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Selection of Polymorphic Patterns Obtained by RAPD-PCR through Qualitative and Quantitative Analyses to Differentiate Aspergillus fumigatus. J Fungi (Basel) 2022; 8:jof8030296. [PMID: 35330298 PMCID: PMC8949193 DOI: 10.3390/jof8030296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Revised: 03/05/2022] [Accepted: 03/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The objective of this work was to use the random amplification of the polymorphic DNA–polymerase chain reaction (RAPD-PCR) technique to select polymorphic patterns through qualitative and quantitative analyses to differentiate the species A. flavus, A. fumigatus, A. niger and A. tubingensis. Twenty-seven Aspergillus isolates from different species were typified using phenotypic (macro- and micromorphology) and genotypic (partial BenA gene sequencing) methods. Thirty-four primers were used to obtain polymorphic patterns, and with these a qualitative analysis was performed to select the primers that presented species-specific patterns to distinguish each species. For the quantitative selection, a database was built from the polymorphic patterns and used for the construction of logistic regression models; later, the model that presented the highest value of sensitivity against specificity was evaluated through ROC curves. The qualitative selection showed that the primers OPA-19, P54, 1253 and OPA-02 could differentiate the species. A quantitative analysis was carried out through logistic regression, whereby a species-specific correlation of sensitivity and specificity greater than 90% was obtained for the primers: OPC-06 with a 96.32% match to A. flavus; OPF-01 with a 100% match to A. fumigatus; OPG-13 with a 98.01% match to A. tubingensis; and OPF-07 with a 99.71% match to A. niger. The primer OPF-01 discriminated the four species as well as closely related species. The quantitative methods using the selected primers allowed discrimination between species and showed their usefulness for genotyping some of the species of medical relevance belonging to the genus Aspergillus.
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Jofre GI, Singh A, Mavengere H, Sundar G, D'Agostino E, Chowdhary A, Matute DR. An Indian lineage of Histoplasma with strong signatures of differentiation and selection. Fungal Genet Biol 2022; 158:103654. [PMID: 34942368 DOI: 10.1016/j.fgb.2021.103654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2021] [Revised: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 12/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Histoplasma, a genus of dimorphic fungi, is the etiological agent of histoplasmosis, a pulmonary disease widespread across the globe. Whole genome sequencing has revealed that the genus harbors a previously unrecognized diversity of cryptic species. To date, studies have focused on Histoplasma isolates collected in the Americas with little knowledge of the genomic variation from other localities. In this report, we report the existence of a well-differentiated lineage of Histoplasma occurring in the Indian subcontinent. The group is differentiated enough to satisfy the requirements of a phylogenetic species, as it shows extensive genetic differentiation along the whole genome and has little evidence of gene exchange with other Histoplasma species. Next, we leverage this genetic differentiation to identify genetic changes that are unique to this group and that have putatively evolved through rapid positive selection. We found that none of the previously known virulence factors have evolved rapidly in the Indian lineage but find evidence of strong signatures of selection on other alleles potentially involved in clinically-important phenotypes. Our work serves as an example of the importance of correctly identifying species boundaries to understand the extent of selection in the evolution of pathogenic lineages. IMPORTANCE: Whole genome sequencing has revolutionized our understanding of microbial diversity, including human pathogens. In the case of fungal pathogens, a limiting factor in understanding the extent of their genetic diversity has been the lack of systematic sampling. In this piece, we show the results of a collection in the Indian subcontinent of the pathogenic fungus Histoplasma, the causal agent of a systemic mycosis. We find that Indian samples of Histoplasma form a distinct clade which is highly differentiated from other Histoplasma species. We also show that the genome of this lineage shows unique signals of natural selection. This work exemplifies how the combination of a robust sampling along with population genetics, and phylogenetics can reveal the precise genetic changes that differentiate lineages of fungal pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaston I Jofre
- Department of Biology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Ashutosh Singh
- National Reference Laboratory for Antimicrobial Resistance in Fungal Pathogens, Medical Mycology Unit, Department of Microbiology, Vallabhbhai Patel Chest Institute, University of Delhi, Delhi, India
| | - Heidi Mavengere
- Department of Biology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Gandhi Sundar
- National Reference Laboratory for Antimicrobial Resistance in Fungal Pathogens, Medical Mycology Unit, Department of Microbiology, Vallabhbhai Patel Chest Institute, University of Delhi, Delhi, India
| | - Emmanuel D'Agostino
- Department of Biology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Anuradha Chowdhary
- National Reference Laboratory for Antimicrobial Resistance in Fungal Pathogens, Medical Mycology Unit, Department of Microbiology, Vallabhbhai Patel Chest Institute, University of Delhi, Delhi, India
| | - Daniel R Matute
- Department of Biology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, United States.
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Analyses of the genetic diversity and population structures of Histoplasma capsulatum clinical isolates from Mexico, Guatemala, Colombia and Argentina, using a randomly amplified polymorphic DNA-PCR assay. Epidemiol Infect 2020; 147:e204. [PMID: 31364543 PMCID: PMC6624862 DOI: 10.1017/s0950268819000931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
We studied the genetic diversity and the population structure of human isolates of Histoplasma capsulatum, the causative agent of histoplasmosis, using a randomly amplified polymorphic DNA-polymerase chain reaction (RAPD-PCR) assay to identify associations with the geographic distribution of isolates from Mexico, Guatemala, Colombia and Argentina. The RAPD-PCR pattern analyses revealed the genetic diversity by estimating the percentage of polymorphic loci, effective number of alleles, Shannon's index and heterozygosity. Population structure was identified by the index of association (IA) test. Thirty-seven isolates were studied and clustered into three groups by the unweighted pair-group method with arithmetic mean (UPGMA). Group I contained five subgroups based on geographic origin. The consistency of the UPGMA dendrogram was estimated by the cophenetic correlation coefficient (CCCr = 0.94, P = 0.001). Isolates from Mexico and Colombia presented higher genetic diversity than isolates from Argentina. Isolates from Guatemala grouped together with the reference strains from the United States of America and Panama. The IA values suggest the presence of a clonal population structure in the Argentinian H. capsulatum isolates and also validate the presence of recombining populations in the Colombian and Mexican isolates. These data contribute to the knowledge on the molecular epidemiology of histoplasmosis in Latin America.
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Abstract
Histoplasma capsulatum is a pathogenic fungus that causes life-threatening lung infections. About 500,000 people are exposed to H. capsulatum each year in the United States, and over 60% of the U.S. population has been exposed to the fungus at some point in their life. We performed genome-wide population genetics and phylogenetic analyses with 30 Histoplasma isolates representing four recognized areas where histoplasmosis is endemic and show that the Histoplasma genus is composed of at least four species that are genetically isolated and rarely interbreed. Therefore, we propose a taxonomic rearrangement of the genus.IMPORTANCE The evolutionary processes that give rise to new pathogen lineages are critical to our understanding of how they adapt to new environments and how frequently they exchange genes with each other. The fungal pathogen Histoplasma capsulatum provides opportunities to precisely test hypotheses about the origin of new genetic variation. We find that H. capsulatum is composed of at least four different cryptic species that differ genetically and also in virulence. These results have implications for the epidemiology of histoplasmosis because not all Histoplasma species are equivalent in their geographic range and ability to cause disease.
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Fernández R, Arenas R, Duarte-Escalante E, Frías-De León MG, Vega Memige ME, Acosta Altamirano G, Reyes-Montes MDR. Diagnosis of coccidioidomycosis in a non-endemic area: Inference of the probable geographic area of an infection. Rev Iberoam Micol 2017; 34:237-240. [PMID: 28784311 DOI: 10.1016/j.riam.2017.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2016] [Revised: 01/30/2017] [Accepted: 03/17/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Coccidioidomycosis is one of the most important endemic mycoses in Northern Mexico. However, diagnosing this disease can be challenging, particularly in patients who do not reside in endemic areas. CASE REPORT The case of a Mexican HIV+ patient who developed fever, general malaise, a severe cough, and dyspnea during a stay in Acapulco, Guerrero, Mexico, is presented. Since various diseases are endemic to the state of Guerrero, the doctors originally suspected that the patient had contracted influenza A (H1N1), Q fever, or tuberculosis. All the diagnostic tests for those diseases were negative. The patient had received numerous mosquito bites while staying in Acapulco, and a nodule had appeared on his right cheek. Therefore, malaria, cryptococcosis, and histoplasmosis were also suspected, but those infections were also ruled out through diagnostic tests. A direct microscopic examination was performed using KOH on a sample taken from the cheek nodule. The observation of spherules suggested the presence of a species of Coccidioides. The fungus was isolated, and its identity was confirmed by phenotypic and molecular methods. The geographic area in which the infection was likely acquired was identified by random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) analysis. The results suggested a probable endogenous reactivation. CONCLUSIONS This clinical case illustrates the difficulties associated with diagnosing coccidioidomycosis in non-endemic areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramón Fernández
- Departamento de Dermatología, Hospital General Dr. Manuel Gea González, Calzada de Tlalpan 4800, México, Cd. Mx. 14080, Mexico
| | - Roberto Arenas
- Departamento de Dermatología, Hospital General Dr. Manuel Gea González, Calzada de Tlalpan 4800, México, Cd. Mx. 14080, Mexico
| | - Esperanza Duarte-Escalante
- Departamento de Microbiología y Parasitología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Ciudad Universitaria No. 3000, México, Cd. Mx. 04510, Mexico
| | - María Guadalupe Frías-De León
- Dirección de Investigación, Hospital Regional de Alta Especialidad Ixtapaluca, Carretera Federal México - Puebla Km. 34.5, Pueblo de Zoquiapan, Ixtapaluca 56530, Mexico
| | - María Elisa Vega Memige
- Departamento de Dermatología, Hospital General Dr. Manuel Gea González, Calzada de Tlalpan 4800, México, Cd. Mx. 14080, Mexico
| | - Gustavo Acosta Altamirano
- Dirección de Investigación, Hospital Regional de Alta Especialidad Ixtapaluca, Carretera Federal México - Puebla Km. 34.5, Pueblo de Zoquiapan, Ixtapaluca 56530, Mexico
| | - María Del Rocío Reyes-Montes
- Departamento de Microbiología y Parasitología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Ciudad Universitaria No. 3000, México, Cd. Mx. 04510, Mexico.
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Damasceno LS, Leitão TMJS, Taylor ML, Muniz MM, Zancopé-Oliveira RM. The use of genetic markers in the molecular epidemiology of histoplasmosis: a systematic review. Eur J Clin Microbiol Infect Dis 2015; 35:19-27. [PMID: 26589702 DOI: 10.1007/s10096-015-2508-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2015] [Accepted: 10/08/2015] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Histoplasmosis is a systemic mycosis caused by Histoplasma capsulatum, a dimorphic fungal pathogen that can infect both humans and animals. This disease has worldwide distribution and affects mainly immunocompromised individuals. In the environment, H. capsulatum grows as mold but undergoes a morphologic transition to the yeast morphotype under special conditions. Molecular techniques are important tools to conduct epidemiologic investigations for fungal detection, identification of infection sources, and determination of different fungal genotypes associated to a particular disease symptom. In this study, we performed a systematic review in the PubMed database to improve the understanding about the molecular epidemiology of histoplasmosis. This search was restricted to English and Spanish articles. We included a combination of specific keywords: molecular typing [OR] genetic diversity [OR] polymorphism [AND] H. capsulatum; molecular epidemiology [AND] histoplasmosis; and molecular epidemiology [AND] Histoplasma. In addition, we used the specific terms: histoplasmosis [AND] outbreaks. Non-English or non-Spanish articles, dead links, and duplicate results were excluded from the review. The results reached show that the main methods used for molecular typing of H. capsulatum were: restriction fragment length polymorphism, random amplified polymorphic DNA, microsatellites polymorphism, sequencing of internal transcribed spacers region, and multilocus sequence typing. Different genetic profiles were identified among H. capsulatum isolates, which can be grouped according to their source, geographical origin, and clinical manifestations.
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Affiliation(s)
- L S Damasceno
- FIOCRUZ-Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Laboratório de Micologia, Setor Imunodiagnóstico, INI-Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas, 21045-900, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - T M J S Leitão
- Departamento de Saúde Comunitária, Faculdade de Medicina, UFC-Universidade Federal do Ceará, 60430-140, Fortaleza, CE, Brazil
| | - M L Taylor
- Departamento de Microbiología y Parasitología, Laboratorio de Inmunología de Hongos, Facultad de Medicina, UNAM-Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, 04510, México, DF, Mexico
| | - M M Muniz
- FIOCRUZ-Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Laboratório de Micologia, Setor Imunodiagnóstico, INI-Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas, 21045-900, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - R M Zancopé-Oliveira
- FIOCRUZ-Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Laboratório de Micologia, Setor Imunodiagnóstico, INI-Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas, 21045-900, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil.
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Landaburu F, Cuestas ML, Rubio A, Elías NA, Daneri GL, Veciño C, Iovannitti CA, Mujica MT. Genetic diversity of Histoplasma capsulatum strains isolated from Argentina based on nucleotide sequence variations in the internal transcribed spacer regions of rDNA. Mycoses 2013; 57:299-306. [PMID: 24299459 DOI: 10.1111/myc.12159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2013] [Revised: 11/01/2013] [Accepted: 11/05/2013] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The internal transcribed spacer (ITS) regions of rDNA genes of 49 Histoplasma capsulatum (48 from clinical samples and one from soil) isolates were examined. Nucleotide sequence heterogeneity within this region was useful for phylogenetic classification of H. capsulatum and species identification. Thus, in 45 of 49 isolates we observed higher percentages of identity in the nucleotide sequences of ITS regions when the isolates studied herein were compared with those reported in our country in the South America B clade. Phylogenetic analyses of rDNA sequences corresponding to the 537 bp of the ITS region obtained from H. capsulatum isolates assigned South America type B clade (45 isolates), North America type 1 and Asia clade (2 isolates each one). H. capsulatum strains isolated from soil and from patients living in Argentina (45 of 49) clustered together with the H. capsulatum isolates of the South America B clade. The high level of genetic similarity among our isolates suggests that almost one genetic population is present in the microenvironment. Isolates described as H. capsulatum var. capsulatum or var. farciminosum (2 isolates) did not form a monophyletic group and were found in the Asia clade. Subsequent studies are needed to properly identify these isolates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernanda Landaburu
- Instituto of Microbiología y Parasitología Médica, Universidad de Buenos Aires-Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (IMPaM, UBA-CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Begović J, Jovčić B, Papić-Obradović M, Veljović K, Lukić J, Kojić M, Topisirović L. Genotypic diversity and virulent factors of Staphylococcus epidermidis isolated from human breast milk. Microbiol Res 2012; 168:77-83. [PMID: 23098640 DOI: 10.1016/j.micres.2012.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2012] [Revised: 08/08/2012] [Accepted: 09/13/2012] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Staphylococcus epidermidis strains were isolated from the expressed human breast milk (EHM) of 14 healthy donor mothers. Genetic diversity was evaluated using RAPD-PCR REP-PCR and pulse-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE). PFGE allowed the best discrimination of the isolates, since it provided for the greatest diversity of the analyzed genomes. Among the S. epidermidis strains, resistance to gentamicin, tetracycline, erythromycin, clindamycin or vancomycin was detected, whilst four isolates were multiresistant. The results from our study demonstrate that staphylococci from EHM could be reservoirs of resistance genes, since we showed that tetK could be transferred from EHM staphylococci to Gram-negative Escherichia coli. Most of the staphylococcal strains displayed excellent proteolytic and lipolytic activities. Additionally, the presence of ica genes, which was related to their ability to form a biofilm on tissue culture plates, and the presence of virulence factors including autolysin/adhesin AtLE, point to their pathogenic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jelena Begović
- Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, University of Belgrade, Laboratory for Molecular Genetics of Industrial Microorganisms, Vojvode Stepe 444a, P.O. Box 23, 11010 Belgrade, Serbia.
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Muñoz B, Martínez MA, Palma G, Ramírez A, Frías MG, Reyes MR, Taylor ML, Higuera AL, Corcho A, Manjarrez ME. Molecular characterization of Histoplasma capsulatum isolated from an outbreak in treasure hunters Histoplasma capsulatum in treasure hunters. BMC Infect Dis 2010; 10:264. [PMID: 20825675 PMCID: PMC2944350 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2334-10-264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2009] [Accepted: 09/08/2010] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In Mexico, primary pulmonary histoplasmosis is the most relevant clinical form of the disease. The geographical distribution of specific strains of Histoplasma capsulatum circulating in Mexico has not been fully established. Outbreaks must be reported in order to have current, updated information on this disease, identifying new endemic areas, manner of exposure to the fungi, and molecular characterization of the causative agents. We report a recent outbreak of histoplasmosis in treasure hunters and the molecular characterization of two isolates obtained from these patients. Methods Six patients admitted to the National Institute of Respiratory Diseases (INER) in Mexico City presented severe respiratory symptoms suggestive of histoplasmosis. They acquired the infection in the Veracruz (VZ) endemic zone. Diagnosis was made by X-ray and Computed tomography (CT), liver function, immunological techniques, and culture. Identification of H. capsulatum isolates was confirmed by using Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was conducted with a probe from the M antigen, and the isolates were characterized by means of Random amplification of polymorphic DNA (RAPD)-PCR employed the 1253 oligonucleotide and a mixture of oligonucleotides 1281 and 1283. These were compared to eight reference strain isolates from neighboring areas. Results X-ray and CT revealed disseminated micronodular images throughout lung parenchyma, as well as bilateral retrocaval, prevascular, subcarinal, and hilar adenopathies, hepatosplenomegaly, and altered liver function tests. Five of the six patients developed disseminated histoplasmosis. Two H. capsulatum strains were isolated. The same band profile was detected in both strains, indicating that both isolates corresponded to the sole H. capsulatum strain. Molecular characterization of the isolates was similar in 100% with the EH-53 Hidalgo human (HG) strain (reference strain integrated into the LAm A clade described for Latin America). Conclusions The two isolates appeared to possess the same polymorphic pattern; they are indistinguishable from each other and from EH-53. It is important to remain updated on recent outbreaks of histoplasmosis, the manner of exposure to the fungi, as well as the molecular characterization of the isolates. The severity of cases indicates that this strain is highly virulent and that it is probably prevalent in Hidalgo and Veracruz states.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bertha Muñoz
- Laboratorio de Micología Médica, Depto, de Investigación en Virología, Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades Respiratorias (INER), Calzada de Tlalpan 4502, Sección XVI, Tlalpan,14080 México, DF, México
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Salehi TZ, Madani SA, Karimi V, Khazaeli FA. Molecular genetic differentiation of avian Escherichia coli by RAPD-PCR. Braz J Microbiol 2008; 39:494-7. [PMID: 24031252 PMCID: PMC3768446 DOI: 10.1590/s1517-838220080003000015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2007] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Escherichia coli is one of the most important bacterial avian pathogens and a common inhabitant of the gastrointestinal tract of animals. Most pathogenic E. coli can not be differentiated biochemically or by classic microbiologic methods. Molecular typing methods, particularly PCR, facilitated epidemiological and ecological studies of bacteria. Here we describe the application of a random amplified polymorphic DNA- polymerase chain reaction (RAPD-PCR) for molecular genetic differentiation of E. coli isolates in Iran. In this study 58 E. coli isolates including 4 standard strains, 3 food originated isolates, 33 avian isolates, 8 isolates form diarrheic calves and 10 isolates from unweaned diarrheic lambs were analyzed by RAPD-PCR using primer 1247(5/-AAG AGC CCG T-3/). The RAPD analysis showed that these isolates could be grouped into 33 RAPD types and avian isolates were discriminated into 29 genotypes. It was shown that the primer could not differentiate E. coli isolated from lambs. Discriminatory index for entire isolates was 0.912 and for avian isolates was 0.990. We concluded that RAPD-PCR can be used as a method for molecular differentiation of E. coli isolates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taghi Zahraei Salehi
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran , Tehran , Iran
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Zarnowski R, Miyazaki M, Dobrzyn A, Ntambi JM, Woods JP. Typing of Histoplasma capsulatum strains by fatty acid profile analysis. J Med Microbiol 2007; 56:788-797. [PMID: 17510264 PMCID: PMC2748824 DOI: 10.1099/jmm.0.47067-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The performance of fatty acid profiling for strain differentiation of Histoplasma capsulatum was assessed. Total fatty acids were isolated from the yeast-phase cells of seven stock and two previously unreported clinical strains of H. capsulatum var. capsulatum, as well as from one unreported clinical strain and one stock strain of H. capsulatum var. duboisii, and one strain of each of three other dimorphic zoopathogenic fungal species, Blastomyces dermatitidis, Paracoccidioides brasiliensis and Sporothrix schenckii. Different colony morphology and pigmentation types of the H. capsulatum strains were also included. The most frequently occurring fatty acids were oleic, palmitic, stearic and linoleic acids. There were variations in the relative percentage fatty acid contents of H. capsulatum strains that could be used for strain identification and discrimination. Differentiation between H. capsulatum strains was achieved by the comparison of detected fatty acids accompanied by principal component analysis using calculated Varimax-rotated principal component loadings. Statistical analysis yielded three major principal components that explained over 94 % of total variance in the data. All the strains of H. capsulatum var. capsulatum RFLP classes II and III were grouped into two distinct clusters: the heterogenic RFLP class I formed a large, but also well-defined group, whereas the outgroup strains of H. capsulatum var. duboisii, B. dermatitidis, P. brasiliensis and S. schenckii were shifted away. These data suggest that fatty acid profiling can be used in H. capsulatum strain classification and epidemiological studies that require strain differentiation at the intraspecies level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Zarnowski
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Makoto Miyazaki
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Agnieszka Dobrzyn
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - James M. Ntambi
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Jon P. Woods
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
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Devi UK, Reineke A, Rao UCM, Reddy NRN, Khan APA. AFLP and single-strand conformation polymorphism studies of recombination in the entomopathogenic fungus Nomuraea rileyi. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2007; 111:716-25. [PMID: 17604614 DOI: 10.1016/j.mycres.2007.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2006] [Revised: 01/18/2007] [Accepted: 03/02/2007] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
In most putative asexual fungi analysed through population genetic studies, recombination has been detected. However, the mechanism by which it is achieved is still not known. A parasexual cycle is known to occur in asexual fungi but there is no evidence, as yet, of its prevalence in natural populations. This study was undertaken to investigate the possibility of a parasexual cycle mediating recombination in the mitosporic fungus Nomuraea rileyi. The genotypic diversity in isolates sampled from an epizootic population from South India was studied through AFLP. The AFLP data were subjected to analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) and cluster analysis. Great genetic variation was observed in the population including the isolates from a single insect. To assess the occurrence of recombination in the population, single-strand conformation polymorphism (SSCP) of partial regions of two mitochondrial (mt) genes (rRNA genes of LSU and SSU) and a nuclear gene (beta tubulin) was performed. The SSCP data were analysed using MP, the tree length permutation test, and multilocus analysis. Recombination was inferred from the SSCP analysis. The occurrence of isolates with diverse genotypes in a single insect; the fact that fungi multiply as hyphal bodies (cell wall-less) in the insect haemolymph; and the inference of recombination in mitochondrial genes (suggesting cytomixis), all indicate that recombination is accomplished by fusion of hyphal bodies of different isolates infecting the insect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Uma K Devi
- Department of Botany, Andhra University, Visakhapatnam, 530 003, Andhra Pradesh, India.
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Zarnowski R, Connolly PA, Wheat LJ, Woods JP. Production of extracellular proteolytic activity by Histoplasma capsulatum grown in Histoplasma-macrophage medium is limited to restriction fragment length polymorphism class 1 isolates. Diagn Microbiol Infect Dis 2007; 59:39-47. [PMID: 17509799 PMCID: PMC2093958 DOI: 10.1016/j.diagmicrobio.2007.03.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2007] [Revised: 03/22/2007] [Accepted: 03/26/2007] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Extracellular proteolytic activity was studied for 28 strains of Histoplasma capsulatum var. capsulatum and 2 strains of H. capsulatum var. duboisii. Secreted protease activity assessed by skim milk agarose clearance was limited solely to H. capsulatum var. capsulatum restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) class 1 strains. There was a difference in proteolytic activity levels among class 1 strains. Extracellular proteolytic activity was further determined during growth of those strains in liquid medium using azodye-impregnated protein substrates. In general, the highest activities were measured when azocollagen was used, whereas azocasein and azoalbumin were cleaved less efficiently. The activity was inhibited by phenylmethylsulfonyl fluoride, 4-(2-aminoethyl) benzenesulfonyl fluoride, antipain, and chymostatin, indicating, thereby, the presence of chymotrypsin-like serine proteases. Chromatographic analyses as well as variable substrate use at different culture times revealed production of at least 2 different enzyme pools of the same serine-like protease family. Our results demonstrate a distinctive ability of RFLP class 1 isolates to produce and secrete serine proteinase-type activity. This peculiarity may be relevant to the biology and pathogenesis of this particular clade of H. capsulatum isolates. Overall, the feature of extracellular proteolytic activity production enables a convenient and unequivocal identification of RFLP class 1 isolates and, thereby, can be used in H. capsulatum strain differentiation and typing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Zarnowski
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53706, USA.
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Couppié P, Aznar C, Carme B, Nacher M. American histoplasmosis in developing countries with a special focus on patients with HIV: diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis. Curr Opin Infect Dis 2006; 19:443-9. [PMID: 16940867 DOI: 10.1097/01.qco.0000244049.15888.b9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Histoplasmosis due to Histoplasma capsulatum var capsulatum is a frequent systemic fungal infection in the Americas. Diagnostic and therapeutic options differ between North and South America. Disseminated histoplasmosis is an AIDS-defining infection. Prognostic factors of potentially severe presentations must be evaluated in order to facilitate the initial therapeutic choice. RECENT FINDINGS Patients with HIV with disseminated infections presenting with severe pulmonary and renal impairment have a poor prognosis. Cutaneous presentations are more frequent in HIV patients in South America than in North America. A murine model has shown that South American isolates have a greater virulence that North American isolates. These differences are due in part to diagnostic delays in resource-poor countries. SUMMARY Direct examination of May-Grünwald-Giemsa-stained smears or tissues in suspected histoplasmosis is a simple means of confirming the diagnosis in resource-poor settings. Studies of prognostic factors should further refine indication criteria to guide first-line treatment choice between amphotericin B and itraconazole. The association of tuberculosis and histoplasmosis is frequent in HIV patients and presents diagnostic and therapeutic challenges that may be difficult to resolve in resource-poor settings. It is important that affordable generic drugs for treating histoplasmosis be made widely available in resource-poor countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierre Couppié
- Service de Dermatologie, French Guiana, Centre Hospitalier de Cayenne, Centre Hospitalier de Cayenne, Cayenne, French Guiana.
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15
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Finger SA, Velapatiño B, Kosek M, Santivañez L, Dailidiene D, Quino W, Balqui J, Herrera P, Berg DE, Gilman RH. Effectiveness of enterobacterial repetitive intergenic consensus PCR and random amplified polymorphic DNA fingerprinting for Helicobacter pylori strain differentiation. Appl Environ Microbiol 2006; 72:4713-6. [PMID: 16820463 PMCID: PMC1489368 DOI: 10.1128/aem.00894-06] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
We compared the robustness and discriminatory power of the enterobacterial repetitive intergenic consensus (ERIC) and random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) fingerprinting methods for detecting cases of mixed Helicobacter pylori infection in Peruvian shantytown residents. H. pylori isolates from 63 participants were cultured, and five single colonies and a pool of additional colonies from each participant were analyzed by ERIC-PCR and by RAPD tests with four 10-nucleotide primers (one primer per reaction). There was 94% agreement between the ERIC and RAPD profiles in classifying sets of isolates as uniform versus closely related but not identical versus probably unrelated, indicating a high kappa statistic of 0.8942. Subtle differences in related ERIC or RAPD patterns likely reflect gene transfer between strains, recombination, and/or mutation, whereas markedly different patterns reflect infection by unrelated strains. At least half of infected shantytown residents seemed to carry more than one H. pylori strain, although in 19 of 31 persons, the strains were closely related. Three RAPD tests, each with a different primer, were needed to achieve the sensitivity of one ERIC test. ERIC-PCR constitutes a resource- and time-efficient method for H. pylori strain differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Alison Finger
- Departamento de Microbiología, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima, Peru
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16
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Zancopé-Oliveira RM, Morais e Silva Tavares P, Muniz MDM. Genetic diversity ofHistoplasma capsulatumstrains in Brazil. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2005; 45:443-9. [PMID: 16055317 DOI: 10.1016/j.femsim.2005.05.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2005] [Accepted: 05/27/2005] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
This study establishes the genetic relatedness among Brazilian Histoplasma capsulatum samples obtained from different sources. A PCR-based random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) assay was used to delineate polymorphisms among isolates in geographically diverse regions in Brazil. RAPD fingerprints revealed distinct DNA profiles and provided a high level of discrimination among H. capsulatum strains from different locations. Cluster I was composed of H. capsulatum isolates from the northeast region. The majority of strains from southeast and south were categorized as major cluster II. The strain 84564 from Rio de Janeiro State showed no genetic correlation to any of the isolates from the same state. The RAPD patterns of H. capsulatum isolates from Goias (Cluster III) were unrelated to DNA fingerprints observed among the other H. capsulatum strains (48% similarity). This study is the first report that stratifies the clusters of H. capsulatum strains from Brazil by molecular typing and associates them with the geographical origin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosely M Zancopé-Oliveira
- Instituto de Pesquisa Clínica Evandro Chagas, FIOCRUZ (Funda ção Oswaldo Cruz.), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
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17
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Sriburee P, Khayhan S, Khamwan C, Panjaisee S, Tharavichitkul P. Serotype and PCR-fingerprints of clinical and environmental isolates of Cryptococcus neoformans in Chiang Mai, Thailand. Mycopathologia 2004; 158:25-31. [PMID: 15487316 DOI: 10.1023/b:myco.0000038435.14281.f4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
From May 1999 to April 2000, serotypes of clinical and environmental isolates of Cryptococcus neoformans were studied in Chiang Mai province, northern Thailand. Three hundred and eighty-five environmental samples, of which 100 were dove droppings, 55 pigeon droppings and 230 eucalyptus flower, were collected from 7 Amphoes in Chiang Mai. C. neoformans was isolated from 45 of 100 (45.0%) dove dropping samples, 9 of 55 (16.4%) pigeon dropping samples and 2 of 230 (0.9%) eucalyptus flower samples. Serotypes of 56 environmental isolates and 75 clinical isolates of C. neoformans,obtained during the same period, were determined by the slide agglutination test. Fifty-six environmental and 74 clinical isolates belonged to C. neoformans serotype A (C. neoformans var. grubii), and only one clinical isolate belonged to C. neoformans serotype AD. The isolation of C. neoformans var. grubii from eucalyptus flower samples suggests contamination of avian droppings. PCR-fingerprinting, using (GACA)4 as a primer, discriminated 131 clinical and environmental isolates into 2 groups (group I and II). Seventy-five clinical and 54 environmental isolates were of group I, which had two major specific bands of approximately 1,250 and 960 base pairs. Two environmental isolates, one from pigeon excreta and the other from a eucalyptus flower sample were of group II, which had two major specific bands of approximately 1,180 and 500 base pairs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pojana Sriburee
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University,Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand.
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18
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Magrini V, Warren WC, Wallis J, Goldman WE, Xu J, Mardis ER, McPherson JD. Fosmid-based physical mapping of the Histoplasma capsulatum genome. Genome Res 2004; 14:1603-9. [PMID: 15289478 PMCID: PMC509269 DOI: 10.1101/gr.2361404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
A fosmid library representing 10-fold coverage of the Histoplasma capsulatum G217B genome was used to construct a restriction-based physical map. The data obtained from three restriction endonuclease fingerprints, generated from each clone using BamHI, HindIII, and PstI endonucleases, were combined and used in FPC for automatic and manual contig assembly builds. Concomitantly, a whole-genome shotgun (WGS) sequencing of paired-end reads from plasmids and fosmids were assembled with PCAP, providing a predicted genome size of up to 43.5 Mbp and 17% repetitive DNA. Fosmid paired-end sequences in the WGS assembly provide anchoring information to the physical map and result in joining of existing physical map contigs into 84 clusters containing 9551 fosmid clones. Here, we detail mapping the Histoplasma capsulatum genome comprehensively in fosmids, resulting in an efficient paradigm for de novo sequencing that uses a map-assisted whole genome shotgun approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincent Magrini
- Washington University School of Medicine, Genome Sequencing Center, St. Louis, Missouri 63108, USA
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19
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Semighini CP, de Camargo ZP, Puccia R, Goldman MHS, Goldman GH. Molecular identification of Paracoccidioides brasiliensis by 5' nuclease assay. Diagn Microbiol Infect Dis 2002; 44:383-6. [PMID: 12543545 DOI: 10.1016/s0732-8893(02)00472-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
A PCR assay based on the 5' nuclease assay using a fluorescent probe derived from the sequence of the gene coding for the 43,000-Da (gp43) antigen was developed to detect Paracoccidioides brasiliensis. The assay could detect at least 10 copies of this DNA sequence, providing efficient accuracy to be useful for diagnosis of paracoccidioidomycosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camile P Semighini
- Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
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20
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Ignatov A, Keath EJ. Molecular cell biology and molecular genetics of Histoplasma capsulatum. Int J Med Microbiol 2002; 292:349-61. [PMID: 12452281 DOI: 10.1078/1438-4221-00218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Histoplasma capsulatum is a dimorphic ascomycete which is capable of producing a broad spectrum of disease ranging from mild asymptomatic, pulmonary illness to severe, life-threatening systemic mycosis. Regulatory mechanisms that use temperature and other environmental cues are paramount to the successful adaptation of the organism as an effective intracellular pathogenic yeast. Although the biochemistry and phenomenology of reversible morphogenesis have been well examined in Histoplasma, the identification and functional characterization of genes and their products that are required for early establishment or maintenance of the parasitic yeast phase in intracellular host compartments have only recently been fruitful. Advances in the molecular biology of Histoplasma, including approaches to introduce telomeric plasmids, reporter fusion constructs, and gene disruption cassettes into the fungus are poised to solidify the pre-eminence of this fungus as a model system which can be applied to other dimorphic fungal pathogens that exhibit similar cellular and immunological complexities. This review centers on recent developments in the molecular cell biology and molecular genetics of Histoplasma capsulatum that provide important new avenues for examining the mold-to-yeast phase transition beyond the historical, binary view of dimorphism and the implications that these successful approaches may have on seminal issues in fungal pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atanas Ignatov
- Department of Biology, Saint Louis University, 3507 Laclede Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63103, USA
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21
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Abstract
The culture of viable microorganisms from the blood or from cardiac tissue is currently the most important test for diagnosis of IE. This is followed by phenotypic identification methods used for taxonomic positioning of isolates. However, in those cases where the invading microorganism is difficult or impossible to culture (including instances of prior antimicrobial treatment), molecular methods provide the best means for detection. Molecular identification methods, either nucleic acid target or signal amplification alone or in combination with sequence analysis can offer a more specific and in some cases a more rapid alternative to the phenotypic methods. We propose revised Duke criteria of IE, including positive identification of an organism by molecular biology methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annette Moter
- Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Institut für Mikrobiologie und Hygiene, Dorotheenstr. 96, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Michele Musci
- Deutsches Herzzentrum Berlin, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353 Berlin, Germany
| | - Dinah Schmiedel
- Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Institut für Mikrobiologie und Hygiene, Dorotheenstr. 96, 10117 Berlin, Germany
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22
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Ferreira OG, Cardoso SV, Borges AS, Ferreira MS, Loyola AM. Oral histoplasmosis in Brazil. ORAL SURGERY, ORAL MEDICINE, ORAL PATHOLOGY, ORAL RADIOLOGY, AND ENDODONTICS 2002; 93:654-9. [PMID: 12142871 DOI: 10.1067/moe.2002.122588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We report 10 cases of histoplasmosis with oral manifestations seen in a teaching hospital in Brazil. STUDY DESIGN This is a retrospective study of the sociodemographic, clinicopathologic, and treatment data of these cases. RESULTS Overall, 8 of 10 cases were seropositive for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), whereas 2 were negative. The predominant oral manifestations found in HIV-seropositive patients were ulcers, oral pain, and odynophagia; both of the HIV-seronegative patients were symptom-free. HIV infection was suspected in 7 cases because of the presence of oral lesions of histoplasmosis. Asthenia, fever, weight loss, lymphadenopathy, and hepatosplenomegaly were found only in HIV-seropositive patients. Radiographs in 3 out of 10 patients suggested pulmonary involvement. Amphotericin B was the antifungal therapy chosen, and clinical remission of oral lesions occurred in an average of 30 days (accumulated doses: 500-1500 mg). Itraconazole was very effective as a follow-up treatment in terms of prevention of recurrence. CONCLUSION Histoplasmosis only rarely affects HIV-seronegative patients; however, the possibility of hidden immunodepression should be considered when oral manifestations of histoplasmosis are present.
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23
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Woods JP. Histoplasma capsulatum molecular genetics, pathogenesis, and responsiveness to its environment. Fungal Genet Biol 2002; 35:81-97. [PMID: 11848673 DOI: 10.1006/fgbi.2001.1311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Histoplasma capsulatum is a thermally dimorphic ascomycete that is a significant cause of respiratory and systemic disease in mammals including humans, especially immunocompromised individuals such as AIDS patients. As an environmental mold found in the soil, it is a successful member of a competitive polymicrobial ecosystem. Its host-adapted yeast form is a facultative intracellular pathogen of mammalian macrophages. H. capsulatum faces a variety of environmental changes during the course of infection and must survive under harsh conditions or modulate its microenvironment to achieve success as a pathogen. Histoplasmosis may be considered the fungal homolog of the bacterial infection tuberculosis, since both H. capsulatum and Mycobacterium tuberculosis exploit the macrophage as a host cell and can cause acute or persistent pulmonary and disseminated infection and reactivation disease. The identification and functional analysis of biologically or pathogenically important H. capsulatum genes have been greatly facilitated by the development of molecular genetic experimental capabilities in this organism. This review focuses on responsiveness of this fungus to its environment, including differential expression of genes and adaptive phenotypic traits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jon P Woods
- Department of Medical Microbiology & Immunology, University of Wisconsin Medical School, Madison, Wisconsin 53706-1532, USA
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24
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Muniz MM, Pizzini CV, Peralta JM, Reiss E, Zancopé-Oliveira RM. Genetic diversity of Histoplasma capsulatum strains isolated from soil, animals, and clinical specimens in Rio de Janeiro State, Brazil, by a PCR-based random amplified polymorphic DNA assay. J Clin Microbiol 2001; 39:4487-94. [PMID: 11724867 PMCID: PMC88571 DOI: 10.1128/jcm.39.12.4487-4494.2001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Little is known about the genetic strain diversity and geographical range of Histoplasma capsulatum isolated in Rio de Janeiro State, Brazil. We characterized 13 environmental, 7 animal, and 28 clinical H. capsulatum isolates by using a PCR-based random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) assay. DNA fingerprinting of these soil, animal, and clinical specimens was performed with four primers (1253, 1281, D-9355, and D-10513) and generated amplicons with considerable polymorphism. Although all of the isolates exhibited more than 80% genetic relatedness, they could be clustered into four to six genotypes for each primer. The RAPD profiles of H. capsulatum isolated from Rio de Janeiro State could be distinguished from those of the U.S. strains included in this study (Downs, G222B, G-186B, and FLS1) by showing less than 70% similarity to each primer. The genetic polymorphisms between H. capsulatum strains isolated from animals and soil obtained in the same geographic areas were 100% similar, suggesting that an environmental microniche could be acting as a source of infection for animals and the local human population.
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Affiliation(s)
- M M Muniz
- Centro de Pesquisa Hospital Evandro Chagas, FIOCRUZ, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
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25
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Abstract
Research in medical mycology has traditionally been a mix of exciting biology and frustrating genetics, although the excitement has been steadily increasing as genetic obstacles have been successfully overcome. Now, a variety of fungal pathogens can be studied using molecular techniques derived from classical bacterial and yeast genetics, but with selective and strategic adaptations. Histoplasma capsulatum is the best-studied of the primary pathogens known as 'dimorphic' fungi, and tailored molecular genetic strategies are beginning to reveal a repertoire of genes and gene products intimately associated with pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Magrini
- Washington University School of Medicine, Dept of Molecular Microbiology, Campus Box 8230, St Louis, MO 63110, USA
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26
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Carter DA, Taylor JW, Dechairo B, Burt A, Koenig GL, White TJ. Amplified single-nucleotide polymorphisms and a (GA)(n) microsatellite marker reveal genetic differentiation between populations of Histoplasma capsulatum from the Americas. Fungal Genet Biol 2001; 34:37-48. [PMID: 11567550 DOI: 10.1006/fgbi.2001.1283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Histoplasma capsulatum has a worldwide distribution but is particularly concentrated in the midwestern United States and throughout Central and South America. Genetic differences between isolates resident in separate parts of the world have been reported, but the relationship between the isolates and the level of migration between different endemic foci has not been clear. In this study we used multilocus genotypes based on amplified polymorphic loci and one microsatellite to quantify the level of genetic differentiation occurring between North and South American populations of H. capsulatum. Significant genetic differentiation occurred between isolates obtained from Indiana and Alabama, and a marked division was seen between the Indiana population and the Class 1 isolates from St. Louis. Strong genetic differentiation occurred between the two North American populations and the Colombian population. This study supports the separation of North and South American H. capsulatum into different species, which has been proposed under the phylogenetic species concept.
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Affiliation(s)
- D A Carter
- Roche Molecular Systems, Alameda, California 94501, USA
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27
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Heesche-Wagner K, Schwarz T, Kaufmann M. A directed approach to the selection of bacteria with enhanced catabolic activity. Lett Appl Microbiol 2001; 32:162-5. [PMID: 11264745 DOI: 10.1046/j.1472-765x.2001.00879.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
AIMS This study was aimed at selecting catabolicly-improved bacteria by in vitro evolution using a specially designed fermentor system. METHODS AND RESULTS To facilitate this objective, genetic variation was induced by ultraviolet irradiation, and a selective pressure was subsequently exerted by gradual increases in the concentration of organic toxins. During a pilot experiment, a culture was forced to tolerate and catabolize a mixture of phenol and formaldehyde. The population developed a high resistance against formaldehyde and the specific degradation rate increased rapidly. Biochemical analysis of the mutants revealed an increase in the expression of enzymes involved in the pathway oxidizing formaldehyde. CONCLUSIONS The fermentor system described is, in general, suitable for the selection of bacteria with enhanced catabolic activities. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY The procedure is an alternative to conventional genetic engineering, providing efficient and genetically stable strains suitable for applications in the field of environmental biotechnology.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Heesche-Wagner
- Institute for Neurobiochemistry, AG Proteinchemistry, University of Witten/Herdecke, Germany
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28
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Alexander SM, Grayson TH, Chambers EM, Cooper LF, Barker GA, Gilpin ML. Variation in the spacer regions separating tRNA genes in Renibacterium salmoninarum distinguishes recent clinical isolates from the same location. J Clin Microbiol 2001; 39:119-28. [PMID: 11136759 PMCID: PMC87690 DOI: 10.1128/jcm.39.1.119-128.2001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2000] [Accepted: 09/24/2000] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
A means for distinguishing between clinical isolates of Renibacterium salmoninarum that is based on the PCR amplification of length polymorphisms in the tRNA intergenic spacer regions (tDNA-ILPs) was investigated. The method used primers specific to nucleotide sequences of R. salmoninarum tRNA genes and tRNA intergenic spacer regions that had been generated by using consensus tRNA gene primers. Twenty-one PCR products were sequenced from five isolates of R. salmoninarum from the United States, England, and Scotland, and four complete tRNA genes and spacer regions were identified. Sixteen specific PCR primers were designed and tested singly and in all possible pairwise combinations for their potential to discriminate between isolates from recent clinical outbreaks of bacterial kidney disease (BKD) in the United Kingdom. Fourteen of the isolates were cultured from kidney samples taken from fish displaying clinical signs of BKD on five farms, and some of the isolates came from the same farm and at the same time. The tDNA-ILP profiles separated 22 clinical isolates into nine groups and highlighted that some farms may have had more than one source of infection. The grouping of isolates improved on the discriminatory power of previously reported typing methods based on randomly amplified polymorphic DNA analysis and restriction fragment length profiles developed using insertion sequence IS994. Our method enabled us to make divisions between closely related clinical isolates of R. salmoninarum that have identical exact tandem repeat (ETR-A) loci, rRNA intergenic spacer sequences, and IS994 profiles.
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Affiliation(s)
- S M Alexander
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, Devon PL4 8AA, United Kingdom
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29
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Limaye AP, Connolly PA, Sagar M, Fritsche TR, Cookson BT, Wheat LJ, Stamm WE. Transmission of Histoplasma capsulatum by organ transplantation. N Engl J Med 2000; 343:1163-6. [PMID: 11036122 DOI: 10.1056/nejm200010193431605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- A P Limaye
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, USA.
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30
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Gomes GM, Cisalpino PS, Taborda CP, de Camargo ZP. PCR for diagnosis of paracoccidioidomycosis. J Clin Microbiol 2000; 38:3478-80. [PMID: 10970409 PMCID: PMC87412 DOI: 10.1128/jcm.38.9.3478-3480.2000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
A PCR assay based on oligonucleotide primers derived from the sequence of the gene coding for the 43,000-Da (gp43) antigen was developed to detect Paracoccidioides brasiliensis DNA in sputa. In the standardized conditions, it could detect 10 cells/ml of sputum, providing sufficient accuracy to be useful for diagnosis of paracoccidioidomycosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- G M Gomes
- Departamento de Microbiologia, Imunologia e Parasitologia, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, SP, Brazil
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31
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Taylor ML, Chávez-Tapia CB, Reyes-Montes MR. Molecular typing of Histoplasma capsulatum isolated from infected bats, captured in Mexico. Fungal Genet Biol 2000; 30:207-12. [PMID: 11035942 DOI: 10.1006/fgbi.2000.1219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The present paper represents data on the genetic polymorphism of 13 Histoplasma capsulatum isolates recovered from infected bats randomly captured in the Mexican states of Morelos, Puebla, and Oaxaca. The polymorphic DNA patterns were analyzed by two-primer RAPD-PCR (random amplified polymorphic DNA-polymerase chain reaction) method. To amplify the fungal genome by PCR, the following primer arrangements were used: 5'-AACGCGCAAC-3' and 5'-AAGAGCCCGT-3'; 5'-AACGCGCAAC-3' and 5'-GTTTCCGCCC-3'; or 5'-AACGCGCAAC-3' and 5'-GCGATCCCCA-3'. A common polymorphic DNA pattern of H. capsulatum was revealed in different assays. This pattern is shared by 7 H. capsulatum isolates recovered from different specimens of nonmigratory bats (Artibeus hirsutus) captured in a cave in Morelos, by 5 isolates recovered from infected migratory bats (Leptonycteris nivalis) captured in Morelos and Puebla, and by 1 isolate from another migratory bat (L. curasoae) captured in Oaxaca. This polymorphic DNA pattern of H. capsulatum could represent fungal markers for the geographic areas studied, and considering its distribution in three different states of the Mexican Republic, the role of bats as responsible for H. capsulatum spreading in nature, in relation to their movements and migrations besides their shelter habits, is suggested. Analyses of DNA patterns of H. capsulatum isolated from infected bats, from clinical cases, and from blackbird excreta, have shown a major relatedness between bats and clinical isolates, in contrast to those isolates from bird excreta.
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Affiliation(s)
- M L Taylor
- Departamento de Microbiología-Parasitología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico.
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32
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Abstract
DNA fingerprinting methods have evolved as major tools in fungal epidemiology. However, no single method has emerged as the method of choice, and some methods perform better than others at different levels of resolution. In this review, requirements for an effective DNA fingerprinting method are proposed and procedures are described for testing the efficacy of a method. In light of the proposed requirements, the most common methods now being used to DNA fingerprint the infectious fungi are described and assessed. These methods include restriction fragment length polymorphisms (RFLP), RFLP with hybridization probes, randomly amplified polymorphic DNA and other PCR-based methods, electrophoretic karyotyping, and sequencing-based methods. Procedures for computing similarity coefficients, generating phylogenetic trees, and testing the stability of clusters are then described. To facilitate the analysis of DNA fingerprinting data, computer-assisted methods are described. Finally, the problems inherent in the collection of test and control isolates are considered, and DNA fingerprinting studies of strain maintenance during persistent or recurrent infections, microevolution in infecting strains, and the origin of nosocomial infections are assessed in light of the preceding discussion of the ins and outs of DNA fingerprinting. The intent of this review is to generate an awareness of the need to verify the efficacy of each DNA fingerprinting method for the level of genetic relatedness necessary to answer the epidemiological question posed, to use quantitative methods to analyze DNA fingerprint data, to use computer-assisted DNA fingerprint analysis systems to analyze data, and to file data in a form that can be used in the future for retrospective and comparative studies.
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33
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Abstract
DNA fingerprinting methods have evolved as major tools in fungal epidemiology. However, no single method has emerged as the method of choice, and some methods perform better than others at different levels of resolution. In this review, requirements for an effective DNA fingerprinting method are proposed and procedures are described for testing the efficacy of a method. In light of the proposed requirements, the most common methods now being used to DNA fingerprint the infectious fungi are described and assessed. These methods include restriction fragment length polymorphisms (RFLP), RFLP with hybridization probes, randomly amplified polymorphic DNA and other PCR-based methods, electrophoretic karyotyping, and sequencing-based methods. Procedures for computing similarity coefficients, generating phylogenetic trees, and testing the stability of clusters are then described. To facilitate the analysis of DNA fingerprinting data, computer-assisted methods are described. Finally, the problems inherent in the collection of test and control isolates are considered, and DNA fingerprinting studies of strain maintenance during persistent or recurrent infections, microevolution in infecting strains, and the origin of nosocomial infections are assessed in light of the preceding discussion of the ins and outs of DNA fingerprinting. The intent of this review is to generate an awareness of the need to verify the efficacy of each DNA fingerprinting method for the level of genetic relatedness necessary to answer the epidemiological question posed, to use quantitative methods to analyze DNA fingerprint data, to use computer-assisted DNA fingerprint analysis systems to analyze data, and to file data in a form that can be used in the future for retrospective and comparative studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- D R Soll
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA.
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Jiang B, Bartlett MS, Allen SD, Smith JW, Wheat LJ, Connolly PA, Lee CH. Typing of Histoplasma capsulatum isolates based on nucleotide sequence variation in the internal transcribed spacer regions of rRNA genes. J Clin Microbiol 2000; 38:241-5. [PMID: 10618094 PMCID: PMC88702 DOI: 10.1128/jcm.38.1.241-245.2000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The nucleotide sequences of internal transcribed spacer (ITS) regions of rRNA genes of 24 isolates of Histoplasma capsulatum were examined. The results indicate that the sequences of ITS regions in different isolates are not identical. Sequence variations were found at 20 positions in the 496 bp that were sequenced. Ten different sequence patterns, designated types A through H, were observed when the sequences from the 24 isolates were aligned. Twelve isolates from Indianapolis were classified into four different types. Two isolates from New York belonged to type G. Three isolates from different cities were type F. The remaining six isolates were of different types.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Jiang
- Department of Pathology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana 46202, USA
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Grayson TH, Atienzar FA, Alexander SM, Cooper LF, Gilpin ML. Molecular diversity of Renibacterium salmoninarum isolates determined by randomly amplified polymorphic DNA analysis. Appl Environ Microbiol 2000; 66:435-8. [PMID: 10618262 PMCID: PMC91844 DOI: 10.1128/aem.66.1.435-438.2000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The molecular diversity among 60 isolates of Renibacterium salmoninarum which differ in place and date of isolation was investigated by using randomly amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) analysis. Isolates were grouped into 21 banding patterns which did not reflect the biological source. Four 16S-23S rRNA intergenic spacer (ITS1) sequence variations and two alleles of an exact tandem repeat locus, ETR-A, were the bases for formation of distinct groups within the RAPD clusters. This study provides evidence that the most common ITS1 sequence variant, SV1, possesses two copies of a 51-bp repeat unit at ETR-A and has been widely dispersed among countries which are associated with mainstream intensive salmonid culture.
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Affiliation(s)
- T H Grayson
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Plymouth, Plymouth PL4 8AA, Devon, United Kingdom.
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Retallack DM, Woods JP. Molecular epidemiology, pathogenesis, and genetics of the dimorphic fungus Histoplasma capsulatum. Microbes Infect 1999; 1:817-25. [PMID: 10816087 DOI: 10.1016/s1286-4579(99)80084-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Histoplasma capsulatum, the causative agent of the most common systemic fungal infection, histoplasmosis, has become subject to increasing study in parallel with rising prevalence of human immunodeficiency. This review presents a summary of the advances made in the investigation of H. capsulatum genomics, molecular epidemiology, pathogenesis, and molecular genetics.
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Affiliation(s)
- D M Retallack
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Wisconsin Medical School, Madison 53706, USA
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Abstract
The use of nucleic acid amplification methods in routine clinical microbiology laboratories is becoming increasingly widespread. The theory of polymerase chain reaction is described, including discussion of suitable microbal targets, extraction of nucleic acid from clinical samples, choice of primers, optimization of the process, laboratory design, contamination, and other problems as well as quality control. Other nucleic acid amplification methods such as ligase chain reaction, self-sustained sequence replication, strand displacement amplification, and branched DNA signal amplification are described and the choice of technology is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Lisby
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Herler Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
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38
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Reid TM, Schafer MP. Direct detection of Histoplasma capsulatum in soil suspensions by two-stage PCR. Mol Cell Probes 1999; 13:269-73. [PMID: 10441199 DOI: 10.1006/mcpr.1999.0247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Histoplasmosis is the most common pulmonary mycosis in the United States. The responsible fungal pathogen, Histoplasma capsulatum, grows in soils contaminated with bird or bat droppings. Inhalation of dust from contaminated areas containing H. capsulatum spores is a primary route of infection. The ability to detect H. capsulatum in soil samples has been limited by the lack of fast, reliable and inexpensive methods. A polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method was developed that allows the direct detection of H. capsulatum in soil. A two-stage PCR protocol was followed employing both fungal-specific primers and nested primers specific for the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region of the 5.8S rRNA gene of H. capsulatum. The estimated limit of detection of this method is 10 spores. In contrast to the more expensive and indirect mouse inoculum assay, which requires 6-8 weeks for sample analysis, PCR analysis of soil contaminated with H. capsulatum can be completed in less than 2 days.
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Affiliation(s)
- T M Reid
- Divisions of Biomedical and Behavioral Sciences, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, 4676 Columbia Parkway, Cincinnati, Ohio, 45226, USA.
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39
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Olive DM, Bean P. Principles and applications of methods for DNA-based typing of microbial organisms. J Clin Microbiol 1999; 37:1661-9. [PMID: 10325304 PMCID: PMC84917 DOI: 10.1128/jcm.37.6.1661-1669.1999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 500] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- D M Olive
- Millennium Strategies, Madison, Wisconsin 53719, USA.
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40
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Mathieu-Daudé F, Trenkle T, Welsh J, Jung B, Vogt T, McClelland M. Identification of differentially expressed genes using RNA fingerprinting by arbitrarily primed polymerase chain reaction. Methods Enzymol 1999; 303:309-24. [PMID: 10349652 DOI: 10.1016/s0076-6879(99)03020-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/12/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- F Mathieu-Daudé
- Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, San Diego, California 92121, USA
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Atypical disseminated cutaneous histoplasmosis in an immunocompetent child, caused by an "aberrant" variant of histoplasma capsulatum var. capsulatum. Rev Inst Med Trop Sao Paulo 1999; 41:195-202. [PMID: 10529841 DOI: 10.1590/s0036-46651999000300012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
A case of atypical disseminated cutaneous histoplasmosis in a five-year old, otherwise healthy child, native and resident in Sao Paulo metropolitan area is reported. Cutaneous lesions were clinically atypical. Histologic examination disclosed a granulomatous reaction but no fungal structures could be demonstrated by specific staining nor by immunohistochemical reaction. The fungus was isolated from biopsy material on two different occasions, confirming diagnosis of an unusual fungal infection. The fungus, originally thought to be a Sepedonium sp. due to the large sized, hyaline or brownish colored tuberculated macroconidia and to lack of dimorphism (yeast form at 37 degrees C) produce H and M antigens, visualized by the immunodiffusion with rabbit anti-Histoplasma capsulatum hyperimmune serum. Patient's serum sample was non reactive with H. capsulatum antigen by immunodiffusion, counterimmunoelectrophoresis and complement fixation tests, and immunoenzymatic assay failed to detect the specific circulating antigen. This serum was tested negative by double immunodiffusion when antigen obtained from one of the isolated samples was used. Both cultures were sent to Dr. Leo Kaufman, Ph.D. (Mycoses Immunodiagnostic Laboratory, CDC-Atlanta/USA), who identified them as H. capsulatum by the exoantigen and gen-probe tests. Both clinic and mycologic characteristics of the present case were atypical, suggesting the fungus isolated is an "aberrant variant" of H. capsulatum var. capsulatum, as described by SUTTON et al. in 1997. Treatment with itraconazole 100 mg/day led to cure within 90 days
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42
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Reyes-Montes MR, Bobadilla-Del Valle M, Martínez-Rivera MA, Rodríguez-Arellanes G, Maravilla E, Sifuentes-Osornio J, Taylor ML. Relatedness analyses of Histoplasma capsulatum isolates from Mexican patients with AIDS-associated histoplasmosis by using histoplasmin electrophoretic profiles and randomly amplified polymorphic DNA patterns. J Clin Microbiol 1999; 37:1404-8. [PMID: 10203495 PMCID: PMC84786 DOI: 10.1128/jcm.37.5.1404-1408.1999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The present paper analyzes the histoplasmin electrophoretic profiles and the randomly amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) patterns of the fungus Histoplasma capsulatum isolated from Mexican patients with AIDS-associated histoplasmosis. Clinical isolates from Guatemala, Colombia, and Panama, as well as H. capsulatum isolates from different sources in nature, were also processed. All histoplasmin samples shared four antigenic fractions of 200, 49, 10.5, and 8.5 kDa in sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE). According to their percentage of relatedness, based on SDS-PAGE histoplasmin electrophoretic image analysis, H. capsulatum isolates were divided in two groups: group A contained all AIDS-associated isolates studied and two human reference strains from Mexican histoplasmosis patients without AIDS; group B included bat guano, infected bat, and cock excreta isolates from the State of Guerrero, Mexico, plus three human histoplasmosis strains from Guatemala, Panama, and Colombia. Polymorphic DNA patterns evaluated by RAPD-PCR showed three major bands of 4.4, 3.2, and 2.3 kb in most H. capsulatum isolates studied. Four groups were related by DNA polymorphisms: group I was formed by most of the AIDS-associated H. capsulatum isolates studied, one human histoplasmosis strain from Colombia, two human reference strains from Mexican patients without AIDS, and one human histoplasmosis strain from Guatemala. Group II consisted of only a single strain from Panama. Group III included three strains: one from a Mexican patient with AIDS and two isolated from nature in Guerrero (cock excreta and bat guano). The last, group IV, consisted of only one strain isolated from an infected bat, captured in Guerrero. A tight relationship between phenotypic and genotypic characterization was observed, and both analyses could be useful tools for typing H. capsulatum from different sources and geographic origins.
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Affiliation(s)
- M R Reyes-Montes
- Departamento de Microbiología-Parasitología, Facultad de Medicina, UNAM, Mexico City, Mexico
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Grayson TH, Cooper LF, Atienzar FA, Knowles MR, Gilpin ML. Molecular differentiation of Renibacterium salmoninarum isolates from worldwide locations. Appl Environ Microbiol 1999; 65:961-8. [PMID: 10049848 PMCID: PMC91129 DOI: 10.1128/aem.65.3.961-968.1999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Renibacterium salmoninarum is a genospecies that is an obligate pathogen of salmonid fish and is capable of intracellular survival. Conventional typing systems have failed to differentiate isolates of R. salmoninarum. We used two methods to assess the extent of molecular variation which was present in isolates from different geographic locations. In one analysis we investigated possible polymorphisms in a specific region of the genome, the intergenic spacer (ITS) region between the 16S and 23S rRNA genes. In the other analysis we analyzed differences throughout the genome by using randomly amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD). We amplified the spacer region of 74 isolates by using PCR and performed a DNA sequence analysis with 14 geographically distinct samples. The results showed that the 16S-23S ribosomal DNA spacer region of R. salmoninarum is highly conserved and suggested that only a single copy of the rRNA operon is present in this slowly growing pathogen. DNA sequencing of the spacer region showed that it was the same length in all 14 isolates examined, and the same nucleotide sequence, sequevar 1, was obtained for 11 of these isolates. Two other sequevars were found. No tRNA genes were found. We found that RAPD analysis allows reproducible differentiation between isolates of R. salmoninarum obtained from different hosts and different geographic regions. By using RAPD analysis it was possible to differentiate between isolates with identical ITS sequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- T H Grayson
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Plymouth, Plymouth PL4 8AA, Devon, United Kingdom.
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Tailliez P, Tremblay J, Ehrlich SD, Chopin A. Molecular diversity and relationship within Lactococcus lactis, as revealed by randomly amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD). Syst Appl Microbiol 1998; 21:530-8. [PMID: 9924821 DOI: 10.1016/s0723-2020(98)80065-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Lactococcus lactis strains are widely used in industrial dairy fermentations. Conventional phenotypic tests have been used for years to classify members of this species into two subspecies, lactis and cremoris, and play a key role in the choice of strains to be used in particular cheese fermentations. DNA hybridisation techniques have also been used for strain classification, giving rise to two genome homology groups. However, results showed discrepancies between the two methods of classification. We applied the randomly amplified polymorphic DNA fingerprinting (RAPD) technique to resolve previous contradictions in lactococcal classifications. Unlike usual RAPD methods, we use three primers to classify 113 strains and integrate the resulting information by a digitised programme used for this purpose. Our analysis revealed three major RAPD groups, designated G1, G2 and G3. G1 and G3 contain strains of the lactis subspecies, and G2 contains strains of the cremoris subspecies, as previously defined by phenotypic characteristics. Moreover, group G1 corresponds to one genome homology group, and groups G2 and G3 correspond to the second one. The taxonomic structure within L. lactis is therefore unusual: two distinct genetic groups of strains show indistinguishable phenotypes, while conversely, two phenotypically distinct groups are genetically homologous. We hypothesize that a subfamily of the subsp. lactis group gave rise to the cremoris subspecies.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Tailliez
- Unité de Recherches Laitières et Génétique Appliquée, Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique, Jouy-en-Josas, France.
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Carr J, Shearer G. Genome size, complexity, and ploidy of the pathogenic fungus Histoplasma capsulatum. J Bacteriol 1998; 180:6697-703. [PMID: 9852017 PMCID: PMC107776 DOI: 10.1128/jb.180.24.6697-6703.1998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The genome size, complexity, and ploidy of the dimorphic pathogenic fungus Histoplasma capsulatum was determined by using DNA renaturation kinetics, genomic reconstruction, and flow cytometry. Nuclear DNA was isolated from two strains, G186AS and Downs, and analyzed by renaturation kinetics and genomic reconstruction with three putative single-copy genes (calmodulin, alpha-tubulin, and beta-tubulin). G186AS was found to have a genome of approximately 2.3 x 10(7) bp with less than 0.5% repetitive sequences. The Downs strain, however, was found to have a genome approximately 40% larger with more than 16 times more repetitive DNA. The Downs genome was determined to be 3.2 x 10(7) bp with approximately 8% repetitive DNA. To determine ploidy, the DNA mass per cell measured by flow cytometry was compared with the 1n genome estimate to yield a DNA index (DNA per cell/1n genome size). Strain G186AS was found to have a DNA index of 0.96, and Downs had a DNA index of 0.94, indicating that both strains are haploid. Genomic reconstruction and Southern blot data obtained with alpha- and beta-tubulin probes indicated that some genetic duplication has occurred in the Downs strain, which may be aneuploid or partially diploid.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Carr
- Department of Biological Sciences, Center for Molecular & Cellular Biosciences, The University of Southern Mississippi, Hattiesburg, Mississippi 39406, USA
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Hoffmann G, Gajdos G, Czakó M, Kerényi M, Tóth V, Emõdy L, Tomcsányi T. Diversity among clinical isolates of Proteus penneri detected by random amplified polymorphic DNA analysis. ZENTRALBLATT FUR BAKTERIOLOGIE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MEDICAL MICROBIOLOGY 1998; 288:351-60. [PMID: 9861679 DOI: 10.1016/s0934-8840(98)80008-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
Abstract
DNA of thirteen haemolytic Proteus penneri strains of clinical origin, all producing calcium dependent haemolysin and having been derived from four European countries was examined for plasmid profile, and outer membrane protein profile, by random amplified polymorphic DNA-PCR (RAPD-PCR) method, and digestions with restriction endonucleases were performed. All strains contained two large plasmids of approximately 60 and 70 kilobase pairs (kb). In addition, four strains contained a small plasmid of about 6 kb. These four strains produced cell-bound haemolysin only. Outer membrane protein analysis revealed subtle differences between strains. RAPD-PCR with primer I (CCGCAGCCAA) revealed 13 types, whereas primer II (AACGCGCAAC) yielded only two main types of different patterns. Results with primer I suggests a DNA sequence diversity within this species. The RAPD-PCR method provides a fast, economical and reproducible means for the typing of P. penneri. Digestion with restriction endonucleases indicated a high level of DNA methylation in this species.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Hoffmann
- Department of Genetics and Microbiology, Janus Pannonius University, Pécs, Hungary
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Gottfredsson M, Cox GM, Perfect JR. Molecular methods for epidemiological and diagnostic studies of fungal infections. Pathology 1998; 30:405-18. [PMID: 9839319 DOI: 10.1080/00313029800169726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Over the past two decades there has been a remarkable increase in the incidence of invasive fungal infections. Molecular methods, such as karyotyping, restriction analysis and polymerase chain reaction (PCR), have now been applied to improve our current understanding of the epidemiology of these fungal infections. For example, investigations on nosocomial outbreaks of fungal infections have been greatly facilitated by molecular methods. In addition, the ability to diagnose and identify deep-seated mycoses may be enhanced by the use of molecular techniques. In the near future it is possible that PCR-based methods will supplement, or perhaps even replace, traditional methods for detection of Candida albicans blood stream infections, invasive aspergillosis and Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia. This review examines the progress of molecular biology into the clinical arena of fungal epidemiology, laboratory identification and diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Gottfredsson
- Duke University Medical Center, Department of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
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Calcagno AM, Niño-Vega G, San-Blas F, San-Blas G. Geographic discrimination of Paracoccidioides brasiliensis strains by randomly amplified polymorphic DNA analysis. J Clin Microbiol 1998; 36:1733-6. [PMID: 9620409 PMCID: PMC104909 DOI: 10.1128/jcm.36.6.1733-1736.1998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Randomly amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) analysis of 33 Paracoccidioides brasiliensis strains from Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Peru, and Venezuela produced reproducible amplification products which were sufficiently polymorphic to allow differentiation of the strains. Types generated with five primers (OPG 03, OPG 05, OPG 14, OPG 16, and OPG 18) resulted in a high discriminatory index (0.956). The discriminatory index was slightly reduced (0.940) when only two primers (OPG 3 and OPG 14) were used. A dendrogram based on these results showed a high degree of similarity among the strains, and genetic differences were expressed in clusters related to geographical regions but not to pathological features of the disease. With a few exceptions, strains were sorted into five groups by geographical origin as follows: group I, Venezuelan strains; group II, Brazilian strains; group III, Peruvian strains; group IV, Colombian strains; and group V, Argentinian strains. The group containing the most disparate strains was group V (discriminatory index, 0.633); the discriminatory index for the other four groups was 0.824. The use of primer OPG 18 by itself was sufficient to discriminate species specificity, and the use of primer OPG 14 by itself was sufficient to discriminate among the geographical locations of the strains in the sample. This method may be helpful for epidemiological studies of P. brasiliensis.
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Affiliation(s)
- A M Calcagno
- Instituto Venezolano de Investigaciones Cientificas, Centro de Microbiología y Biología Celular, Laboratorio de Micrología, Caracas, Venezuela
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Mochizuki T, Sugie N, Uehara M. Random amplification of polymorphic DNA is useful for the differentiation of several anthropophilic dermatophytes. Mycoses 1997; 40:405-9. [PMID: 9470403 DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0507.1997.tb00175.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The efficacy of random amplification of polymorphic DNA (RAPD) analysis, a polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based technology, as a tool for differentiation of several anthropophilic dermatophytes, that is, Trichophyton mentagrophytes var. interdigitale, T. rubrum and Epidermophyton floccosum, was examined. Total cellular DNA extracted by a mini-preparation method were used as template DNAs and PCRs were performed using five primers, all of which were synthesized 10-mers. All of the primers generated PCR products and their electrophoresed profiles were characteristic for each of the species. Since these anthropophilic dermatophyte species could be differentiated clearly by the RAPD analysis, this method may be useful for identification of these species. Minimal intraspecies polymorphisms were observed between the isolates of T. mentagrophytes var. interdigitale. The banding patterns were reproducible using template DNAs prepared at different times from each of stock cultures.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Mochizuki
- Department of Dermatology, Kanazawa Medical University, Ishikawa, Japan
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50
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The Australian Electrophoresis Society annual conference at Chromatography '96: Separation Sciences. Rosehill, NSW, Australia, July 9-11, 1996. Electrophoresis 1997; 18:1047-202. [PMID: 9378110 DOI: 10.1002/elps.1150180703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
A set of eleven biallelic and three multiallelic molecular markers have been developed to analyze populations of Histoplasma capsulatum. All markers are amplified by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and can be readily scored using minimal amounts of template DNA. The 11 biallelic loci have polymorphic restriction endonuclease sites or small insertions or deletions which may be assessed by agarose gel electrophoresis. These markers are inherited in an unambiguous manner and are ideal for assessing structure and gene flow within US populations of H. capsulatum, but are monomorphic in non-US populations. Both length and sequence variation are present in the multiallelic loci, which can be scored by direct sequencing, polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, or single-strand conformation polymorphism (SSCP): As they are hypervariable, the multiallelic loci can be used to type isolates and to assess the level of genetic variation within populations. Preliminary results indicate that the three multiallelic markers presented are sufficient to distinguish isolates at the individual level and are polymorphic in both US and non-US populations. This collection of molecular markers will be a useful tool in population and epidemiology studies of H. capsulatum.
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