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de Azevedo MIG, Souza PFN, Monteiro Júnior JE, Grangeiro TB. Chitosan and Chitooligosaccharides: Antifungal Potential and Structural Insights. Chem Biodivers 2024; 21:e202400044. [PMID: 38591818 DOI: 10.1002/cbdv.202400044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2024] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
Chitosan is a cationic polysaccharide derived from chitin deacetylation. This polysaccharide and its oligosaccharides have many biological activities and can be used in several fields due to their favorable characteristics, such as biodegradability, biocompatibility, and nontoxicity. This review aims to explore the antifungal potential of chitosan and chitooligosaccharides along with the conditions used for the activity and mechanisms of action they use to kill fungal cells. The sources, chemical properties, and applications of chitosan and chitooligosaccharides are discussed in this review. It also addresses the threat fungi pose to human health and crop production and how these saccharides have proven to be effective against these microorganisms. The cellular processes triggered by chitosan and chitooligosaccharides in fungal cells, and prospects for their use as potential antifungal agents are also examined.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Pedro Filho Noronha Souza
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil
- Pharmacogenetics Laboratory, Drug Research and Development Center (NPDM), Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, CE, 60430-275, Brazil
- National Institute of Science and Technology in Human Pathogenic Fungi, São Paulo, Brazil
- Visiting Researcher at the Cearense Foundation to Support Scientific and Technological Development, Foratelza, Ceará, Brazil
| | - José Edvar Monteiro Júnior
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics, Department of Biology, Science Center, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil
| | - Thalles Barbosa Grangeiro
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics, Department of Biology, Science Center, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil
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2
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Biersack B. The Antifungal Potential of Niclosamide and Structurally Related Salicylanilides. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:5977. [PMID: 38892165 PMCID: PMC11172841 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25115977] [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: 04/17/2024] [Revised: 05/27/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Human mycoses cover a diverse field of fungal diseases from skin disorders to systemic invasive infections and pose an increasing global health problem based on ineffective treatment options, the hampered development of new efficient drugs, and the emergence of resistant fungal strains. Niclosamide is currently applied for the treatment of worm infections. Its mechanisms of action, which include the suppression of mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation (also known as mitochondrial uncoupling), among others, has led to a repurposing of this promising anthelmintic drug for the therapy of further human diseases such as cancer, diabetes, and microbial infections. Given the urgent need to develop new drugs against fungal infections, the considerable antifungal properties of niclosamide are highlighted in this review. Its chemical and pharmacological properties relevant for drug development are also briefly mentioned, and the described mitochondria-targeting mechanisms of action add to the current arsenal of approved antifungal drugs. In addition, the activities of further salicylanilide-based niclosamide analogs against fungal pathogens, including agents applied in veterinary medicine for many years, are described and discussed for their feasibility as new antifungals for humans. Preliminary structure-activity relationships are determined and discussed. Various salicylanilide derivatives with antifungal activities showed increased oral bioavailabilities when compared with niclosamide. The simple synthesis of salicylanilide-based drugs also vouchsafes a broad and cost-effective availability for poorer patient groups. Pertinent literature is covered until 2024.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernhard Biersack
- Organic Chemistry Laboratory, University Bayreuth, Universitätsstrasse 30, 95440 Bayreuth, Germany
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3
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Araújo GR, da Costa PCQG, Nogueira PL, Alves DDN, Ferreira AR, da Silva PR, de Andrade JC, de Sousa NF, Loureiro PBA, Sobral MV, Sousa DP, Scotti MT, de Castro RD, Scotti L. In Silico and In Vitro Evaluation of the Antifungal Activity of a New Chromone Derivative against Candida spp. BIOTECH 2024; 13:16. [PMID: 38921048 PMCID: PMC11201913 DOI: 10.3390/biotech13020016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2024] [Revised: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Candida species are frequently implicated in the development of both superficial and invasive fungal infections, which can impact vital organs. In the quest for novel strategies to combat fungal infections, there has been growing interest in exploring synthetic and semi-synthetic products, particularly chromone derivatives, renowned for their antimicrobial properties. In the analysis of the antifungal activity of the compound (E)-benzylidene-chroman-4-one against Candida, in silico and laboratory tests were performed to predict possible mechanisms of action pathways, and in vitro tests were performed to determine antifungal activity (MIC and MFC), to verify potential modes of action on the fungal cell membrane and wall, and to assess cytotoxicity in human keratinocytes. The tested compound exhibited predicted affinity for all fungal targets, with the highest predicted affinity observed for thymidylate synthase (-102.589 kJ/mol). MIC and CFM values ranged from 264.52 μM (62.5 μg/mL) to 4232.44 μM (1000 μg/mL). The antifungal effect likely occurs due to the action of the compound on the plasma membrane. Therefore, (E)-benzylidene-chroman-4-one showed fungicidal-like activity against Candida spp., possibly targeting the plasma membrane.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gleycyelly Rodrigues Araújo
- Department of Clinical and Social Dentistry, Federal University of Paraíba, Campus I, João Pessoa 58051-900, PB, Brazil;
| | - Palloma Christine Queiroga Gomes da Costa
- Postgraduate Program in Dentistry, Department of Clinic and Social Dentistry, Center of Health Sciences, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa 58051-900, PB, Brazil; (P.C.Q.G.d.C.); (P.L.N.); (D.d.N.A.); (P.R.d.S.)
| | - Paula Lima Nogueira
- Postgraduate Program in Dentistry, Department of Clinic and Social Dentistry, Center of Health Sciences, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa 58051-900, PB, Brazil; (P.C.Q.G.d.C.); (P.L.N.); (D.d.N.A.); (P.R.d.S.)
| | - Danielle da Nóbrega Alves
- Postgraduate Program in Dentistry, Department of Clinic and Social Dentistry, Center of Health Sciences, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa 58051-900, PB, Brazil; (P.C.Q.G.d.C.); (P.L.N.); (D.d.N.A.); (P.R.d.S.)
| | - Alana Rodrigues Ferreira
- Postgraduate Program in Natural and Synthetic Bioactive Products, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa 58051-900, PB, Brazil; (A.R.F.); (J.C.d.A.); (N.F.d.S.); (P.B.A.L.); (M.V.S.); (D.P.S.); (M.T.S.); (R.D.d.C.)
- Health Sciences Center, Federal University of Paraíba, Campus I, João Pessoa 58051-900, PB, Brazil
| | - Pablo R. da Silva
- Postgraduate Program in Dentistry, Department of Clinic and Social Dentistry, Center of Health Sciences, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa 58051-900, PB, Brazil; (P.C.Q.G.d.C.); (P.L.N.); (D.d.N.A.); (P.R.d.S.)
| | - Jéssica Cabral de Andrade
- Postgraduate Program in Natural and Synthetic Bioactive Products, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa 58051-900, PB, Brazil; (A.R.F.); (J.C.d.A.); (N.F.d.S.); (P.B.A.L.); (M.V.S.); (D.P.S.); (M.T.S.); (R.D.d.C.)
- Health Sciences Center, Federal University of Paraíba, Campus I, João Pessoa 58051-900, PB, Brazil
| | - Natália F. de Sousa
- Postgraduate Program in Natural and Synthetic Bioactive Products, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa 58051-900, PB, Brazil; (A.R.F.); (J.C.d.A.); (N.F.d.S.); (P.B.A.L.); (M.V.S.); (D.P.S.); (M.T.S.); (R.D.d.C.)
- Health Sciences Center, Federal University of Paraíba, Campus I, João Pessoa 58051-900, PB, Brazil
| | - Paulo Bruno Araujo Loureiro
- Postgraduate Program in Natural and Synthetic Bioactive Products, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa 58051-900, PB, Brazil; (A.R.F.); (J.C.d.A.); (N.F.d.S.); (P.B.A.L.); (M.V.S.); (D.P.S.); (M.T.S.); (R.D.d.C.)
- Health Sciences Center, Federal University of Paraíba, Campus I, João Pessoa 58051-900, PB, Brazil
| | - Marianna Vieira Sobral
- Postgraduate Program in Natural and Synthetic Bioactive Products, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa 58051-900, PB, Brazil; (A.R.F.); (J.C.d.A.); (N.F.d.S.); (P.B.A.L.); (M.V.S.); (D.P.S.); (M.T.S.); (R.D.d.C.)
- Health Sciences Center, Federal University of Paraíba, Campus I, João Pessoa 58051-900, PB, Brazil
| | - Damião P. Sousa
- Postgraduate Program in Natural and Synthetic Bioactive Products, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa 58051-900, PB, Brazil; (A.R.F.); (J.C.d.A.); (N.F.d.S.); (P.B.A.L.); (M.V.S.); (D.P.S.); (M.T.S.); (R.D.d.C.)
- Health Sciences Center, Federal University of Paraíba, Campus I, João Pessoa 58051-900, PB, Brazil
| | - Marcus Tullius Scotti
- Postgraduate Program in Natural and Synthetic Bioactive Products, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa 58051-900, PB, Brazil; (A.R.F.); (J.C.d.A.); (N.F.d.S.); (P.B.A.L.); (M.V.S.); (D.P.S.); (M.T.S.); (R.D.d.C.)
- Health Sciences Center, Federal University of Paraíba, Campus I, João Pessoa 58051-900, PB, Brazil
| | - Ricardo Dias de Castro
- Postgraduate Program in Dentistry, Department of Clinic and Social Dentistry, Center of Health Sciences, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa 58051-900, PB, Brazil; (P.C.Q.G.d.C.); (P.L.N.); (D.d.N.A.); (P.R.d.S.)
- Postgraduate Program in Natural and Synthetic Bioactive Products, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa 58051-900, PB, Brazil; (A.R.F.); (J.C.d.A.); (N.F.d.S.); (P.B.A.L.); (M.V.S.); (D.P.S.); (M.T.S.); (R.D.d.C.)
- Health Sciences Center, Federal University of Paraíba, Campus I, João Pessoa 58051-900, PB, Brazil
| | - Luciana Scotti
- Postgraduate Program in Natural and Synthetic Bioactive Products, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa 58051-900, PB, Brazil; (A.R.F.); (J.C.d.A.); (N.F.d.S.); (P.B.A.L.); (M.V.S.); (D.P.S.); (M.T.S.); (R.D.d.C.)
- Health Sciences Center, Federal University of Paraíba, Campus I, João Pessoa 58051-900, PB, Brazil
- Institute of Drugs and Medicines Research, Federal University of Paraíba, Via Ipê Amarelo, S/N, João Pessoa 58051-900, PB, Brazil
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4
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Hodges MR, Hazel S, Kramer WG, van Hoogdalem EJ, van Marle S, Tawadrous M, Jakate A. Pharmacokinetics, safety, and tolerability of fosmanogepix IV to oral switch and multiple IV doses in healthy participants. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2024; 68:e0145523. [PMID: 38551346 PMCID: PMC11064621 DOI: 10.1128/aac.01455-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Fosmanogepix [FMGX, APX001; active form: manogepix (MGX), APX001A] is a first-in-class, intravenous (IV)/oral antifungal currently being evaluated for invasive fungal disease treatment. Data from two phase 1, placebo-controlled studies [IV-oral switch (study 1) and multiple IV doses (study 2)] evaluating FMGX tolerability, and pharmacokinetics (PK) are presented. Healthy adults (study 1: 18-65 years; study 2: 18-55 years) were eligible (randomized 3:1 to FMGX: placebo). Eleven participants completed study 1. In study 2, 51 participants (48 planned + 3 replacement) were enrolled in six cohorts (8 participants each; 34 completed the study). In study 1, overall MGX systemic exposures were comparable from day 1 to day 42 of dosing; steady-state plasma concentrations were achieved in ≤24 h following two IV loading doses (1,000 mg) and exposures maintained after switching [IV (600 mg) to daily oral doses (800 mg)]. FMGX was safe and well-tolerated. In study 2, FMGX IV doses (loading doses twice daily/maintenance doses once daily; 3-h infusion) of 1,500/900 mg (cohort A), 900/900 mg (cohort B), and 1,000/900 mg (cohort C: with ondansetron) were not well-tolerated; most participants reported nausea and infrequent vomiting. FMGX IV doses of 1,000/750 mg (cohort D), 1,000/850 mg (cohort E), and 1,000/900 mg (cohort F: ondansetron prn) were relatively better tolerated. Steady-state systemic exposures were achieved between days 2 and 4. All cohorts had similar geometric mean (GM) concentrations during maintenance dosing and similar GM PK parameters. Dosing regimen evaluated in study 1 was safe, well-tolerated, and may be used for future clinical evaluations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Susan Hazel
- Amplyx Pharmaceuticals, Inc., San Diego, California, USA
- Pfizer Inc., New York, New York, USA
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5
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Moraes GS, Tozetto NM, Pedroso TAA, de Mattos MA, Urban AM, Paludo KS, Dos Santos FA, Neppelenbroek KH, Urban VM. Anti-Candida activity and in vitro toxicity screening of antifungals complexed with β-cyclodextrin. J Appl Toxicol 2024; 44:747-755. [PMID: 38198744 DOI: 10.1002/jat.4575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2023] [Revised: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
The emergence of resistant fungal species and the toxicity of currently available antifungal drugs are relevant issues that require special consideration. Cyclodextrins inclusion complexes could optimize the antimicrobial activity of such drugs and create a controlled release system with few side effects. This study aimed to assess the in vitro toxicity and antifungal effectiveness of nystatin (Nys) and chlorhexidine (Chx) complexed or not with β-cyclodextrin (βCD). First, a drug toxicity screening was performed through the Artemia salina bioassay. Then, the minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) against Candida albicans were determined with the broth microdilution test. After MICs determination, the cytotoxicity of the drugs was evaluated through the methyl-thiazolyl-tetrazolium (MTT) and neutral red (NR) assays and through cell morphology analysis. The PROBIT analysis was used to determine the median lethal concentration (LC50), and the cell viability values were submitted to one-way analysis of variance(ANOVA)/Tukey (α = 0.05). Overall, the βCD-complexed antifungals were less toxic against A. salina than their raw forms, suggesting that inclusion complexes can reduce the toxicity of drugs. The MICs obtained were as follows: Nys 0.5 mg/L; Nys:βCD 4 mg/L; Chx 4 mg/L; and Chx:βCD 8 mg/L. Chx showed significant cytotoxicity (MTT: 12.9 ± 9.6%; NR: 10.6 ± 12.5%) and promoted important morphological changes. Cells exposed to the other drugs showed viability above 70% with no cellular damage. These results suggest that antifungals complexed with βCD might be a biocompatible option for the treatment of Candida-related infections.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Katia Sabrina Paludo
- Department of Structural, Molecular, and Genetic Biology, State University of Ponta Grossa, Ponta Grossa, Brazil
| | | | - Karin Hermana Neppelenbroek
- Department of Prosthodontics and Periodontics, Bauru School of Dentistry, University of São Paulo, Bauru, Brazil
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6
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Hossain MS, Rahman MA, Dey PR, Khandocar MP, Ali MY, Snigdha M, Coutinho HDM, Islam MT. Natural Isatin Derivatives Against Black Fungus: In Silico Studies. Curr Microbiol 2024; 81:113. [PMID: 38472456 DOI: 10.1007/s00284-024-03621-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024]
Abstract
During this coronavirus pandemic, when a lot of people are already severely afflicted with SARS-CoV-19, the dispersion of black fungus is making it worse, especially in the Indian subcontinent. Considering this situation, the idea for an in silico study to identify the potential inhibitor against black fungal infection is envisioned and computational analysis has been conducted with isatin derivatives that exhibit considerable antifungal activity. Through this in silico study, several pharmacokinetics properties like absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity (ADMET) are estimated for various derivatives. Lipinski rules have been used to observe the drug likeliness property, and to study the electronic properties of the molecules, quantum mechanism was analyzed using the density functional theory (DFT). After applying molecular docking of the isatin derivatives with sterol 14-alpha demethylase enzyme of black fungus, a far higher docking affinity score has been observed for the isatin sulfonamide-34 (derivative 1) than the standard fluconazole. Lastly, molecular dynamic (MD) simulation has been performed for 100 ns to examine the stability of the proposed drug complex by estimating Root Mean Square Deviation (RMSD), Radius of gyration (Rg), Solvent accessible surface area (SASA), Root Mean Square Fluctuation (RMSF), as well as hydrogen bond. Listed ligands have precisely satisfied every pharmacokinetics requirement for a qualified drug candidate and they are non-toxic, non-carcinogenic, and have high stability. This natural molecule known as isatin derivative 1 has shown the potential of being a drug for fungal treatment. However, the impact of the chemicals on living cells requires more investigation and research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Saddam Hossain
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Islamic University, Kushtia, 7003, Bangladesh
| | - Md Anisur Rahman
- Department of Pharmacy, Islamic University, Kushtia, 7003, Bangladesh
| | - Prithbey Raj Dey
- Department of Industrial and Production Engineering, Dhaka University of Engineering and Technology, Gazipur, 1707, Bangladesh
| | - Md Parvez Khandocar
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Islamic University, Kushtia, 7003, Bangladesh
| | - Md Yeakub Ali
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Islamic University, Kushtia, 7003, Bangladesh
| | - Mahajabin Snigdha
- Department of Pharmacy, Islamic University, Kushtia, 7003, Bangladesh
| | | | - Muhammad Torequl Islam
- Department of Pharmacy, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Science and Technology University, Gopalganj, 8100, Bangladesh.
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7
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Duarte ABS, Perez-Castillo Y, da Nóbrega Alves D, de Castro RD, de Souza RL, de Sousa DP, Oliveira EE. Antifungal activity against Candida albicans of methyl 3,5-dinitrobenzoate loaded nanoemulsion. Braz J Microbiol 2024; 55:25-39. [PMID: 38135805 PMCID: PMC10920570 DOI: 10.1007/s42770-023-01214-9] [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: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The objective of this study was to evaluate the antifungal activity of free methyl 3,5 dinitrobenzoate (MDNB) and its nanoemulsion (MDNB-NE) against strains of Candida albicans. Additionally, a molecular modeling study was also carried out to propose the mechanism of action and toxicity of MDNB. These results demonstrated the MDNB-NE presented a droplet size of 181.16 ± 3.20 nm and polydispersity index of 0.30 ± 0.03. MDNB and MDNB-NE inhibited the growth of all strains with minimum inhibitory concentrations of 0.27-1.10 mM. The biological results corroborated the molecular model, which pointed to a multi-target antifungal mechanism of action for MDNB in C. albicans. The study could serve as a basis for further research involving compounds with nitro groups with antifungal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allana Brunna Sucupira Duarte
- Post Graduation Program in Natural and Synthetic Bioactive Products, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa, Brazil
| | - Yunierkis Perez-Castillo
- Bio-Cheminformatics Research Group and Escuela de Ciencias Físicas y Matemáticas, Universidad de Las Américas, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Danielle da Nóbrega Alves
- Laboratory of Experimental Pharmacology and Cell Culture, Department of Clinical and Social Dentistry, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa, Brazil
| | - Ricardo Dias de Castro
- Laboratory of Experimental Pharmacology and Cell Culture, Department of Clinical and Social Dentistry, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa, Brazil
| | | | | | - Elquio Eleamen Oliveira
- Laboratory of Synthesis and Drug Delivery, State University of Paraíba, João Pessoa, Brazil.
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8
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Váradi G, Bende G, Borics A, Dán K, Rákhely G, Tóth GK, Galgóczy L. Rational Design of Antifungal Peptides Based on the γ-Core Motif of a Neosartorya ( Aspergillus) fischeri Antifungal Protein to Improve Structural Integrity, Efficacy, and Spectrum. ACS OMEGA 2024; 9:7206-7214. [PMID: 38371770 PMCID: PMC10870298 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.3c09377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
Antifungal peptides offer promising alternative compounds for the treatment of fungal infections, for which new antifungal compounds are urgently needed. Constant and broad antifungal spectra of these peptides play essential roles in their reliable therapeutic application. It has been observed that rationally designed peptides using the evolutionarily conserved γ-core region (GXC-X3-9-C) of an antifungal protein from Neosartorya (Aspergillus) fischeri highly inhibit the growth of fungi. The cysteines in these peptides have free sulfhydryl groups, which allow cyclization and dimerization under oxidative conditions, thereby impairing antifungal efficacy. To overcome this problem, one or two cysteine residues were substituted by serines or S-tert-butyl was applied as a cysteine-protecting group. Furthermore, structural integrity and antifungal efficacy investigations before and after oxidative exposure revealed that substituting both cysteines with serines and S-tert-butylation helped maintain the structural integrity. However, it slightly decreased the antifungal efficacy against a yeast, Candida albicans. Interestingly, S-tert-butylation maintained the efficacy and could extend the antifungal activity to a mold, Aspergillus fumigatus. Usually, cyclization and dimerization did not influence the antifungal efficacy of most peptides. Additionally, hemolysis tests and Galleria mellonella toxicity model experiments indicated that none of the applied modifications made the peptides harmful to animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Györgyi Váradi
- Department
of Medical Chemistry, University of Szeged, Szeged 6720, Hungary
| | - Gábor Bende
- Department
of Biotechnology, University of Szeged, Szeged 6726, Hungary
- Doctoral
School of Biology, University of Szeged, Szeged 6720, Hungary
| | - Attila Borics
- Institute
of Biochemistry, HUN-REN Biological Research
Centre, Szeged 6726, Hungary
| | - Kinga Dán
- Department
of Biotechnology, University of Szeged, Szeged 6726, Hungary
- Doctoral
School of Biology, University of Szeged, Szeged 6720, Hungary
| | - Gábor Rákhely
- Department
of Biotechnology, University of Szeged, Szeged 6726, Hungary
- Institute
of Biophysics, HUN-REN Biological Research
Centre, Szeged 6726, Hungary
| | - Gábor K. Tóth
- Department
of Medical Chemistry, University of Szeged, Szeged 6720, Hungary
- MTA-SZTE
Biomimetic Systems Research Group, University
of Szeged, Szeged 6720, Hungary
| | - László Galgóczy
- Department
of Biotechnology, University of Szeged, Szeged 6726, Hungary
- Institute
of Biochemistry, HUN-REN Biological Research
Centre, Szeged 6726, Hungary
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9
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Ramesh S, Roy U, Roy S, Rudramurthy SM. A promising antifungal lipopeptide from Bacillus subtilis: its characterization and insight into the mode of action. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2024; 108:161. [PMID: 38252130 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-023-12976-5] [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: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
Emerging resistance of fungal pathogens and challenges faced in drug development have prompted renewed investigations into novel antifungal lipopeptides. The antifungal lipopeptide AF3 reported here is a natural lipopeptide isolated and purified from Bacillus subtilis. The AF3 lipopeptide's secondary structure, functional groups, and the presence of amino acid residues typical of lipopeptides were determined by circular dichroism, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. The lipopeptide's low minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of 4-8 mg/L against several fungal strains demonstrate its strong antifungal activity. Biocompatibility assays showed that ~ 80% of mammalian cells remained viable at a 2 × MIC concentration of AF3. The treated Candida albicans cells examined by scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and atomic force microscopy clearly showed ultrastructural alterations such as the loss of the cell shape and cell membrane integrity. The antifungal effect of AF3 resulted in membrane permeabilization facilitating the uptake of the fluorescent dyes-acridine orange (AO)/propidium iodide (PI) and FUN-1. Using 1,6-diphenyl-1,3,5-hexatriene (DPH) and 4-(2-[6-(dioctylamino)-2-naphthalenyl] ethenyl)-1-(3-sulfopropyl) pyridinium inner salt (di-8-ANEPPS), we observed that the binding of AF3 to the membrane bilayer results in membrane disruption and depolarization. Flow cytometry analyses revealed a direct correlation between lipopeptide activity, membrane permeabilization (~ 75% PI uptake), and reduced cell viability. An increase in 2',7'-dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate (DCFH-DA) fluorescence demonstrates endogenous reactive oxygen species production. Lipopeptide treatment appears to induce late-stage apoptosis and alterations to nuclear morphology, suggesting that AF3-induced membrane damage may lead to a cellular stress response. Taken together, this study illustrates antifungal lipopeptide's potential as an antifungal drug candidate. KEY POINTS: • The studied lipopeptide variant AF3 displayed potent antifungal activity against C. albicans • Its biological activity was stable to proteolysis • Analytical studies demonstrated that the lipopeptide is essentially membranotropic and able to cause membrane dysfunction, elevated ROS levels, apoptosis, and DNA damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Swetha Ramesh
- Department of Biological Sciences, BITS Pilani K.K. Birla Goa Campus, NH 17B Bypass Road, Sancoale, Goa, 403726, India
| | - Utpal Roy
- Department of Biological Sciences, BITS Pilani K.K. Birla Goa Campus, NH 17B Bypass Road, Sancoale, Goa, 403726, India.
| | - Subhasish Roy
- Department of Chemistry, BITS Pilani K.K. Birla Goa Campus, NH 17B Bypass Road, Sancoale, Goa, 403726, India
| | - Shivaprakash M Rudramurthy
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh, 160012, India
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10
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Shao Y, Shen M, Peng D, Cheng W, Mao C, Zhang H, Sun Y. Observation of a Bone Invasion Model of Aspergillus fumigatus In Vitro and Analysis of the Antifungal Susceptibility. Mycopathologia 2024; 189:4. [PMID: 38231458 DOI: 10.1007/s11046-023-00817-y] [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: 09/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recently, the prevalence of invasive fungal infections has been on the rise, and one of the prevalent symptoms frequently observed is bone deterioration and bone loss. MATERIALS AND METHODS Using an in vitro model we studied how Aspergillus fumigatus invades the bone. Pathological analysis was then employed to observe the structure and distinctive features of the invading fungal elements within the bone invasion model. Meanwhile, the antifungal effects of itraconazole, voriconazole, posaconazole, and amphotericin B were evaluated. RESULTS The pathological findings showed that in the experimental group, fungal spores and hyphae invaded the bone tissue or were observed growing in the vicinity of the bone edge tissues, as indicated by both HE and PAS staining. In contrast, no fungal elements were observed in the control group, indicating that the in vitro bone invasion model of A. fumigatus was successfully constructed. Furthermore, the findings from the antifungal sensitivity test demonstrated that the lowest effective concentrations of antifungal drugs against the bone invasion model were as follows: 4 μg/ml for itraconazole, 0.5 μg/ml for voriconazole, 2 μg/ml for posaconazole, and 2 μg/ml for amphotericin B. DISCUSSION The successful construction of the bone invasion model of A. fumigatus has provided a solid basis for future investigations into the mechanisms underlying A. fumigatus bone invasion and the study of its virulence factors. Utilizing bone models is of utmost importance in advancing the development of novel antifungal treatment approaches, as well as in effectively preventing and treating fungal bone invasion and osteolytic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Shao
- Department of Orthopedics, Jingzhou Hospital Affiliated to Yangtze University, Jingzhou, Hubei, China
| | - Min Shen
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Jingzhou Hospital Affiliated to Yangtze University, Jingzhou, Hubei, China
| | - Dan Peng
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Jingzhou Hospital Affiliated to Yangtze University, Jingzhou, Hubei, China
| | - Wenxu Cheng
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Jingzhou Hospital Affiliated to Yangtze University, Jingzhou, Hubei, China
| | - Chenggang Mao
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Jingzhou Hospital Affiliated to Yangtze University, Jingzhou, Hubei, China
| | - Heng Zhang
- Department of Dermatology, Jingzhou Hospital Affiliated to Yangtze University, Jingzhou, 434020, Hubei, China
| | - Yi Sun
- Department of Dermatology, Jingzhou Hospital Affiliated to Yangtze University, Jingzhou, 434020, Hubei, China.
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11
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Conn BN, Lieberman JA, Chatman P, Cotton K, Essandoh MA, Ebqa’ai M, Nelson TL, Wozniak KL. Antifungal activity of eumelanin-inspired indoylenepheyleneethynylene against Cryptococcus neoformans. Front Microbiol 2024; 14:1339303. [PMID: 38293553 PMCID: PMC10826398 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1339303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Cryptococcus neoformans is an opportunistic fungal pathogen that causes meningitis in >152,000 immunocompromised individuals annually, leading to 112,000 yearly deaths. The four classes of existing antifungal agents target plasma membrane sterols (ergosterol), nucleic acid synthesis, and cell wall synthesis. Existing drugs are not highly effective against Cryptococcus, and antifungal drug resistance is an increasing problem. A novel antimicrobial compound, a eumelanin-inspired indoylenepheyleneethynylene, EIPE-1, was synthesized and has antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive bacteria, including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MSRA), but not towards Gram-negative organisms. Based on EIPE-1's antibacterial activity, we hypothesized that EIPE-1 could have antifungal activity. For these studies, we tested EIPE-1 against C. neoformans strain H99 and 6 additional cryptococcal clinical isolates. We examined antifungal activity, cytotoxicity, effects on fungal gene expression, and mechanism of action of EIPE-1. Results showed that EIPE-1 has fungicidal effects on seven cryptococcal strains with MICs ranging from 1.56 to 3.125 μg/mL depending on the strain, and it is non-toxic to mammalian cells. We conducted scanning and transmission electron microscopy on the exposed cells to examine structural changes to the organism following EIPE-1 treatment. Cells exposed displayed structural changes to their cell wall and membranes, with internal contents leaking out of the cells. To understand the effect of EIPE-1 on fungal gene expression, RNA sequencing was conducted. Results showed that EIPE-1 affects several processes involved stress response, ergosterol biosynthesis, capsule biosynthesis, and cell wall attachment and remodeling. Therefore, our studies demonstrate that EIPE-1 has antifungal activity against C. neoformans, which affects both cellular structure and gene expression of multiple fungal pathways involved in cell membrane stability and viability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brittney N. Conn
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, United States
| | - Jacob A. Lieberman
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, United States
| | - Priscilla Chatman
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, United States
| | - Kaitlyn Cotton
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, United States
| | - Martha A. Essandoh
- Department of Chemistry, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, United States
| | - Mohammad Ebqa’ai
- Department of Chemistry, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, United States
| | - Toby L. Nelson
- Department of Chemistry, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, United States
| | - Karen L. Wozniak
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, United States
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12
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Wang S, Pan J, Gu L, Wang W, Wei B, Zhang H, Chen J, Wang H. Review of treatment options for a multidrug-resistant fungus: Candida auris. Med Mycol 2024; 62:myad127. [PMID: 38066698 DOI: 10.1093/mmy/myad127] [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: 09/12/2023] [Revised: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Candida auris is a widely distributed, highly lethal, multidrug-resistant fungal pathogen. It was first identified in 2009 when it was isolated from fluid drained from the external ear canal of a patient in Japan. Since then, it has caused infectious outbreaks in over 45 countries, with mortality rates approaching 60%. Drug resistance is common in this species, with a large proportion of isolates displaying fluconazole resistance and nearly half are resistant to two or more antifungal drugs. In this review, we describe the drug resistance mechanism of C. auris and potential small-molecule drugs for treating C. auris infection. Among these antifungal agents, rezafungin was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of candidemia and invasive candidiasis on March 22, 2023. Ibrexafungerp and fosmanogepix have entered phase III clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siqi Wang
- College of Pharmaceutical Science, Collaborative Innovation Center of Yangtze River Delta Region Green Pharmaceuticals, and Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of TCM for Innovative R&D and Digital Intelligent Manufacturing of TCM Great Health Products, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jiangwei Pan
- College of Pharmaceutical Science, Collaborative Innovation Center of Yangtze River Delta Region Green Pharmaceuticals, and Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of TCM for Innovative R&D and Digital Intelligent Manufacturing of TCM Great Health Products, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, China
| | - Liting Gu
- College of Pharmaceutical Science, Collaborative Innovation Center of Yangtze River Delta Region Green Pharmaceuticals, and Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of TCM for Innovative R&D and Digital Intelligent Manufacturing of TCM Great Health Products, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, China
| | - Wei Wang
- College of Pharmaceutical Science, Collaborative Innovation Center of Yangtze River Delta Region Green Pharmaceuticals, and Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of TCM for Innovative R&D and Digital Intelligent Manufacturing of TCM Great Health Products, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, China
| | - Bin Wei
- College of Pharmaceutical Science, Collaborative Innovation Center of Yangtze River Delta Region Green Pharmaceuticals, and Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of TCM for Innovative R&D and Digital Intelligent Manufacturing of TCM Great Health Products, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, China
| | - Huawei Zhang
- College of Pharmaceutical Science, Collaborative Innovation Center of Yangtze River Delta Region Green Pharmaceuticals, and Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of TCM for Innovative R&D and Digital Intelligent Manufacturing of TCM Great Health Products, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jianwei Chen
- College of Pharmaceutical Science, Collaborative Innovation Center of Yangtze River Delta Region Green Pharmaceuticals, and Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of TCM for Innovative R&D and Digital Intelligent Manufacturing of TCM Great Health Products, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, China
| | - Hong Wang
- College of Pharmaceutical Science, Collaborative Innovation Center of Yangtze River Delta Region Green Pharmaceuticals, and Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of TCM for Innovative R&D and Digital Intelligent Manufacturing of TCM Great Health Products, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, China
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13
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Pecho T, Zeitlinger M. Preclinical Pharmacokinetic/Pharmacodynamic Studies and Clinical Trials in the Drug Development Process of EMA-Approved Antifungal Agents: A Review. Clin Pharmacokinet 2024; 63:13-26. [PMID: 37971649 PMCID: PMC10786742 DOI: 10.1007/s40262-023-01327-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
Antifungal drug development is essential as invasive fungal disease is still associated with a very high mortality rate and the emergence of resistant species in the last decade. In Europe, the European Medical Agency (EMA) approves antifungals and publishes the European Public Assessment Report (EPAR) including the information leading up to the authorisation. We looked at EMA-approved antifungals and their reports within the last 23 years. We focused primarily on the role of pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic indices in antifungal development and the level of information depicted in their corresponding report. Furthermore, we investigated guidelines applicable to the development process at the time and compared the content with a focus on pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic studies and preclinical requirements. Since 2000, six new antifungal substances have been authorised. Most were authorised for treatment of Candida infections or Aspergillus infections but also included rarer pathogens. Pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic indices were scarcely investigated and/or mentioned in the report. Current antifungal EMA guidelines started emphasising investigating pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic indices in 2010 and then again in 2016. It remains to be seen how this translates into the authorisation process for new antifungals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theresa Pecho
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Gürtel 18-20, 1090, Vienna, Austria
| | - Markus Zeitlinger
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Gürtel 18-20, 1090, Vienna, Austria.
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14
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Pandey R, Pandey B, Bhargava A. The Emergence of N. sativa L. as a Green Antifungal Agent. Mini Rev Med Chem 2024; 24:1521-1534. [PMID: 38409693 DOI: 10.2174/0113895575282914240217060251] [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: 10/15/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nigella sativa L. has been widely used in the Unani, Ayurveda, Chinese, and Arabic medicine systems and has a long history of medicinal and folk uses. Several phytoconstituents of the plant are reported to have excellent therapeutic properties. In-vitro and in-vivo studies have revealed that seed oil and thymoquinone have excellent inhibitory efficacy on a wide range of both pathogenic and non-pathogenic fungi. OBJECTIVE The present review aims to undertake a comprehensive and systematic evaluation of the antifungal effects of different phytochemical constituents of black cumin. METHOD An exhaustive database retrieval was conducted on PubMed, Scopus, ISI Web of Science, SciFinder, Google Scholar, and CABI to collect scientific information about the antifungal activity of N. sativa L. with 1990 to 2023 as a reference range using 'Nigella sativa,' 'Nigella oil,' 'antifungal uses,' 'dermatophytic fungi,' 'candidiasis,' 'anti-aflatoxin,' 'anti-biofilm' and 'biological activity' as the keywords. RESULTS Black cumin seeds, as well as the extract of aerial parts, were found to exhibit strong antifungal activity against a wide range of fungi. Among the active compounds, thymoquinone exhibited the most potent antifungal effect. Several recent studies proved that black cumin inhibits biofilm formation and growth. CONCLUSION The review provides an in-depth analysis of the antifungal activity of black cumin. This work emphasizes the need to expand studies on this plant to exploit its antifungal properties for biomedical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raghvendra Pandey
- Department of Botany, Mahatma Gandhi Central University, Motihari-845401 (Bihar), India
| | - Brijesh Pandey
- Department of Biotechnology, Mahatma Gandhi Central University, Motihari-845401 (Bihar), India
| | - Atul Bhargava
- Department of Botany, Mahatma Gandhi Central University, Motihari-845401 (Bihar), India
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15
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Vishwakarma M, Haider T, Soni V. Update on fungal lipid biosynthesis inhibitors as antifungal agents. Microbiol Res 2024; 278:127517. [PMID: 37863019 DOI: 10.1016/j.micres.2023.127517] [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: 05/25/2023] [Revised: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023]
Abstract
Fungal diseases today represent a world-wide problem. Poor hygiene and decreased immunity are the main reasons behind the manifestation of this disease. After COVID-19, an increase in the rate of fungal infection has been observed in different countries. Different classes of antifungal agents, such as polyenes, azoles, echinocandins, and anti-metabolites, as well as their combinations, are currently employed to treat fungal diseases; these drugs are effective but can cause some side effects and toxicities. Therefore, the identification and development of newer antifungal agents is a current need. The fungal cell comprises many lipids, such as ergosterol, phospholipids, and sphingolipids. Ergosterol is a sterol lipid that is only found in fungal cells. Various pathways synthesize all these lipids, and the activities of multiple enzymes govern these pathways. Inhibiting these enzymes will ultimately impede the lipid synthesis pathway, and this phenomenon could be a potential antifungal therapy. This review will discuss various lipid synthesis pathways and multiple antifungal agents identified as having fungal lipid synthesis inhibition activity. This review will identify novel compounds that can inhibit fungal lipid synthesis, permitting researchers to direct further deep pharmacological investigation and help develop drug delivery systems for such compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Vishwakarma
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Dr. Harisingh Gour Vishwavidyalaya, Sagar, M.P., India
| | - Tanweer Haider
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Dr. Harisingh Gour Vishwavidyalaya, Sagar, M.P., India; Amity Institute of Pharmacy, Amity University, Gwalior, M.P., India
| | - Vandana Soni
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Dr. Harisingh Gour Vishwavidyalaya, Sagar, M.P., India.
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16
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Kaur A, Sharma K, Sharma N, Aggarwal G. An Insight into the Repurposing of Phytoconstituents obtained from Delhi's Aravalli Biodiversity Park as Antifungal Agents. Infect Disord Drug Targets 2024; 24:e020224226666. [PMID: 38305295 DOI: 10.2174/0118715265282411240119061441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
The global prevalence of fungal infections is alarming in both the pre- and post- COVID period. Due to a limited number of antifungal drugs, there are hurdles in treatment strategies for fungal infections due to toxic potential, drug interactions, and the development of fungal resistance. All the antifungal targets (existing and newer) and pipeline molecules showing promise against these targets are reviewed. The objective was to predict or repurpose phyto-based antifungal compounds based on a dual target inhibition approach (Sterol-14-α- demethylase and HSP-90) using a case study. In pursuit of repurposing the phytochemicals as antifungal agents, a team of researchers visited Aravalli Biodiversity Park (ABP), Delhi, India, to collect information on available medicinal plants. From 45 plants, a total of 1149 ligands were collected, and virtual screening was performed using Schrodinger Suite 2016 software to get 83 hits against both the target proteins: Sterol-14-α-demethylase and HSP-90. After analysis of docking results, ligands were selected based on their interaction against both the target proteins and comparison with respective standard ligands (fluconazole and ganetespib). We have selected Isocarthamidin, Quercetin and Boeravinone B based on their docking score and binding interaction against the HSP-90 (Docking Score -9.65, -9.22 and -9.21, respectively) and 14-α-demethylase (Docking Score -9.19, -10.76 and -9.74 respectively). The docking protocol was validated and MM/GBSA studies depicted better stability of selected three ligands (Isocarthamidin, Quercetin, Boeravinone B) complex as compared to standard complex. Further, MD simulation studies were performed using the Desmond (67) software package version 2018-4. All the findings are presented as a case study for the prediction of dual targets for the repurposing of certain phytochemicals as antifungal agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanpreet Kaur
- Delhi Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research University, M.B. Road, Sector III, Pushp Vihar, New Delhi, 110017, India
| | - Kalicharan Sharma
- Delhi Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research University, M.B. Road, Sector III, Pushp Vihar, New Delhi, 110017, India
| | - Neetika Sharma
- Delhi Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research University, M.B. Road, Sector III, Pushp Vihar, New Delhi, 110017, India
| | - Geeta Aggarwal
- Delhi Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research University, M.B. Road, Sector III, Pushp Vihar, New Delhi, 110017, India
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Mottola S, Iannone G, Giordano M, González-Garcinuño Á, Jiménez A, Tabernero A, Martín Del Valle E, De Marco I. Supercritical impregnation of starch aerogels with quercetin: Fungistatic effect and release modelling with a compartmental model. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 253:127406. [PMID: 37832612 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.127406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Revised: 09/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023]
Abstract
This work proposes the use of supercritical CO2 to impregnate starch (potato and corn) aerogels with quercetin for a potential fungistatic application. Starch aerogels were successfully produced with supercritical drying, but different results were found depending on the amylose/amylopectin ratio. A higher amount of amylose increases aerogels' specific surface area (with a structure with nanofibrils and nodes) due to the linear and amorphous character of this polymer, whereas a higher amount of amylopectin decreases this property until values of only 25 m2·g-1, obtaining an aerogel with a rough surface. These results were explained with XRD, thermogravimetric, and rheological results (triple step with two temperature sweeps and a time sweep and steady state analysis) concerning hydrogel formation. In fact, retrogradation step plays a more important role in hydrogel formation for a starch source with a higher amount of amylopectin due to an increase in the different polymers' interactions. Supercritical impregnation of quercetin on the aerogels was successfully performed (a loading around 0.30 % with respect to the amount of polymer), and in vitro results indicated that the aerogels produced a fungistatic effect on different types of fungi, but only in the first 12 h because the microorganisms adapted to the surrounding environment. Finally, a compartmental model was used to fit the drug release, which is controlled by quercetin aqueous solubility, indicating the main mass transfer resistances (mass transfer through aerogels was always around 500 min-1 and dissolution process mass transfer from 5·10-3 to 1.65·10-3 s-1) and how an increase in the specific surface area of the aerogels (in the case of corn aerogel) provided a stronger initial burst (70-80 % in 20 min). In fact, this initial burst release was mathematically related to a parameter, that varies from 0.178 to 0.036 depending on the aerogel composition. This study shows that starch aerogels can be impregnated with a hydrophobic compound with fungistatic effect by using supercritical CO2, modifying in addition the drug release by changing the native starch.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefania Mottola
- Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Salerno, Via Giovanni Paolo II, 132, Fisciano, SA 84084, Italy
| | - Giovanna Iannone
- Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Salerno, Via Giovanni Paolo II, 132, Fisciano, SA 84084, Italy
| | - Maria Giordano
- Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Salerno, Via Giovanni Paolo II, 132, Fisciano, SA 84084, Italy
| | - Álvaro González-Garcinuño
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Salamanca, Plaza de los Caídos s/n, Salamanca, SA 37008, Spain; Institute of Biomedical Research, Hospital Virgen de la Vega, Paseo San Vicente 58-182, Salamanca, SA 37007, Spain
| | - Alejandro Jiménez
- GIR - QUESCAT, Department of Inorganic Chemistry, University of Salamanca, Plaza de los Caídos s/n, Salamanca, SA 37008, Spain
| | - Antonio Tabernero
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Salamanca, Plaza de los Caídos s/n, Salamanca, SA 37008, Spain; Institute of Biomedical Research, Hospital Virgen de la Vega, Paseo San Vicente 58-182, Salamanca, SA 37007, Spain.
| | - Eva Martín Del Valle
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Salamanca, Plaza de los Caídos s/n, Salamanca, SA 37008, Spain; Institute of Biomedical Research, Hospital Virgen de la Vega, Paseo San Vicente 58-182, Salamanca, SA 37007, Spain
| | - Iolanda De Marco
- Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Salerno, Via Giovanni Paolo II, 132, Fisciano, SA 84084, Italy; Research Centre for Biomaterials BIONAM, University of Salerno, Via Giovanni Paolo II, 132, Fisciano, SA 84084, Italy.
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18
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Li X, Kong B, Sun Y, Sun F, Yang H, Zheng S. Synergistic potential of teriflunomide with fluconazole against resistant Candida albicans in vitro and in vivo. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2023; 13:1282320. [PMID: 38169891 PMCID: PMC10758495 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1282320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Candida albicans is the primary cause of systemic candidiasis, which is involved in high morbidity and mortality. Drug resistance exacerbates these problems. In addition, there are limited antifungal drugs available. In order to solve these problems, combination therapy has aroused great interest. Teriflunomide is an immunosuppressant. In the present work, we aimed to identify whether teriflunomide can reverse the resistance of Candida albicans in the presence of sub-inhibitory concentrations of fluconazole in vitro and in vivo. Methods Seven Candida albicans isolates were used in this study. Susceptibility of Candida albicans in vitro to the drugs was determined using a checkerboard microdilution assay in accordance with the recommendations of the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute. The effects of drugs on biofilm biomass of Candida albicans were determined by crystal violet staining. The development ability of Candida albicans hyphae was performed using a modified broth microdilution method. Galleria mellonella was used for testing the in vivo efficacy of the combination therapies. Results We found that the combination of teriflunomide (64 µg/mL) and fluconazole (0.5-1 µg/mL) has a significant synergistic effect in all resistant Candida albicans isolates (n=4). Also, this drug combination could inhibit the immature biofilm biomass and hyphae formation of resistant Candida albicans. Galleria mellonella was used for testing the in vivo efficacy of this combination therapies. As for the Galleria mellonella larvae infected by resistant Candida albicans, teriflunomide (1.6 µg/larvae) combined with fluconazole (1.6 µg/larvae) significantly increased their survival rates, and reduced the fungal burden, as well as damage of tissue in comparison to that in the control group or drug monotherapy group. Conclusion These results expand our knowledge about the antifungal potential of teriflunomide as an adjuvant of existing antifungal drugs, and also open new perspectives in the treatment of resistant Candida albicans based on repurposing clinically available nonantifungal drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiuyun Li
- Maternal and Child Health Development Research Center, Shandong Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital Affiliated to Qingdao University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Department of Natural Product Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Bing Kong
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Shandong Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital Affiliated to Qingdao University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Yaqiong Sun
- Obstetrics Department, Shandong Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital Affiliated to Qingdao University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Fenghua Sun
- Radiology Department, Shandong Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital Affiliated to Qingdao University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Huijun Yang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Shandong Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital Affiliated to Qingdao University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Shicun Zheng
- Maternal and Child Health Development Research Center, Shandong Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital Affiliated to Qingdao University, Jinan, Shandong, China
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Patil SB, Sharma RK, Gavandi TC, Basrani ST, Chougule SA, Yankanchi SR, Jadhav AK, Karuppayil SM. Ethyl Isothiocyanate as a Novel Antifungal Agent Against Candida albicans. Curr Microbiol 2023; 81:29. [PMID: 38051343 DOI: 10.1007/s00284-023-03542-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023]
Abstract
In the recent years, occurrence of candidiasis has increased drastically which leads to significant mortality and morbidity mainly in immune compromised patients. Glucosinolate (GLS) derivatives are reported to have antifungal activities. Ethyl isothiocyanate (EITC) and its antifungal activity and mechanism of action is still unclear against Candida albicans. The present work was designed to get a mechanistic insight in to the anti-Candida efficacy of EITC through in vitro and in vivo studies. EITC inhibited C. albicans planktonic growth at 0.5 mg/ml and virulence factors like yeast to hyphal form morphogenesis (0.0312 mg/ml), adhesion to polystyrene surface (0.0312 mg/ml) and biofilm formation (developing biofilm at 2 mg/ml and mature biofilm at 0.5 mg/ml) effectively. EITC blocked ergosterol biosynthesis and arrested C. albicans cells at S-phase. EITC caused ROS-dependent cellular death and nuclear or DNA fragmentation. EITC at 0.0312 mg/ml concentration regulated the expression of genes involved in the signal transduction pathway and inhibited yeast to hyphal form morphogenesis by upregulating TUP1, MIG1, and NRG1 by 3.10, 5.84 and 2.64-fold, respectively and downregulating PDE2 and CEK1 genes by 15.38 and 2.10-fold, respectively. EITC has showed haemolytic activity at 0.5 mg/ml concentration. In vivo study in silk worm model showed that EITC has toxicity to C. albicans at 0.5 mg/ml concentration. Thus, from present study we conclude that EITC has antifungal activity and to reduce its MIC and toxicity, combination study with other antifungal drugs need to be done. EITC and its combinations might be used as alternative therapeutics for the prevention and treatment of C. albicans infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shivani Balasaheb Patil
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Medical Biotechnology, Centre for Interdisciplinary Research, D. Y. Patil Education Society (Deemed to be University), Kolhapur, Maharashtra, 416003, India
| | - Rakesh Kumar Sharma
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, D. Y. Patil Medical College Hospital and Research Institute, Kadamwadi, Kolhapur, Maharashtra, 416003, India
| | - Tanjila Chandsaheb Gavandi
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Medical Biotechnology, Centre for Interdisciplinary Research, D. Y. Patil Education Society (Deemed to be University), Kolhapur, Maharashtra, 416003, India
| | - Sargun Tushar Basrani
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Medical Biotechnology, Centre for Interdisciplinary Research, D. Y. Patil Education Society (Deemed to be University), Kolhapur, Maharashtra, 416003, India
| | - Sayali Ashok Chougule
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Medical Biotechnology, Centre for Interdisciplinary Research, D. Y. Patil Education Society (Deemed to be University), Kolhapur, Maharashtra, 416003, India
| | | | - Ashwini Khanderao Jadhav
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Medical Biotechnology, Centre for Interdisciplinary Research, D. Y. Patil Education Society (Deemed to be University), Kolhapur, Maharashtra, 416003, India.
| | - Sankunny Mohan Karuppayil
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Medical Biotechnology, Centre for Interdisciplinary Research, D. Y. Patil Education Society (Deemed to be University), Kolhapur, Maharashtra, 416003, India.
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20
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Nematollahi MH, Mehrabani M, Hozhabri Y, Mirtajaddini M, Iravani S. Antiviral and antimicrobial applications of chalcones and their derivatives: From nature to greener synthesis. Heliyon 2023; 9:e20428. [PMID: 37810815 PMCID: PMC10556610 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e20428] [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: 05/08/2023] [Revised: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Chalcones and their derivatives have been widely studied due to their versatile pharmacological and biological activities, such as anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral, and antitumor effects. These compounds have shown suitable antiviral effects through the selective targeting of a variety of viral enzymes, including lactate dehydrogenase, glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH), fumarate reductase, protein tyrosine phosphatase, topoisomerase-II, protein kinases, integrase/protease, and lactate/isocitrate dehydrogenase, among others. Chalcones and their derivatives have displayed excellent potential for combating pathogenic bacteria and fungi (especially, multidrug-resistant bacteria). However, relevant mechanisms should be further explored, focusing on inhibitory effects against DNA gyrase B, UDP-N-acetylglucosamine enolpyruvyl transferase (MurA), and efflux pumps (e.g., NorA), among others. In addition, the antifungal and antiparasitic activities of these compounds (e.g., antitrypanosomal and antileishmanial properties) have prompted additional explorations. Nonetheless, systematic analysis of the relevant mechanisms, biosafety issues, and pharmacological properties, as well as clinical translation studies, are vital for practical applications. Herein, recent advancements pertaining to the antibacterial, antiviral, antiparasitic, and antifungal activities of chalcones and their derivatives are deliberated, focusing on the relevant mechanisms of action, crucial challenges, and future prospects. Furthermore, due to the great importance of greener and more sustainable synthesis of these valuable compounds, especially on an industrial scale, the progress made in this field has been briefly discussed. Hopefully, this review can serve as a catalyst for researchers to delve deeper into the exploration and designing of novel chalcone compounds with medicinal properties, especially against pathogenic viruses and multidrug-resistant bacteria as major causes of concern for human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Hadi Nematollahi
- Herbal and Traditional Medicines Research Center, School of Pharmacy, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mehrnaz Mehrabani
- Physiology Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmacology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Yaser Hozhabri
- Applied Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Maryamossadat Mirtajaddini
- Physiology Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmacology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Siavash Iravani
- Independent Researcher, W Nazar ST, Boostan Ave, Isfahan, Iran
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21
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Mehra A, Sangwan R, Mehra A, Sharma S, Wadhwa P, Mittal A. Therapeutic charisma of imidazo [2,1-b] [1,3,4]-thiadiazole analogues: a patent review. Pharm Pat Anal 2023; 12:177-191. [PMID: 37671908 DOI: 10.4155/ppa-2023-0006] [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: 09/07/2023]
Abstract
Imidazothiadiazole was discovered around the 1950s era, containing an imidazole ring fused to a thiadiazole ring. Imidazothiadiazole exhibit versatile pharmacological properties including anticonvulsant, cardiotonic, anti-inflammatory, diuretic, antifungal, antibacterial and anticancer. Despite of the being discovered in 1950s, the imidazothiadiazole derivatives are unable to being processed to clinical trials because of lack of bioavailability, efficacy and cytotoxicity. The recent patent literature focused on structural modification of imidazothiadiazole core to overcome these problems. This review limelight a disease-centric perspective on patented imidazothiadiazole from 2015-2023 and to understand their mechanism of action in related diseases. The relevant granted patent applications were located using patent databases, Google Patents, USPTO, EPO, WIPO, Espacenet and Lens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anuradha Mehra
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lovely Professional University, Jalandhar-Delhi G.T. Road, NH-1, Phagwara, Punjab, 144411, India
| | - Rekha Sangwan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lovely Professional University, Jalandhar-Delhi G.T. Road, NH-1, Phagwara, Punjab, 144411, India
| | - Aryan Mehra
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Lovely Professional University, Jalandhar-Delhi G.T. Road, NH-1, Phagwara, Punjab, 144411, India
| | - Shivani Sharma
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lovely Professional University, Jalandhar-Delhi G.T. Road, NH-1, Phagwara, Punjab, 144411, India
| | - Pankaj Wadhwa
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lovely Professional University, Jalandhar-Delhi G.T. Road, NH-1, Phagwara, Punjab, 144411, India
| | - Amit Mittal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lovely Professional University, Jalandhar-Delhi G.T. Road, NH-1, Phagwara, Punjab, 144411, India
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22
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Almawash S. Solid lipid nanoparticles, an effective carrier for classical antifungal drugs. Saudi Pharm J 2023; 31:1167-1180. [PMID: 37273269 PMCID: PMC10236373 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsps.2023.05.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Solid-lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) are an innovative group of nanosystems used to deliver medicine to their respective targets with better efficiency and bioavailability in contrast to classical formulations. SLNs are less noxious, have fewer adverse effects, have more biocompatibility, and have easy biodegradability. Lipophilic, hydrophilic and hydrophobic drugs can be loaded into SLNs, to enhance their physical and chemical stability in critical environments. Certain antifungal agents used in different treatments are poorly soluble medications, biologicals, proteins etc. incorporated in SLNs to enhance their therapeutic outcome, increase their bioavailability and target specificity. SLNs-based antifungal agents are currently helpful against vicious drug-resistant fungal infections. This review covers the importance of SLNs in drug delivery of classical antifungal drugs, historical background, preparation, physicochemical characteristic, structure and sizes of SLNs, composition, drug entrapment efficacy, clinical evaluations and uses, challenges, antifungal drug resistance, strategies to overcome limitations, novel antifungal agents currently in clinical trials with special emphasis on fungal infections.
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23
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Parsons MG, Diekema DJ. What Is New in Fungal Infections? Mod Pathol 2023; 36:100187. [PMID: 37059227 DOI: 10.1016/j.modpat.2023.100187] [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: 12/01/2022] [Revised: 03/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2023] [Indexed: 04/16/2023]
Abstract
Invasive fungal infections are an increasingly important cause of morbidity and mortality. We provide a summary of important changes in the epidemiology of invasive fungal infections, citing examples of new emerging pathogens, expanding populations who are at-risk, and increasing antifungal resistance. We review how human activity and climate change may play a role in some of these changes. Finally, we discuss how these changes create the need for advances in fungal diagnostics. The limitations of existing fungal diagnostic testing emphasize the critically important role of histopathology in the early recognition of fungal disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meredith G Parsons
- Department of Pathology, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, Iowa
| | - Daniel J Diekema
- Department of Pathology, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, Iowa; Department and Internal Medicine, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, Iowa.
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Xu M, Huang Z, Zhu W, Liu Y, Bai X, Zhang H. Fusarium-Derived Secondary Metabolites with Antimicrobial Effects. Molecules 2023; 28:molecules28083424. [PMID: 37110658 PMCID: PMC10142451 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28083424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2023] [Revised: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Fungal microbes are important in the creation of new drugs, given their unique genetic and metabolic diversity. As one of the most commonly found fungi in nature, Fusarium spp. has been well regarded as a prolific source of secondary metabolites (SMs) with diverse chemical structures and a broad spectrum of biological properties. However, little information is available concerning their derived SMs with antimicrobial effects. By extensive literature search and data analysis, as many as 185 antimicrobial natural products as SMs had been discovered from Fusarium strains by the end of 2022. This review first provides a comprehensive analysis of these substances in terms of various antimicrobial effects, including antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, and antiparasitic. Future prospects for the efficient discovery of new bioactive SMs from Fusarium strains are also proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meijie Xu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China
| | - Ziwei Huang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China
| | - Wangjie Zhu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China
| | - Yuanyuan Liu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China
| | - Xuelian Bai
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou 311121, China
| | - Huawei Zhang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China
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25
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Rabaan AA, Sulaiman T, Al-Ahmed SH, Buhaliqah ZA, Buhaliqah AA, AlYuosof B, Alfaresi M, Al Fares MA, Alwarthan S, Alkathlan MS, Almaghrabi RS, Abuzaid AA, Altowaileb JA, Al Ibrahim M, AlSalman EM, Alsalman F, Alghounaim M, Bueid AS, Al-Omari A, Mohapatra RK. Potential Strategies to Control the Risk of Antifungal Resistance in Humans: A Comprehensive Review. Antibiotics (Basel) 2023; 12:antibiotics12030608. [PMID: 36978475 PMCID: PMC10045400 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics12030608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Revised: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Fungal infections are becoming one of the main causes of morbidity and mortality in people with weakened immune systems. Mycoses are becoming more common, despite greater knowledge and better treatment methods, due to the regular emergence of resistance to the antifungal medications used in clinical settings. Antifungal therapy is the mainstay of patient management for acute and chronic mycoses. However, the limited availability of antifungal drug classes limits the range of available treatments. Additionally, several drawbacks to treating mycoses include unfavourable side effects, a limited activity spectrum, a paucity of targets, and fungal resistance, all of which continue to be significant issues in developing antifungal drugs. The emergence of antifungal drug resistance has eliminated accessible drug classes as treatment choices, which significantly compromises the clinical management of fungal illnesses. In some situations, the emergence of strains resistant to many antifungal medications is a major concern. Although new medications have been developed to address this issue, antifungal drug resistance has grown more pronounced, particularly in patients who need long-term care or are undergoing antifungal prophylaxis. Moreover, the mechanisms that cause resistance must be well understood, including modifications in drug target affinities and abundances, along with biofilms and efflux pumps that diminish intracellular drug levels, to find novel antifungal drugs and drug targets. In this review, different classes of antifungal agents, and their resistance mechanisms, have been discussed. The latter part of the review focuses on the strategies by which we can overcome this serious issue of antifungal resistance in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali A Rabaan
- Molecular Diagnostic Laboratory, Johns Hopkins Aramco Healthcare, Dhahran 31311, Saudi Arabia
- College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh 11533, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Public Health and Nutrition, The University of Haripur, Haripur 22610, Pakistan
| | - Tarek Sulaiman
- Infectious Diseases Section, Medical Specialties Department, King Fahad Medical City, Riyadh 12231, Saudi Arabia
| | - Shamsah H Al-Ahmed
- Specialty Paediatric Medicine, Qatif Central Hospital, Qatif 32654, Saudi Arabia
| | - Zainab A Buhaliqah
- Department of Family Medicine, Primary Healthcare Center, Dammam 32433, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ali A Buhaliqah
- College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh 11533, Saudi Arabia
| | - Buthina AlYuosof
- Directorate of Public Health, Dammam Network, Eastern Health Cluster, Dammam 31444, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mubarak Alfaresi
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Zayed Military Hospital, Abu Dhabi 3740, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai 505055, United Arab Emirates
| | - Mona A Al Fares
- Department of Internal Medicine, King Abdulaziz University Hospital, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sara Alwarthan
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam 34212, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammed S Alkathlan
- Infectious Diseases Department, King Fahad Specialist Hospital, Buraydah 52382, Saudi Arabia
| | - Reem S Almaghrabi
- Organ Transplant Center of Excellence, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Riyadh 11211, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdulmonem A Abuzaid
- Medical Microbiology Department, Security Forces Hospital Programme, Dammam 32314, Saudi Arabia
| | - Jaffar A Altowaileb
- Microbiology Laboratory, Laboratory Department, Qatif Central Hospital, Qatif 32654, Saudi Arabia
| | - Maha Al Ibrahim
- Microbiology Laboratory, Laboratory Department, Qatif Central Hospital, Qatif 32654, Saudi Arabia
| | - Eman M AlSalman
- Department of Family Medicine, Primary Health Care Centers, Qatif Health Network, Qatif 31911, Saudi Arabia
| | - Fatimah Alsalman
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Oyun City Hospital, Al-Ahsa 36312, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Ahmed S Bueid
- Microbiology Laboratory, King Faisal General Hospital, Al-Ahsa 31982, Saudi Arabia
| | - Awad Al-Omari
- College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh 11533, Saudi Arabia
- Research Center, Dr. Sulaiman Al Habib Medical Group, Riyadh 11372, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ranjan K Mohapatra
- Department of Chemistry, Government College of Engineering, Keonjhar 758002, India
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Batista M, Donker EIM, Bon C, Guillien M, Caisso A, Mourey Funding L, Marie François Funding J, Maveyraud L, Zerbib D. The conserved yeast protein Knr4 involved in cell wall integrity is a multi-domain intrinsically disordered protein. J Mol Biol 2023; 435:168048. [PMID: 36933821 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2023.168048] [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: 10/26/2022] [Revised: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023]
Abstract
Knr4/Smi1 proteins are specific to the fungal kingdom and their deletion in the model yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae and the human pathogen Candida albicans results in hypersensitivity to specific antifungal agents and a wide range of parietal stresses. In S. cerevisiae, Knr4 is located at the crossroads of several signalling pathways, including the conserved cell wall integrity and calcineurin pathways. Knr4 interacts genetically and physically with several protein members of those pathways. Its sequence suggests that it contains large intrinsically disordered regions. Here, a combination of small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) and crystallographic analysis led to a comprehensive structural view of Knr4. This experimental work unambiguously showed that Knr4 comprises two large intrinsically disordered regions flanking a central globular domain whose structure has been established. The structured domain is itself interrupted by a disordered loop. Using the CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing technique, strains expressing KNR4 genes deleted from different domains were constructed. The N-terminal domain and the loop are essential for optimal resistance to cell wall-binding stressors. The C-terminal disordered domain, on the other hand, acts as a negative regulator of this function of Knr4. The identification of molecular recognition features, the possible presence of secondary structure in these disordered domains and the functional importance of the disordered domains revealed here designate these domains as putative interacting spots with partners in either pathway. Targeting these interacting regions is a promising route to the discovery of inhibitory molecules that could increase the susceptibility of pathogens to the antifungals currently in clinical use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manon Batista
- Toulouse Biotechnology Institute (TBI), Université de Toulouse, CNRS, INRAE, INSA, F-31077 Toulouse, France; Institut de Pharmacologie et de Biologie Structurale (IPBS), Université de Toulouse, CNRS, UPS, F-31062 Toulouse, France
| | - Ellen I M Donker
- Toulouse Biotechnology Institute (TBI), Université de Toulouse, CNRS, INRAE, INSA, F-31077 Toulouse, France; Institut de Pharmacologie et de Biologie Structurale (IPBS), Université de Toulouse, CNRS, UPS, F-31062 Toulouse, France
| | - Cécile Bon
- Institut de Pharmacologie et de Biologie Structurale (IPBS), Université de Toulouse, CNRS, UPS, F-31062 Toulouse, France
| | - Myriam Guillien
- Toulouse Biotechnology Institute (TBI), Université de Toulouse, CNRS, INRAE, INSA, F-31077 Toulouse, France; Institut de Pharmacologie et de Biologie Structurale (IPBS), Université de Toulouse, CNRS, UPS, F-31062 Toulouse, France
| | - Adriana Caisso
- Toulouse Biotechnology Institute (TBI), Université de Toulouse, CNRS, INRAE, INSA, F-31077 Toulouse, France
| | - Lionel Mourey Funding
- Institut de Pharmacologie et de Biologie Structurale (IPBS), Université de Toulouse, CNRS, UPS, F-31062 Toulouse, France
| | | | - Laurent Maveyraud
- Institut de Pharmacologie et de Biologie Structurale (IPBS), Université de Toulouse, CNRS, UPS, F-31062 Toulouse, France.
| | - Didier Zerbib
- Toulouse Biotechnology Institute (TBI), Université de Toulouse, CNRS, INRAE, INSA, F-31077 Toulouse, France.
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Lower Concentrations of Amphotericin B Combined with Ent-Hardwickiic Acid Are Effective against Candida Strains. Antibiotics (Basel) 2023; 12:antibiotics12030509. [PMID: 36978378 PMCID: PMC10044661 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics12030509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Life-threatening Candida infections have increased with the COVID-19 pandemic, and the already limited arsenal of antifungal drugs has become even more restricted due to its side effects associated with complications after SARS-CoV-2 infection. Drug combination strategies have the potential to reduce the risk of side effects without loss of therapeutic efficacy. The aim of this study was to evaluate the combination of ent-hardwickiic acid with low concentrations of amphotericin B against Candida strains. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values were determined for amphotericin B and ent-hardwickiic acid as isolated compounds and for 77 combinations of amphotericin B and ent-hardwickiic acid concentrations that were assessed by using the checkerboard microdilution method. Time–kill assays were performed in order to assess the fungistatic or fungicidal nature of the different combinations. The strategy of combining both compounds markedly reduced the MIC values from 16 µg/mL to 1 µg/mL of amphotericin B and from 12.5 µg/mL to 6.25 µg/mL of ent-hardwickiic acid, from isolated to combined, against C. albicans resistant to azoles. The combination of 1 µg/mL of amphotericin B with 6.25 µg/mL of ent-hardwickiic acid killed all the cells of the same strain within four hours of incubation.
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28
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Polymer-based particles against pathogenic fungi: A non-uptake delivery of compounds. BIOMATERIALS ADVANCES 2023; 146:213300. [PMID: 36708684 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioadv.2023.213300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2022] [Revised: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
The therapy of life-threatening fungal infections is limited and needs urgent improvement. This is in part due to toxic side effects of clinically used antifungal compounds or their limited delivery to fungal structures. Until today, it is a matter of debate how drugs or drug-delivery systems can efficiently reach the intracellular lumen of fungal cells and how this can be improved. Here, we addressed both questions by applying two different polymeric particles for delivery of compounds. Their formulation was based on two biocompatible polymers, i.e., poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid)50:50 and poly(methyl methacrylate-stat-methacrylic acid)90:10 yielding particles with hydrodynamic diameters ranging from 100 to 300 nm. The polymers were covalently labeled with the fluorescent dye DY-550 to monitor the interaction between particles and fungi by confocal laser scanning microscopy. Furthermore, the fluorescent dye coumarin-6 and the antifungal drug itraconazole were successfully encapsulated in particles to study the fate of both the cargo and the particle when interacting with the clinically most important human-pathogenic fungi Aspergillus fumigatus, A. terreus, Candida albicans, and Cryptococcus neoformans. While the polymers were exclusively located on the fungal surface, the encapsulated cargo was efficiently transported into fungal hyphae, indicated by increased intracellular fluorescence signals due to coumarin-6. In accordance with this finding, compared to the pristine drug a reduced minimal inhibitory concentration for itraconazole was determined, when it was encapsulated. Together, the herein used polymeric particles were not internalized by pathogenic fungi but were able to efficiently deliver hydrophobic cargos into fungal cells.
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29
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Campos LM, Lemos ASO, Diniz IOM, Carvalho LA, Silva TP, Dib PRB, Hottz ED, Chedier LM, Melo RCN, Fabri RL. Antifungal Annona muricata L. (soursop) extract targets the cell envelope of multi-drug resistant Candida albicans. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 301:115856. [PMID: 36280018 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2022.115856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Revised: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
ETNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Annona muricata L. (soursop) is traditionally used in the treatment of inflammatory diseases, cancer, and infections caused by fungi. The therapeutic activity explored by its medicinal use is generally associated with its phytoconstituents, such as acetogenins and alkaloids. However, its potential antifungal bioactivity as well as its mechanism of action remains to be established. AIM OF THE STUDY To evaluate the antifungal activity of the ethanolic extract of A. muricata leaves against multidrug-resistant Candida albicans (ATCC® 10231). MATERIAL AND METHODS Phytoconstituents were detected by UFLC-QTOF-MS. The minimum inhibitory concentration was determined, followed by the determination of the minimum fungicidal concentration. For planktonic cells, the growth curve and cell density were evaluated. Studies to understand the mechanism of action on the cell envelope involved crystal violet permeability, membrane extravasation, sorbitol protection, exogenous ergosterol binding assay, metabolic activity, and cell viability. Furthermore, mitochondrial membrane potential was assessed. RESULTS Our analyses demonstrated a significant inhibitory effect of A. muricata, with the ability to reduce fungal growth by 58% and cell density by 65%. The extract affected both the fungal plasma membrane and cell wall integrity, with significant reduction of the cell viability. Depolarization of the fungal mitochondrial membrane was observed after treatment with A. muricata. Rutin, xi-anomuricine, kaempferol-3O-rutinoside, nornuciferine, xylopine, atherosperminine, caffeic acid, asimilobine, s-norcorydine, loliolide, annohexocin, annomuricin, annopentocin, and sucrose were identified as extract bioactive components. CONCLUSIONS Our findings show that the A. muricata extract is a source of chemical diversity, which acts as a potential antifungal agent with promising application to the therapy of infections caused by C. albicans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lara M Campos
- Bioactive Natural Products Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Juiz de Fora, Juiz de Fora, MG, Brazil
| | - Ari S O Lemos
- Bioactive Natural Products Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Juiz de Fora, Juiz de Fora, MG, Brazil
| | - Irley O M Diniz
- Bioactive Natural Products Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Juiz de Fora, Juiz de Fora, MG, Brazil
| | - Lucas A Carvalho
- Bioactive Natural Products Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Juiz de Fora, Juiz de Fora, MG, Brazil
| | - Thiago P Silva
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Juiz de Fora, Juiz de Fora, MG, Brazil
| | - Paula R B Dib
- Laboratory of Immunothrombosis, Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Juiz de Fora, Juiz de Fora, MG, Brazil
| | - Eugênio D Hottz
- Laboratory of Immunothrombosis, Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Juiz de Fora, Juiz de Fora, MG, Brazil
| | - Luciana M Chedier
- Plant Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Botany, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Juiz de Fora, Juiz de Fora, Juiz de Fora, MG, Brazil
| | - Rossana C N Melo
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Juiz de Fora, 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, Juiz de Fora, MG, Brazil.
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30
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Vanreppelen G, Wuyts J, Van Dijck P, Vandecruys P. Sources of Antifungal Drugs. J Fungi (Basel) 2023; 9:jof9020171. [PMID: 36836286 PMCID: PMC9965926 DOI: 10.3390/jof9020171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2022] [Revised: 01/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Due to their eukaryotic heritage, the differences between a fungal pathogen's molecular makeup and its human host are small. Therefore, the discovery and subsequent development of novel antifungal drugs are extremely challenging. Nevertheless, since the 1940s, researchers have successfully uncovered potent candidates from natural or synthetic sources. Analogs and novel formulations of these drugs enhanced the pharmacological parameters and improved overall drug efficiency. These compounds ultimately became the founding members of novel drug classes and were successfully applied in clinical settings, offering valuable and efficient treatment of mycosis for decades. Currently, only five different antifungal drug classes exist, all characterized by a unique mode of action; these are polyenes, pyrimidine analogs, azoles, allylamines, and echinocandins. The latter, being the latest addition to the antifungal armamentarium, was introduced over two decades ago. As a result of this limited arsenal, antifungal resistance development has exponentially increased and, with it, a growing healthcare crisis. In this review, we discuss the original sources of antifungal compounds, either natural or synthetic. Additionally, we summarize the existing drug classes, potential novel candidates in the clinical pipeline, and emerging non-traditional treatment options.
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Verboni M, Sisti M, Campana R, Benedetti S, Palma F, Potenza L, Lucarini S, Duranti A. Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of 6- O-Sucrose Monoester Glycolipids as Possible New Antifungal Agents. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:136. [PMID: 37259288 PMCID: PMC9966131 DOI: 10.3390/ph16020136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Revised: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
A small library of 6-O-sucrose monoester surfactants has been synthesized and tested against various microorganisms. The synthetic procedure involved a modified Mitsunobu reaction, which showed improved results compared to those present in the literature (higher yields and larger scope). The antifungal activities of most of these glycolipids were satisfactory. In particular, sucrose palmitoleate (URB1537) showed good activity against Candida albicans ATCC 10231, Fusarium spp., and Aspergillus fumigatus IDRAH01 (MIC value: 16, 32, 64 µg/mL, respectively), and was further characterized through radical scavenging, anti-inflammatory, and biocompatibility tests. URB1537 has been shown to control the inflammatory response and to have a safe profile.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Simone Lucarini
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, 61029 Urbino, PU, Italy
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Pathogenic Drug Resistant Fungi: A Review of Mitigation Strategies. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24021584. [PMID: 36675092 PMCID: PMC9863602 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24021584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Fungal pathogens cause significant human morbidity and mortality globally, where there is a propensity to infect vulnerable people such as the immunocompromised ones. There is increasing evidence of resistance to antifungal drugs, which has significant implications for cutaneous, invasive and bloodstream infections. The World Health Organization (WHO) published a priority list of fungal pathogens in October 2022, thus, highlighting that a crisis point has been reached where there is a pressing need to address the solutions. This review provides a timely insight into the challenges and implications on the topic of antifungal drug resistance along with discussing the effectiveness of established disease mitigation modalities and approaches. There is also a need to elucidate the cellular and molecular mechanisms of fungal resistance to inform effective solutions. The established fungal decontamination approaches are effective for medical device processing and sterilization, but the presence of pathogenic fungi in recalcitrant biofilms can lead to challenges, particularly during cleaning. Future design ideas for implantable and reusable medical devices should consider antifungal materials and appropriates for disinfection, and where it is relevant, sterilization. Preventing the growth of mycotoxin-producing fungi on foods through the use of appropriate end-to-end processes is advisable, as mycotoxins are recalcitrant and challenging to eliminate once they have formed.
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Wu S, Guo W, Li B, Zhou H, Meng H, Sun J, Li R, Guo D, Zhang X, Li R, Qu W. Progress of polymer-based strategies in fungal disease management: Designed for different roles. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2023; 13:1142029. [PMID: 37033476 PMCID: PMC10073610 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1142029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Fungal diseases have posed a great challenge to global health, but have fewer solutions compared to bacterial and viral infections. Development and application of new treatment modalities for fungi are limited by their inherent essential properties as eukaryotes. The microorganism identification and drug sensitivity analyze are limited by their proliferation rates. Moreover, there are currently no vaccines for prevention. Polymer science and related interdisciplinary technologies have revolutionized the field of fungal disease management. To date, numerous advanced polymer-based systems have been developed for management of fungal diseases, including prevention, diagnosis, treatment and monitoring. In this review, we provide an overview of current needs and advances in polymer-based strategies against fungal diseases. We high light various treatment modalities. Delivery systems of antifungal drugs, systems based on polymers' innate antifungal activities, and photodynamic therapies each follow their own mechanisms and unique design clues. We also discuss various prevention strategies including immunization and antifungal medical devices, and further describe point-of-care testing platforms as futuristic diagnostic and monitoring tools. The broad application of polymer-based strategies for both public and personal health management is prospected and integrated systems have become a promising direction. However, there is a gap between experimental studies and clinical translation. In future, well-designed in vivo trials should be conducted to reveal the underlying mechanisms and explore the efficacy as well as biosafety of polymer-based products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siyu Wu
- Department of Hand Surgery, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Wenlai Guo
- Department of Hand Surgery, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Bo Li
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Huidong Zhou
- Department of Hand Surgery, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Hongqi Meng
- Department of Hand Surgery, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Junyi Sun
- Changchun American International School, Changchun, China
| | - Ruiyan Li
- Orthpoeadic Medical Center, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Orhtopeadics, Changchun, China
| | - Deming Guo
- Orthpoeadic Medical Center, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Orhtopeadics, Changchun, China
| | - Xi Zhang
- Department of Burn Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
- *Correspondence: Xi Zhang, ; Rui Li, ; Wenrui Qu,
| | - Rui Li
- Department of Hand Surgery, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
- *Correspondence: Xi Zhang, ; Rui Li, ; Wenrui Qu,
| | - Wenrui Qu
- Department of Hand Surgery, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
- *Correspondence: Xi Zhang, ; Rui Li, ; Wenrui Qu,
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Fan G, Xu Z, Liu X, Yin W, Sun L, Wu D, Wei M, Wang W, Cai Y. Antifungal Efficacy of Gallic Acid Extracted From Pomegranate Peel Against Trichophyton rubrum: In Vitro Case Study. Nat Prod Commun 2023. [DOI: 10.1177/1934578x221148607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives: Trichophyton rubrum is one of the main pathogens causing superficial dermatophytosis, producing symptoms such as skin itching and pain, which seriously affects the quality of life of patients. Pomegranate peel extract is rich in gallic acid (GA), which has been reported to have biological effects including antifungal activity. However, the morphological and molecular mechanisms underlying the effects of GA on T rubrum are not well understood. The objectives of this study were to determine the antifungal efficacy of GA extracted from pomegranate peel against T rubrum in vitro, and to explore the underlying molecular mechanisms. Methods: The effects of 0-, 0.5-, and 1 mg/mL GA in pomegranate peel extract on T rubrum was investigated by detecting cell viability using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assays. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) was used to analyze the ultrastructure of T. rubrum, and transcriptome sequencing was used to analyze the enrichment pathway of differentially expressed genes. The identification of biosynthesis-related and key genes in the pathways involved using real-time quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) technology. Terbinafine hydrochloride (TERB) as a positive control group. Results: Pomegranate peel extract has a GA content of 1.0 mg/mL. Compared with untreated group, following treatment with 1.0 mg/mL GA content is rich in pomegranate peel extract, and the microstructure of T rubrum is destroyed. TEM results show that the number of lipid droplets in T rubrum was significantly increased, mitochondrial vacuoles degenerated, the serosa were damaged, and the boundary of thallus was unclear. In addition, 1 mg/mL GA can significantly inhibit T rubrum proliferation, and its inhibition ability is better than TERB. Transcriptomics results show that GA can change the gene expression profile of T rubrum, specifically: The biosynthesis was blocked, drug resistance was weakened, the transport of ATP-binding cassette (ABC) drugs transporter was increased, and the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway was significantly inhibited. Conclusions: Pomegranate peel extract is rich in GA, which strongly inhibited the growth of T rubrum and reduced its drug resistance. This extract is a promising natural antifungal agent for clinical use.
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Affiliation(s)
- GaoFu Fan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Hefei Technology College, Chaohu, Anhui, China
| | - ZhenGuo Xu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Hefei Technology College, Chaohu, Anhui, China
| | - XiuShu Liu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Hefei Technology College, Chaohu, Anhui, China
| | - Wei Yin
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Hefei Technology College, Chaohu, Anhui, China
| | - LiHua Sun
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Hefei Technology College, Chaohu, Anhui, China
| | - Dan Wu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Hefei Technology College, Chaohu, Anhui, China
| | - MengQiang Wei
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Hefei Technology College, Chaohu, Anhui, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hefei Food and Drug Inspection Center, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - YuHua Cai
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Hefei Technology College, Chaohu, Anhui, China
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Sharma N, Wani SN, Behl T, Singh S, Zahoor I, Sehgal A, Bhatia S, Al-Harrasi A, Aleya L, Bungau S. Focusing COVID-19-associated mucormycosis: a major threat to immunocompromised COVID-19. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:9164-9183. [PMID: 36454526 PMCID: PMC9713750 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-022-24032-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
COVID-19 disease has been identified to cause remarkable increase of mucormycosis infection cases in India, with the majority of cases being observed in individuals recovering from COVID-19. Mucormycosis has emanated as an outcome of the recent COVID-19 pandemic outbreak as rapidly developing fatal illness which was acquired by Mucorales fungus which is a subcategory of molds known as mucormycetes. Mucormycosis is one of the serious, sporadic mycotic illnesses which is a great threat to immunocompromised COVID-19 patients and affects people of all ages, including children with COVID-19 infections. This is associated with tissue damaging property and, therefore, causes serious clinical complications and elevated death rate. The COVID-19-associated mucormycosis or "black fungus" are the terms used interchangeably. The rapid growth of tissue necrosis presenting as "rhino-orbital-cerebral, pulmonary, cutaneous, gastrointestinal, and disseminated disease" are various clinical forms of mucormycosis. The patient's prognosis and survival can be improved with proper surgeries using an endoscopic approach for local tissue protection in conjunction with course of appropriate conventional antifungal drug like Amphotericin-B and novel drugs like Rezafungin, encochleated Amphotericin B, Orolofim, and SCY-078 which have been explored in last few years. This review provides an overview of mucormycosis including its epidemiology, pathophysiology, risk factors, its clinical forms, and therapeutic approaches for disease management like antifungal therapy, surgical debridement, and iron chelators. The published patents and ongoing clinical trials related to mucormycosis have also been mentioned in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neelam Sharma
- Department of Pharmaceutics, MM College of Pharmacy, Maharishi Markandeshwar (Deemed to be University), Mullana-Ambala, Haryana, 133207, India
| | | | - Tapan Behl
- School of Health Sciences and Technology, University of Petroleum and Energy Studies, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Sukhbir Singh
- Department of Pharmaceutics, MM College of Pharmacy, Maharishi Markandeshwar (Deemed to be University), Mullana-Ambala, Haryana, 133207, India.
| | - Ishrat Zahoor
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Punjab, India
| | - Aayush Sehgal
- GHG Khalsa College of Pharmacy, Gurusar Sadhar, Ludhiana, Punjab, India
| | - Saurabh Bhatia
- Natural & Medical Sciences Research Center, University of Nizwa, Nizwa, Oman
| | - Ahmed Al-Harrasi
- Natural & Medical Sciences Research Center, University of Nizwa, Nizwa, Oman
| | - Lotfi Aleya
- Chrono-Environment Laboratory, UMR CNRS 6249, Bourgogne Franche-Comté University, Besançon, France
| | - Simona Bungau
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Oradea, Oradea, Romania
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Serseg T, Benarous K, Serseg M, Rehman HM, El Bakri Y, Goumri-Said S. Discovery of inhibitors against SARS-CoV-2 associated fungal coinfections via virtual screening, ADMET evaluation, PASS, molecular docking, dynamics and pharmacophore studies. ARAB JOURNAL OF BASIC AND APPLIED SCIENCES 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/25765299.2022.2126588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Talia Serseg
- Natural Sciences department, Ecole Normale Supérieure Taleb Abderrahmane, Laghouat, Algeria
- Fundamental Sciences Laboratory, Amar Telidji University, Laghouat, Algeria
| | - Khedidja Benarous
- Fundamental Sciences Laboratory, Amar Telidji University, Laghouat, Algeria
- Biology department, Amar Telidji University, Laghouat, Algeria
| | - Menaouar Serseg
- Laboratory of Hematology, Central Hospital of Army, Ain Naadja, Algiers, Algeria
| | - Hafiz Muzzammel Rehman
- School of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan
- Alnoorians Group of Institutes 55-Elahi Bukhsh Park, Amir Road, Shad Bagh, Shad Bagh, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Youness El Bakri
- Department of Theoretical and Applied Chemistry, South Ural State University, Chelyabinsk, Russian Federation
| | - Souraya Goumri-Said
- College of Science, Physics Department, Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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Choudhary M, Kumar V, Naik B, Verma A, Saris PEJ, Kumar V, Gupta S. Antifungal metabolites, their novel sources, and targets to combat drug resistance. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:1061603. [PMID: 36532457 PMCID: PMC9755354 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.1061603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Excessive antibiotic prescriptions as well as their misuse in agriculture are the main causes of antimicrobial resistance which poses a growing threat to public health. It necessitates the search for novel chemicals to combat drug resistance. Since ancient times, naturally occurring medicines have been employed and the enormous variety of bioactive chemicals found in nature has long served as an inspiration for researchers looking for possible therapeutics. Secondary metabolites from microorganisms, particularly those from actinomycetes, have made it incredibly easy to find new molecules. Different actinomycetes species account for more than 70% of naturally generated antibiotics currently used in medicine, and they also produce a variety of secondary metabolites, including pigments, enzymes, and anti-inflammatory compounds. They continue to be a crucial source of fresh chemical diversity and a crucial component of drug discovery. This review summarizes some uncommon sources of antifungal metabolites and highlights the importance of further research on these unusual habitats as a source of novel antimicrobial molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megha Choudhary
- Himalayan School of Biosciences, Swami Rama Himalayan University, Dehradun, India
| | - Vijay Kumar
- Himalayan School of Biosciences, Swami Rama Himalayan University, Dehradun, India
| | - Bindu Naik
- Department of Life Sciences (Food Technology & Nutrition), Graphic Era (Deemed to be University), Dehradun, India
| | - Ankit Verma
- Himalayan School of Biosciences, Swami Rama Himalayan University, Dehradun, India
| | - Per Erik Joakim Saris
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Agriculture and Forestry, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Vivek Kumar
- Himalayan School of Biosciences, Swami Rama Himalayan University, Dehradun, India
| | - Sanjay Gupta
- Himalayan School of Biosciences, Swami Rama Himalayan University, Dehradun, India
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Prajapati J, Goswami D, Dabhi M, Acharya D, Rawal RM. Potential dual inhibition of SE and CYP51 by eugenol conferring inhibition of Candida albicans: Computationally curated study with experimental validation. Comput Biol Med 2022; 151:106237. [PMID: 36327880 DOI: 10.1016/j.compbiomed.2022.106237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2022] [Revised: 10/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Ergosterol is the key sterol component in the cell membrane of fungi including moulds and yeasts. Any decrease in the levels of ergosterol in the cell membrane of fungi render them venerable to cell membrane damage and even its death. Majority of antifungal drug targets the key enzymes involved in ergosterol biosynthesis pathway. The biochemical pathway for the synthesis of Ergosterol is a complex one, though the reactions carried by Squalene Epoxidase (SE) and 14α-demethylase (CYP51- a member of Cytochrome P450 family) serves to the key rate limiting reactions that can impact the overall production of Ergosterol. Allylamines class of antifungal drug target SE while Azoles target the CYP51. Currently advancement in the drug development is focused to introduce newer drugs that can simultaneously inhibit both this rate limiting enzymes. However, natural compounds established to possess antifungal activity but the major loophole about their understanding lies in the fact that their mode of action are severely unstudied. One such well-established antifungal natural phytochemical is Eugenol, and in current manuscript we investigated its efficacy to interact with both, SE and CYP51 of Candida albicans using molecular Docking, Free energy change calculations and Molecular Dynamics (MD) simulation, showing promising outcomes. For experimental studies, terbinafine, clotrimazole and eugenol showed 4 μg/ml, 2 μg/ml, and 512 μg/ml MIC90 values, respectively against C. albicans and also showed reduction in Ergosterol production at sub-MIC levels. The obtained result indicates the involvement of eugenol in the inhibition of enzymes require in the ergosterol biosynthesis pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jignesh Prajapati
- Department of Biochemistry & Forensic Science, University School of Sciences, Gujarat University, Ahmedabad, 380009, Gujarat, India
| | - Dweipayan Goswami
- Department of Microbiology & Biotechnology, University School of Sciences, Gujarat University, Ahmedabad, 380009, Gujarat, India.
| | - Milan Dabhi
- Department of Microbiology & Biotechnology, University School of Sciences, Gujarat University, Ahmedabad, 380009, Gujarat, India
| | - Dhaval Acharya
- Department of Microbiology, B N Patel Institute of Paramedical and Sciences, Anand, 388001, Gujarat, India
| | - Rakesh M Rawal
- Department of Biochemistry & Forensic Science, University School of Sciences, Gujarat University, Ahmedabad, 380009, Gujarat, India; Department of Life Science, University School of Sciences, Gujarat University, Ahmedabad, 380009, Gujarat, India.
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Punia A, Choudhary P, Sharma N, Dahiya S, Gulia P, Chhillar AK. Therapeutic Approaches for Combating Aspergillus Associated Infection. Curr Drug Targets 2022; 23:1465-1488. [PMID: 35748549 DOI: 10.2174/1389450123666220623164548] [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: 09/28/2021] [Revised: 02/12/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Now-a-days fungal infection emerges as a significant problem to healthcare management systems due to high frequency of associated morbidity, mortality toxicity, drug-drug interactions, and resistance of the antifungal agents. Aspergillus is the most common mold that cause infection in immunocompromised hosts. It's a hyaline mold that is cosmopolitan and ubiquitous in nature. Aspergillus infects around 10 million population each year with a mortality rate of 30-90%. Clinically available antifungal formulations are restricted to four classes (i.e., polyene, triazole, echinocandin, and allylamine), and each of them have their own limitations associated with the activity spectrum, the emergence of resistance, and toxicity. Consequently, novel antifungal agents with modified and altered chemical structures are required to combat these invasive fungal infections. To overcome these limitations, there is an urgent need for new antifungal agents that can act as potent drugs in near future. Currently, some compounds have shown effective antifungal activity. In this review article, we have discussed all potential antifungal therapies that contain old antifungal drugs, combination therapies, and recent novel antifungal formulations, with a focus on the Aspergillus associated infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aruna Punia
- Department of Biotechnology, Maharishi Dayanand University, Rohtak, Haryana 124001, India
| | - Pooja Choudhary
- Department of Biotechnology, Maharishi Dayanand University, Rohtak, Haryana 124001, India
| | - Namita Sharma
- Department of Biotechnology, Maharishi Dayanand University, Rohtak, Haryana 124001, India
| | - Sweety Dahiya
- Department of Biotechnology, Maharishi Dayanand University, Rohtak, Haryana 124001, India
| | - Prity Gulia
- Department of Biotechnology, Maharishi Dayanand University, Rohtak, Haryana 124001, India
| | - Anil K Chhillar
- Department of Biotechnology, Maharishi Dayanand University, Rohtak, Haryana 124001, India
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Yan R, Liu J, Dong Z, Peng Q. Nanomaterials-mediated photodynamic therapy and its applications in treating oral diseases. BIOMATERIALS ADVANCES 2022; 144:213218. [PMID: 36436431 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioadv.2022.213218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Revised: 11/19/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Oral diseases, such as dental caries, periodontitis and oral cancer, have a very high morbidity over the world. Basically, many oral diseases are commonly related to bacterial infections or cell malignant proliferation, and usually located on the superficial positions. These features allow the convenient and efficient application of photodynamic therapy (PDT) for oral diseases, since PDT is ideally suitable for the diseases on superficial sites and has been widely used for antimicrobial and anticancer therapy. Photosensitizers (PSs) are an essential element in PDT, which induce the generation of a large number of reactive oxygen species (ROS) upon absorption of specific lights. Almost all the PSs are small molecules and commonly suffered from various problems in the PDT environment, such as low solubility and poor stability. Recently, reports on the nanomedicine-based PDT have been well documented. Various functionalized nanomaterials can serve either as the PSs carriers or the direct PSs, thus enhancing the PDT efficacy. Herein, we aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of the features of different oral diseases and discuss the potential applications of nanomedicine-based PDT in the treatment of some common oral diseases. Also, the concerns and possible solutions for nanomaterials-mediated PDT are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruijiao Yan
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Jianhong Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Zaiquan Dong
- Mental Health Center of West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.
| | - Qiang Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.
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Sun C, Li X, Zhang Y, Lu L. Subunit C of V-ATPase-VmaC Is Required for Hyphal Growth and Conidiation in A. fumigatus by Affecting Vacuolar Calcium Homeostasis and Cell Wall Integration. J Fungi (Basel) 2022; 8:1219. [PMID: 36422040 PMCID: PMC9699406 DOI: 10.3390/jof8111219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2022] [Revised: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 08/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Aspergillus fumigatus is a widespread airborne fungal pathogen in humans. However, the functional genes in A. fumigatus that may contribute to its pathogenesis have not yet been fully identified. Vacuolar H+-ATPase is universal in eukaryotic organisms but exhibits specific roles in various species. Here, we identified VmaC as a putative subunit of vacuolar H+-ATPase in A. fumigatus that is widely conserved through evolution. The C-terminal hydrophobic domain of VmaC plays a critical role in its vacuolar localization and growth and conidiation. Deletion or turn-off of VmaC encoding gene-AfvmaC expression is not lethal but leads to a very sick and tiny colony phenotype, which is different from that of yeast with conditional ScvmaC defects. Furthermore, we found that AfvmaC not only participates in maintaining calcium homeostasis and vacuolar acidity but is also involved in cell wall integration pathway regulation, highlighting the importance of the vacuole as a storage organelle associated with many aspects of cellular homeostasis. This study indicates that fungal VmaC is relatively conserved. When compared to that in model yeasts, VmaC in A. fumigatus is required for hyphal growth and conidiation, suggesting that specific motifs in VmaC might be functioned in Aspergilli.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Yuanwei Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Microbes and Functional Genomics, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Ling Lu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Microbes and Functional Genomics, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China
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Molecular Mechanisms of Antifungal Resistance in Mucormycosis. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 2022:6722245. [PMID: 36277891 PMCID: PMC9584669 DOI: 10.1155/2022/6722245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Revised: 06/25/2022] [Accepted: 09/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Mucormycosis is one among the life-threatening fungal infections with high morbidity and mortality. It is an uncommon and rare infection targeting people with altered immunity. This lethal infection induced by fungi belonging to the Mucorales family is very progressive in nature. The incidence has increased in recent decades owing to the rise in immunocompromised patients. Disease management involves a multimodal strategy including early administration of drugs and surgical removal of infected tissues. Among the antifungals, azoles and amphotericin B remain the gold standard drugs of choice for initial treatment. The order Mucorales are developing a high level of resistance to the available systemic antifungal drugs, and the efficacy still remains below par. Deciphering the molecular mechanisms behind the antifungal resistance in Mucormycosis would add vital information to our available antifungal armamentarium and design novel therapies. Therefore, in this review, we have discussed the mechanisms behind Mucormycosis antifungal resistance. Moreover, this review also highlights the basic mechanisms of action of antifungal drugs and the resistance landscape which is expected to augment future treatment strategies.
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Schulz J, Michelet R, Zeitlinger M, Mikus G, Kloft C. Microdialysis of Drug and Drug Metabolite: a Comprehensive In Vitro Analysis for Voriconazole and Voriconazole N-oxide. Pharm Res 2022; 39:2991-3003. [PMID: 36171344 PMCID: PMC9633485 DOI: 10.1007/s11095-022-03292-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Purpose Voriconazole is a therapeutically challenging antifungal drug associated with high interindividual pharmacokinetic variability. As a prerequisite to performing clinical trials using the minimally-invasive sampling technique microdialysis, a comprehensive in vitro microdialysis characterization of voriconazole (VRC) and its potentially toxic N-oxide metabolite (NO) was performed. Methods The feasibility of simultaneous microdialysis of VRC and NO was explored in vitro by investigating the relative recovery (RR) of both compounds in the absence and presence of the other. The dependency of RR on compound combination, concentration, microdialysis catheter and study day was evaluated and quantified by linear mixed-effects modeling. Results Median RR of VRC and NO during individual microdialysis were high (87.6% and 91.1%). During simultaneous microdialysis of VRC and NO, median RR did not change (87.9% and 91.1%). The linear mixed-effects model confirmed the absence of significant differences between RR of VRC and NO during individual and simultaneous microdialysis as well as between the two compounds (p > 0.05). No concentration dependency of RR was found (p = 0.284). The study day was the main source of variability (46.3%) while the microdialysis catheter only had a minor effect (4.33%). VRC retrodialysis proved feasible as catheter calibration for both compounds. Conclusion These in vitro microdialysis results encourage the application of microdialysis in clinical trials to assess target-site concentrations of VRC and NO. This can support the generation of a coherent understanding of VRC pharmacokinetics and its sources of variability. Ultimately, a better understanding of human VRC pharmacokinetics might contribute to the development of personalized dosing strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josefine Schulz
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Biochemistry, Institute of Pharmacy, Freie Universitaet Berlin, Kelchstraße 31, 12169 Berlin, Germany
| | - Robin Michelet
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Biochemistry, Institute of Pharmacy, Freie Universitaet Berlin, Kelchstraße 31, 12169 Berlin, Germany
| | - Markus Zeitlinger
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Gerd Mikus
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Biochemistry, Institute of Pharmacy, Freie Universitaet Berlin, Kelchstraße 31, 12169 Berlin, Germany
- Department Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacoepidemiology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 410, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Charlotte Kloft
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Biochemistry, Institute of Pharmacy, Freie Universitaet Berlin, Kelchstraße 31, 12169 Berlin, Germany
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Targeting Virulence Factors of Candida albicans with Natural Products. Foods 2022; 11:foods11192951. [PMID: 36230026 PMCID: PMC9562657 DOI: 10.3390/foods11192951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2022] [Revised: 09/11/2022] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural products derived from natural resources, including nutritional functional food, play an important role in human health. In recent years, the study of anti-fungal and other properties of agri-foods and derived functional compounds has been a hot research topic. Candida albicans is a parasitic fungus that thrives on human mucosal surfaces, which are colonized through opportunistic infection. It is the most prevalent cause of invasive fungal infection in immunocompromised individuals, resulting in a wide variety of clinical symptoms. Moreover, the efficacy of classical therapeutic medications such as fluconazole is often limited by the development of resistance. There is an ongoing need for the development of novel and effective antifungal therapy and medications. Infection of C. albicans is influenced by a great quantity of virulence factors, like adhesion, invasion-promoting enzymes, mycelial growth, and phenotypic change, and among others. Furthermore, various natural products especially from food sources that target C. albicans virulence factors have been researched, providing promising prospects for C. albicans prevention and treatment. In this review, we discuss the virulence factors of C. albicans and how functional foods and derived functional compounds affect them. Our hope is that this review will stimulate additional thoughts and suggestions regarding nutritional functional food and therapeutic development for patients afflicted with C. albicans.
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Gow NAR, Johnson C, Berman J, Coste AT, Cuomo CA, Perlin DS, Bicanic T, Harrison TS, Wiederhold N, Bromley M, Chiller T, Edgar K. The importance of antimicrobial resistance in medical mycology. Nat Commun 2022; 13:5352. [PMID: 36097014 PMCID: PMC9466305 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-32249-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 37.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 07/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Prior to the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, antibiotic resistance was listed as the major global health care priority. Some analyses, including the O'Neill report, have predicted that deaths due to drug-resistant bacterial infections may eclipse the total number of cancer deaths by 2050. Although fungal infections remain in the shadow of public awareness, total attributable annual deaths are similar to, or exceeds, global mortalities due to malaria, tuberculosis or HIV. The impact of fungal infections has been exacerbated by the steady rise of antifungal drug resistant strains and species which reflects the widespread use of antifungals for prophylaxis and therapy, and in the case of azole resistance in Aspergillus, has been linked to the widespread agricultural use of antifungals. This review, based on a workshop hosted by the Medical Research Council and the University of Exeter, illuminates the problem of antifungal resistance and suggests how this growing threat might be mitigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neil A R Gow
- MRC Centre for Medical Mycology, School of Biosciences, University of Exeter, Geoffrey Pope Building, Exeter, EX4 4QD, UK.
| | - Carolyn Johnson
- Medical Research Council, Polaris House, Swindon, SN2 1FL, UK.
| | - Judith Berman
- Shmunis School of Biomedical and Cancer Research, George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, 418 Britannia Building, Ramat Aviv, 69978, Israel
| | - Alix T Coste
- Microbiology Institute, University Hospital Lausanne, rue du Bugnon 48, 1011, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Christina A Cuomo
- (CAC) Infectious Disease and Microbiome Program, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, 02142, USA
| | - David S Perlin
- Center for Discovery and Innovation, Hackensack Meridian health, Nutley, NJ, 07110, USA
| | - Tihana Bicanic
- Institute of Infection and Immunity, St George's University of London, London, SW17 0RE, UK
- Clinical Academic Group in Infection, St George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, SW17 0QT, UK
| | - Thomas S Harrison
- MRC Centre for Medical Mycology, School of Biosciences, University of Exeter, Geoffrey Pope Building, Exeter, EX4 4QD, UK
- Institute of Infection and Immunity, St George's University of London, London, SW17 0RE, UK
- Clinical Academic Group in Infection, St George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, SW17 0QT, UK
| | - Nathan Wiederhold
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, 78229, USA
| | - Mike Bromley
- Manchester Fungal Infection Group, Division of Evolution, Infection, and Genomics, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, CTF Building, 46 Grafton Street, Manchester, M13 9NT, UK
| | - Tom Chiller
- Center for Disease Control and Prevention Mycotic Disease Branch 1600 Clifton Rd, MSC-09, Atlanta, 30333, GA, USA
| | - Keegan Edgar
- Center for Disease Control and Prevention Mycotic Disease Branch 1600 Clifton Rd, MSC-09, Atlanta, 30333, GA, USA
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Aguiar TKB, Neto NAS, Freitas CDT, Silva AFB, Bezerra LP, Malveira EA, Branco LAC, Mesquita FP, Goldman GH, Alencar LMR, Oliveira JTA, Santos-Oliveira R, Souza PFN. Antifungal Potential of Synthetic Peptides against Cryptococcus neoformans: Mechanism of Action Studies Reveal Synthetic Peptides Induce Membrane-Pore Formation, DNA Degradation, and Apoptosis. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14081678. [PMID: 36015304 PMCID: PMC9416200 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14081678] [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: 07/15/2022] [Revised: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryptococcus neoformans is a human-pathogenic yeast responsible for pneumonia and meningitis, mainly in patients immunocompromised. Infections caused by C. neoformans are a global health concern. Synthetic antimicrobial peptides (SAMPs) have emerged as alternative molecules to cope with fungal infections, including C. neoformans. Here, eight SAMPs were tested regarding their antifungal potential against C. neoformans and had their mechanisms of action elucidated by fluorescence and scanning electron microscopies. Five SAMPs showed an inhibitory effect (MIC50) on C. neoformans growth at low concentrations. Fluorescence microscope (FM) revealed that SAMPs induced 6-kDa pores in the C. neoformans membrane. Inhibitory assays in the presence of ergosterol revealed that some peptides lost their activity, suggesting interaction with it. Furthermore, FM analysis revealed that SAMPs induced caspase 3/7-mediated apoptosis and DNA degradation in C. neoformans cells. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) analysis revealed that peptides induced many morphological alterations such as cell membrane, wall damage, and loss of internal content on C. neoformans cells. Our results strongly suggest synthetic peptides are potential alternative molecules to control C. neoformans growth and treat the cryptococcal infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tawanny K. B. Aguiar
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza 60451-970, CE, Brazil
| | - Nilton A. S. Neto
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza 60451-970, CE, Brazil
| | - Cleverson D. T. Freitas
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza 60451-970, CE, Brazil
| | - Ayrles F. B. Silva
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza 60451-970, CE, Brazil
| | - Leandro P. Bezerra
- Department of Fisheries Engineering, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza 60455-970, CE, Brazil
| | - Ellen A. Malveira
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza 60451-970, CE, Brazil
| | - Levi A. C. Branco
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza 60451-970, CE, Brazil
| | - Felipe P. Mesquita
- Drug Research and Development Center, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza 60430-275, CE, Brazil
| | - Gustavo H. Goldman
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 14040-903, SP, Brazil
| | - Luciana M. R. Alencar
- Department of Physics, Laboratory of Biophysics and Nanosystems, Federal University of Maranhão, São Luís 65080-805, MA, Brazil
| | - Jose T. A. Oliveira
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza 60451-970, CE, Brazil
| | - Ralph Santos-Oliveira
- Laboratory of Nanoradiopharmaceuticals and Radiopharmacy, Zona Oeste State University, Rio de Janeiro 23070-200, RJ, Brazil
- Brazilian Nuclear Energy Commission, Nuclear Engineering Institute, Rio de Janeiro 21941-906, RJ, Brazil
| | - Pedro F. N. Souza
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza 60451-970, CE, Brazil
- Drug Research and Development Center, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza 60430-275, CE, Brazil
- Correspondence:
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Chew SM, Heath CH, Petursson C, Boan PA, Robinson JO, Italiano CM, Dyer JR, Manning L, Ingram PR. Antifungal use via outpatient parenteral antimicrobial therapy. Mycoses 2022; 65:946-952. [PMID: 35923125 DOI: 10.1111/myc.13513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Revised: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Antifungal administration via outpatient parenteral antimicrobial therapy (OPAT) is infrequent. As patients with invasive fungal infections (IFIs) receiving OPAT are at high risk of readmissions, careful, risk based patient selection and monitoring is important. OBJECTIVES To describe our experience managing IFIs via OPAT, including assessment of risk factors associated with unplanned readmissions. PATIENTS AND METHODS A retrospective cohort study of outpatients from two tertiary hospitals in Western Australia managed with parenteral antifungals for the treatment of IFIs from 2012 to 2020. Outcomes assessed were unplanned OPAT-related readmissions, adverse events and achievement of treatment aims at the completion of OPAT. RESULTS Forty six patients were included, encompassing 696 OPAT days. Twenty three (50%) patients received intravenous (IV) liposomal amphotericin B (L-AmB), 23 (50%) received IV echinocandins and one (2%) patient received IV fluconazole. One patient received both IV L-AmB and an echinocandin. Unplanned OPAT-related readmissions occurred in 13 (28%) patients and any adverse event occurred in 19 (41%), most commonly nephrotoxicity amongst patients receiving L-AmB. On univariate analysis, unplanned OPAT-related readmissions were more common in Mucorales infection, L-AmB doses of ≥5mg/kg and otorhinolaryngologic (ENT) infections. At the completion of OPAT, attainment of treatment aims occurred in 28 (61%) patients. CONCLUSIONS Patients receiving parenteral antifungals via OPAT experience high rates of unplanned readmissions and adverse events. Risk factor identification may facilitate optimal patient selection and establishment of treatment aims.
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Affiliation(s)
- Su M Chew
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Fiona Stanley Hospital, 11 Robin Warren Drive, Murdoch, Western Australia
| | - Christopher H Heath
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Fiona Stanley Hospital, 11 Robin Warren Drive, Murdoch, Western Australia.,Department of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Royal Perth Hospital, Victoria Square, Perth, Western Australia.,PathWest Laboratory Medicine WA, Fiona Stanley Hospital, 11 Robin Warren Drive, Murdoch, Western Australia.,School of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Hwy, Crawley, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Cecilia Petursson
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Royal Perth Hospital, Victoria Square, Perth, Western Australia
| | - Peter A Boan
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Fiona Stanley Hospital, 11 Robin Warren Drive, Murdoch, Western Australia.,Department of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Royal Perth Hospital, Victoria Square, Perth, Western Australia.,PathWest Laboratory Medicine WA, Fiona Stanley Hospital, 11 Robin Warren Drive, Murdoch, Western Australia
| | - James Owen Robinson
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Fiona Stanley Hospital, 11 Robin Warren Drive, Murdoch, Western Australia.,Department of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Royal Perth Hospital, Victoria Square, Perth, Western Australia.,PathWest Laboratory Medicine WA, Fiona Stanley Hospital, 11 Robin Warren Drive, Murdoch, Western Australia.,Antimicrobial Resistance and Infectious Diseases Research Laboratory, School of Veterinary and Life Sciences, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Western Australia
| | - Claire M Italiano
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Royal Perth Hospital, Victoria Square, Perth, Western Australia
| | - John R Dyer
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Fiona Stanley Hospital, 11 Robin Warren Drive, Murdoch, Western Australia
| | - Laurens Manning
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Fiona Stanley Hospital, 11 Robin Warren Drive, Murdoch, Western Australia.,Medical School, University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Hwy, Crawley, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Paul R Ingram
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Fiona Stanley Hospital, 11 Robin Warren Drive, Murdoch, Western Australia.,Department of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Royal Perth Hospital, Victoria Square, Perth, Western Australia.,PathWest Laboratory Medicine WA, Fiona Stanley Hospital, 11 Robin Warren Drive, Murdoch, Western Australia.,School of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Hwy, Crawley, Western Australia, Australia
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A Fun-Guide to Innate Immune Responses to Fungal Infections. J Fungi (Basel) 2022; 8:jof8080805. [PMID: 36012793 PMCID: PMC9409918 DOI: 10.3390/jof8080805] [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: 07/11/2022] [Revised: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Immunocompromised individuals are at high risk of developing severe fungal infections with high mortality rates, while fungal pathogens pose little risk to most healthy people. Poor therapeutic outcomes and growing antifungal resistance pose further challenges for treatments. Identifying specific immunomodulatory mechanisms exploited by fungal pathogens is critical for our understanding of fungal diseases and development of new therapies. A gap currently exists between the large body of literature concerning the innate immune response to fungal infections and the potential manipulation of host immune responses to aid clearance of infection. This review considers the innate immune mechanisms the host deploys to prevent fungal infection and how these mechanisms fail in immunocompromised hosts. Three clinically relevant fungal pathogens (Candida albicans, Cryptococcus spp. and Aspergillus spp.) will be explored. This review will also examine potential mechanisms of targeting the host therapeutically to improve outcomes of fungal infection.
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Does Protocatechuic Acid Affect the Activity of Commonly Used Antibiotics and Antifungals? LIFE (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 12:life12071010. [PMID: 35888098 PMCID: PMC9316016 DOI: 10.3390/life12071010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2022] [Revised: 07/05/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficiency of protocatechuic acid (PCA) in enhancing the commonly used drugs used to fight against nosocomial infection. These drugs are represented by routinely used antibiotics, synthetic chemotherapeutic agents with an antimicrobial spectrum, and antifungals. Three concentrations of PCA were added to 12 types of commercial disks used for antibiotic and antifungal susceptibility and tested against bacterial and yeast strains represented by Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Candida albicans. The results proved that PCA increased up to 50% of the antibacterial activity, especially that of levofloxacin against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. These formulations will lead to new drug design ideas containing a smaller amount of antibiotics with the same effectiveness.
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Zhen C, Lu H, Jiang Y. Novel Promising Antifungal Target Proteins for Conquering Invasive Fungal Infections. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:911322. [PMID: 35783432 PMCID: PMC9243655 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.911322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Invasive fungal infections (IFIs) pose a serious clinical problem, but the antifungal arsenal is limited and has many disadvantages, such as drug resistance and toxicity. Hence, there is an urgent need to develop antifungal compounds that target novel target proteins of pathogenic fungi for treating IFIs. This review provides a comprehensive summary of the biological functions of novel promising target proteins for treating IFIs in pathogenic fungi and their inhibitors. Inhibitors of inositol phosphoramide (IPC) synthases (such as Aureobasidin A, Khafrefungin, Galbonolide A, and Pleofungin A) have potent antifungal activities by inhibiting sphingolipid synthesis. Disrupting glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI) biosynthesis by Jawsamycin (an inhibitor of Spt14), M720 (an inhibitor of Mcd4), and APX001A (an inhibitor of Gwt1) is a promising strategy for treating IFIs. Turbinmicin is a natural-compound inhibitor of Sec14 and has extraordinary antifungal efficacy, broad-antifungal spectrum, low toxicity, and is a promising new compound for treating IFIs. CMLD013075 targets fungal heat shock protein 90 (Hsp90) and has remarkable antifungal efficacy. Olorofim, as an inhibitor of dihydrolactate dehydrogenase, is a breakthrough drug treatment for IFIs. These novel target proteins and their inhibitors may overcome the limitations of currently available antifungal drugs and improve patient outcomes in the treatment of IFIs.
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