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Kortei NK, Gillette VS, Wiafe-Kwagyan M, Ansah LO, Kyei-Baffour V, Odamtten GT. Fungal profile, levels of aflatoxin M1, exposure, and the risk characterization of local cheese ' wagashi' consumed in the Ho Municipality, Volta Region, Ghana. Toxicol Rep 2024; 12:186-199. [PMID: 38313814 PMCID: PMC10837644 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxrep.2024.01.009] [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: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 01/14/2024] [Indexed: 02/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Wagashi is a West African type cottage cheese locally prepared from cow milk. Wagashi like other milk products, is prone to microbial contamination, particularly by fungi. Many of these fungal species produce mycotoxins which are of serious public health concern. This work aimed to update the mycoflora profile and determine the concentrations of aflatoxin M1 and its health risk characterization due to the consumption of wagashi. Culturing the wagashi on mycological media (Oxytetracycline Glucose Yeast Extract OGYE, Dichloran Rose Bengal Chloramphenicol DRBC) caused a de-novo growth of the quiescent spores at 28-30 °C for 5-7 days. The analysis of AFM1 levels in the samples was done using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography connected to a Fluorescence detector (HPLC-FLD). The exposure and risk assessment to the AFMI levels were determined using deterministic models prescribed by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). The fungal counts ranged between 2.36-4.30 log10 CFU/g. In total, thirteen (13) fungal species from eight (8) genera were isolated from all wagashi samples. They are; Fusarium oxysporum, Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus niger, Fusarium verticillioides, Penicillium digitatum, Trichoderma harzianum, Aspergillus terreus, Rhodotorula mucilaginosa, Rhizopus stolonifer, Aspergillus fumigatus, Yeast sp., Mucor racemosus and Fusarium oligosporum belonging to the genera Fusarium, Aspergillus, Penicillium, Trichoderma, Rhodotorula, Rhizopus, Yeast, and Mucor. The AFM1 observed in the wagashi samples' analysis was low, ranging from 0.00 (Not Detected) ± 0.00 - 0.06 ± 0.002 µg/Kg. Risk assessments of AFM1 using deterministic models produced outcomes that ranged between 5.92 × 10-3- 0.14 ng/kg bw/day, 1.42 -44.35, 0-0.0323 ng aflatoxins/kg bw/day, and 1.51 × 10-3 - 9.69 × 10-4 cases/100,000 person/yr for estimated daily intake (EDI), margin of exposure (MOE), average potency, and cancer risks, respectively, for the age categories investigated. Fungal counts were interpreted as medium to high. It was also established that the consumption of wagashi may pose adverse health effects on all age categories in the selected zones of the study since all calculated MOE values were less than 100,000.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nii Korley Kortei
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, School of Allied Health Sciences, University of Health and Allied Sciences, PMB 31, Ho, Ghana
- Department of Sports Nutrition, School of Sports and Exercise Medicine, University of Health and Allied Sciences, PMB 31, Ho, Ghana
| | - Valentina Sylvia Gillette
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, School of Allied Health Sciences, University of Health and Allied Sciences, PMB 31, Ho, Ghana
| | - Michael Wiafe-Kwagyan
- Department of Plant and Environmental Biology, College of Basic and Applied Sciences, University of Ghana, P. O. Box LG 55, Legon, Ghana
| | - Leslie Owusu Ansah
- Department of Food Laboratory, Food and Drugs Authority, P.O. Box CT 2783, Cantonments, Accra, Ghana
| | - Vincent Kyei-Baffour
- Food Chemistry and Nutrition Research Division, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, Food Research Institute, P. O. Box M20, Accra, Ghana
| | - George Tawia Odamtten
- Department of Plant and Environmental Biology, College of Basic and Applied Sciences, University of Ghana, P. O. Box LG 55, Legon, Ghana
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Rasulov BA, Pattaeva MA. Abiotic/Biotic Stress and Substrate Dictated Metabolic Diversity of Azotobacter Chroococcum: Synthesis of Alginate, Antifungal n-Alkanes, Lactones, and Indoles. Indian J Microbiol 2024; 64:635-649. [PMID: 39010987 PMCID: PMC11246381 DOI: 10.1007/s12088-024-01212-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 07/17/2024] Open
Abstract
The current paper deals with new metabolites of different groups produced by Azotobacter chroococcum XU1. The strain's metabolic diversity is strongly altered by different factors, and some secondary metabolites are being reported for the first time for this species. As an abiotic/biotic stress response, the strain produced a broad spectrum of indole ring-containing compounds, n-alkanes (eicosane, heneicosane, docosane, tetracosane, and hexacosane), alkanes (7-hexyl eicosane and 2-methyloctacosane), saturated fatty acids (hexanoic and octanoic acids), esters (hexadecanoic acid methyl and pentadecanoic acid-14-methyl-methyl esters), and amides (9-Octadecenamide, (Z)- and 13-Docosenamide, (Z)-). Furthermore, to mitigate the abiotic stress the strain actively produced exopolysaccharide (EPS) to biosorb the Na+ ions. Apart from these metabolites, A. chroococcum XU1 synthesized lactones, namely 1,5-d-gluconolactone and d, l-mevalonic acid lactone in response to carbon source modification. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12088-024-01212-x.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bakhtiyor A Rasulov
- Institute of Genetics and Plant Experimental Biology, Uzbekistan Academy of Sciences, 111226 Kibray District, Tashkent Province Uzbekistan
| | - Mohichehra A Pattaeva
- Institute of Genetics and Plant Experimental Biology, Uzbekistan Academy of Sciences, 111226 Kibray District, Tashkent Province Uzbekistan
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Thakur R, Shishodia SK, Sharma A, Chauhan A, Kaur S, Shankar J. Accelerating the understanding of Aspergillus terreus: Epidemiology, physiology, immunology and advances. CURRENT RESEARCH IN MICROBIAL SCIENCES 2024; 6:100220. [PMID: 38303967 PMCID: PMC10831165 DOI: 10.1016/j.crmicr.2024.100220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Aspergillus species encompass a variety of infections, ranging from invasive aspergillosis to allergic conditions, contingent upon the immune status of the host. In this spectrum, Aspergillus terreus stands out due to its emergence as a notable pathogen and its intrinsic resistance to amphotericin-B. The significance of Aspergillus-associated infections has witnessed a marked increase in the past few decades, particularly with the increasing number of immunocompromised individuals. The exploration of epidemiology, morphological transitions, immunopathology, and novel treatment approaches such as new antifungal drugs (PC945, olorofim) and combinational therapy using antifungal drugs and phytochemicals (Phytochemicals: quercetin, shikonin, artemisinin), also using immunotherapies to modulate immune response has resulted in better outcomes. Furthermore, in the context COVID-19 era and its aftermath, fungal infections have emerged as a substantial challenge for both immunocompromised and immunocompetent individuals. This is attributed to the use of immune-suppressing therapies during COVID-19 infections and the increase in transplant cases. Consequently, this review aims to provide an updated overview encompassing the epidemiology, germination events, immunopathology, and novel drug treatment strategies against Aspergillus terreus-associated infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raman Thakur
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Lovely Professional University, Jalandhar, Punjab, India
| | | | - Ananya Sharma
- Genomic Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Jaypee University of Information Technology, Waknaghat Solan, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Arjun Chauhan
- Department of Biotechnology, Institute of Applied Sciences and Humanities, GLA University, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Sumanpreet Kaur
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Lovely Professional University, Jalandhar, Punjab, India
| | - Jata Shankar
- Genomic Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Jaypee University of Information Technology, Waknaghat Solan, Himachal Pradesh, India
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Qi S, Wang J, Zhang Y, Naz M, Afzal MR, Du D, Dai Z. Omics Approaches in Invasion Biology: Understanding Mechanisms and Impacts on Ecological Health. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 12:plants12091860. [PMID: 37176919 PMCID: PMC10181282 DOI: 10.3390/plants12091860] [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: 03/19/2023] [Revised: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Invasive species and rapid climate change are affecting the control of new plant diseases and epidemics. To effectively manage these diseases under changing environmental conditions, a better understanding of pathophysiology with holistic approach is needed. Multiomics approaches can help us to understand the relationship between plants and microbes and construct predictive models for how they respond to environmental stresses. The application of omics methods enables the simultaneous analysis of plant hosts, soil, and microbiota, providing insights into their intricate relationships and the mechanisms underlying plant-microbe interactions. This can help in the development of novel strategies for enhancing plant health and improving soil ecosystem functions. The review proposes the use of omics methods to study the relationship between plant hosts, soil, and microbiota, with the aim of developing a new technique to regulate soil health. This approach can provide a comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms underlying plant-microbe interactions and contribute to the development of effective strategies for managing plant diseases and improving soil ecosystem functions. In conclusion, omics technologies offer an innovative and holistic approach to understanding plant-microbe interactions and their response to changing environmental conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shanshan Qi
- School of Emergency Management, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China
- Key Laboratory of Modern Agricultural Equipment and Technology, Ministry of Education, School of Agricultural Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China
| | - Jiahao Wang
- Key Laboratory of Modern Agricultural Equipment and Technology, Ministry of Education, School of Agricultural Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China
| | - Yi Zhang
- Institute of Environment and Ecology, School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, 301 Xuefu Road, Zhenjiang 212013, China
| | - Misbah Naz
- Institute of Environment and Ecology, School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, 301 Xuefu Road, Zhenjiang 212013, China
| | - Muhammad Rahil Afzal
- Institute of Environment and Ecology, School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, 301 Xuefu Road, Zhenjiang 212013, China
| | - Daolin Du
- Institute of Environment and Ecology, School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, 301 Xuefu Road, Zhenjiang 212013, China
| | - Zhicong Dai
- School of Emergency Management, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China
- Institute of Environment and Ecology, School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, 301 Xuefu Road, Zhenjiang 212013, China
- Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Technology and Material of Water Treatment, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou 215009, China
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Henß I, Kleinemeier C, Strobel L, Brock M, Löffler J, Ebel F. Characterization of Aspergillus terreus Accessory Conidia and Their Interactions With Murine Macrophages. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:896145. [PMID: 35783442 PMCID: PMC9245049 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.896145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
All Aspergillus species form phialidic conidia (PC) when the mycelium is in contact with the air. These small, asexual spores are ideally suited for an airborne dissemination in the environment. Aspergillus terreus and a few closely related species from section Terrei can additionally generate accessory conidia (AC) that directly emerge from the hyphal surface. In this study, we have identified galactomannan as a major surface antigen on AC that is largely absent from the surface of PC. Galactomannan is homogeneously distributed over the entire surface of AC and even detectable on nascent AC present on the hyphal surface. In contrast, β-glucans are only accessible in distinct structures that occur after separation of the conidia from the hyphal surface. During germination, AC show a very limited isotropic growth that has no detectable impact on the distribution of galactomannan. The AC of the strain used in this study germinate much faster than the corresponding PC, and they are more sensitive to desiccation than PC. During infection of murine J774 macrophages, AC are readily engulfed and trigger a strong tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNFα) response. Both processes are not hampered by the presence of laminarin, which indicates that β-glucans only play a minor role in these interactions. In the phagosome, we observed that galactomannan, but not β-glucan, is released from the conidial surface and translocates to the host cell cytoplasm. AC persist in phagolysosomes, and many of them initiate germination within 24 h. In conclusion, we have identified galactomannan as a novel and major antigen on AC that clearly distinguishes them from PC. The role of this fungal-specific carbohydrate in the interactions with the immune system remains an open issue that needs to be addressed in future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabell Henß
- Institute for Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Christoph Kleinemeier
- Institute for Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Lea Strobel
- Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Matthias Brock
- Fungal Genetics and Biology, School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Jürgen Löffler
- Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Frank Ebel
- Institute for Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany
- *Correspondence: Frank Ebel
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Abstract
Infections due to Aspergillus species are an acute threat to human health; members of the Aspergillus section Fumigati are the most frequently occurring agents, but depending on the local epidemiology, representatives of section Terrei or section Flavi are the second or third most important. Aspergillus terreus species complex is of great interest, as it is usually amphotericin B resistant and displays notable differences in immune interactions in comparison to Aspergillus fumigatus. The latest epidemiological surveys show an increased incidence of A. terreus as well as an expanding clinical spectrum (chronic infections) and new groups of at-risk patients being affected. Hallmarks of these non-Aspergillus fumigatus invasive mold infections are high potential for tissue invasion, dissemination, and possible morbidity due to mycotoxin production. We seek to review the microbiology, epidemiology, and pathogenesis of A. terreus species complex, address clinical characteristics, and highlight the underlying mechanisms of amphotericin B resistance. Selected topics will contrast key elements of A. terreus with A. fumigatus. We provide a comprehensive resource for clinicians dealing with fungal infections and researchers working on A. terreus pathogenesis, aiming to bridge the emerging translational knowledge and future therapeutic challenges on this opportunistic pathogen.
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Karmakar B, Saha B, Jana K, Gupta Bhattacharya S. Identification and biochemical characterization of Asp t 36, a new fungal allergen from Aspergillus terreus. J Biol Chem 2021; 295:17852-17864. [PMID: 33454019 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.ra120.015801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2020] [Revised: 10/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Aspergillus terreus is an allergenic fungus, in addition to causing infections in both humans and plants. However, the allergens in this fungus are still unknown, limiting the development of diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. We used a proteomic approach to search for allergens, identifying 16 allergens based on two-dimensional immunoblotting with A. terreus susceptible patient sera. We further characterized triose-phosphate isomerase (Asp t 36), one of the dominant IgE (IgE)-reactive proteins. The gene was cloned and expressed in Escherichia coli. Phylogenetic analysis showed Asp t 36 to be highly conserved with close similarity to the triose-phosphate isomerase protein sequence from Dermatophagoides farinae, an allergenic dust mite. We identified four immunodominant epitopes using synthetic peptides, and mapped them on a homology-based model of the tertiary structure of Asp t 36. Among these, two were found to create a continuous surface patch on the 3D structure, rendering it an IgE-binding hotspot. Biophysical analysis indicated that Asp t 36 shows similar secondary structure content and temperature sensitivity with other reported triose-phosphate isomerase allergens. In vivo studies using a murine model displayed that the recombinant Asp t 36 was able to stimulate airway inflammation, as demonstrated by an influx of eosinophils, goblet cell hyperplasia, elevated serum Igs, and induction of Th2 cytokines. Collectively, our results reveal the immunogenic property of Asp t 36, a major allergen from A. terreus, and define a new fungal allergen more broadly. This allergen could serve as a potent candidate for investigating component resolved diagnosis and immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bijoya Karmakar
- Division of Plant Biology, Bose Institute (Main Campus), Kolkata, India
| | - Bodhisattwa Saha
- CSIR-Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology, New Delhi, India.
| | - Kuladip Jana
- Division of Molecular Medicines, Bose Institute (Centenary Building), Kolkata, India
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Vassileva M, Malusá E, Eichler-Löbermann B, Vassilev N. Aspegillus terreus: From Soil to Industry and Back. Microorganisms 2020; 8:microorganisms8111655. [PMID: 33113865 PMCID: PMC7692665 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms8111655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2020] [Revised: 10/18/2020] [Accepted: 10/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Aspergillus terreus is an important saprophytic filamentous fungus that can be found in soils. Like many other soil microorganisms, A. terreus demonstrates multiple functions and offers various important metabolites, which can be used in different fields of human activity. The first application of A. terreus on an industrial level is the production of itaconic acid, which is now considered as one of the most important bioproducts in the Green Chemistry field. The general schemes for itaconic acid production have been studied, but in this mini-review some lines of future research are presented based on analysis of the published results. A. terreus is also intensively studied for its biocontrol activity and plant growth-promoting effect. However, this microorganism is also known to infect important crops such as, amongst others, rice, wheat, potato, sugar cane, maize, and soybean. It was suggested, however, that the balance between positive vs. negative effects is dependent on the soil-plant-inoculant dose system. A. terreus has frequently been described as an important human pathogen. Therefore, its safety manipulation in biotechnological processes for the production of itaconic acid and some drugs and its use in soil-plant systems should be carefully assessed. Some suggestions in this direction are discussed, particularly concerning the uses in crop production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Vassileva
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Granada, C/Fuentenueva s/n, 18071 Granada, Spain;
| | - Eligio Malusá
- Research Institute of Horticulture, 96-101 Skierniewice, Poland;
- CREA—Research Centre for Viticulture and Enology, via XXVIII Aprile 26, 31015 Conegliano, Italy
| | - Bettina Eichler-Löbermann
- Institute of Land Use, Faculty of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, University of Rostock, 18051 Rostock, Germany;
| | - Nikolay Vassilev
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Granada, C/Fuentenueva s/n, 18071 Granada, Spain;
- Institute of Biotechnology, University of Granada, 18071 Granada, Spain
- Correspondence:
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Jose RC, Bengyella L, Handique PJ, Talukdar NC. Cellular and proteomic events associated with the localized formation of smut-gall during Zizania latifolia-Ustilago esculenta interaction. Microb Pathog 2018; 126:79-84. [PMID: 30367966 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2018.10.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2018] [Revised: 09/05/2018] [Accepted: 10/22/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
The perennial wild rice Zizania latifolia is confined in the swampy habitat and wetland of the Indo-Burma biodiversity hotspot of India and infection by the biotrophic fungus Ustilago esculenta is hallmarked by swellings that develop to form localized smut-gall at the topmost internodal region. The cellular and proteomic events involved in the non-systemic colonization of Z. latifolia by U. esculenta leading to smut-gall formation is poorly understood. Proteins were extracted from the smut-gall region at the topmost internodal region below the apical meristematic tissue from the infected and uninfected parts of Z. latifolia. By combining transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and fluorescent microscopy (FM), we showed that U. esculenta hyphal morphological transitions and movement occurred both intercellularly and intracellularly while sporulation occurred intracellularly in selective cells. Following proteome profiling using two dimensional SDS-PAGE at different phenological phases of smut-gall development and U. esculenta infection, differentially expressed proteins bands and their relative abundance were detected and subjected to liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometric (LC-MS/MS) analysis. Importantly, the fungus explores at least 7 metabolic pathways and 5 major biological processes to subdue the host defense and thrive successfully on Z. latifolia. The fungus U. esculenta produces proteases and energy acquisition proteins those enhance it's defensive and survival mode in the host. The identified differentially regulated proteins shed-light into why inflorescence is being replaced by bulbous smut-gall at late stages of the disease, as well as the development of resistance in some Z. latifolia plants against U. esculenta infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robinson C Jose
- Institute of Bioresources and Sustainable Development (IBSD), Takyelpat, Imphal, 795001, Manipur, India; Department of Biotechnology, Guwahati University, Guwahati, 781014, Assam, India; Life Sciences Division, Institute of Advanced Study in Science and Technology, Guwahati, 781035, Assam, India.
| | - Louis Bengyella
- Tree Fruit Research and Extension Center (TFREC), College of Agricultural, Human and Natural Resource Sciences (CAHNRS), Washington State University, USA; Department of Biological Control, Advanced Biotech Cooperative, Cameroon
| | - Pratap J Handique
- Department of Biotechnology, Guwahati University, Guwahati, 781014, Assam, India
| | - Narayan C Talukdar
- Life Sciences Division, Institute of Advanced Study in Science and Technology, Guwahati, 781035, Assam, India.
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Schubert M, Spiegel H, Schillberg S, Nölke G. Aspergillus-specific antibodies - Targets and applications. Biotechnol Adv 2018; 36:1167-1184. [PMID: 29608951 DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2018.03.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2017] [Revised: 03/21/2018] [Accepted: 03/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Aspergillus is a fungal genus comprising several hundred species, many of which can damage the health of plants, animals and humans by direct infection and/or due to the production of toxic secondary metabolites known as mycotoxins. Aspergillus-specific antibodies have been generated against polypeptides, polysaccharides and secondary metabolites found in the cell wall or secretions, and these can be used to detect and monitor infections or to quantify mycotoxin contamination in food and feed. However, most Aspergillus-specific antibodies are generated against heterogeneous antigen preparations and the specific target remains unknown. Target identification is important because this can help to characterize fungal morphology, confirm host penetration by opportunistic pathogens, detect specific disease-related biomarkers, identify new candidate targets for antifungal drug design, and qualify antibodies for diagnostic and therapeutic applications. In this review, we discuss how antibodies are raised against heterogeneous Aspergillus antigen preparations and how they can be characterized, focusing on strategies to identify their specific antigens and epitopes. We also discuss the therapeutic, diagnostic and biotechnological applications of Aspergillus-specific antibodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Max Schubert
- Fraunhofer Institute for Molecular Biology and Applied Ecology IME, Forckenbeckstrasse 6, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Holger Spiegel
- Fraunhofer Institute for Molecular Biology and Applied Ecology IME, Forckenbeckstrasse 6, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Stefan Schillberg
- Fraunhofer Institute for Molecular Biology and Applied Ecology IME, Forckenbeckstrasse 6, 52074 Aachen, Germany; Justus-Liebig University Giessen, Institute for Phytopathology and Applied Zoology, Phytopathology Department, Heinrich-Buff-Ring 26-32, 35392 Giessen, Germany.
| | - Greta Nölke
- Fraunhofer Institute for Molecular Biology and Applied Ecology IME, Forckenbeckstrasse 6, 52074 Aachen, Germany
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Bengyella L, Yekwa EL, Subhani MN, Tambo E, Nawaz K, Hetsa BA, Iftikhar S, Waikhom SD, Roy P. Invasive Aspergillus terreus morphological transitions and immunoadaptations mediating antifungal resistance. Infect Drug Resist 2017; 10:425-436. [PMID: 29158685 PMCID: PMC5683776 DOI: 10.2147/idr.s147331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and aims Aspergillus terreus Thom is a pathogen of public health and agricultural importance for its seamless abilities to expand its ecological niche. The aim of this study was holistically to investigate A. terreus morphological and immunoadaptations and their implication in antifungal resistance and proliferation during infection. Materials and methods In-depth unstructured mining of relevant peer-reviewed literature was performed for A. terreus morphological, immune, resistance, and genetic diversity based on the sequenced calmodulin-like gene. Results Accessory conidia and phialidic conidia produced by A. terreus confer discrete anti-fungal resistance that ensures survivability during therapies. Interestingly, by producing unique metabolites such as Asp–melanin and terretonin, A. terreus is capable of hijacking macrophages and scavenging iron, respectively. As such, A. terreus has established a rare mechanism to mitigate phagocytosis and swing the interaction dynamics in favor of its proliferation and survival in hosts. Conclusion It is further unraveled that besides A. terreus genetic diversity, morphological, biochemical, and immunologic adaptations associated with conidia germination and discharge of chemical signals during infection enable masking of the host defense as an integral part of its strategy to survive and rapidly colonize hosts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louis Bengyella
- Department of Biomedical Science, The School of Basic and Biomedical Sciences, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Ghana.,Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Applied and Computer Sciences, Vaal University of Technology, Vanderbijlpark, South Africa.,Department of Biotechnology, University of Burdwan, Bardhaman, India
| | - Elsie Laban Yekwa
- Division of Medical Virology, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | - Muhammad Nasir Subhani
- Department of Plant Pathology, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Ernest Tambo
- Department of Biochemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Université des Montagnes, Bangangté.,Department of Communications, Africa Disease Intelligence and Surveillance, Communication and Response Institute, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Kiran Nawaz
- Department of Plant Pathology, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Bakoena Ashton Hetsa
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Applied and Computer Sciences, Vaal University of Technology, Vanderbijlpark, South Africa
| | - Sehrish Iftikhar
- Department of Plant Pathology, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Sayanika Devi Waikhom
- Department of Biomedical Science, The School of Basic and Biomedical Sciences, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Ghana
| | - Pranab Roy
- Department of Biotechnology, Haldia Institute of Technology, Haldia, India
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Oxidative Stress Response Tips the Balance in Aspergillus terreus Amphotericin B Resistance. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2017; 61:AAC.00670-17. [PMID: 28739793 DOI: 10.1128/aac.00670-17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2017] [Accepted: 07/03/2017] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
In this study, we characterize the impact of antioxidative enzymes in amphotericin B (AmB)-resistant (ATR) and rare AmB-susceptible (ATS) clinical Aspergillus terreus isolates. We elucidate expression profiles of superoxide dismutase (SOD)- and catalase (CAT)-encoding genes, enzymatic activities of SODs, and superoxide anion production and signaling pathways involved in the oxidative stress response (OSR) in ATS and ATR strains under AmB treatment conditions. We show that ATR strains possess almost doubled basal SOD activity compared to that of ATS strains and that ATR strains exhibit an enhanced OSR, with significantly higher sod2 mRNA levels and significantly increased cat transcripts in ATR strains upon AmB treatment. In particular, inhibition of SOD and CAT proteins renders resistant isolates considerably susceptible to the drug in vitro In conclusion, this study shows that SODs and CATs are crucial for AmB resistance in A. terreus and that targeting the OSR might offer new treatment perspectives for resistant species.
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Thakur R, Shankar J. Proteome Profile of Aspergillus terreus Conidia at Germinating Stage: Identification of Probable Virulent Factors and Enzymes from Mycotoxin Pathways. Mycopathologia 2017. [PMID: 28647921 DOI: 10.1007/s11046-017-0161-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Aspergillus terreus is an emerging opportunistic fungal pathogen that causes invasive aspergillosis in immunocompromised individuals. The main risk group of individuals for this organism is leukopenic patients, individuals having cancers, bone marrow transplant persons and those who have immunological disorders. The lack of early diagnostic marker for A. terreus and intrinsic resistance to Amphotericin B, further limits the successful therapy of A. terreus-associated infections. The germination of inhaled conidia is the key step to establish successful invasion in host tissues or organs. Thus, profiling of expressed proteins during germination of conidia not only shed light on proteins that are involved in invasion or virulence but may also provide early diagnostic markers. We used nanoLC-Q-TOF to study the proteome of germinating conidia (at 16 h time points) of A. terreus. We observed expression of 373 proteins in germinating conidia of A. terreus. A total of 74 proteins were uncharacterized in the database. The expressed proteins were associated with various processes like cell wall modulation, virulence factors and secondary metabolite biosynthesis. The most abundant proteins were associated with protein biosynthesis, carbohydrate metabolism and unknown functions. Among virulent proteins, mitogen-activated protein kinase (hog1) and mitogen-activated protein kinase (mpkC) are key virulent proteins observed in our study. We observed 7 enzymes from terretonin and 10 enzymes from geodin mycotoxin biosynthesis pathway. Interestingly, we observed expression of terrelysin protein, associated with blood cell lysis. Quantitative RT-PCR analysis showed 26-fold increase in transcripts encoding for dihydrogeodin oxidase and 885-fold for terrelysin gene in germinating conidia in comparison to conidia. Further, we propose that terrelysin protein and secondary metabolite such as geodin could be explored as diagnostic marker for A. terreus-associated infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raman Thakur
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Jaypee University of Information Technology, Waknaghat Solan, Himachal Pradesh, 173234, India
| | - Jata Shankar
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Jaypee University of Information Technology, Waknaghat Solan, Himachal Pradesh, 173234, India.
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M. S, Singh S, Tiwari R, Goel R, Nain L. Do cultural conditions induce differential protein expression: Profiling of extracellular proteome of Aspergillus terreus CM20. Microbiol Res 2016; 192:73-83. [DOI: 10.1016/j.micres.2016.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2015] [Revised: 06/07/2016] [Accepted: 06/17/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Nekiunaite L, Isaksen T, Vaaje-Kolstad G, Abou Hachem M. Fungal lytic polysaccharide monooxygenases bind starch and β-cyclodextrin similarly to amylolytic hydrolases. FEBS Lett 2016; 590:2737-47. [PMID: 27397613 DOI: 10.1002/1873-3468.12293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2016] [Revised: 06/30/2016] [Accepted: 07/02/2016] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Starch-binding modules of family 20 (CBM20) are present in 60% of lytic polysaccharide monooxygenases (LPMOs) catalyzing the oxidative breakdown of starch, which highlights functional importance in LPMO activity. The substrate-binding properties of starch-active LMPOs, however, are currently unexplored. Affinities and binding-thermodynamics of two recombinant fungal LPMOs toward starch and β-cyclodextrin were shown to be similar to fungal CBM20s. Amplex Red assays showed ascorbate and Cu-dependent activity, which was inhibited in the presence of β-cylodextrin and amylose. Phylogenetically, the clustering of CBM20s from starch-targeting LPMOs and hydrolases was in accord with taxonomy and did not correlate to appended catalytic activity. Altogether, these results demonstrate that the CBM20-binding scaffold is retained in the evolution of hydrolytic and oxidative starch-degrading activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Nekiunaite
- Enzyme and Protein Chemistry, Department of Systems Biology, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Trine Isaksen
- Department of Chemistry, Biotechnology and Food Science, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Ås, Norway
| | - Gustav Vaaje-Kolstad
- Department of Chemistry, Biotechnology and Food Science, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Ås, Norway
| | - Maher Abou Hachem
- Enzyme and Protein Chemistry, Department of Systems Biology, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
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Louis B, Waikhom SD, Goyari S, Jose RC, Roy P, Talukdar NC. First proteome study of sporadic flowering in bamboo species (Bambusa vulgaris and Dendrocalamus manipureanus) reveal the boom is associated with stress and mobile genetic elements. Gene 2015; 574:255-64. [PMID: 26260016 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2015.08.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2015] [Revised: 06/24/2015] [Accepted: 08/06/2015] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Bamboo species are the fastest-growing plants having a long vegetative cycle. Abrupt switching from the vegetative phase to the reproductive phase via sporadic flowering boom, occasionally leads to death of bamboo clumps, and threatens the existence of many bamboo species. To apprehend the molecular mechanism driving sporadic flowering, proteome changes in the initial and advanced floral buds of two edible bamboo species (Bambusa vulgaris and Dendrocalamus manipureanus) was dissected by two-dimensional gel electrophoresis (2-DE). A total of 39 differentially expressed peptide spots were identified by matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight/time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF-TOF/MS). In both B. vulgaris and D. manipureanus, identified proteins were categorized as transposon-related, defence and stress-related, cell cycle related, metabolism related, signal transduction related, and some lacked known putative domains. Proteins such as SEPALLATA3, ubiquitin, histone 3, thaumatin-like protein, putative tethering factor, SF-assemblin, polyubiquitin, mitochondrial carrier-like protein and RPT2-like protein were significantly expressed. Differences in D. manipureanus and B. vulgaris suggested that bamboo species have diverse 'drivers' or 'passengers' genes that govern natural sporadic flowering boom. This first floral proteomics analysis of bamboos revealed that sporadic boom is a highly energetic process, associated with stress elements, mobile genetic elements and signal transduction cross-talk elements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bengyella Louis
- Institute of Bioresources and Sustainable Development (IBSD), Takyelpat, Imphal 795001, Manipur, India; The University of Health and Allied Sciences, School of Basic and Biomedical Science, PMB 31 Ho, Volta Region, Ghana.
| | - Sayanika Devi Waikhom
- Institute of Bioresources and Sustainable Development (IBSD), Takyelpat, Imphal 795001, Manipur, India; The University of Health and Allied Sciences, School of Basic and Biomedical Science, PMB 31 Ho, Volta Region, Ghana.
| | - Sailendra Goyari
- Institute of Bioresources and Sustainable Development (IBSD), Takyelpat, Imphal 795001, Manipur, India.
| | - Robinson C Jose
- Institute of Bioresources and Sustainable Development (IBSD), Takyelpat, Imphal 795001, Manipur, India.
| | - Pranab Roy
- Department of Biotechnology, Haldia Institute of Technology, Haldia 721657, West Bengal, India.
| | - Narayan Chandra Talukdar
- Institute of Bioresources and Sustainable Development (IBSD), Takyelpat, Imphal 795001, Manipur, India; Institute of Advanced Study in Science and Technology (IASST), Boragaon, Assam, India.
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Louis B, Waikhom SD, Jose RC, Goyari S, Talukdar NC, Roy P. Cochliobolus lunatus colonizes potato by adopting different invasion strategies on cultivars: New insights on temperature dependent-virulence. Microb Pathog 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2015.07.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Gressler M, Meyer F, Heine D, Hortschansky P, Hertweck C, Brock M. Phytotoxin production in Aspergillus terreus is regulated by independent environmental signals. eLife 2015; 4. [PMID: 26173180 PMCID: PMC4528345 DOI: 10.7554/elife.07861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2015] [Accepted: 07/13/2015] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Secondary metabolites have a great potential as pharmaceuticals, but there are only a few examples where regulation of gene cluster expression has been correlated with ecological and physiological relevance for the producer. Here, signals, mediators, and biological effects of terrein production were studied in the fungus Aspergillus terreus to elucidate the contribution of terrein to ecological competition. Terrein causes fruit surface lesions and inhibits plant seed germination. Additionally, terrein is moderately antifungal and reduces ferric iron, thereby supporting growth of A. terreus under iron starvation. In accordance, the lack of nitrogen or iron or elevated methionine levels induced terrein production and was dependent on either the nitrogen response regulators AreA and AtfA or the iron response regulator HapX. Independent signal transduction allows complex sensing of the environment and, combined with its broad spectrum of biological activities, terrein provides a prominent example of adapted secondary metabolite production in response to environmental competition. DOI:http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.07861.001 Organisms produce a wide variety of small molecules called metabolites through the break down of food and other chemical reactions. Some of these molecules—known as primary metabolites—are required for growth, reproduction and other vital processes. Other molecules called secondary metabolites are not strictly required by the organism, but generally have other roles that may improve the individual’s ability to survive and reproduce. Fungi and other microbes produce a large variety of secondary metabolites, many of which are used as medicines to treat diseases in humans and other animals. For example, a molecule called lovastatin—which is produced by a fungus known as Aspergillus terreus—can reduce a human patient's risk of heart disease. However, it is not known what role many secondary metabolites play in the microbe that produced them. A. terreus lives in the soil, but it can also infect plants and animals. In addition to lovastatin, it also makes another secondary metabolite called terrein. A recent study identified the genes responsible for making terrein, and discovered that this molecule is harmful to plant cells and may help the fungus to colonize and thrive in the area immediately around plant roots, which is known as the rhizosphere. Here, Gressler et al. studied how terrein may help the fungus to cope with competitors in this environment. The experiments show that terrein increases the availability of iron and inhibits the growth of competing microbes. A shortage of iron or nitrogen-containing nutrients can stimulate the fungus to produce terrein, and elevated levels of a molecule called methionine have the same effect. These conditions are commonly found in the rhizosphere and further experiments identified several proteins in the fungus that are required for sensing them. Gressler et al.'s findings suggest that terrein helps to ensure that the fungus has sufficient nitrogen and iron to thrive in the rhizosphere. Also, this study confirms that the production of secondary metabolites in microbes can happen in response to elaborate cues from the environment, which may explain why only a limited number of secondary metabolites are produced by microbes when they are grown in the laboratory. Future studies will analyze other ways to activate the production of secondary metabolites outside of the microbe's normal environment, which may lead to the discovery of new important drugs. DOI:http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.07861.002
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Affiliation(s)
- Markus Gressler
- Microbial Biochemistry and Physiology, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology, Hans Knoell Institute, Jena, Germany
| | - Florian Meyer
- Biomolecular Chemistry, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology, Hans Knoell Institute, Jena, Germany
| | - Daniel Heine
- Biomolecular Chemistry, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology, Hans Knoell Institute, Jena, Germany
| | - Peter Hortschansky
- Molecular and Applied Microbiology, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology, Hans Knoell Institute, Jena, Germany
| | - Christian Hertweck
- Biomolecular Chemistry, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology, Hans Knoell Institute, Jena, Germany
| | - Matthias Brock
- Institute for Microbiology, Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany.,Fungal Genetics and Biology Group, School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
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Narula K, Pandey A, Gayali S, Chakraborty N, Chakraborty S. Birth of plant proteomics in India: a new horizon. J Proteomics 2015; 127:34-43. [PMID: 25920368 DOI: 10.1016/j.jprot.2015.04.020] [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: 01/30/2015] [Revised: 04/20/2015] [Accepted: 04/21/2015] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED In the post-genomic era, proteomics is acknowledged as the next frontier for biological research. Although India has a long and distinguished tradition in protein research, the initiation of proteomics studies was a new horizon. Protein research witnessed enormous progress in protein separation, high-resolution refinements, biochemical identification of the proteins, protein-protein interaction, and structure-function analysis. Plant proteomics research, in India, began its journey on investigation of the proteome profiling, complexity analysis, protein trafficking, and biochemical modeling. The research article by Bhushan et al. in 2006 marked the birth of the plant proteomics research in India. Since then plant proteomics studies expanded progressively and are now being carried out in various institutions spread across the country. The compilation presented here seeks to trace the history of development in the area during the past decade based on publications till date. In this review, we emphasize on outcomes of the field providing prospects on proteomic pathway analyses. Finally, we discuss the connotation of strategies and the potential that would provide the framework of plant proteome research. BIOLOGICAL SIGNIFICANCE The past decades have seen rapidly growing number of sequenced plant genomes and associated genomic resources. To keep pace with this increasing body of data, India is in the provisional phase of proteomics research to develop a comparative hub for plant proteomes and protein families, but it requires a strong impetus from intellectuals, entrepreneurs, and government agencies. Here, we aim to provide an overview of past, present and future of Indian plant proteomics, which would serve as an evaluation platform for those seeking to incorporate proteomics into their research programs. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Proteomics in India.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kanika Narula
- National Institute of Plant Genome Research, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi 110067, India
| | - Aarti Pandey
- National Institute of Plant Genome Research, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi 110067, India
| | - Saurabh Gayali
- National Institute of Plant Genome Research, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi 110067, India
| | - Niranjan Chakraborty
- National Institute of Plant Genome Research, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi 110067, India.
| | - Subhra Chakraborty
- National Institute of Plant Genome Research, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi 110067, India.
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