1
|
Feix AS, Tabaie EZ, Singh AN, Wittenberg NJ, Wilson EH, Joachim A. An in-depth exploration of the multifaceted roles of EVs in the context of pathogenic single-cell microorganisms. Microbiol Mol Biol Rev 2024; 88:e0003724. [PMID: 38869292 PMCID: PMC11426017 DOI: 10.1128/mmbr.00037-24] [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: 06/14/2024] Open
Abstract
SUMMARYExtracellular vesicles (EVs) have been recognized throughout scientific communities as potential vehicles of intercellular communication in both eukaryotes and prokaryotes, thereby influencing various physiological and pathological functions of both parent and recipient cells. This review provides an in-depth exploration of the multifaceted roles of EVs in the context of bacteria and protozoan parasite EVs, shedding light on their contributions to physiological processes and disease pathogenesis. These studies highlight EVs as a conserved mechanism of cellular communication, which may lead us to important breakthroughs in our understanding of infection, mechanisms of pathogenesis, and as indicators of disease. Furthermore, EVs are involved in host-microbe interactions, offering insights into the strategies employed by bacteria and protozoan parasites to modulate host responses, evade the immune system, and establish infections.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Sophia Feix
- Institute of Parasitology, Department of Pathobiology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Emily Z. Tabaie
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, University of California, Riverside, California, USA
| | - Aarshi N. Singh
- Department of Chemistry, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, USA
| | | | - Emma H. Wilson
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, University of California, Riverside, California, USA
| | - Anja Joachim
- Institute of Parasitology, Department of Pathobiology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Xu J, Zhao Y, Zhou Y, Dai S, Zhu N, Meng Q, Fan S, Zhao W, Yuan X. Fungal Extracellular Vesicle Proteins with Potential in Biological Interaction. Molecules 2024; 29:4012. [PMID: 39274860 PMCID: PMC11396447 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29174012] [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: 07/17/2024] [Revised: 08/20/2024] [Accepted: 08/22/2024] [Indexed: 09/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are vesicle-like structures composed of lipid bilayers, which can be divided into apoptotic bodies, microbubbles and exosomes. They are nanoparticles used for the exchange of information between cells. EVs contains many substances, including protein. With the development of proteomics, we know more about the types and functions of protein in vesicles. The potential functions of proteins in the envelope are mainly discussed, including cell wall construction, fungal virulence transmission, signal transmission and redox reactions, which provides a new perspective for studying the interaction mechanism between fungi and other organisms. The fungal protein markers of EVs are also summarized, which provided an exploration tool for studying the mechanism of vesicles. In addition, the possible role of immune protein in the EVs in the treatment of human diseases is also discussed, which provides new ideas for vaccine development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jingyan Xu
- College of Life Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, 548 Binwen Road, Binjiang District, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Yujin Zhao
- College of Life Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, 548 Binwen Road, Binjiang District, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Yanguang Zhou
- College of Life Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, 548 Binwen Road, Binjiang District, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Shijie Dai
- College of Life Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, 548 Binwen Road, Binjiang District, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Na Zhu
- College of Life Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, 548 Binwen Road, Binjiang District, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Qingling Meng
- College of Life Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, 548 Binwen Road, Binjiang District, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Sen Fan
- College of Life Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, 548 Binwen Road, Binjiang District, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Weichun Zhao
- College of Life Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, 548 Binwen Road, Binjiang District, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Xiaofeng Yuan
- College of Life Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, 548 Binwen Road, Binjiang District, Hangzhou 310053, China
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Ball B, Sukumaran A, Pladwig S, Kazi S, Chan N, Honeywell E, Modrakova M, Geddes-McAlister J. Proteome signatures reveal homeostatic and adaptive oxidative responses by a putative co-chaperone, Wos2, to influence fungal virulence determinants in cryptococcosis. Microbiol Spectr 2024; 12:e0015224. [PMID: 38953322 PMCID: PMC11302251 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.00152-24] [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: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024] Open
Abstract
The increasing prevalence of invasive fungal pathogens is dramatically changing the clinical landscape of infectious diseases, posing an imminent threat to public health. Specifically, Cryptococcus neoformans, the human opportunistic pathogen, expresses elaborate virulence mechanisms and is equipped with sophisticated adaptation strategies to survive in harsh host environments. This study extensively characterizes Wos2, an Hsp90 co-chaperone homolog, featuring bilateral functioning for both cryptococcal adaptation and the resulting virulence response. In this study, we evaluated the proteome and secretome signatures associated with wos2 deletion in enriched and infection-mimicking conditions to reveal Wos2-dependent regulation of the oxidative stress response through global translational reprogramming. The wos2Δ strain demonstrates defective intracellular and extracellular antioxidant protection systems, measurable through a decreased abundance of critical antioxidant enzymes and reduced growth in the presence of peroxide stress. Additional Wos2-associated stress phenotypes were observed upon fungal challenge with heat shock, osmotic stress, and cell membrane stressors. We demonstrate the importance of Wos2 for intracellular lifestyle of C. neoformans during in vitro macrophage infection and provide evidence for reduced phagosomal replication levels associated with wos2Δ. Accordingly, wos2Δ featured significantly reduced virulence within impacting fungal burden in a murine model of cryptococcosis. Our study highlights a vulnerable point in the fungal chaperone network that offers a therapeutic opportunity to interfere with both fungal virulence and fitness.IMPORTANCEThe global impact of fungal pathogens, both emerging and emerged, is undeniable, and the alarming increase in antifungal resistance rates hampers our ability to protect the global population from deadly infections. For cryptococcal infections, a limited arsenal of antifungals and increasing rates of resistance demand alternative therapeutic strategies, including an anti-virulence approach, which disarms the pathogen of critical virulence factors, empowering the host to remove the pathogens and clear the infection. To this end, we apply state-of-the-art mass spectrometry-based proteomics to evaluate the impact of a recently defined novel co-chaperone, Wos2, toward cryptococcal virulence using in vitro and in vivo models of infection. We explore global proteome and secretome remodeling driven by the protein and uncover the novel role in modulating the fungal oxidative stress response. Complementation of proteome findings with in vitro infectivity assays demonstrated the protective role of Wos2 within the macrophage phagosome, influencing fungal replication and survival. These results underscore differential cryptococcal survivability and weakened patterns of dissemination in the absence of wos2. Overall, our study establishes Wos2 as an important contributor to fungal pathogenesis and warrants further research into critical proteins within global stress response networks as potential druggable targets to reduce fungal virulence and clear infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Brianna Ball
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Arjun Sukumaran
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Samanta Pladwig
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Samiha Kazi
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Norris Chan
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Effie Honeywell
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Manuela Modrakova
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | | |
Collapse
|
4
|
Brown GD, Ballou ER, Bates S, Bignell EM, Borman AM, Brand AC, Brown AJP, Coelho C, Cook PC, Farrer RA, Govender NP, Gow NAR, Hope W, Hoving JC, Dangarembizi R, Harrison TS, Johnson EM, Mukaremera L, Ramsdale M, Thornton CR, Usher J, Warris A, Wilson D. The pathobiology of human fungal infections. Nat Rev Microbiol 2024:10.1038/s41579-024-01062-w. [PMID: 38918447 DOI: 10.1038/s41579-024-01062-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
Human fungal infections are a historically neglected area of disease research, yet they cause more than 1.5 million deaths every year. Our understanding of the pathophysiology of these infections has increased considerably over the past decade, through major insights into both the host and pathogen factors that contribute to the phenotype and severity of these diseases. Recent studies are revealing multiple mechanisms by which fungi modify and manipulate the host, escape immune surveillance and generate complex comorbidities. Although the emergence of fungal strains that are less susceptible to antifungal drugs or that rapidly evolve drug resistance is posing new threats, greater understanding of immune mechanisms and host susceptibility factors is beginning to offer novel immunotherapeutic options for the future. In this Review, we provide a broad and comprehensive overview of the pathobiology of human fungal infections, focusing specifically on pathogens that can cause invasive life-threatening infections, highlighting recent discoveries from the pathogen, host and clinical perspectives. We conclude by discussing key future challenges including antifungal drug resistance, the emergence of new pathogens and new developments in modern medicine that are promoting susceptibility to infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gordon D Brown
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK.
| | - Elizabeth R Ballou
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Steven Bates
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Elaine M Bignell
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Andrew M Borman
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Alexandra C Brand
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Alistair J P Brown
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Carolina Coelho
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Peter C Cook
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Rhys A Farrer
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Nelesh P Govender
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Neil A R Gow
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - William Hope
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - J Claire Hoving
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Rachael Dangarembizi
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Thomas S Harrison
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Elizabeth M Johnson
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Liliane Mukaremera
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Mark Ramsdale
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | | | - Jane Usher
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Adilia Warris
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Duncan Wilson
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Garcia LFC, Wowk PF, Albrecht L. Unraveling the Impact of Extracellular Vesicle-Depleted Serum on Endothelial Cell Characteristics over Time. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4761. [PMID: 38731980 PMCID: PMC11084606 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25094761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2024] [Revised: 04/06/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are produced by all kinds of cells, including endothelial cells. It has been observed that EVs present in fetal bovine serum (FBS), broadly used in cell culture, can be a confounding factor and lead to misinterpretation of results. To investigate this phenomenon, human brain microvascular endothelial cells (HBMECs) were cultured for 2 or 24 h in the presence of EV-depleted FBS (EVdS). Cell death, gene and protein expression, and the presence of EVs isolated from these cells were evaluated. The uptake of EVs, intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1) expression, and monocyte adhesion to endothelial cells exposed to EVs were also evaluated. Our results revealed higher apoptosis rates in cells cultured with EVdS for 2 and 24 h. There was an increase in interleukin 8 (IL8) expression after 2 h and a decrease in interleukin 6 (IL6) and IL8 expression after 24 h of culture. Among the proteins identified in EVs isolated from cells cultured for 2 h (EV2h), several were related to ribosomes and carbon metabolism. EVs from cells cultured for 24 h (EV24h) presented a protein profile associated with cell adhesion and platelet activation. Additionally, HBMECs exhibited increased uptake of EV2h. Treatment of endothelial cells with EV2h resulted in greater ICAM-1 expression and greater adherence to monocytes than did treatment with EV24h. According to our data, HBMEC cultivated with EVdS produce EVs with different physical characteristics and protein levels that vary over time.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Pryscilla Fanini Wowk
- Laboratório de Virologia Molecular, Instituto Carlos Chagas, Fiocruz, Curitiba 81350-010, PR, Brazil;
| | - Letusa Albrecht
- Laboratório de Pesquisa em Apicomplexa, ICC-Fiocruz-PR, Curitiba 81350-010, PR, Brazil;
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Aor AC, Sangenito LS, Mello TP, Joffe LS, Rizzo J, Veiga VF, da Silva RN, Pereira MD, Fonseca BB, Rozental S, Haido RMT, Rodrigues ML, Branquinha MH, Santos ALS. Extracellular Vesicles from Scedosporium apiospermum Mycelial Cells: Implication for Fungal-Host Interplays. J Fungi (Basel) 2024; 10:277. [PMID: 38667948 PMCID: PMC11051067 DOI: 10.3390/jof10040277] [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: 03/08/2024] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/06/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The release of extracellular vesicles (EVs) has been implicated as an alternative transport mechanism for the passage of macromolecules through the fungal cell wall, a phenomenon widely reported in yeasts but poorly explored in mycelial cells. In the present work, we have purified and characterized the EVs released by mycelia of the emerging, opportunistic, widespread and multidrug-resistant filamentous fungus Scedosporium apiospermum. Transmission electron microscopy images and light scattering measurements revealed the fungal EVs, which were observed individually or grouped with heterogeneous morphology, size and electron density. The mean diameter of the EVs, evaluated by the light scattering technique, was 179.7 nm. Overall, the structural stability of S. apiospermum EVs was preserved during incubation under various storage conditions. The lipid, carbohydrate and protein contents were quantified, and the EVs' protein profile was evidenced by SDS-PAGE, revealing proteins with molecular masses ranging from 20 to 118 kDa. Through immunoblotting, ELISA and immunocytochemistry assays, antigenic molecules were evidenced in EVs using a polyclonal serum (called anti-secreted molecules) from a rabbit inoculated with conditioned cell-free supernatant obtained from S. apiospermum mycelial cells. By Western blotting, several antigenic proteins were identified. The ELISA assay confirmed that the anti-secreted molecules exhibited a positive reaction up to a serum dilution of 1:3200. Despite transporting immunogenic molecules, S. apiospermum EVs slightly induced an in vitro cytotoxicity effect after 48 h of contact with either macrophages or lung epithelial cells. Interestingly, the pretreatment of both mammalian cells with purified EVs significantly increased the association index with S. apiospermum conidia. Furthermore, EVs were highly toxic to Galleria mellonella, leading to larval death in a typically dose- and time-dependent manner. Collectively, the results represent the first report of detecting EVs in the S. apiospermum filamentous form, highlighting a possible implication in fungal pathogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ana Carolina Aor
- Departamento de Microbiologia Geral, Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes (IMPG), Centro de Ciências da Saúde (CCS), Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, RJ, Brazil (L.S.J.); (V.F.V.); (M.L.R.); (M.H.B.)
- Departamento de Microbiologia e Parasitologia (MIP), Instituto Biomédico (CMB), Universidade Federal Fluminense (UFF), Niterói 24210-130, RJ, Brazil
| | - Leandro S. Sangenito
- Departamento de Microbiologia Geral, Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes (IMPG), Centro de Ciências da Saúde (CCS), Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, RJ, Brazil (L.S.J.); (V.F.V.); (M.L.R.); (M.H.B.)
- Instituto Federal de Educação, Ciência e Tecnologia do Rio de Janeiro (IFRJ), Campus Nilópolis, Rio de Janeiro 26530-060, RJ, Brazil
| | - Thaís P. Mello
- Departamento de Microbiologia Geral, Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes (IMPG), Centro de Ciências da Saúde (CCS), Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, RJ, Brazil (L.S.J.); (V.F.V.); (M.L.R.); (M.H.B.)
| | - Luna S. Joffe
- Departamento de Microbiologia Geral, Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes (IMPG), Centro de Ciências da Saúde (CCS), Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, RJ, Brazil (L.S.J.); (V.F.V.); (M.L.R.); (M.H.B.)
| | - Juliana Rizzo
- Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho (IBCCF), Centro de Ciências da Saúde (CCS), Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro 21941-170, RJ, Brazil (S.R.)
| | - Venício F. Veiga
- Departamento de Microbiologia Geral, Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes (IMPG), Centro de Ciências da Saúde (CCS), Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, RJ, Brazil (L.S.J.); (V.F.V.); (M.L.R.); (M.H.B.)
| | - Renata N. da Silva
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro 21941-909, RJ, Brazil; (R.N.d.S.); (M.D.P.)
| | - Marcos D. Pereira
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro 21941-909, RJ, Brazil; (R.N.d.S.); (M.D.P.)
- Rede Micologia RJ—Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado do Rio de Janeiro (FAPERJ), Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, RJ, Brazil
| | - Beatriz B. Fonseca
- Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho (IBCCF), Centro de Ciências da Saúde (CCS), Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro 21941-170, RJ, Brazil (S.R.)
| | - Sonia Rozental
- Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho (IBCCF), Centro de Ciências da Saúde (CCS), Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro 21941-170, RJ, Brazil (S.R.)
| | - Rosa Maria T. Haido
- Departamento de Microbiologia e Parasitologia, Instituto Biomédico, Universidade Federal do Estado do Rio de Janeiro (UNIRIO), Rio de Janeiro 20211-010, RJ, Brazil;
| | - Marcio L. Rodrigues
- Departamento de Microbiologia Geral, Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes (IMPG), Centro de Ciências da Saúde (CCS), Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, RJ, Brazil (L.S.J.); (V.F.V.); (M.L.R.); (M.H.B.)
- Instituto Carlos Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (Fiocruz), Curitiba 81310-020, PR, Brazil
| | - Marta H. Branquinha
- Departamento de Microbiologia Geral, Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes (IMPG), Centro de Ciências da Saúde (CCS), Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, RJ, Brazil (L.S.J.); (V.F.V.); (M.L.R.); (M.H.B.)
- Rede Micologia RJ—Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado do Rio de Janeiro (FAPERJ), Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, RJ, Brazil
| | - André L. S. Santos
- Departamento de Microbiologia Geral, Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes (IMPG), Centro de Ciências da Saúde (CCS), Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, RJ, Brazil (L.S.J.); (V.F.V.); (M.L.R.); (M.H.B.)
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro 21941-909, RJ, Brazil; (R.N.d.S.); (M.D.P.)
- Rede Micologia RJ—Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado do Rio de Janeiro (FAPERJ), Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, RJ, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Castelli RF, Pereira A, Honorato L, Valdez A, de Oliveira HC, Bazioli JM, Garcia AWA, Klimeck TDF, Reis FCG, Camillo-Andrade AC, Santos MDM, Carvalho PC, Zaragoza O, Staats CC, Nimrichter L, Fill TP, Rodrigues ML. Corrected and republished from: "Extracellular Vesicle Formation in Cryptococcus deuterogattii Impacts Fungal Virulence". Infect Immun 2024; 92:e0003724. [PMID: 38470135 PMCID: PMC11003230 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00037-24] [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: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Small molecules are components of fungal extracellular vesicles (EVs), but their biological roles are only superficially known. NOP16 is a eukaryotic gene that is required for the activity of benzimidazoles against Cryptococcus deuterogattii. In this study, during the phenotypic characterization of C. deuterogattii mutants expected to lack NOP16 expression, we observed a reduced EV production. Whole-genome sequencing, RNA-Seq, and cellular proteomics revealed that, contrary to our initial findings, these mutants expressed Nop16 but exhibited altered expression of 14 genes potentially involved in sugar transport. Based on this observation, we designated these mutant strains as Past1 and Past2, representing potentially altered sugar transport. Analysis of the small molecule composition of EVs produced by wild-type cells and the Past1 and Past2 mutant strains revealed not only a reduced number of EVs but also an altered small molecule composition. In a Galleria mellonella model of infection, the Past1 and Past2 mutant strains were hypovirulent. The hypovirulent phenotype was reverted when EVs produced by wild-type cells, but not mutant EVs, were co-injected with the mutant cells in G. mellonella. These results connect EV biogenesis, cargo, and cryptococcal virulence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rafael F. Castelli
- Instituto Carlos Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (Fiocruz), Curitiba, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biologia Parasitária, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Alana Pereira
- Instituto de Química, Universidade de Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Leandro Honorato
- Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes (IMPG), Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Alessandro Valdez
- Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes (IMPG), Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | | | - Jaqueline M. Bazioli
- Instituto de Química, Universidade de Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, State University of Campinas, Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ane W. A. Garcia
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Biologia Celular e Molecular, Centro de Biotecnologia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | | | - Flavia C. G. Reis
- Instituto Carlos Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (Fiocruz), Curitiba, Brazil
- Centro de Desenvolvimento Tecnológico em Saúde (CDTS), Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | | | - Marlon D. M. Santos
- Instituto Carlos Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (Fiocruz), Curitiba, Brazil
- Analytical Biochemistry and Proteomics Unit. IIBCE/Institut Pasteur de Montevideo, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Paulo C. Carvalho
- Instituto Carlos Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (Fiocruz), Curitiba, Brazil
| | - Oscar Zaragoza
- Mycology Reference Laboratory. National Centre for Microbiology. Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- Center for Biomedical Research in Network in Infectious Diseases, CB21/13/00105, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Charley C. Staats
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Biologia Celular e Molecular, Centro de Biotecnologia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Leonardo Nimrichter
- Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes (IMPG), Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Taícia P. Fill
- Instituto de Química, Universidade de Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Marcio L. Rodrigues
- Instituto Carlos Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (Fiocruz), Curitiba, Brazil
- Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes (IMPG), Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Hazan Ben-Menachem R, Pines O, Saada A. Mitochondrial derived vesicles- Quo Vadis? FEBS J 2024. [PMID: 38414203 DOI: 10.1111/febs.17103] [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: 11/22/2023] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
Mitochondria are dynamic, intracellular organelles with a separate genome originating from prokaryotes. They perform numerous functions essential for cellular metabolism and energy production. Mitochondrial-derived vesicles (MDVs) are single or double membrane-enclosed vesicles, formed and released from the mitochondrial sub-compartments into the cytosol, in response to various triggers. MDVs interact with other organelles such as lysosomes and peroxisomes or may be incorporated and excreted via extracellular vesicles (EVs). MDVs selectively incorporate diverse protein and lipid cargoes and are involved in various functions such as mitochondrial quality control, immunomodulation, energy complementation, and compartmentalization and transport. This review aims to provide a summary of the current knowledge of MDVs biogenesis, release, cargoes, and roles.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Reut Hazan Ben-Menachem
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, IMRIC, Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Ophry Pines
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, IMRIC, Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Ann Saada
- Department of Genetics, Hadassah Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
- Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences Hadassah Academic College, Jerusalem, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Sayson SG, Ashbaugh A, Cushion MT. Extracellular vesicles from Pneumocystis carinii-infected rats impair fungal viability but are dispensable for macrophage functions. Microbiol Spectr 2024; 12:e0365323. [PMID: 38236033 PMCID: PMC10845964 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.03653-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Pneumocystis spp. are host obligate fungal pathogens that can cause severe pneumonia in mammals and rely heavily on their host for essential nutrients. The lack of a sustainable in vitro culture system poses challenges in understanding their metabolism, and the acquisition of essential nutrients from host lungs remains unexplored. Transmission electron micrographs show that extracellular vesicles (EVs) are found near Pneumocystis spp. within the lung. We hypothesized that EVs transport essential nutrients to the fungi during infection. To investigate this, EVs from P. carinii- and P. murina-infected rodents were biochemically and functionally characterized. These EVs contained host proteins involved in cellular, metabolic, and immune processes as well as proteins with homologs found in other fungal EV proteomes, indicating that Pneumocystis may release EVs. Notably, EV uptake by P. carinii indicated their potential involvement in nutrient acquisition and a possibility for using engineered EVs for efficient therapeutic delivery. However, EVs added to P. carinii in vitro did not show increased growth or viability, implying that additional nutrients or factors are necessary to support their metabolic requirements. Exposure of macrophages to EVs increased proinflammatory cytokine levels but did not affect macrophages' ability to kill or phagocytose P. carinii. These findings provide vital insights into P. carinii and host EV interactions, yet the mechanisms underlying P. carinii's survival in the lung remain uncertain. These studies are the first to isolate, characterize, and functionally assess EVs from Pneumocystis-infected rodents, promising to enhance our understanding of host-pathogen dynamics and therapeutic potential.IMPORTANCEPneumocystis spp. are fungal pathogens that can cause severe pneumonia in mammals, relying heavily on the host for essential nutrients. The absence of an in vitro culture system poses challenges in understanding their metabolism, and the acquisition of vital nutrients from host lungs remains unexplored. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are found near Pneumocystis spp., and it is hypothesized that these vesicles transport nutrients to the pathogenic fungi. Pneumocystis proteins within the EVs showed homology to other fungal EV proteomes, suggesting that Pneumocystis spp. release EVs. While EVs did not significantly enhance P. carinii growth in vitro, P. carinii displayed active uptake of these vesicles. Moreover, EVs induced proinflammatory cytokine production in macrophages without compromising their ability to combat P. carinii. These findings provide valuable insights into EV dynamics during host-pathogen interactions in Pneumocystis pneumonia. However, the precise underlying mechanisms remain uncertain. This research also raises the potential for engineered EVs in therapeutic applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Steven G. Sayson
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
- The Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Alan Ashbaugh
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
- The Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Melanie T. Cushion
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
- The Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Zhao M, He S, Wen R, Li C, Chen X, Lin X, Wang H, Tang Y. Membrane vesicles derived from Enterococcus faecalis promote the co-transfer of important antibiotic resistance genes located on both plasmids and chromosomes. J Antimicrob Chemother 2024; 79:320-326. [PMID: 38109479 DOI: 10.1093/jac/dkad381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bacterial membrane vesicles (BMVs) are novel vehicles of antibiotic resistance gene (ARG) transfer in Gram-negative bacteria, but their role in the spread of ARGs in Gram-positive bacteria has not been defined. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the role of MVs in the transmission of antimicrobial resistance in Gram-positive bacteria. METHODS A linezolid-resistant Enterococcus faecalis CQ20 of swine origin was selected as the donor strain. Linezolid-susceptible E. faecalis SC032 of human origin, Enterococcus faecium BM4105 and Escherichia coli were selected as recipient strains. The presence of plasmids (pCQ20-1 and pCQ20-2) and an optrA-carrying transposon Tn6674 in CQ20, MVs and vesiculants was verified by WGS or PCR. MVs were isolated with density gradient centrifugation, and MV-mediated transformation was performed to assess the horizontal transferability of MVs. The MICs for CQ20 and its vesiculants were determined by the broth microdilution method. RESULTS CQ20-derived MVs (CQ20-MV) were isolated, and PCR identified the presence of two plasmids and the optrA gene in the CQ20-MVs. MV-mediated transformation to E. faecalis SC032 and E. faecium BM4105 was successfully performed, and the WGS data also showed that both plasmids pCQ20-1 and pCQ20-2 and optrA-carrying transposon Tn6674 were transferred to E. faecalis SC032 and E. faecium BM4105, but failed for E. coli. Additionally, vesiculants that had acquired ARGs still had the ability to spread these genes via MVs. CONCLUSIONS To our knowledge, this is the first report of MV-mediated co-transfer of ARG-carrying plasmids and transposons in the Gram-positive bacterium E. faecium.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mengyu Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Bio-Resource and Eco-Environment of Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Animal Disease Prevention and Food Safety Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, College of Life Science, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Shuang He
- Key Laboratory of Bio-Resource and Eco-Environment of Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Animal Disease Prevention and Food Safety Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, College of Life Science, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Renqiao Wen
- Key Laboratory of Bio-Resource and Eco-Environment of Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Animal Disease Prevention and Food Safety Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, College of Life Science, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Chao Li
- Key Laboratory of Bio-Resource and Eco-Environment of Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Animal Disease Prevention and Food Safety Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, College of Life Science, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xinggui Chen
- Key Laboratory of Bio-Resource and Eco-Environment of Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Animal Disease Prevention and Food Safety Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, College of Life Science, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiaolong Lin
- Key Laboratory of Bio-Resource and Eco-Environment of Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Animal Disease Prevention and Food Safety Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, College of Life Science, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Hongning Wang
- Key Laboratory of Bio-Resource and Eco-Environment of Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Animal Disease Prevention and Food Safety Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, College of Life Science, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yizhi Tang
- Key Laboratory of Bio-Resource and Eco-Environment of Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Animal Disease Prevention and Food Safety Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, College of Life Science, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Aloi N, Drago G, Ruggieri S, Cibella F, Colombo P, Longo V. Extracellular Vesicles and Immunity: At the Crossroads of Cell Communication. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1205. [PMID: 38256278 PMCID: PMC10816988 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25021205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2023] [Revised: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs), comprising exosomes and microvesicles, are small membranous structures secreted by nearly all cell types. They have emerged as crucial mediators in intercellular communication, playing pivotal roles in diverse physiological and pathological processes, notably within the realm of immunity. These roles go beyond mere cellular interactions, as extracellular vesicles stand as versatile and dynamic components of immune regulation, impacting both innate and adaptive immunity. Their multifaceted involvement includes immune cell activation, antigen presentation, and immunomodulation, emphasising their significance in maintaining immune homeostasis and contributing to the pathogenesis of immune-related disorders. Extracellular vesicles participate in immunomodulation by delivering a wide array of bioactive molecules, including proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids, thereby influencing gene expression in target cells. This manuscript presents a comprehensive review that encompasses in vitro and in vivo studies aimed at elucidating the mechanisms through which EVs modulate human immunity. Understanding the intricate interplay between extracellular vesicles and immunity is imperative for unveiling novel therapeutic targets and diagnostic tools applicable to various immunological disorders, including autoimmune diseases, infectious diseases, and cancer. Furthermore, recognising the potential of EVs as versatile drug delivery vehicles holds significant promise for the future of immunotherapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Paolo Colombo
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council of Italy (IRIB-CNR), Via Ugo La Malfa 153, 90146 Palermo, Italy; (N.A.); (G.D.); (S.R.); (F.C.); (V.L.)
| | | |
Collapse
|
12
|
Conn BN, Lieberman JA, Chatman P, Cotton K, Essandoh MA, Ebqa’ai M, Nelson TL, Wozniak KL. Antifungal activity of eumelanin-inspired indoylenepheyleneethynylene against Cryptococcus neoformans. Front Microbiol 2024; 14:1339303. [PMID: 38293553 PMCID: PMC10826398 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1339303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Cryptococcus neoformans is an opportunistic fungal pathogen that causes meningitis in >152,000 immunocompromised individuals annually, leading to 112,000 yearly deaths. The four classes of existing antifungal agents target plasma membrane sterols (ergosterol), nucleic acid synthesis, and cell wall synthesis. Existing drugs are not highly effective against Cryptococcus, and antifungal drug resistance is an increasing problem. A novel antimicrobial compound, a eumelanin-inspired indoylenepheyleneethynylene, EIPE-1, was synthesized and has antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive bacteria, including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MSRA), but not towards Gram-negative organisms. Based on EIPE-1's antibacterial activity, we hypothesized that EIPE-1 could have antifungal activity. For these studies, we tested EIPE-1 against C. neoformans strain H99 and 6 additional cryptococcal clinical isolates. We examined antifungal activity, cytotoxicity, effects on fungal gene expression, and mechanism of action of EIPE-1. Results showed that EIPE-1 has fungicidal effects on seven cryptococcal strains with MICs ranging from 1.56 to 3.125 μg/mL depending on the strain, and it is non-toxic to mammalian cells. We conducted scanning and transmission electron microscopy on the exposed cells to examine structural changes to the organism following EIPE-1 treatment. Cells exposed displayed structural changes to their cell wall and membranes, with internal contents leaking out of the cells. To understand the effect of EIPE-1 on fungal gene expression, RNA sequencing was conducted. Results showed that EIPE-1 affects several processes involved stress response, ergosterol biosynthesis, capsule biosynthesis, and cell wall attachment and remodeling. Therefore, our studies demonstrate that EIPE-1 has antifungal activity against C. neoformans, which affects both cellular structure and gene expression of multiple fungal pathways involved in cell membrane stability and viability.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Brittney N. Conn
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, United States
| | - Jacob A. Lieberman
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, United States
| | - Priscilla Chatman
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, United States
| | - Kaitlyn Cotton
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, United States
| | - Martha A. Essandoh
- Department of Chemistry, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, United States
| | - Mohammad Ebqa’ai
- Department of Chemistry, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, United States
| | - Toby L. Nelson
- Department of Chemistry, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, United States
| | - Karen L. Wozniak
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, United States
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Albuquerque P, de Sousa HR, de Oliveira Frazão S, do Nascimento Miranda LV, Paes HC, Pereira IS, Nicola AM. Measuring Laccase Activity and Melanin Production in Cryptococcus neoformans. Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2775:257-268. [PMID: 38758323 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3722-7_17] [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
Melanin is a complex dark pigment synthetized by the phenoloxidase enzyme laccase in Cryptococcus neoformans. In vitro, this enzyme oxidizes exogenous catecholamines to produce melanin that may be secreted or incorporated into the fungal cell wall. This pigment has multiple roles in C. neoformans virulence during its interaction with different hosts and probably also in protecting fungal cells in the environment against predation and oxidative and radiation stresses, among others. However, it is important to note that laccase also has melanin-independent roles in C. neoformans interactions with host cells. In this chapter, we describe a quantitative laccase assay and a method for evaluating the kinetics of melanin production in C. neoformans colonies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Hugo Costa Paes
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Brasília, Brasília, DF, Brazil
| | - Ildinete Silva Pereira
- Institute of Biology, Department of Cell Biology, University of Brasília, Brasília, DF, Brazil
| | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Hommel B, Sturny-Leclère A, Alanio A. In Vitro Titan Cell Generation in Cryptococcus neoformans and Automated Cell Size Measurements. Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2775:385-391. [PMID: 38758332 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3722-7_26] [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
A special feature of the human fungal pathogen Cryptococcus neoformans is its morphological changes triggered by the interaction with the host. During infection, a specific increase in cell size is observed, particularly in lung tissue, from a typical cell size of 5-7 μm cells to cells larger than 10 μm, dubbed titan cells (TCs). However, the study of this specific cell subpopulation was, until now, only possible via recovery of TCs from lungs of mice during experimental infections where stable and reproducible generation of TCs occurs.The protocol described here generates TCs using in vitro conditions and measures cell size using a rapid, automated method. TC generation in vitro is robust and reproducible, generating yeast cells harboring the same characteristics of TCs generated in vivo.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Hommel
- Translational Mycology Research Group, Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, Centre National de Référence Mycoses Invasives et Antifongiques, Département de Mycologie, Paris, France
| | - Aude Sturny-Leclère
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité,National Reference Center for Invasive Mycoses and Antifungals, Paris, France
| | - Alexandre Alanio
- Translational Mycology Research Group, Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, Centre National de Référence Mycoses Invasives et Antifongiques, Département de Mycologie, Paris, France.
- Laboratoire de parasitologie-mycologie, AP-HP, Hôpital Saint-Louis, Paris, France.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Rodrigues ML, May RC, Janbon G. The multiple frontiers in the study of extracellular vesicles produced by fungi. Microbes Infect 2024; 26:105233. [PMID: 37805124 DOI: 10.1016/j.micinf.2023.105233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/09/2023]
Abstract
The production of extracellular vesicles (EVs) by fungi has been recognized for about a decade. Here we discuss the roles played by fungal EVs in biofilm formation, antifungal resistance, and release of immunogens with vaccine potential. We also explore their significance in promoting international collaboration and understanding of fungal biology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marcio L Rodrigues
- Carlos Chagas Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Curitiba, PR, 81310-020, Brazil; Microbiology Institute, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
| | - Robin C May
- Institute of Microbiology & Infection and School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, United Kingdom.
| | - Guilhem Janbon
- Unité Biologie des ARN des Pathogènes Fongiques, Département de Mycologie, Institut Pasteur, Université de Paris Cité, F-75015 Paris, France.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Teymouri S, Pourhajibagher M, Bahador A. Exosomes: Friends or Foes in Microbial Infections? Infect Disord Drug Targets 2024; 24:e170124225730. [PMID: 38317472 DOI: 10.2174/0118715265264388231128045954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Revised: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
The use of new approaches is necessary to address the global issue of infections caused by drug-resistant pathogens. Antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) is a promising approach that reduces the emergence of drug resistance, and no resistance has been reported thus far. APDT involves using a photosensitizer (PS), a light source, and oxygen. The mechanism of aPDT is that a specific wavelength of light is directed at the PS in the presence of oxygen, which activates the PS and generates reactive oxygen species (ROS), consequently causing damage to microbial cells. However, due to the PS's poor stability, low solubility in water, and limited bioavailability, it is necessary to employ drug delivery platforms to enhance the effectiveness of PS in photodynamic therapy (PDT). Exosomes are considered a desirable carrier for PS due to their specific characteristics, such as low immunogenicity, innate stability, and high ability to penetrate cells, making them a promising platform for drug delivery. Additionally, exosomes also possess antimicrobial properties, although in some cases, they may enhance microbial pathogenicity. As there are limited studies on the use of exosomes for drug delivery in microbial infections, this review aims to present significant points that can provide accurate insights.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samane Teymouri
- Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Pourhajibagher
- Dental Research Center, Dentistry Research Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Abbas Bahador
- Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Fellowship in Clinical Laboratory Sciences, BioHealth Lab, Tehran, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Yu CK, Stephenson CJ, Villamor TC, Dyba TG, Schulz BL, Fraser JA. SAGA Complex Subunit Hfi1 Is Important in the Stress Response and Pathogenesis of Cryptococcus neoformans. J Fungi (Basel) 2023; 9:1198. [PMID: 38132798 PMCID: PMC10744473 DOI: 10.3390/jof9121198] [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: 10/27/2023] [Revised: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/09/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
The Spt-Ada-Gcn Acetyltransferase (SAGA) complex is a highly conserved co-activator found across eukaryotes. It is composed of a number of modules which can vary between species, but all contain the core module. Hfi1 (known as TADA1 in Homo sapiens) is one of the proteins that forms the core module, and has been shown to play an important role in maintaining complex structural integrity in both brewer's yeast and humans. In this study we successfully identified the gene encoding this protein in the important fungal pathogen, Cryptococcus neoformans, and named it HFI1. The hfi1Δ mutant is highly pleiotropic in vitro, influencing phenotypes, ranging from temperature sensitivity and melanin production to caffeine resistance and titan cell morphogenesis. In the absence of Hfi1, the transcription of several other SAGA genes is impacted, as is the acetylation and deubiquination of several histone residues. Importantly, loss of the gene significantly impacts virulence in a murine inhalation model of cryptococcosis. In summary, we have established that Hfi1 modulates multiple pathways that directly affect virulence and survival in C. neoformans, and provided deeper insight into the importance of the non-enzymatic components of the SAGA complex.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - James A. Fraser
- School of Chemistry & Molecular Biosciences, Australian Infectious Diseases Research Centre, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia; (C.K.Y.); (C.J.S.); (T.C.V.); (T.G.D.); (B.L.S.)
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
A J, S S S, K S, T S M. Extracellular vesicles in bacterial and fungal diseases - Pathogenesis to diagnostic biomarkers. Virulence 2023; 14:2180934. [PMID: 36794396 PMCID: PMC10012962 DOI: 10.1080/21505594.2023.2180934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Intercellular communication among microbes plays an important role in disease exacerbation. Recent advances have described small vesicles, termed as "extracellular vesicles" (EVs), previously disregarded as "cellular dust" to be vital in the intracellular and intercellular communication in host-microbe interactions. These signals have been known to initiate host damage and transfer of a variety of cargo including proteins, lipid particles, DNA, mRNA, and miRNAs. Microbial EVs, referred to generally as "membrane vesicles" (MVs), play a key role in disease exacerbation suggesting their importance in pathogenicity. Host EVs help coordinate antimicrobial responses and prime the immune cells for pathogen attack. Hence EVs with their central role in microbe-host communication, may serve as important diagnostic biomarkers of microbial pathogenesis. In this review, we summarize current research regarding the roles of EVs as markers of microbial pathogenesis with specific focus on their interaction with host immune defence and their potential as diagnostic biomarkers in disease conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jnana A
- Department of Biotechnology, Manipal School of Life Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - Sadiya S S
- Department of Biotechnology, Manipal School of Life Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - Satyamoorthy K
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Manipal School of Life Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - Murali T S
- Department of Biotechnology, Manipal School of Life Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Moonjely S, Ebert M, Paton-Glassbrook D, Noel ZA, Roze L, Shay R, Watkins T, Trail F. Update on the state of research to manage Fusarium head blight. Fungal Genet Biol 2023; 169:103829. [PMID: 37666446 DOI: 10.1016/j.fgb.2023.103829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Revised: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023]
Abstract
Fusarium head blight (FHB) is one of the most devastating diseases of cereal crops, causing severe reduction in yield and quality of grain worldwide. In the United States, the major causal agent of FHB is the mycotoxigenic fungus, Fusarium graminearum. The contamination of grain with mycotoxins, including deoxynivalenol and zearalenone, is a particularly serious concern due to its impact on the health of humans and livestock. For the past few decades, multidisciplinary studies have been conducted on management strategies designed to reduce the losses caused by FHB. However, effective management is still challenging due to the emergence of fungicide-tolerant strains of F. graminearum and the lack of highly resistant wheat and barley cultivars. This review presents multidisciplinary approaches that incorporate advances in genomics, genetic-engineering, new fungicide chemistries, applied biocontrol, and consideration of the disease cycle for management of FHB.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Soumya Moonjely
- Department of Plant Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48823, USA
| | - Malaika Ebert
- Department of Plant Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48823, USA
| | - Drew Paton-Glassbrook
- Department of Plant Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48823, USA; Department of Plant, Soil and Microbial Sciences, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48823, USA
| | - Zachary A Noel
- Department of Plant Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48823, USA
| | - Ludmila Roze
- Department of Plant Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48823, USA
| | - Rebecca Shay
- Department of Plant Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48823, USA
| | - Tara Watkins
- Department of Plant Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48823, USA; Department of Plant, Soil and Microbial Sciences, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48823, USA
| | - Frances Trail
- Department of Plant Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48823, USA; Department of Plant, Soil and Microbial Sciences, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48823, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Cruz-Leite VRM, Moreira ALE, Silva LOS, Inácio MM, Parente-Rocha JA, Ruiz OH, Weber SS, Soares CMDA, Borges CL. Proteomics of Paracoccidioides lutzii: Overview of Changes Triggered by Nitrogen Catabolite Repression. J Fungi (Basel) 2023; 9:1102. [PMID: 37998907 PMCID: PMC10672198 DOI: 10.3390/jof9111102] [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: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Members of the Paracoccidioides complex are the causative agents of Paracoccidioidomycosis (PCM), a human systemic mycosis endemic in Latin America. Upon initial contact with the host, the pathogen needs to uptake micronutrients. Nitrogen is an essential source for biosynthetic pathways. Adaptation to nutritional stress is a key feature of fungi in host tissues. Fungi utilize nitrogen sources through Nitrogen Catabolite Repression (NCR). NCR ensures the scavenging, uptake and catabolism of alternative nitrogen sources, when preferential ones, such as glutamine or ammonium, are unavailable. The NanoUPLC-MSE proteomic approach was used to investigate the NCR response of Paracoccidioides lutzii after growth on proline or glutamine as a nitrogen source. A total of 338 differentially expressed proteins were identified. P. lutzii demonstrated that gluconeogenesis, β-oxidation, glyoxylate cycle, adhesin-like proteins, stress response and cell wall remodeling were triggered in NCR-proline conditions. In addition, within macrophages, yeast cells trained under NCR-proline conditions showed an increased ability to survive. In general, this study allows a comprehensive understanding of the NCR response employed by the fungus to overcome nutritional starvation, which in the human host is represented by nutritional immunity. In turn, the pathogen requires rapid adaptation to the changing microenvironment induced by macrophages to achieve successful infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa Rafaela Milhomem Cruz-Leite
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences II, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia 74690-900, GO, Brazil; (A.L.E.M.); (L.O.S.S.); (M.M.I.); (J.A.P.-R.); (C.M.d.A.S.)
| | - André Luís Elias Moreira
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences II, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia 74690-900, GO, Brazil; (A.L.E.M.); (L.O.S.S.); (M.M.I.); (J.A.P.-R.); (C.M.d.A.S.)
| | - Lana O’Hara Souza Silva
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences II, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia 74690-900, GO, Brazil; (A.L.E.M.); (L.O.S.S.); (M.M.I.); (J.A.P.-R.); (C.M.d.A.S.)
| | - Moises Morais Inácio
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences II, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia 74690-900, GO, Brazil; (A.L.E.M.); (L.O.S.S.); (M.M.I.); (J.A.P.-R.); (C.M.d.A.S.)
- Estácio de Goiás University Center—FESGO, Goiânia 74063-010, GO, Brazil
| | - Juliana Alves Parente-Rocha
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences II, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia 74690-900, GO, Brazil; (A.L.E.M.); (L.O.S.S.); (M.M.I.); (J.A.P.-R.); (C.M.d.A.S.)
| | - Orville Hernandez Ruiz
- MICROBA Research Group, Cellular and Molecular Biology Unit, Department of Microbiology, School of Microbiology, University of Antioquia, Medellín 050010, Colombia;
| | - Simone Schneider Weber
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Food and Nutrition, Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul, Campo Grande 79304-902, MS, Brazil;
| | - Célia Maria de Almeida Soares
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences II, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia 74690-900, GO, Brazil; (A.L.E.M.); (L.O.S.S.); (M.M.I.); (J.A.P.-R.); (C.M.d.A.S.)
| | - Clayton Luiz Borges
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences II, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia 74690-900, GO, Brazil; (A.L.E.M.); (L.O.S.S.); (M.M.I.); (J.A.P.-R.); (C.M.d.A.S.)
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Hicks E, Rogers NMK, Hendren CO, Kuehn MJ, Wiesner MR. Extracellular Vesicles and Bacteriophages: New Directions in Environmental Biocolloid Research. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2023; 57:16728-16742. [PMID: 37898880 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c05041] [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] [Indexed: 10/31/2023]
Abstract
There is a long-standing appreciation among environmental engineers and scientists regarding the importance of biologically derived colloidal particles and their environmental fate. This interest has been recently renewed in considering bacteriophages and extracellular vesicles, which are each poised to offer engineers unique insights into fundamental aspects of environmental microbiology and novel approaches for engineering applications, including advances in wastewater treatment and sustainable agricultural practices. Challenges persist due to our limited understanding of interactions between these nanoscale particles with unique surface properties and their local environments. This review considers these biological particles through the lens of colloid science with attention given to their environmental impact and surface properties. We discuss methods developed for the study of inert (nonbiological) particle-particle interactions and the potential to use these to advance our understanding of the environmental fate and transport of extracellular vesicles and bacteriophages.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ethan Hicks
- Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina 27708, United States
- Center for the Environmental Implications of Nanotechnology, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina 27708, United States
| | - Nicholas M K Rogers
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Porter School of Earth and Environmental Studies, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Christine Ogilvie Hendren
- Center for the Environmental Implications of Nanotechnology, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina 27708, United States
- Research Institute for Environment, Energy and Economics, Appalachian State University, Boone, North Carolina 28608, United States
| | - Meta J Kuehn
- Department of Biochemistry, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina 27710, United States
| | - Mark R Wiesner
- Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina 27708, United States
- Center for the Environmental Implications of Nanotechnology, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina 27708, United States
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Valdez AF, de Souza TN, Bonilla JJA, Zamith-Miranda D, Piffer AC, Araujo GRS, Guimarães AJ, Frases S, Pereira AK, Fill TP, Estevao IL, Torres A, Almeida IC, Nosanchuk JD, Nimrichter L. Traversing the Cell Wall: The Chitinolytic Activity of Histoplasma capsulatum Extracellular Vesicles Facilitates Their Release. J Fungi (Basel) 2023; 9:1052. [PMID: 37998859 PMCID: PMC10672645 DOI: 10.3390/jof9111052] [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: 09/19/2023] [Revised: 10/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Histoplasma capsulatum is the causative agent of histoplasmosis. Treating this fungal infection conventionally has significant limitations, prompting the search for alternative therapies. In this context, fungal extracellular vesicles (EVs) hold relevant potential as both therapeutic agents and targets for the treatment of fungal infections. To explore this further, we conducted a study using pharmacological inhibitors of chitinase (methylxanthines) to investigate their potential to reduce EV release and its subsequent impact on fungal virulence in an in vivo invertebrate model. Our findings revealed that a subinhibitory concentration of the methylxanthine, caffeine, effectively reduces EV release, leading to a modulation of H. capsulatum virulence. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first reported instance of a pharmacological inhibitor that reduces fungal EV release without any observed fungicidal effects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro F. Valdez
- Departamento de Microbiologia Geral, Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, RJ, Brazil; (A.F.V.); (T.N.d.S.); (J.J.A.B.); (A.C.P.)
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA;
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
| | - Taiane Nascimento de Souza
- Departamento de Microbiologia Geral, Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, RJ, Brazil; (A.F.V.); (T.N.d.S.); (J.J.A.B.); (A.C.P.)
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
| | - Jhon Jhamilton Artunduaga Bonilla
- Departamento de Microbiologia Geral, Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, RJ, Brazil; (A.F.V.); (T.N.d.S.); (J.J.A.B.); (A.C.P.)
| | - Daniel Zamith-Miranda
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA;
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
| | - Alicia Corbellini Piffer
- Departamento de Microbiologia Geral, Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, RJ, Brazil; (A.F.V.); (T.N.d.S.); (J.J.A.B.); (A.C.P.)
- Unité Biologie des ARN des Pathogènes Fongiques, Départament de Mycologie, Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, F-75015 Paris, France
| | - Glauber R. S. Araujo
- Laboratório de Biofísica de Fungos, Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, RJ, Brazil; (G.R.S.A.); (S.F.)
| | - Allan J. Guimarães
- Instituto Biomédico, Departamento de Microbiologia e Parasitologia—MIP, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói 24210-130, RJ, Brazil;
- Rede Micologia, RJ, FAPERJ, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, RJ, Brazil
| | - Susana Frases
- Laboratório de Biofísica de Fungos, Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, RJ, Brazil; (G.R.S.A.); (S.F.)
- Rede Micologia, RJ, FAPERJ, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, RJ, Brazil
| | - Alana Kelyene Pereira
- Instituto de Química, Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Campinas, São Paulo 13083-970, SP, Brazil; (A.K.P.); (T.P.F.)
| | - Taicia Pacheco Fill
- Instituto de Química, Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Campinas, São Paulo 13083-970, SP, Brazil; (A.K.P.); (T.P.F.)
| | - Igor L. Estevao
- Department of Biological Sciences, Border Biomedical Research Center, University of Texas El Paso, El Paso, TX 79902, USA; (I.L.E.); (A.T.); (I.C.A.)
| | - Angel Torres
- Department of Biological Sciences, Border Biomedical Research Center, University of Texas El Paso, El Paso, TX 79902, USA; (I.L.E.); (A.T.); (I.C.A.)
| | - Igor C. Almeida
- Department of Biological Sciences, Border Biomedical Research Center, University of Texas El Paso, El Paso, TX 79902, USA; (I.L.E.); (A.T.); (I.C.A.)
| | - Joshua D. Nosanchuk
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA;
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
| | - Leonardo Nimrichter
- Departamento de Microbiologia Geral, Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, RJ, Brazil; (A.F.V.); (T.N.d.S.); (J.J.A.B.); (A.C.P.)
- Rede Micologia, RJ, FAPERJ, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, RJ, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Nenciarini S, Cavalieri D. Immunomodulatory Potential of Fungal Extracellular Vesicles: Insights for Therapeutic Applications. Biomolecules 2023; 13:1487. [PMID: 37892168 PMCID: PMC10605264 DOI: 10.3390/biom13101487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Revised: 09/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are membranous vesicular organelles that perform a variety of biological functions including cell communication across different biological kingdoms. EVs of mammals and, to a lesser extent, bacteria have been deeply studied over the years, whereas investigations of fungal EVs are still in their infancy. Fungi, encompassing both yeast and filamentous forms, are increasingly recognized for their production of extracellular vesicles (EVs) containing a wealth of proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids. These EVs play pivotal roles in orchestrating fungal communities, bolstering pathogenicity, and mediating interactions with the environment. Fungal EVs have emerged as promising candidates for innovative applications, not only in the management of mycoses but also as carriers for therapeutic molecules. Yet, numerous questions persist regarding fungal EVs, including their mechanisms of generation, release, cargo regulation, and discharge. This comprehensive review delves into the present state of knowledge regarding fungal EVs and provides fresh insights into the most recent hypotheses on the mechanisms driving their immunomodulatory properties. Furthermore, we explore the considerable potential of fungal EVs in the realms of medicine and biotechnology. In the foreseeable future, engineered fungal cells may serve as vehicles for tailoring cargo- and antigen-specific EVs, positioning them as invaluable biotechnological tools for diverse medical applications, such as vaccines and drug delivery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Duccio Cavalieri
- Department of Biology, University of Florence, Via Madonna del Piano 6, Sesto Fiorentino, 50019 Florence, Italy;
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Gurunathan S, Kim JH. Bacterial extracellular vesicles: Emerging nanoplatforms for biomedical applications. Microb Pathog 2023; 183:106308. [PMID: 37595812 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2023.106308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2023] [Revised: 08/13/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/20/2023]
Abstract
Bacterial extracellular vesicles (BEVs) are nanosized lipid bilayers generated from membranes that are filled with components derived from bacteria. BEVs are important for the physiology, pathogenicity, and interactions between bacteria and their hosts as well. BEVs represent an important mechanism of transport and interaction between cells. Recent advances in biomolecular nanotechnology have enabled the desired properties to be engineered on the surface of BEVs and decoration with desired and diverse biomolecules and nanoparticles, which have potential biomedical applications. BEVs have been the focus of various fields, including nanovaccines, therapeutic agents, and drug delivery vehicles. In this review, we delineate the fundamental aspects of BEVs, including their biogenesis, cargo composition, function, and interactions with host cells. We comprehensively summarize the factors influencing the biogenesis of BEVs. We further highlight the importance of the isolation, purification, and characterization of BEVs because they are essential processes for potential benefits related to host-microbe interactions. In addition, we address recent advancements in BEVs in biomedical applications. Finally, we provide conclusions and future perspectives as well as highlight the remaining challenges of BEVs for different biomedical applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sangiliyandi Gurunathan
- Department of Biotechnology, Rathinam College of Arts and Science, Rathinam Techzone Campus, Eachanari, Coimbatore, 641 021, Tamil Nadu, India.
| | - Jin-Hoi Kim
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biotechnology, Konkuk University, Seoul, 05029, Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Ayesha A, Chow FWN, Leung PHM. Role of Legionella pneumophila outer membrane vesicles in host-pathogen interaction. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1270123. [PMID: 37817751 PMCID: PMC10561282 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1270123] [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: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Legionella pneumophila is an opportunistic intracellular pathogen that inhabits artificial water systems and can be transmitted to human hosts by contaminated aerosols. Upon inhalation, it colonizes and grows inside the alveolar macrophages and causes Legionnaires' disease. To effectively control and manage Legionnaires' disease, a deep understanding of the host-pathogen interaction is crucial. Bacterial extracellular vesicles, particularly outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) have emerged as mediators of intercellular communication between bacteria and host cells. These OMVs carry a diverse cargo, including proteins, toxins, virulence factors, and nucleic acids. OMVs play a pivotal role in disease pathogenesis by helping bacteria in colonization, delivering virulence factors into host cells, and modulating host immune responses. This review highlights the role of OMVs in the context of host-pathogen interaction shedding light on the pathogenesis of L. pneumophila. Understanding the functions of OMVs and their cargo provides valuable insights into potential therapeutic targets and interventions for combating Legionnaires' disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Polly Hang-Mei Leung
- Department of Health Technology and Informatics, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Sayson SG, Ashbaugh A, Cushion MT. Extracellular Vesicles from Pneumocystis carinii -Infected Rats Impair Fungal Viability but are Dispensable for Macrophage Functions. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.09.19.558454. [PMID: 37786700 PMCID: PMC10541577 DOI: 10.1101/2023.09.19.558454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/04/2023]
Abstract
Pneumocystis spp. are host obligate fungal pathogens that can cause severe pneumonia in mammals and rely heavily on their host for essential nutrients. The lack of a sustainable in vitro culture system poses challenges in understanding their metabolism and the acquisition of essential nutrients from host lungs remains unexplored. Transmission electron micrographs show Extracellular Vesicles (EVs) are found near Pneumocystis spp. within the lung. We hypothesized that EVs transport essential nutrients to the fungi during infection. To investigate this, EVs from P. carinii and P. murina infected rodents were biochemically and functionally characterized. These EVs contained host proteins involved in cellular, metabolic, and immune processes as well as proteins with homologs found in other fungal EV proteomes, indicating Pneumocystis may release EVs. Notably, EV uptake by P. carinii indicated their potential involvement in nutrient acquisition and indicate a possibility for using engineered EVs for efficient therapeutic delivery. However, EVs added to P. carinii in vitro , did not show increased growth or viability, implying that additional nutrients or factors are necessary to support their metabolic requirements. Exposure of macrophages to EVs increased proinflammatory cytokine levels, but did not affect macrophages' ability to kill or phagocytose P. carinii . These findings provide vital insights into P. carinii and host EV interactions, yet the mechanisms underlying P. carinii 's survival in the lung remain uncertain. These studies are the first to isolate, characterize, and functionally assess EVs from Pneumocystis -infected rodents, promising to enhance our understanding of host-pathogen dynamics and therapeutic potential.
Collapse
|
27
|
Liu J, Hu X. Fungal extracellular vesicle-mediated regulation: from virulence factor to clinical application. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1205477. [PMID: 37779707 PMCID: PMC10540631 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1205477] [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: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Invasive fungal disease (IFD) poses a significant threat to immunocompromised patients and remains a global challenge due to limited treatment options, high mortality and morbidity rates, and the emergence of drug-resistant strains. Despite advancements in antifungal agents and diagnostic techniques, the lack of effective vaccines, standardized diagnostic tools, and efficient antifungal drugs contributes to the ongoing impact of invasive fungal infections (IFI). Recent studies have highlighted the presence of extracellular vesicles (EVs) released by fungi carrying various components such as enzymes, lipids, nucleic acids, and virulence proteins, which play roles in both physiological and pathological processes. These fungal EVs have been shown to interact with the host immune system during the development of fungal infections whereas their functional role and potential application in patients are not yet fully understood. This review summarizes the current understanding of the biologically relevant findings regarding EV in host-pathogen interaction, and aim to describe our knowledge of the roles of EV as diagnostic tools and vaccine vehicles, offering promising prospects for the treatment of IFI patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Xiaoping Hu
- Department of Dermatology, Skin Research Institute of Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Dallastella M, de Oliveira WK, Rodrigues ML, Goldenberg S, Alves LR. The characterization of RNA-binding proteins and RNA metabolism-related proteins in fungal extracellular vesicles. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2023; 13:1247329. [PMID: 37780856 PMCID: PMC10539620 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1247329] [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: 06/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023] Open
Abstract
RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) are essential for regulating RNA metabolism, stability, and translation within cells. Recent studies have shown that RBPs are not restricted to intracellular functions and can be found in extracellular vesicles (EVs) in different mammalian cells. EVs released by fungi contain a variety of proteins involved in RNA metabolism. These include RNA helicases, which play essential roles in RNA synthesis, folding, and degradation. Aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases, responsible for acetylating tRNA molecules, are also enriched in EVs, suggesting a possible link between these enzymes and tRNA fragments detected in EVs. Proteins with canonical RNA-binding domains interact with proteins and RNA, such as the RNA Recognition Motif (RRM), Zinc finger, and hnRNP K-homology (KH) domains. Polyadenylate-binding protein (PABP) plays a critical role in the regulation of gene expression by binding the poly(A) tail of messenger RNA (mRNA) and facilitating its translation, stability, and localization, making it a key factor in post-transcriptional control of gene expression. The presence of proteins related to the RNA life cycle in EVs from different fungal species suggests a conserved mechanism of EV cargo packing. Various models have been proposed for selecting RNA molecules for release into EVs. Still, the actual loading processes are unknown, and further molecular characterization of these proteins may provide insight into the mechanism of RNA sorting into EVs. This work reviews the current knowledge of RBPs and proteins related to RNA metabolism in EVs derived from distinct fungi species, and presents an analysis of proteomic datasets through GO term and orthology analysis, Our investigation identified orthologous proteins in fungal EVs on different fungal species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marianna Dallastella
- Gene Expression Regulation Laboratory, Carlos Chagas Institute (ICC), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, FIOCRUZ, Curitiba, Brazil
| | - Willian Klassen de Oliveira
- Laboratory for Applied Sciences and Technology in Health, Carlos Chagas Institute, FIOCRUZ PR, Curitiba, Brazil
| | - Marcio L. Rodrigues
- Gene Expression Regulation Laboratory, Carlos Chagas Institute (ICC), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, FIOCRUZ, Curitiba, Brazil
- Microbiology Institute, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Samuel Goldenberg
- Gene Expression Regulation Laboratory, Carlos Chagas Institute (ICC), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, FIOCRUZ, Curitiba, Brazil
| | - Lysangela R. Alves
- Gene Expression Regulation Laboratory, Carlos Chagas Institute (ICC), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, FIOCRUZ, Curitiba, Brazil
- Research Center in Infectious Diseases, Division of Infectious Disease and Immunity CHU de Quebec Research Center, University Laval, Quebec, QC, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Gan Y, Zhao G, Wang Z, Zhang X, Wu MX, Lu M. Bacterial Membrane Vesicles: Physiological Roles, Infection Immunology, and Applications. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 10:e2301357. [PMID: 37357142 PMCID: PMC10477901 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202301357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/27/2023]
Abstract
Bacterial or fungal membrane vesicles, traditionally considered as microbial metabolic wastes, are secreted mainly from the outer membrane or cell membrane of microorganisms. However, recent studies have shown that these vesicles play essential roles in direct or indirect communications among microorganisms and between microorganisms and hosts. This review aims to provide an updated understanding of the physiological functions and emerging applications of bacterial membrane vesicles, with a focus on their biogenesis, mechanisms of adsorption and invasion into host cells, immune stimulatory effects, and roles in the much-concerned problem of bacterial resistance. Additionally, the potential applications of these vesicles as biomarkers, vaccine candidates, and drug delivery platforms are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yixiao Gan
- Department of Transfusion MedicineHuashan HospitalFudan UniversityShanghai200040P. R. China
| | - Gang Zhao
- Department of OrthopaedicsShanghai Key Laboratory for Prevention and Treatment of Bone and Joint DiseasesShanghai Institute of Traumatology and OrthopaedicsRuijin HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghai200240P. R. China
| | - Zhicheng Wang
- Department of Transfusion MedicineHuashan HospitalFudan UniversityShanghai200040P. R. China
| | - Xingcai Zhang
- John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied SciencesHarvard UniversityCambridgeMA02138USA
| | - Mei X. Wu
- Wellman Center for PhotomedicineMassachusetts General HospitalDepartment of DermatologyHarvard Medical School, 50 Blossom StreetBostonMA02114USA
| | - Min Lu
- Department of OrthopaedicsShanghai Key Laboratory for Prevention and Treatment of Bone and Joint DiseasesShanghai Institute of Traumatology and OrthopaedicsRuijin HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghai200240P. R. China
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Ullah A, Huang Y, Zhao K, Hua Y, Ullah S, Rahman MU, Wang J, Wang Q, Hu X, Zheng L. Characteristics and potential clinical applications of the extracellular vesicles of human pathogenic Fungi. BMC Microbiol 2023; 23:227. [PMID: 37598156 PMCID: PMC10439556 DOI: 10.1186/s12866-023-02945-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are a heterogeneous group of lipid membrane-enclosed compartments that contain different biomolecules and are released by almost all living cells, including fungal genera. Fungal EVs contain multiple bioactive components that perform various biological functions, such as stimulation of the host immune system, transport of virulence factors, induction of biofilm formation, and mediation of host-pathogen interactions. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge on EVs of human pathogenic fungi, mainly focusing on their biogenesis, composition, and biological effects. We also discuss the potential markers and therapeutic applications of fungal EVs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amir Ullah
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Yiyi Huang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Kening Zhao
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
- La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Yuneng Hua
- Center for Clinical Laboratory, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Shafi Ullah
- Department of pharmacy, COMSATS University Islamabad, Abbottabad Campus, Abbottabad, Pakistan
| | - Mujeeb Ur Rahman
- Biofuels Institute, School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Jingyu Wang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Qian Wang
- Center for Clinical Laboratory, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China.
| | - Xiumei Hu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China.
| | - Lei Zheng
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Zhu J, Qiao Q, Sun Y, Xu Y, Shu H, Zhang Z, Liu F, Wang H, Ye W, Dong S, Wang Y, Ma Z, Wang Y. Divergent sequences of tetraspanins enable plants to specifically recognize microbe-derived extracellular vesicles. Nat Commun 2023; 14:4877. [PMID: 37573360 PMCID: PMC10423219 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-40623-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are important for cell-to-cell communication in animals. EVs also play important roles in plant-microbe interactions, but the underlying mechanisms remain elusive. Here, proteomic analyses of EVs from the soybean (Glycine max) root rot pathogen Phytophthora sojae identify the tetraspanin family proteins PsTET1 and PsTET3, which are recognized by Nicotiana benthamiana to trigger plant immune responses. Both proteins are required for the full virulence of P. sojae. The large extracellular loop (EC2) of PsTET3 is the key region recognized by N. benthamiana and soybean cells in a plant receptor-like kinase NbSERK3a/b dependent manner. TET proteins from oomycete and fungal plant pathogens are recognized by N. benthamiana thus inducing immune responses, whereas plant-derived TET proteins are not due to the sequence divergence of sixteen amino acids at the C-terminal of EC2. This feature allows plants to distinguish self and non-self EVs to trigger active defense responses against pathogenic eukaryotes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jinyi Zhu
- Department of Plant Pathology, Nanjing Agricultural University, 210095, Nanjing, China
| | - Qian Qiao
- Department of Plant Pathology, Nanjing Agricultural University, 210095, Nanjing, China
| | - Yujing Sun
- Department of Plant Pathology, Nanjing Agricultural University, 210095, Nanjing, China
| | - Yuanpeng Xu
- Department of Plant Pathology, Nanjing Agricultural University, 210095, Nanjing, China
| | - Haidong Shu
- Department of Plant Pathology, Nanjing Agricultural University, 210095, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhichao Zhang
- Department of Plant Pathology, Nanjing Agricultural University, 210095, Nanjing, China
| | - Fan Liu
- Department of Plant Pathology, Nanjing Agricultural University, 210095, Nanjing, China
| | - Haonan Wang
- Department of Plant Pathology, Nanjing Agricultural University, 210095, Nanjing, China
| | - Wenwu Ye
- Department of Plant Pathology, Nanjing Agricultural University, 210095, Nanjing, China
- The Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Crop Diseases and Pests (Ministry of Education), 210095, Nanjing, China
- The Key Laboratory of Plant Immunity, Nanjing Agricultural University, 210095, Nanjing, China
| | - Suomeng Dong
- Department of Plant Pathology, Nanjing Agricultural University, 210095, Nanjing, China
- The Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Crop Diseases and Pests (Ministry of Education), 210095, Nanjing, China
- The Key Laboratory of Plant Immunity, Nanjing Agricultural University, 210095, Nanjing, China
| | - Yan Wang
- Department of Plant Pathology, Nanjing Agricultural University, 210095, Nanjing, China
- The Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Crop Diseases and Pests (Ministry of Education), 210095, Nanjing, China
- The Key Laboratory of Plant Immunity, Nanjing Agricultural University, 210095, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhenchuan Ma
- Department of Plant Pathology, Nanjing Agricultural University, 210095, Nanjing, China
- The Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Crop Diseases and Pests (Ministry of Education), 210095, Nanjing, China
- The Key Laboratory of Plant Immunity, Nanjing Agricultural University, 210095, Nanjing, China
| | - Yuanchao Wang
- Department of Plant Pathology, Nanjing Agricultural University, 210095, Nanjing, China.
- The Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Crop Diseases and Pests (Ministry of Education), 210095, Nanjing, China.
- The Key Laboratory of Plant Immunity, Nanjing Agricultural University, 210095, Nanjing, China.
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Martín JF. Interaction of calcium responsive proteins and transcriptional factors with the PHO regulon in yeasts and fungi. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1225774. [PMID: 37601111 PMCID: PMC10437122 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1225774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Phosphate and calcium ions are nutrients that play key roles in growth, differentiation and the production of bioactive secondary metabolites in filamentous fungi. Phosphate concentration regulates the biosynthesis of hundreds of fungal metabolites. The central mechanisms of phosphate transport and regulation, mediated by the master Pho4 transcriptional factor are known, but many aspects of the control of gene expression need further research. High ATP concentration in the cells leads to inositol pyrophosphate molecules formation, such as IP3 and IP7, that act as phosphorylation status reporters. Calcium ions are intracellular messengers in eukaryotic organisms and calcium homeostasis follows elaborated patterns in response to different nutritional and environmental factors, including cross-talking with phosphate concentrations. A large part of the intracellular calcium is stored in vacuoles and other organelles forming complexes with polyphosphate. The free cytosolic calcium concentration is maintained by transport from the external medium or by release from the store organelles through calcium permeable transient receptor potential (TRP) ion channels. Calcium ions, particularly the free cytosolic calcium levels, control the biosynthesis of fungal metabolites by two mechanisms, 1) direct interaction of calcium-bound calmodulin with antibiotic synthesizing enzymes, and 2) by the calmodulin-calcineurin signaling cascade. Control of very different secondary metabolites, including pathogenicity determinants, are mediated by calcium through the Crz1 factor. Several interactions between calcium homeostasis and phosphate have been demonstrated in the last decade: 1) The inositol pyrophosphate IP3 triggers the release of calcium ions from internal stores into the cytosol, 2) Expression of the high affinity phosphate transporter Pho89, a Na+/phosphate symporter, is controlled by Crz1. Also, mutants defective in the calcium permeable TRPCa7-like of Saccharomyces cerevisiae shown impaired expression of Pho89. This information suggests that CrzA and Pho89 play key roles in the interaction of phosphate and calcium regulatory pathways, 3) Finally, acidocalcisomes organelles have been found in mycorrhiza and in some melanin producing fungi that show similar characteristics as protozoa calcisomes. In these organelles there is a close interaction between orthophosphate, pyrophosphate and polyphosphate and calcium ions that are absorbed in the polyanionic polyphosphate matrix. These advances open new perspectives for the control of fungal metabolism.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juan F. Martín
- Departamento de Biología Molecular, Área de Microbiología, Universidad de León, León, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Wangsanut T, Amsri A, Pongpom M. Antibody screening reveals antigenic proteins involved in Talaromyces marneffei and human interaction. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2023; 13:1118979. [PMID: 37404721 PMCID: PMC10315666 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1118979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Talaromycosis is a fungal infection that generally affects immunocompromised hosts and is one of the most frequent systemic mycoses in HIV patients, especially in endemic areas such as Southeast Asia. Talaromyces marneffei, the causative agent of talaromycosis, grows as a mold in the environment but adapts to the human body and host niches by transitioning from conidia to yeast-like cells. Knowledge of the human host and T. marneffei interaction has a direct impact on the diagnosis, yet studies are still lacking. The morbidity and mortality rates are high in taloromycosis patients if the diagnosis and treatments are delayed. Immunogenic proteins are excellent candidates for developing detection tools. Previously, we identified antigenic proteins that were recognized by antibodies from talaromycosis sera. Three of these identified proteins have been previously characterized in detail, while the others have not been explored. To expedite the progress of antigen discovery, the complete list of antigenic proteins and their features was fully reported in this study. Functional annotation and Gene Ontology examination revealed that these proteins showed a high association with membrane trafficking. Further bioinformatics analyses were performed to search for antigenic protein characteristics, including functional domains, critical residues, subcellular localization, secretory signals, and epitope peptide sequences. Expression profiling of these antigenic encoding genes was investigated using quantitative real-time PCR. The results demonstrated that most genes were expressed at low levels in the mold form, but were highly upregulated in the pathogenic yeast phase, consistent with the antigenic role of these genes during the human-host interaction. Most transcripts accumulated in the conidia, suggesting a role during phase transition. The collection of all antigen-encoding DNA sequences described here is freely accessible at GenBank, which could be useful for the research community to develop into biomarkers, diagnostic tests, research detection tools, and even vaccines.
Collapse
|
34
|
Fernandes LB, D'Souza JS, Prasad TSK, Ghag SB. Isolation and characterization of extracellular vesicles from Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense, a banana wilt pathogen. Biochim Biophys Acta Gen Subj 2023; 1867:130382. [PMID: 37207907 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagen.2023.130382] [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: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Fusarium wilt of banana is a destructive widespread disease caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense (Foc) that ravaged banana plantations globally, incurring huge economic losses. Current knowledge demonstrates the involvement of several transcription factors, effector proteins, and small RNAs in the Foc-banana interaction. However, the precise mode of communication at the interface remains elusive. Cutting-edge research has emphasized the significance of extracellular vesicles (EVs) in trafficking the virulent factors modulating the host physiology and defence system. EVs are ubiquitous inter- and intra-cellular communicators across kingdoms. This study focuses on the isolation and characterization of Foc EVs from methods that make use of sodium acetate, polyethylene glycol, ethyl acetate, and high-speed centrifugation. Isolated EVs were microscopically visualized using Nile red staining. Further, the EVs were characterized using transmission electron microscopy, which revealed the presence of spherical, double-membrane, vesicular structures ranging in size from 50 to 200 nm (diameter). The size was also determined using the principle based on Dynamic Light Scattering. The Foc EVs contained proteins that were separated using SDS-PAGE and ranged between 10 and 315 kDa. Mass spectrometry analysis revealed the presence of EV-specific marker proteins, toxic peptides, and effectors. The Foc EVs were found to be cytotoxic, whose toxicity increased with EVs isolated from the co-culture preparation. Taken together, a better understanding of Foc EVs and their cargo will aid in deciphering the molecular crosstalk between banana and Foc.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lizelle B Fernandes
- School of Biological Sciences, UM-DAE Centre for Excellence in Basic Sciences, University of Mumbai campus, Kalina, Santacruz (East), Mumbai 400098, India
| | - Jacinta S D'Souza
- School of Biological Sciences, UM-DAE Centre for Excellence in Basic Sciences, University of Mumbai campus, Kalina, Santacruz (East), Mumbai 400098, India
| | - T S Keshava Prasad
- Center for Systems Biology and Molecular Medicine, Yenepoya Research Center, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), University Road, Deralakatte, Mangalore 575018, India
| | - Siddhesh B Ghag
- School of Biological Sciences, UM-DAE Centre for Excellence in Basic Sciences, University of Mumbai campus, Kalina, Santacruz (East), Mumbai 400098, India.
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
De Vallée A, Dupuy JW, Moriscot C, Gallet B, Vanderperre S, Guignard G, Rascle C, Calvar G, Malbert B, Gillet FX, Dieryckx C, Choquer M, Girard V, Poussereau N, Bruel C. Extracellular Vesicles of the Plant Pathogen Botrytis cinerea. J Fungi (Basel) 2023; 9:jof9040495. [PMID: 37108947 PMCID: PMC10146736 DOI: 10.3390/jof9040495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Revised: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Fungal secretomes are known to contain a multitude of components involved in nutrition, cell growth or biotic interactions. Recently, extra-cellular vesicles have been identified in a few fungal species. Here, we used a multidisciplinary approach to identify and characterize extracellular vesicles produced by the plant necrotroph Botrytis cinerea. Transmission electron microscopy of infectious hyphae and hyphae grown in vitro revealed extracellular vesicles of various sizes and densities. Electron tomography showed the co-existence of ovoid and tubular vesicles and pointed to their release via the fusion of multi-vesicular bodies with the cell plasma membrane. The isolation of these vesicles and exploration of their protein content using mass spectrometry led to the identification of soluble and membrane proteins involved in transport, metabolism, cell wall synthesis and remodeling, proteostasis, oxidoreduction and traffic. Confocal microscopy highlighted the capacity of fluorescently labeled vesicles to target cells of B. cinerea, cells of the fungus Fusarium graminearum, and onion epidermal cells but not yeast cells. In addition, a specific positive effect of these vesicles on the growth of B. cinerea was quantified. Altogether, this study broadens our view on the secretion capacity of B. cinerea and its cell-to-cell communication.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amelie De Vallée
- Univ. Lyon, UCBL, INSA Lyon, CNRS, MAP, UMR5240, 69622 Villeurbanne, France
| | | | | | - Benoit Gallet
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, CEA, CNRS, IBS, F-38000 Grenoble, France
| | - Solène Vanderperre
- Centre Technologique des Microstructures, Université Lyon 1, 69622 Villeurbanne, France
| | - Gaëtan Guignard
- Univ. Lyon, Université Lyon 1, CNRS, ENTPE, UMR 5023 LEHNA, 69622 Villeurbanne, France
| | - Christine Rascle
- Univ. Lyon, UCBL, INSA Lyon, CNRS, MAP, UMR5240, 69622 Villeurbanne, France
| | - Glen Calvar
- Univ. Lyon, UCBL, INSA Lyon, CNRS, MAP, UMR5240, 69622 Villeurbanne, France
| | - Bastien Malbert
- Bayer SAS, Crop Science Division Centre de Recherche La Dargoire, 69009 Lyon, France
| | | | - Cindy Dieryckx
- Univ. Lyon, UCBL, INSA Lyon, CNRS, MAP, UMR5240, 69622 Villeurbanne, France
| | - Mathias Choquer
- Univ. Lyon, UCBL, INSA Lyon, CNRS, MAP, UMR5240, 69622 Villeurbanne, France
| | - Vincent Girard
- Univ. Lyon, UCBL, INSA Lyon, CNRS, MAP, UMR5240, 69622 Villeurbanne, France
| | | | - Christophe Bruel
- Univ. Lyon, UCBL, INSA Lyon, CNRS, MAP, UMR5240, 69622 Villeurbanne, France
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Maximo MF, Fill TP, Rodrigues ML. A Close Look into the Composition and Functions of Fungal Extracellular Vesicles Produced by Phytopathogens. MOLECULAR PLANT-MICROBE INTERACTIONS : MPMI 2023; 36:228-234. [PMID: 36847651 DOI: 10.1094/mpmi-09-22-0184-fi] [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] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Fungal extracellular vesicles (EVs) were first described in human pathogens. In a few years, the field of fungal EVs evolved to include several studies with plant pathogens, in which extracellularly released vesicles play fundamental biological roles. In recent years, solid progress has been made in the determination of the composition of EVs produced by phytopathogens. In addition, EV biomarkers are now known in fungal plant pathogens, and the production of EVs during plant infection has been demonstrated. In this manuscript, we review the recent progress in the field of fungal EVs, with a focus on plant pathogens. [Formula: see text] The author(s) have dedicated the work to the public domain under the Creative Commons CC0 "No Rights Reserved" license by waiving all of his or her rights to the work worldwide under copyright law, including all related and neighboring rights, to the extent allowed by law, 2023.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marina F Maximo
- Instituto de Química, Universidade de Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Taícia P Fill
- Instituto de Química, Universidade de Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Marcio L Rodrigues
- Instituto Carlos Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (Fiocruz), Curitiba, Brazil
- Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes (IMPG), Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Wang Z, Zeng J, Deng J, Hou X, Zhang J, Yan W, Cai Q. Pathogen-Derived Extracellular Vesicles: Emerging Mediators of Plant-Microbe Interactions. MOLECULAR PLANT-MICROBE INTERACTIONS : MPMI 2023; 36:218-227. [PMID: 36574017 DOI: 10.1094/mpmi-08-22-0162-fi] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are lipid bilayer-enclosed nanoparticles that deliver bioactive proteins, nucleic acids, lipids, and other small molecules from donor to recipient cells. They have attracted significant interest recently due to their important roles in regulating plant-microbe interaction. During microbial infection, plant EVs play a prominent role in defense by delivering small regulatory RNA into pathogens, resulting in the silencing of pathogen virulence genes. Pathogens also deliver small RNAs into plant cells to silence host immunity genes. Recent evidence indicates that microbial EVs may be involved in pathogenesis and host immunity modulation by transporting RNAs and other biomolecules. However, the biogenesis and function of microbial EVs in plant-microbe interaction remain ill-defined. In this review, we discuss various aspects of microbial EVs, with a particular focus on current methods for EV isolation, composition, biogenesis, and their roles in plant-microbe interaction. We also discussed the potential role of microbial EVs in cross-kingdom RNA trafficking from pathogens to plants, as it is a highly likely possibility to explore in the future. [Formula: see text] Copyright © 2023 The Author(s). This is an open access article distributed under the CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 International license.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhangying Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Hybrid Rice, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430072, China
- Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Wuhan, 430072, China
| | - Jiayue Zeng
- State Key Laboratory of Hybrid Rice, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430072, China
- Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Wuhan, 430072, China
| | - Jiliang Deng
- State Key Laboratory of Hybrid Rice, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430072, China
- Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Wuhan, 430072, China
| | - Xiangjie Hou
- State Key Laboratory of Hybrid Rice, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430072, China
- Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Wuhan, 430072, China
| | - Jiefu Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Hybrid Rice, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430072, China
- Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Wuhan, 430072, China
| | - Wei Yan
- Department of Cell Biology, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430072, China
| | - Qiang Cai
- State Key Laboratory of Hybrid Rice, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430072, China
- Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Wuhan, 430072, China
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Medina-Castellanos E, Salgado-Bautista DA, Martínez-Andrade JM, Cadena-Nava RD, Riquelme M. Nanosized extracellular vesicles released by Neurospora crassa hyphae. Fungal Genet Biol 2023; 165:103778. [PMID: 36690295 DOI: 10.1016/j.fgb.2023.103778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Revised: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are nanosized structures containing proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids, released by living cells to the surrounding medium. EVs participate in diverse processes, such as intercellular communication, virulence, and disease. In pathogenic fungi, EVs carry enzymes that allow them to invade the host or undergo environmental adaptation successfully. In Neurospora crassa, a non-pathogenic filamentous fungus widely used as a model organism, the vesicle-dependent secretory mechanisms that lead to polarized growth are well studied. In contrast, biosynthesis of EVs in this fungus has been practically unexplored. In the present work, we analyzed N. crassa culture's supernatant for the presence of EVs by dynamic light scattering (DLS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and proteomic analysis. We identified spherical membranous structures, with a predominant subpopulation averaging a hydrodynamic diameter (dh) of 68 nm and a particle diameter (dp) of 38 nm. EV samples stained with osmium tetroxide vapors were better resolved than those stained with uranyl acetate. Mass spectrometry analysis identified 252 proteins, including enzymes involved in carbohydrate metabolic processes, oxidative stress response, cell wall organization/remodeling, and circadian clock-regulated proteins. Some of these proteins have been previously reported in exosomes from human cells or in EVs of other fungi. In view of the results, it is suggested a putative role for EVs in cell wall biosynthesis and vegetative development in N. crassa.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Medina-Castellanos
- Department of Microbiology, Centro de Investigación Científica y Educación Superior de Ensenada (CICESE), Ensenada, Mexico
| | - Daniel A Salgado-Bautista
- Department of Microbiology, Centro de Investigación Científica y Educación Superior de Ensenada (CICESE), Ensenada, Mexico
| | - Juan M Martínez-Andrade
- Department of Microbiology, Centro de Investigación Científica y Educación Superior de Ensenada (CICESE), Ensenada, Mexico
| | - Ruben Dario Cadena-Nava
- Department of Bionanotechnology, Centro de Nanociencias y Nanotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ensenada, Mexico
| | - Meritxell Riquelme
- Department of Microbiology, Centro de Investigación Científica y Educación Superior de Ensenada (CICESE), Ensenada, Mexico.
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Baker RP, Casadevall A. Reciprocal modulation of ammonia and melanin production has implications for cryptococcal virulence. Nat Commun 2023; 14:849. [PMID: 36792633 PMCID: PMC9932161 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-36552-7] [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: 08/18/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The fungus Cryptococcus neoformans is the causative agent of cryptococcosis, a disease that is uniformly lethal unless treated with antifungal drugs, yet current regimens are hindered by host toxicity and pathogen resistance. An attractive alternative approach to combat this deadly disease is the direct targeting of pathogen-derived virulence mechanisms. C. neoformans expresses multiple virulence factors that have been studied previously as isolated entities. Among these, are urease, which increases phagosomal pH and promotes brain invasion, and melanization, which protects against immune cells and antifungal treatments. Here we report a reciprocal interdependency between these two virulence factors. Cells hydrolyzing urea release ammonia gas which acts at a distance to raise pH and increase melanization rates for nearby cells, which in turn reduces secretion of urease-carrying extracellular vesicles. This reciprocal relationship manifests as an emergent property that may explain why targeting isolated virulence mechanisms for drug development has been difficult and argues for a more holistic approach that considers the virulence composite.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rosanna P Baker
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Arturo Casadevall
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Shree A, Sinha M, Verma PK. BAR domain is essential for early endosomal trafficking and dynamics in Ascochyta rabiei. 3 Biotech 2023; 13:49. [PMID: 36685317 PMCID: PMC9845463 DOI: 10.1007/s13205-022-03451-5] [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: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 12/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Ascochyta blight disease is a devastating disease caused by the fungal pathogen Ascochyta rabiei that threatens chickpea production around the globe. Endocytic mechanism has a significant role in fungal growth and virulence. The underlying biology of biogenesis of central component of endocytosis viz Rab5 vesicles, is not completely understood. The involvement of F-BAR domain containing protein (ArF-BAR) in various cellular processes that collectively make ArF-BAR as an important virulence determinant. Here, we report that ArF-BAR is involved in biogenesis and motility of early endosome. In the absence of ArF-BAR gene (Δarf-bar), fungal mutants exhibited reduced number of EGFP coated ArRab5 vesicles, along with the considerable reduction in their dynamics. Here, we show that ArF-BAR interacts with clathrin light chain (ArCLC), specifically with its F-BAR domain. These findings suggests the novel role of ArF-BAR in biogenesis and dynamics of early endosome. Additionally, ArF-BAR is involved in clathrin-mediated mechanism of endocytosis which is required for host infection and disease development. Identification of this pathway offers new impending targets for disease intervention in plants. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s13205-022-03451-5.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ankita Shree
- Plant Immunity Laboratory, National Institute of Plant Genome Research, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi, 110067 India
| | - Manisha Sinha
- Plant Immunity Laboratory, National Institute of Plant Genome Research, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi, 110067 India
| | - Praveen Kumar Verma
- Plant Immunity Laboratory, National Institute of Plant Genome Research, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi, 110067 India
- Plant Immunity Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, 110067 India
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Rangel-Ramírez VV, González-Sánchez HM, Lucio-García C. Exosomes: from biology to immunotherapy in infectious diseases. Infect Dis (Lond) 2023; 55:79-107. [PMID: 36562253 DOI: 10.1080/23744235.2022.2149852] [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] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Exosomes are extracellular vesicles derived from the endosomal compartment, which are released by all kinds of eukaryotic and prokaryotic organisms. These vesicles contain a variety of biomolecules that differ both in quantity and type depending on the origin and cellular state. Exosomes are internalized by recipient cells, delivering their content and thus contributing to cell-cell communication in health and disease. During infections exosomes may exert a dual role, on one hand, they can transmit pathogen-related molecules mediating further infection and damage, and on the other hand, they can protect the host by activating the immune response and reducing pathogen spread. Selective packaging of pathogenic components may mediate these effects. Recently, quantitative analysis of samples by omics technologies has allowed a deep characterization of the proteins, lipids, RNA, and metabolite cargoes of exosomes. Knowledge about the content of these vesicles may facilitate their therapeutic application. Furthermore, as exosomes have been detected in almost all biological fluids, pathogenic or host-derived components can be identified in liquid biopsies, making them suitable for diagnosis and prognosis. This review attempts to organize the recent findings on exosome composition and function during viral, bacterial, fungal, and protozoan infections, and their contribution to host defense or to pathogen spread. Moreover, we summarize the current perspectives and future directions regarding the potential application of exosomes for prophylactic and therapeutic purposes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - César Lucio-García
- Centro de Investigación sobre Enfermedades Infecciosas, Instituto Nacional de Salud Pública, Cuernavaca, México
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Saidykhan L, Onyishi CU, May RC. The Cryptococcus gattii species complex: Unique pathogenic yeasts with understudied virulence mechanisms. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2022; 16:e0010916. [PMID: 36520688 PMCID: PMC9754292 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0010916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Members of Cryptococcus gattii/neoformans species complex are the etiological agents of the potentially fatal human fungal infection cryptococcosis. C. gattii and its sister species cause disease in both immunocompetent and immunocompromised hosts, while the closely related species C. neoformans and C. deneoformans predominantly infect immunocompromised hosts. To date, most studies have focused on similarities in pathogenesis between these two groups, but over recent years, important differences have become apparent. In this review paper, we highlight some of the major phenotypic differences between the C. gattii and neoformans species complexes and justify the need to study the virulence and pathogenicity of the C. gattii species complex as a distinct cryptococcal group.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lamin Saidykhan
- Institute of Microbiology & Infection and School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, United Kingdom
- Division of Physical and Natural Science, University of The Gambia, Brikama Campus, West Coast Region, The Gambia
| | - Chinaemerem U. Onyishi
- Institute of Microbiology & Infection and School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Robin C. May
- Institute of Microbiology & Infection and School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Mello TP, Barcellos IC, Aor AC, Branquinha MH, Santos ALS. Extracellularly Released Molecules by the Multidrug-Resistant Fungal Pathogens Belonging to the Scedosporium Genus: An Overview Focused on Their Ecological Significance and Pathogenic Relevance. J Fungi (Basel) 2022; 8:1172. [PMID: 36354939 PMCID: PMC9693033 DOI: 10.3390/jof8111172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Revised: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 09/10/2024] Open
Abstract
The multidrug-resistant species belonging to the Scedosporium genus are well recognized as saprophytic filamentous fungi found mainly in human impacted areas and that emerged as human pathogens in both immunocompetent and immunocompromised individuals. It is well recognized that some fungi are ubiquitous organisms that produce an enormous amount of extracellular molecules, including enzymes and secondary metabolites, as part of their basic physiology in order to satisfy their several biological processes. In this context, the molecules secreted by Scedosporium species are key weapons for successful colonization, nutrition and maintenance in both host and environmental sites. These biologically active released molecules have central relevance on fungal survival when colonizing ecological places contaminated with hydrocarbons, as well as during human infection, particularly contributing to the invasion/evasion of host cells and tissues, besides escaping from the cellular and humoral host immune responses. Based on these relevant premises, the present review compiled the published data reporting the main secreted molecules by Scedosporium species, which operate important physiopathological events associated with pathogenesis, diagnosis, antimicrobial activity and bioremediation of polluted environments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thaís P. Mello
- Laboratório de Estudos Avançados de Microrganismos Emergentes e Resistentes (LEAMER), Departamento de Microbiologia Geral, Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes (IMPG), Centro de Ciências da Saúde (CCS), Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro 21941-901, Brazil
| | - Iuri C. Barcellos
- Laboratório de Estudos Avançados de Microrganismos Emergentes e Resistentes (LEAMER), Departamento de Microbiologia Geral, Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes (IMPG), Centro de Ciências da Saúde (CCS), Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro 21941-901, Brazil
| | - Ana Carolina Aor
- Laboratório de Estudos Avançados de Microrganismos Emergentes e Resistentes (LEAMER), Departamento de Microbiologia Geral, Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes (IMPG), Centro de Ciências da Saúde (CCS), Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro 21941-901, Brazil
| | - Marta H. Branquinha
- Laboratório de Estudos Avançados de Microrganismos Emergentes e Resistentes (LEAMER), Departamento de Microbiologia Geral, Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes (IMPG), Centro de Ciências da Saúde (CCS), Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro 21941-901, Brazil
- Rede Micologia RJ—Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado do Rio de Janeiro (FAPERJ), Rio de Janeiro 21941-901, Brazil
| | - André L. S. Santos
- Laboratório de Estudos Avançados de Microrganismos Emergentes e Resistentes (LEAMER), Departamento de Microbiologia Geral, Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes (IMPG), Centro de Ciências da Saúde (CCS), Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro 21941-901, Brazil
- Rede Micologia RJ—Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado do Rio de Janeiro (FAPERJ), Rio de Janeiro 21941-901, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Černoša A, Gostinčar C, Lavrin T, Kostanjšek R, Lenassi M, Gunde-Cimerman N. Isolation and characterization of extracellular vesicles from biotechnologically important fungus Aureobasidium pullulans. Fungal Biol Biotechnol 2022; 9:16. [PMID: 36320088 PMCID: PMC9628041 DOI: 10.1186/s40694-022-00146-7] [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: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 10/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are increasingly recognized as an important mechanism for cell-cell interactions. Their role in fungi is still poorly understood and they have been isolated from only a handful of species. Here, we isolated and characterized EVs from Aureobasidium pullulans, a biotechnologically important black yeast-like fungus that is increasingly used for biocontrol of phytopathogenic fungi and bacteria. After optimization of the isolation protocol, characterization of EVs from A. pullulans by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) revealed a typical cup-shaped morphology and different subpopulations of EVs. These results were confirmed by nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA), which revealed that A. pullulans produced 6.1 × 108 nanoparticles per milliliter of culture medium. Proteomic analysis of EVs detected 642 proteins. A small fraction of them had signal peptides for secretion and transmembrane domains. Proteins characteristic of different synthesis pathways were found, suggesting that EVs are synthesized by multiple pathways in A. pullulans. Enrichment analysis using Gene Ontology showed that most of the proteins found in the EVs were associated with primary metabolism. When sequencing the small RNA fraction of A. pullulans EVs, we found two hypothetical novel mil-RNAs. Finally, we tested the biocontrol potential of EVs from A. pullulans. The EVs did not inhibit the germination of spores of three important phytopathogenic fungi-Botrytis cinerea, Colletotrichum acutatum, and Penicillium expansum. However, exposure of grown cultures of C. acutatum and P. expansum to A. pullulans EVs resulted in visible changes in morphology of colonies. These preliminary results suggest that EVs may be part of the antagonistic activity of A. pullulans, which is so far only partially understood. Thus, the first isolation and characterization of EVs from A. pullulans provides a starting point for further studies of EVs in the biotechnologically important traits of the biocontrol black fungus A. pullulans in particular and in the biological role of fungal EVs in general.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anja Černoša
- Department of Biology, Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Jamnikarjeva 101, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Cene Gostinčar
- Department of Biology, Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Jamnikarjeva 101, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Teja Lavrin
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Rok Kostanjšek
- Department of Biology, Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Jamnikarjeva 101, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Metka Lenassi
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Nina Gunde-Cimerman
- Department of Biology, Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Jamnikarjeva 101, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
RTA1 Is Involved in Resistance to 7-Aminocholesterol and Secretion of Fungal Proteins in Cryptococcus neoformans. Pathogens 2022; 11:pathogens11111239. [PMID: 36364991 PMCID: PMC9697666 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11111239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2022] [Revised: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryptococcus neoformans (Cn) is a pathogenic yeast that is the leading cause of fungal meningitis in immunocompromised patients. Various Cn virulence factors, such as the enzyme laccase and its product melanin, phospholipase, and capsular polysaccharide have been identified. During a screen of knockout mutants, the gene resistance to aminocholesterol 1 (RTA1) was identified, the function of which is currently unknown in Cn. Rta1 homologs in S. cerevisiae belong to a lipid-translocating exporter family of fungal proteins with transmembrane regions and confer resistance to the antimicrobial agent 7-aminocholesterol when overexpressed. To determine the role of RTA1 in Cn, the knock-out (rta1Δ) and reconstituted (rta1Δ+RTA1) strains were created and phenotypically tested. RTA1 was involved in resistance to 7-aminocholesterol, and also in exocyst complex component 3 (Sec6)-mediated secretion of urease, laccase, and the major capsule component, glucuronoxylomannan (GXM), which coincided with significantly smaller capsules in the rta1Δ and rta1Δ+RTA1 strains compared to the wild-type H99 strain. Furthermore, RTA1 expression was reduced in a secretory 14 mutant (sec14Δ) and increased in an RNAi Sec6 mutant. Transmission electron microscopy demonstrated vesicle accumulation inside the rta1Δ strain, predominantly near the cell membrane. Given that Rta1 is likely to be a transmembrane protein located at the plasma membrane, these data suggest that Rta1 may be involved in both secretion of various fungal virulence factors and resistance to 7-aminocholesterol in Cn.
Collapse
|
46
|
Valdez AF, Miranda DZ, Guimarães AJ, Nimrichter L, Nosanchuk JD. Pathogenicity & Virulence of Histoplasma capsulatum - a multifaceted organism adapted to intracellular environments. Virulence 2022; 13:1900-1919. [PMID: 36266777 DOI: 10.1080/21505594.2022.2137987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Histoplasmosis is a systemic mycosis caused by the thermally dimorphic fungus Histoplasma capsulatum. Although healthy individuals can develop histoplasmosis, the disease is particularly life-threatening in immunocompromised patients, with a wide range of clinical manifestations depending on the inoculum and virulence of the infecting strain. In this review, we discuss the established virulence factors and pathogenesis traits that make H. capsulatum highly adapted to a wide variety of hosts, including mammals. Understanding and integrating these mechanisms is a key step towards devising new preventative and therapeutic interventions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro F Valdez
- Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Departamento de Microbiologia Geral, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Daniel Zamith Miranda
- Departments of Medicine (Division of Infectious Diseases) and Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Allan Jefferson Guimarães
- Universidade Federal Fluminense, Instituto Biomédico, Departamento de Microbiologia e Parasitologia - MIP, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Leonardo Nimrichter
- Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Departamento de Microbiologia Geral, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Joshua D Nosanchuk
- Departments of Medicine (Division of Infectious Diseases) and Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, USA
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Jung EH, Park YD, Dragotakes Q, Ramirez LS, Smith DQ, Reis FCG, Dziedzic A, Rodrigues ML, Baker RP, Williamson PR, Jedlicka A, Casadevall A, Coelho C. Cryptococcus neoformans releases proteins during intracellular residence that affect the outcome of the fungal-macrophage interaction. MICROLIFE 2022; 3:uqac015. [PMID: 36247839 PMCID: PMC9552768 DOI: 10.1093/femsml/uqac015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Cryptococcus neoformans is a facultative intracellular pathogen that can replicate and disseminate in mammalian macrophages. In this study, we analyzed fungal proteins identified in murine macrophage-like cells after infection with C. neoformans. To accomplish this, we developed a protocol to identify proteins released from cryptococcal cells inside macrophage-like cells; we identified 127 proteins of fungal origin in infected macrophage-like cells. Among the proteins identified was urease, a known virulence factor, and others such as transaldolase and phospholipase D, which have catalytic activities that could contribute to virulence. This method provides a straightforward methodology to study host-pathogen interactions. We chose to study further Yeast Oligomycin Resistance (Yor1), a relatively uncharacterized protein belonging to the large family of ATP binding cassette transporter (ABC transporters). These transporters belong to a large and ancient protein family found in all extant phyla. While ABC transporters have an enormous diversity of functions across varied species, in pathogenic fungi they are better studied as drug efflux pumps. Analysis of C. neoformans yor1Δ strains revealed defects in nonlytic exocytosis, capsule size, and dimensions of extracellular vesicles, when compared to wild-type strains. We detected no difference in growth rates and cell body size. Our results indicate that C. neoformans releases a large suite of proteins during macrophage infection, some of which can modulate fungal virulence and are likely to affect the fungal-macrophage interaction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eric H Jung
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, 615 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205, United States
| | - Yoon-Dong Park
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology and Microbiology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease, National Institutes of Health, Memorial Drive, Bethesda, MD 20814, United States
| | - Quigly Dragotakes
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, 615 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205, United States
| | - Lia S Ramirez
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, Johns Hopkins University, 615 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205, United States
| | - Daniel Q Smith
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, 615 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205, United States
| | - Flavia C G Reis
- Instituto Carlos Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (Fiocruz), Rua Professor Algacyr Munhoz Mader, 3775, Curitiba - PR, 81310-020, Brazil
- Centro de Desenvolvimento Tecnológico em Saúde (CDTS), Fundação Oswaldo Cruz Av. Brasil 4036. Room 814, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 21040-361, Brazil
| | - Amanda Dziedzic
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, 615 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205, United States
| | - Marcio L Rodrigues
- Instituto Carlos Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (Fiocruz), Rua Professor Algacyr Munhoz Mader, 3775, Curitiba - PR, 81310-020, Brazil
- Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes (IMPG), Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro Cidade Universitária da Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro,, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 21941-902, Brazil
| | - Rosanna P Baker
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, 615 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205, United States
| | - Peter R Williamson
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology and Microbiology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease, National Institutes of Health, Memorial Drive, Bethesda, MD 20814, United States
| | - Anne Jedlicka
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, 615 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205, United States
| | - Arturo Casadevall
- Corresponding author: Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, 615 N, Wolfe Street, Room E5132, Baltimore, MD 21205, United States. E-mail:
| | - Carolina Coelho
- Corresponding author: Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology at University of Exeter, College of Health and Medicine, Geoffrey Pope Building, Room 325, University of Exeter, Stocker Road, Exeter EX4 4QD, Devon, United Kingdom. E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Lyophilization induces physicochemical alterations in cryptococcal exopolysaccharide. Carbohydr Polym 2022; 291:119547. [PMID: 35698377 PMCID: PMC10064552 DOI: 10.1016/j.carbpol.2022.119547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Revised: 04/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Microbial polysaccharide characterization requires purification that often involves detergent precipitation and lyophilization. Here we examined physicochemical changes following lyophilization of Cryptococcus neoformans exopolysaccharide (EPS). Solution 1H Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) reveals significant anomeric signal attenuation following lyophilization of native EPS while 1H solid-state Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (ssNMR) shows few changes, suggesting diminished molecular motion and consequent broadening of 1H NMR polysaccharide resonances. 13C ssNMR, dynamic light scattering, and transmission electron microscopy show that, while native EPS has rigid molecular characteristics and contains small, loosely packed polysaccharide assemblies, lyophilized and resuspended EPS is disordered and contains larger dense aggregates, suggesting that structural water molecules in the interior of the polysaccharide assemblies are removed during extensive lyophilization. Importantly, mAbs to C. neoformans polysaccharide bind native EPS more strongly than lyophilized EPS. Together, these observations argue for caution when interpreting the biological and immunological attributes of polysaccharides that have been lyophilized to dryness.
Collapse
|
49
|
Linnemannstöns K, Karuna M P, Witte L, Choezom D, Honemann‐Capito M, Lagurin AS, Schmidt CV, Shrikhande S, Steinmetz L, Wiebke M, Lenz C, Gross JC. Microscopic and biochemical monitoring of endosomal trafficking and extracellular vesicle secretion in an endogenous in vivo model. J Extracell Vesicles 2022; 11:e12263. [PMID: 36103151 PMCID: PMC9473323 DOI: 10.1002/jev2.12263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2021] [Revised: 02/17/2022] [Accepted: 05/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Extracellular vesicle (EV) secretion enables cell-cell communication in multicellular organisms. During development, EV secretion and the specific loading of signalling factors in EVs contributes to organ development and tissue differentiation. Here, we present an in vivo model to study EV secretion using the fat body and the haemolymph of the fruit fly, Drosophila melanogaster. The system makes use of tissue-specific EV labelling and is amenable to genetic modification by RNAi. This allows the unique combination of microscopic visualisation of EVs in different organs and quantitative biochemical purification to study how EVs are generated within the cells and which factors regulate their secretion in vivo. Characterisation of the system revealed that secretion of EVs from the fat body is mainly regulated by Rab11 and Rab35, highlighting the importance of recycling Rab GTPase family members for EV secretion. We furthermore discovered a so far unknown function of Rab14 along with the kinesin Klp98A in EV biogenesis and secretion.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Karen Linnemannstöns
- Developmental BiochemistryUniversity Medical Center GoettingenGoettingenGermany
- Hematology and OncologyUniversity Medical Center GoettingenGoettingenGermany
- Molecular OncologyUniversity Medical Center GoettingenGoettingenGermany
| | - Pradhipa Karuna M
- Developmental BiochemistryUniversity Medical Center GoettingenGoettingenGermany
| | - Leonie Witte
- Developmental BiochemistryUniversity Medical Center GoettingenGoettingenGermany
| | - Dolma Choezom
- Developmental BiochemistryUniversity Medical Center GoettingenGoettingenGermany
| | | | - Alex Simon Lagurin
- Developmental BiochemistryUniversity Medical Center GoettingenGoettingenGermany
| | | | - Shreya Shrikhande
- Developmental BiochemistryUniversity Medical Center GoettingenGoettingenGermany
| | | | - Möbius Wiebke
- Electron Microscopy Core Unit, Department of NeurogeneticsMax Planck Institute of Experimental MedicineGöttingenGermany
| | - Christof Lenz
- Institute of Clinical ChemistryUniversity Medical Center GöttingenGöttingenGermany
- Bioanalytical Mass Spectrometry GroupMax Planck Institute for Biophysical ChemistryGöttingenGermany
| | - Julia Christina Gross
- Developmental BiochemistryUniversity Medical Center GoettingenGoettingenGermany
- Hematology and OncologyUniversity Medical Center GoettingenGoettingenGermany
- Department of MedicineHealth and Medical UniversityPotsdamGermany
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Castelli RF, Pereira A, Honorato L, Valdez A, de Oliveira HC, Bazioli JM, Garcia AWA, Klimeck TDF, Reis FCG, Staats CC, Nimrichter L, Fill TP, Rodrigues ML. Extracellular Vesicle Formation in Cryptococcus deuterogattii Impacts Fungal Virulence and Requires the NOP16 Gene. Infect Immun 2022; 90:e0023222. [PMID: 35862719 PMCID: PMC9387281 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00232-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 06/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Small molecules are components of fungal extracellular vesicles (EVs), but their biological roles are only superficially known. NOP16 is a eukaryotic gene that is required for the activity of benzimidazoles against Cryptococcus deuterogattii. In this study, during the phenotypic characterization of C. deuterogattii mutants lacking NOP16 expression, we observed that this gene was required for EV production. Analysis of the small molecule composition of EVs produced by wild-type cells and two independent nop16Δ mutants revealed that the deletion of NOP16 resulted not only in a reduced number of EVs but also an altered small molecule composition. In a Galleria mellonella model of infection, the nop16Δ mutants were hypovirulent. The hypovirulent phenotype was reverted when EVs produced by wild-type cells, but not mutant EVs, were coinjected with the nop16Δ cells in G. mellonella. These results reveal a role for NOP16 in EV biogenesis and cargo, and also indicate that the composition of EVs is determinant for cryptococcal virulence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rafael F. Castelli
- Instituto Carlos Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (Fiocruz), Curitiba, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biologia Parasitária, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Alana Pereira
- Instituto de Química, Universidade de Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Leandro Honorato
- Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes (IMPG), Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Alessandro Valdez
- Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes (IMPG), Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | | | - Jaqueline M. Bazioli
- Instituto de Química, Universidade de Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, State University of Campinas, Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ane W. A. Garcia
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Biologia Celular e Molecular, Centro de Biotecnologia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | | | - Flavia C. G. Reis
- Instituto Carlos Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (Fiocruz), Curitiba, Brazil
- Centro de Desenvolvimento Tecnológico em Saúde (CDTS), Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Charley C. Staats
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Biologia Celular e Molecular, Centro de Biotecnologia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Leonardo Nimrichter
- Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes (IMPG), Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Taícia P. Fill
- Instituto de Química, Universidade de Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Marcio L. Rodrigues
- Instituto Carlos Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (Fiocruz), Curitiba, Brazil
- Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes (IMPG), Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|