1
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Coelho C. Batf3-cDC1 control Th1 and fungicidal responses during cryptococcal meningitis: is this enough to control meningitis? mBio 2024:e0037524. [PMID: 39254303 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.00375-24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Dendritic cells are crucial for bridging innate and adaptive immunity. Cryptococcosis, caused by Cryptococcus neoformans and Cryptococcus gattii, is responsible for >15% of AIDS-related deaths. A recent study by Xu et al. showed that Batf3-dependent conventional type 1 dendritic (cDC1) cells are key players in generating IFNγ+ CD4+ T cell and fungicidal lung and brain tissue-resident responses during murine cryptococcosis, contributing to fungal clearance in the lungs and brain of mice (J. Xu, R. Hissong, R. Bareis, A. Creech, et al., mBio 15:e02853-23, 2024, https://doi.org/10.1128/mbio.02853-23). However, despite their critical role, the depletion of Batf3-dependent cDC1 cells did not significantly alter overall mouse survival or disease progression, highlighting the complex immune regulation required to survive cryptococcal infection and the need for further research in medical mycology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Coelho
- MRC Centre for Medical Mycology at University of Exeter, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
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2
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Li X, Paccoud O, Chan KH, Yuen KY, Manchon R, Lanternier F, Slavin MA, van de Veerdonk FL, Bicanic T, Lortholary O. Cryptococcosis Associated With Biologic Therapy: A Narrative Review. Open Forum Infect Dis 2024; 11:ofae316. [PMID: 38947739 PMCID: PMC11212009 DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofae316] [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: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Cryptococcus is an opportunistic fungal pathogen that can cause disseminated infection with predominant central nervous system involvement in patients with compromised immunity. Biologics are increasingly used in the treatment of neoplasms and autoimmune/inflammatory conditions and the prevention of transplant rejection, which may affect human defense mechanisms against cryptococcosis. In this review, we comprehensively investigate the association between cryptococcosis and various biologics, highlighting their risks of infection, clinical manifestations, and clinical outcomes. Clinicians should remain vigilant for the risk of cryptococcosis in patients receiving biologics that affect the Th1/macrophage activation pathways, such as tumor necrosis factor α antagonists, Bruton tyrosine kinase inhibitors, fingolimod, JAK/STAT inhibitors (Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription), and monoclonal antibody against CD52. Other risk factors-such as age, underlying condition, and concurrent immunosuppressants, especially corticosteroids-should also be taken into account during risk stratification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Li
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Université Paris Cité, Necker-Enfants Malades University Hospital, Assistance Publique–Hôpitaux de Paris, IHU Imagine, Paris, France
- Department of Microbiology, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Olivier Paccoud
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Université Paris Cité, Necker-Enfants Malades University Hospital, Assistance Publique–Hôpitaux de Paris, IHU Imagine, Paris, France
| | - Koon-Ho Chan
- Department of Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Kwok-Yung Yuen
- Department of Microbiology, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Romain Manchon
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Université Paris Cité, Necker-Enfants Malades University Hospital, Assistance Publique–Hôpitaux de Paris, IHU Imagine, Paris, France
| | - Fanny Lanternier
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Université Paris Cité, Necker-Enfants Malades University Hospital, Assistance Publique–Hôpitaux de Paris, IHU Imagine, Paris, France
- Institut Pasteur, National Reference Center for Invasive Mycoses and Antifungals, Mycology Translational Research Group, Mycology Department, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Monica A Slavin
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Australia
- Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Service, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Frank L van de Veerdonk
- Department of Internal Medicine, Radboud Center for Infectious Diseases, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Tihana Bicanic
- Institute of Infection and Immunity, St George's University of London, London, UK
| | - Olivier Lortholary
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Université Paris Cité, Necker-Enfants Malades University Hospital, Assistance Publique–Hôpitaux de Paris, IHU Imagine, Paris, France
- Institut Pasteur, National Reference Center for Invasive Mycoses and Antifungals, Mycology Translational Research Group, Mycology Department, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
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3
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G. Mozo E, Ross O, Yuecel R, Dambuza IM, Mukaremera L. Human plasma-like medium (HPLM) induces Cryptococcus neoformans in vivo cell morphologies. mSphere 2024; 9:e0028124. [PMID: 38771036 PMCID: PMC11332328 DOI: 10.1128/msphere.00281-24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
The fungal pathogen Cryptococcus neoformans (C. neoformans) forms yeast cells of different sizes and morphological characteristics during infection. These features are usually not seen in standard laboratory in vitro conditions. Here, we describe in vivo cell morphologies when C. neoformans is grown in human plasma-like medium at 37°C, 5% CO2. We observed mixed-size populations of cells less than 1 µm up to 16.8 µm in cell diameter, increased capsule size, high chitin, and DNA content in larger cells. Our findings show that serum is not required for human plasma-like medium (HPLM)-induced C. neoformans cellular heterogeneity. Thus, this new method offers an opportunity to investigate factors of C. neoformans that mediate pathogenesis or host-pathogen interactions in a physiologically relevant setting.IMPORTANCEWe provide a description of new in vitro culture condition using the human plasma-like medium that supports the formation of the full range of in vivo cell morphologies of C. neoformans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eduardo G. Mozo
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Orlando Ross
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Raif Yuecel
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Exeter Centre for Cytomics, The Bioeconomy Centre, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Ivy M. Dambuza
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Liliane Mukaremera
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
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4
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Ding M, Nielsen K. Inbred Mouse Models in Cryptococcus neoformans Research. J Fungi (Basel) 2024; 10:426. [PMID: 38921412 PMCID: PMC11204852 DOI: 10.3390/jof10060426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2024] [Revised: 06/01/2024] [Accepted: 06/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Animal models are frequently used as surrogates to understand human disease. In the fungal pathogen Cryptococcus species complex, several variations of a mouse model of disease were developed that recapitulate different aspects of human disease. These mouse models have been implemented using various inbred and outbred mouse backgrounds, many of which have genetic differences that can influence host response and disease outcome. In this review, we will discuss the most commonly used inbred mouse backgrounds in C. neoformans infection models.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kirsten Nielsen
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
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5
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Lu Y, Li S, Su Z, Luo C, Gu M, Yuan D, Qin BE, Dai K, Xia H, Chen Y, Peng F, Jiang Y. Presence of Epstein-Barr virus in cerebrospinal fluid is associated with increased mortality in HIV-negative cryptococcal meningitis. Med Mycol 2024; 62:myae052. [PMID: 38710585 DOI: 10.1093/mmy/myae052] [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: 12/15/2023] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Cryptococcus neoformans is the most common cause of fungal meningitis and is associated with a high mortality. The clinical significance of concurrent Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-negative patients with cryptococcal meningitis (CM) remains unclear. A retrospective cohort study was performed by analyzing CSF samples from 79 HIV-negative Chinese Han patients with confirmed CM. We identified CSF viral DNA in these patients by metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) and compared 10-week survival rates among those with and without EBV DNA in CSF. Of the 79 CSF samples tested, 44.3% (35/79) had detectable viral DNA in CSF, while 55.7% (44/79) were virus-negative. The most frequent viral pathogen was EBV, which was detected in 22.8% (18/79) patients. The median number of CSF-EBV DNA reads was 4 reads with a range from 1 to 149 reads. The 10-week mortality rates were 22.2% (4/18) in those with positive CSF-EBV and 2.3% (1/44) in those with negative CSF-virus (hazard ratio 8.20, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.52-81.80; P = 0.014), which remained significant after a multivariate adjustment for the known risk factors of mortality (adjusted hazard ratio 8.15, 95% CI 1.14-92.87; P = 0.037). mNGS can identify viruses that coexist in CSF of HIV-negative patients with CM. EBV DNA is most commonly found together with C. neoformans in CSF and its presence is associated with increased mortality in HIV-negative CM patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Lu
- Department of Neurology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, PR China
- Department of Neurology, The Eighth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, PR China
| | - Shubo Li
- Department of Statistics, The Pennsylvania State University, State College, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Zhihui Su
- Department of Neurology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, PR China
| | - Chongliang Luo
- Division of Public Health Sciences, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Meifeng Gu
- Department of Neurology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, PR China
| | - Dasen Yuan
- Department of Neurology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, PR China
| | - Bang-E Qin
- Department of Neurology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, PR China
| | - Kai Dai
- Department of Neurology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, PR China
| | - Han Xia
- Department of Scientific Affairs, Hugobiotech Co, Beijing, PR China
| | - Yong Chen
- Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology, and Informatics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Fuhua Peng
- Department of Neurology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, PR China
| | - Ying Jiang
- Department of Neurology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, PR China
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6
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Boucher MJ, Madhani HD. Convergent evolution of innate immune-modulating effectors in invasive fungal pathogens. Trends Microbiol 2024; 32:435-447. [PMID: 37985333 DOI: 10.1016/j.tim.2023.10.011] [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: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
Invasive fungal infections pose a major threat to human health. Bacterial and protozoan pathogens secrete protein effectors that overcome innate immune barriers to promote microbial colonization, yet few such molecules have been identified in human fungal pathogens. Recent studies have begun to reveal these long-sought effectors and have illuminated how they subvert key cellular pathways, including apoptosis, myeloid cell polarization, Toll-like receptor signaling, and phagosome action. Thus, despite lacking the specialized secretion systems of bacteria and parasites, it is increasingly clear that fungi independently evolved effectors targeting pathways often subverted by other classes of pathogens. These findings demonstrate the remarkable power of convergent evolution to enable diverse microbes to infect humans while also setting the stage for detailed dissection of fungal disease mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J Boucher
- Department of Biochemistry & Biophysics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| | - Hiten D Madhani
- Department of Biochemistry & Biophysics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA.
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7
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Muchowicz A, Bartoszewicz A, Zaslona Z. The Exploitation of the Glycosylation Pattern in Asthma: How We Alter Ancestral Pathways to Develop New Treatments. Biomolecules 2024; 14:513. [PMID: 38785919 PMCID: PMC11117584 DOI: 10.3390/biom14050513] [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: 03/21/2024] [Revised: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/21/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Asthma has reached epidemic levels, yet progress in developing specific therapies is slow. One of the main reasons for this is the fact that asthma is an umbrella term for various distinct subsets. Due to its high heterogeneity, it is difficult to establish biomarkers for each subset of asthma and to propose endotype-specific treatments. This review focuses on protein glycosylation as a process activated in asthma and ways to utilize it to develop novel biomarkers and treatments. We discuss known and relevant glycoproteins whose functions control disease development. The key role of glycoproteins in processes integral to asthma, such as inflammation, tissue remodeling, and repair, justifies our interest and research in the field of glycobiology. Altering the glycosylation states of proteins contributing to asthma can change the pathological processes that we previously failed to inhibit. Special emphasis is placed on chitotriosidase 1 (CHIT1), an enzyme capable of modifying LacNAc- and LacdiNAc-containing glycans. The expression and activity of CHIT1 are induced in human diseased lungs, and its pathological role has been demonstrated by both genetic and pharmacological approaches. We propose that studying the glycosylation pattern and enzymes involved in glycosylation in asthma can help in patient stratification and in developing personalized treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Zbigniew Zaslona
- Molecure S.A., Zwirki i Wigury 101, 02-089 Warszawa, Poland; (A.M.); (A.B.)
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8
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Xu J, Hissong R, Bareis R, Creech A, Goughenour KD, Freeman CM, Olszewski MA. Batf3-dependent orchestration of the robust Th1 responses and fungal control during cryptococcal infection, the role of cDC1. mBio 2024; 15:e0285323. [PMID: 38349130 PMCID: PMC10936214 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.02853-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
While type I conventional dendritic cells (cDC1s) are vital for generating adaptive immunity against intracellular pathogens and tumors, their role in defense against fungal pathogen Cryptococcus neoformans remains unclear. We investigated the role of the cDC1 subset in a fungus-restricting mouse model of cryptococcal infection. The cDC1 subset displayed a unique transcriptional signature with highly upregulated T-cell recruitment, polarization, and activation pathways compared to other DC subsets. Using Batf3-/- mice, which lack the cDC1 population, our results support that Batf3-dependent cDC1s are pivotal for the development of the effective immune response against cryptococcal infection, particularly within the lung and brain. Deficiency in Batf3 cDC1 led to diminished CD4 accumulation and decreased IFNγ production across multiple organs, supporting that cDC1s are a major driver of potent Th1 responses during cryptococcal infection. Consistently, mice lacking Batf3-cDC1 demonstrated markedly diminished fungicidal activity and weaker containment of the fungal pathogen. In conclusion, Batf3-dependent cDC1 can function as a linchpin in mounting Th1 response, ensuring effective fungal control during cryptococcal infection. Harnessing cDC1 pathways may present a promising strategy for interventions against this pathogen.IMPORTANCECryptococcus neoformans causes severe meningoencephalitis, accounting for an estimated 200,000 deaths each year. Central to mounting an effective defense against these infections is T-cell-mediated immunity, which is orchestrated by dendritic cells (DCs). The knowledge about the role of specific DC subsets in shaping anti-cryptococcal immunity is limited. Here, we demonstrate that Batf3 cDC1s are important drivers of protective Th1 CD4 T-cell responses required for clearance of cryptococcal infection. Deficiency of Batf3 cDC1 in the infected mice leads to significantly reduced Th1 response and exacerbated fungal growth to the point where depleting the remaining CD4 T cells no longer affects fungal burden. Unveiling this pivotal role of cDC1 in antifungal defense is likely to be important for the development of vaccines and therapies against life-threatening fungal pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jintao Xu
- Research Service, Department of Veterans Affairs Health System, Ann Arbor VA Health System, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Rylan Hissong
- Research Service, Department of Veterans Affairs Health System, Ann Arbor VA Health System, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Rachel Bareis
- Research Service, Department of Veterans Affairs Health System, Ann Arbor VA Health System, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Arianna Creech
- Research Service, Department of Veterans Affairs Health System, Ann Arbor VA Health System, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Kristie D. Goughenour
- Research Service, Department of Veterans Affairs Health System, Ann Arbor VA Health System, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Christine M. Freeman
- Research Service, Department of Veterans Affairs Health System, Ann Arbor VA Health System, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Michal A. Olszewski
- Research Service, Department of Veterans Affairs Health System, Ann Arbor VA Health System, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
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9
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Moubarz G, Shousha WG, Saad-Hussein A, Shawky MM, Shawky S. Influence of chitotriosidase gene polymorphisms on oxidative stress and susceptibility to Aspergillus infection among exposed workers. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH RESEARCH 2023; 33:1195-1204. [PMID: 35616283 DOI: 10.1080/09603123.2022.2080189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Chitotriosidase (CHIT1) is involved in the innate defense against chitin-containing pathogens. In the present study, we sought to investigate the role of CHIT1 gene polymorphisms on susceptibility to Aspergillus infection in addition to oxidative stress caused by infection. CHIT1 gene polymorphisms were identified in 60 Aspergillus-positive workers by REFLP. We also measured concentrations of the CHIT1 enzyme, total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and malondialdehyde (MDA). The majority of workers were wild-type (AA) (66.5%), followed by heterozygous (AB) (28.5%), and homozygous mutants (BB) (5%). The mean concentrations of specific IgE for all Aspergillus species were affected by change in CHIT1 genotypes. Our findings indicate that decreased CHIT1 activity in homozygous mutant CHIT1 allele is associated with a subsequent decrease in TAC levels, resulting in an increased risk of fungal infection and accumulation of oxidant MDA. Thus, CHIT1 enzyme activity plays a critical role in the susceptibility of WWTP workers to fungal infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gehan Moubarz
- Environmental & Occupational Medicine Department, Environment & Climate Change Research Institute, National Research Centre, Cairo, Egypt
| | | | - Amal Saad-Hussein
- Environmental & Occupational Medicine Department, Environment & Climate Change Research Institute, National Research Centre, Cairo, Egypt
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10
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Goughenour KD, Nair AS, Xu J, Olszewski MA, Wozniak KL. Dendritic Cells: Multifunctional Roles in Host Defenses to Cryptococcus Infections. J Fungi (Basel) 2023; 9:1050. [PMID: 37998856 PMCID: PMC10672120 DOI: 10.3390/jof9111050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2023] [Revised: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Fungal infections are an increasingly growing public health concern, and Cryptococcus is one of the most problematic fungal organisms causing substantial mortality and morbidity worldwide. Clinically, this high incidence of cryptococcosis is most commonly seen in immunocompromised patients, especially those who lack an adaptive T cell response, such as HIV/AIDS patients. However, patients with other underlying immunodeficiencies are also at an increased risk for cryptococcosis. The adaptive immune response, in particular the Th1/Th17 T-cell-mediated responses, to pulmonary Cryptococcus infections are required for host protection. Dendritic cells (DCs), encompassing multiple subsets identified to date, are recognized as the major professional antigen-presenting cell (APC) subset essential for the initiation and execution of T-cell immunity. Apart from their prominent role in orchestration of the adaptive arm of the immune defenses, DCs are fully armed cells from the innate immune system capable of the recognition, uptake, and killing of the fungal cells. Thus, DCs serve as a critical point for the endpoint outcomes of either fungal control or unrestrained fungal infection. Multiple studies have shown that DCs are required for anti-cryptococcal defense in the lungs. In addition, the role of DCs in Cryptococcus gattii infections is just starting to be elucidated. C. gattii has recently risen to prominence with multiple outbreaks in the US and Canada, demonstrating increased virulence in non-immunocompromised individuals. C. gattii infection fails to generate an inflammatory immune response or a protective Th1/Th17 T cell response, at least in part, through a lack of proper DC function. Here we summarize the multiple roles of DCs, including subsets of DCs in both mouse and human models, the roles of DCs during cryptococcal infection, and mechanisms by cryptococcal cells to attempt to undermine these host defenses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristie D. Goughenour
- Research Service, Department of Veterans Affairs Health System, Ann Arbor VA Healthcare System, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, USA
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Ayesha S. Nair
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK 74078, USA
| | - Jintao Xu
- Research Service, Department of Veterans Affairs Health System, Ann Arbor VA Healthcare System, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, USA
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Michal A. Olszewski
- Research Service, Department of Veterans Affairs Health System, Ann Arbor VA Healthcare System, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, USA
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Karen L. Wozniak
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK 74078, USA
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11
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Abstract
The worldwide prevalence of asthma and allergic disorders (allergic rhinitis, atopic dermatitis, food allergy) has been steadily rising in recent decades. It is now estimated that up to 20% of the global population is afflicted by an allergic disease, with increasing incidence rates in both high- and low-income countries. The World Allergy Organization estimates that the total economic burden of asthma and allergic rhinitis alone is approximately $21 billion per year. While allergic stimuli are a complex and heterogenous class of inputs including parasites, pollens, food antigens, drugs, and metals, it has become clear that fungi are major drivers of allergic disease, with estimates that fungal sensitization occurs in 20-30% of atopic individuals and up to 80% of asthma patients. Fungi are eukaryotic microorganisms that can be found throughout the world in high abundance in both indoor and outdoor environments. Understanding how and why fungi act as triggers of allergic type 2 inflammation will be crucial for combating this important health problem. In recent years, there have been significant advances in our understanding of fungi-induced type 2 immunity, however there is still much we don't understand, including why fungi have a tendency to induce allergic reactions in the first place. Here, we will discuss how fungi trigger type 2 immune responses and posit why this response has been evolutionarily selected for induction during fungal encounter.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yufan Zheng
- Molecular Mycology and Immunity Section, Laboratory of Host Immunity and Microbiome, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Eric V. Dang
- Molecular Mycology and Immunity Section, Laboratory of Host Immunity and Microbiome, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
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12
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Strickland AB, Chen Y, Sun D, Shi M. Alternatively activated lung alveolar and interstitial macrophages promote fungal growth. iScience 2023; 26:106717. [PMID: 37216116 PMCID: PMC10193231 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.106717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2022] [Revised: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023] Open
Abstract
How lung macrophages, especially interstitial macrophages (IMs), respond to invading pathogens remains elusive. Here, we show that mice exhibited a rapid and substantial expansion of macrophages, especially CX3CR1+ IMs, in the lung following infection with Cryptococcus neoformans, a pathogenic fungus leading to high mortality among patients with HIV/AIDS. The IM expansion correlated with enhanced CSF1 and IL-4 production and was affected by the deficiency of CCR2 or Nr4a1. Both alveolar macrophages (AMs) and IMs were observed to harbor C. neoformans and became alternatively activated following infection, with IMs being more polarized. The absence of AMs by genetically disrupting CSF2 signaling reduced fungal loads in the lung and prolonged the survival of infected mice. Likewise, infected mice depleted of IMs by the CSF1 receptor inhibitor PLX5622 displayed significantly lower pulmonary fungal burdens. Thus, C. neoformans infection induces alternative activation of both AMs and IMs, which facilitates fungal growth in the lung.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley B. Strickland
- Division of Immunology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Maryland Pathogen Research Institute, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, USA
| | - Yanli Chen
- Division of Immunology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Maryland Pathogen Research Institute, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, USA
| | - Donglei Sun
- Division of Immunology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Maryland Pathogen Research Institute, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, USA
| | - Meiqing Shi
- Division of Immunology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Maryland Pathogen Research Institute, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, USA
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13
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Declercq J, Hammad H, Lambrecht BN, Smole U. Chitinases and chitinase-like proteins in asthma. Semin Immunol 2023; 67:101759. [PMID: 37031560 DOI: 10.1016/j.smim.2023.101759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2023]
Abstract
Despite the lack of endogenous chitin synthesis, mammalian genomes encode two enzymatically active true chitinases (chitotriosidase and acidic mammalian chitinase) and a variable number of chitinase-like proteins (CLPs) that have no enzyme activity but bind chitin. Chitinases and CLPs are prominent components of type-2 immune response-mediated respiratory diseases. However, despite extensive research into their role in allergic airway disease, there is still no agreement on whether they are mere biomarkers of disease or actual disease drivers. Functions ascribed to chitinases and CLPs include, but are not limited to host defense against chitin-containing pathogens, directly promoting inflammation, and modulating tissue remodeling and fibrosis. Here, we discuss in detail the chitin-dependent and -independent roles of chitinases and CLPs in the context of allergic airway disease, and recent advances and emerging concepts in the field that might identify opportunities for new therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jozefien Declercq
- Immunoregulation Unit, VIB Center for Inflammation Research, Ghent, Belgium; Department of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Hamida Hammad
- Immunoregulation Unit, VIB Center for Inflammation Research, Ghent, Belgium; Department of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Bart N Lambrecht
- Immunoregulation Unit, VIB Center for Inflammation Research, Ghent, Belgium; Department of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium; Department of Pulmonary Medicine, ErasmusMC, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Ursula Smole
- Immunoregulation Unit, VIB Center for Inflammation Research, Ghent, Belgium; Department of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.
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14
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Jackson KM, Ding M, Nielsen K. Importance of Clinical Isolates in Cryptococcus neoformans Research. J Fungi (Basel) 2023; 9:364. [PMID: 36983532 PMCID: PMC10056780 DOI: 10.3390/jof9030364] [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: 02/20/2023] [Revised: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The human pathogenic fungus Cryptococcus neoformans is a global health concern. Previous research in the field has focused on studies using reference strains to identify virulence factors, generate mutant libraries, define genomic structures, and perform functional studies. In this review, we discuss the benefits and drawbacks of using reference strains to study C. neoformans, describe how the study of clinical isolates has expanded our understanding of pathogenesis, and highlight how studies using clinical isolates can further develop our understanding of the host-pathogen interaction during C. neoformans infection.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Kirsten Nielsen
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
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15
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Abstract
The respiratory tree maintains sterilizing immunity against human fungal pathogens. Humans inhale ubiquitous filamentous molds and geographically restricted dimorphic fungal pathogens that form small airborne conidia. In addition, pathogenic yeasts, exemplified by encapsulated Cryptococcus species, and Pneumocystis pose significant fungal threats to the lung. Classically, fungal pneumonia occurs in immune compromised individuals, specifically in patients with HIV/AIDS, in patients with hematologic malignancies, in organ transplant recipients, and in patients treated with corticosteroids and targeted biologics that impair fungal immune surveillance in the lung. The emergence of fungal co-infections during severe influenza and COVID-19 underscores the impairment of fungus-specific host defense pathways in the lung by respiratory viruses and by medical therapies to treat viral infections. Beyond life-threatening invasive syndromes, fungal antigen exposure can exacerbate allergenic disease in the lung. In this review, we discuss emerging principles of lung-specific antifungal immunity, integrate the contributions and cooperation of lung epithelial, innate immune, and adaptive immune cells to mucosal barrier immunity, and highlight the pathogenesis of fungal-associated allergenic disease. Improved understanding of fungus-specific immunity in the respiratory tree has paved the way to develop improved diagnostic, pre-emptive, therapeutic, and vaccine approaches for fungal diseases of the lung.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lena J Heung
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Research Division of Immunology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Women's Guild Lung Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Darin L Wiesner
- Center for Immunity and Inflammation, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - Keyi Wang
- Center for Immunity and Inflammation, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - Amariliz Rivera
- Center for Immunity and Inflammation, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - Tobias M Hohl
- Infectious Disease Service, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA; Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA.
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16
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17
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Hansakon A, Ngamphiw C, Tongsima S, Angkasekwinai P. Arginase 1 Expression by Macrophages Promotes Cryptococcus neoformans Proliferation and Invasion into Brain Microvascular Endothelial Cells. JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY (BALTIMORE, MD. : 1950) 2023; 210:408-419. [PMID: 36548474 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.2200592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Cryptococcal meningoencephalitis caused by Cryptococcus neoformans infection is the most common cause of death in HIV/AIDS patients. Macrophages are pivotal for the regulation of immune responses to cryptococcal infection by either playing protective function or facilitating fungal dissemination. However, the mechanisms underlying macrophage responses to C. neoformans remain unclear. To analyze the transcriptomic changes and identify the pathogenic factors of macrophages, we performed a comparative transcriptomic analysis of alveolar macrophage responses during C. neoformans infection. Alveolar macrophages isolated from C. neoformans-infected mice showed dynamic gene expression patterns, with expression change from a protective M1 (classically activated)-like to a pathogenic M2 (alternatively activated)-like phenotype. Arg1, the gene encoding the enzyme arginase 1, was found as the most upregulated gene in alveolar macrophages during the chronic infection phase. The in vitro inhibition of arginase activity resulted in a reduction of cryptococcal phagocytosis, intracellular growth, and proliferation, coupled with an altered macrophage response from pathogenic M2 to a protective M1 phenotype. In an in vitro model of the blood-brain barrier, macrophage-derived arginase was found to be required for C. neoformans invasion of brain microvascular endothelium. Further analysis of the degree of virulence indicated a positive correlation between arginase 1 expression in macrophages and cryptococcal brain dissemination in vivo. Thus, our data suggest that a dynamic macrophage activation that involves arginase expression may contribute to the cryptococcal disease by promoting cryptococcal growth, proliferation, and the invasion to the brain endothelium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adithap Hansakon
- Department of Medical Technology, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Thammasat University, Pathum Thani, Thailand.,Chulabhorn International College of Medicine, Thammasat University, Pathum Thani, Thailand
| | - Chumpol Ngamphiw
- National Biobank of Thailand, National Science and Technology Development Agency, Pathum Thani, Thailand; and
| | - Sissades Tongsima
- National Biobank of Thailand, National Science and Technology Development Agency, Pathum Thani, Thailand; and
| | - Pornpimon Angkasekwinai
- Department of Medical Technology, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Thammasat University, Pathum Thani, Thailand.,Research Unit in Molecular Pathogenesis and Immunology of Infectious Diseases, Thammasat University, Pathum Thani, Thailand
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18
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Yu G, Liu G, Liu T, Fink EH, Esker AR. Activities of Family 18 Chitinases on Amorphous Regenerated Chitin Thin Films and Dissolved Chitin Oligosaccharides: Comparison with Family 19 Chitinases. Biomacromolecules 2023; 24:566-575. [PMID: 36715568 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.2c00538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Changes in mass and viscoelasticity of chitin layers in fungal cell walls during chitinase attack are vital for understanding bacterial invasion of and human defense against fungi. In this work, regenerated chitin (RChitin) thin films mimicked the fungal chitin layers and facilitated studies of degradation by family 18 chitinases from Trichoderma viride (T. viride) and family 19 chitinases from Streptomyces griseus (S. griseus) that possessed chitin-binding domains (CBDs) that were absent in the family 18 chitinases. Degradation was monitored via a quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation monitoring (QCM-D) in real time at various pH and temperatures. Compared to substrates of colloidal chitin or dissolved chitin derivatives and analogues, the degradation of RChitin films was deeply affected by chitinase adsorption. While the family 18 chitinases had greater solution activity on chitin oligosaccharides, the family 19 chitinases exhibited greater surface activity on RChitin films, illustrating the importance of CBDs for insoluble substrates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guoqiang Yu
- Department of Chemistry, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia24061, United States
| | - Gehui Liu
- Department of Chemistry, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia24061, United States
| | - Tianyi Liu
- Department of Chemistry, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia24061, United States
| | - Ethan H Fink
- Department of Chemistry, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia24061, United States
| | - Alan R Esker
- Department of Chemistry, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia24061, United States.,Macromolecules Innovation Institute, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia24061, United States
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19
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Stempinski PR, Gerbig GR, Greengo SD, Casadevall A. Last but not yeast-The many forms of Cryptococcus neoformans. PLoS Pathog 2023; 19:e1011048. [PMID: 36602969 PMCID: PMC9815591 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1011048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Piotr R. Stempinski
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Gracen R. Gerbig
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Seth D. Greengo
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Arturo Casadevall
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
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20
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Niu S, Zhu Y, Geng R, Luo M, Zuo H, Yang L, Weng S, He J, Xu X. A novel chitinase Chi6 with immunosuppressive activity promotes white spot syndrome virus (WSSV) infection in Penaeus vannamei. FISH & SHELLFISH IMMUNOLOGY 2023; 132:108450. [PMID: 36442705 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsi.2022.11.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Chitinases, a group of glycosylase hydrolases that can hydrolyze chitin, are involved in immune regulation in animals. White spot syndrome virus (WSSV) causes huge losses to crustacean aquaculture every year. We identified a novel chitinase Chi6 from Pacific white shrimp Penaeus vannamei, which contains a catalytic domain but no chitin-binding domain. The Chi6 expression was regulated by multiple immune signaling pathways and increased after immune stimulations. Silencing of Chi6 by RNAi in vivo did not affect Vibrio parahaemolyticus infection, but significantly increased the survival rate of WSSV-infected shrimp. The expression of multiple WSSV immediate early and structural genes was also decreased upon Chi6 silencing. The recombinant Chi6 protein showed no effect on bacterial growth but could attenuate shrimp hemocyte phagocytosis. The mRNA levels of several key elements and downstream genes of the MAPK and Dorsal pathways in Chi6-silenced shrimp were significantly up-regulated, suggesting an inhibitory effect of Chi6 on humoral immune response. Moreover, Chi6 enhanced the regulatory effect of Dorsal on the expression of WSSV ie1 gene. Therefore, Chi6 promotes WSSV infection through immunosuppression and regulation of WSSV gene expression. Targeting Chi6 could be a potential strategy for controlling WSSV disease in shrimp farming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shengwen Niu
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, PR China; Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Zhuhai), Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, PR China; Institute of Aquatic Economic Animals and Guangdong Province Key Laboratory for Aquatic Economic Animals, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Yuening Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, PR China; Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Zhuhai), Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, PR China; Institute of Aquatic Economic Animals and Guangdong Province Key Laboratory for Aquatic Economic Animals, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Ran Geng
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, PR China; Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Zhuhai), Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, PR China; Institute of Aquatic Economic Animals and Guangdong Province Key Laboratory for Aquatic Economic Animals, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Mengting Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, PR China; Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Zhuhai), Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, PR China; Institute of Aquatic Economic Animals and Guangdong Province Key Laboratory for Aquatic Economic Animals, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Hongliang Zuo
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, PR China; Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Zhuhai), Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, PR China; Institute of Aquatic Economic Animals and Guangdong Province Key Laboratory for Aquatic Economic Animals, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Linwei Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, PR China; Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Zhuhai), Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, PR China; Institute of Aquatic Economic Animals and Guangdong Province Key Laboratory for Aquatic Economic Animals, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Shaoping Weng
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, PR China; Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Zhuhai), Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Jianguo He
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, PR China; Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Zhuhai), Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, PR China; Institute of Aquatic Economic Animals and Guangdong Province Key Laboratory for Aquatic Economic Animals, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Xiaopeng Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, PR China; Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Zhuhai), Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, PR China; Institute of Aquatic Economic Animals and Guangdong Province Key Laboratory for Aquatic Economic Animals, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, PR China.
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21
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Di Francesco AM, Verrecchia E, Manna S, Urbani A, Manna R. The chitinases as biomarkers in immune-mediate diseases. Clin Chem Lab Med 2022:cclm-2022-0767. [DOI: 10.1515/cclm-2022-0767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
The role of chitinases has been focused as potential biomarkers in a wide number of inflammatory diseases, in monitoring active disease state, and predicting prognosis and response to therapies. The main chitinases, CHIT1 and YKL-40, are derived from 18 glycosyl hydrolases macrophage activation and play important roles in defense against chitin-containing pathogens and in food processing. Moreover, chitinases may have organ- as well as cell-specific effects in the context of infectious diseases and inflammatory disorders and able to induce tissue remodelling. The CHIT1 measurement is an easy, reproducible, reliable, and cost-effective affordable assay. The clinical use of CHIT1 for the screening of lysosomal storage disorders is quite practical, when proper cut-off values are determined for each laboratory. The potential of CHIT1 and chitinases has not been fully explored yet and future studies will produce many surprising discoveries in the immunology and allergology fields of research. However, since the presence of a null CHIT1 gene in a subpopulation would be responsible of false-negative values, the assay should be completed with the other markers such ACE and, if necessary, by genetic analysis when CHIT1 is unexpected low.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Maria Di Francesco
- Periodic Fever and Rare Diseases Research Centre, Catholic University of Sacred Heart , Rome , Italy
| | - Elena Verrecchia
- Periodic Fever and Rare Diseases Research Centre, Catholic University of Sacred Heart , Rome , Italy
| | - Stefano Manna
- Periodic Fever and Rare Diseases Research Centre, Catholic University of Sacred Heart , Rome , Italy
| | - Andrea Urbani
- Institute of Internal Medicine, Policlinico A. Gemelli Foundation IRCCS , Rome , Italy
- Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology , Policlinico A. Gemelli Foundation IRCCS , Rome , Italy
| | - Raffaele Manna
- Periodic Fever and Rare Diseases Research Centre, Catholic University of Sacred Heart , Rome , Italy
- Institute of Internal Medicine, Policlinico A. Gemelli Foundation IRCCS , Rome , Italy
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22
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Przysucha N, Górska K, Maskey-Warzęchowska M, Proboszcz M, Nejman-Gryz P, Paplińska-Goryca M, Dymek B, Zagozdzon A, Krenke R. The Role of Chitinases in Chronic Airway Inflammation Associated with Tobacco Smoke Exposure. Cells 2022; 11:cells11233765. [PMID: 36497025 PMCID: PMC9736934 DOI: 10.3390/cells11233765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Revised: 11/10/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Chitinases and chitinase-like proteins are thought to play a role in innate inflammatory responses. Our study aimed to assess whether chitinase concentration and activity in induced sputum (IS) of patients exposed to tobacco smoke are related to the level of airway inflammation including the level and activity of chitinases and chitinase-like proteins. The study included 22 patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), 12 non-COPD smokers, and nine nonsmoking subjects. Sputum CHIT1 and YKL-40 levels and chitinolytic activity were compared with sputum IL-6, IL-8, IL-18, and MMP-9 levels. A hierarchical cluster analysis was also performed. Sputum YKL-40 was higher in COPD patients than in the control groups. Sputum CHIT1 and YKL-40 levels correlated with IS inflammatory cell count as well as with MMP-9 and IL-8 levels. Two main clusters were revealed: Cluster 1 had lower chitinase levels and activity, lower IS macrophage and neutrophil count, and lower IS IL-8, IL-18, and MMP-9 than Cluster 2. Comparison of COPD patients from both clusters revealed significant differences in the IS inflammatory profile despite comparable clinical and functional data. Our findings seem to confirm the involvement of chitinases in smoking-associated chronic airway inflammation and show that airway chitinases may be a potential novel marker in COPD phenotyping.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Przysucha
- Department of Internal Medicine, Pulmonary Diseases and Allergy, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Górska
- Department of Internal Medicine, Pulmonary Diseases and Allergy, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +48-22-599-2753
| | - Marta Maskey-Warzęchowska
- Department of Internal Medicine, Pulmonary Diseases and Allergy, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Proboszcz
- Department of Internal Medicine, Pulmonary Diseases and Allergy, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Patrycja Nejman-Gryz
- Department of Internal Medicine, Pulmonary Diseases and Allergy, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Magdalena Paplińska-Goryca
- Department of Internal Medicine, Pulmonary Diseases and Allergy, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Barbara Dymek
- Postgraduate School of Molecular Medicine, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
- Molecure SA, 02-089 Warsaw, Poland
| | | | - Rafał Krenke
- Department of Internal Medicine, Pulmonary Diseases and Allergy, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
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23
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Nelson BN, Daugherty CS, Sharp RR, Booth JL, Patel VI, Metcalf JP, Jones KL, Wozniak KL. Protective interaction of human phagocytic APC subsets with Cryptococcus neoformans induces genes associated with metabolism and antigen presentation. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1054477. [PMID: 36466930 PMCID: PMC9709479 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1054477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 09/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Cryptococcal meningitis is the most common cause of meningitis among HIV/AIDS patients in sub-Saharan Africa, and worldwide causes over 223,000 cases leading to more than 181,000 annual deaths. Usually, the fungus gets inhaled into the lungs where the initial interactions occur with pulmonary phagocytes such as dendritic cells and macrophages. Following phagocytosis, the pathogen can be killed or can replicate intracellularly. Previous studies in mice showed that different subsets of these innate immune cells can either be antifungal or permissive for intracellular fungal growth. Our studies tested phagocytic antigen-presenting cell (APC) subsets from the human lung against C. neoformans. Human bronchoalveolar lavage was processed for phagocytic APCs and incubated with C. neoformans for two hours to analyze the initial interactions and fate of the fungus, living or killed. Results showed all subsets (3 macrophage and 3 dendritic cell subsets) interacted with the fungus, and both living and killed morphologies were discernable within the subsets using imaging flow cytometry. Single cell RNA-seq identified several different clusters of cells which more closely related to interactions with C. neoformans and its protective capacity against the pathogen rather than discrete cellular subsets. Differential gene expression analyses identified several changes in the innate immune cell's transcriptome as it kills the fungus including increases of TNF-α (TNF) and the switch to using fatty acid metabolism by upregulation of the gene FABP4. Also, increases of TNF-α correlated to cryptococcal interactions and uptake. Together, these analyses implicated signaling networks that regulate expression of many different genes - both metabolic and immune - as certain clusters of cells mount a protective response and kill the pathogen. Future studies will examine these genes and networks to understand the exact mechanism(s) these phagocytic APC subsets use to kill C. neoformans in order to develop immunotherapeutic strategies to combat this deadly disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin N. Nelson
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, United States
| | - Cheyenne S. Daugherty
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, United States
| | - Rachel R. Sharp
- Harold Hamm Diabetes Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, United States
| | - J. Leland Booth
- Department of Medicine, Pulmonary, Critical Care & Sleep Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, United States
| | - Vineet I. Patel
- Department of Medicine, Pulmonary, Critical Care & Sleep Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, United States
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, United States
| | - Jordan P. Metcalf
- Department of Medicine, Pulmonary, Critical Care & Sleep Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, United States
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, United States
- Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Oklahoma City, OK, United States
| | - Kenneth L. Jones
- Harold Hamm Diabetes Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, United States
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, United States
| | - Karen L. Wozniak
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, United States
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24
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Sato K, Kawakami K. PAMPs and Host Immune Response in Cryptococcal Infection. Med Mycol J 2022; 63:133-138. [DOI: 10.3314/mmj.22.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ko Sato
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Mycology and Immunology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine
| | - Kazuyoshi Kawakami
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Mycology and Immunology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine
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25
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Cao C, Wang K, Wang Y, Liu TB, Rivera A, Xue C. Ubiquitin proteolysis of a CDK-related kinase regulates titan cell formation and virulence in the fungal pathogen Cryptococcus neoformans. Nat Commun 2022; 13:6397. [PMID: 36302775 PMCID: PMC9613880 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-34151-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Fungal pathogens often undergo morphological switches, including cell size changes, to adapt to the host environment and cause disease. The pathogenic yeast Cryptococcus neoformans forms so-called 'titan cells' during infection. Titan cells are large, polyploid, display alterations in cell wall and capsule, and are more resistant to phagocytosis and various types of stress. Titan cell formation is regulated by the cAMP/PKA signal pathway, which is stimulated by the protein Gpa1. Here, we show that Gpa1 is activated through phosphorylation by a CDK-related kinase (Crk1), which is targeted for degradation by an E3 ubiquitin ligase (Fbp1). Strains overexpressing CRK1 or an allele lacking a PEST domain exhibit increased production of titan cells similarly to the fbp1∆ mutant. Conversely, CRK1 deletion results in reduced titan cell production, indicating that Crk1 stimulates titan cell formation. Crk1 phosphorylates Gpa1, which then localizes to the plasma membrane and activates the cAMP/PKA signal pathway to induce cell enlargement. Furthermore, titan cell-overproducing strains trigger increased Th1 and Th17 cytokine production in CD4+ T cells and show attenuated virulence in a mouse model of systemic cryptococcosis. Overall, our study provides insights into the regulation of titan cell formation and fungal virulence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chengjun Cao
- Public Health Research Institute, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers University, Newark, NJ, 07103, USA
| | - Keyi Wang
- Center for Immunity and Inflammation, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers University, Newark, NJ, 07103, USA
| | - Yina Wang
- Public Health Research Institute, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers University, Newark, NJ, 07103, USA
| | - Tong-Bao Liu
- Public Health Research Institute, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers University, Newark, NJ, 07103, USA
- Medical Research Institute, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Amariliz Rivera
- Center for Immunity and Inflammation, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers University, Newark, NJ, 07103, USA
| | - Chaoyang Xue
- Public Health Research Institute, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers University, Newark, NJ, 07103, USA.
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, New Jersey Medical School, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers University, Newark, NJ, 07103, USA.
- Rutgers Center for Lipid Research, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, 08901, USA.
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26
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Yang C, Huang Y, Zhou Y, Zang X, Deng H, Liu Y, Shen D, Xue X. Cryptococcus escapes host immunity: What do we know? Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:1041036. [PMID: 36310879 PMCID: PMC9606624 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.1041036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryptococcus is an invasive fungus that seriously endangers human life and health, with a complex and well-established immune-escaping mechanism that interferes with the function of the host immune system. Cryptococcus can attenuate the host’s correct recognition of the fungal antigen and escape the immune response mediated by host phagocytes, innate lymphoid cells, T lymphocytes, B lymphocytes with antibodies, and peripheral cytokines. In addition, the capsule, melanin, dormancy, Titan cells, biofilm, and other related structures of Cryptococcus are also involved in the process of escaping the host’s immunity, as well as enhancing the ability of Cryptococcus to infect the host.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Yang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, the First Medical Centre, Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yemei Huang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care, Beijing Shijitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Peking University Ninth School of Clinical Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Yangyu Zhou
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care, Beijing Shijitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Peking University Ninth School of Clinical Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Xuelei Zang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care, Beijing Shijitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Peking University Ninth School of Clinical Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Hengyu Deng
- School of Clinical Medicine, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
| | - Yitong Liu
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care, Beijing Shijitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Peking University Ninth School of Clinical Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Dingxia Shen
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, the First Medical Centre, Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) General Hospital, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Dingxia Shen, ; Xinying Xue,
| | - Xinying Xue
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care, Beijing Shijitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Peking University Ninth School of Clinical Medicine, Beijing, China
- School of Clinical Medicine, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
- *Correspondence: Dingxia Shen, ; Xinying Xue,
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27
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Cryptococcus neoformans Infection in the Central Nervous System: The Battle between Host and Pathogen. J Fungi (Basel) 2022; 8:jof8101069. [PMID: 36294634 PMCID: PMC9605252 DOI: 10.3390/jof8101069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2022] [Revised: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryptococcus neoformans (C. neoformans) is a pathogenic fungus with a global distribution. Humans become infected by inhaling the fungus from the environment, and the fungus initially colonizes the lungs. If the immune system fails to contain C. neoformans in the lungs, the fungus can disseminate to the blood and invade the central nervous system, resulting in fatal meningoencephalitis particularly in immunocompromised individuals including HIV/AIDS patients. Following brain invasion, C. neoformans will encounter host defenses involving resident as well as recruited immune cells in the brain. To overcome host defenses, C. neoformans possesses multiple virulence factors capable of modulating immune responses. The outcome of the interactions between the host and C. neoformans will determine the disease progression. In this review, we describe the current understanding of how C. neoformans migrates to the brain across the blood–brain barrier, and how the host immune system responds to the invading organism in the brain. We will also discuss the virulence factors that C. neoformans uses to modulate host immune responses.
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28
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Hester MM, Oliveira LVN, Wang R, Mou Z, Lourenco D, Ostroff GR, Specht CA, Levitz SM. Cross-reactivity between vaccine antigens from the chitin deacetylase protein family improves survival in a mouse model of cryptococcosis. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1015586. [PMID: 36248898 PMCID: PMC9554598 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1015586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 08/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Meningitis due to the fungal pathogen Cryptococcus neoformans is estimated to cause nearly 200,000 deaths annually, mostly in resource-limited regions. We previously identified cryptococcal protein antigens which, when delivered in glucan particles, afford vaccine-mediated protection against an otherwise lethal infection. Many of these proteins exhibit significant homology to other similar cryptococcal proteins leading us to hypothesize that protection may be augmented by immunologic cross-reactivity to multiple members of a protein family. To examine the significance of protein cross-reactivity in vaccination, we utilized strains of Cryptococcus that are genetically deficient in select antigens, yet are still lethal in mice. Vaccination with a protein without homologs (e.g., Mep1 and Lhc1) protected against challenge with wild-type Cryptococcus, but not against a deletion strain lacking that protein. Contrastingly, vaccination with a single chitin deacetylase (Cda) protein protected against the corresponding deletion strain, presumably due to host recognition of one or more other family members still expressed in this strain. Vaccination with a single Cda protein induced cross-reactive antibody and interferon-gamma (IFNγ) immune responses to other Cda protein family members. Paradoxically, we saw no evidence of cross-protection within the carboxypeptidase family of proteins. Factors such as in vivo protein expression and the degree of homology across the family could inform the extent to which vaccine-mediated immunity is amplified. Together, these data suggest a role for prioritizing protein families in fungal vaccine design: increasing the number of immune targets generated by a single antigen may improve efficacy while diminishing the risk of vaccine-resistant strains arising from gene mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maureen M. Hester
- Department of Medicine, The University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, United States
| | - Lorena V. N. Oliveira
- Department of Medicine, The University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, United States
| | - Ruiying Wang
- Department of Medicine, The University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, United States
| | - Zhongming Mou
- Department of Medicine, The University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, United States
| | - Diana Lourenco
- Department of Medicine, The University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, United States
| | - Gary R. Ostroff
- Program in Molecular Medicine, The University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, United States
| | - Charles A. Specht
- Department of Medicine, The University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, United States
| | - Stuart M. Levitz
- Department of Medicine, The University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, United States
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29
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Dang EV, Lei S, Radkov A, Volk RF, Zaro BW, Madhani HD. Secreted fungal virulence effector triggers allergic inflammation via TLR4. Nature 2022; 608:161-167. [PMID: 35896747 PMCID: PMC9744105 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-022-05005-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Invasive fungal pathogens are major causes of human mortality and morbidity1,2. Although numerous secreted effector proteins that reprogram innate immunity to promote virulence have been identified in pathogenic bacteria, so far, there are no examples of analogous secreted effector proteins produced by human fungal pathogens. Cryptococcus neoformans, the most common cause of fungal meningitis and a major pathogen in AIDS, induces a pathogenic type 2 response characterized by pulmonary eosinophilia and alternatively activated macrophages3-8. Here, we identify CPL1 as an effector protein secreted by C. neoformans that drives alternative activation (also known as M2 polarization) of macrophages to enable pulmonary infection in mice. We observed that CPL1-enhanced macrophage polarization requires Toll-like receptor 4, which is best known as a receptor for bacterial endotoxin but is also a poorly understood mediator of allergen-induced type 2 responses9-12. We show that this effect is caused by CPL1 itself and not by contaminating lipopolysaccharide. CPL1 is essential for virulence, drives polarization of interstitial macrophages in vivo, and requires type 2 cytokine signalling for its effect on infectivity. Notably, C. neoformans associates selectively with polarized interstitial macrophages during infection, suggesting a mechanism by which C. neoformans generates its own intracellular replication niche within the host. This work identifies a circuit whereby a secreted effector protein produced by a human fungal pathogen reprograms innate immunity, revealing an unexpected role for Toll-like receptor 4 in promoting the pathogenesis of infectious disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric V. Dang
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of California, San Francisco, CA, United States of America
| | - Susan Lei
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of California, San Francisco, CA, United States of America
| | - Atanas Radkov
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of California, San Francisco, CA, United States of America
| | - Regan F. Volk
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California, San Francisco, CA, United States of America,Cardiovascular Research Institute, University of California, San Francisco, CA, United States of America
| | - Balyn W. Zaro
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California, San Francisco, CA, United States of America,Cardiovascular Research Institute, University of California, San Francisco, CA, United States of America
| | - Hiten D. Madhani
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of California, San Francisco, CA, United States of America,Chan-Zuckerberg Biohub, San Francisco, CA, United States of America,
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30
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Furlong-Silva J, Cook PC. Fungal-mediated lung allergic airway disease: The critical role of macrophages and dendritic cells. PLoS Pathog 2022; 18:e1010608. [PMID: 35834490 PMCID: PMC9282651 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1010608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Fungi are abundant in the environment, causing our lungs to be constantly exposed to a diverse range of species. While the majority of these are cleared effectively in healthy individuals, constant exposure to spores (especially Aspergillus spp.) can lead to the development of allergic inflammation that underpins and worsen diseases such as asthma. Despite this, the precise mechanisms that underpin the development of fungal allergic disease are poorly understood. Innate immune cells, such as macrophages (MΦs) and dendritic cells (DCs), have been shown to be critical for mediating allergic inflammation to a range of different allergens. This review will focus on the crucial role of MΦ and DCs in mediating antifungal immunity, evaluating how these immune cells mediate allergic inflammation within the context of the lung environment. Ultimately, we aim to highlight important future research questions that will lead to novel therapeutic strategies for fungal allergic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julio Furlong-Silva
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Peter Charles Cook
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
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31
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Flores-Torres AS, Samarasinghe AE. Impact of Therapeutics on Unified Immunity During Allergic Asthma and Respiratory Infections. FRONTIERS IN ALLERGY 2022; 3:852067. [PMID: 35386652 PMCID: PMC8974821 DOI: 10.3389/falgy.2022.852067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Asthma is a common chronic respiratory disease that affects millions of people worldwide. Patients with allergic asthma, the most prevalent asthma endotype, are widely considered to possess a defective immune response against some respiratory infectious agents, including viruses, bacteria and fungi. Furthermore, respiratory pathogens are associated with asthma development and exacerbations. However, growing data suggest that the immune milieu in allergic asthma may be beneficial during certain respiratory infections. Immunomodulatory asthma treatments, although beneficial, should then be carefully prescribed to avoid misuse and overuse as they can also alter the host microbiome. In this review, we summarize and discuss recent evidence of the correlations between allergic asthma and the most significant respiratory infectious agents that have a role in asthma pathogenesis. We also discuss the implications of current asthma therapeutics beyond symptom prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Armando S. Flores-Torres
- Division of Pulmonology, Allergy-Immunology, and Sleep, Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, United States
- Children's Foundation Research Institute, Le Bonheur Children's Hospital, Memphis, TN, United States
| | - Amali E. Samarasinghe
- Division of Pulmonology, Allergy-Immunology, and Sleep, Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, United States
- Children's Foundation Research Institute, Le Bonheur Children's Hospital, Memphis, TN, United States
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32
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Berguson HP, Caulfield LW, Price MS. Influence of Pathogen Carbon Metabolism on Interactions With Host Immunity. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:861405. [PMID: 35372116 PMCID: PMC8968422 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.861405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryptococcus neoformans is a ubiquitous opportunistic fungal pathogen typically causing disease in immunocompromised individuals and is globally responsible for about 15% of AIDS-related deaths annually. C. neoformans first causes pulmonary infection in the host and then disseminates to the brain, causing meningoencephalitis. The yeast must obtain and metabolize carbon within the host in order to survive in the central nervous system and cause disease. Communication between pathogen and host involves recognition of multiple carbon-containing compounds on the yeast surface: polysaccharide capsule, fungal cell wall, and glycosylated proteins comprising the major immune modulators. The structure and function of polysaccharide capsule has been studied for the past 70 years, emphasizing its role in virulence. While protected by the capsule, fungal cell wall has likewise been a focus of study for several decades for its role in cell integrity and host recognition. Associated with both of these major structures are glycosylated proteins, which exhibit known immunomodulatory effects. While many studies have investigated the role of carbon metabolism on virulence and survival within the host, the precise mechanism(s) affecting host-pathogen communication remain ill-defined. This review summarizes the current knowledge on mutants in carbon metabolism and their effect on the host immune response that leads to changes in pathogen recognition and virulence. Understanding these critical interactions will provide fresh perspectives on potential treatments and the natural history of cryptococcal disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah P. Berguson
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Liberty University College of Osteopathic Medicine, Lynchburg, VA, United States
| | - Lauren W. Caulfield
- Department of Biology and Chemistry, Liberty University, Lynchburg, VA, United States
| | - Michael S. Price
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Sciences, Liberty University College of Osteopathic Medicine, Lynchburg, VA, United States
- Department of Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, United States
- *Correspondence: Michael S. Price,
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33
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Ding M, Smith KD, Wiesner DL, Nielsen JN, Jackson KM, Nielsen K. Use of Clinical Isolates to Establish Criteria for a Mouse Model of Latent Cryptococcus neoformans Infection. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 11:804059. [PMID: 35186781 PMCID: PMC8847453 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2021.804059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The mechanisms of latency in the context of C. neoformans infection remain poorly understood. Two reasons for this gap in knowledge are: 1) the lack of standardized criteria for defining latent cryptococcosis in animal models and 2) limited genetic and immunological tools available for studying host parameters against C. neoformans in non-murine models of persistent infection. In this study, we defined criteria required for latency in C. neoformans infection models and used these criteria to develop a murine model of persistent C. neoformans infection using clinical isolates. We analyzed infections with two clinical C. neoformans strains, UgCl223 and UgCl552, isolated from advanced HIV patients with cryptococcal meningitis. Our data show that the majority of C57BL/6 mice infected with the clinical C. neoformans isolates had persistent, stable infections with low fungal burden, survived beyond 90 days-post infection, exhibited weight gain, had no clinical signs of disease, and had yeast cells contained within pulmonary granulomas with no generalized alveolar inflammation. Infected mice exhibited stable relative frequencies of pulmonary immune cells during the course of the infection. Upon CD4+ T-cell depletion, the CD4DTR mice had significantly increased lung and brain fungal burden that resulted in lethal infection, indicating that CD4+ T-cells are important for control of the pulmonary infection and to prevent dissemination. Cells expressing the Tbet transcription factor were the predominant activated CD4 T-cell subset in the lungs during the latent infection. These Tbet-expressing T-cells had decreased IFNγ production, which may have implications in the capacity of the cells to orchestrate the pulmonary immune response. Altogether, these results indicate that clinical C. neoformans isolates can establish a persistent controlled infection that meets most criteria for latency; highlighting the utility of this new mouse model system for studies of host immune responses that control C. neoformans infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minna Ding
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Kyle D. Smith
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, United States
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Darin L. Wiesner
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, United States
- Department of Medicine, Center for Immunity and Inflammation, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ, United States
| | - Judith N. Nielsen
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Katrina M. Jackson
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Kirsten Nielsen
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, United States
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34
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The Cyclin Cln1 Controls Polyploid Titan Cell Formation following a Stress-Induced G 2 Arrest in Cryptococcus. mBio 2021; 12:e0250921. [PMID: 34634930 PMCID: PMC8510536 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.02509-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The pathogenic yeast Cryptococcus neoformans produces polyploid titan cells in response to the host lung environment that are critical for host adaptation and subsequent disease. We analyzed the in vivo and in vitro cell cycles to identify key aspects of the C. neoformans cell cycle that are important for the formation of titan cells. We identified unbudded 2C cells, referred to as a G2 arrest, produced both in vivo and in vitro in response to various stresses. Deletion of the nonessential cyclin Cln1 resulted in overproduction of titan cells in vivo and transient morphology defects upon release from stationary phase in vitro. Using a copper-repressible promoter PCTR4-CLN1 strain and a two-step in vitro titan cell formation assay, our in vitro studies revealed Cln1 functions after the G2 arrest. These studies highlight unique cell cycle alterations in C. neoformans that ultimately promote genomic diversity and virulence in this important fungal pathogen.
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35
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Freitas GJC, Santos DA. Cryptococcus gattii polysaccharide capsule: An insight on fungal-host interactions and vaccine studies. Eur J Immunol 2021; 51:2206-2209. [PMID: 34396521 DOI: 10.1002/eji.202149349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Cryptococcus neoformans and C. gattii complexes are the main causative agents of cryptococcosis, a neglected disease with high lethality. The capsule, composed predominantly of the capsular polysaccharide (CP) GXM, is the main virulence factor of this pathogen. The role of CP is well described for C. neoformans and; however, there is a scarcity of studies focused on C. gattii, especially in the context of the fungal-host interaction. Understanding how the immune system recognizes C. gattii can generate meaningful information for diagnosing, preventing, and treating cryptococcosis. In the current issue of the European Journal of Immunology [Eur. J. Immunol. 2021. 51: 2281-2295], Ueno et al. demonstrate that CP inhibits C. gattii recognition by CD11b. In this commentary, we highlight the importance of deeply understanding the role of C. gattii CP during infection and how this knowledge would influence the strategies to develop new vaccines against cryptococcosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gustavo J C Freitas
- Departament of Microbiology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Daniel A Santos
- Departament of Microbiology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
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36
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Nelson BN, Beakley SG, Posey S, Conn B, Maritz E, Seshu J, Wozniak KL. Antifungal activity of dendritic cell lysosomal proteins against Cryptococcus neoformans. Sci Rep 2021; 11:13619. [PMID: 34193926 PMCID: PMC8245489 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-92991-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryptococcal meningitis is a life-threatening disease among immune compromised individuals that is caused by the opportunistic fungal pathogen Cryptococcus neoformans. Previous studies have shown that the fungus is phagocytosed by dendritic cells (DCs) and trafficked to the lysosome where it is killed by both oxidative and non-oxidative mechanisms. While certain molecules from the lysosome are known to kill or inhibit the growth of C. neoformans, the lysosome is an organelle containing many different proteins and enzymes that are designed to degrade phagocytosed material. We hypothesized that multiple lysosomal components, including cysteine proteases and antimicrobial peptides, could inhibit the growth of C. neoformans. Our study identified the contents of the DC lysosome and examined the anti-cryptococcal properties of different proteins found within the lysosome. Results showed several DC lysosomal proteins affected the growth of C. neoformans in vitro. The proteins that killed or inhibited the fungus did so in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, the concentration of protein needed for cryptococcal inhibition was found to be non-cytotoxic to mammalian cells. These data show that many DC lysosomal proteins have antifungal activity and have potential as immune-based therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin N Nelson
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Oklahoma State University, 307 Life Science East, Stillwater, OK, 74078, USA
| | - Savannah G Beakley
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Oklahoma State University, 307 Life Science East, Stillwater, OK, 74078, USA
| | - Sierra Posey
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Oklahoma State University, 307 Life Science East, Stillwater, OK, 74078, USA
| | - Brittney Conn
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Oklahoma State University, 307 Life Science East, Stillwater, OK, 74078, USA
| | - Emma Maritz
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Oklahoma State University, 307 Life Science East, Stillwater, OK, 74078, USA
| | - Janakiram Seshu
- Department of Biology, South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Karen L Wozniak
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Oklahoma State University, 307 Life Science East, Stillwater, OK, 74078, USA.
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37
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Chen L, Zhu L, Chen J, Chen W, Qian X, Yang Q. Crystal structure-guided design of berberine-based novel chitinase inhibitors. J Enzyme Inhib Med Chem 2021; 35:1937-1943. [PMID: 33167737 PMCID: PMC7655067 DOI: 10.1080/14756366.2020.1837123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Glycoside hydrolase family 18 (GH18) chitinases play an important role in various organisms ranging from bacteria to mammals. Chitinase inhibitors have potential applications as pesticides, fungicides, and anti-asthmatics. Berberine, a plant-derived isoquinoline alkaloid, was previously reported to inhibit against various GH18 chitinases with only moderate Ki values ranging between 20 and 70 μM. In this report, we present for the first time the berberine-complexed crystal structure of SmChiB, a model GH18 chitinase from the bacterium Serratia marcescens. Based on the berberine-binding mode, a hydrophobic cavity-based optimisation strategy was developed to increase their inhibitory activity. A series of berberine derivatives were designed and synthesised, and their inhibitory activities against GH18 chitinases were evaluated. The compound 4c showed 80-fold-elevated inhibitory activity against SmChiB and the human chitinase hAMCase with Ki values at the sub-micromolar level. The mechanism of improved inhibitory activities was proposed. This work provides a new strategy for developing novel chitinase inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Chen
- School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, China.,State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Ling Zhu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology, School of Pharmacy, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
| | - Jinli Chen
- School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, China
| | - Wei Chen
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xuhong Qian
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology, School of Pharmacy, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
| | - Qing Yang
- School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, China.,State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China.,Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, (Shenzhen Branch), Agricultural Genomics Institute at Shenzhen, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shenzhen, China
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38
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Specht CA, Homan EJ, Lee CK, Mou Z, Gomez CL, Hester MM, Abraham A, Rus F, Ostroff GR, Levitz SM. Protection of Mice against Experimental Cryptococcosis by Synthesized Peptides Delivered in Glucan Particles. mBio 2021; 13:e0336721. [PMID: 35089095 PMCID: PMC8725579 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.03367-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The high global burden of cryptococcosis has made development of a protective vaccine a public health priority. We previously demonstrated that a vaccine composed of recombinant Cryptococcus neoformans chitin deacetylase 2 (Cda2) delivered in glucan particles (GPs) protects BALB/c and C57BL/6 mice from an otherwise lethal challenge with a highly virulent C. neoformans strain. An immunoinformatic analysis of Cda2 revealed a peptide sequence predicted to have strong binding to the major histocompatibility complex class II (MHC II) H2-IAd allele found in BALB/c mice. BALB/c mice vaccinated with GPs containing a 32-amino-acid peptide (Cda2-Pep1) that included this strong binding region were protected from cryptococcosis. Protection was lost with GP-based vaccines containing versions of recombinant Cda2 protein and Cda2-Pep1 with mutations predicted to greatly diminish MHC II binding. Cda2 has homology to the three other C. neoformans chitin deacetylases, Cda1, Cda3, and Fpd1, in the high-MHC II-binding region. GPs loaded with homologous peptides of Cda1, Cda3, and Fpd1 protected BALB/c mice from experimental cryptococcosis, albeit not as robustly as the Cda2-Pep1 vaccine. Finally, seven other peptides were synthesized based on regions in Cda2 predicted to contain promising CD4+ T cell epitopes in BALB/c or C57BL/6 mice. While five peptide vaccines significantly protected BALB/c mice, only one protected C57BL/6 mice. Thus, GP-based vaccines containing a single peptide can protect mice against cryptococcosis. However, given the diversity of human MHC II alleles, a peptide-based Cryptococcus vaccine for use in humans would be challenging and likely need to contain multiple peptide sequences. IMPORTANCE Cryptococcosis, due to infection by fungi of the Cryptococcus neoformans species complex, is responsible for substantial morbidity and mortality in immunocompromised persons, particularly those with AIDS. Cryptococcal vaccines are a public health priority yet are not available for human use. We previously demonstrated mice could be protected from experimental cryptococcosis with vaccines composed of recombinant cryptococcal proteins encased in hollow highly purified yeast cell walls (glucan particles). In this study, we examined one such protective protein, Cda2, and using bioinformatics, we identified a region predicted to stimulate strong T cell responses. A peptide containing this region formulated in glucan particle-based vaccines protected mice as well as the recombinant protein. Other peptide vaccines also protected, including peptides containing sequences from proteins homologous to Cda2. These preclinical mouse studies provide a proof of principle that peptides can be effective as vaccines to protect against cryptococcosis and that bioinformatic approaches can guide peptide selection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles A. Specht
- Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - Chrono K. Lee
- Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Zhongming Mou
- Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Christina L. Gomez
- Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Maureen M. Hester
- Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Ambily Abraham
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Florentina Rus
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Gary R. Ostroff
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Stuart M. Levitz
- Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
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Replicative Aging Remodels the Cell Wall and Is Associated with Increased Intracellular Trafficking in Human Pathogenic Yeasts. mBio 2021; 13:e0019022. [PMID: 35164553 PMCID: PMC8844920 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.00190-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Replicative aging is an underexplored field of research in medical mycology. Cryptococcus neoformans (Cn) and Candida glabrata (Cg) are dreaded fungal pathogens that cause fatal invasive infections. The fungal cell wall is essential for yeast viability and pathogenesis. In this study, we provide data characterizing age-associated modifications to the cell wall of Cn and Cg. Here, we report that old yeast cells upregulate genes of cell wall biosynthesis, leading to cell wall reorganization and increased levels of all major components, including glucan, chitin, and its derivatives, as well as mannan. This results in a significant thickening of the cell wall in aged cells. Old-generation yeast cells exhibited drastic ultrastructural changes, including the presence of abundant vesicle-like particles in the cytoplasm, and enlarged vacuoles with altered pH homeostasis. Our findings suggest that the cell wall modifications could be enabled by augmented intracellular trafficking. This work furthers our understanding of the cell phenotype that emerges during aging. It highlights differences in these two fungal pathogens and elucidates mechanisms that explain the enhanced resistance of old cells to antifungals and phagocytic attacks. IMPORTANCE Cryptococcus neoformans and Candida glabrata are two opportunistic human fungal pathogens that cause life-threatening diseases. During infection, both microorganisms have the ability to persist for long periods, and treatment failure can occur even if standard testing identifies the yeasts to be sensitive to antifungals. Replicative life span is a trait that is measured by the number of divisions a cell undergoes before death. Aging in fungi is associated with enhanced tolerance to antifungals and resistance to phagocytosis, and characterization of old cells may help identify novel antifungal targets. The cell wall remains an attractive target for new therapies because it is essential for fungi and is not present in humans. This study shows that the organization of the fungal cell wall changes remarkably during aging and becomes thicker and is associated with increased intracellular trafficking as well as the alteration of vacuole morphology and pH homeostasis.
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Mackel JJ, Garth JM, Jones M, Ellis DA, Blackburn JP, Yu Z, Matalon S, Curtiss M, Lund FE, Hastie AT, Meyers DA, Steele C. Chitinase 3-like-1 protects airway function despite promoting type 2 inflammation during fungal-associated allergic airway inflammation. Am J Physiol Lung Cell Mol Physiol 2021; 320:L615-L626. [PMID: 33533316 DOI: 10.1152/ajplung.00528.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Joseph J Mackel
- Department of Medicine, University of Alabama Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Jaleesa M Garth
- Department of Medicine, University of Alabama Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - MaryJane Jones
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Tulane University, New Orleans, Louisiana
| | - Diandra A Ellis
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Tulane University, New Orleans, Louisiana
| | | | - Zhihong Yu
- Department of Medicine, University of Alabama Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Sadis Matalon
- Department of Medicine, University of Alabama Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Miranda Curtiss
- Department of Medicine, University of Alabama Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama.,Department of Microbiology, University of Alabama Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Frances E Lund
- Department of Microbiology, University of Alabama Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Annette T Hastie
- Department of Medicine, Wake Forest University, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | | | - Chad Steele
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Tulane University, New Orleans, Louisiana
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Feng C, Zhang M, Zhang S, Zhang J, Li C, Zhou J. Therapeutic effects of pentoxifylline on invasive pulmonary aspergillosis in immunosuppressed mice. BMC Pulm Med 2021; 21:31. [PMID: 33468116 PMCID: PMC7814429 DOI: 10.1186/s12890-021-01396-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2020] [Accepted: 01/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The most common and severe infection of Aspergillus fumigatus is invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA), which is usually seen in immunocompromised patients. Neutropenia is the primary risk factor implicated in IPA; however, IPA also occurs in patients without neutropenia, namely, those who are immunosuppressed owing to long-term corticosteroid use. With IPA-associated mortality as high as 51–79%, novel and effective treatment strategies are urgently needed. Pentoxifylline (PTX) has been shown to competitively inhibit the family 18 chitinases in fungi, which may be an new antifungal therapy. Hence, the aim of our study was to compare neutropenic and non-neutropenic IPA mouse models, and to evaluate the effect of PTX on IPA in immunosuppressed mice. Methods C57BL/6J mice were pre-treated with cyclophosphamide and hydrocortisone. Neutropenic model IPA mice (CTX-IPA) and non-neutropenic IPA mice (HC-IPA) were established by intranasal administration of Aspergillus fumigatus spore suspension. A subset of each group was injected with PTX post-infection. Among these groups, we compared overall survival, pulmonary fungal burden, lung hispathology, and myeloperoxidase (MPO), interleukin 8 (IL-8), and mammalian chitinase concentration in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF). Results The survival rate of the HC-IPA group was higher than that of the CTX-IPA group, and pulmonary fungal burden was also lower (p < 0.05). The CTX-IPA group showed infiltration of alveolae and blood vessels by numerous hyphae of A. fumigatus. The HC-IPA group exhibited destruction of bronchi, expansion of alveolar septa, increased macrophages aggregation, significant neutrophil infiltration and a few hyphae in peribronchial areas. After PTX treatment, improvement was observed in survival duration and pulmonary fungal burden in HC-IPA mice. MPO and IL-8 levels were lower in the HC-IPA + PTX group compared to the corresponding levels in the HC-IP group. Chitotriosidase (CHIT1) and Chitinase 3-like 1 (CHI3L1) expression in the HC-IPA group was decreased after PTX treatment (p < 0.05). Conclusion PTX was found to exert a therapeutic effect in a non-neutropenic mouse model of IPA, which may lead to the development of novel strategies for IPA treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunlai Feng
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, 185 Juqian Street, Changzhou, 213003, China.
| | - Ming Zhang
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, 185 Juqian Street, Changzhou, 213003, China
| | - Sujuan Zhang
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, 185 Juqian Street, Changzhou, 213003, China
| | - Jun Zhang
- Comprehensive Laboratory, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Changzhou, China
| | - Chong Li
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, 185 Juqian Street, Changzhou, 213003, China
| | - Jun Zhou
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, 185 Juqian Street, Changzhou, 213003, China
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“Feast-Fit-Fist-Feat”: Overview of Free-living Amoeba Interactions with Fungi and Virulence as a Foundation for Success in Battle. CURRENT TROPICAL MEDICINE REPORTS 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s40475-020-00220-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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García-Carnero LC, Martínez-Álvarez JA, Salazar-García LM, Lozoya-Pérez NE, González-Hernández SE, Tamez-Castrellón AK. Recognition of Fungal Components by the Host Immune System. Curr Protein Pept Sci 2021; 21:245-264. [PMID: 31889486 DOI: 10.2174/1389203721666191231105546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2019] [Revised: 08/08/2019] [Accepted: 10/15/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
By being the first point of contact of the fungus with the host, the cell wall plays an important role in the pathogenesis, having many molecules that participate as antigens that are recognized by immune cells, and also that help the fungus to establish infection. The main molecules reported to trigger an immune response are chitin, glucans, oligosaccharides, proteins, melanin, phospholipids, and others, being present in the principal pathogenic fungi with clinical importance worldwide, such as Histoplasma capsulatum, Paracoccidioides brasiliensis, Aspergillus fumigatus, Candida albicans, Cryptococcus neoformans, Blastomyces dermatitidis, and Sporothrix schenckii. Knowledge and understanding of how the immune system recognizes and responds to fungal antigens are relevant for the future research and development of new diagnostic tools and treatments for the control of mycosis caused by these fungi.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura C García-Carnero
- Department of Biology, Exact and Natural Sciences Division, Universidad de Guanajuato, Guanajuato, Mexico
| | - José A Martínez-Álvarez
- Department of Biology, Exact and Natural Sciences Division, Universidad de Guanajuato, Guanajuato, Mexico
| | - Luis M Salazar-García
- Department of Biology, Exact and Natural Sciences Division, Universidad de Guanajuato, Guanajuato, Mexico
| | - Nancy E Lozoya-Pérez
- Department of Biology, Exact and Natural Sciences Division, Universidad de Guanajuato, Guanajuato, Mexico
| | | | - Alma K Tamez-Castrellón
- Department of Biology, Exact and Natural Sciences Division, Universidad de Guanajuato, Guanajuato, Mexico
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Treatment strategies for cryptococcal infection: challenges, advances and future outlook. Nat Rev Microbiol 2021; 19:454-466. [PMID: 33558691 PMCID: PMC7868659 DOI: 10.1038/s41579-021-00511-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 144] [Impact Index Per Article: 48.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Cryptococcus spp., in particular Cryptococcus neoformans and Cryptococcus gattii, have an enormous impact on human health worldwide. The global burden of cryptococcal meningitis is almost a quarter of a million cases and 181,000 deaths annually, with mortality rates of 100% if infections remain untreated. Despite these alarming statistics, treatment options for cryptococcosis remain limited, with only three major classes of drugs approved for clinical use. Exacerbating the public health burden is the fact that the only new class of antifungal drugs developed in decades, the echinocandins, displays negligible antifungal activity against Cryptococcus spp., and the efficacy of the remaining therapeutics is hampered by host toxicity and pathogen resistance. Here, we describe the current arsenal of antifungal agents and the treatment strategies employed to manage cryptococcal disease. We further elaborate on the recent advances in our understanding of the intrinsic and adaptive resistance mechanisms that are utilized by Cryptococcus spp. to evade therapeutic treatments. Finally, we review potential therapeutic strategies, including combination therapy, the targeting of virulence traits, impairing stress response pathways and modulating host immunity, to effectively treat infections caused by Cryptococcus spp. Overall, understanding of the mechanisms that regulate anti-cryptococcal drug resistance, coupled with advances in genomics technologies and high-throughput screening methodologies, will catalyse innovation and accelerate antifungal drug discovery.
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Madan K, Madan M, Sharma S, Paliwal S. Chitinases: Therapeutic Scaffolds for Allergy and Inflammation. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 14:46-57. [PMID: 31934842 PMCID: PMC7509760 DOI: 10.2174/1872213x14666200114184054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2018] [Revised: 11/19/2019] [Accepted: 12/10/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Background: Chitinases are the evolutionary conserved glycosidic enzymes that are characterized by their ability to cleave the naturally abundant polysaccharide chitin. The potential role of chitinases has been identified in the manifestation of various allergies and inflammatory diseases. In recent years, chitinases inhibitors are emerging as an alluring area of interest for the researchers and scientists and there is a dire need for the development of potential and safe chitinase antagonists for the prophylaxis and treatment of several diseases. Objective: The present review expedites the role of chitinases and their inhibitors in inflammation and related disorders. Methods: At first, an exhaustive survey of literature and various patents available related to chitinases were carried out. Useful information on chitinases and their inhibitor was gathered from the authentic scientific databases namely SCOPUS, EMBASE, PUBMED, GOOGLE SCHOLAR, MEDLINE, EMBASE, EBSCO, WEB OF SCIENCE, etc. This information was further analyzed and compiled up to prepare the framework of the review article. The search strategy was conducted by using queries with key terms “ chitin”, “chitinase”, “chitotrisidase”, “acidic mammalian chitinase”, “chitinase inhibitors”, “asthma” and “chitinases associated inflammatory disorders”, etc. The patents were searched using the key terms “chitinases and uses thereof”, “chitinase inhibitors”, “chitin-chitinase associated pathological disorders” etc. from www.google.com/patents, www.freepatentsonline.com, and www.scopus.com. Results: The present review provides a vision for apprehending human chitinases and their participation in several diseases. The patents available also signify the extended role and effectiveness of chitinase inhibitors in the prevention and treatment of various diseases viz. asthma, acute and chronic inflammatory diseases, autoimmune diseases, dental diseases, neurologic diseases, metabolic diseases, liver diseases, polycystic ovary syndrome, endometriosis, and cancer. In this regard, extensive pre-clinical and clinical investigations are required to develop some novel, potent and selective drug molecules for the treatment of various inflammatory diseases, allergies and cancers in the foreseeable future. Conclusion: In conclusion, chitinases can be used as potential biomarkers in prognosis and diagnosis of several inflammatory diseases and allergies and the design of novel chitinase inhibitors may act as key and rational scaffolds in designing some novel therapeutic agents in the treatment of variety of inflammatory diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirtika Madan
- Department of Pharmacy, Banasthali Vidyapith, Banasthali, Rajasthan-304022, India
| | - Mansi Madan
- Dr. Ulhas Patil Medical College and Hospital, Jalgaon- 425309, Maharashtra, India
| | - Swapnil Sharma
- Department of Pharmacy, Banasthali Vidyapith, Banasthali, Rajasthan-304022, India
| | - Sarvesh Paliwal
- Department of Pharmacy, Banasthali Vidyapith, Banasthali, Rajasthan-304022, India
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Niu S, Yang L, Geng R, Zuo H, Guo Z, Weng S, He J, Xu X. A double chitin catalytic domain-containing chitinase targeted by c-Jun is involved in immune responses in shrimp. DEVELOPMENTAL AND COMPARATIVE IMMUNOLOGY 2020; 113:103808. [PMID: 32738335 DOI: 10.1016/j.dci.2020.103808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2020] [Revised: 07/23/2020] [Accepted: 07/24/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Chitinases are a group of chitin-degrading enzymes widely distributed in organisms. Chitinases containing two chitin catalytic domains have been widely found in arthropods but their functions remain unclear. In this study, a member of these chitinases from Litopenaeus vannamei (dChi) was identified and functionally studied in the context of immunity. The promoter of dChi contained activator protein 1 (AP-1) binding sites and could be regulated by c-Jun. The recombinant dChi protein showed no bacteriostatic activity in vitro but knockdown of dChi in vivo increased the mortality of shrimp and the bacterial load in tissues after Vibrio parahaemolyticus infection, suggesting that dChi could play a positive role in antibacterial responses. However, silencing of dChi expression significantly decreased the mortality of WSSV-infected shrimp and down-regulated the viral load in tissues, indicating that dChi could facilitate WSSV infection. We further demonstrated that dChi was involved in regulation of the bacterial phagocytosis of hemocytes and expression of a series of immune related transcription factors and antimicrobial peptides. These indicated that the roles of dChi in antibacterial responses and anti-WSSV responses in vivo could result from its regulatory effects on the immune system. Taken together, the current study suggests that double chitin catalytic domain-containing chitinases could be important players in immune regulation in crustaceans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shengwen Niu
- State Key Laboratory for Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, PR China; Southern Laboratory of Ocean Science and Engineering (Guangdong, Zhuhai), Zhuhai, 519000, China
| | - Linwei Yang
- State Key Laboratory for Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, PR China; Southern Laboratory of Ocean Science and Engineering (Guangdong, Zhuhai), Zhuhai, 519000, China
| | - Ran Geng
- State Key Laboratory for Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, PR China; Southern Laboratory of Ocean Science and Engineering (Guangdong, Zhuhai), Zhuhai, 519000, China
| | - Hongliang Zuo
- State Key Laboratory for Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, PR China; Southern Laboratory of Ocean Science and Engineering (Guangdong, Zhuhai), Zhuhai, 519000, China
| | - Zhixun Guo
- South China Sea Fisheries Research Institute (CAFS), Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Shaoping Weng
- State Key Laboratory for Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, PR China; Southern Laboratory of Ocean Science and Engineering (Guangdong, Zhuhai), Zhuhai, 519000, China
| | - Jianguo He
- State Key Laboratory for Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, PR China; Southern Laboratory of Ocean Science and Engineering (Guangdong, Zhuhai), Zhuhai, 519000, China; Institute of Aquatic Economic Animals and Guangdong Provice Key Laboratory for Aquatic Economic Animals, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, PR China
| | - Xiaopeng Xu
- State Key Laboratory for Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, PR China; Southern Laboratory of Ocean Science and Engineering (Guangdong, Zhuhai), Zhuhai, 519000, China; Institute of Aquatic Economic Animals and Guangdong Provice Key Laboratory for Aquatic Economic Animals, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, PR China.
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Glycoside hydrolase family 18 chitinases: The known and the unknown. Biotechnol Adv 2020; 43:107553. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2020.107553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2020] [Revised: 03/09/2020] [Accepted: 04/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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Okafor EC, Hullsiek KH, Williams DA, Scriven JE, Rhein J, Nabeta HW, Musubire AK, Rajasingham R, Muzoora C, Schutz C, Meintjes G, Meya DB, Boulware DR. Correlation between Blood and CSF Compartment Cytokines and Chemokines in Subjects with Cryptococcal Meningitis. Mediators Inflamm 2020; 2020:8818044. [PMID: 33177951 PMCID: PMC7644322 DOI: 10.1155/2020/8818044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2020] [Revised: 09/11/2020] [Accepted: 10/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Though peripheral blood is a crucial sample to study immunology, it is unclear whether the immune environment in the peripheral vasculature correlates with that at the end-organ site of infection. Using cryptococcal meningitis as a model, we investigated the correlation between serum and cerebrospinal fluid biomarkers over time. METHODS We analyzed the cerebrospinal fluid and serum of 160 subjects presenting with first episode cryptococcal meningitis for soluble cytokines and chemokines measured by Luminex assay. Specimens were collected at meningitis diagnosis, 1-week, and 2-week post cryptococcal diagnosis. We compared paired samples by Spearman's correlation and the p value was set at <0.01. RESULTS Of the 21 analytes tested at baseline, there was no correlation detected between nearly all analytes. A weak negative correlation was found between serum and cerebrospinal fluid levels of interferon-gamma (Rho = -0.214; p = .007) and interleukin-4 (Rho = -0.232; p = .003). There was no correlation at 1-week post cryptococcal diagnosis. However, at 2-week post cryptococcal diagnosis, there was a weak positive correlation of granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor levels (Rho = 0.25; p = .007) in serum and cerebrospinal fluid. No cytokine or chemokine showed consistent correlation overtime. CONCLUSION Based on our analysis of 21 biomarkers, serum and cerebrospinal fluid immune responses do not correlate. There appears to be a distinct immune environment in terms of soluble biomarkers in the vasculature versus end-organ site of infection. While this is a model of HIV-related cryptococcal meningitis, we postulate that assuming the blood compartment is representative of the immune function at the end-organ site of infection may not be appropriate.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Darlisha A. Williams
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, 55455 Minneapolis, MN, USA
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, P.O. Box 22418 Kampala, Uganda
| | - James E. Scriven
- Wellcome Centre for Infectious Diseases Research in Africa, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, and Department of Medicine, Observatory 7925 University of Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Joshua Rhein
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, 55455 Minneapolis, MN, USA
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, P.O. Box 22418 Kampala, Uganda
| | - Henry W. Nabeta
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, P.O. Box 22418 Kampala, Uganda
| | - Abdu K. Musubire
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, P.O. Box 22418 Kampala, Uganda
| | - Radha Rajasingham
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, 55455 Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Conrad Muzoora
- Department of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, P.O. Box 1410 Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Charlotte Schutz
- Wellcome Centre for Infectious Diseases Research in Africa, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, and Department of Medicine, Observatory 7925 University of Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Graeme Meintjes
- Wellcome Centre for Infectious Diseases Research in Africa, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, and Department of Medicine, Observatory 7925 University of Cape Town, South Africa
| | - David B. Meya
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, 55455 Minneapolis, MN, USA
- Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, P.O. Box 22418 Kampala, Uganda
| | - David R. Boulware
- Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, 55455 Minneapolis, MN, USA
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Key Players and Biomarkers of the Adaptive Immune System in the Pathogenesis of Sarcoidosis. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21197398. [PMID: 33036432 PMCID: PMC7582702 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21197398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2020] [Revised: 10/03/2020] [Accepted: 10/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Sarcoidosis is a systemic inflammatory disease characterized by development of granulomas in the affected organs. Sarcoidosis is often a diagnosis of exclusion, and traditionally used tests for sarcoidosis demonstrate low sensitivity and specificity. We propose that accuracy of diagnosis can be improved if biomarkers of altered lymphocyte populations and levels of signaling molecules involved in disease pathogenesis are measured for patterns suggestive of sarcoidosis. These distinctive biomarkers can also be used to determine disease progression, predict prognosis, and make treatment decisions. Many subsets of T lymphocytes, including CD8+ T-cells and regulatory T-cells, have been shown to be dysfunctional in sarcoidosis, and the predominant CD4+ T helper cell subset in granulomas appears to be a strong indicator of disease phenotype and outcome. Studies of altered B cell populations, B cell signaling molecules, and immune complexes in sarcoidosis patients reveal promising biomarkers as well as possible explanations of disease etiology. Furthermore, examined biomarkers raise questions about new treatment methods and sarcoidosis antigens.
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Skipper C, Schleiss MR, Bangdiwala AS, Hernandez-Alvarado N, Taseera K, Nabeta HW, Musubire AK, Lofgren SM, Wiesner DL, Rhein J, Rajasingham R, Schutz C, Meintjes G, Muzoora C, Meya DB, Boulware DR. Cytomegalovirus Viremia Associated With Increased Mortality in Cryptococcal Meningitis in Sub-Saharan Africa. Clin Infect Dis 2020; 71:525-531. [PMID: 31504335 PMCID: PMC7384323 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciz864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2019] [Accepted: 08/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cryptococcal meningitis and tuberculosis are both important causes of death in persons with advanced human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Cytomegalovirus (CMV) viremia may be associated with increased mortality in persons living with HIV who have tuberculosis. It is unknown whether concurrent CMV viremia is associated with mortality in other AIDS-related opportunistic infections. METHODS We prospectively enrolled Ugandans living with HIV who had cryptococcal meningitis from 2010-2012. Subsequently, we analyzed stored baseline plasma samples from 111 subjects for CMV DNA. We compared 10-week survival rates among those with and without CMV viremia. RESULTS Of 111 participants, 52% (58/111) had detectable CMV DNA (median plasma viral load 498 IU/mL, interquartile range [IQR] 259-2390). All samples tested were positive on immunoglobin G serology. The median CD4+ T cell count was 19 cells/µL (IQR 9-70) and did not differ by the presence of CMV viremia (P = .47). The 10-week mortality rates were 40% (23/58) in those with CMV viremia and 21% (11/53) in those without CMV viremia (hazard ratio 2.19, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.07-4.49; P = .03), which remained significant after a multivariate adjustment for known risk factors of mortality (adjusted hazard ratio 3.25, 95% CI 1.49-7.10; P = .003). Serum and cerebrospinal fluid cytokine levels were generally similar and cryptococcal antigen-specific immune stimulation responses did not differ between groups. CONCLUSIONS Half of persons with advanced AIDS and cryptococcal meningitis had detectable CMV viremia. CMV viremia was associated with an over 2-fold higher mortality rate. It remains unclear whether CMV viremia in severely immunocompromised persons with cryptococcal meningitis contributes directly to this mortality or may reflect an underlying immune dysfunction (ie, cause vs effect). CLINICAL TRIALS REGISTRATION NCT01075152.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caleb Skipper
- University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
- Infectious Disease Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Mark R Schleiss
- University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | | | | | - Kabanda Taseera
- Department of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Uganda
| | - Henry W Nabeta
- Infectious Disease Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Abdu K Musubire
- Infectious Disease Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Sarah M Lofgren
- University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Darin L Wiesner
- University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Joshua Rhein
- University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
- Infectious Disease Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Charlotte Schutz
- Wellcome Centre for Infectious Diseases Research in Africa, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, and Department of Medicine, University of Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Graeme Meintjes
- Wellcome Centre for Infectious Diseases Research in Africa, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, and Department of Medicine, University of Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Conrad Muzoora
- Department of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Uganda
| | - David B Meya
- Infectious Disease Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - David R Boulware
- University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
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