A global view on fungal infections in humans and animals: opportunistic infections and microsporidioses

Immunological Effects of Electronic Cigarette Use: A Review of Current Evidence

Electronic cigarettes (EC) have emerged as a popular alternative to traditional tobacco products, but their impact on immune function has raised significant health concerns. This review explores the immunological effects of EC exposure, focusing on innate and adaptive immune responses. Electronic cigarette aerosol (ECA) induces widespread inflammation. These changes compromise immune cell function, impairing neutrophil chemotaxis, phagocytosis, and oxidative burst while increasing macrophage and dendritic cell recruitment and activation. ECA also disrupts epithelial barriers, increasing susceptibility to bacterial and viral infections. Studies show enhanced biofilm formation in bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pneumoniae and impaired antiviral responses against pathogens like influenza A and SARS-CoV-2. Additionally, EC exposure modulates adaptive immunity, affecting T and B cell function and increasing systemic inflammatory markers. The long-term consequences of these immunological disruptions include heightened risks for chronic inflammatory diseases, respiratory infections, and potentially autoimmune conditions. The widespread adoption of EC, particularly among younger users, poses a growing public health challenge. As the popularity of vaping continues to rise, these immunological disruptions could result in increased healthcare burdens in the future, with higher rates of infections, chronic inflammatory diseases, and immune system-related disorders among those who begin using e-cigarettes at a young age. Understanding the full scope of EC-related health risks is essential for informing public health policies and protecting future generations from the potential long-term effects of vaping.

Dereplication of Natural Product Antifungals via Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry and Chemical Genomics

Recently expanded reports of multidrug-resistant fungal infections underscore the need to develop new and more efficient methods for antifungal drug discovery. A ubiquitous problem in natural product drug discovery campaigns is the rediscovery of known compounds or their relatives; accordingly, we have integrated Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) for structural dereplication and Yeast Chemical Genomics for bioprocess evaluation into a screening platform to identify such compounds early in the screening process. We identified 450 fractions inhibiting Candida albicans and the resistant strains of C. auris and C. glabrata among more than 40,000 natural product fractions. LC-MS/MS and chemical genomics were then used to identify those with known chemistry and mechanisms of action. The parallel deployment of these orthogonal methods improved the detection of unwanted compound classes over the methods applied individually.

Improve Solubility and Develop Personalized Itraconazole Dosages via Forming Amorphous Solid Dispersions with Hydrophilic Polymers Utilizing HME and 3D Printing Technologies

Itraconazole (ITZ), a broad-spectrum triazole antifungal agent, exhibits remarkable pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic properties. However, the low solubility of ITZ significantly reduces its oral bioavailability. Furthermore, it has been reported that this medication can result in dose-related adverse effects. Therefore, the objective of this study was to enhance the solubility of ITZ through the utilization of various polymers and to manufacture personalized and programmable release ITZ tablets. Five different polymers were selected as water-soluble carriers. Thirty percent w/w ITZ was mixed with seventy percent w/w of the polymers, which were then extruded. A series of physical and chemical characterization studies were conducted, including DSC, PXRD, PLM, and in vitro drug release studies. The results demonstrated that ITZ was dispersed within the polymers, forming ASDs that markedly enhanced its solubility and dissolution rate. Consequently, soluplus® was employed as the polymer for the extrusion of ITZ-loaded filaments, which were subsequently designed and printed. The in vitro drug release studies indicated that the release of ITZ could be regulated by modifying the 3D structure design. Overall, this study found that the combination of HME and 3D printing technologies could represent an optimal approach for the development of personalized and precise drug delivery dosages.

Overcoming amphotericin B resistance in Candida auris using the antiemetic drug rolapitant

The emergence of Candida auris poses a significant health challenge that has led to a new era of multidrug-resistant fungal infections. Invasive infections caused by C. auris are usually associated with remarkable morbidity and mortality. For many years, amphotericin B (AmB) remained the most efficient and the last line of treatment against most hard-to-treat fungal infections. However, strains of C. auris possess extraordinary resistance to most antifungal agents, including AmB. In this study, we screened ~2,600 FDA-approved drugs and clinical compounds to identify the antiemetic drug rolapitant as a promising enhancer to AmB against C. auris. Rolapitant exhibited potent synergistic interactions with AmB against all tested (29/29) C. auris isolates. In a time-kill assay, rolapitant restored the fungicidal activity of AmB within 4 h. Additionally, the synergistic relationship between rolapitant and AmB was observed against other medically crucial Candida, Cryptococcus, and Aspergillus species. A transcriptomic study revealed that exposure to rolapitant affects oxidation reduction processes, ion transporters, and ATP production. Rolapitant triggers an elevation in cytosolic and mitochondrial calcium levels and induces oxidative stress within fungal cells. An ATP luminescence assay confirmed that rolapitant, at sub-inhibitory concentrations, significantly interfered with ATP production in C. auris. Moreover, rolapitant enhanced the in vivo activity of AmB in a mouse model of disseminated C. auris infection, as the combination reduced the fungal burden in murine kidneys by ~1 log (~90%) colony forming units. Our findings warrant further investigation of using rolapitant to overcome AmB resistance in C. auris and other fungal species.

Trichophyton erinacei infection in humans: a case report and a literature review

BACKGROUND

Trichophyton (T.) erinacei is a rare but emerging zoonotic dermatophyte that is rarely isolated as a human pathogen, with only a few cases extensively described in the literature.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We conducted a systematic search to identify eligible articles reporting demographics, clinical characteristics, and the therapeutic approach regarding T. erinacei infection in humans.

RESULTS

168 patients affected by T. erinacei were reported in the international literature between inception and November 2023. Only 56 cases (32.1%) were fully described. The median age at diagnosis was 26 years, the female/male ratio was around 2:1. The main source of the disease was the hedgehog. The infection presented with a combination of erythema, scaly plaques, pustules, papules, vesicles, oedema, and erosion; the most common locations were the hands and the head. The most frequently conducted examination was fungal culture, but gene sequencing and mass spectrometry improved both speed and precision in the most recent diagnostic course. Topical clotrimazole and systemic terbinafine were the most chosen treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

Trichophyton erinacei should be considered in patients with erythematous scaly patches and recent contact with hedgehogs. Terbinafine should be considered as a first-line effective treatment, griseofulvin and azoles could be considered valid alternatives.

Diversity and Distribution of Fungal Infections in Rwanda: High Risk and Gaps in Knowledge, Policy, and Interventions

Fungal infections (FIs) are spreading globally, raising a significant public health concern. However, its documentation remains sparse in Africa, particularly in Rwanda. This report provides a comprehensive review of FIs in Rwanda based on a systematic review of reports published between 1972 and 2022. The findings reveal a rich diversity of fungal pathogens, including Blastomyces, Candida, Cryptococcus, Histoplasma, Microsporum, Pneumocystis, Rhinosporidium, and Trichophyton caused human infections. Candida infections predominantly affect the vagina mucosa, while Histoplasma duboisi was linked to disseminated infections. Other pathogens, such as Blastomyces dermatitidis and Rhinosporidium seeberi, were associated with cerebellar and nasal mucosa infections, respectively. The widespread observation of soilborne fungi affecting bean crops highlights the pathogens' threat to agricultural productivity, food security, and socioeconomic stability, as well as potential health impacts on humans, animals, and the environment. Of particular importance is that there is no information about FIs among animals in the country. Moreover, the analysis underscores significant limitations in the detection, reporting, and healthcare services related to FIs in the country, indicating gaps in diagnostic capacity and surveillance systems. This is underscored by the predominant use of traditional diagnostic techniques, including culture, cytology, and histopathology in the absence of integrating more sensitive and specific molecular tools in investigating FIs. Developing the diagnostic capacities and national surveillance systems are urgently needed to improve the health of crops, animals, and humans, as well as food security and socioeconomic stability in Rwanda. Also, it is important to indicate severe gaps in the evidence to inform policymaking, guide strategic planning, and improve healthcare and public health services, underscoring the urgent need to build national capacity in fungal diagnosis, surveillance, and research. Raising awareness among the public, scientific community, healthcare providers, and policymakers remains crucial. Furthermore, this report reveals the threats of FIs on public health and food insecurity in Rwanda. A multisectoral one health strategy is essential in research and intervention to determine and reduce the health and safety impacts of fungal pathogens on humans, animals, and the environment.

The Zoonotic Potential of Fungal Pathogens: Another Dimension of the One Health Approach

Zoonotic diseases are caused by viruses, bacteria, fungi and parasites and they comprise about 75% of all emerging infectious diseases. These can be transmitted via the direct (scratches on skin or animal bites) or indirect mode (through environmental shedding of infectious agent by the infected animal) of transmission. Environmental changes, whether in the form of urbanization, industrialization or destruction of wildlife habitats, lead to more human invasion in wildlife areas, subsequently leading to an increased passage of animals towards human dwellings and more exposure to animals, making humans susceptible to these infections. Climate change is another major factor. Global warming and the evolving thermotolerance of fungi, adapting more to human body temperature than their saprophytic nature, is leading to the emergence of humans as new hosts for fungi. The domestication of animals, rising populations, enhanced tourism, migratory populations, intrusions into wildlife, etc., are other known factors. Zoonotic fungal infections have long been neglected and are now gaining due attention. In this review, we briefly discuss the various aspects currently known for zoonotic fungal infections and bring forth the importance of this particular issue to be addressed in a timely manner.

Candida albicans in the oral cavities of pets: biofilm formation, putative virulence, antifungal resistance profiles and classification of the isolates

The study aimed to investigate Candida albicans presence, antifungal resistance, biofilm formation, putative virulence genes, and molecular characterization in oral samples of dogs and cats. A total of 239 oral samples were collected from cats and dogs of various breeds and ages at Erciyes University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Clinics, between May 2017 and April 2018. Among 216 isolates obtained, 15 (6.95%) were identified as C. albicans, while 8 (3.7%) were non-albicans Candida species. Antifungal susceptibility testing revealed sensitivities to caspofungin, fluconazole, and flucytosine in varying proportions. Molecular analysis indicated the presence of fluconazole and caspofungin resistance genes in all C. albicans isolates. Additionally, virulence genes ALS1, HWP1, and HSP90 showed variable presence. Biofilm formation varied among isolates, with 46.7% strong, 33.3% moderate, and 20% weak producers. PCA analysis categorized isolates into two main clusters, with some dog isolates grouped separately. The findings underscore the significance of oral care and protective measures in pets due to C. albicans prevalence, biofilm formation, virulence factors, and antifungal resistance in their oral cavity, thereby aiding clinical diagnosis and treatment in veterinary medicine.

Humans vs. Fungi: An Overview of Fungal Pathogens against Humans

Human fungal diseases are infections caused by any fungus that invades human tissues, causing superficial, subcutaneous, or systemic diseases. Fungal infections that enter various human tissues and organs pose a significant threat to millions of individuals with weakened immune systems globally. Over recent decades, the reported cases of invasive fungal infections have increased substantially and research progress in this field has also been rapidly boosted. This review provides a comprehensive list of human fungal pathogens extracted from over 850 recent case reports, and a summary of the relevant disease conditions and their origins. Details of 281 human fungal pathogens belonging to 12 classes and 104 genera in the divisions ascomycota, basidiomycota, entomophthoromycota, and mucoromycota are listed. Among these, Aspergillus stands out as the genus with the greatest potential of infecting humans, comprising 16 species known to infect humans. Additionally, three other genera, Curvularia, Exophiala, and Trichophyton, are recognized as significant genera, each comprising 10 or more known human pathogenic species. A phylogenetic analysis based on partial sequences of the 28S nrRNA gene (LSU) of human fungal pathogens was performed to show their phylogenetic relationships and clarify their taxonomies. In addition, this review summarizes the recent advancements in fungal disease diagnosis and therapeutics.

The yeast-human coevolution: Fungal transition from passengers, colonizers, and invaders

Fungi are the cause of more than a billion infections in humans every year, although their interactions with the host are still neglected compared to bacteria. Major systemic fungal infections are very unusual in the healthy population, due to the long history of coevolution with the human host. Humans are routinely exposed to environmental fungi and can host a commensal mycobiota, which is increasingly considered as a key player in health and disease. Here, we review the current knowledge on host-fungi coevolution and the factors that regulate their interaction. On one hand, fungi have learned to survive and inhabit the host organisms as a natural ecosystem, on the other hand, the host immune system finely tunes the response toward fungi. In turn, recognition of fungi as commensals or pathogens regulates the host immune balance in health and disease. In the human gut ecosystem, yeasts provide a fingerprint of the transient microbiota. Their status as passengers or colonizers is related to the integrity of the gut barrier and the risk of multiple disorders. Thus, the study of this less known component of the microbiota could unravel the rules of the transition from passengers to colonizers and invaders, as well as their dependence on the innate component of the host's immune response. This article is categorized under: Infectious Diseases > Environmental Factors Immune System Diseases > Environmental Factors Infectious Diseases > Molecular and Cellular Physiology.

Cutaneous Mucormycosis in Buffalos in the Brazilian Amazon Biome

This is the first description of cutaneous mucormycosis in buffalo in the Brazilian Amazon biome. All buffalo showed apathy, inappetence, weight loss, reluctance to move, and prolonged sternal decubitus. Of the four affected animals, two died 15 and 30 days after the appearance of clinical signs. In the initial phase, the skin lesions were rounded areas with dry central regions, sensitive to palpation, with protruding edges and diameters ranging from 8 cm to 15 cm. These areas of necrosis were isolated or coalescing and present mainly on the limbs and sides. In an advanced stage of the disease, there was detachment of the skin from the necrotic areas with extensive wound formation, which sometimes exposed the subcutaneous tissue. The histopathology of the skin showed a multifocal inflammatory infiltrate composed of intact and degenerated eosinophils surrounded by epithelioid macrophages. At the center of these areas was a focally extensive area of epidermal ulceration characterized by intact and degenerated neutrophils, the necrosis of epithelial cells, and the accumulation of fibrin and erythrocytes. The mycological culture was positive for Rhizopus sp. The diagnosis of cutaneous dermatitis caused by Rhizopus sp. was based on clinical signs, macroscopic and histopathological findings, and the identification of the fungus by mycological and molecular techniques.

Pan-Indian Clinical Registry of Invasive Fungal Infections Among Patients in the Intensive Care Unit: Protocol for a Multicentric Prospective Study

BACKGROUND

Fungal infections are now a great public health threat, especially in those with underlying risk factors such as neutropenia, diabetes, high-dose steroid treatment, cancer chemotherapy, prolonged intensive care unit stay, and so on, which can lead to mycoses with higher mortality rates. The rates of these infections have been steadily increasing over the past 2 decades due to the increasing population of patients who are immunocompromised. However, the data regarding the exact burden of such infection are still not available from India. Therefore, this registry was initiated to collate systematic data on invasive fungal infections (IFIs) across the country.

OBJECTIVE

The primary aim of this study is to create a multicenter digital clinical registry and monitor trends of IFIs and emerging fungal diseases, as well as early signals of any potential fungal outbreak in any region. The registry will also capture information on the antifungal resistance patterns and the contribution of fungal infections on overall morbidity and inpatient mortality across various conditions.

METHODS

This multicenter, prospective, noninterventional observational study will be conducted by the Indian Council of Medical Research through a web-based data collection method from 8 Advanced Mycology Diagnostic and Research Centers across the country. Data on age, gender, clinical signs and symptoms, date of admission, date of discharge or death, diagnostic tests performed, identified pathogen details, antifungal susceptibility testing, outcome, and so on will be obtained from hospital records. Descriptive and multivariate statistical methods will be applied to investigate clinical manifestations, risk variables, and treatment outcomes.

RESULTS

These Advanced Mycology Diagnostic and Research Centers are expected to find the hidden cases of fungal infections in the intensive care unit setting. The study will facilitate the enhancement of the precision of fungal infection diagnosis and prompt treatment modalities in response to antifungal drug sensitivity tests. This registry will improve our understanding of IFIs, support evidence-based clinical decision-making ability, and encourage public health policies and actions.

CONCLUSIONS

Fungal diseases are a neglected public health problem. Fewer diagnostic facilities, scanty published data, and increased vulnerable patient groups make the situation worse. This is the first systematic clinical registry of IFIs in India. Data generated from this registry will increase our understanding related to the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of fungal diseases in India by addressing pertinent gaps in mycology. This initiative will ensure a visible impact on public health in the country.

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID)

DERR1-10.2196/54672.

A biomedical perspective of pyocyanin from Pseudomonas aeruginosa: its applications and challenges

Pyocyanin is a bioactive pigment produced by Pseudomonas aeruginosa. It is an important virulence factor that plays a critical role in P. aeruginosa infections as a redox-active secondary metabolite and a quorum sensing (QS) signaling molecule. Pyocyanin production from chorismic acid requires the involvement of two homologous operons, phz1 and phz2, which are activated by QS regulatory proteins. Pyocyanin inhibits the proliferation of bacterial, fungal, and mammalian cells by inducing oxidative stress due to which it acts as a potent antibacterial, antifungal, and anticancer agent. Its potential role as a neuroprotectant needs further exploration. However, pyocyanin exacerbates the damaging effects of nosocomial infections caused by P. aeruginosa in immunocompromised individuals. Further, cystic fibrosis (CF) patients are highly susceptible to persistent P. aeruginosa infections in the respiratory system. The bacterial cells form colonies and three interconnected QS networks-pqs, las, and rhl-get activated, thus stimulating the cells to produce pyocyanin which exacerbates pulmonary complications. As an opportunistic pathogen, P. aeruginosa produces pyocyanin to impede the recovery of injuries like burn wounds through its anti-proliferative activity. Moreover, pyocyanin plays a vital role in compounding P. aeruginosa infections by promoting biofilm formation. This review begins with a brief description of the characteristics of pyocyanin, its activity, and the different aspects of its production including its biosynthesis, the role of QS, and the effect of environmental factors. It then goes on to explore the potential applications of pyocyanin as a biotherapeutic molecule while also highlighting the biomedical challenges and limitations that it presents.

Strain-specific features of Pleurotus ostreatus growth in vitro and some of its biological activities

BACKGROUND

The production of Pleurotus ostreatus mycelium as a promising object for use in food and other industries is hampered by a lack of information about the strain-specificity of this fungus mycelium growth and its acquisition of various biological activities. Therefore, this research aimed to investigate mycelial growth of different P. ostreatus strains on varies solid and liquid media as well as to evaluate strains antagonistic, antibacterial, antiradical scavenging activities, and total phenolic content.

RESULTS

Potato Dextrose Agar medium was suitable for all strains except P. ostreatus strain 2460. The best growth rate of P. ostreatus 2462 strain on solid culture media was 15.0 ± 0.8 mm/day, and mycelia best growth on liquid culture media-36.5 ± 0.2 g/l. P. ostreatus strains 551 and 1685 were more susceptible to positive effect of plant growth regulators Ivin, Methyur and Kamethur. Using of nutrient media based on combination of natural waste (amaranth flour cake and wheat germ, wheat bran, broken vermicelli and crumbs) has been increased the yield of P. ostreatus strains mycelium by 2.2-2.9 times compared to the control. All used P. ostreatus strains displayed strong antagonistic activity in co-cultivation with Aspergillus niger, Candida albicans, Issatchenkia orientalis, Fusarium poae, Microdochium nivale in dual-culture assay. P. ostreatus 2462 EtOAc mycelial extract good inhibited growth of Escherichia coli (17.0 ± 0.9 mm) while P. ostreatus 2460 suppressed Staphylococcus aureus growth (21.5 ± 0.5 mm) by agar well diffusion method. The highest radical scavenging effect displayed both mycelial extracts (EtOH and EtOAc) of P. ostreatus 1685 (61 and 56%) by DPPH assay as well as high phenolic content (7.17 and 6.73 mg GAE/g) by the Folin-Ciocalteu's method. The maximal total phenol content (7.52 mg GAE/g) demonstrated of P. ostreatus 2461 EtOH extract.

CONCLUSIONS

It is found that the growth, antibacterial, antiradical scavenging activity as well as total phenolic content were dependent on studied P. ostreatus strains in contrast to antagonistic activity. The proposed culture mediums of natural waste could be an alternative to commercial mediums for the production mycelial biomass of P. ostreatus strains.

Interplay between acetylation and ubiquitination of imitation switch chromatin remodeler Isw1 confers multidrug resistance in Cryptococcus neoformans

Cryptococcus neoformans poses a threat to human health, but anticryptococcal therapy is hampered by the emergence of drug resistance, whose underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood. Herein, we discovered that Isw1, an imitation switch chromatin remodeling ATPase, functions as a master modulator of genes responsible for in vivo and in vitro multidrug resistance in C. neoformans. Cells with the disrupted ISW1 gene exhibited profound resistance to multiple antifungal drugs. Mass spectrometry analysis revealed that Isw1 is both acetylated and ubiquitinated, suggesting that an interplay between these two modification events exists to govern Isw1 function. Mutagenesis studies of acetylation and ubiquitination sites revealed that the acetylation status of Isw1K97 coordinates with its ubiquitination processes at Isw1K113 and Isw1K441 through modulating the interaction between Isw1 and Cdc4, an E3 ligase. Additionally, clinical isolates of C. neoformans overexpressing the degradation-resistant ISW1K97Q allele showed impaired drug-resistant phenotypes. Collectively, our studies revealed a sophisticated acetylation-Isw1-ubiquitination regulation axis that controls multidrug resistance in C. neoformans.

Antifungal resistance and stewardship: a knowledge, attitudes and practices survey among pharmacy students at the University of Zambia; findings and implications

Introduction

Antifungal resistance (AFR) is a growing global public health concern. Little is currently known about knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding AFR and antifungal stewardship (AFS) in Zambia, and across the globe. To address this evidence gap, we conducted a study through a questionnaire design starting with pharmacy students as they include the next generation of healthcare professionals.

Methods

A cross-sectional study among 412 pharmacy students from June 2023 to July 2023 using a structured questionnaire. Multivariable analysis was used to determine key factors of influence.

Results

Of the 412 participants, 55.8% were female, with 81.6% aged between 18 and 25 years. Most students had good knowledge (85.9%) and positive attitudes (86.7%) but sub-optimal practices (65.8%) towards AFR and AFS. Overall, 30.2% of students accessed antifungals without a prescription. Male students were less likely to report a good knowledge of AFR (adjusted OR, AOR = 0.55, 95% CI: 0.31-0.98). Similarly, students residing in urban areas were less likely to report a positive attitude (AOR = 0.35, 95% CI: 0.13-0.91). Fourth-year students were also less likely to report good practices compared with second-year students (AOR = 0.48, 95% CI: 0.27-0.85).

Conclusions

Good knowledge and positive attitudes must translate into good practices toward AFR and AFS going forward. Consequently, there is a need to provide educational interventions where students have low scores regarding AFR and AFS. In addition, there is a need to implement strategies to reduce inappropriate dispensing of antifungals, especially without a prescription, to reduce AFR in Zambia.

Eukaryotic Infections in Dairy Calves: Impacts, Diagnosis, and Strategies for Prevention and Control

Eukaryotic infections are common among dairy calves and can have significant impacts on their health and growth rates. Fungal infections caused by Aspergillus fumigatus, Trichophyton verrucosum, and Candida albicans can cause respiratory diseases, dermatophytosis, and diarrhea, respectively. Protozoan parasites, including Cryptosporidium parvum, Giardia duodenalis, and Eimeria spp., are also common in dairy calves. C. parvum is highly contagious and can cause severe diarrhea and dehydration, while Giardia duodenalis can lead to poor growth and is transmissible to humans through contaminated food or water. Eimeria spp. can cause coccidiosis and lead to reduced growth rates, poor feed conversion, and death. The common helminthic infections in dairy calves include Ostertagia ostertagi, Cooperia spp., Fasciola hepatica, and Strongyloides papillosus. These parasitic infections significantly impact calf health, growth, and dairy industry productivity. Diagnosis of these infections can be made through fecal samples using microscopy or molecular methods. However, diagnosis of the infections can be challenging and requires a combination of clinical signs and laboratory tests such as culture and PCR. Preventing and controlling eukaryotic infections in dairy calves requires several measures. Good hygiene and sanitation practices, proper management strategies, and timely treatment of affected animals are important. It is also necessary to avoid overcrowding and consider vaccination against ringworm. Further research is needed to better understand the epidemiology and characterization of eukaryotic infections in dairy calves, which will help in the development of more effective prevention and control strategies. In general, good hygiene practices, appropriate management strategies, and timely treatment of affected animals are crucial in preventing and controlling the infections, ensuring the health and well-being of dairy calves.

Efficacy of Terbinafine and Itraconazole Combination Therapy Versus Terbinafine or Itraconazole Monotherapy in the Management of Fungal Diseases: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Fungal infections constitute a common dermatological illness rampant in underdeveloped countries. Combination drug therapy is becoming increasingly well-established owing to drug resistance because of monotherapy. Different studies have been conducted previously to compare the medical regimens for the treatment of fungal infections. However, there is insufficient research on the difference in cure rates and recurrence rates with each regimen. To the best of our knowledge, this meta-analysis is the first to compare the effect of the most widely used oral antifungal medications and their combination usage. A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) assesses the efficacy of terbinafine or itraconazole monotherapy versus combination therapy in fungal diseases. We queried PubMed and Cochrane Central from their inception to April 2022 for published studies, RCTs, and observational studies without any language restriction that compared itraconazole and terbinafine combination therapy with monotherapy in patients with fungal infections. The results from the studies were presented as risk ratios (RRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) and were pooled using a random-effects model, and a p-value of ≤0.05 was considered significant for the analysis. Endpoints of interest included cure rates and recurrence rates. Cure rates were increased significantly for combination therapy compared to terbinafine monotherapy (RR=2.01 (1.37, 2.94); p=0.0003; I2=67%). On sensitivity analysis, a significant association was observed between combination therapy and itraconazole monotherapy in terms of cure rates (RR=1.91 (1.41, 2.57); p<0.0001; I2=0%) and recurrence rates (RR=0.08 (0.02, 0.44); p=0.003; I2=0%). The findings of this meta-analysis suggest that itraconazole and terbinafine combination therapy has a better cure rate when compared to terbinafine monotherapy.

Synthesis, in silico and in vitro antimicrobial efficacy of substituted arylidene-based quinazolin-4(3H)-one motifs

Introduction: Quinazolin-4(3H)-one derivatives have attracted considerable attention in the pharmacological profiling of therapeutic drug targets. The present article reveals the development of arylidene-based quinazolin-4(3H)-one motifs as potential antimicrobial drug candidates. Methods: The synthetic pathway was initiated through thermal cyclization of acetic anhydride on anthranilic acid to produce 2-methyl-4H-3,1-benzoxazan-4-one 1, which (upon condensation with hydrazine hydrate) gave 3-amino-2-methylquinazolin-4(3H)-one 2. The reaction of intermediate 2 at its amino side arm with various benzaldehyde derivatives furnished the final products, in the form of substituted benzylidene-based quinazolin-4(3H)-one motifs 3a-l, and with thiophene-2-carbaldehyde to afford 3 m. The purified targeted products 3a-m were effectively characterized for structural authentication using physicochemical parameters, microanalytical data, and spectroscopic methods, including IR, UV, and 1H- and 13C-NMR, as well as mass spectral data. The substituted arylidene-based quinazolin-4(3H)-one motifs 3a-m were screened for both in silico and in vitro antimicrobial properties against selected bacteria and fungi. The in silico studies carried out consisted of predicted ADMET screening, molecular docking, and molecular dynamics (MD) simulation studies. Furthermore, in vitro experimental validation was performed using the agar diffusion method, and the standard antibacterial and antifungal drugs used were gentamicin and ketoconazole, respectively. Results and discussion: Most of the compounds possessed good binding affinities according to the molecular docking studies, while MD simulation revealed their levels of structural stability in the protein-ligand complexes. 2-methyl-3-((thiophen-2-ylmethylene)amino) quinazolin-4(3H)-one 3 m emerged as both the most active antibacterial agent (with an minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) value of 1.95 μg/mL) against Staphylococcus aureus and the most active antifungal agent (with an MIC value of 3.90 μg/mL) against Candida albicans, Aspergillus niger, and Rhizopus nigricans.

In vitro and Quantitative and Structure Activity Relationship (QSAR) evaluation of the antifungal activity of terpenoid constituents of essential oils against Alternaria alternata and Fusarium oxysporum

INTRODUCTION

Fungal genera Alternaria and Fusarium include human and plant pathogenic species. Several antifungals have been used for their control, but excessive use has contributed to resistance development in pathogens. An alternative to searching for and developing new antifungal agents is using essential oils and their main components, which have biological activities of interest in medicine and food production.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate in vitro and in silico the antifungal activities of terpenoids against Alternaria alternata and Fusarium oxysporum.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The minimum inhibitory concentration and minimum fungicidal concentration values of 27 constituents of essential oils used against Alternaria alternata and Fusarium oxysporum were evaluated in vitro. In addition, using genetic algorithms, quantitative models of the structure-activity relationship were used to identify the structural and physicochemical properties related to antifungal activity.

RESULTS

The evaluated compounds proved to be effective antifungals. Thymol was the most active with a minimum inhibitory concentration of 91.6 ± 28.8 μg/ml for A. alternata and F. oxysporum. Quantitative structure-activity relationship models revealed the octanolwater cleavage ratio as the molecular property, and the phenols as the main functional group contributing to antifungal activity.

CONCLUSION

Terpenoids exhibit relevant antifungal activities that should be incorporated into the study of medicinal chemistry. Inclusion of in silico assays in the in vitro evaluation is a valuable tool in the search for and rational design of terpene derivatives as new potential antifungal agents.

Monitoring of airborne fungi during the second wave of COVID-19 in selected wards of the referral university hospital in southeastern Iran

Microbiological monitoring of the air hospital is essential for prevention and control, due to the possible airborne route of infection transmission, especially in high-risk wards. This study aimed to monitor the airborne fungi during the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in selected wards of the biggest university educational hospital in Kerman, southeastern Iran. This study was conducted in 11 different wards, separated into the patient room and nursing station, of the Afzalipour hospital from May to August 2021. Fungal isolates were characterized to the species level by conventional and sequencing methods. Out of 93 obtained fungal colonies, 70 (75.3%) isolates were filamentous and 23 (24.7%) isolates were yeast. Aspergillus species were the predominant fungal isolates among the filamentous colonies (n=19; 27.1%), and Naganishia albida (formerly Cryptococcus albidus) was identified as the most common yeast isolate (n=13/23; 56.8%). The infectious ward was the most contaminated unit (n=19/93), while the least contaminated units were the neonatal intensive care unit (n=3/93), and oncology (n=3/93). The statistical findings displayed that the number of fungal isolates in patients' rooms is significantly higher than in nurses' stations (p-value=0.013). Our study demonstrated the presence of diverse fungal species in all wards of the hospital. Considering the presence of airborne fungi in hospitals and related public health problems is one of the critical issues for health systems management. In this regard, efficient monitoring of airborne fungi might play an influential role in hospital infection control and surveillance, particularly in high-risk hospitalization patients in critical wards.

Phenotypic Characterization of Oral Mucor Species from Eurasian Vultures: Pathogenic Potential and Antimicrobial Ability

Due to poisoning and decline in the food resources of Eurasian vultures, there has been a rise in the number of Griffon (Gyps fulvus) and Cinereous vultures (Aegypius monachus) needing veterinary care. In captivity, vultures often develop oral and other infectious diseases which can affect their survival and the probability of reintroduction in the wild. Therefore, it is important to characterize relevant microbial species present in the oral cavity of vultures, such as Mucor spp. In this work, seven Mucor spp. isolates previously obtained from Gyps fulvus and Aegypius monachus oral swabs collected at two rehabilitation centers in Portugal were characterized regarding their pathogenic enzymatic profile and antimicrobial activity. Isolates were identified by macro and microscopic observation, and PCR and ITS sequencing. Their antimicrobial activity was determined using a collection of pathogenic bacteria and two yeast species. Results showed that 86% of the isolates produced α-hemolysis, 71% expressed DNase, 57% produce lecithinase and lipase, 29% expressed gelatinase, and 29% were biofilm producers. Four isolates showed inhibitory activity against relevant human and veterinary clinical isolates, including Escherichia coli, Enterococcus faecium, Neisseria zoodegmatis, and Staphylococcus aureus. In conclusion, accurate management programs should consider the benefits and disadvantages of Mucor spp. presence in the oral mucosa.

New silicate-substituted hydroxyapatite materials doped with silver ions as potential antifungal agents

BACKGROUND

Hydroxyapatites (HAp) are widely used as medical preparations for e.g., bone replacement or teeth implants. Incorporation of various substrates into HAp structures could enhance its biological properties, like biocompatibility or antimicrobial effects. Silver ions possess high antibacterial and antifungal activity and its application as HAp dopant might increase its clinical value.

RESULTS

New silicate-substituted hydroxyapatites (HAp) doped with silver ions were synthesized via hydrothermal methods. The crystal structure of HAp was investigated by using the X-ray powder diffraction. Antifungal activity of silver ion-doped HAp (with 0.7 mol%, 1 mol% and 2 mol% of dopants) was tested against the yeast-like reference and clinical strains of Candida albicans, C. glabrata, C. tropicalis, Rhodotorula rubra, R. mucilaginosa, Cryptococcus neoformans and C. gattii. Spectrophotometric method was used to evaluate antifungal effect of HAp in SD medium. It was shown that already the lowest dopant (0.7 mol% of Ag⁺ ions) significantly reduced fungal growth at the concentration of 100 µg/mL. Increase in the dopant content and the concentration of HAp did not cause further growth inhibition. Moreover, there were some differences at the tolerance level to Ag⁺ ion-doped HAp among tested strains, suggesting strain-specific activity.

CONCLUSIONS

Preformed studies confirm antimicrobial potential of hydroxyapatite doped with silver. New Ag⁺ ion-HAp material could be, after further studies, considered as medical agent with antifungal properties which lower the risk of a surgical-related infections.

The Impact of Hypromellose on Pharmaceutical Properties of Alginate Microparticles as Novel Drug Carriers for Posaconazole

Fungal infections are a group of diseases which are challenging to treat because of drug-resistant fungi species, drug toxicity, and often severe patient conditions. Hence, research into new treatments, including new therapeutic substances and novel drug delivery systems, is being performed. Mucoadhesive dosage forms are beneficial to improving drug bioavailability by prolonging the residence time at the site of application. Sodium alginate is a natural polymer with favorable mucoadhesive and gelling properties, although its precipitation in acidic pH significantly disrupts the process of drug release in gastric conditions. Hypromellose is a hydrophilic, semi-synthetic cellulose derivative with mucoadhesive properties, which is widely used as a control release agent in pharmaceutical technology. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of hypromellose on alginate microparticles with posaconazole, designed to modify drug release and to improve their mucoadhesive properties for both oral or vaginal application.

Aggregation-induced emission biomaterials for anti-pathogen medical applications: detecting, imaging and killing

Microbial pathogens, including bacteria, fungi and viruses, greatly threaten the global public health. For pathogen infections, early diagnosis and precise treatment are essential to cut the mortality rate. The emergence of aggregation-induced emission (AIE) biomaterials provides an effective and promising tool for the theranostics of pathogen infections. In this review, the recent advances about AIE biomaterials for anti-pathogen theranostics are summarized. With the excellent sensitivity and photostability, AIE biomaterials have been widely applied for precise diagnosis of pathogens. Besides, different types of anti-pathogen methods based on AIE biomaterials will be presented in detail, including chemotherapy and phototherapy. Finally, the existing deficiencies and future development of AIE biomaterials for anti-pathogen applications will be discussed.

Antibodies to Combat Fungal Infections: Development Strategies and Progress

The finding that some mAbs are antifungal suggests that antibody immunity may play a key role in the defense of the host against mycotic infections. The discovery of antibodies that guard against fungi is a significant advancement because it gives rise to the possibility of developing vaccinations that trigger protective antibody immunity. These vaccines might work by inducing antibody opsonins that improve the function of non-specific (such as neutrophils, macrophages, and NK cells) and specific (such as lymphocyte) cell-mediated immunity and stop or aid in eradicating fungus infections. The ability of antibodies to defend against fungi has been demonstrated by using monoclonal antibody technology to reconsider the function of antibody immunity. The next step is to develop vaccines that induce protective antibody immunity and to comprehend the mechanisms through which antibodies mediate protective effects against fungus.

A Strategy of On-Demand Immune Activation for Antifungal Treatment Using Near-Infrared Responsive Conjugated Polymer Nanoparticles

Pathogenic fungal infection is a major clinical threat because pathogenic fungi have developed resistant mechanisms to evade the innate immune response, especially interactions with macrophages. Herein, a strategy to activate immune responses of macrophages to fungi based on near-infrared (NIR) responsive conjugated polymer nanoparticles (CPNs-M) is reported for antifungal immunotherapy. Under NIR light irradiation, CPNs-M exposes β-glucan on the surface of fungal conidia by photothermal damage and drug released from CPNs-M. The exposed β-glucan elicits macrophage recognition and subsequently activates calcium-calmodulin (Ca²⁺-CaM) signaling followed by the LC3-associated phagocytosis (LAP) pathway to kill fungal conidia. Consequently, a remarkable elimination of intracellular fugal conidia and successful treatment of fungal pneumonia are achieved. This remote regulation strategy to restore pathogen-immune cell interaction on demand provides a new insight into combatting intractable intracellular infections.

Epidemiology and Antifungal Susceptibility of Candida Species Isolated from 10 Tertiary Care Hospitals in Iran

In recent decades, the incidence of Candida infections has increased in immunocompromised patients. This multicenter study aimed to evaluate in vitro antifungal activities of 8 antifungal agents against the Candida species isolated from 10 university hospitals in Iran. During the period from Dec 2019 to Dec 2021, Candida species were collected from clinical samples of patients. The isolates were identified by PCR restriction fragment length polymorphism and sequencing methods. The antifungal susceptibility tests of each isolate to eight antifungal agents were performed according to the microdilution CLSI M27, M59, and M60 standard methods. A total of 598 Candida strains were isolated from clinical samples. The most commonly isolated Candida species was C. albicans, followed by C. glabrata, C. parapsilosis, Debaryomyces hansenii (Candida famata), C. tropicalis, Pichia kudriavzevii (Candida krusei), C. orthopsilosis, Meyerozyma guilliermondii (Candida guilliermondii), Kluyveromyces marxianus (Candida kefyr), and Clavispora lusitaniae (Candida lusitaniae). MIC₉₀ values in all Candida species were as follows: 0.25 μg/mL for caspofungin and voriconazole; 0.5 μg/mL for amphotericin B and isavuconazole; 2 μg/mL for itraconazole, luliconazole, and posaconazole; and 16 μg/mL for fluconazole. Although 30/285 C. albicans, 15/31 C. hansenii, 3/12 M. guilliermondii, 67/125 C. glabrata, 5/15 P. kudriavzevii, 6/60 C. parapsilosis, and 5/23 C. tropicalis isolates were multiazole resistant with resistance to 2 to 4 azoles, pan-azole resistance was not observed. According to our data, Candida albicans and C. glabrata were the most frequent species isolated from clinical samples in Iran. Caspofungin and voriconazole, with lower MIC₉₀ values, are the most effective than other antifungal agents for the treatment of Candida infections in this region. IMPORTANCE Candida species cause severe invasive infections of the heart, brain, eyes, bones, and other parts of the body. Knowledge of regional distributions of causative Candida agents and their antifungal susceptibility patterns can help to monitor resistance to antifungal agents of various species and support local and national surveillance programs. In the present study, C. albicans and C. glabrata were the most frequently isolated species from clinical samples in Iran. Increasing rates of non-albicans Candida isolates from the Iranian population should be looked at as alarming due to various levels of intrinsic MIC values or resistance to various antifungal drugs. Caspofungin and voriconazole are recommended over fluconazole for the treatment of Candida infections in the study region. However, amphotericin B and isavuconazole are also active against the most common Candida species isolated from patients. Pan azole-resistant Candida species were not observed in the present study.

Incorporating Microbial Species Interaction in Management of Freshwater Toxic Cyanobacteria: A Systems Science Challenge

Water resources are critically important, but also pose risks of exposure to toxic and pathogenic microbes. Increasingly, a concern is toxic cyanobacteria, which have been linked to the death and disease of humans, domesticated animals, and wildlife in freshwater systems worldwide. Management approaches successful at reducing cyanobacterial abundance and toxin production have tended to be short-term solutions applied on small scales (e.g., algaecide application) or solutions that entail difficult multifaceted investments (e.g., modification of landscape and land use to reduce nutrient inputs). However, implementation of these approaches can be undermined by microbial species interactions that (a) provide toxic cyanobacteria with protection against the method of control or (b) permit toxic cyanobacteria to be replaced by other significant microbial threats. Understanding these interactions is necessary to avoid such scenarios and can provide a framework for novel strategies to enhance freshwater resource management via systems science (e.g., pairing existing physical and chemical approaches against cyanobacteria with ecological strategies such as manipulation of natural enemies, targeting of facilitators, and reduction of benthic occupancy and recruitment). Here, we review pertinent examples of the interactions and highlight potential applications of what is known.

Essential Oil and Supercritical Carbon Dioxide Extract of Grapefruit Peels Formulated for Candida albicans Infections: Evaluation by an in Vitro Model to Study Fungal-Host Interactions

Resistance to currently available antifungal agents raises the need to develop alternative remedies. Candida albicans is the most common opportunistic pathogenic fungus of humans, colonizing in the genital and intestinal mucosa, skin, and oral-nasal cavity and reducing quality of life. Herein, essential oil from grapefruit (Citrus paradise) peels was obtained by hydrodistillation, and the remaining plant material was sequentially subjected to supercritical carbon dioxide (SC-CO₂) extraction to determine the conditions for maximizing phenolic compounds. A statistical design was used to evaluate the effect of temperature (30, 50, 70 °C), pressure (80, 150, 220 bar), and ethanol as a cosolvent (0%, 10%, and 20% v/v). Essential oil and SC-CO₂ extracts were mixed at various ratios to develop an effective antifungal formulation. Subsequently, fungal infection was modeled by coculturing C. albicans with human skin keratinocytes (HaCaT) to mimic dermal mycoses, endothelial cells (HUVEC) to evaluate vascular fate, and cervical adenocarcinoma (HeLa) cells to represent additional genital mycoses. Treatment with essential oil and extract (25:75%) formulation for 8 h exhibited slight cytotoxicity toward HeLa cells, no toxicity toward HaCaT and HUVECs, whereas inhibition of C. albicans. Considering the clinical significance, such in vitro models are essential to screen potential compounds for the treatment of opportunistic fungal infections.

Hydrothermal assisted biogenic synthesis of silver nanoparticles: A potential study on virulent candida isolates from COVID-19 patients

Till now the exact mechanism and effect of biogenic silver nanoparticles on fungus is an indefinable question. To focus on this issue, the first time we prepared hydrothermal assisted thyme coated silver nanoparticles (T/AgNPs) and their toxic effect on Candida isolates were determined. The role of thyme (Thymus Vulgaris) in the reduction of silver ions and stabilization of T/AgNPs was estimated by Fourier transforms infrared spectroscopy, structure and size of present silver nanoparticles were detected via atomic force microscopy as well as high-resolution transmission electron microscopy. The biological activity of T/AgNPs was observed against Candida isolates from COVID-19 Patients. Testing of virulence of Candida species using Multiplex PCR. T/AgNPs proved highly effective against Candida albicans, Candida kruzei, Candida glabrata and MIC values ranging from 156.25 to 1,250 μg/mL and MFC values ranging from 312.5 to 5,000 μg/mL. The structural and morphological modifications due to T/AgNPs on Candida albicans were detected by TEM. It was highly observed that when Candida albicans cells were subjected to 50 and 100 μg/mL T/AgNPs, a remarkable change in the cell wall and cell membrane was observed.

Prevalence and Antifungal Susceptibility of Clinically Relevant Candida Species, Identification of Candida auris and Kodamaea ohmeri in Bangladesh

Candida species are major fungal pathogens in humans. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of individual Candida species and their susceptibility to antifungal drugs among clinical isolates in a tertiary care hospital in Bangladesh. During a 10-month period in 2021, high vaginal swabs (HVSs), blood, and aural swabs were collected from 360 patients. From these specimens, Candida spp. was isolated from cultures on Sabouraud dextrose agar media, and phenotypic and genetic analyses were performed. A total of 109 isolates were recovered, and C. albicans accounted for 37%, being derived mostly from HVSs. Among non-albicans Candida (NAC), C. parapsilosis was the most frequent, followed by C. ciferrii, C. tropicalis, and C. glabrata. Three isolates from blood and two isolates from aural discharge were genetically identified as C. auris and Kodamaea ohmeri, respectively. NAC isolates were more resistant to fluconazole (overall rate, 29%) than C. albicans (10%). Candida isolates from blood showed 95% susceptibility to voriconazole and less susceptibility to fluconazole (67%). Two or three amino acid substitutions were detected in the ERG11 of two fluconazole-resistant C. albicans isolates. The present study is the first to reveal the prevalence of Candida species and their antifungal susceptibility in Bangladesh.

European Hedgehogs (Erinaceus europaeus L.) as a Reservoir of Dermatophytes in Poland

The European hedgehog (Erinaceus europaeus Linnaeus) frequently colonises areas located close to human life in cities, as these are more suitable nest sites offering an abundance of food and allowing avoidance of predators. However, urbanisation has a significant impact on the epidemiology of infectious diseases, including dermatophytoses, the primary source of which are wild animals. In this study, we determined the spectrum of dermatophytes isolated from the European hedgehog and assessed their susceptibility profile to antifungal drugs. Symptomatic and asymptomatic dermatophyte infections were observed in 7.7% and 8% of the 182 examined free-living hedgehogs, respectively. In the pool of the isolated dermatophyte strains, Trichophyton erinacei was dominant (29.9%), followed by Trichophyton mentagrophytes (17.9%), Trichophyton benhamiae (13.4%), Nannizzia gypsea (11.9%), Microsporum canis (10.4%), Nannizzia nana (7.5%), Paraphyton cookei (6.0%), and Nannizzia fulva (3.0%). Susceptibility tests revealed the highest activity of luliconazole and the lowest of activity fluconazole among the azole drugs applied. Although terbinafine generally exhibited high efficacy, two Trichophyton mentagrophytes isolates showed resistance to this drug (MIC = 2 µg/ml) resulting from missense mutations in the SQLE gene corresponding to the amino acid substitution Leu393Phe. Summarising, our study has also revealed that such wildlife animals as hedgehogs can be a reservoir of pathogenic human dermatophytes, including harmful strains resistant to commonly used antifungal drugs.

The γ-Core Motif Peptides of AMPs from Grasses Display Inhibitory Activity against Human and Plant Pathogens

Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) constitute an essential part of the plant immune system. They are regarded as alternatives to conventional antibiotics and pesticides. In this study, we have identified the γ-core motifs, which are associated with antimicrobial activity, in 18 AMPs from grasses and assayed their antimicrobial properties against nine pathogens, including yeasts affecting humans, as well as plant pathogenic bacteria and fungi. All the tested peptides displayed antimicrobial properties. We discovered a number of short AMP-derived peptides with high antimicrobial activity both against human and plant pathogens. For the first time, antimicrobial activity was revealed in the peptides designed from the 4-Cys-containing defensin-like peptides, whose role in plant immunity has remained unknown, as well as the knottin-like peptide and the C-terminal prodomain of the thionin, which points to the direct involvement of these peptides in defense mechanisms. Studies of the mode of action of the eight most active γ-core motif peptides on yeast cells using staining with propidium iodide showed that all of them induced membrane permeabilization leading to cell lysis. In addition to identification of the antimicrobial determinants in plant AMPs, this work provides short candidate peptide molecules for the development of novel drugs effective against opportunistic fungal infections and biopesticides to control plant pathogens.

Effective treatment of resistant opportunistic fungi associated with immuno-compromised individuals using silver biosynthesized nanoparticles

Drug resistance in filamentous fungus to antifungal medicines is a huge problem in biomedical applications; so, an effective strategy for treating opportunistic fungal infections is needed. Mentha piperita is a very fascinating plant to treat a variety of ailments as home remedies. Eighteen strains of Aspergillus species were used for this study which are having a unique antifungal resistance profile in presence of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). AgNPs were prepared, using an aqueous extract of M. Piperita and characterized it by various techniques. Structural properties of AgNPs were systematically studied using X-ray diffraction (XRD), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and Raman measurement, which emanate the single-phase fcc structure of silver nanoparticles. The spherical nature and elemental analysis of as-synthesized AgNPs were confirmed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectroscopy, respectively. The optical study has been analyzed using UV–Vis spectroscopy and band gap was calculated as 2.51 eV, using Tauc plot. To analyze and validate the good efficacy of the disc approach, antifungal activity of AgNPs nanoparticles in different concentrations against isolates was achieved in both disc and broth microdilution. The extracellular enzymatic activity of A. fumigatus was found to explore the precise impact of nanoparticles on fungal metabolism. The antifungal efficacy of AgNPs against all fungi was highly successful in disc method. The broth approach underlined the favorable results of the disc method. It provided more precise results in determining the minimum inhibition concentration (MIC), as well as the minimum effective concentration (MEC). A. fumigatus (AM6) enzymatic activity was boosted by AgNPs. Also, ß-galactosidase, ß-glucuronidase, and ß-glucosidase are necessary enzymes whose activity has been boosted. Consequently, M. piperita AgNPs can play a major and intriguing function against resistant Aspergillus species with a significant shift in the enzymatic activity profile of fungi due to this action.

Evaluation of Candidiasis in Upper-Aerodigestive Squamous Cell Carcinoma Patients—A Clinico-Mycological Aspect

Candida is a commensal yeast. It can be infective when the host’s defense mechanism is weakened, as in the case of squamous cell carcinoma patients. We aimed to evaluate the prevalence and clinical mycological manifestation of candidiasis in 150 cancer cases comprised of preoperative and post-operative (with or without radiotherapy) upper aerodigestive squamous cell carcinoma. A total of 150 patients suffering from squamous cell carcinoma of the Upper Aero-Digestive Tract (UADT) were divided into preoperative (n = 48), post-operative without radiotherapy (n = 29) and post-operative with radiotherapy (n = 73). Samples were collected using cotton swabs and cultured. Candida species were identified according to color pigmentation on Candida Differential Agar (CDA) plate. The clinico-mycological association of patients was evaluated by the chi-square test, and 98 out of 150 patients showed the presence of various Candida species. The major species isolated was Candida albicans (53%), followed by Candida tropicalis (16%). There was a significant statistical difference between patients who showed mycological associations and patients who did not have any such association (p = 0.0008). The prevalence of oral candidiasis was found to be 65.33% among total cases of upper aero-digestive squamous cell carcinoma. Chronic erythematous cases of candidiasis were mainly seen in preoperative squamous cell carcinoma cases, whereas the acute erythematous type of candidiasis was mainly seen in post-operative cases who received radiotherapy. The clinicomycological assessment can help to correlate the signs and symptoms with the presence of candidiasis in upper aerodigestive squamous cell carcinoma patients. Meticulous testing and examination can help in the early detection of candidiasis. Future studies are needed to develop advance scientific preventive strategies for high-risk cases.

Efficacy of Gold Nanoparticles against Drug-Resistant Nosocomial Fungal Pathogens and Their Extracellular Enzymes: Resistance Profiling towards Established Antifungal Agents

Drug resistance of filamentous fungi to the commonly used antifungal agents is a major concern in medicine. Therefore, an effective approach to treat several opportunistic fungal infections is the need of the hour. Mentha piperita is used in home remedies to treat different disorders. Isolates of fungi were taken from hospitals in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and identified using molecular tools. Amphotericin B, Voriconazole, and Micafungin were applied to screen the resistance of these isolates using both disc and broth microdilution techniques. An aqueous extract of Mentha piperita was utilized to synthesize AuNPs and the nanoparticles were characterized using UV-Vis, FTIR, TEM, EDAX, and XRD. The AuNPs were tested for antifungal activity against the nosocomial fungal pathogens and the activity of extracellular enzymes of such pathogens were analyzed after treatment with AuNPs. We conclude that AuNPs synthesized using Mentha piperita do not possess especially effective antifungal properties against multi-drug resistant Aspergillus species. Five out of eighteen isolates were inhibited by AuNPs. When inhibition was observed, significant alterations in the activity profile of extracellular enzymes of the nosocomial fungi were observed.

Detection and Molecular Identification of Eight Candida Species in Clinical Samples by Simplex PCR

Systemic candidiasis is a frequent opportunistic mycosis that can be life-threatening. Its main etiological agent is Candida albicans; however, the isolation of non-albicans Candida species has been increasing. Some of these species exhibit greater resistance to antifungals, so the rapid and specific identification of yeasts is crucial for a timely diagnosis and optimal treatment of patients. Multiple molecular assays have been developed, based mainly on polymerase chain reaction (PCR), showing high specificity and sensitivity to detect and identify Candida spp. Nevertheless, its application in diagnosis has been limited due to specialized infrastructure or methodological complexity. The objective of this study was to develop a PCR assay that detects and identifies some of the most common pathogenic Candida species and evaluate their diagnostic utility in blood samples and bronchial lavage. A pair of oligonucleotides was designed, CandF and CandR, based on sequence analysis of the 18S-ITS1-5.8S-ITS2-28S region of the rDNA of Candida spp., deposited in GenBank. The designed oligonucleotides identified C. albicans, C. glabrata, C. tropicalis, C. parapsilosis, C. krusei/Pichia kudriazevii, C. guilliermondii/Meyerozyma guilliermondii, C. lusitaniae/Clavispora lusitaniae, and C. dubliniensis using simplex PCR based on the amplicon size, showing a detection limit of 10 pg/μL of DNA or 10³ yeasts/mL. Based on cultures as the gold standard, it was determined that the sensitivity (73.9%), specificity (96.3%), and the positive (94.4%) and negative (81.2%) predictive values of the PCR assay with the designed oligonucleotides justify their reliable use in diagnosis.

Cyanobacteria: A Natural Source for Controlling Agricultural Plant Diseases Caused by Fungi and Oomycetes and Improving Plant Growth

Cyanobacteria, also called blue-green algae, are a group of prokaryotic microorganisms largely distributed in both terrestrial and aquatic environments. They produce a wide range of bioactive compounds that are mostly used in cosmetics, animal feed and human food, nutraceutical and pharmaceutical industries, and the production of biofuels. Nowadays, the research concerning the use of cyanobacteria in agriculture has pointed out their potential as biofertilizers and as a source of bioactive compounds, such as phycobiliproteins, for plant pathogen control and as inducers of plant systemic resistance. The use of alternative products in place of synthetic ones for plant disease control is also encouraged by European Directive 2009/128/EC. The present up-to-date review gives an overall view of the recent results on the use of cyanobacteria for both their bioprotective effect against fungal and oomycete phytopathogens and their plant biostimulant properties. We highlight the need for considering several factors for a proper and sustainable management of agricultural crops, ranging from the mechanisms by which cyanobacteria reduce plant diseases and modulate plant resistance to the enhancement of plant growth.

In vitro evaluation of photodynamic activity of methylene blue against Trichophyton verrucosum azole-susceptible and -resistant strains

The intense search for the "Holy Grail" of antifungal therapy can be observed today. The searches are not limited only to discovery of potential antifungal drugs, but also new therapeutic strategies involving the use of chemosensitizers to achieve synergistic effect or physicochemical factors inducing stress conditions in fungal cells. In this study was examined in vitro effectiveness of photodynamic antifungal strategy with methylene blue using a light beam with a wavelength equal to 635 nm toward the Trichophyton verrucosum susceptible and itraconazole- and/or fluconazole-resistant strains. Methylene blue used at concentration equal to 5 μg/mL and in the presence of 40 J/cm² of light energy showed fungicidal effect toward the susceptible strains. However, for azole-resistant isolates, only the energy dose equal to 60 J/cm² at 5 μg/mL of methylene blue allowed to kill the pathogen. This study confirms that methylene blue induced by red light has a definite inhibitory effect on zoophilic dermatophytes.

Cold atmospheric pressure plasma (CAPP) as a new alternative treatment method for onychomycosis caused by Trichophyton verrucosum: in vitro studies

PURPOSE

Anthropophilic dermatophytes as etiological factors of onychomycoses are more common than zoophilic fungi. In the case of the latter, reverse zoonoses are possible, which poses a threat to the persistence of dermatophytes in the environment. Nevertheless, without treatment, both types of tinea unguium may lead to complete nail plate destruction and secondary mixed infections with fungi and bacteria. One of the zoophilic dermatophytes that cause onychomycosis is Trichophyton verrucosum, whose prevalence has been increasing in recent years. Such infections are usually treated with allylamines and/or azoles, but such a conventional treatment of infections caused by T. verrucosum often fails or is discontinued by patients.

METHODS

Herein, we reveal the results of our in vitro studies related to direct application of cold atmospheric pressure plasma (CAPP) on Trichophyton verrucosum growth, germination and adherence to nail as a new alternative treatment method of such types of dermatomycoses.

RESULTS

Our in vitro studies showed that, while exposure to CAPP for 10 min delays germination of conidia and clearly impairs the fitness of the fungal structures, 15 min is enough to kill all fungal elements exposed to plasma. Moreover, the SEM images revealed that T. verrucosum cultures exposed to CAPP for 10 and 15 min were not able to invade the nail fragments.

CONCLUSION

The results revealed that single exposure to CAPP was able to inhibit T. verrucosum growth and infection capacity. Hence, cold atmospheric pressure plasma should be considered as a promising alternative treatment of onychomycoses.