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Ghahartars M, Hosseini H, Khedri M, Sadati MS. Comparison of the Efficacies of Topical Liposomal Amphotericin B and Topical Clotrimazole in the Treatment of Pityriasis Versicolor. Dermatol Pract Concept 2024; 14:dpc.1401a83. [PMID: 38364431 PMCID: PMC10869028 DOI: 10.5826/dpc.1401a83] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Pityriasis versicolor (PV) often exhibits recurrence even despite treatment, and a standardized therapy with a complete cure rate remains elusive. Given the fungicidal property of amphotericin B, its potential for PV treatment warrants investigation. OBJECTIVES This study aimed to compare the efficacy of topical liposomal amphotericin B and clotrimazole cream in treating PV. METHODS A randomized controlled trial was conducted with 44 PV patients, aged 15 to 70 years, who were equally assigned to either the amphotericin or clotrimazole group. The trial was registered at the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials on March 7th, 2022. PV diagnosis was confirmed in all patients through positive microscopic results. The amphotericin group received topical gel containing liposomal amphotericin B 0.4%, while the other group received topical cream containing clotrimazole 1%. Both treatments were applied twice daily to the affected skin lesions for 14 days. The primary outcomes assessed were mycologic cure, clinical cure, and complete cure at day 14 post-treatment. RESULTS Both drugs demonstrated successful treatment outcomes, with comparable rates of mycologic cure (77.3%), clinical cure (63.6%), and complete combined cure (63.6%). There was no significant difference between the groups in terms of the degree of cure (P=0.75). Adjustments for age, sex, lesion extent, and lesion site yielded insignificant risk ratio and risk difference estimates for the complete cure rate (P>0.05).
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehdi Ghahartars
- Molecular Dermatology Research Center, Dermatology Department, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Hossein Hosseini
- Student Research Committee, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Malek Khedri
- Molecular Dermatology Research Center, Dermatology Department, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Maryam Sadat Sadati
- Molecular Dermatology Research Center, Dermatology Department, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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Coelho MA, Ianiri G, David-Palma M, Theelen B, Goyal R, Narayanan A, Lorch JM, Sanyal K, Boekhout T, Heitman J. Frequent transitions in mating-type locus chromosomal organization in Malassezia and early steps in sexual reproduction. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2023; 120:e2305094120. [PMID: 37523560 PMCID: PMC10410736 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2305094120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Fungi in the basidiomycete genus Malassezia are the most prevalent eukaryotic microbes resident on the skin of human and other warm-blooded animals and have been implicated in skin diseases and systemic disorders. Analysis of Malassezia genomes revealed that key adaptations to the skin microenvironment have a direct genomic basis, and the identification of mating/meiotic genes suggests a capacity to reproduce sexually, even though no sexual cycle has yet been observed. In contrast to other bipolar or tetrapolar basidiomycetes that have either two linked mating-type-determining (MAT) loci or two MAT loci on separate chromosomes, in Malassezia species studied thus far the two MAT loci are arranged in a pseudobipolar configuration (linked on the same chromosome but capable of recombining). By generating additional chromosome-level genome assemblies, and an improved Malassezia phylogeny, we infer that the pseudobipolar arrangement was the ancestral state of this group and revealed six independent transitions to tetrapolarity, seemingly driven by centromere fission or translocations in centromere-flanking regions. Additionally, in an approach to uncover a sexual cycle, Malassezia furfur strains were engineered to express different MAT alleles in the same cell. The resulting strains produce hyphae reminiscent of early steps in sexual development and display upregulation of genes associated with sexual development as well as others encoding lipases and a protease potentially relevant for pathogenesis of the fungus. Our study reveals a previously unseen genomic relocation of mating-type loci in fungi and provides insight toward the identification of a sexual cycle in Malassezia, with possible implications for pathogenicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco A. Coelho
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC27710
| | - Giuseppe Ianiri
- Department of Agricultural, Environmental and Food Sciences, University of Molise, Campobasso86100, Italy
| | - Márcia David-Palma
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC27710
| | - Bart Theelen
- Westerdijk Fungal Biodiversity Institute, Utrecht3584 CT, The Netherlands
| | - Rohit Goyal
- Molecular Mycology Laboratory, Molecular Biology and Genetics Unit, Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research, Bengaluru560064, India
| | - Aswathy Narayanan
- Molecular Mycology Laboratory, Molecular Biology and Genetics Unit, Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research, Bengaluru560064, India
| | - Jeffrey M. Lorch
- U.S. Geological Survey, National Wildlife Health Center, Madison, WI53711
| | - Kaustuv Sanyal
- Molecular Mycology Laboratory, Molecular Biology and Genetics Unit, Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research, Bengaluru560064, India
| | - Teun Boekhout
- Westerdijk Fungal Biodiversity Institute, Utrecht3584 CT, The Netherlands
- College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Joseph Heitman
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC27710
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Han L, Wu Y, Xiong S, Liu T. Ubiquitin Degradation of the AICAR Transformylase/IMP Cyclohydrolase Ade16 Regulates the Sexual Reproduction of Cryptococcus neoformans. J Fungi (Basel) 2023; 9:699. [PMID: 37504688 PMCID: PMC10381356 DOI: 10.3390/jof9070699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Revised: 06/17/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023] Open
Abstract
F-box protein is a key protein of the SCF E3 ubiquitin ligase complex, responsible for substrate recognition and degradation through specific interactions. Previous studies have shown that F-box proteins play crucial roles in Cryptococcus sexual reproduction. However, the molecular mechanism by which F-box proteins regulate sexual reproduction in C. neoformans is unclear. In the study, we discovered the AICAR transformylase/IMP cyclohydrolase Ade16 as a substrate of Fbp1. Through protein interaction and stability experiments, we demonstrated that Ade16 is a substrate for Fbp1. To examine the role of ADE16 in C. neoformans, we constructed the iADE16 strains and ADE16OE strains to analyze the function of Ade16. Our results revealed that the iADE16 strains had a smaller capsule and showed growth defects under NaCl, while the ADE16OE strains were sensitive to SDS but not to Congo red, which is consistent with the stress phenotype of the fbp1Δ strains, indicating that the intracellular protein expression level after ADE16 overexpression was similar to that after FBP1 deletion. Interestingly, although iADE16 strains can produce basidiospores normally, ADE16OE strains can produce mating mycelia but not basidiospores after mating, which is consistent with the fbp1Δmutant strains, suggesting that Fbp1 is likely to regulate the sexual reproduction of C. neoformans through the modulation of Ade16. A fungal nuclei development assay showed that the nuclei of the ADE16OE strains failed to fuse in the bilateral mating, indicating that Ade16 plays a crucial role in the regulation of meiosis during mating. In summary, our findings have revealed a new determinant factor involved in fungal development related to the post-translational regulation of AICAR transformylase/IMP cyclohydrolase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liantao Han
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Southwest University Medical Research Institute, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Yujuan Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Southwest University Medical Research Institute, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Sichu Xiong
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Southwest University Medical Research Institute, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Tongbao Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Southwest University Medical Research Institute, Chongqing 400715, China
- Jinfeng Laboratory, Chongqing 401329, China
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4
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Coelho MA, Ianiri G, David-Palma M, Theelen B, Goyal R, Narayanan A, Lorch JM, Sanyal K, Boekhout T, Heitman J. Frequent transitions in mating-type locus chromosomal organization in Malassezia and early steps in sexual reproduction. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.03.25.534224. [PMID: 36993584 PMCID: PMC10055393 DOI: 10.1101/2023.03.25.534224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Fungi in the basidiomycete genus Malassezia are the most prevalent eukaryotic microbes resident on the skin of human and other warm-blooded animals and have been implicated in skin diseases and systemic disorders. Analysis of Malassezia genomes revealed that key adaptations to the skin microenvironment have a direct genomic basis, and the identification of mating/meiotic genes suggests a capacity to reproduce sexually, even though no sexual cycle has yet been observed. In contrast to other bipolar or tetrapolar basidiomycetes that have either two linked mating-type-determining ( MAT ) loci or two MAT loci on separate chromosomes, in Malassezia species studied thus far the two MAT loci are arranged in a pseudobipolar configuration (linked on the same chromosome but capable of recombining). By incorporating newly generated chromosome-level genome assemblies, and an improved Malassezia phylogeny, we infer that the pseudobipolar arrangement was the ancestral state of this group and revealed six independent transitions to tetrapolarity, seemingly driven by centromere fission or translocations in centromere- flanking regions. Additionally, in an approach to uncover a sexual cycle, Malassezia furfur strains were engineered to express different MAT alleles in the same cell. The resulting strains produce hyphae reminiscent of early steps in sexual development and display upregulation of genes associated with sexual development as well as others encoding lipases and a protease potentially relevant for pathogenesis of the fungus. Our study reveals a previously unseen genomic relocation of mating-type loci in fungi and provides insight towards the discovery of a sexual cycle in Malassezia , with possible implications for pathogenicity. Significance Statement Malassezia , the dominant fungal group of the mammalian skin microbiome, is associated with numerous skin disorders. Sexual development and yeast-to-hyphae transitions, governed by genes at two mating-type ( MAT ) loci, are thought to be important for fungal pathogenicity. However, Malassezia sexual reproduction has never been observed. Here, we used chromosome-level assemblies and comparative genomics to uncover unforeseen transitions in MAT loci organization within Malassezia , possibly related with fragility of centromeric-associated regions. Additionally, by expressing different MAT alleles in the same cell, we show that Malassezia can undergo hyphal development and this phenotype is associated with increased expression of key mating genes along with other genes known to be virulence factors, providing a possible connection between hyphal development, sexual reproduction, and pathogenicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco A. Coelho
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Giuseppe Ianiri
- Department of Agricultural, Environmental and Food Sciences, University of Molise, Campobasso 86100, Italy
| | - Márcia David-Palma
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Bart Theelen
- Westerdijk Fungal Biodiversity Institute, Utrecht 3584 CT, The Netherlands
| | - Rohit Goyal
- Molecular Mycology Laboratory, Molecular Biology and Genetics Unit, Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research, Bengaluru 560064, India
| | - Aswathy Narayanan
- Molecular Mycology Laboratory, Molecular Biology and Genetics Unit, Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research, Bengaluru 560064, India
| | - Jeffrey M. Lorch
- U.S. Geological Survey, National Wildlife Health Center, Madison, WI 53711, USA
| | - Kaustuv Sanyal
- Molecular Mycology Laboratory, Molecular Biology and Genetics Unit, Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research, Bengaluru 560064, India
| | - Teun Boekhout
- Westerdijk Fungal Biodiversity Institute, Utrecht 3584 CT, The Netherlands
- College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Joseph Heitman
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
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5
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van der Merwe NA, Phakalatsane T, Wilken PM. The Unique Homothallic Mating-Type Loci of the Fungal Tree Pathogens Chrysoporthe syzygiicola and Chrysoporthe zambiensis from Africa. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:1158. [PMID: 37372338 DOI: 10.3390/genes14061158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Chrysoporthe syzygiicola and C. zambiensis are ascomycete tree pathogens first described from Zambia, causing stem canker on Syzygium guineense and Eucalyptus grandis, respectively. The taxonomic descriptions of these two species were based on their anamorphic states, as no sexual states are known. The main purpose of this work was to use whole genome sequences to identify and define the mating-type (MAT1) loci of these two species. The unique MAT1 loci for C. zambiensis and C. syzygiicola consist of the MAT1-1-1, MAT1-1-2, and MAT1-2-1 genes, but the MAT1-1-3 gene is absent. Genes canonically associated with opposite mating types were present at the single mating-type locus, suggesting that C. zambiensis and C. syzygiicola have homothallic mating systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolaas A van der Merwe
- Department of Biochemistry, Genetics and Microbiology, Forestry and Agricultural Biotechnology Institute, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0028, South Africa
| | - Tshiamo Phakalatsane
- Department of Biochemistry, Genetics and Microbiology, Forestry and Agricultural Biotechnology Institute, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0028, South Africa
| | - P Markus Wilken
- Department of Biochemistry, Genetics and Microbiology, Forestry and Agricultural Biotechnology Institute, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0028, South Africa
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Regulatory basis for reproductive flexibility in a meningitis-causing fungal pathogen. Nat Commun 2022; 13:7938. [PMID: 36566249 PMCID: PMC9790007 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-35549-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Pathogenic fungi of the genus Cryptococcus can undergo two sexual cycles, involving either bisexual diploidization (after fusion of haploid cells of different mating type) or unisexual diploidization (by autodiploidization of a single cell). Here, we construct a gene-deletion library for 111 transcription factor genes in Cryptococcus deneoformans, and explore the roles of these regulatory networks in the two reproductive modes. We show that transcription factors crucial for bisexual syngamy induce the expression of known mating determinants as well as other conserved genes of unknown function. Deletion of one of these genes, which we term FMP1, leads to defects in bisexual reproduction in C. deneoformans, its sister species Cryptococcus neoformans, and the ascomycete Neurospora crassa. Furthermore, we show that a recently evolved regulatory cascade mediates pre-meiotic unisexual autodiploidization, supporting that this reproductive process is a recent evolutionary innovation. Our findings indicate that genetic circuits with different evolutionary ages govern hallmark events distinguishing unisexual and bisexual reproduction in Cryptococcus.
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7
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Kassaza K, Wasswa F, Nielsen K, Bazira J. Cryptococcus neoformans Genotypic Diversity and Disease Outcome among HIV Patients in Africa. J Fungi (Basel) 2022; 8:734. [PMID: 35887489 PMCID: PMC9325144 DOI: 10.3390/jof8070734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2022] [Revised: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryptococcal meningoencephalitis, a disease with poor patient outcomes, remains the most prevalent invasive fungal infection worldwide, accounting for approximately 180,000 deaths each year. In several areas of sub-Saharan Africa with the highest HIV prevalence, cryptococcal meningitis is the leading cause of community-acquired meningitis, with a high mortality among HIV-infected individuals. Recent studies show that patient disease outcomes are impacted by the genetics of the infecting isolate. Yet, there is still limited knowledge of how these genotypic variations contribute to clinical disease outcome. Further, it is unclear how the genetic heterogeneity of C. neoformans and the extensive phenotypic variation observed between and within isolates affects infection and disease. In this review, we discuss current knowledge of how various genotypes impact disease progression and patient outcome in HIV-positive populations in sub-Saharan African, a setting with a high burden of cryptococcosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kennedy Kassaza
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara P.O. Box 1410, Uganda; (K.K.); (F.W.)
| | - Fredrickson Wasswa
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara P.O. Box 1410, Uganda; (K.K.); (F.W.)
| | - Kirsten Nielsen
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Joel Bazira
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara P.O. Box 1410, Uganda; (K.K.); (F.W.)
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Towards a Fungal Science That Is Independent of Researchers’ Gender. J Fungi (Basel) 2022; 8:jof8070675. [PMID: 35887432 PMCID: PMC9321353 DOI: 10.3390/jof8070675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2022] [Revised: 06/23/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The main drivers of gender mainstreaming in basic and clinical research appear to be funding agencies and scientific journals. Some funding agencies have already recognized the importance of their actions for the global development of ideas in science, but further targeted efforts are needed. The challenges for women scientists in fungal research appear to be similar to those in other science, technology, engineering, and mathematics disciplines, although the gender gap in mycology publishing appears to be less pronounced; however, women are underrepresented as last (corresponding) authors. Two examples of best practices to bridge the gap have been promoted in the fungal community: “power hour” and a central resource database for women researchers of fungi and oomycetes. A more balanced ratio of women researchers among (plenary) session speakers, (plenary) session chairs, and committee members at the recent fungal genetics conference is an encouraging sign that the gender gap can be closed. The editorial policy of some journals follows the guidance “Sex and Gender Equality in Research,” and other journals should follow, and indicate the gender ratio among authors and reviewers.
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The Multifaceted Role of Mating Type of the Fungus and Sex of the Host in Studies of Fungal Infections in Humans. J Fungi (Basel) 2022; 8:jof8050461. [PMID: 35628717 PMCID: PMC9145136 DOI: 10.3390/jof8050461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Revised: 04/27/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
This review discusses the inclusion of sex and gender variables in studies of fungal infections in humans at the pathogen, host, and antifungal trial levels. The mating type of some fungi, or perhaps more likely the absence of the other, appears to be associated with some infections. Sexual and parasexual reproduction of some fungi is an important mechanism for the development of antifungal drug resistance. Host sex or gender influences the incidence of some infections such as aspergillosis, cryptococcosis, paracoccidioidomycosis, dermatophytosis, and candidiasis due to differences in immune response, behavior, and awareness for early detection and treatment. Participant sex (and age) is relevant not only in clinical antifungal trials but also in preclinical studies. The dimensions of sex and gender are important determinants throughout the fungal infection process and in approaches to prevent or treat these infections, as well as in development of antifungal drugs. Failure to consider sex and gender may be detrimental to the holistic understanding of the processes involved in fungal infection.
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Szarvas J, Rebelo AR, Bortolaia V, Leekitcharoenphon P, Schrøder Hansen D, Nielsen HL, Nørskov-Lauritsen N, Kemp M, Røder BL, Frimodt-Møller N, Søndergaard TS, Coia JE, Østergaard C, Westh H, Aarestrup FM. Danish Whole-Genome-Sequenced Candida albicans and Candida glabrata Samples Fit into Globally Prevalent Clades. J Fungi (Basel) 2021; 7:jof7110962. [PMID: 34829249 PMCID: PMC8622182 DOI: 10.3390/jof7110962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Revised: 11/05/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Candida albicans and Candida glabrata are opportunistic fungal pathogens with increasing incidence worldwide and higher-than-expected prevalence in Denmark. We whole-genome sequenced yeast isolates collected from Danish Clinical Microbiology Laboratories to obtain an overview of the Candida population in the country. The majority of the 30 C. albicans isolates were found to belong to three globally prevalent clades, and, with one exception, the remaining isolates were also predicted to cluster with samples from other geographical locations. Similarly, most of the eight C. glabrata isolates were predicted to be prevalent subtypes. Antifungal susceptibility testing proved all C. albicans isolates to be susceptible to both azoles and echinocandins. Two C. glabrata isolates presented azole-resistant phenotypes, yet all were susceptible to echinocandins. There is no indication of causality between population structure and resistance phenotypes for either species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judit Szarvas
- Division for Global Surveillance, National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, 2800 Kongens Lyngby, Denmark; (A.R.R.); (V.B.); (P.L.); (F.M.A.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Ana Rita Rebelo
- Division for Global Surveillance, National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, 2800 Kongens Lyngby, Denmark; (A.R.R.); (V.B.); (P.L.); (F.M.A.)
| | - Valeria Bortolaia
- Division for Global Surveillance, National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, 2800 Kongens Lyngby, Denmark; (A.R.R.); (V.B.); (P.L.); (F.M.A.)
| | - Pimlapas Leekitcharoenphon
- Division for Global Surveillance, National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, 2800 Kongens Lyngby, Denmark; (A.R.R.); (V.B.); (P.L.); (F.M.A.)
| | | | - Hans Linde Nielsen
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Aalborg University Hospital, 9100 Aalborg, Denmark;
| | | | - Michael Kemp
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Odense University Hospital, 5000 Odense, Denmark;
| | - Bent Løwe Røder
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Slagelse Hospital, 4200 Slagelse, Denmark;
| | | | | | - John Eugenio Coia
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Sydvestjysk Hospital, 6700 Esbjerg, Denmark;
| | - Claus Østergaard
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Vejle Hospital, 7100 Vejle, Denmark;
| | - Henrik Westh
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Hvidovre Hospital, 2650 Hvidovre, Denmark;
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Frank Møller Aarestrup
- Division for Global Surveillance, National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, 2800 Kongens Lyngby, Denmark; (A.R.R.); (V.B.); (P.L.); (F.M.A.)
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11
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Maldonado E, Morales-Pison S, Urbina F, Solari A. Molecular and Functional Characteristics of DNA Polymerase Beta-Like Enzymes From Trypanosomatids. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2021; 11:670564. [PMID: 34422676 PMCID: PMC8375306 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2021.670564] [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: 02/21/2021] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Trypanosomatids are a group of primitive unicellular eukaryotes that can cause diseases in plants, insects, animals, and humans. Kinetoplast genome integrity is key to trypanosomatid cell survival and viability. Kinetoplast DNA (kDNA) is usually under attack by reactive oxygen and nitric species (ROS and RNS), damaging the DNA, and the cells must remove and repair those oxidatively generated lesions in order to survive and proliferate. Base excision repair (BER) is a well-conserved pathway for DNA repair after base damage, single-base loss, and single-strand breaks, which can arise from ROS, RSN, environmental genotoxic agents, and UV irradiation. A powerful BER system has been described in the T. cruzi kinetoplast and it is mainly carried out by DNA polymerase β (pol β) and DNA polymerase β-PAK (pol β-PAK), which are kinetoplast-located in T. cruzi as well as in other trypanosomatids. Both pol β and pol β-PAK belong to the X-family of DNA polymerases (pol X family), perform BER in trypanosomatids, and display intrinsic 5-deoxyribose phosphate (dRP) lyase and DNA polymerase activities. However, only Pol β-PAK is able to carry out trans-lesion synthesis (TLS) across 8oxoG lesions. T. cruzi cells overexpressing pol β are more resistant to ROS and are also more efficient to repair 8oxoG compared to control cells. Pol β seems to play a role in kDNA replication, since it associates with kinetoplast antipodal sites in those development stages in trypanosomatids which are competent for cell replication. ROS treatment of cells induces the overexpression of pol β, indicating that plays a role in kDNA repair. In this review, we will summarize the main features of trypanosomatid minicircle kDNA replication and the biochemical characteristics of pol β-like enzymes and their involvement in BER and kDNA replication. We also summarize key structural features of trypanosomatid pol β compared to their mammalian (human) counterpart.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edio Maldonado
- Programa de Biología Celular y Molecular, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Sebastian Morales-Pison
- Laboratorio de Genética Molecular Humana, Programa de Genética Humana, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Fabiola Urbina
- Programa de Biología Celular y Molecular, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Aldo Solari
- Programa de Biología Celular y Molecular, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
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12
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Cao D, Wang F, Yu S, Dong S, Wu R, Cui N, Ren J, Xu T, Wang S, Wang M, Fang H, Yu Y. Prevalence of Azole-Resistant Aspergillus fumigatus is Highly Associated with Azole Fungicide Residues in the Fields. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2021; 55:3041-3049. [PMID: 33544588 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.0c03958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Triazole resistance in Aspergillus fumigatus is a growing public health concern. In addition to its emergence in the therapy of invasive aspergillosis by triazole medicines, it has been frequently detected in agricultural fields all over the world. Here, we explore the potential link between residues of azole fungicides with similar chemical structure to triazole medicines in soil and the emergence of resistant A. fumigatus (RAF) through 855 500 km2 monitoring survey in Eastern China covering 6 provinces. In total, 67.3%, 15.2%, 12.3%, 2.9%, 1.5%, 0.4%, and 0.3% of the soil samples contained these five fungicides (tebuconazole, difenoconazole, propiconazole, hexaconazole, and prochloraz) of 0-100, 100-200, 200-400, 400-600, 600-800, 800-1000, and >1000 ng/g, respectively. The fractions of samples containing RAF isolates were 2.4%, 5.2%, 6.4%, 7.7%, 7.4%, 14.3%, and 20.0% of the samples with total azole fungicide residues of 0-100, 100-200, 200-400, 400-600, 600-800, 800-1000, and >1000 ng/g, respectively. We find that the prevalence of RAFs is positively (P < 0.0001) correlated with residual levels of azole fungicides in soils. Our results suggest that the use of azole fungicides in agriculture should be minimized and the intervals between treatments expanded to reduce the selective pressure toward the development of resistance in A. fumigatus in agricultural fields.
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13
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Updates in Paracoccidioides Biology and Genetic Advances in Fungus Manipulation. J Fungi (Basel) 2021; 7:jof7020116. [PMID: 33557381 PMCID: PMC7915485 DOI: 10.3390/jof7020116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Revised: 01/30/2021] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The dimorphic fungi of the Paracoccidioides genus are the causative agents of paracoccidioidomycosis (PCM). This disease is endemic in Latin America and primarily affects workers in rural areas. PCM is considered a neglected disease, despite being a disabling disease that has a notable impact on the public health system. Paracoccidioides spp. are thermally dimorphic fungi that present infective mycelia at 25 °C and differentiate into pathogenic yeast forms at 37 °C. This transition involves a series of morphological, structural, and metabolic changes which are essential for their survival inside hosts. As a pathogen, the fungus is subjected to several varieties of stress conditions, including the host immune response, which involves the production of reactive nitrogen and oxygen species, thermal stress due to temperature changes during the transition, pH alterations within phagolysosomes, and hypoxia inside granulomas. Over the years, studies focusing on understanding the establishment and development of PCM have been conducted with several limitations due to the low effectiveness of strategies for the genetic manipulation of Paracoccidioides spp. This review describes the most relevant biological features of Paracoccidioides spp., including aspects of the phylogeny, ecology, stress response, infection, and evasion mechanisms of the fungus. We also discuss the genetic aspects and difficulties of fungal manipulation, and, finally, describe the advances in molecular biology that may be employed in molecular research on this fungus in the future.
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14
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Hu P, Liu L, Ke W, Tian X, Wang L. A cyclin protein governs the infectious and sexual life cycles of Cryptococcus neoformans. SCIENCE CHINA-LIFE SCIENCES 2020; 64:1336-1345. [PMID: 33165808 DOI: 10.1007/s11427-020-1697-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2020] [Accepted: 04/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Cell cycle is a fundamental process underlying growth and development in evolutionarily diverse organisms, including fungi. In human fungal pathogens, cell cycle control generally determines their life cycles, either in the environment or during infections. Thus, cell cycle components can potentially serve as important targets for the development of antifungal strategy against fungal infections. Here, in Cryptococcus neoformans, the most common cause of fatal fungal meningitis, we show that a previously uncharacterized B-type cyclin named Cbc1 is essential for both its infectious and sexual cycles. We reveal that Cbc1 coordinates various sexual differentiation and molecular processes, including meiosis. Especially, the absence of Cbc1 abolishes formation of sexual spores in C. neoformans, which are presumed infectious particles. Cbc1 is also required for the major Cryptococcus pathogenic attributes. Virulence assessment using the murine model of cryptococcosis revealed that the cbc1 mutant is avirulent. Together, our results provide an important insight into how C. neoformans employs shared cell cycle regulation to coordinate its infectious and sexual cycles, which are considered crucial for virulence evolution and the production of infectious spores.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pengjie Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Mycology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Linxia Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Mycology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Weixin Ke
- State Key Laboratory of Mycology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Xiuyun Tian
- State Key Laboratory of Mycology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Linqi Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Mycology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China. .,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China.
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15
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Maroc L, Zhou-Li Y, Boisnard S, Fairhead C. A single Ho-induced double-strand break at the MAT locus is lethal in Candida glabrata. PLoS Genet 2020; 16:e1008627. [PMID: 33057400 PMCID: PMC7591073 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1008627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2020] [Revised: 10/27/2020] [Accepted: 09/12/2020] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Mating-type switching is a complex mechanism that promotes sexual reproduction in Saccharomycotina. In the model species Saccharomyces cerevisiae, mating-type switching is initiated by the Ho endonuclease that performs a site-specific double-strand break (DSB) at MAT, repaired by homologous recombination (HR) using one of the two silent mating-type loci, HMLalpha and HMRa. The reasons why all the elements of the mating-type switching system have been conserved in some Saccharomycotina, that do not show a sexual cycle nor mating-type switching, remain unknown. To gain insight on this phenomenon, we used the yeast Candida glabrata, phylogenetically close to S. cerevisiae, and for which no spontaneous and efficient mating-type switching has been observed. We have previously shown that expression of S. cerevisiae’s Ho (ScHo) gene triggers mating-type switching in C. glabrata, but this leads to massive cell death. In addition, we unexpectedly found, that not only MAT but also HML was cut in this species, suggesting the formation of multiple chromosomal DSBs upon HO induction. We now report that HMR is also cut by ScHo in wild-type strains of C. glabrata. To understand the link between mating-type switching and cell death in C. glabrata, we constructed strains mutated precisely at the Ho recognition sites. We find that even when HML and HMR are protected from the Ho-cut, introducing a DSB at MAT is sufficient to induce cell death, whereas one DSB at HML or HMR is not. We demonstrate that mating-type switching in C. glabrata can be triggered using CRISPR-Cas9, without high lethality. We also show that switching is Rad51-dependent, as in S. cerevisiae, but that donor preference is not conserved in C. glabrata. Altogether, these results suggest that a DSB at MAT can be repaired by HR in C. glabrata, but that repair is prevented by ScHo. Mating-type switching is one of the strategies developed by fungi to promote sexual reproduction and propagation. This mechanism enables one haploid cell to give rise to a cell of the opposite mating-type so that they can mate. It has been extensively studied in the yeast S. cerevisiae in which it relies on a programmed double-strand break performed by the Ho endonuclease at the MAT locus which determines sexual identity. Little is known about why the mating-type switching components have been conserved in species like C. glabrata, in which neither sexual reproduction nor mating-type switching is observed. We have previously shown that mating-type switching can be triggered, in C. glabrata, by expression of the HO gene from S. cerevisiae but this leads to massive cell death. In this work, we show that mating-type switching in C. glabrata can be triggered by CRISPR-Cas9 and without any high lethality. We demonstrate that the cut at MAT is only lethal when the Ho endonuclease performs the break, a situation unique to C. glabrata. Our work points to a degeneration of the mating-type switching system in C. glabrata. Further studies of this phenomenon should shed light on the evolution of mating systems in asexual yeasts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laetitia Maroc
- Université Paris-Saclay, INRAE, CNRS, AgroParisTech, GQE—Le Moulon, Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Youfang Zhou-Li
- Université Paris-Saclay, INRAE, CNRS, AgroParisTech, GQE—Le Moulon, Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Stéphanie Boisnard
- Université Paris-Saclay, CEA, CNRS, Institute for Integrative Biology of the Cell (I2BC), Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Cécile Fairhead
- Université Paris-Saclay, INRAE, CNRS, AgroParisTech, GQE—Le Moulon, Gif-sur-Yvette, France
- * E-mail:
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16
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Five-Year Survey (2014 to 2018) of Azole Resistance in Environmental Aspergillus fumigatus Isolates from China. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2020; 64:AAC.00904-20. [PMID: 32718960 DOI: 10.1128/aac.00904-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2020] [Accepted: 07/19/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
A total of 191 soil samples from Hangzhou, China, were submitted to detect non-wild-type (non-WT) Aspergillus fumigatus and its associated mechanisms. There were 2 (4.7%), 13 (12.4%), and 31 (23.1%) isolates identified as non-WT in 2014, 2016, and 2018, respectively. The resistant mutations of TR34/L98H, TR46/Y121F/T289A, and TR34/L98H/S297T/F495I were found in 3, 5, and 5 non-WT isolates. The G448S mutation, previously only found in clinical settings, was detected in A. fumigatus from soil samples.
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17
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Gupta S, Paul K, Kaur S. Diverse species in the genus Cryptococcus: Pathogens and their non-pathogenic ancestors. IUBMB Life 2020; 72:2303-2312. [PMID: 32897638 DOI: 10.1002/iub.2377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Revised: 08/15/2020] [Accepted: 08/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The genus Cryptococcus comprises of more than 30 species. It consists of clinically significant pathogenic Cryptococcus neoformans/Cryptococcus gattii species complex comprising of a minimum of seven species. These pathogens cost more than 200,000 lives annually by causing cryptococcal meningoencephalitis. The evolution of the pathogenic species from closely related non-pathogenic species of the Cryptococcus amylolentus complex is of particular importance and several advances have been made to understand their phylogenetic and genomic relationships. The current review briefly describes the sexual reproduction process followed by an individual description of the members focusing on their key attributes and virulence mechanisms of the pathogenic species. A special section on phylogenetic studies is aimed at understanding the evolutionary divergence of pathogens from non-pathogens. Recent findings from our group pertaining to parameters affecting codon usage bias in six pathogenic and three non-pathogenic ancestral species and their corroboration with existing phylogenetic reports are also included in the current review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shelly Gupta
- Department of Biochemistry, Lovely Professional University, Kapurthala, India
| | - Karan Paul
- Department of Biochemistry, DAV University, Jalandhar, India
| | - Sukhmanjot Kaur
- Department of Biochemistry, Lovely Professional University, Kapurthala, India
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18
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Naranjo‐Ortiz MA, Gabaldón T. Fungal evolution: major ecological adaptations and evolutionary transitions. Biol Rev Camb Philos Soc 2019; 94:1443-1476. [PMID: 31021528 PMCID: PMC6850671 DOI: 10.1111/brv.12510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 127] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2018] [Revised: 03/10/2019] [Accepted: 03/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Fungi are a highly diverse group of heterotrophic eukaryotes characterized by the absence of phagotrophy and the presence of a chitinous cell wall. While unicellular fungi are far from rare, part of the evolutionary success of the group resides in their ability to grow indefinitely as a cylindrical multinucleated cell (hypha). Armed with these morphological traits and with an extremely high metabolical diversity, fungi have conquered numerous ecological niches and have shaped a whole world of interactions with other living organisms. Herein we survey the main evolutionary and ecological processes that have guided fungal diversity. We will first review the ecology and evolution of the zoosporic lineages and the process of terrestrialization, as one of the major evolutionary transitions in this kingdom. Several plausible scenarios have been proposed for fungal terrestralization and we here propose a new scenario, which considers icy environments as a transitory niche between water and emerged land. We then focus on exploring the main ecological relationships of Fungi with other organisms (other fungi, protozoans, animals and plants), as well as the origin of adaptations to certain specialized ecological niches within the group (lichens, black fungi and yeasts). Throughout this review we use an evolutionary and comparative-genomics perspective to understand fungal ecological diversity. Finally, we highlight the importance of genome-enabled inferences to envision plausible narratives and scenarios for important transitions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miguel A. Naranjo‐Ortiz
- Department of Genomics and Bioinformatics, Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG)The Barcelona Institute of Science and TechnologyDr. Aiguader 88, Barcelona08003Spain
| | - Toni Gabaldón
- Department of Genomics and Bioinformatics, Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG)The Barcelona Institute of Science and TechnologyDr. Aiguader 88, Barcelona08003Spain
- Department of Experimental and Health Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF)08003BarcelonaSpain
- ICREA, Pg. Lluís Companys 2308010BarcelonaSpain
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19
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A Robust Phylogenomic Time Tree for Biotechnologically and Medically Important Fungi in the Genera Aspergillus and Penicillium. mBio 2019; 10:mBio.00925-19. [PMID: 31289177 PMCID: PMC6747717 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.00925-19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Understanding the evolution of traits across technologically and medically significant fungi requires a robust phylogeny. Even though species in the Aspergillus and Penicillium genera (family Aspergillaceae, class Eurotiomycetes) are some of the most significant technologically and medically relevant fungi, we still lack a genome-scale phylogeny of the lineage or knowledge of the parts of the phylogeny that exhibit conflict among analyses. Here, we used a phylogenomic approach to infer evolutionary relationships among 81 genomes that span the diversity of Aspergillus and Penicillium species, to identify conflicts in the phylogeny, and to determine the likely underlying factors of the observed conflicts. Using a data matrix comprised of 1,668 genes, we found that while most branches of the phylogeny of the Aspergillaceae are robustly supported and recovered irrespective of method of analysis, a few exhibit various degrees of conflict among our analyses. Further examination of the observed conflict revealed that it largely stems from incomplete lineage sorting and hybridization or introgression. Our analyses provide a robust and comprehensive evolutionary genomic roadmap for this important lineage, which will facilitate the examination of the diverse technologically and medically relevant traits of these fungi in an evolutionary context. The filamentous fungal family Aspergillaceae contains >1,000 known species, mostly in the genera Aspergillus and Penicillium. Several species are used in the food, biotechnology, and drug industries (e.g., Aspergillus oryzae and Penicillium camemberti), while others are dangerous human and plant pathogens (e.g., Aspergillus fumigatus and Penicillium digitatum). To infer a robust phylogeny and pinpoint poorly resolved branches and their likely underlying contributors, we used 81 genomes spanning the diversity of Aspergillus and Penicillium to construct a 1,668-gene data matrix. Phylogenies of the nucleotide and amino acid versions of this full data matrix as well as of several additional data matrices were generated using three different maximum likelihood schemes (i.e., gene-partitioned, unpartitioned, and coalescence) and using both site-homogenous and site-heterogeneous models (total of 64 species-level phylogenies). Examination of the topological agreement among these phylogenies and measures of internode certainty identified 11/78 (14.1%) bipartitions that were incongruent and pinpointed the likely underlying contributing factors, which included incomplete lineage sorting, hidden paralogy, hybridization or introgression, and reconstruction artifacts associated with poor taxon sampling. Relaxed molecular clock analyses suggest that Aspergillaceae likely originated in the lower Cretaceous and that the Aspergillus and Penicillium genera originated in the upper Cretaceous. Our results shed light on the ongoing debate on Aspergillus systematics and taxonomy and provide a robust evolutionary and temporal framework for comparative genomic analyses in Aspergillaceae. More broadly, our approach provides a general template for phylogenomic identification of resolved and contentious branches in densely genome-sequenced lineages across the tree of life.
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20
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Fillinger RJ, Anderson MZ. Seasons of change: Mechanisms of genome evolution in human fungal pathogens. INFECTION, GENETICS AND EVOLUTION : JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR EPIDEMIOLOGY AND EVOLUTIONARY GENETICS IN INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2019; 70:165-174. [PMID: 30826447 DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2019.02.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2018] [Revised: 02/23/2019] [Accepted: 02/26/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Fungi are a diverse kingdom of organisms capable of thriving in various niches across the world including those in close association with multicellular eukaryotes. Fungal pathogens that contribute to human disease reside both within the host as commensal organisms of the microbiota and the environment. Their niche of origin dictates how infection initiates but also places specific selective pressures on the fungal pathogen that contributes to its genome organization and genetic repertoire. Recent efforts to catalogue genomic variation among major human fungal pathogens have unveiled evolutionary themes that shape the fungal genome. Mechanisms ranging from large scale changes such as aneuploidy and ploidy cycling as well as more targeted mutations like base substitutions and gene copy number variations contribute to the evolution of these species, which are often under multiple competing selective pressures with their host, environment, and other microbes. Here, we provide an overview of the major selective pressures and mechanisms acting to evolve the genome of clinically important fungal pathogens of humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert J Fillinger
- Department of Microbial Infection and Immunity, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Matthew Z Anderson
- Department of Microbial Infection and Immunity, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA; Department of Microbiology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.
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21
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22
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Liang SH, Anderson MZ, Hirakawa MP, Wang JM, Frazer C, Alaalm LM, Thomson GJ, Ene IV, Bennett RJ. Hemizygosity Enables a Mutational Transition Governing Fungal Virulence and Commensalism. Cell Host Microbe 2019; 25:418-431.e6. [PMID: 30824263 DOI: 10.1016/j.chom.2019.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2018] [Revised: 10/03/2018] [Accepted: 01/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Candida albicans is a commensal fungus of human gastrointestinal and reproductive tracts, but also causes life-threatening systemic infections. The balance between colonization and pathogenesis is associated with phenotypic plasticity, with alternative cell states producing different outcomes in a mammalian host. Here, we reveal that gene dosage of a master transcription factor regulates cell differentiation in diploid C. albicans cells, as EFG1 hemizygous cells undergo a phenotypic transition inaccessible to "wild-type" cells with two functional EFG1 alleles. Notably, clinical isolates are often EFG1 hemizygous and thus licensed to undergo this transition. Phenotypic change corresponds to high-frequency loss of the functional EFG1 allele via de novo mutation or gene conversion events. This phenomenon also occurs during passaging in the gastrointestinal tract with the resulting cell type being hypercompetitive for commensal and systemic infections. A "two-hit" genetic model therefore underlies a key phenotypic transition in C. albicans that enables adaptation to host niches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shen-Huan Liang
- Molecular Microbiology and Immunology Department, Brown University, Providence, RI 02912, USA
| | - Matthew Z Anderson
- Department of Microbiology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA; Department of Microbial Infection and Immunity, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Matthew P Hirakawa
- Molecular Microbiology and Immunology Department, Brown University, Providence, RI 02912, USA
| | - Joshua M Wang
- Department of Microbiology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA; Department of Microbial Infection and Immunity, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Corey Frazer
- Molecular Microbiology and Immunology Department, Brown University, Providence, RI 02912, USA
| | - Leenah M Alaalm
- Molecular Microbiology and Immunology Department, Brown University, Providence, RI 02912, USA
| | - Gregory J Thomson
- Molecular Microbiology and Immunology Department, Brown University, Providence, RI 02912, USA
| | - Iuliana V Ene
- Molecular Microbiology and Immunology Department, Brown University, Providence, RI 02912, USA
| | - Richard J Bennett
- Molecular Microbiology and Immunology Department, Brown University, Providence, RI 02912, USA.
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23
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Hofstatter PG, Brown MW, Lahr DJG. Comparative Genomics Supports Sex and Meiosis in Diverse Amoebozoa. Genome Biol Evol 2018; 10:3118-3128. [PMID: 30380054 PMCID: PMC6263441 DOI: 10.1093/gbe/evy241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Sex and reproduction are often treated as a single phenomenon in animals and plants, as in these organisms reproduction implies mixis and meiosis. In contrast, sex and reproduction are independent biological phenomena that may or may not be linked in the majority of other eukaryotes. Current evidence supports a eukaryotic ancestor bearing a mating type system and meiosis, which is a process exclusive to eukaryotes. Even though sex is ancestral, the literature regarding life cycles of amoeboid lineages depicts them as asexual organisms. Why would loss of sex be common in amoebae, if it is rarely lost, if ever, in plants and animals, as well as in fungi? One way to approach the question of meiosis in the "asexuals" is to evaluate the patterns of occurrence of genes for the proteins involved in syngamy and meiosis. We have applied a comparative genomic approach to study the occurrence of the machinery for plasmogamy, karyogamy, and meiosis in Amoebozoa, a major amoeboid supergroup. Our results support a putative occurrence of syngamy and meiotic processes in all major amoebozoan lineages. We conclude that most amoebozoans may perform mixis, recombination, and ploidy reduction through canonical meiotic processes. The present evidence indicates the possibility of sexual cycles in many lineages traditionally held as asexual.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paulo G Hofstatter
- Departamento de Zoologia, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade de São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Matthew W Brown
- Department of Biological Sciences, Mississippi State University
| | - Daniel J G Lahr
- Departamento de Zoologia, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade de São Paulo, Brazil
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24
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Liu L, He GJ, Chen L, Zheng J, Chen Y, Shen L, Tian X, Li E, Yang E, Liao G, Wang L. Genetic basis for coordination of meiosis and sexual structure maturation in Cryptococcus neoformans. eLife 2018; 7:38683. [PMID: 30281018 PMCID: PMC6235564 DOI: 10.7554/elife.38683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2018] [Accepted: 10/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
In the human fungal pathogen Cryptococcus neoformans, sex can benefit its pathogenicity through production of meiospores, which are believed to offer both physical and meiosis-created lineage advantages for its infections. Cryptococcus sporulation occurs following two parallel events, meiosis and differentiation of the basidium, the characteristic sexual structure of the basidiomycetes. However, the circuit integrating these events to ensure subsequent sporulation is unclear. Here, we show the spatiotemporal coordination of meiosis and basidial maturation by visualizing event-specific molecules in developing basidia defined by a quantitative approach. Monitoring of gene induction timing together with genetic analysis reveals co-regulation of the coordinated events by a shared regulatory program. Two RRM family regulators, Csa1 and Csa2, are crucial components that bridge meiosis and basidial maturation, further determining sporulation. We propose that the regulatory coordination of meiosis and basidial development serves as a determinant underlying the production of infectious meiospores in C. neoformans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linxia Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Mycology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Guang-Jun He
- State Key Laboratory of Mycology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Lei Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Mycology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jiao Zheng
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yingying Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Mycology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Lan Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Mycology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xiuyun Tian
- State Key Laboratory of Mycology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Erwei Li
- State Key Laboratory of Mycology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Ence Yang
- Department of Microbiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Guojian Liao
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Linqi Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Mycology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
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25
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Cryptococcus neoformans sexual reproduction is controlled by a quorum sensing peptide. Nat Microbiol 2018; 3:698-707. [PMID: 29784977 DOI: 10.1038/s41564-018-0160-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2017] [Accepted: 04/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Bacterial quorum sensing is a well-characterized communication system that governs a large variety of collective behaviours. By comparison, quorum sensing regulation in eukaryotic microbes remains poorly understood, especially its functional role in eukaryote-specific behaviours, such as sexual reproduction. Cryptococcus neoformans is a prevalent fungal pathogen that has two defined sexual cycles (bisexual and unisexual) and is a model organism for studying sexual reproduction in fungi. Here, we show that the quorum sensing peptide Qsp1 serves as an important signalling molecule for both forms of sexual reproduction. Qsp1 orchestrates various differentiation and molecular processes, including meiosis, the hallmark of sexual reproduction. It activates bisexual mating, at least in part through the control of pheromone, a signal necessary for bisexual activation. Notably, Qsp1 also plays a major role in the intercellular regulation of unisexual initiation and coordination, in which pheromone is not strictly required. Through a multi-layered genetic screening approach, we identified the atypical zinc finger regulator Cqs2 as an important component of the Qsp1 signalling cascade during both bisexual and unisexual reproduction. The absence of Cqs2 eliminates the Qsp1-stimulated mating response. Together, these findings extend the range of behaviours governed by quorum sensing to sexual development and meiosis.
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26
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Abstract
Humans are exceptional among vertebrates in that their living tissue is directly exposed to the outside world. In the absence of protective scales, feathers, or fur, the skin has to be highly effective in defending the organism against the gamut of opportunistic fungi surrounding us. Most (sub)cutaneous infections enter the body by implantation through the skin barrier. On intact skin, two types of fungal expansion are noted: (A) colonization by commensals, i.e., growth enabled by conditions prevailing on the skin surface without degradation of tissue, and (B) infection by superficial pathogens that assimilate epidermal keratin and interact with the cellular immune system. In a response-damage framework, all fungi are potentially able to cause disease, as a balance between their natural predilection and the immune status of the host. For this reason, we will not attribute a fixed ecological term to each species, but rather describe them as growing in a commensal state (A) or in a pathogenic state (B).
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27
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Abstract
Approximately 20% of species in the fungal kingdom are only known to reproduce by asexual means despite the many supposed advantages of sexual reproduction. However, in recent years, sexual cycles have been induced in a series of emblematic "asexual" species. We describe how these discoveries were made, building on observations of evidence for sexual potential or "cryptic sexuality" from population genetic analyses; the presence, distribution, and functionality of mating-type genes; genome analyses revealing the presence of genes linked to sexuality; the functionality of sex-related genes; and formation of sex-related developmental structures. We then describe specific studies that led to the discovery of mating and sex in certain Candida, Aspergillus, Penicillium, and Trichoderma species and discuss the implications of sex including the beneficial exploitation of the sexual cycle. We next consider whether there might be any truly asexual fungal species. We suggest that, although rare, imperfect fungi may genuinely be present in nature and that certain human activities, combined with the genetic flexibility that is a hallmark of the fungal kingdom, might favor the evolution of asexuality under certain conditions. Finally, we argue that fungal species should not be thought of as simply asexual or sexual, but rather as being composed of isolates on a continuum of sexual fertility.
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Triana S, de Cock H, Ohm RA, Danies G, Wösten HAB, Restrepo S, González Barrios AF, Celis A. Lipid Metabolic Versatility in Malassezia spp. Yeasts Studied through Metabolic Modeling. Front Microbiol 2017; 8:1772. [PMID: 28959251 PMCID: PMC5603697 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2017.01772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2017] [Accepted: 08/31/2017] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Malassezia species are lipophilic and lipid-dependent yeasts belonging to the human and animal microbiota. Typically, they are isolated from regions rich in sebaceous glands. They have been associated with dermatological diseases such as seborrheic dermatitis, pityriasis versicolor, atopic dermatitis, and folliculitis. The genomes of Malassezia globosa, Malassezia sympodialis, and Malassezia pachydermatis lack the genes related to fatty acid synthesis. Here, the lipid-synthesis pathways of these species, as well as of Malassezia furfur, and of an atypical M. furfur variant were reconstructed using genome data and Constraints Based Reconstruction and Analysis. To this end, the genomes of M. furfur CBS 1878 and the atypical M. furfur 4DS were sequenced and annotated. The resulting Enzyme Commission numbers and predicted reactions were similar to the other Malassezia strains despite the differences in their genome size. Proteomic profiling was utilized to validate flux distributions. Flux differences were observed in the production of steroids in M. furfur and in the metabolism of butanoate in M. pachydermatis. The predictions obtained via these metabolic reconstructions also suggested defects in the assimilation of palmitic acid in M. globosa, M. sympodialis, M. pachydermatis, and the atypical variant of M. furfur, but not in M. furfur. These predictions were validated via physiological characterization, showing the predictive power of metabolic network reconstructions to provide new clues about the metabolic versatility of Malassezia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergio Triana
- Department of Biological Sciences, Universidad de los AndesBogotá, Colombia
- Grupo de Diseño de Productos y Procesos, Department of Chemical Engineering, Universidad de los AndesBogotá, Colombia
- Structural and Computational Biology Unit, European Molecular Biology LaboratoryHeidelberg, Germany
| | - Hans de Cock
- Microbiology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Utrecht UniversityUtrecht, Netherlands
| | - Robin A. Ohm
- Microbiology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Utrecht UniversityUtrecht, Netherlands
| | - Giovanna Danies
- Department of Biological Sciences, Universidad de los AndesBogotá, Colombia
| | - Han A. B. Wösten
- Microbiology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Utrecht UniversityUtrecht, Netherlands
| | - Silvia Restrepo
- Department of Biological Sciences, Universidad de los AndesBogotá, Colombia
| | - Andrés F. González Barrios
- Grupo de Diseño de Productos y Procesos, Department of Chemical Engineering, Universidad de los AndesBogotá, Colombia
| | - Adriana Celis
- Department of Biological Sciences, Universidad de los AndesBogotá, Colombia
- Microbiology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Utrecht UniversityUtrecht, Netherlands
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29
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The influence of the mating type on virulence of Mucor irregularis. Sci Rep 2017; 7:10629. [PMID: 28878325 PMCID: PMC5587739 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-10954-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2017] [Accepted: 08/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Mucor irregularis is an emerging fungal pathogen that cause cutaneous infection and could cause death. However, little is known about its mechanism of pathogenesis. There is evidence suggesting virulence vary with mating types in fungi, including the Mucorales. Here, we characterized the mating type locus of M. irregularis and the mating type ratio of 17 clinical isolates in China. Genomic data indicated M. irregularis is heterothallic having two mating types – bearing either SexP or SexM allele. Also, we employed a mice model to study the inflammation and pathological effects of different mating types. The comparison of the inflammatory response, cytokine profiles and Th-1, Th-2 and Th-17 cells numbers in each mating type treated mice showed that the severity and disease progress were enhanced in (+) mating type treated mice. One (+/0) mutant strain, with multiple mutations at the mating locus, had defects in sexual mating ability but appeared to be more virulent than the (−) mating type. Although (+) mating type appeared to be more virulent, most of our clinical isolates presented belonged to (−) mating type. Our findings support the involvement of MAT genes in sexual fertility, and the influence of mating type on the severity of cutaneous infection.
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Paulussen C, Hallsworth JE, Álvarez‐Pérez S, Nierman WC, Hamill PG, Blain D, Rediers H, Lievens B. Ecology of aspergillosis: insights into the pathogenic potency of Aspergillus fumigatus and some other Aspergillus species. Microb Biotechnol 2017; 10:296-322. [PMID: 27273822 PMCID: PMC5328810 DOI: 10.1111/1751-7915.12367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 179] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2015] [Revised: 04/08/2016] [Accepted: 04/18/2016] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Fungi of the genus Aspergillus are widespread in the environment. Some Aspergillus species, most commonly Aspergillus fumigatus, may lead to a variety of allergic reactions and life-threatening systemic infections in humans. Invasive aspergillosis occurs primarily in patients with severe immunodeficiency, and has dramatically increased in recent years. There are several factors at play that contribute to aspergillosis, including both fungus and host-related factors such as strain virulence and host pulmonary structure/immune status, respectively. The environmental tenacity of Aspergilllus, its dominance in diverse microbial communities/habitats, and its ability to navigate the ecophysiological and biophysical challenges of host infection are attributable, in large part, to a robust stress-tolerance biology and exceptional capacity to generate cell-available energy. Aspects of its stress metabolism, ecology, interactions with diverse animal hosts, clinical presentations and treatment regimens have been well-studied over the past years. Here, we synthesize these findings in relation to the way in which some Aspergillus species have become successful opportunistic pathogens of human- and other animal hosts. We focus on the biophysical capabilities of Aspergillus pathogens, key aspects of their ecophysiology and the flexibility to undergo a sexual cycle or form cryptic species. Additionally, recent advances in diagnosis of the disease are discussed as well as implications in relation to questions that have yet to be resolved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Paulussen
- Laboratory for Process Microbial Ecology and Bioinspirational Management (PME&BIM)Department of Microbial and Molecular Systems (M2S)KU LeuvenCampus De NayerSint‐Katelijne‐WaverB‐2860Belgium
| | - John E. Hallsworth
- Institute for Global Food SecuritySchool of Biological SciencesMedical Biology CentreQueen's University BelfastBelfastBT9 7BLUK
| | - Sergio Álvarez‐Pérez
- Faculty of Veterinary MedicineDepartment of Animal HealthUniversidad Complutense de MadridMadridE‐28040Spain
| | | | - Philip G. Hamill
- Institute for Global Food SecuritySchool of Biological SciencesMedical Biology CentreQueen's University BelfastBelfastBT9 7BLUK
| | - David Blain
- Institute for Global Food SecuritySchool of Biological SciencesMedical Biology CentreQueen's University BelfastBelfastBT9 7BLUK
| | - Hans Rediers
- Laboratory for Process Microbial Ecology and Bioinspirational Management (PME&BIM)Department of Microbial and Molecular Systems (M2S)KU LeuvenCampus De NayerSint‐Katelijne‐WaverB‐2860Belgium
| | - Bart Lievens
- Laboratory for Process Microbial Ecology and Bioinspirational Management (PME&BIM)Department of Microbial and Molecular Systems (M2S)KU LeuvenCampus De NayerSint‐Katelijne‐WaverB‐2860Belgium
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31
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Epidemiology and Molecular Characterizations of Azole Resistance in Clinical and Environmental Aspergillus fumigatus Isolates from China. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2016; 60:5878-84. [PMID: 27431231 DOI: 10.1128/aac.01005-16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2016] [Accepted: 07/14/2016] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Azole resistance in Aspergillus fumigatus has emerged as a worldwide public health problem. We sought here to demonstrate the occurrence and characteristics of azole resistance in A. fumigatus from different parts of China. A total of 317 clinical and 144 environmental A. fumigatus isolates from 12 provinces were collected and subjected to screening for azole resistance. Antifungal susceptibility, cyp51A gene sequencing, and genotyping were carried out for all suspected azole-resistant isolates and a subset of azole-susceptible isolates. As a result, 8 (2.5%) clinical and 2 (1.4%) environmental A. fumigatus isolates were identified as azole resistant. Five azole-resistant strains exhibit the TR34/L98H mutation, whereas four carry the TR34/L98H/S297T/F495I mutation in the cyp51A gene. Genetic typing and phylogenetic analysis showed that there was a worldwide clonal expansion of the TR34/L98H isolates, while the TR34/L98H/S297T/F495I isolates from China harbored a distinct genetic background with resistant isolates from other countries. High polymorphisms existed in the cyp51A gene that produced amino acid changes among azole-susceptible A. fumigatus isolates, with N248K being the most common mutation. These data suggest that the wide distribution of azole-resistant A. fumigatus might be attributed to the environmental resistance mechanisms in China.
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32
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Park HS, Yu JH. Developmental regulators in Aspergillus fumigatus. J Microbiol 2016; 54:223-31. [DOI: 10.1007/s12275-016-5619-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2015] [Revised: 12/28/2015] [Accepted: 12/30/2015] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
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33
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Wu G, Zhao H, Li C, Rajapakse MP, Wong WC, Xu J, Saunders CW, Reeder NL, Reilman RA, Scheynius A, Sun S, Billmyre BR, Li W, Averette AF, Mieczkowski P, Heitman J, Theelen B, Schröder MS, De Sessions PF, Butler G, Maurer-Stroh S, Boekhout T, Nagarajan N, Dawson TL. Genus-Wide Comparative Genomics of Malassezia Delineates Its Phylogeny, Physiology, and Niche Adaptation on Human Skin. PLoS Genet 2015; 11:e1005614. [PMID: 26539826 PMCID: PMC4634964 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1005614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 149] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2015] [Accepted: 09/27/2015] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Malassezia is a unique lipophilic genus in class Malasseziomycetes in Ustilaginomycotina, (Basidiomycota, fungi) that otherwise consists almost exclusively of plant pathogens. Malassezia are typically isolated from warm-blooded animals, are dominant members of the human skin mycobiome and are associated with common skin disorders. To characterize the genetic basis of the unique phenotypes of Malassezia spp., we sequenced the genomes of all 14 accepted species and used comparative genomics against a broad panel of fungal genomes to comprehensively identify distinct features that define the Malassezia gene repertoire: gene gain and loss; selection signatures; and lineage-specific gene family expansions. Our analysis revealed key gene gain events (64) with a single gene conserved across all Malassezia but absent in all other sequenced Basidiomycota. These likely horizontally transferred genes provide intriguing gain-of-function events and prime candidates to explain the emergence of Malassezia. A larger set of genes (741) were lost, with enrichment for glycosyl hydrolases and carbohydrate metabolism, concordant with adaptation to skin’s carbohydrate-deficient environment. Gene family analysis revealed extensive turnover and underlined the importance of secretory lipases, phospholipases, aspartyl proteases, and other peptidases. Combining genomic analysis with a re-evaluation of culture characteristics, we establish the likely lipid-dependence of all Malassezia. Our phylogenetic analysis sheds new light on the relationship between Malassezia and other members of Ustilaginomycotina, as well as phylogenetic lineages within the genus. Overall, our study provides a unique genomic resource for understanding Malassezia niche-specificity and potential virulence, as well as their abundance and distribution in the environment and on human skin. Malassezia are the dominant eukaryotic residents of human skin and are associated with the most common skin disorders, including dandruff, atopic dermatitis, eczema, and others. Despite significant effort, the role of Malassezia in skin disease and homeostasis remains unclear. Malassezia are also unique among fungi by requiring lipids for growth, but the breadth and genetic basis of their lipophilic lifestyle has not been comprehensively studied. Here we report the complete genomes of all 14 Malassezia species (including multiple strains of the most common species found on humans) and systematically identify features that define the genus and its sub-lineages, including horizontally transferred genes likely to represent key gain-of-function events and which may have enabled evolution of the genus from plant to animal inhabitants. Genus wide expansion of lipid hydrolases and loss of carbohydrate metabolism genes underscore the entire genus’ gradual evolution to lipid-dependency, which was confirmed even in the previously thought to be lipophilic M. pachydermatis, via genomics with experimental confirmation. Finally, these reference genomes will serve as a valuable resource for future metagenomic investigations into the role of Malassezia species in normal healthy skin and diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guangxi Wu
- Computational and Systems Biology, Genome Institute of Singapore, A*STAR, Singapore
| | - He Zhao
- Procter & Gamble Singapore Innovation Center, Singapore
| | - Chenhao Li
- Computational and Systems Biology, Genome Institute of Singapore, A*STAR, Singapore
| | | | | | - Jun Xu
- Procter & Gamble Mason Business Center, Mason, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Charles W. Saunders
- Procter & Gamble Mason Business Center, Mason, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Nancy L. Reeder
- Procter & Gamble Mason Business Center, Mason, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Raymond A. Reilman
- Procter & Gamble Mason Business Center, Mason, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Annika Scheynius
- Translational Immunology Unit, Department of Medicine Solna, Karolinska Institutet and University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Sheng Sun
- Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
| | | | - Wenjun Li
- National Center for Biotechnology Information, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Anna Floyd Averette
- Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Piotr Mieczkowski
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Joseph Heitman
- Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Bart Theelen
- Fungal Biodiversity Centre, CBS-KNAW, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | | | | | - Sebastian Maurer-Stroh
- Bioinformatics Institute, A*STAR, Singapore
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University (NTU), Singapore
| | - Teun Boekhout
- Fungal Biodiversity Centre, CBS-KNAW, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Niranjan Nagarajan
- Computational and Systems Biology, Genome Institute of Singapore, A*STAR, Singapore
- * E-mail: (NN); (TLD)
| | - Thomas L. Dawson
- Institute of Medical Biology, A*STAR, Singapore
- * E-mail: (NN); (TLD)
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34
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Zhang J, Debets AJM, Verweij PE, Melchers WJG, Zwaan BJ, Schoustra SE. Asexual sporulation facilitates adaptation: The emergence of azole resistance in Aspergillus fumigatus. Evolution 2015; 69:2573-86. [PMID: 26315993 DOI: 10.1111/evo.12763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2014] [Revised: 07/11/2015] [Accepted: 08/03/2015] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Understanding the occurrence and spread of azole resistance in Aspergillus fumigatus is crucial for public health. It has been hypothesized that asexual sporulation, which is abundant in nature, is essential for phenotypic expression of azole resistance mutations in A. fumigatus facilitating subsequent spread through natural selection. Furthermore, the disease aspergilloma is associated with asexual sporulation within the lungs of patients and the emergence of azole resistance. This study assessed the evolutionary advantage of asexual sporulation by growing the fungus under pressure of one of five different azole fungicides over seven weeks and by comparing the rate of adaptation between scenarios of culturing with and without asexual sporulation. Results unequivocally show that asexual sporulation facilitates adaptation. This can be explained by the combination of more effective selection because of the transition from a multicellular to a unicellular stage, and by increased mutation supply due to the production of spores, which involves numerous mitotic divisions. Insights from this study are essential to unravel the resistance mechanisms of sporulating pathogens to chemical compounds and disease agents in general, and for designing strategies that prevent or overcome the emerging threat of azole resistance in particular.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianhua Zhang
- Laboratory of Genetics, Wageningen University, Droevendaalsesteeg 1, 6708PB, Wageningen, The Netherlands.
| | - Alfons J M Debets
- Laboratory of Genetics, Wageningen University, Droevendaalsesteeg 1, 6708PB, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Paul E Verweij
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboud University Medical Centre, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Willem J G Melchers
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboud University Medical Centre, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Bas J Zwaan
- Laboratory of Genetics, Wageningen University, Droevendaalsesteeg 1, 6708PB, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Sijmen E Schoustra
- Laboratory of Genetics, Wageningen University, Droevendaalsesteeg 1, 6708PB, Wageningen, The Netherlands
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35
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Abstract
Candida albicans is both a prevalent human commensal and the most commonly encountered human fungal pathogen. This lifestyle is dependent on the ability of the fungus to undergo rapid genetic and epigenetic changes, often in response to specific environmental cues. A parasexual cycle in C. albicans has been defined that includes several unique properties when compared to the related model yeast, Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Novel features include strict regulation of mating via a phenotypic switch, enhanced conjugation within a sexual biofilm, and a program of concerted chromosome loss in place of a conventional meiosis. It is expected that several of these adaptations co-evolved with the ability of C. albicans to colonize the mammalian host.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard J Bennett
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Brown University, 171 Meeting St, Providence, RI 02912, United States.
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36
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Evolution of Mating Systems in Basidiomycetes and the Genetic Architecture Underlying Mating-Type Determination in the Yeast Leucosporidium scottii. Genetics 2015; 201:75-89. [PMID: 26178967 DOI: 10.1534/genetics.115.177717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2015] [Accepted: 07/13/2015] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
In most fungi, sexual reproduction is bipolar; that is, two alternate sets of genes at a single mating-type (MAT) locus determine two mating types. However, in the Basidiomycota, a unique (tetrapolar) reproductive system emerged in which sexual identity is governed by two unlinked MAT loci, each of which controls independent mechanisms of self/nonself recognition. Tetrapolar-to-bipolar transitions have occurred on multiple occasions in the Basidiomycota, resulting, for example, from linkage of the two MAT loci into a single inheritable unit. Nevertheless, owing to the scarcity of molecular data regarding tetrapolar systems in the earliest-branching lineage of the Basidiomycota (subphylum Pucciniomycotina), it is presently unclear if the last common ancestor was tetrapolar or bipolar. Here, we address this question, by investigating the mating system of the Pucciniomycotina yeast Leucosporidium scottii. Using whole-genome sequencing and chromoblot analysis, we discovered that sexual reproduction is governed by two physically unlinked gene clusters: a multiallelic homeodomain (HD) locus and a pheromone/receptor (P/R) locus that is biallelic, thereby dismissing the existence of a third P/R allele as proposed earlier. Allele distribution of both MAT genes in natural populations showed that the two loci were in strong linkage disequilibrium, but independent assortment of MAT alleles was observed in the meiotic progeny of a test cross. The sexual cycle produces fertile progeny with similar proportions of the four mating types, but approximately 2/3 of the progeny was found to be nonhaploid. Our study adds to others in reinforcing tetrapolarity as the ancestral state of all basidiomycetes.
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37
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Abstract
Morphogenesis in fungi is often induced by extracellular factors and executed by fungal genetic factors. Cell surface changes and alterations of the microenvironment often accompany morphogenetic changes in fungi. In this review, we will first discuss the general traits of yeast and hyphal morphotypes and how morphogenesis affects development and adaptation by fungi to their native niches, including host niches. Then we will focus on the molecular machinery responsible for the two most fundamental growth forms, yeast and hyphae. Last, we will describe how fungi incorporate exogenous environmental and host signals together with genetic factors to determine their morphotype and how morphogenesis, in turn, shapes the fungal microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaorong Lin
- Department of Biology, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas 77843-3258
| | - J Andrew Alspaugh
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina 27710
| | - Haoping Liu
- Department of Biological Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, California 92697
| | - Steven Harris
- Center for Plant Science Innovation, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, Nebraska 68588
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