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Wang J, Su L, Li Y, Liu Y, Xie L. Nanoscale fluconazole-constructed metal-organic frameworks with smart drug release for eradication of Candida biofilms in vulvovaginitis infection. Colloids Surf B Biointerfaces 2024; 245:114238. [PMID: 39270401 DOI: 10.1016/j.colsurfb.2024.114238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2024] [Revised: 09/08/2024] [Accepted: 09/10/2024] [Indexed: 09/15/2024]
Abstract
Fungal infections associated with oral, gynecological, and skin ailments pose significant clinical challenges. The presence of biofilms often hampers the efficacy of conventional antifungal drugs owing to the complex microenvironment they create. In this study, the widely used antifungal medication fluconazole is utilized as a foundational component to be incorporated into zinc 2-methylimidazolate frameworks, resulting in the synthesis of nanoscale fluconazole-constructed metal-organic frameworks (F-ZIF). The F-ZIF is constructed through coordination interactions between zinc and fluconazole, retaining the structure and pH-responsiveness of the zinc 2-methylimidazolate framework. The pH-responsiveness F-ZIF makes sure the fluconazole can be released in acidic biofilm, which prevents the undesired release in healthy tissue, resulting in good biocompatibility both in vitro and in vivo. The in vitro studies demonstrated that F-ZIF exhibits enhanced efficacy in eradicating fungal pathogens in their biofilm growth state compared with the free fluconazole. Furthermore, in vivo experiments reveal the better effectiveness of F-ZIF in treating Candida albicans-induced vulvovaginal candidiasis, and less infection-related inflammation was observed. Hence, the one-port synthetic F-ZIF presents a promising solution for addressing fungal biofilm-related infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinhui Wang
- The People's Hospital of Yuhuan, Yuhuan, Zhejiang 317600, China
| | - Linzhu Su
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Medical Materials and Devices, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Molecular Nuclear Medicine, Key Laboratory of Radiopharmacokinetics for Innovative Drugs, Tianjin Institutes of Health Science, Institute of Radiation Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin 300192, China.
| | - Yuanfeng Li
- Translational Medicine Laboratory, the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, China.
| | - Yong Liu
- Wenzhou Institute, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Zhejiang 325001, China.
| | - Lingping Xie
- The People's Hospital of Yuhuan, Yuhuan, Zhejiang 317600, China.
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2
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Ali M, Edrees WH, Al-Shehari WA, Xue G, Al-Hammadi S, Qasem EA, Chaulagain RP, Lal N. Antifungal susceptibility pattern of Candida species isolated from pregnant women. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2024; 14:1434677. [PMID: 39170986 PMCID: PMC11335731 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2024.1434677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2024] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 08/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Candida species, opportunistic yeast, are the second most common cause of female vulvovaginal candidiasis. This study aimed to evaluate the antifungal susceptibility profile of the isolated Candida species in pregnant women in Hajjah governorate, Yemen. Methods A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 396 pregnant women attending Authority AL-Gumhorri Hospital Hajjah between February and July 2023. Vaginal swabs were collected, and Candida species were isolated and identified based on the standard laboratory method. Furthermore, the antifungal drug susceptibility of Candida species was determined by the Kirby-Bauer technique. Results and discussion The prevalence of vaginal Candida infection among pregnant women was 61.4%. Candida albicans was the most predominant species (59.26%), followed by Candida krusei(13.58%), Candida Tropicalis (11.12%), Candida Grabata (9.87%), and Candida dubliniensis (6.17%). The highest rate of Candida infections was among women aged 24-30 years (71.9%) who finished primary school (77.8%), with the third trimester (80%), multigravida (66.1%), and recurrent infection (67.7%) showing significant differences (P < 0.05). The Candida albicans isolates were resistant to clotrimazole and itraconazole at 34.7% and 23.6%, respectively.In addition, the resistance of Candida krusei, Candida tropicalis, Candida glabrata, and Candida dublinensis isolates to fluconazole, voriconazole, voriconazole, and nystatin was 57.6%, 63%, 43.8%, and 60%, respectively. Additionally, approximately 46.2% of isolated Candida albicans exhibited one kind of antifungal drug resistance, whereas 38.7% of isolated non-albicans exhibited resistance to three different antifungal agents. According to the above findings, Candida infection is highly prevalent in Yemen and quite widespread. Interventions in health education are advised to increase women's knowledge of vaginitis and its prevention. The antifungal susceptibility test may also be helpful in determining the best medication for each patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maqsood Ali
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Wadhah Hassan Edrees
- Medical Microbiology Department, Faculty of Applied Science, Hajjah University, Hajjah, Yemen
- Medical Laboratory Department, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Al-Razi University, Sana’a, Yemen
| | | | - Gao Xue
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Safa Al-Hammadi
- Department Oral Medicine, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Eglal Ahmed Qasem
- Medical Microbiology Department, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Ibb University, Ibb, Yemen
| | - Ram Prasad Chaulagain
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Nand Lal
- Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
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3
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Picheta N, Piekarz J, Burdan O, Satora M, Tarkowski R, Kułak K. Phytotherapy of Vulvovaginal Candidiasis: A Narrative Review. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:3796. [PMID: 38612606 PMCID: PMC11012191 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25073796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2024] [Revised: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is a real gynecological problem among women of reproductive age from 15 to 49. A recent analysis showed that 75% of women will have an occurrence at least once per year, while 5% are observed to have recurrent vaginal mycosis-these patients may become unwell four or more times a year. This pathology is caused in 85-90% of cases by fungi of the Candida albicans species. It represents an intractable medical problem for female patients due to pain and pruritus. Due to the observation of an increasing number of strains resistant to standard preparations and an increase in the recurrence of this pathology when using local or oral preferential therapy, such as fluconazole, an analysis was launched to develop alternative methods of treating VVC using herbs such as dill, turmeric, and berberine. An in-depth analysis of databases that include scientific articles from recent years made it possible to draw satisfactory conclusions supporting the validity of herbal therapy for the pathology in question. Although phytotherapy has not yet been approved by the Food and Drug Administration, it appears to be a promising therapeutic solution for strains that are resistant to existing treatments. There is research currently undergoing aimed at comparing classical pharmacotherapy and herbal therapy in the treatment of vaginal candidiasis for the purpose of increasing medical competence and knowledge for the care of the health and long-term comfort of gynecological patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Picheta
- Student’s Scientific Association at the I Chair and Department of Gynaecological Oncology and Gynaecology, Medical University of Lublin, Staszica 16 Str., 20-081 Lublin, Poland; (N.P.); (J.P.); (O.B.); (M.S.)
| | - Julia Piekarz
- Student’s Scientific Association at the I Chair and Department of Gynaecological Oncology and Gynaecology, Medical University of Lublin, Staszica 16 Str., 20-081 Lublin, Poland; (N.P.); (J.P.); (O.B.); (M.S.)
| | - Oliwia Burdan
- Student’s Scientific Association at the I Chair and Department of Gynaecological Oncology and Gynaecology, Medical University of Lublin, Staszica 16 Str., 20-081 Lublin, Poland; (N.P.); (J.P.); (O.B.); (M.S.)
| | - Małgorzata Satora
- Student’s Scientific Association at the I Chair and Department of Gynaecological Oncology and Gynaecology, Medical University of Lublin, Staszica 16 Str., 20-081 Lublin, Poland; (N.P.); (J.P.); (O.B.); (M.S.)
| | - Rafał Tarkowski
- I Chair and Department of Gynaecological Oncology and Gynaecology, Medical University of Lublin, Staszica 16 Str., 20-081 Lublin, Poland;
| | - Krzysztof Kułak
- I Chair and Department of Gynaecological Oncology and Gynaecology, Medical University of Lublin, Staszica 16 Str., 20-081 Lublin, Poland;
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4
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Liang X, Pacuła-Miszewska AJ, Vartak R, Prajapati M, Zheng H, Zhao C, Mao G, Patel K, Fedosova NU, Ścianowski J, Billack B. N-3-Methylbutyl-benzisoselenazol-3(2H)-one Exerts Antifungal Activity In Vitro and in a Mouse Model of Vulvovaginal Candidiasis. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2024; 46:2480-2496. [PMID: 38534773 DOI: 10.3390/cimb46030157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2024] [Revised: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
In the present work, we evaluated the antifungal activities of two novel ebselen analogs, N-allyl-benzisoselenazol-3(2H)-one (N-allyl-bs) and N-3-methylbutylbenzisoselenazol-3(2H)-one (N-3mb-bs). Colorimetric and turbidity assays were performed to determine the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of these compounds in S1 (fluconazole-sensitive) and S2 (fluconazole-resistant) strains of C. albicans. N-3mb-bs was more active than the N-allyl-bs compound. It is noteworthy that the concentration of N-3mb-bs observed to inhibit fungal growth by 50% (18.2 µM) was similar to the concentration observed to inhibit the activity of the yeast plasma membrane H+-ATPase (Pma1p) by 50% (19.6 µM). We next implemented a mouse model of vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) using the S1 strain and examined the mouse and yeast proteins present in the vaginal lavage fluid using proteomics. The yeast proteins detected were predominately glycolytic enzymes or virulence factors associated with C. albicans while the mouse proteins present in the lavage fluid included eosinophil peroxidase, desmocollin-1, and gasdermin-A. We then utilized the N-3mb-bs compound (12.5 mg/kg) in the mouse VVC model and observed that it significantly reduced the vaginal fungal burden, histopathological changes in vagina tissue, and expression of myeloperoxidase (MPO). All in all, the present work has identified a potentially promising drug candidate for VVC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiuyi Liang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, St. John's University, Queens, NY 11439, USA
| | | | - Richa Vartak
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, St. John's University, Queens, NY 11439, USA
| | - Milankumar Prajapati
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Brown University, Providence, RI 02912, USA
| | - Haiyan Zheng
- Center for Advanced Biotechnology and Medicine, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
| | - Caifeng Zhao
- Center for Advanced Biotechnology and Medicine, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
| | - Ganming Mao
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, St. John's University, Queens, NY 11439, USA
| | - Ketankumar Patel
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, St. John's University, Queens, NY 11439, USA
| | | | - Jacek Ścianowski
- Faculty of Chemistry, Nicolaus Copernicus University, 87-100 Toruń, Poland
| | - Blase Billack
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, St. John's University, Queens, NY 11439, USA
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5
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Sinoca M, Maione A, Gambino E, Imparato M, Galdiero M, de Alteriis E, Galdiero E, Guida M. A Preliminary Evaluation on the Antifungal Efficacy of VT-1161 against Persister Candida albicans Cells in Vulvovaginal Candidiasis. Biomedicines 2024; 12:389. [PMID: 38397991 PMCID: PMC10887314 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12020389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2024] [Revised: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Persister cells are a small fraction of the microbial population that survive lethal concentrations of antimicrobial agents. Candida albicans causes vaginal candidiasis, including recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis, and may survive common antifungal treatments. The triazole VT-1161 is an antifungal agent that specifically targets fungal CYP51, as opposed to the human CYP enzyme. This work illustrates a new role of VT-1161 in eradicating the biofilm created from the persister cells of a primary biofilm of a clinical vaginal isolate of C. albicans. Antifungal activity was determined by the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), and the primary biofilm was treated with amphotericin B to obtain persister cells that were able to form a new biofilm. Results obtained using the new azole VT-1161 showed that VT-1161 not only eradicated a secondary biofilm formed from the persister-derived biofilm and counteracted the adhesion of C. albicans in vitro to human cells but also ameliorated C. albicans-induced infection in vivo in Galleria mellonella larvae, suggesting that it could be proposed as an alternative therapeutic strategy for the treatment of recurrent candidiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marica Sinoca
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 80126 Naples, Italy; (M.S.); (A.M.); (E.G.); (M.I.); (E.d.A.); (M.G.)
| | - Angela Maione
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 80126 Naples, Italy; (M.S.); (A.M.); (E.G.); (M.I.); (E.d.A.); (M.G.)
| | - Edvige Gambino
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 80126 Naples, Italy; (M.S.); (A.M.); (E.G.); (M.I.); (E.d.A.); (M.G.)
| | - Marianna Imparato
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 80126 Naples, Italy; (M.S.); (A.M.); (E.G.); (M.I.); (E.d.A.); (M.G.)
| | - Marilena Galdiero
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 81100 Naples, Italy;
| | - Elisabetta de Alteriis
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 80126 Naples, Italy; (M.S.); (A.M.); (E.G.); (M.I.); (E.d.A.); (M.G.)
| | - Emilia Galdiero
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 80126 Naples, Italy; (M.S.); (A.M.); (E.G.); (M.I.); (E.d.A.); (M.G.)
- Center for Studies on Bioinspired Agro-Environmental Technology (BAT Center), 80055 Portici, Italy
| | - Marco Guida
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 80126 Naples, Italy; (M.S.); (A.M.); (E.G.); (M.I.); (E.d.A.); (M.G.)
- Center for Studies on Bioinspired Agro-Environmental Technology (BAT Center), 80055 Portici, Italy
- National Biodiversity Future Center (NBFC), 90133 Palermo, Italy
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Malec K, Mikołajczyk A, Marciniak D, Gawin-Mikołajewicz A, Matera-Witkiewicz A, Karolewicz B, Nawrot U, Khimyak YZ, Nartowski KP. Pluronic F-127 Enhances the Antifungal Activity of Fluconazole against Resistant Candida Strains. ACS Infect Dis 2024; 10:215-231. [PMID: 38109184 PMCID: PMC10795414 DOI: 10.1021/acsinfecdis.3c00536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2023] [Revised: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
Candida strains as the most frequent causes of infections, along with their increased drug resistance, pose significant clinical and financial challenges to the healthcare system. Some polymeric excipients were reported to interfere with the multidrug resistance mechanism. Bearing in mind that there are a limited number of marketed products with fluconazole (FLU) for the topical route of administration, Pluronic F-127 (PLX)/FLU formulations were investigated in this work. The aims of this study were to investigate (i) whether PLX-based formulations can increase the susceptibility of resistant Candida strains to FLU, (ii) whether there is a correlation between block polymer concentration and the antifungal efficacy of the FLU-loaded PLX formulations, and (iii) what the potential mode of action of PLX assisting FLU is. The yeast growth inhibition upon incubation with PLX formulations loaded with FLU was statistically significant. The highest efficacy of the azole agent was observed in the presence of 5.0 and 10.0% w/v of PLX. The upregulation of the CDR1/CDR2 genes was detected in the investigated Candida strains, indicating that the efflux of the drug from the fungal cell was the main mechanism of the resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Malec
- Department of Drug Form Technology, Faculty of
Pharmacy, Wroclaw Medical University, 211a Borowska Str, 50-556
Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Aleksandra Mikołajczyk
- Screening Biological Activity Assays and Collection of
Biological Material Laboratory, Wroclaw Medical University,
211a Borowska Str, 50-556 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Dominik Marciniak
- Department of Drug Form Technology, Faculty of
Pharmacy, Wroclaw Medical University, 211a Borowska Str, 50-556
Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Gawin-Mikołajewicz
- Department of Drug Form Technology, Faculty of
Pharmacy, Wroclaw Medical University, 211a Borowska Str, 50-556
Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Matera-Witkiewicz
- Screening Biological Activity Assays and Collection of
Biological Material Laboratory, Wroclaw Medical University,
211a Borowska Str, 50-556 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Bożena Karolewicz
- Department of Drug Form Technology, Faculty of
Pharmacy, Wroclaw Medical University, 211a Borowska Str, 50-556
Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Urszula Nawrot
- Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology and
Parasitology, Wroclaw Medical University, 211a Borowska Str,
50-556 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Yaroslav Z. Khimyak
- Department of Drug Form Technology, Faculty of
Pharmacy, Wroclaw Medical University, 211a Borowska Str, 50-556
Wroclaw, Poland
- School of Pharmacy, University of East
Anglia, Chancellors Drive, NR4 7TJ Norwich, U.K.
| | - Karol P. Nartowski
- Department of Drug Form Technology, Faculty of
Pharmacy, Wroclaw Medical University, 211a Borowska Str, 50-556
Wroclaw, Poland
- School of Pharmacy, University of East
Anglia, Chancellors Drive, NR4 7TJ Norwich, U.K.
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Simões Gobbi LP, Costa EHE, Fernandez CMM, Lorenzetti FB, Fonseca DP, Gomes AV, Baldoqui DC, Fernandes CDS, Ueda-Nakamura T, Nakamura CV, Lima MMDS, Filho BPD. Berberine-fluconazole microparticle-based combination therapy to treat candidiasis infections. J Appl Microbiol 2023; 134:lxad291. [PMID: 38040656 DOI: 10.1093/jambio/lxad291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Revised: 11/11/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/03/2023]
Abstract
AIM This study aims to incorporate alginate microparticles containing berberine and fluconazole into two different types of pharmaceutical formulations, to subsequently evaluate the antifungal activity against Candida albicans. METHODS AND RESULTS Alginate microparticles containing BBR (berberine) and FLU (fluconazole) were produced by the spray-drying technique, characterized and incorporated in two pharmaceutical formulations, a vaginal cream and artificial saliva. Broth microdilution, checkerboard, time-kill curve, and scanning electron microscopy were carried out to determine the antifungal effects of BBR and FLU against C. albicans. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC) values of free BBR were 125 μg ml-1. Synergism between BBR and FLU was demonstrated by a fractional inhibitory concentration index (FICI) = 0.0762. The time-kill curve for the combination BBR + FLU showed a more pronounced decrease in fungal growth in comparison to free drugs, and an antibiofilm effect of BBR occurred in the formation and preformed biofilm. CONCLUSION Alginate microparticles containing BBR and FLU were obtained and incorporated in a vaginal cream and artificial saliva. Both formulations showed good stability, antifungal effects, and organoleptic characteristics, which suggest that BBR-FLU microparticles in formulations have potential as antifungal therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ludmila Pini Simões Gobbi
- Department of Pharmacy, Post Graduate Program in Pharmaceutical Sciences, State University of Maringá, Maringá 87020-900, Brazil
| | - Eliana Harue Endo Costa
- Department of Pharmacy, Post Graduate Program in Pharmaceutical Sciences, State University of Maringá, Maringá 87020-900, Brazil
| | - Carla Maria Mariano Fernandez
- Department of Pharmacy, Post Graduate Program in Pharmaceutical Sciences, State University of Maringá, Maringá 87020-900, Brazil
| | - Fabiana Bruschi Lorenzetti
- Department of Pharmacy, Post Graduate Program in Pharmaceutical Sciences, State University of Maringá, Maringá 87020-900, Brazil
| | - Dyenefer Pereira Fonseca
- Department of Pharmacy, Post Graduate Program in Pharmaceutical Sciences, State University of Maringá, Maringá 87020-900, Brazil
| | - Anderson Valdiney Gomes
- Post graduate Program in Chemistry - PQU, State University of Maringá, Maringá 87020-900, Brasil
| | | | | | - Tânia Ueda-Nakamura
- Department of Pharmacy, State University of Maringá, Maringá 87020-900, Brasil
| | | | | | - Benedito Prado Dias Filho
- Department of Basic Health Sciences, State University of Maringá, Av. Colombo, 5790, 87020-900, Maringá, PR, Brazil
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da Silva JT, Dantas de Sousa PH, Costa AF, de Menezes LB, Alves SF, Pellegrini F, Amaral AC. Fluconazole and propolis co-encapsulated in chitosan nanoparticles for the treatment of vulvovaginal candidiasis in a murine model. Med Mycol 2023; 61:myad113. [PMID: 37947253 DOI: 10.1093/mmy/myad113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is a fungal infection caused mainly by Candida albicans. The treatment of VVC with azoles has been impaired due to the increased cases of resistance presented by this pathogen. The aim of the present study was to investigate the antifungal activity of mucoadhesive chitosan nanoparticles encapsulating both green propolis and fluconazole for topical use in the treatment of VVC. The nanoparticles were prepared by the ionic gelation method, resulting in a size of 316.5 nm containing 22 mg/kg of green propolis and 2.4 mg/kg of fluconazole. The nanoparticles were non-toxic in vitro using red blood cells or in vivo in a Galleria mellonella toxicity model. The treatment of female BALB/c mice infected by C. albicans ATCC 10231 with topical nanoparticles co-encapsulating fluconazole and green propolis was effective even using a fluconazole amount 20 times lower than the amount of miconazole nitrate 2% cream. Considering that the mucoadhesive property of chitosan, which is known to allow a prolonged retention time of the compounds at the mucous epithelia, the antifungal potential of the phenols and flavonoids present in green propolis may have favored the effectiveness of this treatment. These results indicate that this formulation of topical use for fluconazole associated with green propolis can be used as a promising approach to therapy for the treatment of VVC, thus contributing to reducing the development of resistance to azoles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacqueline Teixeira da Silva
- Laboratory of Nano & Biotechnology, Institute of Tropical Pathology and Public Health, Universidade Federal de Goiás, St 235 university sector, Goiânia, GO, 74605-050, Brazil
| | - Paulo Henrique Dantas de Sousa
- Laboratory of Nano & Biotechnology, Institute of Tropical Pathology and Public Health, Universidade Federal de Goiás, St 235 university sector, Goiânia, GO, 74605-050, Brazil
| | - Adelaide Fernandes Costa
- Laboratory of Nano & Biotechnology, Institute of Tropical Pathology and Public Health, Universidade Federal de Goiás, St 235 university sector, Goiânia, GO, 74605-050, Brazil
| | - Liliana Borges de Menezes
- Laboratory of Pathology, Universidade Federal de Goiás, St 235 university sector, Goiânia, GO, 74605-050, Brazil
| | - Suzana Ferreira Alves
- Pharmacy Course, School of Medical Sciences, Pharmaceuticals and Biomedical Sciences, Pontifícia Universidade Católica de Goiás, Av university, 1440, Goiânia, GO, 74175-120, Brazil
| | - Flavio Pellegrini
- Company Citrinitas, St Pedroso Alvarenga, 505, São Paulo, SP, 04531-930, Brazil
| | - Andre Correa Amaral
- Laboratory of Nano & Biotechnology, Institute of Tropical Pathology and Public Health, Universidade Federal de Goiás, St 235 university sector, Goiânia, GO, 74605-050, Brazil
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9
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Amini F, Namjooyan F, Zomorodian K, Zareshahrabadi Z, Shojaei K, Jaladat AM, Hashempur MH. The efficacy of complementary treatment with marshmallow (Althaea officinalis L.) on vulvovaginal candidiasis: A randomized double-blinded controlled clinical trial. Explore (NY) 2023; 19:813-819. [PMID: 37121836 DOI: 10.1016/j.explore.2023.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Revised: 04/15/2023] [Accepted: 04/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vulvovaginal candidiasis is a common gynecologic infection, and recurring cases are yet incurable. This trial was based on Persian medicine to compare how effective marshmallow aqueous extract 4% plus clotrimazole 1% (CLOT-M) is compared to clotrimazole 1% vaginal creams on VVC. METHODS This study randomly assigned 100 women with VVC into two groups. The target group (n = 50) was treated with CLOT-M while controls (n = 50) with clotrimazole vaginal creams for seven consecutive nights. Different VVC symptoms and signs, and yeast culture from vaginal discharge were evaluated as the outcome measures before the intervention and 7 and 30 days after. RESULTS The efficacy of CLOT-M vaginal cream was assessed during the 1st and 2nd follow-ups, indicating a significant decrease in mean itching (P = 0.001 for both comparisons) and dyspareunia score (P = 0.001 and P = 0.04, respectively) as compared to treatment with clotrimazole vaginal cream. Moreover, after 7 days of the intervention, patients in the CLOT-M group experienced significant improvement in mean dysuria score compared to those in the control group (P = 0.001). Neither cream caused any significant adverse events. CONCLUSION It seems that CLOT-M vaginal cream had a significant effect on the VVC symptoms improvement, without any significant side effects. However, larger sample-sized trials are needed for more evidence-based judgment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Amini
- Department of Persian Medicine, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Iran
| | - Foroogh Namjooyan
- Pharmacognosy Department, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran; Research Center for Traditional Medicine and History of Medicine, Department of Persian Medicine, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Kamiar Zomorodian
- Basic Sciences in Infectious Disease Research Center, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran; Department of Medical Mycology and Parasitology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Zahra Zareshahrabadi
- Basic Sciences in Infectious Disease Research Center, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Kobra Shojaei
- Fertility, Infertility, and Perinatalogy Research Center, Ahvaz Jundishapour University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Amir Mohammad Jaladat
- Research Center for Traditional Medicine and History of Medicine, Department of Persian Medicine, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
| | - Mohammad Hashem Hashempur
- Research Center for Traditional Medicine and History of Medicine, Department of Persian Medicine, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
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10
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David H, Solomon AP. Molecular association of Candida albicans and vulvovaginal candidiasis: focusing on a solution. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2023; 13:1245808. [PMID: 37900321 PMCID: PMC10611527 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1245808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Candida albicans-mediated vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is a significant challenge in clinical settings, owing to the inefficacy of current antifungals in modulating virulence, development of resistance, and poor penetration into the biofilm matrix. Various predisposition factors are molecular drivers that lead to the dysbiosis of normal microflora of the vagina, upregulation of central metabolic pathways, morphogenesis, hyphal extension, adhesion, invasion, and biofilm formation leading to chronic infection and recurrence. Hence, it is crucial to understand the molecular mechanism behind the virulence pathways driven by those drivers to decode the drug targets. Finding innovative solutions targeting fungal virulence/biofilm may potentiate the antifungals at low concentrations without affecting the recurrence of resistance. With this background, the present review details the critical molecular drivers and associated network of virulence pathways, possible drug targets, target-specific inhibitors, and probable mode of drug delivery to cross the preclinical phase by appropriate in vivo models.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Adline Princy Solomon
- Quorum Sensing Laboratory, Centre for Research in Infectious Diseases (CRID), School of Chemical and Biotechnology, SASTRA Deemed to be University, Thanjavur, India
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Satora M, Grunwald A, Zaremba B, Frankowska K, Żak K, Tarkowski R, Kułak K. Treatment of Vulvovaginal Candidiasis-An Overview of Guidelines and the Latest Treatment Methods. J Clin Med 2023; 12:5376. [PMID: 37629418 PMCID: PMC10455317 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12165376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2023] [Revised: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is a common condition associated with discomfort in affected women. Due to the presence of different forms of the disease, diverse treatment regimens are developed; the newest ones include oteseconazole and ibrexafungerp. Here, we focus on the most up-to-date recommendations regarding VVC treatment, as well as novel treatment options. Topical and oral azoles are the drugs of choice in uncomplicated mycosis. The efficacy of probiotics and substances such as TOL-463 and chlorhexidine is indicated as satisfactory; however, there are no relevant guidelines. Although the majority of researchers agree that the treatment of non-albicans VVC should be long-lasting, the recommendations are inconsistent. Another clinical problem is the treatment of VVC with azole intolerance or resistance, for which literature proposes the use of several drugs including oteseconazole, ibrexafungerp, and voriconazole. The treatment schedules for recurrent VVC include mainly fluconazole; however, alternative options such as immunotherapeutic vaccine (NDV-3A) or designed antimicrobial peptides (dAMPs) were also described. We also focused on VVC affecting pregnant women, which is a substantial challenge in clinical practice, also due to the heterogeneous relevant guidelines. Thus far, few precise recommendations are available in the literature. Future studies should focus on atypical VVC forms to elucidate the inconsistent findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Małgorzata Satora
- Student’s Scientific Association at the I Chair and Department of Gynaecological Oncology and Gynaecology, Medical University of Lublin, Staszica 16 Str., 20-081 Lublin, Poland; (A.G.); (B.Z.); (K.F.); (K.Ż.)
| | - Arkadiusz Grunwald
- Student’s Scientific Association at the I Chair and Department of Gynaecological Oncology and Gynaecology, Medical University of Lublin, Staszica 16 Str., 20-081 Lublin, Poland; (A.G.); (B.Z.); (K.F.); (K.Ż.)
| | - Bartłomiej Zaremba
- Student’s Scientific Association at the I Chair and Department of Gynaecological Oncology and Gynaecology, Medical University of Lublin, Staszica 16 Str., 20-081 Lublin, Poland; (A.G.); (B.Z.); (K.F.); (K.Ż.)
| | - Karolina Frankowska
- Student’s Scientific Association at the I Chair and Department of Gynaecological Oncology and Gynaecology, Medical University of Lublin, Staszica 16 Str., 20-081 Lublin, Poland; (A.G.); (B.Z.); (K.F.); (K.Ż.)
| | - Klaudia Żak
- Student’s Scientific Association at the I Chair and Department of Gynaecological Oncology and Gynaecology, Medical University of Lublin, Staszica 16 Str., 20-081 Lublin, Poland; (A.G.); (B.Z.); (K.F.); (K.Ż.)
| | - Rafał Tarkowski
- I Chair and Department of Gynaecological Oncology and Gynaecology, Medical University of Lublin, Staszica 16 Str., 20-081 Lublin, Poland; (R.T.); (K.K.)
| | - Krzysztof Kułak
- I Chair and Department of Gynaecological Oncology and Gynaecology, Medical University of Lublin, Staszica 16 Str., 20-081 Lublin, Poland; (R.T.); (K.K.)
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Smoleński M, Muschert S, Haznar-Garbacz D, Małolepsza-Jarmołowska K. Nanoemulsion Loaded with Clotrimazole Based on Rapeseed Oil for Potential Vaginal Application-Development, Initial Assessment, and Pilot Release Studies. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:pharmaceutics15051437. [PMID: 37242679 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15051437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Revised: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Vaginal candidiasis (VC) is an emerging global hardly treated health issue affecting millions of women worldwide. In this study, the nanoemulsion consisting of clotrimazole (CLT), rapeseed oil, Pluronic F-68, Span 80, PEG 200, and lactic acid was prepared using high-speed and high-pressure homogenization. Yielded formulations were characterized by an average droplet size of 52-56 nm, homogenous size distribution by volume, and a polydispersity index (PDI) < 0.2. The osmolality of nanoemulsions (NEs) fulfilled the recommendations of the WHO advisory note. NEs were stable throughout 28 weeks of storage. The stationary and dynamic (USP apparatus IV) pilot study of the changes of free CLT over time for NEs, as well as market cream and CLT suspension as references, were conducted. Test results of the changes in the amount of free CLT released from the encapsulated form were not coherent; in the stationary method, NEs yielded up to 27% of the released CLT dose within 5 h, while in the USP apparatus IV method, NEs released up to 10% of the CLT dose. NEs are promising carriers for vaginal drug delivery in the treatment of VC; however, further development of the final dosage form and harmonized release or dissolution testing protocols are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michał Smoleński
- Department of Drug Form Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Wroclaw Medical University, Borowska 211A, 50-556 Wroclaw, Poland
| | | | - Dorota Haznar-Garbacz
- Department of Drug Form Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Wroclaw Medical University, Borowska 211A, 50-556 Wroclaw, Poland
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Nikoomanesh F, Falahatinejad M, Černáková L, Dos Santos ALS, Mohammadi SR, Rafiee M, Rodrigues CF, Roudbary M. Combination of Farnesol with Common Antifungal Drugs: Inhibitory Effect against Candida Species Isolated from Women with RVVC. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2023; 59:medicina59040743. [PMID: 37109701 PMCID: PMC10143126 DOI: 10.3390/medicina59040743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Revised: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is a mucous membrane infection, with an increased rate of antifungal resistance of Candida species. In this study, the in vitro efficacy of farnesol alone or in combination with traditional antifungals was assessed against resistant Candida strains recovered from women with VVC. Materials and Methods: Eighty Candida isolates were identified by multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and the antifungal susceptibility to amphotericin B (AMB), fluconazole (FLU), itraconazole (ITZ), voriconazole (VOR), clotrimazole (CTZ), and farnesol was tested by the standard microdilution method. The combinations of farnesol with each antifungal were calculated based on the fractional inhibitory concentration index (FICI). Result: Candida glabrata was the predominant species (48.75%) isolated from vaginal discharges, followed by C. albicans (43.75%), C. parapsilosis (3.75%), a mixed infection of C. albicans and C. glabrata (2.5%) and C. albicans and C. parapsilosis (1%). C. albicans and C. glabrata isolates had lower susceptibility to FLU (31.4% and 23.0%, respectively) and CTZ (37.1% and 33.3%, respectively). Importantly, there was "synergism" between farnesol-FLU and farnesol-ITZ against C. albicans and C. parapsilosis (FICI = 0.5 and 0.35, respectively), reverting the original azole-resistant profile. Conclusion: These findings indicate that farnesol can revert the resistance profile of azole by enhancing the activity of FLU and ITZ in resistant Candida isolates, which is a clinically promising result.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Nikoomanesh
- Infectious Disease Research Center, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand 9717853577, Iran
| | - Mahsa Falahatinejad
- Department of Medical Mycology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran 14115111, Iran
| | - Lucia Černáková
- Department of Microbiology and Virology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Comenius University in Bratislava, 842 15 Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - André Luis Souza Dos Santos
- Department of General Microbiology, Microbiology Institute Paulo de Góes, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro 21941-901, RJ, Brazil
| | - Shahla Roudbar Mohammadi
- Department of Medical Mycology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran 14115111, Iran
| | - Mitra Rafiee
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand 9717853577, Iran
| | - Célia Fortuna Rodrigues
- LEPABE-Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
- ALiCE-Associate Laboratory in Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
- TOXRUN-Toxicology Research Unit, Cooperativa de Ensino Superior Politécnico e Universitário-CESPU, 4585-116 Gandra PRD, Portugal
| | - Maryam Roudbary
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1449614535, Iran
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Asare KK, Bentil HA, Gyesi E, Amoah S, Bentsi-Enchill F, Opoku YK. Candidiasis profile at the outpatient department of the university of cape coast hospital in the central region of Ghana: a retrospective study. BMC Womens Health 2023; 23:101. [PMID: 36899343 PMCID: PMC9999660 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-023-02253-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/12/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is a public health problem with an estimated 138 million women globally experiencing recurrent VVC annually. The microscopic diagnosis of VVC has low sensitivity, but it remains an essential tool for diagnosis as the microbiological culture methods are limited to advanced clinical microbiology laboratories in developing countries. The study retrospectively analyzed the presence of red blood cells (RBCs), epithelial cells (ECs), pus cells (PCs) and Candida albicans positive in wet mount preparation of urine or high vaginal swabs (HVS) samples to test for their sensitivity and specificity for the diagnosis of candidiasis. METHODS The study is a retrospective analysis at the Outpatient Department of the University of Cape Coast between 2013 and 2020. All urine and high vagina swabs (HVS) cultures samples using Sabourauds dextrose agar with wet mount data were analyzed. 2 × 2 contingency diagnostic test was used to ascertain the diagnostic accuracy of red blood cells (RBCs), epithelial cells (ECs), pus cells (PCs), and Candida albicans positive in wet mount preparation of urine or high vaginal swabs (HVS) samples for the diagnosis of candidiasis. The association of candidiasis among patients' demographics was analyzed using relative risk (RR) analysis. RESULTS The high prevalence of candida infection was among female subjects 97.1% (831/856) compared to males 2.9% (25/856). The microscopic profiles which characterized candida infection were pus cells 96.4% (825/856), epithelial cells 98.7% (845/856), red blood cells (RBCs) 7.6% (65/856) and Candida albicans positive 63.2% (541/856). There was a lower risk of Candida infections among male patients compared to female patients RR (95% CI) = 0.061 (0.041-0.088). The sensitivity (95%) for detecting Candida albicans positive and red blood cells (0.62 (0.59-0.65)), Candida albicans positive and pus cells (0.75 (0.72-0.78)) and Candida albicans positive and epithelial cells (0.95 (0.92-0.96)) with corresponding specificity (95% CI) of 0.63 (0.60-0.67), 0.69 (0.66-0.72) and 0.74 (0.71-0.76) were detected among the high vaginal swab samples. CONCLUSION In conclusion, the study has shown that the presence of PCs, ECs, RBCs or ratio of RBCs/ECs and RBCs/PCs in the wet mount preparation from urine or HVS can enhance microscopic diagnosis of VVC cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kwame Kumi Asare
- Department of Biomedical Science, School of Allied Health Sciences, College of Allied Health Sciences, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana. .,Biomedical and Clinical Research Centre, College of Allied Health Sciences, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana.
| | - Hilda Amuaku Bentil
- Department of Biomedical Science, School of Allied Health Sciences, College of Allied Health Sciences, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - Emmanuel Gyesi
- Department of Biomedical Science, School of Allied Health Sciences, College of Allied Health Sciences, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - Samuel Amoah
- Department of Laboratory, University of Cape Coast Hospital, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - Felicity Bentsi-Enchill
- Department of Biology Education, Faculty of Science Education, University of Education, Winneba, Ghana
| | - Yeboah Kwaku Opoku
- Department of Biology Education, Faculty of Science Education, University of Education, Winneba, Ghana
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Erfaninejad M, Salahshouri A, Amirrajab N. Barriers and facilitators of adherence to treatment among women with vulvovaginal candidiasis: a qualitative study. Eur J Med Res 2022; 27:303. [PMID: 36539841 PMCID: PMC9767851 DOI: 10.1186/s40001-022-00938-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Non-adherence of patients with vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) to treatment recommendations leads to treatment failure and recurrence of infection. Therefore, this qualitative study was conducted to identify barriers and facilitators of observance of treatment among women afflicted with vulvovaginal candidiasis. METHODS This qualitative study was conducted through 26 in-depth unstructured interviews with 24 patients and 2 gynecologists using purposeful sampling with maximum variation in Ahvaz, southwest Iran. Interviews were conducted in person at health centers and the gynecologist's offices. MAXQDA 10 software and conventional content analysis were used for data analysis. RESULTS The findings showed barriers and facilitator factors of adherence to treatment in women with VVC. Some of these factors lead to an increase in adherence to treatment, and others play the role of hindering factors. These factors were classified into two main categories: patients' beliefs and patients' fears and concerns. CONCLUSION The results of this study showed that many of the behaviors of patients from the acceptance of the diagnosis process to treatment are rooted in the patient's beliefs and fears. Therefore, it seems necessary to design and carry out interventions based on the findings of this study, which can be used in the development of appropriate solutions, treatment guidelines, and adopting a policy for treatment adherence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Erfaninejad
- grid.411230.50000 0000 9296 6873Medical Mycology, Student Research Committee, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Arash Salahshouri
- grid.411230.50000 0000 9296 6873Department of Health Education & Promotion, School of Health, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Science, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Nasrin Amirrajab
- grid.411230.50000 0000 9296 6873Department of Laboratory Sciences, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
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A New Approach for the Treatment of Recurrent Vulvovaginal Candidiasis with a Combination of Pea Protein, Grape Seed Extract, and Lactic Acid Assessed In Vivo. J Fungi (Basel) 2022; 8:jof8121251. [PMID: 36547584 PMCID: PMC9787890 DOI: 10.3390/jof8121251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Revised: 11/20/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is considered the second most common vaginal infection. Up to 8% of women in various populations experience more than three or four episodes within one year, which is regarded as recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis (RVVC). Current therapies involve antifungal drugs that provide static effects but do not prevent recurrences due to increased antimicrobial resistance; thus, alternative therapies to antifungals are needed to prevent RVVC. METHODS A murine model of Candida albicans-induced RVVC was performed to evaluate the efficacy of a topical product containing pea protein (PP), grape seed extract (GS), and lactic acid (LA) to treat recurrent infections. Mice were inoculated with three separate vulvovaginal infections of 5 × 104 cells/mL C. albicans, and histological evaluation, a myeloperoxidase (MPO) assay. and an ELISA kit for Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) on vaginal tissues were performed. RESULTS The data obtained highlighted that the combination of PP, GS, and LA significantly preserved vaginal tissue architecture and prevented vaginal inflammation, proving its efficacy for the management of RVVC. Moreover, the combination of PP, GS, and LA notably increased azole efficacy by adding a new mechanism of action when administered concomitantly. CONCLUSION Taken together, results demonstrated that the treatment with a combination of PP, GS, and LA is able to reduce the adhesion of C. albicans.
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Boahen A, Than LTL, Loke YL, Chew SY. The Antibiofilm Role of Biotics Family in Vaginal Fungal Infections. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:787119. [PMID: 35694318 PMCID: PMC9179178 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.787119] [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: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
“Unity in strength” is a notion that can be exploited to characterize biofilms as they bestow microbes with protection to live freely, escalate their virulence, confer high resistance to therapeutic agents, and provide active grounds for the production of biofilms after dispersal. Naturally, fungal biofilms are inherently resistant to many conventional antifungals, possibly owing to virulence factors as their ammunitions that persistently express amid planktonic transition to matured biofilm state. These ammunitions include the ability to form polymicrobial biofilms, emergence of persister cells post-antifungal treatment and acquisition of resistance genes. One of the major disorders affecting vaginal health is vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) and its reoccurrence is termed recurrent VVC (RVVC). It is caused by the Candida species which include Candida albicans and Candida glabrata. The aforementioned Candida species, notably C. albicans is a biofilm producing pathogen and habitually forms part of the vaginal microbiota of healthy women. Latest research has implicated the role of fungal biofilms in VVC, particularly in the setting of treatment failure and RVVC. Consequently, a plethora of studies have advocated the utilization of probiotics in addressing these infections. Specifically, the excreted or released compounds of probiotics which are also known as postbiotics are being actively researched with vast potential to be used as therapeutic options for the treatment and prevention of VVC and RVVC. These potential sources of postbiotics are harnessed due to their proven antifungal and antibiofilm. Hence, this review discusses the role of Candida biofilm formation in VVC and RVVC. In addition, we discuss the application of pro-, pre-, post-, and synbiotics either individually or in combined regimen to counteract the abovementioned problems. A clear understanding of the role of biofilms in VVC and RVVC will provide proper footing for further research in devising novel remedies for prevention and treatment of vaginal fungal infections.
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Balakrishnan SN, Yamang H, Lorenz MC, Chew SY, Than LTL. Role of Vaginal Mucosa, Host Immunity and Microbiota in Vulvovaginal Candidiasis. Pathogens 2022; 11:pathogens11060618. [PMID: 35745472 PMCID: PMC9230866 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11060618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2022] [Revised: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is a prevalent gynaecological disease characterised by vaginal wall inflammation that is caused by Candida species. VVC impacts almost three-quarters of all women throughout their reproductive years. As the vaginal mucosa is the first point of contact with microbes, vaginal epithelial cells are the first line of defence against opportunistic Candida infection by providing a physical barrier and mounting immunological responses. The mechanisms of defence against this infection are displayed through the rapid shedding of epithelial cells, the presence of pattern recognition receptors, and the release of inflammatory cytokines. The bacterial microbiota within the mucosal layer presents another form of defence mechanism within the vagina through acidic pH regulation, the release of antifungal peptides and physiological control against dysbiosis. The significant role of the microbiota in maintaining vaginal health promotes its application as one of the potential treatment modalities against VVC with the hope of alleviating the burden of VVC, especially the recurrent disease. This review discusses and summarises current progress in understanding the role of vaginal mucosa and host immunity upon infection, together with the function of vaginal microbiota in VVC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Subatrra Nair Balakrishnan
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43300, Selangor, Malaysia; (S.N.B.); (H.Y.)
| | - Haizat Yamang
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43300, Selangor, Malaysia; (S.N.B.); (H.Y.)
| | - Michael C. Lorenz
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of Texas McGovern Medical School, Houston, TX 77030, USA;
| | - Shu Yih Chew
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43300, Selangor, Malaysia; (S.N.B.); (H.Y.)
- Correspondence: (S.Y.C.); (L.T.L.T.)
| | - Leslie Thian Lung Than
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43300, Selangor, Malaysia; (S.N.B.); (H.Y.)
- Correspondence: (S.Y.C.); (L.T.L.T.)
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Lírio J, Giraldo PC, Sarmento AC, Costa APF, Cobucci RN, Saconato H, Eleutério Júnior J, Gonçalves AK. Antifungal (oral and vaginal) therapy for recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis: a systematic review and meta-analysis. REVISTA DA ASSOCIACAO MEDICA BRASILEIRA (1992) 2022; 68:261-267. [PMID: 35239893 DOI: 10.1590/1806-9282.20210916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2021] [Accepted: 10/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Juliana Lírio
- Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Tocogynecolgy Postgraduate Program, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology - Campinas (SP), Brazil
| | - Paulo César Giraldo
- Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology - Campinas (SP), Brazil
| | - Ayane Cristine Sarmento
- Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, Health Sciences Postgraduate Program - Natal (RN), Brazil
| | - Ana Paula Ferreira Costa
- Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, Health Sciences Postgraduate Program - Natal (RN), Brazil
| | - Ricardo Ney Cobucci
- Universidade Potiguar, Postgraduate Program in Biotechnology - Natal (RN), Brazil
| | - Humberto Saconato
- Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Department of Medicine - São Paulo (SP), Brazil
| | - José Eleutério Júnior
- Universidade Federal do Ceará, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology - Fortaleza (CE) Brazil
| | - Ana Katherine Gonçalves
- Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, Health Sciences Postgraduate Program - Natal (RN), Brazil.,Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology - Natal (RN), Brazil
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20
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Isakhani S, Naeimi S, Naeimi B, Ahmadi B. Genetic variation and up-regulation of IL-12 enhance susceptibility to recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis. GENE REPORTS 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.genrep.2021.101463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Emulsion-Based Multicompartment Vaginal Drug Carriers: From Nanoemulsions to Nanoemulgels. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22126455. [PMID: 34208652 PMCID: PMC8233730 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22126455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2021] [Revised: 06/10/2021] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
In order to overcome the limitations associated with vaginal administration of drugs, e.g., the short contact time of the drug form with the mucosa or continuous carrier wash-out, the development of new carriers for gynecological use is necessary. Furthermore, high individual anatomical and physiological variability resulting in unsatisfactory therapeutic efficacy of lipophilic active substances requires application of multicompartment drug delivery systems. This manuscript provides an up-to-date comprehensive review of the literature on emulsion-based vaginal dosage forms (EVDF) including macroemulsions, microemulsions, nanoemulsions, multiple emulsions and self-emulsifying drug delivery systems. The first part of the paper discusses (i) the influence of anatomical-physiological conditions on therapeutic efficacy of drug forms after local and systemic administration, (ii) characterization of EVDF components and the manufacturing techniques of these dosage forms and (iii) methods used to evaluate the physicochemical and pharmaceutical properties of emulsion-based vaginal dosage forms. The second part of the paper presents (iv) the results of biological and in vivo studies as well as (v) clinical evaluation of EVDF safety and therapeutic efficacy across different indications.
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Pekmezovic M, Hovhannisyan H, Gresnigt MS, Iracane E, Oliveira-Pacheco J, Siscar-Lewin S, Seemann E, Qualmann B, Kalkreuter T, Müller S, Kamradt T, Mogavero S, Brunke S, Butler G, Gabaldón T, Hube B. Candida pathogens induce protective mitochondria-associated type I interferon signalling and a damage-driven response in vaginal epithelial cells. Nat Microbiol 2021; 6:643-657. [PMID: 33753919 DOI: 10.1038/s41564-021-00875-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2020] [Accepted: 02/01/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Vaginal candidiasis is an extremely common disease predominantly caused by four phylogenetically diverse species: Candida albicans; Candida glabrata; Candida parapsilosis; and Candida tropicalis. Using a time course infection model of vaginal epithelial cells and dual RNA sequencing, we show that these species exhibit distinct pathogenicity patterns, which are defined by highly species-specific transcriptional profiles during infection of vaginal epithelial cells. In contrast, host cells exhibit a homogeneous response to all species at the early stages of infection, which is characterized by sublethal mitochondrial signalling inducing a protective type I interferon response. At the later stages, the transcriptional response of the host diverges in a species-dependent manner. This divergence is primarily driven by the extent of epithelial damage elicited by species-specific mechanisms, such as secretion of the toxin candidalysin by C. albicans. Our results uncover a dynamic, biphasic response of vaginal epithelial cells to Candida species, which is characterized by protective mitochondria-associated type I interferon signalling and a species-specific damage-driven response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Pekmezovic
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology, Hans Knoell Institute, Jena, Germany
| | - Hrant Hovhannisyan
- Bioinformatics and Genomics Programme, Centre for Genomic Regulation, Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Barcelona, Spain.,Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain.,Life Sciences Department, Barcelona Supercomputing Center, Barcelona, Spain.,Mechanisms of Disease Department, Institute for Research in Biomedicine, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mark S Gresnigt
- Junior Research Group Adaptive Pathogenicity Strategies, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology, Hans Knoell Institute, Jena, Germany
| | - Elise Iracane
- School of Biomedical and Biomolecular Science and UCD Conway Institute of Biomolecular and Biomedical Research, Conway Institute, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - João Oliveira-Pacheco
- School of Biomedical and Biomolecular Science and UCD Conway Institute of Biomolecular and Biomedical Research, Conway Institute, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Sofía Siscar-Lewin
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology, Hans Knoell Institute, Jena, Germany
| | - Eric Seemann
- Institute for Biochemistry I, Jena University Hospital-Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany
| | - Britta Qualmann
- Institute for Biochemistry I, Jena University Hospital-Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany
| | - Till Kalkreuter
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology, Hans Knoell Institute, Jena, Germany
| | - Sylvia Müller
- Institute of Immunology, Universitätsklinikum Jena, Jena, Germany
| | - Thomas Kamradt
- Institute of Immunology, Universitätsklinikum Jena, Jena, Germany
| | - Selene Mogavero
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology, Hans Knoell Institute, Jena, Germany
| | - Sascha Brunke
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology, Hans Knoell Institute, Jena, Germany
| | - Geraldine Butler
- School of Biomedical and Biomolecular Science and UCD Conway Institute of Biomolecular and Biomedical Research, Conway Institute, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Toni Gabaldón
- Bioinformatics and Genomics Programme, Centre for Genomic Regulation, Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Barcelona, Spain. .,Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain. .,Institució Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats, Barcelona, Spain. .,Life Sciences Department, Barcelona Supercomputing Center, Barcelona, Spain. .,Mechanisms of Disease Department, Institute for Research in Biomedicine, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Bernhard Hube
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology, Hans Knoell Institute, Jena, Germany. .,Institute of Microbiology, Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany.
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23
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Al-Hatmi AMS, Al-Shuhoumi MA, Denning DW. Estimated Burden of Fungal Infections in Oman. J Fungi (Basel) 2020; 7:5. [PMID: 33374846 PMCID: PMC7823708 DOI: 10.3390/jof7010005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2020] [Revised: 12/16/2020] [Accepted: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
For many years, fungi have emerged as significant and frequent opportunistic pathogens and nosocomial infections in many different populations at risk. Fungal infections include disease that varies from superficial to disseminated infections which are often fatal. No fungal disease is reportable in Oman. Many cases are admitted with underlying pathology, and fungal infection is often not documented. The burden of fungal infections in Oman is still unknown. Using disease frequencies from heterogeneous and robust data sources, we provide an estimation of the incidence and prevalence of Oman's fungal diseases. An estimated 79,520 people in Oman are affected by a serious fungal infection each year, 1.7% of the population, not including fungal skin infections, chronic fungal rhinosinusitis or otitis externa. These figures are dominated by vaginal candidiasis, followed by allergic respiratory disease (fungal asthma). An estimated 244 patients develop invasive aspergillosis and at least 230 candidemia annually (5.4 and 5.0 per 100,000). Only culture and microscopy are currently available for diagnosis, so case detection is suboptimal. Uncertainty surrounds these figures that trigger the need for urgent local epidemiological studies with more sensitive diagnostics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdullah M. S. Al-Hatmi
- Department of microbiology, Natural & Medical Sciences Research Center, University of Nizwa, Nizwa 616, Oman
- Department of microbiology, Centre of Expertise in Mycology Radboudumc/CWZ, 6500 Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Foundation of Atlas of Clinical Fungi, 1214GP Hilversum, The Netherlands
| | | | - David W. Denning
- Manchester Fungal Infection Group, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, The University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, UK;
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24
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Pandey M, Choudhury H, Abdul-Aziz A, Bhattamisra SK, Gorain B, Carine T, Wee Toong T, Yi NJ, Win Yi L. Promising Drug Delivery Approaches to Treat Microbial Infections in the Vagina: A Recent Update. Polymers (Basel) 2020; 13:E26. [PMID: 33374756 PMCID: PMC7795176 DOI: 10.3390/polym13010026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Revised: 12/16/2020] [Accepted: 12/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
An optimal host-microbiota interaction in the human vagina governs the reproductive health status of a woman. The marked depletion in the beneficial Lactobacillus sp. increases the risk of infection with sexually transmitted pathogens, resulting in gynaecological issues. Vaginal infections that are becoming increasingly prevalent, especially among women of reproductive age, require an effective concentration of antimicrobial drugs at the infectious sites for complete disease eradication. Thus, topical treatment is recommended as it allows direct therapeutic action, reduced drug doses and side effects, and self-insertion. However, the alterations in the physiological conditions of the vagina affect the effectiveness of vaginal drug delivery considerably. Conventional vaginal dosage forms are often linked to low retention time in the vagina and discomfort which significantly reduces patient compliance. The lack of optimal prevention and treatment approaches have contributed to the unacceptably high rate of recurrence for vaginal diseases. To combat these limitations, several novel approaches including nano-systems, mucoadhesive polymeric systems, and stimuli-responsive systems have been developed in recent years. This review discusses and summarises the recent research progress of these novel approaches for vaginal drug delivery against various vaginal diseases. An overview of the concept and challenges of vaginal infections, anatomy and physiology of the vagina, and barriers to vaginal drug delivery are also addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manisha Pandey
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, School of Pharmacy, International Medical University, Bukit Jalil, Kuala Lumpur 57000, Malaysia
- Centre for Bioactive Molecules and Drug Delivery, Institute for Research, Development and Innovation, International Medical University, Kuala Lumpur 57000, Malaysia
| | - Hira Choudhury
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, School of Pharmacy, International Medical University, Bukit Jalil, Kuala Lumpur 57000, Malaysia
- Centre for Bioactive Molecules and Drug Delivery, Institute for Research, Development and Innovation, International Medical University, Kuala Lumpur 57000, Malaysia
| | - Azila Abdul-Aziz
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Malaysia-Japan International Institute of Technology, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Jalan Sultan Yahya Petra, Kuala Lumpur 54100, Malaysia; or
| | - Subrat Kumar Bhattamisra
- Department of Life Sciences, School of Pharmacy, International Medical University, Bukit Jalil, Kuala Lumpur 57000, Malaysia;
| | - Bapi Gorain
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Taylor’s University, Subang Jaya, Selangor 47500, Malaysia;
- Center for Drug Delivery and Molecular Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Taylor’s University, Subang Jaya, Selangor 47500, Malaysia
| | - Teng Carine
- Undergraduate School of Pharmacy, International Medical University, Bukit Jalil, Kuala Lumpur 57000, Malaysia; (T.C.); (T.W.T.); (N.J.Y.); (L.W.Y.)
| | - Tan Wee Toong
- Undergraduate School of Pharmacy, International Medical University, Bukit Jalil, Kuala Lumpur 57000, Malaysia; (T.C.); (T.W.T.); (N.J.Y.); (L.W.Y.)
| | - Ngiam Jing Yi
- Undergraduate School of Pharmacy, International Medical University, Bukit Jalil, Kuala Lumpur 57000, Malaysia; (T.C.); (T.W.T.); (N.J.Y.); (L.W.Y.)
| | - Lim Win Yi
- Undergraduate School of Pharmacy, International Medical University, Bukit Jalil, Kuala Lumpur 57000, Malaysia; (T.C.); (T.W.T.); (N.J.Y.); (L.W.Y.)
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25
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Vaginal Yeast Infection. CURRENT BLADDER DYSFUNCTION REPORTS 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s11884-020-00606-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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26
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Xu L, Hu Z, Yu F, Tang Y. Analysis of characteristics of vulvo-vaginal infections in 14- to 18-year-old girls in late puberty. J Int Med Res 2020; 48:300060520946506. [PMID: 32790515 PMCID: PMC7543224 DOI: 10.1177/0300060520946506] [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: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective This study aimed to determine the characteristics of vulvo-vaginal infections in 14- to 18-year-old girls in late puberty. Methods From July 2016 to June 2019, 487 14- to 18-year-old girls with vulvo-vaginal infection in late puberty in West China Second University Hospital were retrospectively studied. The incidence of bacterial vaginosis (BV), the intermediate type of BV, vulvo-vaginal candidiasis (VVC), Trichomonas vaginalis (TV), and differences among the incidence of these infections for patients with different ages were analyzed. Results The incidence of BV, the intermediate type of BV, TV, VVC, and unknown pathogenic vaginitis was 25.67%, 19.30%, 2.46%, 29.37%, and 23.20%, respectively. The incidence of BV and VVC was significantly higher than that of TV. The incidence of BV in the 17-year-old group was significantly higher than that in other age groups. The incidence of VVC and non-albicans Candida infection in the 17- and 18-year-old groups was significantly higher than that in the 14-year-old group. Conclusion Girls in late puberty are more susceptible to suffer from BV and VVC than TV infections. Therefore, more attention should be paid to the effects of menstrual hygiene, female estrogen levels, the vaginal internal environment, and hygiene in vulvo-vaginal infection at this stage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Xu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Sichuan, China.,Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Zhengqiang Hu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Sichuan, China.,Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Fan Yu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Sichuan, China.,Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Yuanting Tang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Sichuan, China.,Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
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