1
|
Chen S, Luo Y, Wu H, Zhang J, Li W. Photodynamic therapy combined with voriconazole of extensive ulcer caused by Trichosporon asahii. Photodiagnosis Photodyn Ther 2024; 49:104313. [PMID: 39187226 DOI: 10.1016/j.pdpdt.2024.104313] [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: 05/29/2024] [Revised: 08/16/2024] [Accepted: 08/19/2024] [Indexed: 08/28/2024]
Abstract
Trichosporon species are part of the normal microbiota of humans which can cause both superficial and invasive infections, primarily affecting immunocompetent and immunocompromised hosts, respectively. Giant ulcer caused by Trichosporon asahii is relatively uncommon in immunocompetent hosts. Increased drug resistance and biofilm-associated virulence makes the treatment of infectious ulcers challenging. Herein, we present a case of a massive ulcer caused by T. asahii which resulted in completed healing when treated with photodynamic therapy (PDT) and voriconazole. It provided the feasibility for PDT combined with antifungal drugs to treat similar refractory cases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shuting Chen
- Institute of Dermatology, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510095, China; Department of Dermatology, Guangzhou Dermatology Hospital, Guangzhou 510095, China
| | - Yuwu Luo
- Institute of Dermatology, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510095, China; Department of Dermatology, Guangzhou Dermatology Hospital, Guangzhou 510095, China
| | - Hui Wu
- Institute of Dermatology, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510095, China; Department of Dermatology, Guangzhou Dermatology Hospital, Guangzhou 510095, China
| | - Jing Zhang
- Institute of Dermatology, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510095, China; Department of Dermatology, Guangzhou Dermatology Hospital, Guangzhou 510095, China
| | - Wei Li
- Institute of Dermatology, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510095, China; Department of Dermatology, Guangzhou Dermatology Hospital, Guangzhou 510095, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Corbu VM, Georgescu AM, Marinas IC, Pericleanu R, Mogos DV, Dumbravă AȘ, Marinescu L, Pecete I, Vassu-Dimov T, Czobor Barbu I, Csutak O, Ficai D, Gheorghe-Barbu I. Phenotypic and Genotypic Characterization of Resistance and Virulence Markers in Candida spp. Isolated from Community-Acquired Infections in Bucharest, and the Impact of AgNPs on the Highly Resistant Isolates. J Fungi (Basel) 2024; 10:563. [PMID: 39194889 DOI: 10.3390/jof10080563] [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: 07/15/2024] [Revised: 08/04/2024] [Accepted: 08/07/2024] [Indexed: 08/29/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study aimed to determine, at the phenotypic and molecular levels, resistance and virulence markers in Candida spp. isolated from community-acquired infections in Bucharest outpatients during 2021, and to demonstrate the efficiency of alternative solutions against them based on silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). METHODS A total of 62 Candida spp. strains were isolated from dermatomycoses and identified using chromogenic culture media and MALDI-TOF MS, and then investigated for their antimicrobial resistance and virulence markers (VMs), as well as for metabolic enzymes using enzymatic tests for the expression of soluble virulence factors, their biofilm formation and adherence capacity on HeLa cells, and PCR assays for the detection of virulence markers and the antimicrobial activity of alternative solutions based on AgNPs. RESULTS Of the total of 62 strains, 45.16% were Candida parapsilosis; 29.03% Candida albicans; 9.67% Candida guilliermondii; 3.22% Candida lusitaniae, Candia pararugosa, and Candida tropicalis; and 1.66% Candida kefyr, Candida famata, Candida haemulonii, and Candida metapsilosis. Aesculin hydrolysis, caseinase, and amylase production were detected in the analyzed strains. The strains exhibited different indices of adherence to HeLa cells and were positive in decreasing frequency order for the LIP1, HWP1, and ALS1,3 genes (C. tropicalis/C. albicans). An inhibitory effect on microbial growth, adherence capacity, and on the production of virulence factors was obtained using AgNPs. CONCLUSIONS The obtained results in C. albicans and Candida non-albicans circulating in Bucharest outpatients were characterized by moderate-to-high potential to produce VMs, necessitating epidemiological surveillance measures to minimize the chances of severe invasive infections.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Viorica Maria Corbu
- Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, Intrarea Portocalelor No. 1-3, 060101 Bucharest, Romania
- The Research Institute of the University of Bucharest (ICUB), 050095 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Ana-Maria Georgescu
- Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, Intrarea Portocalelor No. 1-3, 060101 Bucharest, Romania
| | | | - Radu Pericleanu
- Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, Intrarea Portocalelor No. 1-3, 060101 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Denisa Vasilica Mogos
- Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, Intrarea Portocalelor No. 1-3, 060101 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Andreea Ștefania Dumbravă
- Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, Intrarea Portocalelor No. 1-3, 060101 Bucharest, Romania
- The Research Institute of the University of Bucharest (ICUB), 050095 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Liliana Marinescu
- Faculty of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnologies, National University of Science and Technology Politechnica of Bucharest, 060042 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Ionut Pecete
- Central Reference Synevo-Medicover Laboratory, 021408 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Tatiana Vassu-Dimov
- Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, Intrarea Portocalelor No. 1-3, 060101 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Ilda Czobor Barbu
- Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, Intrarea Portocalelor No. 1-3, 060101 Bucharest, Romania
- The Research Institute of the University of Bucharest (ICUB), 050095 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Ortansa Csutak
- Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, Intrarea Portocalelor No. 1-3, 060101 Bucharest, Romania
- The Research Institute of the University of Bucharest (ICUB), 050095 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Denisa Ficai
- Faculty of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnologies, National University of Science and Technology Politechnica of Bucharest, 060042 Bucharest, Romania
- Academy of Romanian Scientists, 3 Ilfov Street, 050045 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Irina Gheorghe-Barbu
- Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, Intrarea Portocalelor No. 1-3, 060101 Bucharest, Romania
- The Research Institute of the University of Bucharest (ICUB), 050095 Bucharest, Romania
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Ruchti F, Zwicky P, Becher B, Dubrac S, LeibundGut-Landmann S. Epidermal barrier impairment predisposes for excessive growth of the allergy-associated yeast Malassezia on murine skin. Allergy 2024; 79:1531-1547. [PMID: 38385963 DOI: 10.1111/all.16062] [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: 10/26/2023] [Revised: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 01/20/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The skin barrier is vital for protection against environmental threats including insults caused by skin-resident microbes. Dysregulation of this barrier is a hallmark of atopic dermatitis (AD) and ichthyosis, with variable consequences for host immune control of colonizing commensals and opportunistic pathogens. While Malassezia is the most abundant commensal fungus of the skin, little is known about the host control of this fungus in inflammatory skin diseases. METHODS In this experimental study, MC903-treated mice were colonized with Malassezia spp. to assess the host-fungal interactions in atopic dermatitis. Additional murine models of AD and ichthyosis, including tape stripping, K5-Nrf2 overexpression and flaky tail mice, were employed to confirm and expand the findings. Skin fungal counts were enumerated. High parameter flow cytometry was used to characterize the antifungal response in the AD-like skin. Structural and functional alterations in the skin barrier were determined by histology and transcriptomics of bulk skin. Finally, differential expression of metabolic genes in Malassezia in atopic and control skin was quantified. RESULTS Malassezia grows excessively in AD-like skin. Fungal overgrowth could, however, not be explained by the altered immune status of the atopic skin. Instead, we found that by upregulating key metabolic genes in the altered cutaneous niche, Malassezia acquired enhanced fitness to efficiently colonise the impaired skin barrier. CONCLUSIONS This study provides evidence that structural and metabolic changes in the dysfunctional epidermal barrier environment provide increased accessibility and an altered lipid profile, to which the lipid-dependent yeast adapts for enhanced nutrient assimilation. Our findings reveal fundamental insights into the implication of the mycobiota in the pathogenesis of common skin barrier disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fiorella Ruchti
- Section of Immunology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
- Institute of Experimental Immunology, University of Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Pascale Zwicky
- Institute of Experimental Immunology, University of Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Burkhard Becher
- Institute of Experimental Immunology, University of Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Sandrine Dubrac
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Salomé LeibundGut-Landmann
- Section of Immunology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
- Institute of Experimental Immunology, University of Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Silva NBS, Menezes RP, Gonçalves DS, Santiago MB, Conejo NC, Souza SL, Santos ALO, da Silva RS, Ramos SB, Ferro EAV, Martins CHG. Exploring the antifungal, antibiofilm and antienzymatic potential of Rottlerin in an in vitro and in vivo approach. Sci Rep 2024; 14:11132. [PMID: 38750088 PMCID: PMC11096346 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-61179-z] [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: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Candida species have been responsible for a high number of invasive infections worldwide. In this sense, Rottlerin has demonstrated a wide range of pharmacological activities. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the antifungal, antibiofilm and antivirulence activity of Rottlerin in vitro against Candida spp. and its toxicity and antifungal activity in vivo. Rottlerin showed antifungal activity against all yeasts evaluated, presenting Minimum Inhibitory and Fungicidal Concentration (MIC and MFC) values of 7.81 to > 1000 µg/mL. Futhermore, it was able to significantly inhibit biofilm production, presenting Biofilm Inhibitory Concentration (MICB50) values that ranged from 15.62 to 250 µg/mL and inhibition of the cell viability of the biofilm by 50% (IC50) from 2.24 to 12.76 µg/mL. There was a considerable reduction in all hydrolytic enzymes evaluated, with emphasis on hemolysin where Rottlerin showed a reduction of up to 20%. In the scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis, Rottlerin was able to completely inhibit filamentation by C. albicans. Regarding in vivo tests, Rottlerin did not demonstrate toxicity at the therapeutic concentrations demonstrated here and was able to increase the survival of C. elegans larvae infected. The results herein presented are innovative and pioneering in terms of Rottlerin's multipotentiality against these fungal infections.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nagela Bernadelli Sousa Silva
- Laboratory of Antimicrobial Testing, Institute of Biomedical Sciences (ICBIM), Federal University of Uberlândia (UFU), Av. Pará, 1720 - Umuarama, Uberlândia, 38405-320, Brazil
| | - Ralciane Paula Menezes
- Technical School of Health (ESTES), Federal University of Uberlândia (UFU), Uberlândia, Brazil
| | - Daniela Silva Gonçalves
- Laboratory of Antimicrobial Testing, Institute of Biomedical Sciences (ICBIM), Federal University of Uberlândia (UFU), Av. Pará, 1720 - Umuarama, Uberlândia, 38405-320, Brazil
| | - Mariana Brentini Santiago
- Laboratory of Antimicrobial Testing, Institute of Biomedical Sciences (ICBIM), Federal University of Uberlândia (UFU), Av. Pará, 1720 - Umuarama, Uberlândia, 38405-320, Brazil
| | - Noemi Chagas Conejo
- Laboratory of Antimicrobial Testing, Institute of Biomedical Sciences (ICBIM), Federal University of Uberlândia (UFU), Av. Pará, 1720 - Umuarama, Uberlândia, 38405-320, Brazil
| | - Sara Lemes Souza
- Laboratory of Antimicrobial Testing, Institute of Biomedical Sciences (ICBIM), Federal University of Uberlândia (UFU), Av. Pará, 1720 - Umuarama, Uberlândia, 38405-320, Brazil
| | - Anna Lívia Oliveira Santos
- Laboratory of Antimicrobial Testing, Institute of Biomedical Sciences (ICBIM), Federal University of Uberlândia (UFU), Av. Pará, 1720 - Umuarama, Uberlândia, 38405-320, Brazil
| | - Robinson Sabino da Silva
- Innovation Center in Salivary Diagnostic and Nanotheranostics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences (ICBIM), Federal University of Uberlandia (UFU), Uberlândia, Brazil
| | - Salvador Boccaletti Ramos
- Department of Engineering and Exact Sciences, Faculty of Agricultural and Veterinary Sciences - Jaboticabal (FCAV), São Paulo State University (UNESP), Jaboticabal, Brazil
| | - Eloisa Amália Vieira Ferro
- Laboratory of Immunophysiology of Reproduction, Institute of Biomedical Sciences (ICBIM), Federal University of Uberlandia, Uberlândia, Brazil
| | - Carlos Henrique Gomes Martins
- Laboratory of Antimicrobial Testing, Institute of Biomedical Sciences (ICBIM), Federal University of Uberlândia (UFU), Av. Pará, 1720 - Umuarama, Uberlândia, 38405-320, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Lozano J, Cunha E, Almeida C, Nunes M, Dias R, Vicente E, Sebastião D, Henriques S, Madeira de Carvalho L, Paz-Silva A, Oliveira M. Analyzing the safety of the parasiticide fungus Mucor circinelloides: first insights on its virulence profile and interactions with the avian gut microbial community. Microbiol Spectr 2024; 12:e0407823. [PMID: 38534121 PMCID: PMC11064519 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.04078-23] [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: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Parasiticide fungi are considered an accurate, sustainable, and safe solution for the biocontrol of animal gastrointestinal (GI) parasites. This research provides an initial characterization of the virulence of the native parasiticide fungus Mucor circinelloides (FMV-FR1) and an assessment of its impact on birds' gut microbes. The genome of this fungus was sequenced to identify the genes coding for virulence factors. Also, this fungus was checked for the phenotypic expression of proteinase, lecithinase, DNase, gelatinase, hemolysin, and biofilm production. Finally, an in vivo trial was developed based on feeding M. circinelloides spores to laying hens and peacocks three times a week. Bird feces were collected for 3 months, with total genomic DNA being extracted and subjected to long-read 16S and 25S-28S sequencing. Genes coding for an iron permease (FTR1), iron receptors (FOB1 and FOB2), ADP-ribosylation factors (ARFs) (ARF2 and ARF6), and a GTPase (CDC42) were identified in this M. circinelloides genome. Also, this fungus was positive only for lecithinase activity. The field trial revealed a fecal microbiome dominated by Firmicutes and Proteobacteria in laying hens, and Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes in peacocks, whereas the fecal mycobiome of both bird species was mainly composed of Ascomycetes and Basidiomycetes fungi. Bacterial and fungal alpha-diversities did not differ between sampling time points after M. circinelloides administrations (P = 0.62 and P = 0.15, respectively). Although findings from this research suggest the lack of virulence of this M. circinelloides parasiticide isolate, more complementary in vitro and in vivo research is needed to conclude about the safety of its administration to birds, aiming at controlling their GI parasites.IMPORTANCEA previous study revealed that the native Mucor circinelloides isolate (FMV-FR1) can develop parasiticide activity toward coccidia oocysts, one of the most pathogenic GI parasites in birds. However, ensuring its safety for birds is of utmost importance, namely by studying its virulence profile and potential effect on commensal gut microbes. This initial study revealed that although this M. circinelloides isolate had genes coding for four types of virulence factors-iron permease, iron receptors, ADP-ribosylation factors, and GTPase-and only expressed phenotypically the enzyme lecithinase, the administration of its spores to laying hens and peacocks did not interfere with the abundances and diversities of their gut commensal bacteria and fungi. Although overall results suggest the lack of virulence of this M. circinelloides isolate, more complementary research is needed to conclude about the safety of its administration to birds in the scope of parasite biocontrol programs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- João Lozano
- CIISA – Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
- Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Sciences (AL4AnimalS), Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Eva Cunha
- CIISA – Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
- Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Sciences (AL4AnimalS), Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Cristina Almeida
- Exoclinic – Clínica Veterinária de Aves e Exóticos, Miraflores, Portugal
| | - Mónica Nunes
- Biosystems and Integrative Sciences Institute, Faculty of Sciences, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Ricardo Dias
- Biosystems and Integrative Sciences Institute, Faculty of Sciences, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Eduardo Vicente
- Castelo de São Jorge, EGEAC – Empresa de Gestão de Equipamentos e Animação Cultural, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Daniela Sebastião
- Castelo de São Jorge, EGEAC – Empresa de Gestão de Equipamentos e Animação Cultural, Lisbon, Portugal
| | | | - Luís Madeira de Carvalho
- CIISA – Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
- Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Sciences (AL4AnimalS), Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Adolfo Paz-Silva
- Control of Parasites Research Group (COPAR, GI-2120), Department of Animal Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary, University of Santiago de Compostela, Lugo, Spain
| | - Manuela Oliveira
- CIISA – Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
- Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Sciences (AL4AnimalS), Lisbon, Portugal
- cE3c – Centre for Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Changes, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- CHANGE – Global Change and Sustainability Institute, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Roberts K, Osme A, De Salvo C, Zoli E, Herrada J, McCormick TS, Ghannoum M, Cominelli F, Di Martino L. Candida tropicalis Affects Candida albicans Virulence by Limiting Its Capacity to Adhere to the Host Intestinal Surface, Leading to Decreased Susceptibility to Colitis in Mice. J Fungi (Basel) 2024; 10:245. [PMID: 38667916 PMCID: PMC11051055 DOI: 10.3390/jof10040245] [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: 02/13/2024] [Revised: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Candida (C.) infections represent a serious health risk for people affected by inflammatory bowel disease. An important fungal virulence factor is the capacity of the fungus to form biofilms on the colonized surface of the host. This research study aimed to determine the effect of a C. tropicalis and C. albicans co-infection on dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-induced colitis in mice. The colitis severity was evaluated using histology and a colonoscopy. The mice were mono-inoculated with C. albicans or C. tropicalis or co-challenged with both species. The mice were administered 3% DSS to induce acute colitis. The biofilm activity was assessed using (2-methoxy-4-nitro-5-sulfophenyl)-5-[(phenylamino)carbonyl] 2H-tetrazoliumhydroxide (XTT) and dry-weight assays. The abundance of C. albicans in the colon tissues was assessed by immunohistochemistry. The co-challenged mice showed a decreased colitis severity compared to the mono-inoculated mice. The dry-weight assay demonstrated a marked decrease in C. albicans biofilm production in a C. albicans culture incubated with C. tropicalis supernatant. Immunohistochemical staining showed that C. albicans was more abundant in the mucosa of C. albicans mono-inoculated mice compared to the co-inoculated group. These data indicate an antagonistic microbial interaction between the two Candida species, where C. tropicalis may produce molecules capable of limiting the ability of C. albicans to adhere to the host intestinal surface, leading to a reduction in biofilm formation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kyle Roberts
- Center for Medical Mycology and Integrated Microbiome Core, Department of Dermatology, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA; (K.R.); (J.H.); (T.S.M.); (M.G.)
| | - Abdullah Osme
- Department of Anatomic Pathology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA;
| | - Carlo De Salvo
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA; (C.D.S.); (F.C.)
| | - Eleonora Zoli
- Case Digestive Health Research Institute, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA;
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Janet Herrada
- Center for Medical Mycology and Integrated Microbiome Core, Department of Dermatology, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA; (K.R.); (J.H.); (T.S.M.); (M.G.)
| | - Thomas S. McCormick
- Center for Medical Mycology and Integrated Microbiome Core, Department of Dermatology, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA; (K.R.); (J.H.); (T.S.M.); (M.G.)
| | - Mahmoud Ghannoum
- Center for Medical Mycology and Integrated Microbiome Core, Department of Dermatology, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA; (K.R.); (J.H.); (T.S.M.); (M.G.)
| | - Fabio Cominelli
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA; (C.D.S.); (F.C.)
- Case Digestive Health Research Institute, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA;
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Luca Di Martino
- Case Digestive Health Research Institute, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA;
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Chen Y, Gao Y, Li Y, Yin J. Anti-Biofilm Activity of Assamsaponin A, Theasaponin E1, and Theasaponin E2 against Candida albicans. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:3599. [PMID: 38612411 PMCID: PMC11011434 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25073599] [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: 01/31/2024] [Revised: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Biofilm formation plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of Candida albicans and is significantly associated with resistance to antifungal agents. Tea seed saponins, a class of non-ionic triterpenes, have been proven to have fungicidal effects on planktonic C. albicans. However, their anti-biofilm activity and mechanism of action against C. albicans remain unclear. In this study, the effects of three Camellia sinensis seed saponin monomers, namely, theasaponin E1 (TE1), theasaponin E2 (TE2), and assamsaponin A (ASA), on the metabolism, biofilm development, and expression of the virulence genes of C. albicans were evaluated. The results of the XTT reduction assay and crystal violet (CV) staining assay demonstrated that tea seed saponin monomers concentration-dependently suppressed the adhesion and biofilm formation of C. albicans and were able to eradicate mature biofilms. The compounds were in the following order in terms of their inhibitory effects: ASA > TE1 > TE2. The mechanisms were associated with reductions in multiple crucial virulence factors, including cell surface hydrophobicity (CSH), adhesion ability, hyphal morphology conversion, and phospholipase activity. It was further demonstrated through qRT-PCR analysis that the anti-biofilm activity of ASA and TE1 against C. albicans was attributed to the inhibition of RAS1 activation, which consequently suppressed the cAMP-PKA and MAPK signaling pathways. Conversely, TE2 appeared to regulate the morphological turnover and hyphal growth of C. albicans via a pathway that was independent of RAS1. These findings suggest that tea seed saponin monomers are promising innovative agents against C. albicans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuhong Chen
- Key Laboratory of Tea Biology and Resources Utilization, Tea Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Ministry of Agriculture, 9 South Meiling Road, Hangzhou 310008, China; (Y.C.); (Y.L.)
- Tea Research Institute, Hunan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changsha 410125, China
| | - Ying Gao
- Key Laboratory of Tea Biology and Resources Utilization, Tea Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Ministry of Agriculture, 9 South Meiling Road, Hangzhou 310008, China; (Y.C.); (Y.L.)
| | - Yifan Li
- Key Laboratory of Tea Biology and Resources Utilization, Tea Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Ministry of Agriculture, 9 South Meiling Road, Hangzhou 310008, China; (Y.C.); (Y.L.)
| | - Junfeng Yin
- Key Laboratory of Tea Biology and Resources Utilization, Tea Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Ministry of Agriculture, 9 South Meiling Road, Hangzhou 310008, China; (Y.C.); (Y.L.)
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Darmani H, Al-Saleh DRH. Oral Rinses: Some Kill and Some Cripple Candida albicans. Med Princ Pract 2024; 33:000538368. [PMID: 38498997 PMCID: PMC11324223 DOI: 10.1159/000538368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Oral healthcare professionals play a crucial role in guiding patients toward evidence-based choices among the many available oral rinses. In this study, we explored how specific oral rinse formulations affect the viability and modulate critical virulence traits of the opportunistic fungal pathogen Candida albicans. MATERIALS AND METHODS We assessed the effects of these oral rinses on the production of germ tube, production of phospholipase and hemolysin, as well as biofilm formation. RESULTS We found that oral rinses containing cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC) and chlorhexidine (CHX) showed the greatest fungicidal activity with the lowest MFCs (0.38% and 0.78%, respectively). Oral rinses based on zinc chloride and sodium fluoride with Miswak bark extract (MIS) or essential oils (EO) had much lower fungicidal activity (8-16 times lower) compared to CHX and CPC. However, they had a significantly greater impact on the virulence traits of C. albicans. They reduced germ tube production by 86% - 89% (versus 42% for CHX and 29% for CPC), completely inhibited phospholipase and hemolysin production, and together with the CPC-based oral rinse, exerted the greatest reductions in biofilm formation across all tested concentrations. This was in contrast to both the controls and CHX, which had a minimal effect on biofilm formation. CONCLUSION By inhibiting the virulence factors the oral rinse can have a crippling effect on C. albicans, weakening this opportunistic pathogen and hindering its potential to cause infection.
Collapse
|
9
|
Lima YP, Dias VC. Trichosporon spp.: what's new? Future Microbiol 2024; 19:373-375. [PMID: 38497913 DOI: 10.2217/fmb-2023-0281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Yasmim Passos Lima
- Federal University of Juiz de Fora - UFJF Rua José Lourenço Kelmer, s/n, São Pedro, Juiz de Fora, MG 36036 900, Brazil
| | - Vanessa Cordeiro Dias
- Department of Parasitology, Microbiology & Immunology, Federal University of Juiz de Fora - UFJF Rua José Lourenço Kelmer, s/n, São Pedro, Juiz de Fora, MG 36036 900, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Feng Z, Lu H, Jiang Y. Promising immunotherapeutic targets for treating candidiasis. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2024; 14:1339501. [PMID: 38404288 PMCID: PMC10884116 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2024.1339501] [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: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024] Open
Abstract
In the last twenty years, there has been a significant increase in invasive fungal infections, which has corresponded with the expanding population of individuals with compromised immune systems. As a result, the mortality rate linked to these infections remains unacceptably high. The currently available antifungal drugs, such as azoles, polyenes, and echinocandins, face limitations in terms of their diversity, the escalating resistance of fungi and the occurrence of significant adverse effects. Consequently, there is an urgent need to develop new antifungal medications. Vaccines and antibodies present a promising avenue for addressing fungal infections due to their targeted antifungal properties and ability to modulate the immune response. This review investigates the structure and function of cell wall proteins, secreted proteins, and functional proteins within C. albicans. Furthermore, it seeks to analyze the current advancements and challenges in macromolecular drugs to identify new targets for the effective management of candidiasis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Hui Lu
- Department of Pharmacy, Shanghai Tenth People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuanying Jiang
- Department of Pharmacy, Shanghai Tenth People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Wang Y, Wakelam MJO, Bankaitis VA, McDermott MI. The wide world of non-mammalian phospholipase D enzymes. Adv Biol Regul 2024; 91:101000. [PMID: 38081756 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbior.2023.101000] [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: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
Phospholipase D (PLD) hydrolyses phosphatidylcholine (PtdCho) to produce free choline and the critically important lipid signaling molecule phosphatidic acid (PtdOH). Since the initial discovery of PLD activities in plants and bacteria, PLDs have been identified in a diverse range of organisms spanning the taxa. While widespread interest in these proteins grew following the discovery of mammalian isoforms, research into the PLDs of non-mammalian organisms has revealed a fascinating array of functions ranging from roles in microbial pathogenesis, to the stress responses of plants and the developmental patterning of flies. Furthermore, studies in non-mammalian model systems have aided our understanding of the entire PLD superfamily, with translational relevance to human biology and health. Increasingly, the promise for utilization of non-mammalian PLDs in biotechnology is also being recognized, with widespread potential applications ranging from roles in lipid synthesis, to their exploitation for agricultural and pharmaceutical applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Y Wang
- Department of Cell Biology & Genetics, Texas A&M Health Science Center, College Station, TX, 77843, USA; Department of Microbiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA98109, USA
| | - M J O Wakelam
- Babraham Institute, Babraham Research Campus, Cambridge, CB22 3AT, United Kingdom
| | - V A Bankaitis
- Department of Cell Biology & Genetics, Texas A&M Health Science Center, College Station, TX, 77843, USA; Department of Biochemistry & Biophysics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA; Department of Chemistry, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - M I McDermott
- Department of Cell Biology & Genetics, Texas A&M Health Science Center, College Station, TX, 77843, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
King WR, Singer J, Warman M, Wilson D, Hube B, Lager I, Patton-Vogt J. The glycerophosphocholine acyltransferase Gpc1 contributes to phosphatidylcholine biosynthesis, long-term viability, and embedded hyphal growth in Candida albicans. J Biol Chem 2024; 300:105543. [PMID: 38072057 PMCID: PMC10790099 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2023.105543] [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: 05/21/2023] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Candida albicans is a commensal fungus, opportunistic pathogen, and the most common cause of fungal infection in humans. The biosynthesis of phosphatidylcholine (PC), a major eukaryotic glycerophospholipid, occurs through two primary pathways. In Saccharomyces cerevisiae and some plants, a third PC synthesis pathway, the PC deacylation/reacylation pathway (PC-DRP), has been characterized. PC-DRP begins with the acylation of the lipid turnover product, glycerophosphocholine (GPC), by the GPC acyltransferase, Gpc1, to form Lyso-PC. Lyso-PC is then acylated by lysolipid acyltransferase, Lpt1, to produce PC. Importantly, GPC, the substrate for Gpc1, is a ubiquitous metabolite available within the host. GPC is imported by C. albicans, and deletion of the major GPC transporter, Git3, leads to decreased virulence in a murine model. Here we report that GPC can be directly acylated in C. albicans by the protein product of orf19.988, a homolog of ScGpc1. Through lipidomic studies, we show loss of Gpc1 leads to a decrease in PC levels. This decrease occurs in the absence of exogenous GPC, indicating that the impact on PC levels may be greater in the human host where GPC is available. A gpc1Δ/Δ strain exhibits several sensitivities to antifungals that target lipid metabolism. Furthermore, loss of Gpc1 results in both a hyphal growth defect in embedded conditions and a decrease in long-term cell viability. These results demonstrate for the first time the importance of Gpc1 and this alternative PC biosynthesis route (PC-DRP) to the physiology of a pathogenic fungus.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- William R King
- Department of Biological Sciences, Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Justin Singer
- Department of Biological Sciences, Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Mitchell Warman
- Department of Biological Sciences, Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Duncan Wilson
- Department of Biosciences, University of Exeter, Exeter, England
| | - Bernard Hube
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Leibniz Institute for Natural Products and Infection Biology Hans Knöll Institute, Jena, Germany
| | - Ida Lager
- Department of Plant Breeding, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Alnarp, Sweden
| | - Jana Patton-Vogt
- Department of Biological Sciences, Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Hoffman HJ, McClelland EE. Measuring Urease and Phospholipase Secretion in Cryptococcus neoformans. Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2775:269-275. [PMID: 38758324 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3722-7_18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
Urease and phospholipase are enzymes that are important virulence factors for Cryptococcus neoformans. These are two of the most studied enzymes involved in how C. neoformans breaches the blood-brain barrier. Additionally, phospholipase secretion also supports dissemination from the lungs. This chapter describes the methods used to measure the secretion of these enzymes, which may be used to characterize strain invasiveness and virulence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hunter J Hoffman
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Marian University College of Osteopathic Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Erin E McClelland
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Marian University College of Osteopathic Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
King WR, Acosta-Zaldívar M, Qi W, Cherico N, Cooke L, Köhler JR, Patton-Vogt J. Glycerophosphocholine provision rescues Candida albicans growth and signaling phenotypes associated with phosphate limitation. mSphere 2023; 8:e0023123. [PMID: 37843297 PMCID: PMC10732039 DOI: 10.1128/msphere.00231-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Candida albicans is the most commonly isolated species from patients suffering from invasive fungal disease. C. albicans is most commonly a commensal organism colonizing a variety of niches in the human host. The fungus must compete for resources with the host flora to acquire essential nutrients such as phosphate. Phosphate acquisition and homeostasis have been shown to play a key role in C. albicans virulence, with several genes involved in these processes being required for normal virulence and several being upregulated during infection. In addition to inorganic phosphate (Pi), C. albicans can utilize the lipid-derived metabolite glycerophosphocholine (GPC) as a phosphate source. As GPC is available within the human host, we examined the role of GPC in phosphate homeostasis in C. albicans. We find that GPC can substitute for Pi by many though not all criteria and is likely a relevant physiological phosphate source for C. albicans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- William R. King
- Department of Biological Sciences, Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Maikel Acosta-Zaldívar
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Boston Children’s Hospital/Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Wanjun Qi
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Boston Children’s Hospital/Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Nicholas Cherico
- Department of Biological Sciences, Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Lauren Cooke
- Department of Biological Sciences, Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Julia R. Köhler
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Boston Children’s Hospital/Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jana Patton-Vogt
- Department of Biological Sciences, Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Jin P, Kong Y, Zhang Z, Zhang H, Dong Y, Lamour K, Yang Z, Zhou Y, Hu J. Comparative genomics and transcriptome analysis reveals potential pathogenic mechanisms of Microdochium paspali on seashore paspalum. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1259241. [PMID: 37795300 PMCID: PMC10546424 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1259241] [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: 07/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The sparse leaf patch of seashore paspalum (Paspalum vaginatum Sw.) caused by Microdochium paspali seriously impacts the landscape value of turf and poses a challenge to the maintenance and management of golf courses. Little is known about the genome of M. paspali or the potential genes underlying pathogenicity. In this study, we present a high-quality genome assembly of M. paspali with 14 contigs using the Nanopore and Illumina platform. The M. paspali genome is roughly 37.32 Mb in size and contains 10,365 putative protein-coding genes. These encompass a total of 3,830 pathogen-host interactions (PHI) genes, 481 carbohydrate-active enzymes (CAZymes) coding genes, 105 effectors, and 50 secondary metabolite biosynthetic gene clusters (SMGCs) predicted to be associated with pathogenicity. Comparative genomic analysis suggests M. paspali has 672 species-specific genes (SSGs) compared to two previously sequenced non-pathogenic Microdochium species, including 24 species-specific gene clusters (SSGCs). Comparative transcriptomic analyses reveal that 739 PHIs, 198 CAZymes, 40 effectors, 21 SMGCs, 213 SSGs, and 4 SSGCs were significantly up-regulated during the process of infection. In conclusion, the study enriches the genomic resources of Microdochium species and provides a valuable resource to characterize the pathogenic mechanisms of M. paspali.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Peiyuan Jin
- College of Agro-grassland Science, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yixuan Kong
- College of Agro-grassland Science, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ze Zhang
- College of Agro-grassland Science, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Huangwei Zhang
- College of Agro-grassland Science, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yinglu Dong
- College of Agro-grassland Science, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Kurt Lamour
- Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture, Knoxville, TN, United States
| | - Zhimin Yang
- College of Agro-grassland Science, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yuxin Zhou
- Institute of Botany, Jiangsu Province and Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing, China
| | - Jian Hu
- College of Agro-grassland Science, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Stuckey PV, Santiago-Tirado FH. Fungal mechanisms of intracellular survival: what can we learn from bacterial pathogens? Infect Immun 2023; 91:e0043422. [PMID: 37506189 PMCID: PMC10501222 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00434-22] [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: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Fungal infections represent a major, albeit neglected, public health threat with serious medical and economic burdens globally. With unacceptably high mortality rates, invasive fungal pathogens are responsible for millions of deaths each year, with a steadily increasing incidence primarily in immunocompromised individuals. The poor therapeutic options and rise of antifungal drug resistance pose further challenges in controlling these infections. These fungal pathogens have adapted to survive within mammalian hosts and can establish intracellular niches to promote survival within host immune cells. To do that, they have developed diverse methods to circumvent the innate immune system attack. This includes strategies such as altering their morphology, counteracting macrophage antimicrobial action, and metabolic adaptation. This is reminiscent of how bacterial pathogens have adapted to survive within host cells and cause disease. However, relative to the great deal of information available concerning intracellular bacterial pathogenesis, less is known about the mechanisms fungal pathogens employ. Therefore, here we review our current knowledge and recent advances in our understanding of how fungi can evade and persist within host immune cells. This review will focus on the major fungal pathogens, including Cryptococcus neoformans, Candida albicans, and Aspergillus fumigatus, among others. As we discover and understand the strategies used by these fungi, similarities with their bacterial counterparts are becoming apparent, hence we can use the abundant information from bacteria to guide our studies in fungi. By understanding these strategies, new lines of research will open that can improve the treatments of these devastating fungal diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Peter V. Stuckey
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana, USA
| | - Felipe H. Santiago-Tirado
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana, USA
- Eck Institute for Global Health, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana, USA
- Warren Center for Drug Discovery, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana, USA
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Rafiei V, Vélëz H, Piombo E, Dubey M, Tzelepis G. Verticillium longisporum phospholipase VlsPLA 2 is a virulence factor that targets host nuclei and modulates plant immunity. MOLECULAR PLANT PATHOLOGY 2023; 24:1078-1092. [PMID: 37171182 PMCID: PMC10423322 DOI: 10.1111/mpp.13352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Phospholipase A2 (PLA2 ) is a lipolytic enzyme that hydrolyses phospholipids in the cell membrane. In the present study, we investigated the role of secreted PLA2 (VlsPLA2 ) in Verticillium longisporum, a fungal phytopathogen that mostly infects plants belonging to the Brassicaceae family, causing severe annual yield loss worldwide. Expression of the VlsPLA2 gene, which encodes active PLA2 , is highly induced during the interaction of the fungus with the host plant Brassica napus. Heterologous expression of VlsPLA2 in Nicotiana benthamiana resulted in increased synthesis of certain phospholipids compared to plants in which enzymatically inactive PLA2 was expressed (VlsPLA2 ΔCD ). Moreover, VlsPLA2 suppresses the hypersensitive response triggered by the Cf4/Avr4 complex, thereby suppressing the chitin-induced reactive oxygen species burst. VlsPLA2 -overexpressing V. longisporum strains showed increased virulence in Arabidopsis plants, and transcriptomic analysis of this fungal strain revealed that the induction of the gene contributed to increased virulence. VlsPLA2 was initially localized to the host nucleus and then translocated to the chloroplasts at later time points. In addition, VlsPLA2 bound to the vesicle-associated membrane protein A (VAMPA) and was transported to the nuclear membrane. In the nucleus, VlsPLA2 caused major alterations in the expression levels of genes encoding transcription factors and subtilisin-like proteases, which play a role in plant immunity. In conclusion, our study showed that VlsPLA2 acts as a virulence factor, possibly by hydrolysing host nuclear envelope phospholipids, which, through a signal transduction cascade, may suppress basal plant immune responses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vahideh Rafiei
- Department of Forest Mycology and Plant PathologySwedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala BiocenterUppsalaSweden
| | - Heriberto Vélëz
- Department of Forest Mycology and Plant PathologySwedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala BiocenterUppsalaSweden
| | - Edoardo Piombo
- Department of Forest Mycology and Plant PathologySwedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala BiocenterUppsalaSweden
| | - Mukesh Dubey
- Department of Forest Mycology and Plant PathologySwedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala BiocenterUppsalaSweden
| | - Georgios Tzelepis
- Department of Forest Mycology and Plant PathologySwedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala BiocenterUppsalaSweden
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Kietrungruang K, Sookkree S, Sangboonruang S, Semakul N, Poomanee W, Kitidee K, Tragoolpua Y, Tragoolpua K. Ethanolic Extract Propolis-Loaded Niosomes Diminish Phospholipase B1, Biofilm Formation, and Intracellular Replication of Cryptococcus neoformans in Macrophages. Molecules 2023; 28:6224. [PMID: 37687052 PMCID: PMC10488685 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28176224] [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: 07/24/2023] [Revised: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Secretory phospholipase B1 (PLB1) and biofilms act as microbial virulence factors and play an important role in pulmonary cryptococcosis. This study aims to formulate the ethanolic extract of propolis-loaded niosomes (Nio-EEP) and evaluate the biological activities occurring during PLB1 production and biofilm formation of Cryptococcus neoformans. Some physicochemical characterizations of niosomes include a mean diameter of 270 nm in a spherical shape, a zeta-potential of -10.54 ± 1.37 mV, and 88.13 ± 0.01% entrapment efficiency. Nio-EEP can release EEP in a sustained manner and retains consistent physicochemical properties for a month. Nio-EEP has the capability to permeate the cellular membranes of C. neoformans, causing a significant decrease in the mRNA expression level of PLB1. Interestingly, biofilm formation, biofilm thickness, and the expression level of biofilm-related genes (UGD1 and UXS1) were also significantly reduced. Pre-treating with Nio-EEP prior to yeast infection reduced the intracellular replication of C. neoformans in alveolar macrophages by 47%. In conclusion, Nio-EEP mediates as an anti-virulence agent to inhibit PLB1 and biofilm production for preventing fungal colonization on lung epithelial cells and also decreases the intracellular replication of phagocytosed cryptococci. This nano-based EEP delivery might be a potential therapeutic strategy in the prophylaxis and treatment of pulmonary cryptococcosis in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kritapat Kietrungruang
- Division of Clinical Microbiology, Department of Medical Technology, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand; (K.K.); (S.S.); (S.S.)
| | - Sanonthinee Sookkree
- Division of Clinical Microbiology, Department of Medical Technology, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand; (K.K.); (S.S.); (S.S.)
| | - Sirikwan Sangboonruang
- Division of Clinical Microbiology, Department of Medical Technology, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand; (K.K.); (S.S.); (S.S.)
| | - Natthawat Semakul
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand;
| | - Worrapan Poomanee
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand;
| | - Kuntida Kitidee
- Center for Research Innovation and Biomedical Informatics, Faculty of Medical Technology, Mahidol University, Salaya, Nakhon Pathom 73170, Thailand;
| | - Yingmanee Tragoolpua
- Natural Extracts and Innovative Products for Alternative Healthcare Research Group, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand;
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | - Khajornsak Tragoolpua
- Division of Clinical Microbiology, Department of Medical Technology, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand; (K.K.); (S.S.); (S.S.)
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand;
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Raposo C, Serrano I, Cunha E, Couto MP, Lopes F, Casero M, Tavares L, Oliveira M. Phenotypic Characterization of Oral Mucor Species from Eurasian Vultures: Pathogenic Potential and Antimicrobial Ability. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:1638. [PMID: 37629495 PMCID: PMC10455617 DOI: 10.3390/life13081638] [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: 07/11/2023] [Revised: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
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.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Catarina Raposo
- CIISA—Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisbon, Avenida da Universidade Técnica, 1300-477 Lisboa, Portugal; (C.R.); (E.C.); (M.P.C.); (L.T.); (M.O.)
- Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Sciences (AL4AnimalS), 1300-477 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Isa Serrano
- CIISA—Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisbon, Avenida da Universidade Técnica, 1300-477 Lisboa, Portugal; (C.R.); (E.C.); (M.P.C.); (L.T.); (M.O.)
- Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Sciences (AL4AnimalS), 1300-477 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Eva Cunha
- CIISA—Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisbon, Avenida da Universidade Técnica, 1300-477 Lisboa, Portugal; (C.R.); (E.C.); (M.P.C.); (L.T.); (M.O.)
- Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Sciences (AL4AnimalS), 1300-477 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Maria Patrícia Couto
- CIISA—Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisbon, Avenida da Universidade Técnica, 1300-477 Lisboa, Portugal; (C.R.); (E.C.); (M.P.C.); (L.T.); (M.O.)
- Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Sciences (AL4AnimalS), 1300-477 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Filipa Lopes
- CERAS—Centro de Estudos e Recuperação de Animais Selvagens, Quinta da Senhora de Mércules, 6000-909 Castelo Branco, Portugal;
| | - María Casero
- RIAS Centro de Recuperação e Investigação de Animais Selvagens, Rua do Parque Natural da Ria Formosa, Quelfes, 8700-194 Olhão, Portugal;
| | - Luís Tavares
- CIISA—Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisbon, Avenida da Universidade Técnica, 1300-477 Lisboa, Portugal; (C.R.); (E.C.); (M.P.C.); (L.T.); (M.O.)
- Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Sciences (AL4AnimalS), 1300-477 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Manuela Oliveira
- CIISA—Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisbon, Avenida da Universidade Técnica, 1300-477 Lisboa, Portugal; (C.R.); (E.C.); (M.P.C.); (L.T.); (M.O.)
- Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Sciences (AL4AnimalS), 1300-477 Lisboa, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Desrini S, Girardot M, Imbert C, Mustofa M, Nuryastuti T. Screening antibiofilm activity of invasive plants growing at the Slope Merapi Mountain, Central Java, against Candida albicans. BMC Complement Med Ther 2023; 23:232. [PMID: 37438777 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-023-04044-2] [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: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Candida albicans causes high-mortality candidiasis. Antifungal drug resistance demands the development of virulence factor-targeting drugs, particularly antibiofilm. This study screened the effects of five invasive plants growing in Indonesia (Mimosa pudica, Lantana camara, Acacia mangium, Ageratina riparia, and Mikania micrantha) against C. albicans biofilms. Antifungal activity, antiphospholipase activity, biofilm morphology of C. albicans, and cytotoxic capacity were also evaluated. METHODS Maceration was used to extract the plants, and the most active extract inhibiting the biofilms was fractionated using liquid-liquid fractionation. Antibiofilm activity was determined by a colorimetric assay, MTT. Antifungal activity was tested using the broth microdilution method. A phospholipase assay was performed using the egg-yolk agar method. Influence on the C. albicans morphology was assessed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The cytotoxic effect was carried out against Vero and HeLa cell lines. RESULTS M. pudica extracts showed the most potent antifungal efficacy with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 15.62 µg/mL and 7.81 µg/mL for aerial parts and roots, respectively. At high concentrations (500 µg/mL and 250 µg/mL), ethanol extract of M. pudica aerial parts strongly inhibited the phospholipase activity. Ethyl-acetate fraction of M. pudica aerial parts demonstrated the most potent antibiofilm activity against 24 h old biofilm of C. albicans with an inhibitory concentration (53.89%) of 62.5 µg/mL showed no cytotoxicity in both Vero and HeLa cells. This fraction affected the morphology of C. albicans and contained promising compounds for inhibiting the 24 h old biofilm of C. albicans. CONCLUSIONS Invasive M. pudica plant inhibited the growth of planktonic C. albicans cells and its ethyl acetate fraction decreased the metabolic activity of C. albicans biofilms. This result demonstrates the potential of invasive M. pudica plant to reduce biofilm-associated candida infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sufi Desrini
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Islam Indonesia, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
- Doctoral Program of Faculty Medicine, Public Health, and Nursing, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
- Laboratoire Ecologie Et Biologie Des Interactions - UMR CNRS 7267, Université de Poitiers, Poitiers, France
| | - Marion Girardot
- Laboratoire Ecologie Et Biologie Des Interactions - UMR CNRS 7267, Université de Poitiers, Poitiers, France
| | - Christine Imbert
- Laboratoire Ecologie Et Biologie Des Interactions - UMR CNRS 7267, Université de Poitiers, Poitiers, France
| | - Mustofa Mustofa
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapy, Faculty of Medicine, Public Health, and Nursing, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
- Indonesia Biofilm Research Collaboration Center UGM-BRIN, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
| | - Titik Nuryastuti
- Indonesia Biofilm Research Collaboration Center UGM-BRIN, Yogyakarta, Indonesia.
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Public Health, and Nursing, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta, Indonesia.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Lin L, Zhuo Y, Dong Q, Yang C, Cheng C, Liu T. Plasma activated Ezhangfeng Cuji as innovative antifungal agent and its inactivation mechanism. AMB Express 2023; 13:65. [PMID: 37368076 DOI: 10.1186/s13568-023-01571-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Candida albicans is a highly drug-resistant fungus for which new treatments are urgently needed due to the lack of clinically effective options. In this study, we evaluated the antifungal activity and mechanism of plasma-activated Ezhangfeng Cuji (PAEC) against Candida albicans and compared it with physiological saline (PS), plasma-activated physiological saline (PAPS) and Ezhangfeng Cuji (EC). After dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) plasma treatment with EC for 20 min followed by a 10 min immersion of Candida albicans, the fungus was reduced by approximately 3 orders of magnitude. High performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) results showed an increase of 41.18% and 129.88% in the concentration of oxymatrine and rhein, respectively, after plasma-treated EC. The concentrations of reactive species (RS), such as H2O2, [Formula: see text], and O3, were found to be higher and the pH value was getting lower in PS after plasma treatment. Detailed analysis of intracellular material leakage, reactive oxygen species (ROS), apoptosis for Candida albicans and observation by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) demonstrated that PAPS, EC and PAEC disrupt the morphological structure of Candida albicans to varying degrees.Additionally, specific analyses on Candida albicans virulence factors, such as adhesion to tissue surfaces, cell surface hydrophobicity (CSH), the transition of yeast-phase cells to mycelium-phase cells, and the secretion of hydrolytic enzymes for Candida albicans were conducted and found to be inhibited after PAPS/EC/PAEC treatment. In our investigation, the inhibitory effects on Candida albicans were ranked from strong to weak as follows: PAEC, EC, PAPS, and PS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lin Lin
- The Postgraduate School of Anhui, University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, People's Republic of China
| | - Yue Zhuo
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, People's Republic of China
- Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, People's Republic of China
| | - Qiran Dong
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, People's Republic of China
| | - Chunjun Yang
- Department of Dermatology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230601, People's Republic of China
| | - Cheng Cheng
- Institute of Plasma Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei, 230031, People's Republic of China
| | - Taofeng Liu
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Oliveira BTM, Dourado TMH, Santos PWS, Bitencourt TA, Tirapelli CR, Colombo AL, Almeida F. Extracellular Vesicles from Candida haemulonii var. vulnera Modulate Macrophage Oxidative Burst. J Fungi (Basel) 2023; 9:jof9050562. [PMID: 37233272 DOI: 10.3390/jof9050562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Revised: 05/06/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Members of the Candida haemulonii species complex are multidrug-resistant emergent yeast pathogens able to cause superficial and invasive infections in risk populations. Fungal extracellular vesicles (EVs) play a critical role in the pathogenicity and virulence of several species and may perform essential functions during infections, such as carrying virulence factors that behave in two-way communications with the host, affecting survival and fungal resistance. Our study aimed to describe EV production from Candida haemulonii var. vulnera and evaluate whether murine macrophage RAW 264.7 cells respond to their stimuli by generating an oxidative response after 24 h. For this purpose, reactive oxygen species detection assays demonstrated that high concentrations of yeast and EVs (1010 particles/mL) of Candida haemulonii did not change macrophage viability. However, the macrophages recognized these EVs and triggered an oxidative response through the classical NOX-2 pathway, increasing O2•- and H2O2 levels. However, this stress did not cause lipid peroxidation in the RAW 264.7 cells and neither lead to the activation of the COX-2-PGE2 pathway. Thus, our data suggest that low concentrations of C. haemulonii EVs are not recognized by the classical pathway of the oxidative burst generated by macrophages, which might be an advantage allowing the transport of virulence factors via EVs, not identified by the host immune system that could work as fine tube regulators during infections caused by C. haemulonii. In contrast, C. haemulonii var. vulnera and high EV concentrations activated microbicidal actions in macrophages. Therefore, we propose that EVs could participate in the virulence of the species and that these particles could be a source of antigens to be exploited as new therapeutic targets.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bianca T M Oliveira
- Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto 14049-900, SP, Brazil
| | - Thales M H Dourado
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto 14049-900, SP, Brazil
| | - Patrick W S Santos
- Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto 14049-900, SP, Brazil
| | - Tamires A Bitencourt
- Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto 14049-900, SP, Brazil
| | - Carlos R Tirapelli
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Department of Psychiatric Nursing and Human Sciences, College of Nursing of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto 14040-902, SP, Brazil
| | - Arnaldo L Colombo
- Special Laboratory of Mycology, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo 04023-062, SP, Brazil
| | - Fausto Almeida
- Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto 14049-900, SP, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Mahmoodi M, Nouraei H, Nasr R, Zomorodian K, Khodadadi H, Pakshir K. Phenotypes characterization and ABC genotypes distribution of clinical Candida albicans isolates. J Clin Lab Anal 2023; 37:e24888. [PMID: 37096939 DOI: 10.1002/jcla.24888] [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: 02/06/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 04/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Candidemia and vaginitis are the most common types of candidiasis mostly caused by Candida albicans species. C. albicans has several genotypes and the potential ability to form different phenotype colonies on specific media. This study aimed to evaluate the genotype distribution of blood and vaginal C. albicans isolates and phenotype characteristics on Spider and yeast peptone dextrose agar medium. METHODS A total of 40 clinical Candida albicans isolates comprising vagina (20) and blood (20) were used. ABC typing using CA-INT-R and CA-INT-L primers was performed to span the transposable group I intron of the 25S rDNA gene. For colony phenotypic characteristics, the Spider and YPDA media were used. RESULTS Among the blood and vaginal isolates, genotype A (12/60%) and genotype C (10/50%) were the most common types, respectively. The highest phenotype shape frequency of the colonies in blood and vaginal samples was the ring and the lowest was the hat/ring. The dominant color phenotype in blood and vaginal samples was gray. There was a significant relationship between genotype and phenotype forms in the blood sample on YPDA medium (p = 0.02). In the Spider medium, there were no significant differences between genotypes and phenotypes. CONCLUSION In this study, genotype A and genotype C were predominant in blood and vaginal samples, respectively. In both groups, YPD agar medium demonstrated the most variety of phenotypes that was related to genotypes A and C. The variety of phenotypes in both groups was the same in genotypes A and C on the Spider medium.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mozhgan Mahmoodi
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Hasti Nouraei
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Reza Nasr
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Kamiar Zomorodian
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Basic Sciences in Infectious Diseases Research Center, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Hossein Khodadadi
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Keyvan Pakshir
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Basic Sciences in Infectious Diseases Research Center, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Wang F, Han R, Chen S. An Overlooked and Underrated Endemic Mycosis-Talaromycosis and the Pathogenic Fungus Talaromyces marneffei. Clin Microbiol Rev 2023; 36:e0005122. [PMID: 36648228 PMCID: PMC10035316 DOI: 10.1128/cmr.00051-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Talaromycosis is an invasive mycosis endemic in tropical and subtropical Asia and is caused by the pathogenic fungus Talaromyces marneffei. Approximately 17,300 cases of T. marneffei infection are diagnosed annually, and the reported mortality rate is extremely high (~1/3). Despite the devastating impact of talaromycosis on immunocompromised individuals, particularly HIV-positive persons, and the increase in reported occurrences in HIV-uninfected persons, diagnostic and therapeutic approaches for talaromycosis have received far too little attention worldwide. In 2021, scientists living in countries where talaromycosis is endemic raised a global demand for it to be recognized as a neglected tropical disease. Therefore, T. marneffei and the infectious disease induced by this fungus must be treated with concern. T. marneffei is a thermally dimorphic saprophytic fungus with a complicated mycological growth process that may produce various cell types in its life cycle, including conidia, hyphae, and yeast, all of which are associated with its pathogenicity. However, understanding of the pathogenic mechanism of T. marneffei has been limited until recently. To achieve a holistic view of T. marneffei and talaromycosis, the current knowledge about talaromycosis and research breakthroughs regarding T. marneffei growth biology are discussed in this review, along with the interaction of the fungus with environmental stimuli and the host immune response to fungal infection. Importantly, the future research directions required for understanding this serious infection and its causative pathogenic fungus are also emphasized to identify solutions that will alleviate the suffering of susceptible individuals worldwide.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fang Wang
- Intensive Care Unit, Biomedical Research Center, Shenzhen Institute of Translational Medicine, Health Science Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen Second People’s Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - RunHua Han
- Department of Chemistry, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Shi Chen
- Intensive Care Unit, Biomedical Research Center, Shenzhen Institute of Translational Medicine, Health Science Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen Second People’s Hospital, Shenzhen, China
- Department of Burn and Plastic Surgery, Biomedical Research Center, Shenzhen Institute of Translational Medicine, Health Science Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen Second People’s Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Silver(I) 1,10-Phenanthroline Complexes Are Active against Fonsecaea pedrosoi Viability and Negatively Modulate Its Potential Virulence Attributes. J Fungi (Basel) 2023; 9:jof9030356. [PMID: 36983524 PMCID: PMC10057124 DOI: 10.3390/jof9030356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2022] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The genus Fonsecaea is one of the etiological agents of chromoblastomycosis (CBM), a chronic subcutaneous disease that is difficult to treat. This work aimed to evaluate the effects of copper(II), manganese(II) and silver(I) complexes coordinated with 1,10-phenanthroline (phen)/1,10-phenanthroline-5,6-dione (phendione) on Fonsecaea spp. Our results revealed that most of these complexes were able to inhibit F. pedrosoi, F. monophora and F. nubica conidial viability with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values ranging from 0.6 to 100 µM. The most effective complexes against F. pedrosoi planktonic conidial cells, the main etiologic agent of CBM, were [Ag(phen)2]ClO4 and [Ag2(3,6,9-tdda)(phen)4].EtOH, (tdda: 3,6,9-trioxaundecanedioate), displaying MIC values equal to 1.2 and 0.6 µM, respectively. These complexes were effective in reducing the viability of F. pedrosoi biofilm formation and maturation. Silver(I)-tdda-phen, combined with itraconazole, reduced the viability and extracellular matrix during F. pedrosoi biofilm development. Moreover, both silver(I) complexes inhibited either metallo- or aspartic-type peptidase activities of F. pedrosoi as well as its conidia into mycelia transformation and melanin production. In addition, the complexes induced the production of intracellular reactive oxygen species in F. pedrosoi. Taken together, our data corroborate the antifungal action of metal-phen complexes, showing they represent a therapeutic option for fungal infections, including CBM.
Collapse
|
26
|
Characterization of Virulence Factors in Candida Species Causing Candidemia in a Tertiary Care Hospital in Bangkok, Thailand. J Fungi (Basel) 2023; 9:jof9030353. [PMID: 36983521 PMCID: PMC10059995 DOI: 10.3390/jof9030353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Revised: 02/26/2023] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Candidemia is often associated with high mortality, and Candida albicans, Candida tropicalis, Candida glabrata, and Candida parapsilosis are common causes of this disease. The pathogenicity characteristics of specific Candida spp. that cause candidemia in Thailand are poorly understood. This study aimed to characterize the virulence factors of Candida spp. Thirty-eight isolates of different Candida species from blood cultures were evaluated for their virulence properties, including exoenzyme and biofilm production, cell surface hydrophobicity, tissue invasion, epithelial cell damage, morphogenesis, and phagocytosis resistance; the identity and frequency of mutations in ERG11 contributing to azole-resistance were also determined. C. albicans had the highest epithelial cell invasion rate and phospholipase activity, with true hyphae formation, whereas C. tropicalis produced the most biofilm, hydrophobicity, protease activity, and host cell damage and true hyphae formation. ERG11 mutations Y132F and S154F were observed in all azole-resistant C. tropicalis. C. glabrata had the most hemolytic activity while cell invasion was low with no morphologic transition. C. glabrata was more easily phagocytosed than other species. C. parapsilosis generated pseudohyphae but not hyphae and did not exhibit any trends in exoenzyme production. This knowledge will be crucial for understanding the pathogenicity of Candida spp. and will help to explore antivirulence-based treatment.
Collapse
|
27
|
Hsu C, Ghannoum M, Cominelli F, Martino LD. Mycobiome and Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Role in Disease Pathogenesis, Current Approaches and Novel Nutritional-based Therapies. Inflamm Bowel Dis 2023; 29:470-479. [PMID: 35851921 PMCID: PMC9977251 DOI: 10.1093/ibd/izac156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), a disorder characterized by chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and a range of adverse health effects including diarrhea, abdominal pain, vomiting, and bloody stools, affects nearly 3.1 million genetically susceptible adults in the United States today. Although the etiology of IBD remains unclear, genetics, stress, diet, and gut microbiota dysbiosis- especially in immunocompromised individuals- have been identified as possible causes of disease. Although previous research has largely focused on the role of bacteria in IBD pathogenesis, recently observed alterations of fungal load and biodiversity in the GI tract of afflicted individuals suggest interkingdom interactions amongst different gut microbial communities, particularly between bacteria and fungi. These discoveries point to the potential utilization of treatment approaches such as antibiotics, antifungals, probiotics, and postbiotics that target both bacteria and fungi in managing IBD. In this review, we discuss the impact of specific fungi on disease pathogenesis, with a focus on the highly virulent genus Candida and how the presence of certain co-enzymes impacts its virulence. In addition, we evaluate current gut microbiome-based therapeutic approaches with the intention of better understanding the mechanisms behind novel therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Caitlyn Hsu
- Case Digestive Health Research Institute, Case Western University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio, 44106, USA
| | - Mahmoud Ghannoum
- Center for Medical Mycology and Integrated Microbiome Core, Department of Dermatology, Case Western Reserve University, and University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, Ohio, 44106, USA
| | - Fabio Cominelli
- Case Digestive Health Research Institute, Case Western University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio, 44106, USA
- Department of Medicine, Case Western University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio, 44106, USA
- Department of Pathology, Case Western University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio, 44106, USA
| | - Luca Di Martino
- Case Digestive Health Research Institute, Case Western University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio, 44106, USA
- Department of Medicine, Case Western University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio, 44106, USA
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Wang X, Zhang W, Wu W, Wu S, Young A, Yan Z. Is Candida albicans a contributor to cancer? A critical review based on the current evidence. Microbiol Res 2023; 272:127370. [PMID: 37028206 DOI: 10.1016/j.micres.2023.127370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Revised: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/26/2023] [Indexed: 04/01/2023]
Abstract
The association between Candida albicans (C. albicans) and cancer has been noticed for decades. Whether C. albicans infection is a complication of cancer status or as a contributor to cancer development remains to be discussed. This review systematically summarized the up-to-date knowledge about associations between C. albicans and various types of cancer, and discussed the role of C. albicans in cancer development. Most of the current clinical and animal evidence support the relationship between C. albicans and oral cancer development. However, there is insufficient evidence to demonstrate the role of C. albicans in other types of cancer. Moreover, this review explored the underlying mechanisms for C. albicans promoting cancer. It was hypothesized that C. albicans may promote cancer progression by producing carcinogenic metabolites, inducing chronic inflammation, remodeling immune microenvironment, activating pro-cancer signals, and synergizing with bacteria.
Collapse
|
29
|
Kong N, Zhao J, Zhao B, Liu J, Li F, Wang L, Song L. Effects of high temperature stress on the intestinal histology and microbiota in Yesso scallop Patinopecten yessoensis. MARINE ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 185:105881. [PMID: 36657188 DOI: 10.1016/j.marenvres.2023.105881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2022] [Revised: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
High temperature stress posed by global warming is considered as one of the greatest threats to marine ectotherms by altering their behavior and physiological functions. The intestine and its associated microbiota constitute the first defensive line for the animals against environmental stresses, but their responses to high temperature stress in mollusks are largely unknown. In the present study, the changes of intestinal histology and microbiota were investigated in Yesso scallop Patinopecten yessoensis, a cold-water bivalve species, after high temperature stress. The shrinkage of intestinal lumen, shortening of intestinal villi and increased goblet cells were observed in the intestines of scallops exposed to seawater temperatures of 20 °C (T20 group) and 23 °C (T23 group), compared to the control group (15 °C). High-throughput sequencing of 16S rRNA gene showed that the composition of intestinal microbiota rather than the alpha diversity indices changed significantly after high temperature stress. At the phylum level, the relative abundances of Proteobacteria and Firmicutes decreased progressively with increasing temperature, while that of Bacteroidetes increased by 1.18-fold in the T20 group and 0.95-fold in the T23 group. At the genus level, Tenacibaculum and Mycoplasma were significantly enriched after high temperature stress, and Mycoplasma exhibited highest abundance of 39.43% in the T23 group. Functional prediction revealed that the pathways related to amino acid biosynthesis were blocked after high temperature stress, while that of phospholipases showed the opposite trend. According to the results of network analysis, the network connectivity decreased with increasing temperature, while the percentages of negative correlations in the two high temperature groups were higher than that in the control group. Collectively, the intestinal histology and microbial community of P. yessoensis changed significantly after high temperature stress, which would hinder the nutrient absorption and promote the proliferation of pathogenic microorganisms in the intestine of scallops. Our results will provide novel insights into the occurrence mechanism of mass summer mortality in marine mollusks.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ning Kong
- Liaoning Key Laboratory of Marine Animal Immunology, Dalian Ocean University, Dalian, 116023, China; Liaoning Key Laboratory of Marine Animal Immunology and Disease Control, Dalian Ocean University, Dalian, 116023, China; Dalian Key Laboratory of Aquatic Animal Disease Prevention and Control, Dalian Ocean University, Dalian, 116023, China
| | - Junyan Zhao
- Liaoning Key Laboratory of Marine Animal Immunology, Dalian Ocean University, Dalian, 116023, China; Liaoning Key Laboratory of Marine Animal Immunology and Disease Control, Dalian Ocean University, Dalian, 116023, China; Dalian Key Laboratory of Aquatic Animal Disease Prevention and Control, Dalian Ocean University, Dalian, 116023, China
| | - Bao Zhao
- Liaoning Key Laboratory of Marine Animal Immunology, Dalian Ocean University, Dalian, 116023, China; Liaoning Key Laboratory of Marine Animal Immunology and Disease Control, Dalian Ocean University, Dalian, 116023, China; Dalian Key Laboratory of Aquatic Animal Disease Prevention and Control, Dalian Ocean University, Dalian, 116023, China
| | - Jinyu Liu
- Liaoning Key Laboratory of Marine Animal Immunology, Dalian Ocean University, Dalian, 116023, China; Liaoning Key Laboratory of Marine Animal Immunology and Disease Control, Dalian Ocean University, Dalian, 116023, China; Dalian Key Laboratory of Aquatic Animal Disease Prevention and Control, Dalian Ocean University, Dalian, 116023, China
| | - Fuzhe Li
- Liaoning Key Laboratory of Marine Animal Immunology, Dalian Ocean University, Dalian, 116023, China; Liaoning Key Laboratory of Marine Animal Immunology and Disease Control, Dalian Ocean University, Dalian, 116023, China; Dalian Key Laboratory of Aquatic Animal Disease Prevention and Control, Dalian Ocean University, Dalian, 116023, China
| | - Lingling Wang
- Liaoning Key Laboratory of Marine Animal Immunology, Dalian Ocean University, Dalian, 116023, China; Liaoning Key Laboratory of Marine Animal Immunology and Disease Control, Dalian Ocean University, Dalian, 116023, China; Dalian Key Laboratory of Aquatic Animal Disease Prevention and Control, Dalian Ocean University, Dalian, 116023, China.
| | - Linsheng Song
- Liaoning Key Laboratory of Marine Animal Immunology, Dalian Ocean University, Dalian, 116023, China; Functional Laboratory of Marine Fisheries Science and Food Production Processes, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao, 266235, China; Liaoning Key Laboratory of Marine Animal Immunology and Disease Control, Dalian Ocean University, Dalian, 116023, China; Dalian Key Laboratory of Aquatic Animal Disease Prevention and Control, Dalian Ocean University, Dalian, 116023, China; Southern Laboratory of Ocean Science and Engineering, Guangdong, Zhuhai, 519000, China.
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Kang BG, Kwon SY, Lee HR, Hwang Y, Youn SY, Oh C, Park JB, Cha SS. Structural and functional characterization of a thermostable secretory phospholipase A 2 from Sciscionella marina and its application in liposome biotransformation. Acta Crystallogr D Struct Biol 2023; 79:188-197. [PMID: 36762864 DOI: 10.1107/s2059798323000384] [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: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 01/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Secretory phospholipase A2 (sPLA2), which hydrolyzes the sn-2 acyl bond of lecithin in a Ca2+-dependent manner, is an important enzyme in the oil and oleochemical industries. However, most sPLA2s are not stable under process conditions. Therefore, a thermostable sPLA2 was investigated in this study. A marine bacterial sPLA2 isolated from Sciscionella marina (Sm-sPLA2) was catalytically active even after 5 h of incubation at high temperatures of up to 50°C, which is outstanding compared with a representative bacterial sPLA2 (i.e. sPLA2 from Streptomyces violaceoruber; Sv-sPLA2). Consistent with this, the melting temperature of Sm-sPLA2 was measured to be 7.7°C higher than that of Sv-sPLA2. Furthermore, Sm-sPLA2 exhibited an improved biotransformation performance compared with Sv-sPLA2 in the hydrolysis of soy lecithin to lysolecithin and free fatty acids at 50°C. Structural and mutagenesis studies revealed that the Trp41-mediated anchoring of a Ca2+-binding loop into the rest of the protein body is directly linked to the thermal stability of Sm-sPLA2. This finding provides a novel structural insight into the thermostability of sPLA2 and could be applied to create mutant proteins with enhanced industrial potential.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bu Gyeong Kang
- Department of Chemistry and Nanoscience, Ewha Womans University, 52 Ewhayeodae-gil, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 03760, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung Yeon Kwon
- Department of Food Science and Biotechnology, Ewha Womans University, 52 Ewhayeodae-gil, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 03760, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyo Ran Lee
- Department of Food Science and Biotechnology, Ewha Womans University, 52 Ewhayeodae-gil, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 03760, Republic of Korea
| | - Yeji Hwang
- Department of Food Science and Biotechnology, Ewha Womans University, 52 Ewhayeodae-gil, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 03760, Republic of Korea
| | - So Yeon Youn
- Department of Chemistry and Nanoscience, Ewha Womans University, 52 Ewhayeodae-gil, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 03760, Republic of Korea
| | - Chulhong Oh
- Jeju Marine Research Center, Korea Institute of Ocean Science and Technology, 2670 Iljudong-ro, Gujwa-eup, Jeju 63349, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin Byung Park
- Department of Food Science and Biotechnology, Ewha Womans University, 52 Ewhayeodae-gil, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 03760, Republic of Korea
| | - Sun Shin Cha
- Department of Chemistry and Nanoscience, Ewha Womans University, 52 Ewhayeodae-gil, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 03760, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Polyphyllin I Effects Candida albicans via Inhibition of Virulence Factors. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2023; 2023:5645500. [PMID: 36726525 PMCID: PMC9886465 DOI: 10.1155/2023/5645500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2022] [Revised: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Paris polyphylla is often used in Chinese medicine to treat conditions such as carbuncles, trauma, snake bites, and mosquito bites. In the present study, we investigated the effect and mechanism of the morphological transition and extracellular phospholipase activity of Candida albicans treated with polyphyllin I (PPI). First, the minimum inhibitory concentration and antifungal activity of PPI were evaluated using the multiple microdilution method and time-killing assays. Then, the effect of PPI on the morphological transition of Candida albicans in Spider liquid medium and Sabouraud-dextrose liquid medium containing 10% fetal bovine serum was observed under an inverted microscope and by scanning electron microscopy. Finally, egg yolk agar plates were used to evaluate extracellular phospholipase activity. Gene expression was detected by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis. Our results suggest that PPI inhibited the transition from the yeast to the hyphal stage and decreased secreted aspartyl proteinase activity. We further confirmed that PPI significantly downregulated the expression of extracellular phospholipase genes and cAMP-PKA signaling pathway-related genes. Taken together, our results suggest that PPI exerts anti-Candida albicans activity by inhibiting virulence characteristics, including the yeast-to-hyphal transition and the secretion of aspartyl proteases and phospholipases. The study results also indicated that PPI could be a promising therapeutic strategy for Candida albicans.
Collapse
|
32
|
Cheng X, Zhu H, Bai S, Zou Y, Xia Z, Yang R. Pathogenicity of phospholipase B1 of Trichosporon asahii in immunosuppressed mice. Mycoses 2023; 66:467-476. [PMID: 36680377 DOI: 10.1111/myc.13568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Revised: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Trichosporon asahii is an opportunistic pathogenic yeast-like fungus. Phospholipase B1 (PLB1) is an important virulence factor of pathogenic fungi such as Candida albicans and Cryptococcus neoformans, and there are few studies on the role of PLB1 in the pathogenicity of T. asahii. OBJECTIVES To investigate the role of PLB1 in the pathogenicity of T. asahii. METHODS A strain with low secretion of PLB1 (4848) was screened, a PLB1 overexpression strain (PLB1OX ) was constructed, and the differences in histopathology, fungal load of organ, survival time of mice, the levels of IL-6, IL-10, TNF-α, and GM-GSF in the serum and organs caused by the two strains were compared. RESULTS Histopathology showed that spores and hyphae were observed in both groups, and PLB1OX led to more fungal invasion. The fungal loads in the kidney, lung, spleen and liver in the PLB1OX group were significantly higher than those in the 4848 group, and the survival time of mice was significantly lower than that in the 4848 group. The levels of TNF-α in the serum, liver, spleen, lung and kidney of the PLB1OX group were lower than those of the 4848 group, while the level of IL-10 in the serum was higher than that of the 4848 group. CONCLUSIONS These results suggest that PLB1 can enhance the invasive function of T. asahii and affect the secretion of TNF-α and IL-10 which may affect the host antifungal immune response, providing evidence that PLB1 plays a role in the pathogenic infection of T. asahii.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoxian Cheng
- Chinese PLA Medical School, Peking, China.,Department of Dermatology, The Seventh Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Peking, China
| | - He Zhu
- Chinese PLA Medical School, Peking, China.,Department of Dermatology, The Seventh Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Peking, China
| | - Shuang Bai
- The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Dermatology, Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Inner Mongolia, China
| | - Yuekun Zou
- Chinese PLA Medical School, Peking, China.,Department of Geriatrics, The Sixth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Peking, China
| | - Zhikuan Xia
- Department of Dermatology, The Seventh Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Peking, China.,The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Rongya Yang
- Chinese PLA Medical School, Peking, China.,Department of Dermatology, The Seventh Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Peking, China
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Zainudin RA, Sabri S, Salleh AB, Abu A, Khairuddin RFR, Oslan SN. In silico identification of prospective virulence factors associated with candidiasis in Meyerozyma guilliermondii strain SO from genome dataset. EGYPTIAN JOURNAL OF MEDICAL HUMAN GENETICS 2023. [DOI: 10.1186/s43042-023-00384-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Meyerozyma guilliermondii is a prospective yeast that has extensively contributed to the biotechnology sector. In 2015, M. guilliermondii strain SO which was isolated from spoiled orange has successfully been developed as an inducer-free expression system and attained a significant impact in producing industrially important recombinant proteins. The species possesses high similarity to Candida albicans which may cause candidiasis. The industrial-benefiting M. guilliermondii strain SO has been underexplored for its virulence status. Thus, this study aimed to document the potential virulence factors through the comprehensive in silico analysis of M. guilliermondii strain SO genome. This analysis demonstrated the molecular characterization which could distinguish the pathogenicity status of M. guilliermondii.
Results
The genome data were generated from Illumina HiSeq 4000 sequencing platform and assembled into 51 scaffolds successfully accumulating a genome size of 10.63 Mbp. These enclosed 5,335 CDS genes and 5,349 protein sequences with 43.72% GC content. About 99.29% of them were annotated to public databases. Komagataella phaffii, Saccharomyces cerevisiae and the reference strain of M. guilliermondii (ATCC 6260) were used as the controls. They were compared with our in-house strain SO to identify the consensus domain or subdomain which could putatively be considered as virulence factors. Candida albicans was used as the pathogenic model. Hence, hidden Markov model against strain SO proteome had identified secreted aspartic proteases (SAP), phospholipase C (PLC) and phospholipase D (PLD) with an E-value of 2.4e−107, 9.5e−200 and 0.0e+00, respectively, in resemblance of C. albicans. The topology of the phylogenetic analysis indicated that these virulence factors in M. guilliermondii strain SO and C. albicans branched from the same node and clustered together as a clade, signifying their molecular relatedness and congeneric among these species, subsequently proposing the virulence status of M. guilliermondii.
Conclusion
The SAP, PLC and PLD genes’ features that were significant in expressing determinants of pathogenicity were successfully identified in M. guilliermondii strain SO genome dataset, thus concluding the virulency of this species. On account of this finding, the strategy of gene knockout through CRISPR-Cas9 or homologous recombination strategies is needed to engineer the feasible novel expression host system. Over and above, the genetically modified strain of M. guilliermondii allegedly may eradicate the risk of candidiasis infection.
Collapse
|
34
|
Branco J, Miranda IM, Rodrigues AG. Candida parapsilosis Virulence and Antifungal Resistance Mechanisms: A Comprehensive Review of Key Determinants. J Fungi (Basel) 2023; 9:jof9010080. [PMID: 36675901 PMCID: PMC9862255 DOI: 10.3390/jof9010080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 12/29/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Candida parapsilosis is the second most common Candida species isolated in Asia, Southern Europe, and Latin America and is often involved in invasive infections that seriously impact human health. This pathogen is part of the psilosis complex, which also includes Candida orthopsilosis and Candida metapsilosis. C. parapsilosis infections are particularly prevalent among neonates with low birth weights, individuals who are immunocompromised, and patients who require prolonged use of a central venous catheter or other indwelling devices, whose surfaces C. parapsilosis exhibits an enhanced capacity to adhere to and form biofilms. Despite this well-acknowledged prevalence, the biology of C. parapsilosis has not been as extensively explored as that of Candida albicans. In this paper, we describe the molecular mechanistic pathways of virulence in C. parapsilosis and show how they differ from those of C. albicans. We also describe the mode of action of antifungal drugs used for the treatment of Candida infections, namely, polyenes, echinocandins, and azoles, as well as the resistance mechanisms developed by C. parapsilosis to overcome them. Finally, we stress the importance of the ongoing search for species-specific features that may aid the development of effective control strategies and thus reduce the burden on patients and healthcare costs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joana Branco
- Division of Microbiology, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal
- Center for Health Technology and Services Research—CINTESIS@RISE, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, 4200-450 Porto, Portugal
- Correspondence: ; Tel./Fax: +351-225513662
| | - Isabel M. Miranda
- Cardiovascular Research & Development Centre—UnIC@RISE, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, 4200-450 Porto, Portugal
| | - Acácio G. Rodrigues
- Division of Microbiology, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal
- Center for Health Technology and Services Research—CINTESIS@RISE, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, 4200-450 Porto, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Mochochoko BM, Pohl CH, O’Neill HG. Candida albicans-enteric viral interactions-The prostaglandin E 2 connection and host immune responses. iScience 2022; 26:105870. [PMID: 36647379 PMCID: PMC9839968 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2022.105870] [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] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The human microbiome comprises trillions of microorganisms residing within different mucosal cavities and across the body surface. The gut microbiota modulates host susceptibility to viral infections in several ways, and microbial interkingdom interactions increase viral infectivity within the gut. Candida albicans, a frequently encountered fungal species in the gut, produces highly structured biofilms and eicosanoids such as prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), which aid in viral protection and replication. These biofilms encompass viruses and provide a shield from antiviral drugs or the immune system. PGE2 is a key modulator of active inflammation with the potential to regulate interferon signaling upon microbial invasion or viral infections. In this review, we raise the perspective of gut interkingdom interactions involving C. albicans and enteric viruses, with a special focus on biofilms, PGE2, and viral replication. Ultimately, we discuss the possible implications of C. albicans-enteric virus associations on host immune responses, particularly the interferon signaling pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bonang M. Mochochoko
- Department of Microbiology and Biochemistry, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, 9301, South Africa
| | - Carolina H. Pohl
- Department of Microbiology and Biochemistry, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, 9301, South Africa,Corresponding author
| | - Hester G. O’Neill
- Department of Microbiology and Biochemistry, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, 9301, South Africa,Corresponding author
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
He J, Ye Y, Zhang D, Yao K, Zhou M. Visualized Gallium/Lyticase-Integrated Antifungal Strategy for Fungal Keratitis Treatment. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2022; 34:e2206437. [PMID: 36177690 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202206437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Revised: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Fungal keratitis has been one of the common corneal infections that causes blindness, but an effective antifungal strategy remains a challenge. The exopolysaccharides both in the fungal cell walls and biofilms are a key that acts as a permeation barrier to weaken the therapeutic effect of antifungal agents. Herein, lyticase and gallium ions co-integrated nanosystems (MLPGa) are presented that can degrade exopolysaccharides and then effectively eradicate both planktonic Candida albicans and mature biofilms. The potential antifungal mechanism involves reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and metabolic interference of antioxidant-related genes, exopolysaccharide-related genes, iron-ion-utilization-related genes, fungal/biofilm-development-related genes, and virulence genes. Meanwhile, the Raman signals generated by the chelation between the nanosystems and the gallium ions provide a real-time visualization tool to monitor Ga release. Finally, the MLPGa-based antifungal strategy with good biocompatibility achieves a satisfactory therapeutic effect in a fungal keratitis mouse model. This study provides a unique approach to the effective treatment of fungal keratitis in clinical practice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jian He
- Eye Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310009, China
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310009, China
| | - Yang Ye
- Eye Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310009, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Lab of Ophthalmology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310009, China
| | - Dongxiao Zhang
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310009, China
| | - Ke Yao
- Eye Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310009, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Lab of Ophthalmology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310009, China
| | - Min Zhou
- Eye Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310009, China
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310009, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Lab of Ophthalmology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310009, China
- State Key Laboratory of Modern Optical Instrumentations, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
- Research Center for Life Science and Human Health, Binjiang Institute of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Deng J, Lu Z, Wang H, Li N, Song G, Zhu Q, Sun J, Zhang Y. A secretory phospholipase A2 of a fungal pathogen contributes to lipid droplet homeostasis, assimilation of insect-derived lipids, and repression of host immune responses. INSECT SCIENCE 2022; 29:1685-1702. [PMID: 35276754 DOI: 10.1111/1744-7917.13029] [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: 11/02/2021] [Revised: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Secretory phospholipase A2s (sPLA2s) are found in a wide range of organisms from bacteria to higher plants and animals and are involved in varied and cellular processes. However, roles of these enzymes in microbial pathogens remain unclear. Here, an sPLA2 (BbPLA2) was characterized in the filamentous insect pathogenic fungus, Beauveria bassiana. BbPLA2 was exclusively expressed in insect hemolymph-derived cells (hyphal bodies), and its expression was induced by insect-derived nutrients and lipids, and nutrient starvation. High levels of secretion of BbPLA2 were observed as well as its distribution in hyphal body lipid drops (LDs). Overexpression of BbPLA2 increased the ability of B. bassiana to utilize insect-derived nutrients and lipids, and promoted LD accumulation, indicating functions for BbPLA2 in mediating LD homeostasis and assimilation of insect-derived lipids. Strains overexpressing BbPLA2 showed moderately increased virulence, including more efficient penetration of the insect cuticle and evasion of host immune responses as compared to the wild type strain. In addition, B. bassiana-activated host immune genes were downregulated in the BbPLA2 overexpression strain, but upregulated by infections with a ΔBbPLA2 strain. These data demonstrate that BbPLA2 contributes to LD homeostasis, assimilation of insect-derived lipids, and repression of host immune responses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juan Deng
- Biotechnology Research Center, Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Zhuoyue Lu
- Biotechnology Research Center, Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Huifang Wang
- Biotechnology Research Center, Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ning Li
- Biotechnology Research Center, Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Guimei Song
- Biotechnology Research Center, Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Qiankuan Zhu
- Biotechnology Research Center, Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jingxin Sun
- Biotechnology Research Center, Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yongjun Zhang
- Biotechnology Research Center, Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Kato T, Nishimura K, Misu S, Ikeo K, Park EY. Changes of the gene expression in silkworm larvae and Cordyceps militaris at late stages of the pathogenesis. ARCHIVES OF INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2022; 111:e21968. [PMID: 36116100 DOI: 10.1002/arch.21968] [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: 07/27/2022] [Revised: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Cordyceps militaris is an entomopathogenic fungus that forms its fruiting body. The gene expression change in C. militaris and silkworm larvae were analyzed using RNA-seq to investigate the relationship of C. militaris with the host, silkworm larvae before the death by mycosis. At 144 h after the injection of C. militaris conidia, genes encoding proteases, protease inhibitors, and cuticle proteins in the fat body of silkworm larvae were upregulated, but genes encoding lipoproteins and other proteins in hemolymph were downregulated. On the other hand, at 168 h after the injection of C. militaris conidia, genes encoding amino acid and oligopeptide transporters and permeases in C. militaris were upregulated, suggesting that C. militaris may use peptides and amino acids in silkworm larvae as a nutrient to grow in vivo. Additionally, one gene cluster composed of genes putatively involved in the degradation of phenolic substrates was also upregulated. The addition of 4,5-dichlorocatechol, an inhibitor of catechol 1,2-dioxygenase, inhibited the in vivo growth of C. militaris, Beauveria bassiana and Metarhizium anisopliae. These results also suggest that the expression of the gene cluster may be crucial for the in vivo growth of C. militaris and entomopathogenic fungi. This study will clarify how C. militaris grows in insect hosts by avoiding host's immune systems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tatsuya Kato
- Laboratory of Biotechnology, Department of Agriculture, Graduate School of Integrated Science and Technology, Shizuoka University, Shizuoka, Japan
- Laboratory of Biotechnology, Green Chemistry Research Division, Research Institute of Green Science and Technology, Shizuoka University, Shizuoka, Japan
| | - Konomi Nishimura
- Laboratory of Biotechnology, Department of Agriculture, Graduate School of Integrated Science and Technology, Shizuoka University, Shizuoka, Japan
| | - Sadahiko Misu
- Department of Genomics and Evolutionary Biology, National Institute of Genetics, Mishima, Japan
| | - Kazuho Ikeo
- Department of Genomics and Evolutionary Biology, National Institute of Genetics, Mishima, Japan
| | - Enoch Y Park
- Laboratory of Biotechnology, Department of Agriculture, Graduate School of Integrated Science and Technology, Shizuoka University, Shizuoka, Japan
- Laboratory of Biotechnology, Green Chemistry Research Division, Research Institute of Green Science and Technology, Shizuoka University, Shizuoka, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Similarities and Differences among Species Closely Related to Candida albicans: C. tropicalis, C. dubliniensis, and C. auris. Cell Microbiol 2022. [DOI: 10.1155/2022/2599136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Although Candida species are widespread commensals of the microflora of healthy individuals, they are also among the most important human fungal pathogens that under certain conditions can cause diseases (candidiases) of varying severity ranging from mild superficial infections of the mucous membranes to life-threatening systemic infections. So far, the vast majority of research aimed at understanding the molecular basis of pathogenesis has been focused on the most common species—Candida albicans. Meanwhile, other closely related species belonging to the CTG clade, namely, Candida tropicalis and Candida dubliniensis, are becoming more important in clinical practice, as well as a relatively newly identified species, Candida auris. Despite the close relationship of these microorganisms, it seems that in the course of evolution, they have developed distinct biochemical, metabolic, and physiological adaptations, which they use to fit to commensal niches and achieve full virulence. Therefore, in this review, we describe the current knowledge on C. tropicalis, C. dubliniensis, and C. auris virulence factors, the formation of a mixed species biofilm and mutual communication, the environmental stress response and related changes in fungal cell metabolism, and the effect of pathogens on host defense response and susceptibility to antifungal agents used, highlighting differences with respect to C. albicans. Special attention is paid to common diagnostic problems resulting from similarities between these species and the emergence of drug resistance mechanisms. Understanding the different strategies to achieve virulence, used by important opportunistic pathogens of the genus Candida, is essential for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Collapse
|
40
|
Watkins RR, Gowen R, Lionakis MS, Ghannoum M. Update on the Pathogenesis, Virulence, and Treatment of Candida auris. Pathog Immun 2022; 7:46-65. [PMID: 36329818 PMCID: PMC9620957 DOI: 10.20411/pai.v7i2.535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Candida auris is an emerging, multi-drug resistant fungal pathogen that causes considerable morbidity and mortality. First identified in Japan in 2009, it has since been reported in more than 40 countries. C. auris can persist for long periods on different environmental surfaces as well as the skin. Clinical isolates are typically resistant to commonly prescribed antifungal drugs. Increasingly recognized as a cause of infections and outbreaks in nosocomial settings, C. auris is difficult to identify using traditional microbiological methods. One of the main reasons for the ongoing spread of C. auris is the multitude of virulence factors it possesses and uses against its human host that enables fungal persistence on the skin surface. Yet, many of the virulence mechanisms are unknown or remain incompletely understood. In this review, we summarize the evolution of virulence of C. auris, offer recommendations for combating this important human pathogen, and suggest directions for further research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Richard R. Watkins
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Northeast Ohio Medical University, Rootstown, Ohio
- CORRESPONDING AUTHOR: Richard R. Watkins, MD, MS, FACP, FIDSA, FISAC;
| | - Rachael Gowen
- Center for Medical Mycology, Department of Dermatology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Michail S. Lionakis
- Fungal Pathogenesis Section, Laboratory of Clinical Immunology and Microbiology, National Institute of Allergy & Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Mahmoud Ghannoum
- Center for Medical Mycology, Department of Dermatology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio
- University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, Ohio
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Targeting Virulence Factors of Candida albicans with Natural Products. Foods 2022; 11:foods11192951. [PMID: 36230026 PMCID: PMC9562657 DOI: 10.3390/foods11192951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2022] [Revised: 09/11/2022] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural products derived from natural resources, including nutritional functional food, play an important role in human health. In recent years, the study of anti-fungal and other properties of agri-foods and derived functional compounds has been a hot research topic. Candida albicans is a parasitic fungus that thrives on human mucosal surfaces, which are colonized through opportunistic infection. It is the most prevalent cause of invasive fungal infection in immunocompromised individuals, resulting in a wide variety of clinical symptoms. Moreover, the efficacy of classical therapeutic medications such as fluconazole is often limited by the development of resistance. There is an ongoing need for the development of novel and effective antifungal therapy and medications. Infection of C. albicans is influenced by a great quantity of virulence factors, like adhesion, invasion-promoting enzymes, mycelial growth, and phenotypic change, and among others. Furthermore, various natural products especially from food sources that target C. albicans virulence factors have been researched, providing promising prospects for C. albicans prevention and treatment. In this review, we discuss the virulence factors of C. albicans and how functional foods and derived functional compounds affect them. Our hope is that this review will stimulate additional thoughts and suggestions regarding nutritional functional food and therapeutic development for patients afflicted with C. albicans.
Collapse
|
42
|
Molecular epidemiology, antifungal susceptibility, and ERG11 gene mutation of candida species isolated from vulvovaginal candidiasis: Comparison between recurrent and non-recurrent infections. Microb Pathog 2022; 170:105696. [DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2022.105696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2022] [Revised: 07/23/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
|
43
|
Gene, virulence and related regulatory mechanisms in Cryptococcus gattii. Acta Biochim Biophys Sin (Shanghai) 2022; 54:593-603. [PMID: 35593469 PMCID: PMC9828318 DOI: 10.3724/abbs.2022029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryptococcus gattii is a kind of basidiomycetous yeast, which grows in human and animal hosts. C. gattii has four distinct genomes, VGI/AFLP4, VGII/AFLP6, VGIII/AFLP5, and VGIV/AFLP7. The virulence of C. gattii is closely associated with genotype and related stress-signaling pathways, but the pathogenic mechanism of C. gattii has not been fully identified. With the development of genomics and transcriptomics, the relationship among genes, regulatory mechanisms, virulence, and treatment is gradually being recognized. In this review, to better understand how C. gattii causes disease and to characterize hypervirulent C. gattii strains, we summarize the current understanding of C. gattii genotypes, phenotypes, virulence, and the regulatory mechanisms.
Collapse
|
44
|
Ferrell KC, Johansen MD, Triccas JA, Counoupas C. Virulence Mechanisms of Mycobacterium abscessus: Current Knowledge and Implications for Vaccine Design. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:842017. [PMID: 35308378 PMCID: PMC8928063 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.842017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Mycobacterium abscessus is a member of the non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) group, responsible for chronic infections in individuals with cystic fibrosis (CF) or those otherwise immunocompromised. While viewed traditionally as an opportunistic pathogen, increasing research into M. abscessus in recent years has highlighted its continued evolution into a true pathogen. This is demonstrated through an extensive collection of virulence factors (VFs) possessed by this organism which facilitate survival within the host, particularly in the harsh environment of the CF lung. These include VFs resembling those of other Mycobacteria, and non-mycobacterial VFs, both of which make a notable contribution in shaping M. abscessus interaction with the host. Mycobacterium abscessus continued acquisition of VFs is cause for concern and highlights the need for novel vaccination strategies to combat this pathogen. An effective M. abscessus vaccine must be suitably designed for target populations (i.e., individuals with CF) and incorporate current knowledge on immune correlates of protection against M. abscessus infection. Vaccination strategies must also build upon lessons learned from ongoing efforts to develop novel vaccines for other pathogens, particularly Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M. tb); decades of research into M. tb has provided insight into unconventional and innovative vaccine approaches that may be applied to M. abscessus. Continued research into M. abscessus pathogenesis will be critical for the future development of safe and effective vaccines and therapeutics to reduce global incidence of this emerging pathogen.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kia C. Ferrell
- School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
- Tuberculosis Research Program, Centenary Institute, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- *Correspondence: Kia C. Ferrell,
| | - Matt D. Johansen
- Centre for Inflammation, Centenary Institute, University of Technology, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Faculty of Science, School of Life Sciences, University of Technology, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - James A. Triccas
- School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
- Sydney Institute for Infectious Diseases and the Charles Perkins Centre, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
| | - Claudio Counoupas
- School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
- Tuberculosis Research Program, Centenary Institute, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Sydney Institute for Infectious Diseases and the Charles Perkins Centre, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
- Claudio Counoupas,
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Kalimuthu S, Alshanta OA, Krishnamoorthy AL, Pudipeddi A, Solomon AP, McLean W, Leung YY, Ramage G, Neelakantan P. Small molecule based anti-virulence approaches against Candida albicans infections. Crit Rev Microbiol 2022; 48:743-769. [PMID: 35232325 DOI: 10.1080/1040841x.2021.2025337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Fungi are considered "silent killers" due to the difficulty of, and delays in diagnosis of infections and lack of effective antifungals. This challenge is compounded by the fact that being eukaryotes, fungi share several similarities with human cellular targets, creating obstacles to drug discovery. Candida albicans, a ubiquitous microbe in the human body is well-known for its role as an opportunistic pathogen in immunosuppressed people. Significantly, C. albicans is resistant to all the three classes of antifungals that are currently clinically available. Over the past few years, a paradigm shift has been recommended in the management of C. albicans infections, wherein anti-virulence strategies are considered an alternative to the discovery of new antimycotics. Small molecules, with a molecular weight <900 Daltons, can easily permeate the cell membrane and modulate the signal transduction pathways to elicit desired virulence inhibitory actions against pathogens. This review dissects in-depth, the discoveries that have been made with small-molecule anti-virulence approaches to tackle C. albicans infections.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Om Alkhir Alshanta
- Glasgow Endodontology Group, Glasgow Dental School, School of Medicine, Dentistry and Nursing, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, Glasgow, UK
| | - Akshaya Lakshmi Krishnamoorthy
- Faculty of Dentistry, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.,Quorum Sensing Laboratory, Centre for Research in Infectious Diseases (CRID), School of Chemical and Biotechnology, SASTRA Deemed to be University, Thanjavur, India
| | - Akhila Pudipeddi
- Faculty of Dentistry, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Adline Princy Solomon
- Quorum Sensing Laboratory, Centre for Research in Infectious Diseases (CRID), School of Chemical and Biotechnology, SASTRA Deemed to be University, Thanjavur, India
| | - William McLean
- Glasgow Endodontology Group, Glasgow Dental School, School of Medicine, Dentistry and Nursing, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, Glasgow, UK
| | - Yiu Yan Leung
- Faculty of Dentistry, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Gordon Ramage
- Glasgow Endodontology Group, Glasgow Dental School, School of Medicine, Dentistry and Nursing, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, Glasgow, UK
| | | |
Collapse
|
46
|
Abstract
Invasive fungal diseases are rare in individuals with intact immunity. This, together with the fact that there are only a few species that account for most mycotic diseases, implies a remarkable natural resistance to pathogenic fungi. Mammalian immunity to fungi rests on two pillars, powerful immune mechanisms and elevated temperatures that create a thermal restriction zone for most fungal species. Conditions associated with increased susceptibility generally reflect major disturbances of immune function involving both the cellular and humoral innate and adaptive arms, which implies considerable redundancy in host defense mechanisms against fungi. In general, tissue fungal invasion is controlled through either neutrophil or granulomatous inflammation, depending on the fungal species. Neutrophils are critical against Candida spp. and Aspergillus spp. while macrophages are essential for controlling mycoses due to Cryptococcus spp., Histoplasma spp., and other fungi. The increasing number of immunocompromised patients together with climate change could significantly increase the prevalence of fungal diseases. Expected final online publication date for the Annual Review of Immunology, Volume 40 is April 2022. Please see http://www.annualreviews.org/page/journal/pubdates for revised estimates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Arturo Casadevall
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
The Role of B-Cells and Antibodies against Candida Vaccine Antigens in Invasive Candidiasis. Vaccines (Basel) 2021; 9:vaccines9101159. [PMID: 34696267 PMCID: PMC8540628 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines9101159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2021] [Revised: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 10/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Systemic candidiasis is an invasive fungal infection caused by members of the genus Candida. The recent emergence of antifungal drug resistance and increased incidences of infections caused by non-albicans Candida species merit the need for developing immune therapies against Candida infections. Although the role of cellular immune responses in anti-Candida immunity is well established, less is known about the role of humoral immunity against systemic candidiasis. This review summarizes currently available information on humoral immune responses induced by several promising Candida vaccine candidates, which have been identified in the past few decades. The protective antibody and B-cell responses generated by polysaccharide antigens such as mannan, β-glucan, and laminarin, as well as protein antigens like agglutinin-like sequence gene (Als3), secreted aspartyl proteinase (Sap2), heat shock protein (Hsp90), hyphally-regulated protein (Hyr1), hyphal wall protein (Hwp1), enolase (Eno), phospholipase (PLB), pyruvate kinase (Pk), fructose bisphosphate aldolase (Fba1), superoxide dismutase gene (Sod5) and malate dehydrogenase (Mdh1), are outlined. As per studies reviewed, antibodies induced in response to leading Candida vaccine candidates contribute to protection against systemic candidiasis by utilizing a variety of mechanisms such as opsonization, complement fixation, neutralization, biofilm inhibition, direct candidacidal activity, etc. The contributions of B-cells in controlling fungal infections are also discussed. Promising results using anti-Candida monoclonal antibodies for passive antibody therapy reinforces the need for developing antibody-based therapeutics including anti-idiotypic antibodies, single-chain variable fragments, peptide mimotopes, and antibody-derived peptides. Future research involving combinatorial immunotherapies using humanized monoclonal antibodies along with antifungal drugs/cytokines may prove beneficial for treating invasive fungal infections.
Collapse
|
48
|
Faria-Gonçalves P, Rolo J, Gaspar C, Palmeira-de-Oliveira R, Martinez-de-Oliveira J, Palmeira-de-Oliveira A. Virulence Factors as Promoters of Chronic Vulvovaginal Candidosis: A Review. Mycopathologia 2021; 186:755-773. [PMID: 34613569 DOI: 10.1007/s11046-021-00592-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The vast majority of the species of the genus Candida spp. is commensal in humans; however, some are opportunistic pathogens that can cause infection, called candidosis. Among the different types of candidosis, we highlight the vulvovaginal (VVC) which can occur in two main clinical variants: chronic (cVVC) and episodic or sporadic. The incidence of cVVC has been worrying the scientific community, promoting the research on genotypic and phenotypic causes of its occurrence. We summarize important findings on factors that favor chronic vulvovaginal candidosis with respect to molecular epidemiology and the expression of various virulence factors, while clarifying the terminology involving these infections. AIM AND METHODOLOGY The aim of this review was to gather research that linked virulence factors to VVC and its persistence and recurrence, using two databases (Pubmed and Google Scholar). Predisposing factors in women for the occurrence of cVVC and some studies that refer new preventive and alternative therapies were also included, where appropriate. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION Several studies have been shedding light on the increasing number of persistence and recurrences of VVC. The expression of virulence factors has been related to both chronic forms of VVC and antifungal resistance. Other studies report mutations occurring in the genome of Candida spp. during the infection phase which may be important indications for new therapies. The introduction of preventive therapies and new therapies has revealed great importance and is also highlighted here.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paula Faria-Gonçalves
- Health Sciences Research Center, University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal.,Faculty of Medicine, University Mandume Ya Ndemufayo, Lubango, Angola.,Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Joana Rolo
- Health Sciences Research Center, University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal.
| | - Carlos Gaspar
- Health Sciences Research Center, University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal.,Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Covilhã, Portugal.,Health Products Research and Development Lda, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Rita Palmeira-de-Oliveira
- Health Sciences Research Center, University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal.,Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Covilhã, Portugal.,Health Products Research and Development Lda, Covilhã, Portugal.,Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Rua Larga, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - José Martinez-de-Oliveira
- Health Sciences Research Center, University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Ana Palmeira-de-Oliveira
- Health Sciences Research Center, University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal.,Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Covilhã, Portugal.,Health Products Research and Development Lda, Covilhã, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Mehta V, Nayyar C, Gulati N, Singla N, Rai S, Chandar J. A Comprehensive Review of Trichosporon spp.: An Invasive and Emerging Fungus. Cureus 2021; 13:e17345. [PMID: 34567886 PMCID: PMC8451254 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.17345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Trichosporon species are basidiomycetous yeast-like organisms found ubiquitous in nature. They are increasingly been recognized as opportunistic pathogens capable of causing life-threatening invasive diseases (trichosporonosis), especially in immuno-suppressed patients and rarely in immuno-competent patients too. Earlier multiple members of the genus Trichosporon were clubbed together as T. beigelli but after the advent of molecular techniques, more than 50 different subspecies and around 16 different strains causing human diseases are reported. It is known to cause a wide range of diseases, from superficial to probable and proven invasive diseases to summer hypersensitivity. The ability of Trichosporon strains to form biofilms on implanted devices, glucuronoxylomannan in their cell walls, and production of proteases and lipases lead to the virulence of this genus. This ubiquitous fungus exhibits intrinsic resistance to echinocandins, variable minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) for amphotericin B, and moderate susceptibility to fluconazole and Itraconazole, which are the commonly used anti-fungal agents for any invasive fungal infections which lead to the re-emergence of this notorious yet neglected pathogen and hence the reports of breakthrough infections among patients receiving these antifungals. This review is to understand the epidemiological, clinical details, and antifungal susceptibility pattern of various Trichosporon infections and it highlights the importance of early detection and treatment for this emerging yeast and also will add to the ongoing surveillance for the anti-fungal susceptibility pattern for this fungus.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vibha Mehta
- Infectious Diseases, Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences, New Delhi, IND
| | - Charu Nayyar
- Clinical Microbiology, Medanta SN Superspeciality Hospital, Sriganganagar, IND
| | - Neelam Gulati
- Clinical Microbiology, Government Medical College & Hospital, Chandigarh, Chandigarh, IND
| | - Nidhi Singla
- Microbiology, Government Medical College & Hospital, Chandigarh, Chandigarh, IND
| | - Sunvir Rai
- Preventive and Social Medicine, Government Medical College, Patiala, Patiala, IND
| | - Jagdish Chandar
- Clinical Microbiology, Government Medical College & Hospital, Chandigarh, Chandigarh, IND
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Padder SA, Ramzan A, Tahir I, Rehman RU, Shah AH. Metabolic flexibility and extensive adaptability governing multiple drug resistance and enhanced virulence in Candida albicans. Crit Rev Microbiol 2021; 48:1-20. [PMID: 34213983 DOI: 10.1080/1040841x.2021.1935447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Commensal fungus-Candida albicans turn pathogenic during the compromised immunity of the host, causing infections ranging from superficial mucosal to dreadful systemic ones. C. albicans has evolved various adaptive measures which collectively contribute towards its enhanced virulence. Among fitness attributes, metabolic flexibility and vigorous stress response are essential for its pathogenicity and virulence. Metabolic flexibility provides a means for nutrient assimilation and growth in diverse host microenvironments and reduces the vulnerability of the pathogen to various antifungals besides evading host immune response(s). Inside the host micro-environments, C. albicans efficiently utilizes the multiple fermentable and non-fermentable carbon sources to sustain and proliferate in glucose deficit conditions. The utilization of alternative carbon sources further highlights the importance of understanding these pathways as the attractive and potential therapeutic target. A thorough understanding of metabolic flexibility and adaptation to environmental stresses is warranted to decipher in-depth insights into virulence and molecular mechanisms of fungal pathogenicity. In this review, we have attempted to provide a detailed and recent understanding of some key aspects of fungal biology. Particular focus will be placed on processes like nutrient assimilation and utilization, metabolic adaptability, virulence factors, and host immune response in C. albicans leading to its enhanced pathogenicity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sajad Ahmad Padder
- Department of Bioresources, School of Biological Sciences, University of Kashmir, Srinagar, India
| | - Asiya Ramzan
- Department of Bioresources, School of Biological Sciences, University of Kashmir, Srinagar, India
| | - Inayatullah Tahir
- Departments of Botany, School of Biological Sciences, University of Kashmir, Srinagar, India
| | - Reiaz Ul Rehman
- Department of Bioresources, School of Biological Sciences, University of Kashmir, Srinagar, India
| | - Abdul Haseeb Shah
- Department of Bioresources, School of Biological Sciences, University of Kashmir, Srinagar, India
| |
Collapse
|