rates, making biofilm-associated infections a major clinical challenge. Here, we review the current knowledge of the processes involved in C. albicans biofilm formation and development, including the central processes of adhesion, extracellular matrix production and the transcriptional network that regulates biofilm development. We also consider the advantages of the biofilm lifestyle and explore polymicrobial interactions within multispecies biofilms that are formed by C. albicans and selected microbial species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicole O. Ponde
- Centre for Host-Microbiome Interactions, Faculty of Dentistry, Oral & Craniofacial Sciences, King’s College London, London, SE1 9RT, United Kingdom
| | - Léa Lortal
- Centre for Host-Microbiome Interactions, Faculty of Dentistry, Oral & Craniofacial Sciences, King’s College London, London, SE1 9RT, United Kingdom
| | - Gordon Ramage
- School of Medicine, Dentistry & Nursing, Glasgow Dental School and Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, University of Glasgow, G2 3JZ, United Kingdom
| | - Julian R. Naglik
- Centre for Host-Microbiome Interactions, Faculty of Dentistry, Oral & Craniofacial Sciences, King’s College London, London, SE1 9RT, United Kingdom
| | - Jonathan P. Richardson
- Centre for Host-Microbiome Interactions, Faculty of Dentistry, Oral & Craniofacial Sciences, King’s College London, London, SE1 9RT, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Dostert M, Trimble MJ, Hancock REW. Antibiofilm peptides: overcoming biofilm-related treatment failure. RSC Adv 2021; 11:2718-2728. [PMID: 35424252 PMCID: PMC8694000 DOI: 10.1039/d0ra09739j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2020] [Accepted: 12/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Health leaders and scientists worldwide consider antibiotic resistance among the world's most dangerous pathogens as one of the biggest threats to global health. Antibiotic resistance has largely been attributed to genetic changes, but the role and recalcitrance of biofilms, largely due to growth state dependent adaptive resistance, is becoming increasingly appreciated. Biofilms are mono- and multi-species microbial communities embedded in an extracellular, protective matrix. In this growth state, bacteria are transcriptionally primed to survive extracellular stresses. Adaptations, affecting metabolism, regulation, surface charge, immune recognition and clearance, allow bacteria to thrive in the human body and withstand antibiotics and the host immune system. Biofilms resist clearance by multiple antibiotics and have a major role in chronic infections, causing more than 65% of all infections. No specific antibiofilm agents have been developed. Thus, there is a pressing need for alternatives to traditional antibiotics that directly inhibit and/or eradicate biofilms. Host defence peptides (HDPs) are small cationic peptides that are part of the innate immune system to both directly kill microbes but also function to modulate the immune response. Specific HDPs and their derivatives demonstrate broad-spectrum activity against biofilms. In vivo biofilm assays show efficacy in abscess, respiratory, in-dwelling device, contact lens and skin infection models. Further progress has been made through the study of ex vivo organoid and air-liquid interface models to better understand human infections and treatment while relieving the burden and complex nature of animal models. These avenues pave the way for a better understanding and treatment of the underlying cause of chronic infections that challenge the healthcare system.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Melanie Dostert
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of British Columbia Vancouver British Columbia Canada
| | - Michael J Trimble
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of British Columbia Vancouver British Columbia Canada
| | - Robert E W Hancock
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of British Columbia Vancouver British Columbia Canada
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Aguilar-Marcelino L, Al-Ani LKT, Freitas Soares FED, Moreira ALE, Téllez-Téllez M, Castañeda-Ramírez GS, Lourdes Acosta-Urdapilleta MD, Díaz-Godínez G, Pineda-Alegría JA. Formation, Resistance, and Pathogenicity of Fungal Biofilms: Current Trends and Future Challenges. Fungal Biol 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-60659-6_18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
|
22
|
Kernien JF, Johnson CJ, Bayless ML, Chovanec JF, Nett JE. Neutrophils From Patients With Invasive Candidiasis Are Inhibited by Candida albicans Biofilms. Front Immunol 2020; 11:587956. [PMID: 33343568 PMCID: PMC7747767 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.587956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2020] [Accepted: 11/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Invasive candidiasis frequently involves medical device placement. On the surfaces of these devices, Candida can form biofilms and proliferate in adherent layers of fungal cells surrounded by a protective extracellular matrix. Due in part to this extracellular matrix, biofilms resist host defenses and antifungal drugs. Previous work (using neutrophils from healthy donors) found that one mechanism employed to resist host defenses involves the inhibition of neutrophil extracellular traps (NET) formation. NETs contain nuclear DNA, as well as antimicrobial proteins that can ensnare pathogens too large or aggregated to be effectively killed by phagocytosis. Given that these neutrophil structures are anticipated to have activity against the large aggregates of C. albicans biofilms, understanding the role of this inhibition in patients could provide insight into new treatment strategies. However, prior work has not included patients. Here, we examine NET formation by neutrophils collected from patients with invasive candidiasis. When compared to neutrophils from healthy participants, we show that patient neutrophils exhibit a heightened background level of NET release and respond to a positive stimulus by producing 100% more NETs. However, despite these physiologic differences, patient neutrophil responses to C. albicans were similar to healthy neutrophils. For both groups, planktonic cells induce strong NET release and biofilms inhibit NET formation. These results show that a mechanism of immune evasion for fungal biofilms translates to the clinical setting.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- John F Kernien
- Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Chad J Johnson
- Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Meg L Bayless
- Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Jack F Chovanec
- Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Jeniel E Nett
- Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States.,Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Ríos-López AL, González GM, Hernández-Bello R, Sánchez-González A. Avoiding the trap: Mechanisms developed by pathogens to escape neutrophil extracellular traps. Microbiol Res 2020; 243:126644. [PMID: 33199088 DOI: 10.1016/j.micres.2020.126644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2020] [Revised: 10/28/2020] [Accepted: 11/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Neutrophils are the first cells of the innate immune system that respond to infection by arriving at sites when pathogens have exceeded physical barriers. Among their response mechanisms against pathogens is the release of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs), which are composed of deoxyribonucleic acid and antimicrobial proteins such as neutrophil elastase, myeloperoxidase, antimicrobial peptides, and other proteins in neutrophil granules. The formation of extracellular traps is considered an effective strategy to capture and, in some cases, neutralize pathogenic bacteria, fungi, parasites, or viruses. However, it is also known that pathogens can respond to NETs by expressing some virulence factors, thus evading the antimicrobial effect of these structures. These include the secretion of proteins to degrade the deoxyribonucleic acid scaffold, the formation of biofilms that impede the effect of NETs, or the modification of its membrane structure to avoid interaction with NETs. In this review, we discuss these mechanisms and summarize the different pathogens that employ one or more mechanisms to evade the NET-mediated neutrophil response.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A L Ríos-López
- Departamento de Microbiología, Facultad de Medicina y Hospital Universitario "Dr. Jose Eleuterio Gonzalez", Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Monterrey, Nuevo León, 64460, Mexico
| | - G M González
- Departamento de Microbiología, Facultad de Medicina y Hospital Universitario "Dr. Jose Eleuterio Gonzalez", Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Monterrey, Nuevo León, 64460, Mexico
| | - R Hernández-Bello
- Departamento de Microbiología, Facultad de Medicina y Hospital Universitario "Dr. Jose Eleuterio Gonzalez", Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Monterrey, Nuevo León, 64460, Mexico
| | - A Sánchez-González
- Departamento de Microbiología, Facultad de Medicina y Hospital Universitario "Dr. Jose Eleuterio Gonzalez", Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Monterrey, Nuevo León, 64460, Mexico.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Dunn MJ, Fillinger RJ, Anderson LM, Anderson MZ. Automated quantification of Candida albicans biofilm-related phenotypes reveals additive contributions to biofilm production. NPJ Biofilms Microbiomes 2020; 6:36. [PMID: 33037223 PMCID: PMC7547077 DOI: 10.1038/s41522-020-00149-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2020] [Accepted: 09/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Biofilms are organized communities of microbial cells that promote persistence among bacterial and fungal species. Biofilm formation by host-associated Candida species of fungi occurs on both tissue surfaces and implanted devices, contributing to host colonization and disease. In C. albicans, biofilms are built sequentially by adherence of yeast to a surface, invasion into the substrate, the formation of aerial hyphal projections, and the secretion of extracellular matrix. Measurement of these biofilm-related phenotypes remains highly qualitative and often subjective. Here, we designed an informatics pipeline for quantifying filamentation, adhesion, and invasion of Candida species on solid agar media and utilized this approach to determine the importance of these component phenotypes to C. albicans biofilm production. Characterization of 23 C. albicans clinical isolates across three media and two temperatures revealed a wide range of phenotypic responses among isolates in any single condition. Media profoundly altered all biofilm-related phenotypes among these isolates, whereas temperature minimally impacted these traits. Importantly, the extent of biofilm formation correlated significantly with the additive score for its component phenotypes under some conditions, experimentally linking the strength of each component to biofilm mass. In addition, the response of the genome reference strain, SC5314, across these conditions was an extreme outlier compared to all other strains, suggesting it may not be representative of the species. Taken together, development of a high-throughput, unbiased approach to quantifying Candida biofilm-related phenotypes linked variability in these phenotypes to biofilm production and can facilitate genetic dissection of these critical processes to pathogenesis in the host.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matthew J Dunn
- Department of Microbiology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Robert J Fillinger
- Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Leah M Anderson
- Department of Microbiology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Matthew Z Anderson
- Department of Microbiology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA.
- Department of Microbial Infection and Immunity, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Immune defence to invasive fungal infections: A comprehensive review. Biomed Pharmacother 2020; 130:110550. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2020.110550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2020] [Revised: 07/20/2020] [Accepted: 07/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
|
26
|
Eix EF, Nett JE. How Biofilm Growth Affects Candida-Host Interactions. Front Microbiol 2020; 11:1437. [PMID: 32670252 PMCID: PMC7329980 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2020.01437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2020] [Accepted: 06/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Candida spp. proliferate as surface-associated biofilms in a variety of clinical niches. These biofilms can be extremely difficult to eradicate in healthcare settings. Cells within biofilm communities grow as aggregates and produce a protective extracellular matrix, properties that impact the ability of the host to respond to infection. Cells that disperse from biofilms display a phenotype of enhanced pathogenicity. In this review, we highlight host-biofilm interactions for Candida, focusing on how biofilm formation influences innate immune responses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emily F Eix
- Departments of Medicine and Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Jeniel E Nett
- Departments of Medicine and Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Li T, Zhang Z, Wang F, He Y, Zong X, Bai H, Liu Z. Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing of Metronidazole and Clindamycin against Gardnerella vaginalis in Planktonic and Biofilm Formation. THE CANADIAN JOURNAL OF INFECTIOUS DISEASES & MEDICAL MICROBIOLOGY = JOURNAL CANADIEN DES MALADIES INFECTIEUSES ET DE LA MICROBIOLOGIE MEDICALE 2020; 2020:1361825. [PMID: 32612729 PMCID: PMC7315270 DOI: 10.1155/2020/1361825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2020] [Accepted: 05/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bacterial vaginosis (BV), one of the most common vaginal ecosystem-related microbiologic syndromes, is the most common disorder in women of reproductive age. Gardnerella (G.) vaginalis is the predominant species causing this infection. Our aim was to compare the antimicrobial susceptibilities of metronidazole and clindamycin against G. vaginalis at planktonic and biofilm levels. METHODS From September 2019 to October 2019, we recruited a total of 10 patients with BV who underwent gynecological examinations at Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital. G. vaginalis isolates were obtained from the vagina and identified using their characteristic colony morphology. Sequence data of clinical G. vaginalis isolates were confirmed by comparing 16S rDNA sequences. Subsequently, clinical isolates were evaluated for antimicrobial susceptibilities in vitro to metronidazole and clindamycin at planktonic and biofilm levels. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) for metronidazole and clindamycin was evaluated by antimicrobial susceptibility testing. The minimum biofilm eradication concentration (MBEC) was evaluated by the biofilm inhibition assay. RESULTS Planktonic clinical isolates showed a significantly higher susceptibility rate (76.67%) and lower resistance rate (23.33%) to clindamycin than to metronidazole (susceptibility rate: 38.24%; resistance rate: 58.82%; P < 0.05 for both). Furthermore, in comparison to planktonic isolates, the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of metronidazole was significantly higher for biofilm-forming isolates (7.3 ± 2.6 μg/mL vs. 72.4 ± 18.3 μg/mL; P=0.005); the resistance rate was 27.3%, and the minimum biofilm eradication concentration (MBEC) was >128 μg/mL. Moreover, the MIC of clindamycin was higher too for biofilm-forming isolates (0.099 ± 0.041 μg/mL vs. 23.7 ± 9.49 μg/mL; P=0.034); the resistance rate was 27.3%, and the MBEC of clindamycin was 28.4 ± 6.50 μg/mL. CONCLUSION Our results indicate that in comparison to metronidazole, clindamycin seems to be a better choice to tackle G. vaginalis as it exhibits a relatively higher susceptibility rate and lower resistance rate.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ting Li
- Department of Gynecology, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100026, China
| | - Zhan Zhang
- Department of Gynecology, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100026, China
| | - Fengjuan Wang
- Department of Obstetrics, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100026, China
| | - Yuanhui He
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing 100034, China
| | - Xiaonan Zong
- Department of Gynecology, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100026, China
| | - Huihui Bai
- Department of Microecological Laboratory, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100026, China
| | - Zhaohui Liu
- Department of Gynecology, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100026, China
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Torres M, Pinzón EN, Rey FM, Martinez H, Parra Giraldo CM, Celis Ramírez AM. Galleria mellonella as a Novelty in vivo Model of Host-Pathogen Interaction for Malassezia furfur CBS 1878 and Malassezia pachydermatis CBS 1879. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2020; 10:199. [PMID: 32432057 PMCID: PMC7214729 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2020.00199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2020] [Accepted: 04/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Malassezia furfur and Malassezia pachydermatis are lipophilic and lipid dependent yeasts, associated with the skin microbiota in humans and domestic animals, respectively. Although they are commensals, under specific conditions they become pathogens, causing skin conditions, such as pityriasis versicolor, dandruff/seborrheic dermatitis, folliculitis in humans, and dermatitis and otitis in dogs. Additionally, these species are associated with fungemia in immunocompromised patients and low-weight neonates in intensive care units with intravenous catheters or with parenteral nutrition and that are under-treatment of broad-spectrum antibiotics. The host-pathogen interaction mechanism in these yeasts is still unclear; for this reason, it is necessary to implement suitable new host systems, such as Galleria mellonella. This infection model has been widely used to assess virulence, host-pathogen interaction, and antimicrobial activity in bacteria and fungi. Some advantages of the G. mellonella model are: (1) the immune response has phagocytic cells and antimicrobial peptides that are similar to those in the innate immune response of human beings; (2) no ethical implications; (3) low cost; and (4) easy to handle and inoculate. This study aims to establish G. mellonella as an in vivo infection model for M. furfur and M. pachydermatis. To achieve this objective, first, G. mellonella larvae were first inoculated with different inoculum concentrations of these two Malassezia species, 1.5 × 106 CFU/mL, 1.5 × 107 CFU/mL, 1.5 × 108 CFU/mL, and 11.5 × 109 CFU/mL, and incubated at 33 and 37°C. Then, for 15 days, the mortality and melanization were evaluated daily. Finally, the characterization of hemocytes and fungal burden assessment were as carried out. It was found that at 33 and 37°C both M. furfur and M. pachydermatis successfully established a systemic infection in G. mellonella. M. pachydermatis proved to be slightly more virulent than M. furfur at a temperature of 37°C. The results suggest that larvae mortality and melanization is dependent on the specie of Malassezia, the inoculum concentration and the temperature. According to the findings, G. mellonella can be used as an in vivo model of infection to conduct easy and reliable approaches to boost our knowledge of the Malassezia genus.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maritza Torres
- Grupo de Investigación Celular y Molecular de Microorganismos Patógenos (CeMoP), Departamento de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de los Andes, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Elkin Nicolás Pinzón
- Grupo de Investigación Celular y Molecular de Microorganismos Patógenos (CeMoP), Departamento de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de los Andes, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Flor Maria Rey
- Grupo de Investigación Celular y Molecular de Microorganismos Patógenos (CeMoP), Departamento de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de los Andes, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Heydys Martinez
- Grupo de Investigación Celular y Molecular de Microorganismos Patógenos (CeMoP), Departamento de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de los Andes, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Claudia Marcela Parra Giraldo
- Unidad de Investigación en Proteómica y Micosis Humanas, Grupo de Enfermedades Infecciosas, Departamento de Microbiología, Facultad de Ciencias, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Adriana Marcela Celis Ramírez
- Grupo de Investigación Celular y Molecular de Microorganismos Patógenos (CeMoP), Departamento de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de los Andes, Bogotá, Colombia
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Nett JE, Andes DR. Contributions of the Biofilm Matrix to Candida Pathogenesis. J Fungi (Basel) 2020; 6:E21. [PMID: 32028622 PMCID: PMC7151000 DOI: 10.3390/jof6010021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2020] [Revised: 01/29/2020] [Accepted: 01/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
In healthcare settings, Candida spp. cause invasive disease with high mortality. The overwhelming majority of cases are associated with the use of critically-needed medical devices, such as vascular catheters. On the surface of these indwelling materials, Candida forms resilient, adherent biofilm communities. A hallmark characteristic of this process is the production of an extracellular matrix, which promotes fungal adhesion and provides protection from external threats. In this review, we highlight the medical relevance of device-associated Candida biofilms and draw attention to the process of Candida-biofilm-matrix production. We provide an update on the current understanding of how biofilm extracellular matrix contributes to pathogenicity, particularly through its roles in the promoting antifungal drug tolerance and immune evasion.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jeniel E. Nett
- Departments of Medicine and Medical Microbiology & Immunology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA;
| | | |
Collapse
|
30
|
Perry AM, Hernday AD, Nobile CJ. Unraveling How Candida albicans Forms Sexual Biofilms. J Fungi (Basel) 2020; 6:jof6010014. [PMID: 31952361 PMCID: PMC7151012 DOI: 10.3390/jof6010014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2019] [Accepted: 01/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Biofilms, structured and densely packed communities of microbial cells attached to surfaces, are considered to be the natural growth state for a vast majority of microorganisms. The ability to form biofilms is an important virulence factor for most pathogens, including the opportunistic human fungal pathogen Candida albicans. C. albicans is one of the most prevalent fungal species of the human microbiota that asymptomatically colonizes healthy individuals. However, C. albicans can also cause severe and life-threatening infections when host conditions permit (e.g., through alterations in the host immune system, pH, and resident microbiota). Like many other pathogens, this ability to cause infections depends, in part, on the ability to form biofilms. Once formed, C. albicans biofilms are often resistant to antifungal agents and the host immune response, and can act as reservoirs to maintain persistent infections as well as to seed new infections in a host. The majority of C. albicans clinical isolates are heterozygous (a/α) at the mating type-like (MTL) locus, which defines Candida mating types, and are capable of forming robust biofilms when cultured in vitro. These “conventional” biofilms, formed by MTL-heterozygous (a/α) cells, have been the primary focus of C. albicans biofilm research to date. Recent work in the field, however, has uncovered novel mechanisms through which biofilms are generated by C. albicans cells that are homozygous or hemizygous (a/a, a/Δ, α/α, or α/Δ) at the MTL locus. In these studies, the addition of pheromones of the opposite mating type can induce the formation of specialized “sexual” biofilms, either through the addition of synthetic peptide pheromones to the culture, or in response to co-culturing of cells of the opposite mating types. Although sexual biofilms are generally less robust than conventional biofilms, they could serve as a protective niche to support genetic exchange between mating-competent cells, and thus may represent an adaptive mechanism to increase population diversity in dynamic environments. Although conventional and sexual biofilms appear functionally distinct, both types of biofilms are structurally similar, containing yeast, pseudohyphal, and hyphal cells surrounded by an extracellular matrix. Despite their structural similarities, conventional and sexual biofilms appear to be governed by distinct transcriptional networks and signaling pathways, suggesting that they may be adapted for, and responsive to, distinct environmental conditions. Here we review sexual biofilms and compare and contrast them to conventional biofilms of C. albicans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Austin M. Perry
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, School of Natural Sciences, University of California, Merced, CA 95343, USA; (A.M.P.); (A.D.H.)
- Quantitative and Systems Biology Graduate Program, University of California, Merced, CA 95343, USA
| | - Aaron D. Hernday
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, School of Natural Sciences, University of California, Merced, CA 95343, USA; (A.M.P.); (A.D.H.)
| | - Clarissa J. Nobile
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, School of Natural Sciences, University of California, Merced, CA 95343, USA; (A.M.P.); (A.D.H.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-209-228-2427
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
|
32
|
Arce Miranda JE, Baronetti JL, Sotomayor CE, Paraje MG. Oxidative and nitrosative stress responses during macrophage-Candida albicans biofilm interaction. Med Mycol 2019; 57:101-113. [PMID: 29294039 DOI: 10.1093/mmy/myx143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2017] [Accepted: 11/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Candida albicans is an important source of device-associated infection because of its capacity for biofilm formation. This yeast has the ability to form biofilms which favors the persistence of the infection. Furthermore, the innate immune response has a critical role in the control of these infections and macrophages (Mø) are vital to this process. An important fungicidal mechanism employed by Mø involves the generation of toxic reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen intermediates (RNI). The interaction between biofilms and these immune cells, and the contribution of oxidative and nitrosative stress, that is determinant to the course of the infection, remains elusive. The aim of this study was to investigate this interaction. To this purpose, two models of Mø-biofilms contact, early (model 1) and mature (model 2) biofilms, were used; and the production of ROS, RNI and the oxidative stress response (OSR) were evaluated. We found that the presence of Mø decreased the biofilm formation at an early stage and increased the production of ROS and RNI, with activation of ORS (enzymatic and nonenzymatic). On the other hand, the interaction between mature biofilms and Mø resulted in an increasing biofilm formation, with low levels of RNI and ROS production and decrease of OSR. Dynamic interactions between Mø and fungal biofilms were also clearly evident from images obtained by confocal scanning laser microscopy. The prooxidant-antioxidant balance was different depending of C. albicans biofilms stages and likely acts as a signal over their formation in presence of Mø. These results may contribute to a better understanding of the immune-pathogenesis of C. albicans biofilm infections.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julio E Arce Miranda
- IMBIV-National Scientific and Technical Research Council (CONICET) and Department of Physiology, Faculty of Exact, Physical and Natural Sciences, National University of Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - José L Baronetti
- IMBIV-National Scientific and Technical Research Council (CONICET) and Department of Physiology, Faculty of Exact, Physical and Natural Sciences, National University of Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Claudia E Sotomayor
- CIBICI-National Scientific and Technical Research Council (CONICET) and Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Chemical Sciences, National University of Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - M Gabriela Paraje
- IMBIV-National Scientific and Technical Research Council (CONICET) and Department of Physiology, Faculty of Exact, Physical and Natural Sciences, National University of Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Screening of Candida albicans GRACE library revealed a unique pattern of biofilm formation under repression of the essential gene ILS1. Sci Rep 2019; 9:9187. [PMID: 31235750 PMCID: PMC6591175 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-45624-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2019] [Accepted: 06/06/2019] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Candida albicans biofilm formation is governed by a regulatory circuit comprising nine transcription factors which control a network of target genes. However, there are still unknown genes contributing to biofilm features. Thus, the GRACE library was screened to identify genes involved in mature biofilm development. Twenty-nine conditional mutants were selected for a second screening revealing three groups of genes: twenty- two conditional mutants were defective for normal growth and unable to form biofilms; six strains, conditionally defective in genes ARC40, ARC35, ORF19.2438, SKP1, ERG6, and ADE5,7 that are likely essential or involved in general cell processes, grew normally as free-floating cells but produced less biofilm; finally, the conditional strain for a putative essential isoleucyl- tRNA synthetase gene, ILS1, was unable to grow as yeast-phase cells but was capable of producing a tridimensional biofilm structure in spite of reduced metabolic activity. This unique biofilm still relied on the classical biofilm genes, while it differentially induced groups of genes involved in adhesion, protein synthesis, cell wall organization, and protein folding. Although the conditional mutant repressed genes annotated for morphology and homeostasis processes affecting morphology and metabolism, the dynamic cell growth enabled the formation of a complex biofilm community independent of ILS1.
Collapse
|
34
|
Diaz PI, Hong BY, Dupuy AK, Choquette L, Thompson A, Salner AL, Schauer PK, Hegde U, Burleson JA, Strausbaugh LD, Peterson DE, Dongari-Bagtzoglou A. Integrated Analysis of Clinical and Microbiome Risk Factors Associated with the Development of Oral Candidiasis during Cancer Chemotherapy. J Fungi (Basel) 2019; 5:jof5020049. [PMID: 31200520 PMCID: PMC6617088 DOI: 10.3390/jof5020049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2019] [Revised: 06/11/2019] [Accepted: 06/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Oral candidiasis is a common side effect of cancer chemotherapy. To better understand predisposing factors, we followed forty-five subjects who received 5-fluorouracil- or doxorubicin-based treatment, during one chemotherapy cycle. Subjects were evaluated at baseline, prior to the first infusion, and at three additional visits within a two-week window. We assessed the demographic, medical and oral health parameters, neutrophil surveillance, and characterized the salivary bacteriome and mycobiome communities through amplicon high throughput sequencing. Twenty percent of all subjects developed oral candidiasis. Using multivariate statistics, we identified smoking, amount of dental plaque, low bacteriome and mycobiome alpha-diversity, and the proportions of specific bacterial and fungal taxa as baseline predictors of oral candidiasis development during the treatment cycle. All subjects who developed oral candidiasis had baseline microbiome communities dominated by Candida and enriched in aciduric bacteria. Longitudinally, oral candidiasis was associated with a decrease in salivary flow prior to lesion development, and occurred simultaneously or before oral mucositis. Candidiasis was also longitudinally associated with a decrease in peripheral neutrophils but increased the neutrophil killing capacity of Candida albicans. Oral candidiasis was not found to be associated with mycobiome structure shifts during the cycle but was the result of an increase in Candida load, with C. albicans and Candida dubliniensis being the most abundant species comprising the salivary mycobiome of the affected subjects. In conclusion, we identified a set of clinical and microbiome baseline factors associated with susceptibility to oral candidiasis, which might be useful tools in identifying at risk individuals, prior to chemotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Patricia I Diaz
- Department of Oral Health and Diagnostic Sciences, School of Dental Medicine, UConn Health, Farmington, CT 06030, USA.
| | - Bo-Young Hong
- Department of Oral Health and Diagnostic Sciences, School of Dental Medicine, UConn Health, Farmington, CT 06030, USA.
- The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine, Farmington, CT 06032, USA.
| | - Amanda K Dupuy
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269, USA.
| | - Linda Choquette
- Department of Oral Health and Diagnostic Sciences, School of Dental Medicine, UConn Health, Farmington, CT 06030, USA.
- The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine, Farmington, CT 06032, USA.
| | - Angela Thompson
- Department of Oral Health and Diagnostic Sciences, School of Dental Medicine, UConn Health, Farmington, CT 06030, USA.
| | - Andrew L Salner
- Department of Medical Oncology, Hartford Healthcare, Hartford, CT 06106, USA.
| | - Peter K Schauer
- Department of Medical Oncology, Hartford Healthcare, Hartford, CT 06106, USA.
| | - Upendra Hegde
- Department of Medicine, UConn Health, Farmington, CT 06030, USA.
| | - Joseph A Burleson
- Department of Community Medicine and Health Care, UConn Health, Farmington, CT 06032, USA.
| | - Linda D Strausbaugh
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269, USA.
| | - Douglas E Peterson
- Department of Oral Health and Diagnostic Sciences, School of Dental Medicine, UConn Health, Farmington, CT 06030, USA.
| | - Anna Dongari-Bagtzoglou
- Department of Oral Health and Diagnostic Sciences, School of Dental Medicine, UConn Health, Farmington, CT 06030, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Galocha M, Pais P, Cavalheiro M, Pereira D, Viana R, Teixeira MC. Divergent Approaches to Virulence in C. albicans and C. glabrata: Two Sides of the Same Coin. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:E2345. [PMID: 31083555 PMCID: PMC6539081 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20092345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2019] [Revised: 05/08/2019] [Accepted: 05/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Candida albicans and Candida glabrata are the two most prevalent etiologic agents of candidiasis worldwide. Although both are recognized as pathogenic, their choice of virulence traits is highly divergent. Indeed, it appears that these different approaches to fungal virulence may be equally successful in causing human candidiasis. In this review, the virulence mechanisms employed by C. albicans and C. glabrata are analyzed, with emphasis on the differences between the two systems. Pathogenesis features considered in this paper include dimorphic growth, secreted enzymes and signaling molecules, and stress resistance mechanisms. The consequences of these traits in tissue invasion, biofilm formation, immune system evasion, and macrophage escape, in a species dependent manner, are discussed. This review highlights the observation that C. albicans and C. glabrata follow different paths leading to a similar outcome. It also highlights the lack of knowledge on some of the specific mechanisms underlying C. glabrata pathogenesis, which deserve future scrutiny.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mónica Galocha
- Department of Bioengineering, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, 1049-001 Lisboa, Portugal.
- iBB-Institute for Bioengineering and Biosciences, Biological Sciences Research Group, Instituto Superior Técnico, University of Lisbon, Av. Rovisco Pais, 1049-001 Lisboa, Portugal.
| | - Pedro Pais
- Department of Bioengineering, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, 1049-001 Lisboa, Portugal.
- iBB-Institute for Bioengineering and Biosciences, Biological Sciences Research Group, Instituto Superior Técnico, University of Lisbon, Av. Rovisco Pais, 1049-001 Lisboa, Portugal.
| | - Mafalda Cavalheiro
- Department of Bioengineering, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, 1049-001 Lisboa, Portugal.
- iBB-Institute for Bioengineering and Biosciences, Biological Sciences Research Group, Instituto Superior Técnico, University of Lisbon, Av. Rovisco Pais, 1049-001 Lisboa, Portugal.
| | - Diana Pereira
- Department of Bioengineering, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, 1049-001 Lisboa, Portugal.
- iBB-Institute for Bioengineering and Biosciences, Biological Sciences Research Group, Instituto Superior Técnico, University of Lisbon, Av. Rovisco Pais, 1049-001 Lisboa, Portugal.
| | - Romeu Viana
- Department of Bioengineering, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, 1049-001 Lisboa, Portugal.
- iBB-Institute for Bioengineering and Biosciences, Biological Sciences Research Group, Instituto Superior Técnico, University of Lisbon, Av. Rovisco Pais, 1049-001 Lisboa, Portugal.
| | - Miguel C Teixeira
- Department of Bioengineering, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, 1049-001 Lisboa, Portugal.
- iBB-Institute for Bioengineering and Biosciences, Biological Sciences Research Group, Instituto Superior Técnico, University of Lisbon, Av. Rovisco Pais, 1049-001 Lisboa, Portugal.
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Affiliation(s)
- Jeniel E. Nett
- Departments of Medicine and Medical Microbiology & Immunology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Yeh SJ, Yeh CC, Lan CY, Chen BS. Investigating Common Pathogenic Mechanisms between Homo sapiens and Different Strains of Candida albicans for Drug Design: Systems Biology Approach via Two-Sided NGS Data Identification. Toxins (Basel) 2019; 11:toxins11020119. [PMID: 30769958 PMCID: PMC6409619 DOI: 10.3390/toxins11020119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2018] [Revised: 02/08/2019] [Accepted: 02/11/2019] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Candida albicans (C. albicans) is the most prevalent fungal species. Although it is a healthy microbiota, genetic and epigenetic alterations in host and pathogen, and microenvironment changes would lead to thrush, vaginal yeast infection, and even hematogenously disseminated infection. Despite the fact that cytotoxicity is well-characterized, few studies discuss the genome-wide genetic and epigenetic molecular mechanisms between host and C. albicans. The aim of this study is to identify drug targets and design a multiple-molecule drug to prevent the infection from C. albicans. To investigate the common and specific pathogenic mechanisms in human oral epithelial OKF6/TERT-2 cells during the C. albicans infection in different strains, systems modeling and big databases mining were used to construct candidate host–pathogen genetic and epigenetic interspecies network (GEIN). System identification and system order detection are applied on two-sided next generation sequencing (NGS) data to build real host–pathogen cross-talk GEINs. Core host–pathogen cross-talk networks (HPCNs) are extracted by principal network projection (PNP) method. By comparing with core HPCNs in different strains of C. albicans, common pathogenic mechanisms were investigated and several drug targets were suggested as follows: orf19.5034 (YBP1) with the ability of anti-ROS; orf19.939 (NAM7), orf19.2087 (SAS2), orf19.1093 (FLO8) and orf19.1854 (HHF22) with high correlation to the hyphae growth and pathogen protein interaction; orf19.5585 (SAP5), orf19.5542 (SAP6) and orf19.4519 (SUV3) with the cause of biofilm formation. Eventually, five corresponding compounds—Tunicamycin, Terbinafine, Cerulenin, Tetracycline and Tetrandrine—with three known drugs could be considered as a potential multiple-molecule drug for therapeutic treatment of C. albicans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shan-Ju Yeh
- Laboratory of Control and Systems Biology, Department of Electrical Engineering, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu 30013, Taiwan.
| | - Chun-Chieh Yeh
- Laboratory of Control and Systems Biology, Department of Electrical Engineering, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu 30013, Taiwan.
| | - Chung-Yu Lan
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Biology, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu 30013, Taiwan.
- Department of Life Science, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu 30013, Taiwan.
| | - Bor-Sen Chen
- Laboratory of Control and Systems Biology, Department of Electrical Engineering, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu 30013, Taiwan.
- Department of Electrical Engineering, Yuan Ze University, Chungli 32003, Taiwan.
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Animal Infections: The Role of Fungal Biofilms. Fungal Biol 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-18586-2_10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
|
39
|
Echinocandin Treatment of Candida albicans Biofilms Enhances Neutrophil Extracellular Trap Formation. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2018; 62:AAC.00797-18. [PMID: 29987146 DOI: 10.1128/aac.00797-18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2018] [Accepted: 07/06/2018] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The nosocomial pathogen Candida albicans forms biofilms on medical devices that persist in the face of antifungals and host defenses. Echinocandins, the most effective antibiofilm drugs, have recently been shown to augment the activity of neutrophils against biofilms through an unknown mechanism. Here, we show that treatment of C. albicans biofilms with subinhibitory concentrations of echinocandins promotes the formation of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs), structures of DNA, histones, and antimicrobial proteins with antifungal activity.
Collapse
|
40
|
Sobue T, Bertolini M, Thompson A, Peterson DE, Diaz PI, Dongari-Bagtzoglou A. Chemotherapy-induced oral mucositis and associated infections in a novel organotypic model. Mol Oral Microbiol 2018; 33:212-223. [PMID: 29314782 PMCID: PMC5945319 DOI: 10.1111/omi.12214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Oral mucositis is a common side effect of cancer chemotherapy, with significant adverse impact on the delivery of anti-neoplastic treatment. There is a lack of consensus regarding the role of oral commensal microorganisms in the initiation or progression of mucositis because relevant experimental models are non-existent. The goal of this study was to develop an in vitro mucosal injury model that mimics chemotherapy-induced mucositis, where the effect of oral commensals can be studied. A novel organotypic model of chemotherapy-induced mucositis was developed based on a human oral epithelial cell line and a fibroblast-embedded collagen matrix. Treatment of organotypic constructs with 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) reproduced major histopathologic characteristics of oral mucositis, such as DNA synthesis inhibition, apoptosis and cytoplasmic vacuolation, without compromising the three-dimensional structure of the multilayer organotypic mucosa. Although structural integrity of the model was preserved, 5-FU treatment resulted in a widening of epithelial intercellular spaces, characterized by E-cadherin dissolution from adherens junctions. In a neutrophil transmigration assay we discovered that this treatment facilitated transport of neutrophils through epithelial layers. Moreover, 5-FU treatment stimulated key proinflammatory cytokines that are associated with the pathogenesis of oral mucositis. 5-FU treatment of mucosal constructs did not significantly affect fungal or bacterial biofilm growth under the conditions tested in this study; however, it exacerbated the inflammatory response to certain bacterial and fungal commensals. These findings suggest that commensals may play a role in the pathogenesis of oral mucositis by amplifying the proinflammatory signals to mucosa that is injured by cytotoxic chemotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Takanori Sobue
- Department of Oral Health and Diagnostic Sciences, University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine, 263 Farmington Avenue, Farmington, CT 06030 USA
| | - Martinna Bertolini
- Department of Oral Health and Diagnostic Sciences, University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine, 263 Farmington Avenue, Farmington, CT 06030 USA
| | - Angela Thompson
- Department of Oral Health and Diagnostic Sciences, University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine, 263 Farmington Avenue, Farmington, CT 06030 USA
| | - Douglas E. Peterson
- Department of Oral Health and Diagnostic Sciences, University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine, 263 Farmington Avenue, Farmington, CT 06030 USA
| | - Patricia I. Diaz
- Department of Oral Health and Diagnostic Sciences, University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine, 263 Farmington Avenue, Farmington, CT 06030 USA
| | - Anna Dongari-Bagtzoglou
- Department of Oral Health and Diagnostic Sciences, University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine, 263 Farmington Avenue, Farmington, CT 06030 USA
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Abstract
The pleiomorphic yeast Candida albicans is a significant pathogen in immunocompromised individuals. In the oral cavity, C. albicans is an inhabitant of polymicrobial communities, and interspecies interactions promote hyphal formation and biofilm formation. C. albicans colonizes the subgingival area, and the frequency of colonization increases in periodontal disease. In this study, we investigated the interactions between C. albicans and the periodontal pathogen Porphyromonas gingivalisC. albicans and P. gingivalis were found to coadhere in both the planktonic and sessile phases. Loss of the internalin-family protein InlJ abrogated adhesion of P. gingivalis to C. albicans, and recombinant InlJ protein competitively inhibited interspecies binding. A mutant of C. albicans deficient in expression of major hyphal protein Als3 showed diminished binding to P. gingivalis, and InlJ interacted with Als3 heterologously expressed in Saccharomyces cerevisiae Transcriptional profiling by RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq) established that 57 genes were uniquely upregulated in an InlJ-dependent manner in P. gingivalis-C. albicans communities, with overrepresentation of those corresponding to 31 gene ontology terms, including those associated with growth and division. Of potential relevance to the disease process, C. albicans induced upregulation of components of the type IX secretion apparatus. Collectively, these findings indicate that InlJ-Als3-dependent binding facilitates interdomain community development between C. albicans and P. gingivalis and that P. gingivalis has the potential for increased virulence within such communities.IMPORTANCE Many diseases involve the concerted actions of microorganisms assembled in polymicrobial communities. Inflammatory periodontal diseases are among the most common infections of humans and result in destruction of gum tissue and, ultimately, in loss of teeth. In periodontal disease, pathogenic communities can include the fungus Candida albicans; however, the contribution of C. albicans to the synergistic virulence of the community is poorly understood. Here we characterize the interactions between C. albicans and the keystone bacterial pathogen Porphyromonas gingivalis and show that coadhesion mediated by specific proteins results in major changes in gene expression by P. gingivalis, which could serve to increase pathogenic potential. The work provides significant insights into interdomain interactions that can enhance our understanding of diseases involving a multiplicity of microbial pathogens.
Collapse
|
42
|
Urban CF, Nett JE. Neutrophil extracellular traps in fungal infection. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2018; 89:47-57. [PMID: 29601861 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2018.03.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2017] [Accepted: 03/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Fungal infections are a continuously increasing problem in modern health care. Understanding the complex biology of the emerging pathogens and unraveling the mechanisms of host defense may form the basis for the development of more efficient diagnostic and therapeutic tools. Neutrophils play a pivotal role in the defense against fungal pathogens. These phagocytic hunters migrate towards invading fungal microorganisms and eradicate them by phagocytosis, oxidative burst and release of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs). In the last decade, the process of NET formation has received unparalleled attention, with numerous studies revealing the relevance of this neutrophil function for control of various mycoses. Here, we describe NET formation and summarize its role as part of the innate immune defense against fungal pathogens. We highlight factors influencing the formation of these structures and molecular mechanisms employed by fungi to impair the formation of NETs or subvert their antifungal effects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Constantin F Urban
- Umeå University, Department of Clinical Microbiology, 90185 Umeå, Sweden; Umeå Centre for Microbial Research & Laboratory for Molecular Infection Medicine, Sweden.
| | - Jeniel E Nett
- University of Wisconsin-Madison, Departments of Medicine, Medical Microbiology and Immunology, 5203 Microbial Sciences Building, 1550 Linden Drive, Madison, WI 53706, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Effects of Rhodomyrtus tomentosa extract on virulence factors of Candida albicans and human neutrophil function. Arch Oral Biol 2018; 87:35-42. [DOI: 10.1016/j.archoralbio.2017.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2017] [Revised: 10/31/2017] [Accepted: 11/16/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
|
44
|
Abstract
Microbial biofilms can colonize medical devices and human tissues, and their role in microbial pathogenesis is now well established. Not only are biofilms ubiquitous in natural and human-made environments, but they are also estimated to be associated with approximately two-thirds of nosocomial infections. This multicellular aggregated form of microbial growth confers a remarkable resistance to killing by antimicrobials and host defenses, leading biofilms to cause a wide range of subacute or chronic infections that are difficult to eradicate. We have gained tremendous knowledge on the molecular, genetic, microbiological, and biophysical processes involved in biofilm formation. These insights now shape our understanding, diagnosis, and management of many infectious diseases and direct the development of novel antimicrobial therapies that target biofilms. Bacterial and fungal biofilms play an important role in a range of diseases in pulmonary and critical care medicine, most importantly catheter-associated infections, ventilator-associated pneumonia, chronic Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections in cystic fibrosis lung disease, and Aspergillus fumigatus pulmonary infections.
Collapse
|
45
|
Kernien JF, Snarr BD, Sheppard DC, Nett JE. The Interface between Fungal Biofilms and Innate Immunity. Front Immunol 2018; 8:1968. [PMID: 29375581 PMCID: PMC5767580 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2017.01968] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2017] [Accepted: 12/19/2017] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Fungal biofilms are communities of adherent cells surrounded by an extracellular matrix. These biofilms are commonly found during infection caused by a variety of fungal pathogens. Clinically, biofilm infections can be extremely difficult to eradicate due to their resistance to antifungals and host defenses. Biofilm formation can protect fungal pathogens from many aspects of the innate immune system, including killing by neutrophils and monocytes. Altered immune recognition during this phase of growth is also evident by changes in the cytokine profiles of monocytes and macrophages exposed to biofilm. In this manuscript, we review the host response to fungal biofilms, focusing on how these structures are recognized by the innate immune system. Biofilms formed by Candida, Aspergillus, and Cryptococcus have received the most attention and are highlighted. We describe common themes involved in the resilience of fungal biofilms to host immunity and give examples of biofilm defenses that are pathogen-specific.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- John F Kernien
- Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Brendan D Snarr
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Donald C Sheppard
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada.,Department of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Jeniel E Nett
- Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, United States.,Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, United States
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Löffler J, Ebel F. Size matters - how the immune system deals with fungal hyphae. Microbes Infect 2017; 20:521-525. [PMID: 29248637 DOI: 10.1016/j.micinf.2017.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2017] [Revised: 11/16/2017] [Accepted: 11/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Fungal hyphae constitute a special challenge for the immune system, since they are too large to be phagocytosed. This review summarizes our current knowledge on those immune cells that are able to attack and eliminate hyphae and we discuss the different means that are employed by these cells in order to kill hyphae.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jürgen Löffler
- Medical Hospital II, WÜ4i, University Hospital Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Frank Ebel
- Institute for Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Panariello BHD, Klein MI, Pavarina AC, Duarte S. Inactivation of genes TEC1 and EFG1 in Candida albicans influences extracellular matrix composition and biofilm morphology. J Oral Microbiol 2017; 9:1385372. [PMID: 29081917 PMCID: PMC5646609 DOI: 10.1080/20002297.2017.1385372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2017] [Accepted: 09/21/2017] [Indexed: 10/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Infections caused by Candida spp. have been associated with formation of a biofilm, i.e. a complex microstructure of cells adhering to a surface and embedded within an extracellular matrix (ECM). Methods: The ECMs of a wild-type (WT, SN425) and two Candida albicans mutant strains, Δ/Δ tec1 (CJN2330) and Δ/Δ efg1 (CJN2302), were evaluated. Colony-forming units (cfu), total biomass (mg), water-soluble polysaccharides (WSPs), alkali-soluble polysaccharides (ASPs), proteins (insoluble part of biofilms and matrix proteins), and extracellular DNA (eDNA) were quantified. Variable-pressure scanning electron microscopy and confocal scanning laser microscopy were performed. The biovolume (μm3/μm2) and maximum thickness (μm) of the biofilms were quantified using COMSTAT2. Results: ASP content was highest in WT (mean ± SD: 74.5 ± 22.0 µg), followed by Δ/Δ tec1 (44.0 ± 24.1 µg) and Δ/Δ efg1 (14.7 ± 5.0 µg). The protein correlated with ASPs (r = 0.666) and with matrix proteins (r = 0.670) in the WT strain. The population in Δ/Δ efg1 correlated with the protein (r = 0.734) and its biofilms exhibited the lowest biomass and biovolume, and maximum thickness. In Δ/Δ tec1, ASP correlated with eDNA (r = 0.678). Conclusion: ASP production may be linked to C. albicans cell filamentous morphology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Beatriz Helena Dias Panariello
- Department of Dental Materials and Prosthodontics, São Paulo State University (UNESP), School of Dentistry, Araraquara, Brazil
| | - Marlise I. Klein
- Department of Dental Materials and Prosthodontics, São Paulo State University (UNESP), School of Dentistry, Araraquara, Brazil
| | - Ana Claudia Pavarina
- Department of Dental Materials and Prosthodontics, São Paulo State University (UNESP), School of Dentistry, Araraquara, Brazil
| | - Simone Duarte
- Department of Cariology, Operative Dentistry and Dental Public Health, Indiana University School of Dentistry, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Johnson CJ, Kernien JF, Hoyer AR, Nett JE. Mechanisms involved in the triggering of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) by Candida glabrata during planktonic and biofilm growth. Sci Rep 2017; 7:13065. [PMID: 29026191 PMCID: PMC5638821 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-13588-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2017] [Accepted: 09/25/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Candida spp. adhere to medical devices, such as catheters, forming drug-tolerant biofilms that resist killing by the immune system. Little is known about how C. glabrata, an emerging pathogen, resists attack by phagocytes. Here we show that upon encounter with planktonic (non-biofilm) C. glabrata, human neutrophils initially phagocytose the yeast and subsequently release neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs), complexes of DNA, histones, and proteins capable of inhibiting fungal growth and dissemination. When exposed to C. glabrata biofilms, neutrophils also release NETs, but significantly fewer than in response to planktonic cells. Impaired killing of biofilm parallels the decrease in NET production. Compared to biofilm, neutrophils generate higher levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) when presented with planktonic organisms, and pharmacologic inhibition of NADPH-oxidase partially impairs NET production. In contrast, inhibition of phagocytosis nearly completely blocks NET release to both biofilm and planktonic organisms. Imaging of the host response to C. glabrata in a rat vascular model of infection supports a role for NET release in vivo. Taken together, these findings show that C. glabrata triggers NET release. The diminished NET response to C. glabrata biofilms likely contributes to the resilience of these structured communities to host defenses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chad J Johnson
- Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, United States of America
| | - John F Kernien
- Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, United States of America
| | - Amanda R Hoyer
- Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, United States of America
| | - Jeniel E Nett
- Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, United States of America. .,Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, United States of America.
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Abstract
Candida albicans is among the most prevalent fungal species of the human microbiota and asymptomatically colonizes healthy individuals. However, it is also an opportunistic pathogen that can cause severe, and often fatal, bloodstream infections. The medical impact of C. albicans typically depends on its ability to form biofilms, which are closely packed communities of cells that attach to surfaces, such as tissues and implanted medical devices. In this Review, we provide an overview of the processes involved in the formation of C. albicans biofilms and discuss the core transcriptional network that regulates biofilm development. We also consider some of the advantages that biofilms provide to C. albicans in comparison with planktonic growth and explore polymicrobial biofilms that are formed by C. albicans and certain bacterial species.
Collapse
|
50
|
Hernández-Chávez MJ, Pérez-García LA, Niño-Vega GA, Mora-Montes HM. Fungal Strategies to Evade the Host Immune Recognition. J Fungi (Basel) 2017; 3:jof3040051. [PMID: 29371567 PMCID: PMC5753153 DOI: 10.3390/jof3040051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2017] [Revised: 09/18/2017] [Accepted: 09/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The recognition of fungal cells by the host immune system is key during the establishment of a protective anti-fungal response. Even though the immune system has evolved a vast number of processes to control these organisms, they have developed strategies to fight back, avoiding the proper recognition by immune components and thus interfering with the host protective mechanisms. Therefore, the strategies to evade the immune system are as important as the virulence factors and attributes that damage the host tissues and cells. Here, we performed a thorough revision of the main fungal tactics to escape from the host immunosurveillance processes. These include the composition and organization of the cell wall, the fungal capsule, the formation of titan cells, biofilms, and asteroid bodies; the ability to undergo dimorphism; and the escape from nutritional immunity, extracellular traps, phagocytosis, and the action of humoral immune effectors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marco J Hernández-Chávez
- Departamento de Biología, División de Ciencias Naturales y Exactas, Campus Guanajuato, Universidad de Guanajuato, Noria Alta s/n, col. Noria Alta, C.P., Guanajuato Gto. 36050, México.
| | - Luis A Pérez-García
- Unidad Académica Multidisciplinaria Zona Huasteca, Universidad Autónoma de San Luis Potosí, Romualdo del Campo 501, Fracc. Rafael Curiel, C.P., Cd. Valle SLP. 79060, México.
| | - Gustavo A Niño-Vega
- Departamento de Biología, División de Ciencias Naturales y Exactas, Campus Guanajuato, Universidad de Guanajuato, Noria Alta s/n, col. Noria Alta, C.P., Guanajuato Gto. 36050, México.
| | - Héctor M Mora-Montes
- Departamento de Biología, División de Ciencias Naturales y Exactas, Campus Guanajuato, Universidad de Guanajuato, Noria Alta s/n, col. Noria Alta, C.P., Guanajuato Gto. 36050, México.
| |
Collapse
|