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Herman RA, Ayepa E, Zhang WX, Li ZN, Zhu X, Ackah M, Yuan SS, You S, Wang J. Molecular modification and biotechnological applications of microbial aspartic proteases. Crit Rev Biotechnol 2024; 44:388-413. [PMID: 36842994 DOI: 10.1080/07388551.2023.2171850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2022] [Revised: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 01/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/28/2023]
Abstract
The growing preference for incorporating microbial aspartic proteases in industries is due to their high catalytic function and high degree of substrate selectivity. These properties, however, are attributable to molecular alterations in their structure and a variety of other characteristics. Molecular tools, functional genomics, and genome editing technologies coupled with other biotechnological approaches have aided in improving the potential of industrially important microbial proteases by addressing some of their major limitations, such as: low catalytic efficiency, low conversion rates, low thermostability, and less enzyme yield. However, the native folding within their full domain is dependent on a surrounding structure which challenges their functionality in substrate conversion, mainly due to their mutual interactions in the context of complex systems. Hence, manipulating their structure and controlling their expression systems could potentially produce enzymes with high selectivity and catalytic functions. The proteins produced by microbial aspartic proteases are industrially capable and far-reaching in regulating certain harmful distinctive industrial processes and the benefits of being eco-friendly. This review provides: an update on current trends and gaps in microbial protease biotechnology, exploring the relevant recombinant strategies and molecular technologies widely used in expression platforms for engineering microbial aspartic proteases, as well as their potential industrial and biotechnological applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard Ansah Herman
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Sericultural Biology and Biotechnology, School of Biotechnology, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang, P.R. China
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang, P. R. China
| | - Ellen Ayepa
- Oil Palm Research Institute, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, Kusi, Ghana
| | - Wen-Xin Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Sericultural Biology and Biotechnology, School of Biotechnology, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang, P.R. China
| | - Zong-Nan Li
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Sericultural Biology and Biotechnology, School of Biotechnology, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang, P.R. China
| | - Xuan Zhu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Sericultural Biology and Biotechnology, School of Biotechnology, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang, P.R. China
| | - Michael Ackah
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Sericultural Biology and Biotechnology, School of Biotechnology, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang, P.R. China
| | - Shuang-Shuang Yuan
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Sericultural Biology and Biotechnology, School of Biotechnology, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang, P.R. China
| | - Shuai You
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Sericultural Biology and Biotechnology, School of Biotechnology, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of Silkworm and Mulberry Genetic Improvement, Ministry of Agricultural and Rural Affairs, Sericultural Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Zhenjiang, P.R. China
| | - Jun Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Sericultural Biology and Biotechnology, School of Biotechnology, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of Silkworm and Mulberry Genetic Improvement, Ministry of Agricultural and Rural Affairs, Sericultural Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Zhenjiang, P.R. China
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Bras G, Satala D, Juszczak M, Kulig K, Wronowska E, Bednarek A, Zawrotniak M, Rapala-Kozik M, Karkowska-Kuleta J. Secreted Aspartic Proteinases: Key Factors in Candida Infections and Host-Pathogen Interactions. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4775. [PMID: 38731993 PMCID: PMC11084781 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25094775] [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: 03/15/2024] [Revised: 04/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Extracellular proteases are key factors contributing to the virulence of pathogenic fungi from the genus Candida. Their proteolytic activities are crucial for extracting nutrients from the external environment, degrading host defenses, and destabilizing the internal balance of the human organism. Currently, the enzymes most frequently described in this context are secreted aspartic proteases (Saps). This review comprehensively explores the multifaceted roles of Saps, highlighting their importance in biofilm formation, tissue invasion through the degradation of extracellular matrix proteins and components of the coagulation cascade, modulation of host immune responses via impairment of neutrophil and monocyte/macrophage functions, and their contribution to antifungal resistance. Additionally, the diagnostic challenges associated with Candida infections and the potential of Saps as biomarkers were discussed. Furthermore, we examined the prospects of developing vaccines based on Saps and the use of protease inhibitors as adjunctive therapies for candidiasis. Given the complex biology of Saps and their central role in Candida pathogenicity, a multidisciplinary approach may pave the way for innovative diagnostic strategies and open new opportunities for innovative clinical interventions against candidiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grazyna Bras
- Department of Comparative Biochemistry and Bioanalytics, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 7, 30-387 Kraków, Poland (M.Z.); (J.K.-K.)
| | - Dorota Satala
- Department of Comparative Biochemistry and Bioanalytics, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 7, 30-387 Kraków, Poland (M.Z.); (J.K.-K.)
| | - Magdalena Juszczak
- Department of Comparative Biochemistry and Bioanalytics, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 7, 30-387 Kraków, Poland (M.Z.); (J.K.-K.)
- Doctoral School of Exact and Natural Sciences, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 7, 30-387 Kraków, Poland
| | - Kamila Kulig
- Department of Comparative Biochemistry and Bioanalytics, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 7, 30-387 Kraków, Poland (M.Z.); (J.K.-K.)
| | - Ewelina Wronowska
- Department of Comparative Biochemistry and Bioanalytics, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 7, 30-387 Kraków, Poland (M.Z.); (J.K.-K.)
| | - Aneta Bednarek
- Department of Comparative Biochemistry and Bioanalytics, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 7, 30-387 Kraków, Poland (M.Z.); (J.K.-K.)
- Doctoral School of Exact and Natural Sciences, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 7, 30-387 Kraków, Poland
| | - Marcin Zawrotniak
- Department of Comparative Biochemistry and Bioanalytics, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 7, 30-387 Kraków, Poland (M.Z.); (J.K.-K.)
| | - Maria Rapala-Kozik
- Department of Comparative Biochemistry and Bioanalytics, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 7, 30-387 Kraków, Poland (M.Z.); (J.K.-K.)
| | - Justyna Karkowska-Kuleta
- Department of Comparative Biochemistry and Bioanalytics, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 7, 30-387 Kraków, Poland (M.Z.); (J.K.-K.)
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Feng W, Yang J, Ma Y, Zhang L, Yin R, Qiao Z, Ji Y, Zhou Y. Relationships between Secreted Aspartyl Proteinase 2 and General Control Nonderepressible 4 gene in the Candida albicans resistant to itraconazole under planktonic and biofilm conditions. Braz J Microbiol 2023; 54:619-627. [PMID: 37087512 PMCID: PMC10235319 DOI: 10.1007/s42770-023-00961-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 04/24/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to explore the roles of SAP2 and GCN4 in itraconazole (ITR) resistance of C. albicans under different conditions, and their correlations. A total of 20 clinical strains of C. albicans, including 10 ITR resistant strains and 10 sensitive strains, were used. Then, SAP2 sequencing and GCN4 sequencing were performed, and the biofilm formation ability of different C. albicans strains was determined. Finally, real-time quantitative PCR was used to measure the expression of SAP2 and GCN4 in C. albicans under planktonic and biofilm conditions, as well as their correlation was also analyzed. No missense mutations and three synonymous mutation sites, including T276A, G543A, and A675C, were found in SAP2 sequencing. GCN4 sequencing showed one missense mutation site (A106T (T36S)) and six synonymous mutation sites (A147C, C426T, T513C, T576A, G624A and C732T). The biofilm formation ability of drug-resistant C. albicans strains was significantly higher than that of sensitive strains (P < 0.05). Additionally, SAP2 and GCN4 were up-regulated in the ITR-resistant strains, and were both significantly higher in C. albicans under biofilm condition. The mRNA expression levels of SAP2 and GCN4 had significantly positive correlation. The higher expression levels of SAP2 and GCN4 were observed in the ITR-resistant strains of C. albicans under planktonic and biofilm conditions, as well as there was a positive correlation between SAP2 and GCN4 mRNA expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenli Feng
- The Department of Dermatovenereology, The Second Hospital, Shanxi Medical University, NO.382, Wuyi Road, Taiyuan, 030001, Shanxi, China.
| | - Jing Yang
- The Department of Dermatovenereology, The Second Hospital, Shanxi Medical University, NO.382, Wuyi Road, Taiyuan, 030001, Shanxi, China.
| | - Yan Ma
- The Department of Dermatovenereology, The Second Hospital, Shanxi Medical University, NO.382, Wuyi Road, Taiyuan, 030001, Shanxi, China
| | - Luwen Zhang
- The Department of Dermatovenereology, The Second Hospital, Shanxi Medical University, NO.382, Wuyi Road, Taiyuan, 030001, Shanxi, China
| | - Rong Yin
- The Department of Dermatovenereology, The Second Hospital, Shanxi Medical University, NO.382, Wuyi Road, Taiyuan, 030001, Shanxi, China
| | - Zusha Qiao
- The Department of Dermatovenereology, The Second Hospital, Shanxi Medical University, NO.382, Wuyi Road, Taiyuan, 030001, Shanxi, China
| | - Ying Ji
- The Department of Bluttranfusion, The Second Hospital, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001, Shanxi, China
| | - Yong'an Zhou
- The Department of Bluttranfusion, The Second Hospital, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001, Shanxi, China
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Silva RDS, Segura WD, Oliveira RS, Xander P, Batista WL. Characterization of Aspartic Proteases from Paracoccidioides brasiliensis and Their Role in Fungal Thermo-Dimorphism. J Fungi (Basel) 2023; 9:jof9030375. [PMID: 36983543 PMCID: PMC10053120 DOI: 10.3390/jof9030375] [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: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Paracoccidioidomycosis (PCM) is the most prevalent systemic mycosis in Latin America and is caused by fungi from the Paracoccidioides genus. The infection begins after inhalation of the fungal propagules and their thermo-dimorphic shift to yeast form. Proteases play an important role in the host invasion process and immune modulation in many pathogenic microorganisms. Aspartyl proteases are virulence factors in many human fungal pathogens that play an important role in the host invasion process morphogenesis, cellular function, immunity, and nutrition. In the present study, we characterized the modulation of acid proteases from Paracoccidioides brasiliensis. We detected four aspartyl proteases in P. brasiliensis with high homology to aspartic protease from Saccharomyces cerevisiae Pep4. Furthermore, we demonstrated that Pepstatin A can inhibit dimorphic switching (mycelium→yeast) in P. brasiliensis. In addition, these genes were modulated during thermo-dimorphism (M→Y transition) in the presence or absence of carbon and nitrogen sources and during growth at pH 4 during 24 and 48 h. We also observed that P. brasiliensis increase the secretion of aspartic proteases when cultivated at pH 4, and these acid proteases cleave BSA, collagen, and hemoglobin. These data suggest that aspartyl proteases are modulated by environmental conditions and during fungal thermo-dimorphism. Thus, this work brings new possibilities for studying the role of aspartyl proteases in the host-pathogen relationship and P. brasiliensis biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael de Souza Silva
- Departamento Microbiologia, Imunologia e Parasitologia, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo 04023-062, SP, Brazil
| | - Wilson Dias Segura
- Departamento Microbiologia, Imunologia e Parasitologia, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo 04023-062, SP, Brazil
| | - Reinaldo Souza Oliveira
- Departamento de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Instituto de Ciências Ambientais, Químicas e Farmacêuticas, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Diadema 09913-030, SP, Brazil
| | - Patricia Xander
- Departamento de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Instituto de Ciências Ambientais, Químicas e Farmacêuticas, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Diadema 09913-030, SP, Brazil
| | - Wagner Luiz Batista
- Departamento Microbiologia, Imunologia e Parasitologia, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo 04023-062, SP, Brazil
- Departamento de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Instituto de Ciências Ambientais, Químicas e Farmacêuticas, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Diadema 09913-030, SP, Brazil
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Valand N, Brunt E, Gazioglu O, Yesilkaya H, Mitchell D, Horley N, Arroo R, Kishore U, Wallis R, Girija UV. Inactivation of the Complement Lectin Pathway by Candida tropicalis Secreted Aspartyl Protease-1. Immunobiology 2022; 227:152263. [DOI: 10.1016/j.imbio.2022.152263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2022] [Revised: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 08/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Study of protease activity from Aspergillus awamori INCQS2B.361U2/1 extracellular fraction and modification of culture medium composition to isolate a novel aspartic protease. Braz J Microbiol 2022; 53:1599-1611. [PMID: 35411453 PMCID: PMC9433587 DOI: 10.1007/s42770-022-00750-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Aspergillus awamori was cultivated in a modified Breccia medium, and the extracellular fraction was obtained, which presented 260 ± 15 µg of protein/mg and specific protease activity of 3.87 ± 0.52 mM.min-1.mg of protein-1 using Nα-p-tosyl-L-arginine methyl ester hydrochloride (L-TAME) as substrate. This fraction showed major proteins about 104 and 44 kDa and maximal protease activity at pH 5.5, 6.5, and 9.0, suggesting that A. awamori secretes acidic, neutral, and alkaline proteases with expressive thermal stability, however, aspartic protease was the most important activity. When yeast extract was supplemented to a modified Breccia medium, A. awamori protein secretion and protease activity were maximal and the affinity chromatography on pepstatin-agarose was employed to isolate the aspartic protease activity, which was called ASPA, with approximately 75 kDa. ASPA maximal activity was obtained at pH 4.5 and 6.5, and 50 °C. Pepstatin inhibited about 80% of ASPA activity, with IC50 and Ki values of 0.154 and 0.072 μM, respectively. ASPA cleaved protein and peptides substrates with the highest activity against gelatin (95 U/mg) and good peptidase activity with KM 0.0589 mM and Vmax 1.909 mM.min-1.mg protein-1, using L-TAME as substrate. A. awamori extracellular fraction is a source of proteases with important activity, and the supplementation of modified Breccia medium increased the aspartic protease production. This enzyme presented different biochemical characteristics from the previously reported A. awamori aspartic proteases. Therefore, ASPA is an excellent candidate for biotechnological application due to its important activity and thermostability.
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Kalimuthu S, Alshanta OA, Krishnamoorthy AL, Pudipeddi A, Solomon AP, McLean W, Leung YY, Ramage G, Neelakantan P. Small molecule based anti-virulence approaches against Candida albicans infections. Crit Rev Microbiol 2022; 48:743-769. [PMID: 35232325 DOI: 10.1080/1040841x.2021.2025337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Fungi are considered "silent killers" due to the difficulty of, and delays in diagnosis of infections and lack of effective antifungals. This challenge is compounded by the fact that being eukaryotes, fungi share several similarities with human cellular targets, creating obstacles to drug discovery. Candida albicans, a ubiquitous microbe in the human body is well-known for its role as an opportunistic pathogen in immunosuppressed people. Significantly, C. albicans is resistant to all the three classes of antifungals that are currently clinically available. Over the past few years, a paradigm shift has been recommended in the management of C. albicans infections, wherein anti-virulence strategies are considered an alternative to the discovery of new antimycotics. Small molecules, with a molecular weight <900 Daltons, can easily permeate the cell membrane and modulate the signal transduction pathways to elicit desired virulence inhibitory actions against pathogens. This review dissects in-depth, the discoveries that have been made with small-molecule anti-virulence approaches to tackle C. albicans infections.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Om Alkhir Alshanta
- Glasgow Endodontology Group, Glasgow Dental School, School of Medicine, Dentistry and Nursing, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, Glasgow, UK
| | - Akshaya Lakshmi Krishnamoorthy
- Faculty of Dentistry, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.,Quorum Sensing Laboratory, Centre for Research in Infectious Diseases (CRID), School of Chemical and Biotechnology, SASTRA Deemed to be University, Thanjavur, India
| | - Akhila Pudipeddi
- Faculty of Dentistry, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Adline Princy Solomon
- Quorum Sensing Laboratory, Centre for Research in Infectious Diseases (CRID), School of Chemical and Biotechnology, SASTRA Deemed to be University, Thanjavur, India
| | - William McLean
- Glasgow Endodontology Group, Glasgow Dental School, School of Medicine, Dentistry and Nursing, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, Glasgow, UK
| | - Yiu Yan Leung
- Faculty of Dentistry, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Gordon Ramage
- Glasgow Endodontology Group, Glasgow Dental School, School of Medicine, Dentistry and Nursing, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, Glasgow, UK
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de Souza PTDR, Gonçalves-Wilhelmsen NCV, Rosa RT, Correia CDFKN, Pereira TM, Kitahara ABP, Ignácio SA, Azevedo-Alanis LR, Rosa EAR. Oral Colonization and Virulence Factors of Candida spp. in Babies With Cleft Palate. Cleft Palate Craniofac J 2021; 59:1056-1063. [PMID: 34259068 DOI: 10.1177/10556656211030437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine oral colonization and virulence factors of Candida spp. in patients aged from 0 to 18 months with cleft palate (CP). MATERIALS AND METHODS Sixty babies were allocated into 3 groups: CP, CP with orthodontic plate (CPwP), and control group (Ctrl) without CP. Information on feeding habits, hygiene, and history of candidosis was collected. The presence of Candida spp. was investigated in samples of saliva. Fungal hydrophobicity, protease, esterase, phospholipase, and hemolysin were evaluated in a semiquantitative manner. RESULTS Positive oral isolations of Candida spp. were detected in CP (89.5%), CPwP (100%), and Ctrl (44%) groups. Candidosis was more reported in the cleft groups than in the Ctrl group (P ≤ .023). There was a higher prevalence of Candida albicans, followed by Candida krusei, Candida tropicalis, and Candida parapsilosis in all groups. There was no uniformity of expression of virulence factors, either among different species or among different groups. CONCLUSION Candida spp. colonization occurred in all groups, being superior in CPwP group. Candidosis episodes were more reported in patients from CPwP than in other groups, although candidosis was also registered in other groups. Candida albicans was the predominant species and virulence factors did not exhibit any pattern for species or groups of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Rosimeire Takaki Rosa
- Pontifical Catholic University from Paraná, School of Life Sciences, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
| | | | - Thais Munhoz Pereira
- Pontifical Catholic University from Paraná, School of Life Sciences, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
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Purushothaman K, Bhat SK, Siddappa S, Singh SA, Subbaiah R, Marathe GK, Rao G Appu Rao A. Aspartic protease-pepstatin A interactions: Structural insights on the thermal inactivation mechanism. Biochimie 2021; 189:26-39. [PMID: 34116131 DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2021.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2021] [Revised: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Aspartic proteases are the targets for structure-based drug design for their role in physiological processes and pharmaceutical applications. Structural insights into the thermal inactivation mechanism of an aspartic protease in presence and absence of bound pepstatin A have been obtained by kinetics of thermal inactivation, CD, fluorescence spectroscopy and molecular dynamic simulations. The irreversible thermal inactivation of the aspartic protease comprised of loss of tertiary and secondary structures succeeded by the loss of activity, autolysis and aggregation The enthalpy and entropy of thermal inactivation of the enzyme in presence of pepstatin A increased from 81.2 to 148.5 kcal mol-1, and from 179 to 359 kcal mol-1 K-1 respectively. Pepstatin A shifted the mid-point of thermal inactivation of the protease from 58 °C to 77 °C. The association constant (K) for pepstatin A with aspartic protease was 2.5 ± 0.3 × 10 5 M-1 and ΔGo value was -8.3 kcal mol-1. Molecular dynamic simulation studies were able to delineate the role of pepstatin A in stabilizing backbone conformation and side chain interactions. In the Cα-backbone, the short helical segments and the conserved glycines were part of the most unstable segments of the protein. Understanding the mechanism of thermal inactivation has the potential to develop re-engineered thermostable proteases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kavya Purushothaman
- Kaypeeyes Biotech Private Limited, R&D Center, Hebbal Industrial Area, Mysuru, 570016, Karnataka, India; Department of Studies in Biochemistry, University of Mysore, Manasagangothri, Mysuru, 570006, Karnataka, India
| | - Sagar Krishna Bhat
- Kaypeeyes Biotech Private Limited, R&D Center, Hebbal Industrial Area, Mysuru, 570016, Karnataka, India
| | - Shiva Siddappa
- Department of Studies in Biochemistry, University of Mysore, Manasagangothri, Mysuru, 570006, Karnataka, India
| | - Sridevi Annapurna Singh
- Department of Protein Chemistry and Technology, CSIR-CFTRI, Mysuru, 570020, Karnataka, India
| | - Roopashree Subbaiah
- Department of Biochemistry, Yuvaraja College, University of Mysore, 570020, India
| | - Gopal Kedihithlu Marathe
- Department of Studies in Biochemistry, University of Mysore, Manasagangothri, Mysuru, 570006, Karnataka, India; Department of Studies in Molecular Biology, University of Mysore, Manasagangothri, Mysuru, 570006, Karnataka, India
| | - Appu Rao G Appu Rao
- Kaypeeyes Biotech Private Limited, R&D Center, Hebbal Industrial Area, Mysuru, 570016, Karnataka, India.
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Richardson JP, Mogavero S, Moyes DL, Blagojevic M, Krüger T, Verma AH, Coleman BM, De La Cruz Diaz J, Schulz D, Ponde NO, Carrano G, Kniemeyer O, Wilson D, Bader O, Enoiu SI, Ho J, Kichik N, Gaffen SL, Hube B, Naglik JR. Processing of Candida albicans Ece1p Is Critical for Candidalysin Maturation and Fungal Virulence. mBio 2018; 9:e02178-17. [PMID: 29362237 PMCID: PMC5784256 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.02178-17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2017] [Accepted: 12/11/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Candida albicans is an opportunistic fungal pathogen responsible for superficial and life-threatening infections in humans. During mucosal infection, C. albicans undergoes a morphological transition from yeast to invasive filamentous hyphae that secrete candidalysin, a 31-amino-acid peptide toxin required for virulence. Candidalysin damages epithelial cell plasma membranes and stimulates the activating protein 1 (AP-1) transcription factor c-Fos (via p38-mitogen-activated protein kinase [MAPK]), and the MAPK phosphatase MKP1 (via extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1 and 2 [ERK1/2]-MAPK), which trigger and regulate proinflammatory cytokine responses, respectively. The candidalysin toxin resides as a discrete cryptic sequence within a larger 271-amino-acid parental preproprotein, Ece1p. Here, we demonstrate that kexin-like proteinases, but not secreted aspartyl proteinases, initiate a two-step posttranslational processing of Ece1p to produce candidalysin. Kex2p-mediated proteolysis of Ece1p after Arg61 and Arg93, but not after other processing sites within Ece1p, is required to generate immature candidalysin from Ece1p, followed by Kex1p-mediated removal of a carboxyl arginine residue to generate mature candidalysin. C. albicans strains harboring mutations of Arg61 and/or Arg93 did not secrete candidalysin, were unable to induce epithelial damage and inflammatory responses in vitro, and showed attenuated virulence in vivo in a murine model of oropharyngeal candidiasis. These observations identify enzymatic processing of C. albicans Ece1p by kexin-like proteinases as crucial steps required for candidalysin production and fungal pathogenicity.IMPORTANCECandida albicans is an opportunistic fungal pathogen that causes mucosal infection in millions of individuals worldwide. Successful infection requires the secretion of candidalysin, the first cytolytic peptide toxin identified in any human fungal pathogen. Candidalysin is derived from its parent protein Ece1p. Here, we identify two key amino acids within Ece1p vital for processing and production of candidalysin. Mutations of these residues render C. albicans incapable of causing epithelial damage and markedly reduce mucosal infection in vivo Importantly, candidalysin production requires two individual enzymatic events. The first involves processing of Ece1p by Kex2p, yielding immature candidalysin, which is then further processed by Kex1p to produce the mature toxin. These observations identify important steps for C. albicans pathogenicity at mucosal surfaces.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan P Richardson
- Mucosal and Salivary Biology Division, Dental Institute, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Selene Mogavero
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology, Hans Knoell Institute (HKI), Jena, Germany
| | - David L Moyes
- Centre for Host-Microbiome Interactions, Mucosal and Salivary Biology Division, Dental Institute, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Mariana Blagojevic
- Mucosal and Salivary Biology Division, Dental Institute, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Thomas Krüger
- Department of Molecular and Applied Microbiology, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology, Hans Knoell Institute (HKI), Jena, Germany
| | - Akash H Verma
- Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Bianca M Coleman
- Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Jacinto De La Cruz Diaz
- Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Daniela Schulz
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology, Hans Knoell Institute (HKI), Jena, Germany
| | - Nicole O Ponde
- Mucosal and Salivary Biology Division, Dental Institute, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Giulia Carrano
- Mucosal and Salivary Biology Division, Dental Institute, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Olaf Kniemeyer
- Department of Molecular and Applied Microbiology, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology, Hans Knoell Institute (HKI), Jena, Germany
| | - Duncan Wilson
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology at the University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen Fungal Group, Institute of Medical Sciences, Foresterhill, Aberdeen, United Kingdom
| | - Oliver Bader
- Institute for Medical Microbiology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Simona I Enoiu
- Mucosal and Salivary Biology Division, Dental Institute, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jemima Ho
- Mucosal and Salivary Biology Division, Dental Institute, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Nessim Kichik
- Mucosal and Salivary Biology Division, Dental Institute, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Sarah L Gaffen
- Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Bernhard Hube
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology, Hans Knoell Institute (HKI), Jena, Germany
- Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany
| | - Julian R Naglik
- Mucosal and Salivary Biology Division, Dental Institute, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
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Zawrotniak M, Bochenska O, Karkowska-Kuleta J, Seweryn-Ozog K, Aoki W, Ueda M, Kozik A, Rapala-Kozik M. Aspartic Proteases and Major Cell Wall Components in Candida albicans Trigger the Release of Neutrophil Extracellular Traps. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2017; 7:414. [PMID: 28983472 PMCID: PMC5613151 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2017.00414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2017] [Accepted: 09/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Neutrophils use different mechanisms to cope with pathogens that invade the host organism. The most intriguing of these responses is a release of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) composed of decondensed chromatin and granular proteins with antimicrobial activity. An important potential target of NETs is Candida albicans-an opportunistic fungal pathogen that employs morphological and phenotype switches and biofilm formation during contact with neutrophils, accompanied by changes in epitope exposition that mask the pathogen from host recognition. These processes differ depending on infection conditions and are thus influenced by the surrounding environment. In the current study, we compared the NET release by neutrophils upon contact with purified main candidal cell surface components. We show here for the first time that in addition to the main cell wall-building polysaccharides (mannans and β-glucans), secreted aspartic proteases (Saps) trigger NETs with variable intensities. The most efficient NET-releasing response is with Sap4 and Sap6, which are known to be secreted by fungal hyphae. This involves mixed, ROS-dependent and ROS-independent signaling pathways, mainly through interactions with the CD11b receptor. In comparison, upon contact with the cell wall-bound Sap9 and Sap10, neutrophils responded via a ROS-dependent mechanism using CD16 and CD18 receptors for protease recognition. In addition to the Saps tested, the actuation of selected mediating kinases (Src, Syk, PI3K, and ERK) was also investigated. β-Glucans were found to trigger a ROS-dependent process of NET production with engagement of Dectin-1 as well as CD11b and CD18 receptors. Mannans were observed to be recognized by TLRs, CD14, and Dectin-1 receptors and triggered NET release mainly via a ROS-independent pathway. Our results thus strongly suggest that neutrophils activate NET production in response to different candidal components that are presented locally at low concentrations at the initial stages of infection. However, NET release seemed to be blocked by increasing numbers of fungal cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcin Zawrotniak
- Department of Comparative Biochemistry and Bioanalytics, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian UniversityKrakow, Poland
| | - Oliwia Bochenska
- Department of Analytical Biochemistry, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian UniversityKrakow, Poland
| | - Justyna Karkowska-Kuleta
- Department of Comparative Biochemistry and Bioanalytics, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian UniversityKrakow, Poland
| | - Karolina Seweryn-Ozog
- Department of Comparative Biochemistry and Bioanalytics, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian UniversityKrakow, Poland
| | - Wataru Aoki
- Division of Applied Life Sciences, Graduate School of Agriculture, Kyoto UniversityKyoto, Japan
| | - Mitsuyoshi Ueda
- Division of Applied Life Sciences, Graduate School of Agriculture, Kyoto UniversityKyoto, Japan
| | - Andrzej Kozik
- Department of Analytical Biochemistry, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian UniversityKrakow, Poland
| | - Maria Rapala-Kozik
- Department of Comparative Biochemistry and Bioanalytics, Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian UniversityKrakow, Poland
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Bondaryk M, Staniszewska M, Zielińska P, Urbańczyk-Lipkowska Z. Natural Antimicrobial Peptides as Inspiration for Design of a New Generation Antifungal Compounds. J Fungi (Basel) 2017; 3:E46. [PMID: 29371563 PMCID: PMC5715947 DOI: 10.3390/jof3030046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2017] [Revised: 08/16/2017] [Accepted: 08/22/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Invasive fungal infections are associated with high mortality rates, despite appropriate antifungal therapy. Limited therapeutic options, resistance development and the high mortality of invasive fungal infections brought about more concern triggering the search for new compounds capable of interfering with fungal viability and virulence. In this context, peptides gained attention as promising candidates for the antimycotics development. Variety of structural and functional characteristics identified for various natural antifungal peptides makes them excellent starting points for design novel drug candidates. Current review provides a brief overview of natural and synthetic antifungal peptides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Małgorzata Bondaryk
- National Institute of Public Health-National Institute of Hygiene, Chocimska 24, 00-791 Warsaw, Poland.
| | - Monika Staniszewska
- National Institute of Public Health-National Institute of Hygiene, Chocimska 24, 00-791 Warsaw, Poland.
| | - Paulina Zielińska
- Institute of Organic Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences, 01-224 Warsaw, Poland.
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13
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Feng W, Yang J, Pan Y, Xi Z, Qiao Z, Ma Y. The correlation of virulence, pathogenicity, and itraconazole resistance with SAP activity in Candida albicans strains. Can J Microbiol 2015; 62:173-8. [PMID: 26751517 DOI: 10.1139/cjm-2015-0457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
The relationship between SAP2 activity and drug resistance in Candida albicans was investigated by using itraconazole-resistant and itraconazole-sensitive C. albicans isolates. The precipitation zones were measured to analyze SAP2 activity. Mice were classified into itraconazole-resistant and -sensitive C. albicans isolate groups, and a control group, with their survival and mortality rate being observed over 30 days. The relative expression levels of CDR1, CDR2, MDR1, and SAP2 were measured using RT-PCR. It was found that the secreted aspartyl proteinase activity of itraconazole-resistant C. albicans strains was significantly higher than that of itraconazole-sensitive C. albicans strains (P < 0.001). A significantly higher mortality rate was recorded for mice treated with itraconazole-resistant C. albicans than for mice treated with itraconazole-sensitive C. albicans. In regards to the CDR1, CDR2, and MDR1 genes, there was no significant difference between the 2 groups of mice. Positive correlations between SAP2 and MDR1 and between CDR1 and CDR2 were found. The high expression level of SAP2 may relate to the virulence, pathogenicity, and resistance of C. albicans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenli Feng
- Department of Dermatovenereology, The Second Hospital of ShanXi Medical University, No. 382 WuYi Road, Taiyuan City 030001, ShanXi Province, People's Republic of China.,Department of Dermatovenereology, The Second Hospital of ShanXi Medical University, No. 382 WuYi Road, Taiyuan City 030001, ShanXi Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Jing Yang
- Department of Dermatovenereology, The Second Hospital of ShanXi Medical University, No. 382 WuYi Road, Taiyuan City 030001, ShanXi Province, People's Republic of China.,Department of Dermatovenereology, The Second Hospital of ShanXi Medical University, No. 382 WuYi Road, Taiyuan City 030001, ShanXi Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Yanwei Pan
- Department of Dermatovenereology, The Second Hospital of ShanXi Medical University, No. 382 WuYi Road, Taiyuan City 030001, ShanXi Province, People's Republic of China.,Department of Dermatovenereology, The Second Hospital of ShanXi Medical University, No. 382 WuYi Road, Taiyuan City 030001, ShanXi Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhiqin Xi
- Department of Dermatovenereology, The Second Hospital of ShanXi Medical University, No. 382 WuYi Road, Taiyuan City 030001, ShanXi Province, People's Republic of China.,Department of Dermatovenereology, The Second Hospital of ShanXi Medical University, No. 382 WuYi Road, Taiyuan City 030001, ShanXi Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Zusha Qiao
- Department of Dermatovenereology, The Second Hospital of ShanXi Medical University, No. 382 WuYi Road, Taiyuan City 030001, ShanXi Province, People's Republic of China.,Department of Dermatovenereology, The Second Hospital of ShanXi Medical University, No. 382 WuYi Road, Taiyuan City 030001, ShanXi Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Yan Ma
- Department of Dermatovenereology, The Second Hospital of ShanXi Medical University, No. 382 WuYi Road, Taiyuan City 030001, ShanXi Province, People's Republic of China.,Department of Dermatovenereology, The Second Hospital of ShanXi Medical University, No. 382 WuYi Road, Taiyuan City 030001, ShanXi Province, People's Republic of China
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14
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Evolutionary Selection on Barrier Activity: Bar1 Is an Aspartyl Protease with Novel Substrate Specificity. mBio 2015; 6:e01604-15. [PMID: 26604258 PMCID: PMC4669382 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.01604-15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Peptide-based pheromones are used throughout the fungal kingdom for coordinating sexual responses between mating partners. Here, we address the properties and function of Bar1, an aspartyl protease that acts as a “barrier” and antagonist to pheromone signaling in multiple species. Candida albicans Bar1 was purified and shown to exhibit preferential cleavage of native α pheromone over pheromones from related fungal species. This result establishes that protease substrate specificity coevolved along with changes in its pheromone target. Pheromone cleavage by Bar1 occurred between residues Thr-5 and Asn-6 in the middle of the tridecapeptide sequence. Surprisingly, proteolytic activity was independent of the amino acid residues present at the scissile bond and instead relied on residues at the C terminus of α pheromone. Unlike most aspartyl proteases, Bar1 also exhibited a near-neutral pH optimum and was resistant to the class-wide inhibitor pepstatin A. In addition, genetic analysis was performed on C. albicansBAR1 and demonstrated that the protease not only regulates endogenous pheromone signaling but also can limit interspecies pheromone signaling. We discuss these findings and propose that the unusual substrate specificity of Bar1 is a consequence of its coevolution with the α pheromone receptor Ste2 for their shared peptide target. Pheromones are important for intraspecies communication across the tree of life. In the fungal kingdom, extracellular proteases play a key role in antagonizing pheromone signaling in multiple species. This study examines the properties and function of Candida albicans Bar1, an aspartyl protease that cleaves and thereby inactivates α pheromone. We demonstrate that Bar1 plays important roles in regulating both intra- and interspecies pheromone signaling. The fungal protease shows preferential activity on the endogenous pheromone, but, surprisingly, cleavage activity is dependent on amino acid residues distal to the scissile bond. We propose that the unusual substrate specificity of Bar1 is a direct result of coevolution with Ste2, the receptor for α pheromone, for recognition of the same peptide target. The novel specificity of Bar1 reveals the complex forces shaping the evolution of mating pathways in fungi and uncovers a protease with potentially important applications in the biotechnology industry.
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15
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Miranda TT, Vianna CR, Rodrigues L, Rosa CA, Corrêa A. Differential Proteinase Patterns among Candida albicans Strains Isolated from Root Canal and Lingual Dorsum: Possible Roles in Periapical Disease. J Endod 2015; 41:841-5. [PMID: 25771140 DOI: 10.1016/j.joen.2015.01.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2014] [Revised: 11/05/2014] [Accepted: 01/11/2015] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Proteinases play pivotal roles in Candida albicans infections. Although the yeast can colonize the pulpal environment, there is no information about the enzymatic profile of this organism. This in vitro study aimed to determine the proteolysis levels and to investigate differences in the expression of aspartyl proteinase genes (Sap 1, Sap 2, and Sap 4) among various root canal strains and clinical isolates from the lingual dorsum. METHODS The extracellular proteinase activity of 104 C. albicans samples isolated from the lingual dorsum and from necrotic root canals was measured with respect to bovine serum albumin degradation after 5 days of incubation at 37°C. We used reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction, a highly sensitive method, to detect messenger RNA transcripts of aspartyl proteinase genes (Sap 1, Sap 2, and Sap 4). The C. albicans strain SC 5314 was used as a positive control for both experiments because it is recognized as being highly proteolytic. All tests were performed in triplicate. RESULTS Regardless of the isolation site, all C. albicans strains produced an opaque precipitation halo around the colonies, indicating some proteinase activity. However, the production of proteinase on the plates was significantly greater (P < .05) by the endodontic samples. Sap 2 was the most commonly expressed gene in all samples. Among the root canal samples, the detection of Sap 1 transcripts was always associated with the expression of Sap 2 and Sap 4. Sap 4 gene expression was detected in all root canal samples. The simultaneous expression of the 3 investigated Sap genes (Sap 1, Sap 2, and Sap 4) was more common in strains isolated from the lingual dorsum (50%) than in those isolated from root canals (29.4%). CONCLUSIONS The increased proteolytic activity as well as the distinct pattern of Sap expression observed among the root canal samples may suggest a pathogenic role for C. albicans in endodontic infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatiana Teixeira Miranda
- Department of Microbiology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
| | - Cristina R Vianna
- Department of General Education, Federal Center of Technological Education, Varginha, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Leonardo Rodrigues
- Department of Microbiology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Carlos Augusto Rosa
- Department of Microbiology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Ary Corrêa
- Department of Microbiology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
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16
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Microbial aspartic proteases: current and potential applications in industry. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2014; 98:8853-68. [PMID: 25269600 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-014-6035-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2014] [Revised: 08/15/2014] [Accepted: 08/16/2014] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Aspartic proteases are a relatively small group of proteolytic enzymes that are active in acidic environments and are found across all forms of life. Certain microorganisms secrete such proteases as virulence agents and/or in order to break down proteins thereby liberating assimilable sources of nitrogen. Some of the earlier applications of these proteolytic enzymes are found in the manufacturing of cheese where they are used as milk-clotting agents. Over the last decade, they have received tremendous research interest because of their involvement in human diseases. Furthermore, there has also been a growing interest on these enzymes for their applications in several other industries. Recent research suggests in particular that they could be used in the wine industry to prevent the formation of protein haze while preserving the wines' organoleptic properties. In this mini-review, the properties and mechanisms of action of aspartic proteases are summarized. Thereafter, a brief overview of the industrial applications of this specific class of proteases is provided. The use of aspartic proteases as alternatives to clarifying agents in various beverage industries is mentioned, and the potential applications in the wine industry are thoroughly discussed.
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17
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18
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Shibasaki S, Aoki W, Ueda M. Biochemical Analysis and Application of Molecular Display Technology on Candida albicans for Diagnosing and Preventing Candidiasis. YAKUGAKU ZASSHI 2013; 133:1145-51. [DOI: 10.1248/yakushi.13-00212-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Seiji Shibasaki
- General Education Center, Hyogo University of Health Sciences
- Graduate School of Pharmacy, Hyogo University of Health Sciences
| | - Wataru Aoki
- Division of Applied Life Sciences, Graduate School of Agriculture, Kyoto University
| | - Mitsuyoshi Ueda
- Division of Applied Life Sciences, Graduate School of Agriculture, Kyoto University
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19
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Elucidation of potentially virulent factors of Candida albicans during serum adaptation by using quantitative time-course proteomics. J Proteomics 2013; 91:417-29. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jprot.2013.07.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2013] [Revised: 07/05/2013] [Accepted: 07/28/2013] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
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20
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Characterization of Antimicrobial Peptides toward the Development of Novel Antibiotics. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2013; 6:1055-81. [PMID: 24276381 PMCID: PMC3817730 DOI: 10.3390/ph6081055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 178] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2013] [Revised: 08/02/2013] [Accepted: 08/16/2013] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial agents have eradicated many infectious diseases and significantly improved our living environment. However, abuse of antimicrobial agents has accelerated the emergence of multidrug-resistant microorganisms, and there is an urgent need for novel antibiotics. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) have attracted attention as a novel class of antimicrobial agents because AMPs efficiently kill a wide range of species, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses, via a novel mechanism of action. In addition, they are effective against pathogens that are resistant to almost all conventional antibiotics. AMPs have promising properties; they directly disrupt the functions of cellular membranes and nucleic acids, and the rate of appearance of AMP-resistant strains is very low. However, as pharmaceuticals, AMPs exhibit unfavorable properties, such as instability, hemolytic activity, high cost of production, salt sensitivity, and a broad spectrum of activity. Therefore, it is vital to improve these properties to develop novel AMP treatments. Here, we have reviewed the basic biochemical properties of AMPs and the recent strategies used to modulate these properties of AMPs to enhance their safety.
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21
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Aoki W, Kitahara N, Fujita A, Shibasaki S, Morisaka H, Kuroda K, Ueda M. Detection of Candida albicans by using a designed fluorescence-quenched peptide. J Biosci Bioeng 2013; 116:573-5. [PMID: 23735329 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiosc.2013.05.003] [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: 02/08/2013] [Revised: 04/04/2013] [Accepted: 05/02/2013] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Convenient detection of Candida albicans in human bodies is essential to treat patients with candidiasis. In this study, we designed a fluorescence-quenched peptide that emits fluorescence after being cleaved by virulent proteases secreted by C. albicans. The designed peptide will enable easy detection of candidiasis in immunocompromised patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wataru Aoki
- The Japan Society for the Promotion of Science, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8502, Japan; Division of Applied Life Sciences, Graduate School of Agriculture, Kyoto University, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8502, Japan
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Aoki W, Ueda T, Tatsukami Y, Kitahara N, Morisaka H, Kuroda K, Ueda M. Time-course proteomic profile of Candida albicans during adaptation to a fetal serum. Pathog Dis 2012; 67:67-75. [PMID: 23620121 DOI: 10.1111/2049-632x.12003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2012] [Revised: 08/31/2012] [Accepted: 08/31/2012] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Candida albicans is a commensal organism; however, it causes fatal diseases if the host immunity is compromised. The mortality rate is very high due to the lack of effective treatment, leading to ceaseless demand for novel pharmaceuticals. In this study, time-course proteomics of C. albicans during adaptation to fetal bovine serum (FBS) was described. Time-course proteomics is a promising way to understand the exact process of going adaptation in dynamically changing environments. Candida albicans was cultivated in yeast nitrogen base (YNB) ± FBS media, and we identified 1418 proteins in the endpoint samples incubated for 0 or 60 min by a LC-MS/MS system with a long monolithic silica capillary column. Next, we carried out time-course proteomics of the YNB + FBS samples to identify top-priority proteins for adaption to FBS. We identified 16 proteins as nascent/newly synthesized proteins, and they were recognized as candidates of important virulent factors. Gene ontology analysis revealed that transport-related proteins were enriched in the 16 proteins, indicating that C. albicans probably put priority in time on the acquisition of essential elements. Time-course proteomics of C. albicans revealed the order of priority to adapt to FBS. Depicting time-course dynamics will lead to profound understandings of virulence of C. albicans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wataru Aoki
- Japan Society for the Promotion of Science, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, Japan
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23
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Puri S, Kumar R, Chadha S, Tati S, Conti HR, Hube B, Cullen PJ, Edgerton M. Secreted aspartic protease cleavage of Candida albicans Msb2 activates Cek1 MAPK signaling affecting biofilm formation and oropharyngeal candidiasis. PLoS One 2012; 7:e46020. [PMID: 23139737 PMCID: PMC3491010 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0046020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2012] [Accepted: 08/23/2012] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Perception of external stimuli and generation of an appropriate response are crucial for host colonization by pathogens. In pathogenic fungi, mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways regulate dimorphism, biofilm/mat formation, and virulence. Signaling mucins, characterized by a heavily glycosylated extracellular domain, a transmembrane domain, and a small cytoplasmic domain, are known to regulate various signaling pathways. In Candida albicans, the mucin Msb2 regulates the Cek1 MAPK pathway. We show here that Msb2 is localized to the yeast cell wall and is further enriched on hyphal surfaces. A msb2Δ/Δ strain formed normal hyphae but had biofilm defects. Cek1 (but not Mkc1) phosphorylation was absent in the msb2Δ/Δ mutant. The extracellular domain of Msb2 was shed in cells exposed to elevated temperature and carbon source limitation, concomitant with germination and Cek1 phosphorylation. Msb2 shedding occurred differentially in cells grown planktonically or on solid surfaces in the presence of cell wall and osmotic stressors. We further show that Msb2 shedding and Cek1 phosphorylation were inhibited by addition of Pepstatin A (PA), a selective inhibitor of aspartic proteases (Saps). Analysis of combinations of Sap protease mutants identified a sap8Δ/Δ mutant with reduced MAPK signaling along with defects in biofilm formation, thereby suggesting that Sap8 potentially serves as a major regulator of Msb2 processing. We further show that loss of either Msb2 (msb2Δ/Δ) or Sap8 (sap8Δ/Δ) resulted in higher C. albicans surface β-glucan exposure and msb2Δ/Δ showed attenuated virulence in a murine model of oral candidiasis. Thus, Sap-mediated proteolytic cleavage of Msb2 is required for activation of the Cek1 MAPK pathway in response to environmental cues including those that induce germination. Inhibition of Msb2 processing at the level of Saps may provide a means of attenuating MAPK signaling and reducing C. albicans virulence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sumant Puri
- Department of Oral Biology, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, USA
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Aoki W, Kitahara N, Miura N, Morisaka H, Kuroda K, Ueda M. Design of a novel antimicrobial peptide activated by virulent proteases. Chem Biol Drug Des 2012; 80:725-33. [PMID: 22863111 DOI: 10.1111/cbdd.12012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides are promising antibiotics as they possess strong antimicrobial activity and very broad spectra of activity. However, administration of an antibiotic with a very broad spectrum of activity disrupts normal microflora and increases the risks of other fatal infections. To solve the problem, we designed a novel antimicrobial peptide that is activated by virulent proteases of pathogenic organisms. We constructed a peptide composed of three domains, namely an antimicrobial peptide (lactoferricin) as the active center, a protective peptide (magainin intervening sequence) that suppresses antimicrobial activity, and a specific linker that joins these two components and is efficiently cleaved by virulent proteases. We utilized Candida albicans as a model organism that produces secreted aspartic proteases as a virulence attribute. We screened for a peptide sequence efficiently cleaved by secreted aspartic proteases isozymes and identified a GFIKAFPK peptide as the most favorable substrate. Subsequently, we chemically synthesized a peptide containing the GFIKAFPK sequence. The designed peptide possessed no antimicrobial activity until it was activated by secreted aspartic proteases isozymes. Furthermore, it demonstrated selective antimicrobial activity against C. albicans, but not against Saccharomyces cerevisiae. A designed peptide like the one described in this study may protect normal microflora, resulting in enhanced safety as a therapeutic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wataru Aoki
- Research Fellow of the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8502, Japan
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