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Asensio-López J, Lázaro-Díez M, Hernández-Cruz TM, Blanco-Cabra N, Sorzabal-Bellido I, Arroyo-Urea EM, Buetas E, González-Paredes A, Ortiz de Solórzano C, Burgui S, Torrents E, Monteserín M, Garmendia J. Multimodal evaluation of drug antibacterial activity reveals cinnamaldehyde analog anti-biofilm effects against Haemophilus influenzae. Biofilm 2024; 7:100178. [PMID: 38317668 PMCID: PMC10839773 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioflm.2024.100178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Biofilm formation by the pathobiont Haemophilus influenzae is associated with human nasopharynx colonization, otitis media in children, and chronic respiratory infections in adults suffering from chronic respiratory diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). β-lactam and quinolone antibiotics are commonly used to treat these infections. However, considering the resistance of biofilm-resident bacteria to antibiotic-mediated killing, the use of antibiotics may be insufficient and require being replaced or complemented with novel strategies. Moreover, unlike the standard minimal inhibitory concentration assay used to assess antibacterial activity against planktonic cells, standardization of methods to evaluate anti-biofilm drug activity is limited. In this work, we detail a panel of protocols for systematic analysis of drug antimicrobial effect on bacterial biofilms, customized to evaluate drug effects against H. influenzae biofilms. Testing of two cinnamaldehyde analogs, (E)-trans-2-nonenal and (E)-3-decen-2-one, demonstrated their effectiveness in both H. influenzae inhibition of biofilm formation and eradication or preformed biofilms. Assay complementarity allowed quantifying the dynamics and extent of the inhibitory effects, also observed for ampicillin resistant clinical strains forming biofilms refractory to this antibiotic. Moreover, cinnamaldehyde analog encapsulation into poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) polymeric nanoparticles allowed drug vehiculization while maintaining efficacy. Overall, we demonstrate the usefulness of cinnamaldehyde analogs against H. influenzae biofilms, present a test panel that can be easily adapted to a wide range of pathogens and drugs, and highlight the benefits of drug nanoencapsulation towards safe controlled release.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier Asensio-López
- Centro de Ingeniería de Superficies y Materiales Avanzados, Asociación de la Industria Navarra (AIN), Cordovilla, Spain
- Instituto de Agrobiotecnología, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (IdAB-CSIC)-Gobierno de Navarra, Mutilva, Spain
| | - María Lázaro-Díez
- Instituto de Agrobiotecnología, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (IdAB-CSIC)-Gobierno de Navarra, Mutilva, Spain
| | - Tania M. Hernández-Cruz
- Centro de Ingeniería de Superficies y Materiales Avanzados, Asociación de la Industria Navarra (AIN), Cordovilla, Spain
| | - Núria Blanco-Cabra
- Bacterial Infections and Antimicrobial Therapies Group, Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Barcelona, Spain
- Microbiology Section, Department of Genetics, Microbiology, and Statistics, Biology Faculty, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ioritz Sorzabal-Bellido
- Laboratory of Microphysiological Systems and Quantitative Biology, Biomedical Engineering Program, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), Pamplona, Spain
| | - Eva M. Arroyo-Urea
- Instituto de Química Médica, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (IQM-CSIC), Madrid, Spain
- Conexión Nanomedicina, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Elena Buetas
- Department of Health and Genomics, Center for Advanced Research in Public Health, FISABIO Foundation, Valencia, Spain
| | - Ana González-Paredes
- Instituto de Química Médica, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (IQM-CSIC), Madrid, Spain
- Conexión Nanomedicina, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Carlos Ortiz de Solórzano
- Laboratory of Microphysiological Systems and Quantitative Biology, Biomedical Engineering Program, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), Pamplona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Oncológicas (CIBERONC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Saioa Burgui
- Centro de Ingeniería de Superficies y Materiales Avanzados, Asociación de la Industria Navarra (AIN), Cordovilla, Spain
| | - Eduard Torrents
- Bacterial Infections and Antimicrobial Therapies Group, Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Barcelona, Spain
- Microbiology Section, Department of Genetics, Microbiology, and Statistics, Biology Faculty, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - María Monteserín
- Centro de Ingeniería de Superficies y Materiales Avanzados, Asociación de la Industria Navarra (AIN), Cordovilla, Spain
| | - Junkal Garmendia
- Instituto de Agrobiotecnología, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (IdAB-CSIC)-Gobierno de Navarra, Mutilva, Spain
- Conexión Nanomedicina, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Respiratorias (CIBERES), Madrid, Spain
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Silva MSD, Taveira GB, Silva Gebara RD, Azevedo Dos Santos LD, Cherene MB, Souza TAM, Moreira FF, Rodrigues PS, Motta OV, Seabra SH, Oliveira Carvalho AD, Rodrigues R, Gomes VM. Understanding the mechanism of action of protease inhibitors in controlling the growth of the Candida Genus: potential candidates for development of new antifungal molecules. Arch Microbiol 2024; 206:257. [PMID: 38734773 DOI: 10.1007/s00203-024-03993-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2024] [Revised: 05/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024]
Abstract
There is a growing imperative for research into alternative compounds for the treatment of the fungal infections. Thus, many studies have focused on the analysis of antifungal proteins and peptides from different plant sources. Among these molecules are protease inhibitors (PIs). Previously, PIs present in the peptide-rich fractions called PEF1, PEF2 and PEF3 were identified from Capsicum chinense seeds, which have strong activity against phytopathogenic fungi. The aim of this study was to evaluate the mechanism of action and antimicrobial activity of PIs from PEF2 and PEF3 on the growth of yeasts of the genus Candida. In this work, analyses of their antimicrobial activity and cell viability were carried out. Subsequently, the mechanism of action by which the PIs cause the death of the yeasts was evaluated. Cytotoxicity was assessed in vitro by erythrocytes lysis and in vivo in Galleria mellonella larvae. PEF2 and PEF3 caused 100% of the growth inhibition of C. tropicalis and C. buinensis. For C. albicans inhibition was approximately 60% for both fractions. The PEF2 and PEF3 caused a reduction in mitochondrial functionality of 54% and 46% for C. albicans, 26% and 30% for C. tropicalis, and 71% and 68% for C. buinensis, respectively. These fractions induced morphological alterations, led to membrane permeabilization, elevated ROS levels, and resulted in necrotic cell death in C. tropicalis, whilst demonstrating low toxicity toward host cells. From the results obtained here, we intend to contribute to the understanding of the action of PIs in the control of fungal diseases of medical importance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marciele Souza da Silva
- Laboratório de Fisiologia e Bioquímica de Microrganismos, Centro de Biociências e Biotecnologia, Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, Campos dos Goytacazes, RJ, Brazil
| | - Gabriel Bonan Taveira
- Laboratório de Fisiologia e Bioquímica de Microrganismos, Centro de Biociências e Biotecnologia, Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, Campos dos Goytacazes, RJ, Brazil
| | - Rodrigo da Silva Gebara
- Laboratório de Fisiologia e Bioquímica de Microrganismos, Centro de Biociências e Biotecnologia, Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, Campos dos Goytacazes, RJ, Brazil
| | - Layrana de Azevedo Dos Santos
- Laboratório de Fisiologia e Bioquímica de Microrganismos, Centro de Biociências e Biotecnologia, Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, Campos dos Goytacazes, RJ, Brazil
| | - Milena Bellei Cherene
- Laboratório de Fisiologia e Bioquímica de Microrganismos, Centro de Biociências e Biotecnologia, Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, Campos dos Goytacazes, RJ, Brazil
| | - Thaynã Amanda Melo Souza
- Laboratório de Fisiologia e Bioquímica de Microrganismos, Centro de Biociências e Biotecnologia, Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, Campos dos Goytacazes, RJ, Brazil
| | - Felipe Figueirôa Moreira
- Laboratório de Biologia Celular e Tecidual, Centro de Biociências e Biotecnologia, Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, Campos dos Goytacazes, RJ, Brazil
| | - Pedro Souto Rodrigues
- Laboratório de Biologia Celular e Tecidual, Centro de Biociências e Biotecnologia, Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, Campos dos Goytacazes, RJ, Brazil
| | - Olney Vieira Motta
- Laboratório de Sanidade Animal, Centro de Ciências e Tecnologias Agropecuárias, Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, Campos dos Goytacazes, RJ, Brazil
| | - Sergio Henrique Seabra
- Laboratório de Biologia Celular e Tecidual, Centro de Biociências e Biotecnologia, Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, Campos dos Goytacazes, RJ, Brazil
| | - André de Oliveira Carvalho
- Laboratório de Fisiologia e Bioquímica de Microrganismos, Centro de Biociências e Biotecnologia, Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, Campos dos Goytacazes, RJ, Brazil
| | - Rosana Rodrigues
- Laboratório de Melhoramento e Genética Vegetal, Centro de Ciências e Tecnologias Agropecuárias, Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, Campos dos Goytacazes, RJ, 28013-602, Brazil
| | - Valdirene Moreira Gomes
- Laboratório de Fisiologia e Bioquímica de Microrganismos, Centro de Biociências e Biotecnologia, Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, Campos dos Goytacazes, RJ, Brazil.
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Manley R, Fitch C, Francis V, Temperton I, Turner D, Fletcher J, Phil M, Michell S, Temperton B. Resistance to bacteriophage incurs a cost to virulence in drug-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii. J Med Microbiol 2024; 73:001829. [PMID: 38743467 PMCID: PMC11170128 DOI: 10.1099/jmm.0.001829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction . Acinetobacter baumannii is a critical priority pathogen for novel antimicrobials (World Health Organization) because of the rise in nosocomial infections and its ability to evolve resistance to last resort antibiotics. A. baumannii is thus a priority target for phage therapeutics. Two strains of a novel, virulent bacteriophage (LemonAid and Tonic) able to infect carbapenem-resistant A. baumannii (strain NCTC 13420), were isolated from environmental water samples collected through a citizen science programme.Gap statement. Phage-host coevolution can lead to emergence of host resistance, with a concomitant reduction in the virulence of host bacteria; a potential benefit to phage therapy applications.Methodology. In vitro and in vivo assays, genomics and microscopy techniques were used to characterize the phages; determine mechanisms and impact of phage resistance on host virulence, and the efficacy of the phages against A. baumannii.Results. A. baumannii developed resistance to both viruses, LemonAid and Tonic. Resistance came at a cost to virulence, with the resistant variants causing significantly reduced mortality in a Galleria mellonella larval in vivo model. A replicated 8 bp insertion increased in frequency (~40 % higher frequency than in the wild-type) within phage-resistant A. baumannii mutants, putatively resulting in early truncation of a protein of unknown function. Evidence from comparative genomics and an adsorption assay suggests this protein acts as a novel phage receptor site in A. baumannii. We find no evidence linking resistance to changes in capsule structure, a known virulence factor. LemonAid efficiently suppressed growth of A. baumanni in vitro across a wide range of titres. However, in vivo, while survival of A. baumannii infected larvae significantly increased with both remedial and prophylactic treatment with LemonAid (107 p.f.u. ml-1), the effect was weak and not sufficient to save larvae from morbidity and mortality.Conclusion. While LemonAid and Tonic did not prove effective as a treatment in a Galleria larvae model, there is potential to harness their ability to attenuate virulence in drug-resistant A. baumannii.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robyn Manley
- University of Exeter, Health and Life Sciences, Streatham Campus, Exeter, EX4 4QD, UK
| | - Christian Fitch
- University of Exeter, Health and Life Sciences, Streatham Campus, Exeter, EX4 4QD, UK
| | - Vanessa Francis
- University of Exeter, Health and Life Sciences, Streatham Campus, Exeter, EX4 4QD, UK
| | - Isaac Temperton
- University of Exeter, Health and Life Sciences, Streatham Campus, Exeter, EX4 4QD, UK
| | - Dann Turner
- School of Applied Sciences, College of Health, Science and Society, University of the West of England, Bristol, Frenchay Campus, Coldharbour Lane, Bristol, BS16 1QY, UK
| | - Julie Fletcher
- University of Exeter, Health and Life Sciences, Streatham Campus, Exeter, EX4 4QD, UK
| | - Mitchelmore Phil
- University of Exeter, College of Medicine and Health, Department of Respiratory Medicine, Royal Devon & Exeter Hospital, Barrack Road, Exeter, EX2 5DW, UK
| | - Steve Michell
- University of Exeter, Health and Life Sciences, Streatham Campus, Exeter, EX4 4QD, UK
| | - Ben Temperton
- University of Exeter, Health and Life Sciences, Streatham Campus, Exeter, EX4 4QD, UK
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Luo XC, Yu L, Xu SY, Ying SH, Feng MG. Rad6, a ubiquitin conjugator required for insect-pathogenic lifestyle, UV damage repair, and genomic expression of Beauveria bassiana. Microbiol Res 2024; 281:127622. [PMID: 38246123 DOI: 10.1016/j.micres.2024.127622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/13/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
The E2 ubiquitin conjugator Rad6 is required for DNA damage bypass in budding yeast but remain functionally unknown in filamentous fungi. Here, we report pleiotropic effect of Rad6 ortholog in Beauveria bassiana, a wide-spectrum fungal insecticide. Global ubiquitination signal was greatly attenuated in the absence of rad6. The blocked ubiquitination led to severe growth defect, blocked asexual development, and abolished infectivity/insect pathogenicity, which correlated with compromised conidial quality (including viability, hydrophobicity, adherence to insect cuticle, and thermotolerance) and blocked secretion of cuticle-degrading enzymes including Pr1 family proteases. Importantly, Rad6 played much greater role in photoreactivation of UVB-impaired conidia by a 3- or 5-h light plus 9- or 7-h dark incubation than in dark reactivation of those impaired conidia by a 12-h dark incubation. The high activity of Rad6 in photoreactivation in vivo was derived from its link to a protein complex cored by the photolyase regulators WC1 and WC2 via the strong interactions of Rad6 with the E3 partner Rad18 and Rad18 with WC2 revealed in yeast two-hybrid assays. Transcriptomic analysis resulted in identification of 2700 differentially regulated genes involved in various function categories and metabolism pathways, indicating a regulatory role of Rad6-mediated ubiquitination in gene expression networks and genomic stability. Conclusively, Rad6 is required for asexual and insect-pathogenic lifecycles, solar UV damage repair, and genomic expression of B. bassiana. The primary dependence of its strong anti-UV role on photoreactivation in vivo unveils a scenario distinct from the core role of its yeast ortholog in DNA damage bypass.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin-Cheng Luo
- Institute of Microbiology, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Lei Yu
- Institute of Microbiology, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Si-Yuan Xu
- Institute of Microbiology, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Sheng-Hua Ying
- Institute of Microbiology, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Ming-Guang Feng
- Institute of Microbiology, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.
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Souza BMN, Miñán AG, Brambilla IR, Pinto JG, Garcia MT, Junqueira JC, Ferreira-Strixino J. Effects of antimicrobial photodynamic therapy with photodithazine® on methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA): Studies in biofilms and experimental model with Galleria mellonella. JOURNAL OF PHOTOCHEMISTRY AND PHOTOBIOLOGY. B, BIOLOGY 2024; 252:112860. [PMID: 38330692 DOI: 10.1016/j.jphotobiol.2024.112860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
Staphylococcus aureus infections are a severe health problem due to the high mortality rate. Conventional treatment of these infections is via the administration of antibiotics. However, its indiscriminate use can select resistant microorganisms. Thus, it is necessary to develop alternatives for antibiotic therapy. Antimicrobial Photodynamic Therapy (aPDT), a therapeutic method that associates a photosensitizer (PS), a light source with adequate wavelength to the PS, interacts with molecular oxygen generating reactive oxygen species responsible for cell inactivation, is a viable alternative. This work aimed to analyze, in vitro and in vivo, the action of aPDT with PS Photodithazine® (PDZ) on the methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) strain. In the in vitro method, the S. aureus biofilm was incubated with PDZ at 50 and 75 μg.mL-1 for 15 min, adopting the light dose of 25, 50, and 100 J/cm2. In addition, PS interaction, formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), bacterial metabolism, adhesion, bacterial viability, and biofilm structure were evaluated by scanning electron microscopy. Subsequently, the strain was inoculated into models of Galleria mellonella, and the survival curve, health scale, blood cell analysis, and CFU/mL of S. aureus in the hemolymph were analyzed after aPDT. In the in vitro results, bacterial reduction was observed in the different PDZ concentrations, highlighting the parameters of 75 μg.mL-1 of PDZ and 100 J/cm2. As for in vivo results, aPDT increased survival and stimulated the immune system of G. mellonella infected by S. aureus. aPDT proved effective in both models, demonstrating its potential as an alternative therapy in treating MRSA bacterial infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatriz Müller N Souza
- Photobiology Applied to Health (PhotoBioS Lab), Universidade do Vale do Paraíba (UNIVAP), São José dos Campos, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Alejandro Guillermo Miñán
- Instituto de Investigaciones Fisicoquímicas Teóricas y Aplicadas, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, Universidad Nacional de La Plata, La Plata 1900, Argentina.
| | - Isabelle Ribeiro Brambilla
- Photobiology Applied to Health (PhotoBioS Lab), Universidade do Vale do Paraíba (UNIVAP), São José dos Campos, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Juliana Guerra Pinto
- Photobiology Applied to Health (PhotoBioS Lab), Universidade do Vale do Paraíba (UNIVAP), São José dos Campos, São Paulo, Brazil.
| | - Maíra Terra Garcia
- Department of Biosciences and Oral Diagnosis, Universidade Estadual Paulista (Unesp), Institute of Science and Technology (ICT), São José dos Campos, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Juliana Campos Junqueira
- Department of Biosciences and Oral Diagnosis, Universidade Estadual Paulista (Unesp), Institute of Science and Technology (ICT), São José dos Campos, São Paulo, Brazil.
| | - Juliana Ferreira-Strixino
- Photobiology Applied to Health (PhotoBioS Lab), Universidade do Vale do Paraíba (UNIVAP), São José dos Campos, São Paulo, Brazil.
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Sułek M, Kordaczuk J, Mak P, Śmiałek-Bartyzel J, Hułas-Stasiak M, Wojda I. Immune priming modulates Galleria mellonella and Pseudomonas entomophila interaction. Antimicrobial properties of Kazal peptide Pr13a. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1358247. [PMID: 38469316 PMCID: PMC10925678 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1358247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Galleria mellonella larvae repeatedly infected with Pseudomonas entomophila bacteria re-induced their immune response. Its parameters, i.e. the defence activities of cell-free hemolymph, the presence and activity of antimicrobial peptides, and the expression of immune-relevant genes were modulated after the re-challenge in comparison to non-primed infected larvae, resulting in better protection. No enhanced resistance was observed when the larvae were initially infected with other microorganisms, and larvae pre-infected with P. entomophila were not more resistant to further infection with other pathogens. Then, the peptide profiles of hemolymph from primed- and non-primed larvae infected with P. entomophila were compared by quantitative RP-HPLC (Reverse Phase - High Performance Liquid Chromatography). The level of carbonic anhydrase, anionic peptide-1, proline peptide-2, and finally, unknown so far, putative Kazal peptide Pr13a was higher in the primed infected animals than in the larvae infected with P. entomophila for the first time. The expression of the Pr13a gene increased two-fold after the infection, but only in the primed animals. To check whether the enhanced level of Pr13a could have physiological significance, the peptide was purified to homogeneity and checked for its defence properties. In fact, it had antibacterial activity: at the concentration of 15 µM and 7.5 µM it reduced the number of P. entomophila and Bacillus thuringiensis CFU, respectively, to about 40%. The antibacterial activity of Pr13a was correlated with changes observed on the surface of the peptide-treated bacteria, e.g. surface roughness and adhesion force. The presented results bring us closer to finding hemolymph constituents responsible for the effect of priming on the immune response in re-infected insects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michał Sułek
- Department of Immunobiology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Maria Curie-Sklodowska University, Lublin, Poland
| | - Jakub Kordaczuk
- Department of Immunobiology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Maria Curie-Sklodowska University, Lublin, Poland
| | - Paweł Mak
- Department of Analytical Biochemistry, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Kraków, Poland
| | - Justyna Śmiałek-Bartyzel
- Department of Analytical Biochemistry, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Kraków, Poland
- Doctoral School of Exact and Natural Sciences, Jagiellonian University, Kraków, Poland
| | - Monika Hułas-Stasiak
- Department of Functional Anatomy and Cytobiology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Maria Curie-Sklodowska University, Lublin, Poland
| | - Iwona Wojda
- Department of Immunobiology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Maria Curie-Sklodowska University, Lublin, Poland
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7
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Mendoza Barker M, Saeger S, Campuzano A, Yu JJ, Hung CY. Galleria mellonella Model of Coccidioidomycosis for Drug Susceptibility Tests and Virulence Factor Identification. J Fungi (Basel) 2024; 10:131. [PMID: 38392803 PMCID: PMC10890491 DOI: 10.3390/jof10020131] [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: 12/23/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Coccidioidomycosis (CM) can manifest as respiratory and disseminated diseases that are caused by dimorphic fungal pathogens, such as Coccidioides species. The inhaled arthroconidia generated during the saprobic growth phase convert into multinucleated spherules in the lungs to complete the parasitic lifecycle. Research on coccidioidal virulence and pathogenesis primarily employs murine models typically associated with low lethal doses (LD100 < 100 spores). However, the Galleria model has recently garnered attention due to its immune system bearing both structural and functional similarities to the innate system of mammals. Our findings indicate that Coccidioides posadasii can convert and complete the parasitic cycle within the hemocoel of the Galleria larva. In Galleria, the LD100 is between 0.5 and 1.0 × 106 viable spores for the clinical isolate Coccidioides posadasii C735. Furthermore, we demonstrated the suitability of this model for in vivo antifungal susceptibility tests to validate the bioreactivity of newly discovered antifungals against Coccidioides. Additionally, we utilized this larva model to screen a Coccidioides posadasii mutant library showing attenuated virulence. Similarly, the identified attenuated coccidioidal mutants displayed a loss of virulence in a commonly used murine model of coccidioidomycosis. In this study, we demonstrated that Galleria larvae can be applied as a model for studying Coccidioides infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Mendoza Barker
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, The University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78249, USA
| | - Sarah Saeger
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, The University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78249, USA
| | - Althea Campuzano
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, The University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78249, USA
| | - Jieh-Juen Yu
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, The University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78249, USA
| | - Chiung-Yu Hung
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, The University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78249, USA
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Santos AL, Liu D, van Venrooy A, Beckham JL, Oliver A, Tegos GP, Tour JM. Nonlethal Molecular Nanomachines Potentiate Antibiotic Activity Against Gram-Negative Bacteria by Increasing Cell Permeability and Attenuating Efflux. ACS NANO 2024; 18:3023-3042. [PMID: 38241477 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.3c08041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2024]
Abstract
Antibiotic resistance is a pressing public health threat. Despite rising resistance, antibiotic development, especially for Gram-negative bacteria, has stagnated. As the traditional antibiotic research and development pipeline struggles to address this growing concern, alternative solutions become imperative. Synthetic molecular nanomachines (MNMs) are molecular structures that rotate unidirectionally in a controlled manner in response to a stimulus, such as light, resulting in a mechanical action that can propel molecules to drill into cell membranes, causing rapid cell death. Due to their broad destructive capabilities, clinical translation of MNMs remains challenging. Hence, here, we explore the ability of nonlethal visible-light-activated MNMs to potentiate conventional antibiotics against Gram-negative bacteria. Nonlethal MNMs enhanced the antibacterial activity of various classes of conventional antibiotics against Gram-negative bacteria, including those typically effective only against Gram-positive strains, reducing the antibiotic concentration required for bactericidal action. Our study also revealed that MNMs bind to the negatively charged phospholipids of the bacterial inner membrane, leading to permeabilization of the cell envelope and impairment of efflux pump activity following light activation of MNMs. The combined effects of MNMs on membrane permeability and efflux pumps resulted in increased antibiotic accumulation inside the cell, reversing antibiotic resistance and attenuating its development. These results identify nonlethal MNMs as pleiotropic antibiotic enhancers or adjuvants. The combination of MNMs with traditional antibiotics is a promising strategy against multidrug-resistant Gram-negative infections. This approach can reduce the amount of antibiotics needed and slow down antibiotic resistance development, thereby preserving the effectiveness of our current antibiotics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana L Santos
- Department of Chemistry, Rice University, Houston, Texas 77005, United States
- IdISBA - Fundación de Investigación Sanitaria de las Islas Baleares, 07120 Palma, Spain
| | - Dongdong Liu
- Department of Chemistry, Rice University, Houston, Texas 77005, United States
| | - Alexis van Venrooy
- Department of Chemistry, Rice University, Houston, Texas 77005, United States
| | - Jacob L Beckham
- Department of Chemistry, Rice University, Houston, Texas 77005, United States
| | - Antonio Oliver
- IdISBA - Fundación de Investigación Sanitaria de las Islas Baleares, 07120 Palma, Spain
- Servicio de Microbiologia, Hospital Universitari Son Espases, 07120 Palma, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red, Enfermedades Infecciosas (CIBERINFEC), Av. Monforte de Lemos 3-5, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - George P Tegos
- Office of Research, Faxton St. Luke's Healthcare, Mohawk Valley Health System, 1676 Sunset Avenue, Utica, New York 13502, United States
| | - James M Tour
- Department of Chemistry, Rice University, Houston, Texas 77005, United States
- Smalley-Curl Institute, Rice University, Houston, Texas 77005, United States
- Department of Materials Science and NanoEngineering, Rice University, Houston, Texas 77005, United States
- NanoCarbon Center and Rice Advanced Materials Institute, Rice University, Houston, Texas 77005, United States
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9
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Duarte JL, Di Filippo LD, de Faria Mota Oliveira AEM, Sábio RM, Marena GD, Bauab TM, Duque C, Corbel V, Chorilli M. Development and characterization of potential larvicidal nanoemulsions against Aedes aegypti. BEILSTEIN JOURNAL OF NANOTECHNOLOGY 2024; 15:104-114. [PMID: 38264062 PMCID: PMC10804528 DOI: 10.3762/bjnano.15.10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
Plant-based insecticides offer advantages such as negligible residual effects, reduced risks to both humans and the environment, and immunity to resistance issues that plague conventional chemicals. However, the practical use of monoterpenes in insect control has been hampered by challenges including their poor solubility and stability in aqueous environments. In recent years, the application of nanotechnology-based formulations, specifically nanoemulsions, has emerged as a prospective strategy to surmount these obstacles. In this study, we developed and characterized nanoemulsions based on cymene and myrcene and assessed their toxicity both in vitro using human keratinocytes (HaCAT) cells and in an in vivo model involving Galleria mellonella larvae. Additionally, we investigated the insecticidal efficacy of monoterpenes against the mosquito Aedes aegypti, the primary dengue vector, via larval bioassay. Employing a low-energy approach, we successfully generated nanoemulsions. The cymene-based nanoemulsion exhibited a hydrodynamic diameter of approximately 98 nm and a zeta potential of -25 mV. The myrcene-based nanoemulsion displayed a hydrodynamic diameter of 118 nm and a zeta potential of -20 mV. Notably, both nanoemulsions demonstrated stability over 60 days, accompanied by controlled release properties and low toxicity towards HaCAT cells and Galleria mellonella larvae. Moreover, the nanoemulsions exhibited significant lethality against third-instar Aedes aegypti larvae at a concentration of 50 mg/L. In conclusion, the utilization of nanoemulsions encapsulating cymene and myrcene presents a promising avenue for overcoming the limitations associated with poor solubility and stability of monoterpenes. This study sheds light on the potential of the nanoemulsions as effective and environmentally friendly insecticides in the ongoing battle against mosquito-borne diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonatas L Duarte
- Department of Drugs and Medicines, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Leonardo Delello Di Filippo
- Department of Drugs and Medicines, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Rafael Miguel Sábio
- Department of Drugs and Medicines, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Gabriel Davi Marena
- Department of Drugs and Medicines, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara, São Paulo, Brazil
- Department of Biological Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Campus Araraquara, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Tais Maria Bauab
- Department of Biological Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Campus Araraquara, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Cristiane Duque
- Department of Preventive and Restorative Dentistry, Araçatuba Dental School - São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araçatuba, SP, Brazil
| | - Vincent Corbel
- Institut de Recherche pour le Développement (IRD), MIVEGEC, Univ. Montpellier, CNRS, IRD, 911 Av Agropolis, 34 394 Montpellier, France
- Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (FIOCRUZ), Instituto Oswaldo Cruz (IOC), Laboratório de Fisiologia e Controle de Artrópodes Vetores (Laficave). Avenida Brasil, 4365 Manguinhos, Rio de Janeiro – RJ, CEP: 21040-360, Brazil
| | - Marlus Chorilli
- Department of Drugs and Medicines, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara, São Paulo, Brazil
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10
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Hu H, Hu Q, Weng Q, Wang J. Hemocytin, the special aggregation factor connecting insect hemolymph immunity, a potential target of insecticidal immunosuppresant. PESTICIDE BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2024; 198:105704. [PMID: 38225099 DOI: 10.1016/j.pestbp.2023.105704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Revised: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2024]
Abstract
Insects possess an effective innate immunity that enables them to adapt to their intricate living environment and fend off various pathogens (or parasites). This innate immunity comprises both humoral and cellular immunity, which synergistically orchestrate immune responses. Hemocytin, a lectin with a distinctive structure, plays a crucial role in insect hemolymph immunity. Hemocytin is involved in the early immune response, facilitating processes such as coagulation, nodulation, and encapsulation in the hemolymph. It prevents hemolymph overflow and microbial pathogens invasion resulting from epidermal damage, and also aids in the recognition and elimination of invaders. However, the research on hemocytin is still limited. Our previous findings demonstrated that destruxin A effectively inhibits insect hemolymph immunity by interacting with hemocytin, suggesting that hemocytin could be a potential target for insecticides development. Therefore, it is crucial to gain a deeper understanding of hemocytin. This review integrates recent advancements in the study of the structure and function of insect hemocytin and also explores the potential of hemocytin as a target for insecticides. This review aims to enhance our comprehension of insect innate immunity and provide innovative ideas for the development of environmentally friendly pesticides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongwang Hu
- National Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide, College of Plant Protection, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China.
| | - Qiongbo Hu
- National Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide, College of Plant Protection, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China.
| | - Qunfang Weng
- National Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide, College of Plant Protection, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China.
| | - Jingjing Wang
- National Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide, College of Plant Protection, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; College of Horticulture, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China.
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11
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Oliveira LR, Trein MR, Assis LR, Rigo GV, Simões LPM, Batista VS, Macedo AJ, Trentin DS, Nascimento-Júnior NM, Tasca T, Regasini LO. Phenolic chalcones as agents against Trichomonas vaginalis. Bioorg Chem 2023; 141:106888. [PMID: 37839143 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2023.106888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2022] [Revised: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023]
Abstract
Trichomonas vaginalis, a flagellated and anaerobic protozoan, is a causative agent of trichomoniasis. This disease is among the world's most common non-viral sexually transmitted infection. A single class drug, nitroimidazoles, is currently available for the trichomoniasis treatment. However, resistant isolates have been identified from unsuccessfully treated patients. Thus, there is a great challenge for a discovery of innovative anti-T. vaginalis agents. As part of our ongoing search for antiprotozoal chalcones, we designed and synthesized a series of 21 phenolic chalcones, which were evaluated against T. vaginalis trophozoites. Structure-activity relationship indicated hydroxyl group plays a role key in antiprotozoal activity. 4'-Hydroxychalcone (4HC) was the most active compound (IC50 = 27.5 µM) and selected for detailed bioassays. In vitro and in vivo evaluations demonstrated 4HC was not toxic against human erythrocytes and Galleria mellonella larvae. Trophozoites of T. vaginalis were treated with 4HC and did not present significant reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation. However, compound 4HC was able to increase ROS accumulation in neutrophils coincubated with T. vaginalis. qRT-PCR Experiments indicated that 4HC did not affect the expression of pyruvate:ferredoxin oxidoreductase (PFOR) and β-tubulin genes. In silico simulations, using purine nucleoside phosphorylase of T. vaginalis (TvPNP), corroborated 4HC as a promising ligand. Compound 4HC was able to establish interactions with residues D21, G20, M180, R28, R87 and T90 through hydrophobic interactions, π-donor hydrogen bond and hydrogen bonds. Altogether, these results open new avenues for phenolic chalcones to combat trichomoniasis, a parasitic neglected infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lígia R Oliveira
- Institute of Biosciences, Humanities and Exact Sciences (Ibilce), São Paulo State University (Unesp), 15054-000 São José do Rio Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Márcia R Trein
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, 90610-000 Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Letícia R Assis
- Institute of Biosciences, Humanities and Exact Sciences (Ibilce), São Paulo State University (Unesp), 15054-000 São José do Rio Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Graziela V Rigo
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, 90610-000 Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Leonardo P M Simões
- Institute of Chemistry, São Paulo State University (Unesp), Rua Professor Francisco Degni, 55, Jardim Quitandinha, Araraquara 14800-060, SP, Brazil
| | - Victor S Batista
- Institute of Chemistry, São Paulo State University (Unesp), Rua Professor Francisco Degni, 55, Jardim Quitandinha, Araraquara 14800-060, SP, Brazil
| | - Alexandre J Macedo
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, 90610-000 Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Danielle S Trentin
- Department of Basic Health Sciences, Federal University of Health Sciences of Porto Alegre, 90050-170 Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Nailton M Nascimento-Júnior
- Institute of Chemistry, São Paulo State University (Unesp), Rua Professor Francisco Degni, 55, Jardim Quitandinha, Araraquara 14800-060, SP, Brazil
| | - Tiana Tasca
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, 90610-000 Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
| | - Luis O Regasini
- Institute of Biosciences, Humanities and Exact Sciences (Ibilce), São Paulo State University (Unesp), 15054-000 São José do Rio Preto, SP, Brazil.
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12
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Reis NF, de Jesus MCS, de Souza LCDSV, Alcântara LM, Rodrigues JADC, Brito SCP, Penna PDA, Vieira CS, Silva JRS, Penna BDA, Machado RLD, Mora-Montes HM, Baptista ARDS. Sporothrix brasiliensis Infection Modulates Antimicrobial Peptides and Stress Management Gene Expression in the Invertebrate Biomodel Galleria mellonella. J Fungi (Basel) 2023; 9:1053. [PMID: 37998858 PMCID: PMC10672515 DOI: 10.3390/jof9111053] [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: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Sporothrix brasiliensis is the most pathogenic species, responsible for the Brazilian cat-transmitted sporotrichosis hyperendemic. In this scenario, an investigation of the pathogen-host interaction can provide relevant information for future treatment strategies. To this end, the invertebrate Galleria mellonella has proven to be a suitable alternative for evaluating the virulence of pathogenic fungi, since the insect immune system is similar to the mammalian innate immune response. The aim of this work was to investigate phenotypic and molecular aspects of the immune response of G. mellonella throughout the S. brasiliensis infection. Hemocyte density and the evolution of the fungal load were evaluated. In parallel, RT-qPCR expression analysis of genes encoding antimicrobial peptides (Gallerimycin and Galiomycin) and stress management genes (C7 Contig 15362 and C8 Contig 19101) was conducted. The fungal load and hemocyte densities increased simultaneously and proportionally to the deleterious morphological events and larvae mortality. Gallerimycin, C7 Contig 15362 and C8 Contig 19101 genes were positively regulated (p < 0.05) at distinct moments of S. brasiliensis infection, characterizing a time-dependent and alternately modulated profile. Galiomycin gene expression remained unchanged. Our results contribute to the future proposal of potential alternative pathways for treating and consequently controlling S. brasiliensis zoonosis, a major public health issue in Latin America.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathália Faria Reis
- Center for Microorganisms’ Investigation, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Biomedical Institute, Federal Fluminense University, Niterói 24020-141, RJ, Brazil; (N.F.R.); (M.C.S.d.J.); (L.C.d.S.V.d.S.); (L.M.A.); (J.A.d.C.R.); (S.C.P.B.); (R.L.D.M.)
| | - Myrela Conceição Santos de Jesus
- Center for Microorganisms’ Investigation, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Biomedical Institute, Federal Fluminense University, Niterói 24020-141, RJ, Brazil; (N.F.R.); (M.C.S.d.J.); (L.C.d.S.V.d.S.); (L.M.A.); (J.A.d.C.R.); (S.C.P.B.); (R.L.D.M.)
| | - Lais Cavalcanti dos Santos Velasco de Souza
- Center for Microorganisms’ Investigation, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Biomedical Institute, Federal Fluminense University, Niterói 24020-141, RJ, Brazil; (N.F.R.); (M.C.S.d.J.); (L.C.d.S.V.d.S.); (L.M.A.); (J.A.d.C.R.); (S.C.P.B.); (R.L.D.M.)
| | - Lucas Martins Alcântara
- Center for Microorganisms’ Investigation, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Biomedical Institute, Federal Fluminense University, Niterói 24020-141, RJ, Brazil; (N.F.R.); (M.C.S.d.J.); (L.C.d.S.V.d.S.); (L.M.A.); (J.A.d.C.R.); (S.C.P.B.); (R.L.D.M.)
| | - Julia Andrade de Castro Rodrigues
- Center for Microorganisms’ Investigation, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Biomedical Institute, Federal Fluminense University, Niterói 24020-141, RJ, Brazil; (N.F.R.); (M.C.S.d.J.); (L.C.d.S.V.d.S.); (L.M.A.); (J.A.d.C.R.); (S.C.P.B.); (R.L.D.M.)
| | - Simone Cristina Pereira Brito
- Center for Microorganisms’ Investigation, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Biomedical Institute, Federal Fluminense University, Niterói 24020-141, RJ, Brazil; (N.F.R.); (M.C.S.d.J.); (L.C.d.S.V.d.S.); (L.M.A.); (J.A.d.C.R.); (S.C.P.B.); (R.L.D.M.)
| | - Patrícia de Azambuja Penna
- Laboratory of Insect Biology, Federal Fluminense University, Niterói 24220-900, RJ, Brazil; (P.d.A.P.); (C.S.V.)
| | - Cecília Stahl Vieira
- Laboratory of Insect Biology, Federal Fluminense University, Niterói 24220-900, RJ, Brazil; (P.d.A.P.); (C.S.V.)
| | - José Rodrigo Santos Silva
- Department of Statistics and Actuarial Sciences, Federal University of Sergipe, São Cristóvão 49107-230, SE, Brazil;
| | - Bruno de Araújo Penna
- Laboratory of Gram-Positive Cocci, Biomedical Institute, Fluminense Federal University, Niterói 24020-141, RJ, Brazil;
| | - Ricardo Luiz Dantas Machado
- Center for Microorganisms’ Investigation, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Biomedical Institute, Federal Fluminense University, Niterói 24020-141, RJ, Brazil; (N.F.R.); (M.C.S.d.J.); (L.C.d.S.V.d.S.); (L.M.A.); (J.A.d.C.R.); (S.C.P.B.); (R.L.D.M.)
| | - Hector M. Mora-Montes
- Department of Biology, Division of Natural and Exact Sciences, Campus Guanajuato, University of Guanajuato, Guanajuato 36050, Mexico;
| | - Andréa Regina de Souza Baptista
- Center for Microorganisms’ Investigation, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Biomedical Institute, Federal Fluminense University, Niterói 24020-141, RJ, Brazil; (N.F.R.); (M.C.S.d.J.); (L.C.d.S.V.d.S.); (L.M.A.); (J.A.d.C.R.); (S.C.P.B.); (R.L.D.M.)
- Rede Micologia RJ—Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado do Rio de Janeiro (FAPERJ), Rio de Janeiro 21941-630, RJ, Brazil
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13
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Upfold J, Rejasse A, Nielsen-Leroux C, Jensen AB, Sanchis-Borja V. The immunostimulatory role of an Enterococcus-dominated gut microbiota in host protection against bacterial and fungal pathogens in Galleria mellonella larvae. FRONTIERS IN INSECT SCIENCE 2023; 3:1260333. [PMID: 38469511 PMCID: PMC10926436 DOI: 10.3389/finsc.2023.1260333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/13/2024]
Abstract
Understanding the intricate interplay between the gut microbiota and the immune response in insects is crucial, given its diverse impact on the pathogenesis of various microbial species. The microbiota's modulation of the host immune system is one such mechanism, although its complete impact on immune responses remains elusive. This study investigated the tripartite interaction between the gut microbiota, pathogens, and the host's response in Galleria mellonella larvae reared under axenic (sterile) and conventional (non-sterile) conditions. The influence of the microbiota on host fitness during infections was evaluated via two different routes: oral infection induced by Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. galleriae (Btg), and topical infection induced by Metarhizium robertsii (Mr). We observed that larvae without a microbiota can successfully fulfill their life cycle, albeit with more variation in their developmental time. We subsequently performed survival assays on final-instar larvae, using the median lethal dose (LD50) of Btg and Mr. Our findings indicated that axenic larvae were more vulnerable to an oral infection of Btg; specifically, a dose that was calculated to be half-lethal for the conventional group resulted in a 90%-100% mortality rate in the axenic group. Through a dual-analysis experimental design, we could identify the status of the gut microbiota using 16S rRNA sequencing and assess the level of immune-related gene expression in the same group of larvae at basal conditions and during infection. This analysis revealed that the microbiota of our conventionally reared population was dominated entirely by four Enterococcus species, and these species potentially stimulated the immune response in the gut, due to the increased basal expression of two antimicrobial peptides (AMPs)-gallerimycin and gloverin-in the conventional larvae compared with the axenic larvae. Furthermore, Enterococcus mundtii, isolated from the gut of conventional larvae, showed inhibition activity against Btg in vitro. Lastly, other immune effectors, namely, phenoloxidase activity in the hemolymph and total reactive oxygen/nitrogen species (ROS/RNS) in the gut, were tested to further investigate the extent of the stimulation of the microbiota on the immune response. These findings highlight the immune-modulatory role of the Enterococcus-dominated gut microbiota, an increasingly reported microbiota assemblage of laboratory populations of Lepidoptera, and its influence on the host's response to oral and topical infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Upfold
- Université Paris-Saclay, INRAE, AgroParisTech, Micalis Institute, Jouy-en-Josas, France
- Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Agnès Rejasse
- Université Paris-Saclay, INRAE, AgroParisTech, Micalis Institute, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | | | - Annette Bruun Jensen
- Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Vincent Sanchis-Borja
- Université Paris-Saclay, INRAE, AgroParisTech, Micalis Institute, Jouy-en-Josas, France
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14
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Marcos CM, de Oliveira HC, Assato PA, de Oliveira LT, Fregonezi N, dos Santos KS, Costa-Orlandi CB, Fusco-Almeida AM, Mendes-Giannini MJS. Polypeptides Targeting Paracoccidioides brasiliensis Drk1. J Fungi (Basel) 2023; 9:980. [PMID: 37888236 PMCID: PMC10607314 DOI: 10.3390/jof9100980] [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: 05/17/2023] [Revised: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Considering the toxicity of conventional therapeutic approaches and the importance of precise mechanistic targets, it is important to explore signaling pathways implicated in fungal pathobiology. Moreover, treatment of paracoccidioidomycosis, a systemic mycosis caused by a dimorphic fungus, requires prolonged therapeutic regimens. Among the numerous factors underpinning the establishment of Paracoccidioides spp. infection, the capacity to transition from the mycelial to the yeast form is of pivotal importance. The Drk1 protein of Paracoccidioides brasiliensis likely plays a decisive role in this morphological shift and subsequent virulence. We identified peptides with affinity for the PbDrk1 protein using the phage-display method and assessed the effects of these peptides on P. brasiliensis. The peptides were found to inhibit the phase transition of P. brasiliensis. Furthermore, a substantial proportion of these peptides prevented adhesion to pneumocytes. Although these peptides may not possess inherent antifungal properties, they can augment the effects of certain antifungal agents. Notably, the cell wall architecture of P. brasiliensis appears to be modulated by peptide intervention, resulting in a reduced abundance of glycosylated proteins and lipids. These peptides were also evaluated for their efficacy in a Galleria mellonella model and shown to contribute to enhanced larval survival rates. The role of PbDrk1, which is notably absent in mammals, should be further investigated to improve the understanding of its functional role in P. brasiliensis, which may be helpful for designing novel therapeutic modalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Maria Marcos
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara 14800-903, Brazil; (C.M.M.); (H.C.d.O.); (P.A.A.); (L.T.d.O.); (N.F.); (K.S.d.S.); (C.B.C.-O.); (A.M.F.-A.)
| | - Haroldo Cesar de Oliveira
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara 14800-903, Brazil; (C.M.M.); (H.C.d.O.); (P.A.A.); (L.T.d.O.); (N.F.); (K.S.d.S.); (C.B.C.-O.); (A.M.F.-A.)
- Instituto Carlos Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (Fiocruz), Curitiba 81350-010, Brazil
| | - Patricia Akemi Assato
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara 14800-903, Brazil; (C.M.M.); (H.C.d.O.); (P.A.A.); (L.T.d.O.); (N.F.); (K.S.d.S.); (C.B.C.-O.); (A.M.F.-A.)
- Laboratório Central de Multiusuários, Faculdade de Ciências Agronômicas, Campus Botucatu, UNESP—Universidade Estadual Paulista, São Paulo 18610-034, Brazil
| | - Lariane Teodoro de Oliveira
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara 14800-903, Brazil; (C.M.M.); (H.C.d.O.); (P.A.A.); (L.T.d.O.); (N.F.); (K.S.d.S.); (C.B.C.-O.); (A.M.F.-A.)
| | - Nathália Fregonezi
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara 14800-903, Brazil; (C.M.M.); (H.C.d.O.); (P.A.A.); (L.T.d.O.); (N.F.); (K.S.d.S.); (C.B.C.-O.); (A.M.F.-A.)
| | - Kelvin Sousa dos Santos
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara 14800-903, Brazil; (C.M.M.); (H.C.d.O.); (P.A.A.); (L.T.d.O.); (N.F.); (K.S.d.S.); (C.B.C.-O.); (A.M.F.-A.)
| | - Caroline Barcelos Costa-Orlandi
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara 14800-903, Brazil; (C.M.M.); (H.C.d.O.); (P.A.A.); (L.T.d.O.); (N.F.); (K.S.d.S.); (C.B.C.-O.); (A.M.F.-A.)
| | - Ana Marisa Fusco-Almeida
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara 14800-903, Brazil; (C.M.M.); (H.C.d.O.); (P.A.A.); (L.T.d.O.); (N.F.); (K.S.d.S.); (C.B.C.-O.); (A.M.F.-A.)
| | - Maria José Soares Mendes-Giannini
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara 14800-903, Brazil; (C.M.M.); (H.C.d.O.); (P.A.A.); (L.T.d.O.); (N.F.); (K.S.d.S.); (C.B.C.-O.); (A.M.F.-A.)
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15
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Peng Y, Wen S, Wang G, Zhang X, Di T, Du G, Chen B, Zhang L. Reconstruction of Gut Bacteria in Spodoptera frugiperda Infected by Beauveria bassiana Affects the Survival of Host Pest. J Fungi (Basel) 2023; 9:906. [PMID: 37755014 PMCID: PMC10532432 DOI: 10.3390/jof9090906] [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: 07/23/2023] [Revised: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) is a migratory agricultural pest that is devastating on a global scale. Beauveria bassiana is a filamentous entomopathogenic fungus that has a strong pathogenic effect on Lepidoptera pests but little is known about the microbial community in the host gut and the dominant populations in fungus-infected insects. B. bassiana AJS91881 was isolated and identified from the infected larvae of Spodoptera litura. The virulence of AJS91881 to the eggs, larvae, pupae and adults of S. frugiperda was measured. Moreover, the gut microbial community diversity of healthy and fungus-infected insects was analyzed. Our results showed that after treatment with B. bassiana AJS91881, the egg hatching rate, larval survival rate and adult lifespan of the insects were significantly reduced, and the pupae rigor rate was significantly increased compared to that of the control group. Additionally, the gut microbial community was reconstructed after B. bassiana infection. At the phylum and genus level, the relative abundance of the Proteobacteria and Serratia increased significantly in the B. bassiana treatment group. The KEGG function prediction results showed that fungal infection affected insect gut metabolism, environmental information processing, genetic information processing, organism systems and cellular processes. Fungal infection was closely related to the metabolism of various substances in the insect gut. Serratia marcescens was the bacterium with the highest relative abundance after infection by B. bassiana; intestinal bacteria S. marcescens inhibited the infection of insect fungi B. bassiana against the S. frugiperda. The presence of gut bacteria also significantly reduced the virulence of the fungi against the insects when compared to the group with the larvae fed antibiotics that were infected with fungal suspension (Germfree, GF) and healthy larvae that were infected with fungal suspension prepared with an antibiotic solution (+antibiotic). In conclusion, the reconstruction of the insect intestinal bacterial community is an indispensable link for understanding the pathogenicity of B. bassiana against S. frugiperda. Most importantly, in the later stage of fungal infection, the increased abundance of S. marcescens in the insect intestine inhibited the virulence of B. bassiana to some extent. The findings aid in understanding changes in the gut microbiota during the early stages of entomopathogenic fungal infection of insects and the involvement of insect gut microbes in host defense mediated by pathogenic fungal infection. This study is also conducive to understanding the interaction between entomopathogenic fungi, hosts and gut microbes, and provides a new idea for the joint use of entomopathogenic fungi and gut bacteria to control pests.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Bin Chen
- Yunnan State Key Laboratory of Conservation and Utilization of Biological Resources, College of Plant Protection, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming 650201, China; (Y.P.); (S.W.); (G.W.); (X.Z.); (T.D.); (G.D.)
| | - Limin Zhang
- Yunnan State Key Laboratory of Conservation and Utilization of Biological Resources, College of Plant Protection, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming 650201, China; (Y.P.); (S.W.); (G.W.); (X.Z.); (T.D.); (G.D.)
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16
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Iwański B, Andrejko M. Changes in the apolipophorin III in Galleria mellonella larvae treated with Pseudomonas aeruginosa exotoxin A. JOURNAL OF INSECT PHYSIOLOGY 2023; 149:104536. [PMID: 37414244 DOI: 10.1016/j.jinsphys.2023.104536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2023] [Revised: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023]
Abstract
In the present study, we have demonstrated a correlation in time between changes in the amount of apolipophorin III (apoLp-III) in the fat body and hemocytes of Galleria mellonella larvae challenged with Pseudomonas aeruginosa exotoxin A (exoA). An increase in the amount of apoLp-III was detected 1-8 h after the challenge; then, a temporary decrease was observed after 15 h followed by an increase in the level of apoLp-III, however to a different extent. The profile of apoLp-III forms in the hemolymph, hemocytes, and fat body of the exoA-challenged larvae was analyzed using two-dimensional electrophoresis (IEF/SDS-PAGE) and immunoblotting with anti-apoLp-III antibodies. Two apoLp-III forms differing in isoelectric point values estimated at ∼ 6.5 and ∼ 6.1 in the hemolymph and ∼ 6.5 and ∼ 5.9 in the hemocytes as well as one isoform with pI ∼ 6.5 in the fat body with an additional apoLp-III-derived polypeptide with estimated pI ∼ 6.9 were detected in the control insects. The injection of exoA caused a significant decrease in the abundance of both apoLp-III isoforms in the insect hemolymph. In the hemocytes, a decrease in the amount of the pI ∼ 5.9 isoform was detected, while the major apoLp-III isoform (pI ∼ 6.5) remained unchanged. In addition, appearance of an additional apoLp-III-derived polypeptide with an estimated pI ∼ 5.2 was observed. Interestingly, there were no statistically significant differences in the amount of the main isoform in the fat body between the control and exoA-challenged insects, but the polypeptide with pI ∼ 6.9 disappeared completely. It should be noted that the decrease in the amount of apoLp-III and other proteins was especially noticeable at the time points when exoA was detected in the studied tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bartłomiej Iwański
- Department of Immunobiology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, Maria Curie-Skłodowska University, Akademicka 19 St., 20-033 Lublin, Poland.
| | - Mariola Andrejko
- Department of Immunobiology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, Maria Curie-Skłodowska University, Akademicka 19 St., 20-033 Lublin, Poland
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17
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Admella J, Torrents E. Investigating bacterial infections in Galleria mellonella larvae: Insights into pathogen dissemination and behavior. J Invertebr Pathol 2023; 200:107975. [PMID: 37541571 DOI: 10.1016/j.jip.2023.107975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 07/30/2023] [Indexed: 08/06/2023]
Abstract
The insect Galleria mellonella is an alternative animal model widely used for studying bacterial infections. It presents a wide range of advantages, including its low cost, easy maintenance and lack of ethical constraints. Among other features, their innate immune system is very similar to that of mammals. In this study, we dissected several larvae infected with important human pathogens: Mycobacterium abscessus, Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. By observing the fat body, gut, trachea, and hemolymph under the microscope, we were able to describe where bacteria tend to disseminate. We also quantified the number of bacteria in the hemolymph throughout the infection course and found significant differences between the different pathogens. With this work, we aimed to better understand the behavior and dissemination of bacteria in the infected larvae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joana Admella
- Bacterial Infections and Antimicrobial Therapies Group, Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Baldiri Reixac 15-21, 08028 Barcelona, Spain; Microbiology Section, Department of Genetics, Microbiology and Statistics, Faculty of Biology, University of Barcelona, 643 Diagonal Ave., 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Eduard Torrents
- Bacterial Infections and Antimicrobial Therapies Group, Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Baldiri Reixac 15-21, 08028 Barcelona, Spain; Microbiology Section, Department of Genetics, Microbiology and Statistics, Faculty of Biology, University of Barcelona, 643 Diagonal Ave., 08028 Barcelona, Spain.
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18
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Turton K, Parks HJ, Zarodkiewicz P, Hamad MA, Dwane R, Parau G, Ingram RJ, Coll RC, Bryant CE, Valvano MA. The Achromobacter type 3 secretion system drives pyroptosis and immunopathology via independent activation of NLRC4 and NLRP3 inflammasomes. Cell Rep 2023; 42:113012. [PMID: 37598340 PMCID: PMC7614980 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.113012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023] Open
Abstract
How the opportunistic Gram-negative pathogens of the genus Achromobacter interact with the innate immune system is poorly understood. Using three Achromobacter clinical isolates from two species, we show that the type 3 secretion system (T3SS) is required to induce cell death in human macrophages by inflammasome-dependent pyroptosis. Macrophages deficient in the inflammasome sensors NLRC4 or NLRP3 undergo pyroptosis upon bacterial internalization, but those deficient in both NLRC4 and NLRP3 do not, suggesting either sensor mediates pyroptosis in a T3SS-dependent manner. Detailed analysis of the intracellular trafficking of one isolate indicates that the intracellular bacteria reside in a late phagolysosome. Using an intranasal mouse infection model, we observe that Achromobacter damages lung structure and causes severe illness, contingent on a functional T3SS. Together, we demonstrate that Achromobacter species can survive phagocytosis by promoting macrophage cell death and inflammation by redundant mechanisms of pyroptosis induction in a T3SS-dependent manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keren Turton
- Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK
| | - Hannah J Parks
- Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK
| | - Paulina Zarodkiewicz
- Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK
| | - Mohamad A Hamad
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Rachel Dwane
- Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK
| | - Georgiana Parau
- Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK
| | - Rebecca J Ingram
- Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK
| | - Rebecca C Coll
- Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK
| | - Clare E Bryant
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB3 0ES, UK; Department of Medicine, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge CB2 0QQ, UK
| | - Miguel A Valvano
- Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK.
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19
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Mahanta DK, Bhoi TK, Komal J, Samal I, Nikhil RM, Paschapur AU, Singh G, Kumar PVD, Desai HR, Ahmad MA, Singh PP, Majhi PK, Mukherjee U, Singh P, Saini V, Shahanaz, Srinivasa N, Yele Y. Insect-pathogen crosstalk and the cellular-molecular mechanisms of insect immunity: uncovering the underlying signaling pathways and immune regulatory function of non-coding RNAs. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1169152. [PMID: 37691928 PMCID: PMC10491481 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1169152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Multicellular organisms are constantly subjected to pathogens that might be harmful. Although insects lack an adaptive immune system, they possess highly effective anti-infective mechanisms. Bacterial phagocytosis and parasite encapsulation are some forms of cellular responses. Insects often defend themselves against infections through a humoral response. This phenomenon includes the secretion of antimicrobial peptides into the hemolymph. Specific receptors for detecting infection are required for the recognition of foreign pathogens such as the proteins that recognize glucans and peptidoglycans, together referred to as PGRPs and βGRPs. Activation of these receptors leads to the stimulation of signaling pathways which further activates the genes encoding for antimicrobial peptides. Some instances of such pathways are the JAK-STAT, Imd, and Toll. The host immune response that frequently accompanies infections has, however, been circumvented by diseases, which may have assisted insects evolve their own complicated immune systems. The role of ncRNAs in insect immunology has been discussed in several notable studies and reviews. This paper examines the most recent research on the immune regulatory function of ncRNAs during insect-pathogen crosstalk, including insect- and pathogen-encoded miRNAs and lncRNAs, and provides an overview of the important insect signaling pathways and effector mechanisms activated by diverse pathogen invaders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepak Kumar Mahanta
- Department of Entomology, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Samastipur, Bihar, India
| | - Tanmaya Kumar Bhoi
- Forest Protection Division, Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE) - Arid Forest Research Institute (ICFRE-AFRI), Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India
| | - J. Komal
- Department of Entomology, Navsari Agricultural University, Navsari, Gujarat, India
| | - Ipsita Samal
- ICAR-National Research Centre on Litchi, Mushahari, Ramna, Muzaffarpur, Bihar, India
| | - R. M. Nikhil
- Division of Entomology, Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, India
| | - Amit Umesh Paschapur
- Crop Protection Division, Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR)-Vivekananda Parvatiya Krishi Anusandhan Sansthan, Almora, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Gaurav Singh
- The Directorate of Research, Maharana Pratap Horticultural University, Karnal, Haryana, India
| | - P. V. Dinesh Kumar
- Department of Plant Pathology University of Agricultural Sciences, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | - H. R. Desai
- Department of Entomology, Main Cotton Research Station, Navsari Agricultural University, Gujarat, India
| | - Mohammad Abbas Ahmad
- Department of Entomology, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Samastipur, Bihar, India
| | - P. P. Singh
- Department of Entomology, Tirhut College of Agriculture, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Samastipur, Bihar, India
| | - Prasanta Kumar Majhi
- Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India
| | - U. Mukherjee
- Department of Entomology, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Samastipur, Bihar, India
| | - Pushpa Singh
- Department of Entomology, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Samastipur, Bihar, India
| | - Varun Saini
- Department of Entomology, Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, Haryana, India
| | - Shahanaz
- Department of Entomology, College of Horticulture Mojerla, Sri Konda Laxman Telengana State Horticultural University, Wanaparthy, Telengana, India
| | - N. Srinivasa
- Department of Entomology and Agricultural Zoology, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Yogesh Yele
- School of Crop Health Management Research, Council of Agricultural Research-National Institute of Biotic Stress Management (ICAR)- National Institute of Biotic Stress Management, Raipur, India
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20
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Martins C, Piontkivska D, Mil-Homens D, Guedes P, Jorge JMP, Brinco J, Bárria C, Santos ACF, Barras R, Arraiano C, Fialho A, Goldman GH, Silva Pereira C. Increased Production of Pathogenic, Airborne Fungal Spores upon Exposure of a Soil Mycobiota to Chlorinated Aromatic Hydrocarbon Pollutants. Microbiol Spectr 2023; 11:e0066723. [PMID: 37284774 PMCID: PMC10434042 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.00667-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Organic pollutants are omnipresent and can penetrate all environmental niches. We evaluated the hypothesis that short-term (acute) exposure to aromatic hydrocarbon pollutants could increase the potential for fungal virulence. Specifically, we analyzed whether pentachlorophenol and triclosan pollution results in the production of airborne fungal spores with greater virulence than those derived from an unpolluted (Control) condition. Each pollutant altered the composition of the community of airborne spores compared to the control, favoring an increase in strains with in vivo infection capacity (the wax moth Galleria mellonella was used as an infection model). Fungi subsisting inside larvae at 72 h postinjection with airborne spore inocula collected in polluted and unpolluted conditions exhibited comparable diversity (mainly within Aspergillus fumigatus). Several virulent Aspergillus strains were isolated from larvae infected with the airborne spores produced in a polluted environment. Meanwhile, strains isolated from larvae injected with spores from the control, including one A. fumigatus strain, showed no virulence. Potential pathogenicity increased when two Aspergillus virulent strains were assembled, suggesting the existence of synergisms that impact pathogenicity. None of the observed taxonomic or functional traits could separate the virulent from the avirulent strains. Our study emphasizes pollution stress as a possible driver of phenotypic adaptations that increase Aspergillus pathogenicity, as well as the need to better understand the interplay between pollution and fungal virulence. IMPORTANCE Fungi colonizing soil and organic pollutants often meet. The consequences of this encounter constitute an outstanding question. We scrutinized the potential for virulence of airborne fungal spores produced under unpolluted and polluted scenarios. The airborne spores showed increased diversity of strains with higher infection capacity in Galleria mellonella whenever pollution is present. Inside the larvae injected with either airborne spore community, the surviving fungi demonstrated a similar diversity, mainly within Aspergillus fumigatus. However, the isolated Aspergillus strains greatly differ since virulence was only observed for those associated with a polluted environment. The interplay between pollution and fungal virulence still hides many unresolved questions, but the encounter is costly: pollution stress promotes phenotypic adaptations that may increase Aspergillus pathogenicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Celso Martins
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Daryna Piontkivska
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Dalila Mil-Homens
- Institute for Bioengineering and Biosciences and Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Instituto Superior Técnico, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
- Department of Bioengineering, Instituto Superior Técnico, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Paula Guedes
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Oeiras, Portugal
- CENSE (Center for Environmental and Sustainability Research)/CHANGE (Global Change and Sustainability Institute), NOVA School of Science and Technology, NOVA University Lisbon, Caparica, Portugal
| | - João M. P. Jorge
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Oeiras, Portugal
| | - João Brinco
- CENSE (Center for Environmental and Sustainability Research)/CHANGE (Global Change and Sustainability Institute), NOVA School of Science and Technology, NOVA University Lisbon, Caparica, Portugal
| | - Cátia Bárria
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Ariana C. F. Santos
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Ricardo Barras
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Cecília Arraiano
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Arsénio Fialho
- Institute for Bioengineering and Biosciences and Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Instituto Superior Técnico, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
- Department of Bioengineering, Instituto Superior Técnico, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Gustavo H. Goldman
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Oeiras, Portugal
- Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Cristina Silva Pereira
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Oeiras, Portugal
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21
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Khan S, Lang M. A Comprehensive Review on the Roles of Metals Mediating Insect-Microbial Pathogen Interactions. Metabolites 2023; 13:839. [PMID: 37512546 PMCID: PMC10384549 DOI: 10.3390/metabo13070839] [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: 06/02/2023] [Revised: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Insects and microbial pathogens are ubiquitous and play significant roles in various biological processes, while microbial pathogens are microscopic organisms that can cause diseases in multiple hosts. Insects and microbial pathogens engage in diverse interactions, leveraging each other's presence. Metals are crucial in shaping these interactions between insects and microbial pathogens. However, metals such as Fe, Cu, Zn, Co, Mo, and Ni are integral to various physiological processes in insects, including immune function and resistance against pathogens. Insects have evolved multiple mechanisms to take up, transport, and regulate metal concentrations to fight against pathogenic microbes and act as a vector to transport microbial pathogens to plants and cause various plant diseases. Hence, it is paramount to inhibit insect-microbe interaction to control pathogen transfer from one plant to another or carry pathogens from other sources. This review aims to succinate the role of metals in the interactions between insects and microbial pathogens. It summarizes the significance of metals in the physiology, immune response, and competition for metals between insects, microbial pathogens, and plants. The scope of this review covers these imperative metals and their acquisition, storage, and regulation mechanisms in insect and microbial pathogens. The paper will discuss various scientific studies and sources, including molecular and biochemical studies and genetic and genomic analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Subhanullah Khan
- CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic Interactions, College of Life Science, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Minglin Lang
- CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic Interactions, College of Life Science, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
- College of Life Science, Agricultural University of Hebei, Baoding 071000, China
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22
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Li Y, Tan M, Wu H, Zhang A, Xu J, Meng Z, Yan S, Jiang D. Transfer of Cd along the food chain: The susceptibility of Hyphantria cunea larvae to Beauveria bassiana under Cd stress. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 453:131420. [PMID: 37084517 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.131420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2023] [Revised: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Heavy metal can affect the bio-control efficiency of entomopathogenic fungi on pests, but this has not been studied in the food chain. Here, the food chain of soil-Fraxinus mandshurica-Hyphantria cunea was constructed to investigate the effect of cadmium (Cd) exposure on the susceptibility of H. cunea larvae to Beauveria bassiana (Bb) and to analyze the corresponding mechanism through larval innate immunity and energy metabolism. Cd through the food chain synergistically enhanced the susceptibility of H. cunea larvae to Bb. Cellular immunity-related parameters decreased when the Cd treatment group was compared with the control group and when the combined treatment group of Cd and Bb was compared with the Bb treatment group. Cd exposure induced hormesis on pathogen recognition and signal transduction genes of humoral immunity, but reduced the expression of effector genes. The expression of the 13 humoral immunity-related genes in the combined treatment group was lower than in the Bb treatment group. Cd exposure decreased the energy storage of H. cunea larvae before Bb infection and aggravated the disorder level of energy metabolism after Bb infection. Taken together, disturbance of innate immunity and energy metabolism improves the susceptibility of H. cunea larvae to Bb in the Cd-polluted food chain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaning Li
- School of Forestry, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin 150040, PR China; Key Laboratory of Sustainable Forest Ecosystem Management-Ministry of Education, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin 150040, PR China
| | - Mingtao Tan
- School of Forestry, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin 150040, PR China; Key Laboratory of Sustainable Forest Ecosystem Management-Ministry of Education, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin 150040, PR China
| | - Hongfei Wu
- School of Forestry, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin 150040, PR China; Key Laboratory of Sustainable Forest Ecosystem Management-Ministry of Education, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin 150040, PR China
| | - Aoying Zhang
- School of Forestry, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin 150040, PR China; Key Laboratory of Sustainable Forest Ecosystem Management-Ministry of Education, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin 150040, PR China
| | - Jinsheng Xu
- School of Forestry, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin 150040, PR China; Key Laboratory of Sustainable Forest Ecosystem Management-Ministry of Education, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin 150040, PR China
| | - Zhaojun Meng
- School of Forestry, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin 150040, PR China; Key Laboratory of Sustainable Forest Ecosystem Management-Ministry of Education, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin 150040, PR China
| | - Shanchun Yan
- School of Forestry, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin 150040, PR China; Key Laboratory of Sustainable Forest Ecosystem Management-Ministry of Education, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin 150040, PR China.
| | - Dun Jiang
- School of Forestry, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin 150040, PR China; Key Laboratory of Sustainable Forest Ecosystem Management-Ministry of Education, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin 150040, PR China.
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23
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Wang Z, Yong H, Zhang S, Liu Z, Zhao Y. Colonization Resistance of Symbionts in Their Insect Hosts. INSECTS 2023; 14:594. [PMID: 37504600 PMCID: PMC10380809 DOI: 10.3390/insects14070594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2023] [Revised: 06/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
The symbiotic microbiome is critical in promoting insect resistance against colonization by exogenous microorganisms. The mechanisms by which symbionts contribute to the host's immune capacity is referred to as colonization resistance. Symbionts can protect insects from exogenous pathogens through a variety of mechanisms, including upregulating the expression of host immune-related genes, producing antimicrobial substances, and competitively excluding pathogens. Concordantly, insects have evolved fine-tuned regulatory mechanisms to avoid overactive immune responses against symbionts or specialized cells to harbor symbionts. Alternatively, some symbionts have evolved special adaptations, such as the formation of biofilms to increase their tolerance to host immune responses. Here, we provide a review of the mechanisms about colonization resistance of symbionts in their insect hosts. Adaptations of symbionts and their insect hosts that may maintain such symbiotic relationships, and the significance of such relationships in the coevolution of symbiotic systems are also discussed to provide insights into the in-depth study of the contribution of symbionts to host physiology and behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhengyan Wang
- School of Food and Strategic Reserves, Henan University of Technology, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Hanzi Yong
- School of Food and Strategic Reserves, Henan University of Technology, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Shan Zhang
- School of Food and Strategic Reserves, Henan University of Technology, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Zhiyuan Liu
- School of Food and Strategic Reserves, Henan University of Technology, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Yaru Zhao
- School of Grain Science and Technology, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang 212100, China
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Yue Y, Deng J, Wang H, Lv T, Dou W, Jiao Y, Peng X, Zhang Y. Two Secretory T2 RNases Act as Cytotoxic Factors Contributing to the Virulence of an Insect Fungal Pathogen. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2023; 71:7069-7081. [PMID: 37122240 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.3c01617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
RNase T2 members are secreted by several pathogens or parasites during infection, playing various roles in pathogen-host interaction. However, functions of those members in biocontrol microbes targeting their hosts are still unknown. Here, we report that an insect fungal pathogen, Beauveria bassiana, produces two secretory RNase T2 members that act as cytotoxic factors, which were examined by insect bioassays using the targeted gene(s) disruption and overexpression strains. Overexpression strains displayed dramatically increased virulence, which was concurrent with few fungal cells and hemocytes in hemocoel, suggesting a cytotoxicity of the overexpressed gene products. In vitro assays using yeast-expressed proteins verified the cytotoxicity of the two members against insect cells, to which the cytotoxic effect was dependent on their RNases enzyme activities and glycosylation modification. Moreover, the excessive humoral immune responses triggered by the two ribonucleases were examined. These results suggested prospects of these two T2 ribonucleases for improvement of biocontrol agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Yue
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Biosafety and Green Production of Upper Yangtze River (Ministry of Education), Biotechnology Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, People's Republic of China
| | - Juan Deng
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Biosafety and Green Production of Upper Yangtze River (Ministry of Education), Biotechnology Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, People's Republic of China
| | - Huifang Wang
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Biosafety and Green Production of Upper Yangtze River (Ministry of Education), Biotechnology Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, People's Republic of China
| | - Ting Lv
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Biosafety and Green Production of Upper Yangtze River (Ministry of Education), Biotechnology Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei Dou
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Biosafety and Green Production of Upper Yangtze River (Ministry of Education), Biotechnology Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, People's Republic of China
| | - Yufei Jiao
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Biosafety and Green Production of Upper Yangtze River (Ministry of Education), Biotechnology Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, People's Republic of China
| | - Xinxin Peng
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Biosafety and Green Production of Upper Yangtze River (Ministry of Education), Biotechnology Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, People's Republic of China
| | - Yongjun Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Biosafety and Green Production of Upper Yangtze River (Ministry of Education), Biotechnology Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, People's Republic of China
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You J, Park J, Choi D, Yun J, Choi H, Lee IH. Implant-associated biofilm infection established in an experimental Galleria mellonella model. DEVELOPMENTAL AND COMPARATIVE IMMUNOLOGY 2023; 142:104670. [PMID: 36796467 DOI: 10.1016/j.dci.2023.104670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Revised: 02/12/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The study reports in vivo biofilm infection implemented in an insect model. We mimicked implant-associated biofilm infections in Galleria mellonella larvae using toothbrush bristles and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). In vivo biofilm formation on bristle was achieved by sequentially injecting a bristle and MRSA into the larval hemocoel. It was found that biofilm formation was in progress without any external sign of infection in most of the bristle-bearing larvae for 12 h after MRSA inoculation. Whereas the activation of the prophenoloxidase system did not affect the preformed in vitro MRSA biofilms, an antimicrobial peptide interfered with in vivo biofilm formation when injected into bristle-bearing larvae infected with MRSA. Finally, our confocal laser scanning microscopic analysis revealed that the biomass of the in vivo biofilm is greater compared to that of the in vitro biofilm and harbors a distribution of dead cells, which might be bacteria and/or host cells.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Hanbyeul Choi
- Department of Pharmacy, Korea University, Sejong, South Korea
| | - In Hee Lee
- Department of Biotechnology, South Korea; Research Institute for Basic Science, Hoseo University, Asan City, Chungnam, South Korea.
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Guo H, Jia N, Chen H, Xie D, Chi D. Preliminary Analysis of Transcriptome Response of Dioryctria sylvestrella (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) Larvae Infected with Beauveria bassiana under Short-Term Starvation. INSECTS 2023; 14:insects14050409. [PMID: 37233037 DOI: 10.3390/insects14050409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Revised: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
The Dioryctria genus contains several destructive borer pests that are found in coniferous forests in the Northern Hemisphere. Beauveria bassiana spore powder was tested as a new method of pest control. In this study, Dioryctria sylvestrella (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) was used as the object. A transcriptome analysis was performed on a freshly caught group, a fasting treatment control group, and a treatment group inoculated with a wild B. bassiana strain, SBM-03. Under the conditions of 72-h fasting and a low temperature of 16 ± 1 °C, (i) in the control group, 13,135 of 16,969 genes were downregulated. However, in the treatment group, 14,558 of 16,665 genes were upregulated. (ii) In the control group, the expression of most genes in the upstream and midstream of the Toll and IMD pathways was downregulated, but 13 of the 21 antimicrobial peptides were still upregulated. In the treatment group, the gene expression of almost all antimicrobial peptides was increased. Several AMPs, including cecropin, gloverin, and gallerimycin, may have a specific inhibitory effect on B. bassiana. (iii) In the treatment group, one gene in the glutathione S-transferase system and four genes in the cytochrome P450 enzyme family were upregulated, with a sharp rise in those that were upregulated significantly. In addition, most genes of the peroxidase and catalase families, but none of the superoxide dismutase family were upregulated significantly. Through innovative fasting and lower temperature control, we have a certain understanding of the specific defense mechanism by which D. sylvestrella larvae may resist B. bassiana in the pre-wintering period. This study paves the way for improving the toxicity of B. bassiana to Dioryctria spp.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongru Guo
- Key Laboratory for Sustainable Forest Ecosystem Management-Ministry of Education, College of Forestry, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin 150040, China
| | - Niya Jia
- Key Laboratory for Sustainable Forest Ecosystem Management-Ministry of Education, College of Forestry, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin 150040, China
| | - Huanwen Chen
- Key Laboratory for Sustainable Forest Ecosystem Management-Ministry of Education, College of Forestry, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin 150040, China
| | - Dan Xie
- Key Laboratory for Sustainable Forest Ecosystem Management-Ministry of Education, College of Forestry, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin 150040, China
| | - Defu Chi
- Key Laboratory for Sustainable Forest Ecosystem Management-Ministry of Education, College of Forestry, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin 150040, China
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Kryukov V, Kosman E, Tomilova O, Polenogova O, Rotskaya U, Yaroslavtseva O, Salimova D, Kryukova N, Berestetskiy A. Tenuazonic acid alters immune and physiological reactions and susceptibility to pathogens in Galleria mellonella larvae. Mycotoxin Res 2023; 39:135-149. [PMID: 37071305 DOI: 10.1007/s12550-023-00479-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Revised: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 04/19/2023]
Abstract
Tenuazonic acid (TeA) is synthesized by phytopathogenic and opportunistic fungi and is detected in a broad range of foods. This natural compound is of interest in terms of toxicity to animals, but its mechanisms of action on insects are poorly understood. We administered TeA orally at different concentrations (0.2-5.0 mg/[gram of a growth medium]) to the model insect Galleria mellonella, with subsequent estimation of physiological, histological, and immunological parameters in different tissues (midgut, fat body, and hemolymph). Susceptibility of the TeA-treated larvae to pathogenic microorganisms Beauveria bassiana and Bacillus thuringiensis was also analyzed. The feeding of TeA to the larvae led to a substation delay of larval growth, apoptosis-like changes in midgut cells, and an increase in midgut bacterial load. A decrease in activities of detoxification enzymes and downregulation of genes Nox, lysozyme, and cecropin in the midgut and/or hemocoel tissues were detected. By contrast, genes gloverin, gallerimycin, and galiomycin and phenoloxidase activity proved to be upregulated in the studied tissues. Hemocyte density did not change under the influence of TeA. TeA administration increased susceptibility of the larvae to B. bassiana but diminished their susceptibility to B. thuringiensis. The results indicate that TeA disturbs wax moth gut physiology and immunity and also exerts a systemic action on this insect. Mechanisms underlying the observed changes in wax moth susceptibility to the pathogens are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vadim Kryukov
- Institute of Systematics and Ecology of Animals, Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, 630091, Frunze 11, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Elena Kosman
- Institute of Systematics and Ecology of Animals, Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, 630091, Frunze 11, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Oksana Tomilova
- Institute of Systematics and Ecology of Animals, Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, 630091, Frunze 11, Novosibirsk, Russia
- All-Russian Institute of Plant Protection, 196608, Podbel'skogo Sh. 3, Pushkin, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Olga Polenogova
- Institute of Systematics and Ecology of Animals, Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, 630091, Frunze 11, Novosibirsk, Russia.
| | - Ulyana Rotskaya
- Institute of Systematics and Ecology of Animals, Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, 630091, Frunze 11, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Olga Yaroslavtseva
- Institute of Systematics and Ecology of Animals, Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, 630091, Frunze 11, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Dilara Salimova
- All-Russian Institute of Plant Protection, 196608, Podbel'skogo Sh. 3, Pushkin, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Natalia Kryukova
- Institute of Systematics and Ecology of Animals, Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, 630091, Frunze 11, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Alexander Berestetskiy
- All-Russian Institute of Plant Protection, 196608, Podbel'skogo Sh. 3, Pushkin, St. Petersburg, Russia
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Napoli E, Sfacteria A, Rifici C, Mazzullo G, Gaglio G, Brianti E. Reaction of Cornu aspersum Immune System against Different Aelurostrongylus abstrusus Developmental Stages. Pathogens 2023; 12:pathogens12040542. [PMID: 37111428 PMCID: PMC10144845 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12040542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Cornu aspersum, the land snail, is recognized as a suitable intermediate host of Aelurostrongylus abstrusus; however, there is little information both on larval development as well as on the intermediate host’s immune system reaction to the parasite. The aim of the study was to assess the histological reaction of C. aspersum’s immune system against A. abstrusus. Sixty-five snails were provided by a snail farm. Five of them were digested to assess the absence of natural parasitic infections. The remaining sixty were divided into five groups. Three groups of snails were infected with A. abstrusus using by-contact or injection methods; one group was injected only with saline solution and one group was left untreated as the control. The snails of group A were sacrificed and digested on study days 2, 10, and 18; snails of the other groups were collected and examined for histopathological analysis on study days 2, 10, and 18. On study day 2, in the infected snails, several free L1s were observed along with the absence of immune system reactions. On day 10, the L2s elicited an intense reaction in the internal layer of the muscular foot. On day 18, all L3s partially encapsulated by the snail’s immune system were observed in the outermost part of the muscular foot, which is near and among the goblet cells. This last finding suggests that L3s could be shed with the snail’s mucus and spread in the environment, representing an alternative route of transmission for this feline lungworm.
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Unraveling the Role of Antimicrobial Peptides in Insects. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24065753. [PMID: 36982826 PMCID: PMC10059942 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24065753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Revised: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are short, mainly positively charged, amphipathic molecules. AMPs are important effectors of the immune response in insects with a broad spectrum of antibacterial, antifungal, and antiparasitic activity. In addition to these well-known roles, AMPs exhibit many other, often unobvious, functions in the host. They support insects in the elimination of viral infections. AMPs participate in the regulation of brain-controlled processes, e.g., sleep and non-associative learning. By influencing neuronal health, communication, and activity, they can affect the functioning of the insect nervous system. Expansion of the AMP repertoire and loss of their specificity is connected with the aging process and lifespan of insects. Moreover, AMPs take part in maintaining gut homeostasis, regulating the number of endosymbionts as well as reducing the number of foreign microbiota. In turn, the presence of AMPs in insect venom prevents the spread of infection in social insects, where the prey may be a source of pathogens.
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30
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Pseudomonas aeruginosa exotoxin A induces apoptosis in Galleria mellonella hemocytes. J Invertebr Pathol 2023; 197:107884. [PMID: 36642365 DOI: 10.1016/j.jip.2023.107884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2022] [Revised: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
The cellular immune response of the greater wax moth Galleria mellonella to Pseudomonas aeruginosa exotoxin A was investigated for the first time. The insects were challenged with a sublethal dose of exoA, and then hemocyte parameters were assessed. The analysis showed a statistically significant decrease in the total hemocyte count (THC), which was associated with significant decreases in the number of granulocytes and plasmatocytes. In turn, no statistically significant changes were observed in the number of spherulocytes and oenocytoides. Fluorescent staining indicated that cells collected from the exoA-challenged larvae exhibited features characteristic for apoptotic and autophagic cell death, e.g. cytoplasm vacuolization and chromatin condensation. The flow cytometry analysis revealed a significant increase in the number of phosphatidylserine- and active caspase 3-positive hemocytes challenged with exoA, which proved apoptosis induction. Our results will help in understanding the role of exotoxin A during P. aeruginosa infections not only in insects but also in mammals, including humans.
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31
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Smitten K, Southam HM, Fairbanks S, Graf A, Chauvet A, Thomas JA. Clearing an ESKAPE Pathogen in a Model Organism; A Polypyridyl Ruthenium(II) Complex Theranostic that Treats a Resistant Acinetobacter baumannii Infection in Galleria mellonella. Chemistry 2023; 29:e202203555. [PMID: 36420820 PMCID: PMC10946903 DOI: 10.1002/chem.202203555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
In previous studies we have described the therapeutic action of luminescent dinuclear ruthenium(II) complexes based on the tetrapyridylphenazine, tpphz, bridging ligand on pathogenic strains of Escherichia coli and Enterococcus faecalis. Herein, the antimicrobial activity of the complex against pernicious Gram-negative ESKAPE pathogenic strains of Acinetobacter baumannii (AB12, AB16, AB184 and AB210) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA2017, PA_ 007_ IMP and PA_ 004_ CRCN) are reported. Estimated minimum inhibitory concentrations and minimum bactericidal concentrations for the complexes revealed the complex shows potent activity against all A. baumannii strains, in both glucose defined minimal media and standard nutrient rich Mueller-Hinton-II. Although the activity was lower in P. aureginosa, a moderately high potency was observed and retained in carbapenem-resistant strains. Optical microscopy showed that the compound is rapidly internalized by A. baumannii. As previous reports had revealed the complex exhibited no toxicity in Galleria Mellonella up to concentrations of 80 mg/kg, the ability to clear pathogenic infection within this model was explored. The pathogenic concentrations to the larvae for each bacterium were determined to be≥105 for AB184 and≥103 CFU/mL for PA2017. It was found a single dose of the compound totally cleared a pathogenic A. baumannii infection from all treated G. mellonella within 96 h. Uniquely, in these conditions thanks to the imaging properties of the complex the clearance of the bacteria within the hemolymph of G. mellonella could be directly visualized through both optical and transmission electron microscopy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirsty Smitten
- Department of ChemistryUniversity of SheffieldSheffieldS3 7HFUK
| | | | - Simon Fairbanks
- Department of ChemistryUniversity of SheffieldSheffieldS3 7HFUK
| | - Arthur Graf
- Department of ChemistryUniversity of SheffieldSheffieldS3 7HFUK
| | - Adrien Chauvet
- Department of ChemistryUniversity of SheffieldSheffieldS3 7HFUK
| | - Jim A Thomas
- Department of ChemistryUniversity of SheffieldSheffieldS3 7HFUK
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32
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Malacarne MC, Mastore M, Gariboldi MB, Brivio MF, Caruso E. Preliminary Toxicity Evaluation of a Porphyrin Photosensitizer in an Alternative Preclinical Model. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24043131. [PMID: 36834543 PMCID: PMC9966276 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24043131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Revised: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
In photodynamic therapy (PDT), a photosensitizer (PS) excited with a specific wavelength, and in the presence of oxygen, gives rise to photochemical reactions that lead to cell damage. Over the past few years, larval stages of the G. mellonella moth have proven to be an excellent alternative animal model for in vivo toxicity testing of novel compounds and virulence testing. In this article, we report a series of preliminary studies on G. mellonella larvae to evaluate the photoinduced stress response by a porphyrin (PS) (TPPOH). The tests performed evaluated PS toxicity on larvae and cytotoxicity on hemocytes, both in dark conditions and following PDT. Cellular uptake was also evaluated by fluorescence and flow cytometry. The results obtained demonstrate how the administration of PS and subsequent irradiation of larvae affects not only larvae survival rate, but also immune system cells. It was also possible to verify PS's uptake and uptake kinetics in hemocytes, observing a maximum peak at 8 h. Given the results obtained in these preliminary tests, G. mellonella appears to be a promising model for preclinical PS tests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miryam Chiara Malacarne
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences (DBSV), University of Insubria, Via J.H. Dunant 3, 21100 Varese, Italy
| | - Maristella Mastore
- Department of Theoretical and Applied Sciences (DiSTA), University of Insubria, 21100 Varese, Italy
| | - Marzia Bruna Gariboldi
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences (DBSV), University of Insubria, Via J.H. Dunant 3, 21100 Varese, Italy
| | | | - Enrico Caruso
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences (DBSV), University of Insubria, Via J.H. Dunant 3, 21100 Varese, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-0332421541
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Guevara MA, Francis JD, Lu J, Manning SD, Doster RS, Moore RE, Gaddy JA. Streptococcus agalactiae cadD Is Critical for Pathogenesis in the Invertebrate Galleria mellonella Model. ACS Infect Dis 2022; 8:2405-2412. [PMID: 36445344 PMCID: PMC10262471 DOI: 10.1021/acsinfecdis.2c00453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is a gram-positive bacterium that can cause invasive infections in immunocompromised, elderly, pregnant, or neonatal patients. The invertebrate model, Galleria mellonella, has emerged as an effective tool to study GBS-host interactions; specifically, those conserved within the innate arm of the immune system. We sought to determine the role of metal homeostasis functions in GBS infections of G. mellonella larvae and to validate this model as a tool to study GBS-host interactions. Our results indicate that wild-type GBS infects G. mellonella in a dose-dependent manner, replicates in the invertebrate host, induces larval melanization and larval killing. These results were significantly abrogated in cohorts of larvae infected with the isogenic cadD deletion mutant. Additionally, complementation restored GBS-dependent infection, bacterial burden, larval melanization, and killing to wild-type levels. Together, these results indicate that the G. mellonella model is a useful tool for studying GBS pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam A. Guevara
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, 37232, U.S.A
| | - Jamisha D. Francis
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, 37232, U.S.A
| | - Jacky Lu
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, 37232, U.S.A
| | - Shannon D. Manning
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, 48864, U.S.A
| | - Ryan S. Doster
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee, 37232, U.S.A
| | - Rebecca E. Moore
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, 37232, U.S.A
| | - Jennifer A. Gaddy
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, 37232, U.S.A
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee, 37232, U.S.A
- Tennessee Valley Healthcare Systems, Department of Veterans Affairs, Nashville, Tennessee, 37212, U.S.A
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Lycopene, Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles and Their Association: A Possible Alternative against Vulvovaginal Candidiasis? Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27238558. [PMID: 36500650 PMCID: PMC9738730 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27238558] [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: 10/25/2022] [Revised: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 12/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Commonly found colonizing the human microbiota, Candida albicans is a microorganism known for its ability to cause infections, mainly in the vulvovaginal region known as vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC). This pathology is, in fact, one of the main C. albicans clinical manifestations, changing from a colonizer to a pathogen. The increase in VVC cases and limited antifungal therapy make C. albicans an increasingly frequent risk in women's lives, especially in immunocompromised patients, pregnant women and the elderly. Therefore, it is necessary to develop new therapeutic options, especially those involving natural products associated with nanotechnology, such as lycopene and mesoporous silica nanoparticles. From this perspective, this study sought to assess whether lycopene, mesoporous silica nanoparticles and their combination would be an attractive product for the treatment of this serious disease through microbiological in vitro tests and acute toxicity tests in an alternative in vivo model of Galleria mellonella. Although they did not show desirable antifungal activity for VVC therapy, the present study strongly encourages the use of mesoporous silica nanoparticles impregnated with lycopene for the treatment of other human pathologies, since the products evaluated here did not show toxicity in the in vivo test performed, being therefore, a topic to be further explored.
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35
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Modulation of Virulence-Associated Traits in Aspergillus fumigatus by BET Inhibitor JQ1. Microorganisms 2022; 10:microorganisms10112292. [DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10112292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2022] [Revised: 11/13/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Aspergillus fumigatus is a disease-causing, opportunistic fungus that can establish infection due to its capacity to respond to a wide range of environmental conditions. Secreted proteins and metabolites, which play a critical role in fungal–host interactions and pathogenesis, are modulated by epigenetic players, such as bromodomain and extraterminal domain (BET) proteins. In this study, we evaluated the in vitro and in vivo capability of the BET inhibitor JQ1 to modulate the extracellular proteins and virulence of A. fumigatus. The abundance of 25 of the 76 extracellular proteins identified through LC-MS/MS proteomic analysis changed following JQ1 treatment. Among them, a ribonuclease, a chitinase, and a superoxide dismutase were dramatically downregulated. Moreover, the proteomic analysis of A. fumigatus intracellular proteins indicated that Abr2, an intracellular laccase involved in the last step of melanin synthesis, was absent in the JQ1-treated group. To investigate at which level this downregulation occurred and considering the ability of JQ1 to modulate gene expression we checked the level of ABR2, Chitinase, and Superoxide dismutase mRNA expression by qRT-PCR. Finally, the capacity of JQ1 to reduce the virulence of A. fumigatus has been proved using Galleria mellonella larvae, which are an in vivo model to evaluate fungal virulence. Overall, the promising activity exhibited by JQ1 suggests that A. fumigatus is sensitive to BET inhibition and BET proteins may be a viable target for developing antifungal agents.
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36
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Admella J, Torrents E. A Straightforward Method for the Isolation and Cultivation of Galleria mellonella Hemocytes. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:13483. [PMID: 36362269 PMCID: PMC9657452 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232113483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Revised: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 10/28/2022] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Galleria mellonella is an alternative animal model of infection. The use of this species presents a wide range of advantages, as its maintenance and rearing are both easy and inexpensive. Moreover, its use is considered to be more ethically acceptable than other models, it is conveniently sized for manipulation, and its immune system has multiple similarities with mammalian immune systems. Hemocytes are immune cells that help encapsulate and eliminate pathogens and foreign particles. All of these reasons make this insect a promising animal model. However, cultivating G. mellonella hemocytes in vitro is not straightforward and it has many difficult challenges. Here, we present a methodologically optimized protocol to establish and maintain a G. mellonella hemocyte primary culture. These improvements open the door to easily and quickly study the toxicity of nanoparticles and the interactions of particles and materials in an in vitro environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joana Admella
- Bacterial Infections and Antimicrobial Therapies Group, Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Baldiri Reixac 15-21, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Eduard Torrents
- Bacterial Infections and Antimicrobial Therapies Group, Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Baldiri Reixac 15-21, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- Microbiology Section, Department of Genetics, Microbiology and Statistics, Faculty of Biology, University of Barcelona, 643 Diagonal Ave., 08028 Barcelona, Spain
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Santos AL, van Venrooy A, Reed AK, Wyderka AM, García‐López V, Alemany LB, Oliver A, Tegos GP, Tour JM. Hemithioindigo-Based Visible Light-Activated Molecular Machines Kill Bacteria by Oxidative Damage. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2022; 9:e2203242. [PMID: 36002317 PMCID: PMC9596824 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202203242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2022] [Revised: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Antibiotic resistance is a growing health threat. There is an urgent and critical need to develop new antimicrobial modalities and therapies. Here, a set of hemithioindigo (HTI)-based molecular machines capable of specifically killing Gram-positive bacteria within minutes of activation with visible light (455 nm at 65 mW cm-2 ) that are safe for mammalian cells is described. Importantly, repeated exposure of bacteria to HTI does not result in detectable development of resistance. Visible light-activated HTI kill both exponentially growing bacterial cells and antibiotic-tolerant persister cells of various Gram-positive strains, including methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA). Visible light-activated HTI also eliminate biofilms of S. aureus and B. subtilis in as little as 1 h after light activation. Quantification of reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation and protein carbonyls, as well as assays with various ROS scavengers, identifies oxidative damage as the underlying mechanism for the antibacterial activity of HTI. In addition to their direct antibacterial properties, HTI synergize with conventional antibiotics in vitro and in vivo, reducing the bacterial load and mortality associated with MRSA infection in an invertebrate burn wound model. To the best of the authors' knowledge, this is the first report on the antimicrobial activity of HTI-based molecular machines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana L. Santos
- Department of ChemistryRice UniversityHoustonTX77005USA
- IdISBA – Fundación de Investigación Sanitaria de las Islas BalearesPalma07120Spain
| | | | - Anna K. Reed
- Department of ChemistryRice UniversityHoustonTX77005USA
| | | | | | - Lawrence B. Alemany
- Department of ChemistryRice UniversityHoustonTX77005USA
- Shared Equipment AuthorityRice UniversityHoustonTX77005USA
| | - Antonio Oliver
- IdISBA – Fundación de Investigación Sanitaria de las Islas BalearesPalma07120Spain
- Servicio de MicrobiologiaHospital Universitari Son EspasesPalma07120Spain
| | - George P. Tegos
- Office of ResearchReading HospitalTower Health420 S. Fifth AvenueWest ReadingPA19611USA
| | - James M. Tour
- Department of ChemistryRice UniversityHoustonTX77005USA
- Smalley‐Curl InstituteRice UniversityHoustonTX77005USA
- Department of Materials Science and NanoengineeringRice UniversityHoustonTX77005USA
- NanoCarbon Center and the Welch Institute for Advanced MaterialsRice UniversityHoustonTX77005USA
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Mohamed RA, Guo CT, Xu SY, Ying SH, Feng MG. Characterization of BbKlf1 as a novel transcription factor vital for asexual and infection cycles of Beauveria bassiana. ENVIRONMENTAL MICROBIOLOGY REPORTS 2022; 14:719-731. [PMID: 35851566 DOI: 10.1111/1758-2229.13107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/19/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The large family of C2H2-type zinc finger transcription factors (TFs) comprise the Kruppel-like factors (KLFs) that evolved relatively late in eukaryotes but remain unexplored in filamentous fungi. Here, we report that an orthologue (BbKlf1) of yeast Klf1 mediating cell wall integrity (CWI) is a wide-spectrum TF evidently localized in nucleus and cytoplasm in Beauveria bassiana. BbKlf1 features conserved domains and multiple DNA-binding motifs predicted to bind multiple promoter DNA fragments of target genes across asexual developmental and stress-responsive pathways. Despite limited impact on normal colony growth, deletion of Bbklf1 resulted in impaired CWI and hypersensitivity to Congo red-induced cell wall stress. Also, the deletion mutant was severely compromised in tolerance to oxidative and osmotic stresses, hyphal septation and differentiation, conidiation capacity (reduced by 95%), conidial quality (viability and hydrocarbon epitope pattern) and virulence. Importantly, these phenotypes correlated well with sharply repressed or nearly abolished expressions of those genes required for or involved in chitin biosynthesis, antioxidant activity, cell division and differentiation, aerial conidiation and conidial maturation. These findings indicate an essentiality of BbKlf1 for the asexual and insect-pathogenic lifecycles of B. bassiana and a novel scenario much beyond the yeast orthologue-mediated CWI, suggesting important roles of its orthologues in filamentous fungi.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rehab Abdelmonem Mohamed
- Institute of Microbiology, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Chong-Tao Guo
- Institute of Microbiology, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Si-Yuan Xu
- Institute of Microbiology, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Sheng-Hua Ying
- Institute of Microbiology, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Ming-Guang Feng
- Institute of Microbiology, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
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Natural Substrates and Culture Conditions to Produce Pigments from Potential Microbes in Submerged Fermentation. FERMENTATION-BASEL 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/fermentation8090460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Pigments from bacteria, fungi, yeast, cyanobacteria, and microalgae have been gaining more demand in the food, leather, and textile industries due to their natural origin and effective bioactive functions. Mass production of microbial pigments using inexpensive and ecofriendly agro-industrial residues is gaining more demand in the current research due to their low cost, natural origin, waste utilization, and high pigment stimulating characteristics. A wide range of natural substrates has been employed in submerged fermentation as carbon and nitrogen sources to enhance the pigment production from these microorganisms to obtain the required quantity of pigments. Submerged fermentation is proven to yield more pigment when added with agro-waste residues. Hence, in this review, aspects of potential pigmented microbes such as diversity, natural substrates that stimulate more pigment production from bacteria, fungi, yeast, and a few microalgae under submerged culture conditions, pigment identification, and ecological functions are detailed for the benefit of industrial personnel, researchers, and other entrepreneurs to explore pigmented microbes for multifaceted applications. In addition, some important aspects of microbial pigments are covered herein to disseminate the knowledge.
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González-Acosta S, Baca-González V, Asensio-Calavia P, Otazo-Pérez A, López MR, Morales-delaNuez A, Pérez de la Lastra JM. Efficient Oral Priming of Tenebrio molitor Larvae Using Heat-Inactivated Microorganisms. Vaccines (Basel) 2022; 10:vaccines10081296. [PMID: 36016184 PMCID: PMC9415734 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines10081296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Revised: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 08/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Microbial resistance is a global health problem that will increase over time. Advances in insect antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) offer a powerful new approach to combat antimicrobial resistance. Invertebrates represent a rich group of animals for the discovery of new antimicrobial agents due to their high diversity and the presence of adaptive immunity or “immune priming”. Here, we report a priming approach for Tenebrio molitor that simulates natural infection via the oral route. This oral administration has the advantage of minimizing the stress caused by conventional priming techniques and could be a viable method for mealworm immunity studies. When using inactivated microorganisms for oral priming, our results showed an increased survival of T. molitor larvae after exposure to various pathogens. This finding was consistent with the induction of antimicrobial activity in the hemolymph of primed larvae. Interestingly, the hemolymph of larvae orally primed with Escherichia coli showed constitutive activity against Staphylococcus aureus and heterologous activity for other Gram-negative bacteria, such as Salmonella enterica. The priming of T. molitor is generally performed via injection of the microorganism. To our knowledge, this is the first report describing the oral administration of heat-inactivated microorganisms for priming mealworms. This technique has the advantage of reducing the stress that occurs with the conventional methods for priming vertebrates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergio González-Acosta
- Biotechnology of Macromolecules Research Group, Instituto de Productos Naturales y Agrobiología, (IPNA-CSIC), 38206 San Cristóbal de la Laguna, Spain
- Escuela de Doctorado y Estudios de Posgrado, Universidad de La Laguna Avda, Astrofísico Francisco Sánchez, SN. Edificio Calabaza-Apdo, 456, 38200 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
| | - Victoria Baca-González
- Biotechnology of Macromolecules Research Group, Instituto de Productos Naturales y Agrobiología, (IPNA-CSIC), 38206 San Cristóbal de la Laguna, Spain
| | - Patricia Asensio-Calavia
- Biotechnology of Macromolecules Research Group, Instituto de Productos Naturales y Agrobiología, (IPNA-CSIC), 38206 San Cristóbal de la Laguna, Spain
- Escuela de Doctorado y Estudios de Posgrado, Universidad de La Laguna Avda, Astrofísico Francisco Sánchez, SN. Edificio Calabaza-Apdo, 456, 38200 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
| | - Andrea Otazo-Pérez
- Biotechnology of Macromolecules Research Group, Instituto de Productos Naturales y Agrobiología, (IPNA-CSIC), 38206 San Cristóbal de la Laguna, Spain
- Escuela de Doctorado y Estudios de Posgrado, Universidad de La Laguna Avda, Astrofísico Francisco Sánchez, SN. Edificio Calabaza-Apdo, 456, 38200 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
| | - Manuel R. López
- Biotechnology of Macromolecules Research Group, Instituto de Productos Naturales y Agrobiología, (IPNA-CSIC), 38206 San Cristóbal de la Laguna, Spain
| | - Antonio Morales-delaNuez
- Biotechnology of Macromolecules Research Group, Instituto de Productos Naturales y Agrobiología, (IPNA-CSIC), 38206 San Cristóbal de la Laguna, Spain
| | - José Manuel Pérez de la Lastra
- Biotechnology of Macromolecules Research Group, Instituto de Productos Naturales y Agrobiología, (IPNA-CSIC), 38206 San Cristóbal de la Laguna, Spain
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-922-474334
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Teng ZW, Wu HZ, Ye XH, Fang Q, Zhou HX, Ye GY. An endoparasitoid uses its egg surface proteins to regulate its host immune response. INSECT SCIENCE 2022; 29:1030-1046. [PMID: 34687499 DOI: 10.1111/1744-7917.12978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2021] [Revised: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/29/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
With proteomic analysis, we identified 379 egg surface proteins from an endoparasitoid, Cotesia chilonis. Proteins containing conserved enzymatic domains constitute a large proportion of egg surface components. Some proteins, such as superoxidase dismutase, homolog of C. rubecula 32-kDa protein, and immunoevasive protein-2A, are classical parasitism factors that have known functions in host immunity regulation. Melanization assays revealed that a novel egg surface protein, C. chilonis egg surface serpin domain-containing protein had the same function as a C. chilonis venom serpin, as both suppressed host melanization in a dose-dependent manner. C. chilonis egg surface serpin domain-containing protein is mainly transcribed in C. chilonis oocytes with follicular cells, and it is located on both the anterior and posterior sides of the mature egg surface. Additionally, we used LC-MS/MS to identify 586 binding proteins sourced from C. suppressalis plasma located on the eggshell surface of C. chilonis, which included some immunity-related proteins. These results not only indicate that C. chilonis uses its egg surface proteins to reduce the immune response of its host but also imply that endoparasitoid egg surface proteins might be a new parasitism factor involved in host immune regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zi-Wen Teng
- China-Australia Cooperation Base of Crop Health and Invasive Species, China-Australia Joint Institute of Agricultural and Environmental Health, College of Plant Health and Medicine, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
- State Key Laboratory of Rice Biology, Ministry of Agricultural and Rural Affairs Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology of Crop Pathogens and Insects, Key Laboratory of Biology of Crop Pathogens and Insects of Zhejiang Province, Institute of Insect Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Hui-Zi Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Rice Biology, Ministry of Agricultural and Rural Affairs Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology of Crop Pathogens and Insects, Key Laboratory of Biology of Crop Pathogens and Insects of Zhejiang Province, Institute of Insect Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xin-Hai Ye
- State Key Laboratory of Rice Biology, Ministry of Agricultural and Rural Affairs Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology of Crop Pathogens and Insects, Key Laboratory of Biology of Crop Pathogens and Insects of Zhejiang Province, Institute of Insect Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Qi Fang
- State Key Laboratory of Rice Biology, Ministry of Agricultural and Rural Affairs Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology of Crop Pathogens and Insects, Key Laboratory of Biology of Crop Pathogens and Insects of Zhejiang Province, Institute of Insect Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Hong-Xu Zhou
- China-Australia Cooperation Base of Crop Health and Invasive Species, China-Australia Joint Institute of Agricultural and Environmental Health, College of Plant Health and Medicine, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
| | - Gong-Yin Ye
- State Key Laboratory of Rice Biology, Ministry of Agricultural and Rural Affairs Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology of Crop Pathogens and Insects, Key Laboratory of Biology of Crop Pathogens and Insects of Zhejiang Province, Institute of Insect Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
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Dutta TK, Veeresh A, Phani V, Kundu A, Santhoshkumar K, Mathur C, Sagar D, Sreevathsa R. Molecular characterization and functional analysis of Cry toxin receptor-like genes from the model insect Galleria mellonella. INSECT MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2022; 31:434-446. [PMID: 35266587 DOI: 10.1111/imb.12770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Revised: 02/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Crystal (Cry) toxins produced from the soil bacterium, Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt), have gained worldwide attention for long due to their insecticidal potential. A number of receptor proteins located on the epithelial cells of the larval midgut were shown to be crucial for Cry intoxication in different insect pests belonging to order Lepidoptera, Diptera and Coleoptera. A beehive pest, Galleria mellonella, serves as an excellent insect model for biochemical research. However, information on the Cry receptor-like genes in G. mellonella is limited. In the present study, the full-length sequences of four putative Cry receptor genes (ABC transporter, alkaline phosphatase, aminopeptidase N and cadherin) were cloned from G. mellonella. All these receptor genes were substantially upregulated in the midgut tissue of fourth-instar G. mellonella larvae upon early exposure (6 h) to a sub-lethal dose of Cry1AcF toxin. Oral and independent delivery of bacterially-expressed dsRNAs corresponding to four receptor genes in G. mellonella suppressed the transcription of target receptors which in turn significantly reduced the larval sensitivity to Cry1AcF toxin. As the laboratory populations of G. mellonella develop Bt resistance in a relatively short time, molecular characterization of Cry receptor genes in G. mellonella performed in the present study may provide some useful information for future research related to the genetic basis of Bt resistance in the model insect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tushar K Dutta
- Division of Nematology, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, India
| | - Arudhimath Veeresh
- Division of Nematology, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, India
| | - Victor Phani
- Department of Agricultural Entomology, College of Agriculture, Uttar Banga Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Dakshin Dinajpur, West Bengal, India
| | - Artha Kundu
- Division of Nematology, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, India
| | | | - Chetna Mathur
- Division of Nematology, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, India
| | - Doddachowdappa Sagar
- Division of Entomology, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, India
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Cationic protein 8 plays multiple roles in Galleria mellonella immunity. Sci Rep 2022; 12:11737. [PMID: 35817811 PMCID: PMC9273619 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-15929-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Galleria mellonella cationic protein 8 (GmCP8) is a hemolymph protein previously identified as an opsonin and an inhibitor of fungal proteases. In this work, we showed its bactericidal activity toward Pseudomonas entomophila, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Bacillus thuringiensis, Staphylococcus aureus, and Escherichia coli and against yeast-like fungi Candida albicans. The activity against E. coli was correlated with bacterial membrane permeabilization. In turn, in the case of P. entomophila, B. thuringiensis, and C. albicans, the atomic force microscopy analysis of the microbial surface showed changes in the topography of cells and changes in their nanomechanical properties. GmCP8 also showed the inhibitory activity toward the serine protease trypsin and the metalloproteinase thermolysin. The expression of the gene encoding the GmCP8 protein did not increase either in the gut or in the fat body of G. mellonella after oral infection with P. entomophila. Similarly, the amount of GmCP8 in the hemolymph of G. mellonella did not change in immune-challenged insects. However, when GmCP8 was injected into the G. mellonella hemocel, a change in the survival curve was observed in the infected larvae. Our results shed new light on the function of GmCP8 protein in insect immunity, indicating its role in humoral defence mechanisms.
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FluG and FluG-like FlrA Coregulate Manifold Gene Sets Vital for Fungal Insect-Pathogenic Lifestyle but Not Involved in Asexual Development. mSystems 2022; 7:e0031822. [PMID: 35862810 PMCID: PMC9426541 DOI: 10.1128/msystems.00318-22] [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] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The central developmental pathway (CDP) activator gene brlA is activated by the upstream genes fluG and flbA–flbE in Aspergillus nidulans. Increasing evidences of fungal genome divergence make it necessary to clarify whether such genetic principles fit Pezizomycotina. Previously, fluG disruption resulted in limited conidiation defect and little effect on the expression of brlA and flbA–flbE in Beauveria bassiana possessing the other FluG-like regulator FlrA. Here, single-disruption (SD) mutants of flrA and double-disruption (DD) mutants of flrA and fluG were analyzed to clarify whether FlrA and FluG are upstream regulators of key CDP genes. Despite similar subcellular localization, no protein-protein interaction was detected between FlrA and FluG, suggesting mutual independence. Three flrA SD mutants showed phenotypes similar to those previously described for ΔfluG, including limited conidiation defect, facilitated blastospore production, impaired spore quality, blocked host infection, delayed proliferation in vivo, attenuated virulence, and increased sensitivities to multiple stresses. Three DD mutants resembled the SD mutants in all phenotypes except more compromised pathogenicity and tolerance to heat shock- or calcofluor white-induced stress. No CDP gene appeared in 1,622 and 2,234 genes dysregulated in the ΔflrA and ΔfluG mutants, respectively. The majority (up/down ratio: 540:875) of those dysregulated genes were co-upregulated or co-downregulated at similar levels in the two mutants. These findings unravel novel roles for flrA and fluG in coregulating manifold gene sets vital for fungal adaptation to insect-pathogenic lifestyle and environment but not involved in CDP activation. IMPORTANCE FluG is a core regulator upstream of central developmental pathway (CDP) in Aspergillus nidulans but multiple FluG-like regulators (FLRs) remain functionally uncharacterized in ascomycetes. Our previous study revealed no role for FluG in the CDP activation and an existence of sole FLR (FlrA) in an insect-pathogenic fungus. This study reveals a similarity of FlrA to FluG in domain architecture and subcellular localization. Experimental data from analyses of targeted single- and double-gene knockout mutants demonstrate similar roles of FrlA and FluG in stress tolerance and infection cycle but no role of either in CDP activation. Transcriptomic analyses reveal that FlrA and FluG coregulate a large number of same genes at similar levels. However, the regulated genes include no key CDP gene. These findings uncover that FlrA and FluG play similar roles in the fungal adaptation to insect-pathogenic lifestyle and environment but no role in the activation of CDP.
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Mou YN, Ren K, Tong SM, Ying SH, Feng MG. Fungal insecticidal activity elevated by non-risky markerless overexpression of an endogenous cysteine-free protein gene in Beauveria bassiana. PEST MANAGEMENT SCIENCE 2022; 78:3164-3172. [PMID: 35470955 DOI: 10.1002/ps.6946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2021] [Revised: 01/29/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fungal insecticides are notorious for slow kill action, an intrinsic trait that can be improved by the genetic engineering of an exogenous or endogenous virulence factor. However, transgenic insecticides expressing exogenous toxin and herbicide-resistant marker genes may cause unexpected ecological risks and are hardly permitted for field release due to strict regulatory hurdles. It is necessary to improve biotechnology that can speed up fungal insect-killing action and exclude ecological risk source. RESULTS A markerless transformation system of Beauveria bassiana, a main source of wide-spectrum fungal insecticides, was reconstructed based on the fungal uridine auxotrophy (Δura3). The system was applied for overexpression of the small cysteine-free protein (120 amino acids) gene cfp previously characterized as a regulator of the fungal virulence and gene expression. Three cfp-overexpressed strains showed much faster kill action to Galleria mellonella larvae than the parental wild-type via normal cuticle infection but no change in vegetative growth and aerial condition. The faster kill action was achieved due to not only significant increases in conidial adherence to insect cuticle and total activity of secreted cuticle-degrading Pr1 proteases and of antioxidant enzymes crucial for collapse of insect immune defense but acceleration of hemocoel localization, proliferation in vivo and host death from mummification. CONCLUSION The markerless system is free of any foreign DNA fragment as a source of ecologic risk and provides a novel biotechnological approach to enhancing fungal insecticidal activity with non-risky endogenous genes and striding over the regulatory hurdles. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya-Ni Mou
- Institute of Microbiology, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Kang Ren
- Institute of Microbiology, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Sen-Miao Tong
- College of Advanced Agricultural Sciences, Zhejiang A&F University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Sheng-Hua Ying
- Institute of Microbiology, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Ming-Guang Feng
- Institute of Microbiology, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
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Duman Erbaş E, Gwokyalya R, Altuntaş H, Kutrup B. Screening the immunotoxicity of different food preservative agents on the model organism Galleria mellonella L. (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) larvae. Drug Chem Toxicol 2022:1-11. [PMID: 35758106 DOI: 10.1080/01480545.2022.2091589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Immunotoxic effects of sodium benzoate (SB, E211), sodium nitrate (SNa, E251), and sodium nitrite (SNi, E250), a few of the most common food preservatives, on the model organism Galleria mellonella L. (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) larvae were investigated in this study. The last instar larvae were used for all experimental analyses. For this purpose, median lethal doses of SB, SNa, and SNi were applied to the larvae by the force-feeding method. We found that force-feeding G. mellonella larvae with SB, SNa, and SNi significantly reduced the larval total hemocyte counts, prohemocyte, and granulocyte ratios but increased plasmatocyte, spherulocyte, and oenocyte ratios, as well as the hemocyte mitotic indices and micronucleus frequency. The spreading ability of hemocytes and hemocyte-mediated immune responses were lower in the SB, SNa-, and SNi-treated larval groups compared to controls. Apoptotic indices were higher in all larval groups treated with food preservatives, but increments in necrotic indices were only significantly higher in SNi-treated larvae compared to controls. Our research shows that SB, SNa, and SNi have immunotoxic and cytotoxic potential on G. mellonella larvae. Thus, we suggest that G. mellonella larvae can be used as preliminary in vivo models to screen the immunotoxic effects of food preservative agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emine Duman Erbaş
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Karadeniz Technical University, Trabzon, Turkey
| | - Rehemah Gwokyalya
- International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (icipe), Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Hülya Altuntaş
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Eskisehir Technical University, Eskişehir, Turkey
| | - Bilal Kutrup
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Karadeniz Technical University, Trabzon, Turkey
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Three Small Cysteine-Free Proteins (CFP1–3) Are Required for Insect-Pathogenic Lifestyle of Metarhizium robertsii. J Fungi (Basel) 2022; 8:jof8060606. [PMID: 35736089 PMCID: PMC9224661 DOI: 10.3390/jof8060606] [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: 04/29/2022] [Revised: 05/20/2022] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Unique CFP (cysteine-free protein; 120 aa) has been identified as an extraordinary virulence factor in Beauveria bassiana (Cordycipitaceae), a main source of wide-spectrum fungal insecticides. Its homologs exclusively exist in wide-spectrum insect pathogens of Hypocreales, suggesting their importance for a fungal insect-pathogenic lifestyle. In this study, all three CFP homologs (CFP1–3, 128–145 aa) were proven essential virulence factors in Metarhizium robertsii (Clavicipitaceae). Despite limited effects on asexual cycles in vitro, knockout mutants of cfp1,cfp2 and cfp3 were severely compromised in their capability for normal cuticle infection, in which most tested Galleria mellonella larvae survived. The blocked cuticle infection concurred with reduced secretion of extracellular enzymes, including Pr1 proteases required cuticle penetration. Cuticle-bypassing infection by intrahemocoel injection of ~250 conidia per larva resulted in a greater reduction in virulence in the mutant of cfp1 (82%) than of cfp2 (21%) or cfp3 (25%) versus the parental wild-type. Transcriptomic analysis revealed dysregulation of 604 genes (up/down ratio: 251:353) in the Δcfp1 mutant. Many of them were involved in virulence-related cellular processes and events aside from 154 functionally unknown genes (up/down ratio: 56:98). These results reinforce the essential roles of small CFP homologs in hypocrealean fungal adaptation to insect-pathogenic lifestyle and their exploitability for the genetic improvement of fungal insecticidal activity.
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Santos AL, Liu D, Reed AK, Wyderka AM, van Venrooy A, Li JT, Li VD, Misiura M, Samoylova O, Beckham JL, Ayala-Orozco C, Kolomeisky AB, Alemany LB, Oliver A, Tegos GP, Tour JM. Light-activated molecular machines are fast-acting broad-spectrum antibacterials that target the membrane. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2022; 8:eabm2055. [PMID: 35648847 PMCID: PMC9159576 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abm2055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 04/14/2022] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
The increasing occurrence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria and the dwindling antibiotic research and development pipeline have created a pressing global health crisis. Here, we report the discovery of a distinctive antibacterial therapy that uses visible (405 nanometers) light-activated synthetic molecular machines (MMs) to kill Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria, including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, in minutes, vastly outpacing conventional antibiotics. MMs also rapidly eliminate persister cells and established bacterial biofilms. The antibacterial mode of action of MMs involves physical disruption of the membrane. In addition, by permeabilizing the membrane, MMs at sublethal doses potentiate the action of conventional antibiotics. Repeated exposure to antibacterial MMs is not accompanied by resistance development. Finally, therapeutic doses of MMs mitigate mortality associated with bacterial infection in an in vivo model of burn wound infection. Visible light-activated MMs represent an unconventional antibacterial mode of action by mechanical disruption at the molecular scale, not existent in nature and to which resistance development is unlikely.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana L. Santos
- Department of Chemistry, Rice University, Houston, TX 77005, USA
- IdISBA–Fundación de Investigación Sanitaria de las Islas Baleares, Palma, Spain
| | - Dongdong Liu
- Department of Chemistry, Rice University, Houston, TX 77005, USA
| | - Anna K. Reed
- Department of Chemistry, Rice University, Houston, TX 77005, USA
| | - Aaron M. Wyderka
- Department of Chemistry, Rice University, Houston, TX 77005, USA
| | | | - John T. Li
- Department of Chemistry, Rice University, Houston, TX 77005, USA
| | - Victor D. Li
- Department of Chemistry, Rice University, Houston, TX 77005, USA
| | - Mikita Misiura
- Department of Chemistry, Rice University, Houston, TX 77005, USA
| | - Olga Samoylova
- Department of Chemistry, Rice University, Houston, TX 77005, USA
| | - Jacob L. Beckham
- Department of Chemistry, Rice University, Houston, TX 77005, USA
| | | | | | - Lawrence B. Alemany
- Department of Chemistry, Rice University, Houston, TX 77005, USA
- Shared Equipment Authority, Rice University, Houston, TX 77005, USA
| | - Antonio Oliver
- IdISBA–Fundación de Investigación Sanitaria de las Islas Baleares, Palma, Spain
- Servicio de Microbiologia, Hospital Universitari Son Espases, Palma, Spain
| | - George P. Tegos
- Office of Research, Reading Hospital, Tower Health, 420 S. Fifth Avenue, West Reading, PA 19611, USA
| | - James M. Tour
- Department of Chemistry, Rice University, Houston, TX 77005, USA
- Smalley-Curl Institute, Rice University, Houston, TX 77005, USA
- Department of Materials Science and NanoEngineering, Rice University, Houston, TX 77005, USA
- NanoCarbon Center and the Welch Institute for Advanced Materials, Rice University, Houston, TX 77005, USA
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Mese Y, Tuncsoy B, Ozalp P. Effects of Cu, Zn and their mixtures on bioaccumulation and antioxidant enzyme activities in Galleria mellonella L. (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae). ECOTOXICOLOGY (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2022; 31:649-656. [PMID: 35296951 DOI: 10.1007/s10646-022-02531-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The effects of Cu, Zn and their mixture on bioaccumulation and antioxidant enzyme activities of midgut and fat body of Galleria mellonella larvae were investigated. Exposure to mixtures of both metals showed a synergistic effect and the accumulation levels were increased in both tissues. When the metals were exposed separately the concentration of Zn increased in both tissues, whereas the concentration of Cu increased in midgut and decreased in fat body. Also, it was determined that, oxidative stress occurred in the midgut and fat body when G. mellonella larvae were fed singly and in a mixture with different concentrations of Cu and Zn. In addition, significant changes were observed in antioxidant and detoxification enzyme activities, which are an indicator of oxidative stress. Larvae of G. mellonella showed immune responses similar to vertebrates, and could be used as bioindicator species due to being grown easily in the laboratory and reduced research costs Understanding the detoxification mechanism in insects is an important parameter for future ecotoxicological studies on the genotoxic, cytotoxic and physiological effects that different environmental pollutants such as heavy metals can cause.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yagmur Mese
- Faculty of Science and Letters, Biology Department, Cukurova University, Adana, Turkey
| | - Benay Tuncsoy
- Bioengineering Department, Adana Alparslan Turkes Science and Technology University, Adana, Turkey.
| | - Pınar Ozalp
- Faculty of Science and Letters, Biology Department, Cukurova University, Adana, Turkey
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50
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Wu H, Tan M, Li Y, Zheng L, Xu J, Jiang D. The immunotoxicity of Cd exposure to gypsy moth larvae: An integrated analysis of cellular immunity and humoral immunity. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2022; 235:113434. [PMID: 35338967 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2022.113434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2022] [Revised: 02/26/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Heavy metal exposure-triggered growth retardation and physiology disorder in phytophagous insects have been widely understood, but only a few studies have investigated its immunomodulatory effects on herbivorous insects. Here, the innate immunity of gypsy moth (Lymantria dispar) larvae under Cd stress was evaluated by integrating cellular and humoral immunity, and the immunomodulation mechanism of Cd stress was further understood by the proteomics analysis of larval hemolymph. Our results showed that the total hemocyte count, as well as phagocytic, encapsulation and bacteriostatic activity, of hemolymph in gypsy moth larvae exposed to Cd stress was significantly lower than that in un-treated larvae. Further proteomic analysis revealed that Cd exposure may reduce the total hemocyte count in larval hemolymph by inducing endoplasmic reticulum pathway-mediated hemocyte apoptosis, thereby causing the collapse of cellular immunity in gypsy moth larvae. In addition, the transcriptional level of signal transduction genes (IMD, Toll, Relish, JAK and STAT) and antimicrobial peptide genes (cecropin and lebocin), as well as the protein abundance of pattern recognition receptors (PGRP and GNBP3) in the Toll, IMD and JAK/STAT signaling pathways was significantly decreased in Cd-treated larvae, clearly implying an immunosuppresive effect of Cd stress on pathogen recognition, signal transduction and effector synthesis of humoral immunity in gypsy moth larvae. Taken together, these results suggest that Cd exposure decreases both cellular immunity and humoral immunity of gypsy moth larvae, and provides a new entry point for systematically and comprehensively unraveling the heavy metal pollutants-caused immunotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongfei Wu
- School of Forestry, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin 150040, PR China; Key Laboratory of Sustainable Forest Ecosystem Management-Ministry of Education, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin 150040, PR China
| | - Mingtao Tan
- School of Forestry, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin 150040, PR China; Key Laboratory of Sustainable Forest Ecosystem Management-Ministry of Education, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin 150040, PR China
| | - Yaning Li
- School of Forestry, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin 150040, PR China; Key Laboratory of Sustainable Forest Ecosystem Management-Ministry of Education, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin 150040, PR China
| | - Lin Zheng
- School of Forestry, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin 150040, PR China; Key Laboratory of Sustainable Forest Ecosystem Management-Ministry of Education, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin 150040, PR China
| | - Jinsheng Xu
- School of Forestry, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin 150040, PR China; Key Laboratory of Sustainable Forest Ecosystem Management-Ministry of Education, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin 150040, PR China
| | - Dun Jiang
- School of Forestry, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin 150040, PR China; Key Laboratory of Sustainable Forest Ecosystem Management-Ministry of Education, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin 150040, PR China.
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